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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two in custody following alleged Tasman Highway evade

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Two in custody following alleged Tasman Highway evade

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 4:00 pm.

    Two people remain in custody and are assisting police with their inquiries following an alleged evade incident in Southern Tasmania earlier today.
    Significant police resources were deployed after a vehicle allegedly evaded police at Colebrook just after 12.30pm.  
    The Westpac Rescue Helicopter assisted by safely maintaining observations and reducing the risk posed to the public and police. 
    A blue Ford Courier ute was observed by the helicopter allegedly driving dangerously on the highway, travelling on the incorrect side of the road and into oncoming traffic.
    The ute was successfully spiked by police before the alleged offenders were provided with another vehicle by a person known to them and they were again detected driving erratically in a silver Ford Laser.
    The alleged offenders were safely taken into custody at Brighton just before 2pm after their sedan crashed into another vehicle and they unsuccessfully attempted to carjack another vehicle.  
    The driver and passenger of the vehicle the alleged offenders crashed into were taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital as a precaution.
    Investigations are ongoing and police would like to thank members of the public who reported the vehicles during the incident.
    Anyone with information about a blue Ford Courier ute or a silver Ford Laser driving dangerously on the Tasman Highway in the Colebrook, Lindisfarne or Risdon Vale areas between 12.30pm and 2pm should contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 185-02052025
    Dash cam footage can be uploaded here

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Solid results for the first quarter of 2025 driven by good customer activity across the business and strong credit quality in an uncertain global environment. Net profit of DKK 5.8 billion.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release Danske Bank
    Bernstorffsgade 40
    DK-1577 København V
    Tel. + 45 45 14 14 00

    2 May 2025

    Page 1 of 3

    Solid results for the first quarter of 2025 driven by good customer activity across the business and strong credit quality in an uncertain global environment
    Net profit of DKK 5.8 billion.

    Carsten Egeriis, Chief Executive Officer, comments on the financial results:

    “For Danske Bank, the first quarter of 2025 was a continuation of our satisfactory and stable performance in 2024. We delivered solid results in line with our expectations, driven by a steady development in core income and a stable cost level. In addition, credit quality remained strong, and this resulted in low loan impairments.

    Our solid financial results and capital position enable us to be a strong financial partner that offers expert advice and helps our customers and society navigate the uncertainty. We continue to invest in technology and customer offerings, and we are well on track to meet our targets and to deliver on our Forward ’28 strategy.”

    Solid financial performance

    In a challenging market environment, we continued our work to deliver on our strategic ambitions and achieved a strong return on shareholders’ equity of 13.3% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 12.9% in the first quarter of 2024, while also reducing the cost/income ratio from 45.4% to 45.2%.

    Net profit increased 2% to DKK 5.76 billion as a result of an 8% increase in net fee income, driven by solid customer demand for cash management and everyday banking activities, a 15% increase in net trading income, which also benefited from good customer activity, as well as lower operating expenses and low loan impairment charges. The increases in net fee income and net trading income were partly offset by slightly lower net interest income due to rate cuts and the divestment of the personal customer business in Norway as well as lower net income from insurance business, which was affected by a one-off provision.

    The improvement was based on strong business customer activity as our Business Customers and Large Corporates & Institutions units both saw solid growth in lending volumes and an expanding customer base, underpinning core income line increases.

    Continuously good demand for our products from personal customers in Denmark resulted, among other things, in an increase in deposits as well as in the market share of bank lending. We have therefore seen a stable performance, despite the divestment of the personal customer business in Norway, as deposit growth and the rise in net fee income due to strong customer activity partially offset the effect of interest rates coming down.

    Sustainability remains a core pillar of our Forward ’28 strategy, and we have published our Climate Action Plan Progress Report 2024, which provides an update on the Group’s climate targets set in January 2023.

    “Thanks to our strong capital and liquidity positions, we continue to support our customers in these uncertain times, as evidenced by our Q1 results. We saw a solid financial performance, driven in particular by strong business customer activity, which resulted in stable core banking income and higher net trading income. The increase in net profit was supported by stable costs and a low level of impairments,” says Cecile Hillary, Chief Financial Officer.

    First quarter 2025 vs first quarter 2024

    Total income of DKK 13.9 billion (DKK 14.0 billion in the first quarter of 2024)

    Operating expenses of DKK 6.3 billion (DKK 6.3 billion in the first quarter of 2024)

    Loan impairments of DKK 50 million (DKK 101 million in the first quarter of 2024)

    Net profit of DKK 5.8 billion (DKK 5.6 billion in the first quarter of 2024)

    Return on shareholders’ equity of 13.3% (12.9% in the first quarter of 2024)

    Strong capital generation further supported capital ratios: Total capital ratio of 22.9 % and CET1 capital ratio of 18.4% (total capital ratio of 23.0% and CET1 capital ratio of 18.5% in the first quarter of 2024)

    Stable economies in uncertain environment

    Danske Bank’s results for the first quarter of 2025 highlight the resilience of the Nordic economies amid global uncertainty. In the first quarter of 2025, we saw an increasingly promising outlook for growth and inflation and robust employment across the Nordic countries. Although household credit demand remained modest, consumer spending continued to hold up well throughout the Nordic countries, despite the higher degree of uncertainty.

    Globally, US tariffs and potential retaliatory measures have created significant uncertainty regarding global growth prospects. While a potential risk of recession is highlighted in the US, a more moderate impact is expected on European growth, including in the Nordic countries.

    “A trade war and tariffs are likely to dampen growth in the Nordic countries, but the foundation is still in place for a decent economic outlook, as many interest rates have been lowered, real incomes are increasing and export markets other than the US continue to grow,” says Las Olsen, Head of Macro Research.

    Personal Customers

    Despite challenges, the housing market in Denmark showed consistent growth, and signs of recovery emerged in Finland, while Sweden’s housing market continued to face difficulties. Profit before tax for Personal Customers decreased 18% relative to the level in the first quarter of 2024 and amounted to DKK 2.25 billion. The decrease was due mainly to higher loan impairment charges. Additionally, both income and operating expenses were affected by the divestment of our personal customer business in Norway. We concluded negotiations with Blackrock to implement their Aladdin Wealth platform to enhance investment services and improved the digital self-service tools that customers use to manage their mortgages.

    Business Customers

    In the first quarter of 2025, we expanded our customer base in the mid-sized segment across the Nordic markets and grew our business with international subsidiaries. Profit before tax amounted to DKK 2.83 billion and increased 64% from the level in the same period last year, primarily on the back of loan impairment reversals and increased net fee income, although the increase was to some degree offset by lower income from our leasing company. We continued to support our customers’ business growth as a strategic financial partner, sharing expert insights on economic issues and launching training programmes to enhance the skills of our leaders and advisers.

    Large Corporates & Institutions

    Despite increased geopolitical uncertainty, macroeconomic conditions remained stable. We supported customers with advisory services, backed by a strong product offering, and supported major bond issues in the Nordic region. Our fee business maintained the positive momentum across all areas. Profit before tax decreased to DKK 2.4 billion, or 12% relative to the level in the same period last year, due to higher loan impairment charges, although the return on allocated capital before impairments increased to 27.2%.

    Danica

    Danica experienced a decrease in net income from insurance business to DKK 201 million in the first quarter of 2025, a fall of 59% from DKK 492 million in the same period last year. This was due primarily to a decrease in the insurance service result, which was impacted by provisions related to legacy life insurance products in run-off and more expensive claims in the health and accident business, partly offset by adjustment of an accrued interest income. The return on customer pension savings was impacted by large volatility in the equity markets, but bonds and alternative investments saw a more stable development.

    Northern Ireland

    Profit before tax increased 32% to DKK 602 million, reflecting strong growth in net interest income and net impairment recoveries. Profit before impairments was 15% higher than for the same period in 2024.

    Outlook for 2025

    We maintain our guidance and expect net profit to be in the range of DKK 21-23 billion. The outlook is subject to uncertainty and depends on economic conditions.

    Danske Bank        

    Contact: Helga Heyn, Head of Media Relations, tel. +45 45 14 14 00

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New agreement strengthens severe weather warning capability across NSW & ACT

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 02/05/2025

    The ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) and the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) have signed an agreement to ensure consistent cross-border warnings for severe weather events.

    Under this agreement the NSW SES will now incorporate the ACT in severe weather warnings that affect the wider region. These warnings will be issued under the Australian Warnings System, a nationally consistent approach to warnings across Australia.

    This means that if members of the community look at the NSW SES website or the Hazards Near Me NSW app they will soon be able to see severe weather warnings for both NSW and the ACT.

