NewzIntel.com

Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged in Southall murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of Michael O’Donnell in Southall have charged a man.

    The 66-year-old was found dead after officers were called to a residential property in Samara Drive at 10:56hrs on Wednesday, 23 April.

    A 54-year-old man arrested in connection with the incident has now been charged.

    Christopher Donnelly, 54 (11.04.71), of Samara Drive, Southall, was charged on Sunday, 27 April with murder and fraud by false representation.

    He will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 April.

    A 28-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been bailed pending further enquiries.

    Michael’s family continue to be supported by officers and have been informed of this development.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A ketamine nasal spray will be subsidised for treatment-resistant depression. Here’s what you need to know about Spravato

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nial Wheate, Professor, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University

    WPixz/Shutterstock

    An antidepressant containing a form of the drug ketamine has been added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it much cheaper for the estimated 30,000 Australians with treatment-resistant depression. This is when a patient has tried multiple forms of treatment for major depression – usually at least two antidepressant medications – without any improvement.

    From May 1, a dose of Spravato (also known as esketamine hydrochloride) will cost $A31.60 and $7.70 for concession card holders.

    However, unlike oral antidepressants, Spravato can’t be taken at home. Here’s how it works, and who it’s expected to help.

    What is Spravato?

    The chemical ketamine is used as an anaesthetic. In this formulation it combines both the right-handed (designated “R”) and left-handed (called “S”) forms of the molecule.

    This means they are mirror images of each other, similar to how your left hand is a mirror image of your right hand. The left- and right-hand forms can have different effects in the body.

    Spravato contains only the left-handed version, giving the drug its generic name esketamine.

    Spravato works by increasing the levels of glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is a key chemical messenger molecule that excites brain nerve cells, lifting and improving mood. It also plays a role in learning and forming memories.

    How is it taken?

    Spravato cannot be taken at home.

    A patient can self-administer, but it must be done at a registered treatment facility, such as a hospital, under the supervision of medical staff so they can look out for blood pressure changes and monitor potential side effects.

    The drug is provided as a single-use nasal spray. This application means it’s absorbed directly through the nasal lining into the brain, so it starts to work within minutes.

    Spravato must also be taken alongside an oral antidepressant. This will be a new one the patient hasn’t tried before. In clinical trials, it was usually an SNRI or SSRI medication.

    When a patient first starts on Spravato, they are given the spray twice a week in the first month. It is then administered once a week for the second month, and then weekly or fortnightly after that.

    Once there are signs the medicine is working, treatment is continued for at least six months.

    You can use the spray yourself but it must be under medical supervision in a registered facility.
    Scarc/Shutterstock

    How effective is it?

    Spravato was approved for sale in Australia based on clinical trial data from more than 1,600 patients who were administered the drug for a period of four weeks. Each was given either Spravato, or a nasal placebo, and an oral antidepressant.

    Patients were given a starting dose of either 28 or 56mg, which could be then increased up to 84mg by their doctor.

    By the end of the four weeks, a greater percentage of patients who were given Spravato were found to have had a meaningful response to the treatment when compared with patients who received the placebo. Patients who were taking Spravato were also found to relapse at a lower rate. For those who did relapse, it took the Spravato patients longer to relapse when compared with patients who took the placebo.

    It is expected Spravato will benefit a wide range of patients. The clinical trials demonstrated effectiveness for men and women, people aged 18 to 64, and those from a range of different ethnic backgrounds.



    Read more:
    Depression too often gets deemed ‘hard to treat’ when medication falls short

    Potential side effects

    As with any medicine, Spravato may cause side effects, some of which can be serious. The most common include:

    • dissociation (feeling disconnected from yourself or what is around you)
    • dizziness
    • nausea and vomiting
    • drowsiness
    • headache
    • change in taste
    • vertigo.

    Because Spravato can potentially increase blood pressure, medical staff will monitor a patient before and after it is administered.

    Usually, blood pressure spikes around 40 minutes after taking the drug, so a reading is taken around this time. After taking Spravato, if their blood pressure has stayed low, or it’s dropping, the patient is given the all-clear to go home.

    Due to the potential for this and other serious side effects, Spravato carries a black triangle warning. This means medical staff are encouraged to report any problem or side effect to the Therapeutic Goods Administration. A black triangle warning is generally used for new medicines or medicines that are being used in a new way.

    Who will be eligible?

    To be eligible for a prescription, a patient will need to have been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression. In practice, this means they will have unsuccessfully tried at least two other antidepressant drugs first.

    Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration approved Spravato for use in Australia in 2021, meaning it was available but not subsidised. Since then, the sponsoring company, Janssen-Cilag (an Australian subsidiary of the multinational Johnson & Johnson), applied to have it added to the PBS four times.

    In December 2024, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee recommended a PBS listing.

    The new PBS listing, capping the price of a single treatment at $31.60, is a significant price drop. In 2023, single doses of branded Spravato were reported to cost anywhere between $500 and $900.

    However, patients may still have to pay hundreds of dollars for appointments at private clinics where Spravato can be administered. Public places are available but limited.

    Spravato may be suitable for you if you’ve tried different antidepressants without success. If it is suitable for you, then your doctor can discuss the next steps.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Nial Wheate in the past has received funding from the ACT Cancer Council, Tenovus Scotland, Medical Research Scotland, Scottish Crucible, and the Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance. He is a fellow of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. Nial is the chief scientific officer of Vaihea Skincare LLC, a director of SetDose Pty Ltd (a medical device company) and was previously a Standards Australia panel member for sunscreen agents. He is a member of the Haleon Australia Pty Ltd Pain Advisory Board. Nial regularly consults to industry on issues to do with medicine risk assessments, manufacturing, design and testing.

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

    – ref. A ketamine nasal spray will be subsidised for treatment-resistant depression. Here’s what you need to know about Spravato – https://theconversation.com/a-ketamine-nasal-spray-will-be-subsidised-for-treatment-resistant-depression-heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-spravato-255403

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Synaptics Unveils First Veros™ Wi-Fi 7 Family Tailored for the IoT

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Synaptics® Incorporated (Nasdaq: SYNA) announced it has extended its Veros wireless portfolio with its first family of Wi-Fi® 7 systems-on-chips (SoCs) tailored for the Internet of Things (IoT). Comprising the SYN4390 and SYN4384, the scalable offering supports bandwidths up to 320 MHz to deliver 5.8 Gbps peak speed and low latency. The triple-combo SoCs integrate Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth® 6.0 and Zigbee/Thread, support Matter, and are designed to minimize system cost and power consumption. They target IoT applications requiring reliable performance-over-range for enhanced user experiences across use cases that include 8K video streaming, interactive gaming, security monitoring, immersive AR/VR, and home and automotive entertainment.

    Wi-Fi 7’s multi-link operation (MLO) allows the devices to send and receive a data stream using multiple frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz) simultaneously in support of low latency, reliable connections, and high throughput for real-time applications like video calls and gaming. Synaptics’ architecture provides a power-efficient, cost-effective way to deliver the benefits of MLO.

    “Growing adoption of Wi-Fi 7 in wireless networking infrastructure has created an opportunity to address a massive and diverse array of Wi-Fi 7-enabled IoT end-user devices by extending our Veros portfolio,” said Venkat Kodavati, SVP and GM of Wireless Products at Synaptics. “We are bringing the benefits of Wi-Fi 7 in a versatile solution for high-performance, low-power IoT devices. Combined with the ease of integration with our Astra AI-Native compute platform, we expect that developers will have an efficient solution for implementing next-generation connected and AI-enriched IoT products with features such as Wi-Fi Sensing.”

    ABI Research forecasts annual shipments of Wi-Fi 7 chipsets to reach more than 2 billion by 2029, achieving a CAGR of 56% between 2024 and 2029.1

    “Wi-Fi 7 is ushering in a new era of more enriching and sophisticated use cases for connected devices thanks to its channel bandwidth, throughput, and latency improvements,” said Andrew Zignani, Senior Research Director, ABI Research. “However, the requirements for implementation vary by product type, and edge IoT introduces challenges that differ from PCs or infrastructure applications. Synaptics’ diverse Wi-Fi 7 solutions are tailored to address these unique needs, including low power, support for multiple connectivity protocols, and AI. These will be critical in enabling Wi-Fi 7’s expansion across multiple IoT segments, reaching billions of annual device shipments over the next few years.”

    Wi-Fi 7 family highlights
    The Wi-Fi 7 IoT family’s support of Matter and its triple combo design provides the interoperability required to allow the devices to serve as versatile home hubs that can operate across Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee/Thread networks in heterogeneous wireless environments. Features support2:

    • Peak speed of up to 5.8 Gbps, using 2×2 + 2×2 MLO, 320 MHz channel bandwidth, and 4K QAM
    • Integrated RF front-end and power management IC (PMIC) that contribute to reduced system cost and power consumption
    • Dual-core Bluetooth 6.0 for LE Audio, Channel Sounding, and LE Long Range
    • Matter and an integrated 802.15.4 radio capable of enabling Zigbee and Thread networking3
    • Integrated Arm cores and memory to enable offloading of networking functions from the host processor to help reduce system power consumption4

    Availability
    The SYN4390 is available now for sale, and the SYN4384 is available now in limited quantities for evaluation. For more:

    About Synaptics Incorporated
    Synaptics (Nasdaq: SYNA) is driving innovation in AI at the Edge, bringing AI closer to end users and transforming how we engage with intelligent connected devices, whether at home, at work, or on the move. As a go-to partner for forward-thinking product innovators, Synaptics powers the future with its cutting-edge Synaptics Astra™ AI-Native embedded compute, Veros™ wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions. We’re making the digital experience smarter, faster, more intuitive, secure, and seamless. From touch, display, and biometrics to AI-driven wireless connectivity, video, vision, audio, speech, and security processing, Synaptics is the force behind the next generation of technology enhancing how we live, work, and play. Follow Synaptics on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook, or visit www.synaptics.com.  

    Forward-Looking Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those relating to the Company’s focus on its extended Veros wireless portfolio with its first family of Wi-Fi® 7 systems-on-chips (SoCs) tailored for the Internet of Things (IoT), customer adoption of these products, and/or performance as intended These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, effects of geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in or cost increases related to completing development, engineering and manufacturing of these products, changes in customer order patterns, supply chain delays or volatility for critical components, changes in tax rates or tax regulations, such as increased tariffs, and various other factors beyond our control. These risks and uncertainties also include such additional risk factors as are discussed in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made, except as required by law.

    Synaptics and the Synaptics logo are trademarks of Synaptics in the United States and/or other countries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact

    Synaptics Incorporated
    Patrick Mannion
    patrick.mannion@synaptics.com

    1 Source: ABI Research Article: Wireless Connectivity Technology Segmentation and Addressable Markets by Andrew Zignani (published January 27, 2025) ©2025 Allied Business Intelligence, Inc.
    2 Actual performance may vary based on deployment environment and device configuration
    3 Certification status may vary by implementation
    4 Power savings may vary based on system design and workload

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Peter Dutton calling the ABC and the Guardian ‘hate media’ rings alarm bells for democracy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Denis Muller, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancing Journalism, The University of Melbourne

    In front of a crowd of party faithful last weekend, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton referred to the ABC, Guardian Australia and other news platforms as “hate media”. The language was extreme, the inference being these outlets were not simply doing their jobs, but attacking him and his side of politics because of ideological bias.

    Speaking at a Liberal Party campaign rally in the Melbourne western suburb of Melton, Dutton said:

    Forget about what you have been told by the ABC, The Guardian and the other hate media. Listen to what you hear [at] doors. Listen to what people say on the pre-polling. Know in your hearts that we are a better future for our country.

    Melton is in the Labor-held seat of Hawke, which the Liberals believe they can win.

    Dutton provided no evidence to support his accusation, for the good reason that there has been nothing in the ABC’s or Guardian Australia’s coverage of Dutton that could remotely justify it.

    By a process of elimination, the “other hate media” to which he referred can only be The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, given the News Corporation mastheads have been unflagging in their support for him throughout the campaign.

    What has been common to the campaign coverage by the ABC, Guardian Australia, The Age and the SMH has been close scrutiny of both sides and both leaders.

    The three newspapers in particular have put renewed resources into independently fact-checking claims made by both Dutton and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and have caught out both men telling falsehoods.

    The broadcast news media on the whole have played it straight, except of course for Sky News after dark, which has been as relentlessly pro-Coalition as their News Corp newspaper stablemates.

    Beyond these professional mass media platforms, there have been clearly partisan social media influencers working on both sides, as well as a range of podcasters, but none of these has been guilty of hate speech towards Dutton or anyone else.

    The inescapable conclusion is that Dutton equates scrutiny of him by journalists with hate speech.

    This is where his attitude becomes dangerous to democracy. It comes straight from US President Donald Trump’s playbook, where the professional mass media are “fake news” and the “enemy of the people”.

    It is designed to play not just on people’s longstanding distrust of the news media in general – though not of the ABC – but on some voters’ sense of grievance at the way governments have treated them.

    This worked for Trump in the United States, but it became obvious early in the campaign that any association with Trumpism was a strong political negative in Australia, particularly in the atmosphere of alarm generated by his tariff war.

    Dutton then took pains to distance himself from Trumpism, and at the Liberal launch in Western Australia his face was a picture of alarm when Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, whom he had appointed to the Trumpian-sounding post of shadow minister for government efficiency, used the slogan “Make Australia Great Again”.

    But it is typical of his incoherent campaign that at the start of the last week he should be echoing the Trumpian view of the media in such extreme terms, creating even more instability. In an ABC interview, his shadow minister for finance, Jane Hume, refused to support him, saying “that wouldn’t be a phrase I would use”.

    It also raises legitimate questions about how Dutton would treat the media should he become prime minister. For example, if a media platform refused to obey his wishes, or provide him with coverage of which he approved, would its representatives be excluded from prime ministerial access?

    Not long ago, such a proposition would have been inconceivable, but Trump banned the Associated Press (AP) from presidential access because it would not obey his instruction to rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. A federal judge later found the ban violated the First Amendment, and ordered AP’s access to be restored.

    It is very improbable Dutton would even try to impose his will on the commercial media in Australia, especially the newspapers.

    In fact, Guardian Australia has turned his remark into a fundraising opportunity. It emailed subscribers with the subject line “A note from the ‘hate media’,” comparing Dutton’s language to that of Trump, and asking for financial support to keep holding figures like Dutton to account.

    But his potential to punish the publicly funded ABC is another matter.

    From statements he has made during the campaign, it seems certain the ABC would be in for more funding cuts and an investigation into its operations of the kind Trump has launched into America’s National Public Radio.



    Read more:
    What would – and should – happen to the ABC under the next federal government?

    Coalition prime ministers going back to John Howard have had a hostile relationship with the ABC. Howard stacked the ABC board, and the panel that nominates its members, with ideological mates.

    In the eight years from 2014 to 2022, under the Coalition governments of Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison, $526 million was cut from the ABC’s budget.

    During that time, there was also a series of inquiries into the ABC, set up to satisfy politicians with a beef against the ABC, notably Pauline Hanson.

    The day after Dutton’s “hate media” statement, the ABC’s 4 Corners program revealed he failed for two years to disclose he was the beneficiary of a family trust that operated lucrative childcare businesses when he was a cabinet minister.

    This is unlikely to improve his view of the national broadcaster. He may even see it as more hate. In fact, it is just good journalism.

    Denis Muller and Nicole Chvastek will discuss this further on their Truth, Lies and Media podcast on Wednesday April 30.

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

    – ref. Peter Dutton calling the ABC and the Guardian ‘hate media’ rings alarm bells for democracy – https://theconversation.com/peter-dutton-calling-the-abc-and-the-guardian-hate-media-rings-alarm-bells-for-democracy-255412

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos 2025: 7Bit Casino Rated As Top Real Money Casino

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PORTLAND, Ore., April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The online gambling world is growing rapidly, making it tough to choose the best online casino from so many options. Players everywhere want secure, rewarding, and diverse gaming experiences, but the number of choices can be confusing. Our team of experts reviewed dozens of casinos, looking at licensing, game variety, bonuses, payout speeds, and user experience.

    After thorough testing, 7Bit Casino was ranked as the best online casino for 2025, offering a perfect combination of features that make it the best casino online for players around the world.

    JOIN 7BIT CASINO TO CLAIM YOUR FREE SPINS NOW!

    Whether you’re spinning slots, strategizing at blackjack, or diving into live dealer games, 7Bit Casino delivers a top-tier real-money experience. This review explores why it’s the top online casino, detailing its bonuses, games, payments, support, and responsible gambling tools, all tailored for players seeking the best real money online casino.

    A Closer Look At The Best Online Casino: 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino has secured the top spot as the best online casino site through our comprehensive global analysis. Here’s why it stands out.

    7Bit Casino – Our Favorite Best Online Casino

    Since 2014, 7Bit Casino has been a leader in online gambling, earning its place as the best-rated online casino with a Curacao eGaming license (7Bit Casino). It uses 128-bit SSL encryption and provably fair algorithms, ensuring a secure and fair environment for all players.

    New players are welcomed with an extraordinary 325% match bonus up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins across four deposits, a standout feature among the best casino sites. Ongoing promotions, like Monday reloads, Wednesday free spins, and up to 20% cashback, keep the excitement alive, making it the best online real money casino.

    With over 10,000 games from providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, and Evolution Gaming, 7Bit caters to every taste (Casino.org). From slots to live dealer tables, it’s the biggest online casino for variety. Demo modes let players try games risk-free, a rare perk.

    Payments are seamless, supporting cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum) and fiat options (Visa, Skrill). Crypto withdrawals are instant, reinforcing 7Bit’s status as a top real online casino. 24/7 support via live chat and email ensures quick resolutions, enhancing its appeal as a top casino online platform.

