IndyWatch Castlemaine VIC All Topics Summary Archiver

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IndyWatch Castlemaine VIC All Topics Summary was generated at Castlemaine VIC IndyWatch.

Saturday, 11 March

13:48

Penny Wong : Senator Piece of Work. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Senator Price makes a good point. https://fb.watch/jbBXn7gTCg/?mibextid=qC1gEa Penny Wong - still a mean piece of work.

13:46

Jill Jacks is magnificent on The Hypocrisy of Therapeutic Albanese. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Jill sees all! Albanese takes hypocrisy to a whole new level. #YouJustCouldntMakeThisStuffup #TopDumb *ping @mpsmithnews pic.twitter.com/4OpyWyyFhI JILL (@1Swinging_Voter) March 10, 2023

13:40

Wannabe Gladiator "IndyWatch Feed National"

Albo and his photo ops #auspol pic.twitter.com/j5jGDUNALU KELLIEI SEE DUMB PEOPLE (@kelliekelly23) March 9, 2023

11:00

Outcome of America and NATO Fighting Russia by Proxy and Deception "IndyWatch Feed National"

Sabotage of Nord-stream pipeline (gumshoe adaption)

by G5

The next time you are fed, Russia is losing in Ukraine: start here.

NATO-US have suffered massive losses of both personnel and material. They are losing at the rate of twenty to one. As I have previously written concerning individual theatres and engagements.

When CIA Zelensky was shouting for tanks, he had already lost over 2,000 in the first few weeks of engagement in 2022.

Now...

10:02

Jubilee Year 2026, Part One: Introduction "IndyWatch Feed National"

Photo from Christianity.comPhoto from Christianity.com

by Mary W Maxwell, LLB

I am here to propose a Jubilee Year in 2026. We have thirty-three months to get it ready the rest of 2023, plus 24, and 25. Not long enough, but it will keep us focused on the positive.

A biblical jubilee year is one that occurs every 49 years and has to do with preserving the land. Thats not what Im proposing, though I did get my idea from that tradition.

What I want us to do is to focus on the future.  At the moment, its only an intellectual exercise. Lets inventory the good possibilities for human life. Sure, the bad stuff will also come into focus, as the counterpoint. But the project is intended to be positive. We are tired of horrors.

Searching

I dare nominate only my home country, the US, for a jubilee.  But its patent that this country interacts with many others. I shall make it a rule that the jubilee search for a better life in US cannot include taking advantage of other nations.

In the 1960s, when in college, I read Ruth Benedicts 1934 book, Patterns of Culture. She was in the pioneering group of anthropologists who visited primitive societies. When asked which societies are happy, she said the ones in which the reward for a...

08:39

ABROGATION OF RESPONSIBILITY "IndyWatch Feed National"

THE DEADLY TOLL CONTINUES TO RISE

4 months ago on the 9th November, there were 15,808 reported COVID-19 deaths, but as of the 3rd March 2023, i.e., 8 days ago, the last reported COVID-19 death toll was 19,459, which is an increase of 3,651 in the last 4 months.

00:36

Die AfD wollte in einer kleinen Anfrage wissen, wieviel ... "IndyWatch Feed National"

Die AfD wollte in einer kleinen Anfrage wissen, wieviel Honorare die Regierung und Bundesbehrden an Journalisten gezahlt haben. Money Quote:

Nicht enthalten in der Aufstellung sind nach Angaben der Bundesregierung aus Grnden des Staatswohls Honorare, die der Bundesnachrichtendienst (BND) an Journalisten gezahlt hat, weil die Kooperationen des BND besonders schtzenswert seien.
*Tusch*

Update: Hier gibt es ein PDF mit einer Liste.

Update: Nur dass wir uns richtig verstehen: Die kleinen Anfragen der AfD sind immer irrefhrende Kackscheie. Hier wollen sie offensichtlich suggerieren, dass alle ffentlich-rechtlichen Journalisten in der Tasche der Bundesregierung stecken. Das ist natrlich vllig absurd angesichts der Zahlen. Das fhlt sich vielleicht beim Rberscrollen viel an, weil es mehrere Seiten sind, aber da sind ja schon auf einer einzelnen Pressekonferenz des Innenministeriums mehr Journalisten im Raum. Wenn man wenigstens annehmen knnte, dass hier halt besonders einflussreiche Journalisten gekauft wrden, aber dafr sehe ich keine Anzeichen.

Dazu kommt, dass typische Journalisten (im Gegensatz zur rbb-Intendanz!) nur knapp ber der Obdachlosigkeit bezahlt werden. Wieso wrde man die bestechen mssen, damit sie die Hand nicht abbeien, die sie am Leben hlt? Das ergibt alles keinen Sinn, lasst euch da mal nicht verarschen.

Die kleinen Anfragen der AfD sind alle so. Lcherliches Brechstangen-Framing von irgendwelchen ideologischen Vorannahmen.

00:11

10 Best Electric Brad Nailer in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

An electric brad nailer is one of the most versatile and powerful tools that you can own. It is perfect for a wide range of projects, from simple repairs to complex construction. With an electric brad nailer, you can easily and quickly add nails to any project, without having to deal with the hassle of a gas-powered or battery-operated nailer. In addition, an electric brad nailer is much quieter than its gasoline or battery-operated counterparts, making it ideal for use in sensitive areas or around small children.

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Friday, 10 March

23:41

10 Best Covers For Tablets in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

A tablet is a great way to stay connected and entertained while on the go. But, like any other electronic device, it is vulnerable to damage. Thats why its important to choose a cover that will protect your tablet from bumps, scratches, and even water damage. In this blog post, well share our top picks for the best covers for tablets.

