NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Moolenaar, Colleagues  Question Treasury on Failure to Block Gotion Industrial Site
    Oct 17, 2024 | Press Releases

    Gotion Incorporated, a company with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party, has developed a large industrial site near a U.S. military installation in Mecosta County, Michigan. The failure of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to investigate and block this development poses a serious threat to U.S. national security.
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative John Moolenaar (R-MI), and colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen questioning CFIUS’s decision-making and urging an update of the committee’s rules.
    “We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation.
    “Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address.”
    Joining Rubio and Moolenaar were Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), as well as Representatives Lisa McClain (R-MI), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Jack Bergman (R-MI), John James (R-MI), and Tim Walberg (R-MI).
    Flashback… In September 2023, Rubio and Moolenaar sent a letter to Secretary Yellen urging CFIUS to review Gotion’s ownership.
    The full text of the letter is below. 
    Dear Secretary Yellen:
    We write to express our deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s apparent failure to block Gotion Incorporated (Gotion)—an entity with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—from developing a large industrial site near a major U.S. military installation. The scope of United States warfighting capabilities is extremely sensitive knowledge. We must only share this information selectively, exclusively, and knowingly with close allies and partners. Federal agencies have a duty to prevent America’s adversaries from obtaining information concerning our national defense personnel and assets. As we are sure you will agree, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) plays a vital role in blocking foreign efforts to collect intelligence on our military via domestic investment.
    Unfortunately, CFIUS seems to have neglected a substantial foreign project constituting a major national security threat stemming from a major facility being constructed by Gotion. Gotion is the U.S. subsidiary of Gotion High-Tech, an electric vehicle (EV) battery company which is based in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and has documented ties to the CCP. The House Select Committee on the CCP has routinely documented Gotion High-Tech’s notorious, widespread human rights abuses and use of forced labor in mainland China, in addition to its connection with Chinese paramilitary groups. Nonetheless, Gotion is currently constructing a $2.4 billion EV battery plant in Mecosta County, Michigan.
    In June 2023, Gotion announced that its plans for plant construction were outside of CFIUS’ jurisdiction, and could therefore continue the project. But as you know, as of February 13, 2020, CFIUS’ jurisdiction applies to greenfield investments when a foreign entity purchases real estate near certain sensitive military bases. Federal regulations define the extended range of a military installation as land within a 100-mile radius of the military installation (31 C.F.R. § 802.211). Covered installations include certain Army combat training centers within the continental United States (31 C.F.R. § 802.227(h)).
    According to CFIUS’ own Part 802 geographic reference tool, Gotion’s site in Michigan is located just under 60 miles south of the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center—well within the regulation’s definition of extended range. Camp Grayling is the largest National Guard training facility in the United States, and is host to both the Northern Strike joint exercises and the National Guard Exportable Combat Training Center Exercises. Yet, despite Camp Grayling’s significance, and the overwhelming evidence that this facility meets CFIUS’ conditions for a sensitive military installation, CFIUS did not include the camp under its definition of covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule, “Definition of Military Installation and the List of Military Installations in Regulations Pertaining to Certain Transactions by Foreign Persons Involving Real Estate in the United States.”
    Given CFIUS’ failure to launch a review of Gotion’s site development when the project was first publicly announced two years ago, it is now imperative that CFIUS update its proposed rulemaking to clarify the Committee’s ability to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that it previously failed to address. This step is well within CFIUS’ authority under 50 U.S.C. 4565 §(b)(1)(D)(i). This common-sense measure would not only allow CFIUS to put a stop to Gotion’s continued nefarious activity, but also the activities of many other adversarial entities that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar and acquired land near sensitive military sites. CFIUS’ failure to retroactively review these transactions would constitute a major security blunder and permit the CCP to engage in intelligence gathering that compromises our military capabilities and readiness.
    Given the severity of what seems to be a grave lapse in CFIUS’ judgement, we request answers to the following questions:
    Why did CFIUS fail to designate Camp Grayling as an army combat training center under covered real estate until its July 2024 proposed rule?
    If Camp Grayling’s exclusion from covered real estate was a failure in oversight, what steps is CFIUS taking to rectify the situation?
    What action is CFIUS taking to stop Gotion from continuing its plant construction given its proximity to a major military installation?
    Will CFIUS commit to clarify its authority to conduct retroactive reviews of covered greenfield investments that have slipped under CFIUS’ radar?
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man appears in court in relation to three Rotorua murders

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow: 

    A 52-year-old man has appeared in court today, in relation to the murder of three people in Rotorua in September.

    Justin Matthew Jeffries appeared in Rotorua High Court today, charged with the murders of Glendon Brent Currin (76), Jessie Florence Currin (78).

    Mr and Mrs Currin had been assaulted at their Western Heights home on 23 September and subsequently both passed away in hospital.

    Jeffries had previously been charged with the murder of Michelle Nicola Schiller (59), who was found deceased at her Utuhina home on 23 September.

    Jeffries is also facing a number of other charges, including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary and fraud.

    He has been remanded in custody to appear again on 15 November 2024

    Police are continuing to support the families of the three victims. This has been an incredibly distressing time for them and they have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones.

    As part of our enquiries into the three homicides, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in contact with Jeffries since the beginning of September.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote reference number 240923/0552.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Speech – Community Broadcasting Association of Australia Conference 2024 – Gold Coast

    Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport

    Hi, I’m Michelle Rowland, Federal Communications Minister.

    Thank you for inviting me to say a few words.

    I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands you are gathered on – the You-Gam-Be (Yugambeh) people – and the Traditional Owners of the lands that community radio broadcasts from across Australia.

    I pay respect to First Nations people attending. 

    And thank all the community broadcasters who give First Nations communities, connection to culture, and language a voice and a platform.  

    I congratulate you on a very special milestone: 50 years of community broadcasting in Australia.

    The Whitlam Government’s move in 1974 to establish this sector was a landmark moment in our history.

    What was then referred to as ‘experimental radio licences’ were granted to a handful of community groups.

    Five decades on, more than 450 stations reach 5 million Australians each week.

    Your sector is vibrant, diverse and it enriches people’s lives. 

    It connects communities and gives locals a voice.

    On behalf of the Albanese Government, thank you to all the staff and the volunteers for your outstanding contribution to our media landscape.

    I also congratulate you on your comprehensive ten-year roadmap, which sets clear priorities to ensure your sector continues to thrive and meet community needs.

    Labor has long backed community radio.

    The first Bill I presented to Parliament as Communications Minister was to provide a funding boost and on-going certainty for community broadcasting.

    This financial year, this translated into $23 million through the Community Broadcasting Program. 

    My first visit as a Minister was to a community radio station. 

    And I haven’t stopped since.

    At every station I visit around the country, I’m inspired by your commitment to serving your audiences. 

    And you are well-represented by an industry organisation in CBAA

    The Albanese Government is committed to working with community broadcasting to identify a sustainable funding basis for the future.

    At last year’s event, I spoke about the importance of the Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review and outlined key findings.

    Phase 1 of the review found that while the Community Broadcasting Program delivers positive impacts, grant funding does not adequately promote sustainability and resilience.

    The Community Broadcasting Foundation has since actioned key recommendations to better measure outcomes and impact of the Commonwealth funding it distributes. 

    I look forward to seeing this translate into outcomes-based funding streams that better align to areas of need, like news, youth engagement and emergency broadcasting.

    Phase 2 of the review has gathered views and ideas directly from you – the community broadcasters – on how to build a stronger, more sustainable future.

    As part of this, I met with community broadcasters in suburban Sydney, Byron Bay, Cairns and Darwin. 

    My Department has held a series of stakeholder roundtables in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Darwin and online. 

    What we are hearing is a united call for increased, sustainable funding. 

    Alongside diverse views on how to create a sustainable future. 

    This includes regulatory changes to reflect the modern broadcasting era, and to afford licensees flexibility in community participation and sponsorship. 