    CLICK HERE TO GET WELCOME BONUS UP TO 325% + 250 FREE SPINS!

    Pros and Cons

    Pros:

    • Lucrative Welcome Bonus: 325% up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins, a top offer for the best new online casino players.
    • Massive Game Library: Over 10,000 games, from slots to live dealers, making it the best casino online.
    • Instant Crypto Payouts: Withdrawals in minutes, ideal for best online real money casino enthusiasts.
    • 24/7 Support: Live chat and email assistance, a hallmark of top online casino service.
    • Crypto and Fiat Flexibility: Supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Visa, and more.
    • Mobile-Friendly: Seamless play on iOS and Android (Cryptovantage).

    Cons:

    • KYC for Large Withdrawals: Verification is required for withdrawals over $2,000, which may delay payouts.
    • Geographical Restrictions: Not available in some regions; check terms for eligibility.

    How to Join 7Bit Casino

    Joining 7Bit Casino, the best online casino, is simple and user-friendly:

    1. Visit 7Bit Casino: Click here to access the sign-up page directly.
    2. Create Account: Enter your email, choose a password, and select your currency.
    3. Verify Email: Confirm your account via the emailed link.
    4. Deposit Funds: Choose crypto or fiat, meeting the minimum for the welcome bonus ($10 or 0.0005 BTC).
    5. Enter Promo Code: Use codes like “VIP7” for bonuses, if required.
    6. Claim Bonus: Receive your bonus and free spins automatically.
    7. Start Playing: Explore the game library and enjoy real-money gaming.

    Ensure accurate details to avoid issues, and check promo codes to secure the best online casino bonus.

    How We Selected The Best Online Casino

    Our selection of the best online casino for 2025 involved a rigorous, multi-faceted evaluation to ensure a safe, rewarding experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of our methodology, which led us to crown 7Bit Casino as the top online casino:

    License and Security

    A valid license is non-negotiable for trust. 7Bit Casino operates under a Curacao eGaming license, a respected authority ensuring compliance with fair play and player protection standards (Casino.org). We verified that 7Bit uses 128-bit SSL encryption to secure all data transactions, safeguarding personal and financial information.

    Regular audits by independent bodies like eCOGRA confirm game fairness, with random number generators (RNGs) ensuring unbiased outcomes. We also assessed the casino’s privacy policies and data handling practices to ensure compliance with global standards, making 7Bit a secure, best real online casino.

    Bonuses and Promotions

    Bonuses significantly enhance player value. 7Bit’s 325% welcome bonus up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins is among the industry’s most competitive, distributed as:

    • 1st Deposit: 100% match + 100 free spins.
    • 2nd Deposit: 75% match + 100 free spins.
    • 3rd Deposit: 50% match.
    • 4th Deposit: 100% match + 50 free spins. We compared this to industry averages (typically 100-200% bonuses) and found 7Bit’s offer superior in value and flexibility. Ongoing promotions, including Monday 25% reloads, Wednesday free spins (up to 100), and 20% weekend cashback, were evaluated for fairness, with a 40x wagering requirement deemed reasonable (Bitcoin Casino Kings). We also checked for transparency in terms and conditions to ensure no hidden clauses.

    Game Variety

    A diverse game library is crucial for broad appeal. 7Bit Casino excels with over 10,000 games, covering slots, table games, live dealer options, and crypto-specific titles. We assessed the range across categories, ensuring options for casual players and high rollers. The inclusion of demo modes for risk-free play was a significant advantage, rare among top casinos online. We also evaluated game accessibility across devices, confirming seamless performance on desktops and mobiles.

    Game Providers

    Quality depends on providers. 7Bit partners with industry leaders like NetEnt (known for Starburst), Microgaming (Mega Moolah), Betsoft (3D slots), and Evolution Gaming (live dealer excellence). These providers are renowned for high-quality graphics, innovative features, and certified fairness, ensuring a premium gaming experience. We verified that all games undergo regular testing for RNG integrity, reinforcing 7Bit’s status as a best-rated online casino.

    Banking Methods

    Fast, secure payments are essential. 7Bit supports cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether, Ripple) with instant transactions, ideal for best online real money casino players. Fiat options include Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, and Neteller, with instant deposits and 1-3 day withdrawals. Bank transfers, while slower (3-5 days), cater to traditional players. We tested transaction speeds and confirmed no hidden fees, with minimums at $10 or 0.0005 BTC and a $4,000 withdrawal cap (Cryptovantage).

    Customer Support

    Responsive support is a hallmark of excellence. 7Bit offers 24/7 live chat and email support (support@7bitcasino.com). Our tests showed response times under 2 minutes for live chat and within 24 hours for email. The comprehensive FAQ section addresses common queries, enhancing the user experience. We also assessed staff knowledge and friendliness, finding 7Bit’s team exceptional.

    This thorough methodology confirms 7Bit Casino as the best online casino for 2025, excelling in all critical areas.

    Best Online Casino Games At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s game library, with over 10,000 titles, makes it the best-rated online casino for variety. Powered by top providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Betsoft, and Evolution Gaming, it offers something for every player, from casual gamers to seasoned strategists. Here’s an in-depth look at its offerings:

    Online Slots

    With over 7,000 slots, 7Bit caters to all tastes. Popular titles include Mega Moolah, offering multi-million-dollar progressive jackpots, and Starburst, known for vibrant visuals and frequent payouts (Bitcoin Casino Kings). Crypto-specific slots like 7Bit Bonanza appeal to digital currency users. Slots feature diverse themes (adventure, mythology, pop culture), high RTPs (up to 98%), and bonus rounds like free spins and multipliers. Players can filter by volatility or provider, enhancing accessibility.

    Blackjack

    Offering 162 variants, 7Bit includes classics like Single Deck Blackjack (better odds) and innovative options like Atlantic City Blackjack with unique rules (Coincentral). Variants cater to different strategies, with low-stakes tables for beginners and high-stakes options for pros. Live blackjack tables add real-time excitement.

    Roulette

    With 113 versions, players can enjoy European Roulette (single zero, better odds), American Roulette, and Multi-Wheel Roulette for multiplied action. Unique variants like Lightning Roulette offer random multipliers up to 500x, adding thrill. High-quality graphics and customizable betting options enhance the experience.

    Poker

    108 poker options include video poker (Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild) and live tables (Caribbean Stud, Texas Hold’em). Stakes range from micro to high, accommodating all skill levels. Live poker features professional dealers, fostering competitive play.

    Live Dealer Games

    Powered by Evolution Gaming, 7Bit’s live dealer section includes blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game shows like Dream Catcher. High-definition streaming, interactive chat, and multiple camera angles create an immersive experience, rivaling land-based casinos.

    Instant Win Games

    279 titles like Aviator (crash game), Plinko (chance-based), and digital scratch cards offer quick, engaging play. These games are ideal for players seeking instant results with minimal strategy.

    This diverse, high-quality library positions 7Bit as the best casino online for gaming variety.

    Best Online Casino Payment Methods At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino excels in banking, offering versatile options for a seamless, best online real money casino experience. Its hybrid system supports both cryptocurrencies and fiat methods, catering to diverse player needs.

    Cryptocurrencies

    7Bit supports Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), Tether (USDT), and Ripple (XRP), with instant deposits and withdrawals (Cryptovantage). Crypto offers anonymity, low fees (often under $1), and blockchain security, making it ideal for privacy-conscious players. Minimum deposits start at 0.0005 BTC, with no upper withdrawal limits for crypto.

    Debit/Credit Cards

    Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro are accepted, with instant deposits. Withdrawals take 1-3 days, standard for fiat methods. Cards are popular for their familiarity, though fees may apply (typically 2-3%).

    E-Wallets

    Skrill, Neteller, and EcoPayz provide instant transactions, combining speed and security. E-wallets are favored for not requiring direct bank details, with no fees on most transactions.

    Bank Transfer

    Suitable for large withdrawals, bank transfers are secure but slower, taking 3-5 days. Fees may apply, and minimum withdrawals are higher ($50).

    Transaction Limits

    Minimum deposits are $10 or 0.0005 BTC, accessible for all budgets. Maximum withdrawals are $4,000 per transaction, though VIPs can negotiate higher limits.

    7Bit’s diverse, fast, and secure payment options make it the best casino site leader, ensuring players can focus on gaming, not transactions.

    Get 325% Bonus + 250 Free Spins at 7Bit Casino – Sign Up and Play Today!

    Responsible Gambling at 7Bit Casino

    As a best casino online, 7Bit Casino prioritizes player safety with a robust suite of responsible gambling tools to prevent problematic behavior and promote healthy gaming habits.

    • Deposit Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on deposits to manage spending. This tool helps budget-conscious players avoid overspending, ensuring gambling remains enjoyable.
    • Loss Limits: Loss limits restrict the amount players can lose over a set period (e.g., daily or weekly). Once reached, play is paused until the period resets, preventing chasing losses.
    • Wagering Limits: These cap total bets within a timeframe, helping players control risk and maintain disciplined gambling habits, especially during high-stake sessions.
    • Session Time Limits: Players can limit playtime per session. When the limit is reached, they’re logged out, encouraging breaks and balancing gaming with other activities.
    • Cooling-Off Periods: Temporary account suspensions (24 hours to months) allow players to step back from gambling, ideal for those needing a break to reassess habits.
    • Reality Checks: Pop-up notifications alert players to their session duration (e.g., every 30 minutes), fostering awareness and prompting breaks to avoid excessive play.

    These measures make 7Bit the best online casino for player welfare.

    VIP Program at 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s 12-level VIP program rewards loyalty with Comp Points (CPs) earned at a rate of 1 CP per $12.5 wagered on real-money bets (Wisergamblers). Progression through levels unlocks escalating benefits, enhancing the best online casino experience.

    • Earning CPs: Every real-money bet contributes to CPs, tracked in the player’s account. Slots typically earn CPs faster than table games due to higher house edges.
    • Level Benefits:
      • Levels 1-3: 10-50 free spins on select slots (e.g., Starburst).
      • Levels 4-6: $10-$50 cash bonuses with 30x wagering.
      • Levels 7-9: 10-15% cashback and exclusive tournament access.
      • Levels 10-12: Personalized offers, priority withdrawals (under 10 minutes), and dedicated account managers.
    • Additional Perks: Higher levels offer birthday bonuses, higher withdrawal limits, and invitations to VIP-only events.

    The program’s transparency and tangible rewards make 7Bit the best casino site choice for loyal players seeking long-term value.

    Tournaments and Competitions

    7Bit Casino keeps excitement high with regular tournaments, offering players chances to win cash, free spins, and crypto prizes.

    • Daily Drop Tournaments: Held daily with 0.5-1 BTC prize pools, these focus on specific slots or table games. Players earn points based on wins or bets, with top leaderboard finishers (e.g., top 10) sharing prizes. Example: A slot tournament on Book of Dead might award 100 free spins to the winner.
    • Special Event Tournaments: Tied to holidays or milestones, these feature larger pools (up to 10 BTC). Themes like “Christmas Jackpot” or “Summer Spin Fest” include curated game lists, with prizes for top 50 players. Participation requires playing qualifying games during the event period.
    • How to Join: Opt-in via the tournaments page, play eligible games, and track progress on real-time leaderboards. No entry fees apply, making it accessible.

    These events add competitive thrill, positioning 7Bit as a top casinos online destination.

    CLAIM BONUSES & FREE SPINS AT 7BIT CASINO – JOIN NOW!

    Why 7Bit Stands Out Globally

    7Bit Casino’s global appeal stems from its accessibility and player-centric features, making it the best online casino:

    • Multilingual Interface: Supports English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Japanese, and more, ensuring players from diverse regions can navigate easily. The interface auto-adjusts to the user’s language, enhancing usability.
    • Diverse Currencies: Offers fiat (EUR, USD, AUD, CAD, NOK, PLN, NZD) and crypto (BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, USDT, XRP) options, eliminating conversion hassles. Players can switch currencies seamlessly.
    • VPN Accessibility: In restricted regions, 7Bit permits VPN use, allowing secure access without compromising account integrity. This is ideal for players in jurisdictions with gambling bans.
    • Crypto Gaming Focus: Over 4,000 Bitcoin-based games, like BTC Blackjack and Bitcoin Roulette, cater to crypto enthusiasts. These games leverage blockchain for transparency, appealing to tech-savvy players.

    These features make 7Bit the best casino online for a global audience, combining flexibility, security, and innovation.

    Mobile Gaming at 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s mobile platform is a standout feature, offering a seamless best online casino experience on iOS and Android devices. The responsive website, built with HTML5, ensures all 10,000+ games are accessible without a dedicated app. Players can enjoy slots, live dealer games, and instant win titles on the go, with intuitive navigation and fast load times. Mobile banking supports instant crypto transactions, and 24/7 support is available via live chat, making 7Bit a best casino sites leader for mobile gaming.

    7Bit Casino Conclusion: The Best Online Casino

    After evaluating global platforms, 7Bit Casino is the best online casino for 2025. Its 10,000+ games, from slots to live dealers, cater to all preferences, powered by top providers like NetEnt and Evolution Gaming.

    The 325% welcome bonus up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins, plus ongoing promotions, delivers unmatched value. Instant crypto payouts, robust security via Curacao licensing and SSL encryption, and 24/7 support via live chat and email (support@7bitcasino.com) ensure a seamless experience. Responsible gambling tools and a 12-level VIP program further elevate 7Bit as the top online casino for real-money gaming worldwide.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • What makes 7Bit Casino the best online casino?

    7Bit Casino excels with over 10,000 games, a 325% bonus up to 5.25 BTC, 250 free spins, instant crypto payouts, and robust security, making it ideal for global players.

    • Is 7Bit Casino licensed and secure?

    Licensed by Curacao eGaming, 7Bit Casino uses 128-bit SSL encryption and provably fair algorithms, ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment for all players.

    • What bonuses does 7Bit Casino offer?

    7Bit Casino provides a 325% welcome bonus up to 5.25 BTC, 250 free spins, plus reload bonuses, cashbacks, and free spins for ongoing player rewards.

    • Can I play 7Bit Casino games on mobile?

    7Bit Casino’s mobile-optimized platform supports iOS and Android, offering seamless access to 10,000+ games for gaming on the go.

    • What payment methods does 7Bit Casino accept?

    7Bit Casino supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, and more, with instant crypto withdrawals and flexible fiat options.

    • Does 7Bit Casino require KYC verification?

    KYC is required for withdrawals over $2,000 at 7Bit Casino, involving photo ID and address verification to ensure security.

    • Are there country restrictions at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino is restricted in some regions; players should review terms to confirm eligibility, as access varies by jurisdiction.

    • How fast are withdrawals at 7Bit Casino?

    Crypto withdrawals at 7Bit Casino are instant, while fiat withdrawals via Visa or bank transfer take 1-3 days for processing.

    • What games are available at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino offers slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, live dealer games, and instant win titles, with 10,000+ options for all players.

    • Why is 7Bit Casino the best real money online casino?

    7Bit Casino leads with its vast game selection, generous bonuses, instant payouts, and robust security, making it the top choice for real-money gaming.

    Email: support@7bitcasino.com

    Legal Disclaimer

    This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not legal, financial, or gambling advice. Information is presented “as is,” with no warranties on accuracy or completeness. Readers must verify information and ensure compliance with local gambling laws. The publisher and authors are not liable for losses or consequences from using this information.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on objective criteria, and affiliate partnerships do not influence content or conclusions.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c2b1b32c-15fa-44db-8e7f-2136c3a99b3b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos New Zealand: 7Bit Casino Picked as Top Casino for NZ Players

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WELLINGTON, New Zealand, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After spending some time exploring various online casinos in New Zealand, it became clear that most just didn’t deliver when it came to bonuses or overall experience. That’s when a few local players in New Zealand pointed us toward something better- 7Bit Casino. It stood out from the moment we signed up, kicking things off with a massive welcome bonus. With thousands of games and easy crypto payments, it turned out to be one of the smoothest and most enjoyable platforms we’ve tried.

    CHECK OUT 7Bit CASINO’S OFFERINGS TODAY!

    Our Favourite Overall Casino New Zealand: 7Bit

    7Bit Casino earns its place as the top pick for the best online casinos in New Zealand due to its all-around excellence. Its massive game selection, from classic pokies like Mega Moolah to immersive live dealer tables, ensures endless entertainment. The anonymous online casino approach, combined with robust security, appeals to players who value privacy. Regular promotions, such as weekly cashback and free spins, keep the experience fresh. For Kiwi players, 7Bit’s blend of variety, bonuses, and fast payouts makes it a standout.

    The casino’s commitment to innovation, such as integrating cryptocurrencies and offering a seamless mobile experience, sets it apart. Its retro aesthetic adds a unique charm, making every session visually engaging. Whether you’re a casual player or a high roller, 7Bit delivers a gaming experience that’s hard to beat.

    7Bit Casino Features

    7Bit Casino has earned its spot as one of the best online casinos in New Zealand. Licensed by Curacao and trusted for over a decade, it offers a secure, reliable experience for real money players. With a massive library of 10,000+ games, including pokies, table games, and live dealers, it covers all bases.

    The site supports Pay ID and crypto, making deposits and withdrawals fast and hassle-free. Its sleek, retro design works flawlessly on both desktop and mobile. Regular tournaments, a rewarding VIP program, and no KYC requirements give players flexibility, privacy, and extra perks.

    Whether you’re spinning the reels or playing live blackjack, 7Bit delivers top-tier entertainment for Kiwi gamblers in 2025.

    Why 7Bit Casino Stands Out From Other Casinos

    • Vast Game Selection: 10,000+ games, including slots, table games, live dealers, and Bitcoin exclusives from top providers.
    • Big Bonuses: Get 325% up to 10800 NZD + 250 FS
    • Crypto Support: Accepts BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE with fast deposits and withdrawals, plus fiat options.
    • Fair Play: Provably fair games like Plinko and Aviator ensure transparency.
    • Easy to Use: Mobile-friendly, intuitive design with demo modes.
    • 24/7 Help: Live chat and email support in multiple languages.

    ✅GET 325% UP TO 10,800 NZD + 250 FREE SPINS AT 7BIT CASINO

    How to Join 7Bit Casino

    Joining 7Bit Casino is straightforward, making it easy to dive into the Best Online Casinos New Zealand. Follow these steps:

    1. Visit the Website: Go to the official 7Bit Casino site by clicking here.
    2. Register: Click “Sign Up” and fill in your email, password, and preferred currency.
    3. Verify Your Account: Check your email for a verification link.
    4. Deposit Funds: Choose from fiat or crypto payment methods, including Pay ID Casino options.
    5. Claim Your Bonus: Activate the 325% welcome bonus + 250 free spins on your first deposit.
    6. Start Playing: Explore the 10,000+ games and enjoy.

    The process takes minutes, and the best no KYC casino ensure minimal hassle for anonymous play. Always ensure you meet New Zealand’s legal gambling age (19) before signing up.

    Pros and Cons of 7Bit Casino

    Pros

    • Extensive game library with over 10,000 titles, including high-RTP pokies.
    • Generous welcome bonus: Get 325% up to 10800 NZD + 250 F
    • Supports multiple cryptocurrencies for fast, secure transactions.
    • Lightning-fast withdrawals via Pay ID Casino and crypto methods.
    • Frequent promotions and a rewarding VIP program.
    • Mobile-friendly platform with a robust app-like experience.

    Cons

    • High wagering requirements on bonuses can be challenging.
    • Bank transfers are slower compared to crypto or e-wallet options.
    • Limited customer support hours for live chat.

    Despite these drawbacks, 7Bit’s strengths make it a top contender among New Online Casinos in New Zealand, offering a balanced mix of entertainment and reliability.

    How We Selected the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand

    Choosing the best online casinos in New Zealand involves a rigorous evaluation process. Our experts assess multiple factors to ensure only top-tier platforms like 7Bit Casino make the cut. Here’s how we evaluate:

    1. License and Security

    A valid license is non-negotiable. 7Bit Casino holds a Curacao eGaming license, ensuring compliance with industry standards. SSL encryption protects player data, and provably fair games guarantee transparency. For players seeking an anonymous online casino, 7Bit’s minimal KYC requirements add an extra layer of privacy.

    2. Bonuses and Promotions
    Generous bonuses attract players, and 7Bit excels here. Its welcome package (Get 325% up to 10800 NZD + 250 FS) is unmatched. Ongoing promotions, like weekly cashback and daily free spins, keep players engaged. We also check wagering requirements to ensure fairness.

    • 1st Deposit Offer: 100% + 100 FS
    • 2nd Deposit Offer: 75% + 100 FS
    • 3rd Deposit Offer: 50% Match
    • 4th Deposit Offer: 100% + 50 FS
    • New Game Offer: 50 free spins
    • Easter Crypto Offer: 75 free spins
    • Spring Elite Offer: 100 free spins
    • Weekly Cashback: Up to 20%
    • Monday Offer: 25% + 50 FS
    • Wednesday Offer: Up to 100 free spins
    • Reload Friday Offer: 111 free spins
    • Reload Weekend Offer: 99 free spins
    • Telegram Offer: 50 free spins
    • Telegram Friday Offer: 111 free spins
    • Telegram Sunday Offer: 66 free spins

    3. Casino Games

    A diverse game library is crucial. 7Bit offers over 10,000 games, including pokies, table games, and live dealer options. High-RTP titles like Johnny Cash and Mega Moolah are highlights, catering to all skill levels.

    4. Casino Game Providers

    Top providers ensure quality. 7Bit partners with industry leaders like NetEnt, Microgaming, Betsoft, and Evolution Gaming. These providers deliver cutting-edge graphics, smooth gameplay, and innovative features.

    5. Banking Methods

    Flexible payment options are vital. 7Bit supports fiat (Visa, Mastercard, Neosurf) and cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin), ensuring fast, secure transactions. The Pay ID Casino feature simplifies deposits for Kiwi players.

    6. Customer Support

    Reliable support enhances trust. 7Bit offers 24/7 live chat, email, and a comprehensive FAQ. While phone support is absent, the live chat team is responsive and knowledgeable.

    Our methodology ensures that only the best online casinos in New Zealand, like 7Bit, meet the needs of Kiwi players, balancing fun, safety, and convenience.

    How We Choosed 7Bit as Best Online Casino NZ

    Selecting top-rated casino sites like 7Bit involves a detailed process. We prioritize player experience, focusing on usability, game variety, and payout speed. Security is paramount, with licensed platforms like 7Bit undergoing regular audits. Bonuses must be generous yet fair, and customer support should be accessible. For New Online Casinos, we also consider innovation, such as crypto integration or unique features like 7Bit’s best no KYC casino option. This ensures only the best platforms shine.

    We also analyze user reviews and industry trends to gauge reputation. 7Bit’s decade-long presence and positive feedback from Kiwi players solidify its status. By combining objective metrics with real-world insights, we identify casinos that deliver exceptional value.

    The Selection Process: Defining Excellence in Online Gaming

    Our selection process for the best online casinos in New Zealand is thorough and transparent. We evaluate casinos based on:

    • Game Quality and Variety: Platforms must offer diverse, high-quality games. 7Bit’s 10,000+ titles set a high standard.
    • User Experience: Intuitive navigation and mobile compatibility are key. 7Bit’s retro design and responsive platform excel here.
    • Bonuses and Fairness: Promotions should enhance play without excessive restrictions. 7Bit’s free spins and cashback offers are player-friendly.
    • Payment Flexibility: Fast, secure methods are essential. 7Bit’s crypto and Pay ID Casino options cater to modern needs.
    • Security and Trust: Licensing, encryption, and fair play are non-negotiable. 7Bit’s Curacao license and SSL protection ensure safety.

    This process confirms 7Bit as a leader among New Online Casinos, delivering excellence in every aspect of online gaming.

    Games Offered in 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino is a gaming paradise, offering over 10,000 games to suit every taste. From classic pokies to immersive live dealer tables, the variety is staggering. Popular titles like Mega Moolah, Raging Lion, and Johnny Cash offer high RTPs and thrilling gameplay. The casino also features instant-win games, scratch cards, and progressive jackpots, ensuring something for everyone. For fans of best online casinos New Zealand, 7Bit’s library is a treasure trove.

    The platform regularly updates its catalog with new releases, keeping the experience fresh. Tournaments add a competitive edge, with cash prizes and free spins up for grabs. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned gambler, 7Bit’s diverse offerings make it a top choice.

    1.   Craps

    Craps at 7Bit Casino is a thrilling dice game with multiple betting options. Available in both RNG and live dealer formats, it appeals to players seeking fast-paced action. The game’s intuitive interface and high-quality graphics enhance the experience. For fans of the Best Online Casinos New Zealand, craps at 7Bit offers a dynamic way to test luck and strategy. New players can use free spins or bonuses to explore the game risk-free.

    2.   Live Dealer Games

    7Bit’s live dealer games bring the casino floor to your screen. Powered by Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play, options include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game shows like Dream Catcher. High-definition streaming and professional dealers create an immersive experience. The anonymous online casino feature allows discreet play, making 7Bit a top pick for live gaming enthusiasts in the Best Online Casinos New Zealand.

    Live tables cater to all budgets, with low-stake and VIP options. The social aspect, with real-time chat, adds excitement, replicating a land-based casino vibe.

    3.   Poker

    Poker at 7Bit includes video poker, RNG table games, and live dealer variants like Texas Hold’em and Caribbean Stud. Titles like Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild offer high RTPs, appealing to strategic players. Tournaments add a competitive edge, with cash prizes and leaderboards. For Kiwi players, 7Bit’s poker selection is a highlight among New Online Casinos, supported by generous bonuses like free spins for new players.

    4.   Roulette

    Roulette at 7Bit comes in multiple variants, including European, American, and French. RNG and live dealer options cater to different preferences, with Evolution Gaming’s live tables standing out for their quality. The game’s simplicity and high stakes make it a favorite in the Best Online Casinos New Zealand. Players can use bonuses to explore strategies like Martingale or D’Alembert without risking much.

    5.   Blackjack

    Blackjack at 7Bit is a staple, with classic, multi-hand, and live dealer versions. Titles like Blackjack Surrender and Infinite Blackjack offer unique twists. Low house edges and strategic depth make it ideal for skilled players. The Pay ID Casino feature ensures quick deposits, letting you jump into the action. 7Bit’s blackjack offerings solidify its status as a leader in Best Online Casinos New Zealand.

    6.   Slots

    Slots dominate 7Bit’s library, with over 8,000 titles from providers like NetEnt and Betsoft. Popular pokies include Mega Moolah, Starburst, and Raging Lion, known for high RTPs and massive jackpots. Themes range from classic fruit machines to modern video slots with immersive storylines. free spins promotions make slots accessible, enhancing 7Bit’s appeal as a best no KYC casino for slot enthusiasts.

    Progressive jackpots offer life-changing payouts, while regular tournaments keep the excitement alive. 7Bit’s slot variety is unmatched, making it a go-to for Kiwi players.

    ✅GET STARTED WITH 7BIT CASINO – THOUSANDS OF GAMES, ZERO HASSLE!

    Payment Options Available in 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino offers a wide range of payment methods, catering to both traditional and crypto-savvy players. Below is a comprehensive list based on the uploaded document and additional research:

    Fiat Currency Methods

    • Visa: Secure credit/debit card deposits, processed instantly.
    • Mastercard: Widely accepted, with fast deposits but slower withdrawals.
    • Neosurf: Prepaid voucher for anonymous deposits.
    • Skrill: E-wallet with instant deposits and withdrawals.
    • Neteller: Popular e-wallet for quick, secure transactions.
    • PaysafeCard: Prepaid option for safe deposits.
    • Interac: Canadian-focused method, also available for Kiwi players.
    • Bank Transfer: Reliable but slower, with withdrawals taking 3-5 days.
    • MuchBetter: Mobile-friendly e-wallet with low fees.
    • EcoPayz: Versatile e-wallet for fast transactions.

    Cryptocurrency Methods

    • Bitcoin (BTC): Fast, anonymous deposits and withdrawals.
    • Litecoin (LTC): Low-fee alternative to Bitcoin.
    • Ethereum (ETH): Secure blockchain-based transactions.
    • Dogecoin (DOGE): Fun, low-cost crypto option.
    • Binance Coin (BNB): Growing in popularity for casino payments.
    • Tether (USDT): Stablecoin for consistent value.
    • Ripple (XRP): Fast and cost-effective crypto payments.

    Additional Notes

    • Pay ID Casino: 7Bit supports PayID for instant bank transfers, popular among Kiwi players for its speed and simplicity.
    • Withdrawal Speed: Crypto and e-wallets process within hours; bank transfers take 3-5 days.
    • No KYC for Crypto: The best no KYC casino feature allows anonymous withdrawals for crypto users, enhancing privacy.

    This extensive range ensures 7Bit caters to all players, making it a leader among Best Online Casinos New Zealand. The anonymous online casino approach with crypto payments is a major draw for privacy-conscious gamers.

    Customer Support

    7Bit Casino’s customer support is reliable, though not flawless. Available 24/7 via live chat and email, the team is responsive and professional. Live chat typically connects within minutes, ideal for urgent queries. Email responses take 1-2 hours, suitable for detailed issues. A comprehensive FAQ section covers common topics like bonuses, payments, and account management. While phone support is absent, the existing channels are effective for most players.

    For Kiwi players, 7Bit’s support shines in resolving payment and bonus issues quickly. The Best Online Casinos New Zealand prioritize accessibility, and 7Bit meets this standard with its user-focused approach. Regular feedback from players highlights the team’s friendliness and expertise.

    Regulation of the Best Online Casinos

    The best online casinos New Zealand adhere to strict regulations to ensure player safety and fairness. Key points include:

    • Licensing: A valid license from a reputable authority, like 7Bit’s Curacao eGaming license, ensures legal operation and oversight.
    • Data Protection: SSL encryption safeguards personal and financial information, as seen in 7Bit’s robust security measures.
    • Fair Play: Random Number Generators (RNGs) and provably fair games guarantee unbiased outcomes. 7Bit’s games are regularly audited.
    • Responsible Gambling: Tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks promote healthy gaming. 7Bit offers these features prominently.
    • Age Verification: Compliance with legal gambling age (19 in New Zealand) is mandatory to prevent underage gambling.

    These regulations ensure 7Bit and other New Online Casinos maintain high standards, fostering trust among Kiwi players.

    The Most Popular Pay-out Methods at 7Bit Casino

    The most popular payout methods at 7Bit Casino include:

    • Bitcoin: Fastest withdrawals, often processed within hours, ideal for anonymous online casino users.
    • Skrill/Neteller: E-wallets with instant payouts after approval.
    • PayID: Popular for Kiwi players, offering near-instant bank transfers.
    • Visa/Mastercard: Reliable but slower, taking 1-3 days.
    • Ethereum/Litecoin: Low-fee crypto options for quick, secure payouts.

    Crypto methods dominate due to their speed and privacy, aligning with 7Bit’s best no KYC casino ethos. The Pay ID Casino option is a close second for its convenience among fiat users.

    ✅DON’T MISS OUT – REGISTER AT 7BIT CASINO AND START WINNING!

    Conclusion – Why 7Bit Casino Top New Zealand Online Casino

    7Bit Casino is the ultimate destination for Kiwi players seeking the best online casinos New Zealand. Its vast game library, generous bonuses, and flexible payment options create a top-tier gaming experience. From pokies to live dealer tables, 7Bit caters to all preferences while prioritizing security and privacy. The anonymous online casino features and Pay ID Casino support make it a standout. Whether you’re chasing free spins or big jackpots, 7Bit delivers unmatched value and excitement.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Is 7Bit Casino safe for New Zealand players?
    Yes, 7Bit is licensed by Curacao eGaming and uses SSL encryption, making it a secure choice among Best Online Casinos New Zealand.

    2. What is the welcome bonus at 7Bit Casino?
    New players get a 325% up to 10800 NZD + 250 FS across four deposits.

    3. Does 7Bit support cryptocurrency payments?
    Yes, 7Bit accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and more, perfect for best no KYC casino fans.

    4. How fast are withdrawals at 7Bit Casino?
    Crypto and e-wallet withdrawals process within hours; bank transfers take 3-5 days.

    5. Can I play on mobile at 7Bit Casino?
    Absolutely, 7Bit’s mobile platform is seamless, offering the same features as the desktop version.

    Email: Support@7bitCasino.com

    Disclaimers and Affiliate Disclosure

    General Disclaimer
    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer
    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. 7Bit Casino is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure
    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products. Do your own research before signing up.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/10718a9c-846b-4181-8c60-cf087632b3f1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New community outreach van launched to engage with local communities

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    New community outreach van launched to engage with local communities

    Monday, 28 April 2025 – 1:47 pm.

    Tasmania Police has launched a new community outreach van to help engage with local communities.Speaking at the launch in George Town today, Commissioner Donna Adams said that the initiative was a direct response to recommendations from the Weiss Review, Tasmania Police Community Survey and Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings, and aimed to proactively bring services and information to communities who need them or have traditionally had little or no opportunity to engage with Tasmania Police.“These recent reviews have told us that our community expects better, more visible, and in-person engagement between Tasmania Police and community members,” Commissioner Adams said.“The reviews have also told us we need to continue to build trust with vulnerable community groups and Tasmanian sport and recreation organisations for the purpose of preventing, identifying and reporting grooming, and child sexual abuse.“Together with partnering organisations like Neighbourhood Watch, PCYC, and Crime Stoppers, Poli and the team are available to visit communities and community groups around the state to achieve these outcomes.”“Poli will provide visibility in the communities where they need police most.“At a time where there is a greater than ever demand for frontline policing services, you can expect that Poli will provide an additional avenue for members of the community to discuss issues important to the community and that our partner organisations may be able to assist in providing advice and assistance.“Together we can ease the pressure by adopting new community-focused solutions that ensure community safety and efficiency.”Commissioner Adams said that the Community Engagement team will take Poli to Deloraine and Agfest over the coming days before undertaking engagements in the south, the east coast and the north west coast in the next few weeks.“It’s a way of taking our people and some of our services and information directly into communities to engage with Tasmanians. It allows us to have a high-visibility police presence in vulnerable and priority communities and those that have limited opportunity to engage with Tasmania Police for key services,” she said.Funding was provided by the Tasmanian Government to support Tasmania Police in engaging and building trust with the community.Poli is being staffed by members of the Community Engagement Services team, along with local officers who will attend local events, including schools, community and sporting events, and be on hand to:• discuss local crime issues and provide crime prevention and general advice to residents and business owners• provide information and resources about personal, residential and business safety, as well as child safety and safeguarding• customise Poli’s visit to the community/community group’s needs.Poli is also available to support other key Tasmania Police initiatives such as firearm amnesties and recruitment, as well as providing information on how to identify grooming, and keeping children and young people safe from sexual abuse.Commissioner Adams said that a broader Tasmania Police Stakeholder Engagement Strategy was currently being developed, which would outline a coordinated approach to community engagement across the state and action plans to deliver key initiatives over the three-year life of the strategy.“By continuing to work together as an organisation, I am certain that this outreach initiative will prove to be a significant and positive change in how we provide targeted and focused police services to the Tasmanian community now and into the future.”For more information, check out www.police.tas.gov.au/poli

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU graduate talks about Novosibirsk residents’ contribution to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    A graduate gave an open public lecture “Novosibirsk residents to the front” at Novosibirsk State University Humanitarian Institute of NSU, Honorary Archivist of the Russian Federation, Leading Archivist of the State Archives of the Novosibirsk Region Igor Samarin. He spoke about the creation of the 133rd Rifle (later the 18th Guards Insterburg) Division in Novosibirsk in 1939 and its combat path during the Great Patriotic War, as well as about the formation of the 1st Siberian Volunteer Division. It was in its ranks that Mikhail Perevozchikov, Olga Zhilina, Boris Bogatkov, whose names are given to streets in Novosibirsk, fought.

