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The delicious Christmas tipple sure to whisk you away

<p dir="ltr">With the festive season in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about presents that make a lasting impression. </p> <p dir="ltr">Despite who you’re buying for, it's hard to look past the perfect tipple to gift your loved ones on Christmas day. </p> <p dir="ltr">Whether you're looking for the perfect gift, or a delectable drink to showcase at a festive gathering, Glen Moray’s Classic Single Malt Whisky is the perfect option this year. </p> <p dir="ltr">From first being brewed in the north of Scotland over 120 years ago, Glen Moray has long been a pioneer for rich, smooth and heavenly whisky, combining tradition, skill and passion into every glass. </p> <p dir="ltr">This unpeated single malt offers a smooth, light profile that will appeal to all whisky drinkers this Christmas season. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DB6oNqPsiEJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DB6oNqPsiEJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Glen Moray (@glen_moray_whisky)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">It's a drink that truly impresses, offering a complexity and refinement that will captivate even the most discerning whisky lovers. </p> <p dir="ltr">Gifted or served during a festive celebration, it's sure to be the highlight of the party, something guests will remember and savour. </p> <p dir="ltr">It also makes the perfect gift choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whether served as a <a href="https://www.glenmoray.com/find-your-best-serve">cocktail</a> or just on its own, it's easy to see why Glen Moray has become such a staple of luxurious whiskeys, without the extortionate price tag.</p> <p dir="ltr">You can pick up your Glen Moray <a href="https://www.danmurphys.com.au/product/DM_903515/glen-moray-classic-single-malt-scotch-whisky-700ml?isFromSearch=false&isPersonalised=false&isSponsored=false&state=6&pageName=member_offers">Dan Murphy’s</a> and <a href="https://bws.com.au/product/903515/glen-moray-classic-single-malt-scotch-whisky-700ml">BWS</a> for just $66.99, proving you can spoil your loved ones - or yourself - without breaking the bank this Christmas. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Supplied</em></p>

Food & Wine

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"Surely this is a prank": Council slammed for ridiculous parking restriction

<p>Melbourne City Council has been slammed online for offering free parking, but only for a measly 15 minutes. </p> <p>The new initiative, which was shared in a video to the City of Melbourne Instagram account, details how parking fees will be waived for drivers needing to run a quick errand in the CBD, as long as they return to their vehicle within 15 minutes.</p> <p>Drivers can park in a “green signed” parking space such as a ‘2P Meter’, and start a 15-minute session on the Easy-Park app to claim the offer.</p> <p>The council said they introduced the initiative for those who want to “run an errand, support a local business and take in city vibes”.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0lApxrt35h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0lApxrt35h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by City Of Melbourne (@cityofmelbourne)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The initiative, however, has been rinsed online, with many people pointing out that 15 minutes is not enough time to do anything, especially in the CBD.</p> <p>“Surely this is a prank?” one person questioned.</p> <p>“As if you can take in the vibes in 15min. And based where the carpark spots are, you’d barely make it to the shop or restaurant and back in 15,” said another.</p> <p>“15 mins? Such overwhelming generosity,” another commented. </p> <p>“How can you support any business in 15 minutes time? By sprinting to a shop and run back to the car only to find a ticket on the dashboard?,” wrote another person. </p> <p>Despite the negative feedback, City of Melbourne said more than 90,000 people had taken up the free parking offer since it was first introduced in the central city in July. </p> <p>"Drivers are embracing the flexibility of our new free 15-minute parking system, which is opening up the city by giving more drivers access to free parking outside more businesses and services,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said in a statement in November. </p> <p>“Early data shows our parking improvements are working exactly as intended – keeping spaces turning over outside city businesses, while making it easier to find a park.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Are you sure your life cover's the best?

<p>Life insurance protects your loved ones and your way of life - but it’s not supposed to be a ‘set and forget’ exercise.</p> <p>If it’s been more than five years since you’ve reviewed your life cover, there’s a good chance you’re likely paying too much in premiums, especially if:</p> <ul> <li><em><strong>You’ve paid off your home loan, or your repayments are substantially lower than they once were.</strong></em></li> <li><em><strong>Your children have moved out of your family home.</strong></em></li> <li><em><strong>You’ve stopped smoking</strong></em></li> <li><em><strong>You’ve downsized your home.</strong></em></li> <li><em><strong>You’ve retired, or plan to do so in the near future.</strong></em></li> </ul> <p>All of the above scenarios can make a difference to the level of life cover you need - and the premium you’re currently paying. </p> <p>It’s worth a phone call to find out where you might find some savings. Income protection cover, for example, isn’t applicable once you’ve retired - so make sure you’re not paying for it.</p> <p>Going over the required paperwork can seem daunting, and life insurance policies can be confusing - that’s why <a href="https://lp.compareclub.com.au/life-oversixty/?utm_medium=partner&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=life&utm_content=nativearticle&category=life" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>OverSixty works with Compare Club</strong></a> to make this process as easy as possible.</p> <p>Compare Club have been helping Aussies save money - and make sense of - insurance policies since 2010. They look at policies from Australia's leading life insurers<sup>#</sup>. </p> <p>Their expert life cover brokers don’t leave you to work it all out on your own. They ask questions, listen, and help complete your paperwork.</p> <p>Talk to one of our experts about your life cover today.</p> <h4 style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; line-height: 1.2; color: #212529; font-size: 1.5rem; background-color: #ffffff;">Call 1300 863 204 now, or <a style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #258440; text-decoration-line: none; background-color: transparent; transition: all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;" href="https://lp.compareclub.com.au/life-oversixty/?utm_medium=partner&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=life&utm_content=nativearticle&category=life" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here</a> to save today!</h4> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> </p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> </p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">The information contained in this guide is of general nature only and has been prepared without taking into consideration your objectives, needs and financial situation. As such, it is important that you consider the appropriateness of any advice and the relevant product disclosure statement (PDS) before proceeding. Check with a financial professional before making any decisions.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></em></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">#Compare Club compares selected products from a panel of trusted insurers. We do not compare all products in the market.</em></span></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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Erin Doherty’s new role sure to be approved by Princess Anne

<p dir="ltr">Erin Doherty might just get the tick of approval from Princess Anne as she holds the reins in the forthcoming series <em>A Thousand Blows</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Doherty, 30, who played the role of horse-mad Princess Anne in <em>The Crown</em>, will star in the new drama which tells the story of the Forty Elephants, an all-woman crime syndicate specialising in shoplifting from department stores. </p> <p dir="ltr">Much like her role as Princess Anne, images from the upcoming series have seen the actress in a Victorian outfit driving a horse-drawn carriage on set in London. </p> <p dir="ltr">The period drama will also star actor Stephen Graham and it’s created by Stephen Knight who was responsible for the hit gangster drama Peaky Blinders.</p> <p dir="ltr">The presence of horses is sure to please King Charle’s sister as she is a known horse-lover. Prince Phillip once joked, “If it doesn’t fart or eat hay, she isn’t interested.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The series will also be heavy on boxing but will explore the social climate of London during the post-industrial revolution era. </p> <p dir="ltr">It is still under production and is set to be released on Disney+ with 12 episodes.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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“Surely a baby can’t do that”: Fitness guru stuns fans

<p>British fitness coach has left fans shocked after posting a photo of his seven-month-old hanging from a pull-up bar.</p> <p>The fitness guru, and founder of the popular fitness app The Body Coach, posted a series of sweet snaps to his Instagram of a recent family holiday to California, USA.</p> <p>The photo has gained a lot of traction online among his 4.6 million followers.</p> <p>The image shows baby Leny dressed in a white onesie dangling from a tall monkey bar at the beach while Wicks looks on proudly.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq3C-ywLb6k/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq3C-ywLb6k/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Joe Wicks (@thebodycoach)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p> Many followers were concerned about Leni, calling out the dad-of-three for such a “risky” pose.</p> <p>"Jesus, is the first pic photoshopped?" wrote one follower.</p> <p>"How is the first pic even possible?!" asked another. "Surely a baby can't do that?”</p> <p>Another added, ”Is that safe for her shoulders and joints to hang onto bars supporting her own weight like that?</p> <p>"Please don't do that to your baby. She would be frightened," wrote a fourth, sparking a debate in the comment section.</p> <p>"She doesn't look fine to me and a lot of people agree. This is cruel and would instinctually cause fear in the baby. If you think that's OK you are a cruel person.”</p> <p>Some were impressed by the “super baby”, taken back by her strength for her age and defended Wicks against his critics.</p> <p>"That first picture of Leni is amazing! You need to recreate that every year!" wrote one follower. "I love how you let them take risks.”</p> <p>"Your kids have iron man genes," another added. "Wow Leni is strong holding on to the monkey bars, that's brilliant.”</p> <p>Those that came to the dad’s defence reminded critics that the baby would not have been there for long.</p> <p>"My babies/toddlers could all do this when they were young. It was only for a few seconds. We were there ready to catch them," one said.</p> <p>"It is called the palmar grasp reflex and it is normal for babies," wrote another.</p> <p>A child gymnastics company, Little Gym UK also came to the dad’s defence, saying, "For those questioning if it's photoshopped, our classes start at four months and babies can absolutely grasp and hang this little.”</p> <p>While it’s no myth newborns do have a grasp reflex and the grip is often “strong enough to hold the baby’s entire weight”, experts do not advise picking up or swinging a toddler by their arms as it can lead to a common injury called Nursemaid’s elbow.</p> <p>Wicks has two other children with his wife Rosie, Indie, four, and Marley, three.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

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7 ways to make sure your garden is eco-friendly

<p>Your garden may be green but is it as environmentally friendly as it could be? Any green thumb knows gardening is about cultivation and conservation so ensuring your garden is eco-friendly will not only help your plot of paradise thrive but the wider environment as well. No matter how big or small your garden, here are 7 easy ways to make your garden greener.</p> <p><strong>Make your own compost</strong></p> <p>Don’t use chemic fertilisers when composting is the best way to give your plants added nutrients. Start a compost bin and you’ll not only feel better throwing out your dinner scraps but your garden will thrive.  </p> <p><strong>Reduce water usage</strong></p> <p>Adopting a few smart watering techniques will easily reduce precious water usage. Adding mulch to your garden will help hold moisture in the soil for longer which means less watering. Install a drip line as they require half the water used by sprinklers.</p> <p><strong>Don’t use pesticides</strong></p> <p>Most of the insects in your garden are beneficial so using a pesticide to kill the minority of pesky bugs will do more harm than good. If your garden does have pests, use an organic pesticide or one targeting that particular pest.</p> <p><strong>Recycle</strong></p> <p>Recycle your old pots or buy recycled items. Everyday items like plastic cartons and yoghurt pots can be used as seed trays.</p> <p><strong>Go native</strong></p> <p>Plants indigenous to Australia or from areas with similar climates (like Mediterranean plants) not only have a natural defence against pests but flourish in our weather conditions. They are easier to grow, use less water and require less maintenance.</p> <p><strong>Use rainwater</strong></p> <p>Why pay for water when you can get it for free? Use a rain barrel or any type of container to catch the rain. Make sure you place a screen over the barrel to keep out any debris.</p> <p><strong>Companion plant</strong></p> <p>Many first-time gardeners tend to randomly choose plants for their garden without considering which plants work well together. Known as companion planting, choosing plants that complement each other will help all your plants thrive and fend of pests.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Home & Garden

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"I had better make sure I don’t have a heart attack!": Allison Langdon stuns pensioners on the verge of bankruptcy

<p>Left with a $25,000 legal bill after taking their retirement village to court over a broken air conditioning unit and losing the case, pensioners Walter and Carola Sadlo were on the verge of bankruptcy.</p> <p>In a heartwarming segment, Allison Langdon told the Sadlo’s that A Current Affair viewers had banded together to bail them out of their financial debt.</p> <p>Walter and Carola’s legal battle began in 2018 when their air conditioning unit broke. The couple had paid an extra $1,375 for air conditioning but maintenance wasn’t covered by the retirement village. Walter said he believed it would be covered, so he tried to fight it in the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).</p> <p>After taking the retirement village to court and losing the case, the couple were issued with a bankruptcy notice just two days before Christmas. “I could not believe that somebody could be so vicious and cruel,” Walter said.</p> <p>The couple had also sacrificed their savings to fight the case; $15,000 that Carola inherited from her mother. With this gone, they feared losing their home.</p> <p>Langdon then stunned the couple by telling them, “our viewers have paid your debt.”</p> <p>"I normally don't get emotional. I had better make sure I don't have a heart attack!" Walter said. </p> <p>Not only was their $25,000 legal bill covered, but viewers chipped in almost enough to cover the $15,000 they had to put toward their bill. </p> <p>"Hopefully, there will be village operators who see this story and will show a bit more heart," Walter said.</p> <p><em>Image: A Current Affair</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Manipulating light can induce psychedelic experiences – and scientists aren’t quite sure why

<p>For millennia, people have used mind-altering techniques to achieve different states of consciousness, envision spiritual figures, connect with nature, or simply for the fun of it. Psychedelic substances, in particular, have a long and controversial <a href="https://theconversation.com/psychedelic-drugs-can-be-almost-as-life-altering-as-near-death-experiences-189325">history</a>. But for just as long, people have been having these experiences without drugs too, using <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/11/1/101">rhythmic techniques such as rocking, chanting or drumming</a>.</p> <p>Perhaps the most powerful technique of this kind is flickering light, called “ganzflicker”. Ganzflicker effects can be achieved by turning a light on and off, or by alternating colours in a rapid, rhythmic pattern (like a strobe). This can create an instant psychedelic experience. </p> <p>Ganzflicker elicits striking visual phenomena. People can see geometric shapes and illusory colours but sometimes also complex objects, such as animals and faces – all without any chemical stimulants. Sometimes ganzflicker can even lead to altered states of consciousness (such as losing a sense of time or space) and emotions (ranging from fear to euphoria).</p> <p>Although its effects are little known today, ganzflicker has influenced and inspired many people through the ages, including the two of us. We are an art historian and brain scientist working together on an interactive showcase of ganzflicker techniques used in science and art. Our collaboration has culminated in the museum exhibition <a href="https://reshannereeder.com/ganzflicker-exhibit">“Ganzflicker: art, science, and psychedelic experience”</a>, which is part of the 2022 <a href="https://www.beinghumanfestival.org/">Being Human festival</a>.</p> <p>Ganzflicker’s effects were first documented in 1819 by the physiologist <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/235945">Jan E. Purkinje</a>. Purkinje discovered that illusory patterns could appear if he faced the sun and waved his hand in front of his closed eyelids.</p> <p>Near the end of the 19th century, an English toymaker and amateur scientist, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/051200c0">Charles Benham</a>, produced the first commercially available flicker device: a top with a monochrome pattern that, when spun, produced illusory colours that swirled around the disc. </p> <p>Modified versions of Benham’s “artificial spectrum top” were used in experiments well into the 20th century. William Grey Walter, a pioneering neurophysiologist and cybernetician, <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-70911-1_17">pushed flicker effects further</a> by using electric strobe lights, synchronised with the brain’s rhythms.</p> <p>Fascinated by the mind-altering potential of Walter’s machinery, the artist Brion Gysin, in collaboration with writer William S. Burroughs and mathematician Ian Sommerville, invented the <a href="http://mindcontrol-research.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/14_2_dream-machine-plans.pdf">Dreamachine</a> (1962).</p> <h2>The swinging 60s of drug-free psychedelics</h2> <p>A Dreamachine consists of an upright cylinder with patterns cut into it and a lightbulb suspended at its centre. When spun on a turntable at 78rpm, the flickering patterns (viewed through closed eyelids) can cause trance-like hallucinations.</p> <p>Gysin thought of the Dreamachine as a new kind of artwork – “the first art object to be seen with the eyes closed” – and a form of entertainment, which he believed could replace the television. Others saw the Dreamachine’s potential to be a source of spiritual inspiration.</p> <p>Burroughs thought it could be <a href="https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/brion-gysin-the-pioneering-artist-who-invented-the-dreamachine/">used to</a> “storm the citadels of enlightenment”. The poet Alan Ginsberg said: “It sets up optical fields as religious and mandalic as hallucinogenic drugs – it’s like being able to have jewelled biblical designs and landscapes without taking chemicals.”</p> <p>Flicker experiments in art did not stop with the Dreamachine. Others included Tony Conrad’s groundbreaking structuralist film <a href="https://fourthree.boilerroom.tv/film/flicker-tony-conrad">The Flicker</a> (1966), which was the first artwork to include the warning “may induce epileptic seizures or produce mild symptoms of shock treatment in certain persons”. </p> <p>The conceptual artist James Turrell’s <a href="https://jamesturrell.com/work/bindu-shards/">Bindu Shards</a> (2010) was an enclosed globe that bombards the observer with strobe light. And, more recently, Collective Act created its own <a href="https://dreamachine.world/">Dreamachine</a> (2022) , a public planetarium-style artwork inspired by Gysin’s which toured the UK.</p> <h2>The science of ganzflicker</h2> <p>Two hundred years after Jan Purkinje documented the physiological properties of ganzflicker, scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for how it works. </p> <p>A recent theory proposes that visual phenomena may be the result of interactions between external flicker and the brain’s natural rhythmic electrical pulses, with more intense images manifesting <a href="https://theconversation.com/pseudo-hallucinations-why-some-people-see-more-vivid-mental-images-than-others-test-yourself-here-163025">when the frequencies of flicker and the brain are closest</a>.</p> <p>It is also likely that a strong visual flicker influences brain states. Meaningful visions, altered conscious states and heightened emotions may be the result of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-18591-6">imaginative suggestion</a>, which is amplified by the trance-inducing properties of <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/11/1/101">rhythmic stimulation</a>.</p> <p>What is perhaps most powerful about ganzflicker is its universality. Engineers, mathematicians, artists, historians and scientists have all been united by this modest, drug-free means of eliciting dramatic changes in consciousness. The new wave of popularity on this topic will undoubtedly lead to illuminating discoveries in the coming years.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/manipulating-light-can-induce-psychedelic-experiences-and-scientists-arent-quite-sure-why-192885" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>

Art

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10 sure-fire ways to boost the value of your home

<p>How do you boost the resale value of your home? Should you add another bedroom, build a pool or a granny flat, or would a garage be better?</p> <p>While it seems tempting to just go all out and add any feature you can think of, it's important to remember that not every <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">home renovation</a> is going to actually benefit you when the time comes to sell. You need to focus on changes to your home that suit the lifestyle of the neighbourhood. Here are some ways you can do this and boost your home's sale prospects.</p> <p><strong>1. Get some expert advice</strong></p> <p>Before you start knocking down walls, it’s a good idea to get a professional such as a <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">real estate agent</a> or an interior designer to give you some advice as to what they believe would add value to your property.</p> <p>The benefit of asking a real estate agent is, they live and breathe property in your local area and are very familiar with what buyers are looking for in a new home. You could also use the opportunity to get a free property appraisal.</p> <p>Plus, booking a <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free appraisal</a> with LJ Hooker will not only shed light on the value of your home, but can also put you in the running to win one of seven $5000 renovation packs - as long as you book before November 30.</p> <p><strong>2. </strong><strong>Highlight a standout feature</strong></p> <p>Does your home have a feature that other properties don't? For instance, does it have a beautiful view - can you make enhancements such as enlarge the windows, or change the window treatment so it is easier to see out and enjoy the expanse? If you don't have a view, can you create one with smart landscaping?</p> <p>If you have a swimming pool, ensure the lighting is good to help make this a feature. If you have an ugly side fence, you could transform this using an evergreen wall or vertical planter boxes. If your living area is separate to your garden, bring a bit of nature inside using indoor planter boxes, potted or hanging plants.</p> <p>With <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the right help</a>, you can identify and emphasise the features of your property that will help make it a strong contender when it hits the market.</p> <p><strong>3. </strong><strong>Invest in your garden early on</strong></p> <p>A manicured mature garden with established shade trees is very popular with buyers. Growing an established garden takes years to grow – so it’s a good idea to get this underway early. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the use of the garden long before you sell. Check with your local council about planning laws around trees that could extend beyond your property boundary too!</p> <p><strong>4. </strong><strong>Revamp the kitchen</strong></p> <p>The kitchen is the one room that can make or break a sale. It’s usually the most expensive room in any house, so prospective buyers don’t want to see a kitchen that needs a total upgrade.  This doesn’t mean a total re-fit, but there are some small things you can splurge on that will help make your kitchen more appealing.</p> <ul> <li>Add appliances</li> <li>Fresh coat of paint</li> <li>Do up your doors &amp; door handles</li> <li>Lift the lighting with fluorescents or spotlights above benchtops and potentially a pendant light for some visual interest.</li> <li>Replace old benchtops</li> <li>Re-tile or fix the floorboards</li> <li>Ensure you have good storage and have maximised your bench space</li> <li>Ideally having a kitchen that flows outside to an alfresco eating area gives cooks the option to cook in the kitchen if at the outside BBQ</li> </ul> <p><strong>5. </strong><strong>Enhance the bathroom</strong></p> <p>Buyers today like beautiful bathrooms - they want a room they can relax and pamper themselves in, no matter what size or condition your bathroom is in. It is Ok to spend some money on the bathroom to make the most of what you have.</p> <ul> <li>Replace any cracked basins, toilets or tubs.</li> <li>Replace your vanity or mirror and add new lighting fixtures to make a really good impression on your buyers.</li> <li>If you have small bathroom – consider wall-mounted sinks and toilets and towel rails behind the door and use big mirrors to make the room appear twice the size.</li> <li>Repaint stained or chipped bathtubs and basins.</li> <li>Add to this a fresh coat of paint on the walls, and you have a whole new bathroom.</li> </ul> <p><strong>6. </strong><strong>Go with the flow</strong></p> <p>A property that flows smoothly from space to space is important to buyers, as it directly affects how easily and comfortably people can move through the home. Spending time getting this right can add significant dollars to your properties value. Consider:</p> <ul> <li>Where the kitchen is located, does it flow easily into the eating / living area?</li> <li>Do you have an outside eating  / sitting area where you can entertain friends in summer or simply relax with a good book? This is an extra room in the eyes of a buyer.</li> <li>Is there a smooth indoor / outdoor flow?</li> <li>If you are looking at improving the 'flow' of your property don't forget to think about ventilation. Cross breezes in summer can be life saving when its hot. Consider adding shutters, or louvres, larger windows or add large doors to the outside to help bring the fresh air in.  </li> </ul> <p><strong>7. </strong><strong>Add a granny flat</strong></p> <p>If you have the space, a granny flat can be a big drawcard for buyers for a multitude of reasons. Family buyers love a granny flat as the space can double up as a rumpus room for the kids, a place for the in-laws to stay or a home office.</p> <p>In addition, astute buyers see the opportunity of being able to lease out the external flat and help with their mortgage.</p> <p><strong>8. Pop on a fresh coat of paint</strong></p> <p>Paint can totally transform your property and help catapult it from the 70’s or 80’s into the 21st century. Consider re-painting the façade of your property if it is looking a bit tired, or if you have exposed brick you could render the façade and paint it. This will help create a good first impression and set the tone for the rest of the property.</p> <p>Don’t stop there, re-painting the walls inside also has a positive effect on buyers as it instantly refreshes the entire home. You can’t go wrong with fresh, crisp paint job in modern neutral colours. </p> <p><strong>9. Add extra storage</strong></p> <p>Another great investment is to add built in cupboards throughout the property – in bedrooms, family rooms, hall ways, garages…anywhere you have the space. Buyers love great storage so this can make your home much more appealing.</p> <p><strong>10. Create an outdoor entertaining space</strong></p> <p>An outdoor entertaining area adds a whole new room to your home, and buyers love this. When planning your outdoor space, consider how you envisage it to be used. If you have the space, perhaps one that is ideal for a large family, a large dining area may be the best option with BBQ and cooking area.</p> <p>If space is tight, a deck or patio with comfy seating and shade may be the best option. If you have a balcony, adding a table setting, even small, is very appealing to buyers. They will be able to project themselves, enjoying their morning coffee in the sun.</p> <p>Ready to sell your home? <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Request a free appraisal</a> to get a better understanding of where your house stands in the current market today. It will give you a detailed breakdown of your property's size, location, how it compares to similar local properties, potential areas of improvement, and much more.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://go.linkby.com/TBDJBQJE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LJ Hooker</a>.</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Voting? Here’s how to make sure yours counts this election

<p dir="ltr">After an endless stream of campaigning, gaffes and debates, election day is upon us – and it’s time for Australians to cast their votes for the next government.</p> <p dir="ltr">Unless you’re one of the 4,617,905 or 1,644,061 Australians who have voted at a pre-poll centre or by postal vote as of May 20, you’ll likely be lining up at your local polling place (or the nearest one to you if you’re out of area), buying a democracy sausage, and casting your vote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though it might be tedious to navigate the crowd of party supporters outside, answer the same three questions and fill in the ‘tablecloth’ (Senate) ballot paper once you’re inside, it’s all part of having our voices heard (all while avoiding the $50 fine for not voting).</p> <p dir="ltr">Having personally worked during the last two federal elections (and preparing to work in this one), here’s what you need to know and some tips for making sure your vote counts this time around.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>What happens after you vote</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Once it hits 6pm, polling booths close and the paperwork begins, with staff then sorting and counting the ballot papers, collating results, and calling in these results to be displayed on the AEC website.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2ed0b468-7fff-66dc-f736-45497d315bbb"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">If it’s getting close to 6pm and you haven’t voted yet, you still can. If you’re in the queue to vote once 6pm hits, a staff member will stand at the end of the line and everyone ahead of them will be allowed to vote before the polling booth closes.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/election-day1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: AEC</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>How to make your House of Representatives vote count</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">This small, green ballot paper lists all the candidates that want to represent your local electoral division in the House of Representatives, and there are a few ways to ensure your vote is considered formal and counted towards the candidate of your choice.</p> <p dir="ltr">For the <a href="https://www.aec.gov.au/Voting/How_to_Vote/Voting_HOR.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">House of Representatives</a>, you’ll need to number every box, with number one in the box next to your first preference, number two next to your second preference, and so on.</p> <p dir="ltr">Staff are trained to err in the favour of voters when deciding if a vote is formal or informal, so if you make a mistake on your ballot - or even change your mind about how to number your preferences - make sure your numbering of candidates is clear (or ask for a new one).</p> <p dir="ltr">Your vote will be considered informal if:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">It’s blank or unmarked</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Numbers are repeated</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You use ticks or crosses</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">There is anything written on it that identifies who you are</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">It’s missing your first preference or any other numbers from the sequence</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">It’s important to note that you can ask for a new ballot from the person who originally gave you the ballot papers, and that you can ask for help to complete the vote.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>What about the Senate?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The white ballot paper - sometimes fondly referred to as the “tablecloth” - is the same no matter where you are in your state or territory. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Senate ballot is split into two sections, giving you the choice to vote above the line or below the line. You can either vote for parties or groups, listed above the line, or for individual candidates listed below the line.</p> <p dir="ltr">To <a href="https://www.aec.gov.au/Voting/How_to_Vote/Voting_Senate.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vote formally</a>, you’ll need to either number at least six boxes above the line or at least 12 below the line in order of your preference.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you have numbered boxes both above and below the line, your below-the-line preferences will be the ones that are counted.</p> <p dir="ltr">As with the House of Representatives ballot, if you make a mistake you can ask for a fresh ballot, and you can ask for help completing the ballot if you need it.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>What if I have Covid and I’m in isolation?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and will still be in isolation on election day, that doesn’t mean you can’t still vote.</p> <p dir="ltr">The AEC has made it so that Covid-positive voters can vote over the phone, as long as they register online, make a declaration and provide evidence of a positive RAT or PCR test result.</p> <p dir="ltr">To find out more about voting by phone and registering, head <a href="https://www.aec.gov.au/election/covid19-affected.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>I’m not in my division on the day - can I still vote?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Short answer: yes. Longer answer: yes, and you’ll need to complete a declaration vote. This will require you to make a declaration that you are entitled to vote. Once you’ve voted, your ballots will be sealed in an envelope with your details and sent to your local electoral division to be counted.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, if you’re not in your home state on election day, you won’t be able to vote at just any polling place. If you do attend a local polling place, the staff member in charge will direct you to your closest interstate voting centre, which you can also find <a href="https://www.aec.gov.au/election/voting.htm#start" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-51263298-7fff-8ff7-6c5f-4eefcba0b2a5"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: AEC</em></p>

Legal

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"I'm not sure I will survive": Elderly woman's devastating cost of living confession

<p>An elderly woman has shared a devastating confession about her living costs, revealing she is struggling to survive as the cost of living continues to rise. </p> <p>Pat Isaacs, from the Central West town of Orange, says she is in a constant state of anxiety as she battles with rising prices while living on the Age Pension payments. </p> <p>The 78-year-old doesn't have any superannuation or investments and relies solely on the government payments of just $900 a fortnight. </p> <p>Pat lives on a vegetarian diet because she can't afford to buy meat, never buys new clothes, and luxury expenses such as alcohol and cigarettes are completely out of the question. </p> <p>As grocery prices have increased in recent months, she has struggled to stretch her money beyond the essentials. </p> <p>"Long term, I'm not sure I will survive," she said. </p> <p>"What would (Prime Minister) Scomo and his mates know about my reality? They get a third of my week's income for meal allowance each day."</p> <p>"They are so out of touch with real issues."</p> <p>Pat is not alone in her frustrations, as it is estimated 1.5 million older Australians rely on the age pension as their main source of income, which equates to just over $900 a fortnight for singles or just over $25,000 annually.</p> <p>Shockingly, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) revealed countless pensioners have endured the highest annual increase in living costs in 16 years.</p> <p>Ian Henschke is the Chief Advocate for National Seniors, a not-for-profit organisation campaigning for better outcomes for older Australians, and is devoting his time to advocating for the needs of seniors on both a state and federal level. </p> <p>"We've got pensioners living in poverty and they are out of sight, out of mind," Henschke told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/australian-pensioners-forced-into-poverty-as-inflation-soars/eacb55e7-4f62-4665-b34e-b562ab12c02f?ocid=Social-9News&amp;fbclid=IwAR3DznDLZMPhVUoRHix1GEGQfIWofQH4OKQwcRSp-YZzZ1VF7GmWCadaCO0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">Nine News.</a></p> <p>"And no one is caring about it. The age pension is not adequate to provide for all Australians."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Daily Mail Australia / Getty Images</em></p>

Retirement Life

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How does Spotify use your data? Even experts aren’t sure

<p dir="ltr">Spotify has revolutionised the music industry, and its ability to recommend music tailored to your personal taste has been a standout feature.</p> <p dir="ltr">But it isn’t the only app to provide this kind of personalised experience, with Artificial Intelligence being used to create your personalised newsfeeds on Facebook and Twitter, recommend purchases on Amazon, or even the order of search results on Google.</p> <p dir="ltr">To achieve this, these apps and websites use our data in their recommendation algorithms - but they are so secretive about these algorithms that we don’t fully know how they work.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a search for answers, a team of New Zealand legal and music experts <a href="https://www.scimex.org/newsfeed/tinder-and-spotifys-fine-print-arent-clear-about-how-they-use-our-data-for-recs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pored over</a> several versions of the privacy policies and Terms of Use used by Spotify and Tinder to determine how our data is being used as new features have been rolled out.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their work, published in the <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/03036758.2022.2064517" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand</a></em>, found that Spotify’s privacy policy has nearly doubled since its launch in 2012, which reflects an increase in the amount of data the platform now collects.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>The algorithm hungers for data</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Originally, Spotify collected basic information such as the kinds of songs played, the playlists created, and the email address, age, gender, and location of a user, as well as their profile picture, and the pictures and names of their Facebook friends if their profile was linked.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the 2021 policy, Spotify collects voice data, users’ photos, and location data - and the team of experts have connected this expansion to the patents the company owns.</p> <p dir="ltr">That same year, “Spotify was granted a patent that allows the company to promote ‘personalised content’ based on the ‘personality traits’ it detects from voice data and background noise,” the authors wrote, suggesting the algorithm has changed to capture voice data.</p> <p dir="ltr">As for its Terms of Use, the authors found both Spotify and Tinder used ambiguous wording and vague language, despite expectations that it would be somewhat transparent because it is a legal agreement between the platform and its users.</p> <p dir="ltr">They noted that the opaque style of the Terms of Use made analysis more difficult.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite this, they found that from 2015, Spotify’s recommendations were also influenced by “commercial considerations”, including third-party agreements Spotify had with other companies.</p> <p dir="ltr">The team of experts argue that this particular change “provides ample room for the company to legally highlight content to a specific user based on a commercial agreement”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, Spotify has also started offering artists the option to lower their royalty rate “in exchange for an increased number of recommendations”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Taken together, the authors argue that this means that the playlists made specifically for us could be influenced by factors outside of our control, “like commercial deals with artists and labels”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Users deserve answers</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Though they made these findings, the authors note that some will still be speculative while companies stay tight-lipped about how their algorithms work.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When companies are uncooperative, and typical academic inquiry cannot be complete without breaching contractual agreements, we maintain that scholarly investigation can have a speculative character,” they wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This suggestion does not mean that a less academic rigour can be expected or granted about making assumptions on the basis of partial, observable data. Instead, we propose that it is the companies’ remit and burden to refute such assumptions and communicating the clarity of their systems.”</p> <p dir="ltr">With many of us using services like Spotify, Tinder, Google and Amazon on a daily basis, it’s up to these companies to become more transparent in how they use our information with the understanding that we deserve to know what happens to the data that makes us, us.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-22451cbe-7fff-7512-7ed6-c621fbd456c7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Technology

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New travel app makes sure all holiday-goers are Covid-safe

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As international borders are beginning to reopen, traveling in a post-Covid world is going to be very different. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Around the globe, each country has different regulations as Covid outbreaks continue to happen to varying degrees. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Considering all the obstacles travellers face, the airlines have united to back a project that will ensure safe and easy travel for everyone. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), airlines from around the world, including Qantas, have helped develop a digital pass to align with Covid regulations no matter what your destination is. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Qantas chief customer officer Stephanie Tully said the airline was determined to “hold the hand” of their customers from the moment they book their flight. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Tully said Qantas planned to “help our customers every step of the way”, as she showed prototypes of the app and travel pass. </span></p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845248/iata-app.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/7fa36ee17b664acc867a8b7c1e83cdaa" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credits: International Air Transport Association </span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“No one should be turning up at the airport without knowing exactly what they needed to have done to get on the flight,” she added.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’ve developed some technology, some world-first technology, that will help us virtually hand hold our customers through the flight.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Tully said as soon as passengers book their flight, Qantas will start sending texts and app alerts about the latest government and travel requirements.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Where it becomes particularly important is seven days out from a flight, that’s when you need to start doing a few things ... so depending on the requirement of the destination, at seven days out we will contact customers so they know what to do in the lead up to travel ... we’ll provide a checklist via SMS and email of exactly what customers need to do,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Four days out, again we’ll SMS all customers because at that point you’ll need a PCR test, so we’re making sure our customers know that they need to do that and where they can do that.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If customers book through Qantas.com, they will also be eligible for a discount on their PCR test. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The airline will also send customers alerts closer to their travel date, reminding travellers of any requirements they need to present before boarding their flight. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As the IATA app comes online, the process will become even more streamlined, as it will sync a passenger’s vaccination status and negative test results with the airline system. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The IATA app will come online in December at the latest. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Tully said that as the current Covid situation continues to change, Qantas wants their customers to know they’re in safe hands. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The world of post-Covid travel will continually evolve over the next 12 months, so our job at Qantas is to help our customers through those changes.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out the IATA Travel App announcement here:</span></p> <p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R4f1r5iogAo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credits: Shutterstock / IATA</span></em></p>

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Does a face shield protect against COVID-19? We’re not sure — so a mask is probably a safer bet for now

<p>For several weeks, Victorians have been required to <a href="https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19">wear a face covering</a> when they leave home. And while we now have a clearer path out of lockdown, it’s likely masks will be around for a while.</p> <p>Meanwhile, people in <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/new-queensland-restrictions-in-force-as-mask-use-encouraged-20200830-p55qoq.html">other states</a> with outbreaks have been encouraged to wear masks, and some people are simply choosing to wear one as a precaution.</p> <p>But some people in the community, instead of opting for a traditional mask, are instead wearing a face shield.</p> <p>This might offer some degree of protection — but it’s probably not as good as a mask in preventing the spread of COVID-19.</p> <p><strong>Get your coronavirus updates from health experts.</strong></p> <p>Get newsletter</p> <p><strong>What is a face shield?</strong></p> <p>A face shield is a film made from plastic or other transparent material designed to be worn like a visor. It’s attached using a band that goes around the top of your head.</p> <p>Think of a visor a welder wears to protect themselves from sparks and injury. Health-care workers use face shields to block bodily fluids from coming into contact with their face, and potentially causing infection.</p> <p>It’s likely many people are choosing face shields during COVID-19 because they’re experiencing discomfort wearing a mask — whether glasses fogging up, irritation around the ears, or just that extra layer.</p> <p>The term “face covering”, as per the <a href="https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19">Victorian government’s guidelines</a>, is notably vague. It can include a face mask, a face shield, or a scarf or bandana.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19#what-does-wearing-a-face-covering-mean">department of health</a> does however recommend a mask over a face shield.</p> <p><strong>How effective are face shields?</strong></p> <p>A <a href="https://aip.scitation.org/doi/pdf/10.1063/5.0022968">letter</a>, published recently in the journal Physics of Fluids, reported on a laboratory experiment where scientists put face shields to the test.</p> <p>They simulated coughing by connecting the head of a mannequin to a fog machine, and then using a pump to expel the vapour through the mannequin’s mouth.</p> <p>They found that while face shields stopped the droplets being propelled forwards, aerosolised droplets — those much smaller in size — lingered at the bottom of the shield and floated around at the sides. They eventually spread approximately 90 centimetres from the mannequins.</p> <p>This is an interesting laboratory experiment, but not conclusive evidence face shields offer less protection than masks in the community.</p> <p>A lack of research on the effectiveness of face shields means it’s not possible to make any strong recommendations for or against their use.</p> <p><strong>Where does this leave us?</strong></p> <p>There’s a lot we still don’t know about this virus and how it spreads.</p> <p>At present, we believe <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19">the virus is spread</a> generally through close contact with an infectious person, contact with the droplets emitted when they sneeze or cough, or contact with surfaces these droplets have contaminated.</p> <p>To establish an infection the virus enters your body through portals of entry: the mouth, nose and eyes.</p> <p>Wearing a mask is intended to protect others if you have the infection, by blocking the droplets coming out of your mouth and nose. We call this source control. To a degree — though we have <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/transmission-of-sars-cov-2-implications-for-infection-prevention-precautions">less evidence</a> on this front — it’s also likely to protect you, the wearer, by providing a physical barrier to your portals of entry.</p> <p>A face shield may offer an advantage in that it provides a physical barrier over all your portals of entry — your eyes as well as your mouth and nose. Shields may also reduce the frequency of the wearer touching their face, and have the added benefit of allowing the person’s face to be seen (if they’re not wearing a mask as well).</p> <p>However, as they’re not tight fitting, aerosols may still enter and exit around the outside of a face shield, where it’s not fitted in the same way a mask is. And we’re continuing to accumulate evidence about the possible role of aerosolised transmission in the spread of COVID-19, which the <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/transmission-of-sars-cov-2-implications-for-infection-prevention-precautions">World Health Organisation</a> is closely monitoring.</p> <p><strong>Correct use is important too</strong></p> <p>Whatever face covering you choose, you must use it properly, and it must fit correctly.</p> <p>Having masks slung under the chin, hanging off one ear, or your nose poking out over the top of the mask will make them markedly less effective. And of course frequently touching and re-adjusting the mask means we’re possibly contaminating our hands too.</p> <p>If you don’t intend to wear a mask properly or you’re unable to, then a face shield is a better option. You can also wear mask and a face shield together, should you wish to.</p> <p>Like masks, there are a variety of face shields available, varying in quality and size. The <a href="https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19#what-does-wearing-a-face-covering-mean">department of health advise</a> if you wear a face shield it should cover “the wearer’s forehead to below the chin area and wrapping around the sides of the wearer’s face”.</p> <p>You should not share a face shield. If they’re labelled disposable, don’t reuse them. And if they are reusable you need to clean them regularly following the manufacturer’s instructions.</p> <p><strong>The upshot</strong></p> <p>Masks worn correctly are the best option. When wearing a mask is not possible, then a face shield is better than nothing. Neither will work well if not used properly, and importantly, they don’t replace physical distancing and hand hygiene.</p> <p><em>Written by Phillip Russo and Brett Mitchell. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/does-a-face-shield-protect-against-covid-19-were-not-sure-so-a-mask-is-probably-a-safer-bet-for-now-145547">The Conversation.</a> </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Make sure you’re not accidentally ageing your hair

<ol> <li><strong><span> You don’t give much thought to your scalp</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>There’s only so much you can do with hair products. “All of us are more about instant gratification,” says celebrity stylist Nunzio Saviano. “You do all the things you’re supposed to do on the outside, but you’re not taking care of the root of the problem – and the root of the problem is taking care of the scalp and hair follicles.” </span></p> <p><span>The older you get, the more you lose the small veins in your scalp, meaning your hair follicles aren’t getting the nutrients they need, he says. One easy way to get the blood flowing – and make your hair lush again – is by giving your hair that classic 100 strokes a day. Sure, it might smooth your hair, but best of all, it stimulates your scalp.</span></p> <ol start="2"> <li><strong><span> You have the wrong hairbrush</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Those plastic-knobbed brushes might be cheap, but they’re not doing your hair any favours. The plastic can easily snag hair, damaging tresses. Instead, buy a boar bristle brush, which will stimulate the scalp without harming your hair, recommends TV hair stylist Laura Burns. “They kind of glide through the hair and don’t pull it,” she says.</span></p> <ol start="3"> <li><strong> <span>You wash your hair every day</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>The texture of your hair might change as you get older for the same reason that you’ve been noticing your skin is losing its glow: your skin stops secreting as much oil, says dermatologist Dr Tsippora Shainhouse. </span></p> <p><span>She recommends cutting back on how often you wash your hair – stick to about two or three times a week – and using a gentler shampoo when you do suds up. A sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner will keep your scalp and hair from drying out too much in the shower, she says.</span></p> <ol start="4"> <li><strong><span> You’re always pulling your hair back</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>A ponytail is a lifesaver on a bad hair day, but making it your daily style could contribute to the thinning that already happens naturally with age. </span></p> <p><span>“When a ponytail is really tight, it’s a lot of pressure on the follicle,” says Saviano. “Day after day, the follicle just gives in, and you lose that hair.” </span></p> <p><span>Resist pulling your hair back unless you really need to, and during activities like a workout, try to keep the ponytail loose so you aren’t putting so much stress on your roots.</span></p> <ol start="5"> <li><strong><span> You rely on dry shampoo</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>“Dry shampoo is probably one of the worst products you can use because it just clogs the pores,” says Saviano. Using it once or twice a week is fine, he adds, but using it day after day will interfere with healthy oils your hair needs to retain its youthful lustre. </span></p> <p><span>For a better anti-ageing hair care routine, make sure you’re washing your hair a couple of times a week; shampooing your roots helps stimulate the scalp, says Saviano.</span></p> <ol start="6"> <li><strong><span> You use heavy, sticky products</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Pomades and mousses may have worked wonders when your hair was younger and thicker, but if it’s thinning now, those heavy products are no longer the right choice. </span></p> <p><span>“Be gentle: don’t use a product that is too sticky – nothing you put in and then have to really pull to work the brush through your hair,” says Burns. </span></p> <p><span>Using products that stiffen your hair is just one of the hairstyle mistakes that age your face – and you should avoid them. Swap out mousse and root boost for lighter products, like a gentle volumiser or a hair tonic, she suggests.</span></p> <ol start="7"> <li><strong><span> You load up on product</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>It’s not just about what you use; it’s how much. “Less is better,” says Saviano. The more creams, serums, and sprays you layer onto your hair, the heavier and duller it will look – which is just the opposite of what you need from anti-ageing hair care. </span></p> <p><span>Give your hair bounce and shine by cutting back on the amount of product you use.</span></p> <ol start="8"> <li><strong><span> You spend a ton of time in the sun</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>You wouldn’t go out in the sun without protecting your skin – right? – so the same should go for your hair. UV damage from the sun can dry out strands and make hair colour fade faster, says Dr Shainhouse. </span></p> <p><span>She recommends wearing a wide-brimmed hat to block those harmful rays. “It will keep the sun off of your face, ears, and scalp, which are susceptible to age spots, premature wrinkling, sunburn, and developing skin cancer,” she says.</span></p> <ol start="9"> <li><strong><span> You don’t give pollution a second thought</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Sunlight isn’t the only danger to your hair in the great outdoors. Wind and changes in humidity can make your hair frizzy, compelling you to try and tame it with products and heat. And toxins in air pollution can do a number on your tresses. </span></p> <p><span>“They produce free radicals reactive oxygen species that damage hair cells and disrupt the normal biochemistry of hair, thus making hair age faster and damage prone,” says cosmetic surgeon Dr Sonam Yadav. </span></p> <ol start="10"> <li><strong><span> You straighten or curl your hair every day</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Curling irons and flat irons may give your hair the style you want, but all that heat is very hard on your hair. Your hair already loses moisture and softness as you age; using hot tools makes your tresses even drier and more brittle, says Saviano. “In general, the less you use them, the better it is,” he says. </span></p> <ol start="11"> <li><strong><span> Your diet is lacking key nutrients</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>“Menopause causes thinning and fall of hair in almost all women due to the decrease in oestrogen levels that are a normal part of menopause,” says Dr Yadav. </span></p> <p><span>Some cases are more extreme, with women noticing the patchy balding called female pattern hair loss. Eating iron- and calcium-rich foods like spinach, dairy, and eggs can help. </span></p> <p><span>If hair loss is extreme and noticeable work with your doctor to rule out underlying medical issues that could be throwing your hormones out of whack. </span></p> <ol start="12"> <li><strong><span> You’ve been skipping your workouts</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Exercise is great for your heart, brain, and pretty much every other part of your body – hair included. If you’ve been getting less physical activity as you age, your body isn’t the only part of you that’s missing out. </span></p> <p><span>Anti-ageing hair is dependent on the blood-pumping benefits of a healthy circulatory system. “Get as much circulation as you can get,” says Burns. “Blood flow to the scalp is great.”</span></p> <ol start="13"> <li><strong><span> Your shampoo is too intense</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>As your hair gets drier through the years, a clarifying shampoo might be too strong. </span></p> <p><span>“Using a heavier shampoo like detoxifying shampoos might strip natural oils from the hair,” says Saviano. “You feel squeaky clean, which is good, but if you’re not using conditioner, your hair will look dull.”</span></p> <ol start="14"> <li><strong><span> You ignore self-care</span></strong></li> </ol> <p><span>Emotional and physical stress take a toll on your body, and your body might respond by putting the brakes on some of your hair follicles, says Dr Shainhouse. </span></p> <p><span>To keep stress from making age-related hair loss more pronounced, make sure you’re addressing sources of chronic stress in your life. Talk to a mental health provider about coping strategies, or pick up stress-busting activities like meditation and exercise. </span></p> <p><em>Written by <span>Marissa Laliberte</span></em><em>. This article first appeared on <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/culture/14-everyday-mistakes-that-are-aging-your-hair" target="_blank">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a rel="noopener" href="http://readersdigest.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank">here’s our best subscription</a>.</em></p> <p><span> </span></p>

Beauty & Style

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How to make sure your luggage gets off the plane first

<p>Hate waiting at the baggage carousel for your luggage to arrive? These tips could be the answer.</p> <p><strong>Pay for it</strong></p> <p>As with most things in the world, money will get you to the front of the line. If you are flying first or business class, or sometimes even in premium economy, your bag will be tagged as a priority and be offloaded first. It’s not going to be cheap, but remember that it’s just one of lots of inflight perks that come with seats up the pointy end.</p> <p><strong>Be a frequent flyer</strong></p> <p>Some airlines, like Qantas and Delta, will offer their elite frequent flyers priority bag tags, like those you would find in first or business class, wherever they are seated. You’ll need to amass some serious points to reach these levels, so sign up to the program and stick with the one airline (or its partners) whenever you fly. Online forums suggest that these priority tags don’t always work, but hopefully your baggage handlers will respect them.</p> <p><strong>Check in last (maybe)</strong></p> <p>The theory goes, that airlines will unload the luggage in a ‘last in, first out’ format. If this is true, then the best way to get your bags to the front of the line is to be one of the last people to check in. However, many airports now use baggage carts to take the luggage to the plane all at once rather than loading them as they are checked in. That means there’s no real way to ensure that yours stays near the front. But it’s still worth a try!</p> <p><strong>Pack really light</strong></p> <p>Unfortunately, there’s only one surefire way to ensure that you never have to wait for your luggage – don’t check any bags! If you can master the art of flying with only carry on, you’ll never be stuck at the carousel again.</p>

Travel Tips

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10 ways to make sure you iPhone is ready for travel

<p>It’s hard to imagine how we managed to travel in a world without iPhones. What was once considered a luxury item, has now become an indispensable tool that acts as a map, guide, translator and everything in between.</p> <p>With so many features already commonly used, it might surprise you to learn most people only scraping the iceberg of handy ways an iPhone can make travel easier.</p> <p>Rather than spending hours deciphering tech-jargon, we’ve created a simple rundown of iPhone travel features you might not be taking advantage of. Discover 10 ways you can make your iPhone ready for travel in the gallery above.</p> <p>Do you use your iPhone much when travelling?</p>

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