    And views on supports that sector bodies, such as CBAA, can deliver to better assist stations with governance and business planning.

    Thank you to everyone who participated; I look forward to receiving the Department’s findings and advice by the end of the month.

    In establishing the community broadcasting sector in Australia, the then Minister for Media, Doug McClelland, heralded – and I quote – “a new era in the advancement of radio development in Australia.” 

    The subsequent Labor Minister, the great Dr Moss Cass, oversaw the national expansion of the experimental radio licences which enabled the sector to grow.

    The community broadcasting sector has more than delivered on the vision of the Whitlam Government. 

    You are at the heart of every community.

    The Albanese Government is 100 per cent committed to supporting the next era of community broadcasting in Australia.

    To ensure it is strong, sustainable, vibrant and remains an essential part of our media landscape. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Casey, Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

    In July 2023, after the release of the damning Robodebt Royal Commission report, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared:

    it was wrong, it was illegal, it should never have happened and it should never happen again.

    A major finding was some senior public servants were overly responsive to the wishes of ministers, to the detriment of the general public. The report describes an environment that was:

    fraught […] characterised by a powerful drive for savings, strongly expressed ministerial policy positions […] and intense pressure experienced by public servants.

    Investigating the scheme, which ran under the Morrison government, Commissioner Catherine Holmes was disturbed by “the lengths to which public servants were prepared to go to oblige ministers”, undermining the concept of impartiality and frank and fearless advice.

    The release of Rick Morton’s new book Mean Streak brings a renewed focus on the lessons from Robodebt. To learn from such a serious crisis, organisations need to openly confront what happened, discuss and understand what the failure means. What were the systemic causes? What cultural failings did it expose? How can we ensure a similar disaster does not happen again?

    Our research found little evidence these questions were being asked by many public service leaders immediately after the royal commission.

    In the six months after the royal commission report’s release, almost half of the heads of Australian Public Service (APS) agencies apparently decided they didn’t need to communicate with their staff about Robodebt and explain what it meant for them.

    What did department leaders do?

    Learning from the failure of Robodebt will take time. In 2024, the public service is investigating and punishing some of those involved and implementing a new integrity plan.

    Our research focuses on the six months after the release of the royal commission report: July to December 2023. Research shows the immediate post-crisis period is crucial to effective learning.

    But before organisations can respond, they have to interpret and understand the meaning of the failure.

    Just as the public turns to political leaders in a crisis, employees look to management. Leaders’ communication, whether by email, an all staff video, or a town hall meeting, is crucial.

    These messages set the organisational narrative that explains what happened and why, what the repercussions are, how it can be resolved, and what lessons (if any) should be drawn from the crisis.

    Three days after the royal commission report was released, the secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Glyn Davis, and Australian Public Service Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer, emailed all public service employees saying:

    we are committed to working through the findings in an open and constructive way with you — the APS — and with the Australian public.

    Our focus, however, is on how leaders of individual departments and agencies responded. Using Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, we asked how leaders communicated with staff in the crucial period straight after the commission reported.

    Departments are where policy development occurs and they often work closely with ministers.

    But only half of all public servants work for departments. The rest work across the 100 or so agencies.

    While most department heads communicated with their staff about Robodebt, only 54% of agencies’ leaders did.

    The 50 agencies that did not communicate with their staff about the meaning of Robodebt in the months following the report employ more than 45,000 people, more than 25% of the public service.

    Not my problem mentality

    Three large departments told us that “no documents were identified” or “the Department does not hold documents […] that meet the terms of the request”. This indicates they did not communicate with staff in the first six months after the Robodebt report was handed down. The departments were:

    It is not clear why those secretaries decided not to write to their staff directly about Robodebt, but the absence of communication sends a message.

    This was explicit in some responses. For example, in declining our request, we were told that the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority:

    […] is not an outwardly facing organisation and as such does not provide payments to individual recipients. Consequently, it is not required to respond to the Royal Commission and there are no documents that are relevant to your request.

    Even when there was some communication, agencies were not necessarily addressing the cultural issues. For example, the Clean Energy Regulator was focused on public perception:

    there is a heightened sense of scrutiny on regulators […] please be vigilant if you are approached by anybody working for a media outlet.

    In such circumstances, it is unlikely cultural change will occur.

    Some positive signs

    On the positive side, there were examples of agencies that addressed the serious implications of Robodebt for their work, which is likely to improve their organisational culture.

    The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) identified a number of recommendations “albeit directed at other agencies […] that ASIC should act on”. They noted that “given most of our people come from the private sector”, there was a need to improve training on “our obligations as public servants”.



    Read more:
    Two former federal departmental heads breached public service code 25 times in Robodebt scandal

    Similarly, Australian statistician David Gruen emphasised creating a culture where “people feel supported if and when they seek to raise difficult issues with their colleagues or superiors”. Similar discussions were had at AUSTRAC.

    Departments are closest to ministers, so we hoped their communications would address problems in the relationships between senior public servants and ministers, a key issue exposed in the Robodebt case.

    Unfortunately, only four departments discussed over-responsiveness with their staff or in executive meetings, in the period studied.

    The department of industry and science was the most comprehensive. Secretary Meghan Quinn wrote to staff several times, reflecting that the “findings go to the heart of leadership and culture and this should be our focus going forward”. The department’s integrity branch wrote to staff:

    public servants [must] […] provide the government with advice that is frank and honest. If you ever feel pressured to do or sign something you are not comfortable with, it’s important you speak with your supervisors […] you have the Executive’s backing not to put your name to anything that is not true or not in the public interest.

    However, this was one of the few departments where senior staff confronted these core issues directly in the early months after the royal commission reported. Most departments did not name or discuss the underlying cause of the failures: over-responsiveness to ministers at the expense of protecting the public.

    While many of the errors of Robodebt can be solved through new procedures and rules, changing public service culture is a bigger learning project.

    It requires a shift in norms and reweighting the competing duties of public servants. They must serve elected ministers, but equally, they must serve the public by ensuring probity, fairness and legality.

    Robodebt illustrated the harm that occurs when the balance tips too far towards ministers and away from the public interest.

    That this was rarely part of the communication from public service leaders to their staff in the immediate aftermath of the royal commission does not bode well for lessons being learnt from the crisis.

    Daniel Casey worked in the Department of Social Services during the period of Robodebt, but did not work on the Robodebt program.

    Maria Maley received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. How did public service leaders talk to staff about Robodebt? What they said – or didn’t – is revealing – https://theconversation.com/how-did-public-service-leaders-talk-to-staff-about-robodebt-what-they-said-or-didnt-is-revealing-240015

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Fehrer, Associate Professor, Business School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    New Zealand is highly reliant on trade – particularly on maritime routes, which are lifelines for exports and imports. Key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and wholesale and retail trade depend heavily on this global network.

    External events can severely disrupt the flow of goods, delay deliveries or damage critical infrastructure.

    But a crisis like the COVID pandemic can also disrupt business commitments to sustainability goals such as reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and improving resource efficiency.

    This is important, because several major New Zealand companies have introduced sustainability measures into their operations over the past decade.

    Fonterra, for example, adopted low-carbon logistics and distribution practices. Zespri uses blockchain technology to improve the transparency of its sustainable practices and enhance tracking across its supply chain. Air New Zealand partners with local suppliers and adopts initiatives to lower its carbon emissions.

    In our recent research, we reviewed 287 studies on supply chains. We identified key tensions between efficiency and sustainability, and how major disruptions to supply chains and operations can swing the balance between the two.

    On one hand, businesses are pressured to maintain lean, cost-effective operations. On the other, there is a growing recognition of the need to build resilience and sustainability, particularly in the face of climate change.

    Traditional strategies

    New Zealand’s supply chains are susceptible to disruptions from natural disasters (such as earthquakes and floods), geopolitical tensions and global health crises.

    Businesses have historically responded in a variety of ways: diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory buffers and securing alternative transport routes.