    “Breakthrough Division”

    This is what the 133rd Rifle Division (later the 18th Guards Insterburg) was called during the Great Patriotic War. The division covered itself with unfading glory in the Battle of Moscow in late 1941 – early 1942, in the Rzhev-Sychevka offensive operation, in the Oryol and Vitebsk-Orsha offensive operations, in the East Prussian offensive operation, as a result of which the city of Insterburg and the city of Koenigsberg, considered impregnable, were captured. The “breakthrough division” ended its combat path by capturing the seaport – the Pillau fortress.

    The 133rd separate rifle division was formed in the military town of Novosibirsk in 1939 according to the order of the Military Council of the Siberian Military District dated September 8. It was formed on the basis of the 78th and 71st rifle divisions and their assigned personnel, living in the settlements of Altai and Siberia.

    — The division’s fighters received the news of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War at the summer camps in the vicinity of Biysk, where they were training. Early in the morning of June 22, 1941, there was a parade dedicated to the opening of military training. After the parade, sports competitions began. They were interrupted by a government radio message about the attack of Nazi Germany on the Soviet Union. After 2-3 hours, rallies were held in all regiments. And the next day, by order of the Siberian Military District command, all personnel of the 133rd Division regiments returned to winter quarters. Only one day was allocated for training to be sent to the front. At night, the fighters received combat equipment. In 24 hours, ammunition, weapons, camouflage, draft power and transport were collected, — said Igor Samarin.

    The division was immediately thrown into defensive battles near Moscow, which went into a counteroffensive by winter. On July 5, 1941, the 2nd Battalion of the 133rd Division arrived at the destination station of Vyazma. After a long march, the battalion occupied a defensive line on the Dnieper River. The battalion was advanced by the lead detachment 70 km. On July 7, 1941, the 133rd Division, having unloaded at Vyazma station and joined the 24th Army, moved to the concentration area and took up defensive positions on the eastern bank of the Dnieper River. From July 10, it participated in the Battle of Smolensk.

    On September 1, 1941, by order of the General Command, the 133rd Rifle Division was transferred to the Velikiye Luki direction, to the area of the city of Andreapol in the Kalinin region, where it became part of the 22nd Army of Major General V.A. Yushkevich. Two days later, units of the 133rd Rifle Division, having arrived in the concentration area of the Soblago-Pena station, went out to occupy a new line of defense. The division fought fierce battles in the area of Mosty, Vitbino, Zhabero, Okhvat, where, having inflicted significant damage on the enemy, it delayed his advance from the eastern side. In this area, it advanced 10-12 km through fighting and liberated about 20 settlements. And on September 30, 1941, the great battle of Moscow began. It is divided into two periods: defensive (September 30 – December 4, 1941) and counteroffensive (December 5–6, 1941 – January 7–8, 1942), which then grew into a general offensive of our troops in the Western (Moscow), Northwestern and Southwestern directions (January 7–10 – April 20, 1942).

    In January – early March 1942, the 133rd Rifle Division fought as part of the 49th Army. As a result of battles and offensive actions, units of the division liberated 88 settlements.

    On March 17, 1942, for the heroism, discipline and exemplary performance of combat missions in the fight against German fascism, the 133rd Separate Rifle Division was transformed into the 18th Guards Rifle Division by order of the People’s Commissar of Defense of the USSR No. 78 of March 17, 1942, and on May 3 of the same year, by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, the division was awarded the Order of the Red Banner for successful combat operations against the Nazi invaders.

    From March 20, 1942 to February 9, 1943, the division fought heavy defensive battles on the 15 km long Sukov line (the villages of Novo-Sukovka and Sukovka), nicknamed “Little Sevastopol”.

    Igor Samarin illustrated the story of the combat path of the “Breakthrough Division” with a vivid presentation with pictures of priceless archival documents and frontline photographs. Among them is the division’s combat log, which, in addition to the advances of the combat unit and the awards received by the soldiers and commanders, also contains information about losses. In January 1942 alone, the division, numbering 12-13 thousand people, lost 2,725 soldiers and officers, in February – 2,534, and in March – 4,314.

    — At that time, positional warfare was being waged on this section of the front. There was no large-scale offensive or large-scale defense, but there were fierce battles — the so-called “trench warfare.” The division’s fighters drew off enemy forces that, under other conditions, could have replenished the enemy army rushing to Moscow. If “trench warfare” had not been waged on some sections of the front, there would have been no decisive attacks and breakthroughs on others. However, this division participated not only in heavy positional battles, otherwise it would not have been called a “breakthrough division.” It had many heroic attacks and assaults on enemy fortifications, but its most striking feat was the capture of Königsberg. Not only does this city stand on a hill, it is also surrounded by high medieval fortress walls. An impregnable stronghold. But our fighters did what seemed impossible, — explained Igor Samarin.

    Photographs and documents from the State Archives of the Novosibirsk Region contain evidence of the exploits of the fighters of the “Breakthrough Division”. The lecturer showed the audience photo portraits of its heroes. Among them was Private Ikram Tashmetov, who initiated the sniper movement in the division and personally destroyed 105 fascists – an enemy company – in 9 months. Another sniper, Sergeant Ivan Saenko, destroyed 240 German soldiers and officers from February 1942 until the end of the war. This fact is confirmed by a certificate issued to him by the commander of the unit in which he served his military career.

    The grandson of the legendary hero of the civil war Vasily Chapaev, Alexander, also served in the division as an artillery squad commander. His photo was published in a front-line newspaper, which has been preserved in the archives to this day.

    A photo of the orchestra of the 18th Guards Rifle Division has also survived. At the beginning of the war, the divisional orchestra consisted of 30 people and was led by Mikhail Kazakov. Three regimental brigades were created on the basis of the divisional orchestra, which operated directly on the front line. They gave concerts in dugouts and bunkers, even if there were only 10-15 spectators and the performances took place in several stages. The repertoire of the divisional orchestra was not limited to bravura marches. It was wide and varied, including classical works.

    The division also had its own newspaper, “Defense of the Motherland,” and printed leaflets. It even had its own artist, Ivan Titkov. His pencil drawings have been perfectly preserved to this day. The subjects were varied: our soldiers on the offensive, on defense, on reconnaissance, during rest hours, and captured enemy soldiers.

    Volunteers

    The 1st Siberian Volunteer Division of Siberian Warriors was created in July 1942 on the initiative of the Novosibirsk Regional Committee of the All-Union Communist Party (Bolsheviks). Subsequently, it was named the 150th Rifle Division, then became the 22nd Guards Riga Division. It was in this famous division that our fellow countrymen fought, after whom streets in Novosibirsk are named – Mikhail Perevozchikov, Olga Zhilina, Boris Bogatkov.

    — In the summer of 1942, the enemy was still strong and was gathering new forces for an offensive on the Caucasus, Moscow, and Stalingrad. In these conditions, volunteer divisions began to form in many regions of our country. Novosibirsk Oblast was no exception. This initiative was formalized and sent to Joseph Stalin. His consent was received a few days later, on July 2. And already on July 4, the first application was submitted. And by July 7, there were already 2,723 of them. By July 22, 5,410 privates and 715 junior officers were accepted into the volunteer division, and another 984 people from the regular junior staff arrived. In total, the division at that time numbered 7,179 soldiers and junior officers. And the recruitment of volunteers did not end there, — said Igor Samarin.

    The first commander of the division was Nikolai Guz. The lecturer showed the audience a unique document – his award sheet for the Order of the Red Banner, stored in the Central Archive of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, and said that Nikolai Olimpievich was an outstanding officer. He commanded the 345th Rifle Division, which participated in the defense of Sevastopol (the division was completely destroyed, but the banner was saved), was the commander of the 150th Rifle Volunteer Division named after Stalin, and then the 22nd Guards Rifle Division and the 338th Rifle Division. Cavalier of the Order of the Red Banner and the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st degree.

    — The party leadership of the Novosibirsk region was given the task of not just creating a volunteer division, but also providing it with comprehensive assistance and replenishment. That it would fully assist and replenish it, which was done with great dedication and efficiency, — noted Igor Samarin.

    Among the volunteers was Mikhail Perevozchikov. Since he was the secretary of the Novosibirsk regional committee of the Komsomol, he had a deferment, but nevertheless, Mikhail Georgievich persistently sought to get to the front. He went to the front as a volunteer and died in a fierce battle with the fascists near the city of Bely on November 25, 1942, repelling an enemy tank attack. A street in the Zaeltsovsky district of Novosibirsk is named after him.

    One of the streets in the Central District of Novosibirsk is named after Olga Zhilina, who was one of the first girls to apply to be included in the 22nd Volunteer Division.

    — The life of this amazing woman is shrouded in mystery. The exact date of her birth is unknown, only the year — 1914. Olga Vasilievna was born in Kolyvan, and as a child, she lost her parents and was taken into the care of her aunts, who took her to Novosibirsk. Today, employees of the State Archives of the Novosibirsk Region have tried to establish her date of birth. To do this, they turned to the registers of Orthodox churches in Kolyvan. From 1914, only two churches out of three that existed at that time have preserved registers. Olga Zhilina’s birth and baptism were not recorded in them. The third register could not be found, — the lecturer said.

    Olga graduated from high school, studied at the workers’ faculty, but did not graduate. For some time she worked as a saleswoman in a store, and then mysteriously ended up in the personnel department of the regional party committee. Then – in the personnel department of the NKVD administration for the Novosibirsk region, and then she even headed the military department in the Central district party committee. In addition, Olga Zhilina was engaged in shooting, showing excellent results, was fond of sports, ran cross-country, and studied German. She, like Mikhail Perevozchikov, also had an “iron” exemption, but nevertheless, she preferred to take nursing courses and become a front-line medical instructor.

    During her two years at the front as a medical battalion instructor, Olga Zhilina suffered eight wounds, carrying the wounded out of the heaviest battles. At the same time, she was also a sniper and has killed enemy soldiers and officers.

    On October 8, 1944, in the area of the village of Bumbieri near Riga, she carried 17 wounded soldiers out of a burning barn set on fire by the Nazis. She was mortally wounded there. But even here there were mysteries. Later, an eyewitness to these events was found. The woman said that Olga Zhilina came out of the ill-fated barn alive, but with two wounds. She refused to have her wounds bandaged. Then they went together to the front line to carry the wounded from the battlefield. And it was there that Olga Vasilyevna was killed.

    Olga Zhilina received 4 military awards for her military exploits, including the Order of the Red Star, the Order of the Red Banner, the Medal for Military Merit, and the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st degree, posthumously.

    The young Novosibirsk poet Boris Bogatkov also fought in the 22nd Siberian Volunteer Division. His poems began to be published in 1940 in the magazine “Sibirskie Ogni”. In 1941, he volunteered for the front, but after a concussion he was evacuated to Novosibirsk. In 1942, despite the doctors’ prohibitions, he returned to the front. He died a year later in the Smolensk region, raising his platoon to attack. According to eyewitnesses, at that moment his platoon was going at the enemy with his song. He was only 20 years old.

    Boris Bogatkov was posthumously awarded the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st class. A street, school and library in Novosibirsk are named after him.

    “Novosibirsk residents to the front”

    Novosibirsk residents made a significant contribution to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War not only on the battlefields, but also in the deep rear. They provided assistance to the residents of Leningrad – they sent trains with butter, clothes, food and everything necessary.

    – “Novosibirsk Komsomolets” – the so -called columns of tanks and squadrons of planes, and there were six of them. The State Archive of the Novosibirsk Region stores amazing documents-signature sheets on raising funds for the construction of the second squadron “Novosibirsk Komsomolets” among students of grades 2-3 of schools of the Suzunsky district. Children gave their pocket money, saying about adults who donated their savings. There are cases when people who were awarded the Stalin Prize, all of it were given to the defense fund without a trace, or sent to the construction of the Novosibirsk Komsomolets air squadron or “for their homeland!”. Industrial enterprises, collective farms, state farms, various labor collectives participated in financing the construction of combat aircraft and tanks. Also, 24 guards mortars of BM-13 Katyusha were built at the expense of the workers, which were transferred to the 4th Guards mortar Sevastopol Regiment, over which our region took patronage. The submarine “Novosibirsk Komsomolets” was also completed with folk money. The construction of the submarine began before the war, and it was intended to be sent to the Black Sea Fleet, but for some reason the work was discontinued. The Novosibirsk made an initiative to raise money to complete the construction and proposed transferring the submarine to the Northern Fleet. With the assistance of the Komsomol regional committee and a large -scale response by the population, the necessary amount was collected. The submarine was completed, the name “Novosibirsk Komsomolets” was given to her and sent by rail to the Northern Fleet base to the city of Polar. The delegation of the Novosibirsk Komsomol members was present on August 10, 1943 at a rally on the occasion of the transfer of the Novosibirsk Komsomolets to the Northern Fleet sailors. In total, this boat made 4 military campaigns, according to official figures, one transport was sunk, but the boat crew itself claimed that 2 enemy ships of a large displacement were destroyed. Since then, there is always a submarine with the name “Novosibirsk Komsomolets” in the Northern Sea Fleet, ”said Igor Samarin.   

    During the war, Novosibirsk lived by one motto: “Everything for the front, everything for victory.” Igor Samarin voiced some data collected with historians and archival employees to justify assigning Novosibirsk the title of “City of Labor Valor.” This information is impressive: Novosibirsk defense enterprises produced almost a third of the shells (about 125 million) and a quarter of the combat fighters (more than 15 and a half thousand). Collective and state farms of the Novosibirsk region prepared more than 1 million 750 thousand tons of grain and more than 70 thousand tons of meat for the state, transferred almost 4 thousand cars and tractors, about 28 thousand horses for the needs of the front.

    Igor Samarin accompanied his lecture with vivid presentations with photos of unique and rare documents from the State Archives of the Novosibirsk Region and the archives of the Novosibirsk Military Historical Scientific Society, which was perceived by the audience with particular interest, especially since the majority of them were undergraduate and graduate students in the field of History, as well as employees of the Humanities Institute of NSU.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ngamai Wilam – Victoria’s first publicly funded residential treatment centre for eating disorders

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    We’re ensuring Victorians with an eating disorder get the care and support they need with Victoria’s first public residential eating disorder treatment centre, Ngamai Wilam.

    Operated by Alfred Health in Armadale, Ngamai Wilam is a brand new, purpose-built 12 bed residential centre, offering 24/7 support in a safe, home-like setting, providing specialist care for Victorians aged 18 and over who are living with an eating disorder.

    Delivering on the objectives of the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy 2024-31, the establishment of this centre represents a shift in our system towards a stepped model of care, where care is available and tailored to an individual’s needs and circumstances – where we have services that are designed to meet people where they are at.

    By providing treatment, support, and care in a welcoming, home-like environment, Ngamai Wilam gives individuals the best chance at lasting recovery.

    The centre’s approach to care has been co-designed with people who have lived experience of eating disorders, alongside families, carers, health professionals, advocacy groups, and experts. By centring lived and living experience in both the design of the built environment and the model of care, Ngamai Wilam offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment, care and support for individuals impacted by eating disorders as well as their families, carers and supporters.

    The name, Ngamai Wilam (pronounced Nah-may Will-ahm) is inspired by the story of Nala, a wise spirit who created the first sunrise and sunset. Resonating strongly with the naming group, sunset is a reminder that as the day fades, so too can difficulties, where sunrise brings the promise of fresh beginnings and renewed strength to confront challenges.

    Ngamai Wilam represents a transformative approach to care for individuals with eating disorders. With a strong focus on family and chosen supports, Ngamai Wilam is committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care that promotes long-term recovery.

    Read more about what we’re doing to tackle the rising prevalence and severity of eating disorders in the Victorian eating disorders strategy 2024-31.

    Further information

    Ngamai Wilam will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week with onsite staff support, and will be integrated with existing eating disorder services across the state.

    Treatment is free to consumers accessing Ngamai Wilam as a publicly funded service. Equitable access to care is provided to all Victorians with a diagnosed eating disorder.

    Ngamai Wilam will progressively open to a 12-bed capacity across 2025. More information on referral pathways is available on the Alfred Health websiteExternal Link.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Piece of WWII history uncovered on Te Ara Tūtohu: SH3 Waitara to Bell Block

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A piece of Taranaki’s Second World War history has recently been uncovered during work on Te Ara Tūtohu: SH3 Waitara to Bell Block.

    Two Home Guard rifle pits were found to the north of the intersection of State Highway 3 (SH3) and De Havilland Drive in Bell Block.

    It’s likely they were constructed between 1941 and 1942 as a defensive position to protect the Bell Block Aerodrome on Te Arei Road, which was being used as a Royal New Zealand Air Force training base, from a potential invasion by Japanese forces.

    The Home Guard was formed in 1940 in response to the potential threat posed by the Empire of Japan during the Second World War. Membership was initially voluntary but became compulsory from 1942 for men aged 35-50.

    Home Guard – Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand(external link)

    “These are textbook Home Guard pits,” says project archaeologist Daniel McCurdy. “These are so textbook, that in fact one of them conforms exactly (within a few inches) to the standard set out for the Home Guard. However, instead of an optional drainage trench at the base, the men chose to place timbers instead, likely reclaimed from the local farm.”

    There have been a number of archaeological finds on Te Ara Tūtohu since physical works began in 2023. The project works closely with archaeologists and cultural monitors in these instances. Depending on what is found, the find may be removed or documented and left in place.

