NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reminder of upcoming lane closure – SH1 Otaika Road, Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is reminding Northland motorists that on Sunday 20 October the northbound lane on SH1 Otaika Road between Rewa Rewa Road and Maunu Road will be closed for essential power pole maintenance.

    Prior to this, preparation work will occur on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October between 9am and 4pm under stop/go traffic control.

    The northbound detour will be in place between 7am and 4pm, with more information available on the Northpower outages page:

    Northpower outages(external link)

    Motorists are asked to follow marked detour routes and expect delays during this time. 

    Detour route for SH1 northbound:

    1. Turn right into Rewa Rewa Road/Kioreroa Road
    2. Turn left onto Port Road/Okara Drive
    3. Turn left onto Porowini Avenue
    4. Turn left onto Maunu Road before joining SH1 Otaika Road. 

    The detour route will add approximately eight minutes to your journey.

    Important note for Heavy Vehicles (HPMV)

    The detour route is not approved for HPMV. HPMV will be parked and grouped together, and escorted through the closure approximately every 20 minutes, as required.

    Please take care when travelling through our work sites and watch out for our crews as they undertake important work to improve our roads. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    People are urged to plan ahead and use the NZTA Journey Planner for real time traffic information.

    Journey Planner(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overnight closure of SH1 Silverdale-Warkworth on Mon 21 Oct

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising motorists of a full closure to both northbound and southbound traffic on State Highway 1 between Silverdale and Warkworth from 9pm on Monday 21 October to 3am on Tuesday 22 October.

    Waka Kotahi will be working with Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) and NZ Police to stage an emergency exercise in the Johnstones Hill Tunnel during this time.

    Light vehicles will be detoured via Hibiscus Coast Road and Old State Highway 1. 

    Overweight vehicles will not be able to use Grand Drive in Orewa due to weight restrictions. 

    These emergency exercises are part of an ongoing programme at both the Johnstones Hill Tunnel, Waterview Tunnel and Victoria Park Tunnel and enable emergency response teams to practice, review and update emergency response protocols.

    This closure is weather dependent and may change from advertised dates.

    Please take care when travelling through our work sites and watch out for our crews. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    NZTA thanks everyone in advance for your patience and apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Expect delays for your bus journeys into the centre city this weekend

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Detour for southbound buses heading to the Bus Interchange

    Manchester Street at the Lichfield Street intersection will be closed from 9pm, Friday 18 October to 6am, Monday 21 October, causing a detour for most buses heading to the Bus Interchange.

    Affected buses will instead travel down Hereford, Colombo and Lichfield Streets in order to reach the Bus Interchange.

    Eastbound traffic can make the left turn from Lichfield Street onto Manchester Street.

    Route 80 Lincoln/Parklands will travel down St Asaph, Colombo and Tuam Streets instead, and Route 8 Port-to-Port will go via Hereford Street, Durham Street South and Tuam Street, Public Transport operations manager Derek Walsh says.

    “This is expected to cause around six-minutes delay to each bus journey, which will affect the reliability of our services across the network,” he says.

    Bus stop closure on Hereford Street

    Bus stop #53163 on Hereford Street, between Manchester and Colombo Streets, will be affected by the closure. Customers can board or disembark at the Bus Interchange instead. Signage will be up at this bus stop for affected customers.

    “We encourage our customers to leave extra time to get to their destinations, while our buses travel the detour route to the Bus Interchange,” Derek says.

    “We want to thank our customers for their understanding.”

    The planned works are expected to finish by 6am, Monday 21 October.

    Updates on the timing of the work will be available to view on Christchurch City Council’s Facebook page.

    You can view all the detours on the Metro website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protecting future kiwi this Save the Kiwi week

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  14 October 2024

    DOC Biodiversity Ranger Kelly Brider says the projected increase is a testament to landscape-scale predator control and community trapping, which has made this large tract of forest a stronghold for Western North Island brown kiwi.

    “The increase would result in 9000 kiwi in Whanganui National Park and surrounds by 2030. But for this to happen, kiwi must grow up in a safe environment, so they will survive and have chicks of their own,” Kelly says.

    Save the Kiwi Week is underway from 14-20 October, so it’s a perfect time to encourage communities to protect kiwi.

    A kiwi avoidance course for dogs is scheduled for 26 October at Gordon Park Scenic Reserve in Whanganui, which is a great way to help keep kiwi safe from dogs.

    “Any dog, big or small, can kill a kiwi, and small dogs can fit into burrows and do significant damage. If you are thinking about taking a dog hunting, or have a farm dog, it’s really important that you do this training,” Kelly says.

    “A single adult kiwi can lay up to 200 eggs in her lifetime, and her offspring can produce 800 chicks, so even one death is devastating for populations.”

    As well as ensuring your dog is ‘kiwi avoidance trained’, dog owners can follow other steps to prevent their dogs from harming kiwi.

    “Keep your dog contained on your property, and under control on a lead when out walking. And don’t let your dog roam, as roaming dogs can harm themselves and people, as well as posing a threat to wildlife like kiwi,” Kelly says.

    Check DOC’s website information on where you can take your dog. Dogs are not permitted in kiwi sanctuaries and in many conservation areas.

    For more information about kiwi avoidance training and to book, visit http://www.kiwiavoidancetraining.nz or contact DOC’s Whanganui office whanganui@doc.govt.nz.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Premier Li urges Chinese, Vietnamese entrepreneurs to boost cooperation

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

    HANOI, Oct. 13 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Sunday it is hoped that Chinese and Vietnamese entrepreneurs actively follow the general trend, better seize opportunities and further strengthen cooperation for greater development of their own businesses and contribute to the common development of the two countries.

    He made the remarks when addressing a symposium gathering representatives of Chinese and Vietnamese entrepreneurs. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also attended the symposium.

    Li noted that in recent years, with both sides’ joint efforts, China-Vietnam relations have developed steadily, and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results.

    China and Vietnam are traditional socialist friendly neighbors, and their respective development is an important opportunity for each other, he said, adding that economic and trade cooperation has always been a highlight of China-Vietnam cooperation and an important source of driving force for advancing bilateral ties.

    Looking ahead, Li said, there is still more space for expansion and greater potential to be tapped in the further alignment of the development strategies of the two countries, stronger connectivity, the release of complementary advantages, as well as economic and trade cooperation.

    The two countries share the same social system, strong political mutual trust, geographical proximity and affinity among their people, and enjoy a profound friendship of “comrades and brothers,” which has laid a solid foundation for bilateral cooperation.

    The Chinese premier called on the entrepreneurs to more actively engage in national development strategies, and make full use of multilateral and bilateral economic and trade cooperation agreements and policy dividends such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area.

    Li proposed that the entrepreneurs should jointly promote the integrated development of industries, deepen mutual integration of supply and demand, and build stable and smooth cross-border industrial and supply chains.

    He also urged the two countries’ entrepreneurs to pool innovation and creativity, and strengthen the whole-chain innovation cooperation between industry, academia, research and utilization, with a particular focus on clean energy, biomedicine and artificial intelligence, so as to jointly foster and strengthen new driving forces for the development of the two countries.

    Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said that under the guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and the two countries, Vietnam and China have deepened and solidified bilateral relations, bringing the ties into a new era of building a community with a shared future for Vietnam and China.

    Noting that China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner, and Vietnam is China’s largest trading partner in ASEAN, he said economic and trade cooperation has become a highlight and an important pillar of the friendly relations between the two countries.

    Pham Minh Chinh said Vietnam is willing to work with China in the spirit of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, further give play to complementary advantages, fully tap potential, improve the level of corporate cooperation, promote cooperation on finance, technology, investment, transportation infrastructure, digital economy, green economy, and production and supply chain connectivity, and strengthen coordination within the framework of regional economic integration.

    “The Vietnamese government will continue to provide a sound business environment for enterprises and welcome Chinese enterprises to continue to expand their investment in Vietnam,” he said.

    The Vietnamese head of government also expressed the hope that enterprises from the two countries will jointly deepen practical cooperation, and boost the growth of bilateral relations and the respective development processes of Vietnam and China.

    Representatives of participating enterprises said that the strategic guidance of the two countries’ top leaders has injected strong impetus into China-Vietnam economic and trade cooperation.

    They said the Belt and Road initiative is highly compatible with the Two Corridors and One Economic Circle strategy, and the business communities of the two countries are optimistic about the development prospects in each other’s markets and have firm confidence in deepening cooperation.

    They expressed the willingness to seize opportunities to further promote cooperation on finance, transportation infrastructure construction, digital economy, green energy, communications and logistics.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US should stop “two-faced” actions on Taiwan question: Defense Spokesperson 2024-10-09 “We urge the US side to stop its duplicity towards China, stop its ‘two-faced’ actions on the Taiwan question,” said Chinese Defense Spokesperson Senior Colonel Wu Qian on Wednesday.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

      BEIJING, Oct. 9 — “We urge the US side to stop its duplicity towards China, stop its ‘two-faced’ actions on the Taiwan question,” said Chinese Defense Spokesperson Senior Colonel Wu Qian on Wednesday.

      It is reported that the US government recently approved a US$567 million military assistance to China’s Taiwan region which will fund training, anti-armor weapons  and UAVs.

      According to the spokesperson, the US’s provision of military assistance to China’s Taiwan region in defiance of China’s firm opposition has seriously violated the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, severely infringed upon China’s sovereignty and security interests and undermined peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. “We strongly condemn such action and have lodged solemn representations with the US side,” he said.

      The spokesperson pointed out that in recent years, the US side has repeatedly broken its promise and tried all means to provide Taiwan with military assistance, sending wrong signals to “Taiwan independence” separatists. The US has been pouring fuel on the Taiwan question and heightening regional tension, pushing the island towards an extremely dangerous situation of war.

      “It must be stressed that arming Taiwan is supporting ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces, and that means war. Anyone attempting to contain China with Taiwan will end up eating the bitter fruit of their own doing,” slammed the spokesperson.

      The spokesperson also urged the US side to stop its duplicity towards China, stop its “two-faced” actions on the Taiwan question, and stop arming Taiwan to avoid further disrupting and sabotaging the relations between China and the US and their militaries. “The Chinese PLA will keep strengthening military training and combat readiness, comprehensively enhance its capability to fight and win in order to resolutely counter ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces and external interference, and defend China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” stressed the spokesperson in the end.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4331-4333: Today’s Rover ABC – Aurora, Backwards Driving, and Chemistry, with a Side of Images

    Source: NASA

    4 min read

    Earth planning date: Friday, Oct. 11, 2024

    This blogger is in the United Kingdom, just north of London, where we yesterday had beautiful night skies with a red aurora that was even visible with the unaided eye, and looked stunning on photographs. That reminded me of the solar storm that made it all the way to Mars earlier this year. Here is my colleague Deborah’s blog about it: “Aurora Watch on Mars.” And, of course, that was a great opportunity to do atmospheric science and prepare for future crewed missions, to assess radiation that future astronauts might encounter. You can read about it in the article, “NASA Watches Mars Light Up During Epic Solar Storm.” But now, back from shiny red night skies north of London, and auroras on Mars six months ago, to today’s planning!

    Power — always a negotiation! Today, I was the Science Operations Working Group chair, the one who has to watch for the more technical side of things, such as the question if all the activities will fit into the plan. Today there were many imaging ideas to capture the stunning landscape in detail with Mastcam and very close close-ups with the long-distance imaging capability of ChemCam (RMI). Overall, we have two long-distance RMIs in the plan to capture the details of the ridge we are investigating. You can see in the accompanying image an example from last sol of just how many stunning details we can see. I so want to go and pick up that smooth white-ish looking rock to find out if it is just the light that makes it so bright, or if the surface is different from the underside… but that’s just me, a mineralogist by training, used to wandering around a field site! Do you notice the different patterns — textures as we call them in geology — on the rocks to the left of that white-ish rock and the right of it? So much stunning detail, and we are getting two more RMI observations of 10 frames each in today’s plan! In addition there are more than 80 Mastcam frames planned. Lots of images to learn from!

    Chemistry is also featuring in the plan. The rover is stable on its wheels, which means we can get the arm out and do an APXS measurement on the target “Midnight Lake,” which MAHLI also images. The LIBS investigations are seconding the APXS investigation on Midnight Lake, and add another target to the plan, “Pyramidal Pinnacle.” On the third sol there is an AEGIS, the LIBS measurement where the rover picks its own target before we here on Earth even see where it is! Power was especially tight today, because the CheMin team does some housekeeping, in particular looking at empty cells in preparation for the next drill. The atmosphere team adds many investigations to look out for dust devils and the dustiness of the atmosphere, and APXS measures the argon content of the atmosphere. This is a measure for the seasonal changes of the atmosphere, as argon is an inert gas that does not react with other components of the atmosphere. It is only controlled by the temperature in various places of the planet — mainly the poles. DAN continues to monitor water in the subsurface, and RAD — prominently featured during the solar storm I was talking about earlier — continues to collect data on the radiation environment.

    Let’s close with a fun fact from planning today: During one of the meetings, the rover drivers were asked, “Are you driving backwards again?” … and the answer was yes! The reason: We need to make sure that in this rugged terrain, with its many interesting walls (interesting for the geologists!), the antenna can still see Earth when we want to send the plan. So the drive on sol 4332 is all backwards. I am glad we have hazard cameras on the front and the back of the vehicle!

    Written by Susanne Schwenzer, Planetary Geologist at The Open University

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Major investment deals set to be announced at government’s inaugural International Investment Summit as PM vows to ‘remove needless regulation’ declaring Britain open for business

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today.

    • Ministers set to unveil billions worth of major investment deals in AI, life sciences and infrastructure
    • Follows investment of £24 billion in clean energy from business leaders hailing the UK’s “clear policy direction”
    • Comes as leading investors, CEOs, and politicians convene for inaugural International Investment Summit
    • PM vows to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth” as he pledges to “get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today (Monday 14th October).

    World leading CEO’s and investors from across the globe will meet with ministers, First Ministers, and local leaders at the Guildhall – a historic landmark which has served as the ceremonial heart of the City of London for centuries. 

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.  

    The government has already secured tens of billions worth of investments within 100 days of being in office. The International Investment Summit will provide an opportunity to build on this progress and showcase the UK’s economic strengths. The event will demonstrate that through serious, stable governance, the UK can establish enduring partnerships with businesses to boost investment and give investors the confidence they need to choose Britain. 

    In a sign of intent to deliver on its central promise, this government has immediately made a series of major interventions to restore economic stability and create the right conditions for growth and investment. Business leaders this week hailed the UK’s “clear policy direction” as they announced over £24 billion worth of investment in clean energy projects.

    The government’s policy platform – including bolstering the Office for Investment, a robust Industrial Strategy, major planning reforms to unlock infrastructure and housing, and founding a National Wealth Fund to catalyse private money – will attract investment, kickstart growth, and unlock Britain’s potential. 

    In his keynote speech opening the summit, the Prime Minister will outline how the government will build on this work, with a vow to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment.” 

    He is expected to say not enough has been done to make sure the UK is keeping pace with emerging industries. He will pledge to “upgrade the regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age, making Britain fit to harness all opportunities.”

    In his keynote speech, the Prime Minister will make his ‘pitch for Britain’. On the value of stability, the Prime Minister is expected to say: 

    “It’s not just that stability leads to growth – though we all recognise that. It’s also that growth leads to stability. Growth leads to a country that is better equipped to come together and get its future back. That’s why it’s always been so critical to my project.

    “We have a golden opportunity to use our mandate, to end chop and change, policy churn and sticking plasters that make it so hard for investors to assess the value of any proposition. 

    “We have the determination, the focus on clear long-term ends, a mission-led mindset that thinks in years, not the days or hours of the news grid, needed to unlock that potential. Do not doubt that. 

    “We are focusing on investment because the mission of growth, in this country especially, demands it. Private sector investment is the way we rebuild our country and pay our way in the world. This is a great moment to back Britain. This is great moment to back England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.”

    On regulation, he is expected to say: 

    “We’ve got to look at regulation where it is needlessly holding back the investment, to take our country forward.

    “Where it is stopping us building the homes, the data centres, warehouses, grid connectors, roads, trainlines, you name it then mark my words – we will get rid of it.

    “We will rip out the bureaucracy that blocks investment and we will make sure that every regulator in this country take growth as seriously as this room does.”

    The government will ask the CMA to prioritise growth, investment, and innovation through their work as a priority and it will also be reviewing the focus of other major regulators. 

    The regulatory review is just one part of the government’s work ensuring Britain is at the front of the queue for emerging opportunities. It builds on the recent creation of the Regulatory Innovation Office, which will curb red tape for cutting-edge emerging technologies, speed up approvals, and allow them to be rolled out to the public safely and quickly. 

    These changes come at the same time as the government delivers on a key manifesto promise to establish a modern Industrial Strategy. Long called for by business, the strategy hardwires long-term stability for investors and plays to the UK’s strengths by focusing on eight growth-driving sectors. 

    The summit will involve sessions with ministers and business leaders to discuss how together we can ensure the UK capitalises on emerging growth sectors including health tech and AI, clean energy and creative industries, for the good of working people. Confirmed speakers including Ruth Porat President & Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet, David A. Ricks Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly, Alex Kendall CEO of Wayve and Pushmeet Kohli Vice President of Research at Google DeepMind. 

    The Prime Minister will take part in an “in conversation” event with former CEO and chairman of Google Eric Schmidt, moderated by CEO of GSK Dame Emma Walmsley to discuss how the UK can seize the opportunities of AI to drive growth and productivity, and it’s potential to improve public services such as health and education.

    The Chancellor will close the summit and take part in a panel event discussing investment opportunities in the UK with Group Chief Executive of USS Carol Young, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Larry Fink and CEO of Brookfield Asset Management Bruce Flatt.

    Attendees will then be invited to an exclusive reception at St Paul’s Cathedral attended by His Majesty The King. 

    Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson OBE said: 

    “It’s never been a better time to invest in Britain. This summit is a hugely significant moment to showcase the UK’s economic strengths on the world stage and I’m delighted to be part of the government’s important work to drive growth and investment across the UK.”

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: 

    “I’m delighted to be attending the International Investment Summit. With a new government, we are reclaiming Britain’s reputation as a magnet for global investment – bringing with it new technology, new ways of thinking and, crucially, new jobs across our country, meaning higher living standards.  

    “London and the UK are open for business, trade and investment. I will continue working with the Government to forge new partnerships, reset relationships and seize the opportunity to secure long-term investment so that we can build a better London for everyone and deliver the change Britain needs.”

    Alex Kendall, Co-Founder and CEO of Wayve, said: 

    “I’m delighted to join the inaugural International Investment Summit. The UK has a strong opportunity to lead in Embodied AI, especially in automated vehicles. 

    “We appreciate the Government’s proactive collaboration with industry on intelligent legislation like the AV Act 2024. Their sector-specific approach to AI regulation is the right way to encourage both investment and innovation. 

    “As we advance our Embodied AI technology into safe, reliable, production-ready software for global automakers, we look forward to continuing to work with the Government to harmonise global regulations and scale UK innovation internationally.”

    Ruth Porat Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc said:

    “Google is proud of our long history of meaningful investments in local talent, infrastructure and digital skilling in the UK which help everyone participate in the benefits of the digital economy. With the UK’s rich academic heritage, particularly in the sciences, it is well-positioned to capture the many opportunities that AI can deliver. 

    “The Investment Summit is an important moment to reflect on the progress to date, and how to best position the UK as a global leader in AI, with the economic and societal benefits this transformative technology can deliver today, and in the years ahead.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have you seen Temuera? Police appeal for information

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Hawkes Bay Police are appealing for information to locate 29-year old Temuera Wakefield, who has been reported missing.

    Temuera was last reported seen at his Napier address in late July, after he left stating he would be back in three weeks.

    Temuera is about 180cm tall, has an afro and is of a thin build. Police believe it is possible that he is still in the Napier area.

    His whanau and Police are concerned for his welfare.

    Police are asking anyone with information about Temueraʼs whereabouts to please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 240901/1924.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Kamala Harris dips in key states, making US election contest a toss-up

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    The United States presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silver’s aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris leads Republican Donald Trump by 49.3–46.5, a slight gain for Trump since last Monday, when Harris led by 49.3–46.2.

    Joe Biden’s final position before his withdrawal as Democratic candidate on July 21 was a national poll deficit against Trump of 45.2–41.2.

    The US president isn’t elected by the national popular vote, but by the Electoral College, in which each state receives electoral votes equal to its federal House seats (population based) and senators (always two). Almost all states award their electoral votes as winner-takes-all, and it takes 270 electoral votes to win (out of 538 total).

    Relative to the national popular vote, the Electoral College is biased to Trump, with Harris needing at least a two-point popular vote win to be the Electoral College favourite in Silver’s model.

    Last Monday, Harris led by one to two points in Pennsylvania (19 electoral votes), Michigan (15), Wisconsin (ten) and Nevada (six). In the last week, Trump has gained in all these states in Silver’s aggregates, reducing Harris’ lead to about one point in these states.

    If Harris wins these four states, she probably wins the Electoral College by at least a 276–262 margin. Trump leads by less than one point in Georgia and North Carolina, which both have 16 electoral votes.

    While Harris is still barely ahead in the Electoral College, her margins have been reduced in the states where she’s leading. As a result, Silver’s model now gives Harris a 52% chance to win the Electoral College, down from 56% last Monday.

    This means the presidential election is effectively a 50–50 toss-up. There’s a 23% chance that Harris wins the popular vote but loses the Electoral College. The FiveThirtyEight model
    is giving similar results to Silver’s model, with Harris a 53% favourite.

    There’s still over three weeks until the election, and polls could change in that time. The polls could also be biased against either Trump or Harris, and in this case that candidate could win easily. With the polls across the swing states so close, either candidate could sweep all these states.

    I wrote about the US election for The Poll Bludger last Thursday, and also covered the UK Conservative leadership election, the far-right winning the most seats at the September 29 Austrian election and Japan’s October 27 election.

    Favourability ratings and economic data

    Harris’ net favourability peaked about two weeks ago at +1.4 in the FiveThirtyEight national poll aggregate, but it has now dropped back to net zero, with 46.8% favourable and 46.8% unfavourable. Harris’ net favourability had surged from about -16 after becoming the Democratic nominee, and she gained further ground after the September 10 debate with Trump.

    Trump’s net favourability has been steady in the last two months, and he’s now at -9.4, with 52.6% unfavourable and 43.2% favourable. Harris’ running mate Tim Walz is at +4.2 net favourable and Trump’s running mate JD Vance is at -9.6 net favourable. Biden’s net approval remains poor at -14.0.

    US headline inflation rose 0.2% in September, the same increase as in August. In the 12 months to September, inflation was up 2.4%, the smallest increase since 2021. Core inflation increased 0.3% in September, the same as in August, and is up 3.3% in the 12 months to September.

    Real (inflation-adjusted) hourly earnings were up 0.2% in September after a 0.3% increase in August, while real weekly earnings slid 0.1% after a 0.6% increase in August owing to changes in hours worked. In the 12 months to September, real hourly earnings were up 1.5% and weekly earnings up 0.9%.

    Congressional elections

    I wrote about the elections for the House of Representatives and Senate that will be held concurrently with the presidential election three weeks ago. The House has 435 single-member seats that are apportioned to states on a population basis, while there are two senators for each of the 50 states.

    The House only has a two-year term, so the last House election was at the 2022 midterm elections, when Republicans won the House by 222–213 over Democrats. The FiveThirtyEight aggregate of polls of the national House race gives Democrats a 47.1–45.9 lead over Republicans, a gain for Republican from a 46.7–44.5 Democratic lead three weeks ago.

    Senators have six-year terms, with one-third up for election every two years. Democrats and aligned independents currently have a 51–49 Senate majority, but they are defending 23 of the 33 regular seats up, including seats in three states Trump won easily in both 2016 and 2020: West Virginia, Montana and Ohio.

    West Virginia is a certain Republican gain after the retirement of former Democratic (now independent) Senator Joe Manchin at this election. Republicans have taken a 5.4-point lead in Montana in the FiveThirtyEight poll aggregate, while Democrats are just 2.3 points ahead in Ohio.

    Republicans are being challenged by independent Dan Osborn in Nebraska, and he trails Republican Deb Fischer by just 1.5 points. Democrats did not contest to avoid splitting the vote. In other Senate contests, the incumbent party is at least four points ahead.

    If Republicans gain West Virginia and Montana, but lose Nebraska to Osborn, and no other seats change hands, Republicans would have a 50–49 lead in the Senate. If Harris wins the presidency, Osborn would be the decisive vote as a Senate tie can be broken by the vice president, who would be Walz. This is the rosiest plausible scenario for Democrats.

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

    – ref. Kamala Harris dips in key states, making US election contest a toss-up – https://theconversation.com/kamala-harris-dips-in-key-states-making-us-election-contest-a-toss-up-241216

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Nexif Ratch Energy Secures Financial Close for Its 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project in the Philippines

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    METRO MANILA, Philippines, Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nexif Ratch Energy, a leading independent power producer focused on renewable energy solutions, is thrilled to announce the financial close of its 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project, its second solar power project in the Philippines.

    The Bacolod Solar Power Project, developed by Negros PH Solar Inc, is located across Bacolod City and Bago City in the Negros Occidental province. It is a 145 MWp ground-mounted solar photovoltaic project that will connect to NGCP’s Bacolod Substation and can potentially power to up to 52,600 households. Majority of its output will be sold through a 10-year Power Supply Agreement to a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation, with the remainder to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market.

    The project investment of more than US$100m is funded by equity from Nexif Ratch Energy and project finance facilities from Security Bank Corporation and Philippine National Bank on a limited recourse basis, with SB Capital Investment Corporation acting as the Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner and PNB Capital and Investment Corporation acting as Arranger.

    Construction is set to begin in October 2024, with the goal of achieving commercial operations by Q4 2025. Focus is now on an expansion on the existing site, through increased solar PV capacity of up to 20 MW and a Battery Energy Storage System.

    Beyond its Calabanga and Bacolod solar projects, Nexif Ratch Energy is developing wind energy projects including the San Miguel Bay Project, a nearshore wind project with a capacity of up to 500 MW and the Lucena Project, an offshore wind project with a capacity of up to 475 MW.

    Mr Surender Singh, Chairman of Nexif Ratch Energy, said “The successful financial close of our 145MWp Bacolod Solar Farm highlights the exceptional collaboration with our partners and the dedication of our local development team. We are excited to bring this project into construction. This Financial Close, in quick succession to start of commercial operations of Calabanga Solar project and rapid progress that more than 900 MW of the wind projects, showcase our commitment to Philippine renewable energy.”

    Mr. Sakarin Tangkavachiranon, Director of Nexif Ratch Energy, added: “Reaching financial close for the 145 MWp NPSI solar project is a key milestone in our growth in the Philippines. This achievement, along with the start of commercial operations for our CARE solar project, lays a strong foundation for accelerating the development of our offshore wind projects in the country.”

    For more information, please visit http://www.nexifratch.com.

    About Nexif Ratch Energy:

    Nexif Ratch Energy is a renewable energy company that originates, acquires, develops, constructs, and operates power projects in the Asia Pacific region. Headquartered in Singapore with regional offices across Southeast Asia, the Company has a 298 MW portfolio of operating and under construction hydro, solar and wind assets and a development pipeline of wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling 3.5 GW.

    Nexif Ratch Energy is owned 51% by Nexif Energy (Singapore) and 49% by RATCH Group (Thailand).

    Media Contact:
    Chariya Poopisit
    Nexif Ratch Energy
    Communications@nexifratch.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Coalition seizes Newspoll lead, but other polls have Labor improving

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    A national Newspoll, conducted October 7–11 from a sample of 1,258, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead, a one-point gain for the Coalition since the previous Newspoll, three weeks ago. After three 50–50 ties in a row, this is the first time this term the Coalition has led in Newspoll.

    Primary votes were 38% Coalition (steady), 31% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one), 7% One Nation (up one) and 12% for all Others (steady). By 2022 election preference flows, these primary votes would normally give a 50–50 tie, so rounding probably contributed to the Coalition’s lead.

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval slumped six points to -14, his worst this term in Newspoll, with 54% dissatisfied and 40% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval improved one point to -14. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 45–37 (46–37 previously).

    The graph below shows Albanese’s Newspoll net approval ratings this term. The data points are marked with plus signs and a smoothed line has been fitted. Albanese’s net approval has been below -10 in two of the last three Newspolls, causing the trend line to turn down.

    Other federal polls last week had improvements for Labor, and Essential and Resolve last week both suggest the Middle East conflict has had virtually no impact on Australian party support. It’s possible this Newspoll is a pro-Coalition outlier.

    Labor’s primary improves in Resolve poll

    A national Resolve poll for Nine newspapers, conducted October 1–5 from a sample of 1,606, gave the Coalition 38% of the primary vote (up one since September), Labor 30% (up two), the Greens 12% (down one), One Nation 5% (down one), independents 12% (steady) and others 3% (down one).

    Resolve doesn’t usually give a two-party estimate, but applying 2022 preference flows to the primary votes would give Labor about a 51–49 lead, unchanged from September.

    Albanese’s net approval was unchanged at -18, with 53% giving him a poor rating and 35% a good rating. Dutton’s net approval improved one point to -1. Albanese led Dutton by 38–35 as preferred PM, a slight increase from 35–34 in September.

    The Liberals led Labor by 38–26 on economic management (37–26 in September). On keeping the cost of living low, the Liberals led by 31–24 (32–25 previously).

    By 58–29, respondents said they would struggle to afford an expense of a few thousand dollars (57–31 in May). This is the highest “struggle to afford” since Resolve started tracking this question in February 2023, but Labor can take some comfort from the little change since May.

    Asked who was most responsible for rising living costs, 36% selected the federal government, 13% global factors, 13% businesses, 12% the Reserve Bank and 8% state and territory governments. Labor incumbent Jim Chalmers led the Liberals’ Angus Taylor as preferred treasurer by 24–18.

    If Australians could vote in the US presidential election, Kamala Harris would lead Donald Trump by 52–21 (50–25 in September). Before Joe Biden’s withdrawal in July, he led Trump by just 26–22 with Australians with 31% for “someone else”. Harris’ net likeability is +24, Trump’s is -47 and Biden’s is -25.

    Labor gains lead in Essential poll

    A national Essential poll, conducted October 2–6 from a sample of 1,139, gave Labor a 49–47 lead including undecided (48–47 to the Coalition in late September). Primary votes were 34% Coalition (down one), 32% Labor (up three), 12% Greens (steady), 8% One Nation (steady), 1% UAP (down one), 9% for all Others (steady) and 5% undecided (steady).

    On Israel’s military action, 32% said Israel should permanently withdraw from Gaza (down seven since August), 19% said Israel is justified (up two), 18% said Israel should agree to a temporary ceasefire (down three) and 32% were unsure (up eight).

    On the Australian government’s response, 56% were satisfied (up five since August), 30% thought the government too supportive of Israel (down two) and 14% too harsh on Israel (down two).

    By 40–27, voters would support a road user tax for electric vehicle drivers. Just 2% thought the gap between the rich and poor was decreasing, 71% thought it was increasing and 27% staying the same. On Australia’s political system, 48% thought it needs reform but is fundamentally sound, 40% said it needs fundamental change and just 12% said it’s working well.

    Morgan poll tied

    A national Morgan poll, conducted September 30 to October 6 from a sample of 1,697, had a 50–50 tie, a one-point gain for Labor since the September 23–29 poll.

    Primary votes were 37.5% Coalition (down 0.5), 31.5% Labor (up 1.5), 12.5% Greens (down one), 5.5% One Nation (up one), 9% independents (down 0.5) and 4% others (down 0.5).

    The headline figure uses respondent preferences. By 2022 election preference flows, Labor led by 52–48, a 0.5-point gain for Labor.

    ACT election and NSW byelections this Saturday

    The ACT uses the Hare Clark proportional method with five five-member electorates to elect its 25-member parliament, so a quota for election is one-sixth of the vote or 16.7%. The ACT is easily Australia’s most left-wing jurisdiction, and Labor has governed since 2001, often in coalition with the Greens. In 2020, Labor won ten seats, the Liberals nine and the Greens six.

    There will also be three NSW state byelections this Saturday in the Liberal-held seats of Epping, Hornsby and Pittwater. Labor won’t be contesting any of these byelections. In Pittwater, Liberal Rory Amon defeated independent Jacqui Scruby by 50.7–49.3 at the 2023 state election. Amon resigned after being charged with child sex offences and Scruby will contest the byelection.

    NSW and Victorian state polls

    A NSW state Resolve poll for The Sydney Morning Herald, conducted with the federal September and October Resolve polls from a sample of 1,111, gave the Coalition 37% of the primary vote (down one since August), Labor 32% (up two), the Greens 11% (down one), independents 14% (steady) and others 6% (steady).

    The Poll Bludger said the primary votes suggested a “slight two-party advantage to Labor”. Labor incumbent Chris Minns led the Liberals’ Mark Speakman as preferred premier by 37–14 (38–13 in August).

    By 61–23, voters thought the NSW government is not doing enough to help renters. By 53–19, they thought the government should put aside money towards future metro rail projects.

    A Victorian state Redbridge poll, conducted September 26 to October 3 from a sample of 1,516, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead, a one-point gain for the Coalition since a late July Redbridge poll. Primary votes were 40% Coalition (steady), 30% Labor (down one), 12% Greens (steady) and 18% for all Others (up one).

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

    – ref. Coalition seizes Newspoll lead, but other polls have Labor improving – https://theconversation.com/coalition-seizes-newspoll-lead-but-other-polls-have-labor-improving-240785

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public urged to prepare for floods after wettest 18 months on record

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Environment Agency launches Flood Action Week to ensure every person knows their flood risk, marking one year on from Storm Babet

    The Environment Agency is urging the public to ensure they are prepared for a flood as the nation marks the annual ‘Flood Action Week’, which this year runs from 14-20 October. 

    This year’s awareness campaign coincides with the one-year anniversary of Storm Babet, which brought significant flooding across the country.  

    According to the Met Office, Storm Babet saw the third wettest three-day period in a series for England and Wales since 1891. 

    Nearly 96,900 properties were protected by the Environment Agency during Storm Babet, though sadly around 2,150 were flooded. 

    As climate change brings more extreme weather, there has already been flooding this autumn. Only last month, heavy rainfall led to the first major incident of the season with almost a thousand properties flooded. It followed the wettest 18 months on record in England up to February 2024.  

    This campaign is all about showing people that they can easily take a few steps to reduce the devastation caused by floods to their homes and businesses, with around 5.5 million properties in England at risk from flooding. Recent data suggests that nearly half the country is unsure of how to find information on local flood risks, making this campaign all the more important. 

    The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance. Some of the actions people can take to reduce the dangers are:   

    • Check your long-term flood risk. You can use this free service to find out the long-term flood risk for an area in England, the possible causes of flooding, and how to manage flood risk. 

    • Sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email  

    • Taking steps to protect yourself from future flooding – including storing important documents in a secure, waterproof location, taking rugs and small furniture upstairs, checking how to turn off your electricity and water, preparing a flood kit. 

    The Environment Agency and its partners are continuing to help communities become more resilient to extreme weather and rising sea levels, but authorities can never stop all flood impacts.  

    Caroline Douglass, Environment Agency Executive Director of Flood and Coastal Risk Management, said:

    Climate change means extreme weather events are happening more frequently, and we have already seen an unusually wet September this year.  

    We can’t always predict where the rain will fall or where flooding will occur, but we do know which areas are at risk.  

    That is why it is essential we all do our part by checking our flood risk and signing up for flood warnings this Flood Action Week.  While we at the Environment Agency are stepping up our preparations to increase the nation’s resilience to flooding as we head into the winter, taking small steps today can immediately improve your own readiness. 

    Following the flooding caused by Storms Ciara and Dennis in 2020, it was estimated that the average insurance claim per household was £32,000. 

    The impacts of flooding to mental health can be equally as harmful as the physical damage and disruption. People whose homes have been damaged by extreme weather are more likely to have poor mental health than the rest of the population. 

    Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    Flooding can be a destructive force that puts everything in life on hold. I’ve seen the impacts firsthand and am determined to ensure as much as possible others do not. 

    Through the recent launch of our Floods Resilience Taskforce, this government is taking decisive action to accelerate the development of flood defences and bolster the nation’s resilience to extreme weather. 

    But this Flood Action Week, we must be all be proactive in taking steps to protect ourselves by checking our flood risk and signing up for flood warnings. 

    Last winter, Storm Babet was followed in quick succession by Storms Ciaran and Henk, which each led to more significant flooding, though flood defences operated well overall. While around 5,000 properties were sadly flooded, around 250,000 properties were protected thanks to the investments the Environment Agency has made in flood and coastal defences. 

    In the year since Storm Babet, the Environment Agency has undertaken a thorough assessment of the condition of flood defense assets across the country to ensure they are up to the required standard. 

    It has conducted over 200,000 checks on the state of assets in the past year – up from 150,000 in an average year – and increased our spend on asset maintenance and repair to £236 million, up from £200 million.  

    Pumps have been pre-emptively deployed at seven strategic depots in vulnerable regions around the country to ensure they can be rolled out rapidly as and when required. 

    The public are also urged to explore the longer-term Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures they can adopt to protect their own homes. The Environment Agency estimates nine out of 10 properties fitted with PFR in England saw the measures delivered via its flood and coastal risk management investment programme, ensuring better protection. 

    Flood Re is a joint initiative between the Government and insurers aiming to make the flood cover part of household insurance policies more affordable. Its Build Back Better initiative enables householders to install property flood resilience measures up to the value of £10,000 when repairing their properties after a flood. 

    Flood Re Interim CEO Stuart Logue said:

    One year on from Storm Babet and we are seeing yet more severe weather and flooding across the country, causing not only physical devastation to homes, but also placing a unique burden on the mental health and wellbeing of families who are affected. 

    This acts as a stark reminder of the importance of our Build Back Better scheme where householders can access up to £10,000 to build resilience into their homes when carrying our flood repairs.  

    Householders can find out which insurance providers are part of the scheme on our website by searching Flood Re Build Back Better.

    During a flood, it is especially important that drivers take particular care on roads, stay away from swollen rivers and do not drive through flood water, just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.   

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged over prohibited behaviour

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Man charged over prohibited behaviour

    Monday, 14 October 2024 – 9:53 am.

    A 41-year-old Hobart man appeared in an out of hours court on Saturday after being charged with two counts of prohibited behaviour.
    Police were called to an area of the Hobart CBD about 10:40am on Friday, after reports a man had allegedly exposed himself to members of the public.
    With the assistance of CCTV, the alleged offender and his whereabouts were quickly identified. Police were able to quickly locate him and take him into custody.
    Anyone who witnessed the man’s behaviour at the time who has not already spoken to police is asked to contact Hobart Uniform on 131 444 (quote OR756154).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major investment deals set to be announced at government’s inaugural International Investment Summit as PM vows to ‘remove needless regulation’ declaring Britain open for business

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today.

    • Ministers set to unveil billions worth of major investment deals in AI, life sciences and infrastructure
    • Follows investment of £24 billion in clean energy from business leaders hailing the UK’s “clear policy direction”
    • Comes as leading investors, CEOs, and politicians convene for inaugural International Investment Summit
    • PM vows to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth” as he pledges to “get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today (Monday 14th October).

    World leading CEO’s and investors from across the globe will meet with ministers, First Ministers, and local leaders at the Guildhall – a historic landmark which has served as the ceremonial heart of the City of London for centuries. 

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.  

    The government has already secured tens of billions worth of investments within 100 days of being in office. The International Investment Summit will provide an opportunity to build on this progress and showcase the UK’s economic strengths. The event will demonstrate that through serious, stable governance, the UK can establish enduring partnerships with businesses to boost investment and give investors the confidence they need to choose Britain. 

    In a sign of intent to deliver on its central promise, this government has immediately made a series of major interventions to restore economic stability and create the right conditions for growth and investment. Business leaders this week hailed the UK’s “clear policy direction” as they announced over £24 billion worth of investment in clean energy projects.

    The government’s policy platform – including bolstering the Office for Investment, a robust Industrial Strategy, major planning reforms to unlock infrastructure and housing, and founding a National Wealth Fund to catalyse private money – will attract investment, kickstart growth, and unlock Britain’s potential. 

    In his keynote speech opening the summit, the Prime Minister will outline how the government will build on this work, with a vow to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment.” 

    He is expected to say not enough has been done to make sure the UK is keeping pace with emerging industries. He will pledge to “upgrade the regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age, making Britain fit to harness all opportunities.”

    In his keynote speech, the Prime Minister will make his ‘pitch for Britain’. On the value of stability, the Prime Minister is expected to say: 

    “It’s not just that stability leads to growth – though we all recognise that. It’s also that growth leads to stability. Growth leads to a country that is better equipped to come together and get its future back. That’s why it’s always been so critical to my project.

    “We have a golden opportunity to use our mandate, to end chop and change, policy churn and sticking plasters that make it so hard for investors to assess the value of any proposition. 

    “We have the determination, the focus on clear long-term ends, a mission-led mindset that thinks in years, not the days or hours of the news grid, needed to unlock that potential. Do not doubt that. 

    “We are focusing on investment because the mission of growth, in this country especially, demands it. Private sector investment is the way we rebuild our country and pay our way in the world. This is a great moment to back Britain. This is great moment to back England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.”

    On regulation, he is expected to say: 

    “We’ve got to look at regulation where it is needlessly holding back the investment, to take our country forward.

    “Where it is stopping us building the homes, the data centres, warehouses, grid connectors, roads, trainlines, you name it then mark my words – we will get rid of it.

    “We will rip out the bureaucracy that blocks investment and we will make sure that every regulator in this country take growth as seriously as this room does.”

    The government will ask the CMA to prioritise growth, investment, and innovation through their work as a priority and it will also be reviewing the focus of other major regulators. 

    The regulatory review is just one part of the government’s work ensuring Britain is at the front of the queue for emerging opportunities. It builds on the recent creation of the Regulatory Innovation Office, which will curb red tape for cutting-edge emerging technologies, speed up approvals, and allow them to be rolled out to the public safely and quickly. 

    These changes come at the same time as the government delivers on a key manifesto promise to establish a modern Industrial Strategy. Long called for by business, the strategy hardwires long-term stability for investors and plays to the UK’s strengths by focusing on eight growth-driving sectors. 

    The summit will involve sessions with ministers and business leaders to discuss how together we can ensure the UK capitalises on emerging growth sectors including health tech and AI, clean energy and creative industries, for the good of working people. Confirmed speakers including Ruth Porat President & Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet, David A. Ricks Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly, Alex Kendall CEO of Wayve and Pushmeet Kohli Vice President of Research at Google DeepMind. 

    The Prime Minister will take part in an “in conversation” event with former CEO and chairman of Google Eric Schmidt, moderated by CEO of GSK Dame Emma Walmsley to discuss how the UK can seize the opportunities of AI to drive growth and productivity, and it’s potential to improve public services such as health and education.

    The Chancellor will close the summit and take part in a panel event discussing investment opportunities in the UK with Group Chief Executive of USS Carol Young, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Larry Fink and CEO of Brookfield Asset Management Bruce Flatt.

    Attendees will then be invited to an exclusive reception at St Paul’s Cathedral attended by His Majesty The King. 

    Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson OBE said: 

    “It’s never been a better time to invest in Britain. This summit is a hugely significant moment to showcase the UK’s economic strengths on the world stage and I’m delighted to be part of the government’s important work to drive growth and investment across the UK.”

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: 

    “I’m delighted to be attending the International Investment Summit. With a new government, we are reclaiming Britain’s reputation as a magnet for global investment – bringing with it new technology, new ways of thinking and, crucially, new jobs across our country, meaning higher living standards.  

    “London and the UK are open for business, trade and investment. I will continue working with the Government to forge new partnerships, reset relationships and seize the opportunity to secure long-term investment so that we can build a better London for everyone and deliver the change Britain needs.”

    Alex Kendall, Co-Founder and CEO of Wayve, said: 

    “I’m delighted to join the inaugural International Investment Summit. The UK has a strong opportunity to lead in Embodied AI, especially in automated vehicles. 

    “We appreciate the Government’s proactive collaboration with industry on intelligent legislation like the AV Act 2024. Their sector-specific approach to AI regulation is the right way to encourage both investment and innovation. 

    “As we advance our Embodied AI technology into safe, reliable, production-ready software for global automakers, we look forward to continuing to work with the Government to harmonise global regulations and scale UK innovation internationally.”

    Ruth Porat Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc said:

    “Google is proud of our long history of meaningful investments in local talent, infrastructure and digital skilling in the UK which help everyone participate in the benefits of the digital economy. With the UK’s rich academic heritage, particularly in the sciences, it is well-positioned to capture the many opportunities that AI can deliver. 

    “The Investment Summit is an important moment to reflect on the progress to date, and how to best position the UK as a global leader in AI, with the economic and societal benefits this transformative technology can deliver today, and in the years ahead.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Accreditation boosts support for carers in the workplace

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 14 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Women

    This National Carers Week the Minns Labor Government is encouraging workplaces to take up accreditation under the Carers + Employers program, to help more carers enter the workforce and ensure those already employed are provided with appropriate support.

    NSW has more than 950,000 carers who provide ongoing, unpaid care and support to a family member, neighbour or friend who lives with disability, terminal illness, chronic illness, mental illness or aging.

    The 2024 National Carer Survey found 35.8 per cent of carers in NSW would like to see changes in their job type or work structure to better balance employment with caring.

    Accredited employers uphold best practice standards in supporting staff with caring responsibilities. This can include flexible working arrangements, fostering a supportive culture where carers feel comfortable discussing their needs and providing training to managers on challenges carers face and workplace policies available to support them.

    There are three levels of accreditation that can be achieved:

    1. Activate: Organisations that are beginning to develop carer-friendly workplace policies and practices
    2. Commit: Organisations are building on Level 1 accreditation by providing clear actions and pathways to improve carer-friendly workplace practices
    3. Excel: The highest level of accreditation for workplaces that have embedded carer-friendly workplace practices.

    Since 2018, 21 organisations nationally have been accredited under the program with an increasing number of employers working towards embedding innovative strategies across their organisation to progress to higher levels of accreditation.

    Over half are NSW-based, with the NSW Government’s strong support of the program reflected in high uptake of accreditation by its departments and agencies.

    Other simple steps that workplaces can take to support employees with caring responsibilities include recognising carers as a distinct group in policies and procedures to make it easy for them to find out what support is available, or connecting carers to relevant workplace policies and supports.

    Support for carers and employers can be found at the new Carers + Employment Hub, a centralised access point for information and resources to help carers successfully balance their caring responsibilities and work duties, and employers seeking to support carers in their workforce.

    The Hub also features an interactive Carer Skills Matching Tool to help carers identify potential career pathways.

    The NSW Government is committed to carer-friendly workplaces under the NSW Carers Strategy: Caring in NSW 2020-2030, with key priorities and actions to be implemented listed under the Second Action Plan. Delivering the Carers + Employers accreditation program is Action 15 and establishing the Carers + Employment Hub is Action 18 under the Action Plan.

    Minister with responsibility for Carers Jodie Harrison said:

    “National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise and highlight the contribution of more than 950,000 carers in NSW who deliver hundreds of millions of hours of unpaid care for family members and friends each year.

    “Caring for a family member or friend is an enormous commitment and requires extraordinary strength.

    “Employers can support carers with policies and programs that help them balance work and caring responsibilities. Accreditation under the Carers + Employers program sets organisations on a path to becoming an employer of choice for carers.

    “It’s also important for carers to look after their own health and wellbeing, and know that support is available if they need it. This includes the new Carers + Employment Hub with online videos, tools and a range of free, online resources to support carers.”

    CEO of Carers NSW Elena Katrakis said:

    “With 1 in 9 people in NSW identifying as carers, caring responsibilities will affect almost every worker at some stage in their career.

    “More organisations are engaging with the Carers + Employers accreditation program, creating more carer-friendly workplaces across the state.

    “Employers recognise the importance of supporting the many carers in our workforce who need support with their caring responsibilities.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: EveningReport LIVE@12:45pm – State of Israel Goes Rogue – Attacks UN Peacekeepers

    Source: EveningReport.nz (Video Podcasts)

    The LIVE Recording of A View from Afar podcast will begin today, Monday at 12:45pm October 14, 2024 (NZST) which is Sunday evening, 7:45pm (USEST).

    In this episode of A View From Afar political scientist Paul Buchanan and host Selwyn Manning I will analyse how the state of Israel has gone rogue, attacking United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon.

    At this juncture it is clear this is an intentional attack. Over the past week Israel Defense Force troops have repeatedly attacked UN peacekeepers who were authorised and deployed to the region by the United Nations Security Council.

    Also last week; the Government of Israel issued a statement notifying the United Nations Secretary General that he was now banned from Israel and was persona non grata.

    Within a day of that statement, IDF troops had fired on UN peacekeeping positions in Southern Lebanon. Since then, the IDF has continued operations that threaten the UN’s presence.

    And Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now issued a directive to the UN peacekeeping force to withdraw from the area north of its borders in Southern Lebanon.

    Also, despite the United States Biden Administration cautioning Israel on its attacks on UN personnel, overnight New Zealand time, the United States has deployed 100 US troops on the ground in Israel to operate missile defence systems.

    Today, Paul and Selwyn will consider:

    * Why Israel has begun to attack United Nations peacekeepers in the region?

    * Why has the United Nations deepened its involvement in Israel’s so-called defence?

    * What of Hezbollah, Hamas; are their attacks on Israel a defence or an attacking offensive?

    * What of Iran, what is its position and will it engage in a full-scale war with Israel and what are the consequences should it do so?

    Live Audience: Remember, if you are joining us live via the social media platforms, feel free to comment as we can include your comments and questions in this programme.

    INTERACTION WHILE LIVE:

    Paul and Selwyn encourage their live audience to interact while they are live with questions and comments.

    To interact during the live recording of this podcast, go to Youtube.com/c/EveningReport/

    Remember to subscribe to the channel.

    For the on-demand audience, you can also keep the conversation going on this debate by clicking on one of the social media channels below:

    Youtube.com/c/EveningReport/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3feU3ZedRlA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Four fallen emergency service volunteers honoured

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 13 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Emergency Services

    Courageous emergency services personnel who lost their lives after responding to emergencies have been honoured at a memorial service at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair today.

    Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib joined Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Rob Rogers and Acting Commissioner of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Deb Platz at the 24th NSW Emergency Service Volunteers Memorial Service to commemorate the fallen.

    The names of RFS firefighters John Holmes, Leo Fransen and Dale Bowles, and SES volunteer Troy Mooney were this year added to the memorial.

    There are now 119 names engraved on the memorial, which was established in 1999 to honour the fallen men and women from the state’s volunteer emergency services, including the NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue NSW and the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association.

    There are about 90,000 volunteers across these agencies in NSW who give their time to serving communities across the state.

    Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

    “Today is an opportunity to pause and honour the memory of the men and women whose names have been added to the Volunteer Memorial this year. Their service will never be forgotten.

    “The loss of these four dedicated individuals is a tragedy for their families and friends, as well as the communities they helped protect in their time as volunteers.

    “While the annual Memorial service is a time for reflection, it is also a time to take pride in the fact that across NSW, members of the community selflessly commit themselves to the service of their neighbours.”

    Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said:

    “I would like to personally thank the families of our volunteers, who sacrifice time with their loved ones so they can serve the community.

    “Whilst today is a day of mourning, it is also a day to recognise the dedication and sacrifice of these personnel who lost their lives protecting communities across NSW.

    “Mallanganee Senior Deputy Captain John Holmes, Diamond Beach Captain Leo Fransen and Mid Murray Group Captain Dale Bowles have each left an indelible mark upon their brigades, their communities and the wider RFS family.”

    NSW SES Acting Commissioner Deb Platz said:

    “Today, we paused to remember those members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in aid of their communities.

    “We paused to honour their devotion to duty and to support their family members during the most difficult of circumstances.

    “Troy Mooney was a dedicated member of the St Georges Basin unit, who served for many years alongside his wife, before he tragically passed away following floods in 2022.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Collaboration enables delivery of much needed housing for vulnerable women and children

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 14 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Housing

    The Minns Labor Government, in partnership with, St George Community Housing (SGCH) and Housing Australia, has delivered 50 new social housing units in Riverwood, providing immediate support to vulnerable individuals at risk of homelessness.

    This newly completed apartment complex will offer safe and secure housing for approximately 120 people facing housing insecurity, providing a stronger safety net for women and children escaping domestic violence, as well as women over the age of 55.

    The $32 million Riverwood project includes 50 social housing units and one affordable housing unit, offering a mix of one- and two-bedroom homes.

    Committed to building better homes, this development features a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating, ensuring energy efficiency and helping to keep tenants’ electricity bills low.

    This initiative further demonstrates the NSW Government’s dedication to addressing the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis by providing sustainable, affordable housing that helps keep bills down.

    The well-located energy-efficient, sustainable, and secure housing complex also features a bike storage room, on-site parking and an expansive landscaped communal area with barbeques to create a sense of community.

    Conveniently situated, the new homes are just a short walk from Riverwood Train Station and Riverwood Primary School, offering easy access to public transport, education, retail, and key services.

    This ideal location empowers residents to build strong foundations for a fulfilling life, with nearby access to employment opportunities and community resources that support long-term stability and well-being.

    NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson said: 

    “The scale of the challenge to resolve the housing crisis across the state is massive and the need for more social and affordable homes has never been greater. This project demonstrates the importance of successful collaboration between multiple levels of government to tackle the housing crisis.

    The face of homelessness is changing. Too many people stay in dangerous relationships because they have nowhere to go, and women over 55 are one of the fastest-growing groups at risk. We’re working hard to build more social homes as quickly as possible to tackle this crisis head-on.

    The Riverwood project will provide essential, immediate housing for those most in need in our community.”

    Federal Minister for Housing, Clare O’Neil said:

    “We’re working closely with the NSW Government and the community housing sector to build more homes and ease housing stress.

    “More homes means shorter rental queues and cheaper rents, and more options for first home buyers to get their foot in the door.”

    Acting Group CEO of St George Community Housing, Joe Achmar said: 

    “By working closely with different tiers of government, we’ve been able to create sustainable, high-quality housing that will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

    “As more people struggle to find suitable affordable housing in a difficult economic climate, partnerships such as ours with Housing Australia and the NSW Government, have become even more urgent.

    “With more than 57,000 families and individuals currently on the social housing waiting list in NSW, this project is an important step in addressing housing needs in Riverwood, a priority growth area.”

    Chair of Housing Australia, Carol Austin said:

    “We are proud to support projects like this that have a lasting impact on communities. The Riverwood development is not only about addressing housing shortages but also about building sustainable, inclusive environments where people can thrive.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: North Coast small business lights up Paris and the Premier’s NSW Export Awards

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Industry and Trade

    A small business from the state’s mid north coast which helped light up the Paris Olympics has been named NSW Exporter of the Year at the Premier’s NSW Export Awards.

    Bellingen business Planet Lighting supplied 1,600 red and amber LED lights for ramps and pathways around the Olympic Village as part of an interactive installation that’s now a permanent fixture in the French capital.

    Planet Lighting is a small business success story – they’ve been manufacturing lights since the 1930s.

    They are one of the leading Australian suppliers of medical and surgical lights and export their custom-built products throughout Asia, Europe and the Americas.

    With a team of 50 employees, Planet Lighting meticulously designed and manufactured the light fixtures, partnering with local suppliers and international distributors to bring its LED display to the global stage.

    Planet Lighting was among 17 other NSW businesses from a diverse range of industries including agribusiness, manufacturing, creative arts and advanced technologies honoured last night at a gala ceremony at Sydney Town Hall.

    Now in its 62nd year, the Premier’s NSW Export Awards celebrate the success and resilience of NSW exporters, whose export of goods and services is worth $150 billion annually to NSW.

    Winners were announced across five state categories and 13 national categories. The national category winners will now progress as finalists for the Australian Export Awards, to be held in Canberra next month.

    For a full list of NSW award winners visit the Export Council of Australia.

    Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “Exports not only benefit individual businesses, they are a critical part of our economy, with trade supporting one in five Australian jobs.

    “The NSW Government is proud to support our wonderful exporting community. Accessing overseas markets can be a game-changer for NSW businesses looking to accelerate their growth, and this year’s award winners are doing exactly that – capitalising on the incredible opportunities that come through exporting.

    “A big congratulations to Planet Lighting and all our other NSW Export Award winners who are shining bright overseas and showcasing the best of what NSW has to offer the world.”

    Planet Lighting Managing Director Mia Iggulden said: 

    “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised amongst a strong field of NSW exporters.

    “Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do at Planet Lighting. Our partnerships with local suppliers and dedicated overseas distributors have been instrumental in our journey, allowing us to invest in advanced manufacturing technologies and create new local jobs. We’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of lighting design, all while supporting the community we call home.”

    Chair of the Export Council of Australia Dianne Tipping said:

    “There was strong interest in this year’s awards with nominations from more than 200 NSW exporters.

    “Through the awards, we have celebrated exporters who have by hard work and resilience succeeded in global markets, whilst inspiring others to grow their own businesses by going global. They are taking NSW innovation onto the world stage, supporting jobs and economic growth for all.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Train timetable adjustments are coming on October 20

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    These adjustments to the timetable are being made so that train services are more reliable and so that passengers have shorter wait times, faster journeys and so the network can quickly recover when disruption occurs.

    The Sydney Trains Review found that since 2017 timetable was introduced, the resilience of the train network significantly deteriorated. These adjustments are designed to make the system more resilient and to implement the lessons learned since the introduction of the 2017 timetable.

    Commuter travel patterns have changed significantly following the COVID pandemic and the opening of the Sydney Metro, and while in some instances, services to particular train stations will shift from peak times to inter-peak times, this is to accommodate for changing travel patterns at these stations.

    Sydney is a global city and requires a reliable fit for purpose timetable.

    The upcoming timetable adjustments will also support the new T6 Lidcombe & Bankstown Line to make sure there are train services from Bankstown to Lidcombe and so passengers get the best and most efficient service to take them where they need to go.

    Making timetable adjustments will also help prepare the rest of the train network for the introduction of the Mariyung Fleet and help connect the new Sydney City Metro with the rest of Sydney’s public transport network.

    It is especially important for year 12 students and parents to plan their trips as soon as possible on the Trip Planner at transportnsw.info and allow for extra travel time.

    Most of the adjustments to the timetable will occur on the following lines:

    T1 Western Line

    Stopping patterns on the T1 Western Line will be simplified to improve reliability and increase train services for some stations west of Parramatta. Some services for some stations west of Parramatta have been moved from the earlier AM peak to operate between 9am and 10am to provide passengers with more travel options outside the busiest time. Rooty Hill and Doonside will receive additional services during the busiest morning peak hour.

    Services on the T1 Western Line will continue to operate frequently during peak periods.

    T1 North Shore Line

    With the new M1 North West & Bankstown Line services operating every 4 minutes in the peak between Chatswood and Sydenham, there is reduced demand for passengers interchanging at Chatswood. Train services are being adjusted to rebalance service levels in the morning and off-peak periods.

    Passengers on the T1 North Shore Line will still receive a train every 3 to 5 minutes .

    Stopping patterns on the line will also be adjusted to deliver more reliable train services for passengers.

    T2 Leppington & Inner West Line

    The T2 Leppington & Inner West Line (formerly T2 Inner West & Leppington) will continue to connect passengers from Leppington and Parramatta to the Sydney CBD.

    The Inner West corridor will be expanded to include the new T3 Liverpool & Inner West Line services, connecting Inner West passengers, between Redfern and Lidcombe, to Liverpool via Regents Park and to the Sydney CBD.

    Leppington and Edmondson Park passengers who interchange for T8 Airport & South services at Glenfield, will benefit from additional trains in the AM peak hour on both the T5 Cumberland Line and T8 Airport & South Line.

    T5 Cumberland Line

    Passengers travelling between Leppington and Parramatta on the T5 Cumberland Line in the busiest morning peak hour will benefit from a 15-minute service frequency.

    T8 Airport & South Line

    The T8 Airport & South Line will see an overall increase in services during the morning peak, increasing from 14 trains per hour to 16 trains per hour benefitting Revesby and stations between Holsworthy and Macarthur.

    To ensure passengers at St Peters and Erskineville continue to get the train services they need, more T8 train services will operate via Sydenham, while during the busiest morning peak hour, two fewer services will operate via the Airport Tunnel.

    Other lines

    There will be some minor timing changes across other lines on the train network to support the adjusted timetable.

    Blue Mountains Line passengers will benefit from an increase in services across the week for stations between Medlow Bath and Lithgow.

    A reminder that some Sydney Trains changes have already come into effect for passengers west of Bankstown, these include:

    • New T3 Liverpool & Inner West Line services operating between Liverpool and the Sydney CBD via Regents Park and Lidcombe
    • New T6 Lidcombe & Bankstown Line services will be coming soon, currently you can hop on a rail replacement service operating between Lidcombe and Bankstown.

    For more information on your route visit 2024 train timetable changes | transportnsw.info Regional rail passengers can find more information on the changes impacting them here.

    We encourage passengers to plan their trip via Transport’s Trip Planner at transportnsw.info/trip.

    Quotes attributable to Transport Minister Jo Haylen:

    “These adjustments to the timetable are focused on making our trains more reliable and resilient so passengers have shorter wait times, faster journeys and so our train network will be able to recover sooner when there’s a critical incident.”

    “We know that when there’s an incident on one part of the train network it can often affect other train services too. Making our timetable simpler means there’s less chance of that happening.”

    “Since 2017, the way that people travel on our transport network has changed a lot. The work commute has changed and there’s greater demand for trains outside the traditional peak hour. That’s why we are making sure there are more trains running at the times when passengers need them most, particularly in the mornings between nine and ten AM.”

    Quotes attributable to Sydney Trains A/Chief Executive Hayden Donoghue:

    “A simpler timetable makes the network more reliable allowing it to recover from incidents faster. We’ll be monitoring the new timetable closely and identifying where we can make further improvements.

    “As with any change, we know it takes time to adjust to new ways of travelling, so we’re asking passengers to please jump online and plan their trip.

    “This is especially important for students and parents, as your trip may have changed slightly over the school holidays.

    “Our staff will be ready at stations to provide our customers with assistance as they navigate these changes.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Casterton Fire Brigade celebrates

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Casterton Fire Brigade celebrated its 54th Annual Dinner on 12 October at Finley Emporium, Casterton.

    Eleven awards were presented on the night to recognise the outstanding service this small, but long serving brigade provides to Casterton and surrounding area. 

    CFA service awards were presented to:

    • 3rd Lt William Kerr, 4th Lt Katie Wilson (15 years)
    • Stewart Cook (25 years)
    • Debbie Wombwell (40 years)
    • Gwen McFarlane, Carole White (55 years)
    • Peter White (60 years)
    • Terry Baker (65 years).

    CFA Deputy Chief Officer for West Region Adrian Gutsche presented CFA Road Rescue Association Life Memberships to James Condon, Peter White and Terry Baker. 

    Submitted by Wendy Kerr

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pakenham Roads Upgrade ahead of schedule

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Pakenham Roads Upgrade, south east of Melbourne, is ahead of schedule with works on the Princes Freeway and McGregor Road set for completion in the upcoming months.

    Major works on the Princes Freeway will finish six months ahead of schedule while major works on the McGregor Road Upgrade north of the freeway are complete.

    In the meantime, works to upgrade the McGregor Road inbound freeway entry ramp are continuing and are scheduled for completion in early 2025.

    The project is building seven kilometres of upgraded roads across three stages of works.

    This includes a new Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road bridge over the Princes Freeway to double capacity of traffic to and from the freeway, as well as Pakenham’s manufacturing hub and town centre.

    Several key intersections will also be upgraded to ease congestion. 

    The $415.7 million Pakenham Roads Upgrade is being fully funded by the Australian Government and is part of a wider investment in improving transport infrastructure in Pakenham, together with the likes of the Suburban Roads Upgrade – South Eastern Roads and Northern Roads project.   

    This wider investment also includes the removal of the level crossings at Racecourse Road, McGregor Road and Main Street, upgrades to the Pakenham train station, the development of a new train station at East Pakenham, and upgrades to Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road between Southeast Boulevard and Livestock Way and Manks Road.  

    Construction of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade has created about 860 full-time-equivalent jobs, with a further 1,540 indirect jobs forecasted across Victoria over the life of the upgrade. 

    Work crews have amassed approximately half a million work hours across the project since construction began in 2022, Another 31,000 hours were completed by cadets, apprentices and trainees, cementing the Australian and Victorian governments’ commitment to investing in future talent.

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

    “The Pakenham Roads Upgrade will have a massive impact on Pakenham’s booming population, improving congestion and road safety.

    “This $415 million project is already changing Pakenham’s transportation network, improving the movement of motorists and freight across Melbourne’s south-east.  

    “As well as the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, the Australian Government has also invested significantly in the Suburban Roads Upgrade – South Eastern Roads and Northern Roads project to get the south east moving smoothly and safely.”

    Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson:

    “The early completion of these packages builds on the recently completed Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road Upgrade and Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project to overhaul Pakenham’s road and rail infrastructure.

    “The Pakenham Roads Upgrade is making a significant impact on how everyone gets around Pakenham.

    “Doubling capacity with an additional road bridge over the Princes Freeway, new signalised intersections as well as the McGregor Road freeway diamond interchange and road duplication – it’s a game changer for getting around town.

    “With $1 billion worth of transport investment in Pakenham’s road and rail network, the Australian and Victorian governments are hard at work changing the way everyone moves throughout the south east.

    “With a strong focus on social procurement, the Pakenham Roads Upgrade has engaged with 15 Aboriginal-owned businesses and nine social enterprises, ensuring the Victorian Government’s commitment to support social and sustainable enterprises.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Victoria Jess Walsh:

    “The Australian and Victorian governments are getting on with the job of delivering quality infrastructure that the local residents of Melbourne’s south-east need and deserve. 

    “It’s terrific to see work progressing so well on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, which will make it safer and more efficient for commuters travelling throughout Melbourne.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Guarding Rainforest Homeland’ exhibition held in Haikou

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

    ‘Guarding Rainforest Homeland’ exhibition held in Haikou

    Updated: October 14, 2024 07:20 Xinhua
    A man listens to the sound from nature at the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. The “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition has been held by the management office of the National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest in Haikou. Featuring animal specimens, photographs and videos, the exhibition showcases the beauty of the rainforest and introduces the construction process of the National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A visitor poses for a photo at the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the “Guarding Rainforest Homeland” exhibition in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rangoli patterns, monkeys, tigers and birds light up the Town Hall

    Source: Auckland Council

    The Auckland Town Hall will turn into temples and a forest of flowers with tigers, deer and elephants roaming the walls in a spectacular 3D light projection show coming to the city centre for BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival.

    The festival is bringing exciting new celebrations to the city centre this October.

    Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and the renewal of life. In celebration of this time-honoured festival, the Auckland Town Hall will transform into a dramatic visual narrative of Diwali light and sound.

    After sunset from Monday 14 October through to Wednesday 23 October Aucklanders and visitors will see 3D projections of symbolic Diwali storytelling shining on the historic building in traditional Diwali colours of fuchsia pink, yellow and orange.

    Nick Hill Chief Executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited explains how important it is to honour the rich tradition of Diwali in our city.

    “This festival gives us an opportunity to thank our Indian Aucklanders who bring the vitality and creativity of this joyous celebration to the city centre and throughout their communities across the region every year.

    “As part of the Auckland Council group, our team at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is committed to supporting the cultural vibrancy and prosperity of Tāmaki Makaurau including hosting major events and cultural experiences. We are thrilled to have celebrated Diwali in Auckland for more than two decades,” he says.

    Duane Wichman-Evans, festival director for Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, walks us through the show’s storyboard.

    “As the sun rises in the narrative, we see the Town Hall stencil start to appear. We see images of the Hindu Gods appearing in windows. The pillars start to move and we see deer. A monkey then moves along the side of the building, transforming into four monkeys who climb the tower.

    “The deer walk around the building, stopping to look out to the crowd. Bows shoot arrows at the tower which bursts into fireworks. As the monkey climbs down, the Town Hall is rebuilt into the temple in Ayodhya.

    “Rangoli designs appear and dissolve into flowers becoming the valley of flowers. The flowers are blown away with the wind revealing the temple again with the iconic shape and silhouette of Tamil Nadu scenes. The sun rises and reveals the Sundarbans mangrove forest, with birds flying in the sky. 

    “A herd of Indian elephants arrives in the forest. They walk behind the pillars and through the jungle before the jungle falls away and the rangoli designs return,” Duane Wichman-Evans says.

    Don’t miss the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival taking place during the weekend of 19 and 20 October in and around Aotea Square. Since its inception in 2002 the festival has been a vibrant showcase of traditional and contemporary music and dance with stalls offering delicious Indian delicacies and crafts.

    This 3D light projection for the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival is presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and supported by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate. 

    For all dates, times and venues visit http://www.aucklandnz.com/diwali 

    Photos by Bryan Lowe, Auckland Council.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bulldogs are beautiful companions & worthy AFL team mascots

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    It was Harry S Truman who said “If you want a friend in (insert name of city where politicians gather), get a dog”.

    Not to malign my many friends in Canberra, Truman had a point.

    My life would be infinitely poorer had I not shared so much of it with dogs.

    And there is one breed of dog in particular that has a very special place in my heart — the British bulldog.

    I love bulldogs. I have a bulldog, Walter. I had two bulldogs until last year when my beloved Tilly died at the ripe old age of 11.

    As honorary patron of the British Bulldog Club of Victoria, I feel it is my solemn duty to speak on behalf of not just the Walters and the Tillies of this country, but on behalf of all bulldogs.

    These canine companions are magnificent. They are loyal, don’t mind a pat (therapeutic for the patter and the pattee), and are content to lie under your study desk ‘til the wee small hours blissfully unstressed by matters of policy and politics.

    So having declared upfront my bias for these lovable lumps, you will understand my outrage that it has been suggested the Western Bulldogs AFL team should drop the bulldog as its mascot.

    The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals claim the Western Bulldogs club is “supporting the intentional breeding of dogs with painful and debilitating deformities and encouraging people to buy dogs with extreme features that cause them to suffer”.

    Excuse me for being blunt but what a load of rubbish.

    PETA thinks that the Western Bulldogs should rebrand as “the Mutts” to encourage people to “adopt, don’t shop”.

    Don’t get me wrong, pet rescue organisations are absolutely worthy of praise for the role they play.

    But to be honest, PETA’s extreme stance is an insult to ethical breeders of bulldogs and responsible owners alike.

    Bulldogs are one of the breeds known as brachycephalic. They’re dogs that generally have wider, shortened heads and a shortened snout. People sometimes refer to them as having squished faces — just one of their many endearing attributes.

    You know the ones I’m talking about — the chonks that are British bulldogs, Australian bulldogs and their little Frenchie mates, boxers, pugs, chihuahuas, shih tzus and a long list of others.

    Just as poodles have curly hair, and great Danes have long legs, bulldogs have turned up noses. It’s just how they are.

    But, we cannot be naive. There are unethical breeders who will breed features into these dogs because there is a demand for a certain look such as a squishier face. Designer dogs as they’re known.

    But to get that squishier face you also get increased folds of skin around and inside the nose and throat, and that can lead to a condition called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome or BOAS.

    BOAS can affect a dog’s ability to breathe, and affected pups can struggle to cope with the heat or even the most usual of activities like exercise, play, eating, drinking and sleeping.

    But PETA is wrong to pretend there has not been extensive research carried out to ensure the wellbeing of bulldogs in Australia.

    Dogs Australia is dedicated to improving the health of dogs and administers the respiratory function grading scheme.

    This groundbreaking scheme by the Kennel Club and the Cambridge Veterinary School provides an international, collaborative, and evidence-based approach — with a clinical assessment and exercise tolerance test — to help improve the health of BOAS-affected breeds globally.

    The data dogs is then shared on the Officially Registered Canine Health Information Database (ORCHID). Breeders can then access this information and make an evidence-based selection of the most suitable stock for breeding purposes.

    The RGF scheme has four grades — 0 means no evidence of BOAS; 1 means mild BOAS; 2 is moderate BOAS; and 3 means clinically affected or severe BOAS.

    And do you know what has happened since the scheme was introduced and breeders had access to the data in the UK? Vets are recording fewer and fewer scores of 2 and 3 in the brachy dogs they see.

    So, just as you can introduce problems into a breed, you can also breed them out. You just need to give people the right information.

    I met several owners and breeders at the Melbourne Royal Show a few weeks ago, who proudly showed their British bulldogs are just as cuddly and affectionate as they are well bred — and always on the lookout for snacks. And I say that with absolutely no judgment.

    Bottom line is, they love their bulldogs.

    And Western Bulldogs fans love their mascot.

    To suggest that big, boofy head should be replaced on the team’s logo is sacrilege.

    Originally published in The West Australian Monday 14 October 2024.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Celebrate 2024 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Today, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the twelfth annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Sleepy Eye and Brown County. The weekend included a public lands celebration, community gathering, hunters’ breakfast, and a post-hunt lunch.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Netanyahu urges UN to withdraw peacekeepers

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday urged the United Nations to withdraw its UNIFIL peacekeeping force from southern Lebanon.

    “Mr. Secretary-General, get the UNIFIL forces out of harm’s way,” Netanyahu said in a public video statement, addressing UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

    “It should be done right now, immediately,” Netanyahu added.

    Netanyahu claimed that the presence of UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) forces in southern Lebanon makes them “hostages of Hezbollah,” the Lebanese armed group and political party with which Israel has been engaged in conflict since last October.

    The prime minister expressed regret over the incident last week in which Israeli forces injured two UNIFIL soldiers in southern Lebanon. “We are doing everything possible to prevent this harm,” he said.

    On Friday, UNIFIL condemned the attack on peacekeepers as “a grave violation of international humanitarian law and Security Council Resolution 1701,” stating that such incidents place UN peacekeepers in “extremely grave danger.”

    Since early October, the Israeli military has conducted targeted ground operations against Hezbollah positions near the Lebanese border, while intensifying airstrikes and artillery bombardments across Lebanon, particularly in the southern suburbs of Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China ready to strengthen alignment of development strategies with Vietnam

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi, Vietnam, Oct. 13, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China stands ready to strengthen alignment of development strategies with Vietnam, carrying out the plan of synergizing the Belt and Road Initiative with Vietnam’s Two Corridors and One Economic Circle strategy, said Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Hanoi on Sunday.

    China and Vietnam both are developing countries standing at a critical stage in their modernization efforts, Li said when holding talks with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, adding China firmly supports Vietnam in pursuing a path of socialism that suits its national conditions.

    Li reaffirmed China’s commitment to continuously improving and upgrading cooperation across various sectors with the Southeast Asian nation.

    China is ready to deepen cooperation with Vietnam in areas such as connectivity, trade, investment, tourism, healthcare, and disaster prevention and mitigation, as well as expand collaboration in local currency settlement and emerging industries, including the digital economy and green development, Li said.

    In August, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, held talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese president, drawing a blueprint for and injecting fresh vigor into the development of China-Vietnam relations, Li said.

    China is willing to work with Vietnam to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two parties and two countries, maintain high-level communication, and continuously build mutual trust, Li said.

    The Chinese premier also called on upholding the original aspiration of good-neighborliness and friendship, reinforcing confidence in the two countries’ respective paths and systems, strengthening solidarity and cooperation, expanding comprehensive strategic cooperation and deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

    Li urged the two countries to take the opportunity of the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, both taking place next year, to further deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, especially the younger generations, and carry forward the cause of China-Vietnam friendship.

    Li urged both sides to stick to the principle of friendly consultation, properly handle differences and expand maritime cooperation.

    China stands ready to work with Vietnam to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Vietnam at multilateral platforms such as the United Nations and APEC, strive for more just and rational global governance, safeguard the interests of developing countries, and play a leading role in the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Pham, for his part, said Vietnam and China enjoy a close relationship of comrades and brothers, and that their traditional friendship grows ever stronger.

    Developing relations with China is a top priority and a strategic choice for the party and the government of Vietnam, Pham said, noting China is the only country that encompasses all of Vietnam’s foreign policy priorities.

    Vietnam abides by the one-China principle, supports China’s development and growth, as well as the series of global initiatives put forward by President Xi, Pham said. He thanked China for its long-term support and assistance to his country.

    Next year marks the 75th anniversary of Vietnam-China diplomatic relations, Pham noted, saying that guided by the important consensus reached by the leaders of both parties and countries, Vietnam stands ready to strengthen high-level exchanges and enhance synergy of development strategies with China.

    He also pledged to advance cooperation with China in finance, investment, agriculture and science and technology, accelerate connectivity in transportation infrastructure, explore new models such as cross-border economic cooperation zones, expand collaboration in emerging sectors like the digital economy and green development, as well as strengthen exchanges in education, tourism, and youth exchanges.

    Vietnam is also willing to strengthen multilateral coordination with China to safeguard the common interests of developing countries, Pham said.

    He called on both countries to implement the high-level consensus of the two parties and two countries, properly manage differences through friendly consultation, and jointly safeguard maritime peace and stability.

    Following the talks, Li and Pham witnessed the exchange of cooperation documents in various fields, including connectivity, agricultural products, customs, finance, human resources, media, and education.

    During Li’s official visit to Vietnam, the two countries are also expected to issue a joint statement.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israeli tanks ‘forcibly enter’ UN position in southern Lebanon

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Sept. 22, 2024 shows a UNIFIL patrol vehicle in Marjeyoun, southern Lebanon. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported on Sunday that two Israeli tanks destroyed the main gate of one of its positions in southern Lebanon and “forcibly entered” the site after blocking its movement the previous day.

    “At approximately 4:30 in the morning, while the peacekeeping soldiers were in shelters, two Merkava tanks belonging to the Israeli army destroyed the main gate of the position and entered by force. The tanks left about 45 minutes later,” UNIFIL said in a statement, referring to a position in the Ramyah area on the Lebanese side of the border.

    According to UNIFIL, the breach was part of recent Israeli violations against UN forces and positions over the weekend.

    “At approximately 6:40 in the morning, peacekeepers in the same location reported multiple bursts of gunfire 100 meters north, creating dense smoke. Despite wearing protective masks, 15 peacekeepers experienced symptoms such as skin irritation and stomach issues after the smoke entered the base. They are receiving treatment,” the statement added.

    In addition, UNIFIL reported that on Saturday, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers prevented a critical UNIFIL logistical movement near the southeast village of Mays al-Jabal.

    “Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and Security Council Resolution 1701,” UNIFIL stated, adding that it has “requested an explanation from the IDF for these shocking violations.”

    Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has been carrying out an intense air campaign on Lebanon, dubbed “Arrows of the North,” amid escalating tensions with Hezbollah. The campaign has included attacks on UNIFIL positions in southern Lebanon, injuring at least five UN peacekeepers over the past week.

    On Sunday, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the attacks. Responding to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s earlier remarks urging the UN to “get the UNIFIL forces out of harm’s way” from southern Lebanon, Mikati said this “represents a new chapter in the enemy’s disregard for international legitimacy and its relevant resolutions.”

    “Lebanon, while condemning Netanyahu’s position and the Israeli aggression against UNIFIL, reaffirms its commitment to international legitimacy, Resolution 1701, and the role of the United Nations forces in the south, and demands that the international community take a firm stand to halt Israeli aggression,” Mikati added.

    Since Oct. 8, 2023, Hezbollah and the Israeli army have been exchanging fire along the Lebanon-Israel border, raising fears of a broader conflict as the war between Hamas and Israel rages in the Gaza Strip.

    MIL OSI China News –