23:00

Mitch McConnell Takes A Fall; Its Time for Him to Retire "IndyWatch Feed National"

New in PJ Media: Mitch McConnell has fallen at a hotel in Washington and is currently in the hospital. Two questions immediately spring to mind, neither of which have answers at this point: is this the end of the dreary McConnell era of establishment Republican Me-Tooism? And is there some karmic relationship between Mitchs fall []

22:57

10 Best Sleeping Nursing Bras in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If youre a nursing mother, you know how important it is to have a good nursing bra. But with all the different types and styles out there, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this blog post, well help you find the best sleeping nursing bras to keep you comfortable and supported all night long.

22:16

Reserve Bank launches centralised digital currency pilot program "IndyWatch Feed National"

READ MORE AT TOTT NEWS 

Australias central bank intends to analyse 14 different Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) use cases in collaboration with our Big Four banks.

Read More

22:13

10 Best Sensor Lights For Stairs in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If you have a stairway in your home, then you know how important it is to have a good sensor light. There are so many times when we are coming down the stairs in the dark and we dont want to trip and fall. Thats why a good sensor light is a must-have for any stairway. But with so many different sensor lights on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Here at Best Sensor Lights For Stairs, we will help you find the best sensor light for your needs. We will review all the different types of sensor lights and help you choose the one that will work best for your home.

21:59

Top Dumb "IndyWatch Feed National"

Photo-op Albo. International man of predictability.

21:49

POWER BILLS UP AFTER ALBOS PROMISES CUTS WITH RENEWABLES "IndyWatch Feed National"

READ MORE AT ADVANCE 

Remember when Anthony Albanese and his mates told you theyd reduce your power bill by $275 per year?

Read More

21:41

10 Best Paper Pompoms in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

Pompoms are an easy, fun, and inexpensive way to add color and personality to any event or space. They can be used for decoration, as party favors, or even as toys for kids. There are many different ways to make pompoms, but the best paper pompoms are made with tissue paper.

21:38

What's wrong with this? "IndyWatch Feed National"

Australian Liberal Senator Alex Antic has been called to withdraw a statement in the Senate after describing Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the little fella from Ukraine, followed by anyway, who cares. For more SBS News videos, visit: https://t.co/92PmLUnWIz pic.twitter.com/lKAgEmWxGp SBS News (@SBSNews) March 10, 2023

21:11

10 Best Eyebrow Brush in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If youre looking for the best eyebrow brush, look no further! In this blog post, well share our top picks for the best eyebrow brushes on the market. Well also provide a buyers guide to help you choose the right brush for your needs.

21:00

PEER-REVIEWED AUSTRALIAN STUDY OF THE JABS: THEYRE NOT SAFE "IndyWatch Feed National"

Daily News

.... well.... finally! T.M. spotted this one and passed it along, and it's another one of those articles I've got to blog about and bring

The post PEER-REVIEWED AUSTRALIAN STUDY OF THE JABS: THEYRE NOT SAFE appeared first on The Giza Death Star.

20:41

10 Best Bicycle Accessories in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

Bicycle accessories can make or break a ride. From the must-haves like helmets and lights, to the nice-to-haves like racks and fenders, there are a lot of options to choose from. Weve compiled a list of the best bicycle accessories to help you get the most out of your rides.

19:56

10 Best Pc Games Australia in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

There are so many great PC games out there these days, and it can be tough to keep up with all of them. Thats why weve put together a list of the best PC games Australia has to offer. Whether youre a fan of first-person shooters, role-playing games, or anything in between, theres something on this list for you. So without further ado, here are the best PC games Australia has to offer.

19:30

Malaysia asked to reopen MH370 probe after claims of new evidence "IndyWatch Feed National"

Families of the victims have called for a renewed search after the findings of a US-based marine robotics company emerged. Malaysian authorities are being asked to launch a new search for flight MH370, nine years after it disappeared from radars over the South China Sea. The request comes after US marine robotics company Ocean Infinity claimed to have found new evidence of the plane's possible location. The Boeing 777 was en route from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Beijing with 239 passengers on board on March 8, 2014, when it vanished from the grid less than an hour into its journey. For three years, Malaysia, China, and Australia searched for the plane in the Indian Ocean, where it was believed to have crashed, only to come up empty-handed. The search was officially called off in January 2017, with no conclusion made about what could have happened to the mystery flight.

19:26

10 Best Pencils in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If youre looking for the best pencils, youve come to the right place. In this blog, well recommend our top picks for the best pencils out there. Whether youre looking for the best all-around pencil or the best pencil for specific purposes, weve got you covered.

19:24

Peak Wimmin's Kumbaya "IndyWatch Feed National"

Equality is no longer enough. Today, on International Womens Day, we need to take it a step further and embrace equity. This means not just giving women the same opportunities but exactly what they need to succeed. We support #IWD by striking the #EmbraceEquity pose. pic.twitter.com/9D7QjoQhJN European Central Bank...

17:41

How Do I Check if a Warrant is Out for My Arrest? "IndyWatch Feed National"


There are many myths about arrest warrants, including when they can be issued and what you should do if you have been issued with one.

So heres some information that may assist if you suspect police could be knocking on your door sometime soon.

What Is an Arrest Warrant?

An arrest warrant is an order issued by a magistrate or a judge which empowers law enforcement agents such as police to lawfully arrest you and bring you before a court.

There are several circumstances in which an arrest warrant may be issued, including when you:

  • Are charged with a criminal offence but cannot be located,


How Do I Know Theres a Warrant for My Arrest?

There is no nationwide, or even state or territory-wide, register of outstanding arrest warrants in Australia. And a national police check will not necessarily reveal the existence of a warrant.

If you believe a warrant may have been issued by a certain court or police station, it is a good...

17:38

Mould Cheese Festival returns to Melbourne for three days with more than 100 kinds of cheese "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Almost 10,000 cheese connoisseurs consumed a record-breaking six tonnes of local artisan cheese during MOULDs triumphant return to events last year. Now enjoying its seventh iteration, MOULD 2023 is thrilled to host cheese-lovers and foodies alike across Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney as well as marking its Perth debut in August, as it officially heads west for the very first time.

Locally, MOULD will head to The Timber Yard, Port Melbourne from June 2-4 2023, running from Friday to Sunday.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

In partnership with Dairy Australia, the team from REVEL (masterminds behind Pinot Palooza and new no-lo drinks festival Picolo) will present a feta than ever line-up of over 25 local producers showcasing over 100 varieties of Australian-made dairy products.

MOULD punters can expect more gouda times with an exceptional, quality food and drink line-up featuring the new and much-loved faces that make up Australias makers, growers, farmers and families championing the homegrown dairy industry.

Made fresher, and unapologetically Australian, sample innovative and award-winning products from the likes of Milawa as well as other top producers including Grandvewe, Section 28, Coal River, La Cantara, Long Paddock Cheese and Vannella, who will bring their fresh produce to the party for an epic day of cheese.

 

View this post on Instagram
...

17:36

The police act like 'sovereign citizens' for decades. "IndyWatch Feed National"

The colony's police forces have been acting like sovereign citizens for quite some time now.

Although the 'sovereign citizen' movement allegedly originated in the United States, is technically an oxymoron, Australia's police forces have been implementing this ideology for quite some time.


A sovereign citizen believes that the law does not apply to him/her where certain aspects are cherry picked from 'ancient' law are put into action whenever it suits, where the Bible can be used often.

So realistically the above headline is technically incorrect, as police take it to the next level above so called sovereign citizens, where they disregarda all law, including the ancient stuff.

Since the Bible is not an 'Act', and the 'Crown' is not bound to it, you cannot do much with it in the Kangaroo "Courts" (you know businesses) of Australia.

In more cases or instances ever published by the mainstream media, Australia's police forces act with impunity without any regards to the Acts (or law) that are in play or even 'Code of Ethics' or so called 'Policy Rules'.

They act with impunity, because the corrupt legal system will indemnify them from any repercusions.

IF the police had to pay out of their OWN pockets, for a crime, they got charged from, like the serfs do, maybe then the results would be different, but that's NOT how the system is designed, and that's on purpose.

It is only through exposure by the public, on social media forums, that more people can be educated on the colony's criminal elite being exposed.

See article from nswcourts.com.au of the headline:

Police Cannot Enter Private Land Without a Warrant If Prohibited by a Trespass Sign
By Paul Gregoire and Ugur Nedim

Along with senior constable Rankin, then NSW police acting sergeant Fahey attended a NSW Nor...

17:29

Theres a Chicken Nugget Festival coming to Melbourne this weekend "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Prepare your bellies: this weekend the fourth annual Chicken Nugget festival will return to the grounds of Welcome To Thornbury, paying homage to the humble fried treat.

Expecting to serve up over 50,000 nuggets on the day. Attendees will be able to enjoy a wide variety of tasty nugget variations. In addition, there will be live music entertainment and the chance to enter the coveted nugget eating competition for one day only.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

View this post on Instagram
...

17:04

2 A War over Taiwan: Australias Gang of Five "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Australian Independent media March 8, 2023 Dr Binoy Kampmark

Diligently, obediently and with a degree of dangerous imbecility, a number of Australian media outlets are manufacturing a consensus for war with a country that has never been a natural, historical enemy, nor sought to be.

But as Australia remains the satellite of a Sino-suspicious US imperium, its officials and their dutiful advocates in the press seem obligated to pave the way for conflict.

The latest example of this came in articles run in the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age of Melbourne. The premise is already clear from the columnists, Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott. Australia faces a Red Alert, and, to that end, needs a warring fan club. Not since the domino theory bewitched strategists and confused military planners have Australians witnessed this: a series of articles featuring a gang of five with one purpose: to render the Australian public so witless as to reject any peaceful accommodation.

First, the provocative colouring for the article, How a conflict over Taiwan could swiftly reach our shores. The Australian continent is shown bathed in a sea of red. Various military bases and facilities are outlined. For good measure, there is a picture of Australian soldiers firing an artillery piece in military exercises in 2018 at Shoalwater Bay, Queensland.

T...

17:02

Link "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Presented by UNO Events, touring festival Coastal Jam is continuing to bring world-class talent to coastal locations around Victoria, returning to the iconic setting of Geelongs Cunningham Pier and expanding across the bay for the first time at Mornington Peninsulas Rosebud Village Green for the Labour Day long weekend.

In typical Coastal Jam fashion of going big or going home, both shows lineups are giant. Laps Around The Sun songwriter, Ziggy Alberts, is on headline duty for both coastal locations, joined by Hockey Dad, Bag Raiders, The Terrys and Rochelle Jordan (USA) across the two stages.

Now the 2023 set times are here to help you plan your long weekend adventure.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Coastal Jam kicks off on Saturday 11 March, with the newly added activation of the other side of the bay with Coastal Jam Mornington Peninsula, finding its home at Rosebud Village Green.

Mornington Peninsula Coastal Jam Set Times

Following a massive inaugural event which saw Coastal Jam Geelong activate the waterfront located Cunningham Pier for the first time in 20 years with headliner Cosmos Midnight, the festivals return continues the Labour Day long weekend tra...

16:00

Australian Dollar and Bitcoin "IndyWatch Feed National"

1.00 AUD = 0.00003 BTC
0.00010 BTC = 3.00 AUD
Converter

15:55

Launching in April, Portarlington Mussel Tours is the Bellarines delicious new foodie experience "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Set on the Bellarine Peninsula, a new curated foodie experience from the team at Sea Bounty, celebrating the deliciously plump Portarlington mussel is set to launch in April. 

Portarlington Mussel Tours are boutique and intimate bay tours that depart from the Portarlington Pier and are delivered by the local and knowledgeable team, which includes fourth-generation farmer Lance Wiffen and his wife Lizzie aboard the immaculately restored 40-year-old Huon pine vessel Valerie.  

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

While aboard the three-hour Portarlington Mussel Tour, guests are given an exclusive front-row seat to the mussel farming process in an intimate and unique setting.  

With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour starts with a glass of local Bellarine sparkling, followed by Lizzies live cooking demonstrations which feature two delicious mussel recipes that you can savour alongside premium local produce. 

Here you will observe how mussels are cultivated, see the mussel ropes as theyre pulled from the water, pick magnificent fresh molluscs off the lines and learn about the cleaning process and various stages of mussel farming.  

How involved you get is entirely up to you! With a small number of guests on the vessel, there is always a quiet spot to relax. If youre lucky, you might even spot the local dolphins and get to try the native Angasi oysters that Lance is also currently growing. 

...

15:39

Cash Savage And The Last Drinks announce This Is Love Australian Tour "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Melbourne powerhouse Cash Savage and the Last Drinks have announced a new album, So This Is Love, to be released on April 28 by Mistletone Records via Inertia (Australia/NZ) and Glitterhouse Records (Europe) and to celebrate will be heading on an Australian tour in May and June.

The tour will kick off with performances at Good Times Festival and Meadow Festival, then will take to Fremantle, Meeniyan, Ballarat, Torquay, Eltham and Melbourne.

This Is Love Australian Tour Dates

  • Sat Mar 25 Good Times Festival, Tocumwal VIC
  • Fri Mar 31 Meadow Festival, Bambra VIC
  • Sat May 6 Mojos Bar, Fremantle WA (With special guest Blake Scott)
  • Sat May 13 Meeniyan Town Hall, Meeniyan VIC (With special guests Gut Health)
  • Fri 19 May Minerva, Ballarat VIC (With special guests Gut Health)
  • Sat 20 May Torquay Hotel, Torquay VIC (With special guests Gut Health)
  • Fri 2 June The Eltham Hotel, Eltham NSW (With special guests TBC)
  • Fri 23 June The Corner Hotel, Melbourne VIC (With special guests Gut Health)

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Coinciding with the news, the band has shared the first single and clip. Co-directed by Ed Fraser and Cash Savage, Keep Working At Your Job, is a wiry post-punk elegy to the grind of late-stage capitalism thats blunt, yet deeply compassionate. I think youre just like me, Cash Savage sings/speaks, Broken like the rest of us. Keep it all inside, keep working at your job.

A pillar of Melbournes music and queer communities, Cash Savage has spent the past decade making tough and tender rocknroll with her colossal band, The Last Drinks: Joe White (guitar), Rene Mancuso (drums), Kat Mear (violin), Nick Finch (bass), Roshan Khozouei (keyboards), Dougal Shaw (guitar) and Ed Fraser (guitar). The Last Drinks have toured internationally with sound engineer Nao Anzai, who co-produced the album with Cash Savage and Nick Finch.

Their legendary live shows are an overwhelming cacophony of emotion and sound, with magnetic frontwoman Cash Savage at the...

15:16

FixedIt: Rapists, murderers and child abusers are not sex pests FFS "IndyWatch Feed National"

Here, for your Friday afternoon entertainment, is a listicle germinated in the fetid bowels of the Murdoch press.

Men who murdered women. Men who raped women. Men who raped children. More than twenty of them, complete with photos and salacious details of their crimes, often against multiple victims.

Sex pests. Thats what the Murdoch goblins call men who rape children and kill women.

Even without the abhorrent headline, this article would contaminate the bottom of a kitty litter tray.

HERES A LIST OF ALL THE PLACES WOMEN SHOULDNT GO!!!! but of course we dont include all the places that sell Murdoch papers or serve Murdochs orc-infested empire.

HERES A COLLAGE OF RAPISTS THAT LOOKS LIKE A MOIVE PROMOTION!!!! hasnt this rapist got lovely blue eyes! Lets put him right in the middle. Aww. Cute.

HERES A SUMMARY OF ALL THE WOMEN AND CHILDREN HE RAPED!!! look at us jernalisming like a bought one.

I need a shower, a bucket of bleach, and a world that has smashed Murdoch and all his malevolent buffoons into a thousand tiny pieces and flushed them into the sewer of history.

_

If youre reading this on social media, links to all the articles are on the post on my website: www.JaneGilmore.com

FixedIt is an ongoing project to push back against the medias constant erasure of violent men and blaming of innocent victims. If you would like to help fund it even $5 a month makes a big difference please consider becoming a Patron

1800 RESPECT
Sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling and support.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ph: 1800 737 732
www.1800respect.org.au

Suicide Call Back Service
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ph: 1300 659 467
www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Kids Helpline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Phone: 1800 55 1800
www.kidshelp.com.au

...

15:05

World-famous professional eaters Randy Santel and Katina Eats Kilos are coming to Geelong for 3kg Parmi Challenge "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

American extreme eater and TikTok and YouTube star Randy Santel and his partner, professional eater and Youtube Entertainer Katina Eats Kilos, will be heading to Geelong this month for a good old stomach-busting eating challenge.

Taking place at The Deck in Geelong on Saturday, March 18, Randy and Katina will each take on The Decks 3kg Chicken Parmi Challenge.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

We will each take on The Decks 3kg Chicken Parmi Challenge which is sure to be a fun and delicious restaurant food challenge event you dont want to miss, if youre available to make it, Randy who holds the world record for most eating competition wins shared to Facebook.

Katina Eats Kilos will likely take the challenge first and her Chicken Parmi platter will be brought out around 3pm AEDT with filming to commence. Once Katina is finished, win or lose, there will be a 10-15 minute intermission allowing the kitchen staff to prepare Randys challenge which will be brought out as soon as it is ready.