    “The area we are working in is historically significant. It’s important that whenever we come across a potential archaeological find in the course of our work that we take the time necessary to investigate,” says Te Ara Tūtohu project manager Calvin Rorke.

    “I know that I, and many of us working on Te Ara Tūtohu, have learnt a lot about the history of this area through our work on the project.”

    Te Ara Tūtohu: Waitara to Bell Block project

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Hawke’s Bay Police are investigating after shots were fired at a house on Cobham Place in Hastings early this morning.

    The incident was reported to Police at around 3am today. Witnesses reported seeing possibly two people leaving the area on a quad bike at around the same time.

    Our initial enquiries indicate that this incident is not linked to the ongoing tensions between Mongrel Mob and Black Power in Eastern District.

    We would like to hear from anyone with information which might assist our investigation. We are particularly interested in any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at around the time of the shooting.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105, quoting file number 250428/4796.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
     

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Young women are among those who care most about the cost of living. It could be bad for the major parties

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Intifar Chowdhury, Lecturer in Government, Flinders University

    Unsplash

    As was widely predicted, the cost of living has dominated the federal election campaign. Soaring rents, grocery bills and energy prices have squeezed household budgets.

    But these pressures aren’t new. In 2022, voter frustration over living costs helped Labor oust the Coalition.

    With economic pressures persisting, will history repeat?

    Analysis of cost-of-living trends and voting patterns in the last election reveals the voters most motivated by hip-pocket concerns: young women.

    What was the situation in 2022?

    In the 2022 Australian Election Study – a nationally representative post-election survey – about 23.3% of respondents (577 out of 2,478) identified cost of living as the most important issue shaping their vote.

    Younger Australians were the most concerned about the issue. Among the age groups, 38.9% of those aged 18–30 prioritised it, compared with 30.4% aged 31–45, 28.5% aged 46–60, and just 15.4% among those aged 61–90.

    The generational pattern was clear: the younger you were, the more likely you were to vote on cost-of-living concerns.

    Gender also played a role. A slightly higher proportion of women (25.1%) than men (21.1%) rated cost of living as their top issue.

    But the age-gender breakdown reveals more: among cost-of-living voters aged 18–45, women made up roughly 70%.

    In contrast, men outnumbered women among older cost-of-living voters (aged 60 and over).

    These trends suggest the cost of living is especially salient for younger women — a key electoral demographic to watch. Evidence shows this cohort is almost twice as likely as young men to be undecided voters.

    If we look at housing, cost-of-living concerns were most prevalent among renters, with 38.5% of public housing tenants and 32.3% of private renters citing it as their top issue, compared to just 16.4% of those who own their home outright.

    Those paying off a mortgage (27.3%) and people in alternative living arrangements such as boarding or living at home (35.6%) also reported elevated concern, highlighting the strong link between housing insecurity and financial stress.

    Looking at household incomes, it’s no surprise low-income households were overrepresented among cost-of-living voters.

    But concern wasn’t limited to them. Middle-income households, including many earning six-figure incomes, also featured prominently, reflecting how rising rents and mortgage repayments are squeezing even those once considered financially secure.

    A generation defining crisis

    Cost-of-living pressures are widespread, but financial vulnerability heightens the risk of poverty, which already affects more than three million Australians.

    As shown above, young people and young families are at the deep end of the crisis.
    For many, this is a generation-defining crisis, reshaping life expectations.

    In 2017, 62.2% of Australians aged 18–24 saw home ownership as highly important. By 2024, that dropped to 49.5%. A similar decline occurred among 25–34-year-olds.



    Read more:
    Every generation thinks they had it the toughest, but for Gen Z, they’re probably right

    Those in the poorest suburbs or the poorest household are the least likely to value home ownership. This is potentially a sign they feel permanently locked out, deepening inequality.

    As renting becomes more common, and rent prices skyrocket, young people are increasingly struggling to secure affordable rent.

    It’s no surprise Gen Z is more financially anxious than any other generation. The mental health toll of financial stress is stark, contributing to the high prevalence of mental health disorders among this age group.

    With a sizeable youth electorate this time around, financially struggling young voters could be the power brokers of the election. So who might they vote for?

    The politics of living costs

    In the last election, 61.7% of voters concerned about the cost of living backed a left-of-centre party, while 38.3% voted for the right. Despite the Coalition’s historic advantage on economic issues, they faced an incumbent disadvantage among cost-of-living voters.

    In an Election Monitoring Survey conducted in October 2024, only 23.7% of Australians were living comfortably on their present income, while 46.4% were coping, and 29.9% were struggling.

    Those facing financial hardship were more dissatisfied with the country’s direction, less confident in the government, and more likely to dislike both major party leaders.

    Unsurprisingly, October 2024 saw a decline in trust in the federal government, with 15.7% of Australians reporting no trust at all, up from 8.3% in May 2022. Those who did trust the government remained around 32%.

    This shows cost-of-living voters – much like young and female voters – are likely to explore alternatives beyond the major parties, continuing the 2022 trend.

    Both major parties have seen a steady decline in support over the past two decades, with less than 70% of the primary vote between them in 2022.

    This time around, Labor can afford to lose only two seats before facing minority government. Peter Dutton, on the other hand, faces a tougher task, needing nearly 20 seats for a majority.

    With increasing dislike for the major parties among financially struggling voters, there’s a real chance of a hung parliament, where neither party secures the 76 seats needed to govern outright, making negotiations with minor parties and independents crucial.

    Policy battleground

    The major parties know how important the rising cost of living is to voters. A slew of policies has already been announced, from cheaper doctors visits, to lower cost medicines and power bill rebates. On all these fronts, the Coalition has agreed to match Labor’s proposals, ensuring a tightly contested debate.

    Notably, Labor’s proposal to top up stage three income tax cuts won’t kick in until mid-next year, but will cost the government $17 billion over four years.

    Meanwhile, the Coalition’s pledge to halve the excise on fuel duty for a year, will cost $6 billion in lost tax revenue in a year.

    But whether it will be enough to stop cost-of-living voters siding with a minor party or independent remains to be seen.

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

    – ref. Young women are among those who care most about the cost of living. It could be bad for the major parties – https://theconversation.com/young-women-are-among-those-who-care-most-about-the-cost-of-living-it-could-be-bad-for-the-major-parties-254988

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What political ads are Australians seeing online? Astroturfing, fake grassroots groups, and outright falsehoods

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Angus, Professor of Digital Communication, Director of QUT Digital Media Research Centre, Queensland University of Technology

    In the lead-up to the 2025 Australian federal election, political advertising is seemingly everywhere.

    We’ve been mapping the often invisible world of digital political advertising across Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

    We’ve done this thanks to a panel of ordinary Australians who agreed to download an ad tracking app developed through the Australian Internet Observatory.

    We’re also tracking larger trends in political ad spending, message type and tone, and reach via the PoliDashboard tool. This open source tool aggregates transparency data from Meta (including Facebook and Instagram) which we use to identify patterns and items of concern.

    While the major parties are spending heavily and are highly visible in the feeds of our participants, it is the prevalence of third-party political advertising that is most striking. We’ve observed a notable trend: for every ad from a registered political party, there is roughly one ad from a third-party entity.

    Astroturfing and the illusion of grassroots support

    One of the most concerning trends we’re seeing is a rise in astroturfing. This refers to masking the sponsors of a message to make it appear as though it originates from ordinary citizens or grassroots organisations.

    Astroturfing ads do often adhere to the formal disclosure requirements set out by the Australian Electoral Commission. However, these disclosures don’t meaningfully inform the public on who is behind these misleading ads.

    Authorisation typically only includes the name and address of an intermediary. This may be a deliberately opaque shell entity set up just in time for an election.

    A key example seen by participants in our study involves the pro-gas advocacy group Australians for Natural Gas.

    It presents itself as a grassroots movement, but an ABC investigation revealed this group is working with Freshwater Strategy – the Coalition’s internal pollster. Emails obtained by the ABC show Freshwater Strategy is “helping orchestrate a campaign to boost public support for the gas industry ahead of the federal election”.

    Other examples we’ve encountered in our monitoring include groups with benign-sounding names like Mums for Nuclear and Australians for Prosperity. These labels and the ads they are running suggest grassroots concern, but they obscure the deeper agendas behind them.

    In the case of Australians for Prosperity, an ABC analysis revealed backing from wealthy donors, former conservative MPs and coal interests.

    The battle over energy

    Nowhere is this more evident than in messaging around energy policy, especially nuclear power and gas.

    In recent months, both major parties and a swathe of third-party advertisers have run targeted online campaigns focused on the costs and benefits of different energy futures. These ads play to deeply felt concerns about cost of living, action on climate change, and national sovereignty.

    Yet many of these messages, particularly those that promote gas and nuclear, come from organisations with opaque funding and undeclared political affiliations or connections. Voters may see a slick Facebook ad or a sponsored TikTok explainer without any idea who paid for it, or why.

    And with no obligation to be truthful, much of this content may be deeply misleading. It muddies public understanding at a critical moment for climate action.

    Truth not required

    Truth in political advertising isn’t legally required in all of Australia. While businesses can’t mislead consumers under consumer law, political parties and third-party campaigners are exempt from those same standards.

    This means misleading or outright false claims – about opponents, policies or the state of the economy – can be repeated and amplified without consequence, provided they’re framed as political opinion.

    Despite calls for reform from politicians, experts and civil society groups, federal legislation continues to lag behind community expectations.

    South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory do have truth in political advertising laws, but there is still no national standard.

    In the digital advertising environment, where ads are fast, fleeting, and often tailored to individuals, the absence of such independent scrutiny allows misinformation to flourish unchecked.

    Most people are seeing very little – or so it seems

    Paradoxically, our data shows the majority of participants are seeing very few political ads. Of the total ads seen, less than 2% pertained to political topics or the election specifically.

    This is partly a result of how the advertising products offered by platforms like Meta and TikTok allow ads to be targeted to specific demographics, locations or interests. This means even two people in the same household may have entirely different ad experiences.

    But it’s also a reminder social media ads are just the tip of the iceberg. Much political persuasion online happens outside paid ad campaigns – via influencer content, YouTube recommendations, algorithmic amplification, mainstream media coverage and more.

    Because platforms and publishers aren’t required to share this broader content with researchers or the public, we can’t easily track it – although we are trying.

    We need meaningful observability

    If democracy is to thrive in a digital age, we need to be able to independently observe online political communication, including advertising.

    Existing measures like campaign finance disclosures and transparency tools provided by platforms will never be enough. They don’t include user experiences or track patterns across populations and over time. This inevitably means some advertising activity flies under the radar.

    We lack robust tools to understand and analyse our current fragmented information landscape.

    Where platforms don’t provide meaningful data access to researchers and the public, tools like the Ad Observatory and PoliDashboard offer valuable glimpses into a fragmented information landscape, while remaining incomplete.

    However, tools on their own are not enough. We also need to be willing to call out and act when politicians mislead the public.

    Acknowlegement: The Australian Ad Observatory is a team effort. The authors wish to acknowledge the contribution of Jean Burgess, Nicholas Carah, Alfie Chadwick, Kyle Herbertson, Tina Kang, Khanh Luong, Abdul Karim Obeid, Lina Przhedetsky, and Dan Tran.

    Daniel Angus receives funding from Australian Research Council through Linkage Project ‘Young Australians and the Promotion of Alcohol on Social Media’. He is a Chief Investigator with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision Making & Society.

    Christine Parker receives funding from the Australian Research Council through the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society.

    Giselle Newton received funding from the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education for the project ‘How alcohol and gambling companies target people most at risk with marketing for addictive products on Facebook’.

    Mark Andrejevic receives funding from the Australian Research Council through the Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision Making and Society and through the Discovery Program.

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

    – ref. What political ads are Australians seeing online? Astroturfing, fake grassroots groups, and outright falsehoods – https://theconversation.com/what-political-ads-are-australians-seeing-online-astroturfing-fake-grassroots-groups-and-outright-falsehoods-255225

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists have improved one of the key elements of fiber lasers

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Research staff Department of Laser Physics and Innovative Technologies, Novosibirsk State University (OLFIT NSU) optimized birefringent filters for use in fiber lasers. NSU scientists were far from the first specialists in the field of photonics who, with varying degrees of success, used these filters in fiber lasers, but they summarized and analyzed the previous experience of their colleagues and proposed their own innovative solution for their optimization. The results of this work are presented in the article by the head of the Department of Laser Physics and Innovative Technologies of NSU, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Sergey Kobtsev “Bifractive Filters in Fiber Systems” (“Birefringent filters in fiber systems”), which was published in the international scientific journal “Journal of the Optical Society of America B” It became one of the most downloaded in January-March 2025.

    — We have been working with birefringent filters for many years. Several works were devoted to improving filters of this type, in which we considered birefringent filters as the main selectors of liquid and solid-state tunable lasers. Filters of this type have proven themselves in our traditional lasers from the best side. Naturally, there was a desire to use them in fiber lasers. It turned out that when adapting birefringent filters to fiber lasers, essentially only the operating principle of these filters remains, and their configuration undergoes significant changes. The article “Birefringent filters in fiber systems” shows options for these changes, analyzes the capabilities and limitations of modified filters. The article, of course, is of interest to a wide range of researchers and developers in the field of photonics, — explained Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Sergey Kobtsev.

    Interest in laser spectral-selective components from photonics specialists is quite high, since such elements allow in many cases to achieve the required laser line width and/or control the radiation wavelength. Birefringent filters, whose action is based on changing the polarization of radiation when passing through a birefringent optical material, have long established themselves as one of the best spectral-selective components for lasers with a relatively wide gain band.

    Filters of this type are widely used in tunable dye lasers or titanium-sapphire lasers. They typically contain one or more birefringent plates (usually made of crystalline quartz) inclined at the Brewster angle to the beam.

    The inclined surfaces of the plates act as partial radiation analyzers, and the plates themselves act as radiation polarizers. The wavelengths of radiation whose polarization does not change when passing through the filter are generated.

    — Most fiber lasers are tunable, their radiation wavelength can be changed by tens of nanometers. This change can be made using birefringent filters, but they require adaptation to fiber lasers. As a result of attempts to use these filters in fiber lasers, there was a need for new solutions to adapt birefringent filters to a relatively new platform with original properties. The article “Birefringent filters in fiber systems” is devoted to the analysis of changes in these filters (material, configuration, controllability, etc.) associated with their use in new conditions. Optimized birefringent filters are in demand in many fiber lasers, widely used in various tasks – from medicine to cooling atoms. It would not be an exaggeration to say that thanks to the efforts of NSU scientists, one of the key elements of fiber lasers is being improved, — explained Sergey Kobtsev.

    The research described in the article is carried out within the framework of the project “New fiber short-pulse laser systems including advanced composite materials, intelligent technologies and metrological extensions”, supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two in hot water following risky break in

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A pair of alleged burglars in the middle of removing a hot water cylinder and copper piping from a Tikipunga property have been caught in the act.

    Police were alerted to a burglary at a property undergoing renovation on Thomas Street just after 9.30am yesterday.

    The homeowner reported seeing, through security cameras, two people allegedly inside the premises removing items from the home.

    Whangārei Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Dave Wilkinson, says Police were notified after two people were seen breaking into the property, which is currently under construction.

    “The Police Dog Unit, Delta, has responded and apprehended two people allegedly trying to run out the back of the property with tools.

    “One person suffered a minor dog bite as a result.

    “CCTV footage proved invaluable in this case, alerting the homeowner to the pair entering the property and allowing them to see the footage in real time.

    “CCTV is a great security measure and not only can it alert you as incidents are happening, but it is also a crucial tool in identifying offenders and providing critical evidence.”

    A 32-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman have been charged with burglary and will appear in Whangārei District Court today.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 28, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 28, 2025.

    Reefs in the ‘middle’ light zone along NZ’s coast are biodiversity hotspots – many are home to protected species
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James J Bell, Professor of Marine Biology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington James Bell, CC BY-SA The latest update on the state of New Zealand’s environment paints a concerning outlook for marine environments, especially amid the increasing push to use the marine estate for

    Pokies line the coffers of governments and venues – but there are ways to tame this gambling gorilla
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Livingstone, Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University Recently, much public attention has been given to the way online wagering and its incessant promotion has infiltrated sport and our TV screens. Despite a 2023 parliamentary inquiry that recommended new restrictions on online

    Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Asgary, Professor, Disaster & Emergency Management, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies & Director, CIFAL York, York University, Canada A car attack at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver just two days before Canada’s federal election has killed at least 11 people and injured many

    Is Canada heading down a path that has caused the collapse of mighty civilizations in the past?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Hoyer, Senior Researcher, Historian and Complexity Scientist, University of Toronto Canada is, by nearly any measure, a large, advanced, prosperous nation. A founding member of the G7, Canada is one of the world’s most “advanced economies,” ranking fourth in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s

    Rwanda’s genocide: why remembering needs to be free of politics – lessons from survivors
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Lakin, Lecturer, Clark University Memory and politics are inherently intertwined and can never be fully separated in post-atrocity and post-genocidal contexts. They are also dynamic and ever-changing. The interplay between memory and politics is, therefore, prone to manipulation, exaggeration or misuse by clever actors to meet

    In talking with Tehran, Trump is reversing course on Iran – could a new nuclear deal be next?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeffrey Fields, Professor of the Practice of International Relations, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences A mural on the outer walls of the former US embassy in Tehran depicts two men in negotiation. Majid Saeedi/Getty Images Negotiators from Iran and the United States are set

    ‘I were but little happy, if I could say how much’: Shakespeare’s insights on happiness have held up for more than 400 years
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cora Fox, Associate Professor of English and Health Humanities, Arizona State University Joanna Vanderham as Desdemona and Hugh Quarshie as the title character in a Royal Shakespeare Company production of ‘Othello.’ Robbie Jack/Corbis via Getty Images What is “happiness” – and who gets to be happy? Since

    What will the UK Supreme Court gender ruling mean in practice? A legal expert explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Maine, Senior Lecturer in Law, City St George’s, University of London jeep2499/Shutterstock The Supreme Court’s decision in For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers will mean changes in how trans people in the UK access services and single-sex spaces. In the highly anticipated judgment announced

    What are ‘penjamins’? Disguised cannabis vapes are gaining popularity among young people
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jack Chung, PhD Candidate, National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland Stenko Vlad/Shutterstock E-cigarettes or vapes were originally designed to deliver nicotine in a smokeless form. But in recent years, vapes have been used to deliver other psychoactive substances, including cannabis concentrates and

    Used EV batteries could power vehicles, houses or even towns – if their manufacturers share vital data
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daryoush Habibi, Professor and Head, Centre for Green and Smart Energy Systems, Edith Cowan University EV batteries are made of hundreds of smaller cells. IM Imagery/Shutterstock Around the world, more and more electric vehicles are hitting the road. Last year, more than 17 million battery-electric and hybrid

    Climate change and the housing crisis are a dangerous mix. So which party is grappling with both?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ehsan Noroozinejad, Senior Researcher and Sustainable Future Lead, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University Australia is running out of affordable, safe places to live. Rents and mortgages are climbing faster than wages, and young people fear they may never own a home. At the same time,

    Why film and TV creators will still risk it all for the perfect long take shot
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kristian Ramsden, PhD Candidate, University of Adelaide Apple TV In the second episode of Apple TV’s The Studio (2025–) – a sharp satirical take on contemporary Hollywood – newly-appointed studio head Matt Remick (Seth Rogen) visits the set of one of his company’s film productions. He finds

    Is there a best way to peel a boiled egg? A food scientist explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paulomi (Polly) Burey, Professor in Food Science, University of Southern Queensland We’ve all been there – trying to peel a boiled egg, but mangling it beyond all recognition as the hard shell stubbornly sticks to the egg white. Worse, the egg ends up covered in chewy bits

    Australia once had ‘immigration amnesties’ to grant legal status to undocumented people. Could we again?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Dehm, Senior Lecturer, International Migration and Refugee Law, University of Technology Sydney The year is 1972. The Whitlam Labor government has just been swept into power and major changes to Australia’s immigration system are underway. Many people remember this time for the formal end of the

    Independents may build on Australia’s history of hung parliaments, if they can survive the campaign blues
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University Major parties used to easily dismiss the rare politician who stood alone in parliament. These MPs could be written off as isolated idealists, and the press could condescend to them as noble, naïve and unlikely to succeed. In

    Peter Dutton: a Liberal leader seeking to surf on the wave of outer suburbia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In searching for the “real” Peter Dutton, it is possible to end up frustrated because you have looked too hard. Politically, Dutton is not complicated. There is a consistent line in his beliefs through his career. Perhaps the shortest cut

    Albanese has been a ‘proficient and lucky general’. But if he wins a second term, we are right to demand more
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Strangio, Emeritus Professor of Politics, Monash University Barring a rogue result, this Saturday Anthony Albanese will achieve what no major party leader has done since John Howard’s prime-ministerial era – win consecutive elections. Admittedly, in those two decades he is only the second of the six

    Peter Dutton declares Welcome to Country ceremonies are ‘overdone’ in heated final leaders’ debate
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Marks, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships, Western Sydney University Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have had their fourth and final leaders’ debate of the campaign. The skirmish, hosted by 7News in Sydney, was moderated by 7’s Political Editor Mark Riley. Cost of

    Election Diary: a cost-of-living election where neither leader can tell you the price of eggs
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The fourth election debate was the most idiosyncratic of the four head-to-head contests between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. Apart from all the usual topics, the pair was charged with producing one-word responses to pictures of

    Trump’s war on the media: 10 numbers from US President’s first 100 days
    Reporters Without Borders Donald Trump campaigned for the White House by unleashing a nearly endless barrage of insults against journalists and news outlets. He repeatedly threatened to weaponise the federal government against media professionals whom he considers his enemies. In his first 100 days in office, President Trump has already shown that he was not bluffing.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: The plastic-free shift: A viable option for big business

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Photo from: Okada Manila

    Plenty of businesses are starting their own sustainability initiatives, but only a few large companies are taking serious steps to slowly phase out single-use plastics from their operations. Stepping up to the challenge is Okada Manila, a major player in the Philippine hospitality industry.

    The six-time Forbes 5-star integrated resort started its operations in 2016, with the aim of boosting tourism by providing a “comprehensive leisure experience” combining gaming with hotel, dining, shopping and entertainment options. This would evolve into a much bigger cause: embedding environmentally sustainable practices into the services they bring.

    “From the very beginning, sustainability has been top of mind — from planning to construction of the property,” shared Okada Manila Vice President for Hotel Operations Robert Scott.

    “Almost a decade in, we have integrated environmentally responsible practices across all facets of our operations. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we continue to develop programs through the Okada Green Heart movement.”

    The Philippine hotel industry is the largest consumer of single-use plastics in the country, according to data referenced by a 2022 journal article. Packaging alone accounts for up to 40% of a hotel’s waste stream, a harmful byproduct from manufacturers that doesn’t decompose over time.

    Photo by: Greenpeace

    While over 94% of Filipinos are in favor of global caps on plastic production in the country, most are left with limited options as the problematic material continues to be cheaper for businesses.

    From plastic bottles to reuse and refill

    Okada Manila started out using single-use plastic bottles for various hotel amenities just like most businesses. This includes water bottles, shampoos and conditioners provided to guests. But with over 1,001 rooms, this translates to an immense volume of plastic waste daily.

    Acknowledging the problem, the hotel earlier removed disposable bottles carrying hygiene products in all of their guest rooms, effectively replacing it with a similar reuse and refill system. 

    “We started off with single-use plastic bottles for all of our in-room amenities: shampoos, conditioners, but we’ve removed all those,” added Robert. “Initially we moved them across to aluminium foil tubes and have now removed them completely. So we’ve got the big dispenser pumps that are in the room.”

    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace

    Plastic bottles carrying essential toiletries are usually taken home by hotel guests in the Philippines, many of which are very small in size. These are replaced by staff before the next guests arrive.

    The integrated resort likewise started to eliminate single-use plastic water bottles in their facilities. In order to do this, the Parañaque-based company recently enlisted the services of Swedish firm Nordaq to replace the harmful material with glass bottles.

    These are to be filled with filtered water directly within Okada’s property.

    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace
    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace

    “We go through thousands and thousands of plastic water bottles every month. Very soon they’ll be gone. You won’t see these around Okada Manila anymore,” exclaimed Rob while holding a single-use bottle.

    Okada Manila Vice President for Hotel Operations Robert Scott holds a plastic water bottle while explaining how they’re phasing out the problematic material out from their hotel and restaurant operations. Photo by: Rico Ibarra / Greenpeace

    ‘Okada Green Heart’

    All of the above initiatives form part of Okada Manila’s larger campaign, Okada Green Heart. Central to the initiative are its six pillars, namely: waste management, energy efficiency, water conservation, talent and community, safety, security and welfare, and responsible gaming.

    The program is anchored on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, a collection of 17 objectives providing for a “shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.” Okada Manila says that it wants to instill the Green Heart program not only in their operations but also for the purposes of community development.

    As part of the program, on-site composting alongside other initiatives such as recycling and upcycling of old uniforms are now taking place within their premises. Rooms are also now equipped with smart systems that optimize lighting, heating and cooling based on occupancy. Okada is currently aiming for 100% LED lighting across all outlets.

    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace

    The program not only targets the above-mentioned practices but also other hospitality tasks not usually attributed to the “greening” of an establishment.

    “We use different chemicals now that are more environmentally friendly, and they also allow us to wash our laundry at a lower temperature, which saves the energy that’s normally required to heat up that water,” Robert added.

    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace

    Plastics Treaty as blueprint for business guidelines

    The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop the world’s first international treaty to combat plastic pollution is set to reconvene once again this 2025 after UN member states failed to reach a consensus in the session held in Busan, South Korea last December.

    Environmental organizations have earlier called for an ambitious treaty, calling for a global plastic production reduction of at least 75% to regulate global warming. Over 100 countries have backed a proposal to introduce global reduction targets, only to be frustrated by a handful of oil producing states such as Saudi Arabia.

    “Through our Okada Green Heart program, we can really support a strong Global Plastics Treaty,” continued Robert, emphasizing that they could use it to further their sustainability goals as a business. “We can use it to consistently innovate and make some really impactful changes.”

    Photo by: Miguel Louie de Guzman / Greenpeace

    Okada Manila is just one of the many signatories of Champions of Change, a growing network of progressive businesses advocating for a strong Global Plastics Treaty. The group believes that it’s possible for entrepreneurs to operate without contributing to the worsening plastic crisis — provided that steps are made to make it easier for companies to do the right thing.

    “We’re really proud and excited to be part of Champions of Change. But it’s not just us. We need everybody to be involved in it, and every single business and every single person can be involved in this project and really make a difference,” he said.

    “It’s really important for our kids’ future and for future generations that we leave this world in a better place than it was when we found it.”

    Photo by: Greenpeace / Sungwoo Lee

    Want to show your support for a Strong Global Plastics Treaty? Sign this petition now.

    Support a strong Plastics Treaty!

    Help build a plastic-free future.

    SIGN THE PETITION

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Reefs in the ‘middle’ light zone along NZ’s coast are biodiversity hotspots – many are home to protected species

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James J Bell, Professor of Marine Biology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    James Bell, CC BY-SA

    The latest update on the state of New Zealand’s environment paints a concerning outlook for marine environments, especially amid the increasing push to use the marine estate for economic gain.

    But many shallow coastal ecosystems remain largely unexplored. As our latest fieldwork shows, many of these areas are hotspots for protected species, but are largely unprotected from human impacts.

    Gardens of the red calcified stylasterid hydrocoral off the coast of Doubtful Sound, Fiordland.

    Ecosystems in the ‘middle’ light zone

    Subtidal rocky reefs have been the focus of scientific research for centuries. During the past eight decades, with the advent of SCUBA diving, they have been studied even more intensively.

    However, rocky reefs extend much deeper than most SCUBA divers can typically reach, into what is known as the mesophotic or “middle” light zone.

    While seaweeds dominate in the well-lit shallow waters, there is limited light to sustain photosynthesis in the mesophotic zone below around 30 metres. The decline in seaweed creates more space for animals, which leads to the development of communities containing species not found in the shallows.

    Deep-water stony corals at around 100 metres off the coast of Northland.

    Because these ecosystems are no longer affected by surface wave action, they are often dominated by large, fragile three-dimensional species.

    We still know very little about the ecology of the species that live in mesophotic ecosystems. Many are likely to be slow growing and long-lived, with some living for hundreds or possibly thousands of years.

    Research is ongoing and empirical data still sparse, but observations show many fish are associated with these mesophotic communities. We eat some of them, or they are important within the ocean food web.

    Diverse ecosystems and protected species

    We shared some of the first high-resolution videos of New Zealand’s mesophotic ecosystems in 2022. Back then, we thought these deep-reef communities were dominated by sponges.

    However, we have since deployed a Boxfish remotely operated vehicle more than 200 times around New Zealand and found sponges are not always the most dominant organism.

    In fact, mesophotic ecosystems along New Zealand’s coast are very diverse, with regional variation in the types of communities.

    Our team found sea squirts dominated communities off Rakiura Stewart Island, anemone stands in the Wellington region, red coral beds along the Fiordland coast and coral “reefs” in Northland.

    Asicidian or sea squirt beds at 130 metres off the coast of Rakiura Stewart Island.

    Importantly, many of these reefs support species protected under the Wildlife Act.

    During our most recent trip to Doubtless Bay in Northland, we explored more than 20 locations. At many sites we encountered protected coral species. The term coral is broadly defined in the Wildlife Act – it includes groups such as black corals (order Antipatharia), gorgonian corals (Gorgonacea), stony corals (Scleractinia) and hydrocorals (family Stylasteridae).

    Protected black coral and seafans at around 90 metres offshore at Doubtless Bay, Northland.

    Under the Wildlife Act, it is illegal to deliberately collect or damage these species. If they are brought to the surface accidentally (in fishing gear or by anchors, for example), they must be returned to the sea immediately.

    Many of these corals are typically considered deep-sea species, but they are commonly found in New Zealand’s mesophotic ecosystems. Northland’s mesophotic communities have examples from all these groups of corals, as well as other fragile ecosystems dominated by glass sponges.

    While glass sponges are not protected, they are thought to be very slow growing, with some species living for thousands of years.

    Glass sponge gardens at around 100 metres off the coast of Northland.

    Current and future impacts

    Many mesophotic organisms grow slowly and rely on food carried in the water. This makes them particularly sensitive to activities that disrupt the seafloor, such as fishing and anchoring, and to the effect of higher sediment loads.

    Sediment can either smother or clog mesophotic organisms such as corals and sponges. Many of these species show some tolerance to sediment, but prolonged exposure or very high levels can kill them off.

    Many of the mesophotic ecosystems we have explored show clear evidence of human impacts, including lost recreational fishing gear and anchor lines.

    The government plans to maximise the economic potential of the marine estate and much of this development is focused on coastal areas. Any activities that generate coastal sediment plumes are of particular concern.

    Seabed sand mining operations already occur at some sites around the coast of New Zealand. More have been proposed, potentially generating sediment plumes that could reach these mesophotic communities.

    Protected black coral in a sponge garden at around 80 metres at the Poor Knights marine reserve in Northland.

    A fundamental step for effective management of biodiversity is to understand its distribution. Our work over the past five years has characterised a wide range of mesophotic ecosystems, but there are still large areas of the New Zealand coastline that have not been explored. They are likely to contain undescribed communities.

    As many regional councils around New Zealand are working through revisions to coastal policy plans, these deeper rocky reefs need to be fully included to protect the species they support.

    Professor James J Bell receives funding from the Department of Conservation, Environment Southland, the George Mason Charitable Trust, The Royal Society of New Zealand, and the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

    – ref. Reefs in the ‘middle’ light zone along NZ’s coast are biodiversity hotspots – many are home to protected species – https://theconversation.com/reefs-in-the-middle-light-zone-along-nzs-coast-are-biodiversity-hotspots-many-are-home-to-protected-species-254597

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Success Tutoring expands globally with New Zealand centre launch

    Source: Success Tutoring

    The global tutoring revolution has arrived in New Zealand. Success Tutoring, Australia’s fastest growing and most innovative education and tutoring franchise, has officially opened its first centre in Papanui, Christchurch, marking the beginning of a bold global expansion into New Zealand, the United States, Canada, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
     
    “This is an incredibly exciting time for our company and for tutoring globally,” Success Tutoring founder and CEO, Michael Black said.
     
    “We have redefined how students learn in Australia and now we’re bringing that same energy and innovation to the world, starting right here in Christchurch.”
     
    Success Tutoring breaks away from the traditional one-size-fits-all tutoring model. Instead, it delivers a highly flexible, student-first approach, giving families unlimited access to personalised sessions through a subscription model that fits modern life.

    It’s more than academic support, it’s about building confidence, curiosity and a mindset for success.

    “Our students aren’t just lifting grades, they’re unlocking their potential,” Black said.

    “We’ve helped kids significantly improve their academic results, earn scholarships, get into selective schools and most importantly, feel proud of themselves again.”

    Results from across the Australian network in 2024 were outstanding with Success Tutoring seeing strong academic improvements in Math and English, scholarships and school-entry success for many students and the majority of students reported significant boosts in confidence and self-esteem.

    The Christchurch launch is being led by powerhouse pair Abhishek Gupta (Abhi) and Jalvanti Bhanderi (Jayvee), franchisees with a powerful combination of business smarts, education experience and passion for youth development.

    Gupta, with a master’s in economics and a background in banking, consulting and teaching, has spent years empowering learners. Bhanderi, who grew up in Nairobi and speaks four languages, brings a background in accounting, operations and people-focused leadership.

    “We’re not just running a tutoring centre, we’re creating a space where young people can grow, be inspired and realise what they’re capable of,” Gupta said.

    Bhanderi added that they have seen the gap, the average student who gets left behind. Success Tutoring is here in New Zealand to give all students the tools and support to soar.

    As the brand goes global, Success Tutoring is also offering a life-changing business opportunity for passionate tutors and entrepreneurs. With a turnkey system, national marketing and world-class support, the franchise model is designed to deliver exceptional results for students as well as franchise business owners.

    “The majority of Success Tutoring franchises are cashflow-positive from day one, deliver high profit margins and rapid growth potential and boast purpose-driven ownership backed by proven national systems,” Black said.

    “This is a business where your success is measurable in both income and impact. It’s a model that delivers for students, for families and for the people who run it.”

    With Christchurch opening and already accepting bookings, Success Tutoring is actively recruiting new franchisees across New Zealand, from Auckland to Queenstown, looking for people who want to change lives and build a business with heart.

    “We’re on a mission to empower the next generation and we’re calling on visionary leaders to join us,” Black said.

    “If you want to inspire, uplift and grow a business that matters, there’s never been a better time.”

    About Success Tutoring

    Founded by Michael Black in 2017, Success Tutoring is Australia’s fastest growing education centre with multiple locations and a further 150 cities planned worldwide by 2026. The company offers weekly tutoring sessions in English and Math for students aged five to 17, with a school readiness program for kids even younger, and selective school exam preparation tutoring also available. The Success Model not only empowers students to work at their own pace towards progress but also finds success in the social aspect of students coming together and working as a community of students to find motivation, inspiration and a lifelong love of learning.

    https://successtutoring.com.au/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Pokies line the coffers of governments and venues – but there are ways to tame this gambling gorilla

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Livingstone, Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University

    Recently, much public attention has been given to the way online wagering and its incessant promotion has infiltrated sport and our TV screens.

    Despite a 2023 parliamentary inquiry that recommended new restrictions on online (especially sport) gambling advertising, the federal government neglected to implement any of the 31 recommendations.



    Read more:
    Will the government’s online gambling advertising legislation ever eventuate? Don’t bet on it

    This seems to have resulted from a furious and well resourced campaign by gambling’s ecosystem: wagering companies, broadcasters, sporting leagues, and others who currently drink from the fountain of gambling revenue.

    Naturally, this issue garnered a great deal of attention, as it should.

    But there’s another even bigger gambling gorilla that has steadily rebuilt its profits post-pandemic. You’ll probably find some at a hotel or social club near you.

    This is, of course, pokies: Australia’s version of slot machines.

    Australia’s major source of gambling problems

    Australians lost A$15.8 billion on pokies in 2022–23, over half of that ($8.1 billion) in New South Wales. That’s an increase of 7.6% from 2018–19 (before pandemic restrictions closed many venues or restricted operations).

    Wagering (sports and race betting) losses grew a hefty 45% over the same period, to around $8.4 billion. Even so, it remains way behind the pokies as Australia’s biggest source of gambling losses and problems.

    Casino losses dropped by 35.5%. Casinos are also poke venues, but also offer other forms of gambling. Pokies in casinos are counted as “casino” gambling in national gambling statistics, while pokies in clubs and pubs continue to be counted separately.

    A recent study found pokies responsible for between 52% and 57% of gambling problems in Australia. Wagering was estimated at 20%.

    Recent growth may have altered these a little but pokies are still responsible for half of Australia’s gambling losses.

    The gambling industry is fond of pointing out only a modest proportion of the population have serious gambling problems. That’s true, according to most prevalence studies.

    But what also has to be remembered is, most people never use pokies. In 2024, the latest population study for NSW found only 14.3% of adults used pokies at all.

    But around 18.5% of pokie users are either high or moderate risk gamblers: 35% of gamblers who use pokies at least once a month are classified as either high or moderate risk gamblers.

    And in 2010 the Productivity Commission estimated 41% of the money lost on pokies came from the most seriously addicted, with another 20% coming from those with more moderate issues. Overall, well over half of the losses.

    It’s little wonder pokie operators resist reforms.

    Why are pokies so profitable?

    The first and obvious answer to this is that there are a lot of them: they are widely accessible across Australia (apart from Western Australia, where they’re only in a single casino).

    NSW alone has about 87,500. Queensland has about half that number, and Victoria about 26,000.

    All of these are located in pubs or clubs, and in NSW they collect (on average) $93,000 per machine per year.

    Second, they’re overwhelmingly concentrated in areas where people are doing it tough. Stress and strain are common where there are pokies.

    Some people start to use them thinking they might alleviate financial woes. They don’t, of course. But they do provide an escape from the vicissitudes of daily life.

    Once sampled, that can become addictive.

    People who use pokies a lot call this escape from reality “the zone” – once you’re there, nothing matters, except staying there.

    The zone is also known as “immersion”, or “loss of executive control”: people using pokies find it very difficult, if not impossible, to stop. Once the money’s gone, reality crashes in.

    Pokies are also extremely addictive. Along with online casino games (which includes virtual pokies or slot machines), they are generally regarded as the most addictive and harmful gambling products.

    They have a host of features engineered into them, including “losses disguised as wins”, “near misses” and many others.

    They are engineered with 10 million or more possible outcomes and it is not possible for anyone to predict what outcome will come next.

    Crucially, the house always wins. In a machine where the “return to player ratio” is set at 87% (a common, completely lawful setting), the machine would retain 13% of all wagers.

    Unfortunately, few pokie users understand these characteristics.

    Can’t we rein in the pokies?

    So why do politicians resist reform?

    One reason for this is the pokie revenue that flows into government coffers.

    In 2022–23, state governments received a total of more than $9 billion in gambling taxes – 7.8% of all state tax revenue. Of this, $5.3 billion came from pokies. NSW alone got $2.23 billion from pokies, Victoria $1.3 billion, and Queensland $1.1 billion.

    The venues, of course, receive a great deal more. One of the consequences of all that money flowing into the coffers of pubs and clubs is political access and influence.

    We can, however, tame the pokies if we want to.

    Various solutions are available, including pre-commitment, generally believed to be the most likely candidate.

    This involves pokie users being required to set a limit prior to using the machines, which is now common in many countries in Europe, and has been proposed (but delayed or scuttled) in Australia for Tasmania, Victoria, and New South Wales.

    More broadly however, this has been strongly resisted by the gambling ecosystem, including parties such as ClubsNSW and the Tasmanian Hospitality Association. Their influence appears profound.

    Change is needed, urgently

    Australia’s reputation as the world’s biggest gambling losers is unenviable: we lose $32 billion on gambling products every year.

    Clearly, prohibition of gambling ads, and the termination of sports sponsorships that tie football, cricket and other major sports to gambling is needed urgently.

    But if we really want to reduce gambling problems and their extraordinary catalogue of harm, reining in the pokies is a must.

    That may take some serious effort.

    Charles Livingstone has received funding from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, the (former) Victorian Gambling Research Panel, and the South Australian Independent Gambling Authority (the funds for which were derived from hypothecation of gambling tax revenue to research purposes), from the Australian and New Zealand School of Government and the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, and from non-government organisations for research into multiple aspects of poker machine gambling, including regulatory reform, existing harm minimisation practices, and technical characteristics of gambling forms. He has received travel and co-operation grants from the Alberta Problem Gambling Research Institute, the Finnish Institute for Public Health, the Finnish Alcohol Research Foundation, the Ontario Problem Gambling Research Committee, the Turkish Red Crescent Society, and the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand. He was a Chief Investigator on an Australian Research Council funded project researching mechanisms of influence on government by the tobacco, alcohol and gambling industries. He has undertaken consultancy research for local governments and non-government organisations in Australia and the UK seeking to restrict or reduce the concentration of poker machines and gambling impacts, and was a member of the Australian government’s Ministerial Expert Advisory Group on Gambling in 2010-11. He is a member of the Lancet Public Health Commission into gambling, and of the World Health Organisation expert group on gambling and gambling harm. He made a submission to and appeared before the HoR Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs inquiry into online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm.

    – ref. Pokies line the coffers of governments and venues – but there are ways to tame this gambling gorilla – https://theconversation.com/pokies-line-the-coffers-of-governments-and-venues-but-there-are-ways-to-tame-this-gambling-gorilla-252038

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The world’s first museum was curated by a princess. A tour reveals the origins of the zodiac, calculus and writing

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Louise Pryke, Honorary Research Associate, Department of Classics and Ancient History, University of Sydney

    Archeological excavations at the palace grounds in Ur, modern-day Iraq, uncovered Ennigaldi-Nanna’s museum. M. Lubinski/Flickr/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    Around 2,500 years ago, a princess living in what is now modern-day Iraq collected a number of artefacts, including a statue, a boundary stone and a mace head. The items, which show signs of preservation, date from around 2100 BCE to 600 BCE. This collection, it is generally thought, was the world’s first known “museum”.

    Between Two Rivers, by Oxford scholar Moudhy Al-Rashid, tells the story of ancient Mesopotamia, a period in world history sometimes known as a “forgotten age”.

    While Mesopotamian history is innately fascinating, Al-Rashid also notes its many historical “world firsts”: the first known writing system, the potter’s wheel, the first record of beer production and advances in agriculture.

    Review: Between Two Rivers: Ancient Mesopotamia and the Birth of History – Moudhy Al-Rashid (Hodder Press)

    The first museum

    The world’s first known museum, and its curator, Ennigaldi-Nanna, are among these many firsts. The daughter of the Neo-Babylonian king Nabonidus, Ennigaldi-Nanna was a priestess at the temple of the moon deity, as well as a princess.

    Both Ennigaldi-Nanna and Nabonidus were keenly interested in history. Indeed, Nabonidus’ interest in excavating old temples and describing his findings once saw him described as the “first archaeologist”. This makes these figures well suited as the book’s central focus.

    At its heart, Between Two Rivers is an ode to the power of history. It builds a persuasive case for history writing as a particularly human impulse, and for how lives of people living thousands of years ago can reflect and shape our modern lives in unexpected ways.

    10 museum objects

    The book is organised around the ten items from Ennigaldi-Nanna’s collection. This structural conceit creates a sense of unity, despite the diversity of topics the book covers. Each chapter is focused on one item. For example, an ancient granite mace head introduces a chapter on warfare, violence and death.

    Moudhy Al-Rashid.
    Hachette

    In chapter one, we are introduced to ancient Mesopotamian history. We’re also introduced to the author herself. Al-Rashid punctuates her prose with personal recollections and humour, as well as touching reflections on her experience of motherhood. She is our companion, tour guide and teacher as we navigate this journey into the past, helping the reader feel a personal stake in the scholarly adventure ahead.

    Other chapters explore cuneiform script (the world’s first known writing), cities, leadership, education (including some of the earliest doodles by bored students), early scientific developments and the gods. The final three chapters look at economics, warfare and curator Ennigaldi-Nanna herself.

    The book offers a useful timeline, though pictures of the ten ancient items and a map would have been useful additions.

    Fun historical facts

    The broad range of subjects, periods and people explored in this book results in the inclusion of many dazzling features of Mesopotamian history, rarely considered together. Indeed, there is a plethora of fun historical facts.

    In the chapter on science, Al-Rashid notes the development of the zodiac and a mathematical precursor to modern calculus.

    Five Amarna letters on display at the British Museum.
    Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    We get a brief overview of the fascinating diplomatic correspondence between New Kingdom Pharaohs and their West Asian vassals, known as the Amarna Letters. There is also the cuneiform tablet referencing the death of Alexander the Great, and an overview of the practice of divination (including an attempted palace coup).

    These highlights from ancient evidence are balanced against frequent commentary from the author. She notes the less glamorous nature of much of it, such as economic texts and legal agreements.

    Indeed, Al-Rashid is careful to note the limits of the evidence used to build this vivid picture of ancient Mesopotamia. She notes the difficulties of learning Sumerian, the world’s first known language, written in the intricate cuneiform script. In her chapter on leadership, she notes that further evidence for powerful women leaders may yet be discovered, while discussing what is currently known of these figures.

    Sumerian, the world’s first known language, was written in cuneiform – like the script on this clay tablet.
    Louvre, photographed by Gary Todd/Flickr

    The author’s transparency and expert handling of evidence puts the reader at ease, while subtly championing the importance of continued studies in this field. This is timely, as the academic field of Mesopotamian history has seen significant cuts in the last decade.

    Rediscovering cultural riches

    Despite the rich cultural legacy of this region, Mesopotamian history is largely unknown in the modern day. While 21st-century audiences are often familiar with the works of Plato, Homer and Virgil, they may struggle to identify Enheduanna – a princess, priestess, and poetess who lived over 4,000 years ago – as the world’s first known author, or Sin-leqe-uninni as the editor of the Epic of Gilgamesh.

    This is likely due to the circumstances around the recovery of the Mesopotamian writing script, cuneiform. This style of writing faded from use around the 1st century CE, and was only re-deciphered in 1857 CE. This meant that for almost two millennia, awareness of the Mesopotamian cultural legacy almost entirely disappeared.

    This modern lack of awareness of Mesopotamian history is slowly changing. Between Two Rivers is part of an emerging trend in the field of Assyriology — the study of the languages, literature, history, laws and sciences of Mesopotamia — for producing accessible works, for non-specialist audiences.

    Between Two Rivers further demonstrates the usefulness of this approach in bringing the riches of the ancient Near East to modern audiences.

    Changing times


    In recent years, we have seen new translations of the famous Mesopotamian epic Gilgamesh, and the first volume dedicated to the works of the world’s first known author, Enheduanna.

    There are new books on Mesopotamian religion and the cuneiform script by Irving Finkel, who has been an ambassador for the discipline for many years. Indeed, Al-Rashid notes his influence.

    To write a book like this one, the author needs to have both mastery over the subject material and an engaging style of communication. Al-Rashid excels in both areas. For general audiences, Between Two Rivers is a fascinating, balanced introduction to this complex – and at times elusive – ancient world.

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

    – ref. The world’s first museum was curated by a princess. A tour reveals the origins of the zodiac, calculus and writing – https://theconversation.com/the-worlds-first-museum-was-curated-by-a-princess-a-tour-reveals-the-origins-of-the-zodiac-calculus-and-writing-246876

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – April set to end with a bang! – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 28th April – Thursday 1st May – Key points

    •    A busy stretch of weather is on the way, with many areas set to face a range of notable conditions throughout the week
    •    After an already wet month, Northland will see pockets of heavier rain on Tuesday, while Canterbury will see heavy rain from mid-week
    •    Unseasonal snow is expected for inland Canterbury on Wednesday and Thursday
    •    Wild winds are expected for eastern and central parts of the country from Wednesday, with disruptive southerlies expected to surge through Wellington.

    “Everyone is going to get a bit of something this week – there will be some sun, lots of rain and strong winds, and even some snow coming our way, as a low pressure system passes right over central Aotearoa New Zealand,” says MetService meteorologist Dom Barry.

    Come tomorrow (Tuesday), Northland, Auckland and Coromandel can expect wet and windy conditions, with heavy rain and thunderstorms expected for the northern most regions. The West Coast will also see some heavy falls, while remaining areas of both Islands have some cloud about, with the showers in the east.

    Heavy rain will be hauled across much of the country heading into Wednesday by a low pressure system which tracks across the central North Island. Some of that rain will fall as snow above 600 metres in the South Island.

    Thunderstorms are expected for parts of Northland through to Thursday, which may bring periods of more intense rainfall to localised areas. Barry adds that, “For already sodden areas, particularly in the Far North, more heavy rain may bring impacts such as flash flooding, rivers to rise dangerously high and hazardous driving conditions. It is imperative people stay up to date with the latest forecasts, and listen for any advice from local Civil Defence agencies.”

    A Heavy Rain Watch has been issued for Northland with a high likelihood of being upgraded to a Warning, while the heavy rain and snow in the South Island has triggered a Heavy Rain Watch for Canterbury. As we get closer to this event, more severe weather Watches and Warnings are expected to be issued, including road snow warnings, strong wind warnings and some more rain watches and warnings.

    On Wednesday night and into Thursday, the low lingers east of Wairarapa, driving very strong and disruptive southerlies up Cook Strait and possibly into Wellington – these winds will be very strong, even for Wellingtonians’ standards. Couple this with a very high tide (king tide), low pressure and heavy swell, we could see coastal inundation in the south. “These very strong winds will be disruptive for travel in the Wellington and Marlborough regions on Wednesday evening and into Thursday. It won’t be a day to cycle to work – work from home or take the bus,” says Barry. Strong winds will also affect Canterbury into Thursday, while strong winds will be felt west of the Main Divide at times.

    Choppy seas up the east coasts of both Islands and possibly into Wellington can be expected from Wednesday, with possibly up to 7 metres of combined waves off the east coast of the North Island.

    Temperatures remain warmer than average overnight for many places though to Wednesday, before things cool off come Thursday. The minimum temperatures for places like Masterton, New Plymouth, Wellington and Wanaka become their maximum temperatures from Thursday – a noticeable difference.

    It is quite a wild weather week ahead – stay up to date with your Freshest Forecast on the MetService app or at our website www.metservice.com

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ready, set, go… every 10 minutes on Route 7!

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Route change part of wider improvements

    The change to Route 7 is part of a larger collaborative project to improve public transport that includes additional infrastructure delivered by our partners Christchurch City Council and NZTA. This includes 10 bus stop upgrades, a new bus parking space and continuous bus priority lanes on Halswell Road between Dunbars Road and Moorhouse Avenue.

    Customers travelling back and forth from Halswell may experience some delays travelling down Halswell Road as a result of these upgrades.

    Deputy Chair Deon Swiggs, Chair Craig Pauling and Councillor Joe Davies

    “We want to thank customers for their patience as our partners work to deliver these upgrades. We’re excited to have these additional elements on offer once the project is complete in October 2026,” Public Transport acting general manager Sonia Pollard said.

    “We recognise the frequency change is part of what customers have been asking for on this route – we will continue to bid for funding so other changes can also become a reality,” she added.

    NZTA is currently funding 51 per cent of the net cost of the frequency increase on a trial basis until June 2027, the rest is funded through rates and fares.

    “We expect running a better service will be popular and well used, and that this will strengthen our case for further and more permanent investment,” Sonia said. 

    Environment Canterbury © 2025
    Retrieved: 1:51pm, Mon 28 Apr 2025
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/ready-set-go-every-10-minutes-on-route-7/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT MP welcomes move to cut construction red tape

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Building and Construction spokesperson Cameron Luxton is welcoming the Government’s announcement of a new opt-in scheme allowing trusted builders to sign off their own work and the setting of a mandatory target to slash building inspection wait times.

    “New Zealand’s overreliance on councils in consenting and certification results in bottlenecks and delays,” says Mr Luxton, who is also a Licensed Building Practitioner.

    “Those delays drive up the cost of getting almost anything built, fuelling higher housing costs and dragging down productivity across the economy.

    “ACT has long argued we need to provide alternatives to costly council processes for building. Our coalition agreement commits to ‘explore allowing home builders to opt out of needing a building consent provided they have long-term insurance for the building work.’

    “Today’s changes are a good start in getting council bureaucracies out of the way. But unless we fix the underlying incentive problems, councils will continue to grind construction to a halt.

    “The fundamental incentive problem is that when building projects are botched, it’s councils, and therefore ratepayers, who shoulder the liability. It means councils only see risk whenever they look at a building project that doesn’t fit into their cookie-cutter understanding of building. Under this system it’s a wonder new designs get consented or certified at all.

    “Expert builders should be allowed to shoulder the liability for their work, protected by insurance. That would free them to innovate and build faster, while giving clients the security of knowing that if something goes wrong, they’re protected.

    “Crucially, to secure a good deal on the insurance market, builders would need to demonstrate a strong reputation for quality workmanship. Those with proven track records would be rewarded with better terms, while those unable to show consistent quality would face stricter requirements from insurers before being allowed to proceed.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 137th Canton Fair draws over 220,000 overseas buyers

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

    GUANGZHOU, April 27 — A total of 224,372 overseas buyers from 219 countries and regions had attended the 137th China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, by the conclusion of its second phase on Sunday, according to the China Foreign Trade Centre.

    The second phase, focusing on quality home furnishings, kicked off on Wednesday with a total exhibition area of 515,000 square meters. It featured 24,735 booths and 10,313 exhibitors, up by 273 from the previous session.

    More than 2,400 exhibitors in this phase are recognized as national-level high-tech enterprises, “little giants” enterprises, or national single champions of manufacturing industry, an increase of 100 companies compared with the same period last year.

    This edition of the fair, held in the southern Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou from April 15 to May 5, is organized into three themed phases. The first focused on advanced manufacturing, the second on quality home furnishings, and the third on products that promote a better quality of life.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Joins Over 175 Members of Congress to Demand Trump Administration Preserve and Expand Free Tax Filing Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – In response to recent reporting that the Trump administration plans to end the Direct File program, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led over 175 Congressional Democrats in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Acting IRS Commissioner Michael Faulkender, slamming the administration’s reported decision and demanding instead that officials preserve and expand Direct File. 

    Direct File is a free, easy-to-use tax filing program that has already delivered significant benefits to taxpayers. In 2024, during the program’s pilot phase, Direct File saved the average user $160 in tax return fees and hours of effort preparing their return. Users overwhelmingly love the program: 98 percent of Direct File taxpayers in 2025 were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their experience, a world-class figure. Yet, new reporting indicates that the Trump Administration “plans to eliminate the IRS’ Direct File program.”

    “The Trump Administration’s dismantling of a program that makes tax filing easier and free for millions of Americans is shameful. Taxpayers have spoken loudly and clearly: Direct File works well for them, and more Americans want access to it,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    Even before reports that the Trump Administration planned to end Direct File, the Trump Administration had already sabotaged the program during its time in office. This filing season, the Trump Administration fired the team at the Treasury Department that had been running awareness campaigns about Direct File, scaled back communications promoting the program, and did little to partner with local groups and media outlets to promote the program. In February, Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tweeted that the team that helped build Direct File, “has been deleted.” While Direct File remained operational after Musk’s tweet, “Direct File usage immediately fell by roughly one quarter.”

    The lawmakers demanded that Secretary Bessent and Acting IRS Commissioner Faulkender provide a written commitment to preserve and expand Direct File for the 2026 tax season and beyond by May 5, 2025. 

    You can read the full letter to Secretary Bessent and Commissioner Michael Faulkender here or below:

    Dear Secretary Bessent and Acting Commissioner Faulkender:

    We write in response to public reporting indicating that the Trump Administration plans to end the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) Direct File program. Ending this free, easy-to-use, and popular program would be an insult to American taxpayers, eliminating an important alternative to commercial options provided by the tax prep industry. We write to seek your written commitment that you will preserve and expand Direct File for next year’s tax filing season and beyond.

    In the first two years of its existence, Direct File has already delivered significant benefits to taxpayers across the country. In 2024, during the program’s pilot phase, Direct File saved the average user $160 in return fees and hours of effort preparing their return. Ninety percent of users rated their experience with the program positively. A year later, Direct File has improved in important ways. For this year’s tax filing season, Direct File was accessible in 25 states and used pre-populated taxpayer data to make the filing process smoother. Users delivered rave reviews: 98 percent of Direct File taxpayers in 2025 were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their experience, a world-class figure.

    However, the tax prep industry has fought Direct File at every turn, even before its inception. It’s no secret why: a free, easy-to-use tax filing program requires the industry to compete for taxpayer business and is a direct threat to the industry’s bottom line. Accordingly, these companies have spent millions on lobbying in the hopes of ending Direct File, encouraging Republican Members of Congress to ask the Trump Administration to kill the program.

    New reporting indicates that the Trump Administration “plans to eliminate the IRS’ Direct File program.” But even before this reporting, the Trump Administration had been sabotaging Direct File’s success since taking office. For example:

    • The Trump Administration fired the team at the Department of the Treasury that had been running awareness campaigns about Direct File
    • The Trump Administration dramatically scaled back communications efforts at the IRS and Treasury to promote Direct File. In contrast to the Biden Administration’s efforts last year, the Trump Administration issued almost no public statements promoting the program and did little to partner with local organizations and media outlets to promote Direct File.
    • Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tweeted that 18F, a group that helped agencies build digital services like Direct File, had been “deleted.” In response to the tweet, public reporting, with little pushback from the Trump Administration, suggested that Direct File had been ended as well. While Direct File remained operational after Musk’s tweet, “Direct File usage immediately fell by roughly one quarter.”

    According to partners and state governments, uncertainty about Direct File’s future and the future of the IRS itself created by DOGE’s attacks on the IRS and public reports of DOGE’s improper access to taxpayer data may also have hampered the program’s success.

    The Trump Administration’s dismantling of a program that makes tax filing easier and free for millions of Americans is shameful. Taxpayers have spoken loudly and clearly: Direct File works well for them, and more Americans want access to it. On behalf of those taxpayers, we seek your written commitment by May 5, 2025 that you will preserve and expand Direct File for the 2026 tax season and beyond.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    The following Senators also signed the letter: Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Timothy Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elisa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 

    The following Representatives signed the letter as well: Alma Adams (D-N.C.), Gabo Amo (D-R.I.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), Becca Balint (D-Vt.), Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-Calif.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Donald Beyer (D-Va.), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-Ga.), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.), Andre Carson (D-Ind.), Troy Carter (D-La.), Greg Casar (D-Texas), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Gilbert Cisneros (D-Calif.), Yvette Clark (D-N.Y.), Steven Cohen (D-Tenn.), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.),, Herbert Conaway (D-N.J.), Gerald Connolly (D-Va.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), April McClain Delaney (D-Md.), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), Suzan K. DelBene (D-Wash.), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.), Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), Veronica Escobar (D-Texas), Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Cleo Fields (D-La.), Bill Foster (D-Ill.), Valerie P. Foushee (D-N.C.), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-Ill.), Sylvia R. Garcia (D-Texas), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Al Green (D-Texas), Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Md.), Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.), Val Hoyle (D-Ore.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Jonathan L. Jackson (D-Ill.), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-Ga.), Julie Johnson (D-Texas), Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), William R. Keating (D-Mass.), Robin L. Kelly (D-Ill.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Greg Landsman (D-Ohio), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), George Latimer (D-N.Y.), Summer L. Lee (D-Pa.), Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), Jennifer L. McClellan (D-Va.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), James P. McGovern (D-Mass.), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.), Robert J. Menendez (D-N.J.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Dave Min (D-Calif.), Kelly Morrison (D-Minn.), Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Johnny Olszewski, Jr. (D-Md.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.), Chris Pappas (D-N.H.), Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.), Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-Calif.), Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.), Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Bradley Scott Schneider (D-Ohio), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.), Terri A. Sewell (D-Ala.), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.I.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Ohio), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Derek T. Tran (D-Calif.), Nikema Williams (D-Ga.), Frederica S. Wilson (D-Fla.), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), Marc A. Veasey (D-Texas), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), Eugene Simon Vindman (D-Va.), and George Whitesides (D-Calif.). 

    The following groups endorsed the letter: Americans for Tax Fairness, Public Citizen, Economic Security Project Action, MoveOn, United for Respect, P Street, 20/20 Vision, Young Invincibles, Patriotic Millionaires, Groundwork Action, Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice, Meals4Families, Beyond Careers, Grow Brooklyn, National Consumer Law Center, Color of Change, End Child Poverty California, Consumer Action, United Ways of the Pacific Northwest, Northwest Progressive Institute, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Shriver Center on Poverty Law, Accountable.US, United for a Fair Economy, Responsible Wealth, National Association of Social Workers, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Golden State Opportunity, OnTrack Financial Education & Counseling, North Carolina Council of Churches. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Holocaust Remembrance Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today on Holocaust Remembrance Day, Yom HaShoah:

    “This year marks eight decades since Allied forces broke open the gates of Auschwitz and Dachau, Buchenwald and Bergen-Belsen, among numerous other Nazi concentration camps across Europe. What they saw inside forever changed not only them but our understanding of humanity itself. Their arrival came too late for the 6 million Jews and 5 million others who were murdered in the Nazis’ genocidal campaign. Although they could not save those already lost, the liberators and survivors of the camps made a pledge: never again.

    “On Yom HaShoah, we reaffirm that commitment. This year, we do so at a time when the same antisemitic hate, prejudice, and violence that fueled the Holocaust is skyrocketing in America and beyond. Billionaires have made Nazi salutes at presidential rallies. Individuals with known histories of antisemitism and ties to neo-Nazi organizations have found influence in the administration. Certain books about the Holocaust have been removed from libraries at the U.S. Naval Academy and other institutions. An arsonist set the home of a Jewish governor ablaze. All of these acts come after years of rampant antisemitism in the wake of Hamas’ brutal October 7 attack on Israel.

    “Antisemitism ought to concern all of us because it endangers all of us. It threatens not only Jews but democracy itself. The rise of Nazi fascism was intertwined with antisemitism. ​Failing to stand up to antisemitism – to the people who downplay, deny, distort, or even glorify the Holocaust – creates a hotbed for authoritarianism. Never again demands that we never sit by when we see hate threaten human rights, democracy, and freedom.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards – Master Plumbers welcomes Cabinet approval of self-certification for plumbers and drainlayers

    Source: Master Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers

    Master Plumbers is pleased the Government is progressing with a self-certification scheme that makes plumbers accountable for their work, rather than relying on council inspectors.
    “We have been advocating for years that plumbers and drainlayers should be able to self-certify, just as gasfitters – who are also plumbers in most instances – and electricians can,” Master Plumbers Chief Executive Greg Wallace says.
    Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk announced today that the Government has agreed on a new self-certification scheme for plumbers and drainlayers allowing them to sign off on their own work.
    The new scheme does come with some caveats: it will be opt-in and limited to plumbers and drainlayers carrying out work on simple residential dwellings. Trades that are currently able to self-certify are not required to opt-in or be restricted to a specific category of work.
    “For plumbers and drainlayers to be competitive, we believe all of the industry should opt-in,” Mr Wallace says. “While the Minister has limited the scheme to simple residential dwellings, we hope this is the first phase and that, in future, it will expand to all work.”
    “Ultimately, we want the same system as electricians and gasfitters, but we understand this may be a staged approach.”
    Mr Wallace says there’s a common misconception that liability moves to Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) once an inspection has been completed. “The reality is that tradespeople are still accountable for their workmanship. Under the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Act, qualified plumbers and drainlayers are responsible for all work – including large-scale industry installations.”
    Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers are overseen by an independent regulatory board, the PGDB. Consumers can have confidence that certified plumbing professionals are highly skilled and their work completed to a professional standard. It takes seven years to obtain the qualification of a Certifying Plumber and two years for a Certifying Drainlayer.
    In addition, Master Plumbers members are subject to a rigorous quality assurance process and carry a guarantee for their work.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Master Plumbers welcomes Cabinet approval of self-certification for plumbers and drainlayers

    Source: Master Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers

    Master Plumbers is pleased the Government is progressing with a self-certification scheme that makes plumbers accountable for their work, rather than relying on council inspectors.
    “We have been advocating for years that plumbers and drainlayers should be able to self-certify, just as gasfitters – who are also plumbers in most instances – and electricians can,” Master Plumbers Chief Executive Greg Wallace says.
    Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk announced today that the Government has agreed on a new self-certification scheme for plumbers and drainlayers allowing them to sign off on their own work.
    The new scheme does come with some caveats: it will be opt-in and limited to plumbers and drainlayers carrying out work on simple residential dwellings. Trades that are currently able to self-certify are not required to opt-in or be restricted to a specific category of work.
    “For plumbers and drainlayers to be competitive, we believe all of the industry should opt-in,” Mr Wallace says. “While the Minister has limited the scheme to simple residential dwellings, we hope this is the first phase and that, in future, it will expand to all work.”
    “Ultimately, we want the same system as electricians and gasfitters, but we understand this may be a staged approach.”
    Mr Wallace says there’s a common misconception that liability moves to Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) once an inspection has been completed. “The reality is that tradespeople are still accountable for their workmanship. Under the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Act, qualified plumbers and drainlayers are responsible for all work – including large-scale industry installations.”
    Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers are overseen by an independent regulatory board, the PGDB. Consumers can have confidence that certified plumbing professionals are highly skilled and their work completed to a professional standard. It takes seven years to obtain the qualification of a Certifying Plumber and two years for a Certifying Drainlayer.
    In addition, Master Plumbers members are subject to a rigorous quality assurance process and carry a guarantee for their work.
    Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Inc (Master Plumbers) is the national membership organisation for plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying businesses, with 18 regional Associations and Branches across New Zealand. Companies go through a Quality Assurance programme in order to become a member. We provide members with a wide range of resources and training opportunities to support them in staying up with the latest technologies, products and compliance requirements. We advocate on behalf of our members and our industry.
    Masterlink, a group training scheme owned by Master Plumbers, provides managed mentored apprenticeships across New Zealand, with Regional Managers supporting the apprentices and the businesses who host them during their training.
    NZ Plumber is the award-winning, bi-monthly magazine for New Zealand’s plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers. It is owned by Master Plumbers.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: People trust legal advice generated by ChatGPT more than a lawyer – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Eike Schneiders, Assistant Professor, School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton

    Alexander Supertramp / shutterstock

    People who aren’t legal experts are more willing to rely on legal advice provided by ChatGPT than by real lawyers – at least, when they don’t know which of the two provided the advice. That’s the key finding of our new research, which highlights some important concerns about the way the public increasingly relies on AI-generated content. We also found the public has at least some ability to identify whether the advice came from ChatGPT or a human lawyer.

    AI tools like ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs) are making their way into our everyday life. They promise to provide quick answers, generate ideas, diagnose medical symptoms, and even help with legal questions by providing concrete legal advice.

    But LLMs are known to create so-called “hallucinations” – that is, outputs containing inaccurate or nonsensical content. This means there is a real risk associated with people relying on them too much, particularly in high-stakes domains such as law. LLMs tend to present advice confidently, making it difficult for people to distinguish good advice from decisively voiced bad advice.

    We ran three experiments on a total of 288 people. In the first two experiments, participants were given legal advice and asked which they would be willing to act on. When people didn’t know if the advice had come from a lawyer or an AI, we found they were more willing to rely on the AI-generated advice. This means that if an LLM gives legal advice without disclosing its nature, people may take it as fact and prefer it to expert advice by lawyers – possibly without questioning its accuracy.

    Even when participants were told which advice came from a lawyer and which was AI-generated, we found they were willing to follow ChatGPT just as much as the lawyer.

    One reason LLMs may be favoured, as we found in our study, is that they use more complex language. On the other hand, real lawyers tended to use simpler language but use more words in their answers.

    LLMs might voice their advice more confidently than real lawyers.
    apatrimonio / shutterstock

    The third experiment investigated whether participants could distinguish between LLM and lawyer-generated content when the source is not revealed to them. The good news is they can – but not by very much.

    In our task, random guessing would have produced a score of 0.5, while perfect discrimination would have produced a score of 1.0. On average, participants scored 0.59, indicating performance that was slightly better than random guessing, but still relatively weak

    Regulation and AI literacy

    This is a crucial moment for research like ours, as AI-powered systems such as chatbots and LLMs are becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life. Alexa or Google Home can act as a home assistant, while AI-enabled systems can help with complex tasks such as online shopping, summarising legal texts, or generating medical records.

    Yet this comes with significant risks of making potentially life altering decisions that are guided by hallucinated misinformation. In the legal case, AI-generated, hallucinated advice could cause unnecessary complications or even miscarriages of justice.

    That’s why it has never been more important to properly regulate AI. Attempts so far include the EU AI Act, article 50.9 of which states that text-generating AIs should ensure their outputs are “marked in a machine-readable format and detectable as artificially generated or manipulated”.

    But this is only part of the solution. We’ll also need to improve AI literacy so that the public is better able to critically assess content. When people are better able to recognise AI they’ll be able to make more informed decisions.

    This means that we need to learn to question the source of advice, understand the capabilities and limitations of AI, and emphasise the use of critical thinking and common sense when interacting with AI-generated content. In practical terms, this means cross-checking important information with trusted sources and including human experts to prevent overreliance on AI-generated information.

    In the case of legal advice, it may be fine to use AI for some initial questions: “What are my options here? What do I need to read up on? Are there any similar cases to mine, or what area of law is this?” But it’s important to verify the advice with a human lawyer long before ending up in court or acting upon anything generated by an LLM.

    AI can be a valuable tool, but we must use it responsibly. By using a two-pronged approach which focuses on regulation and AI literacy, we can harness its benefits while minimising its risks.



    Read more:
    We asked ChatGPT for legal advice – here are five reasons why you shouldn’t

    Eike Schneiders has received prior funding from UKRI’s Trustworthy Autonomous Systems Hub and Responsible AI UK.

    Joshua Krook has received prior funding from UKRI’s Trustworthy Autonomous Systems Hub and Responsible AI UK.

    Tina Seabrooke has received prior funding from UKRI’s Trustworthy Autonomous Systems Hub.

    – ref. People trust legal advice generated by ChatGPT more than a lawyer – new study – https://theconversation.com/people-trust-legal-advice-generated-by-chatgpt-more-than-a-lawyer-new-study-252217

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –