Source:
We’ve reviewed our advice for Guyana and continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of violent crime. There’s continuing tension between Guyana and Venezuela. The security situation may deteriorate near the Venezuelan border. If you choose to travel in this area, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. Guyana has introduced a digital Immigration and Customs form for entry and exit.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By T.J. Thomson, Senior Lecturer in Visual Communication & Digital Media, RMIT University
As Australia begins voting in the federal election, we’re awash with political messages.
While this of course includes the typical paid ads in newspapers and on TV (those ones with the infamously fast-paced “authorised by” postscripts), political parties and lobby groups now compete especially hard for our attention online.
And, if there’s one thing internet users love, it’s a good meme.
Indeed, as far back as two elections ago, in the 2019 campaign, the Liberal Party discovered the power of so-called “boomer memes”, and harnessed them effectively to help secure a third term in government.
The other parties have since caught on though, and are battling hard to win the messaging war in a way that will resonate with voters, especially those who are inclined to ignore a typical political advertisement.
The best political communication often contains a few key elements.
First, it should be developed with a clear understanding of context, purpose and audience. If the target audience can’t get the message pretty much straight away, then it’s not much good.
It should also spark some sort of emotional reaction. It should make voters feel something and motivate them to act, or change their voting intention.
When it comes to political memes in particular, they need to make some clear reference to widely known cultural material. This might be a trending event in popular culture, or fit into an established meme format.
And, of course, the best memes are fun. As the quote, often attributed to American funnyman Andy Kaufman, goes: “if you can make someone laugh, you can make them think”.
Below, we have collected some of the major Australian political parties’ recent efforts on the meme front during the 2025 election campaign, and assessed their effectiveness. We graded them from “A” for best down to “D” for worst.
We’ll start with the “diss track” the Liberals released earlier this month.
We’d give this one a “D” grade. It focuses heavily on cost of living and might spark an emotional reaction from voters who feel pain when going to the shops. But, it’s highly unlikely to hit the mark, given it was released on a minor platform, and rap music (with its Black American roots) doesn’t exactly gel with the Liberal Party’s overall image and ethos.
One SoundCloud user probably best summed up the vibe here, by referencing another famous internet meme: “how do you do, fellow kids?”
Read more:
Why the Coalition’s tone-deaf diss track was bound to hit all the wrong notes
The Liberals did much better, however, with their version of the popular AI action figure trend that’s sweeping the Internet.
We’d give this one a solid “B+.” It features some clever one-liners, makes use of a current trend, and makes its point easily and quickly. We knock a few points off for the redundant focus on “cheaper power” This would have been better as two separate issues rather than repeating one twice.
Instead, we give Labor’s version a “C-”.
It looks only barely like the prime minister. He is shown as neutral rather than smiling. And the accessories chosen feel forced.
Although both memes tap into a trend, their shelf life will likely be short. This is in contrast to political ads like the below.
Rather than jump on the latest, short-lived trend, this ad draws on cultural material that’s more than three decades old but considered classic. The juxtaposition of a widely seen children’s cartoon with a political ad provides a surprising contrast. And the strategic editing drew more than a few giggles out of us.
We’d give this one an “A-.” It still relies on audio, which is often disabled by default, to get its point across but is solid, overall.
This ad by the Greens, however, misses the mark.
We like Lady Gaga as much as the next person, but the cultural connection here seems dated and forced. Rather than focus on one key message, the ad instead mentions five separate policy positions. It also doesn’t work without audio. We’d give it a “C-.”
The Labor Party had more of a hit with this meme, though:
It appropriates the Venn diagram, a well-established meme format, which requires a degree of creativity and intelligence to pull off successfully. It makes a clear point, but also doesn’t bash its audience around the head with it. So, we’d give this a “B+”.
One of the best memes we’ve seen recently, however, comes from a Facebook page connected to The Greens:
The Simpsons has become a kind of lingua franca of the internet over the last decade or more, and has been the genesis of many, many popular memes, including during the last federal election.
This meme not only taps into that existing internet culture, and gestures towards one of the show’s sweetest-ever moments in recounting the circumstances of Maggie’s birth, but also cleverly draws on and repurposes one of the attack lines being used against the Greens (“Can’t vote Greens. Not this time”) by the lobby group Advance Australia. It’s a clever piece of communication and one of the few “A”-grade memes we’ve encountered in the campaign so far.
Keep an eye on the memes you encounter in the next few weeks in the lead-up to the election on May 3. Which ones do you find effective and why?
But memes are only part of the story. Also consider the positions of the candidates and parties and their substantive policies. Memes, good or bad, can only go so far.
T.J. Thomson receives funding from the Australian Research Council. He is an affiliated researcher with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making & Society.
Stephen Harrington receives funding from the Australian Research Council, for the Discovery Project ‘Understanding and Combatting “Dark Political Communication”‘. He has made occasional donations to candidates for The Australian Greens.
– ref. Election meme hits and duds – we’ve graded some of the best (and worst) of the campaign so far – https://theconversation.com/election-meme-hits-and-duds-weve-graded-some-of-the-best-and-worst-of-the-campaign-so-far-254709
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Parker, Adjunct Fellow, Naval Studies at UNSW Canberra, and Expert Associate, National Security College, Australian National University
Australian strategic thinking has long struggled to move beyond a narrow view of defence that focuses solely on protecting our shores. However, in today’s world, our economy could be crippled without an enemy boot stepping foot on Australian soil.
Australia’s acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines through AUKUS marks a shift in this mindset.
It is not a strategy in itself, but a structural pivot: a recognition that our vital interests lie far beyond the coastline, and that defending them requires Australia to project its maritime power.
Over a century ago, US naval officer Alfred Thayer Mahan observed that “wars are won by the economic strangulation of the enemy from the sea”.
While not universally true, this maxim is directly relevant to an island nation like Australia – 99% of our international trade moves by sea.
But not just any trade – our critical supplies of fuel, fertiliser and ammunition all come by sea. Australia’s economy and defences would be crippled if these things were stopped at sea.
These vulnerabilities are compounded by our growing dependence on undersea cables for communications.
Strategic concepts that rely on making Australia’s territory a hard target, such as the “strategic defensive”, fail to grapple with this reality, perpetuating a flawed understanding of how to defend Australia.
Viewing Australia’s interests solely through the lens of avoiding or defeating a territorial attack overlooks the reality that an adversary could cripple the nation far more easily through the maritime, space or cyber domains.
The ability to project power in the seas and oceans far from Australia’s shores is critical to protecting these seaborne supply lines and sustaining the national economy. This is where AUKUS comes in – the endurance and range of nuclear-powered submarines are a key element.
Australia’s future nuclear-powered submarines would make adversary naval task groups vulnerable if they threatened our maritime trade routes.
Much more is needed, however, to deliver a coherent maritime strategy. This includes:
expanding our surface combatant fleet
addressing the vulnerability of Australia’s limited number of resupply, mine warfare and hydrographic vessels
and resolving longstanding issues around our strategic fleet (commercial ships that could be requisitioned in a time of crisis).
We must also expand our flagged merchant shipping fleet by reforming the Australian International Shipping Register. And we must strengthen our domestic maritime security through the establishment of a national coastguard.
But AUKUS, as the centrepiece of our future undersea capability, is a good start.
AUKUS has attracted plenty of criticism — particularly following the new Trump administration’s moves away from the US’ traditional allies in Europe.
Yet, despite claims the three-phase AUKUS submarine plan is failing, it remains remarkably on track.
Like any complex defence acquisition, it carries risks. These risks include the continued political will to keep the deal on track, as well as the workforce, delivery schedule and cost pressures that come with building the submarines.
But the relevant question is not whether risks exist — if that were the test, most defence programs wouldn’t proceed. The question is whether the risks around AUKUS are being effectively mitigated.
And as the three phases of the AUKUS deal progress, these risks will continue to evolve. Australia must remain focussed on addressing them.
The political risk has been most salient recently, given the Trump administration’s actions on Europe, Ukraine, foreign aid and tariffs. But while these disruptions are significant, they were largely foreshadowed.
By contrast, the political signals coming out of Washington around AUKUS have been overwhelmingly positive. This is because AUKUS is in the US’ strategic interests as much as it is in Australia’s interests.
Importantly, the political commitment to AUKUS in Canberra, Washington and London has already been demonstrated.
The “optimal pathway” to guide the agreement into the 2030s was signed within 18 months of AUKUS’ launch in September 2021. And the AUKUS treaty that enables the US and UK to transfer nuclear submarine technology and equipment to Australia has since been signed and entered into force among all three partners.
In Australia, bipartisan support has held for over three years, with no sign of weakening.
Many critics have also focused on the risks posed by the US submarine industrial base and its ability to build nuclear-powered submarines quickly enough.
The US would need to increase its production rate to two Virginia-class submarines per year by 2028 – and subsequently to 2.33 submarines per year – in order to reach the target US fleet of 66 submarines by 2054.
But this does not preclude the sale of three Virginia-class submarines to Australia in the early 2030s. Australia is not just a recipient of submarines from the US — it will help enable the US’ undersea operations in the region.
Our role as a rotational hub for US submarines and the longstanding support we can offer the US fleet through facilities such as the Harold E. Holt submarine communications station makes our contribution far more valuable than the notional loss of three submarines on paper.
Could this change in the future? Like all international arrangements, of course it could. But there is no indication at present that it will.
The defence of Australia is not simply about protecting our continent from attack — it is about safeguarding vital national interests. For an island nation, that means securing maritime trade routes and undersea infrastructure.
Even for those concerned about the extremely unlikely prospect of invasion, a robust maritime strategy also enables threats to be defeated well before they reach our shores.
Through its emphasis on maritime power projection, AUKUS reflects a fundamental shift in how we think about defending Australia in the decades ahead.
This is the final part of a series on the future of defence in Australia. Read the other stories here.
Jennifer Parker is a 20-year veteran of the Royal Australian Navy.
– ref. Why AUKUS remains the right strategy for the future defence of Australia – https://theconversation.com/why-aukus-remains-the-right-strategy-for-the-future-defence-of-australia-254985
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
Private Wealth Client Experience Deputy Commissioner, Louise Clarke, shares her thoughts on some common questions we are hearing from private companies and their advisers, regarding the Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2025] FCAFC 15External Link (Bendel) case decision and court process. Louise strongly encourages taxpayers to review our published Interim Decision Impact Statement, and to seek advice about their individual circumstances.
For more than 15 years, the ATO has had a published view about the tax consequences of unpaid present entitlements (UPEs) owing to corporate beneficiaries.
The Bendel case is the first time that the ATO’s longstanding view has been considered by the Courts. In February, the Full Federal Court reached a decision that is contrary to the ATO’s published position.
We’ve sought special leave to appeal this decision to the High Court because the decision is of wide interest and will impact many private company taxpayers.
Our published Interim Decision Impact Statement explains that we don’t intend to revise our current views relating to private company entitlements to trust income, as detailed in Taxation Determination TD 2022/11: Income tax: Division 7A: when will an unpaid present entitlement or amount held on sub-trust become the provision of ‘financial accommodation’?, until the appeal process is exhausted
I won’t second guess the workings of the High Court. However, we can anticipate that they’ll decide whether to grant the Commissioner special leave to appeal in the next few months. If the High Court decides to hear our appeal, the whole process could take a little while, allowing for a hearing to be scheduled and the High Court time to consider its decision. If the High Court chooses not to hear our appeal, we will, as a priority and almost immediately, publish practical guidance for taxpayers by updating our Decision Impact Statement. Of course, over a period of weeks and months, we will also review and update relevant ATO guidance products.
It is not usual practice to grant lodgment deferrals as a matter progresses through the Courts.
Similarly, in this case, we are not going to grant a blanket extension of time for affected companies to lodge their tax returns pending the High Court’s decision about the ATO’s special leave application, or any subsequent appeal.
We appreciate that some private company taxpayers will need to decide how to treat unpaid present entitlements (UPEs) when preparing their 2024 tax return. To assist with the decision-making process, our published Interim Decision Impact Statement explains that taxpayers need to be mindful that pending the outcome of our special leave application to the High Court, we are maintaining our view in TD 2022/11. We also observe that the basis on which private company beneficiaries deal with UPEs may have consequences under other integrity provisions in the tax law, including section 100A and subdivision EA.
The application of section 100A and subdivision EA does not depend on the outcome of the Bendel High court process. So, in this regard, we consider that there’s a clear pathway for taxpayers who don’t wish to risk potential exposure to other integrity provisions, regardless of the outcome of the current High Court proceedings.
We won’t be granting a blanket exercise of the discretion.
Section 109RB allows the Commissioner to consider exercising his discretion to disregard the operation of Division 7A or to allow a deemed dividend to be franked where a deemed dividend arose if there has been an honest mistake or inadvertent omission. In this regard, each case turns on its own individual facts and circumstances and must be considered on a case-by-case basis and the Commissioner can only exercise the discretion in an individual case when a deemed dividend has actually arisen.
Taxpayers will need to consider their circumstances and make their own decision pending the finalisation of the appeal process.
The Commissioner’s updated Interim Decision Impact Statement highlights the consequences that might arise if UPEs aren’t on Division 7A complying loan terms. This is regardless of the outcome of the Commissioner’s special leave application and any possible appeal.
Where a UPE isn’t converted into a complying Division 7A loan, taxpayers face the prospect that other integrity provisions may apply to their arrangement (depending on the particular facts), for example Subdivision EA and section 100A.
Placing a UPE on Division 7A complying loan terms requires all the elements of section 109N to be satisfied, including that there’s a written loan agreement between the parties. That is, relevant UPEs must be converted to loans to comply with section 109N.
If a taxpayer has been following the ATO guidance and if they continue to do so, then they will have certainty regardless of the outcome of the High Court proceedings. That is, they will not be facing the prospects of a deemed dividend or potential application of other integrity provisions.
Of course, it is up to individual taxpayers to decide their approach post the Full Court’s decision. However, any decision needs to be made with knowledge of the relevant risks and their individual circumstances. I strongly encourage impacted taxpayers to seek advice appropriate to their particular circumstances.
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Source: New South Wales – News
South Australia Police will continue road safety action into the ANZAC Day long weekend following hundreds of road safety offences over the Easter long weekend.
