From 24 to 26 June, the NATO Committee on Reserves (NCR) convened its Summer Plenary Meeting in Kirkenes, Norway, at the invitation of the Norwegian military authorities.
Highlights included a detailed presentation on Norway’s model for border protection, which features close cooperation between national entities such as the Border Commissioner, the Police, and the Armed Forces. Participants also visited the Parsvik Border Station, where they observed highly skilled and motivated young soldiers guarding the Norwegian-Russian border.
One of the NCR’s key objectives is the sharing of best practices. Norway, Finland and Sweden presented their national approaches to Total Defence. They outlined how they involve the whole of society in conscription, mobilization, recruitment, education and training, with a strong focus on integrating Reserves into regular Armed Forces structures.
The meeting also provided a timely opportunity to explore the growing strategic importance of NATO’s Nordic Region and the High North. Delegates left Kirkenes with valuable insights and practical knowledge to help further develop national Reserve capabilities. The Committee will reconvene for its Winter Plenary Meeting in Norfolk, USA, from 26 to 29 January 2026.
The NCR serves as the Military Committee’s standing advisory body on Reserve matters. It is composed of national representatives along with liaison officers from the International Military Staff (IMS), Allied Command Operations (ACO), and Allied Command Transformation (ACT).
New product offers regulated access to one of the most promising blockchain networks in global trade finance
Zurich, 9 July 2025 – 21Shares, one of the world’s leading issuers of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), today announced the launch of the 21Shares XDC Network ETP (ticker: XDCN), now listed on Euronext Paris and Amsterdam. The physically backed ETP provides investors with institutional-grade access to the XDC Network, a blockchain purpose-built to modernise global trade through tokenisation and digitisation of real-world assets.
Exchange
Product Name
Ticker
ISIN
Fee
Euronext Paris and Euronext Amsterdam
21Shares XDC Network ETP
XDCN
CH1464217285
2.50%
The XDC Network has rapidly emerged as a key infrastructure layer for trade finance and cross-border payments. Its integration with financial messaging standards such as SWIFT and ISO 20022 makes it a compelling choice for institutional adoption. Backed by strategic partnerships with industry players like Deutsche Telekom, SBI Japan, and Archax, the XDC ecosystem is bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralised networks.
“XDC stands at the intersection of blockchain innovation and real-world utility,” said Mandy Chiu, Head of Financial Product Development at 21Shares. “As global finance begins to embrace tokenised assets, we’re proud to offer investors a regulated way to gain exposure to this critical infrastructure.”
“XDC Network is a fast, compliant settlement layer for global payments and tokenized real-world assets – and this ETP brings that vision to life,” said Ritesh Kakkad, Co-Founder of XDC Network. “This ETP launch represents a significant milestone in XDC Network’s journey toward mainstream institutional adoption,” said Ziv Keinan, Head of Markets and Partnerships at XDC Network. “By partnering with 21Shares to bring regulated exposure to European investors, we’re enabling traditional financial institutions to participate in the future of payment and trade finance infrastructure. This product validates XDC’s position as the blockchain of choice for real-world asset tokenization and cross-border payment solutions.”
The 21Shares XDC Network ETP (ISIN: CH1464217285) is denominated in USD (Euronext Amsterdam) and EUR (Euronext Paris), with a management fee of 2.50%. It is fully collateralised by the underlying asset and held in institutional-grade cold storage.
21Shares is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the world’s first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialized research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.
21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com.
About XDC Network XDC Network is an enterprise-grade, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain protocol designed to revolutionize global trade finance through the tokenization of real-world assets and financial instruments. Since its origins in 2017, XDC Network has built a distributed community of developers and enterprises using its technology for efficient data storage, asset exchange, and decentralized applications. The network supports smart contracts, offers 2-second transaction finality, and maintains compatibility with Ethereum tools while delivering significantly lower costs and energy consumption.
DISCLAIMER
This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice.
This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful.
This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.
Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.
Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuer’s website underwww.21Shares.com.
The approval of the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand.
This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the “FinSA”) and not a prospectus. The 2024 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with BX Swiss AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2024 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG’s website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectusorhttps://21shares.com/ir/kids).
New product offers regulated access to one of the most promising blockchain networks in global trade finance
Zurich, 9 July 2025 – 21Shares, one of the world’s leading issuers of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), today announced the launch of the 21Shares XDC Network ETP (ticker: XDCN), now listed on Euronext Paris and Amsterdam. The physically backed ETP provides investors with institutional-grade access to the XDC Network, a blockchain purpose-built to modernise global trade through tokenisation and digitisation of real-world assets.
Exchange
Product Name
Ticker
ISIN
Fee
Euronext Paris and Euronext Amsterdam
21Shares XDC Network ETP
XDCN
CH1464217285
2.50%
The XDC Network has rapidly emerged as a key infrastructure layer for trade finance and cross-border payments. Its integration with financial messaging standards such as SWIFT and ISO 20022 makes it a compelling choice for institutional adoption. Backed by strategic partnerships with industry players like Deutsche Telekom, SBI Japan, and Archax, the XDC ecosystem is bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralised networks.
“XDC stands at the intersection of blockchain innovation and real-world utility,” said Mandy Chiu, Head of Financial Product Development at 21Shares. “As global finance begins to embrace tokenised assets, we’re proud to offer investors a regulated way to gain exposure to this critical infrastructure.”
“XDC Network is a fast, compliant settlement layer for global payments and tokenized real-world assets – and this ETP brings that vision to life,” said Ritesh Kakkad, Co-Founder of XDC Network. “This ETP launch represents a significant milestone in XDC Network’s journey toward mainstream institutional adoption,” said Ziv Keinan, Head of Markets and Partnerships at XDC Network. “By partnering with 21Shares to bring regulated exposure to European investors, we’re enabling traditional financial institutions to participate in the future of payment and trade finance infrastructure. This product validates XDC’s position as the blockchain of choice for real-world asset tokenization and cross-border payment solutions.”
The 21Shares XDC Network ETP (ISIN: CH1464217285) is denominated in USD (Euronext Amsterdam) and EUR (Euronext Paris), with a management fee of 2.50%. It is fully collateralised by the underlying asset and held in institutional-grade cold storage.
21Shares is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the world’s first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialized research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.
21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com.
About XDC Network XDC Network is an enterprise-grade, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain protocol designed to revolutionize global trade finance through the tokenization of real-world assets and financial instruments. Since its origins in 2017, XDC Network has built a distributed community of developers and enterprises using its technology for efficient data storage, asset exchange, and decentralized applications. The network supports smart contracts, offers 2-second transaction finality, and maintains compatibility with Ethereum tools while delivering significantly lower costs and energy consumption.
DISCLAIMER
This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice.
This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful.
This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.
Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.
Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuer’s website underwww.21Shares.com.
The approval of the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand.
This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the “FinSA”) and not a prospectus. The 2024 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with BX Swiss AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2024 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG’s website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectusorhttps://21shares.com/ir/kids).
London, United Kingdom, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the world pays more and more attention to clean energy and sustainable development, the traditional high-energy-consuming cryptocurrency mining model is facing transformation. Today, MintMiner is leading a “green computing revolution” by driving cloud mining systems with clean energy, combining mobile applications with multi-currency mining services, so that every user can easily participate in the steady appreciation of mainstream crypto assets such as Bitcoin with just a mobile phone. Driven by clean energy, creating a low-carbon and efficient cloud mining network All MintMiner cloud mining data centers are deployed in areas rich in renewable energy resources such as hydropower, wind power, and solar power, achieving 100% clean energy supply. This green mining model not only significantly reduces carbon emissions, but also significantly saves electricity costs, ensuring that users obtain stable and sustainable benefits from the source. A mobile phone, start smart mining at any time TheMintMinerapplication provides users with a user-friendly interface that is flexible in operation. You can create your mining account for free by registering with your email address. The $15 newbie bonus allows you to start earning money right away, and you can log in every day to receive a $0.6 reward. The application provides an intuitive dashboard that supports real-time viewing of earnings, contract progress, and currency distribution, creating a transparent and traceable cloud mining experience. Multi-currency mining + flexible contracts, more controllable returns The platform currently supports mining services for mainstream cryptocurrencies, including: BTC (Bitcoin),ETC (Ethereum Classic), DOGE (Dogecoin), and LTC (Litecoin). Users can flexibly choose the type and term of computing power contracts based on market conditions, risk preferences, and budgets. Diversified asset allocation strategies bring investors a more stable passive income portfolio.
Transparent settlement and free withdrawal, truly controlling your earnings MintMiner adopts a daily profit settlement mechanism. All profit details can be clearly viewed in the App. It supports one-click withdrawal requests, flexible funds and rapid arrival of funds, truly achieving account transparency, free withdrawals and user-friendly experience. Internationally certified platform, asset security is worry-free MintMiner is a world-leading cloud mining platform, founded in 2016 and headquartered in London, UK. It has invested in and built 108 large-scale mining farms and data centers in North America, Australia, and Northern Europe, serving more than 5 million users worldwide. It has obtained a number of international regulatory qualifications and financial services compliance licenses, and uses cold and hot wallet separation, multiple encryption verification, AI risk control models and other methods to fully protect user asset security. The invitation rebate system is online, making it easier to earn money while mining MintMiner has launched a multi-level invitation rebate program. Users can enjoy a lifetime computing power profit share by inviting friends to register. The more invitations, the higher the rebate, and the maximum bonus can reach 50,000 US dollars. The program has attracted thousands of users around the world to participate, forming a healthy growth community ecology. Company Vision and Mission Currently, MintMiner has attracted users from many countries and regions around the world to join the Green Cloud Mining Network. Choosing Green Cloud Mining is not only an investment in digital assets, but also a contribution to the sustainable development of the earth. We hope to help users achieve wealth growth while also building a brand image with a sense of social responsibility. A mobile phone, a green computing power, a way to earn Bitcoin. Download the MintMiner App now and start your green journey of digital assets.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate in Public Health & Community Medicine, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney
Ice baths have gone mainstream. Initially practised mainly among high-performance athletes, cold water immersion is now a booming business model: sold as recovery, discipline and therapy all in one.
But the benefits are questionable and, importantly, ice baths can have health risks – particularly for people who have limited experience using them.
From Roman times to today
Cold water immersion isn’t a new concept.
The “frigidarium” – a room with a cold plunge pool or bath – was a feature in most Roman bathhouses.
For decades, athletes have used cold water immersion, such as swims in cold water, for recovery.
But in recent years, with the proliferation of commercial cold plunge centres, there’s been an explosion in people using ice baths recreationally.
Many people are even setting up their own ice baths at home. The global cold plunge tub market was valued at close to US$338 million in 2024 and is projected to reach nearly $483 million by 2033.
Social media shows serene influencers meditating through the pain, claiming it boosts mental health, serotonin, testosterone, and their metabolism. But does the evidence stack up?
Some research shows cold water immersion can improve mood after a single exposure in young, healthy people, but other research doesn’t find these benefits.
Most claims about mental health, testosterone and weight loss aren’t backed by strong evidence. Rather, they’re anecdotal and amplified by influencers.
At commercial establishments, patrons can often use the ice baths as they please during a booked session. Ice bath temperatures often range anywhere from 3°C to 15°C. There normally isn’t actual ice in the bath, but some people add blocks of ice to their ice baths at home.
Businesses offering ice baths don’t always actively supervise patrons or monitor a person’s time in the ice bath. They may leave their customers to self-regulate, assuming people will know to get out of the water before they pass their body’s limits.
Occasionally, this “cold shock” response can lead to a heart attack or stroke – especially if you have an undiagnosed condition affecting your heart, blood vessels or brain.
As far back as 1969, researchers found even experienced swimmers could struggle after just a few minutes in cold water. Participants were immersed in water at 4.7°C while fully clothed and asked to swim as if trying to reach safety. Some developed serious respiratory distress and had to stop swimming within as little as 90 seconds, well before any measurable drop in core body temperature.
Even after you get out, your core temperature can continue to fall – a phenomenon known as afterdrop. So you can encounter problems, such as collapse, even after leaving the water.
And even young, healthy people can be caught off guard. The body isn’t designed to endure freezing water for extended periods.
Recently one of us (Sam Cornell) had to provide first aid at an ice bath venue in Sydney. A young man collapsed after staying in an ice bath for ten minutes. He was shivering uncontrollably and clearly suffering from cold shock.
Cold exposure can also cause long-term damage to nerves and blood vessels in the hands and feet, known as non-freezing cold injury. This is more likely if someone spends an extended period immersed in cold water. Symptoms such as numbness, pain and sensitivity to cold can persist for years.
6 tips for safer recreational ice bath use
The ice bath trend is part of a broader wellness movement, promoted to young men in particular, where discomfort is repackaged as discipline. Push through the pain. Master your body. If you feel terrible, you must be doing it right.
But behind the hype lies a less appealing truth. Ice baths can be dangerous.
We advise caution, but if you do choose to try an ice bath, treat it seriously and follow these tips to reduce the risk of harm.
1. Talk to your doctor:get checked out first. If you or your family have any heart, stroke or respiratory risk, skip it
2. Know your limits: being fit doesn’t protect you from cold shock
3. Start gradually: begin with short warm to cold showers before full immersion
4. Never go alone: always have someone with you, especially if you’re new to ice baths
5. Keep it short and watch the temperature: limit sessions to 3–5 minutes and remember, problems can still occur after you get out
6. Recognise the signs of danger: symptoms such as shivering, numbness and confusion can all seem like part of the experience to someone bent on pushing themselves. But these can be signs of hypothermia.
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.