Randys food challenge will be broadcasted as a livestream for those keen to witness the glorious challenge but cannot attend in person.

The professional eating duo will arrive roughly an hour prior to the challenge to meet and greet keen viewers. The duo will also be available for photos before and after the challenge.

Check out the Facebook event here

The post World-famous professional eaters Randy Santel and Katina Eats Kilos are coming to Geelong for 3kg Parmi Challenge appeared first on Forte Magazine.

14:17

Dessert lovers rejoice: Beloved late-night dessert bar Armageddon Cake announces plans to return to Geelong "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

How good is heading to a dessert bar and indulging in the sweetest of treats? How long is a piece of string?

In arguably the best news all year, Geelongs much-loved Armageddon Cake is planning on coming back, gifting locals and tourists alike a sugar mecca that will torpedo your diet and make the top button of your jeans explode.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

Famed for its original quaint and retro location down McLarty Place, Armageddon Cake has been an institution in Geelong for just over ten years, often regarded as a place to escape the madness of the world, sit back and relax and have a laugh over board games with friends.

An absolute favourite, Armageddon Cake Dessert Bar made the move from its original small premises in a laneway of Little Malop St to a much larger space on Malop St, along the Green Spine, in 2018, before having made the difficult decision to close two years later, in 2020.

Now, under new management from Charles Corby, Armageddon Cake is making its triumphant return to a new secret location. Like a phoenix from the ashes, Corby is bringing back everything about Armageddon that we knew and loved the speciality coffee and cake, table games, original art, old magazines and vintage decor that screams If Granny was a murderer, this is what her home would look like!.

With Corby previously being involved in the original McLarty Place laneway store and understanding the heart and soul of what we know and love about Armageddon, you can trust that this will be nothing short of magnificent. The favourite cakes will be back on the menu, including the Baked New York Cheesecake, the Salted Caramel Mousse Cake, and the Death by Chocolate Mudcake, and the store will open at nights from around 7pm until late.

A location and date of opening will be revealed in time, but in t...

14:17

Property listings remain depressed "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Listings laying low


A few graphics from CoreLogic's latest monthly chart pack.


Total property listings remain -26.1 per cent below their 5-year average, with very few forced sellers in the market.



This has to some degree underpinned this cycle's downturn, with auction clearance rates getting off to a pretty decent start in 2023. 


Meanwhile unit rents continue to accelerate in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, in particular. 

13:51

PODCAST: Third generation farmer Rosemary Nankivell on why she wont stop fighting #CSG mining on the Liverpool Plains. "IndyWatch Feed National"

THIRD GENERATION Liverpool Plains farmer Rosemary Nankivell has been active for more than a decade trying to save the top NSW food bowl, the Liverpool Plains, and the surrounding Pilliga nature reserve and State Forest, from coal and coal seam gas mining. The campaign united farmers, environmentalists and the Gomeroi people to successfully stop proposed []

13:26

People in glass houses Joe "IndyWatch Feed National"

PRESIDENT BIDEN: "MAGA Republicans are threatening to default on the national debt." pic.twitter.com/BHGvC3nv18 Townhall.com (@townhallcom) March 9, 2023

13:21

People of Biden's Western Civilisation must be VERY proud. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Its a shame some people dont receive psychiatric treatment. pic.twitter.com/YiHjQnCnqE Dr. Anastasia Maria Loupis (@DrLoupis) March 9, 2023

13:10

Palm Tree Music Festival Australia reveals Melbourne set times, announce special guest Conrad Sewell "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

After phenomenal success in Hamptons, New York, Cabo, Mexico and Croatia, the world-renowned Palm Tree Music Festival will head to Australia in 2023 for events in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne this weekend.

Hitting the three cities in March, the tropical-inspired experience will be headlined by global superstar DJs and producers Tisto and Kygo, alongside Lost Frequencies, Sam Feldt and Frank Walker on the bill. For those heading to the festivals, set times have now been announced.

Palm Tree Music Festival Australia 2023

Friday 10th March Showgrounds Dome, SYDNEY

Saturday 11th March Riverstage, BRISBANE

Sunday 12th March Melbourne Showgrounds, MELBOURNE

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

The festival have also revealed that superstar multi-platinum-selling artist Australian Artist Conrad Sewell will be a special guest performer joining Kygo, LIVE on stage for an epic performance of their HIT track: Firestone at the festival this weekend (with more special guests to be revealed on the day), you will not want to miss this!

Melbourne Set Times:

Developed by Norwegian DJ and producer Kygo himself with the Palm Tree Crew, Palm Tree Music Festival is the first of its class to grace our shores. A one-of-a-kind festival experience, the festival captures the excitement of a single-day-event, with the unmatched feeling of summer in paradise with majestic beach vibes and unmissable sets by a lineup of global icons.

Melbourne Site Map:

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13:00

Autumn tones "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

Galahs are amongst the most striking of Australian birds, their pink and grey tones accentuated at this time of year as the autumn landscape fades to brown and gold.

The Black Kite is not really black at all, a subtle combination of different shades of brown, and of course that mustard-yellow cere.

Galah1-1

Galahs, Joyces Creek, 9th March 2023

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12:50

Police attempt to remove forest protector so Gully Giants can be logged "IndyWatch Feed National"

View over Valeries boots at the logging taking place in Doubleduke State Forest. Photo supplied

The magnificent old trees in a grove known as the Gully of the Giants are still standing this morning. They might not be so lucky tomorrow. The trees are part of Doubleduke State Forest, west of Evans Head, being logged under the auspices of the NSW Governments Forestry Corporation.

Logging couldnt go ahead this morning because yesterday, Save Banyabbas Koalas Valerie Thompson, bought teh Gully Giants a reprieve. Logging was unable to commence due to the logging machinery having been captured by the ropes suspending Valeries tree platform.

I relish the opportunity to spend the night in the forest. Im hoping I will hear a forest owl or the screech of a yellow-bellied glider, or maybe the bellow of a koala, said Valerie. 

These animals are why Im here. They depend on the hollows in these old trees to survive. When the trees go, the animals will go...

12:21

With a magical blend of folk and alternative production techniques, Danika unveils her hypnotic EP Down Love "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Having spent the latter half of 2010s performing backing vocals for prominent Australian artists 30/70; Sampa The Great and Harmony Byrne, Danika established herself as an absolute force to be reckoned with the release of the experimental folk EP, When Love Comes.

On her follow-up, the Down Love EP,  the emerging pop sensation further expands on her infectious alt-folk sound, showcasing her incredible vocal range between a myriad of atmospheric dream-pop pop sensibilities and haunting gothic-western arrangements. 

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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12:14

Artefacts taken by Cook to be returned to rightful custodians "IndyWatch Feed National"

THE very first objects taken from Australia by the British are finally coming home.

When James Cook and his crew first made contact with Aboriginal people in 1770, the British soldiers took dozens of spears from their camps at Botany Bay. 

More than 250 years later, only four of those spears remain and they will soon be permanently returned to the Aboriginal community of La Perouse. 

The historic announcement was made last Thursday at Bare Island in Botany Bay, which is known as Kamay in the local Indigenous language. 

La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council chairwoman Noeleen Timbery described the return of the artefacts as unimaginable. 

These spears are the markers of when our shared history began, she said. 

Theyre important objects for all Australians, because they tell the story of what happened

12:13

Traditional Owners deliver rock art protest to Plibersek "IndyWatch Feed National"

TRADITIONAL Owners from Murujuga on Western Australias Burrup Peninsular have travelled across the continent to protest outside the Sydney office of Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. 

The protest follows a community campaign launch held in Redfern on February 26 where Murujuga Traditional Owners teamed up with Gadigal Traditional Owners to escalate their fight for better protection of sacred Murujuga rock art from ongoing industrial threats. 

Murujuga Traditional Custodians, along with local supporters and allies, addressed the media outside Ms Pliberseks office on March 2. 

We are here this morning on Gadigal Country to stand with Traditional custodians around the country in opposition to the Federal Government continuing to allow industry to desecrate our culture, our communities and our Country, Mardudhunera woman and former chair of the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation Raelene Cooper said. 

The minister has just made international headlines announcing the World Heritage values of our sacred Murujuga rock art, but shes allowing Woodsides Burrup Hub to continue pumping out massive emissions

12:12

Change is in the air "IndyWatch Feed National"

ABORIGINAL communities, service providers, public servants, elected officials, philanthropists, business leaders, activists, inspiration thinkers, academics and local community came together last week for ChangeFest 2023 in Lutruwita (Tasmania). 

More than 500 people attended. 

Ideas, inspiration and real examples of making positive social change, as well as obstacles and challenges were discussed during the three days. 

ChangeFest is dubbed a movement. It has grown from four Logan (southeast Queensland) organisations banding together to assist community-driven social change, celebrating grassroots leadership and practical partnerships. 

ChangeFest organisers observed the discomfort of First Nations leaders at the 2018 gathering and so, in a statement, agreed on the importance of putting First Nations first. 

There is now a strong emphasis on empowering First Nations people, and the gatherings are attracting lots of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation. 

National gatherings have since been held in

12:10

LOCKED OUT OF MPARNTWE "IndyWatch Feed National"

ALICE Springs Town Council has made the extraordinary decision to ban an annual community club Aussie rules football competition. 

The council last week was presented with a motion to follow- through on the proposal, which passed despite strong opposition raised by two other councillors. 

The successful motion means Alice Springs Town Council will withdraw its support for the Community Cup competition which has teams from remote Aboriginal communities in and around Central Australia travelling to Alice Springs for games each weekend during the football season. The council said its decision was based on the town experiencing high levels of social unrest. 

The move will impact the senior mens Alice Springs-based Central Australian Football League. The five teams in the CAFL rely on players from those communities which are now banned. 

The Community Cup is played on Sundays with the CAFL on Saturdays. Community footballers are permitted to play for their community teams while also playing in the CAFL

11:38

The MSO brings an evening of pure Mozart and Beethoven bliss to Geelong "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Classical music lovers are in for a treat this month as the music of Mozart and Beethoven two of the most famous music composers of all time is brought to life live on stage. 

Taking place at Costa Hall in Geelong on 24 March, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, much-loved Melbourne pianist Stefan Cassomenos and Cybec Assistant Conductor Carlo Antonioli join forces to showcase the unique and captivating musical styles of the legends of classical music. 

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Across the evening inside Geelongs state-of-the-art, 1,500-seat concert auditorium, classical fans will witness the magic of Beethovens Coriolan Overture, Mozarts Piano Concerto No.23 and Beethovens Symphony No.8. 

One of the greatest examples of blending practical musicianship with sheer musical genius, Mozarts Piano Concerto No.23 was written only two months before the premiere of his opera The Marriage of Figaro, and the operatic influence on this dramatic and characterful piano concerto is palpable. 

Depicting a Roman leaders transition from brutality to tenderness, Beethovens brief Coriolan Overture was written as incidental music for the play by Heinrich von Collins, after William Shakespeares Coriolanus. This overture shows the inner natures of the principal characters and is the most notable remaining aspect of von Collins play.

In 1812 when he was almost completely deaf, Beethoven composed his Eighth Symphony, which has been described quite brilliantly as one of the shortest, weirdest, and most compelling symphonies of the 19th Century (The Guardian). What appears on the surface as light-hearted playfulness is a highly experimental, radical work that challenges the idea of the symphony as a genre.

Three brilliant works from two masters of classical music all woven into nearly two hours of pure bliss. 

See Mozart & Beethoven Bliss Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Season 2023 at Costa Hall, Geelong on Friday, 24 March from 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale here

The post The MSO brings an evening of pure Mozart and Beethoven bliss to Geelong appeared first on Forte Magazine.

11:00

Can This Mushroom Help Build New Brain Cells? "IndyWatch Feed National"

Lions mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) have a long history in traditional medicine. A 2023 study1 from the University of Queensland found an extract from the mushroom demonstrates the ability to promote neuron projections and connect those to other neurons.2

Lions mane mushrooms are named for their unique white and shaggy appearance that resembles a lion's mane. They are also known by several other names, including bearded tooth, monkey's head, bearded hedgehog, satyrs beard and pom pom mushroom.3 The mushroom traditionally grows on hardwood trees and has played a role in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Asian culture for centuries.

According to TCM practitioners, lions mane supports the liver, spleen, heart, kidney and lung function.4 Buddhist monks traditionally used lion's mane mushroom tea to enhance brain function and heighten focus. The Chinese began cultivating lion's mane mushrooms in 1988 to meet demand. Today it's becoming a popular functional food in Western cultures.

Lion's mane mushrooms tend to grow in a single clump of dangling spines.5 In the wild, the mushrooms appear in late summer and early fall on dead and dying hardwood trees. The young mushrooms are pure white and tend to turn yellow and brown as they age.

Lions Mane Mushrooms Dramatically Improve Brain Cell Growth

In recent years, fungi have attracted scientific exploration for the potential to improve cognitive function. Lions mane mushrooms have had a long reputation for mental health benefits, prompting a research team from the University of Queensland to delve deeper into how extracts from the mushroom may improve nerve growth and enhance memory.6

The researchers acknowledged the mushroom's ability to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration by targeting nerve growth factors. The hope was to identify bioactive compounds that could help regulate the growth of neurons.7 In the lab, the researchers purified biologically active compounds and tested them against cultured brain cells in a Petri dish. The cells were then evaluated under a super-resolution microscope.

According to study scientist Frdric Meunier, Ph.D., we found the mushroom extract and its active components largely increase the size of growth cones, which are particularly important for brain cells to sense their environment and establish new connections with other neurons...

08:16

Anthony Albanese is going to Washington and he could mention some important issues "IndyWatch Feed National"

Contributed by Joe Montero

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has flown off to India, presumably to talk up trade, and then going to the United States to talk with President Jo Biden and the British Prime Minister, who will also be there.

This could have been a good opportunity to raise some issues of serious concern back here in Australia. They wont be raised, because this will be a meeting between those who command and those who obey. Such is the political clout held over Australian government by Washington.

The meeting is about what is next for AUKUS, the military alliance that Australia has entered with the other two parties. So, we might as well start talking about this.

AUKUS is not an agreement between equals. It is an extension of the presence of the United States Military into Australia and our region, commanded from Washington, with some input from London.

Photo by David Glotzbach/ US Navy parade in Darwin during the closing ceremony of the eighth U.S. and Australian exercise Talisman Sabre in 2019

Part of the deal is to station nuclear submarines here. There is a pretence that they will be Australian submarines. They wont be. The real command will remain with the Pentagon. Australia gets the privilege of paying for them. Billions of Australian taxpayers dollars will go to American arms manufacturers. This is in line with Washingtons  policy of passing on some of the costs of its military to its allies.

The cost is not only about dollars. Australia loses sovereignty, that is, the right to make our own decisions and act independently. By being a cog in superpower military machine, Australia gets to be seen as a puppet, aiding hostile ac...

06:17

Should The Left Embrace Preparedness Culture? "IndyWatch Feed National"

What do we do if the lights go out in our community? Margaret Killjoy says the answer is simple. The Left must embrace preparedness culture.

06:11

Wildfire Smoke Linked to Ozone Layer Damage "IndyWatch Feed National"

A new study led by chemists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that wildfire smoke particles, which can remain in the stratosphere for a year, can cause chemical reactions that deplete the protective ozone layer. The findings occurred during the megafire in Australia in December 2019 to January 2020.

The study, published in the journal Nature, analyzed the atmospheric chemical composition over the Southern Hemisphere at mid-latitudes, including regions over Australia and New Zealand and parts of Africa and South America. 

The researchers noted that the wildfire smoke particles created chemical reactions in the stratosphere. They estimated that these reactions caused the megafire to contribute to a 3% to 5% depletion in the ozone in the area studied.

The study model also estimated that the wildfires impacted the ozone layer over Antarctica, widening the hole over the Antarctic by 2.5 million square kilometers by the end of 2020, or widening by 10% of its area in comparison to 2019.

The Australian fires of 2020 were really a wake-up call for the science community, Susan Solomon, study author and professor of environmental studies at M.I.T., said in a statement. The effect of wildfires was not previously accounted for in [projections of] ozone recovery. And I think that effect may depend on whether fires become more frequent and intense as the planet warms.

The wildfires analyzed in the study were the worst ever recorded in Australia, burning tens of millions of acres and emitting 1 million tons of smoke into the atmosphere, as M.I.T. reported.

Solomon and her colleagues previously identified a chemical reaction between chlorine-containing compounds, typically chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and fire aerosols that produced chlorine monoxide, which is known to deplete ozone. So the researchers came back to analyze molecules in the stratosphere following the megafire in Australia.

While the team found that wildfire smoke reactions with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stratosphere could deplete ozone, they suspect wildfire smoke could react to other chlorine-containing compounds in the atmosphere, especially wh...