    With the agreement being signed this week, these changes will be implemented over the next few months and in place for the next storm season.

    The Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, welcomes this agreement and the benefits it will have for the ACT.

    “Given that the ACT is surrounded by New South Wales, strong collaboration with our cross-border partners is crucial for the benefit of our community. This agreement between the NSW SES and ESA highlights the power of sector cooperation, enhancing the way our community receives timely and effective warnings.

    “A strong relationship is founded on trust and mutual support. Once again, our NSW counterparts are demonstrating this commitment, which will not only enhance the effectiveness of severe weather warnings but also strengthen the long-term partnership between us.”

    Quotes attributable to ESA Commissioner, Wayne Phillips

    “Storms and other high-risk weather events are not bound by borders and our warnings for them shouldn’t be either. This agreement will provide the ACT community more opportunities to be alerted and take action to stay safe in emergencies.

    “I would like to thank the NSW SES for their commitment and cooperation to working to protect all communities through consistent, targeted and timely warnings. The NSW SES have and always will be a close partner of the ESA and agreements such as this show how strong our relationship is, which I know will only grow over time.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM

    “Storms and floods don’t stop at state and territory boundaries. This is an important step forward to ensure people can access information whether they are travelling within the ACT or NSW. NSW SES is delighted to continue to work with the ESA to help keep communities informed and safe.”

    – Statement ends –

    Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens on course for “record-breaking” night as early results come in

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    by Green Party

    Responding to early results from the night’s local and regional elections, Green Co-Leader and Bristol Central MP Carla Denyer said: 

    “It has been a good night for us in the West of England where we saw a race that was wide open.”  

    “The West of England result builds on Greens being elected to lead Bristol City Council, voters electing me as their first Green MP in the city, and major breakthroughs in local elections around the region in recent years. 

    “I’m pleased how well Greens did in this mayor contest. This result offers a great platform for more Green electoral success in the coming years – including at Westminster.” 

    “In Lambeth and Norwich early results suggest we are gaining councillors and are on course for yet another record-breaking night where we will increase the number of Green councillors serving their communities.

    “Five-party politics in England is the new norm, it’s here to stay, and Greens are only just getting started.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Parking changes to Liverpool city centre approved

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Dangerous and anti-social car parking will be targeted on the streets of Liverpool City Centre thanks to a new parking regime.

    Liverpool City Council will implement significant changes to its City Centre Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) to address growing parking demands, improve road safety, and enhance air quality. ​

    These proposals, approved by Liverpool City Council’s Highways and Spaces Representation Committee, aim to ensure the CPZ remains fit for purpose in light of the city’s evolving residential population and thriving night-time economy.

    There has been growing concerns from residents about reckless and inconsiderate parking in the city centre. This has been further highlighted recently with inconsiderate parking on Victoria Street, which has been occurring outside of existing operational hours.

    The CPZ changes will enable the Council to undertake robust enforcement over a longer time period.

    The changes that will be implemented will see the CPZ operational hours extended from 8am–6pm to 7am–11pm, Monday to Sunday. ​They will come into effect from the beginning of June.

    This change will increase enforcement on single yellow lines and parking bays, including pay-and-display and resident bays.

    The approval by the committee includes the provision that there will be a review in 12months’ time and an extra focus on safety in car parks.

    Other significant changes include:

    1. Increased Maximum Stay in Hope Street Area: ​Pay-and-display bays on Hope Street, Blackburne Place, Falkner Street, Maryland Street, and Caledonia Street will have their maximum stay increased from 2 hours to 4 hours, with no return within 1 hour. ​This adjustment supports the area’s growing night-time economy and hospitality sector. ​
    2. Shared Use Parking Bays: ​Certain loading and limited waiting bays will be converted to pay-and-display, resident, or disabled bays during evening hours. ​
    3. Revised Parking Tariffs: Parking charges will increase to align with other major UK cities, encouraging sustainable travel and reducing congestion. ​

    Extensive public consultations were conducted, including informal and statutory consultations.

    While some concerns were raised, the Council has adjusted the proposals to address feedback, particularly from local businesses. These include increasing the maximum stay in the Hope Street area to four hours and introducing shared-use bays after 6pm for disabled, resident, pay and display or single yellow lines, at a number of locations. ​

    The recent increase in parking charges saw Liverpool’s fees come into line with other similar sized cities, and is only the second rise in over a decade.

    The Council currently generates the lowest net income from parking services amongst the Core Cities, achieving £3.839m in 2023/24 compared to a Core City’s average of £10.603m.

    The Council controls just 28% of parking across the City, and, up till recently has on average charged 47% less than private sector car parks and other Core Cities for equivalent parking provision.

    The changes to the city centre’s controlled parking zone is needed as Liverpool has undergone substantial growth in recent years, including new developments, pedestrianised areas, and an expanding residential population. ​

    The rise of the night-time economy has placed significant pressure on parking availability, leading to congestion, illegal parking, and reduced access for residents and businesses. ​ The proposed changes aim to reduce congestion and improve road safety. They will also enhance air quality and promote sustainable travel, while ensuring better turnover of parking spaces for residents, businesses, and visitors. ​ ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Police Security Officers reporting for duty

    Source: New South Wales – News

    It was a particularly happy Friday for 14 new Police Security Officers (PSOs) who today graduated from the South Australia Police Academy.

    Nine men and five women bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experience to the role, including from retail, administration, disability work and as a prison officer.

    Ranging in age from 19 to 45 years, today’s graduates from PSO Qualification Program 6 provide an invaluable boost to SAPOL’s Police Security Services Branch.

    Following weeks of training in law and procedure, communications, and operational safety the new PSOs will now be posted to a variety of metropolitan locations, including high risk and critical infrastructure sites.

    Hannah is looking forward to ensuring the safety and security of government buildings, assets and people, while working closely with police officers.

    “I like the idea of every day being different and the range of pathways and opportunities,” she said.

    “I applied for SAPOL as soon as I turned 18. Prior I was working at a supermarket as a front-end supervisor, while also balancing out university and studying early childhood education.

    “I enjoy going to the gym, running and being active. I also have a passion for playing footy.”

    During her time at the academy, Hannah has gained confidence in her abilities.

    “I found the first few weeks of written exams stressful, but overcame that and passed the exams,” she said.

    “Out phase was a great experience and helped me relate to my academy learning.”

    Fellow graduate Nikhil worked in Victorian corrections as a prison officer and played indoor cricket before making the move to South Australia and joining SAPOL.

    “This experience developed my communication in conflict resolution and resilience skills which I found very helpful throughout the training and will continue to benefit me as a PSO,” he said.

    “The opportunity for personal growth and development, career stability and job security, a healthy work/life balance, and chance to contribute meaningful safety to the community are reasons why I applied to SAPOL.

    “The application process was thorough, but smooth, and it was encouraging to see the support offered throughout the recruitment process.”

    The support of mentors and course mates enabled Nikhil to overcome initial challenges, particularly with firearms training.

    “We built a strong team culture, checking in on each other regularly, offering support and help during assessments, exams and celebrating each other’s successes,” he added.

    “I have become more resilient, confident and better at managing high-pressure situations calmly and professionally.”

    Hannah hopes to one day become a police officer and to join Dog Operations Unit, while Nikhil aims to develop his skills as a PSO and eventually explore opportunities in operational support units.

    If you are looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit Achievemore – Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)

    Nikhil and Hannah are among 14 new Police Security Officers to graduate today from the South Australia Police Academy.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Archibald Packing Room Prize goes to Abdul Abdullah for Jason Phu portrait, among broader set of bold and deeply personal works

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanna Mendelssohn, Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Culture and Communication. Editor in Chief, Design and Art of Australia Online, The University of Melbourne

    Winner Packing Room Prize 2025, Abdul Abdullah ‘No mountain high enough’, oil on linen, 162.4 x 136.7cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter

    More than 50 years ago, when I was a junior curatorial assistant at the Art Gallery of NSW, I had the daunting experience of hanging the annual Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes.

    At the time the professional staff held the exhibitions in such disregard, they complained about the news media’s interest in this mediocrity while ignoring more worthy events.

    Attitudes changed in the 1980s with the late director Edmund Capon, who recognised popularity was an asset – not a disadvantage.

    Capon raised the prize money with sponsorships and started charging the public to see the winners. His strategy proved so successful that the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman exhibitions are now a significant source of revenue for the gallery.

    This year, the highly experienced Beatrice Gralton, Senior Curator of Contemporary Australian Art, has curated the exhibitions with support from a crew of more than 40 colleagues.

    Packing Room Prize goes to Abdul Abdullah

    In the 1970s, the media was refused access to the exhibitions until just before the winner was announced. Now it is actively courted with a public viewing of the works that survive the rigorous culling process.

    This takes place a week before the final judging, when the Packing Room Prize is announced. The changing status of this prize is also evidenced by changing personnel. Those who did the physical work of packing and loading artworks in the past were not expected to know much about art – and often gave the prize to paintings that would otherwise not be hung.

    In 2025, the specialist installation crew that handles the portraits in the packing room are most likely to be professional artists themselves – a reminder that most artists need another gig to stay afloat.

    This year’s Packing Room Prize winner is Abdul Abdullah’s portrait of fellow artist Jason Phu, No mountain high enough. There is a glorious irony in this, as Abdullah has long been a critic of the self-important art establishment.

    Winner Packing Room Prize 2025, Abdul Abdullah ‘No mountain high enough’, oil on linen, 162.4 x 136.7cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter.

    His work is a riff on the heroic paintings of 19th century landscapes, except for the flock of twittering birds that surround the head of the solitary rider, a bit like a halo.

    His subject, fellow artist Phu, has to be seen as a serious contender for the main prize, which will be announced on May 9. Phu’s portrait of actor Hugo Weaving – older hugo from the future fighting hugo from right now in a swamp and all the frogs and insects and fish and flowers now look on – has both the humour and energy that has long characterised his work.

    Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Jason Phu ‘older hugo from the future fighting hugo from right now in a swamp and all the frogs and insects and fish and flowers now look on’, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 183.2 x 152.5cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter.

    But there are many serious contenders for this year’s prize. Kurdish refugee Mostafa Azimitabar first exhibited in the Archibald in 2022, with a self-portrait painted in coffee, with a toothbrush. Art became his refuge during the many years he spent incarcerated as an asylum seeker.

    He still uses a toothbrush, but has used paint for his wonderfully fierce painting of a taut Grace Tame, appropriately named The definition of hope.

    Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Mostafa Azimitabar ‘The definition of hope’, oil on linen, 198.5 x 137.3cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter.

    Then there’s Kaylene Whiskey’s delightful self-portrait From comic to canvas, which manages to include images of her heroines, Dolly Parton and Tina Turner.

    Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Kaylene Whiskey ‘From comic to canvas’, synthetic polymer paint and book pages on plywood, 79.8 x 114.3cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter, Kaylene Whiskey.

    Not all works are so strident, however. Lucila Zentner’s Wendy in the gallery, is a subdued portrait of fellow artist Wendy Sharpe, placing her in the context of her art, almost as a decoration.

    Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Lucila Zentner ‘Wendy in the gallery’, oil on canvas, 60.3 x 50.5cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter.

    A suite of diverse storytelling

    As is spelt out in J.F. Archibald’s will, the judges of the Archibald Prize must be the trustees of the gallery, and no one else may interfere in their decision.

    However, for decades after a spectacular court case resulting from the 1943 Archibald, the trustees were so nervous of litigation that the final judging was administered by the NSW electoral office. In a court case in 1944, plaintiffs claimed the trustees’ 1943 decision was a breach of trust as the winning painting wasn’t a portrait. And one trustee claimed he had accidentally voted for the winner, thinking he was voting against it.

    Today, all decisions are made in-house. Court cases have been fought over whether entries were paintings (or not), painted from life (or not), selected by the trustees (or not). In 1990 Sidney Nolan had to withdraw his entry after it was pointed out he could not be described as a “resident in Australasia for 12 months preceding the date of entry”.

    But once the entry conditions are met, the curator has a free hand. This year, Gralton has hung all three exhibitions on the premise they are “about stories and storytelling”.

    There is the joyous extravagance of Meagan Pelham’s Magic Nikki and Charlie fancy pants party … Djaaaaaaaay, the stark analysis of Chris O’Doherty’s Self-portrait with nose tube, and the wildly painterly approach of Loribelle Spirovski’s Finger painting of William Barton.

    Archibald Prize 2025 finalist, Loribelle Spirovski ‘Finger painting of William Barton’, oil on canvas, 182.6 x 137cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter.

    In the Sulman prize exhibition – awarded for best subject painting, genre painting or mural project – the once academic modernist Mitch Cairns has gone full conceptual with his stark Narrow cast (studio mural). It looks like something straight out of the 1970s Art & Language movement.

    But my money is on Thom Roberts’ Mrs Picture Book and the three bears, a painting as a book, in three canvases.

    Sulman Prize 2025 finalist, Thom Roberts ‘Mrs Picture Book and the three bears’, triptych: synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 120 x 106.5 x 13cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.

    The Wynne prize is for both Australian landscapes and sculptures. This year there are many three-dimensional works, ranging from the elaborate Billy Bain to the almost agonised restraint of Heather B. Swann.

    Lucy Culliton’s Cliff Hole, Bottom Bullock, hangs alongside Betty Muffler’s Ngangkaṟi Ngura – healing Country – both paintings of Country.

    Wynne Prize 2025 finalist, Betty Muffler ‘Ngangkaṟi Ngura – healing Country’, synthetic polymer paint on linen, 197.3 x 243.5cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.

    Then there is Mehwish Iqbal’s beautiful, delicate Zameen muqaddas (sacred earth), a pen and ink contrast of fine botanical drawing and delicate wash, all on handmade paper.

    Wynne Prize 2025 finalist, Mehwish Iqbal ‘Zameen muqaddas (sacred earth)’, watercolour and ink on handmade paper, 18 parts: 30 x 30cm each; 152 x 120cm overall © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.

    While artist Elizabeth Pulie has already judged the Sulman prize, the judging for the Archibald and Wynne will be finalised early morning on May 9. This year’s result is anyone’s guess.

    Joanna Mendelssohn has in the past received funding from the ARC.

    – ref. Archibald Packing Room Prize goes to Abdul Abdullah for Jason Phu portrait, among broader set of bold and deeply personal works – https://theconversation.com/archibald-packing-room-prize-goes-to-abdul-abdullah-for-jason-phu-portrait-among-broader-set-of-bold-and-deeply-personal-works-253747

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: International visitors flock to Greater Bendigo

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    International visitors are spending more money and staying longer in the Bendigo Loddon region, according to the latest figures from Tourism Australia.

    New data for the year ending 2024 shows the region is almost back to pre-pandemic international tourist numbers and smashing international visitor spend records.

    There were 27,000 overnight international visitors compared to 16,000 in 2023. This is a 68 per cent increase. International visitor spending has significantly increased to $37 million, compared to $14 million ten years ago.

    City of Greater Bendigo Manager Economy & Experience James Myatt said the Bendigo Loddon region was a key destination of choice for international tourists visiting Victoria.

    “It is fantastic to see more people from overseas coming to the region and spending a lot more time here,” Mr Myatt said.

    “We know that international visitors are drawn to our Gold Rush heritage, arts and cultural experiences, farm stays, beautiful natural landscapes, and food and wine offerings.

    “Popular attractions amongst international visitors include Bendigo Tramways, Central Deborah Gold Mine, The Great Stupa, Bendigo Art Gallery, Bendigo Pottery, Dumawul Tours, and the Golden Dragon Museum.

    “Greater Bendigo is also a key destination on the Sydney Melbourne Inland Discovery drive, a self-drive touring route promoted primarily in the United States, UK, Europe, and New Zealand tourism markets throughout the year.

    “Over the past ten years, the City has focused on attracting and marketing major events and developing highly engaging destination marketing and activation campaigns.

    “The figures show strong growth in the international market and people want to visit Greater Bendigo for the range of experiences we offer all year round.

    “The survey results prove our strategies are working. The passion and commitment from many tourism operators contribute to this very positive trend.”

    The City has hosted over 50 travel agents from across the world over the past nine months, giving them the opportunity to experience attractions firsthand. That knowledge is shared with their teams and potential visitors from their countries.

    The City held a training session with Visit Victoria earlier this year to guide local tourism and service operators on how to attract international visitors.

    Key destination campaigns, such as the tulip displays during Bloom and major events like the Bendigo Easter Festival are promoted to Melbourne’s Indian and Chinese communities, attracting families and their visiting friends and relatives from overseas.

    The Greater Bendigo region is being represented at the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) this week in Brisbane, the largest international trade show hosted by Tourism Australia. Over 100 meetings are organised with media and travel agents from around the world to promote Greater Bendigo’s unique visitor destination offerings. For the first time, representatives from Greater Bendigo have also been invited to showcase Agri-tourism experiences in the region.

    “We see some great opportunities to build business at ATE with key decision makers who promote Australia across the world. In particular, our focus is on attracting visitation from the UK, Europe, New Zealand, India, China and South East Asia markets,” Mr Myatt said.

    Tourism Research Australia is the country’s leading provider of quality tourism intelligence across both international and domestic markets. Their data underpins government tourism policy and helps improve the performance of the tourism industry for the benefit of the Australian community.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Mexican Fiesta Street Party in Hargreaves Mall

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    In celebration of the exclusive Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition at Bendigo Art Gallery, Hargreaves Mall will be transformed into a Mexican-themed Fiesta Bendigo Street Party tomorrow, Saturday May 3, 2025 from 11am to 4pm.

    This community event will celebrate the rich music, delicious food, colourful culture, stunning fashion, and engaging dance of Mexico.

    The City of Greater Bendigo has curated the event in partnership with the Mexican Social and Cultural Association of Victoria, a non-profit organisation that seeks to promote and share Mexican culture with Victorians.

    Coordinator Creative City Maree Tonkin said the street party was a fun day out for the whole family.

    “The Fiesta Bendigo Street Party in Hargreaves Mall will bring together the vibrant colours, fun and excitement of Mexican culture,” Ms Tonkin said.

    “People of all ages will be entertained with stage performances from The Mexican Music Man, Mexbourne Dance Company, Lenin, and 7-piece Mariachi band Los Romanticos.

    “Children can join in the fun with free activities that includes breaking open piñatas which are an important part of Mexican cultural celebration tradition.

    “The fiesta will also have face painting, circus activities and craft workshops to keep little hands creative and entertained.

    “You can also browse a special market with Mexican-inspired treasures and there will be two food stalls to complement the Fiesta Party.

    “Bring your family and friends and join us for a day full of festivities and immerse yourself in the spirit of Mexico at the Fiesta Bendigo Street Party in Hargreaves Mall tomorrow, Saturday May 3.”

    One of the key aims in the City’s adopted Hargreaves Mall Action Plan is to get more people, more often into the city centre.

    The City has hosted over 200 fantastic activations in Hargreaves Mall over the past year, offering free entertainment for families including popular school holiday events.

    For the full Fiesta Bendigo program, visit: 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan America the Beautiful Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined her colleagues, U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Angus King (I-ME), to introduce their bipartisan conservation bill, the America the Beautiful Act. This legislation builds on the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act, which Shaheen cosponsored, by strengthening and reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) and addressing the serious maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands.
    “New Hampshire’s public lands and outdoor spaces are integral to our state identity and our thriving outdoor recreation economy. We must take steps to protect these resources for future generations of Granite Staters,” said Shaheen. “I was proud to see the Great American Outdoors Act become law, and I’ll continue fighting to protect and preserve outdoor spaces by passing this legislation which will continue the progress we’ve made.” 
    Shaheen, Daines and King were joined by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in introducing the bill.
    The America the Beautiful Act reauthorizes the LRF through 2033 and increases funding to $2 billion per year to help address the maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands. Currently, the maintenance backlog for each agency is $23.26 billion for the U.S. Park Service, $8.695 billion for the U.S. Forest Service, $2.65 billion for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, $5.72 billion for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and $804.5 million for the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education. In New Hampshire, National Parks and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuges have approximately $13 million in outstanding deferred maintenance needs.
    Since its creation in 2020, the LRF has benefitted numerous national parks and public lands in New Hampshire. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park has received more than $14 million from the Legacy Restoration Fund to rehabilitate four historic structures and address electrical, HVAC and alarm systems. Across the White Mountain National Forest, the Legacy Restoration Fund is supporting trail restoration work on the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail and Rumney Rocks Climbing Area, as well as repairs of the Tripoli Bridge. Sections of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail across New England are slated to receive $15 million in FY25 to rehabilitate and repair facilities along the trail that will address maintenance needs and improve visitor safety. 
    The America the Beautiful Act is supported by over 40 public lands, conservation and recreation groups. Click here to view the full list of statements of support and supporting groups.
    You can read the full bill text here.
    Shaheen has led efforts to safeguard our natural environment and invest in climate resiliency while boosting New Hampshire’s recreation economy. Shaheen led the bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act into law to require the federal government to measure the impact of the outdoor recreation on the economy. In November 2024, Shaheen applauded the release of an annual report showing a $1.2 trillion economic contribution by the outdoor recreation sector in 2023, including $3.9 billion in New Hampshire. Shaheen also helped reintroduce the Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development (SHRED) Act to fuel investment in outdoor recreation in national forests that benefits mountain communities.
    Shaheen has also led efforts to help secure full funding and permanent authorization for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which has helped protect more than 2.5 million acres of land and supported tens of thousands of state and local outdoor recreation projects throughout the nation. In 2020, Shaheen helped lead the Great American Outdoors Act into law to permanently fund the LWCF and provide mandatory funding for deferred maintenance on public lands.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens anticipate another record-breaking year in local elections as polls close 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    As polls close in the council and mayoral elections taking place across England, the Green Party has said it is confident of “record-breaking” results. The Party is hoping to carry on its winning streak of recent years by increasing its number of councillors for an eighth year in a row. This builds on its best ever General Election result in 2024 that saw nearly 2 million people vote Green increasing its representation in parliament.  

    Green Party Co-leader, Carla Denyer MP, said: 

    “The Green Party is used to breaking records and it looks like this year will be no exception. We’ve increased our number of councillors seven years in a row, and we are sure this will be an eighth. We are taking seats from both the Conservatives and Labour up and down the country as voters, understandably, move away from the tired old parties that have let us all down. We know voters want change, and Greens have that bold and positive vision that stands in contrast to Reform whose politics breed fear and division.” 

    Co-leader Arian Ramsay added: 

    “There is a clear message coming out of these elections. The stale, discredited parties are failing; two-party politics is dead. We now have a five-party system in UK politics, and going forward it’s everything to play for.  

    “Up and down the country we will be winning seats, and in contrast to Reform, building on a long track record of being active in local communities. We’re known for offering practical solutions on the housing crisis, cost of living, climate breakdown and protecting public services. When people elect Greens, they get representatives who work hard all year round. That’s why we are building our membership and electing more and more Greens at all levels of government year after year.” 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman dies after crash at Para Hills

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are preparing a report for the coroner following a crash on private property at Para Hills last night.

    Just before 8pm on Thursday 1 May, police and emergency services were called to Lynore Avenue after reports a woman had been crushed between her vehicle and house.

    The 67-year-old woman was treated by Paramedics at the scene but sadly died.

    Major Crash Investigators attended the scene to determine the cause of the crash.

    There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death and it will not be included on the lives lost toll.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What are the symptoms of measles? How long does the vaccine last? Experts answer 6 key questions

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Williams, Paediatrician & Infectious Diseases Physician; Senior Lecturer & NHMRC Fellow, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney

    fotohay/Shutterstock

    So far in 2025 (as of May 1), 70 cases of measles have been notified in Australia, with all states and territories except Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory having recorded at least one case. Most infections have occurred in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.

    We’ve already surpassed the total number of cases recorded in all of 2023 (26 cases) and 2024 (57 cases).

    Measles outbreaks are currently occurring in every region of the world. Most Australian cases are diagnosed in travellers returning from overseas, including popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia.

    But although Australia eliminated local transmission of measles in 2014, recently we’ve seen measles infections once again in Australians who haven’t been overseas. In other words, the virus has been transmitted in the community.

    So with measles health alerts and news reports popping up often, what do you need to know about measles? We’ve collated a list of commonly Googled questions about the virus and the vaccine.

    1. What is measles?

    Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to affect humans. In fact, every person with measles can infect 12 to 18 others who are not immune. The measles virus can survive in the air for two hours, so people can inhale the virus even after an infected person has left the room.

    Measles predominantly affects children and those with weaker immune systems. Up to four in ten people with measles will need to go to hospital, and up to three in 1,000 people who get measles will die.

    In 2023, there were more than 100,000 deaths from measles around the world.



    Read more:
    Travelling overseas? You could be at risk of measles. Here’s how to ensure you’re protected

    2. What are the symptoms of measles?

    The signs and symptoms of measles usually start 7–14 days after exposure to the virus, and include rash, fever, a runny nose, cough and conjunctivitis. The rash usually starts on the face or neck, and spreads over three days to eventually reach the hands and feet. On darker skin, the rash may be harder to see.

    Complications from measles are common, and include ear infections, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), blindness and breathing problems or pneumonia. These complications are more likely in children.

    Pregnant women are also at greater risk of serious complications, and measles can also cause preterm labour and stillbirth.