Michael Tipton has previously received funding from organisations working in drowning prevention and water safety. He is Chair of the UK National Water Safety Forum, hosted by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), and a member of Council of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Crédit Agricole Assurances announces the successful sale of its whole stake in FDJ United
9 July 2025 – Crédit Agricole Assurances (“CAA”) announces the successful sale, via its wholly-owned subsidiaries Predica and Crédit Agricole Assurances Retraite, of its whole FDJ United stake of 6,110,156 shares (the “Shares”), representing approximately 3.3% of the share capital of FDJ United (the “Company”). These Shares have been offered as part of an accelerated bookbuilding offering to institutional investors (the “Placement”). The transaction priced at €30.00 per share.
CAA has been a shareholder of FDJ United, an international gaming operator, since its IPO in November 2019 and has supported the Company throughout its development, including the successful recent acquisition of Kindred. CAA completed an initial sale of c. 4.1 million shares in November 2024 as part of its strategy of actively managing its investment portfolio. Upon completion of the Placement, CAA will no longer be a shareholder of the Company.
Settlement of the Placement is expected to take place on 11 July 2025.
FDJ United’s shares are listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013451333).
This press release does not constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase and the offering of the shares in FDJ United does not constitute a public offering (except to institutional investors) in any country, including in France.
Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and Morgan Stanley Europe SE acted as Global Coordinators and Bookrunners on the Placement.
About Crédit Agricole Assurances Crédit Agricole Assurances, France’s leading insurer, is Crédit Agricole group’s subsidiary, which brings together all the insurance businesses of Crédit Agricole S.A. Crédit Agricole Assurances offers a range of products and services in savings, retirement, health, personal protection and property insurance. They are distributed by Crédit Agricole’s banks in France and in 9 countries worldwide, and are aimed at individual, professional, agricultural and business customers. At the end of 2024, Crédit Agricole Assurances had more than 6,700 employees. Its 2024 premium income (non-GAAP) amounted to 43.6 billion euros. www.ca-assurances.com
This press release is for information purposes only and does not, and shall not, constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe any securities nor a solicitation to offer to purchase or to subscribe securities in any jurisdiction and does not constitute a public offer other than the offering to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including France.
The sale of FDJ United shares does not constitute a public offering other than to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including in France.
No communication and no information in respect of the sale by Crédit Agricole Assurances of FDJ shares may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction where a registration or approval is required. No steps have been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such steps would be required. The offer of sale of FDJ United shares on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances may be subject to specific legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Crédit Agricole Assurances, its shareholders and affiliates take no responsibility for any violation of any such restrictions by any person.
European Economic Area In member states of the European Economic Area, this press release is an advertisement and is not a prospectus with the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the “Prospectus Regulation”).
With respect to the member states of the European Economic Area other than France (the “Member States”), no action has been or will be taken in order to permit a public offer of the securities which would require the publication of a prospectus in one of such Member States. In Member States, this communication and any offer if made subsequently is directed exclusively at persons who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation.
France In France, the offer of FDJ United shares described in this press release will be carried out through a placement through an accelerated bookbuilding process to qualified investors only within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation and in accordance with applicable French laws and regulations. There will be no public offering in any country (including France) in connection with the shares of FDJ United, except to qualified investors only.
United Kingdom In the United Kingdom, this communication is for distribution to, and is only directed at, persons in the United Kingdom that (i) are “investment professionals” falling within article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Order”), (ii) are persons falling within article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.”) of the Order, or (iii) are located outside the United kingdom, or (iv) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Article 21 of the Order) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or cause to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “Relevant Persons”). This press release is only directed at Relevant Persons and are available only to Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person must act or rely on this document or any of its contents.
Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person shall not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.
With respect to the United Kingdom, securities may not be offered or sold absent the publication of a prospectus in the United Kingdom or an exemption from such publication under the Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended, as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal Act) 2018 (the “UK Prospectus Regulation”). As a consequence, this document is directed only at persons who are “qualified investors” as defined in point (e) of Article 2 of the UK Prospectus Regulation.
This press release is not a prospectus which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority or any other United Kingdom regulatory authority for the purpose of Section 85 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
United States This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities in the United States. Securities referred to in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent such registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. FDJ United shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act and neither Crédit Agricole Assurances, nor any of its shareholders or their respective affiliates intend to register any portion of the proposed offering in the United States or to conduct a public offering in the United States.
Australia This press release is not a prospectus or product disclosure statement under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the “Corporations Act”) and does not constitute a recommendation to acquire, an invitation to apply for, an offer to apply for or buy, an offer to arrange the issue or sale of, or an offer for issue or sale of, any securities in Australia except as set out below. Interests may only be offered, issued, sold or distributed in Australia by way of or pursuant to an offer or invitation that does not need disclosure to investors either under Part 7.9 or Part 6D.2 of the Corporations Act, whether by reason of the investor being a ‘sophisticated investor’ or ‘wholesale client’ (as defined in section 708(8) and 761G of the Corporations Act respectively) or otherwise. Nothing in this press release constitutes an offer of interests or financial product advice to a ‘retail client’ (as defined in section 761G of the Corporations Act and applicable regulations). Accordingly, this press release has not been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commissions (“ASIC”). Neither the Placement nor the contents of this press release have been approved by ASIC or any regulatory body or agency in Australia.
Canada, Japan and South Africa The FDJ United shares may not and will not be offered, sold or purchase in Canada, Japan or South Africa. The information contained in this press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in Canada, Japan or South Africa.
The release, publication or distribution of this press release generally may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession this document or other information referred to herein should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. No action has been taken to allow offer of FDJ United shares or distribution of this press release in any jurisdiction where any such action would be required. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.
Any investment decision to purchase FDJ United shares must be made solely on the basis of publicly available information regarding FDJ United. Such information is not the responsibility of Crédit Agricole Assurances and has not been independently verified by Crédit Agricole Assurances.
The global coordinators and bookrunners are acting on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances (to the exclusion of all others) in connection with the placement and will not be liable to any person other than Crédit Agricole Assurances either for warranties given to clients of the global coordinators and bookrunners or for advice in connection with the placement.
Neither the global coordinators and bookrunners nor any of its directors, officers, employees, advisors or agents accept any responsibility for, or make any representations or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this press release (or if any information has been omitted from this press release) or any other information relating to FDJ United, Crédit Agricole Assurances, their respective subsidiaries or associated companies, whether in written, oral, visual or electronic form, and however transmitted or made available, or any loss from the use of this press release or its contents or otherwise.
Distribution, publication or release of this press release are forbidden in any jurisdiction where such distribution or release would be unlawful.
Police and council achieve positive change in Glenorchy
Wednesday, 9 July 2025 – 4:08 pm.
Tasmania Police and Glenorchy City Council Mayor Sue Hickey have today championed the positive impact high-visibility policing is having in the community. At a joint media event in Glenorchy on Wednesday, Inspector Jason Klug and Ms Hickey highlighted recent police data which showed a 16 per cent reduction in total offences in the Glenorchy division over the past 12 months. There were 4578 total offences in the 2023-24 financial year, compared with 3848 total offences in the 2024-25 financial year. Youth offences in 2023-24 were 928 and fell to 731 in 2024-25, a reduction of 21 per cent. Audio and photographs from Wednesday’s media event are available here. Inspector Klug said results since the implementation of Taskforce Respect in mid-May had been particularly encouraging. “What we’ve seen in regard to calls for police assistance in the CBD is that our calls have reduced by about 40 per cent since the introduction of Taskforce Respect, so these are some really positive figures,” Inspector Klug said. “But we’re not going to take our foot off the pedal. “We’re going to continue the hard work that we’re doing. We’re going to continue working with our partners across the Glenorchy area to ensure that our community is safe, and feels safe, and enjoys the wonderful public spaces we have.” Inspector Klug said community engagement and collaboration with local business and the Glenorchy City Council was key to making a positive change. Supporting police, Ms Hickey thanked officers from Taskforce Respect and the wider police service for their work in targeting anti-social behaviour and retail crime in Glenorchy, and backed the continuation of the taskforce. Ms Hickey said the council would continue to deliver programs to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, including a youth engagement program with additional activities on offer in the school holiday period. “Seeing our youth engagement officers and police working directly with young people, whether it’s by having a game of street basketball or just being available for a quiet chat and understanding any issues they may be dealing with, is something I am particularly proud of as Mayor,” she said. “Our young people are part of our community too, and they do not deserve to be tarnished by the same brush wielded by a minority of their peers who do the wrong thing.” Ms Hickey said council youth engagement staff would be running basketball sessions in the Glenorchy CBD each day of the school holidays, with other school holiday activities available at the Moonah Arts Centre, ranging from beatboxing workshops to art programs. These activities can be accessed by visiting the Moonah Arts Centre website – www.moonahartscentre.org.au As part of the council’s ongoing collaboration with Tasmania Police, Crime Stoppers and Neighbourhood Watch, a pop-up stall focusing on community safety will be held at Northgate Shopping Centre on Thursday, from 11am to 3pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with Inspector Klug and Glenorchy Council’s Safe City Lead, Ben Hughes. If you need to report a crime, contact police on 131 444 or you can report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au CAPTIONS: Glenorchy City Council Mayor Sue Hickey and Tasmania Police Glenorchy Inspector Jason Klug, with members of Taskforce Respect, working to target anti-social behaviour and retail crime in Glenorchy. (Picture: Tasmania Police) Tasmania Police Constable Emily Griggs, from Taskforce Respect, has been working with the community to bring positive change to incidents of retail crime and anti-social behaviour in Glenorchy. (Picture: Tasmania Police)
ADHD medication shortages have persisted since 2023, with shortages of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), and are now affecting more people.
Many people with ADHD have to call multiple pharmacies to find their medication. They might be put on waiting lists to access their prescribed medications, or have to contact their doctor or their child’s doctor to get a new script for a different medication.
Some people with ADHD are switching between strengths or changing to different medicines. This can mean starting again with slow dose changes, and can result in poor symptom control and more side effects.
Some people have had to skip doses or go without medicine altogether, making it hard to concentrate, stay organised and manage emotions.
Shortages can also increase inequality. People in rural areas with fewer pharmacies, for example, have more difficulty accessing these medications.
And people with fewer financial resources are less able to access alternative medications that aren’t subsidised.
Increasing access to diagnosis and treatment
Around 8% of children and 2.5% of adults in Australia have ADHD. It makes it hard to focus, sit still, and/or control impulses. For many, medication helps manage these symptoms.
Diagnosis has often involved seeing a specialist such as psychiatrist or paediatrician.
But from September, GPs in New South Wales will be able to continue ADHD prescriptions without needing specialist approval. In 2026, GPs in South Australia and Western Australia will be able to diagnose ADHD and start treatment.
However, ongoing shortages may still stop people from getting the medicine they need.
Why are these medicines running out?
These shortages are largely due to manufacturing issues – including problems sourcing raw ingredients and production quotas in the United States.
When one brand runs out, it puts pressure on other brands. This creates a domino effect across the supply chain.
There is also increasing demand.
In 2022-2023 almost 470,000 Australians were prescribed ADHD medications. That’s four times the number from nine years earlier.
From January 2024 to May 2025, the number of prescriptions filled increased further, by 60% for dexamfetamine, 88% for methylphenidate and 140% for lisdexamfetamine.
Scripts filled for ADHD stimulants from January 2024 to May 2025. CC BY
Shortages of several strengths and brands of menthylphenidate (Concerta and Ritalin) and are expected to continue into late 2025. Both the long-acting and short-acting types are affected.
Pharmacies can’t always help
Stimulants to treat ADHD are tightly controlled. Pharmacies can only supply one-month of medicine at a time.
In some states such as NSW, paper prescriptions for tightly controlled medicines must be filled at the same pharmacy each time. So patients have not been able to get their medicine elsewhere even if it’s in stock.
In response to the methylphenidate shortages, NSW Health has allowed pharmacies to transfer paper prescriptions to other pharmacists that have stock available. This change is temporary but helpful.
This rule is different in other states such as Victoria and South Australia, where people are able to visit or call other pharmacies to see if they have stock.
However, ideally a patient will be able to build a rapport with one main pharmacy – and the pharmacy will know exactly how many regular patients they need to get stock for.
This group includes members from health professional groups and peak bodies. It will give advice to health professionals and are creating resources for patients, families and schools about the shortages and how to reduce disruptions to their or their child’s treatment.
The TGA has also recently approved the temporary use of some methylphenidate brands from overseas.
Some of these are now listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, which means they are available at a subsidised price.
The body representing physicians, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, has called for early warnings about shortages. That way, doctors can help patients change to alternatives before it’s too late.
What can you do if you can’t get a script filled?
If you’re finding it hard to get your ADHD medicine:
talk to your pharmacist. They may be able to order an overseas-registered alternative or suggest a different brand
speak with your GP, psychiatrist or your child’s paediatrician. They might adjust your or your child’s dose or suggest a different medication for their ADHD. This might mean changing to another stimulant that is available in a short- or long-acting formulation or by changing to a medicine for ADHD that is not a stimulant. Ask your physician to contact the pharmacy to see what they have in stock while you’re at your appointment
call mid-morning to see if they’ve got stock. Pharmacies are generally less busy after the morning rush
say exactly what medicine, strength and brand you are looking for. If you don’t mind which brand be sure to tell the pharmacist
keep a list of pharmacies so you don’t double up
if you live in a rural area and find that a pharmacy in a nearby town has stock, ask if they can courier the medication to you.
Jack Janetzki works for Pharmaceutical Defence Limited and The Barossa Pharmacist in the Mall (Nuriootpa, South Australia). He is a member of Pharmaceutical Defence Limited, the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and the Observational Health Data Science Informatics network.