Officer in Charge of Traffic Services Branch, Superintendent Shane Johnson said unfortunately one life was lost on Thursday, 10 people were seriously injured and whilst overall detections were slightly lower, many drivers still made unsafe choices.
“Overall, it is pleasing to see fewer detections across the Fatal Five categories this year, however speeding remains an issue, with 925 detections,” Superintendent Johnson said.
“When you’re driving this long weekend, keep an eye on your speed, it’s easy to creep over the speed limit if you get complacent.”
Operation Safe Long Weekend was conducted state-wide from Thursday 17 to Monday 21 April, returning road safety offences including:
An incident of note involved a 31-year-old Two Wells man who was detected drug driving, travelling at 156km/h in a 110km/h speed zone and driving unlicenced on Thursday 17 April. He was issued with a six-month Immediate Loss of Licence and expiations for driving whilst unlicensed and at excessive speed. Depending on forensic analysis of the drug test, he may be summonsed to court.
“Police will continue to deliver a strong presence throughout the ANZAC Day long weekend with two operations running to ensure the safety of all road users,” Superintendent Johnson added.
Operation Safe Long Weekend will target the Fatal Five road safety offences categories while Operation Stop Drink Drug Drive will see RBTs and drug testing stations active state-wide from Thursday 25 to Sunday 27 April.
“Although there will be stationary random breath testing sites around the state, remember every police car has this equipment so stop yourself before we stop you.”
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Natalie Peng, Lecturer in Accounting, The University of Queensland
For Australians approaching retirement, recent market volatility may feel like more than just a bump in the road.
Unlike younger investors, who have time on their side, retirees don’t have the luxury of waiting out downturns. A sharp dip just before, or as you begin drawing down your superannuation, can leave lasting damage.
It’s not just about watching your super balance dip.
The real danger comes if you need to start withdrawing funds during a slump. Doing so can lock in losses and make it harder for your remaining savings to recover. The timing of poor market returns is known in finance circles as “sequencing risk”. And it can shorten the life of your retirement savings.
So far in 2025, global shares as measured by the MSCI World Index have fallen 4.6%. Concerns over stubborn inflation and trade tensions that will hurt growth are keeping investors on edge.
If your superannuation is in a “balanced” option, with diversified investments in stocks, bonds, private markets and cash, your balance will have fallen by less than this amount.
Zoom out and the story looks better. Over the past year, total returns for the MSCI index remain strong, up 6.5%.
It’s a reminder that downturns are often followed by rebounds. We saw this during the COVID crash in 2020, when markets plummeted, only to recover more than 50% over the following year.
Still, for those nearing retirement, the timing of these dips matters more than the averages. Uncertainty makes planning all the more crucial.
Many Australians don’t know exactly how their super is invested. Most people are in default “balanced” or “lifecycle” options, which automatically shift from high-growth assets like shares to safer investments like bonds and cash as retirement approaches.
This design helps cushion your balance from big market hits as you near retirement. But if you’ve chosen a high-growth option or haven’t reviewed your investment settings in years, you could still be heavily exposed to volatility.
In that case, now’s the time to consider your options:
delay retirement by a year or two to give your portfolio time to recover
move to part-time work instead of retiring fully, reducing how much super you need to draw down
review your budget. You can’t control the markets, but you can control your spending plans.
When markets fall, it’s natural to feel the urge to switch your portfolio mix from stocks into cash. But this can turn temporary losses into permanent ones.
Instead, consider more measured steps. Transition-to-retirement strategies let you draw a partial income while keeping most of your super invested.
Annuities – which offer guaranteed income for life or a fixed term – are another option. Newer products also address longevity risk, which is the risk of outliving your savings.
Let’s say you’re 65 and have a super balance of A$200,000 (for men, that’s roughly the median; for women, it’s lower due to factors like lower lifetime earnings and career breaks).
A 5% fall translates to a $10,000 loss. That might not seem huge, but if you were planning to draw down 5% of your balance annually – about $10,000 a year – that loss could effectively wipe out an entire year’s retirement income.
It doesn’t stop there. If left invested, that $10,000 could have continued to grow. Over a 20-year retirement, and assuming a 5% annual return, that $10,000 could have grown to over $26,000.
For retirees with smaller super balances or higher withdrawal rates, the impact of a market dip can be even more significant.
Many experts now expect long-term returns to be more modest than in recent decades. Ageing populations, climate change and shifting global dynamics are likely to weigh on growth.
This makes it even more important to avoid switching entirely into cash, which can erode your savings through inflation over what could be a 20- or 30-year retirement.
The best approach is to gradually shift your investments in the years leading up to retirement – not all at once in response to a market dip. Lifecycle options do this automatically, but if you’re managing your super yourself, it’s worth getting advice.
Your super fund’s website likely offers tools and calculators to help. ASIC’s MoneySmart retirement planner is another great resource. And don’t underestimate the value of calling your fund to ask:
How is my super invested?
Does this match my age and risk tolerance?
What are my options if I want to make changes?
Retiring in a volatile market isn’t easy, but panic isn’t a plan. By understanding your investment mix, taking advantage of flexible retirement strategies, and seeking advice when needed, you can navigate uncertainty more confidently.
Planning for retirement isn’t about avoiding all risk – it’s about managing it. With the right tools and mindset, you can stay on course, even when markets wobble.
Read more:
How much do you need to retire? It’s probably a lot less than you think
Natalie Peng 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. Markets are choppy. What should you do with your super if you are near retirement? – https://theconversation.com/markets-are-choppy-what-should-you-do-with-your-super-if-you-are-near-retirement-255017
Source: South Australia Police
Join the City and your neighbours in planting for a greener future as part of our annual winter planting program this June and July.
The tree planting program encourages our community to care for their local bushland, with the goal of increasing urban canopy coverage and working towards a greener, more sustainable City for us all.
This year, the winter tree planting program includes a series of family-friendly events throughout June and July, where residents can help plant shrubs and trees to rejuvenate bushland and coastal dunes.
To register, please contact the City’s Conservation Team on 9405 5000 or conservationmaint@wanneroo.wa.gov.au
2025 winter planting events
Quinns Rocks foreshore, Quinns Rocks
The events include a morning tea. Participants need a water bottle and enclosed shoes.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 24, 2025.
The ocean can look deceptively calm – until it isn’t. Here’s what ‘hazardous surf’ really means
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate, Beach Safety Research Group, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney Over the Easter weekend, seven people drowned along the Australian coast. Most were swept off rock platforms – extremely dangerous locations that are increasingly prevalent in Australia’s coastal fatality data. The weather was
The major parties have announced their plans to address domestic and family violence. How do they stack up?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Professor (Practice), Faculty of Business and Economics, Monash University In the past week, at least seven women have been killed in Australia, allegedly by men. These deaths have occurred in different contexts – across state borders, communities and relationships. But are united by one truth:
The biggest losers: how Australians became the world’s most enthusiastic gamblers
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wayne Peake, Adjunct research fellow, School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University The story goes that the late billionaire Australian media magnate Kerry Packer once visited a Las Vegas casino, where a Texan was bragging about his ranch and how many millions it was worth.
A golden era for personalized medicine is approaching, but are we ready?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nazia Pathan, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University Biobanks have become some of the most transformative tools in medical research, enabling scientists to study the relationships between genes, health and disease on an unprecedented scale (Piqsels/Siyya) If there’s a disease that seems to run
The billions spent on NZ’s accommodation supplement is failing to make rent affordable – so what will?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edward Yiu, Associate Professor, School of Business, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Pixelbliss/Shutterstock New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market has left many low and middle-income families reliant on the accommodation supplement to cover rent and mortgage payments. But our new research has found the scheme, which costs
Fossil teeth show extinct giant kangaroos spent their lives close to home – and perished when the climate changed
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Laurikainen Gaete, PhD Candidate, University of Wollongong Chris Laurikainen Gaete Large kangaroos today roam long distances across the outback, often surviving droughts by moving in mobs to find new food when pickings are slim. But not all kangaroos have been this way. In new research published
The billions spent on NZ’s accomodation supplement is failing to make rent affordable – so what will?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edward Yiu, Associate Professor, School of Business, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Pixelbliss/Shutterstock New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market has left many low and middle-income families reliant on the accommodation supplement to cover rent and mortgage payments. But our new research has found the scheme, which costs
The gambling industry has women in its sights. Why aren’t policymakers paying attention?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simone McCarthy, Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Commercial Determinants of Health, Deakin University Wpadington/Shutterstock Whatever the code, whatever the season, Australian sports fans are bombarded with gambling ads. Drawing on Australians’ passion, loyalty and pride for sport, the devastating health and social consequences of gambling – including financial
When ‘equal’ does not mean ‘the same’: Liberals still do not understand their women problem
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol Johnson, Emerita Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Adelaide “Women’s” issues are once again playing a significant role in the election debate as Labor and the Liberals trade barbs over which parties’ policies will benefit women most. In the latest salvo, the opposition
Tremors, seizures and paralysis: this brain disorder is more common than multiple sclerosis – but often goes undiagnosed
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Scrivener, PhD Candidate, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Kateryna Kon/Shutterstock Imagine suddenly losing the ability to move a limb, walk or speak. You would probably recognise this as a medical emergency and get to hospital. Now imagine the doctors
The origin story of the Anzac biscuit is largely myth – but that shouldn’t obscure the history of women during the war
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Garritt C. Van Dyk, Senior Lecturer in History, University of Waikato Australian Comforts Fund buffet in Longueval, France, 1916. Australian War Memorial The Anzac biscuit is a cultural icon, infused with mythical value, representing the connection between women on the home front and soldiers serving overseas during
Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Frank Bongiorno on dramatic shifts in how elections are fought and won
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra This election has been lacklustre, without the touch of excitement of some past campaigns. Through the decades, campaigning has changed dramatically, adopting new techniques and technologies. This time, we’ve seen politicians try to jump onto viral podcasts. To discuss old
Albanese government announces $1.2 billion plan to purchase critical minerals
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra A re-elected Albanese government will take the unprecedented step of buying or obtaining options over key critical minerals to protect Australia’s national interest and boost its economic resilience. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s ordering a review into American
Why special measures to boost Fiji women’s political representation remain a distant goal
RNZ Pacific Despite calls from women’s groups urging the government to implement policies to address the underrepresentation of women in politics, the introduction of temporary special measures (TSM) to increase women’s political representation in Fiji remains a distant goal. This week, leader of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (Sodelpa), Cabinet Minister Aseri Radrodro, and opposition
Albanese government announces $1.2 billion in plan to purchase critical minerals
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra A re-elected Albanese government will take the unprecedented step of buying or obtaining options over key critical minerals to protect Australia’s national interest and boost its economic resilience. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s ordering a review into American
Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage
Australia needs bold ideas on defence. The Coalition’s increased spending plan falls disappointingly short
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Layton, Visiting Fellow, Strategic Studies, Griffith University Just as voting has begun in this year’s federal election, the Coalition has released its long-awaited defence policy platform. The main focus, as expected, is a boost in defence spending to 3% of Australia’s GDP within the next decade.
Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liz Hicks, Lecturer in Law, The University of Melbourne Roberto La Rosa/Shutterstock Snipers in helicopters have shot more than 700 koalas in the Budj Bim National Park in western Victoria in recent weeks. It’s believed to be the first time koalas have been culled in this way.
Rather than short-term fixes, communities need flexible plans to prepare for a range of likely climate impacts
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Logan, Senior Lecturer Above the Bar of Civil Systems Engineering, University of Canterbury Dave Rowland/Getty Images As New Zealanders clean up after ex-Cyclone Tam which left thousands without power and communities once again facing flooding, it’s tempting to seek immediate solutions. However, after the cleanup and
Why do Labor and the Coalition have so many similar policies? It’s simple mathematics
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabriele Gratton, Professor of Politics and Economics and ARC Future Fellow, UNSW Sydney Pundits and political scientists like to repeat that we live in an age of political polarisation. But if you sat through the second debate between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Judith Brett, Emeritus Professor of Politics, La Trobe University
Beatrice Faust is best remembered as the founder, early in 1972, of the Women’s Electoral Lobby (WEL). Women’s Liberation was already well under way. Betty Friedan had published The Feminine Mystique in 1962, arguing that many women found life as a full-time housewife and mother unfulfilling. With prevailing social assumptions denying them meaningful work, they were bored and frustrated, trapped by an ideal of domesticity that had become a prison.
Consciousness raising groups were meeting to understand how patriarchal assumptions had limited their members’ lives and self-understandings. Campaigns for equal pay, for childcare, for abortion law reform, were underway. In 1970 Germaine Greer, who had been at Melbourne University with Faust in the late 1950s, published The Female Eunuch, with its attack on the suburban consumerist nuclear family.
WEL began when Beatrice invited ten carefully-selected women to meet in the upstairs room of her Carlton terrace. The idea behind WEL was simple, as many brilliant ideas are. It was to survey political candidates for the 1972 federal election on their position on various issues of central concern to women and then to publicise the results.
American feminist activists Gloria Steinem and Patricia Carbine had surveyed the candidates for the forthcoming US presidential election and rated them according to their responses. After 23 years of Coalition government, momentum was building behind the Labor party and its dynamic leader, Gough Whitlam, and a Labor victory seemed within reach. So why not do the same here?
Compared with much of Women’s Liberation, WEL was a reformist project. It was not attempting to overthrow the patriarchy or hasten socialism, but to position women’s concerns high on the mainstream political agenda and to achieve practical reforms that would make a difference to women’s lives. Scores of women joined that first year. For many, it transformed their lives, and by the end of the year WEL had become an effective feminist lobby group.
When Faust started WEL she already had a decade of political activism behind her, in civil liberties and in the campaign to decriminalise abortion, which was illegal in all Australian states and territories. Like many other sexually active young women before the contraceptive pill was readily available, Faust had abortions, three in fact.
She had another reason to campaign for reform of the abortion laws. Her mother had died 12 hours after giving birth to Beatrice. She had been advised to have an abortion, but she was a Catholic and had refused. Her mother’s death was the defining fact of Faust’s life. The motherless child was sickly, and her childhood miserable. She believed that her father blamed her for his wife’s death and that she was unwanted and unloved.
The pioneering political psychologist, Harold Lasswell, said of political activists that they try to solve for others what they cannot solve for themselves. There was nothing Faust could do about her mother’s death, but she could agitate to ensure other children were not born unwanted, as she felt herself to be.
Repealing the laws that made abortion illegal, together with better sex education and easily available contraception, were her core political missions. She also agitated against the wowserish censorship regime limiting what adults could read and see in 1960s Australia, and publicly celebrated and privately enjoyed the pleasures of sex.
Faust grew to sexual maturity during the 1950s when a repressive public sexual morality was already fraying, both from the emergence of a confident youth culture and the decline in the moral authority of churches.
The advent of reliable contraception in the early 1960s turbo-charged this, removing the fear of pregnancy that had kept respectable unmarried people chaste. With the pill separating sex from reproduction, sex could become, as Faust put it, a recreational activity pursued for pleasure. The implications of this are still playing out, in the unstable co-existence in the contemporary moment of constrained public discourse with private sexual licence.
Faust was a passionate advocate of sex education so that men and women could better understand their own and each others’ sexuality. Contrary to many in the women’s movement, she did not believe that differences between men and women were only the result of social roles and conditioning. The social constructions of gender built on biological foundations, Faust believed. This meant if a woman was to live as an autonomous social being and to have sexual agency, she needed to understand her body, and how it differed from the bodies of other women and of men. For her and her mother, biology had been a sort of destiny, so when the women’s movement started mocking biology, she disagreed.
Faust was not just a political activist. She was also in her time a public intellectual, who wrote books, articles, op eds and reviews and commented frequently in the media. Because of her unusual openness about her sexuality, she became a go-to person as constraints loosened during the 1970s on the public discussion of all matters sexual.
Her sexual style, she claimed, was masculine, giving her an androgenous perspective that made her as sympathetic to men as to women, and which informed her provocative perspectives on pornography, rape and paedophilia. Describing herself as “a sceptical feminist”, she was wary of the misandry she believed informed feminist separatism and feared that second-wave feminism was succumbing to the same sexual puritanism that had weakened the first.
Many of her views will be challenging for contemporary readers. It’s hard for societies to get the balance right on sex. Too much repression is harmful as is too much licentiousness, the needs and desires of men and women need balancing, a range of individual differences accommodated, and violence and depravity confronted.
Whatever the prevailing norms, not everyone will be happy. We need to be able to talk about this, to discuss issues around age of consent, sexual assault, victim blaming, gender identity and more, without being told “you can’t say that”. Faust was never afraid to say what she thought. She was fearless.
Fearless Beatrice Faust (MUP), by Judith Brett, is available from April 23.
Judith Brett 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. Provocative, progressive and fearless: why Beatrice Faust’s views still resonate in Australia – https://theconversation.com/provocative-progressive-and-fearless-why-beatrice-fausts-views-still-resonate-in-australia-252027
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate, Beach Safety Research Group, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney
Over the Easter weekend, seven people drowned along the Australian coast. Most were swept off rock platforms – extremely dangerous locations that are increasingly prevalent in Australia’s coastal fatality data.
The weather was unseasonably warm, the surf at times looking calm and at others foreboding. And yet, despite warnings from Surf Life Saving, emergency services and meteorologists, many still entered the water – often unaware of how deceptively dangerous the conditions could be.
It was a tragic reminder that many people don’t understand ocean conditions and how waves and swells work. Current water safety warnings aren’t doing enough to change behaviour – but with simple improvements and better education around long-period swells, we could save lives.
Waves on the ocean are caused by wind. Some, called sea waves, are generated by nearby winds. Others, known as swell waves, are created by distant weather systems, such as storms far away, and travel long distances.
Swells can travel thousands of kilometres and may still be present even if the local wind is calm. It’s estimated that up to 75% of wave action across the globe is caused by distant storms, not local winds. This makes the predicting of swells and waves a complex science.
A long-period swell refers to waves that arrive at longer intervals, typically 12 to 20 seconds apart. These swells carry more energy than short-period ones, travel greater distances, and tend to produce sets of larger waves when they hit the coast.
Over Easter, hazardous long-period swells generated by an ex-cyclone offshore were hitting much of the east coast. The Bureau of Meteorology issued warnings, and Surf Life Saving reinforced these messages with media alerts and beach closures.
But the surf didn’t always look threatening – at least not all of the time.
The misleading nature of long-period swells is part of the problem. They create deceptively calm periods, and lulls between these wave sets can last ten or 15 minutes. During that time, people feel safe entering the water, wading out, going onto a rock platform or relaxing near the shoreline.
When the next set arrives, it can be unexpected and forceful – knocking people over, pulling them into the water or creating unexpected currents.
Unlike short-period waves, long-period swells carry momentum that enables them to surge much further up beaches and rock platforms, increasing the chances of sweeping people into the water. When these waves break, they do so with considerable force, and the powerful backwash can drag people into deep water.
The sudden arrival of these waves, without a gradual buildup, makes them especially dangerous in exposed areas like rock shelves or platforms.
Rock platforms are dangerous because of a combination of environmental exposure and low visibility in our approach to coastal safety. They’re often exposed to powerful waves, have uneven, slippery surfaces, and lack easy exit points.
If someone is knocked into the water, there’s usually nothing to hold onto, and climbing back up is almost impossible – especially in heavy clothing or fishing gear.
Australians may be familiar with fire danger ratings, cyclone warnings and the UV index.
But the way we communicate surf risk – particularly around swell behaviour – is vague and technical. Phrases like “hazardous surf” or “long-period swell” are accurate, but fail to convey what people will actually experience at the shoreline.
Most members of the public don’t know what a 16-second swell interval means, or how it affects where and how waves break. As a result, warnings go unnoticed, or people believe they can assess the risk themselves by looking at the water – which, during a lull, can seem completely harmless.
Social media compounds this problem. Over Easter, videos of huge waves circulated widely, but so did footage of people playing or standing near the water with no apparent concern. The public sees mixed signals – and the science and warnings don’t always cut through.
If we want to reduce coastal deaths during swell events, we need to bridge the gap between forecasts and real-world understanding.
1. Translate forecasts into direct, behavioural warnings
Instead of just saying “hazardous surf”, add language that explains what that means: “Conditions may appear calm, but large sets of waves will arrive every 10–15 minutes. Stay well back from the waterline”.
2. Use visual risk systems
Just like fire danger ratings, a colour-coded coastal risk index could be introduced for days when swell conditions are particularly hazardous. Simple signage at beaches could indicate the risk level and explain the reason for it.
3. Integrate live updates at key sites
SMS alerts or digital signage at car parks and entry points could provide real-time hazard updates. These should be visual and multilingual to reach a broader audience.
4. Make ocean science public knowledge
Government campaigns, surf clubs and schools should all help explain the basics of swell behaviour – including what long-period swell is, why wave sets arrive and why calm periods aren’t always safe. Just like “swim between the flags” became a known rule, so, too, should basic awareness of wave cycles. Surfers could be champions of this education.
The conditions that contributed to the Easter drownings were forecast, monitored and forewarned. But most people don’t make decisions based on marine forecasts – they make them based on what they see in front of them.
Long-period swell is a classic hidden hazard. It tricks even experienced beach goers, not because the science is unclear, but because the risk isn’t made clear to the public.
Samuel Cornell receives funding from Meta Platforms, Inc. His research is supported by a University of New South Wales Sydney, University Postgraduate Award. His research is supported by Royal Life Saving Society – Australia to aid in the prevention of drowning. Research at Royal Life Saving Society – Australia is supported by the Australian government. He has been affiliated with Surf Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving NSW in a paid and voluntary capacity.
– ref. The ocean can look deceptively calm – until it isn’t. Here’s what ‘hazardous surf’ really means – https://theconversation.com/the-ocean-can-look-deceptively-calm-until-it-isnt-heres-what-hazardous-surf-really-means-255011
Source: New South Wales Government 2
24 April 2025
Airlines, aircraft operators and their contracted services (third parties) performing or certifying disinsection treatments applied to aircraft cabin and hold for aircraft arriving in Australia and New Zealand.
Airlines and aircraft operators are reminded to review the Schedule of Aircraft Disinsection Procedures for Flights into Australia and New Zealand (V 5.3) (the…
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Professor (Practice), Faculty of Business and Economics, Monash University
In the past week, at least seven women have been killed in Australia, allegedly by men. These deaths have occurred in different contexts – across state borders, communities and relationships. But are united by one truth: they are part of the ongoing national crisis of men’s violence against women and children.
While in the first four weeks of the election campaign there was silence from the major parties on this issue, now – with one week to go – both have released their commitments.
The Coalition announced its plan last night, following Labor’s promises earlier in the week.
Neither represent a commitment to ending gender-based violence. They both propose a patchwork of largely reactive initiatives. These will fail to deliver holistic reform to prevent violence and to intervene early enough to meaningfully reduce it.
Labor’s “commitment to women” announcement focuses on addressing financial abuse, a “fast growing and insidious form” of abuse. Key strategies proposed include:
preventing perpetrators from using tax and corporate systems to accrue debts as a form of coercive control
making perpetrators liable for debts incurred by the victim-survivor because of coercive control
and exploring options to stop perpetrators accessing the superannuation of victim-survivors after death.
Labor has also pledged $8.6 million for perpetrator responses, including early interventions for young people.
The Coalition’s approach is much more scatter gun, providing a list of disconnected strategies. It outlines 14 commitments.
The announcement promises to improve support by expanding the Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program and the Leaving Violence Program (which provides one-off funding to help cover the cost of leaving an abusive relationship).
The Coalition will also increase crisis helpline support to ensure victim-survivors “have their calls answered and get the immediate assistance they require”.
This is much needed. Frontline services are consistently under-resourced and have been calling for at least $1 billion annually to meet demand.
The Coalition’s $90 million pledge, with no clear timeframe or detail on how it will be distributed, represents less than 10% of what frontline services say is needed every year.
Labor’s earlier announcement does not detail the funding commitment that will be allocated to their suite of proposed initiatives, other than to say $8.6 million will be provided for perpetrator interventions.
Neither party has committed to multiyear funding models for domestic, family and sexual violence frontline services. This is essential for workforce retention and to ensure consistent delivery of trauma-informed care.
Law and order responses dominate the Coalition’s announcement. These include implementation of a national domestic violence register and the development of uniform national knife laws.
Legal accountability is important and we need to improve information sharing across state and territory borders. But we cannot police or prosecute our way out of a problem rooted in structural inequality and social attitudes. It also fails to recognise that for many victim-survivors, the criminal legal system can be re-traumatising and does not meet their justice needs.
The Coalition also commits to introducing new offences for online coercive behaviour and spyware use. This would be a significant legal shift by introducing family and domestic violence offences and bail laws for certain abusive behaviours at the federal level.
It’s unclear how this would translate into state and territory criminal laws, or whether it is even necessary. All states and territories currently have laws prohibiting stalking and monitoring behaviours. Some states are in the early stages of developing or implementing coercive control offences.
The Coalition has also reiterated its 2023 promise to hold a Royal Commission into sexual abuse in Indigenous communities.
Indigenous scholars and organisations have previously rejected this proposal, particularly in light of the failure of the Northern Territory Intervention which required the suspension of the Racial Discrimination Act to implement.
Evidence shows First Nations-led solutions should be prioritised over punitive approaches.
The proposals from the two parties miss several critical areas.
There’s no mention of sexual violence. While it would be optimistic to hope this is yet to come, it’s disappointing to see it has fallen off the agenda.
The proposals don’t say anything about housing or recovery support beyond emergency accommodation. A lack of access to safe, long-term housing is one of the most significant barriers for victim-survivors escaping and recovering from violence. In the middle of a broader housing crisis, this is an essential component of any strategy.
Children remain largely invisible. While the Coalition’s announcement commits to improving child protection, it offers nothing on delivering age-appropriate crisis responses, and to support the recovery needs of children and young people as victim-survivors in their own right.
Read more:
Australia had a national reckoning over domestic violence, but where’s the focus this election?
Much has been written in recent weeks about the need to effectively engage men and boys, but they’re also barely mentioned by either party.
Finally, there is no discussion of the need for greater monitoring and evaluation efforts. We cannot fix what we do not measure.
Both parties’ announcements promise to build on the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, which aspires to eliminate gender-based violence in one generation.
Nearly three years into the delivery of that plan, the persistent prevalence of this violence shows we must do more. We need visible, bipartisan leadership that treats this issue with the same gravity we afford to other national emergencies.
The National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Line – 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault. The Men’s Referral Service (call 1300 766 491) offers advice and counselling to men looking to change their behaviour.
Kate has received funding for research on violence against women and children from a range of federal and state government and non-government sources. Currently, Kate receives funding from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety (ANROWS), the South Australian government, Safe Steps, Australian Childhood Foundation, and 54 Reasons. This piece is written by Kate Fitz-Gibbon in her role at Monash University and Sequre Consulting, and is wholly independent of Kate Fitz-Gibbon’s role as chair of Respect Victoria and membership on the Victorian Children’s Council.
Hayley has received funding for research on violence against women and children and criminal justice-related issues from a range of federal and state government and non-government sources. Currently, Hayley receives funding from ANROWS, and the ACT Justice Reform Branch.
– ref. The major parties have announced their plans to address domestic and family violence. How do they stack up? – https://theconversation.com/the-major-parties-have-announced-their-plans-to-address-domestic-and-family-violence-how-do-they-stack-up-255127
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)
LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, issued the following statement on Secretary Rubio’s proposed reorganization of the U.S. State Department:
“The U.S. funds diplomacy and development through the State Department and USAID because when you buck soft power, you court war. And we promote democracy, human rights, women’s equality, accountability for war crimes, and anti-extremism because it makes the United States–not our adversaries–countries’ partner of choice.
Gutting the values-based bureaus that make us competitive, setting arbitrary personnel quotas regardless of national security needs, and cutting the department’s budget by a reported 50% will not make the State Department more effective or efficient.
A substack essay isn’t going to cut it. Rubio must testify before Congress to justify how these changes will actually enhance U.S. foreign policy and aren’t just a self-preserving concession to the MAGA culture warriors who are hungry to destroy our government from the inside.”
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wayne Peake, Adjunct research fellow, School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University
The story goes that the late billionaire Australian media magnate Kerry Packer once visited a Las Vegas casino, where a Texan was bragging about his ranch and how many millions it was worth.
Packer produced a coin from his pocket and said: “I’ll toss you for it: my cash against your ranch”.
The Texan declined.
This story may or may not be true. But it is consistent with the old maxim that Australians love a punt and will bet on just about anything, even on two flies crawling up a wall (which one will fly off first?).
Australians are the biggest (or worst) gamblers in the world per capita. How did it come to this?
By the 1830s, following European settlement in Australia, there was a steady stream of migrants who were taking the ultimate gamble – resettling on the other side of the world.
The discovery of gold in the 1850s then encouraged a torrent of speculators often armed with no more than a shovel and a wheelbarrow.
Most remained insolvent but some found bonanzas. Gold-rich towns, Melbourne in particular, developed rapidly. Modern enclosed racecourses soon followed.
At first, gambling was restricted to side bets between the horses’ connections.
That changed in 1882 when Englishman Robert Sievier visited Australia. He was the first bookmaker to stand on a regular pitch, accept cash bets and pay winners after each race.
Sievier soon had numerous imitators on course – bookmakers registered with race clubs, betting on races like the Melbourne Cup, which by the 1890s attracted 100,000-plus racegoers.
People bet off-course too – in barber shops and saloons, not only on the races but rowing events, cycling and “pedestrianism” (foot races).
Despite state betting acts passed in 1906 intended to restrict gambling, by the first world war, capital cities were dotted with racecourses.
Male racegoers were encouraged to “play up and play the game” – as the famous 1892 imperialist poem Vitai Lampada by Henry Newbolt urged – and enlist in the defence forces.
When their enthusiasm curbed in 1917 after causalities at the front seeped back, governments reduced the number of race meetings but this caused crowds at those remaining to treble.
Meanwhile, at the front lines, Australian soldiers adopted the egalitarian coin-toss game of two-up: a game where coins are spun in the air and bets are laid on whether heads or tails are facing up once they settle on the ground.
Two-up remains a facet of the Australian psyche today – illegal, although authorities turn a blind eye on Anzac Day, supposedly out of respect for returned soldiers.
This concession reflects the connection in Australia between mateship, the “Anzac legend”, sport and gambling.
After the first world war, racecourse attendances grew even larger.
The 1929 Depression eroded them but the emergence of racing radio broadcasts and the spread of the telephone network fed a regrowth in illegal off-course betting, especially in New South Wales.
That state was also the scene of the next big, and perhaps most significant, development in gambling in Australia: the legalisation of poker machines in 1956.
“The pokies” were originally restricted to registered clubs: mostly returned servicemen clubs, but in 1997, the NSW Labor government allowed them into hotels, where they soon rendered the less exciting “dancing joker” card machines extinct.
The other states long resisted the temptation to legalise pokies. As a result, coaches loaded with would-be players from Victoria visited clubs at New South Wales border towns such as Corowa.
The pokies were finally legalised in Victoria in 1991, later in other states. In Western Australia they remain legal in casinos only.
Poker machines are widely regarded as a more insidious and dangerous form of gambling – in most other countries they are restricted to casinos.
Since then, pokies have become a major part of Australia’s gambling landscape. In fact:
Poker machines reign as the dominant form of gambling in Australia, but there are many more options: lotteries and instant lotteries (“scratchies”), Keno and sports betting, which is fast replacing horseracing as the main business of the so-called corporate bookmakers that have emerged in the past 25 years.
As technology continues to advance, online gambling – which is difficult to regulate and control – might be the biggest ongoing threat to gamblers.
Wayne Peake 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. The biggest losers: how Australians became the world’s most enthusiastic gamblers – https://theconversation.com/the-biggest-losers-how-australians-became-the-worlds-most-enthusiastic-gamblers-252496
Source:
24 April 2025
The first hand-picked cohort from a specialist global program tailored to meet the pressing challenges facing the defence and space sectors graduated from the University of South Australia this week.
Students from UniSA’s Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space have completed the customised 18-month program, a world-first to help build a global pipeline of talent for the two sectors, specifically benefitting international alliances such as AUKUS.
The graduates, who include executives and uniformed personnel from defence and space organisations operating in Australia, the US, UK and Europe, will help address critical skills gaps in cyber security, space systems, geopolitics and defence procurement and build the innovation and leadership capabilities required across the sectors.
UniSA partnered with the University of Exeter (UK) and Carnegie Mellon University (US) to deliver the program, with students undertaking online study and intensive in-person residentials in each of the three AUKUS countries.
Professor Lan Snell, Dean of Programs (Postgraduate), UniSA Business, says the value of the program lies in its global structure.
“Throughout the program students develop global experiences, networks and competencies in the defence and space sectors that other Executive MBA programs can’t match. That is not only attractive to SA locals, but to potential recruits and their employers nationally and internationally,” she says.
Professor Snell says the 2025 graduates are well equipped to tackle the complexities associated with the multi-decade projects that will make up the AUKUS arrangement.
“Our graduates have built on a range of skills and capabilities ranging from technical skills through to project management and leadership capabilities,” she says. “We now have heightened technical understandings and better developed future-focused capabilities such as communication, teamwork and problem solving.”
Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space graduate Glen Gallagher says the program directly influenced his career progression over the past two years as he transitioned from Operations Manager at Boeing Defence Australia to Director, Advanced Systems at South Australian Government agency, Defence SA.
“I think taking part in the program did influence my career path in terms of my confidence, skills and ability to tackle a senior executive role. If I hadn’t been undertaking the Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space, I might not have backed myself or had the necessary attributes to be successful in my current role,” he says.
“The value of the program is also in the establishment of multiple networks with peers, colleagues and industry professionals from around the world that you wouldn’t typically be exposed to unless you take up a lot of international travel.”
Gallagher says highlights of the program included the two-week residentials in the US and UK, particularly travelling to Washington, DC, in the lead up to the US election in November 2024.
“Part of the program was held near Capitol Hill and that was amazing to witness in terms of the build-up in geopolitics at that time. It was an experience that can’t ever be beaten.”
The next Global Executive MBA in Defence and Space cohort will commence at Adelaide University in 2026.
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Media contact: Melissa Keogh, UniSA Media M: +61 403 659 154 E: Melissa.Keogh@unisa.edu.au
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Motorcycle seized after learner rider caught at 166km/h
Thursday, 24 April 2025 – 9:44 am.
A learner motorcycle rider will appear in court for dangerous driving and other offences, after being caught speeding on the Bass Highway yesterday.
The 23-year-old Devonport man was detected travelling at 166km/h near Paramatta Creek about 5pm.
Inspector Adam Spencer said as a learner license holder, the man is legally limited to 80km/h.
“To ride at more than double the learner speed limit is reckless and unacceptable,” he said.
“Western road police have confiscated the man’s motorcycle, and he will appear in court at a later date.”
“This kind of behaviour puts the lives of not only the rider but also other road users at extreme risk.”
“The decision to travel at such a dangerous speed could have led to devastating consequences, fortunately, our officers were proactively on the lookout for this type of behaviour.”
“While the Easter holiday period is over, Tasmania Police will remain proactive in keeping our roads safe.”
“We will not tolerate the minority or road users who disregard road rules and jeopardise the safety of others.”
“Our focus is firmly on protecting all road users and preventing tragedies on Tasmanian roads.”
Anyone with dash-cam footage or relevant information about a black Yamaha YZF motorcycle travelling westbound on the Bass Highway from Launceston to Sassafras between 4pm and 5pm on Wednesday, 23 April is asked to contact police on 131 444.
Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source:
24 April 2025
Australian and Dutch researchers have uncovered a remarkable evolutionary adaptation in birds that could hold vital clues for combating avian flu and respiratory infections in humans, including pneumonia and COVID-19.
The research, published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, investigates the molecular evolution of specific types of proteins (CL-10 and CL-11) in bird lungs, revealing the role they play in recognising and neutralising harmful microbes.
These ancient proteins appear to compensate for the evolutionary loss of the surfactant protein D (SP-D), a key immune component in humans and other mammals that helps protect the lungs from airborne pathogens.
According to University of South Australia pulmonary biology researcher, Professor Sandra Orgeig, the study sheds new light on how birds maintain lung protection despite their unique respiratory anatomy that does not allow their lungs to contract and expand.
“Unlike mammals, birds have a rigid lung structure with unidirectional air flow, which has evolved to support flight,” Prof Orgeig says.
“Our research shows that CL-10 and CL-11 have been highly conserved in birds, suggesting they play a crucial role in lung immunity, possibly compensating for the loss of SP-D.”
Birds are known reservoirs for several zoonotic infections (diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans), including avian flu and other airborne pathogens. Understanding their lung immunity could provide important insights into how these diseases spread, and how to prevent them.
The team conducted an extensive analysis using molecular and genetic techniques, confirming the presence of CL-10 and CL-11 in the zebra finch and turkey – two evolutionary distant birds.
Co-author Dr Albert van Dijk from Utrecht University says that because birds lack the SP-D immune protein found in mammals, their lungs must rely on alternative defence strategies against respiratory pathogens.
“If we can identify how these proteins function in birds, we may be able to develop new strategies to improve immune responses in humans, particularly for respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and COVID-19,” Dr van Dijk says.
The researchers say the findings may provide a foundation for future medical and veterinary advances.
A video explaining the research is available at: A word about birds
Notes for editors
Kunchala, S. R., van Dijk, A., Veldhuizen, E. J. A., Haagsman, H. P., & Orgeig, S. (2025). Adaptation and conservation of CL-10/11 in avian lungs: Implications for their role in pulmonary innate immune protection. DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0425
Dr Srinivasa Kunchala led the research while undertaking his PhD at the University of South Australia. He is now based in Hyderabad, India, where he has founded his own company Advanced Respiratory Drug Delivery Solutions.
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Contact for interview: Professor Sandra Orgeig M: 0410 422 712 E: sandra.orgeig@unisa.edu.au
Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
CHICAGO, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iManage, the company dedicated to Making Knowledge Work™, today announced that the iManage Cloud knowledge work platform has been IRAP assessed, giving Australian governmental agencies and the law firms that do business with them a secure and fully compliant choice for managing their sensitive documents and emails.
IRAP, or the Infosec Registered Assessors Program, is a framework established by the Australian Cyber Security Centre to assess and certify the security practices of organizations, particularly those handling sensitive government information. Endorsed IRAP Assessors assist organizations to secure their systems and data by independently assessing their cybersecurity posture, identifying security risks and suggesting mitigation measures.
iManage was assessed by CyberCX—a leading provider of professional cyber security and cloud services across Australia and New Zealand—and achieved “Protected” status. Achieving this status means that an organization’s systems, services, or solutions have been assessed as capable of handling sensitive Australian government information, making them eligible for high-security government projects.
“In an era where the security of sensitive data is paramount, partnering with an IRAP-assessed vendor reflects our commitment to the highest standards of cybersecurity,” said Gary Adler, Chief Digital Officer at MinterEllison. “This collaboration ensures our clients’ information is safeguarded with robust security measures, aligning with our dedication to trust and integrity in all our legal services.”
In addition to clearing the way for usage by Federal Australian governmental bodies and the law firms who work with them, the IRAP assessment also aligns with Australian state-specific security requirements, making iManage Cloud a compelling option for state government agencies as well.
“We are proud to have iManage Cloud officially tick the box on being IRAP assessed,” said Jim Krev, Head of Security, iManage. “As a company, iManage has always been focused on empowering knowledge workers to collaborate and be productive from anywhere, on any device, while delivering comprehensive security to protect an organization’s vital assets. Our robust ongoing investment in security—including undergoing the IRAP assessment—positions us as an ideal document and email management vendor for Australian governmental agencies and the firms who work with them that are looking to move from on-premises systems to an IRAP assessed, cloud-based vendor that meets their rigorous security requirements.”
If you would like to learn more, join us for our upcoming Webinar on Thursday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m. AEST on “Mastering IRAP: Enhancing Security, Compliance, and Assurance for Government Data” where we are joined by Krev, CyberCX who undertook our assessment and our customer MinterEllison. Register here.
About iManage
iManage is dedicated to Making Knowledge Work™. Our cloud-native platform is at the center of the knowledge economy, enabling every organization to work more productively, collaboratively, and securely. Built on more than 20 years of industry experience, iManage helps leading organizations manage documents and emails more efficiently, protect vital information assets, and leverage knowledge to drive better business outcomes. As your strategic business partner, we employ our award-winning AI-enabled technology, an extensive partner ecosystem, and a customer-centric approach to provide support and guidance you can trust to make knowledge work for you. iManage is relied on by more than one million professionals at 4,000 organizations around the world. Visit www.imanage.com to learn more.
Follow iManage via:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/imanage
X: https://x.com/imanageinc
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Press contact:
Alicia Saragosa, iManage
press@imanage.com
Source: ACT Party
ACT MP Dr Parmjeet Parmar has condemned the recent terrorist attack near the town of Pahalgam, Kashmir, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims and their families.
“This is a tragic act of terror and hate, and I condemn in the strongest of terms,” said Dr Parmar.
“I am shocked and saddened by this senseless violence. My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those affected.
“Those responsible for this terrible act must be brought to justice.
“Every human being has inherent dignity and deserves to live in peace. Disputes must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy – not through cowardly acts of brutality.”
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL4
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 164
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
530 PM CDT Wed Apr 23 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Far Western Oklahoma
Texas Panhandle and South Plains
* Effective this Wednesday afternoon from 530 PM until Midnight
CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
inches in diameter possible
Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
A tornado or two possible
SUMMARY…Relatively isolated severe storms should develop through
early/mid-evening, particularly across the Texas and Oklahoma
Panhandles, but potentially also across the Texas South Plains.
These storms may reach other parts of western Oklahoma later this
evening.
The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
statute miles east and west of a line from 45 miles east northeast
of Guymon OK to 55 miles south southeast of Lubbock TX. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 162…WW 163…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24020.
…Guyer
SEL4
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 164
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
530 PM CDT Wed Apr 23 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Far Western Oklahoma
Texas Panhandle and South Plains
* Effective this Wednesday afternoon from 530 PM until Midnight
CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
inches in diameter possible
Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
A tornado or two possible
SUMMARY…Relatively isolated severe storms should develop through
early/mid-evening, particularly across the Texas and Oklahoma
Panhandles, but potentially also across the Texas South Plains.
These storms may reach other parts of western Oklahoma later this
evening.
The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
statute miles east and west of a line from 45 miles east northeast
of Guymon OK to 55 miles south southeast of Lubbock TX. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 162…WW 163…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24020.
…Guyer
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW4
WW 164 SEVERE TSTM OK TX 232230Z – 240500Z
AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
45ENE GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 55SSE LBB/LUBBOCK TX/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM E/W /13ESE LBL – 52SSE LBB/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24020.
LAT…LON 36919948 32930025 32930266 36910201
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU4.
Watch 164 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (30%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (10%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (30%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (80%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NEW YORK, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:
ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for May 6, 2025.
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NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:
About Monteverde & Associates PC
Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.
Contact:
Juan Monteverde, Esq.
MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
New York, NY 10118
United States of America
jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
Tel: (212) 971-1341
Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.
Center for a Humane Economy, others call killings reckless and inhumane, and typical of an Australian state government with little regard for the welfare of animals.
Budj Bim National Park, Victoria, Australia — Already concerned about mismanagement and inhumane commercial killing of kangaroos, the Center for a Humane Economy is now intensely condemning government authorities in the state of Victoria for conducting aerial gunning of koalas that is a prescription for orphaning and inhumane killing of the beloved marsupials.
Officials with the state government are killing animals in Budj Bim National Park under the assumption that the recent fires consumed the eucalyptus leaves that the animals need to survive.
“The state and national governments promote koalas and kangaroos as wildlife icons in their marketing campaigns to draw tourists, but they treat the lives of these animals as expendable and as unworthy of the most basic methods of humane care and management,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of the Center for a Humane Economy. “The decision-makers in Victoria simply do not understand the value of animal welfare, and their aerial gunning assault against the arboreal and slow-moving koalas is a disgrace.”
Pacelle tied the atrocity to the mass slaying of kangaroos, killed mainly for their skins for export for athletic shoes and some other products. Kangaroos and koalas are native species that evolved on the Australian landscape over many millions of years, while humans have been on the continent for just 65,000 years.
“Whether they shoot kangaroos from trucks or koalas from aircraft, it’s ruthless treatment,” he said. “If I’m a koala or a kangaroo, let me take my chances even in the wake of fires or drought rather than deal with the henchmen sent out to slaughter the adults and orphan the young. These animals evolved in the presence of major perturbations in their environment.”
“This tragedy didn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of decades of mismanagement by DEECA,” said a statement by the Koala Alliance. “Accepting these killings as ‘necessary’ sets a dangerous precedent — one that normalizes cruelty under the guise of welfare, carried out by a government with a long history of secrecy around koala management.”
Advocates say the government’s explanation doesn’t hold up, especially since koalas in parts of Australia are listed as endangered. They point to existing koala hospitals and rehabilitation centers that could have taken in the injured animals.
Conservationist Peter Hylands of Creative Cowboy Films emphasized the lack of precision in such aerial operations. “It is not possible to assess the health and condition of a koala, particularly a koala with a joey, from a helicopter,” he said. “Yet they were shot down — uninjured animals included — under the false pretense of mercy.”
Some critics argue the killings may be linked to efforts to keep koalas away from nearby commercial eucalyptus plantations, where they risk being labeled as pests by private landowners.
“The Budj Bim koala massacre is the latest disgrace from a government that simply does not value wildlife,” said Alyssa Wormald, president of the Victorian Kangaroo Alliance. “They are already overseeing the systematic slaughter of kangaroos — this is part of a broader ecocidal agenda.”
“Hundreds of koalas were shot from helicopters — their joeys fallen from trees and left clinging to their dead or dying mothers,” said Jennifer Skiff, director of international programs for the Center for a Humane Economy and a long-time resident of Perth. “After the fires of 2019-20, wildlife hospitals were built, and emergency response protocols were put in place. And yet here we are — not failing due to lack of resources or knowledge, but due to a lack of moral compass by those charged with managing wildlife. This is bureaucratic apathy and a betrayal of the global goodwill that helped Australia build the systems meant to protect wildlife after fires.”
Despite widespread outcry and the availability of rescue resources, government officials have indicated more koala aerial gunning may be conducted.
ABOUT
Animal Wellness Action is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(4) whose mission is to help animals by promoting laws and regulations at federal, state and local levels that forbid cruelty to all animals. The group also works to enforce existing anti-cruelty and wildlife protection laws. Animal Wellness Action believes helping animals helps us all. Twitter: @AWAction_News
The Center for a Humane Economy is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(3) whose mission is to help animals by helping forge a more humane economic order. The first organization of its kind in the animal protection movement, the Center encourages businesses to honor their social responsibilities in a culture where consumers, investors, and other key stakeholders abhor cruelty and the degradation of the environment and embrace innovation as a means of eliminating both. The Center believes helping animals helps us all. X: @TheHumaneCenter
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
CALGARY, Alberta, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This news release contains “forward-looking information and statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. For a full disclosure of the forward-looking information and statements and the risks to which they are subject, see the “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements” later in this news release. This news release contains references to certain Financial Measures and Ratios, including Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before income taxes, gain on investments and other assets, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals and depreciation and amortization), Funds Provided by (Used in) Operations, Net Capital Spending, Working Capital and Total Long-term Financial Liabilities. These terms do not have standardized meanings prescribed under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. See “Financial Measures and Ratios” later in this news release.
Precision Drilling Corporation (“Precision” or the “Company”) (TSX:PD; NYSE:PDS) announces 2025 first quarter results, confirms shareholder return targets, and lowers 2025 capital budget.
Financial Highlights
Operational Highlights
MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY
“I am pleased with Precision’s first quarter financial and operational results, and particularly with the efforts of the Precision team as we manage our way through a period of unusual volatility and market uncertainty. In the first quarter, our net earnings attributable to shareholders was $35 million, marking 11 consecutive quarters of positive earnings, and we are well on our way to meeting our capital allocation targets. During the quarter, we generated $63 million of cash provided by operations, allowing us to repay $17 million of debt and purchase $31 million of shares. Over the last four quarters, Precision has reduced its outstanding shares by nearly one million shares, representing 7% of our outstanding balance.
“During the first quarter our Canadian drilling activity remained slightly higher than last year, averaging 74 active rigs compared to 73 in 2024 and we expect this trend to continue through the first half of this year. In the U.S., we have modestly increased our activity levels from the fourth quarter, currently operating 34 rigs, primarily by capitalizing on the emerging opportunities in natural gas plays. With initial Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports beginning shortly in Canada and significant LNG export capacity expansion underway in the U.S., we believe our market positioning for these increasing LNG opportunities is constructive.
“Second-half industry activity in North America will depend largely on customer realized cash flows and their capital allocation priorities. We believe industry capital discipline will remain a stabilizing market feature muting our customers’ short-term response to volatile commodity prices. However, global events and conflicts, including unexpected OPEC+ production increases, trade and tariff uncertainty, and geopolitical conflicts have the potential to impact global economic growth and access to commodity supplies, creating a range of commodity price scenarios which are difficult to predict.
“Tightly controlling all aspects of our business, adjusting spending and specifically managing Precision’s cash inflows and outflows at a pace that matches the cyclicality of our industry is a cornerstone of Precision’s business model. We are reducing our 2025 capital spending by $25 million to $200 million to mitigate increased market uncertainty and a potential reduction in customer demand. This includes trimming our expected upgrade spending by approximately $8 million and maintenance capital by $17 million. We remain poised to further adjust capital spending in response to actual customer demand.
“We have also reduced our fixed costs by approximately $10 million annually by streamlining our internal structure and focusing more directly on customer needs and aligning with current activity levels. These changes included flattening our operations leadership structure, exiting our North Dakota well-servicing business and reducing the related staffing levels.
“Our International drilling operations and Completion and Production business both contributed meaningful free cash flow for the quarter, and this is expected to continue for the rest of the year.
“With a predominantly variable cost business and low debt levels, a highly experienced team committed to serving our customers, and a high-performance rig fleet, Precision is better positioned than any time in the past decade to navigate uncertainty while simultaneously creating shareholder value,” concluded Mr. Neveu.
SELECT FINANCIAL AND OPERATING INFORMATION
Financial Highlights
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||
| Revenue | 496,331 | 527,788 | (6.0 | ) | |||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA(1) | 137,497 | 143,149 | (3.9 | ) | |||||||
| Net earnings | 34,947 | 36,516 | (4.3 | ) | |||||||
| Net earnings attributable to shareholders | 34,511 | 36,516 | (5.5 | ) | |||||||
| Cash provided by operations | 63,419 | 65,543 | (3.2 | ) | |||||||
| Funds provided by operations(1) | 109,842 | 117,765 | (6.7 | ) | |||||||
| Cash used in investing activities | 57,202 | 75,237 | (24.0 | ) | |||||||
| Capital spending by spend category(1) | |||||||||||
| Expansion and upgrade | 19,546 | 14,370 | 36.0 | ||||||||
| Maintenance and infrastructure | 40,419 | 41,157 | (1.8 | ) | |||||||
| Proceeds on sale | (3,765 | ) | (5,186 | ) | (27.4 | ) | |||||
| Net capital spending(1) | 56,200 | 50,341 | 11.6 | ||||||||
| Net earnings attributable to shareholders per share : | |||||||||||
| Basic | 2.52 | 2.53 | (0.4 | ) | |||||||
| Diluted | 2.20 | 2.53 | (13.0 | ) | |||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding: | |||||||||||
| Basic | 13,683 | 14,407 | (5.0 | ) | |||||||
| Diluted | 14,287 | 14,410 | (0.9 | ) | |||||||
(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”
Operating Highlights
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | % Change | |||||||||
| Contract drilling rig fleet | 215 | 214 | 0.5 | ||||||||
| Drilling rig utilization days: | |||||||||||
| Canada | 6,680 | 6,617 | 1.0 | ||||||||
| U.S. | 2,691 | 3,453 | (22.1 | ) | |||||||
| International | 720 | 728 | (1.1 | ) | |||||||
| Revenue per utilization day: | |||||||||||
| Canada (Cdn$) | 35,601 | 35,596 | 0.0 | ||||||||
| U.S. (US$) | 33,157 | 32,867 | 0.9 | ||||||||
| International (US$) | 49,419 | 52,808 | (6.4 | ) | |||||||
| Operating costs per utilization day: | |||||||||||
| Canada (Cdn$) | 20,822 | 19,959 | 4.3 | ||||||||
| U.S. (US$) | 23,568 | 21,719 | 8.5 | ||||||||
| Service rig fleet | 153 | 183 | (16.4 | ) | |||||||
| Service rig operating hours | 66,986 | 74,505 | (10.1 | ) | |||||||
Drilling Activity
| Average for the quarter ended 2024 | Average for the quarter ended 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mar. 31 | June 30 | Sept. 30 | Dec. 31 | Mar. 31 | |||||||||||||||
| Average Precision active rig count(1): | |||||||||||||||||||
| Canada | 73 | 49 | 72 | 65 | 74 | ||||||||||||||
| U.S. | 38 | 36 | 35 | 34 | 30 | ||||||||||||||
| International | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | ||||||||||||||
| Total | 119 | 93 | 115 | 107 | 112 | ||||||||||||||
(1) Average number of drilling rigs working or moving.
Financial Position
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except ratios) | March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||
| Working capital(1) | (45,033 | ) | 162,592 | ||||
| Cash | 28,245 | 73,771 | |||||
| Long-term debt | 567,824 | 812,469 | |||||
| Total long-term financial liabilities(1) | 632,369 | 888,173 | |||||
| Total assets | 2,915,984 | 2,956,315 | |||||
| Long-term debt to long-term debt plus equity ratio(1) | 0.25 | 0.33 | |||||
(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”
Summary for the three months ended March 31, 2025:
STRATEGY
Precision’s vision is to be globally recognized as the High Performance, High Value provider of land drilling services. We work toward this vision by defining and measuring our results against strategic priorities that we establish at the beginning of every year.
Precision’s 2025 strategic priorities and the progress made during the first quarter are as follows:
OUTLOOK
Near-term expectations for global energy demand growth have been tempered by several geopolitical events including OPEC+ easing of curtailments, trade policy uncertainty, and international conflicts. However, we believe the long-term fundamentals for energy demand are positive, driven by economic growth, increasing demand from emerging economies, and new energy sources of power demand.
In Canada, the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, which became operational in May of 2024, combined with the imminent startup of LNG Canada will provide significant tidewater access for Canadian crude oil and natural gas, supporting Canadian drilling activity. In the U.S., the next wave of LNG export terminals is expected to add approximately 13 bcf/d of export capacity over the next five years, supporting U.S. natural gas drilling activity beyond domestic demand growth and further supporting natural gas drilling.
Our Canadian drilling activity peaked at 82 rigs in the first quarter with our Super Triple and Super Single rigs near full utilization. We expect the traditional spring breakup period this year to have a historically small impact on our activity, as strong demand for our growing fleet of pad-capable rigs should allow 45 to 48 rigs to continue operating during this period versus 43 last year. Despite trade and tariff uncertainty and oil prices falling to approximately US$60 per barrel, we have not experienced any meaningful change in customer demand or their longer-term plans. Overall, we expect our Canadian drilling activity to be up for the first half of the year compared to the first six months of 2024.
In the U.S., we have modestly increased our activity levels from the fourth quarter, currently operating 34 rigs, primarily by capitalizing on the emerging opportunities in natural gas plays. With significant LNG export capacity expansion underway in the U.S., we believe our market positioning for these increasing LNG opportunities is constructive.
North American industry activity in the second half of this year will depend largely on customer realized cash flows and their capital allocation priorities. We believe industry capital discipline will remain a stabilizing market feature muting our customers’ short-term response to volatile commodity prices. However, global events and conflicts, including unexpected OPEC+ production increases, trade and tariff uncertainty, and geopolitical conflicts have the potential to impact global economic growth and access to commodity supplies, creating a range of commodity price scenarios which are difficult to predict.
Internationally, we have eight rigs on term contracts, five in Kuwait and three in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The majority of these rigs are under five-year term contracts that extend into 2027 and 2028, providing predictable cash flow for the next few years. In May and for the remainder of the year, we expect seven active rigs compared to eight for the first four months of the year but with no material impact on our 2025 cash flow. We continue to look for opportunities to leverage our international expertise.
As the premier well service provider in Canada, the outlook for this business remains strong, driven by increased takeaway capacity from Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and LNG Canada, and increased regulatory spending requirements for abandonment work. With continued labour constraints, we expect firm pricing into the foreseeable future.
Contracts
The following chart outlines the average number of drilling rigs under term contract by quarter as at April 23, 2025. For those quarters ending after March 31, 2025, this chart represents the minimum number of term contracts from which we will earn revenue. We expect the actual number of contracted rigs to vary in future periods as we sign additional term contracts.
| As at April 23, 2025 | Average for the quarter ended 2024 | Average | Average for the quarter ended 2025 | Average | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mar. 31 | June 30 | Sept. 30 | Dec. 31 | 2024 | Mar. 31 | June 30 | Sept. 30 | Dec. 31 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Average rigs under term contract: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Canada | 24 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 18 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. | 20 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 18 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 8 | 13 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| International | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | 52 | 47 | 48 | 47 | 49 | 44 | 41 | 36 | 29 | 38 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SEGMENTED FINANCIAL RESULTS
Precision’s operations are reported in two segments: Contract Drilling Services, which includes our drilling rig, oilfield supply and manufacturing divisions; and Completion and Production Services, which includes our service rig, rental and camp and catering divisions.
SEGMENT REVIEW OF CONTRACT DRILLING SERVICES
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except where noted) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||
| Revenue | 419,457 | 443,367 | (5.4 | ) | |||||||
| Expenses: | |||||||||||
| Operating | 272,412 | 276,692 | (1.5 | ) | |||||||
| General and administrative | 11,029 | 13,002 | (15.2 | ) | |||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA(1) | 136,016 | 153,673 | (11.5 | ) | |||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue(1) | 32.4 | % | 34.7 | % | |||||||
(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”
| Canadian onshore drilling statistics:(1) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||
| Precision | Industry(2) | Precision | Industry(2) | ||||||||||||
| Average number of active land rigs for quarters ended: | |||||||||||||||
| March 31 | 74 | 214 | 73 | 208 | |||||||||||
(1) Canadian operations only.
(2) Baker Hughes rig counts.
| United States onshore drilling statistics:(1) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||||||||||
| Precision | Industry(2) | Precision | Industry(2) | ||||||||||||
| Average number of active land rigs for quarters ended: | |||||||||||||||
| March 31 | 30 | 572 | 38 | 602 | |||||||||||
(1) United States lower 48 operations only.
(2) Baker Hughes rig counts.
SEGMENT REVIEW OF COMPLETION AND PRODUCTION SERVICES
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except where noted) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||||
| Revenue | 79,330 | 87,087 | (8.9 | ) | |||||||
| Expenses: | |||||||||||
| Operating | 59,112 | 65,480 | (9.7 | ) | |||||||
| General and administrative | 2,672 | 3,002 | (11.0 | ) | |||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA(1) | 17,546 | 18,605 | (5.7 | ) | |||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue(1) | 22.1 | % | 21.4 | % | |||||||
| Well servicing statistics: | |||||||||||
| Number of service rigs (end of period) | 153 | 183 | (16.4 | ) | |||||||
| Service rig operating hours | 66,986 | 74,505 | (10.1 | ) | |||||||
(1) See “FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS.”
OTHER ITEMS
Share-based Incentive Compensation Plans
We have several cash and equity-settled share-based incentive plans for non-management directors, officers, and other eligible employees. Our accounting policies for each share-based incentive plan can be found in our 2024 Annual Report.
A summary of expense amounts under these plans during the reporting periods are as follows:
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Cash settled share-based incentive plans | 403 | 21,759 | |||||
| Equity settled share-based incentive plans | 2,427 | 875 | |||||
| Total share-based incentive compensation plan expense | 2,830 | 22,634 | |||||
| Allocated: | |||||||
| Operating | 1,128 | 5,252 | |||||
| General and Administrative | 1,702 | 17,382 | |||||
| 2,830 | 22,634 | ||||||
FINANCIAL MEASURES AND RATIOS
| Non-GAAP Financial Measures | |
| We reference certain additional Non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Non-GAAP) measures that are not defined terms under IFRS Accounting Standards to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors. | |
| Adjusted EBITDA | We believe Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before income taxes, gain on investments and other assets, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals and depreciation and amortization), as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings and our reportable operating segment disclosures, is a useful measure because it gives an indication of the results from our principal business activities prior to consideration of how our activities are financed and the impact of foreign exchange, taxation and depreciation and amortization charges.
The most directly comparable financial measure is net earnings. |
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Adjusted EBITDA by segment: | |||||||
| Contract Drilling Services | 136,016 | 153,673 | |||||
| Completion and Production Services | 17,546 | 18,605 | |||||
| Corporate and Other | (16,065 | ) | (29,129 | ) | |||
| Adjusted EBITDA | 137,497 | 143,149 | |||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 75,036 | 78,213 | |||||
| Gain on asset disposals | (2,872 | ) | (3,237 | ) | |||
| Foreign exchange | 367 | 394 | |||||
| Finance charges | 15,760 | 18,369 | |||||
| Gain on investments and other assets | (49 | ) | (228 | ) | |||
| Income taxes | 14,308 | 13,122 | |||||
| Net earnings | 34,947 | 36,516 | |||||
| Non-controlling interests | 436 | — | |||||
| Net earnings attributable to shareholders | 34,511 | 36,516 | |||||
| Funds Provided by (Used in) Operations | We believe funds provided by (used in) operations, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, is a useful measure because it provides an indication of the funds our principal business activities generate prior to consideration of working capital changes, which is primarily made up of highly liquid balances.
The most directly comparable financial measure is cash provided by (used in) operations. |
| Net Capital Spending | We believe net capital spending is a useful measure as it provides an indication of our primary investment activities.
The most directly comparable financial measure is cash provided by (used in) investing activities. Net capital spending is calculated as follows: |
| For the three months ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Capital spending by spend category | |||||||
| Expansion and upgrade | 19,546 | 14,370 | |||||
| Maintenance, infrastructure and intangibles | 40,419 | 41,157 | |||||
| 59,965 | 55,527 | ||||||
| Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment | (3,765 | ) | (5,186 | ) | |||
| Net capital spending | 56,200 | 50,341 | |||||
| Purchase of investments and other assets | 11 | — | |||||
| Receipt of finance lease payments | (208 | ) | (191 | ) | |||
| Changes in non-cash working capital balances | 1,199 | 25,087 | |||||
| Cash used in investing activities | 57,202 | 75,237 | |||||
| Working Capital | We define working capital as current assets less current liabilities, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Working capital is calculated as follows: |
| March 31, | December 31, | ||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Current assets | 481,111 | 501,284 | |||||
| Current liabilities | (526,144 | ) | (338,692 | ) | |||
| Working capital | (45,033 | ) | 162,592 | ||||
| Total Long-term Financial Liabilities | We define total long-term financial liabilities as total non-current liabilities less deferred tax liabilities, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
Total long-term financial liabilities is calculated as follows: |
| March 31, | December 31, | ||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Total non-current liabilities | 688,940 | 935,624 | |||||
| Deferred tax liabilities | (56,571 | ) | (47,451 | ) | |||
| Total long-term financial liabilities | 632,369 | 888,173 | |||||
| Non-GAAP Ratios | |
| We reference certain additional Non-GAAP ratios that are not defined terms under IFRS to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors. | |
| Adjusted EBITDA % of Revenue | We believe Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of consolidated revenue, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings, provides an indication of our profitability from our principal business activities prior to consideration of how our activities are financed and the impact of foreign exchange, taxation and depreciation and amortization charges. |
| Long-term debt to long-term debt plus equity | We believe that long-term debt (as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) to long-term debt plus equity (total equity as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) provides an indication of our debt leverage. For the period ended March 31, 2025 long-term debt includes long-term debt plus current portion of long-term debt as reported in our Consolidated Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. |
| Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA | We believe that the Net Debt (long-term debt plus current portion of long-term debt less cash, as reported in our Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position) to Adjusted EBITDA ratio provides an indication of the number of years it would take for us to repay our debt obligations. For the period ended March 31, 2025 long-term debt includes long-term debt plus current portion of long-term debt as reported in our Consolidated Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. |
| Supplementary Financial Measures | |
| We reference certain supplementary financial measures that are not defined terms under IFRS to assess performance because we believe they provide useful supplemental information to investors. | |
| Capital Spending by Spend Category | We provide additional disclosure to better depict the nature of our capital spending. Our capital spending is categorized as expansion and upgrade, maintenance and infrastructure, or intangibles. |
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this release, including statements that contain words such as “could”, “should”, “can”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “may”, “continue”, “project”, “potential” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, “forward-looking information and statements”).
In particular, forward-looking information and statements include, but are not limited to, the following:
These forward-looking information and statements are based on certain assumptions and analysis made by Precision in light of our experience and our perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. These include, among other things:
Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information and statements. Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to:
Readers are cautioned that the forgoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect our business, operations or financial results are included in reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including but not limited to Precision’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which may be accessed on Precision’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca or under Precision’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov. The forward-looking information and statements contained in this release are made as of the date hereof and Precision undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (UNAUDITED)
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||
| ASSETS | |||||||
| Current assets: | |||||||
| Cash | $ | 28,245 | $ | 73,771 | |||
| Accounts receivable | 397,684 | 378,712 | |||||
| Inventory | 49,176 | 43,300 | |||||
| Assets held for sale | 6,006 | 5,501 | |||||
| Total current assets | 481,111 | 501,284 | |||||
| Non-current assets: | |||||||
| Deferred tax assets | 2,437 | 6,559 | |||||
| Property, plant and equipment | 2,342,482 | 2,356,173 | |||||
| Intangibles | 13,537 | 12,997 | |||||
| Right-of-use assets | 63,223 | 66,032 | |||||
| Finance lease receivables | 4,670 | 4,806 | |||||
| Investments and other assets | 8,524 | 8,464 | |||||
| Total non-current assets | 2,434,873 | 2,455,031 | |||||
| Total assets | $ | 2,915,984 | $ | 2,956,315 | |||
| LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | |||||||
| Current liabilities: | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | 271,696 | $ | 314,355 | |||
| Income taxes payable | 4,526 | 3,778 | |||||
| Current portion of lease obligations | 19,703 | 20,559 | |||||
| Current portion of long-term debt | 230,219 | — | |||||
| Total current liabilities | 526,144 | 338,692 | |||||
| Non-current liabilities: | |||||||
| Share-based compensation | 5,391 | 13,666 | |||||
| Provisions and other | 7,478 | 7,472 | |||||
| Lease obligations | 51,676 | 54,566 | |||||
| Long-term debt | 567,824 | 812,469 | |||||
| Deferred tax liabilities | 56,571 | 47,451 | |||||
| Total non-current liabilities | 688,940 | 935,624 | |||||
| Equity: | |||||||
| Shareholders’ capital | 2,287,422 | 2,301,729 | |||||
| Contributed surplus | 77,011 | 77,557 | |||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive income | 197,827 | 199,020 | |||||
| Deficit | (866,323 | ) | (900,834 | ) | |||
| Total equity attributable to shareholders | 1,695,937 | 1,677,472 | |||||
| Non-controlling interest | 4,963 | 4,527 | |||||
| Total equity | 1,700,900 | 1,681,999 | |||||
| Total liabilities and equity | $ | 2,915,984 | $ | 2,956,315 | |||
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET EARNINGS (LOSS) (UNAUDITED)
| Three Months Ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Revenue | $ | 496,331 | $ | 527,788 | |||
| Expenses: | |||||||
| Operating | 329,068 | 339,506 | |||||
| General and administrative | 29,766 | 45,133 | |||||
| Earnings before income taxes, gain on investments and other assets, finance charges, foreign exchange, gain on asset disposals, and depreciation and amortization |
137,497 | 143,149 | |||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 75,036 | 78,213 | |||||
| Gain on asset disposals | (2,872 | ) | (3,237 | ) | |||
| Foreign exchange | 367 | 394 | |||||
| Finance charges | 15,760 | 18,369 | |||||
| Gain on investments and other assets | (49 | ) | (228 | ) | |||
| Earnings before income taxes | 49,255 | 49,638 | |||||
| Income taxes: | |||||||
| Current | 1,106 | 1,017 | |||||
| Deferred | 13,202 | 12,105 | |||||
| 14,308 | 13,122 | ||||||
| Net earnings | $ | 34,947 | $ | 36,516 | |||
| Attributable to: | |||||||
| Shareholders of Precision Drilling Corporation | $ | 34,511 | $ | 36,516 | |||
| Non-controlling interests | $ | 436 | $ | — | |||
| Net earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Precision Drilling Corporation: |
|||||||
| Basic | $ | 2.52 | $ | 2.53 | |||
| Diluted | $ | 2.20 | $ | 2.53 | |||
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED)
| Three Months Ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Net earnings | $ | 34,947 | $ | 36,516 | |||
| Unrealized gain (loss) on translation of assets and liabilities of operations denominated in foreign currency |
(658 | ) | 32,253 | ||||
| Foreign exchange loss on net investment hedge with U.S. denominated debt |
(535 | ) | (20,159 | ) | |||
| Comprehensive income | $ | 33,754 | $ | 48,610 | |||
| Attributable to: | |||||||
| Shareholders of Precision Drilling Corporation | $ | 33,318 | $ | 48,610 | |||
| Non-controlling interests | $ | 436 | $ | — | |||
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
| Three Months Ended March 31, | |||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) | 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Cash provided by (used in): | |||||||
| Operations: | |||||||
| Net earnings | $ | 34,947 | $ | 36,516 | |||
| Adjustments for: | |||||||
| Long-term compensation plans | 3,016 | 7,451 | |||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 75,036 | 78,213 | |||||
| Gain on asset disposals | (2,872 | ) | (3,237 | ) | |||
| Foreign exchange | (783 | ) | 728 | ||||
| Finance charges | 15,760 | 18,369 | |||||
| Income taxes | 14,308 | 13,122 | |||||
| Gain on investments and other assets | (49 | ) | (228 | ) | |||
| Income taxes paid | (321 | ) | (234 | ) | |||
| Interest paid | (29,637 | ) | (33,430 | ) | |||
| Interest received | 437 | 495 | |||||
| Funds provided by operations | 109,842 | 117,765 | |||||
| Changes in non-cash working capital balances | (46,423 | ) | (52,222 | ) | |||
| Cash provided by operations | 63,419 | 65,543 | |||||
| Investments: | |||||||
| Purchase of property, plant and equipment | (59,965 | ) | (55,527 | ) | |||
| Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment | 3,765 | 5,186 | |||||
| Purchase of investments and other assets | (11 | ) | — | ||||
| Receipt of finance lease payments | 208 | 191 | |||||
| Changes in non-cash working capital balances | (1,199 | ) | (25,087 | ) | |||
| Cash used in investing activities | (57,202 | ) | (75,237 | ) | |||
| Financing: | |||||||
| Repayment of long-term debt | (17,110 | ) | (716 | ) | |||
| Repurchase of share capital | (30,766 | ) | (10,081 | ) | |||
| Lease payments | (3,587 | ) | (3,200 | ) | |||
| Cash used in financing activities | (51,463 | ) | (13,997 | ) | |||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (280 | ) | 457 | ||||
| Increase (decrease) in cash | (45,526 | ) | (23,234 | ) | |||
| Cash, beginning of period | 73,771 | 54,182 | |||||
| Cash, end of period | $ | 28,245 | $ | 30,948 | |||
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
| Attributable to shareholders of the Corporation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) |
Shareholders’ Capital |
Contributed Surplus |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income |
Deficit | Total | Non- controlling interest |
Total Equity |
||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2025 | $ | 2,301,729 | $ | 77,557 | $ | 199,020 | $ | (900,834 | ) | $ | 1,677,472 | $ | 4,527 | $ | 1,681,999 | ||||||||||||
| Net earnings for the period | — | — | — | 34,511 | 34,511 | 436 | 34,947 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income for the period |
— | — | (1,193 | ) | — | (1,193 | ) | — | (1,193 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
| Settlement of Executive Performance and Restricted Share Units |
11,651 | (2,790 | ) | — | — | 8,861 | — | 8,861 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Share repurchases | (26,141 | ) | — | — | — | (26,141 | ) | — | (26,141 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
| Redemption of non-management directors share units |
183 | (183 | ) | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||
| Share-based compensation expense |
— | 2,427 | — | — | 2,427 | — | 2,427 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2025 | $ | 2,287,422 | $ | 77,011 | $ | 197,827 | $ | (866,323 | ) | $ | 1,695,937 | $ | 4,963 | $ | 1,700,900 | ||||||||||||
| Attributable to shareholders of the Corporation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (Stated in thousands of Canadian dollars) |
Shareholders’ Capital |
Contributed Surplus |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income |
Deficit | Total | Non- controlling interest |
Total Equity |
||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2024 | $ | 2,365,129 | $ | 75,086 | $ | 147,476 | $ | (1,012,029 | ) | $ | 1,575,662 | $ | — | $ | 1,575,662 | ||||||||||||
| Net earnings for the period | — | — | — | 36,516 | 36,516 | — | 36,516 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income for the period |
— | — | 12,094 | — | 12,094 | — | 12,094 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Settlement of Executive Performance and Restricted Share Units |
21,846 | (1,479 | ) | — | — | 20,367 | — | 20,367 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Share repurchases | (10,081 | ) | — | — | — | (10,081 | ) | — | (10,081 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
| Share-based compensation expense |
— | 875 | — | — | 875 | — | 875 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2024 | $ | 2,376,894 | $ | 74,482 | $ | 159,570 | $ | (975,513 | ) | $ | 1,635,433 | $ | — | $ | 1,635,433 | ||||||||||||
2025 FIRST QUARTER RESULTS CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST
Precision Drilling Corporation has scheduled a conference call and webcast to begin promptly at 11:00 a.m. MT (1:00 p.m. ET) on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
To participate in the conference call please register at the URL link below. Once registered, you will receive a dial-in number and a unique PIN, which will allow you to ask questions.
https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIfac587dca2994a30be564b41d99b43ac
The call will also be webcast and can be accessed through the link below. A replay of the webcast call will be available on Precision’s website for 12 months.
https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/gifawh57
About Precision
Precision is a leading provider of safe and environmentally responsible High Performance, High Value services to the energy industry, offering customers access to an extensive fleet of Super Series drilling rigs. Precision has commercialized an industry-leading digital technology portfolio known as Alpha™ that utilizes advanced automation software and analytics to generate efficient, predictable, and repeatable results for energy customers. Our drilling services are enhanced by our EverGreen™ suite of environmental solutions, which bolsters our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. Additionally, Precision offers well service rigs, camps and rental equipment all backed by a comprehensive mix of technical support services and skilled, experienced personnel.
Precision is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “PD” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “PDS”.
Additional Information
For further information, please contact:
Lavonne Zdunich, CPA, CA
Vice President, Investor Relations
403.716.4500
800, 525 – 8th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 1G1
Website: www.precisiondrilling.com
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
CONWAY, Ark., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Home BancShares, Inc. (NYSE: HOMB), parent company of Centennial Bank, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular $0.20 per share quarterly cash dividend payable June 4, 2025, to shareholders of record May 14, 2025. This cash dividend represents a $0.005 per share, or 2.6%, increase over the $0.195 cash dividend paid during the first quarter of 2025.
“After a strong 2024 and a record setting first quarter of 2025, we felt the timing was right for a small increase to reward our shareholders,” said John Allison, Chairman and CEO of HOMB.
Home BancShares, Inc. is a bank holding company, headquartered in Conway, Arkansas. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Centennial Bank, provides a broad range of commercial and retail banking plus related financial services to businesses, real estate developers, investors, individuals and municipalities. Centennial Bank has branch locations in Arkansas, Florida, Texas, South Alabama and New York City. The Company’s common stock is traded through the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “HOMB.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Donna Townsell
Senior Executive Vice President &
Director of Investor Relations
(501) 328-4625
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL3
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 163
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
350 PM CDT Wed Apr 23 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Eastern Colorado
Western Kansas
* Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 350 PM
until 1100 PM CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
A tornado or two possible
SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will increase in coverage through the late
afternoon and evening across the watch area, with a few supercells
possible. Large hail is the primary concern, however a tornado or
two could occur later this evening as well.
The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
statute miles east and west of a line from 55 miles northeast of
Goodland KS to 5 miles east of Elkhart KS. For a complete depiction
of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
WOU3).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 162…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
26030.
…Hart
SEL3
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 163
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
350 PM CDT Wed Apr 23 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Eastern Colorado
Western Kansas
* Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 350 PM
until 1100 PM CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
A tornado or two possible
SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will increase in coverage through the late
afternoon and evening across the watch area, with a few supercells
possible. Large hail is the primary concern, however a tornado or
two could occur later this evening as well.
The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
statute miles east and west of a line from 55 miles northeast of
Goodland KS to 5 miles east of Elkhart KS. For a complete depiction
of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
WOU3).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 162…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
26030.
…Hart
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW3
WW 163 SEVERE TSTM CO KS 232050Z – 240400Z
AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
55NE GLD/GOODLAND KS/ – 5E EHA/ELKHART KS/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM E/W /24SW MCK – 40W LBL/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26030.
LAT…LON 39919965 36990054 36990308 39910229
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU3.
Watch 163 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (40%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (90%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: April 23, 2025
CONTACT: Gabriel Spencer, Gabriel.spencer@mail.house.gov
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of the Department of Education Linda McMahon, urging an immediate investigation into the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and the State of Illinois for actions that undermine fairness and safety in girls’ sports. In the letter, Rep. Miller cites blatant violations of federal law and the rejection of biological reality as grounds for urgent federal investigation.
Read the Fox News Exclusive HERE.
“The Illinois High School Association has crossed a dangerous line. By blatantly violating federal law and rejecting biological reality, they are not only undermining fairness in girls’ sports — they’re putting the safety of young women at risk,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “I’m calling on Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary Linda McMahon to launch an immediate investigation into the IHSA and the State of Illinois. Governor JB Pritzker and radical Illinois Democrats must be held accountable for enforcing abusive, anti-science gender policies ahead of the safety of our daughters and the fairness of girls’ sports.”
Read the letter to Attorney General Bondi and Secretary McMahon HERE.
Congresswoman Mary Miller introduced H.R. 2452, the Keep Our Girls Safe Act. This legislation would codify President Trump’s Executive Order 14201 and strip federal funding from any school that defies the commonsense protections for women and girls established under President Trump’s leadership.
Congresswoman Miller currently serves as Chair of the Congressional Family Caucus and sits on the House Committees on Agriculture, Education and Workforce, and House Administration.
Website: Marymiller.house.gov | X: @RepMaryMiller | Facebook: @RepMaryMiller
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Source: US State of Connecticut
DNP student Ryan Davis, CRNA, MSN and Sean Flaherty ’25 (NURS), have a passion for advocating, on a federal basis, for nurses and the profession itself.
Accompanied by the School of Nursing’s Dean Victoria Vaughan Dickson, Ph.D., RN, FAHA, FHFSA, FAAN, these two students were able to take that passion to the Capitol where they attended the American Association of Colleges of Nursing annual Student Policy Summit.
Established in 1969, the AACN currently represents over 875 schools of nursing in universities nationwide, UConn being one of them.
The conference was held on March 30-31 in Washington, DC, open to baccalaureate and graduate nursing students. Only two students from each AACN member institution can attend and permission from the dean is acquired.
“Nurses play a crucial role in health policy advocacy, influencing healthcare legislation and shaping the future of healthcare,” said Dean Victoria Vaughan Dickson, PhD, RN, FAHA, FHFSA, FAAN. “The Student Policy Summit provides student nurses with the unique opportunity to experience how nurses can effectively advocate for changes that benefit patients, their communities, and the broader healthcare system.”
Davis, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) was nominated by her advisor Joy Elwell, DNP, FNP-BC, CNE, FAAN, FAANP, based on her DNP project which deals with recognizing CRNAs as advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) in her home state of New York, which is the only state in the nation that does not recognize them as such.
The conference was an invaluable experience for Davis. She was able to witness a panelist who, like her, is a CRNA. Seeing him advocate on a federal level inspired and motivated her to continue doing the same.
“Having these people in bigger platforms and on the federal level, just advocating for our profession is really nice to see,” Davis said.
Like Davis, Flaherty has always had an interest in the legislative side of nursing, and after being nominated to go to the conference by the dean, he couldn’t say no.
“I looked at this and I thought what a great opportunity, to go to Washington DC and do something completely different than what we traditionally are doing in this four-year program, which is nursing completely at the bedside,” he said.
Sharing similar remarks to Davis, Flaherty said the conference was very insightful and showed him a side to the nursing profession that he is not used to seeing.
It was humbling to see “how complex the field of nursing is and how many different alleys you can go down and still be extremely successful and influential,” Flaherty said.
“It sounds so simple,” he added, but it was really “learning about the government.”
A key takeaway for both Davis and Flaherty was how nursing can go beyond the bedside.
“Hearing some of the speakers and the panels, how they advocate and what they advocate for is just so inspiring for me to want to take it beyond my practice of doing nurse anesthesia and take it more politics and health policy,” said Davis.
The importance of advocacy and being exposed to multiple nursing avenues was a crucial part in the students’ experience at the conference.
“To be involved in the other side of nursing, this legislative making process with all of the rules and regulations, the laws and the practices of what we [as nurses] practice by was really neat to kind of open my eyes to that side of nursing,” Flaherty said.
The conference taught Davis a lot – how to speak to legislators, write letters, and follow up – but what she really learned, was how to use her voice.
“What I got from it in terms of applying it to my DNP project and even as a UConn student is to not be afraid to use my voice when it comes to advocating for something that I believe in or something that my profession needs, such as being APRNs,” she said.
They had the opportunity to visit with Connecticut Senators and Representatives “to discuss the importance of support for nursing, nursing research, and nursing education,” said Dickson.
Specifically, they discussed the importance of the PRECEPT Nurses Act and the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development Programs.
The PRECEPT Nurses Act is a bill that provides a tax credit for nurses “who serve at least 200 hours as a clinical preceptor to nursing students, advanced practice nursing students, or newly hired licensed nurses in a Health Professional Shortage Area,” according to the AACN website.
The Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development Programs address nursing workforce demand including education, retention, practice, and recruitment.
Flaherty also advocated for university funding. As an out-of-state student from upstate NY, he knows how crucial financial aid is in supporting the nursing workforce.
There’s plenty of people who want to be in the workforce and continue their education in the nursing field, but they can’t afford the education of a state school, said Flaherty. “If you’re going to talk about how we have this nursing shortage, the quick solution would be to get more nurses,” he said. “And how do we do that? It’s funding students to be able to have that education because the number one barrier is going to be the cost.”
US Senate News:
Source: The White House
Since President Donald J. Trump took office, his unwavering commitment to revitalizing American industry has spurred trillions of dollars of investments in U.S. manufacturing, production, and innovation — and the list only continues to grow.
Here is a non-comprehensive running list of new U.S.-based investments in President Trump’s second term:
Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
NVIDIA, a global chipmaking giant, announced it will invest $500 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure over the next four years amid its pledge to manufacture AI supercomputers entirely in the U.S. for the first time.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
Johnson & Johnson announced a $55 billion investment over the next four years in manufacturing, research and development, and technology.
Roche, a Swiss drug and diagnostics company, announced a $50 billion investment in U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development, which is expected to create more than 1,000 full-time jobs and more than 12,000 jobs including construction.
Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment to more than double its domestic manufacturing capacity.
United Arab Emirates-based ADQ and U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners announced a $25 billion investment in U.S. data centers and energy infrastructure.
Novartis, a Swiss drugmaker, announced a $23 billion investment to build or expand ten manufacturing facilities across the U.S., which will create 4,000 new jobs.
Hyundai announced a $21 billion U.S.-based investment — including $5.8 billion for a new steel plant in Louisiana, which will create nearly 1,500 jobs.
Hyundai also secured an equity investment and agreement from Posco Holdings, South Korea’s top steel maker.
United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
Merck announced it will invest $8 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility.
Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network, including re-opening its Belvidere, Illinois, manufacturing plant.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a leader in biotechnology, announced a $3 billion agreement with Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies to produce drugs at its North Carolina manufacturing facility.
NorthMark Strategies, a multi-strategy investment firm, announced a $2.8 billion investment to build a supercomputing facility in South Carolina.
ArcelorMittal, a steel manufacturer, announced a $1.2 billion investment to build an advanced manufacturing facility in Alabama.
Chobani, a Greek yogurt giant, announced a $1.2 billion investment to build its third U.S. dairy processing plant in New York, which is expected to create more than 1,000 new full-time jobs.
GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
Corning, Inc., a solar component producer, announced a $900 million investment to build a manufacturing plant in Michigan.
Schneider Electric announced it will invest $700 million over the next four years in U.S. energy infrastructure.
GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
Abbott Laboratories announced a $500 million investment in its Illinois and Texas facilities.
AIP Management, a European infrastructure investor, announced a $500 million investment to solar developer Silicon Ranch.
London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
Clasen Quality Chocolate announced a $230 million investment to build a new production facility in Virginia, which will create 250 new jobs.
Fiserv, Inc., a financial technology provider, announced a $175 million investment to open a new strategic fintech hub in Kansas, which is expected to create 2,000 new high-paying jobs.
Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
TS Conductor announced a $134 million investment to build an advanced conductor manufacturing facility in South Carolina, which will create nearly 500 new jobs.
Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
Charms, LLC, a subsidiary of candymaker Tootsie Roll Industries, announced a $97.7 million investment to expand its production plant and distribution center in Tennessee.
Toyota Motor Corporation announced an $88 million investment to boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia factory, securing employment for the 2,000 workers at the factory.
AeroVironment, a defense contractor, announced a $42.3 million investment to build a new manufacturing facility in Utah.
Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
Cyclic Materials, a Canadian advanced recycling company for rare earth elements, announced a $20 million investment in its first U.S.-based commercial facility, located in Mesa, Arizona.
Guardian Bikes announced a $19 million investment to build the first U.S.-based large-scale bicycle frame manufacturing operation in Indiana.
Amsterdam-based AMG Critical Minerals announced a $15 million investment to build a chrome manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania.
NOVONIX Limited, an Australia-based battery technology company, announced a $4.6 million investment to build a synthetic graphite manufacturing facility in Tennessee.
LGM Pharma announced a $6 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Rosenberg, Texas.
ViDARR Inc., a defense optical equipment manufacturer, announced a $2.69 million investment to open a new facility in Virginia.
That doesn’t even include the U.S. investments pledged by foreign countries:
United Arab Emirates announced a $1.4 trillion investment in the U.S. over the next decade.
Saudi Arabia announced it intends to invest $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.
Japan announced a $1 trillion investment in the U.S.
Taiwan announced a pledge to boost its U.S.-based investment.
Last updated on April 23, 2025
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Garritt C. Van Dyk, Senior Lecturer in History, University of Waikato
The Anzac biscuit is a cultural icon, infused with mythical value, representing the connection between women on the home front and soldiers serving overseas during the first world war.
A baked good developed to survive the trip to the trenches and lift the spirits of the troops has the seductive appeal of folklore specific to Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
There is another story linked to the myth, however, about women who worked to provide necessities and small comforts to those serving in the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
Soldiers at the front had biscuits, of a sort, in their rations but these were more like 18th century “ship’s biscuit”, or hard tack, called “tile”, “wafers”, or “army biscuits”.
Made from flour, water and dry milk, tile was nonperishable and didn’t get mouldy, but it was so hard it had to be soaked before eating to avoid cracking a tooth. Soldiers would sometimes grate the moistened biscuit and cook it with water for an improvised porridge.
The biscuits were so tough that soldiers even used them as stationery.
Cakes and biscuits in sealed tins were requested as donations from the public, but had to meet requirements to ensure they would not spoil by the time they arrived.
It is unlikely Anzac biscuits made according to today’s recipe were packed in tins by mothers, wives and girlfriends and shipped overseas to soldiers. As a matter of practicality, shredded coconut included in the recipe would have probably become rancid in transit.
The idea of our modern Anzac biscuits being sent to the front line is most likely an invented tradition, created after the fact. The first thing we would recognise as our current recipe did not appear until 1927.
But women were sending biscuits, and more, to their men on the front lines in the crucial role of providing creature comforts.
The Australian Comforts Fund was a national group founded in 1916 to coordinate state volunteer organisations, run mainly by women.
In 1917, the New South Wales branch printed the The War Chest Cookery Book. Paid advertisements on every page allowed the fund to donate all proceeds from the sale of the cookbook “to substantially augment the funds of the War Chest”.
In this book we find the first printed recipe for a biscuit with “Anzac” in the title. The recipe bears no resemblance to today’s version, except for the name. Neither oats nor coconut were included. Instead, the recipe called for eggs, rice flour, cinnamon and mixed spice, and the baked biscuits were sandwiched together with jam and topped with icing.
The motto of the Australian Comforts Fund, “keep the fit man fit”, differentiated their mission from the lifesaving supplies delivered by the Red Cross.
The war chest allowed the distribution of nonessential items that included necessities like such as socks, mittens and singlets, but also comforts of home like such as pyjamas, razor blades and tobacco.
Special shipments included morale boosters like such as Christmas hampers with plum puddings, gramophones, sporting goods, postcards and pencils.
Women in the fund also ran canteens near the front serving soup, coffee, tea, and cocoa. The fund provided twelve million mugs of hot drinks between January 1917 and June 1918 alone.
A soldier’s memoir from the winter of 1916 in the Somme recalled how the promise of the kitchen kept him going:
We desire to acknowledge our debt to the Australian Comforts Fund. Their soup kitchen was the goal to which even the weariest man persevered during the dreadful outward journeys from the line.
Today, Anzac biscuits baked for commercial production and sale must adhere to the Australian Department of Veteran Affairs Guidelines, established in 1994, which regulate the use of the word Anzac (and prohibit the use of the word “cookie” to describe them).
This first iteration of Anzac biscuits would most certainly not comply with the guidelines as they “substantially deviate from the accepted recipe” which features ingredients including oats, golden syrup and coconut.
Two other recipes in the War Chest Cookbook for rolled oat biscuits are closer, and omit eggs, but they lack the binding power of golden syrup and the characteristic crunch of desiccated coconut.
The combination of oats and golden syrup first appears in the Melbourne newspaper The Argus on September 15 1920 when Josephine, from East Brunswick, contributed her recipe for “ANZAC Biscuits or Crispies”.
A recipe for Anzac biscuits with “cocoanut” was not published until the late 1920s, in the Brisbane Sunday Mail on June 26 1927.
This late introduction of the full recipe is a reminder that while biscuits got sent overseas, they were not the “official” Anzac biscuits we know today.
Defining and preserving the identity of the Anzac biscuit affirms a tangible symbol of national identity. While the recipe may have been invented after the fact, a consistent standard encourages the continuity of remembrance through the uniformity of a shared tradition.
The myth of domestic bakers dispatching this specific recipe to soldiers, however, should not eclipse the efforts of the Australian Comforts Fund, fundraising on a national scale, and running makeshift canteens in a war zone.
Women weren’t just baking in their kitchens: they were organising and delivering resources at home and overseas, benefiting soldiers at the front lines.
Garritt C. Van Dyk has received funding from the Getty Research Institute.
– ref. The origin story of the Anzac biscuit is largely myth – but that shouldn’t obscure the history of women during the war – https://theconversation.com/the-origin-story-of-the-anzac-biscuit-is-largely-myth-but-that-shouldnt-obscure-the-history-of-women-during-the-war-252039
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol Johnson, Emerita Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Adelaide
“Women’s” issues are once again playing a significant role in the election debate as Labor and the Liberals trade barbs over which parties’ policies will benefit women most. In the latest salvo, the opposition has announced a $90 million package to combat family and domestic violence.
However, perversely, the Liberals’ women’s policy may be being constrained by their very concept of equality. That conception worked very effectively in the Coalition’s successful populist campaign against the Voice referendum. Peter Dutton and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price argued true equality involved treating everyone the same. They therefore claimed the Voice referendum was divisive and would give Indigenous Australians additional rights denied to non-Indigenous Australians.
In Dutton’s view, “egalitarianism” involves “pushing back on identity politics”. This in turn means emphasising people as individuals rather than as members of social groups.
However, that conception of equality is arguably compounding the Liberals’ “women problem”. It helps to explain the debacle of the Liberals’ original opposition to public servants working from home (WFH) and their subsequent humiliating policy backdown.
Director of Redbridge polling, Kos Samaras, argued the WFH policy was particularly unpopular with women, and had helped drive many women previously alienated by cost of living pressures back to Labor.
Dutton admitted the Coalition had got the policy wrong after “listening to what people have to say”. Anthony Albanese quickly accused the opposition leader of not understanding how women and men in modern families manage their lives. Labor also suggested Dutton couldn’t be trusted not to reintroduce his WFH policies if elected.
Astonishingly, Shadow Minister for the Public Service Jane Hume stated the WFH policy had gone through “all the appropriate processes”, including apparently being taken to shadow cabinet.
Yet, somehow those processes had not rejected a policy that would have a particularly detrimental effect on women. After all, in a highly gendered society, women still tend to carry the majority of caring responsibilities. These include looking after children, so flexible work is particularly important to them.
Nonetheless, Hume claimed “it was not a gendered policy”. She blamed the backlash on a Labor and trade union disinformation campaign that suggested the policy would be extended to the private sector.
The formal Liberal WFH policy had indeed been intended as a populist attack on federal public servants. However, not only do public sector conditions often influence private sector ones, but Hume had suggested it would be good if the private sector could “instil the sense of discipline that we want to instil in the public service”.
The WFH debacle reflects a Liberal failure to recognise the specific circumstances women face in a highly gendered society. This in turn means policies can affect women differently from men. It is a direct consequence of thinking equality means treating everyone the same, thereby reducing people to abstract individuals regardless of social structures and forms of social inequality that can disadvantage particular groups.
The lapse is particularly surprising in Hume’s case, given she officially co-signed the report into the Liberal party’s 2022 election defeat. The report emphasised that the then prime minister, Scott Morrison, “was not attuned to the concerns of women and was unresponsive to issues of importance to them.”
As a result, deputy leader of the Liberal Party and Shadow Minister for Women Sussan Ley promised to listen to women and bring them back to the Liberal Party.
However, both Hume and Ley also have a history of downplaying structural forms of inequality.
As an assistant minister in the Morrison government, Hume was criticised for suggesting women’s poor superannuation position was due to financial illiteracy rather than emphasising structural issues such as low pay in female-dominated professions and career interruptions due to caring responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Ley had discounted Labor criticisms of gender-blind Morrison government budget measures by arguing:
what you hear from the opposition is this long, ongoing, bleak, dreary narrative about entrenched disadvantage. And, you know, it’s just so last century. I see the opportunities for women in the modern world […].
Hume’s defence of the proposed restrictions on public service WFH was that women were also taxpayers and so had an interest in ensuring taxpayer-funded public servants were productive.
Her comments were reminiscent of then treasurer Morrison’s notoriously gender-blind response to criticisms that his inequitable tax cuts were more likely to benefit men, because men were generally higher paid than women. Morrison totally missed the critics’ point, asserting :
You don’t fill out pink forms and blue forms on your tax return. It doesn’t look at what your gender is […].
More recently, Ley has been criticised for supporting the abolition of Labor’s free TAFE policy, claiming it was unfunded, hadn’t been properly evaluated: “if you don’t pay for something, you don’t value it”.
However, the ACTU has argued the policy had particularly benefited financially stressed women and First Nations people in the outer suburbs and regions.
Furthermore, Dutton struggled to answer when a reporter pointed out that the Liberal campaign launch had mainly focused on men, and asked what he offered modern working women. Dutton emphasised the implications of his home-buying policies for homeless women, his record of protecting women from domestic violence and that both men and women would benefit from Liberal economic policies. But he didn’t mention policies specifically designed to address gender inequality.
By contrast, a Labor answer would have emphasised a slew of government policies specifically aimed at improving gender equality. These include addressing issues such as historically low pay in female dominated industries, especially those that reflected an undervaluing of feminised caring work. Labor’s policies recognise that women are structurally disadvantaged in the Australian economy.
All too often, the Liberals still don’t seem to get it. Treating people the “same” doesn’t take into account that various social groups are disadvantaged in Australian society. Consequently, what are intended to be general policies can affect some social groups differently from others.
Good policy takes such issues into account. The Liberals have not learned sufficiently from the major failings of the Morrison government, whose policies were regularly criticised for being gender-blind.
Yet, the Liberal party once had a more nuanced conception of equality. An earlier social liberal-influenced view both acknowledged patterns of social disadvantage and believed government had an important role to play in addressing it.
However, the party has increasingly moved away from social liberal perspectives. This is despite the efforts of more moderate Liberals, including key Liberal feminists. Now “social liberal” perspectives are more likely to be found among some of the Teal independents, many of whom would once have been at home in the Liberal Party.
The failure to return to a more nuanced version of equality is not only contributing to Liberal policy missteps in regards to women. It is also making it harder for Dutton to differentiate himself from an electorally damaging, anti-woke, “strongman” association with US President Donald Trump.
After all, Trump also believes equality means treating people the same. This is exactly how he justifies his attacks on “illegal” diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies.
Dutton is reportedly preparing an additional policy pitch to women, as new polling confirms the Liberals’ share of the women’s vote is falling.
However, if Dutton and Ley really want to listen to Australian women, and make a more effective Liberal appeal to women voters, they need to develop a broader understanding of equality that takes structural disadvantage into account.
Carol Johnson has received funding from the Australian Research Council
– ref. When ‘equal’ does not mean ‘the same’: Liberals still do not understand their women problem – https://theconversation.com/when-equal-does-not-mean-the-same-liberals-still-do-not-understand-their-women-problem-254567