    Even in people who recover from measles, a rare (and often fatal) brain condition can occur many years later, called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

    Children are most vulnerable to measles.
    Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

    3. What’s the difference between measles and chickenpox?

    Measles and chickenpox are caused by different viruses, although both commonly affect children, and vaccines can prevent both diseases. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is also transmitted through the air, and can cause fever, rash and rare (yet serious) complications.

    The chickenpox rash is different to the rash seen in measles. It often starts on the chest or back, appearing first as separate red bumps that evolve into fluid-filled blisters, called vesicles. Chickenpox can also appear later in life as shingles.

    4. Can you get measles twice?

    The simple answer is no. If you contract measles, you should have lifelong immunity afterwards.

    In Australia, people born before 1966 would have most likely been infected with measles, because the vaccine wasn’t available to them as children. They are therefore protected from future infection.

    Measles infection however can reduce the immune system’s ability to recognise infections it has previously encountered, leaving people vulnerable to many of the infections to which they previously had immunity. Vaccination can protect against this.

    5. What is the measles vaccine, and at what age do you get it?

    The measles vaccine contains a live but weakened version of the measles virus. In Australia, measles vaccinations are given as part of a combination vaccine that contains the measles virus alongside the mumps and rubella viruses (the MMR vaccine), and the chickenpox virus (MMRV).

    Under the national immunisation program, children in Australia receive measles vaccines at 12 months (MMR) and 18 months of age (MMRV). In other countries, the age of vaccination may vary – but at least two doses are always needed for optimal immunity.

    In Australia, children are vaccinated against measles at 12 and 18 months.
    Zhuravlev Andrey/Shutterstock

    Measles vaccines can be given earlier than 12 months, from as early as six months, to protect infants who may be at higher risk of exposure to the virus (such as those travelling overseas). Infants who receive an early dose of the measles vaccine still receive the usual two recommended doses at 12 and 18 months old.

    Australians born between 1966 and 1994 (those aged roughly 20–60) are considered to be at greater risk of measles, as the second dose was only recommended from November 1992. Australia is seeing breakthrough measles infections in this age group.

    An additional measles vaccine can be given to these adults at any time. It’s safe to get an extra dose even if you have been vaccinated before. If you are unsure if you need one, talk to your GP who may check your measles immunity (or immunisation record, if applicable) before vaccinating.

    However, as the measles vaccine is a live vaccine, it’s not safe to give to people with weakened immune systems (due to certain medical conditions) or pregnant women. It’s therefore important that healthy, eligible people receive the measles vaccine to protect themselves and our vulnerable population.

    6. How long does a measles vaccine last?

    The measles vaccine is one of the most effective vaccines we have. After two doses, about 99% of people will be protected against measles for life.

    And the measles vaccine not only protects you from disease. It also stops you from transmitting the virus to others.

    Phoebe Williams receives research funding focused on reducing antimicrobial resistance and neonatal sepsis from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Gates Foundation.

    Archana Koirala is the chair of the Vaccination Special Interest Group and a committee member of the Australian and New Zealand paediatric infectious diseases network with Australasian Society of Infectious Diseases. Her vaccine and seroprevalence research has been funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care and NSW Health.

    – ref. What are the symptoms of measles? How long does the vaccine last? Experts answer 6 key questions – https://theconversation.com/what-are-the-symptoms-of-measles-how-long-does-the-vaccine-last-experts-answer-6-key-questions-255496

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Violent Gang Sentenced to Nearly Five Years in Prison for Racketeering and Firearm and Drug Trafficking Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Boston-area man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang.

    Jonathan Darosa, a/k/a “Jeezy,” 32, of Boston, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 57 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In January 2025, Darosa pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (more commonly referred to as RICO or racketeering conspiracy); one count of being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition; one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and oxycodone; and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

    Over the course of a two-year investigation, Darosa was identified as a member of Cameron Street. On two separate occasions, Darosa distributed cocaine and oxycodone to a cooperating witness. Additionally, in an interaction with law enforcement, Darosa threatened officers, telling them “If I had a gun on me, I would have shot at you,” “I am not going back to jail,” and “I keep it on my hip.” In April 2021 in Dorchester, law enforcement observed Darosa wearing a “waist bag” across his chest – law enforcement had recovered firearms from similar bags in the past. During a search of Darosa’s person, a Taurus 9 millimeter semi-automatic pistol containing 12 rounds of assorted 9 millimeter ammunition, including one round in the chamber, was recovered.

    According to court documents, Cameron Street is a violent gang based largely in the Dorchester section of Boston that used violence and threats of violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote a climate of fear and enhance its reputation.

    Darosa has been convicted on three prior occasions of unlawful possession of a firearm, including a 2016 conviction in Suffolk Superior Court for which he served a three-year prison sentence.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The remaining defendants named in the indictment are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council’s Playpark Strategy highlighted in Scottish Government publication

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland youth have been credited for their contribution to Highland Council’s nationally recognised Playpark Strategy after it was referenced in the evidence base and supporting research of the Scottish Government’s Play Vision Statement and Action Plan 2025-2030.

    The Play Vision Statement and Action Plan is designed to reflect the vision of play for Scotland for the next five years and the steps the Scottish Government will take within that time to achieve its vision and aim.

    Cllr Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Council’s Communities and Place Committee said: “We are delighted that our Playpark Strategy has been acknowledged in the evidence base and supporting research of a nationally recognised publication. By prioritising the voices of young people and recognising the value of listening to what they wanted in their local playparks, we have created a child-led strategy and action plan that has played a part in influencing best practice. We are extremely proud to be the only local authority referenced alongside prominent organisations including Harvard University, Public Health Scotland and the University of Cambridge.”

    Agreed in November 2023, Highland Council’s Playpark Strategy and Action Plan for 2023-2033 was underpinned by consultations and surveys with children alongside the development of a literature review which evidenced the health and social benefits of playing in playparks and how skills learnt from play can positively shape children in the future.

    Key themes identified by young people in relation to playparks included:

    • Access to a variety of play options for children of all ages and abilities
    • Local playparks within easy reach of home
    • Functional and well-maintained play equipment
    • Open spaces for running and active play
    • Opportunities for collaborative play through equipment designed for group interaction

    Cllr MacKenzie continued: “Combined with our own literature review highlighting the health benefits of outdoor play, the insights and preferences of children in the Highlands were central to shaping the Playpark Strategy and we would like to thank all the children and young people who supported the development of the strategy.

    “We recognise the importance of play and playparks for children, in terms of the benefits they provide to their physical, social and mental health, and our strategy has guided us in providing children and communities with opportunities to design their own sustainable and inclusive park parks for increased health and wellbeing and a brighter future for our younger generations.”

    To find out more about the support available to local communities for child-led playpark upgrades, please contact Highland Council’s Playpark Coordinator lynn.macgillivray@highland.gov.uk. 

    1 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council and Sport Scotland meet Skye Community Reps

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Back L to R – Rory Flyn, South Skye Community Campus; Forbes Dunlop, CEO Sport Scotland; Graham Lyndsay, Sport Scotland; Norma Morrison, South Skye Community Campus; Derek Brown, CEX of The Highland Council. Front L to R – Shirley Grant, South Skye Community Campus, Steve Walsh CEX of HLH; Cllr John Finlayson

    Councillor John Finlayson was delighted to welcome Forbes Dunlop, the CEO of Sport Scotland to Skye this week to meet with community groups in Broadford and Dunvegan who are looking to develop sports pitches close to the sites of the new schools that are planned within their communities. Graham Lyndsay from Sport Scotland, Steve Walsh CEX of HLH and Derek Brown the CEX of The Highland Council also accompanied Forbes on his trip.

    Cllr Finlayson said he was delighted to welcome all the visitors to meet with key stakeholders in both communities and he felt it was important for Forbes and others to hear about the aspirations they have and the good work that has already taken place. He also added that Forbes was keen to see where the recent award from Sport Scotland of £150k to the South Skye Community Campus group was going to be spent in Broadford and hear from Dunvegan Community Trust about their ambitions for a sports pitch close to the new school that the Highland Council is building as part of the Highland Investment Plan.

    He thanked school staff and community members for meeting with the visitors and for the partnership work they continue to develop with the council and other agencies to provide facilities in rural areas like Skye which support health and wellbeing for people of all ages.

    L to R – Highland Council CEX Derek Brown; Mali Maclennan Dunvegan Community Trust; Forbes Dunlop, CEO Sport Scotland; Calum Campbell; Graham Lyndsay, Sport Scotland; Cllr John Finlayson; John Laing, Dunvegan Community Council

    1 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Postgraduate student finance applications are now open for 25/26

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Postgraduate student finance applications are now open for 25/26

    SFE and SFW students can now apply for postgraduate Master’s and Doctoral Loans for 2025 to 2026.

    Postgraduate student finance applications are now open for 2025 to 2026!

    SFE and SFW students can now apply for postgraduate Master’s and Doctoral Loans for 2025 to 2026.

    You should encourage new students to apply online at:

    SFE:  www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance

    SFW: https://www.studentfinancewales.co.uk/

    If students have applied for undergraduate student finance before, they can use their existing online account to apply. If they’ve never applied for student finance before, then they’ll need to create a new account.

    Continuing students don’t need to re-apply for their funding, it automatically rolls over for the next year of their postgraduate course. They should sign in to their online account to make sure their information is up to date.

    SFE students applying for the 2025 to 2026 academic year can apply for:

    • a loan of up to £12,858 for a postgraduate Master’s course
    • a loan of up to £30,301 for a postgraduate Doctoral course
    • Disabled Student’s Allowance

    SFW students applying for the 2025 to 2026 academic year can apply for:

    • a loan of up to £19,255 for a postgraduate Master’s course
    • a loan of up to £29,130 for a postgraduate Doctoral course
    • Disabled Student’s Allowance

    Students should follow us on social media to get all the latest news and updates about student finance.

    There’s more information about postgraduate student finance available at:

    Gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/funding-for-postgraduate-study

    SFW website: https://www.studentfinancewales.co.uk/postgraduate-finance/

    Education Maintenance Allowance applications are now open for 2025 to 2026!

    Students in Wales can now apply for EMA for 2025 to 2026. The quickest way to apply to apply in online.

    Applications for WGLG FE are expected to open later in the year.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rewiring GB – A Comparison of Electricity Transmission Technologies

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Decarbonising energy will require major investment in new electricity transmission infrastructure.  It’s estimated that by 2035 we need to build five times more onshore transmission infrastructure than we have built in the last 30 years, and four times the amount of offshore transmission infrastructure than currently exists.

    A new report by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and Mott MacDonald called A Comparison of Electricity Transmission Technologies looks at lifetime costs of different on and offshore technologies for transmitting low carbon electricity around Britain in the next 10-15 years. Steel lattice towers, ‘T’ pylons or burying cables? What can we do to existing circuits to make better use of the network?  What are the different network requirements of solar, wind and nuclear generation vs the gas power stations we already have?  What’s most cost effective, and what impact will these changes have on the landscape/environment?

    Journalists came to this online briefing so hear from the report’s Project Board and put their questions to them.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Keith Bell, Chair of the Project Board for the IET Transmission Technologies report, and ScottishPower Chair in Future Power Systems at the University of Strathclyde

    Katherine Jackson, Project Board member and Energy Specialist

    Prof John Loughhead, Project Board member, IET Fellow and Past President, and Industrial Professor of Clean Energy at the University of Birmingham

    Prof Andrew Lovett, Project Board member and Professor of Geography at the University of East Anglia

    David Reid, one of the authors of the IET Transmission Technologies report and Global Practice Leader for integrated electricity networks at Mott MacDonald

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is the UK’s energy storage growing fast enough?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Victor Becerra, Professor of Power Systems Engineering, University of Portsmouth

    Sommart Sombutwanitkul/Shutterstock

    Britain’s booming green energy generation has a costly side-effect: the national electricity system operator has had to compensate wind turbine operators that could have produced more clean electricity than the grid could take.

    The cost of paying windfarms to temporarily switch off rose significantly in early 2025, surpassing £250 million in the first two months of the year. This figure not only includes these “constraint payments” to windfarm operators, but also payments to gas power plants to switch on and meet demand in the south of England that could theoretically be met by wind energy.

    Wind power is often generated in remote areas like the Scottish Highlands, where there is low electricity demand. To transmit this power over long distances to areas of higher demand (mostly in the south of England) requires power lines, but these have transmission limits and there are not enough of them.

    Britain will only make effective use of its energy potential if grid-scale energy storage keeps pace with the expansion of new windfarms and other forms of intermittent renewable energy, such as solar.

    Large-scale battery systems, pumped hydro and other storage methods could capture the excess energy injected by windfarms on windy days and release it when needed. But are these energy storage options arriving quickly enough?

    Why is storage so important?

    Most British consumers will not see a significant change in how they use electricity with the introduction of planned storage installations, other than fewer blips in power quality, such as flickering or dimming lights.

    You might spot these new energy storage facilities in rows of what look like shipping containers but are actually batteries. And the national grid (which serves England, Wales and Scotland – Northern Ireland has a separate electricity network) will be more capable of responding quickly to even minor variations in electricity supply and demand, meaning fewer headlines about curtailed windfarms.

    A lithium-ion grid battery site.
    106882997/Shutterstock

    The UK government is aiming to build up to 27 gigawatts of battery storage by 2030 (in 2023, battery capacity was estimated to be around 5 gigawatts). There are applications totalling 59 gigawatts of battery storage in the connections queue for 2030.

    Some of these are speculative – introduced to secure connection slots and permissions, with the intention of selling the rights on. These connections will not necessarily be built, yet contribute to long delays in approvals.

    As a result, the energy regulator Ofgem has been working with network operators to reform the connections queue. This includes new rules and more coordination between grid operators and project developers, as well as incentives (such as lower connection charges) to encourage battery developers to ensure their output can be adjusted to accommodate network constraints when necessary.

    Having substantial grid-scale energy storage could help stabilise electricity prices, which might give households lower and less volatile bills. It would also reduce the need to fire up gas generators during supply lulls, lowering the influence of expensive imported gas on electricity prices.

    Options and opportunities

    Storing excess renewable energy involves a range of technologies. Short-duration storage options such as batteries can supply energy ranging from seconds to a few hours. Long-duration storage, such as pumped hydro, can supply energy for several hours, days or more.

    Pumped hydro is the oldest long-duration storage technology. It involves storing vast amounts of energy by pumping water to a higher reservoir when electricity is plentiful, and releasing it to a lower reservoir through a turbine when needed. Dinorwig in north Wales and Cruachan in western Scotland are capable of storing 9 and 7 gigawatt-hours of energy, respectively.

    Major expansions are planned, such as the new pumped hydro storage scheme Coire Glas in Scotland. Expected to be completed around 2030-31, it is designed to store 30 gigawatt-hours, adding vast reserves of energy to the grid.

    Britain’s largest grid-scale battery installation, the Minety battery storage project completed in 2022 in Wiltshire, southern England, is capable of absorbing or delivering 150 megawatts – roughly equivalent to the power demand of 450,000 UK households.

    While Britain is making progress with its storage infrastructure, other countries are scaling up rapidly. China has built huge pumped hydro stations and the US is deploying very large grid-scale batteries. Germany, meanwhile, is testing hydrogen storage to absorb the power from its onshore windfarms.

    New forms of storage

    There is a drive by energy companies to develop new forms of long-duration storage. Along with hydrogen, liquid‑air storage is capable of inter-seasonal storage. This would allow solar energy collected during the summer to be available for release during the duller autumn and winter months.

    A solar farm in west Sussex, southern England.
    PBabic/Shutterstock

    In liquid-air plants, excess electricity is used to cool air to a liquid which can then be stored in insulated tanks. When electricity is required, the liquid air is heated and turned back into a gas, which moves a turbine and generates electricity. A 50-megawatt liquid-air plant planned near Manchester is expected to start commercial operation in 2026.

    In hydrogen energy storage plants, surplus electricity powers an electrolyser that splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is stored and, when electricity is needed, fed into a fuel cell or turbine to generate the electricity. An example is the proposed Aldbrough facility in east Yorkshire, which is expected to be in operation by 2030 and will have a storage capacity of 320 gigawatt-hours. This facility will use three repurposed salt caverns originally developed to store natural gas.

    Energy storage technology has become a serious business opportunity, with companies investing billions of pounds into building new facilities. The variety of projects in the pipeline suggests the UK will be better able to avoid curtailing wind energy in the future, even accounting for growth in wind power capacity. Paying windfarm operators to switch off may soon be a thing of the past.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Victor Becerra 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. Is the UK’s energy storage growing fast enough? – https://theconversation.com/is-the-uks-energy-storage-growing-fast-enough-251867

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Paris event marks the start of Liberation 80 schedule01 May 2025 ​The Government of Jersey held its inaugural event at the British Embassy in Paris this week, to mark the start of celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Liberation. Ministers from Jersey were joined… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    01 May 2025

    ​

    The Government of Jersey held its inaugural event at the British Embassy in Paris this week, to mark the start of celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Liberation. Ministers from Jersey were joined by counterparts from the UK, France and Guernsey, including representatives from the Franco-British Council. 

    The gathering presented an opportunity for cultural links past, present and future to be explored, and Jersey’s ties to France were recognised through an exclusive display of works by French artist and resistance fighter Claude Cahun – a Jersey resident during the Occupation. 

    The event was also used to observe the progress achieved in Jersey-France relations over the last two years, since a ‘hotdesk’ was made available for Jersey officials at the Paris Embassy. 

    Minister for External Relations, Deputy Ian Gorst, said: “The reception provided a fantastic opportunity to reaffirm the deep ties between Jersey and France. 

    “We are proud of our close partnerships with our nearest neighbour, particularly the regions of Normandy and Brittany, which have flourished through collaboration in the areas of heritage, education, the arts, and trade. 

    “I am delighted that we were able to celebrate these links together as we marked the start of events for the 80th anniversary of Liberation.”

    Minister for International Development, Deputy Carolyn Labey, said: “This event demonstrated the progress made in better connecting Jersey to Paris in recent years, and through the work of Claude Cahun we learned how we can use lessons of the past to inspire our future. We have many more exciting events planned for Liberation 80, where we can celebrate our history and once again highlight our central position within a range of international relationships and projects.” 

    Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said: “We will shortly see the return of direct air links between Paris and Jersey, strengthening further our potential for collaboration. We must now continue to develop our international reputation and provide a greater range of opportunities for Islanders, through tourism and commerce, education and cultural exchanges.” 

    Deputy Gorst and Deputy Labey also met British Ambassador Dame Menna Rawlings and highlighted Jersey’s ambition to establish cultural and diplomatic footprints in Paris. 

    Deputy Morel, meanwhile, held talks with Bruno Favel, a senior officer within the French Ministry of Culture, to discuss Jersey’s cultural heritage and the Island’s involvement in the 2027 European Year of the Normans​ programme.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rouge Bouillon closure update01 May 2025 Work has progressed stabilising the buildings meaning that the site cordon can be reduced in size, and pedestrians can be allowed access through Rouge Bouillon. Jersey Demolition Company is continuing… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    01 May 2025

    Work has progressed stabilising the buildings meaning that the site cordon can be reduced in size, and pedestrians can be allowed access through Rouge Bouillon. 

    Jersey Demolition Company is continuing to fill voids and underpin the property. This work is expected to finish by the end of the weekend. 

    Starting next Tuesday, Jayen will then carry out further work on behalf of Jersey Water, filling voids in the southern part of Rouge Bouillon nearest the stabilised structure. 

    Scaffolding, erected alongside the building in the road to install the strapping, has now been removed, representing another key step towards the safe reopening of the road. 

    The project remains on schedule, with the road set to reopen at the earliest opportunity, once all safety measures are complete. 

    ​Further updates will be provided as the work continues. The next scheduled update will be in seven days. 

    For more information and the latest schedule of works, please visit: Gov.je​.

    ​

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 1 May – UKIMS Registration – The Answer to the Irish Sea Border?

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Briefing Note:

    1 May – UKIMS Registration – The Answer to the Irish Sea Border?

    It has been suggested that businesses can to a very significant degree avoid the new parcels border that comes into force today, and indeed the wider customs border, such that they are only subject to minimal paperwork, so long as they become UKIMS (UK Internal Market Scheme) Registered. This greatly underplays the difficulty.

    There are three problems:

    Many Companies are Ineligible for Easements

    The first problem is that easements are only available for companies with a turnover of less than £2 million. Put another way, if your company has a turnover of more than £2 million you will have to make full customs declarations. This is a major constraint. While £2 million might sound like a lot of money to an individual, it is not for a company that employs people. Although there are some movements (some food, health, and construction materials) in relation to which the EU has intimated a willingness to waive the £2 million limit, in most contexts it will apply. See: Apply for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme if you bring goods into Northern Ireland – GOV.UK

    This is a dark day especially for Northern Ireland manufacturers with a turnover of more than £2 million, who depend on getting their inputs from Great Britain, many in parcels, rather than the Republic which is not a manufacturing economy.

    Not all Good Movements Qualify for Easements

    The second point to make is that even if you comply with the ceiling imposed on Northern Ireland aspiration by the £2 million threshold, not all goods movements are eligible for this simplified procedure in any event. The Government has divided goods into three Categories.

    • Category 1 goods have to be moved subject to full customs declarations. They are ineligible for the simplified procedure.
    • Category 2 goods have to be moved subject to full customs declarations unless both the following are met:
    • they do not fall under Category 1
    • a H8 controlled declaration, or a I1 C&F controlled declaration is submitted

    Even in this event full simplification is denied. An 8-digit commodity code is required as well as licensing and documentary controls.

    Thus, if the option of UKIMs movements is not taken from you by means of your having a turnover of over £2 million, it could be taken from you if you move Category 1 goods and, even if you can avoid a full customs declaration in moving Category 2 goods, you will have to negotiate additional hurdles and complexity beyond the UKIMs mechanism.

    UKIMs Easements Do Not Remove the Border

    Finally, even if you benefit from UKIMs easements this does not have the effect of removing the border. You still have to have an export number and provide information that you don’t have to provide when moving goods within an internal market. You also have to apply to become UKIMS registered which is complicated and you have to be subject to ongoing checks. None of these burdens are placed on you if you move goods within an internal market, as in GB, or anywhere else for that matter. These burdens testify to the presence of the border.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manadon Interchange set for major investment

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth’s busy Manadon Interchange is set for a major overhaul thanks to new government funding.

    The Department for Transport has given a green light to an outline plan for a variety of improvements and awarded just over £133 million in development funding to take this scheme onto detailed design.

    The Manadon Interchange, which connects the A38 Devon Expressway with the A386 Tavistock Road, is one of Plymouth’s busiest and most critical junctions.

    It plays a vital role in linking different parts of the city and providing access to key employment and healthcare sites, including Derriford Hospital, Plymouth Science Park, and the Dockyard.

    Originally designed for far lower traffic volumes, the interchange now struggles to cope with demand.

    With the planned growth of Plymouth, including over 29,000 new homes and the creation of more than 13,000 skilled jobs, the city’s road infrastructure must be improved to support this expansion.

    Without these upgrades, congestion will continue to worsen, impacting local businesses, emergency services, and people’s daily lives. This investment is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve Plymouth’s road network for the future.

    The outline plans for the scheme will be launched next month when a six week period of public engagement will begin, allowing residents to attend information sessions and feedback on a number of areas in an initial design, which focuses on:

    Safer roads – New junctions, crossings, and layouts to reduce accident risks and improve conditions for all road users.

    Better walking and cycling routes – Safer, segregated cycle lanes and improved pedestrian paths to encourage more people to walk and cycle where possible.

    A new community space at Treveneague Gardens – Transforming an underused area into a new park with footpaths, biodiversity enhancements and recreational space for local residents.

    Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Improvements to Manadon are well overdue so I’m delighted that we have got to this crucial stage of the process.

    “Our city needs to grow to respond to the rising population and be economically viable. We need more jobs and homes.

    “That means that junctions like Manadon have to be able to cope, which is why it is so important to that we invest in the infrastructure of the future.”

    The total cost of the scheme, from design right through to construction is £156 million, with £133 from government funding and the remaining £23 million from other transport grant funding, developer contributions and the Council’s own investment.

    It is estimated that construction on the scheme would not begin before 2028.

    More information can be found on the scheme website www.plymouth.gov.uk/a38manadoninterchange

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vimkunya vaccine approved to prevent disease caused by the chikungunya virus in people 12 years of age and older 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Vimkunya vaccine approved to prevent disease caused by the chikungunya virus in people 12 years of age and older 

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (1 May 2025) approved a vaccine (Vimkunya) used to prevent disease caused by the chikungunya virus in people 12 years of age and older. 

    Chikungunya disease is caused by the chikungunya virus, which is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The disease is found in countries across Asia, Africa and the subtropical regions of the Americas. Most people infected with the virus develop fever, rash, and severe pain in multiple joints that typically resolve between one to two weeks, but symptoms may last for months or years. 

    This vaccine has been approved through the International Recognition Procedure (IRP). The IRP allows the MHRA to take into account the expertise and decision-making of trusted regulatory partners for the benefit of UK patients.  

    The MHRA conducts a targeted assessment of IRP applications and retains the authority to reject applications if the evidence provided is not considered sufficiently robust. 

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of this vaccine under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.  

    Notes to editors   

    1. The variation to the marketing authorisation was granted on 01 May 2025 to Bavarian Nordic A/S.  

    2. More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.   

    3. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgments to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.   

    4. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.   

    5. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK insurance broker charged with failure to prevent bribery

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK insurance broker charged with failure to prevent bribery

    The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) today accused a UK insurance broker of failing to prevent international bribery.

    Representatives of United Insurance Brokers Limited (UIBL) were ordered to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court next month.

    The broker is charged with failing to prevent associates from bribing state officials in Ecuador between October 2013 and March 2016.

    The SFO alleges UIBL’s US-based intermediaries for Ecuador paid bribes in return for the awarding of re-insurance contracts worth US$38 million.

    If this case proceeds to a contested trial, it will be the first time that an SFO “failure to prevent bribery” case is heard by a jury.

    UIBL offered re-insurance services which insure against any losses caused by making significant and unexpected payouts for insurance policies.

    This was sold to state insurers covering parts of the Ecuadorian public sector, including the state water and electricity companies.  

    UIBL received a US$6.2 million commission to provide these services, of which US$3 million was allegedly paid to intermediaries.

    The intermediaries are accused of subsequently paying bribes to an Ecuadorian official in exchange for the contracts.

    Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office, said:

    The SFO remains committed to stamping out international bribery wherever it may occur.

    British companies have a duty to prevent the harm caused by bribery when doing business at home and abroad, to ensure that the UK remains a safe and fair place to do business.

    Representatives of the company will appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 7 May to face the charges.

    Press Office

    Email news@sfo.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number +44 (0)7557 009842

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Community Update, 1 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    IBCA Community Update, 1 May 2025

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 1 May 2025

    Documents

    IBCA Community Update, 1 May 2025 (HTML)

    HTML

    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 1 May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 May 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £3.4 million for Scotland’s hydrogen future

    Source: Scottish Government

    Projects across the country to receive a share of funding.

    Eleven projects designed to accelerate Scotland’s hydrogen economy are set to benefit from a share of £3.4 million funding.

    The Scottish Government funding will help develop green hydrogen production, improve the hydrogen supply chain, and enhance hydrogen transport and storage infrastructure.

    Opening a parliamentary debate on Scotland’s hydrogen future, Acting Net Zero Cabinet Secretary Gillian Martin said:

    “Hydrogen stands as a critical pillar of Scotland’s route to net zero by 2045, but also, alongside the development of our offshore wind capacity, as one of Scotland’s greatest industrial opportunities since the discovery of oil and gas in the North Sea.

    “A just transition remains at the heart of our approach, and we are determined that no community, particularly those which have powered our economy for generations, will be left behind as we move away from burning fossil fuels towards a low carbon energy system.

    “We are working to build a hydrogen economy in which the benefits of our energy transition are shared, and which harnesses the full potential of our skilled people, our worldclass industries, and our natural resources.”

    In September 2024 the Scottish Government invited projects to apply for a match-funding grant award of up to 50%, to the maximum value of £2 million.

    Shortlisting saw 18 projects invited to submit a full application to delivery partner Scottish Enterprise, with funding ultimately provided to 11 successful projects.

    Background

    Hydrogen action plan – gov.scot

    Lead Organisation

    Project Title

    Council Area

    Grant Award

    European Marine Energy Centre

    Sustainable Fuels Orkney

    Orkney Islands

    £375,000

    Green Cat Hydrogen Ltd.

    Creca Hydrogen Facility

    Dumfries and Galloway

    £490,088

    Green Cat Hydrogen Ltd.

    Strathallan Hydrogen

    Perth and Kinross

    £320,549

    Green Cat Hydrogen Ltd.

    Binn Ecopark Hydrogen

    Perth and Kinross

    £258,478

    Protium Green Solutions

    Protium Lanark – Hydrogen Island

    South Lanarkshire

    £450,619

    SSE Hydrogen Developments

    Peterhead 1&2 Hydrogen

    Aberdeenshire

    £162,600

    Statkraft Hydrogen UK Holding Ltd

    Shetland Hydrogen Project 2 Pre-FEED

    Shetland Islands

    £270,500

    Storegga Hydrogen (Cromarty)

    Cromarty Hydrogen Phase 2 Longman

    Highland

    £238,400

    Storegga Hydrogen (Cromarty)

    Cromarty Hydrogen Phase 2 Muir of Ord

    Highland

    £290,155

    Glacier Energy

    Feasibility and Industrial Research

    Aberdeen City

    £382,000

    Hydrasun

    Standardised Tube Trailer Industrial Hydrogen Offtaker Panels

    Multiple: Aberdeen City; Glasgow City; Highland

    £147,122

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster City Council Launches Private Rented Sector Tenant’s Charter to Empower Local Renters | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has today launched a new Private Rented Sector (PRS) Tenant’s Charter, designed to help private renters better understand their rights, improve living standards, and access vital support services.

    With around 44% of Westminster households renting privately, the Charter sets out clear information on what tenants can expect from their landlords—covering key issues such as damp and mould, unlawful evictions, and unfair rent practices. The Charter also highlights how tenants can get help from the council when problems arise.

    Councillor Matt Noble, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters said:

    “Too many private renters face poor conditions, uncertainty, and confusion about what their rights are. The Tenant’s Charter is a step toward putting power back in the hands of residents—providing clear, accessible guidance and making it easier to get help when it’s needed.”

    The Charter is part of the council’s wider commitment to improving housing standards across Westminster and promoting safe, fair, and sustainable tenancies.

    Available in multiple formats and languages, the Charter has been designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all residents, regardless of background, can easily understand and use the information provided.

    Find more information and view the PRS Tenant’s Charter.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Results of the local elections of Thursday 1 May in St Albans District

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    Votes in the Thursday 1 May local elections in St Albans District will be counted on Friday 2 May and the results will appear here.

    There are elections for 10 seats on Hertfordshire County Council with by-elections being held in the Redbourn ward of St Albans City and District Council and the North, South and West wards of Harpenden Town Council.

    All of the County Council’s 78 seats are up for election this year with all the results from around Herts appearing here.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tak£500+ applications are now open for your chance to receive up to £1000!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Launching the new Tak£500+ project for 2025 is the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Councillor Sarah Duffy with the Participatory Budgeting Working Group.

    Applications for the Tak£500+ project are now open and groups can receive up to an incredible £1000 for a project to benefit their area!

    This Participatory Budget Fund encourages local residents within the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon borough to apply for funding for a project that they think will have a positive impact on their community.

    This is the fourth year of this fantastic project so, if you have an idea in mind of something that would bring value to your area and support your community, especially in these increasingly difficult times, look no further!

    There are seven information sessions taking place over the new few weeks where you can find out all you need to know, so come along and find out more!

    “Tak£500+ is an excellent opportunity to get funding for a project in your local community and really make a difference to those living in your area. I would encourage everyone to come along to one of the information sessions and see how you can benefit from this fantastic project,” commented Councillor Sarah Duffy, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon.

    “I have seen the difference that the Tak£500+ project has made to local communities and the incredible impact it has had across the borough. This project is now in its fourth year and continuing to grow – so don’t miss out on the chance to receive up to £1000 to help benefit the residents in your area.”

    Information sessions are as follows:

    • Thursday 1st May: Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre, 7pm – 8pm
    • Friday 2nd May, Online via Zoom, 10am-11am
    • Tuesday 6th May, Banbridge Civic Building, 7pm-8pm
    • Wednesday 7th May, Chamber at Armagh Palace Demesne, 7pm – 8pm
    • Thursday 8th May, Online via Zoom, 10am-11am
    • Thursday 8th May, Online via Zoom, 2pm-3pm
    • Tuesday 13th May Online via Z00m, 7pm-8pm

    Both constituted groups and non-constituted groups can apply for funding to help bring an idea to life. Ideas can be based on the Take 5 Ways to Wellbeing – which are a great guide to helping you to look after yourself and others during these uncertain days, including keeping you connected to the people around you and encouraging communities to lean on each other.

    Applications can be made online here: www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/take500plus

    If you need more information or support, please contact a member of the PB Working Group who will be happy to help you. Full contact details are online or alternatively, you can email

    *protected email*

    This project is being taken forward by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Community Planning Partnership and has been funded by a range of partners including the Public Health Agency, ABC Council, Heritage Places, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, PSNI, Department for Communities, Ark Housing, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Arbour Housing.

    It has also been supported by the Community and Voluntary Panel, the Children and Young Peoples Strategic Partnership, the Policing & Community Safety Partnership, Education Authority and Sport NI.

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