Lisa Kalisch Ellett is president of the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association and a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
As a precondition for DGR endorsement, this Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to require a fund, authority or institution to be either:
a registered charity
an Australian Government agency
operated by a registered charity or an Australian Government agency.
Before the amendments, a majority of DGR categories required non-government organisations to be registered as charities. The amendments extended this requirement to 11 general DGR categories. This measure doesn’t apply to ancillary funds or DGRs specifically listed in the tax law.
For more information, see:
DGR registers reform
On 28 June 2023, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Refining and Improving our Tax System) Act 2023 became law.
This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to transfer administrative responsibility of 4 unique DGR categories from other government departments to the ATO.
These changes started on 1 January 2024 and repealed provisions that required each of the 4 departments to maintain a separate register.
From 1 January 2024, transitional provisions apply to those organisations that were already DGR endorsed in one of the 4 unique DGR categories before 1 January 2024. These organisations remain endorsed if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Transitional provisions also apply to those organisations that had an in-progress application with one of the 4 government departments before 1 January 2024. These applications were transferred to us from 1 January 2024.
This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 and Taxation Administration Act 1953 to establish:
2 new general DGR categories for
community charity trust
community charity corporations
a requirement for a Treasury Minister to formulate guidelines for the 2 new DGR categories.
These amendments started on 29 June 2024.
To be eligible for DGR endorsement as a community charity trust or corporation, a trust or company must, among other requirements, be specified in a ministerial declaration in force. Entities seeking to be specified in a ministerial declaration should contact Treasury at dgr@treasury.gov.au.
Originally announced by the previous government in the Budget March 2022–23 – Budget Paper No. 2: Budget MeasuresExternal Link, it was proposed that the tax law be amended to specifically list up to 28 community foundations affiliated with the peak body Community Foundations Australia. The specific listing would be time-limited for 5 years, from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2027.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carmen Lim, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow, National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, known as Ahpra, today warned health professionals they would need to put patients’ wellbeing ahead of profits.
Among its concerns were aggressive marketing strategies by clinics prescribing medicinal cannabis, and consultations lasting between a few seconds and a few minutes, before prescribing.
Such concerns have led to eight practitioners issuing more than 10,000 scripts in a six-month window, and one who appeared to have issued more than 17,000 scripts.
Ahpra’s other concerns include reports of patients with psychosis after taking medicinal cannabis, prescribing high doses, and prescribing to family members or people under 18.
However, overservicing, inappropriate prescribing and the health issues that can arise are issues we’ve known about for years.
Our research, for example, looked at multiple websites that offered medicinal cannabis in Australia. We found widespread examples of aggressive and misleading marketing. Some clinics breached regulatory guidelines. Others bent the rules.
Yet Ahpra’s latest announcement doesn’t tighten existing prescribing or marketing rules for medicinal cannabis. It just reminds doctors, nurse practitioners and pharmacists what the rules are.
What is the regulator concerned about?
According to the 2022–23 National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 3% of Australians aged 14 or over had used cannabis for medical purposes in the previous 12 months, equating to around 700,000 people.
Australians spent more than A$400 million on medicinal cannabis products in the first half of 2024 alone.
But Ahpra is concerned too many health practitioners are prescribing medicinal cannabis when a patient requests it, rather than whether this is the right product for them.
It suggests too few practitioners are assessing patients thoroughly, formulating and implementing a management plan, facilitating coordination and continuity of care, maintaining medical records, recommending treatments only where there is an identified therapeutic need, and ensuring medicinal cannabis is not a first-line treatment.
So Ahpra says it will investigate practitioners with high rates of prescribing any scheduled medicine, including medicinal cannabis, even if it has not received a complaint.
We found lots of aggressive marketing
Medicinal cannabis has been legally available in Australia since 2016. This means doctors can prescribe it for any medical condition when other approved treatments have not worked. Now patients can be prescribed medicinal cannabis as a capsule, oil or dried flower, for example, often via a website.
But when we analysing the websites of 54 private medicinal cannabis clinics in Australia, an alarming picture emerged.
We found multiple examples of websites that breached marketing rules, or skirted around them. This included making unsubstantiated health claims about the products they offered, such as they could treat anxiety, depression, or other mental health symptoms.
Websites often allowed people to assess if medicinal cannabis was for them. This self-assessment may mislead people into believing they would benefit from it, inadvertently “coaching” them on which medical conditions might warrant a prescription.
Other marketing tactics we found included promises of same-day or after-hours delivery, no GP referrals required, discounted consultation fees, and
targeted advertisements on social media.
What we’d like to see
Ahpra’s aim of safer prescribing of medicinal cannabis is welcome. But by merely repeating the rules, rather than tightening them, this doesn’t go far enough. So Ahpra has missed out on a real opportunity to safeguard patients’ health.
For instance, we’d like to see greater emphasis on banning targeted advertisements on social media for medicinal cannabis. In a study that we’ve submitted for publication, we found this a particular concern.
We found many private clinics are using ads to reach young people, including those as young as 18. One company ran more than 170 active ads this month alone across Facebook, Instagram and Threads.
Ads we’ve seen include cryptic messaging, such as “we can’t shout about it, but our patients are smiling”, paired with bright colours and wellness-themed imagery.
One pairs an Australian sports celebrity with the tagline “move differently!” and the name of the product.
Another one promises “real doctors, real care” and “fast approvals & express delivery”, with consultations at $19.
While these ads do not mention medicinal cannabis directly, the messaging is clearly designed to spark curiosity and build brand recognition, especially among younger audiences.
We’d also like to see Ahpra:
broaden its focus beyond prescribing patterns to include digital marketing and advertising practices that target young people
provide clear guidelines to medicinal cannabis clinics and prescribers on acceptable promotional practices
support stronger consequences for repeat offenders, including prescribers who continue to engage in misleading advertising after being sanctioned.
Carmen Lim receives funding from the National Medical Health Research Council (2024-2028). She has not received any funding from the alcohol, cannabis, pharmaceutical, tobacco or vaping industries.
The dollar traded close to a 2-1/2-week high versus major peers on Wednesday while copper hit an all-time peak overnight after U.S. President Donald Trump broadened his global trade war by threatening a 50% tariff on the metal.
Trump also said levies on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals were coming soon, weighing on Wall Street on Tuesday, with futures indicating further weakness there on Wednesday.
However, stock markets around the Asia-Pacific were mixed, as investors digested Trump’s latest, shifting trade salvos. Japan and South Korea are among major U.S. trading partners in the region facing an August 1 deadline to reach a trade deal or be subjected to new tariff rates, although Trump has sent mixed signals on how flexible that date is.
On Monday, Trump said it was “firm, but not 100% firm,” reinforcing the view among some in markets that the deadlines are a negotiating tactic that the U.S. president will ultimately back away from. On Tuesday though, Trump appeared to harden his stance by saying, “No extensions will be granted.”
Japan’s Nikkei edged down 0.2%, shedding early small gains. Australia’s stock index declined 0.4%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng lost 0.9%.
At the same time, mainland Chinese blue chips rose 0.2%, and South Korea’s KOSPI climbed 0.5%.
U.S. S&P 500 futures ESCv1 eased 0.1%, following a 0.1% loss for the cash index .SPX on Tuesday that extended the 0.8% drop that started the week.
“The delay in the imposition of new tariffs on some of the U.S.’s major trading partners to August 1 has simultaneously kicked the proverbial can down the road and supported the notion that the loftier tariff rates are a negotiating ploy,” Kyle Rodda, senior financial markets analyst at Capital.com, wrote in a note.
“As a result, the markets have been left hanging, and waiting for a stronger catalyst to drive the next move.”
Trump said on Tuesday that trade talks have been going well with the European Union and China, though he added he is only days away from sending a tariff letter to the EU.
Only two U.S. agreements, with Britain and Vietnam, have been reached since Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” reciprocal tariffs’ announcement roiled markets. In June, Washington and China agreed on a framework covering tariff rates.
METALS, CURRENCIES
U.S. copper futures jumped by more than 10% to a record high after Trump threatened new duties on the metal that is critical to electric vehicles, military hardware, the power grid and many consumer goods. They would join duties already in place for steel, aluminium and automobile imports.
By contrast, copper futures in London and Shanghai fell on Wednesday, as traders may not have sufficient time to ship much to the United States following Trump’s sudden tariff announcement.
Trump also threatened 200% tariffs on drug imports, which he said could be delayed by about a year.
The U.S. dollar continued its recent run of strength on Wednesday, pushing to the highest since June 20 at 147.02 Japanese yen.
The dollar index =USD, which measures the currency against the yen and five other major rivals, edged up to 97.573, after touching the highest since June 25 on Tuesday at 97.837.
The euro was steady at $1.1720 EUR=EBS, and sterling GBP=D3 was flat at $1.3585.
Gold XAU= found a floor at $3,301 per ounce, after slumping more than 1% on Tuesday.
Oil prices edged back from Tuesday’s two-week highs. Brent crude futures LCOc1 were down 20 cents at $69.95 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 fell 21 cents to $68.12 a barrel.
Legislation amended in September 2021 requires non-government deductible gift recipients (DGRs) to be a registered charity from 14 December 2021.
Charity registration is an existing requirement for the majority of general DGR categories. The amendment extends this requirement to the remaining DGR categories, except for ancillary funds or DGRs that are specifically listed in tax law.
These changes form part of the Deductible gift recipient reform announced by the government in December 2017. They are designed to improve the consistency of regulation, governance and oversight of DGRs in order to uphold community confidence and trust in the sector.
DGRs that were already endorsed on 14 December 2021, as well as certain applicants with a DGR application pending, were eligible for transitional arrangements. Transitional arrangements provided additional time to meet the new requirements and included an:
automatic 12–month general transition period, giving DGRs until 14 December 2022 to become a registered charity
additional 3–year extension in limited circumstances – this application period has now closed.
Requirements for DGR endorsement
From 14 December 2021, a requirement for DGR endorsement is that a fund, authority or institution must be one of the following:
The requirement to be a registered charity or an Australian government agency does not apply for ancillary funds or DGRs specifically listed by name in tax law. See DGR categories.
Amended DGR categories
From 14 December 2021, the following updated general DGR categories require non-government organisations to be registered as a charity:
public fund for hospitals
public fund for public ambulance services
public fund for religious instruction in government schools
Roman Catholic public fund for religious instruction in government schools
school building fund
public fund for rural school hostel building
approved research institute
public fund for persons in necessitous circumstances
fire and emergency services fund
environmental organisation
cultural organisation.
Transitional arrangements
DGRs that were already endorsed on 14 December 2021, as well as certain applicants with a DGR application pending, were eligible for transitional arrangements. Transitional arrangements provided additional time to meet the new requirements and included an:
automatic 12–month general transition period, giving DGRs until 14 December 2022 to become a registered charity
additional 3–year extension in limited circumstances.
Three-year extension
Eligible organisations had to apply for a 3–year extension before 14 December 2022 if they needed more time.
Approved organisations have up to 14 December 2025 to meet the new eligibility requirements for DGR endorsement.
Applications for DGR endorsement made after 14 December 2021
Non-government organisations that apply for DGR endorsement after 14 December 2021 must register as a charity before we will consider their endorsement application.
Registering as a charity
Before applying to be registered as a charity, refer to the ACNC website for:
To apply for charityExternal Link registration, you need to log in to the ACNC Charity Portal and complete the application.
As part of your application, you will need to provide copies of your governing documents in either a Word or PDF file format. Image files may cause issues and may delay your application.
Other changes affecting your endorsement
If your organisation has changed its main purpose, activities or governing documents, you may no longer be entitled to DGR endorsement.
The form must be completed by an authorised contact listed on the account and must specify the date of cancellation. We may contact you to discuss the cancellation request.
We will cancel your organisation’s DGR endorsement and issue a written confirmation noting the cancellation date of effect.
After DGR cancellation, your organisation will:
no longer be entitled to receive tax-deductible donations or gifts
be required to remove tax-deductible status from your organisation’s website or other materials
need to arrange for surplus income or assets to be distributed to another eligible DGR.
Revocation of DGRs ineligible for endorsement
To maintain DGR endorsement, affected entities had to, before 14 December 2022, either:
register as a charity
be an Australian government agency
be operated by a registered charity or an Australian government agency.
If you didn’t register as a charity, or were not granted a 3–year extension, your DGR endorsement has been revoked. If revoked, your organisation is:
no longer entitled to receive tax-deductible donations or gifts
required to remove tax-deductible status from their website or other materials
required to distribute surplus gifts and donations to an eligible DGR.
If your DGR endorsement was revoked and you are dissatisfied with our decision, you can lodge an objection.
Next steps
Check your organisation’s continued eligibility to be endorsed as a DGR, by completing a review of your DGR endorsement.
If your DGR endorsement was revoked, you must register as a charity with the ACNC before re-applying for your endorsement. The ACNC page, Start a charityExternal Link, has useful information for charities.
If you have any questions about DGR endorsement, phone us on 1300 130 248 between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Predatory fish that evolved into the first terrestrial animals on Earth are still revealing insights into the origins of mammals – including new research into the eating habits of lobe-finned fish which inhabited an ancient reef in Australia.
In new research in iScience journal, an international study led by Flinders University reveals new insights into the lives of 380-million-year-old lungfish after a high-tech examination of ‘remarkable’ well-preserved jawbones found in the remote Gogo fossil field in northern Western Australia.
The 3D finite element model (FEM) analysis of the strength and features of fossilised mandible bones was used to evaluate how multiple species co-existed in the tropical prehistoric ecosystem during the Devonian ‘Age of Fishes’.
Dr Alice Clement, corresponding author of the new study, says lungfish are ‘sister taxa’ to the tetrapods – or all four-limbed animals with a backbone, including humans – “which means they are our closest ‘fishy’ relatives”.
“They have an extensive fossil history stretching back over 400 million years and still with living representatives today and their phylogenetic proximity to tetrapods giving insight into our long distant ancestors who first made the move from water to land,” she says.
The exceptional Gogo Formation has so far yielded the greatest diversity of lungfishes known from any time or space – with 11 described showing a remarkable diversity of morphologies, particular relating to skull and jaw shape.
Now for the first time the different biomechanical function has been reconstructed – to highlight the diet and predatory powers of the mysterious fish.
“We’re slowly teasing apart the details of how the bodies and lifestyles of these animals changed, as they moved from being fish that lived in water, to becoming tetrapods that moved about on land,” says Dr Clement.
With Australian and overseas colleagues, the Flinders team included honours palaeontology researcher Joshua Bland, Dr Clement, Professor John Long and biomedical experts in the US including Dr Olga Panagiotopoulou.
“Our comprehensive dataset offers the most detailed quantification of biting performance in any fossil fish thus far, providing biomechanical evidence for diverse feeding adaptations and niche partitioning within Gogo lungfishes,” says Dr Panagiotopoulou, from Touro University California.
Based on CT scans of exceptionally-preserved 3D fossils, seven taxa were examined to quantify shape disparity, with FEM used on five which were preserved with associated crania and lower jaws.
“We were then able to model the stress and strain experienced by these lower jaws during biting,” she says
The 3D virtual models are all available via Morphosource.
Strategic Professor of Palaeontology John Long says the new study features important information about the specialised way ‘gracile’ or ‘robust’ morphology and dentition of their jawbones allowed these fascinating fish to hunt, bite and eat.
“The results were somewhat surprising, with some ‘robust’-looking lower jaws appearing to not be all that well suited to biting stress, and some of the more gracile or slender jaws appeared to be able to with strand stress and strain very well,” says Professor Long, who previously described the slender long-snouted Griphognathus whitei (or ‘duck-billed’ lungfish) from the Gogo Formation area.
“This diversity of biomechanical function seen in the Gogo lungfishes suggest that there was niche partitioning and tropic differentiation among lungfishes, possibly accounting for their incredibly high species diversity at this site.”
Primitive forms of placoderm and other fish were the dominant predators around the world for about 60 million years before becoming extinct. Some fossil samples of lobe-finned fish found 50-100 years ago can now be studied in more detail with new techniques such as FEM, which is often used in engineering research.
Lead author, Flinders Palaeontology Lab researcher Joshua Bland, adds: “The Late Devonian reefs of the Gogo Formation were a truly unique lungfish community with species possessing a whole host of different behaviours and abilities.
“To capture parts of that story, hidden in the bone, was extremely rewarding. It felt like we lifted the veil on some real functions behind the form. It was impressive to see the more complex morphology perform better in our tests,” he says.
The latest research article – ‘Comparison of diverse mandibular mechanics during biting in Devonian lungfishes’ (2025) by Joshua Bland (Flinders University), Hugo Dutel (University of Bristol & Université de Bordeaux), John A Long (Flinders), Matteo Fabbri (Center of Functional Anatomy and Evolution, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, US), Joseph Bevitt (Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering, ANSTO), Kate Trinajstic (Curtin University & WA Museum), Olga Panagiotopoulou (Touro University California) and Alice M Clement (Flinders) – has been published in iScience. DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.112970
This work was funded by the Australian Research Council grant DP 220100825.
Acknowledgements: Researchers thank the Gooniyandi Peoples, the local station managers of Gogo and Mt Pierre Stations, those who facilitated specimen and museum collection access and the facilities and the scientific and technical assistance from multiple organisations and individuals.
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Samantha Chan, Immunology and Allergy Lead, Snow Centre for Immune Health, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)
As the number of people with allergies grows worldwide, scientists are trying to work out precisely how and why these conditions – such as asthma and eczema – develop.
One long-standing idea is the “hygiene hypothesis”. This suggests our modern indoor lifestyles are to blame, as they limit our early exposure to germs and allergens which help train the immune system.
But growing evidence suggests having a pet may counter this effect. As any pet owner knows, our furry friends bring a lot of mess, germs and fur into our homes – along with the cuddles.
So, does spending time with animals lower children’s risk of allergies? Here’s what we know.
How allergies develop
During early childhood, our immune systems learn what to attack and what to ignore to stop us getting sick.
Evidence suggests early exposure – to family members, food, germs, dust, dirt, pollen and pet dander (skin flakes) – shapes this immune response.
Allergic conditions develop when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, such as dust, pollen or certain foods. These reactions can affect the skin, airways and gut.
Dogs bring both love and mess – which might be just what a developing immune system needs. Samantha Chan/Author provided, CC BY-NC-ND
However, we still don’t fully understand why some people develop allergies while others don’t.
Scientists have identified genes linked to allergic conditions. But most have subtle effects on the immune system and act as “risk factors” – they increase the chance of disease but don’t cause it outright.
Recent research suggests exposure to bacteria in our environment could be another major factor.
From birth, our bodies are colonised by bacteria, especially in the gut. This community of microorganisms is known as the microbiome.
Ongoing “crosstalk” between the microbiome and immune system is crucial for healthy immune function. When this balance is disturbed, it can contribute to inflammation and disease.
The effect of our early environment
In the last few decades, studies of children raised on farms gave us some of the first clues that early environments can affect allergy risk.
Compared to children raised in cities, children on farms are less likely to have allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma. This is especially true of those in close contact with animals.
Notably, farm-raised children tend to develop a more diverse microbiome than children raised in urban environments. This may help make their immune system more tolerant to foreign substances (such as bacteria and dirt) and less likely to develop allergies.
However, across the world children are increasingly living in urban areas.
This means a pet may be the closest contact they have with animals. So, does this still lower their risk of developing allergies?
Some studies indicate children with pets may be less likely to have allergies.
However this evidence hasn’t always been easy to interpret.
It can be difficult to tell whether lower allergy rates are due to the pets themselves or other factors, such as location, lifestyle or a family history of allergies.
A review of results from 23 studies found children exposed to dogs early in life were significantly less likely to develop eczema.
Another 2025 study analysed genetic data from more than 270,000 people. It found a gene linked to eczema only increased risk of eczema in children who hadn’t been exposed to dogs.
This suggests early dog exposure may help protect children who are genetically more likely to develop eczema.
What about asthma?
When it comes to asthma, the story gets trickier.
One 2001 study followed more than 1,000 children in the United States from birth to age 13. It found those living with dogs indoors were less likely to develop frequent wheezing – a common asthma symptom – but only if they didn’t have a family history of asthma.
A Korean study from 2021 found those who had dogs during childhood were less likely to develop allergies. But they had a slightly higher risk of non-allergic wheeze — a type of breathing difficulty usually caused by airway irritation or infections (not allergens).
This suggests while growing up with a dog may protect against allergic conditions, such as asthma, it may increase the chance of certain non-allergic respiratory symptoms.
What about cats?
It’s challenging to tease apart the specific effects of cats versus dogs, since many early studies grouped all furry pets together.
But in studies that have looked at them separately, living with cats didn’t seem to reduce allergy risk.
One potential reason is cats and dogs carry very different microbes, which may influence how they shape the household environment.
If you’re already thinking about getting a dog, there’s decent evidence early exposure could reduce your child’s risk of eczema, and possibly other allergic conditions too.
It’s not a guarantee, but a potential bonus – alongside companionship, joy and never having to worry about what to do with leftovers.
And if a dog’s not on the cards, don’t worry. Spending time outdoors, encouraging messy play, and avoiding overuse of disinfectants can all help build a more resilient immune response.
Samantha Chan has served on advisory boards for CSL Behring. She is in receipt of funding from the Allergy and Immunology Foundation Australia and Walter & Eliza Hall Institute. She is affiliated with the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. She is a physician for the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.
In the past five years, Jo Douglass has served on advisory boards, provided advice or undertaken presentations on behalf of Astra-Zeneca P/L, GSK, CSL, Stallergenes, Immunosis P/L , Novartis and Sanofi. She is in receipt of funding from the Medical Research Future Fund for studies in allergic asthma. She is a clinical co-director of the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.
Imagine your friend hasn’t replied to a message in a few hours. Most people might think, “they are probably just busy”.
But someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might spiral into a flood of thoughts like, “they must hate me!” or “I’ve ruined the friendship!”
These intense emotional reactions to real or imagined rejection are part of what’s called rejection sensitive dysphoria.
The term isn’t a formal diagnosis, but it’s gaining traction in both research and clinical work, especially among adults seeking to understand themselves better.
So, what is rejection sensitive dysphoria, how does it relate to ADHD, and how can we handle it with more compassion?
It’s more than just disliking criticism
Everyone feels hurt when they’re criticised or left out. But rejection sensitivity dysphoria isn’t just about “not liking” feedback. The word dysphoria refers to intense emotional distress.
People with rejection sensitivity dysphoria describe overwhelming reactions to perceived rejection, even if no one actually said or did anything cruel.
A passing comment such as “I thought you were going to do it this way” can trigger feelings of shame, embarrassment or self-doubt.
The emotional pain often feels immediate and consuming, leading some people to withdraw, over-apologise or lash out to protect themselves.
The ADHD brain and emotional hypersensitivity
ADHD is often associated with attention or impulsivity, but one major (and often overlooked) component is emotional dysregulation: difficulty managing and recovering from strong emotional responses.
This isn’t a character flaw; it’s a neurological difference. Brain imaging studies show people with ADHD tend to have differences in how their amygdala (the brain’s emotional alarm system) and prefrontal cortex (which regulates impulses and emotions) work together.
The amygdala is the brain’s emotional alarm system. The prefrontal cortex regulates emotions. chaiyo12/Shutterstock
The result? Emotional experiences hit harder and take longer to settle.
A 2018 study highlights this imbalance in emotional control circuits in people with ADHD, explaining why intense feelings can seem to “take over” before logical thinking kicks in.
What does the research say?
Recent research from 2024 reports a strong link between ADHD symptoms and rejection sensitivity. It found students with higher ADHD symptom levels also reported significantly more rejection sensitivity, including a heightened fear of being negatively evaluated or criticised.
Further evidence comes from a 2018 study which showed adolescents with ADHD symptoms were far more sensitive to peer feedback than their peers. Their brain activity revealed they were more emotionally reactive to both praise and criticism, suggesting they may perceive neutral social cues as emotionally charged.
This reflects what I see daily in my clinic. One 13-year-old boy I work with is creative, empathetic and full of potential, yet social anxiety tied to a deep fear of rejection often holds him back. He once told me, “if I say no, they won’t like me anymore”. That fear drives him to go along with things he later regrets, simply to keep the peace and avoid losing connection.
This constant social hypervigilance is mentally draining. Without support, it can spiral into shame, low confidence and ongoing mental health struggles.
Adults with ADHD aren’t immune either. A 2022 study explored how adults with ADHD experience criticism and found many linked it to persistent feelings of failure, low self-worth and emotional reactivity – even when the criticism was constructive or mild.
One client I support – a high-achieving professional diagnosed in her 50s – described learning about rejection sensitive dysphoria as “finding the missing piece of the puzzle”.
Despite consistently excelling in every role, she had long felt anxious about how she was perceived by colleagues. When she received a minor, formal complaint at work, she spiralled into intense self-doubt and shame.
Instead of brushing it off, she thought: “I’m too much”. This belief
had been silently reinforced for years by her emotional sensitivity to feedback.
What helps?
If you experience rejection sensitivity dysphoria, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.
Here are some tools that may help:
name it. Saying to yourself, “This feels like rejection sensitivity,” can give you distance from the emotional flood
pause before reacting. Taking slow breaths, counting backwards, or stepping outside are simple grounding strategies that help calm the body’s stress response and restore balance to your nervous system. Research shows slowing your breath and grounding your senses can help shift your body out of fight-or-flight mode, supporting clearer thinking and emotional regulation
challenge the story. Ask yourself, “What else could be true?” or “How would I speak to a friend feeling this way?”
consider therapy. Working with a psychologist who understands ADHD and rejection sensitivity dysphoria can help untangle these reactions and develop healthy, self-compassionate responses. The Australian Psychological Society has a Find a Psychologist service: you can search by location, areas of expertise (such as anxiety, ADHD, trauma) and the type of therapy you’re interested in
start early with kids. Helping children with ADHD learn emotional language, boundary-setting and resilience can prevent rejection sensitivity from becoming overwhelming. For parents, resources such as Raising Children Network and books like The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson offer practical ways to teach these skills at home
communicate gently. If you work or live with someone who has ADHD, try to give feedback clearly and kindly. Avoid sarcasm or vague phrasing. A little extra clarity can go a long way.
Rejection sensitivity dysphoria isn’t about being fragile or “weak”. It’s about how the ADHD brain processes emotional and social cues. With insight, tools and support, these experiences can become manageable.
Victoria Barclay-Timmis is a clinical psychologist and works in private practice.
To love and be loved is something most people want in their lives.
In the modern world, we often see stories about the difficulties of finding love and the trials of dating and marriage. Sometimes, the person we love doesn’t love us. Sometimes, we don’t love the person who loves us.
Ancient Greeks and Romans also had a lot to say about this subject. In fact, most of the issues people face today in their search for love are already mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman literature.
So, what did they say? And is the advice they put forward still relevant for modern people?
Advice for finding a lover
The Roman poet Ovid (43BCE–17CE) wrote a poem called The Art of Love (Ars Amatoria). In it, he offered advice for those who are still single.
First, Ovid says, you should make an effort to find someone you’re interested in. Your lover “will not come floating down to you through the tenuous air, she must be sought”.
As suitable places to find a lover, Ovid recommends walking in porticos and gardens, attending the theatre, or (surprisingly enough) lingering near law courts.
You need to catch someone’s eye and then invent an excuse to talk with them, he says.
Seek your lover in the daytime, says Ovid. Be careful of the night. You won’t choose the right person if you’re drunk. And you can’t see their face properly if it’s too dark – they might be uglier than you think.
Second, Ovid says you need to look presentable. Make sure your clothes are clean and you have a good haircut. Moreover, keep yourself groomed properly at all times:
Do not let your nails project, and let them be free of dirt; nor let any hair be in the hollow of your nostrils. Let not the breath of your mouth be sour and unpleasing.
Ovid’s The Art of Love may be regarded as a kind of love manual. But aside from making personal efforts to find a lover, people could also use matchmakers.
However, matchmaking was a difficult process. Sometimes matchmakers didn’t tell the truth about the situations of the parties involved. So the Athenian writer Xenophon (430–353 BCE) says people were sometimes “victims of deception” in the matchmaking process.
What if you’re not in love?
The ancients recognised that not being in love can be a problem. They thought it bad for your mental and physical health, but also for society more broadly.
For example, the Roman writer Claudius Aelian (2nd–3rd century CE) in his Historical Miscellany says soldiers who are in love will fight better than soldiers who are not in love:
In the heat of battle when war brings men into combat, a man who is not in love could not match one who is. The man untouched by love avoids and runs away from the man who loves, as if he were an outsider uninitiated into the god’s rites, and his bravery depends on his character and physical strength.
According to Aelian, the Spartans had a punishment for men who did not fall in love:
Any man of good appearance and character who did not fall in love with someone well-bred was also fined, because despite his excellence he did not love anyone […] lovers’ affection for their beloved has a remarkable power of stimulating the virtues.
So, when two people are in love, they can inspire each other and bring out the best in one another. Being in love can help a person become better and achieve more.
Fighting for and keeping a lover
If we are lucky, the person we love will also love us back, and we won’t have any love rivals.
But what happens when the person we love is also loved by someone else? We may need to put in more effort to win the affection of that person, but sometimes this brings us into conflicts.
For example, the Roman orator and politician Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 BCE), in his On the Orator, tells how Gaius Memmius, Roman tribune of the year 111 BCE, apparently took a bite out of his love rival’s arm, “when he had a quarrel with him at Tarracina over a girlfriend”.
Some ways to keep one’s lover interested that are mentioned in ancient sources include showing off one’s wealth.
For example, in one of the plays of the poet Alexis (375–275 BCE) a young man who is in love puts on a large banquet to impress his girlfriend with a display of wealth. Engagements were at that time sometimes cancelled if it turned out the husband was too poor.
Of course, things did not always work out, and people had grievances against former lovers. One particularly famous invective was from the poet Martial (38–104 CE) to a woman called Manneia:
Manneia, your little dog licks your face and lips. Small wonder that a dog likes eating dung!
Timeless concerns
Today, we often see debates about whether it’s better to stay single or get into a relationship.
The same goes for antiquity. In the 4th-century BCE play Arrephoros or The Pipe Girl by poet Menander, one character says:
If you’ve got any sense, you won’t get married […] I’m married myself – which is why I’m advising you not to do it.
Others lamented that they missed their opportunity for love. So the poet Pindar (6th–5th century BCE) wrote a poem regretting that he could not make the much younger Theoxenus his boyfriend:
You should have picked love’s flowers at the right time, my heart, when you were young. But as for the sparkling rays from Theoxenus’ eyes, whoever looks on them and is not roiled with longing has a black heart forged with cold fire out of steel or iron.
Clearly, finding a lover was as difficult then as it is now.
Konstantine Panegyres 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.
Reunited twins Esther (left) and ShuangjieBarbara Demick
At the end of a long road trip through rural China in 2009, American journalist Barbara Demick had an encounter that would change the course of her life. In the previous days, she had interviewed several parents whose children had been forcibly removed from them by government officials. Demick suspected there may be a link between the missing children and China’s booming international adoption industry.
She had enough for her story, but some instinct compelled her to follow the next lead to remote Gaofeng Village, high in the mountains of Hunan Province.
Her driver could only take her so far. The dirt road ended at a stream, where she was met by local woman Zanhua Zeng and her daughter Shuangjie. They guided her across a makeshift bridge and into the village where “everything was in the process of falling down or going up”.
Zanhua Zeng and daughter Shuangjie, meeting Barbara Demick in a moment that would change all their lives. Barbara Demick
There, she learnt about two-year-old Fangfang, daughter of Zanhua and twin sister of Shuangjie, violently taken from her aunt’s care in 2002. Government officials had told the family they were in breach of China’s One Child Policy and were not allowed to keep the baby. They had no idea what had happened to their daughter and sister.
Zanhua’s parting words were: “Come back again and next time bring my daughter.”
Review: Daughters of the Bamboo Grove: From China to America, A True Story of Abduction, Adoption, and Separated Twins – Barbara Demick (Text)
Extraordinary consequences
At the time, Demick had no premonition of the significance the Zeng family and their story would play in her life – and those of many others. But in writing a front-page report for the Los Angeles Times about the links between China’s stolen children and international adoptions, including a small piece about the missing twin Fangfang, she started a chain of events with extraordinary consequences.
Fangfang (renamed Esther), in the referral photo supplied by the orphanage.
For Zanhua and Shuangjie, it would eventually lead to a reunion with Fangfang, accompanied by Demick, who helped organise it. She was to develop an enduring connection with the family – and with Fangfang’s adoptive American family, too.
Daughters of the Bamboo Grove does what the best stories do: humanises a big issue. In this case, China’s one child policy and the international adoption industry it created.
Demick’s book is a story of China, and of incomprehensible government control. But as told through this case of the separated twins, it’s also a story of family, identity, loss and resilience.
It’s personal and moving, but also thoroughly researched, strengthened with compelling and confronting statistics and anecdotes.
The twins’ meeting as young women was documented by Barbara Demick for the Los Angeles Times.
Demick outlines the population growth that led to the introduction of the One Child Policy in 1979 and the rise of the State Family Planning Commission, set up to enforce the law limiting most Chinese families to one child.
“Family Planning morphed into a monstrous organization that dwarfed the police and military in manpower,” she writes. “By the 1990s, it was estimated that eighty-three million Chinese worked at least part-time for Family Planning.” (By comparison, China’s combined armed forces were estimated to number roughly three million at the time.)
The organisation was “intrusive in the extreme”, with female workers having to report when they had their periods and, in some cases, show their blood-stained sanitary pads. After giving birth to their first child, women were forced to have an IUD or were sterilised.
People who violated the law received fines of two to six times their annual income. If violators were civil servants, they could lose their jobs. In rural areas, where people were less reliant on government jobs, the policy was implemented with “brute force”.
People were beaten. Sometimes their homes were demolished or set on fire. “If you violate the policy, your family will be destroyed,” read a sign on a wall not far from the Zeng’s home. Family Planning officials regularly checked even the most remote villages, sometimes tipped off by neighbours.
If a woman was discovered to be pregnant after having a child, she would be forced to undergo an abortion. The methods were “crude, often barbaric,” Demick writes. “Doctors would sometimes induce labor and then kill the baby with an injection of formaldehyde into the cranium before the feet emerged.”
Although Chinese people, particularly those from rural communities, often wanted to have bigger families, they had no power to fight the authorities. Those who tried to quietly subvert the system were ruthlessly punished.
These practices were so common, they were generally accepted. But when government officials started to take babies from families who had defied the policy, resistance grew. Other families started reporting cases like what had happened to Fangfang. Family Planning had forcibly removed children, refusing to provide any details about their whereabouts.
Officials miscalculated in 2005 when they dared to take a boy, Demick writes. He lived in a town, attended school and was not as poor as some of the other affected families. The school made a complaint, which was supported by a local politician. The boy was returned to his family after 29 days.
Hearing about this case emboldened other families to mobilise and fight back. These were among the first families Demick met when she travelled to cover the story of the missing children in 2009.
Child trafficking by ‘good Samaritans’
In the meantime, news was starting to emerge about the child trafficking of children through Chinese orphanages, with “good Samaritans” who “rescued” babies being paid increasingly large amounts of money. “The orphanages were competing with one another to procure babies,” Demick writes.
Chinese babies were in high demand for international adoption, and it had become a lucrative business. One Hunan orphanage director later told police they started a service to allow foreigners to adopt babies in 2001; they were charged a US$3,000 cash donation per baby. In some cases, the babies genuinely needed homes and families, Demick writes, but the payment was “in effect a bounty that incentivised a wave of kidnapping of female babies and toddlers”.
Shaoyang Social Welfare Institute, where Esther spent the last six months of her life in China. Barbara Demick
It gradually became clear that many of the children removed by Family Planning officials were among the wave of Chinese babies and toddlers adopted by families from other countries, all of whom paid significant fees to do so, as well as donating to the orphanages. It was later revealed that orphanages routinely fabricated information about how and where the babies had been reportedly left.
By the time Demick’s reports were published in 2009, nearly 100,000 babies had been sent out of China, more than half to the US. The worldwide number would reach 160,000 by 2024, when China ended its international adoption program.
Demick’s story about stolen babies, plus other reports from within China and elsewhere, stunned the international adoption community and parents of Chinese adoptees around the world. Until then, China was perceived to be the most ethical choice for international adoption. For adoptive parents who now feared their adopted children could be taken from them, the revelations were terrifying, Demick says.
Marsha and Esther (background) in their Texas kitchen. Barbara Demick
One of these parents was a Texan women named Marsha. She and her husband Al had adopted two Chinese girls: Victoria in 1999 and Esther in 2002. Through developing connections among families who had adopted from China, Demick came across Marsha – and realised Esther may be Fangfang: the missing twin.
She was correct. However, the story was far from resolved, which explains, in part, why Demick had plenty of material for her book.
Reporter as dogged detective
Daughters of the Bamboo Grove is a testament to dogged reporting. Demick’s skills as a researcher, interviewer – and effectively, a detective – imbue the book with substance and credibility.
She handles difficult subject matter sensitively, portraying the Zeng family in China and adoptive mother Marsha in the US with empathy. She acknowledges the challenges they faced and recognises their devotion to their children.
Her descriptions of the twin sisters, Shuangjie and Esther, are perceptive and gentle. Restraint is a powerful writing tool and Demick uses it here to great effect.
This is the moment where the twins first meet, outside the Zeng family home in China:
When everybody was out of the van, the two of them stood next to each other, side by side, facing the photographer. Nobody embraced. Nobody spoke. I imagined the twins as bride and groom in an arranged marriage, meeting for the first time, willing to pose for the photographer but not yet able to engage in conversation.
Twins Esther (left) and Shaungjie, separated most of their lives, meet for the first time since babyhood. Barbara Demick
Demick came to this story with the perspectives and limitations of an American journalist, but has gone to remarkable lengths to hear and convey the voices of Chinese people impacted by the One Child Policy.
At the same time, she challenges Western paternalistic ideas around adoption, questioning the view expressed by many she encounters that the Chinese children adopted by Westerners were lucky, guaranteed to have better lives elsewhere.
China’s One Child Policy was not formally abolished until 2015. In its 35 years, it did almost unimaginable damage, concludes Demick:
the policy shattered marriages, led to the deaths of countless children and suicides of parents, and left China with a population expected to continue declining into the next century. It was all encompassing, leaving almost everyone a victim or perpetrator or both.
For the hundreds of thousands of children sent out of China during this period, the legacy of One Child endures. As Demick writes, they are
citizens of their adopted countries but tethered by blood to another family and country they struggle to comprehend. Living in this in-between space between worlds.
In dedicating Daughters of the Bamboo Grove to Chinese adoptees around the world, Demick says she hopes in some small way it helps them to understand where they came from, and how they got to where they are today.
Kathryn Shine 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.
As tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems become part of everyday workflows, more companies are looking for employees who can answer “yes” to this question. In other words, people who can prompt effectively, think with AI, and use it to boost productivity.
In fact, in a growing number of roles, being “AI fluent” is quickly becoming as important as being proficient in office software once was.
But we’ve all had that moment when we’ve asked an AI chatbot a question and received what feels like the most generic, surface level answer. The problem isn’t the AI – you just haven’t given it enough to work with.
Think of it this way. During training, the AI will have “read” virtually everything on the internet. But because it makes predictions, it will give you the most probable, most common response. Without specific guidance, it’s like walking into a restaurant and asking for something good. You’ll likely get the chicken.
Your solution lies in understanding that AI systems excel at adapting to context, but you have to provide it. So how exactly do you do that?
Crafting better prompts
You may have heard the term “prompt engineering”. It might sound like you need to design some kind of technical script to get results.
To get the most out of your AI conversations, it’s important that you convey a few basics about what you want, and how you want it. Our approach follows the acronym CATS – context, angle, task and style.
Context means providing the setting and background information the AI needs. Instead of asking “How do I write a proposal?” try “I’m a nonprofit director writing a grant proposal to a foundation that funds environmental education programs for urban schools”. Upload relevant documents, explain your constraints, and describe your specific situation.
Angle (or attitude) leverages AI’s strength in role-playing and perspective-taking. Rather than getting a neutral response, specify the attitude you want. For example, “Act as a critical peer reviewer and identify weaknesses in my argument” or “Take the perspective of a supportive mentor helping me improve this draft”.
Task is specifically about what you actually want the AI to do. “Help me with my presentation” is vague. But “Give me three ways to make my opening slide more engaging for an audience of small business owners” is actionable.
Style harnesses AI’s ability to adapt to different formats and audiences. Specify whether you want a formal report, a casual email, bullet points for executives, or an explanation suitable for teenagers. Tell the AI what voice you want to use – for example, a formal academic style, technical, engaging or conversational.
In a growing number of roles, being able to use AI is quickly becoming as important as being proficient in office software once was. Shutterstock
Context is everything
Besides crafting a clear, effective prompt, you can also focus on managing the surrounding information – that is to say on “context engineering”. Context engineering refers to everything that surrounds the prompt.
That means thinking about the environment and information the AI has access to: its memory function, instructions leading up to the task, prior conversation history, documents you upload, or examples of what good output looks like.
You should think about prompting as a conversation. If you’re not happy with the first response, push for more, ask for changes, or provide more clarifying information.
Don’t expect the AI to give a ready-made response. Instead, use it to trigger your own thinking. If you feel the AI has produced a lot of good material but you get stuck, copy the best parts into a fresh session and ask it to summarise and continue from there.
Always retain your professional distance and remind yourself that you are the only thinking part in this relationship. And always make sure to check the accuracy of anything an AI produces – errors are increasingly common.
AI systems are remarkably capable, but they need you – and human intelligence – to bridge the gap between their vast generic knowledge and your particular situation. Give them enough context to work with, and they might surprise you with how helpful they can be.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
In June, a Traditional Owner cultural burn took place at Ryans Lagoon, 20 minutes outside of Wodonga on Duduroa Country.
The burn, undertaken by Duduroa Dhargal Aboriginal Corporation (DDAC) and supported by both CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), was part of an ongoing project to restore Country at the wetland site.
CFA Cultural Heritage Advisor, Michael Sherwen, oversaw the burn for CFA alongside his Vegetation Management team members.
“The wetland has been quite degraded with weeds and biomass accumulation over time. So, the objective of the burn was to reduce that mass and give opportunities for native species to come through.” Michael said.
The restoration of Ryans Lagoon is part of a bigger body of work being done by CFA through the Safer Together approach, which facilitates greater engagement with Traditional Owners.
“It’s been a great opportunity to work collaboratively with the Fire Management sector. But more importantly, working at that grassroots level and enabling Traditional Owners and custodians to apply fire to Country,” Michael said.
“That’s the most important outcome, is having that bottom-up approach.”
Beau Murray, a Water Officer at DDAC, spoke about the impact of the partnership.
“Having the Aunt and Uncles partner with CFA and FFMVic for so long, it’s been a really positive partnership. To have their support with cultural burns, it just works really well.” Beau said.
The recent burn is the third that DDAC have carried out at Ryans Lagoon, and the positive impacts of traditional land management are already prominent.
“It’s been turned from what was previously just a cow paddock into the reserve that it is now. To see that the site is being looked after, after being degraded for so long, it’s really great,” Beau said.
LIMASSOL, Cyprus, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WeTrade Group, a leading global financial broker, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a licence from the ASIC for its Australian entity, WeTrade Capital (Australia) Pty Ltd (Licence No. 544624). This licence is a key part of WeTrade’s plan to grow in Asia-Pacific and operate with strong regulatory oversight.
Trusted Trading, Backed by Australian Regulation
The ASIC licence enables WeTrade to provide regulated financial services in Australia, one of the world’s most respected and well-regulated financial markets. This move follows WeTrade’s recent expansion into Europe and demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering secure and transparent trading experiences globally.
A Word from WeTrade’s CEO: Why This Matters
“We are proud to add another prestigious licence to our growing global portfolio. Securing the ASIC licence not only reinforces our reputation as a trusted, multi-asset broker, but also enables us to offer enhanced protection and regulated financial services to more clients worldwide,” said George Miltiadou, CEO of WeTrade.
For clients, this matters because regulation by ASIC, one of the world’s most respected financial authorities, means greater trust and accountability. It assures traders that WeTrade operates under strict Australian financial laws, with transparent practices and strong safeguards in place to protect client funds.
In an industry where trust is everything, being regulated helps clients trade with greater confidence, knowing they are working with a broker that meets the highest standards of compliance and integrity.
In Trust We Trade – Strengthening Global Presence
This latest authorisation expands WeTrade’s international regulatory footprint and positions the Group to pursue new opportunities in Australia and surrounding markets. It also underscores the Group’s focus on operating under the supervision of respected regulatory bodies around the world.
As WeTrade expands its global reach, the focus remains clear: build a safer, more transparent, and more rewarding trading experience for clients everywhere.
About WeTrade
WeTrade is a globally recognised financial broker, founded in 2015, offering innovative online trading services across a diverse range of CFD instruments. Known for its strong client protection, ultra-low spreads, and award-winning loyalty programs, WeTrade is dedicated to making trading both successful and rewarding.
Disclaimer: This press release is provided by WeTrade. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
LIMASSOL, Cyprus, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WeTrade Group, a leading global financial broker, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a licence from the ASIC for its Australian entity, WeTrade Capital (Australia) Pty Ltd (Licence No. 544624). This licence is a key part of WeTrade’s plan to grow in Asia-Pacific and operate with strong regulatory oversight.
Trusted Trading, Backed by Australian Regulation
The ASIC licence enables WeTrade to provide regulated financial services in Australia, one of the world’s most respected and well-regulated financial markets. This move follows WeTrade’s recent expansion into Europe and demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering secure and transparent trading experiences globally.
A Word from WeTrade’s CEO: Why This Matters
“We are proud to add another prestigious licence to our growing global portfolio. Securing the ASIC licence not only reinforces our reputation as a trusted, multi-asset broker, but also enables us to offer enhanced protection and regulated financial services to more clients worldwide,” said George Miltiadou, CEO of WeTrade.
For clients, this matters because regulation by ASIC, one of the world’s most respected financial authorities, means greater trust and accountability. It assures traders that WeTrade operates under strict Australian financial laws, with transparent practices and strong safeguards in place to protect client funds.
In an industry where trust is everything, being regulated helps clients trade with greater confidence, knowing they are working with a broker that meets the highest standards of compliance and integrity.
In Trust We Trade – Strengthening Global Presence
This latest authorisation expands WeTrade’s international regulatory footprint and positions the Group to pursue new opportunities in Australia and surrounding markets. It also underscores the Group’s focus on operating under the supervision of respected regulatory bodies around the world.
As WeTrade expands its global reach, the focus remains clear: build a safer, more transparent, and more rewarding trading experience for clients everywhere.
About WeTrade
WeTrade is a globally recognised financial broker, founded in 2015, offering innovative online trading services across a diverse range of CFD instruments. Known for its strong client protection, ultra-low spreads, and award-winning loyalty programs, WeTrade is dedicated to making trading both successful and rewarding.
Disclaimer: This press release is provided by WeTrade. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
The offer pops up in your social media feed. The website is professional and the imagery illustrates an Australian coastal region, or chic inner-CBD scene.
The brand name indicates this exclusive fashion retailer is based in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, or an exclusive enclave such as Double Bay or Byron Bay.
The businesses have history, having apparently been “established” 30–40 years ago, and a story. The owners have reluctantly decided to close or relocate, resulting in significant discounts.
However, behind the illusion of prestige and luxury, is cheap, poorly manufactured clothing from Chinese factories.
The ACCC’s Targeting Scams report estimated Australians lost A$2.74 billion in 2023. Most losses were from investment scams ($1.3 billion), remote access scams ($256 million), and romance scams ($201.1 million).
However, online ghost store scams are so new, researchers and government agencies have not yet had time to measure the financial impact these businesses are having on consumers or legitimate fashion businesses.
It is possible a consumer, once stung by a ghost store scam, will be less likely to shop with a legitimate online fashion retailer.
This type of emerging scam was touched on in a 2015 report called Framework for a Taxonomy of Fraud. The report noted there were businesses selling “worthless or non-existent products”. Their sites made:
misleading claims about products that are exaggerated, undervalued, or non-existent.
Since the beginning of 2025, the ACCC reports it has received at least 360 complaints about 60 online ghost retailers. It says many more may be operating across several social media sites.
Tricky tactics
Ghost stores use a variety of tactics to attract unsuspecting customers.
Price: Customers regularly assume higher prices mean higher quality. Most customers seeing a “leather” jacket for $19.74 on Temu would expect low quality. However, a silk maxi-dress from Everly Melbourne reduced from $209.95 to $82.95 – a 60% saving – seems reasonable and reflective of normal mid-season clearance pricing. That fact it’s still priced at more than $80 also implies good quality.
Cosmopolitan localism: Researchers have reported that so-called cosmopolitan localism fosters meaningful consumer relationships with brands. Consumers are more likely to trust a business based in Melbourne or Byron Bay over one based internationally.
Adding images of a physical store front creates credibility and “realness”. Customers feel confident to buy from a little business based in Melbourne, Sydney or somewhere well known to them.
Storytelling: Storytelling can influence shoppers’ emotions and affect purchasing. It helps stimulate deeper emotional connections to a brand. Ghost stores will regularly create a narrative around “going out of business” to justify price discounts and pull on heart-strings.
Layout: A professionally developed website, with high-quality images, detailed product information, online payment methods and order tracking, creates the illusion of authenticity. Researchers have found luxury brand website designs can create a strong sense of luxury. This increases a willingness to buy.
How to spot a “ghost”
When the post indicates “closing today” or “closing down sale ends tonight”, it is very easy to impulsively jump in to take advantage of the savings. However, before you click, check for these red flags:
The website does not provide a contact phone number or physical address for the store. There might just be an email address or web form. Simply entering the suspected store into google maps will indicate no physical location.
The website domain is “.com” rather than “.com.au”. This indicates the store is not an Australian-based business.
Is the business registered? ABN Lookup is the free public view of the Australian Business Register – a quick search will identify that the Double Bay designer isn’t registered locally.
Review platforms, including Trustpilot, often have negative reviews for the business, whereas the business’ website only features very positive reviews.
The images of products or even the owner maybe AI generated. For example, Harry – Melbourne, is apparently an artisan watchmaker. However, simply right-clicking on the image reveals Harry is an AI-generated image.
A cautionary note
Online shopping is risky. You can’t physically touch or interact with the product to determine its quality. Three types of risks are common when shopping online. These are performance risk (it doesn’t work, doesn’t fit well, or the quality is poor), financial risk (losing your money on a poor-quality product), and time-loss risk (refund processing takes weeks).
As such, customers must trust the online retailer to act honestly and describe products accurately. When trust is breached, consumers will naturally become cautious even about legitimate online retailers.
As ghost stores scams increasingly populate social media feeds, unsuspecting consumers will continue to get caught out. This will leave legitimate retailers exposed to scepticism and mistrust.
Gary Mortimer receives funding from the Building Employer Confidence and Inclusion in Disability Grant, AusIndustry Entrepreneurs’ Program, National Clothing Textiles Stewardship Scheme, National Retail Association and Australian Retailers Association.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 9, 2025.
Teeth record the hidden history of your childhood climate and diet Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya M. Smith, Professor in the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution & Griffith Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University Douglas Sacha / Getty Images The climate we live in affects our lives in profound ways: hot summers, cold winters, dry spells and wet weather
Netflix’s Shark Whisperer wants us to think ‘sexy conservation’ is the way to save sharks – does it have a point? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Hopkins, Senior Lecturer in Education (Curriculum and Pedagogy), University of the Sunshine Coast Netflix In the new Netflix documentary Shark Whisperer, the great white shark gets an image makeover – from Jaws villain to misunderstood friend and admirer. But the star of the documentary is not
How do coronial inquests work? Here’s what they can and can’t do Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marc Trabsky, Associate Professor of Law, Monash University Northern Territory Coroner Elizabeth Armitage’s inquest findings into the death of Kumanjayi Walker have sparked conversations across Australia. The coroner found the NT police officer who shot Walker, Zachary Rolfe, was “racist”, and she couldn’t exclude the possibility that
Greek and Roman nymphs weren’t just sexy nature spirits. They had other important jobs too Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kitty Smith, PhD Candidate in Classical Greek and Roman History, University of Sydney Acteon, having accidentally seen the goddess Diana and her nymphs bathing, begins to change into a stag. Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. George S. Amory, Object Number: 64.208. Could you ever be
American science is in crisis. It’s a great opportunity for Australia to snap up top scientists Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kylie Walker, Visiting Fellow, National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University Stellalevi / Getty Images Science in the United States in in trouble. The National Science Foundation, a key research funding agency, has suffered devastating funding cuts under the current administration. Critics say
Some young people sexually abuse. Here’s how to reduce reoffending by up to 90% Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jesse Cale, Associate Professor of Criminology, Deputy Director Research (Griffith Youth Forensic Service), Griffith University When we think about who’s responsible for sexual abuse in Australia, we usually picture adults. But young people are responsible for a substantial proportion of sexual offences nationwide. Up to a third
XFG could become the next dominant COVID variant. Here’s what to know about ‘Stratus’ Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Griffin, Professor, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, The University of Queensland visualspace/Getty Images Given the number of times this has happened already, it should come as little surprise that we’re now faced with yet another new subvariant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID. This new subvariant
Can a pizza box go in the yellow bin – or not? An expert answers this and other messy recycling questions Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pooria Pasbakhsh, Research Fellow in Polymer Upcycling, The University of Melbourne ViDCan/Shutterstock Have you ever gone to toss something into the recycling bin – a jam jar, a pizza box, a takeaway container encrusted with yesterday’s lunch – and wondered if you’re doing it right? Perhaps you
AI is driving down the price of knowledge – universities have to rethink what they offer Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Patrick Dodd, Professional Teaching Fellow, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau For a long time, universities worked off a simple idea: knowledge was scarce. You paid for tuition, showed up to lectures, completed assignments and eventually earned a credential. That process did two things: it
Academic slams NZ government over ‘compromised’ foreign policy Asia Pacific Report A prominent academic has criticised the New Zealand coalition government for compromising the country’s traditional commitment to upholding an international rules-based order due to a “desire not to offend” the Trump administration. Professor Robert Patman, an inaugural sesquicentennial distinguished chair and a specialist in international relations at the University of Otago, has
Interest rates are on hold at 3.85%, as the Reserve Bank opts for caution over mortgage relief Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stella Huangfu, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Sydney Thurtell/Getty Images The Reserve Bank of Australia has kept the cash rate at 3.85%, after cutting it in February and May. Those earlier moves were aimed at supporting the economy as growth slowed and inflation eased. This
The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University US President Donald Trump has hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for dinner at the White House, where he has declared talks to end the war in Gaza are “going along very well”. In turn, Netanyahu revealed he
What makes a good AI prompt? Here are 4 expert tips Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sandra Peter, Director of Sydney Executive Plus, Business School, University of Sydney FOTOSPLASH/Shutterstock “And do you work well with AI?” As tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems become part of everyday workflows, more companies are looking for employees who can answer
Saying goodbye is never easy: why we mourn the end of our favourite TV series Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Gerace, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course – Positive Psychology, CQUniversity Australia Netflix Has the ending of Squid Game left you feeling downhearted? The South Korean megahit struck a nerve with audiences worldwide, with millions logging in to Netflix to follow protagonist Seong Gi-hun and fellow
Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Cancer is traditionally known as a disease affecting mostly older people. But some worrying trends show cancer rates in younger people aged under 50 are on the
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 9, 2025.
Teeth record the hidden history of your childhood climate and diet Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya M. Smith, Professor in the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution & Griffith Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University Douglas Sacha / Getty Images The climate we live in affects our lives in profound ways: hot summers, cold winters, dry spells and wet weather
Netflix’s Shark Whisperer wants us to think ‘sexy conservation’ is the way to save sharks – does it have a point? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Hopkins, Senior Lecturer in Education (Curriculum and Pedagogy), University of the Sunshine Coast Netflix In the new Netflix documentary Shark Whisperer, the great white shark gets an image makeover – from Jaws villain to misunderstood friend and admirer. But the star of the documentary is not
How do coronial inquests work? Here’s what they can and can’t do Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marc Trabsky, Associate Professor of Law, Monash University Northern Territory Coroner Elizabeth Armitage’s inquest findings into the death of Kumanjayi Walker have sparked conversations across Australia. The coroner found the NT police officer who shot Walker, Zachary Rolfe, was “racist”, and she couldn’t exclude the possibility that
Greek and Roman nymphs weren’t just sexy nature spirits. They had other important jobs too Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kitty Smith, PhD Candidate in Classical Greek and Roman History, University of Sydney Acteon, having accidentally seen the goddess Diana and her nymphs bathing, begins to change into a stag. Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. George S. Amory, Object Number: 64.208. Could you ever be
American science is in crisis. It’s a great opportunity for Australia to snap up top scientists Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kylie Walker, Visiting Fellow, National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University Stellalevi / Getty Images Science in the United States in in trouble. The National Science Foundation, a key research funding agency, has suffered devastating funding cuts under the current administration. Critics say
Some young people sexually abuse. Here’s how to reduce reoffending by up to 90% Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jesse Cale, Associate Professor of Criminology, Deputy Director Research (Griffith Youth Forensic Service), Griffith University When we think about who’s responsible for sexual abuse in Australia, we usually picture adults. But young people are responsible for a substantial proportion of sexual offences nationwide. Up to a third
XFG could become the next dominant COVID variant. Here’s what to know about ‘Stratus’ Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Griffin, Professor, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, The University of Queensland visualspace/Getty Images Given the number of times this has happened already, it should come as little surprise that we’re now faced with yet another new subvariant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID. This new subvariant
Can a pizza box go in the yellow bin – or not? An expert answers this and other messy recycling questions Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pooria Pasbakhsh, Research Fellow in Polymer Upcycling, The University of Melbourne ViDCan/Shutterstock Have you ever gone to toss something into the recycling bin – a jam jar, a pizza box, a takeaway container encrusted with yesterday’s lunch – and wondered if you’re doing it right? Perhaps you
AI is driving down the price of knowledge – universities have to rethink what they offer Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Patrick Dodd, Professional Teaching Fellow, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau For a long time, universities worked off a simple idea: knowledge was scarce. You paid for tuition, showed up to lectures, completed assignments and eventually earned a credential. That process did two things: it
Academic slams NZ government over ‘compromised’ foreign policy Asia Pacific Report A prominent academic has criticised the New Zealand coalition government for compromising the country’s traditional commitment to upholding an international rules-based order due to a “desire not to offend” the Trump administration. Professor Robert Patman, an inaugural sesquicentennial distinguished chair and a specialist in international relations at the University of Otago, has
Interest rates are on hold at 3.85%, as the Reserve Bank opts for caution over mortgage relief Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stella Huangfu, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Sydney Thurtell/Getty Images The Reserve Bank of Australia has kept the cash rate at 3.85%, after cutting it in February and May. Those earlier moves were aimed at supporting the economy as growth slowed and inflation eased. This
The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University US President Donald Trump has hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for dinner at the White House, where he has declared talks to end the war in Gaza are “going along very well”. In turn, Netanyahu revealed he
What makes a good AI prompt? Here are 4 expert tips Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sandra Peter, Director of Sydney Executive Plus, Business School, University of Sydney FOTOSPLASH/Shutterstock “And do you work well with AI?” As tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems become part of everyday workflows, more companies are looking for employees who can answer
Saying goodbye is never easy: why we mourn the end of our favourite TV series Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Gerace, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course – Positive Psychology, CQUniversity Australia Netflix Has the ending of Squid Game left you feeling downhearted? The South Korean megahit struck a nerve with audiences worldwide, with millions logging in to Netflix to follow protagonist Seong Gi-hun and fellow
Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Cancer is traditionally known as a disease affecting mostly older people. But some worrying trends show cancer rates in younger people aged under 50 are on the
Early planning work for the development of the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct in Marong is underway to deliver much-needed industrial land for Greater Bendigo.
The Victorian Government has invested $6M to prepare a range of studies that will outline how the site can be developed and identify the most appropriate businesses and uses for the 155ha precinct located along the Wimmera and Calder Alternative Highways south of the Marong township.
It is intended a Planning Scheme Amendment will be released in August or September this year to rezone the site from the current Farming Zone to an industrial zone.
City of Greater Bendigo Chief Executive Officer Andrew Cooney said Greater Bendigo had less than 10 years’ supply of industrial land left.
“Greater Bendigo has a strong manufacturing industry. This project intends to secure jobs in the region and support local businesses that may want to grow and attract future businesses seeking large parcels of land ready for development,” Mr Cooney said.
“Much of the industrial land that is available now is small and the lot sizes are spread out, which is not ideal when it comes to supporting large-scale industry and separating this kind of development from residential living.
“We have partnered with Development Victoria, the Victorian Planning Authority, the Department of Transport and Planning, and Regional Development Victoria to complete a range of technical studies, including traffic and transport, flora and fauna, and Aboriginal cultural heritage. Coliban Water is also delivering a pipeline upgrade between Golden Square and Marong to deliver increased water pressure and water flow.
“A key focus of the studies is to identify the enabling infrastructure the site is going to need, for example power, sewer and roads, and the best development model that ultimately makes it affordable for tenants to move in.
“As the studies are completed, we will have a better understanding of the kind of costs involved so we can start having discussions with our State and Federal colleagues about how to realise our vision for this site.”
To guide the development of future industrial land, since 2020 the City has prepared three strategic documents that confirmed the demand for industrial land and where a future site would be best located.
The 2020 Greater Bendigo Industrial Land Development Strategy acknowledged Greater Bendigo was experiencing a significant industrial land shortfall and struggling to meet demand, while the 2020 Marong Township Structure Plan and 2024 revised Greater Bendigo Industrial Land Development Strategy identified a preferred 294ha site for development in Marong. In 2021, the City purchased 155ha within this preferred site.
More than 3 tons of cocaine have been stopped from reaching Europe’s streets thanks to a large-scale international operation targeting maritime drug smuggling. Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, played a central role in co-leading the action, which ran throughout June.
Operation White Sea V focused on smuggling routes in the Atlantic, the North Sea, and the English Channel. It brought together forces from 12 countries, including Belgium, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, along with Frontex, Europol, and MAOC-N.
3.3 tons of cocaine seized
951 ships tracked
119 ships inspected
13 arrests
One of the biggest hauls came on 23 June, when Belgian authorities found 647 kg of cocaine hidden deep inside a tanker from Brazil docked in Zeebrugge. Five crew members were arrested and remain in custody.
Frontex provided real-time ship tracking, aerial surveillance flights, and deployed six cross-border crime officers to support boarding and inspection teams on the ground, including during the Zeebrugge operational period.
Operation White Sea V, which took place in the month of June, reflects a growing trend of traffickers using the sea to smuggle large quantities of cocaine. Frontex remains fully committed to supporting Member States in disrupting organized crime and keeping European borders secure.
Frontex played a key part in the operation by tracking nearly 1 000 ships and providing the tools needed to support national teams. We sent six of our experts to assist with inspections on the ground, including the one that led to the major seizure in Zeebrugge.
We also contributed from the air, coordinating 12 surveillance flights over key sea routes. These flights, which covered nearly 25 hours in total, helped spot suspicious activity and guide enforcement teams.
The operation highlights a worrying trend in sea-based cocaine smuggling. Frontex will continue working closely with national authorities to fight organized crime and protect Europe’s borders.
The European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) tackles the most important threats posed by organized and serious international crime affecting the EU. EMPACT strengthens intelligence, strategic and operational cooperation between national authorities, EU institutions and bodies, and international partners. EMPACT runs in four-year cycles focusing on common EU crime priorities.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya M. Smith, Professor in the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution & Griffith Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University
The climate we live in affects our lives in profound ways: hot summers, cold winters, dry spells and wet weather all leave their mark.
For growing children, one way seasons and storms are recorded is in their teeth. As we have shown in new research, teeth contain a week-by-week climatic history of their owner’s childhood.
To establish this, we studied the teeth of wild chimpanzees, captive macaque monkeys, and a woman born in Brisbane in January 1990. Her infancy included distinctive weather events – but its more powerful use is to reveal the climates that shaped individual lives thousands or even millions of years ago.
How does it work?
You wouldn’t know it, but changes in rainfall and temperature cause subtle changes in drinking water. Specifically, they affect the proportions of different atomic variants of oxygen (the isotopes oxygen-18 and oxygen-16).
Under a microscope, you can see tiny lines inside teeth that correspond to daily layers of growth. Using a machine called the Sensitive High Resolution Ion MicroProbe (SHRIMP) at the Australian National University, we vaporised spots of enamel corresponding to these lines and analysed the oxygen isotopes in the vapour.
Once we know about the balance of oxygen isotopes, we can work backwards to determine changes in drinking water and the corresponding climatic conditions.
Top: Teeth start to develop before birth, forming mineralised layers with visible growth lines. Middle: the balance of oxygen isotopes from tiny spots in the enamel are sampled with the SHRIMP. Bottom: isotopic values reveal cycles of wetter (dark blue) and drier (light blue) seasons during the development of the tooth. Smith et al. 2025 / Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
Brisbane, 1990
Our Australian tooth donor began her life during a wet summer during which a cyclone dumped enormous amounts of rain on Brisbane and surrounds, and months of high rainfall in the region persisted through to autumn.
Oxygen isotopes (red) in a child’s tooth enamel compared to local rainfall (blue). Isotopic values decrease with rainfall and become higher during dry seasons. Smith et al. 2025 / Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
Her tooth enamel formed during the summer of 1990 showed oxygen isotope trends that were consistent with the rainfall patterns at the time. The minimum values occurred close in time to the wettest period, and the maximum values happened towards the end of the long dry spell that began later in the year.
After she reached her first birthday, these climate markers became more challenging to interpret. This likely happened because she began to consume more cooked foods, which carry a different isotope balance from raw food and breast milk.
Diet records
Thankfully, the SHRIMP can also help us learn more about these dietary changes by measuring nitrogen isotopes in the tooth dentine (which is found under the outer layer of enamel). There is a known relationship between the balance of nitrogen-15 and nitrogen-14 and the protein in a child’s diet.
In an earlier study, we looked at these records in the same tooth. Mothers’ milk contains high levels of nitrogen-15, and our donor showed a clear signal of rising values from birth. Shortly after six months of age, her nitrogen isotope ratio began to fall, as her mother gradually began offering her fruits and vegetables to supplement her exclusive milk diet.
Nitrogen isotopes (red) in a child’s tooth compared to breastfeeding history (grey bars), showing higher values during intensive nursing and decreases as milk was gradually replaced with weaning foods. Smith et al. 2024 / American Journal of Biological Anthropology
During our donor’s second year of life, she was fed more solid foods, including bread, cheese, eggs, and yogurt – leading to a further decline in the isotopic ratio. She continued breastfeeding at night for a few months into her third year, and finally as she ceased nursing entirely, her nitrogen values reached a minimum.
From 35 years ago to 17 million years ago
Fine-scaled isotopic studies such as these are a world first. Teeth are typically sampled with hand-held drills or small saws to measure inputs from water and food.
These coarse sampling methods are relatively common and inexpensive, but they cannot show short-term changes in the composition of teeth. This limits how well they can be used to identify important environmental or dietary changes.
Our new technique has many applications. We’ve studied Neanderthal children from the Rhône basin of southeastern France, who experienced some rough seasons 250,000 years ago. By SHRIMPing thin tooth slices, and relating this to enamel formation ages, we were even able to estimate the seasons in which one child was born and weaned 2.5 years later.
Designed for geological studies, the Sensitive High Resolution Ion MicroProbe (SHRIMP) can be used to determine the balance of different atomic variants in many different kinds of material – including teeth. Tanya Smith / Australian Academy of Science
We have just begun to produce isotopic weaning curves for humans who lived several hundred to several thousand years ago, yielding new insights into ancient maternal behaviour and infant health.
This technology can also be applied to much more ancient fossils, including apes who lived in Africa 17 million years ago. In this instance, isotopic differences between fossils were consistent with other evidence that a changing climate played an important role in influencing the anatomy and development of humanity’s forebears.
Teeth hold many more tales, and technological breakthroughs such as those at the Australian National University will continue to reveal hidden details of our ancient humanity as well as the unintended consequences of our modern lifestyles.
Tanya M. Smith receives funding from the Australian Research Council.
Ian Stuart Williams has previously received funding from the Australian Research Council.
Given the number of times this has happened already, it should come as little surprise that we’re now faced with yet another new subvariant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID.
This new subvariant is known as XFG (nicknamed “Stratus”) and the World Health Organization (WHO) designated it a “variant under monitoring” in late June. XFG is a subvariant of Omicron, of which there are now more than 1,000.
A “variant under monitoring” signifies a variant or subvariant which needs prioritised attention and monitoring due to characteristics that may pose an additional threat compared to other circulating variants.
While recombination and other spontaneous changes happen often with SARS-CoV-2, it becomes a problem when it creates a subvariant that is changed in such a way that its properties cause more problems for us.
Most commonly this means the virus looks different enough that protection from past infection (and vaccination) doesn’t work so well, called immune evasion. This basically means the population becomes more susceptible and can lead to an increase in cases, and even a whole new wave of COVID infections across the world.
XFG has four key mutations in the spike protein, a protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 which allows it to attach to our cells. Some are believed to enhance evasion by certain antibodies.
The earliest XFG sample was collected on January 27.
As of June 22, there were 1,648 XFG sequences submitted to GISAID from 38 countries (GISAID is the global database used to track the prevalence of different variants around the world). This represents 22.7% of the globally available sequences at the time.
This was a significant rise from 7.4% four weeks prior and only just below the proportion of NB.1.8.1 at 24.9%. Given the now declining proportion of viral sequences of NB.1.8.1 overall, and the rapid rise of XFG, it would seem reasonable to expect XFG to become dominant very soon.
According to Australian data expert Mike Honey, the countries showing the highest rates of detection of XFG as of mid-June include India at more than 50%, followed by Spain at 42%, and the United Kingdom and United States, where the subvariant makes up more than 30% of cases.
In Australia as of June 29, NB.1.8.1 was the dominant subvariant, accounting for 48.6% of sequences. In the most recent report from Australia’s national genomic surveillance platform, there were 24 XFG sequences with 12 collected in the last 28 days meaning it currently comprises approximately 5% of sequences.
The big questions
When we talk about a new subvariant, people often ask questions including if it’s more severe or causes new or different symptoms compared to previous variants. But we’re still learning about XFG and we can’t answer these questions with certainty yet.
Some sources have reported XFG may be more likely to course “hoarseness” or a scratchy or raspy voice. But we need more information to know if this association is truly significant.
Notably, there’s no evidence to suggest XFG causes more severe illness compared to other variants in circulation or that it is necessarily any more transmissible.
Will vaccines still work against XFG?
Relatively frequent changes to the virus means we have continued to update the COVID vaccines. The most recent update, which targets the JN.1 subvariant, became available in Australia from late 2024. XFG is a descendant of the JN.1 subvariant.
Fortunately, based on the evidence available so far, currently approved COVID vaccines are expected to remain effective against XFG, particularly against symptomatic and severe disease.
Because of SARS-CoV-2’s continued evolution, the effect of this on our immune response, as well as the fact protection from COVID vaccines declines over time, COVID vaccines are offered regularly, and recommended for those at the highest risk.
One of the major challenges we face at present in Australia is low COVID vaccine uptake. While rates have increased somewhat recently, they remain relatively low, with only 32.3% of people aged 75 years and over having received a vaccine in the past six months. Vaccination rates in younger age groups are significantly lower.
Although the situation with XFG must continue to be monitored, at present the WHO has assessed the global risk posed by this subvariant as low. The advice for combating COVID remains unchanged, including vaccination as recommended and the early administration of antivirals for those who are eligible.
Measures to reduce the risk of transmission, particularly wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and focusing on air quality and ventilation, are worth remembering to protect against COVID and other viral infections.
Paul Griffin has been the principal investigator for clinical trials of 8 COVID-19 vaccines. He has previously participated in medical advisory boards for COVID-19 vaccines. Paul Griffin is a director and medical advisory board member of the immunisation coalition.
Could you ever be truly alone in the woods of ancient Greece or Rome? According to myth, the ancient world was filled with wild animals, terrifying monsters, and mischievous deities. Among them were nymphs: semi-divine female figures that personified elements of the natural world.
But nymphs offer us more than just stories of sexy nature spirits.
They can reveal how ancient people thought about their world and connected with their landscape through mythology.
Personifying elements of nature
Nymph was a broad category in myth. It encompassed almost every semi-divine woman and girl in myth, including a number of goddesses. The sea goddess Thetis and the underworld river Styx were both sea nymphs as well as goddesses.
Nymphs were typically portrayed as young, exceptionally beautiful women in art and literature. The word “nymph” in ancient Greek could even be used to mean “young girl” or “unmarried woman” when applied to mortal women.
Despite this etymological connection, many nymphs were married or mothers or gods. Amphitrite was the wife of Poseidon, and her sister Metis, the personification of wisdom, was Zeus’ first wife, according to Hesiod’s Theogony. Maia was the mother of Hermes, the messenger god.
What links all nymphs was their connection with the natural world. Nymphs typically personified elements of nature, like bodies of water, mountains, forests, the weather, or specific plants.
One of the most quintessential nymphs was Daphne (or Laurel, in Latin). According to the Roman poet Ovid in his poem the Metamorphoses, Daphne was a stunningly beautiful nymph who lived in the forest.
Daphne had chosen to follow in the footsteps of Artemis (Diana), the goddess of the hunt, by being a huntress and abstaining from sex and marriage. But her beauty would be her downfall.
One day the god Apollo saw Daphne and immediately tried to pursue her. Daphne did not feel similarly and fled through the forest. Apollo chased and nearly caught her.
But Daphne’s father Peneus, a river god, saved his daughter by transforming her into the laurel tree.
Like many nymphs, Daphne’s myth was an origin story for her namesake tree and its significance to the god Apollo.
But her story also followed one of the most common tropes in nymph myths – the trope a nymph transformed into her namesake after running away from a male deity.
Different nymphs for trees, water, mountains, stars
There were even special names for different types of nymph.
Daphne was a dryad, or tree nymph. Oreads (mountain nymphs) are referenced in Homer’s Iliad. There were three different types of water nymph: the saltwater oceanids and nereids, and the freshwater naiads.
Nymphs lived in the wilderness. These untamed places could be dangerous but they also held precious natural resources that nymphs personified, such as special trees and springs.
Spring nymphs personified one of the most precious resources of all: freshwater.
It was hard to find freshwater in the ancient world, especially in places without human infrastructure. Cities were often built around springs.
The nymph Arethusa was the personification of the spring Arethusa in Sicily. Today, you can visit the Fountain of Arethusa in modern day Syracuse.
No matter where you looked in the ancient landscape, there were nymphs – even in the sky.
The Pleiades and Hyades were two sets of daughters of the god Atlas who eventually were transformed into stars.
Their myths gave an origin for two sets of constellations that were used for navigation and divination.
The Pleiades and Hyades constellations were visible to the naked eye, and can still be seen today.
Although myths may feel like a fictional story told to kids, nymph myths show that ancient myth is inseparable from the ancient landscape and ancient people.
The natural world was imbued with a divine presence from the gods who physically made it – Gaia (Earth) was literally the soil underfoot. Nymphs were a part of this divine presence.
This divine presence brought with it a very special boon: the gift of inspiration.
Some writers (such as Plato) referred to this sort of natural inspiration as being “seized by the nymphs” (νυμφόληπτος or nympholeptus).
Being present in nature and present in places with nymphs could bring about divine inspiration for philosophers, poets and artists alike.
So, if you ever do find yourself alone in a Grecian wood, you may find yourself inspired and in good company – as long as you remain respectful.
Kitty Smith is a member of the Australian Society for Classical Studies and of Australasian Women in Ancient World Studies.
The “mushroom murder trial”, as it has popularly become known, has gripped Australia over the past 11 weeks. More than that, it’s prompted worldwide headlines, multiple daily podcasts, and even YouTube videos of self-proclaimed “body language experts” assessing defendant Erin Patterson’s every move.
There’s an ABC drama series in the works. Acclaimed Australian author Helen Garner has been in the courtroom.
But why did this tragedy, in which three people died and a fourth was lucky to survive, grip the public consciousness in way no other contemporary Australian case has?
On July 29 2023, in a sleepy town called Leongatha in the foothills of the Strzelecki Ranges in Victoria, a very normal woman called Erin Patterson made an ostensibly very normal lunch of beef Wellington.
She was cooking for her in-laws, Gail and Don Patterson, Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson, and Heather’s husband Ian. Erin’s estranged husband, Simon Patterson, was also invited, but chose not to attend.
Simon and Erin had two children, a boy and a girl, who did not attend the lunch either.
Shortly after the lunch, all four guests were admitted to hospital with suspected gastroenteritis. Erin Patterson also presented to hospital, but refused to be admitted.
Within a few days, Gail, Don, and Heather all died as a result of what was later confirmed as poisoning with Amanita phalloides, better known as death cap mushrooms.
Ian survived, but he was lucky. He spent seven weeks in hospital and needed a liver transplant.
The questions became, how did the mushrooms get into the beef Wellington? Was this an awful accident or something more sinister?
Public obsession
These questions became the focus of very significant public and media attention.
Erin Patterson spoke to the media in the days after the incident. She presented as your typical, average woman of 50.
That is, in my opinion, where the obsession with this case began.
This case had the feel of a Shakespearean drama: multiple deaths within one family, death by poison, and a female protagonist.
The juxtaposition between the normality of a family lunch (and the sheer vanilla-ness of the accused) and the seriousness of the situation sent the media into overdrive.
Then there were the lies. Patterson lied about foraging for mushrooms, and about having cancer to encourage the guests to attend.
The location also played a huge part. Leongatha is known for its staggering natural beauty and thriving food and wine scene. It’s hardly a place where the world expected a mass murderer to live.
However, the perception that rural areas are utopias of safety and social cohesion, and cities are dark and dangerous places, is a myth.
One study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare paints a different picture.
For serious assault cases that resulted in hospitalisation, for major cities the rates were 65 per 100,000 people. In rural areas, this rose to 1,244 people per 100,000. And for murder, in very remote areas the rate was five per 100,000 population, but fewer than one per 100,000 in urban areas.
Then there was Erin Patterson’s unusual behaviour. She disposed of the desiccator in which the mushrooms she had foraged were dehydrated. She used multiple phones, one of which underwent multiple factory resets on in the days following the lunch. One of these resets was done remotely after police seized her phone.
There are also the much-discussed plates. The court heard she prepared her meal on a different-coloured plate to those of her other guests so they were easily identifiable.
The public latched onto these details, each providing a new talking point around water coolers or spurring new Reddit threads dedicated to unpacking their significance.
The courtroom as a stage
Ultimately, after three months, Erin Patterson was charged with three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. She pleaded not guilty.
The trial lasted 40 days. The prosecution alleged Patterson intentionally poisoned her guests, whereas the defence suggested it was all an awful, tragic accident.
The jury took six and a half days to deliberate. During that time, various media outlets did everything they could to keep the story on the front page.
Bizarre pieces began appearing online from credible sources such as the ABC, profiling people who had attended court. They included stories of people turning down work to attend the court daily, cases of friendships blossoming during the trial between regular attendees, and the outfit choices of locals turning up every day to watch the drama unfold.
There were also articles profiling local cafe owners and how they felt about being at the centre of the legal theatrics. The daily podcasts continued even when news from the courtroom didn’t.
The vibe felt more appropriate for a royal visit than a triple murder trial.
It seemed everyone in Australia was gripped by one event, united in a way few other things could manage. We all waited with bated breath to see what the 12 men and women of the jury would decide.
The end to this strange and unique criminal case came on Monday July 7.
The result? Guilty on all four counts. Erin Patterson is formally a mass murderer, though many in the court of public opinion had reached the same conviction months earlier.
Leongatha will always be known for being the setting of (arguably) the most infamous multiple murder case in Australian history. It will join Snowtown in South Australia (home of the “bodies in the barrell” murder case), Kendall in New South Wales (where William Tyrrell disappeared), and Claremont in Western Australia (the murder or disappearance of three women) as places forever linked to tragic crimes.
While the trial is over, there’s much more content still to come, the public’s appetite yet to be satiated.
But the final word should be saved for the Patterson and Wilkinson families. This is an awful tragedy, and there are no winners. Ian and Simon have lost loved ones. The Patterson children have lost grandparents and now have to come to terms with the fact their mother caused those deaths intentionally.
Amid the spectacle, it’s easy to lose sight of the humanity at the centre. As the media spotlight dims, may the families get the privacy and respect they deserve.
Xanthe Mallett 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.