    The use of technology, such as radio frequency identification, has played a crucial role in tracking goods across the supply chain. It provides real-time visibility and accurate inventory management.

    Blockchain is becoming a key tool for making supply chains more sustainable. This technology uses a digital ledger to keep information safe and easy to trace.

    But the ongoing technological innovation risks disadvantaging people and businesses with limited resources and capabilities along the supply chain.

    Embracing a circular economy

    During the pandemic, businesses experienced shortages of critical supplies, delays in shipments and fluctuating demand. This forced them to temporarily abandon long-term sustainability strategies in favour of short-term survival tactics.

    This made sense from a business perspective. But to build more resilient and sustainable supply chains, businesses will need to move beyond traditional strategies.

    Our research found integrating circular economy principles into supply chain management can help create a buffer for businesses.

    The circular economy model focuses on minimising waste – keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. There is also a focus on regenerating natural systems to foster economic, social and environmental resilience.

    Companies can reduce their reliance on external supply chains by focusing on reusing materials, creating closed-loop systems with regional partners and by boosting the technologies already in place.

    By fostering stronger links with local suppliers and focusing on regional sourcing, businesses can reduce their exposure to global risks. This will also help build more self-sufficient supply chain ecosystems.

    Building sustainable supply chains requires investing in advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence. But implementing these technologies should be done carefully and in stages to minimise disruption. Going slowly can also allow for the inclusion of all supply chain partners in these technological transitions.

    The way forward

    New Zealand’s supply chain future hinges on greater collaboration between everyone involved, including businesses, policymakers and communities.

    In practice, this means working together to build systems that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also resilient and sustainable.

    Equally, resilient supply chains require regional manufacturing ecosystems. To mitigate the risks from global supply chain disruptions, it’s essential to support local manufacturing, even when offshore manufacturing costs are lower.

    This will require government support and strategic investment in regional manufacturing innovation.

    While New Zealand’s supply chains face significant challenges, there are great opportunities to reshape them for a more resilient and sustainable future.

    By integrating circular economy principles, using advanced technologies and fostering regional collaboration, New Zealand can build supply chains that are prepared for future crises and which also contribute to the country’s sustainability goals.

    Julia Fehrer receives funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.

    Christina Stringer, Sunny Kareem, and Timofey Shalpegin do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Can NZ’s supply chain build enough resilience and sustainability to survive the next global crisis? – https://theconversation.com/can-nzs-supply-chain-build-enough-resilience-and-sustainability-to-survive-the-next-global-crisis-241348

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Eye in the sky: Drones assist mapping estuarine habitats

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    18 Oct 2024

    Coastal ecosystems are being targeted by eyes in the sky as part of an ongoing effort to monitor and protect, seagrasses, saltmarshes and mangroves across the state’s estuaries.

    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Fisheries Research Scientist Dr Daniel Swadling said the state-wide mapping project is using drones to capture images of these challenging environments.

    “Accessing remote saltmarsh and mangrove areas is no easy task, due to the challenging environments. Some sites are so remote that they can’t be accessed by boat or 4WD,” Dr Swadling said.

    “By using drone technology, the team can capture high-resolution phot
    ographs of these areas which is crucial for tracking changes in these habitats and assessing their overall condition.

    “These images are then compared to preliminary maps created from aerial imagery, a process known as validation, which helps ensure the accuracy of the habitat data.”

    Dr Swadling said a recent mapping expedition in the Clarence River demonstrated the benefits of blending technology with the natural habitat.

    “Because of the difficulty in accessing some of these areas, we were able to obtain ‘Extended Visual Line of Sight’ (EVLOS) endorsements. This approval allows drone pilots to fly beyond the usual visual line of sight. With EVLOS, we could photograph areas up to 1.5 kilometres away, well beyond standard drone operating limits,” Dr Swadling said.

    “Mapping estuarine habitats is a key component of the Marine Estate Management Strategy (MEMS) and vital for safeguarding the future of NSW’s estuaries by providing data to protect these ecosystems for future generations.”

    The NSW Estuarine Habitat Monitoring and Threat Assessment Project is conducted by DPIRD Fisheries and funded via the NSW Marine Estate Management Strategy.

    An updated map of the Clarence River estuary will soon be available to the public via the Estuarine Habitat Dashboard and Fisheries Spatial Data Portal.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee, Jayapal Statement on Death of Yahya Sinwar

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Barbara Lee 13th District of California

    October 17, 2024

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement regarding the death of terrorist Yahya Sinwar:

    “Yahya Sinwar was the leader of Hamas who planned the brutal October 7 terrorist attack. His death should provide new opportunities to work towards peace in the Middle East. As we have maintained from the very beginning of this war, a ceasefire and hostage deal is key to resolving this conflict. Both sides should use this opportunity to agree to President Biden’s proposal for a ceasefire, and immediately reunite surviving hostages with their families.

    “History shows that the death of a terrorist leader does not necessarily mean the end of violence – it will only lead to peace and security if the strategy includes smart, principled, and tough diplomacy.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s next for data-driven medicine – and what AI-powered innovation needs now: insitro CEO Daph…

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Daphne Koller is an AI pioneer, MacArthur fellow, member of the National Academy of sciences and the founder and CEO of drug discovery and development company insitro. She’ll talk about how attitudes surrounding AI have evolved in her multi-decade career and what’s ahead – including how technology is reshaping drug discovery, paving the way for more targeted treatments for the patients who can benefit most. But maximizing AI-powered innovation will depend on better investments in data aggregation, quality and collection and navigating hype cycles that can distract from real impact. 

    This academic-turned-entrepreneur will also share how founding insitro (and a previous company, Coursera) helped her expand her leadership and management skills, all while driving home the importance of shaping a company culture. At insitro, this focus building a culture that works for unique needs led to a special ‘helix’ inspired-structure that helps discovery biologists, automation engineers and others in the company’s cross-functional teams keep communication flowing, problem solve, and prevent the siloes that can hold true innovation back. 

    Transcript: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/daphne-koller-insitro-AI-soft-skills Insitro: https://www.insitro.com/ Top Ten Technologies of 2024: https://www.weforum.org/publications/top-10-emerging-technologies-2024/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4mQtLEOsVk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Highlights Community Investments in Chaffee, Joins Reopening of Historic McGinnis Gym

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    SALIDA – U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) recently stopped by Chaffee County to visit facilities that she championed through state and federal funding, including the historic McGinnis Gymnasium in Buena Vista and Solvista Health’s Regional Assessment Center (RAC) in Salida. 

    At Pettersen’s first stop in Chaffee County, she visited Solvista Health’s RAC in Salida, a substance use disorder recovery center that she helped secure funding for alongside former state Representative Jim Wilson during her time in the Colorado state legislature. As chair of the Interim Study Committee on Opioids and Other Substance Use Disorders, Pettersen helped establish the Building Substance Use Disorder Treatment Capacity in Underserved Communities Grant Program, delivering $700,000 to Solvista Health’s RAC in Salida. In Congress, Pettersen has built upon this work by calling for increased funding and expanded access to mental health and substance treatment programs.

    Following her visit to Salida, Pettersen joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the McGinnis Gymnasium in Buena Vista, reopening the facility after refurbishments. Originally built in 1936 through the Public Works Administration as part of the New Deal, this gym holds a unique place in Buena Vista’s history. Pettersen wrote a letter of support to the Environmental Protection Agency for a Brownfields grant that was awarded to the gym. Now, the facility will serve as a safe, indoor recreation space for children and the Chaffee community for generations to come. 

    “Projects like these are a testament to the positive difference that state and federal dollars can make in our communities,” said Pettersen. “I supported funding for these facilities because I know investments like this will elevate the entire Chaffee community. The McGinnis Gym will foster creativity and community engagement in Chaffee for generations to come.”

    Pettersen continued, “It was amazing to tour Solvista Health and see this center come to fruition after years of dedicated work during my time in the legislature with former Rep. Jim Wilson. This facility provides desperately needed care to those who have often been left behind. As the only place in this region to provide detox and withdrawal management services, Solvista has served over a thousand people in the last year and no doubt has saved hundreds of lives. I remain committed to advocating for the people of Chaffee in Congress, ensuring critical investments continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of this community.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Stands Ready to Assist Alaska Businesses and Residents Affected by the Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Alaska businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration, U.S. Small Business Administration’s Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced.

    The declaration covers the City and Borough of Juneau as a result of flooding that occurred Aug. 5–6.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Alaska’s small businesses and residents impacted by flooding,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. 

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

    Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

    As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 150 years of protecting Alexandra

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Brigade members walking in the parade. Credit: Blair Dellemijn

    An impressive crowd gathered as more than 12 fire trucks and partner emergency services paraded down the main street of town to mark Alexandra Fire Brigade’s 150th anniversary.

    On Saturday 12 October, the brigade celebrated the incredible milestone with the local community throughout the day and a dinner with more than 100 guests which included long-service medals.

    Alexandra Captain Chris Lynch said leading the brigade during this historic event was an honour and a privilege.

    “I don’t lead alone, I have an amazing team that joins me and without them, I am only one person,” Chris said.

    “A lot of work went into the event and it was a great day. This isn’t just about Alexandra’s 150th, this is the community being able to have a minute to look and see the people that support them in their time of need.”

    The brigade was formed in February 1874, with Captain Radford Huddle as officer in charge and around 20 members on board.

    A few months after the brigade was formed, the main street suffered significant fires with several buildings lost. The town had been hit with fires in the past, but reports indicate the formation of the fire brigade paid dividends, as the fire was contained. However, with every fire comes problems and Captain Huddle and three members resigned immediately after the incident.

    Training back in the day saw the firefighters don their new red uniforms before marching to the local racecourse, and while one member climbed a tree, others then had to source a continuous supply of water using buckets to get it to the top of the tree.

    Over the years the brigade became involved in the demonstrations, which was later known as the State Championships – where they went on to being quite successful, winning many trophies.

    The construction of a fire bell on a small tower in the main street was a major move forward to alert brigade members to fire calls. This historic bell still exists in front of the joint emergency services facility in Shamrock Street, Alexandra.

    The brigade acquired its first motor vehicle during the late 1930s, a Dodge, 4 cylinder, open cap, fitted with a bell. It was a hose carriage and firefighters transport vehicle only, which proved better than having to run a reel. This truck was replaced by an Austin Series 1 fitted with a Thompson front mounted pump around 1950.

    Alexandra Captain Chris Lynch said the brigade has been involved in numerous major fires over the decades.

    “The 2019/20 Black Summer fires stand out, our brigade spent time at the fires at Swift Creek,” Chris said.

    “Not long after I was voted in as Captain a few years ago, we responded to a fire at Maintongoon which ended up being one of the biggest fires for the season.”

    Chris joined CFA around 12 years ago and said it’s a great way to meet people, have community spirit and assist people in need.

    “Many people have come and gone over the years but it’s important to talk to the people who have been there before, learn from them and respect everybody’s opinion,” Chris said.

    “One of the most amazing things about Alexandra Fire Brigade is the members. We are such a diverse brigade, and we have the ability to do anything we put our minds to.

    “We also couldn’t do what we do without our Fire Equipment Maintenance (FEM) team and the auxiliary members who raise much needed funds for our brigade.”

    More than 30 service awards were presented during the brigade dinner including five members who received the prestigious 55 years of service.

    Dignitaries at the event included Cindy McLeish MP, Mayor Damien Gallagher, CFA Board Member Ross Coyle, Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Stephen Keating and Commander Paul Brislin.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 20-28 October 2024

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 25 October 2024.

    Please note this Traffic Bulletin is updated every Friday.

    Daily updated closure information(external link) 

    Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.

    NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Warkworth Roundabout and Silverdale on-ramp, 21 October
      • Puhoi southbound on-ramp, 21 October 
    • Northbound lanes between Silverdale off-ramp and Warkworth Roundabout, 21 October
      • Orewa northbound on-ramp, 21 October
      • Silverdale northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Tristram Avenue on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 21-22 & 24 October
    • Northbound lanes between Onewa Road off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Esmonde Road (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Esmonde Road (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 20 October
      • Onewa Road northbound on-ramp, 20 October
    • Onewa Road southbound on-ramp, 21-24 October
    • Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 21-24 October

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH1) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Eastbound lanes between Wellesley Street East (SH16) off-ramp and Alten Road, 20 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Grafton Road eastbound on-ramp, 20 October

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 20-21 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 22-24 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 23-24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 20-22 October
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 20-22 October
    • Bombay southbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Bombay northbound off-ramp, 20-24 October
    • Nikau Road southbound off-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Southbound lanes between Hampton Downs off-ramp and Te Kauwhata on-ramp, 20 October
      • Hampton Downs southbound on-ramp, 20 October

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 20 October (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 20-23 October
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 25-28 October (approx. 9:00pm to 9:00pm, 24hrs)
    • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 28 October

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • None planned

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Northbound lanes between Hillsborough Road off-ramp and Maioro Street on-ramp, 22 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Hillsborough Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
      • Dominion Road northbound on-ramp, 22 October
    • Northbound lanes between Neilson Street off-ramp and Hillsborough Road on-ramp, 21 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Neilson Street northbound on-ramp, 21 October
    • Mahunga Drive southbound off-ramp, 20 October
    • Northbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Rimu Road on-ramp, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Coronation Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October
    • Northbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Massey Road on-ramp, 24 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 24 October
      • Cavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 24 October

    GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

    • Northbound lanes between Kirkbride Road off-ramp and SH20 link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20A northbound to SH20 northbound link, 23 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Kirkbride Road northbound on-ramp, 23 October

    PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

    • None planned

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Summer maintenance on State Highway 29 to deliver smoother journeys

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 29 is a key focus as part of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi summer maintenance programme.

    Between October 2024 and May 2025 there are 9 significant sites on the Bay of Plenty side of the Kaimai Range where we will be rebuilding and resurfacing the road.

    Once complete, drivers will have smoother and safer journeys along this section of the SH29 corridor.

    The work is part of the $235 million 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme maintenance investment in state highways across the Bay of Plenty.

    To minimise impacts to traffic, most of the works will be carried out in the evening, between 7pm and 6am, on Sunday to Thursday nights (excluding public holidays) with stop/go in place.

    Starting this weekend, contractors will begin with a road rebuild near Hanga Road on Sunday 20 October*, for an expected period of 3 weeks, followed by resurfacing near Old Kaimai Road on Sunday 17 November until Thursday 28 November.

    A temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place and some work sites will have stop/go traffic lights. People should expect delays when travelling through the area.

    Meanwhile, further west on SH29, resurfacing work will get underway between Gargan Road and Redwood Lane on Sunday 3 November.

    This work will be completed over 5 nights between 7pm and 5am with stop/go and a temporary reduced speed limit of 30km/h at night and 50km/h during the day.

    The next round of Kaimai Range closures is also scheduled to take place, starting on Sunday 17 November, from 8pm to 3.30am for 5 nights. The closures are needed to undertake asphalt work and other routine maintenance activities such as clearing drains, sign maintenance and road marking.

    The closure points on the western (Waikato) side are at the SH29/24 and SH29/28 intersections and on the eastern (BOP) side at the SH29/Cambridge Road intersection. Emergency services will have access at all times, and residents can access their property from the relevant side of the closure.

    Other upcoming work sites scheduled to get underway in December include near Soldiers Road and Kaimai School. View more on these in the map below.

    View/download map [PDF, 275 KB]

    As much work as possible will be completed ahead of Christmas and a short break over the holiday period. Crews will then get back into it until autumn sets in.

    In addition to this, the SH29 Tauriko Enabling Works project is also underway, with lots of activity along the state highway between Belk and Cambridge Roads. 

    Tauriko Enabling Works

    Meanwhile on the Waikato side, works are also ongoing at the SH1/29 intersection in Piarere. 

    SH1/SH29 intersection

    People are encouraged to plan ahead and see where disruptive works are by using the NZTA Journey Planner.

    NZTA Journey Planner(external link)

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi thanks road users and the community for their patience.

    *All dates are subject to weather.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Car yard burglar lands in court

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A brazen burglar who attempted to break in to a car yard in Penrose during the early hours of this morning has been sprung.

    At about 3.51am, Police were notified by security of a man who had allegedly entered a commercial premises on Great South Road.

    Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, says when security approached the man he fled on foot along railway tracks towards Penrose.

    “The Police Air Support Unit was able to quickly gain observations on the male and provide directions to units on the ground.”

    Inspector Dolheguy says officers arrested the alleged offender without incident.

    “This was a great result and a timely response by all staff involved.

    “It’s also another example of how quick reporting can assist Police in locating and arresting those involved in crimes in our community.”

    We continue to ask anyone who sees anything of concern to contact Police immediately on 111.

    For all other matters, please update us online now at https://webforms.police.govt.nz/en/update-report or call 105.

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

    A 27-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court next week charged with possession of an instrument for burglary.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Indigenous-led solutions Move Research into Action at the 2024 National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness

    Source: Government of Canada News

    October 17, 2024 — Calgary, Treaty 7 Territory, Alberta — Indigenous Services Canada

    Understanding and acceptance grow where people feel safe and heard. Over the past two days, the 2024 National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness brought together First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, organizations and leaders, as well as service providers and academics to discuss mental wellness. The event highlighted the importance of culture, community, healing and youth leadership in improving Indigenous mental wellness. A shared goal of this summit was to improve the availability, accessibility, quality and effectiveness of mental wellness services for Indigenous Peoples.

    The summit provides a foundation of innovation, grassroots success, and strength in addressing mental wellness challenges directly. The Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Ya’ara Saks, attended the summit and witnessed the constructive dialogues and collaborative Indigenous-led solutions that are happening in communities all across the country. 

    The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of Indigenous-led approaches to mental wellness that are based on culture and community and address the impacts of colonization and inequities in the social determinants of health. Since 2015, the federal government has supported approaches that are Indigenous-led and flexible to meet the mental wellness needs of Indigenous communities, but work remains. This includes culturally-relevant community-based mental wellness promotion, on-the-land initiatives, suicide prevention, life promotion, crisis response, and substance use treatment and prevention services in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

    The summit opened with a powerful keynote address that emphasized the importance of translating Indigenous knowledge into action for mental wellness. Participants engaged in a series of panels and discussions that highlighted the integration of traditional healing practices, innovative therapeutic approaches, and the vital role of cultural safety in addressing systemic racism within mental health systems.

    Over the course of two days, attendees participated in various sessions to share knowledge on a variety of initiatives and approaches to mental wellness for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. One key theme of the event was Indigenous-led knowledge translation and the importance of culture and community in research and data. 

    Another key theme of the summit was Indigenous youth mental wellness. Young people are leaders of today and tomorrow, and it is incumbent on all of us to lift these voices up. Indigenous youth leaders from We Matter and Youth Wellness Hubs led a youth panel where young leaders were encouraged to share their personal experiences and perspectives. 

    Concurrent sessions focused on Métis mental wellness, showcasing community-driven programs that reflect the distinct needs of Métis populations, while discussions on Inuit mental wellness addressed culturally relevant strategies for healing and resilience.

    The 2024 National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness provided a collaborative platform for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to exchange insights and tools to improve mental wellness. By focusing on culture, community, and youth leadership, the summit underscored the significance of Indigenous-led solutions. Just as the Government of Canada remains committed to supporting these initiatives, the summit serves as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and action, paving the way for a more inclusive mental health system and promoting hope and healing for future generations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced For Arson

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRENCE COE (“COE”), age 45, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 8, 2024, by U.S. District Judge, Greg G. Guidry, to 60 months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to arson, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i).  The Court also ordered that COE be placed on supervised release for 3 years following release from imprisonment and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to court documents, on December 24, 2022, COE set fire to merchandise inside of Walmart in Hammond, Louisiana.  COE later admitted to members of the Hammond Police Department that he started the fire with a lighter while opening a package he wanted to steal.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference kicks off in Beijing

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

    2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference kicks off in Beijing

    Updated: October 18, 2024 08:38 Xinhua
    Visitors look at self-driving vehicles displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference kicked off here Thursday, during which a series of activities will be staged to promote the coordinated development of intelligent connected vehicles and related fields. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member of Chinese automaker GAC Group debugs an electric sports car during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows an automatic pilot sand table model of China’s ride-hailing platform Didi Chuxing displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the exhibition booth of AITO, an NEV brand jointly developed by Huawei and Chongqing-based automaker Seres, during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference is opened in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Visitors are seen at the exhibition booth of FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the exhibition booth of China Telecom during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows new energy vehicle model SU7 produced by Chinese tech firm Xiaomi displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA to Open Virtual Business Recovery Center to Assist Arizona Businesses Affected by Watch Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today announced the opening of its virtual Business Recovery Center to meet the needs of businesses and individuals who were affected by affected by the Watch Fire that occurred July 10-17.

    “When disasters strike, our virtual Business Recovery Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” Sánchez said. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    SBA has established a virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their electronic loan application.

    Virtual Business Recovery Center
    Monday – Friday
    8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pacific Time
    FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    (916) 932-8956
    Opens at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 18

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez continued. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    SBA disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

    Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659‑2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 3, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar killed in Gaza, Israel confirms

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) jointly confirmed Thursday that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed in the Gaza Strip by Israeli soldiers on Wednesday.

    This file photo taken on May 1, 2017 shows Yahya Sinwar (front) in Gaza city. (Photo by Wissam Nassar/Xinhua)

    “IDF soldiers from the Southern Command eliminated Yahya Sinwar … in an operation in the southern Gaza Strip,” the Israeli army said in a statement.

    The IDF said that its soldiers killed three militants in the operation, and later, it turned out that one of them was Sinwar, who “was responsible for the murder and abduction of many Israelis.”

    According to the statement, Sinwar was killed after hiding over the past year behind the civilian population of Gaza, both above and below ground, in Hamas tunnels in the Gaza Strip.

    “The dozens of operations carried out by the IDF and the ISA over the last year, and in recent weeks in the area where he was eliminated, restricted Sinwar’s operational movement as he was pursued by the forces and led to his elimination,” the statement added.

    Shortly before the IDF statement, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz confirmed Sinwar’s death in a message to foreign ministers of other countries, saying that “this is a great military and moral achievement for Israel.”

    According to the foreign minister, “the elimination of Sinwar creates a possibility for the immediate release of the Israeli abductees and to bring about a change that will lead to a new reality in Gaza, without Hamas nor Iranian control.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Germany, China seek broader opportunies for bilateral cooperation

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Strong cooperation between Germany and China is vital for maintaining global economic stability, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions, according to Christian Scharpf, mayor of Ingolstadt in southern Bavaria.

    Scharpf made the remarks during an interview with Xinhua at the “10th Bavarian China Day” here on Wednesday. The event, organized by the municipal government and the Chinese Consulate General in Munich, drew more than 120 officials and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the promising prospects for bilateral collaboration.

    This year marks the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Germany, which has delivered significant progress in trade and economic cooperation, said Lin Kai, acting consul general at the Chinese consulate in Munich.

    Highlighting the deep ties between China and the German state of Bavaria, Lin said that around 500 Chinese companies have established operations in Bavaria. Meanwhile, over 600 Bavarian enterprises, including Siemens, Audi, BMW, and Allianz, have set up branches and made investments in China.

    Tobias Gotthardt, state secretary at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, said that China has been Bavaria’s most important trading partner for years, with bilateral trade volume reaching 53 billion euros (57.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023. Bavaria’s exports to China have remained strong, while imports from China have nearly doubled over the past three years, he added.

    Gotthardt stressed the importance of foreign trade for the state and Germany as a whole, noting that the Chinese market is indispensable.

    “Cooperation in areas such as mechanical engineering, automotive, and energy and environmental technologies has been built on a foundation of trust over many years,” said Gotthardt.

    He expressed optimism that this collaboration will continue to drive economic growth and address global challenges like sustainability. “We must remain focused on cooperation in areas where it is possible.”

    Yu Guangsheng, deputy head of the investment promotion at China’s Ministry of Commerce, mentioned that German investments in China reached an all-time high in the first half of this year, while Chinese investments in Germany surged by 42 percent year-on-year in 2023. “Companies from both countries are demonstrating their confidence in bilateral economic relations and partnerships through tangible investments,” he said.

    During the event, Ingolstadt and Changchun, a major city in northeast China, announced the establishment of a strategic economic partnership.

    Scharpf underscored the longstanding relationship between Ingolstadt, home to Audi’s headquarters, and Changchun, where China’s automotive giant FAW Group is based. He noted that economic and cultural exchanges between the two cities have been active for years, and expressed hope for even deeper cooperation in the future.

    The mayor voiced his belief that the two countries still have vast potential for collaboration, particularly in areas like climate protection, sustainable development, as well as education and cultural exchanges.

    Regarding the European Union’s (EU) recent tariff policy on electric vehicles from China, experts at the event criticized protectionism, and advocated for the promotion of free trade and mutual development between the EU and China.

    Gotthardt warned that the tariffs could escalate trade conflicts and undermine the principles of free trade. “A tariff-free alternative would undoubtedly be a better solution for all parties involved,” he said.

    Georg Rosenfeld, an economic official from Ingolstadt, echoed this sentiment, saying that protectionism and trade barriers are detrimental. He called for open and fair competition, as well as mutual trust which is essential to fostering such competition. (1 euro = 1.08 U.S. dollar)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Report predicts Taiwan to become ‘super-aged’ society next year

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Taiwan will become a “super-aged” society by 2025, with one in five residents expected to be over the age of 65, said the island’s development planning department on Thursday.
    By 2030, the island’s total population is expected to fall below 23 million, and by 2039, the proportion of people aged 65 and above will exceed 30 percent of the total population, according to a report released by the department.
    The report predicted that by 2028, the working-age population will make up less than two-thirds of the total population, signaling the end of the demographic dividend in Taiwan.
    According to the World Health Organization, a society is considered “aged” when those aged 65 and above account for 14 percent of the total population, and “super-aged” when the proportion exceeds 20 percent. Taiwan entered the “aged” category in 2018.
    Statistics from the island’s internal affairs department show that by the end of August, seven of Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities had entered the “super-aged” category.
    An aging population has already led to multiple societal issues, such as labor shortages, declining school enrollments, and increased healthcare costs.
    The development planning department suggested in the report that, to adapt to these demographic changes, efforts should focus on improving childcare subsidies, increasing labor force participation among middle-aged individuals and women, attracting talent, enhancing medical services, and upgrading industries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK top leader says S. Korea is a foreign, hostile country

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The top leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) called South Korea “a foreign country and an apparent hostile country,” and stressed “useless awareness about fellow countrymen and unreasonable idea of reunification” when he addressed inter-Korean relations, as he called for ramping up the war execution capabilities during an inspection trip to the headquarters of the 2nd Corps of the Korean People’s Army on Thursday, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Friday.

    Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, made the remarks as made the trip to encourage the officers and troops of the large combined unit that “have reliably defended the territory of our state, always maintaining full combat readiness on high alert at the forefront near the border,” the KCNA said.

    Kim learned of the combat readiness of the military units ready for combat operations under the corps after being briefed on the current situation.

    The KCNA said the DPRK leader reminded to the armed forces of “the stark fact that the ROK is a foreign country and an apparent hostile country,” referring to South Korea by using the acronym of its official name, the Republic of Korea.

    Recalling that the DPRK has completely blocked the roads and railways to the ROK territory two days ago through detonations, Kim said that the move means “not only the physical closure but also the end of the evil relationship with Seoul” and “the complete removal of the useless awareness about fellow countrymen and unreasonable idea of reunification,” according to the KCNA report. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Golden Highway a critical path to net zero ambitions

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Golden Highway a critical path to net zero ambitions

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    Detailed maps are now available to outline the 19 highway upgrades that will pave the way from the Port of Newcastle to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).

    ‘Port to REZ’ upgrades will be funded by the Australian and NSW governments, with $128.5 million announced towards 320 kilometres of road upgrades and ancillary works.

    The upgrades will enable the transportation of wind turbines and other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms and the transmission network that connects them.

    The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) and Transport for NSW are working together to deliver the improved roads, ensuring they can comfortably accommodate transportation of materials required, whilst also improving road safety for local communities.

    The 19 specific locations identified as pinch points are on the Golden Highway between the Port of Newcastle and Elong Elong, as well as a section of the Castlereagh Highway.

    The maps can be found here

    Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

    “Transport for NSW is supporting the eight councils along the route with resources and information to help guide them in the rollout of the REZ in preparation for new wind and solar power operations.

    “We are working closely with councils who are the local road authorities in their respective areas, responsible for the management of local road networks, including road safety, road funding, road maintenance and heavy vehicle access.

    “Additionally, Transport for NSW and EnergyCo are currently carrying out a review of roads across the designated renewable energy corridors to determine if any roads should be reclassified as state roads.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe:

    “As the Renewable Energy Zones progress, we’re working to ensure that local infrastructure such as roads, are in a good enough state to accommodate extra demands.

    “This is part of our commitment to the long-term prosperity of communities hosting Renewable Energy Zones as we continue the transformation of our state’s energy system.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Reducing workload in hundreds more schools

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Reducing workload in hundreds more schools

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Education and Early Learning

    A trial program aimed at slashing teacher workload and helping educators focus on classroom learning has been extended for two years as the Minns Labor Government rolls out the next tranche to more than 700 schools.

    The School Administration Reduction Program is part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to address teacher burnout and staff shortages caused by unsustainable workloads.

    The trial workload reduction program works to permanently equip schools with new systems and more efficient ways of dealing with the many additional tasks that schools, and in particular teachers, do every day above and beyond teaching their students.

    Through the program hundreds of additional School Administrative and Support Staff (SASS) are deployed to public schools to improve systems and relieve teachers of burdensome administrative work that built up under the Liberals and Nationals.

    Schools who have participated in the program have reported a substantial reduction in the workload of teachers and principals, as well as better training for staff.

    Examples of improvements made through the program include:

    • The Ponds School – improved the planning and coordinating of additional support, resources and programs offered by the school. Previously this work was performed by teachers.
    • Tacking Point Public School – better utilised technology to streamline many administrative tasks, taking them off the plate of teachers.
    • Medowie Public School – developed and implemented an efficient communication strategy to reduce teacher workload and improve correspondence with parents and carers.
    • Wallerawang Public School – enhanced staff induction processes, developing a new handbook on key school procedures including first aid, evacuation, and other WHS protocols.
    • James Fallon High School – made improvements including digitising historical records, strengthening healthcare plan systems and managing risk assessments.

    The program, which has been in 419 schools across 2023–24, will now move to more than 700 schools for 2025–26. By the end of 2026, 1,000 schools—or nearly half of NSW public schools—will have benefited from the School Administration Reduction Program.

    This program is part of a wider effort to reduce workload pressure in schools, which includes:

    • An extensive review of administrative tasks done in schools. Some 70 per cent of the tasks identified are directly linked to departmental policies, highlighting the importance of streamlining these documents and teachers’ ability to access them.
    • A line-by-line audit of teachers’ administrative and bureaucratic tasks was also completed earlier this year, as part of a broader initiative to reduce teacher workload by 5 hours a week.   The review identified around 100 tasks which cause high or very high bureaucratic workload, around 60 per cent of which directly impacts teachers. The department is using the findings to simplify tasks and further reduce teacher workload. 

    This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing work to address the teacher shortage and rebuild public education in NSW. Under the former government teachers were leaving the profession in record numbers, with teacher vacancies rising to a record high of 3,000.

    Our work to rebuild public education includes delivering teachers the biggest pay rise in a generation and reducing the number of teacher vacancies to their lowest in three years, a 24 per cent drop from last year to this year.

    Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

    “We need our teachers focusing on what matters most – providing high quality teaching for our students in the classroom.

    “This program is reducing teacher workload and streamlining school systems on a long-term basis, allowing educators to focus on the important job of teaching.

    “We’ll closely study the learnings from the School Administration Reduction Program to inform our broader effort to cut workload across our system.”

    Michelle Said, Principal, South Creek School, said: 

    “The program has been hugely beneficial to our School for Specific Purpose. We have been able to achieve so much in our school and community due to our extra SASS taking the load off teachers and executive.” 

    Megan Manson, Principal, Canobolas Public School, said:

    “The program has made a real difference for our classrooms and the running of our office. We have used our SASS staff member to assist with administration on digital platforms, coordinating projects and excursions, covering books and other classroom duties, and running a reading fluency program.

    “All of these tasks have had a positive impact on our staff and students.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement from Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, Commander, U.S. Central Command, on the Death of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Oct. 17, 2024
    Release Number 20241017 – 01
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    “Congratulations to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on the elimination of Yahya Sinwar, the mass-murdering leader of the terrorist group, Hamas. Sinwar was the ruthless mastermind of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in Israel that massacred more 1,200 innocent civilians, including more than 40 Americans. More than 250 innocent men, women, and children were taken hostage, including 12 Americans. 101 hostages remain missing, including seven Americans.

    U.S. Central Command’s support to the Israel Defense Forces remains ironclad. Our commitment to countering terrorists throughout the Middle East, with allies and partners, continues to be a top priority. Those who choose the path of terrorism should expect the same fate as Sinwar.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Visits Eastern Panhandle

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    BERKELEY COUNTY, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), traveled to Berkeley County, W.Va. where she participated in two events.
    First, Senator Capito visited Eagle School Intermediate in Martinsburg, W.Va. where she hosted a West Virginia Girls Rise Up event. Senator Capito launched the program in 2015 to instill confidence in young West Virginia women and empower them to be strong and kind female leaders. The program focuses on three areas: education, fitness, and self-confidence. Today’s event marks the 34th event since the program’s launch in 2015.
    “It was great to meet the fifth-grade students at Eagle School Intermediate and inspire them to set goals for the future and achieve their dreams. These girls are the next generation of West Virginia leaders and I am confident that they will go on to do big things in the future,” Senator Capito said. 
    “Eagle School Intermediate is delighted that our students engaged in this unique opportunity with Senator Shelley Moore Capito today. This initiative is designed to foster self-confidence and leadership skills among our young learners. We are thrilled to see our students benefit from Senator Capito’s inspiring presence and guidance, empowering them to become the leaders of tomorrow,” Eagle School Intermediate said.
    Later, Senator Capito, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and a leader on the Senate Appropriations Committee, traveled to Bunker Hill, W.Va. to deliver remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bunker Hill Water Treatment Plant. Through the appropriations process, Senator Capito has supported this project by successfully securing a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) award that will help expand the clean drinking water capacity with this new facility. Once completed, the new plant will have the potential to serve more customers and meet the growing demand in Berkeley County.
    “As we see the amazing growth here in Berkeley County, it is critical that we have the infrastructure needed to reinforce it,” Senator Capito said. “After meeting with local officials and identifying critical projects, it was clear that replacing the outdated water treatment plant with a more modern facility was a priority. In the last four years, this public service district has added thousands more customers and this new plant will provide the infrastructure to meet their needs. Through my leadership on the EPW and Appropriations Committees, I will continue to identify critical projects like this in our communities and work to direct resources to meet their needs.”
    “The Water District is grateful to Senator Capito for her support of the objectives of Berkeley County and for her amazing interest and support of water and wastewater systems throughout WV. West Virginia is fortunate to have a Senator who knows firsthand that the most important public health component of any community is a safe and dependable water supply. She is quite remarkable in her knowledge of pumps, pipes and plants,” Jim Ouellet, Executive Director of the Berkeley County Public Service Water District, said.
    Photos from today’s events are below:

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) hosts a Girls Rise Up event at Eagle School Intermediate in Martinsburg, W.Va. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) hosts a Girls Rise Up event at Eagle School Intermediate in Martinsburg, W.Va. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) hosts a Girls Rise Up event at Eagle School Intermediate in Martinsburg, W.Va. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) participates in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bunker Hill Water Treatment Plant in Bunker Hill, W.Va. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivers remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bunker Hill Water Treatment Plant in Bunker Hill, W.Va. on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Centre for Child Protection celebrates 20 years of improving the lives of vulnerable children

    Source: University of South Australia

    17 October 2024

    Left to right: Professor Melissa O’Donnell, Deputy Director Research; Professor Leah Bromfield, Director and Chair of Child Protection; Amanda Paton, Deputy Director Practice; Lisa McDonald, Centre Manager

    The Australian Centre for Child Protection (ACCP), founded in 2004 by the Australian Government and the University of South Australia, is celebrating its 20th birthday and two decades of helping to prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect.

    The ACCP’s public health approach to child protection saw it quickly gain influence across the sector early on, making major contributions to the first National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children and the National Research Agenda for Protecting Children.

    Today, the Centre continues to provide leadership and input to national strategies and action plans as well as supporting Commissions and Inquiries nationally.

    Current areas of focus include families with multiple and complex needs, preventing infant removals, child sexual abuse, harmful sexual behaviours, out-of-home care and issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

    Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Engagement at UniSA, Distinguished Professor Marnie Hughes-Warrington AO, says the ACCP has informed UniSA’s research, focusing on big issues, partnered approaches and developing new solutions that benefit society.

    “The Centre’s focus on partnering with the sector to drive new approaches and outcomes in child protection continues to shape Australian policy and practice in this critical field,” she says.

    Centre Director Professor Leah Bromfield says that the ACCP’s third decade marks a shift in focus to a transformation agenda.

    “We know through our work across the past two decades that our child protection systems are not fit for purpose, and we must reimagine our approach to protecting children. ACCP is driving research and innovation to shape this transformation now and into the future,” she says.

    “This new approach has the potential to be an example to the rest of the world.”

    To celebrate its 20-year milestone and during Children’s Week, on Thursday 24 October the Australian Centre for Child Protection will present a free one-day virtual symposium, sharing the latest in ACCP’s research, solutions and insights, with more than 20 presentations from Centre staff, students, and partners across a range of priority themes.

    Prof Bromfield says the symposium program has been designed to showcase the breadth of expertise and knowledge across the ACCP team.

    “It’s our way of continuing to work hand in hand with the sector, driving new knowledge that can be applied, and supporting the sector and its workforce,” she says.

    “This is how we can successfully continue to improve the lives of our most vulnerable children.”

    Registrations and the full program for the symposium can be found on the ACCP website.

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contact for interview: Professor Leah Bromfield M: +61 401 635 310 E: Leah.Bromfield@unisa.edu.au

    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Watercare begins preliminary work to futureproof the city centre’s wastewater infrastructure

    Source: Auckland Council

    The preliminary work for Watercare’s Midtown Wastewater Upgrades begins next week.

    Three midtown sites are being prepared and shafts are being built, ready for a tunnel boring machine to be lowered into the ground in 2025. The machine will reach depths of up to 14.5 metres and tunnel a distance of 585 metres below Queen Street.

    These underground wastewater upgrades are a key component of the Auckland Council group’s midtown regeneration. The programme is preparing streets, spaces and infrastructure for the City Rail Link, which will bring many more people into the city centre to live, work, study, visit and do business.

    The upgrades will renew the workings of the city centre’s century-old pipes, enable the consenting of a pipeline of commercial and residential apartment developments, and help protect the region’s precious Waitematā Harbour.

    Chair of the Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Andy Baker explains that this wastewater project is essential for Auckland’s future resilience.

    “Midtown will become an even more popular place for people to live beyond 2026 when the City Rail Link’s Te Waihorotiu Station is operational. With these important works complete, we will have increased the capacity of our wastewater system and upgraded the quality of our pipes in midtown.

    “It is vitally important for us to futureproof the area ahead of the population growth expected in midtown, and we are taking steps also with this work to reduce the risk of wastewater overflows entering the Waitematā Harbour during heavy rain.

    “I want to emphasise that Watercare has sited the shafts away from shops and businesses, synchronised the works with other construction in the area for maximum efficiency, and ensured that traffic in Queen Street continues to operate.

    “As the safety fences go up around three localised shafts next week to enable this work, we want to remind everyone that midtown continues to be open for business,” Councillor Baker says.

    This wastewater work around Queen Street, delivered by Watercare and supported by Auckland Council, is scheduled to be complete by December 2026.

    For all information please visit here.

    Q&A

    What else is being upgraded?

    While stage one of Watercare’s Midtown Wastewater Upgrades will increase wastewater capacity, crews will also take this opportunity to reline the Victoria Street section of the Ōrākei Main Sewer. Doing this work during Stage 1 of the pipeline installation eliminates the need for Watercare to return to Victoria Street to do this critical work later. Stage two is in the design phase and will involve laying new wastewater pipes from Vincent Street to Greys Avenue carpark.

    Why is this work essential?

    The Midtown Wastewater Upgrades support the Auckland city centre’s planned residential and commercial growth, reduce the risk of future overflows into the Waitematā Harbour and safeguard and increase resilience of midtown’s wastewater network.

    What are the problems we’re solving?

    Currently, the wastewater and stormwater in the midtown area combine into a single pipe which feeds into a large pipe called an interceptor, which takes flows to Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant for processing.  

    Combined networks are designed to overflow during rainfall events at designated overflow points rather than back flow up your toilet or sink.

    The focus of the Midtown Wastewater Upgrades is to redirect most of the wastewater away from the combined network and channel it through a dedicated 1.2km pipeline.

    The project also involves reconfiguring the current wastewater network to better use under-utilised pipes.

    After the Midtown Wastewater Upgrades are complete, overflows from the combined network will become less frequent after heavy rainfall events.

    How will the tunnel boring process work?

    A large portion of the pipeline will be installed using a method called horizontal directional drilling (HDD). The benefit of using this method is that it will get the job done more safely, faster, and with a higher quality result. Horizontal directional drilling is also better for the environment than open trenching as it lessens the impact on surrounding critical assets and reduces fractures and soil disturbance. This method is also less disruptive for the community as there is much less digging up of the street.

    Read more about the city centre’s transformation here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Research project to address cultural gap

    Source: Government of Western Australia

    Nearly $200,000 has been awarded to The University of Western Australia for a research project that will develop a tool to more effectively measure mental health and wellbeing in the Aboriginal community of Mullewa.

    The research project called Tharlbarra Maga: Developing a Strong Head, Strong Mind Measure received funding from Healthway’s 2023 Targeted Research Round, which called for research projects that focused on new and innovative ways to measure health behaviours.

    Chief Investigator Dr Charmaine Green from the Western Australian Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) at The University of Western Australia said the funding will support the considerable formative work that has already been undertaken in Mullewa.

    “We currently don’t have culturally appropriate tools to be able to measure the impact we are making on the local Aboriginal community’s mental health, social and emotional wellbeing,” she said.

    “This research project will provide an alternative to Western mental health tools and measures, which are often disliked and not appropriate for Aboriginal people as they do not reflect their cultural beliefs and understandings of wellbeing.

    “This research project will take two years to complete, the tools that will be developed are likely to be interactive, story and picture based, using local idioms and local artists.”

    Healthway CEO Colin Smith said Healthway looked forward to the outcomes of Dr Green’s work, as it will address a gap by providing culturally and locally relevant tools to measure mental health and wellbeing.

    “This research project will involve extensive consultation with Aboriginal co-researchers and Mullewa community members to better understand the Mullewa mental health story.

    “Once culturally appropriate tools are developed, they will be shared with the wider community to improve our understanding of community mental health in Mullewa and help shape the delivery of more effective health programs.

    “The project can also provide a blue-print for other Aboriginal communities to develop similar, locally appropriate tools.”   

    Healthway’s 2023 Targeted Research Round has supported four research projects worth nearly $800,000 to address gaps in measuring health behaviours and inform future policy and process.

    The successful recipients include:

    • Dr Charmaine Green, WACRH, The University of Western Australia – Tharlbarra Maga: Developing a Strong Head, Strong Mind Measure- $199, 640
    • Dr Emma Carlin, University of Western Australia – Measuring and supporting Aboriginal social and emotional wellbeing within primary healthcare – $199, 690
    • Associate Professor Michael Livingston, Curtin University – Measuring alcohol risk, information needs and pathways using an AI chatbot – $198,748
    • Professor Peter Gething, Curtin University – Smart Walking and Cycling: Active Travel to School Simulator – $197,876.

     

    The post Research project to address cultural gap appeared first on Healthway.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Agritech invention wins $100k Challenge – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland

    This year, a cutting-edge agritech solution designed to benefit the health of cows took out first place in the Velocity $100k Challenge.

    University of Auckland researcher Liz Cunningham, who has lost cows to mastitis, a costly disease that sees udder tissue become inflamed, often due to bacteria, won the University of Auckland Velocity $100k Challenge with her start-up – QuickMas.  

    The Liggins Institute research technician and her teammates, academic staff from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute, Faculty of Engineering and the Liggins Institute, say QuickMas is about helping in the fight against antibiotic resistance in dairy cattle.

    Cunningham says QuickMas will show whether a cow has mastitis, help identify the pathogen causing it and determine whether the cow has responded to antibiotics.

    “QuickMas will also be able to help farmers decide if their cow is safe to put back in the herd or if she may still be harbouring infectious bacteria.

    “It will give dairy farmers answers about their cows’ mastitis in as little as 15 minutes and no more than an hour.”

    The on-farm diagnostic tool, Cunningham says, is as simple as a Covid test, doesn’t require Wi-Fi, and farmers can self-interpret the results – no need to send them to a vet.

    “It’s done using a milk sample, which is processed by our machine for five minutes before it’s added to our test cartridges. Farmers will then be able to identify the source of infection.

    “The current testing method on the market sees farmers have to wait at least 24 hours for a result. It also requires Wi-Fi, which a lot of milking sheds don’t have.”

    Cunningham and her team are currently testing QuickMas prototypes.

    “We worked really hard to develop something quick, reliable and fit for farms. We want QuickMas to add value to farmers’ businesses here and all over the world.

    “Winning the Velocity challenge is amazing, and we’re excited to use the support provided to get this to market as quickly as we can to help dairy farmers and their cows.”

    Cunningham says the QuickMas team will explore potential partnerships and seek external investment over the next six months, with the plan to have the product on the market in 2025.

    “Using QuickMas will help the dairy industry in its fight against antibiotic resistance. Helping farmers understand the correct pathogen will enable them to treat their cows more efficiently. It will also inform treatment duration.

    “Farmers will have the information to give each cow individualised and responsive treatment – undertreating or overtreating with antibiotics will be a thing of the past.”

    Read about the other Velocity winners here. http://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/news/2024/10/17/innovating-until-the-cows-come-home.html

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –