Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
A stretch of State Highway 51 Taradale Road in Napier has reopened following a serious crash earlier this morning.
The road, between Austin Street and Hyderabad Road, closed after a car rolled, crashing into a power pole.
A detour was in place for northbound traffic, through Onekawa.
The road has now reopened in both directions.
Please expect possible delays travelling through the area as congestion eases and continue to drive to the conditions.
Source: Auckland Council
Over the years, significant work has gone into investigating options for the consolidation of speedway activities in Auckland, with a solution now decided.
The council’s Governing Body agreed on 30 October 2024 to the request to transfer $11 million of existing Long-term Plan capital funding from Tātaki Auckland Unlimited to the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board. This funding will enable the delivery of critical works at Waikaraka Park and the consolidation of the two current four-wheel class speedway venues in Auckland into the Onehunga venue.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) supports the consolidation of four-wheel speedway classes at Waikaraka Park, which will enable the realisation of improved financial outcomes at Western Springs Stadium for the benefit of Auckland ratepayers.
The Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board have been drivers and strong supporters of the consolidation to Waikaraka Park, seeing this activity as strategically important to the local board area and aligned to their approved Waikaraka masterplan.
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki local board chair Maria Meredith welcomes the investment into Waikaraka Park.
“This is a pivotal step forward for speedway activities at Waikaraka Park. The Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board has been a longtime supporter of racing activities at this iconic Tāmaki Makaurau venue. This investment unlocks critical upgrades to the facility which are consistent with our approved Waikaraka Park Masterplan and help to ensure a bright and exciting future for the facility,” says Ms Meredith.
The decision to back and invest in Waikaraka Park provides a viable future for four-wheel speedway events in Auckland. It provides much-needed investment in facilities and infrastructure, improves safety and security, and allows for the confident planning of future high-quality events.
The Western Springs Speedway promoter came to the natural end of a four-year venue hire agreement in 2023, before being granted a one-year extension while seeking alternative future venues. Waikaraka Park has a secure lease arrangement in place until 2051.
Waikaraka Park is the current home of the Auckland Stock and Saloon Car Club. This decision paves the way forward for speedway and stock and saloon cars to share the same venue.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Diane Charleson, Senior Lecturer in media School of Arts Australian Catholic University, Australian Catholic University
Award-winning director Madeleine Hetherton-Miau’s latest offering is an evocative and hard-hitting documentary with a strong message. Mozart’s Sister investigates the life of Maria Anna Mozart, the older sister of the more famous Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
The film portrays a sensitive and well-researched investigation into Maria Anna’s life – illuminating how the draconian attitudes that prevailed during her time condemned her to a lesser life than her brother, even though she was similarly talented.
It also reminds us of the importance of championing women musicians today, as “if we don’t encourage women now, it (discrimination) only repeats”.
Maria Anna was the first-born child of Leopold Mozart. He himself was a musician and composer and had his daughter schooled in music from a very young age.
Maria showed amazing talent – a child prodigy in playing and composing. When Wolfgang was born, he quickly became engrossed in playing and composing music with his sister.
Mozart’s Sister features wonderfully poignant recreations of this childhood bond over music – emphasising the siblings’ playfulness and engagement with music in a noncompetitive way.
Leopold recognised his children’s prodigious talents. He soon had them travelling and playing concerts all over Europe, where they were lauded by the highest aristocracy. Maria Anna and Wolfgang were inseparable during this time and composed many works together.
But all of this came to an abrupt end with Maria Anna turned 15. As custom would dictate, it was considered unsuitable and unseemly for a girl of that age to perform in public, likening this form of public performance to that of a prostitute.
The film portrays the unfortunate fate that befell many 18th-century women who wanted to pursue a career in music. Regardless of their aptitude, these women would have no real career prospects. They were even banned from playing musical instruments deemed unseemly, including the violin and cello.
Composing and playing music was largely taken up by the nuns in monasteries. As Mozart’s Sister highlights, even though this was a time of enlightenment, this “enlightenment” was reserved for men – and white men at that. It definitely didn’t flow on to women.
Maria Anna was forced to stay home while Wolfgang continued pursuing music uninterrupted – and the rest is history.
The film ponders what it must have been like for her to be left at home, away from her brother (who was once her constant companion) and unable to play as she used to. Her life is poignantly illustrated through her diary entries, which are mainly filled with references to the weather, as though nothing else was happening for her.
Maria Anna eventually married, but continued to practice music each day. Upon her husband’s death – now a woman of means and a baroness in her 50s – she returned to solo concert performances.
Mozart’s Sister is a documentary that functions on many levels.
On one level, it’s a biopic that portrays Maria Anna’s story through recreations of her childhood in Austria, with a voiceover narration and interviews highlighting her relationship with her brother. Much is shot on location in Austria and framed through the perspective of present-day museum curators and experts.
On another level, the film is a broader statement on the underrepresentation of female composers. I thought the director did an excellent job in portraying this duality through the juxtaposition of Maria Anna’s with the young British composer Alma Deustger. Deustger displayed many of the characteristics we could imagine Maria Anna having.
Like Maria Anna, Deustger is a brilliant modern-day composer with a deep appreciation for for composing and conducting. But unlike Maria, she has been able to pursue her passion and turn it into a career. I was particularly struck by the film’s closing, in which Deustger discusses writing her waltz based on the police sirens of New York.
Mozart’s Sister follows in a recent literary trend of discussions of appropriation – and of the overlooking of talented women in history who have been overshadowed by their more famous male counterparts. Anna Funder’s Wifedom and Hernan Diaz’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book Trust are two other examples of this.
It is an interesting and provocative film that will appeal to classical music lovers, as well as those interested more broadly in the issue of female underrepresentation in the arts.
Mozart’s Sister is in cinemas from today.
Diane Charleson 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. Maria Anna Mozart was a musical prodigy overshadowed by her brother. A new documentary tells her story – https://theconversation.com/maria-anna-mozart-was-a-musical-prodigy-overshadowed-by-her-brother-a-new-documentary-tells-her-story-241794
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos
Bangor, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the grand opening of new age-friendly patient rooms at St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor. The new unit contains nine patient rooms that were renovated to better fit the care needs of older patients. Senator Collins secured $1.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for this renovation project in the Fiscal Year 2022 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.
“Ensuring that older Mainers receive the quality care they deserve requires facilities that are designed with their needs in mind,” said Senator Collins. “These new age-friendly rooms at St. Joseph Hospital will create a more comfortable, accessible, and supportive environment for older patients and their families.”
Renovations to the rooms include improved lighting, high contrast flooring, more accessible bathrooms, additional mobility railings, customizable memory door signs, mobility comfort furniture, and other features that aim to improve the care environment for older patients. The new facility also includes rooms that will be more suitable for end-of-life care, for both patients and their loved ones.
In addition to this project, Senator Collins has secured Congressionally Directed Spending to improve patient care in multiple departments of St. Joseph Hospital since 2021. This includes $708,000 to upgrade mammogram imaging equipment and $1,550,000 to purchase and install a new MRI machine.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), a member of the Senate Commerce committee charged with overseeing the nation’s transportation policies, and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced they secured $60,324,102 in federal funding to strengthen railroad safety across Georgia. The funds were made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, championed by the senators for its investments in Georgia, and administered through the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. Senator Warnock successfully strengthened the CRISI Program to deliver for Georgia during negotiations for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and wrote letters of support championing funding for the Georgia Ports Authority, Patriot Rail Company, and OmniTRAX Holdings projects.
The Georgia Ports Authority will receive $26,521,740 to finalize designs and build improvements at Brunswick’s Colonel’s Island Terminal. This includes constructing a new South Side Rail Yard with four additional tracks (about 23,735 feet), an auto parking area, and a perimeter road, as well as adding a grade separation at SCM Road. Additionally, the existing Myd-Harris Yard will be reconfigured to improve efficiency and shift rail operations away from nearby neighborhoods.
The Georgia Department of Transportation will receive $8,496,000 to improve the CPR GF rail line in Lowndes and Berrien Counties. This project includes upgrading tracks, rehabilitating bridges and sidings, and adding a new spur. These upgrades will help maintain large freight capacity, enable speeds of 25 mph, enhance crossing safety, improve reliability, reduce future maintenance costs, and support local economic growth with improved infrastructure.
“Our communities thrive when we are better connected, which is why I have been focused on strengthening rail safety and infrastructure in Georgia, and why I was proud to champion efforts in the Senate to strengthen the CRISI program allowing these funds to flow our state,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver historic investments for Georgians in every corner of the state. This latest grant will help mitigate congestion, build new tracks, and reinforce existing tracks leading to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable rail transportation and shipping.”
“After hearing from communities statewide about aging railroad infrastructure conditions Senator Warnock and I elevated this as one of our highest priorities. Resources through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are now flowing across the State of Georgia to plan and begin construction to address this crisis. We’ve listened, we’ve heard, we’ve acted, and help is on the way,” said Senator Ossoff.
The purpose of the CRISI Program is to invest in a wide range of projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support the more efficient movement of both people and goods; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
See a full breakdown of the grants below:
| Grant Recipient | Project Description | Federal Award Amount |
| Georgia Ports Authority | Final design and construction to improve the Myd-Harris Yard and build the new South Side Rail Yard at the Colonel’s Island Terminal in Brunswick, GA. Specifically, for the South Side Rail Yard, the project would construct four new yard tracks, estimated at approximately 23,735 feet of track, and construct south side auto parking area and a perimeter road, as well as grade separate the existing crossing at SCM Road. Additionally, it would lengthen and reconfigure tracks at the existing Myd-Harris Yard to improve operational efficiency and bring rail switching activities inside the terminal and away from the adjacent neighborhood. | $26,521,740 |
| Georgia Department of Transportation | Final design/construction for a track and rail rehabilitation/upgrade, multibridge rehabilitation, siding rehabilitation, and the construction of a new spur on the CPR GF Line across Lowndes and Berrien Counties, Georgia. The objective of this Project is to preserve the railroad’s ability to accommodate 286,000-lb carloads and 25 mph operating speeds, enhance safety at grade crossings, support the reliability of freight movement by improving state of good repair, reduce future maintenance costs, and support economic development with new and improve siding and spur tracks. | $8,496,000 |
| Patriot Rail Company LLC | Final design and construction activities to improve track conditions on eight Patriot railroads across the southeast. | $12,840,150 |
| OmniTRAX Holdings Combined, Inc. | Final design and construction activities to replace railroad ties on four OmniTRAX-owned short lines across four states – Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, and Washington. | $12,466,212 |
Last December, Senators Warnock and Ossoff delivered $12 million in new Federal funding for a project in Jenkins County that will improve mobility by helping eliminate railway-highway crossings through the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program. Last year, Senator Warnock secured the passage of two critical provisions in the Railway Safety Act of 2023 to address stalled trains trapping Atlanta residents in their neighborhood, and would update the grant program to provide additional support for projects that would eliminate crossings near schools, along school bus routes. In August 2023, Senator Warnock urged Secretary Buttigieg to approve rail crossing improvements in Millen, GA, and in 2021, Senator Warnock joined Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) to introduce the bipartisan Railway Upgrades for Rural American Lines (RURAL) Act to build on the successes already found through the Section 130 grant program and help states modernize unsafe or functionally outdated railroad warning devices.
Senator Ossoff has worked alongside Senator Reverend Warnock to help Georgia communities address railroad crossings blockages. In September 2023, Senator Ossoff urged U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to support GDOT and Millen’s project. In June 2023, Senators Ossoff and Warnock delivered Federal resources for Chatham, DeKalb, and Gwinnett Counties through the bipartisan infrastructure law’s Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program.
Source: US State of Minnesota
Governor Tim Walz today announced that Solventum, a leading global health care company, will make a $200 million expansion in Eagan, retaining an estimated 2,000 Minnesota jobs. The expansion is supported by nearly $13 million in business development funding from the State of Minnesota.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Derik Carothers, 29, pleaded guilty to Count Four of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about October 20, 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Carothers possessed numerous firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. Carothers was previously convicted on November 7, 2013, in the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas of burglary and carrying a firearm without a license, and, on March 20, 2017, of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carothers.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.
Exercise increased caution in the United States due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).
United States of America
Terrorism
The United States Department of Homeland Security regularly issues terrorism-related advice and updates. For current alerts, see the US National Terror Advisory System webpage.
The United States remains a target of terrorist interest, both from international terror groups and from domestic-based individual’s adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies. Credible information assessed by US authorities indicates that individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct terrorist attacks in the US. Attacks could be indiscriminate, targeting law enforcement officials, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs and major events.
New Zealanders in the United States are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities and be aware of your surroundings in public places such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, places of worship, tourist destinations, demonstrations, large gatherings and on public transport.
In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.
Crime
Petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in urban centres, tourist locations and on public transport. New Zealanders should stay alert to their surroundings, stay vigilant on public transport and avoid leaving belongings unattended, including in rental vehicles.
There is a higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand. In many states, it is legal for United States citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Violent crime has targeted individuals and groups from the LGBTQIA+ community and those with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. However, crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and while tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. New Zealanders should take care when travelling in unfamiliar areas including on public transport. Research your destination before travelling and seek local advice if you are concerned about levels of criminal activity.
Active shooter incidents occur in the United States. For advice on how to respond to an active shooter situation, please see the US Department of Homeland Security website.
You should exercise caution if crossing the border by car into Mexico from Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. There have been increased incidents of crime associated with drug trading and some foreign nationals have been targeted indiscriminately.
Be aware of rental and financial scams via websites and social media. Credit card and ATM fraud including debit card cloning is also a risk to travellers.
Civil Unrest and Political Tension
Protests and demonstrations regularly occur. We advise New Zealanders to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, monitor local media for developments and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to result in violence.
Natural Disasters
The US can experience severe weather events, such as hurricanes, especially in May or June to November regularly impacting the eastern seaboard, Gulf Coast, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Tornados are most frequent and at their highest intensities across the Central Plains and parts of the Midwest. While tornadoes can form at any time of year, conditions are most favourable in the spring and summer months (March to September).
Severe snowstorms during winter can cause disruptions to critical infrastructure, including power cuts. Winter storms may also lead to widespread flight delays and cancellations.
Many parts of the US are also prone to earthquakes including Alaska, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington state and the US Virgin Islands.
Contact your travel operator or airline for the latest departure information, and monitor local weather forecasts. If there is a severe weather event, or natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities and keep your family and friends back in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being.
General Travel Advice
The Transport Security Administration website provides guidance for airline passengers travelling to the United States.
Travellers carrying electronic devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, should be aware that these devices may be subject to security checks by United States border authorities.
Immigration regulations are strictly enforced. Overstaying can result in detention then deportation. See our United States travel tips.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in the United States should have comprehensive travel and medical insurance policies in place. Medical costs in the United States are extremely high and the New Zealand government cannot assist with medical expenses.
New Zealanders in the United States are encouraged to register their travel with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Street Address 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Fax +1 202 667 5227 Email WSHinfo@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/americas/united-states-of-america/new-zealand-embassy-to-the-united-states-of-america/ Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1700 hrs
Street Address Suite 600E, 2425 Olympic Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Fax +1 310 566 6556 Email nzcg.la@mfat.net Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/americas/united-states-of-america/new-zealand-consulate-general-los-angeles/ Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1300, 1330 – 1630 hrs
Street Address 733 Bishop Street, 2020, Honolulu, HI 96813 Telephone +1 808 675 5555 Fax +1 808 675 5561 Email HLUEnquiries@mfat.govt.nz
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Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email nzconsulboston@gmail.com
Street Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, Glenview, IL 60025 Postal Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, 6400 Shafer Ct 60025, Glenview, IL Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email nzconsulatechicago@gmail.com
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Street Address 430 SW 13th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email cjs@theswindells.org
Street Address 44733 North El Macero Drive, El Macero, CA 95618 – 1066, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email starrned@msn.com
Street Address 1655 Linden Lane, Bountiful, UT 84010, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email Iain.mckay1@hotmail.com
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Street Address 4010 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Suite 300, Kirkland WA 98033, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email NZHonConSeattleWA@outlook.com
See our regional advice for North America
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Motorists using the southbound lanes of Waterview Tunnel are advised to expect delays while emergency services respond to a serious crash involving a motorcycle and a vehicle.
One southbound lane is blocked and motorists are advised to use extra caution in the area and to expect delays for some time.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Asia Development Bank
BEIJING, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (31 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $50 million loan (in yuan equivalent) with Canvest Environmental Protection Group Company Limited (Canvest) to promote efficient municipal solid waste management and waste-to-energy (WTE) in the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
ADB’s funding will help Canvest develop, construct, and operate a WTE plant at Huizhou City in Guangdong province, and to expand municipal solid waste management services in Quyang County in Hebei province. Canvest provides a range of services across the municipal solid waste value chain including cleaning, segregation, collection, transportation, sorting, recycling, and energy generation.
“Segregating and recycling solid waste has been a challenge in the PRC, so cities have turned to the private sector for an efficient and integrated approach to waste management,” said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Suzanne Gaboury. “However, private sector participation in waste management is still nascent in the PRC. This project can demonstrate the viability of sector while contributing to low-carbon development.”
The PRC is one of the world’s largest sources of municipal solid waste, with a total volume of 244 million tons in 2022 which is expected to reach 332.4 million tons a year by 2025. The project’s WTE plant is expected to treat at least 300,000 tons of municipal solid waste a year, generating at least 93 gigawatt-hours of energy annually. This will help reduce at least 346,700 tons of annual greenhouse gas emissions. The project will also support the annual collection of at least 147,825 tons of waste by 2026.
“Canvest helps cities to better manage their solid waste problem in a more cost-effective and sustainable way. We value ADB’s support in enhancing the environmental, social, and gender impacts of our operations,” said Canvest Chair Lee Wing Yee Loretta. “We are pleased to collaborate with ADB to share with the wider waste management community the benefits of integrated waste management solutions and the lessons learned.”
Established in 2003, Canvest is a leading provider of waste management services in the PRC. As of June 2024, the company operated 33 WTE projects, with a total treatment capacity of 43,690 tons per day. Additional projects with a daily capacity of 10,850 tons are under development. Canvest also has 22 municipal solid waste management projects.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries
31 Oct 2024
Two ocean trawlers in the Northern Rivers and a river trawler on the Hawkesbury River have become the first in Australia to trial a low carbon renewable fuel solution as part of a NSW Government research project on sustainable energy usage in the commercial fishing sector.
The $920,000 Beyond Fossil Diesel Program is a collaboration between the NSW Government and the Decarbonisation Innovation Hub initiative which supports collaboration between researchers and industry to increase the uptake of new technologies in decarbonising NSW.
Renewable diesel is used as a drop in replacement and offers industry a 70% – 90% reduction in their normal fuel related emissions and as part of the project, more than 6,000 litres of renewable diesel will be blended with fossil diesel at 30% of the mix.
Research Officer Michael Cashen said after 18 months of research, the Beyond Fossil Diesel Program has hosted a series of renewable fuel demonstrations in both the Clarence and Hawkesbury regions.
“The aim of the Beyond Fossil Diesel at Sea project is to provide practical examples that will inspire confidence and drive adoption of practical decarbonisation solutions within the marine sector,” Mr Cashen said.
“We appreciate Yamba commercial fisher Steve Everson and Paul Aquilina from Spencer for participating in this landmark demonstration.
“Their involvement will show other fishermen what is possible with these evolving low-carbon liquid fuels and how they work in their vessels.”
Mr Cashen continued by saying renewable diesel can be made from biological feedstocks including tallow, oilseed crops and sugar cane and has been used extensively in both the US and Europe in hard to abate sectors that have limited practical options to decarbonise.
“Currently, the price of renewable diesel is too high for widespread adoption, however, with the development of an Australian Low Carbon Liquid Fuel industry, we expect prices to decrease over time, making it easier for the industry to adopt renewable diesel as stakeholders become more familiar with the product,” Mr Cashen said.
“Raising awareness of low carbon liquid fuels as a replacement for fossil fuels was initially done in the agriculture sector, as part of the Beyond Fossil Diesel project.
“With potential demand for low carbon liquid fuels growing worldwide, NSW has a significant opportunity to help build feedstock supply and potentially production capacity that can create regional employment and reduce reliance on imported fuel.
Low Carbon Liquid Fuels such as renewable diesel is a practical way for industry to reduce carbon emissions without having to make changes to existing machinery or supply chains.
“By using renewable diesel, we can directly cut emissions and contribute to NSW target to net zero emissions by 2050.”
NSW Northern Rivers commercial fisherman Steve Everson said:
“I’m excited to be part of this Australian-first demonstration.
“Using renewable diesel in my trawlers not only supports our local industry but also showcases the potential for reducing emissions without making changes to our equipment.”
NSW Hawkesbury River fishermen Paul Aquilina said:
“By showcasing the effectiveness of renewable diesel, we hope to inspire other fishermen to adopt these innovative fuels when they become more affordable in Australia.
Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au
Images available here
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea –
More than 50 senior enlisted leaders from the Republic of Korea and United States militaries engaged in Mangudai 2024, which ran from Oct. 22-24, and included events spanning the lengths of Rodriguez Live Fire Complex, Camp Casey, and Camp Bonifas.
Mangudai is an annual three-day training exercise that evaluates senior enlisted leaders’ mettle in a grueling series of events, testing their physical fitness, adaptability, discipline, and mastery of core Soldiering tasks in an environment where sleep is sparse, and the weather is constantly adverse.
“Mangudai goes back to the 13th Century with the Mongolian Warriors. The leader of that force would select his most elite special forces through a training competition, which was called Mangudai,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jack Love, Tri-Command Senior Enlisted Advisor.
“The US military has been executing Mangudai since the former U.S. Forces Korea Sergeant Major, Sgt. Maj. John Wayne Troxell started it at Joint Base Lewis McCord when he was the 1st Corps Command Sergeant Major,” said Love. “I think it’s critically important for all senior enlisted leaders to participate for a number of reasons. First and foremost, we can never forget that we, all of us, whether you’re in for twenty years or thirty years, we must earn our place in the formation every day.”
“We need to be able to do what we expect our young Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Guardians to do,” explained Love. “We may not be able to do it as fast as we used to be able to, but we must be able to train, fight, and win in any conflict, in any environment. And so, this exercise really gets after that, and it tests a lot of grit.”
Key events for Mangudai include: live fires, patrol base activities, land navigation, rendering casualty care under threat of mortar fire, a hand-to-hand combat challenge in a waist deep mud-pit, and miles upon miles of foot-marching through rain and the frigid cold.
“We all got soaking wet from the rain and it was extremely cold to the point we were shivering; However, we were still motivated, which is the most meaningful part to me,” said Republic of Korea-Army Master Sgt. Hyun-Beom Lim, company executive officer, Special Task Infantry. “I think it is fascinating that ROK and U.S. personnel manage to overcome hardships by working as a team, and it made me enjoy all the tough tasks that need to be done through the exercise.”
While the training focuses on pushing competitors to their limits and potentially to their breaking points, it’s also an opportunity to build trust and strong relations between partners, according to 1st Sgt. Gerald L. Harness, a competitor hailing from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 6-52 Air Defense Artillery Battalion.
“Mangudai is a test of intestinal fortitude and of our ability to communicate with our allied partners who we’re teamed up with. It’s all about teamwork. When you’re in charge, be in charge, and when you’re not, be a good follower,” said Harness. “My biggest takeaways from participating in Mangudai are, understanding my limits and the capabilities of our host nation allies, expanding both my comfort zone and my capabilities to not only lead with my peers, but follow them as well.”
When all is said and done, the core focus of Mangudai, like all military training, is grounded in warfighter readiness and instilling confidence in the tactics, techniques, and procedures Soldiers will employ on the battlefield.
“General LaCamera has four lines of operation and two lines of effort. Line of Operation number three is Combat Readiness,” said Love. “We have to be ready on the Peninsula, and though we pray for peace and want to maintain the current armistice state, should crisis or conflict arise, we have to be ready to fight tonight and win, so these skills really are the foundation of everything we do, regardless of your service, whether you’re from the United States or a Republic of Korea service member, winning is the only option.”
“When I watch these first sergeants and master sergeants across our combined forces command and the grit and determination they’re pushing through, I’ve never been prouder,” Love added. “I would go to combat any day, anywhere with any one of them because they’re warriors.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)
For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
October 30, 2024 202-808-6129
PRESS RELEASE
PLASKETT PROVIDES CRITICAL UPDATE ON USPS ISSUE OF UNTIMELY PACKAGE DELIVERY
Washington, D.C. – The office of Congresswoman Plaskett has held numerous meetings with United States Postal Service (USPS) regional leadership related to the exorbitant package delivery delays that continue to affect Virgin Islanders.
After a number of meetings with the leadership of USPS regarding the delays, we would like to share the following information which outlines the USPS process and proposed changes to rectify the issues we are facing:
Background:
– The estimated delivery service for Ground Advantage Service, Parcel Select, and Priority Mail that contains hazardous materials or non-standard dimensions to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is 14 – 21 days. USPS indicated this timeframe is not guaranteed based on several factors, including origin and destination zip codes, package volume, and weather. Amazon recently changed their shipping from Ground Advantage to Parcel Select. Prior to this change, Amazon planes would fly into San Juan and the packages would be distributed and delivered from San Juan via air. Due to the Parcel Select change, once the St. Thomas/St. John and St. Croix packages were scanned and banded, FAA regulations prohibit the packages from being sent by air, as this designation requires transport via surface mail. Consequently, several packages were in the process of being re-routed back to Jacksonville since there has not been mail barge service between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Intervention:
– As a direct result of Congresswoman Plaskett’s intervention and persistence, USPS has agreed to not send the packages back to Jacksonville to go through the process again but to retain the parcel select packages from Amazon and other packages that could not be shipped by plane, and those packages are NOW being held in a holding facility in Puerto Rico. Effective Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, the packages will be barged from Puerto Rico to the Virgin Islands. The barge will leave Puerto Rico early in the morning on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. Packages will be off loaded in St. Thomas first and then the barge will continue over to St. Croix. The barge will travel with packages to the Virgin Islands every Saturday.
– Regular Priority mail and Ground Advantage packages that are not mislabeled due to the robotic labeling issue will continue to be flown or barged from Jacksonville to St. Thomas and St. Croix without delays.
Congresswoman Plaskett shared, “My team and I realize that this USPS issue impacts a myriad of people in our community—businessowners awaiting their products, individuals who need prescriptions, and so many others. I would like to thank the USPS employees for their tireless work to ensure that we are able to get our mail despite the various delays with the system, and I would also like to thank all the individuals that called in and/or sent in their USPS complaints. My team and I will continue to advocate on behalf of our territory to ensure that this issue and others like it with USPS are resolved as quickly as possible.”
To report a USPS complaint for our office’s records, please contact our offices at 340-778-5900 or 340-774-4408.
###
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Moorhouse:
Police are continuing to make enquiries into the death of a man in Tolerton Avenue on Monday 28 October.
A homicide investigation was launched following the man’s death after he was transported to hospital at around 4.20am.
The victim can now be named as 67-year-old Wayne Tamahori Dewes.
Police are supporting the family of the deceased at this difficult time.
A scene guard remains at the address and Police hope to release the scene later today.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements
CATHERINE KING: Hi, I’m Catherine King. I’m the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, and one of the great parts of my job is being able to invest in local communities. Today we’re announcing here in Cowes that the Albanese Labor Government is committing $8 million to upgrade the esplanade, to do the work that’s needed to ensure that this is a much more pedestrian-friendly area for the beautiful people that come to Phillip Island each year, who live on the island, and call this home. This investment alongside over $21 million worth of funding that we’re announcing as part of the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, another project in Hamilton, a project in Mansfield, and a project in Cobram, are really important projects for local communities. What they enable and the reason we’ve been looking to invest alongside council in these projects is to create precincts that come to life. Where the infrastructure may be a bit tired, it’s not working, we’re really trying to make sure we’re bringing people back into the centres and regions, that we’re providing that opportunity for new businesses to flourish, but also really for places to be used because we know how important that is to local communities.
So, really delighted to be here today to announce the latest round of regional Precincts and Partnerships funding and the $8 million to give to the Cowes community. I might hand over to the CEO – obviously the council is in caretaker at the moment – to say a few words and then I’ll be happy to take some questions.
GREG BOX: Thank you, Minister. So, we’re really pleased to have you here and really pleased to have the Federal Government provide this funding. Ultimately, it’ll bring the money to 9.6 million from council’s contribution. This is an iconic part of Victoria. It’s an iconic street. And really, that investment is going to bring that right up as, the Minister said, and transform it into the sort of place that we want this to be. We’ve had an enormous amount of investment over the last ten years. The master planning for this was done out in 2015, and that master planning has culminated in nearly $300 million worth of investment around this site and around this place. So it’s incredible work and council’s really proud of it, but we’re actually really excited and looking forward to transforming this space right now.
CATHERINE KING: Great. Happy to take some questions.
QUESTION: So traffic will be going one way in Cowes?
CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Well I think if you’ve ever come down here at summer- it’s a little while since I’ve been down here on holidays. I used to come down here a lot as a kid. But it’s pretty busy and it’s really very congested and hard to get through. But it also makes it dangerous when you’ve got families with little kids who are trying to get access to the shops, trying to get their kids ice creams, or just come and do your shopping. It does make it really difficult over summer. And of course, anyone who’s been down here knows that it banks up, so that means you’ve just got a decent traffic flow. You really make sure you’re slowing cars down, you’re pedestrianising access. That makes it safer, but it also makes it a much better place for people. People want to come here, they want to actually come and shop, and that’s really good for the retailers as well.
QUESTION: Will there be any impacts to car parking?
CATHERINE KING: Again, that’s really a matter for council. They’re delivering the project. The Federal Government is delivering the funding and partnership, so I’ll hand over to the CEO to make [indistinct].
GREG BOX: Yeah, we’ll work through the detailed design of it. We’re not really talking about net losses and gains at the moment. There’s a whole lot of detail still to be done on that. But as the Minister said, really, what we’re trying to do is prioritise people in the space. We already experience an enormous amount of people in this space, and letting them be able to interact both with business and community is incredibly important. Providing shade, there’ll be curve extensions. This part of the world will be one of those places that you really do want to walk and sit and contemplate. It’s the only north facing beach in Victoria. It really is an iconic spot and we’re experiencing that today with the sun on us. It’s really a magnificent spot to actually stop and engage in local culture.
QUESTION: And so it will be one way up until Chapel Street, is that right?
GREG BOX: Yes. Just until- just up until chapel. And it’ll be one way coming down this way, and then it’ll go one way both ways around. So again, as the Minister said, that will slow down traffic and will enable people to feel like the space is something that they can inhabit more safely.
QUESTION: And Minister, speaking about the other areas across the state receiving funding, were they announced- are you announcing them today or have they already been…
CATHERINE KING: We’re announcing all of the Victorian regional Precincts and Partnerships Projects today. So, the work in Hamilton, Mansfield and Cobram. And over $21 million across the state of Victoria. What we’re really looking for are- these are place-based funding. It’s to really look at how do you improve the places where regional communities live, how do you get partnerships between council, Federal Government, commercial retailers, not-for-profit organisations to really make those places where people want to come and live.
QUESTION: Is there anything that stands out about [indistinct]? One-way traffic or anything.
CATHERINE KING: So, yeah, really to me, what I’ve been looking for and I’ve got a panel of people who are really involved in urban planning and changing places. And so they do the assessments for me, and that comes to me. But what I’ve been looking for is have we got areas that are underutilised, have older buildings in them that really have been- have had huge uses throughout their life but are not really being used; spaces that are not being activated. So really, that’s what I’ve been looking for. What changes a place and makes a place more liveable for people in our communities. And that’s really what this program is about.
QUESTION: And why have these towns been specifically selected?
CATHERINE KING: Again, because of the excellence of their projects. If you look at the projects here in Cowes, this is about changing places. It’s about changing the way that people who live in this community interact with the built environment and use it more effectively, and that’s really what these projects are about.
Source: Huawei
Headline: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era
Oct 30, 2024
[Istanbul, Türkiye, October 30, 2024] The Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) has kicked off in Istanbul, Türkiye with the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era”. More than 1,000 guests from mobile network carriers, ecosystem players, and leaders from vertical industries have gathered to discuss a wide range of topics, from business model innovation to industry development and key technological directions in the Mobile AI era.
This forum was set up to further promote the convergence of 5.5G and intelligent applications to create greater value for the mobile industry. During the forum, Huawei and Türkiye network carriers have jointly provided diverse intelligent 5.5G field experiences. Also, various players in the Mobile AI ecosystem will be displaying their intelligent connectivity applications for people, homes, things, vehicles, and industries.
MBBF 2024 began with the opening remarks from Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman. “In the future, AI will change everything. Everyone will be able to use it, anytime and anywhere. Mobile networks and devices will play an important role to make that happen, just like what we have done to enable telephones and mobile Internet as a universal service,” said Hu.
Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, delivering the opening remarks
2024 has brought both the commercial launch of 5.5G and the unprecedented expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) into our everyday life and work. Globally, more than 3 million AI-capable applications have been developed, more than the total number of non-AI apps available in the app store. That early commercial 5.5G rollout coincides with the first year of AI adoption in various devices is tremendously significant — it heralds the dawn of the Mobile AI era.
Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service delivered a keynote on how to maximize new growth opportunities in the mobile AI era. “The mobile AI era is here,” said Li. “We will see new forms of interaction with devices, new intelligent services, and structural changes in traffic models. This will bring huge new opportunities for the mobile industry.”
Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service, speaking at Global MBB Forum 2024 in Istanbul
Li then detailed how carriers can make the most of these new opportunities and drive new growth by reshaping services, network infrastructure, O&M, and business models. He shared how leading carriers around the world have already verified AI service capabilities on live 5.5G networks across a wide range of scenarios for individuals, homes, travel, and business.
“Moving forward, there are two things we can do to capitalize on new opportunities in the mobile AI era,” said Li. “First, we should prepare our networks to support AI. That means boosting network capabilities, especially uplink, latency, and capacity. Second, we can use AI to support our networks. With more complex networks, we can use AI to help automate O&M, optimize network efficiency, and guarantee a solid user experience.”
This forum features boutique exhibitions of new intelligent connectivity for people, homes, things, industries, and vehicles. Across the indoor booths and outdoor fields, multimodal AI devices and diverse Mobile AI applications are presented, including AI phones, AI glasses, intelligent cockpits, humanoid intelligence, AI-generated content (AIGC), digital human interaction, and AI-powered real-time call translation, thanks to the joint efforts of Huawei, operators, and industry players. Another highlight is the continuous 5.5G coverage across the indoor and outdoor areas of the venues, showcasing the multidimensional capabilities of 5.5G networks and the cutting-edge products and solutions that power them.
The 15th Global Mobile Broadband Forum, with a tagline of ‘5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era’, runs from October 30 to 31 in Istanbul, Türkiye. It will be hosted by Huawei with support from our industry partners GSMA and GTI. Together with operators, vertical industry leaders, and ecosystem partners, we will share the industry’s latest advancements and explore new opportunities. Industry stakeholders will discuss how to achieve 5.5G business success in the Mobile AI era, and leverage the success of 5G to attain even greater achievements with 5.5G. For more information, please visit MBBF2024 at: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2024.
Source: Huawei
Headline: Global MBBF 2024: Accelerating 5.5G and AI Convergence to Lead the Mobile AI Era
[Istanbul, Türkiye, October 30, 2024] The Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) has kicked off in Istanbul, Türkiye with the theme “5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era”. More than 1,000 guests from mobile network carriers, ecosystem players, and leaders from vertical industries have gathered to discuss a wide range of topics, from business model innovation to industry development and key technological directions in the Mobile AI era.
This forum was set up to further promote the convergence of 5.5G and intelligent applications to create greater value for the mobile industry. During the forum, Huawei and Türkiye network carriers have jointly provided diverse intelligent 5.5G field experiences. Also, various players in the Mobile AI ecosystem will be displaying their intelligent connectivity applications for people, homes, things, vehicles, and industries.
MBBF 2024 began with the opening remarks from Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman. “In the future, AI will change everything. Everyone will be able to use it, anytime and anywhere. Mobile networks and devices will play an important role to make that happen, just like what we have done to enable telephones and mobile Internet as a universal service,” said Hu.
Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman, delivering the opening remarks
2024 has brought both the commercial launch of 5.5G and the unprecedented expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) into our everyday life and work. Globally, more than 3 million AI-capable applications have been developed, more than the total number of non-AI apps available in the app store. That early commercial 5.5G rollout coincides with the first year of AI adoption in various devices is tremendously significant — it heralds the dawn of the Mobile AI era.
Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service delivered a keynote on how to maximize new growth opportunities in the mobile AI era. “The mobile AI era is here,” said Li. “We will see new forms of interaction with devices, new intelligent services, and structural changes in traffic models. This will bring huge new opportunities for the mobile industry.”
Li Peng, Huawei’s Senior Vice President and President of ICT Sales & Service, speaking at Global MBB Forum 2024 in Istanbul
Li then detailed how carriers can make the most of these new opportunities and drive new growth by reshaping services, network infrastructure, O&M, and business models. He shared how leading carriers around the world have already verified AI service capabilities on live 5.5G networks across a wide range of scenarios for individuals, homes, travel, and business.
“Moving forward, there are two things we can do to capitalize on new opportunities in the mobile AI era,” said Li. “First, we should prepare our networks to support AI. That means boosting network capabilities, especially uplink, latency, and capacity. Second, we can use AI to support our networks. With more complex networks, we can use AI to help automate O&M, optimize network efficiency, and guarantee a solid user experience.”
This forum features boutique exhibitions of new intelligent connectivity for people, homes, things, industries, and vehicles. Across the indoor booths and outdoor fields, multimodal AI devices and diverse Mobile AI applications are presented, including AI phones, AI glasses, intelligent cockpits, humanoid intelligence, AI-generated content (AIGC), digital human interaction, and AI-powered real-time call translation, thanks to the joint efforts of Huawei, operators, and industry players. Another highlight is the continuous 5.5G coverage across the indoor and outdoor areas of the venues, showcasing the multidimensional capabilities of 5.5G networks and the cutting-edge products and solutions that power them.
The 15th Global Mobile Broadband Forum, with a tagline of ‘5.5G Leads Mobile AI Era’, runs from October 30 to 31 in Istanbul, Türkiye. It will be hosted by Huawei with support from our industry partners GSMA and GTI. Together with operators, vertical industry leaders, and ecosystem partners, we will share the industry’s latest advancements and explore new opportunities. Industry stakeholders will discuss how to achieve 5.5G business success in the Mobile AI era, and leverage the success of 5G to attain even greater achievements with 5.5G. For more information, please visit MBBF2024 at: https://www.huawei.com/en/events/mbbf2024.
Source: China State Council Information Office
Executives from FAW-Volkswagen (FAW-VW) discussed automotive industry trends and engaged with students during a forum at Tsinghua University in Beijing on Oct. 25.
Participants gather at Tsinghua University in Beijing during FAW-Volkswagen’s industry vision presentation to students, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo courtesy of FAW-VW]
A joint venture between FAW Group and Volkswagen Group, FAW-VW plays a crucial role in the Volkswagen Group’s “In China, For China” strategy. Since its establishment in 1991, FAW-VW has created nearly 500,000 jobs and generated more than 700 billion yuan ($98 billion) in tax revenue, contributing greatly to China’s automobile industry.
Dr. Oliver Gruenberg, vice president of technology at FAW-VW, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation in his speech.
“FAW-VW actively responds to the national ‘dual carbon’ call, implementing full lifecycle carbon reduction through practical actions in green research and development, green supply chain, green production, green logistics, and green product use,” said Gruenberg.
Gruenberg praised China’s rapidly expanding new energy vehicle industry and emphasized the importance of green transformation in driving sustainable growth.
FAW-VW Vice President of Technology Oliver Gruenberg addresses students at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo courtesy of FAW-VW]
Gruenberg highlighted research and development (R&D) and innovation as crucial elements of the automotive sector’s future. He detailed FAW-Volkswagen’s achievements in localized R&D, intelligent manufacturing and quality assurance, while forecasting AI-enabled autonomous driving as the industry’s next major advancement.
During the forum, FAW-VW executives answered questions from Tsinghua University students on topics ranging from career opportunities to industry developments.
Cheng Wanli, human resources director at FAW-VW, stressed the company’s people-oriented approach and its commitment to attracting and developing top talent.
Cheng Wanli, human resources director at FAW-VW, addresses students during Times forum at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo courtesy of FAW-VW]
Source: Screen Australia
30 10 2024 – Media release
2.6 Seconds. Photo credit: Jesse Marlow.
SBS, NITV and Screen Australia are proud to announce the commission of landmark documentary series, 2.6 Seconds, a truth-telling of a fatal meeting between two young men from two very different worlds, in the isolated community of Yuendumu in Australia’s central desert. One black, the other white.
2.6 Seconds is the story of how the paths of 19-year-old Warlpiri Luritja teenager, Kumanjayi Walker, and Zachary Rolfe, the 27-year-old police officer, came to cross. It traces the tearing apart of their lives and that of their families, and the clash of two notions of justice. It is a case that reaches far beyond these two men to tell a deeply compelling, insightful and confronting story about the country both were born into.
Screen Australia’s Head of First Nations Angela Bates said, “2.6 Seconds not only explores the lives of Kumanjayi Walker and Zachary Rolfe but also navigates the complex intersection of culture and justice – empowering our communities to share their truths. The First Nations Department is proud to support such an important project, which plays a crucial role in elevating First Nations narratives and fostering understanding among all Australians.”
SBS Head of Unscripted Joseph Maxwell said, “With unprecedented access, 2.6 Seconds will forensically examine what happened the night Kumanjayi Walker was killed, the trial that followed, and the impact on a family and community. The series will be a purposeful and powerful examination of those events and also the far-reaching repercussions on the entire country. This landmark series reflects the role of SBS and NITV to tell important and challenging stories that impact the nation.
Director of Indigenous Content for SBS and NITV, Tanya Denning-Orman said, “The death of Kumanjayi Walker tore lives and communities apart. Over five years, we’ve all seen the media headlines and now, for the first time, SBS and NITV with Blackfella Films will take the time and care to tell this important story, hear from the voices involved, and in doing so, drive an important national conversation.”
Blackfella Films Producer, Darren Dale said: “2.6 Seconds will vividly examine, in four one-hour episodes, the circumstances surrounding a black teenager’s death at the hands of a white police officer in a place far removed from our sense of our Australia, A place where young men are lost and almost forgotten and where to some ‘there are no rules’. This story will reveal the justice system where racism must be interrogated. It will shock, anger and break our hearts yet again. It will reveal to us who we still are as a nation.”
Head of Screen NSW Kyas Hepworth said, “Darren Dale and the team at Blackfella Films are renowned for bringing bold, ambitious and complex stories to screen, highlighting many important and nuanced First Nations stories in our country. I anticipate this detailed series will spark many important conversations across the nation and will be another watershed project from Blackfella Films.”
Premiering on SBS, NITV and SBS On Demand in 2025, the four-part series from leading Australian production company Blackfella Films is written and produced by Darren Dale (The Australian Wars, Meet the Neighbours) with Jacob Hickey (The Australian Wars, Addicted Australia) as series producer.
Production credit: 2.6 Seconds is a co-commission between SBS and NITV with the production of Blackfella Films. Major production investment from Screen Australia’s First Nations Department in association with SBS. Financed with support from Screen NSW. Produced in association with All3Media International.
SBS/NITV Media Enquiries
Nikita Jacka | 0425 171 192 | [email protected]
Media enquiries
Maddie Walsh | Publicist
+ 61 2 8113 5915 | [email protected]
Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
+ 61 428 767 836 | [email protected]
All other general/non-media enquiries
Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800 | Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Seale, Associate Professor, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney
Australia’s COVID vaccine roll-out started slowly, with supply shortages and logistical shortcomings. Once it got going, we immunised more than 95% of the population.
This week’s COVID inquiry report contains a number of recommendations to improve Australia’s vaccine preparedness the next time we face a pandemic or health emergency.
While the inquiry gets most things right, as vaccine experts, we argue the government response should be broadened in three areas:
The inquiry recommends reviewing Australia’s COVID vaccine claims scheme in the next 12 to 18 months, to inform future schemes in national health emergencies.
Early in the pandemic, vaccine experts called on the Australian government to establish a COVID vaccine injury compensation scheme.
This meant people who were injured after suffering a rare but serious injury, or the families of those who died, would receive compensation when there had been no fault in the manufacturing or administration of the vaccine.
Vaccine experts recommended the creation of such a scheme based on the principle of reciprocity. The Australian public was asked to accept the recommended COVID vaccines in good faith for their health benefit and the benefit of the community. So they should be compensated if something went wrong.
In 2021, the Australian government announced the COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme. Australia had no such scheme before this, in stark contrast to 25 other countries including the United States, United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Australia’s scheme closed on September 30 2024.
The inquiry report recommends reviewing:
However, this is currently framed only within the scope of the scheme being used for future epidemic or pandemic responses.
Instead, we need a permanent, ongoing vaccine compensation scheme for all routine vaccines available on the National Immunisation Program.
As we’ve learnt from similar schemes in other countries, this would contribute to the trust and confidence needed to improve the uptake of vaccines currently on the program, and new ones added in the future. It is also right and fair to look after those injured by vaccines in rare instances.
The COVID inquiry recommends developing a national strategy to rebuild community trust in vaccines and improve vaccination rates, including childhood (non-COVID) vaccine rates, which are currently declining.
The COVID vaccine program has affected trust in routine vaccines. Childhood vaccine coverage has declined 1–2%. And there is a persistent issue around timeliness – kids not getting their vaccines within 30 days of the recommended time point.
The national Vaxinsights project examined the social and behavioural drivers of under-vaccination among parents of children under five years. It found access issues were the main barriers to partially vaccinated children. Cost, difficulty making an appointment and the ability to prioritise appointments due to other conflicting needs were other barriers. Trust was not a major barrier for this group.
However for unvaccinated children, vaccine safety and effectiveness concerns, and trust in information from the health-care provider, were the leading issues, rather than access barriers.
To improve childhood vaccination rates, governments need to monitor the social and behavioural drivers of vaccination over time to track changes in vaccine acceptance. They also need to address barriers to accessing immunisation services, including affordability and clinic opening hours.
It is also imperative we learn from the lessons during COVID and better engage communities and priority populations, such as First Nations communities, people with disabilities and those from different cultural groups, to build trust and improve access through community drop-in and outreach vaccine programs.
To address the decline in adult COVID vaccination we need to focus on perceptions of need, risk and value, rather than just focusing on trust. If adults don’t think they are at risk, they won’t get the vaccine. Unfortunately, when it comes to COVID, people have moved on and few people believe they need boosters.
Variant changes or enhancements to the vaccine (such as combined vaccines to protect against COVID and flu, or RSV or vaccines with long last protection) may encourage people to get vaccinated in the future. In the meantime, we agree with the inquiry that we should focus on those most at risk of severe outcomes, including residents in aged care and those with chronic health conditions.
The COVID inquiry recommends developing a communication strategy for health emergencies to ensure all Australians, including those in priority populations, families and industries, have the information they need.
While these are not strictly focused on the promotion of vaccination, the suggestions – including the need to work closely with and fund community and representative organisations – are aligned with what our COVID research showed.
However, the government should go one step further. Communication about vaccines must be tailored, translated for different cultural groups, and easy to understand.
In some settings, messages about the vaccines will have the most impact if they come from a health-care worker. But this is not always the case. Some people prefer to hear from trusted voices from their own communities. In First Nations communities, these roles are often combined in the form of Aboriginal Health Workers.
We must support these voices in future health emergencies.
During COVID, there was insufficient support and training for community helpers – such as community leaders, faith leaders, bilingual community workers, and other trusted voices – to support their vaccine communication efforts.
The government should consider implementing a national training program to support those tasked (or volunteering) to pass on information about vaccines during health emergencies. This would provide them with the information and confidence they need to undertake this role, as well as equipping them to address misinformation.
Holly Seale is an investigator on research studies funded by NHMRC and has previously received funding from NSW Ministry of Health, as well as from Sanofi Pasteur, Moderna and Pfizer for investigator driven research and consulting fees.
Julie Leask receives a fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council and research funding from the World Health Organization. She received reimbursement for overseas travel costs from Sanofi in April 2024.
Margie Danchin receives funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments, NHMRC/MRFF and DFAT.
– ref. Trust matters but we also need these 3 things to boost vaccine coverage – https://theconversation.com/trust-matters-but-we-also-need-these-3-things-to-boost-vaccine-coverage-242487
Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
Not only can fires in caravans and caravan parks lead to serious injuries and fatalities due to their inherent intensity and ability to spread quickly, if a fire breaks out in a tourist area it is critical that park staff and guests know what to do to evacuate safely and efficiently.
Education is vital to ensure park operators understand fire hazards so they can implement measures to prevent fires, protecting both property and guests.
CFA’s Bellarine Group of brigades, supported by CFA’s District 7 team, recently worked with the Victorian Caravan Parks Association to deliver a full day of fire safety education and training to more than 60 caravan park operators from across the state.
Held at Portarlington Fire Station on 18 October, the day covered fire risk, caravan park legislation, emergency management and evacuation planning, first attack firefighting and use of extinguishers, and property preparation.
Participants heard from CFA’s Community Infrastructure and Community Education teams, witnessing a demonstration of a gas cylinder flare off and learning how to use a fire blanket and test gas bottles for leaks.
They also used CFA’s Virtual Reality technology to experience putting out a small fire.
CFA district staff then helped owners familiarise themselves with how emergency services operate and respond in the event of a fire, discussing whether a truck could fit on the premises if a fire broke out at their park.
CFA’s Industry Fire Prevention Manager Leigh Marsh said educating caravan park operators, staff and ultimately their guests about fire safety could save lives and reduce injury in the event of a fire.
“Fire safety risks can vary in parks depending on where they are located, however the flammability of caravans and their small size means that if a fire starts from cooking, an accident or faulty equipment, there is a high risk of fatality,” Leigh said.
“The fire is also likely to spread quickly due to its proximity to other caravans and park facilities.
“For those parks situated in holiday areas such as our coastal hamlets, the risk of bushfire impacting the park is high and inadequate planning can lead to delays in people being able to evacuate safely.
“Knowledge of fire safety allows caravan park operators to develop and communicate effectively to their guests about emergency plans, ensuring a quick response if a fire occurs.”
Leigh said education and training was also important to help caravan park operators better understand their legal obligations in relation to fire safety.
“Caravan parks must comply with a range of legislative requirements in Victoria in relation to fire safety, including the CFA Caravan Park Fire Safety Guidelines, which were updated this year,” Leigh said.
“Caravan parks also often operate within local communities so being proactive in fire safety fosters goodwill and promotes community safety – as well as encourages visitors to come back.”
The Caravan Parks Information and Training Day was originally the brainchild of Ocean Grove brigade volunteers and was held each year at their station for about seven years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
David Wynn from Wynndean Holiday Resorts said it was great to see the day up and running again, especially given the release of new Caravan Park Guidelines.
“Relationship building is critical in the interpretation of the guidelines and their application,” David said.
“The day allowed park operators and staff to use firefighting equipment in a controlled setting which assisted greatly in understanding our fire safety and emergency management obligations.”
David, who is also a volunteer with Wye River Fire Brigade, said the timing of the event was perfect preparation for the peak holiday period and the upcoming fire danger period.
“We are very lucky to have access to this day in our region and the highly-credentialled and experienced presenters,” he said.
“The CFA team made it clear they were there to support us. Thank you to them and the many volunteers, local brigades and CFA district staff who contributed to the day’s success.
“We are looking forward to next year’s event, and if you are a park operator please go out and meet with your local brigade, invite them into your park and actively build those relationships.”
CFA Bellarine Group manager and Wallington brigade firefighter Alistair Drayton said part of CFA’s role was to help communities build resilience to fire and other emergencies through education, upskilling and developing relationships with sectors most at risk.
“Events such as this are important in building that momentum and supporting and promoting a safer response for all brigades across the state,” Alistair said.
“Thanks to the park operators for giving their time and enthusiasm. Their feedback was extremely positive including that the content presented was what was needed and easy to understand and implement.
“We look forward to continuing to build relationships with them in our ongoing efforts to foster resilient and safer communities.”
| Submitted by | CFA News |
|---|
Source: Ministers for Social Services
E&OE TRANSCRIPT
SUBJECTS: $241 million in outstanding Medicare payments owed to Australians; MP’s declaration of flights; academic pressure on politicians re: abortion laws.
REBECCA SHARKIE, MEMBER FOR MAYO: I’d like to now welcome the Minister for NDIS, Government Services Minister Bill Shorten, who I – I’m allowed to have favourites, the Minister is my favourite Minister in the government. There we go. Mic drop over to you.
BILL SHORTEN, MINISTER FOR THIS NDIS AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES: Look, it is great to be in Rebecca Sharkie’s electorate of Mayo. The truth of the matter is, Rebecca is one of the hardest working members of Parliament. She’s highly respected in all parts. And I was very keen to come and visit, hear her issues on the ground. It’s great to be here at Service Australia and the NDIA office. The Services Australia staff here look after over 100 people every day, making sure that people can get their pensions, their entitlements, their Medicare. And it’s fantastic, what this hard-working team do.
It’s also great to be here with staff from the National Disability Insurance Agency. The NDIS is changing hundreds of thousands of lives for the better. There’s been a lot of change. We’re making the scheme better. We’re making it true to its original purpose. We’re ensuring it’s sustainable. But all of that happens because we’ve got great people. So, the fact that call waiting times in Centrelink are down, processing payment times are now shorter in Medicare because of the hard work. And in the NDIS, we’re getting better outcomes for people daily, is due to hard work in Commonwealth public servants here in Mount Barker.
But I’m not just here to listen and not just here to say thank you to the public servants who look after people when they’re vulnerable or in distress. I’ve got some good news for South Australians and good news for Australians generally, during a cost-of-living crisis. At the moment, there is $241 million of Medicare payments which people have accrued. In other words, the money is there for them. There’s 930,000 of our fellow Australians, from every corner of this continent and all walks of life, who actually are entitled to get rebates for the health system. They just haven’t collected them.
In South Australia alone, there’s $19 million, just basically sitting in the government bank accounts for 73,800 South Australians who, all they have to do is because we don’t have their current bank details, we can’t just automatically send it to them. So, this is good news, but it’s also a request. People should go to the myGov website or the myGov app, link up their Medicare card to their myGov account, and then make sure that the bank details are up to date. You will receive any outstanding money within three working days. That’s all you’ve got to do. Like, if finding treasure was this easy, we’d all be treasure hunters.
But the reality is we’ve got a national treasure. It’s called Medicare. It’s there to help people defray the costs of their health system. And what we find is that there’s $241 million which people legitimately can claim, just tell us your bank account details and then we will pay you. And you know, when you think about a million people and a quarter of $1 billion, that’s not small change. For some people, I think the average that’s owed is about $260, which is just great. But some people, there’s thousands of people who are owed tens of thousands of dollars. So, my request, my plea, my invitation is, go online to myGov, download the myGov app, link up the Medicare card, make sure you’ve got your bank details up to date, and then if you’re owed money, bang, in three days, it’s in your account. This process will take you about ten minutes if you have to set up a myGov account and link it to Medicare. It’s a lot quicker if you’ve already got your myGov app and Medicare linked. Just update your bank details. Anyway, that’s good news and happy to take questions on this or any other matter.
JOURNALIST: How did this get uncovered in the first place?
SHORTEN: Well, it’s always been a thing. I’m just not sure my predecessors always talked about it. I want the money which is the money of the Australian people to be in Australian people’s bank accounts. So, it is possible, you know, you change banks, you can lose track of different things that you put in. You’re not sure. So, I can understand how in busy lives and changing details, thinking about whether or not the government’s got your current bank account details, it’s probably not your number one issue. If you’ve got to, you know, feed the dog, get the kids to school, you know, go to work. But it’s 241 million. We’ve been pushing this a bit to get money back to people. Since the end of last year, we have reunited $117 million with Australians who had outstanding payments, but literally, you don’t have to go on a treasure hunt. Just go to myGov. It’s your money. We just want to try and give it to you. Please just update your bank details.
JOURNALIST: It might be possible that scammers might jump on this and try.
SHORTEN: Oh yeah. One thing, listen, there’s a lot of – you know, scammers are wicked, wicked people. Um, and you know, international scammers, terrible. Don’t open a link. We won’t be sending you a link to open. You go to myGov website, you download the myGov app. We won’t be sending you a link to click and open. Do not click a link. You go to myGov website, and you go to the myGov app. Download that.
JOURNALIST: Is there a certain age group which is owed significantly more than others?
SHORTEN: Well, the Millennials. The Millennials, Gen Z. There is about 224,000 Gen Z-ers who are owed some money, so that’s the biggest group. But what is interesting when you look at the age cohorts are there’s children, so, through their parents, Gen Z is the biggest group, but it’s right up to people in their 80s. So everywhere in Australia, there’s 930,000 people who are owed money. And literally, it’s not that hard to get. You’ve just got to sort of prioritize it for about ten minutes of your life. I’m not saying you might well be up to date with your Medicare payments, so that’s good, that doesn’t mean you get any more. But for 930,000 of our fellow citizens, it’s just there. Like, it’s like picking apples off a tree.
JOURNALIST: And this obviously isn’t just in the last financial year. Has this been accruing over time?
SHORTEN: It accrues over time, yes. I mean, this year, last financial year, this nation of ours paid out $30 billion in Medicare payments, but there’s a quarter of a billion which is ready to be paid, which hasn’t been collected.
JOURNALIST: As you said, this keeps happening. Do processes perhaps need to be a bit more streamlined?
SHORTEN: Yeah, we do so – well, the good news is we’re taking a lot of government services online so we can digitally notify a lot of people. Until we had the myGov app, once upon a time, you’d get, you know, myGov, “you have mail”. And that was sort of almost like a nightmare for people because they’d have to try different systems. Very clunky. You’d have to go to the site. The myGov app is great. It’s in the Google shop, just download it. So, we can notify people digitally. We’ve got 30 different campaigns on campuses to let students know, but I think this is something which we can more proactively push, which is why we’re doing it today. We’re doing it in Rebekha Sharkie’s electorate. She has people in Mount Barker, 795 who are owed some money. They’ve just got to update their bank registration details.
JOURNALIST: It doesn’t run out. Does the government going to hold on to these?
SHORTEN: Yeah, we’re not spending it. No, there’s no there’s no due date where then it’s garnisheed. It just builds up. But let’s just get it out the door. Cost of living crisis. This is this is really good practical stuff, by the way. It’s not inflationary. This is money which has already been accrued, banked, allocated. We just need to help people reunite with it.
JOURNALIST: On other matters if that’s okay. Minister. Police are currently investigating the death of a woman in Port Augusta, apparently living with quite significant disability, but wasn’t on the NDIS. She was just living in squalor. How can something, how does someone fall through the cracks like this? Or is the onus on the person with the disability to get onto the NDIS?
SHORTEN: First of all, this woman’s passing is a tragedy. I understand she was about 26. It’s just tragic. That’s the first point I’d want to make. People with disabilities are vulnerable. It’s a tragedy when someone dies. As I understand in 20 – I’ve only just heard about this matter – in 2017, there was an initial expression of interest to be on the scheme. Then documentation was sent back, and then nothing more was ever heard. South Australian police, you know, they’re the professionals. We’re going to let them investigate. Obviously, we want to see what the findings are. But I think this is an issue not just for government. You know, the great people here or, you know, a local member can’t know what’s going on behind the fence and behind the door in every house. But communities, we’ve all got to look after each other, look out for each other more. Um, and sometimes people with disabilities can be socially isolated, or they might just have a relationship, and if that breaks down, then no one cares. So, I think it is a tragedy and a disaster. And the challenge here, though, is how do we as a community make sure that if someone isn’t seen for a while, what are we doing about it? So, I think this is not just one on government. This is one on all of us, to keep an eye out for each other.
JOURNALIST: When there is a request to NDIS and you don’t hear back, are steps taken to follow up or is that it?
SHORTEN: I don’t know what the system was in 2017. Yeah, we do follow up and we do go back to people. But at the end of the day, if someone doesn’t want to persist with an application, you’re not going to make them. It’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.
JOURNALIST: Do you think there needs to be more independent processes or safeguards for people to report concerns?
SHORTEN: I think the question really is, and I’ll be interested in what the South Australian police say, from 2017, who knew about her circumstances? That’s a pretty relevant question, isn’t it? I don’t expect every politician in Australia to know every one of 110,000 adults in their electorate, but one thing they have in some states are community visitor programs. There’s a role also here for the state government. I know Nat Cook is a very conscientious Minister, though. I don’t think there’s a better Disability Minister in the country at the state level. But I think that we need to have a discussion with councils because councils often know where – I mean, maybe I don’t know if anything could have been done to avoid this death. I don’t know. But generally, your council bylaw officers often know where the dodgy houses are. They know what’s happening. I think community visitor programs are very good, where you’ve got volunteers who want to just pop in and check in on people. I think the community generally needs to notice if your neighbours aren’t around, or if they haven’t seen them in a while. What we do though, of course when we get someone who seeks a plan, is we have red flags. So, if you get to sit down and you want your individual plan, we look at their social circumstances. Are they vulnerable where they might just have a carer as a relationship or just one person? o that’s something we certainly take into account in the planning stage, but it’s not compulsory to be on the NDIS.
JOURNALIST: Do you think this was an extreme case or do you are you concerned with how many others there might be out there like this?
SHORTEN: It’s an extreme case, but I also am concerned, and it might be rare, but that doesn’t make it acceptable. But let’s let South Australian police see what they say and recommend will, of course. Watch the findings.
JOURNALIST: We just might move on to the whole Qantas saga at the moment and the whole flights. Peter Dutton now has admitted to taking flights from Gina Rinehart. Do you think MPs are going to be looking at their flight logs?
SHORTEN: First of all, let’s go to the heart of the matter. The Prime Minister has done everything according to the rules that are in place. He’s made that clear. He’s also made clear that he didn’t approach Alan Joyce for upgrades. That’s the sort of – that’s where this this debate started. Now, of course, it’s cascading into the adequacy of reporting, you know, the role of upgrades. Just two observations. The Liberals have been holding themselves out to be pretty pure and pretty holier than thou, but then it turns out they’ve got problems.
This reminds me of when Malcolm Turnbull went on the attack, when he was an opposition leader, and there was a whistleblower who I believe was called Godwin Grech and said somehow Kevin Rudd had done something wrong on a used car scheme and it was just wrong. So, I think oppositions need to be very careful about playing the man and going after the Prime Minister because they, I think, have their own problems. They clearly don’t live in a glass house.
But the other observation I want to make is this I think politicians work incredibly hard. I think they’re very committed. They want to make a difference. I think the opposition fascination with airlines lets the big issue of cost of living off the hook. You know, I’m here today with Rebecca. We want to talk about, how do we get money, which people are owed, in their pockets so they’ve got a little bit more for Christmas. So, you know, I think the opposition’s sort of made a meal of this. They’ve held themselves up to be saintly and they’re not. And I think they’re in danger of overreaching. And maybe they might even shoot themselves in the foot.
JOURNALIST: But do you do you think that the Prime Minister, by using terminology like he didn’t call Alan Joyce, he could have cleared it up by clarifying it from the outset?
SHORTEN: Well, first of all, there’s been a book written. Everyone got excited about that. Or at least Mr. Albanese’s enemies did. He’s cleared it up. We want to get on with talking about cost of living.
JOURNALIST: Sorry, one quick question. Do you recall working with a Professor Joanna Howe?
SHORTEN: Not in the Parliament, no. Way back when I was a union official, I don’t really recall, but that would be 20 years ago.
JOURNALIST: This is a question from another network, but there was, she was championing an anti-abortion bill lately, and she’s admitted to pressuring a politician to abandon a pair vote. Your thoughts on, you know, an academic trying to pressure MPs to vote a certain way?
SHORTEN: Listen, I’ve accused of being ambitious. I’ve been ambitious for the Australian people, but I’ve never been ambitious enough to run for the South Australian parliament. I think Peter Malinauskas is outstanding. I’m not really wanting to get into South Australia and the entrails of South Australian politics. I do make this point about a woman’s right to choose nationally. I think Mr. Dutton needs to come out and be very clear that if he was ever elected Prime Minister, he wouldn’t use federal powers to roll back the protections that women have to accessing our safe and healthy treatment.
JOURNALIST: Sorry, Minister, I just have to take you back to the flights. Can I ask, does Bridget McKenzie have anything to question for, any questions to answer? If she hasn’t declared flights, should she be found in contempt of the Senate?
SHORTEN: Oh, man, the Senate. We have enough time in the Reps. I think the point here is that the Liberals got on their high horse, and they’ve been throwing a lot of mud, but I think what’s ended up is they’ve ended up with most of it on their own face.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested a female youth and a male adult in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Palmerston yesterday evening.
Around 6:30pm, police received reports of an adult male and a female youth allegedly threatening bar staff at a licenced premises on University Avenue, demanding alcohol.
A short time later, the two offenders allegedly threatened a man before stealing his golf buggy and travelling to another business on University Avenue, in the golf buggy, where they stole multiple items.
While attempting to flee in the stolen buggy, the offenders collided with a parked vehicle, the male offender fled the scene, and the female offender was apprehended nearby members of the public.
The 38-year-old male offender has since been apprehended by Strike Force Trident.
Both offenders remain in custody and are expected to be charged later today.
Strike Force Trident are continuing investigations into the incidents.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444 and quote P24300362.
Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
The repertoire of Moscow theatres this season includes classic works in unexpected interpretations and modern plays, anticipated premieres and performances that have been on stage for many years. Theatre and film actress Elena Zakharova told mos.ru readers about the productions that particularly impressed her.
“I have a pretty busy schedule: work in the theater, filming, touring. And going to the theater as a spectator does not happen as often as I would like. Nevertheless, I try not to miss interesting theater events in Moscow whenever possible. Visiting the theater always means new emotions and vivid impressions. I am happy to share with you a short list of performances that can transform gloomy autumn evenings,” says the actress.
Address: Chistoprudny Boulevard, Building 19, Building 1
Dates: November 27 and 28, December 14 and 15
Age limit: 12
The play “Sasha Shishin” is a reason to remember childhood, to be touched and to think at the same time. The main character Sasha Shishin lives with a despotic mother, is in love with the neighbor girl Tanya and hates his classmate Bobrykin. In his imaginary world of childhood, he experiences all feelings with equal intensity and does not want to grow up at all. Sasha likes to look at the Moscow courtyard of the 1980s through bottle glass and see the Emerald City, where there is no hostility, malice and the hated Bobrykin. There is only joy, naive dreams and incredible love for Tanya.
A magical phantasmagoric world comes to life on stage thanks to animation, choreographic numbers, double puppets, songs by Petr Nalich and spectacular tricks.
You can buy tickets at mos.ru.
Address: Bolshaya Sadovaya street, house 16, building 1
Dates: November 20, December 6 and 22
Age limit: 12
Every Friday, František Abel’s old friends from the nursing home gather in his small apartment, which he shares with his grandson Pavel, and reminisce about the happy past. Pavel, having decided to get married, suggests that his grandfather move in with his friends – he thinks it will be better for everyone. But he does not understand how important his home is to František – the only place where reality is not so harsh.
Oswald Zahradnik’s play is tragicomic, but its parable essence immerses the characters in a fantasy world, a timelessness between the past and the present.
Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.
Address: Tverskoy Boulevard, Building 23, Building 1
Dates: November 4th and 5th, December 17th and 18th
Age limit: 12
Director Evgeny Pisarev turned Beaumarchais’ classic comedy of situations into a real celebration with spectacular sets and beautiful costumes, charming characters extricating themselves from complex intrigues, and an inevitable happy ending.
Figaro is pursued by failures in all his endeavors, but the hero, full of dignity and love of life, does not despair. Even having experienced the betrayal of a friend and the imaginary betrayal of a young wife, he does not lose faith in love and himself.
Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.
Address: Taras Shevchenko Embankment, Building 29
Date: November 13
Age limit: 12
The main conflict of the famous Gogol’s play is at first glance very clear – matchmaking, albeit involving trickery and confusion, but still with an inevitable wedding in the finale. And how far from this the comedy turns out to be – everything in it seems to be turned inside out, everything is the opposite.
A simple everyday story turns into a wonderfully absurd and ridiculous buffoonery, a carnival with grooms’ viewing and a lot that the bride is ready to draw. That is why “The Marriage” by director Evgeny Kamenkovich turned into “An Absolutely Incredible Event”.
Tickets are available at mos.ru.
Address: Neglinnaya street, house 29, building 1
Dates: November 15 and 16, December 12, 13, 26 and 27
Age limit: 18
“The Lady of the Camellias” is the most famous work of Alexandre Dumas (fils), it is based on real events: the prototype of the Parisian courtesan Marguerite was the author’s beloved. The novel was transferred to the stage of the Theater on Trubnaya this season by Dmitry Astrakhan, the main roles are played by Valeria Lanskaya and Sukhrab Khaylobekov.
Margarita loves camellias because they have no scent, candied grapes because they have no taste, and rich men because they have no heart. But behind the desire to escape from feelings lies fragility, vulnerability, and a thirst for true love. A chance encounter gives Margarita hope for a different life, but will the heroine be able to allow herself to be real?
Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.
Address: Karetny Ryad Street, Building 3, Bldg. 3
Dates: November 16 and 29, December 5 and 18
Age limit: 16
Two friends who haven’t seen each other for a long time meet at a sanatorium on the Black Sea coast. Valentin is a successful civil servant, a married man who came to relax, and Sergey, a lonely entertainer, works and lives at this recreation center. In the past, they courted the same girl, Galina – then Valentin won thanks to his influential father. How will this love story end many years later?
The plot is based on the play of the same name by Viktor Rozov.
Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.
Address: Bolshoy Kozikhinsky Lane, Building 30
Date: November 25
Age limit: 16
Beethoven has come a long way from obscurity to worldwide fame, from despair to hope. The path that lay through the struggle with the most terrible illness for a musician and composer – deafness. However, the life of a genius is not limited to the years indicated in the biography, Beethoven lives today – in his works.
The Praktika Theatre’s production is about a composer who wanted to “embrace all of humanity.” The creators told his story without pathos, through acting and mummery, an endless change of masks, and in the diverse and contradictory context of his time.
Tickets are available at mos.ru.
Address: Perovskaya street, house 75
Date: November 8
Age limit: 12
The novel Fathers and Sons became a landmark for its time, and the image of the main character, Yevgeny Bazarov, was perceived by young people as an example to follow – they were enchanted by his uncompromising nature, his lack of worship of authorities and old truths.
The worldview conflict of generations intersects in the play with love triangles. “Fathers” defend their foundations from rebellious “children”, women defend their rights. The line between the modern and classical vision of Ivan Turgenev’s work at the Moscow Theatre of Illusion is very thin.
Tickets can be purchased at mos.ru.
Address: Kazakova street, house 8
Dates: November 2 and 22, December 6 and 30
Age limit: 16
The classic play by Alexander Ostrovsky for the renovated Moscow Drama Theatre named after N.V. Gogol was interpreted by Anton Yakovlev. His production immerses the viewer in the world of mystical drama with elements of tragicomedy, revealing the story of a person’s struggle with temptations – absurd, funny and sometimes frightening.
The plot centers on Katerina, for whom forbidden love becomes a source of internal conflict. Perceiving passion as a challenge from the surrounding reality, the heroine is forced to fight the moral foundations and pressure of a stagnant conservative society. And the path to liberation will be a very difficult test.
You can buy tickets at mos.ru.
Address: Tverskaya street, building 5/6
Dates: November 8 and 19, December 8 and 17
Age limit: 16
In Athens they used to say: “The law is above all in human life, and the unwritten law is above the written.” This is what Antigone, written by Sophocles in 442 BC, is dedicated to. In the early 1940s, Jean Anouilh created his own version of the famous tragedy – and the image of the main character then became one of the embodiments of the highest morality.
The play is based on the mythological plot of the Theban cycle. Polynices, the son of King Oedipus, fought with his brother for power after the death of his father and died at the walls of Thebes. The new king Creon forbade the burial of Polynices’ body, while the defender of the city Eteocles was buried according to the law. Their younger sister Antigone, who disagreed with this decision, buries Polynices at night, bypassing the guards, knowing that she would die for it.
Fate or will? Laws of the country or laws of conscience? What is a person willing to do, driven by love? Answers to these eternal questions have not been found for many centuries, but everyone has the opportunity to make their own choice. And director Vladimir Kimmelman considers the play more relevant today than ever.
Tickets are available at mos.ru.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145977073/
Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
Moscow projects win the XI All-Russian Tourism Prize “Route of the Year”. The following were awarded in various nominations: the exhibition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet” in the “Smart City” pavilion at VDNKh, the AR quest “Conquering Space” and the interactive route “Architectural Secrets of the Past: Augmented Reality Journey” in the “Discover Moscow” application, the Mostourism project “Moscow Vladimir Region. Journey to a Russian Fairy Tale”, as well as a gamified tour of “MetaVDNKh” with Vanya Dmitrienko.
More than 450 applications from 62 regions of Russia were submitted to participate in this year’s award.
“All the Moscow projects nominated this year were developed for city residents who not only love to travel, walk around the capital and learn something new, but also actively use modern technologies for this. Routes, excursions and quests with augmented reality allow you to immerse yourself in the history of familiar places and get a completely new experience of interacting with space. And thanks to the unique exhibition dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Runet, you can learn how technologies and IT solutions have been created and developed in the capital since 1994,” the press service noted.
Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.
In the nomination “Best online route in the city”, the grand prix of the award was given to a unique educational tour of “MetaVDNKh” using game mechanics. The VDNKh metaverse is an exact virtual copy of the main exhibition of the country, created on the basis of a 3D model from a digital twin of Moscow, to which the smallest details of buildings and interiors were added using gaming industry technologies. In the year of the 85th anniversary of VDNKh, all RuNet users were given the opportunity to walk through the metaverse of the exhibition. Tour participants can, without leaving home, take an interactive journey through time and learn the history of the development of the nuclear industry, the conquest of space and film production technologies, and thanks to the interactive format, take a new look at the familiar and familiar pavilions of VDNKh.
The Grand Prix in the nomination “Best modern digital technologies in tourism” was awarded to the exposition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet” in the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh. The first place in the same nomination went to the AR quest Conquering Space, a project developed by the capital’s Department of Information Technology together with the Moscow Museum of Cosmonautics and available in the online guide Discover Moscow.
The exhibition for the 30th anniversary of the Runet in the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh is dedicated to the history of Moscow’s digitalization. Today, Moscow is one of the smartest megacities in the world, a city where technology helps people every day. Many Muscovites can no longer imagine their lives without convenient services, gadgets, and an intelligent urban environment. However, just 30 years ago, there was no mobile Internet, no smartphones, no electronic services in Moscow. The exhibition features more than 30 interactive exhibits that tell how digital solutions have been created and developed in the capital over three decades, and how familiar areas of urban life have changed along with them. Since its opening, the exhibition has already been visited by more than 100,000 people.
The AR quest “Conquering Space” in the mobile application of the online guide “Discover Moscow” is the first interactive route through the Moscow Museum of Cosmonautics. It allows you to learn more about space and look at legendary rockets, satellites and devices in augmented reality. Thanks to the presented 3D models of space technology samples, users can imagine themselves, for example, witnessing the launch of the Vostok launch vehicle or see how the docking unit created for the Soyuz and Apollo spacecraft works.
The second place in two nominations at once – “Best Interregional Route” and “Best Tourist Guide” – was awarded to the project Mosturism “Moscow Vladimir Region. Journey into a Russian Fairytale”. It offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the wealth of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, linking two ancient principalities – Vladimir and Moscow. Participants can immerse themselves in an atmosphere full of amazing stories and traditions, as well as get to know local attractions and take part in exciting master classes.
The Moscow Vladimir Region project is being implemented within the framework of the “Improving the Availability of Tourist Services” initiative of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry” with the aim of popularizing short interregional trips. More information about the national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found find out here.
In the special nomination “Best City Tour” for an innovative approach to creating a mass city tour, the route “Architectural Secrets of the Past: Augmented Reality Journey” in the “Discover Moscow” application was noted. It allows you to study in detail the iconic monuments of the past and architectural objects of the present using augmented reality technology. Participants of the walk rediscover Moscow of the 18th-19th centuries, plunging into the era of two centuries ago. At the same time, you can examine three-dimensional models of lost historical architectural monuments, for example Sukharev tower AndRed Gate, and also imagine how the capital has changed over the years.
All-Russian Tourism Award “Route of the Year” has been held since 2014. It was established as an industry award, awarded based on the results of an open all-Russian competition of projects for achievements in the field of creating and developing tourist routes. Over 10 years, the award has become a significant project for domestic tourism, which helps to identify and support the best initiatives in this area.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145987073/
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Emergency services are in attendance at a serious crash in Tuakau this afternoon.
Police were notified of the crash between a vehicle and motorbike, on Buckland Road, at about 4.38pm.
Early indications suggest one person has received critical injuries.
Road closures are in place at Wright and Buckland Roads, Logan and Buckland Roads and Ray White and Tuakau Roads.
Motorists are advised to expect delays or seek an alternate route.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Attributable to Senior Sergeant Craig Vining:
One man is due to appear in court following a serious crash in Onekawa this morning.
At around 8.05am, Police were called to the intersection of Taradale Road and Riverbend Road after reports of a vehicle rolling multiple times and colliding with another vehicle.
One person received critical injuries and was transported to hospital.
Police are making enquiries into the circumstance of the crash.
A 31-year-old man is due to appear in Napier District Court on Friday 1 November, facing multiple charges including unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and reckless driving.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: United Nations secretary general
On this World Cities Day, we recognize the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures.
With more than half of the world’s population and 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis. And they need the energy and vision of youth leading the charge for change.
From grassroots movements to innovation labs, young people are pushing for ambitious climate action. They are championing renewable energy integration, green jobs, clean public transportation, and climate adaptation measures – contributing to shape sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.
We must amplify their voices, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making. By empowering young people, we can accelerate climate action and drive global progress for the Sustainable Development Goals.
As we mark World Cities Day, let us celebrate the power of youth to build green, resilient and inclusive cities that meet the needs and aspirations of future generations.
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À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, nous saluons le rôle des jeunes dans l’action climatique et la construction de l’avenir des villes.
Abritant plus de la moitié de la population mondiale, les villes produisent 70 % des émissions mondiales de gaz à effet de serre : elles sont donc en première ligne de la crise climatique. Elles ont besoin des idées et du dynamisme des jeunes, qui mènent la charge du changement.
Des mouvements locaux aux laboratoires d’innovation, les jeunes réclament une action climatique ambitieuse. Ils militent pour une intégration des énergies renouvelables, des emplois verts, des transports publics propres et des mesures d’adaptation aux changements climatiques – autant de contributions à la construction de villes durables où chaque personne peut s’épanouir.
Nous devons relayer le message des jeunes, investir dans leurs idées et promouvoir leur participation véritable à la prise de décisions en matière d’urbanisme. En leur donnant les moyens d’agir, nous pouvons accélérer l’action climatique et faire avancer la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable au niveau mondial.
À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale des villes, célébrons le pouvoir des jeunes de construire des villes vertes, résilientes et inclusives, qui répondent aux besoins et aux aspirations des générations futures.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Attributable to Inspector Juliet Burgess, Tamaki Makaurau Road Policing Manager
One person has been injured following a crash in the Waterview Tunnel, Southwestern Motorway after fleeing Police.
Shortly before 2.30pm Police received reports of a motorcycle riding on the wrong side of the road, in the northbound lane of the Southwestern Motorway near Walmsley.
Police signalled for the motorcycle to stop but it failed to do so and instead fled from Police. Police blocked the northern end of the Waterview Tunnel and again signalled for the motorcycle to stop. It did not stop and fled back into the tunnel.
A short time later the motorcycle collided with a Police vehicle in the tunnel. The motorcyclist was transported to Auckland Hospital in a serious condition.
One southbound lane in Waterview Tunnel was blocked while emergency services attended, and the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.
All lanes have now re-opened but there is still congestion, Police advise motorists to expect delays on the Southwestern Motorway and surrounding roading network.
As standard practice, the matter will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.
Any further information will be issued proactively when available.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
The city plans to conclude two offset contracts – for the supply of SAM (Secure Access Module) secure access modules for public transport fare payment devices and for the provision of services for the disposal of abandoned vehicles. For this purpose, the Moscow Government will organize electronic tenders. The corresponding orders were signed by Sergei Sobyanin.
Under the terms of the first offset contract, the winner of the competition will undertake to create a new or modernize an existing production of SAM modules in the capital within three years. They are necessary for equipping turnstiles, validators, cash desks, terminals and ticket machines in public transport.
“Electronic products will ensure the security of storing information on Troika travel tickets and transactions on them,” wrote Sergei Sobyanin
Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin
It is planned to purchase a total of at least 172 thousand SAM modules over seven years. Organizing their production is part of the project for the transition of Moscow city transport to domestic technologies. This will allow building a multi-level system for protecting travel tickets and transactions on them.
The Troika card is the main instrument for paying for travel on the capital’s public transport. Since its launch in 2013, more than 50 million unified transport cards have been issued.
Under the terms of the second offset contract, the winner of the competition will undertake to create a new or modernize an existing enterprise for the disposal of decommissioned vehicles in the capital within two years.
“This will also help ensure environmentally safe recycling of technical liquids, heavy metals and other chemical waste,” added the Moscow Mayor.
For its part, the Moscow Government guarantees a recycling volume of no less than 200 thousand tons of vehicles and used spare parts over 10 years.
About 100 new jobs will be created at the production site. By refusing to use third-party contractors, the city budget will save up to 100 million rubles a year.
Every year, city services evacuate about three thousand abandoned and dismantled vehicles, including at the request of Muscovites. on the portal “Our City”.
Moscow Offset Contracts
In 2017–2024, the Moscow Government concluded 22 offset contracts for the supply of medicines, medical products, food products for milk kitchens, landscaping elements, traction batteries for electric transport, municipal equipment and other products important for the city. The total volume of purchases under them will amount to about 413 billion rubles. In total, about seven thousand new jobs will be created.
Under eight offset contracts, investors have already completed the creation of production facilities and started delivering products. The city receives drugs for the treatment of oncological, cardiological, endocrine and autoimmune diseases, as well as antiglaucoma, antibacterial, analgesic drugs, antidepressants and neuroleptics. Medical products are supplied to Moscow social institutions, and baby food is supplied to milk distribution points.
Of the concluded offset contracts, three are inter-subject in nature. Moscow’s partners are the Republic of Karelia, Vladimir and Orenburg regions. Under these contracts, the city will receive crushed stone and stabilizing additives for road construction, as well as tulip planting kits.
Sobyanin: Offset contracts allow us to guarantee the receipt of important products
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11972050/
