NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STL to visit Beijing and Tianjin

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    STL to visit Beijing and Tianjin
    STL to visit Beijing and Tianjin
    ********************************

         The Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, will leave for a visit to Beijing and Tianjin this evening (September 24).     Mr Lam will attend the Global Sustainable Transport Forum (2024) hosted by the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing tomorrow (September 25), where he will speak at a thematic session. During his visit in Beijing, Mr Lam will also meet with officials of the Ministry of Transport.     Mr Lam will then visit Tianjin to attend the 11th China Air Finance Development (DFTP) Summit and deliver a speech at the opening ceremony on September 26.     He will return to Hong Kong on the evening of September 26. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Liu Chun-san, will be the Acting Secretary for Transport and Logistics.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 10:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: From waste to power: how floating solar panels on wastewater ponds could help solve NZ’s electricity security crisis

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Faith Jeremiah, Lecturer in Business Management (Entrepreneurship and Innovation), Lincoln University, New Zealand

    Getty Images

    Wastewater ponds may seem an unlikely place to look for solutions to New Zealand’s electricity security crisis. But their underutilised surfaces could help tackle two problems at once – high power prices and algal growth.

    Floating solar panels on wastewater ponds offer a multifaceted answer. They generate renewable energy, improve water quality in the treatment ponds and reduce costs.

    Leading this approach is the 2020 installation of New Zealand’s first floating solar array at the Rosedale wastewater treatment plant in Auckland. This project demonstrates how New Zealand could double the country’s power supply without requiring additional land. It serves as a test for future deployments on other reservoirs and dams.

    The project comprises 2,700 solar panels and 4,000 floating pontoons. It covers one hectare of the treatment pond, making excellent use of a marginal land asset in a dense urban environment.

    The floating solar array generates 1,040 kilowatts of electricity and reduces 145 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. It also saves NZ$4.5 million in electricity costs per year. The electricity it generates, alongside biogas co-generation, meets 25% of the plant’s energy needs.

    The floating solar panel array, together with biogas generation, meets a quarter of the Rosedale wastewater treatment plant’s energy needs.
    Lynn Grieveson/Getty Images

    The project represents the first use of floating solar and the first megawatt-sized solar project in the country. As energy prices soar and environmental pressures mount, it is time to start exploring innovative solutions with the resources we already have.

    Wastewater ponds provide underused surface

    New Zealand is currently grappling with an electricity crisis, marked by increasing demand, aging infrastructure and a challenging transition to renewable energy sources.

    The country relies heavily on hydroelectric power. This makes it particularly vulnerable during periods of low water levels in hydro lakes, especially in winter. This in turn leads to frequent supply shortfalls and, combined with diminishing gas supplies, to rising electricity prices.

    As New Zealand intensifies its efforts to integrate more renewable energy, we need innovative solutions to stabilise the grid and meet growing energy demands.

    One underutilised resource lies in wastewater treatment ponds. New Zealand has more than 200 wastewater ponds, chosen for their simplicity and low operational costs. They remain the most common form of wastewater treatment because they are robust, require low energy, cope with high water and waste loads and provide buffer storage to avoid applying agricultural effluent to wet soils.

    However, because of the high surface area and nutrient-rich environment, algal growth is one of the biggest issues with waste stabilisation ponds. This is exacerbated on days with high sunshine levels and warmer water temperatures. It complicates the treatment process and necessitates costly chemical interventions.

    An opportunity for New Zealand

    My background is in entrepreneurship and innovation and the idea of floating solar panels on New Zealand’s expansive wastewater ponds represents an untapped opportunity.

    Apart from generating power and preventing algal growth, the solar panels provide shade that keeps the water cooler and reduces evaporation. This is critical for maintaining effective wastewater treatment.

    Utility-scale solar panels are now recognised as the cheapest form of energy, with rapidly declining costs over the past five years.

    While relatively new to New Zealand, floating solar panels have shown significant advantages in other parts of the world. New Zealand may be held back by a misconception that solar panels work best in hot and sunny climates. In fact, solar panels harness the sun’s energy – not its temperature – making New Zealand’s cooler climate an ideal environment for efficient solar energy generation.

    Given New Zealand uses more energy per capita than 17 of our 30 OECD peers, floating solar panels on wastewater ponds could set an example for how we tackle energy and environmental challenges.

    By turning underutilised spaces into power-generating assets, we not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for a more sustainable, resilient future.

    Faith Jeremiah does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. From waste to power: how floating solar panels on wastewater ponds could help solve NZ’s electricity security crisis – https://theconversation.com/from-waste-to-power-how-floating-solar-panels-on-wastewater-ponds-could-help-solve-nzs-electricity-security-crisis-237455

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Air Force Airmen exercise warfighter mindset in Southern Beach

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    KADENA AIR BASE, Japan  –  

    U.S Air Force Airmen conducted training operations during exercise Southern Beach, Sept. 17 – 20.

    Southern Beach enables U.S. forces to refine shared tactics, techniques and procedures to better integrate defense capabilities in support of regional security.

    “Our objective in this operation is to integrate our 4th and 5th generation platforms,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Jonathan Greene, Southern Beach 24-3 project officer. “We want to measure the ability of our fighter squadrons to gain and maintain air superiority in a controlled environment.”

    F-22A Raptors assigned to the 27th Fighter Squadron and 199th Fighters Squadrons, F-16CM Fighting Falcons assigned to the 179th Fighter Squadron, KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, an E-3 Sentry assigned to the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron, and the 623rd Air Control Squadron, all participated in the exercise.

    This iteration of Southern Beach consisted of a Defensive Counter Air scenario, designed to detect, identify, intercept, and negate enemy forces attempting to penetrate or attack through friendly airspace.

    Southern Beach provides the opportunity to practice employing airpower in a contested environment, promoting national sovereignty, and improving global safety and security.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Emory S. Land Departs HMAS Stirling Following Submarine Maintenance

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    HMAS STIRLING, Western Australia  –  

    The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) departed from HMAS Stirling, Western Australia, after a regularly scheduled port call, Sept. 14. HMAS Stirling was the seventh port call in Australia of Emory S. Land’s current deployment, which began May 17.

    Emory S. Land arrived at HMAS Stirling Aug. 16 with a mixed crew of active-duty and Reserve U.S. Navy Sailors, Royal Australian Navy sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners to conduct a submarine tended maintenance period (STMP) with Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776).

    “It was a great experience working with our Australian counterparts, expanding the sustainment options for U.S. SSNs while helping the Royal Australian Navy prepare for Submarine Rotational Force – West and eventually their own Virginia-class submarines,” said Capt. Brent Spillner, commanding officer of Emory S. Land. “We have a lot of very complementary aims and capabilities, and it was very rewarding to find new ways to support each other’s fleets.”

    The STMP marked a significant step toward Australia gaining the capability to operate, maintain, and support a fleet of sovereign conventionally armed SSNs, which is a central requirement in executing Pillar 1 of the AUKUS security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

    During the STMP, Australian Sailors who have been attached to the submarine tender since January took the lead on conducting repairs aboard USS Hawaii. Emory S. Land also worked in conjunction with the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Support Unit-West at HMAS Stirling, which provides repair and maintenance services to the Australian fleet.

    “The work that we’ve done during the STMP is critical in demonstrating the tasks required to repair and sustain nuclear powered submarines,” said Cmdr. Calvin Hargadine, Emory S. Land’s repair officer. “The Royal Australian Navy sailors embedded with Emory S. Land were directly involved with each of the jobs accomplished during the availability, highlighting the interchangeability and proficiency of these sailors in conducting maintenance on these vessels. They became a part of our crew while they were here for over seven months and became family in a short amount of time. It is sad to see them go, but I know they’re going to be doing great things when they get back to their own fleet.”

    At the end of Emory S. Land’s port call, the Royal Australian Navy sailors bid farewell to their American counterparts and returned to their parent commands around Australia.

    “I think that the skillset that we learned and the experiences that we got will help the Royal Australian Navy in a number of ways,” said LEUT Joseph Melbin, the officer in charge of the Australian detachment aboard the submarine tender. “The biggest one is not necessarily on the technical front, but more so on the social front in terms of the connections we’ve made with the crew aboard as well as the differences that we learned from each other in the engineering systems that we use.”

    For the STMP, Melbin assumed the position as the ship’s production maintenance assistant, a vital role tasked with coordinating and communicating all major repairs performed on the submarine.

    “The Fleet Support Unit is very, very good at what they do, and it was a pleasure to work with them throughout this exchange program,” said Spillner. “LEUT Melbin and his team really took the reins and made the STMP a success, performing just as well as USN personnel who’ve been doing this work far longer. There’s already a high degree of trust and interchangeability between our navies, and I’m sure we’ll only draw closer in the future. It really is exciting to have such capable and energetic partners and to be able to more rapidly exchange new technologies and best practices with each other.”

    While with Emory S. Land, Royal Australian Navy sailors were trained within the repair department of the ship, working in varying divisions such as the hull maintenance division, electrical repair division and the ship’s mechanical repair division.

    Royal Australian Navy Able Seaman Marine Technician April Franklin commented on the goal of working side-by-side with her U.S. counterparts stating, “The main mission overall was to get as many skills and integrate as best as we could with the Emory S. Land Sailors and adapt as much as we could, and I think we’ve definitely done that. I think we went above and beyond, and exceeded.”

    Also embedded with the crew of the submarine tender were U.S. Navy Reservists. For this portion of the deployment, 66 Reservists activated and mobilized to HMAS Stirling to assist with repairs and ship husbandry.

    “I joined the Navy for a sense of service and to be a part of something bigger than myself,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Bryan Overton, one of the Reservists. “The best part of active duty was experiencing the submarine community and the camaraderie the community offers.”

    While the STMP was a pivotal part of the port call, Sailors were also able to strengthen cultural ties with the Australian public by participating in community relation events (COMREL) such as volunteering at the food bank, cleaning enclosures at a zoo, and playing sports with local organizations in order to foster collaboration and understanding between the U.S. Navy and local communities.

    “I took part in two Ronald McDonald House COMRELs, helping out by cooking in the kitchen,” said Machinery Repairman 2nd Class Sean Reese. “It is a good feeling to know that I was there to make a difference for the local kids and families in Australia. That is an experience worth doing every time.”

    While moored at HMAS Stirling, Emory S. Land also hosted a series of tours to a wide range of guests, including Prime Minister Albanese, several other cabinet members, senior military leaders including Acting Undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Thomas Mancinelli, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, and Director-General of the Australian Submarine Agency Vice Adm. Jonathan Mead, as well as a wide range of international diplomats, state and local government officials, business leaders, academics, civic groups, and media.

    “I am very proud to be able to show our medical capabilities during tours, because when people think of military medicine, they think of medics, who are more specialized, whereas Corpsmen, we can bounce back and forth between many specialties,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Oriana Winebrinner. “Showing people that we have the capabilities and training onboard to save lives was an incredibly proud moment.”

    During the previous five months, Emory S. Land conducted scheduled port calls in Darwin, Cairns, Sydney, Eden, Melbourne, and Adelaide. The ship’s Sailors had the opportunity to volunteer in the community, host tours, and repair allied nations’ ships in these cities. Emory S. Land is on deployment supporting the U.S. 7th Fleet, the U.S. Navy’s largest forward deployed numbered fleet, operating with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Emory S. Land provides expeditionary intermediate-level maintenance, services, and logistics support to deployed submarines.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for more mates to support Port Macquarie’s Sailability

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Call for more mates to support Port Macquarie’s Sailability

    Published: 24 September 2024

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture

    The Port Macquarie community group, Sailability, is calling for volunteers ahead of this year’s sailing season, as the club prepares to take to the Hastings River again on Wednesday 25 September.

    Sailability is a volunteer organisation whose mission is to offer people with varying abilities freedom on the water.

    The club uses a fleet of specially designed sailing dinghies with simplified controls and enhanced stability to hold weekly sailing days for people living with physical and mental disability.

    The club received $55,920 from the NSW Government to extend its carpark and complete landscaping around its new boat shed and accessible amenities block, as well as to install six accessible picnic tables in McInherney Park.

    The not-for-profit club is the only organisation of its kind in the area and its 80 volunteers cater to approximately 60 sailors each week.

    The group provides its services at no charge, with sailors coming from disability support units at local schools in Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Laurieton and Kempsey, as well as disability service providers, aged care facilities and private enquiries.

    Census statistics for show there are approximately 6,000 people with serious or profound disability in the Port Macquarie area, and the club struggles to meet the demand for its services.

    People keen to get involved in volunteering with the club can attend McInherney Park on Wednesdays between September and May to learn more, or go to www.sailabilitypm.com.au and click the Contact Us tab.

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “This fantastic community group is really making waves in terms of improving quality of life for people in the Port Macquarie area with disability.

    “It’s wonderful to see people experience a sense of achievement and improved self-confidence and self-esteem through their participation in Sailability’s program.”

    Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion, Liesl Tesch* said:

    “Sailability is a beacon of hope and inclusion in Port Macquarie. By fostering a sense of belonging on the water, they’re not only enhancing the lives of people with disability but also enriching the entire community.”

    “The amazing volunteers at Sailability do such important work helping build confidence and resilience for so many people in the region each week.”

    *Liesl Tesch is a seven-time Paralympian including winning two gold medals in sailing

    Sailability Port Macquarie volunteer Rick Eller said:

    “The club has come a long way from humble beginnings when it launched in December 2012, we were using two borrowed boats at the time, we had a handful of volunteers, and we were borrowing life jackets from the SES or emergency services here in Port Macquarie.

    “The best part about working for Sailability is the expressions and the smiles when the people who’ve been sailing come back to the pontoon, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

    Sailability Port Macquarie Vice President Julie Constable said:

    “It’s extremely important that people are aware that people with a disability are very able and keen to get out into society so something like this is off great benefit to the community.”

    Case study: Vision impaired sailor – Kathryn Stephens

    Sailability Port Macquarie

    • Kathryn has been sailing with the Port Macquarie group since it began.
    • In October, Kathryn will set course for Southport to compete in the Hansa Class Asia Pacific Championships.
    • Kathryn has previously competed in the state para championships, coming second behind the world champion in the doubles.
    • She has also placed third in the Middle Harbour Yacht Club inclusive classes regatta alongside a sailing partner from another branch of Sailability.

    Quotes attributable to Kathryn Stephens:

    “Participating in sailing has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for me.

    “I love the whole idea of being out on the water, the sensation and the sound and just the feel of sailing because I can’t see what I’m doing so it’s all by sound and feel, and just the freedom of being out on the water, it’s a great sensation.

    “The people come from all sorts of different backgrounds and interests and it’s just wonderful to catch up with them as well as meeting other sailing participants every week and we just have a great time and it’s a really lovely community and it’s got a really great feel about it.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lower recent petrol prices welcome after prices moved higher in the June quarter

    Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

    Average retail petrol prices were higher in the June quarter but have since reduced, according to the ACCC’s latest quarterly petrol monitoring report.

    In the June quarter 2024, average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth) were 196.5 cents per litre (cpl). This was an increase of 3.3 cpl from the March quarter 2024 (193.2 cpl). 

    Click to enlarge

    “The lower prices since the end of the quarter have provided some relief to many motorists around the country,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    Average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities decreased in July and August 2024, following lower international refined petrol benchmark prices. On a monthly basis, average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities were 193.6 cpl in June 2024, and decreased by around 10 cpl to 183.7 cpl in August 2024.

    The following chart shows 7-day rolling average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities from July 2022 to August 2024.

    Seven-day rolling average retail petrol prices across the 5 largest cities in nominal terms

    Source: ACCC calculations based on data from FUELtrac and Informed Sources. 
    Notes: The grey shaded area in the chart represents the June quarter 2024. 
    The blue shaded area in the chart represents July and August 2024. 
    A 7-day rolling average price is the average of the current day’s price and prices on the 6 previous day.
     

    Among the five largest cities in the June quarter 2024, average petrol prices increased the most in Sydney (by 5.7 cpl), with average Adelaide prices decreasing by 0.7 cpl, while Brisbane’s average retail petrol prices were the highest of the five largest cities (204.8 cpl).

    Quarterly average retail petrol prices increased in Canberra, Hobart and Darwin. Average prices in Darwin were the third lowest among all eight capital cities, behind Adelaide and Perth. Quarterly average prices in Canberra were 205.1 cpl, the highest among the eight capital cities.

    The ACCC’s latest report also gives results for the financial year 2023-24. Annual average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities were 195.1 cpl in 2023-24. This was the highest on record in nominal terms and the highest in 10 years in real (inflation adjusted) terms. After adjusting for inflation, annual average prices in 2013-14 were 196.6 cpl.

    The ACCC encourages motorists to make the most of fuel price apps and websites

    In August 2024, the ACCC released a report on fuel price apps and websites and petrol price cycles in Australia, illustrating the benefits of using one of the many free fuel price apps and websites to shop around for lower fuel prices. There are more than 40 free to use fuel price apps and websites available.

    “In the current economic climate, making savings is important to many motorists. It can always be worth using a fuel price app or website to quickly check for a lower priced retailer near you before filling up,” Ms Brakey said.

    The following chart shows a range of average petrol prices by major brand in Brisbane during a petrol price cycle in the June quarter 2024. The chart also shows the levels of terminal gate prices (or indicative wholesale prices), represented by the grey shaded area.

    “There is often a range of petrol prices available across retail sites and using a fuel price app or website to find a lower priced site can result in large savings,” Ms Brakey said.

    From April to early June 2024 in Brisbane, the range of retail petrol prices between the highest and lowest priced brands was around 19 cpl on average. The range varied from as high as 42 cpl (when retail prices were increasing in the cycle) to around 9 cpl (when prices were decreasing).

    Daily average retail regular unleaded petrol prices by major brand and daily average terminal gate prices (lagged 7 days) in Brisbane

    Source: ACCC calculations based on data from the Queensland Government open data portal – Fuel price reporting 2024. 
    Notes: The grey shaded area in the chart represents average terminal gate prices in Brisbane (lagged by 7 days). 
    Retail prices are averaged across sites on a brand basis using data from the Queensland Government fuel price transparency scheme. Major retail brand means a retail brand with at least 7 retail sites under one brand that sold regular unleaded petrol. The ‘Independent’ category represents a collection of other branded and unbranded sites. Daily average retail prices are calculated from price observations at 6 hour intervals.
     

    Observing petrol price cycles in the five largest cities can also be a useful way for motorists to save on petrol. The ACCC web page – Petrol price cycles in major cities – includes up to date price charts, buying tips, and information on petrol price cycles in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. 

    “We know that because of longer petrol price cycles, motorists in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane can’t always wait for the price cycle to reach the next low point,” Ms Brakey said.

    “Where possible though, taking advantage of the low points of the cycle, and topping up or filling up before prices increase, can save money.”  

    Retail petrol price components

    The following chart shows changes in the components of average retail petrol prices in the five largest cities between the March quarter 2024 and the June quarter 2024.

    The largest components include the international price of refined petrol (Mogas 95) and excise and wholesale goods and services tax. The Australian/US dollar exchange rate can impact retail prices because international refined petrol is bought and sold in US dollars in global markets – although in the June quarter the exchange rate was relatively stable and had minimal impact on changes in average Mogas 95 prices in Australian dollar terms. 

    Other components include wholesale costs and margins (including international shipping costs and other import costs, and wholesale costs and margins) and retail costs and margins (represented by gross indicative retail differences).

    Changes in the components of average retail petrol prices across the 5 largest cities – cents per litre (cpl)

    Source: ACCC calculations based on data from Informed Sources, Argus Media, Ampol, bp, Mobil, Viva Energy, FuelWatch, the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Australian Taxation Office. 
    Notes: cents per litre change from the previous quarter. 
    The excise and wholesale goods and services tax component in this chart (65.9 cpl) is different to the excise and goods and services tax (wholesale and retail) component in the bowser, shown in the ‘June quarter 2024 – Petrol snapshot’. This is because a small amount of retail goods and services tax (1.6 cpl) is included in the gross indicative retail differences component in the above chart, for consistency in reporting gross indicative retail difference figures throughout this report. 
    Total excise and goods and services tax was 67.5 cpl in the June quarter 2024, an increase of 0.6 cpl from the previous quarter.

    Gross indicative retail differences increased to slightly above pre-pandemic levels 

    Average gross indicative retail differences across the five largest cities (in aggregate) were 17.2 cpl in the June quarter 2024. This was 1.8 cpl higher than the previous quarter (15.4 cpl). Gross indicative retail differences are a broad indicator of gross retail margins (including both retail operating costs and profits).

    In the 2023-24 financial year, annual average gross indicative retail differences across the five largest cities were 16.3 cpl, slightly higher than pre-pandemic levels on a real terms (inflation-adjusted) basis. 

    The level of gross indicative retail differences is not uniform across each of the five largest cities. In the June quarter 2024, quarterly gross indicative retail differences were lowest in Adelaide (9.2 cpl) and highest in Brisbane (25.6 cpl). In 2023–24, annual average gross indicative retail differences were lowest in Perth (10.7 cpl) and highest in Brisbane (22.0 cpl).

    The ACCC will continue to closely monitor the levels of gross indicative retail differences, including the differences between cities.

    Quarterly average regional retail petrol prices were marginally higher than prices across the five largest cities

    The ACCC monitors fuel prices in all capital cities and over 190 regional locations across Australia. In the June quarter 2024, average regional retail petrol prices (regional prices) were 197.4 cpl, an increase of 3.7 cpl from the March quarter 2024. 

    Regional prices were 0.9 cpl higher than average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities (196.5 cpl).

    Diesel prices were lower in many capital cities

    Quarterly average retail diesel prices across the five largest cities were 194.5 cpl in the June quarter 2024, a decrease of 1.2 cpl from the March quarter 2024 (195.7 cpl).

    Quarterly average retail diesel prices decreased in each of the capital cities except Canberra, where prices increased by 0.8 cpl. Retail diesel prices generally followed lower international diesel benchmark prices, which accounted for the largest component of retail diesel prices.

    Petrol sales continue to remain below pre-pandemic levels 

    The volumes of regular unleaded petrol sales reduced by 2.8 per cent in the June quarter (to 2,196 million litres) and continue to remain below pre-pandemic levels.

    “As consumers are increasingly switching from combustion engine vehicles to hybrid and electric vehicles, demand for fuel has reduced. Other factors would also be influencing demand such as working from home arrangements, vehicles becoming more fuel efficient, and changes in driving habits quite possibly due to cost of living pressures,” Ms Brakey said.

    Note to editors

    ‘Petrol’ means regular unleaded petrol unless otherwise specified.

    Singapore Mogas 95 Unleaded (Mogas 95) is the relevant international benchmark for the wholesale price of petrol in Australia. Singapore Gasoil with 10 parts per million sulphur content (Gasoil 10 ppm) is the international benchmark for the wholesale price of diesel.

    Background

    The ACCC has been monitoring retail prices in all capital cities and over 190 regional locations across Australia since 2007.

    On 14 December 2022, the Treasurer issued a new direction to the ACCC to monitor the prices, costs and profits relating to the supply of petroleum products in the petroleum industry in Australia and produce a report every quarter for a further three years.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Angelica Mesiti’s The Rites of When finally makes sense of the Art Gallery of NSW’s Tank. It is worth the plane flight

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanna Mendelssohn, Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Culture and Communication. Editor in chief, Design and Art of Australia Online, The University of Melbourne

    Installation view of Angelica Mesiti ‘The Rites of When’ 2024, 7-channel digital video installation, colour, sound, approx 30 min, collection of the artist, commissioned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales for the Nelson Packer Tank, 2024
     © Angelica Mesiti, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter

    The Nelson Packer Tank, that cavernous space at the very bottom of the Art Gallery of NSW’s Naala Badu building, has been waiting for art like this.

    The former World War II oil storage tank is huge, held together by rows of structural columns. Their dominance means it is just not possible for viewers to have an unimpeded fields of vision for any art on display. Then there are the acoustics. Every sound resonates, but few carry far.

    This is a room of echoes, embedded in the dark.

    In this space Angelica Mesiti, an Australian living in France, has created The Rites of When: an event that rethinks ancient rituals of seasonal celebrations, while also marking the terrible changes wrought on our heating planet. Her tools are video, performers, music and song – all modified by the unique whispering echoes of the Tank.

    The sky, and the snow

    As the title implies, Mesiti has used the structure of Stravinski’s The rite of spring as one of the elements in her great design. But she shows a world far removed from mythical Russian peasants.

    Each of the two movements are preceded by “Celestial Nebula”, where abstract forms of light dissolve into a vision of the night sky, presented on seven giant video screens.

    This is not the sky as seen by city dwellers, where artificial light eliminates the stars, but rather the Milky Way in all its glory, with its hero stars which we call the Seven Sisters, but people in the northern hemisphere call the Pleiades.

    Installation view of Angelica Mesiti ‘The Rites of When’ 2024, 7-channel digital video installation, colour, sound, approx 30 min, collection of the artist, commissioned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales for the Nelson Packer Tank, 2024.
    © Angelica Mesiti, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter

    Mesiti has said one of her inspirations was that, when COVID came, she and her partner began to spend time away from Paris in rural France. Here she came to know the night sky, and to see both the rhythms and the realities of rural life.

    In the first movement, a dazzling starscape is gradually bleached by artificial light, which transforms into sunlight, and the viewer is looking at drone footage of a snow-capped pine forest which we then zoom through.

    The dominant columns of The Tank combine with the straight tree trunks of this plantation forest give a sense of visual ambiguity. With the all surrounding sound, it is hard to work out where the screened image ends and where the columns begin.

    Angelica Mesiti ‘The Rites of When’ 2024 (video still), 7-channel digital video installation, colour, sound, approx 30 min, collection of the artist, commissioned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales for the Nelson Packer Tank, 2024.
    © Angelica Mesiti

    A sudden shift of mood in the music, and the viewers are plunged into the middle of a Brueghel-like celebration of people dancing in the winter solstice. The colours are warm, the rustic dancers are wearing decorations made of the fruits of the field. They dance around a bonfire made from wooden planks, they form a procession with an effigy of a horned beast, stuffed with fireworks.

    The fireworks and the dancers become a frenzy of ever increasing movement of rhythmic sound which explodes into dazzling white silence.

    Capturing the summer solstice

    When she was discussing The Rites of When at the media preview, Mesiti casually mentioned how hard it had been to film the snowy forest as, for the first time ever, winter was so mild it hardly snowed at all on the pine plantations of the Jura Mountains.

    Global heating added an extra element when filming the summer solstice.

    At first the viewer sees the seven screens as giant patterns of gold, marked by elegant patterns of vertical lines. Perspective changes when a tiny toy moving up one of the screens is revealed to be a harvester. This is a drone’s eye view of a wheat harvest in modern industrial scale farming. As the fields are slowly stripped of their crop, a puff of smoke appears, then a line of fire, and the gold is steadily eaten away to become charcoal.

    Installation view of Angelica Mesiti ‘The Rites of When’ 2024, 7-channel digital video installation, colour, sound, approx 30 min, collection of the artist, commissioned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales for the Nelson Packer Tank, 2024.
    © Angelica Mesiti, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter

    This was not planned. Europe was so hot and dry last June that a single spark from a harvester grinding a stray stone turned the wheat to ash. Monoculture, so effectively described by those endless flat golden fields, has no defence against nature.

    The mood of the music changes and golden smoke covering the wheat dissolves into golden light. A small, solemn procession appears and moves across each screen in turn. They elevate each member in turn, in a quiet ritual performance.

    The colours of the background change with their movement– from gold, to red, to purple, to blue. As they reach the last screen the blue fades to grey, to rain.

    In the silence, a single hand on a single screen snaps fingers. On the other side of the room, another responds. Now there is a rhythmic orchestra clicking, clapping and slapping – ever faster, ever louder. The hands become dancers, moving in a wild ecstatic dance of increasing intensity, as the bodies are caught up with the music and the light.

    Angelica Mesiti ‘The Rites of When’ 2024 (video still), 7-channel digital video installation, colour, sound, approx 30 min, collection of the artist, commissioned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales for the Nelson Packer Tank, 2024.
    © Angelica Mesiti

    In her notes, Mesiti calls this section “Ecstatic Collectivity”. It seems an apt description.

    At the very end, Mesiti returns us to the pure colours of the Celestial Nebula. Perhaps she is saying the folly of humanity may change the moods of the earth, but the stars will endure forever.

    The Rites of When lasts just over 30 minutes. Because it is so dependent on its location, this is a piece that cannot travel. It is worth the price of an air fare.

    The Rites of When is at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, until May 11 2025.

    Joanna Mendelssohn has in the past received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Angelica Mesiti’s The Rites of When finally makes sense of the Art Gallery of NSW’s Tank. It is worth the plane flight – https://theconversation.com/angelica-mesitis-the-rites-of-when-finally-makes-sense-of-the-art-gallery-of-nsws-tank-it-is-worth-the-plane-flight-239599

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ‘publish or perish’ mentality is fuelling research paper retractions – and undermining science

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nham Tran, Associate Professor and MTP Connect REDI Industry Fellow, University of Technology Sydney

    zefart/Shutterstock

    When scientists make important discoveries, both big and small, they typically publish their findings in scientific journals for others to read. This sharing of knowledge helps to advance science: it can, in turn, lead to more important discoveries.

    But published research papers can be retracted if there is an issue with their accuracy or integrity. And in recent years, the number of retractions has been rising sharply. For example, in 2023 more than 10,000 research papers were retracted globally. This marked a new record.

    The huge number of retractions indicates a lot of government research funding is being wasted. More importantly, the publication of so much flawed research also misleads other researchers and undermines scientific integrity.

    Fuelling this troubling trend is a mentality known in academia as “publish or perish” which has existed for decades. The publication of research papers drives university rankings and career progression, yet the relentless pressure to publish has contributed to an increase in fraudulent data. Unless this changes, the entire research landscape may shift toward a less rigorous standard, hindering vital progress in fields such as medicine, technology and climate science.

    A ‘publish or perish’ environment

    Universities and research institutes commonly use the rate of publications as a key indicator of research productivity and reputation.

    The Times Higher Education Index, which ranks these institutions, assigns 60% of its score to research, and publications are fundamental to this score.

    Additionally, publications are closely tied to individual career advancement. They influence decisions on tenure, promotions and securing funding.

    These factors create a “publish or perish” environment, a term first coined in 1942 by sociologist Logan Wilson.

    A growing trend

    Recent evidence indicates the constant pressure to generate data and publish papers may be affecting the quality of research and fuelling retractions of research papers.

    Retraction Watch is one of the largest databases to monitor scientific retractions. Launched in 2010, it reveals a growing trend in the number of publications being retracted.

    In the past decade, there have been more than 39,000 retractions, and the annual number of retractions is growing by around 23% each year.

    Nearly half the retractions were due to issues related to the authenticity of the data. For example, in August the United States Office of Research Integrity found that Richard Eckert, a senior biochemist at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, faked data in 13 published papers. Four of these papers have been corrected, one has been retracted and the remainder are still awaiting action.

    Plagiarism was the second most common reason research papers were retracted, accounting for 16% of retractions.

    Fake peer review was another reason why research papers were retracted.

    Typically, when a publication is submitted to a journal, it undergoes peer review by experts in the same field. These experts provide feedback to improve the quality of the work.

    However, the use of fake peer reviewers has increased tenfold over the past decade. There has also been an eightfold rise in publications linked to so-called “paper mills”, which are businesses that provide fake papers for a fee.

    In 2022, up to 2% of all publications were from paper mills.

    Genuine mistakes in the scientific process accounted for only roughly 6% of all retractions in the last decade.

    More pressure, more mistakes

    One reason for the surge in retractions over the last decade may be that we are getting better at finding and detecting suspicious data.

    Digital publishing has made it easier to detect potential fabrication, and more scientists are making a brave stand against these dubious practices. No doubt, the current number of retractions is an underestimate of a much larger pool.

    But the intensification of the “publish or perish” culture within universities also plays a major role.

    Nearly all academic staff are required to meet specific publication quotas for performance evaluations, while institutions themselves use publication output to boost their rankings. High publication counts and citations enhance a university’s position in global rankings, attracting more students and generating income from teaching.

    The prevailing reward system in academia often prioritises publication quantity over quality. When promotions, funding, and recognition are tied to the number of papers published, scientists may feel pressured to cut corners, rush experiments, or even fabricate data to meet these metrics.

    Changing the model

    Initiatives such as the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment are pushing for change. This initiative advocates for evaluating research based on its quality and societal impact rather than journal-based metrics such as impact factors or citation counts.

    A shift in journal policies to prioritise the sharing of all experimental data would enhance scientific integrity. It would ensure researchers could replicate experiments to verify others’ results.

    Academics face increasing pressure to publish journal articles to advance their careers.
    Protasov AN/Shutterstock

    Also, universities, research institutions and funding agencies need to improve their due diligence and hold those responsible for misconduct accountable.

    Including a simple question such as, “Have you ever had or been involved in a retracted paper?” on grant applications or academic promotions would improve the integrity of research by deterring unethical behaviour. Dishonest answers could be easily detected, thanks to the availability of online tools and databases such as Retraction Watch.

    Over the past 20 years, scientific research has significantly improved our quality of life. Career scientists must shoulder the responsibility of ensuring researchers uphold the values of truth and integrity that are fundamental to our profession. Protecting the integrity of our work is foremost to our mission, and we must remain vigilant in safeguarding these principles.

    Nham Tran receives funding from the Australian Research Council

    – ref. The ‘publish or perish’ mentality is fuelling research paper retractions – and undermining science – https://theconversation.com/the-publish-or-perish-mentality-is-fuelling-research-paper-retractions-and-undermining-science-238983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Who looks after me?’ More than 40% of disability carers have disability themselves – and they need more support

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Collings, Senior Research Fellow, Transforming early Education and Child Health Research Centre, Western Sydney University

    Yiistocking/Shutterstock

    Caring for someone with disability is a complex and demanding task. The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show this role is increasingly being undertaken by people who have disability themselves. There were 1.2 million primary carers in Australia in 2022, and of these, 43.8% have disability (up from 32.1% in 2018).

    Disability support and aged care are critical issues for the federal government right now. The new Aged Care Act will take effect in July next year and amendments to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Act roll out from early October.

    A National Carers Strategy, recognising the demands placed on informal carers and the need for better supports, is also being developed.

    What do this group of carers need? And are they getting the right kind of support?

    Invisible labour

    Three million Australians currently provide informal care for loved ones with disability, medical conditions, mental illness or frailty from ageing.

    In line with our ageing population, one in six carers are over 65 and most older Australians want to age “in place” at home. This means informal care needs are set to rise exponentially.

    Improved diagnosis, more disclosure of disability status and higher prevalence of health conditions leading to disability are increasing the numbers of and demands on informal carers.

    Who is doing the caring and why?

    While both women (12.8% of the population) and men (11.1%) provide informal care, women are more likely to be primary carers (6.1% are women, 3% are men.

    Primary carers are less likely to be in paid employment than non-carers (64.6% to 82%), and fewer than half of those caring for 40 hours or more a week are employed. Informal carers are more likely to have a disability or chronic health condition (38.6%) than the general population (21.4%), with even higher rates among primary carers (43.8%).

    The main reasons for becoming a carer are a sense of family responsibility and emotional obligation. Over a third of those caring for their child say they have no other choice.

    We analysed qualitative data from the 2022 National Carer Survey conducted by Carers NSW.

    Of 6,825 respondents from across Australia, over 80% were women and almost half (47.6%) identified as having disability or long-term health conditions, which the survey combines. Disability and poor health among carers are associated with higher levels of emotional distress and greater difficulty in accessing services.

    Most carers are women and their caring load may prevent them doing paid work.
    Desizned/Shutterstock

    ‘My prospect of earning an income and saving is bleak’

    Statistics tell us only part of the story. The voices of informal carers who report living with disability or chronic health conditions shed light on the layered demands they face. They reported that care is often invisible, undervalued and ceaseless. One woman, aged 73, described informal care as “hard and unappreciated work”.

    A lack of government support and financial uncertainty left many despairing. As one carer, aged 56, said:

    No government recognises us and in the end we are saving them billions/trillions of dollars […] I have been a carer for over 13 years and it will go on for many years, so my prospect of earning an income and saving is bleak.

    Caring can have profound health and wellbeing effects. As another woman, aged 56, said:

    Being close to retirement myself, and having elderly parents, puts so much strain on my own health, mentally and physically. I have had to deal with breast cancer and its treatments and ongoing side effects. This is really stressful. I oversee all the services, and manage ongoing issues. My care role is endless. I only work minimal hours myself due to my care role. Who looks after me?

    Caring for carers

    Carers with disability or chronic health conditions report a lack of appropriate, accessible and timely services. This makes it hard to meet their own health-care needs. Many struggle with arranging support across mainstream and NDIS providers on behalf of the person they care for and themselves.

    Our research about the needs of a specific group of disabled Australians with care-giving responsibilities – parents with intellectual disability – find they can fall between system gaps when mainstream services are not accessible or the NDIS fails to take a family-centred approach.

    A parent with intellectual disability may struggle to understand complex and shifting eligibility rules and might be able to use their NDIS funding to assist with meal preparation for themselves but not for their child. As one mother with intellectual disability said:

    No one explained to me, ‘Oh, the NDIS package can help you with a lot of different things’, like helping with my parenting capacity.

    Changes and opportunity

    A cornerstone of the NDIS reforms is the creation of foundational supports. That’s good news for the 86% of disabled Australians without an NDIS plan and their informal carers, who rely on mainstream services like schools, health services and public transport.

    Likewise, the National Carers Strategy is an opportunity to ease some of the burden shouldered by many informal carers. By consulting with carers directly, services designed to meet their diverse needs and circumstances can be made available. In the immediate term, often carers reach crisis point before receiving support. Early interventions in the form of practical, everyday, orientated supports – including respite together with peer support – can help.

    Proper support for carer wellbeing and economic and social participation, from all levels of government, recognises the complex role carers play and their own support and health-care needs. These are only going to increase in the future.

    The authors wish to acknowledge the contribution of Sarah Judd-Lam and Lukas Hofstaetter from Carers NSW for their data and analysis contributions to this piece.

    Gabrielle Weidemann receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Department of Defence. This funding is not for research on disability and/or care for those with disability.

    Elisabeth Duursma, Michelle O’Shea, and Susan Collings do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Who looks after me?’ More than 40% of disability carers have disability themselves – and they need more support – https://theconversation.com/who-looks-after-me-more-than-40-of-disability-carers-have-disability-themselves-and-they-need-more-support-236786

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drainage improvements – maintenance work planned for SH2, north of Dannevirke

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Important road renewal work is planned for a stretch of State Highway 2 (SH2) at Matamau while crews carry out maintenance and drainage improvements.

    Work is scheduled to begin on Tuesday 1 October on SH2 just north of Factory Road, and finish on 30 October (weather permitting).

    As crews work on either side of the road, between 6am and 6pm each day, this stretch of road will be reduced to one lane, with stop/go traffic management in place. Outside of these work hours, a 30km/h temporary speed limit will be in place.

    Please expect this to add delays of up to 10 minutes to your journey.

    Crews will be back in approximately 12 months to add the second coat of seal. A second coat further waterproofs and strengthens the road over the long term.

    From Sunday 6 October, night-time asphalt resurfacing works are also planned for SH2 near the Mangatera Stream Bridge, north of Dannevirke. Over 6 nights, crews will work from 6pm to 6am, with works expected to be complete on Saturday 12 October.

    Stop/go traffic management and a 30km/h temporary speed limit will be in place during these night works, with expected delays of about 5 minutes.

    These drainage and resurfacing works are crucial for making this a more resilient and reliable route and will help improve journeys for all road users. We know that a well-maintained state highway network promotes safety and improves options for moving people and freight. 

    Thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete this important road renewal work.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Daily progress for Tuesday, 24 September 2024

    Source: New Zealand Parliament

    Order Paper for Tuesday, 24 September 2024

    2.00pm

    Government motion

    A motion welcoming the release from captivity of New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens was agreed to.

    Introduction of bills

    The following bills were introduced:

    Oral questions

    Question Time is in progress.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PBN23505 [2024] NZPrivCmr1 – Ultimate Care Group Limited

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Resources available

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Kashgar transforms into unique tourist destination blending history, modernity

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Kashgar transforms into unique tourist destination blending history, modernity

    Updated: September 24, 2024 10:00 Xinhua
    Tourists select leather bags in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. The ancient city of Kashgar, located in southwestern Xinjiang, served as a vital transportation hub connecting China with Central Asia and South Asia in ancient times. The confluence of diverse ethnic cultures in this region has given rise to a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. Today, Kashgar has harnessed its cultural and geographical advantages, transforming into a unique tourist destination that blends history and modernity. In the first eight months of 2024, Kashgar received over 19.5 million domestic tourists, an increase of 29.46 percent year-on-year, and generated tourism revenue of nearly 15.35 billion yuan (about 2.18 billion U.S. dollars), up 38.83 percent. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist poses for a photo in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Local residents enjoy their leisure time in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist tries a headdress in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An ice cream maker gives a tourist her ice cream through magic tricks in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists visit a local residential building with more than 300 years of history in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist buys local snacks in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists visit the ancient city of Kashgar in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Copper wares are pictured in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist buys pomegranate juice in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist selects wool carpets in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A local cook introduces his food to tourists in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 19, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST visits Sichuan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCST visits Sichuan
    SCST visits Sichuan
    *******************

         ​The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, is on his way to Chengdu, Sichuan, this morning (September 24), where he has been invited by the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda to attend the ceremony seeing off the two giant pandas “An An” and “Ke Ke”. The Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Mickey Lai, and representatives from Ocean Park Hong Kong are also joining the visit.           During his stay in Sichuan, Mr Yeung will visit the heritage sites and arts and cultural facilities in Chengdu to learn about the integrated development of culture and tourism, as well as the promotion of tourism development.           Mr Yeung will depart from Sichuan for Hong Kong on the evening of September 25. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, will be the Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 10:22

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Registration to activities at Maritime Carnival in celebration of National Day begins today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Registration to activities at Maritime Carnival in celebration of National Day begins today
    Registration to activities at Maritime Carnival in celebration of National Day begins today
    ******************************************************************************************

         To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Marine Department (MD) will organise a Maritime Carnival at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM) at Central Pier No. 8 on October 6 (Sunday). Through a series of family-friendly activities and display panels, the carnival aims to enrich public’s understanding about the development of maritime industry as well as to promote patriotic education.     The carnival will be held from 10.30am to 7pm and highlights will include two demonstrations of marine refuse and oil cleansing at 11.30am and 4pm, as well as shipboard visits to the MD’s newly launched vessels, patrol launch “MARINE 1” and hydrographic survey vessel “HYDRO 2”. The vessel visits will provide members of the public with a rare opportunity to view the equipment of the operation vessels up close. In addition, ship-handling simulator will also be set up at the HKMM to provide citizens with an immersive opportunity to navigate a virtual boat journey through Hong Kong waters.     Persons interested in participating either the shipboard visits to the MD’s vessels or trying out the ship-handling simulator can register at the respective website starting from today (September 24) till 11.59pm on September 29 (Sunday). The registration form for shipboard visits can be found at the website forms.gle/GAFcfk3Sdmynbiw66, and for the ship-handling simulator at forms.gle/X6gcLwfVFFs5syDw8. Registration is free and on a first-come, first-served basis. Successful registrants will receive a confirmation email on or before October 4.     Other interesting activities of the carnival include demonstrations of unmanned underwater system challenge, marine movie screenings, tattoo sticker experience, maritime-themed talks, game booths and guided tours to the HKMM.      All activities of the Maritime Carnival are free of charge. For more information about the carnival, please visit the website: www.hkmaritimemuseum.org/event-details/celebrating-the-75th-anniversary-of-the-founding-of-the-peoples-republic-of-china-maritime-carnival. For enquiries, please contact the HKMM at 3713 2500 during office hours.     Should there be adverse weather, for example, the Standby Signal No.1 or Red Rainstorm Signal to be issued by the Hong Kong Observatory at 8am on the event day, or the relevant signal is still in force at 8am on the event day, the Maritime Carnival will be rescheduled to October 13 for safety reason. Visitors should regularly check the HKMM’s website www.hkmaritimemuseum.org/ for the latest information. 

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 10:18

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Local north west firefighters awarded National Emergency Medals

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Deputy Chief Officer Bill Johnstone AFSM, Chief Officer Jason Heffernan, Kyabram recipients Ashley Corrin, Wayne Peterson, Amana Roberts, Jodie Elvey, Brooke Giddings, Renae Flemming, CFA Board Member Peter Shaw AFSM

    140 local volunteer firefighters and CFA staff members have been honoured with National Emergency Medals for their efforts in the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire crisis.

    The National Emergency Medal is part of Australia’s Honours and Awards system and recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.

    At ceremonies across two weekends, on Sunday, 15 September and Friday, 20 September, from across the Campaspe, Gannawarra and Loddon catchments became the latest of more than 5,500 CFA members to receive the honour for the 2019-2020 fires.

    CFA Board Member Peter Shaw AFSM presented the medals and said they were an important recognition of the valiant efforts of CFA members.

    “The National Emergency Medal is a formal recognition that Australia appreciates the efforts and contributions of CFA members during the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis,” Peter said.

    “It is a great honour to receive this medal and I hope it goes a small way to thanking our members for their service.”

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan spoke of his pride for the CFA members’ efforts.

    “The 2019/2020 fires devastated East Gippsland and the North East of Victoria,” Jason said.

    “But from that crisis arose the most remarkable human spirit of generosity and ‘lending a hand’.

    “Our medal recipients have exemplified that spirit, and I am extremely proud of all of them.

    “Whether they joined a firefighting strike team, worked in an Incident Control Centre or provided other assistance to affected communities – every contribution was valuable made a real difference.”

    Darrell Phillips, recipient and Captain of Echuca Village, said it was an honour to be formally recognised.

    “The 2019-2020 bushfires marked the beginning of a series of challenging events. In a short time, we faced fires, the COVID-19 pandemic, and then floods,” Darrell said.

    “Those fires remain etched in my memory.

    “As a recipient of the National Emergency Medal, I know this recognition wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible team effort of our volunteers and families.”

    • DCO Bill Johnstone, Chief Officer Jason Heffernan, Rochester Captain Luke Warren, Cade Kindness, Vaughan Thomas, Brent Sweeney, Board Member Peter Shaw AFSM. Front row: Heidi Warren, Hayley Ettershank, Tania Barkby, Raymond Liddicoat
    • DCO Bill Johnstone, Chief Officer Jason Heffernan, Christian Barkby , Board Member Peter Shaw AFSM
    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Tuesday, 24 September 2024 – Volume 778 – 001410

    Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

    Question No. 2—Public Service

    2. NANCY LU (National) to the Minister for the Public Service: What recent announcements has she made on Public Service working arrangements?

    Hon NICOLA WILLIS (Minister for the Public Service): Yesterday, the Prime Minister and I announced that the Government wants to see more public servants come into their place of work each day, and we are taking steps to make our expectations clear. Guidance to the Public Service will be updated to make clear that working from home is not an entitlement and must be agreed and monitored. While I acknowledge carefully defined working from home arrangements can benefit workers and employers, there are significant downsides that need to be recognised as well. Many good employers have been taking active steps to ensure their working from home policies are fit for purpose and it’s time the Government did the same.

    Nancy Lu: What are the specific expectations she announced yesterday?

    Hon NICOLA WILLIS: Updated guidelines will reinforce the Government’s expectation that (1) working from home arrangements are not an entitlement and should be by agreement; (2) working from home arrangements should only be agreed to where they will not compromise the performance of employees and agency objectives; and (3) importantly, where arrangements are agreed to, there must be comprehensive oversight arrangements in place so that managers can be clear the arrangements are working as expected and productivity is not being compromised.

    Nancy Lu: Why did she make yesterday’s announcement about working from home?

    Hon NICOLA WILLIS: There are good reasons why employees have traditionally been physically brought together for work, as members in this House know. It allows for face-to-face conversation, the sharing of skills and experiences, and relationship building. I think about the new grad who is starting out in an organisation. They need to observe, learn from, and form connections with their more experienced colleagues. Zoom and Microsoft Teams have significant limitations. Getting people back into the office will support those younger employees and mean managers can monitor team dynamics, including whether people are disengaged, struggling, or at odds with their colleagues.

    Nancy Lu: What does this announcement mean for public servants?

    Hon NICOLA WILLIS: Public servants can still work from home if arrangements are agreed and expectations around productivity and performance are met. Having some flexibility in working arrangements can be beneficial for employees and for employers; however, the Government is making its expectation clear that working from home is not an entitlement and that safeguards need to be in place.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Motions — Release from Captivity—New Zealand Pilot Phillip Mehrtens – 001408

    Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

    MOTIONS

    Release from Captivity—New Zealand Pilot Phillip Mehrtens

    Hon TODD McCLAY (Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs): I seek leave to move a motion without notice and without debate on the successful release from captivity of New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens.

    SPEAKER: Very good. Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.

    Hon TODD McCLAY: I move, That this House welcome the release of New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens on Saturday after being held hostage for 592 days in Papua, Indonesia; convey best wishes to Mr Mehrtens and his family and friends, as they recover from this deeply difficult experience; express deep gratitude to the Indonesian Government, including Minister for Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, together with community leaders, for the careful and patient approach taken to secure this peaceful outcome; commend the considerable effort of the wide range of New Zealand Government agencies, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which worked in cooperation and coordination with Indonesian authorities towards securing Mr Mehrtens’ release; acknowledge the New Zealand Government staff who have worked on the case in Jakarta and Papua, led by Ambassador Kevin Burnett; and note the cooperation and restraint shown by the New Zealand media in relation to this case.

    Motion agreed to.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to Caring Families Aotearoa National Conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Thank you for the introduction and the invitation to speak to you here today.

    I would like to start by saying a big thank you to all the caregivers in the room, and those not able to be here today, for all that you do for our children and young people. 

    Without caregivers providing safe, stable homes for children, Oranga Tamariki would not be able to do the work that it does.  

    I came to Parliament believing changes can be made that will make caregiving more purposeful – and allow caregivers to make more decisions for children in their care.

    Hearing the voices of carers – and ensuring they can access support they need – is critical to ensuring the Ministry is performing at the level New Zealanders expect.

    As Minister for Children, my first and most important priority is always to ensure Oranga Tamariki is relentlessly focused on the safety of the children and young people in its care, and the children that come to its attention.

    All children deserve to wake up in the morning and feel safe and loved.

    To ensure the Ministry remains focused on what is important – and promote greater transparency about its performance – I have asked Oranga Tamariki to report quarterly on five key performance indicators.

    These reflect the areas I know will make the biggest difference to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in the care of the state. 

    One of these areas specifically talks about caregivers, and making sure they feel supported. 

    This key performance indicator will see Oranga Tamariki now regularly report the results of a continuous rolling survey of caregivers. 

    This survey will ask carers directly whether you are feeling supported.

    It will ask if you would recommend becoming a caregiver, or are thinking about stopping being a caregiver – and why.

    This will help to ensure caregivers are getting – and continue to get – the support they need as they open their hearts and homes to children and young people.

    I am confident this new approach – centred around key performance indicators and quarterly reporting – will promote accountability and better performance across the organisation.

    Children deserve the best care they can possibly get regardless of the race, religion, colour, or ethnicity of those people who are charged with the responsibility of nurturing, mentoring, educating, protecting and loving them.

    As I’ve said previously, I intend to improve the rights and responsibilities of caregivers, giving them greater autonomy and making it easier for carers to offer safe, stable and loving homes for children.

    I would once again like to express my sincere gratitude for the support caregivers provide our children and young people when they need it the most.

    I am confident the changes I am implementing at Oranga Tamariki will keep children and young people at the centre of their work – and improve the support received by our children, young people, their families, and caregivers. 

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Drug and firearm arrest in western suburbs

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man was arrested late last week for drug and firearm offences.

    On Friday 20 September, members of Serious and Organised Crime Branch attended a Rosewater address where they located drugs and firearms.

    A search of the address located approximately 7kg of methamphetamine, a trafficable quantity of cocaine, MDMA and GHB.  Two firearms were also located and seized.

    A 33-year-old man from the address was arrested and charged with four counts of trafficking in a commercial quantity of a controlled drug, two counts of possessing a firearm without a licence, two counts of possessing an unregistered firearm and breach of bail.

    The man appeared in Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday 23 September where he was remanded in custody to reappear in court on 5 December.

    Detective Superintendent Shane Addison, Officer in Charge of Serious and Organised Crime Branch said, “This is another significant drug seizure by organised crime detectives which has prevented supply of these harmful drugs to South Australians and illegal profits being netted by drug traffickers.  Our resolve to actively disrupt the trafficking of illicit drug is clear and will be sustained.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sony Semiconductor Solutions to Release 0.44-Type Full HD OLED Microdisplay with Industry’s Smallest Pixels and Highest Brightness

    Source: Sony

    Atsugi, Japan — Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (SSS) today announced the upcoming release of the ECX350F, a 0.44-type Full HD resolution OLED Microdisplay that combines the industry’s smallest*1 5.1 µm pixels (approximately 5,000 ppi) with the industry’s highest*1 brightness of up to 10,000 cd/m2.

    The ECX350F is an OLED Microdisplay designed for use in augmented reality (AR) glasses, an application which demands a thin, lightweight form factor without compromising visibility. Adopting a novel OLED structure and microlenses, the microdisplay enhances pixel light emission despite its diminutive size. This innovation allows for Full HD resolution within a compact 0.44-inch panel while delivering a peak brightness of 10,000 cd/m2 — approximately double that of the conventional model.*2 This new product represents a breakthrough that addresses the longstanding challenge of delivering high brightness with small pixels.

    Beyond reducing the size and weight of AR glasses, SSS is committed to enhancing the user experience by supporting high-resolution, exceptionally clear imaging.

    *1:   Among OLED Microdisplays with three full-color subpixels (red, green, and blue) per pixel. According to SSS research,       
            as of announcement on September 24, 2024.
    *2:   SSS’s ECX348E.

    0.44-Type Full HD OLED Microdisplay

    Model name Sample shipping date (planned)

    Sample price (excluding tax)

    ECX350F 0.44-Type Full HD
    (1,920 x 1,080) OLED Microdisplay

    		 October 2024 40,000 yen

    Main Features

    ・Industry-smallest*1 5.1 µm pixels and highest*1 brightness of up to 10,000 cd/m2
    Shrinking OLED Microdisplay pixels typically reduces luminous efficiency and limits per-pixel current, hindering the attainment of high brightness.

     The new microdisplay product addresses these challenges thanks to a newly developed semiconductor process for fabricating 5.1 µm pixels and microlenses that optimize luminous efficiency at this scale. Additionally, a uniquely designed OLED structure strikes the ideal balance between driving voltage and luminous efficiency, delivering both high brightness and small pixels.

     Consequently, the ECX350F delivers Full HD resolution with the industry-smallest*1  5.1 µm pixels and exceptional visibility with industry-leading*1  brightness of up to 10,000 cd/m².

    Resolution and brightness comparison (conceptual diagram)

    ・Miniaturization through smaller pixels and narrow bezels
    The non-display area (bezel) surrounding the active display area integrates the circuits and wiring required for the display drive. With conventional technology, it was difficult to narrow the bezel due to concerns about reliability as a display device and issues such as poor screen display caused by the required wiring width of the circuit portion. The new product solves these problems by introducing a new circuit design and assembly process, reducing the bezel size on the long side of the display to 1.14mm on both the top and bottom.

    By miniaturizing the pixels and narrowing the display bezel, the new microdisplay boasts a short-side size of 7.99 mm, a 24% reduction from the conventional product,*2 while maintaining the pixel count needed for Full HD, thereby enabling AR glasses to be made thinner and lighter.

    Comparison of bezel and external size (conceptual diagram)

    Example of AR glasses and their optical system
    using OLED Microdisplays (conceptual diagram)


    ・Variable black frame function supporting variable input resolution and display position
    The new product comes with a variable black frame function that enables it to display video input of any resolution below Full HD at any desired position within the device’s active display area.

     Generally, in AR glasses, the real space is visible through the black display area, allowing the displayed image to be overlaid on the real space. This function was achieved in the conventional product *2 by generating a video signal for the black display area in the pre-processing side (application processor) and inputting it. However, with the microdisplay device now itself performing this process, it is easy to display images at an arbitrarily set resolution, and this also contributes to low power consumption and low latency for the system.

    Variable black frame function explanation (conceptual diagram)

     

    Related Links
    SSS’s OLED Microdisplay technology:
    https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/technology/display/oled-high-resolution.html

    Applications using OLED Microdisplays:
    https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/application/electronics/arvr.html

    Key Specifications
    Model name ECX350F
    Display size 0.44 type (11.235 mm diagonal)
    Resolution (horizontal x vertical) 1,920 x 1,080 (Full HD)
    Pixel pitch 5.1 µm
    Maximum frame rate 120 fps
    Video interface MIPI® DSI
    Maximum luminance 10,000 cd/m2 (100% duty drive)
    Contrast 100,000:1 or higher
    Color gamut sRGB area ratio: 100%

    Note: All product and service names that appear in this press release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rock Shelter Otira Gorge, SH73 – open overnight now, work at McGrath Creek Bridge postponed a week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) re-opened SH73 between Otira and Arthur’s Pass overnight from the past weekend. An additional project at McGrath Creek bridge, which would have affected night travellers this week, has been pushed out to next week.

    Rock Shelter remediation continues for four more weeks

    SH73 has been closed overnight and with restricted hours daytimes since the end of August after rockfall began overspilling the Rock Shelter in the Otira Gorge onto the traffic lane. The daytime travel delays continue for the next four weeks, with traffic passing between Otira and Arthur’s Pass at the top of each hour 9 am to 5 pm.

    • On weekends and overnights SH73 between Otira and Arthur’s Pass will be open unrestricted unless other work or weather conditions cause a change.
    • Work at McGrath Creek bridge has been rescheduled to next week at night, Sunday 29 September to Monday, 7 October.  There will be up to one-hour delays between 8pm and 6am.  The road will be open on the hour to clear traffic, with vehicles queued either side of the bridge work site.
    • This work is subject to weather and may be rescheduled.

    The Lewis Pass via Waipara and Reefton, SH7, is the alternative route adding around an hour to the journey between Canterbury and the West Coast.

    McGrath Creek Bridge, close to Arthur’s Pass village – work is now rescheduled to next week overnight:

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to the Caring Families Aotearoa National Conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Thank you for the introduction and the invitation to speak to you here today.

    I would like to start by saying a big thank you to all the caregivers in the room, and those not able to be here today, for all that you do for our children and young people. 

    Without caregivers providing safe, stable homes for children, Oranga Tamariki would not be able to do the work that it does.  

    I came to Parliament believing changes can be made that will make caregiving more purposeful – and allow caregivers to make more decisions for children in their care.

    Hearing the voices of carers – and ensuring they can access support they need – is critical to ensuring the Ministry is performing at the level New Zealanders expect.

    As Minister for Children, my first and most important priority is always to ensure Oranga Tamariki is relentlessly focused on the safety of the children and young people in its care, and the children that come to its attention.

    All children deserve to wake up in the morning and feel safe and loved.

    To ensure the Ministry remains focused on what is important – and promote greater transparency about its performance – I have asked Oranga Tamariki to report quarterly on five key performance indicators.

    These reflect the areas I know will make the biggest difference to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in the care of the state. 

    One of these areas specifically talks about caregivers, and making sure they feel supported. 

    This key performance indicator will see Oranga Tamariki now regularly report the results of a continuous rolling survey of caregivers. 

    This survey will ask carers directly whether you are feeling supported.

    It will ask if you would recommend becoming a caregiver, or are thinking about stopping being a caregiver – and why.

    This will help to ensure caregivers are getting – and continue to get – the support they need as they open their hearts and homes to children and young people.

    I am confident this new approach – centred around key performance indicators and quarterly reporting – will promote accountability and better performance across the organisation.

    Children deserve the best care they can possibly get regardless of the race, religion, colour, or ethnicity of those people who are charged with the responsibility of nurturing, mentoring, educating, protecting and loving them.

    As I’ve said previously, I intend to improve the rights and responsibilities of caregivers, giving them greater autonomy and making it easier for carers to offer safe, stable and loving homes for children.

    I would once again like to express my sincere gratitude for the support caregivers provide our children and young people when they need it the most.

    I am confident the changes I am implementing at Oranga Tamariki will keep children and young people at the centre of their work – and improve the support received by our children, young people, their families, and caregivers. 

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Workforce boost in specialist mental health training welcomed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey welcomes the significant increase in Health NZ-funded psychiatry registrar places and the increase of Health NZ-funded clinical psychology internships, as today’s plan supports this Government’s commitment to double clinical psychology intern numbers between 2023 and 2027.

    Today, Health NZ published its Mental Health and Addiction Workforce Plan which sets significant uplifts in training places for workers who will staff specialist, primary and community workforces.

    “This plan reinforces that we are on track to reach our workforce target of training 500 mental health and addiction professionals every year,” Mr Doocey says.

    “One of the biggest barriers to timely mental health support is workforce shortages. It’s one of my top priorities as the country’s first Minister for Mental Health and it’s pleasing to see Health NZ respond with a plan with meaningful increases in a number of key workforce areas.

    Highlights of the three-year plan include:

    •    Increasing the number of psychiatry registrar training places Health NZ offers annually by 50%, from around 33 in 2024 to 50 from 2025 onwards
    •    A new associate psychology post-graduate programme (in partnership with the tertiary education sector), to train 20 students a year from 2026 onwards
    •    Achieving an increase in Health NZ clinical psychology intern places by 100% on 2023 levels over four years (from 40 annual places in 2023 to 80 annual places by 2027)
    •    Increasing the number of Health NZ-funded New Entry to Specialist Practice (NESP) places available to train specialist nurses, social workers and occupational therapists by 30% over three years, to an annual total of 475 by 2027 (an increase of 110).
    •    Increasing the number of mental health and addiction nurse practitioners Health NZ trains each year by 83% from 2025 onwards to a total of 22 per year

    “We are also committed to investing in consumer and peer support workforces who play a vital role within the mental health and addiction workforce. Health NZ will fund training places for 90 additional Consumer, Peer Support and Lived Experience workers each year of the Plan.”

    This plan looks out over the next three years, but each year it will be reviewed to ensure Health NZ has the right mix of training places to match need.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS message purportedly from HKeToll

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS message purportedly from HKeToll
    Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS message purportedly from HKeToll
    *************************************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (September 24) alerted members of the public to a fraudulent SMS message purportedly issued by the HKeToll. The SMS message spoofed the name “HKeToll” and provided a hyperlink with the domain name (https://t.ly/[.]QpBjt) that leads to a fake HKeToll website, which seeks to deceive recipients into making payments and obtain their credit card information.     The TD clarifies that the SMS message was not issued by the HKeToll and has referred the case to the Police for follow-up. Members of the public are reminded that the HKeToll will not send SMS messages or emails to vehicle owners with hyperlinks that direct them to websites to carry out transactions. If a vehicle owner wishes to pay an outstanding toll online, they must log in to the HKeToll website (hketoll.gov.hk) or mobile app.     Members of the public should stay alert when receiving unidentified messages. They should not visit suspicious websites and disclose any personal information. Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the website concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call 3853 7333.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 11:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New slow vehicle bay on SH2 in Hawke’s Bay close to completion

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Work to complete the new slow vehicle bay on State Highway 2 (SH2) at Kotemaori in northern Hawke’s Bay will start next week.

    The new 260 metre slow vehicle bay on SH2, near the intersection with Kakariki Farm Road, will provide another place for road users to safely pass slow vehicles as they head north to Wairoa.

    Crews have been waiting for warmer weather to complete the work, which includes laying the final seal on the road.

    The work is expected to take 2 weeks and crews will begin on site from next Monday (30 September). During this time, temporary traffic management will be in place through this site with stop/go and a temporary reduced speed limit of 30km/h.

    Delays of no more than 10 minutes are expected.

    Once crews have finished this work, the slow vehicle bay will be operational. The work is weather dependent and there could be delays if conditions are too cold or wet.

    Background

    This work is part of Connecting Tairāwhiti, which is a programme of projects providing more slow vehicle bays and more places to pull off the road safely to check messages or take a break on State Highways 2 and 35 across the Tairāwhiti and northern Hawke’s Bay regions. The programme also includes some resilience projects to strengthen and stabilise sites on State Highway 35 to help it remain open and functional during disruptions such as weather events.

    A slow vehicle bay is a widened stretch of road on an uphill incline that allows slow, heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, to pull over as they slow down – allowing other vehicles to pass.

    As part of this project, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has also made safety improvements to Kotemaori School’s access on SH2, including a safe right-turn bay to access the school.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on September 23, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 584,136.10 6.69 1.00-6.95
         I. Call Money 9,938.90 6.68 5.10-6.80
         II. Triparty Repo 403,004.70 6.67 6.30-6.77
         III. Market Repo 169,807.50 6.74 1.00-6.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,385.00 6.88 6.85-6.95
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 174.50 6.33 5.85-6.65
         II. Term Money@@ 408.00 – 6.80-7.40
         III. Triparty Repo 482.30 6.66 6.54-6.80
         IV. Market Repo 1,136.97 6.78 6.77-6.85
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Mon, 23/09/2024 1 Tue, 24/09/2024 50,007.00 6.65
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Mon, 23/09/2024 1 Tue, 24/09/2024 3,320.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Mon, 23/09/2024 1 Tue, 24/09/2024 57,919.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -4,592.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo Fri, 20/09/2024 14 Fri, 04/10/2024 25,002.00 6.52
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    5. On Tap Targeted Long Term Repo Operations€ Mon, 27/09/2021 1095 Thu, 26/09/2024 600.00 4.00
    Mon, 04/10/2021 1095 Thu, 03/10/2024 350.00 4.00
    Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 250.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 2,275.00 4.00
    6. Special Long-Term Repo Operations (SLTRO) for Small Finance Banks (SFBs)£ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 105.00 4.00
    Mon, 22/11/2021 1095 Thu, 21/11/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 29/11/2021 1095 Thu, 28/11/2024 305.00 4.00
    Mon, 13/12/2021 1095 Thu, 12/12/2024 150.00 4.00
    Mon, 20/12/2021 1095 Thu, 19/12/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 255.00 4.00
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       8,547.26  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*    

    38,039.26

    		  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     33,447.26  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on September 23, 2024 982,960.08  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending October 04, 2024 1,005,433.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ September 23, 2024 50,007.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on September 06, 2024 427,689.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    € As per the Press Release No. 2020-2021/520 dated October 21, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/763 dated December 11, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/1057 dated February 05, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/695 dated August 13, 2021.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    £ As per the Press Release No. 2021-2022/181 dated May 07, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/1023 dated October 11, 2021.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad            
     Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/1152

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Major milestone reached in METRONET for WA

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Prime Minister, Premier of Western Australia and the Western Australian Transport Minister have today marked the completion of the entire elevated rail structure as part of the historic METRONET Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project.

    The Level Crossing Removal Project will improve safety, reduce congestion and improve travel times in the area, while also creating more than 4,300 jobs for Western Australians.

    The Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal Project represents the most significant upgrade ever undertaken on the 131-year-old Armadale Line and will ease congestion for road commuters, while creating six hectares of new public open space for the community.

    The project is already delivering positive outcomes for the community with six level crossings removed at intersections at Mint/Archer Street, Oats Street, Welshpool Road, Hamilton Street, Wharf Street and William Street.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

    “We value Western Australia and want this beautiful city to have the world leading infrastructure it deserves.

    “As a heavy lifter of the nation’s economy, it is critical that we see benefits flowing back into Perth and Western Australia.

    “It’s great to be back in Perth to mark this important infrastructure milestone with the Premier that’s creating more than 4,300 jobs for Western Australians.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “METRONET is creating jobs, boosting safety and efficiency, and transforming Perth.

    “The Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal and the completion of elevated rail is another significant milestone in this exciting project.”

    Quotes attributable to Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook:

    “Everywhere you look across Perth, METRONET is transforming our suburbs.

    “Our elevated rail along the Armadale Line is changing the face of the south-eastern suburbs, delivering new public open space and the quality modern facilities local communities deserve.

    “This is what METRONET is all about – better public transport, affordable travel, and creating local jobs across the city.”

    Quotes attributable to Western Australian Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti:

    “It’s been incredible to see the speed at which this structure has been delivered, which is testament to the enormous amount of planning and preparation that has gone into delivering this project.

    “The community can see this elevated train line emerging before them, while the massive benefits are already being felt with a number of level crossings already removed along the Armadale Line.

    “People who live along the Armadale Line corridor will very soon have access to modern train stations, and new public open spaces and community facilities.

    “We know there is significant benefit on the horizon, and we thank the community for their continued patience as we complete the next critical steps for this game-changing project.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas:

    “The people of Swan, and Perth more broadly, will see the fruits of this massive investment in METRONET for generations.

    “The removal of these level crossings will improve commute times, while the addition of new stations will increase the take up in public transport, removing even more traffic from our roads.

    “It’s a win for everyone.”

    Quotes attributable to State Member for Cannington Bill Johnston:

    “This is a really exciting project for our community and it’s incredible to see the progress that has been made.

    “With elevated rail structure now in place, people can see how this project is going to deliver great outcomes in the years ahead with modern stations and new public open space.”

    Quotes attributable State Member for Victoria Park Hannah Beazley:

    “I am thrilled to see the entire elevated structure now in place, but more importantly, I am thrilled to see how much new space has been opened up for the community.

    “We’re planning to deliver some incredible facilities in the new public open space, which will create a more vibrant and active community for all to enjoy.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Forum held in Tokyo to boost China-Japan people-to-people exchanges

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Around 60 experts and scholars from China and Japan gathered at a forum in Tokyo on Monday to discuss how to boost people-to-people exchanges and foster cultural understanding between the two countries.

    The forum, co-hosted by the China Foundation for Human Rights Development and the Japan-China Friendship Center, covered topics such as Sino-Japanese relations in a globalized world and the role of youth in fostering cultural understanding between the two nations.

    Qin Liang, deputy secretary-general of the China Foundation for Human Rights Development, emphasized that the foundation of Sino-Japanese friendship lies in people-to-people exchanges, and mutual understanding is key to improving bilateral relations.

    Former Japanese ambassador to China Yuji Miyamoto expressed hope that the forum would serve as a platform for further dialogue and help resolve issues between the two nations.

    The forum was supported by the Chinese Embassy in Japan, with Minister Shi Yong underscoring the importance of deepening cultural cooperation to improve understanding.

    Ahead of the forum, the Chinese delegation visited various Japanese social organizations, universities, and media institutions.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel’s large-scale airstrikes on Lebanon kill nearly 500

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo shows the smoke from Israeli airstrikes in Khiam, Lebanon, on Sept. 23, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The death toll from the largest Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon since the onset of the Israel-Palestine conflict has risen to 492, with injuries reported at 1,645, the Lebanese Health Ministry said on Monday night.

    The death toll from the Israeli airstrikes included 35 children and 58 women, with many victims still unidentified, according to Lebanese health officials.

    Israel’s sweeping airstrikes across Lebanon have raised the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah to a new peak. This latest surge in hostilities comes on the heels of last week’s explosions targeting pagers and walkie-talkies throughout Lebanon, which left dozens dead and a nation on edge.

    The rapid succession of events has catapulted the long-simmering tensions to unprecedented levels, raising fears of a broader regional conflagration.

    Herzi Halevi, Israel’s military chief, announced on Monday evening that the country was preparing for “the next phases” of its military operation, as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) targeted approximately 1,100 sites in southern and eastern Lebanon.

    “This morning, the IDF launched a proactive offensive operation,” Halevi said during a situational assessment at the IDF Headquarters Underground Operations Center in Tel Aviv.

    “We are targeting combat infrastructure that Hezbollah has been building for the past 20 years,” Halevi noted, adding, “We are striking targets and preparing for the next phases.”

    Also on Monday, Israeli airstrikes in Beirut targeted Ali Karki, a senior Hezbollah commander, who was called by Israeli media the “last deputy” of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Hezbollah later said he was “in full health and has moved to a safe place.”

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was acting to change the “security balance” in the north. He also issued a stark warning to Nasrallah during a security assessment meeting on Monday, stating that “everyone is in the crosshairs.”

    The strikes have caused widespread destruction and displacement in Lebanon, with residents fleeing from cities such as Tyre, Nabatieh, and Iqlim al-Tuffah towards Beirut and Mount Lebanon.

    Syrian media reported a significant movement of people fleeing from Lebanon into Syria at the Syrian-Lebanese border. Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission announced that it has suspended flights of Jordanian airlines to Beirut until further notice, citing increasing regional tensions and the need to ensure safety and security in civil aviation.

    In response to the Israeli attacks, Hezbollah fired over 180 rockets toward northern Israel throughout Monday, the Israeli military reported. Israel’s aerial defense systems intercepted some projectiles, while others fell within Israeli territory, causing fires. The Magen David Adom rescue service reported that five people were injured by shrapnel.

    Hezbollah said in a statement that it had bombed several Israeli military targets, including the reserve headquarters of the Israeli army’s northern corps and Rafael’s military-industrial complexes north of Haifa, “with dozens of missiles.”

    Defense Minister Yoav Gallant urged the public to remain calm in anticipation of potential escalated attacks by Hezbollah in the coming days. “These are days in which the Israeli public will have to show composure,” he noted in a video statement.

    The Israeli Defense Ministry also announced a “special” security situation across the entire country on Monday night, amid concerns that Hezbollah might broaden the range of its retaliatory attacks.

    The attacks have prompted condemnations from both regional and international communities.

    Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the Israeli attacks, describing them as “a war of extermination” during a cabinet meeting. He called on the United Nations and the international community to “stand up and deter aggression.”

    The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the Israeli attacks, describing them as a “flagrant violation of international law” and a threat to regional stability driven by the “far-right goals of the Israeli government.”

    Egypt on Monday condemned Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, warning that its military escalation will only aggravate the crisis.

    In a statement, the Egyptian foreign ministry urged international powers and the UN Security Council to intervene to stop Israel’s escalation in the region.

    Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani warned of the serious consequences of Israel’s “bids to expand the conflict in the entire West Asia region,” while the Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that the attacks “mark a new phase in Israel’s efforts to drag the entire region into chaos.”

    The Syrian Foreign Ministry on Monday issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s ongoing military actions in Lebanon. It said the Israeli actions “would not be possible without the protection and complicity provided by the United States, which shields Israel from accountability under international law.”

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed “grave alarm” over the escalating tensions in the region and voiced serious concern for the safety of civilians, including UN personnel. He urged immediate de-escalation and a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

    MIL OSI China News –