05:00

Newly Discovered Enzyme Turns Air Into Electricity, Providing Clean Energy "IndyWatch Feed National"

PICKS are stories from many sources, selected by our editors or recommended by our readers because they are important, surprising, troubling, enlightening, inspiring, or amusing. They appear on our site and in our daily newsletter. Please send suggested articles, videos, podcasts, etc. to picks@whowhatwhy.org.

 

Newly Discovered Enzyme Turns Air Into Electricity, Providing Clean Source of Energy (Maria)

The author writes, Australian scientists have discovered an enzyme that converts air into energy. The finding, published [yesterday] in the journal Nature, reveals that this enzyme uses the low amounts of the hydrogen in the atmosphere to create an electrical current. This finding opens the way to create devices that literally make energy from thin air. The research team, led by Dr. Rhys Grinter, Ph.D. student Ashleigh Kropp, and Professor Chris Greening from the Monash University Biomedicine Discovery Institute in Melbourne, Australia, produced and analyzed a hydrogen-consuming enzyme from a common soil bacterium.

 

Trumps Threat of a Third-Party Run Is Undercut by Sore Loser Laws (Reader Steve)

The author writes, Donald Trump hates losing so much that he has suggested he will mount a third-party campaign if he doesnt win the Republican presidential nomination. But he cant win that way either, thanks to sore loser laws in six states he would need to return to the White House. Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas, as well as Arkansas and Alabama, have laws that bar a candidate defeated in a major-party primary from running as an independent or on a third-party ticket in the general election. That would put Trump at the general-election starting gate with a deficit of 91 electoral votes of the 270 required to capture the White House.

 

Inside the Private and Confidential Conservative Group That Promises to Crush Liberal Dominance (Gerry)

The authors write, Leonard Leo, a.....

01:50

US Still Trying To Bury Collateral Murder Video That WikiLeaks Released "IndyWatch Feed National"

This article was funded by paid subscribers of The Dissenter Newsletter, a project of Shadowproof. Become a monthly paid subscriber to help us publish more independent journalism on whistleblowing.

To further their nationwide efforts to restrict access to transgender health care, Republicans in the state of Missouri have deployed a former case worker at Washington Universitys Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital, who they claim is a whistleblower.

There is no shortage of activists, journalists, academics, and people of conscience who have some story to share about the impact of the Collateral Murder video.

The U.S. military footage of an Apache helicopter crew shooting indiscriminately at a dozen Iraqi civilians including Reuters journalists Namir Noor Eldeen and Saeed Chmagh, and two young children is widely recognized for exposing the true nature of the United States war in Iraq and for making WikiLeaks and Julian Assange household names.

Three years before WikiLeaks made it possible for the public to watch this video, Dean Yates, Reuters bureau chief in Iraq, learned of its existence. Yates testified about the impact of the video at the Belmarsh Tribunal in Sydney, Australia on March 4, 2023.

Later in the Tribunal, another delegate, Australian lawyer Bernard Collaery, called Yates testimony admissible evidence, which could serve as witness testimony in defense of Assange. (In fact, a statement from Yates was submitted to a British court during Assanges extradition trial.)

It has now been nearly 13 years since WikiLeaks published the video, and nearly 16 years since the attack took place. No one responsible for the attack or the invasion of Iraq has faced even a modicum of accountability.

In contrast, Assange is languishing in Belmarsh Prison under torturous conditions. He sits in legal limbo while the United States continues to pursue his extradition under Espionage Act charges, in a case which poses an unprecedented threat to press freedom.

While WikiLeaks publication of military documents from Iraq and Afghanistan are at the heart of the case, the Collateral Murder video is absent from the 18-count indictment that spans 37 pages.

The U.S. military usually didnt investigate civilian casualties in Iraq. It did in this case because Namir and Saeed worked for a major international news organization, Yates said as he started his speech.

I was shownwithout advance warningless than three minutes of footage from the gun-camera of Crazy Horse 1-8, up...

01:36

Reducing the cost of insulin is big news "IndyWatch Feed National"

An estimated 26.9 million people of all ages (8.2% of the U.S. population) have been diagnosed with diabetes. A further 7.3 million adults ages 18 years or older (21.4 percent of adults) are estimated to have diabetes but are undiagnosed. For people with diabetes, insulin is essential for them to live but in the US, insulin prices have been much higher than elsewhere in the world resulting in crippling costs for users, so much so that some people cannot afford to buy the drug.

One of the major achievements of Democrats and the Biden administration in passing the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) at the end of last year was that it allowed Medicare to negotiate down the price of insulin for those over 65.

Effective January 1, 2023, out-of-pocket costs for insulin are capped at $35 per monthly prescription among Medicare Part D enrollees under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). A similar cap takes effect in Medicare Part B on July 1, 2023. An estimated 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries who use insulin would have saved $734 million in Part D and $27 million in Part B if these caps had been in effect in 2020.

Thanks to the pressure exerted on prices by that move, one of the major manufacturers of the drug has announced that they will reduce the price of the drug for everyone.

High insulin prices have not earned any U.S. manufacturer many friends, with list prices increasing 54% from 2014 to 2019.

Most troublingly, an estimated 1.3 million uninsured people with diabetes and patients with inadequate insurance have resorted to rationing their insulin. Skipping doses because of high insulin prices has sometimes had tragic and even deadly consequences.

Part of the problem with the existing system is that some patients, especially if theyre uninsured or have high deductibles, end up paying the list price which can mean spending $1,000 or more a month on insulin. This can be a crushing financial burden.

Lillys new $35 out-of-pocket cap means that privately insured patients and those without insurance requiring insulin will spend no more than that monthly for copays. Its 70% reduction in the list price of two popular name brand insulins, Humalog and Humulin, will bring some financial relief. And the company has also reduced its generic lispros list price to $25 a vial, down from $126.

Lilly has put pressure on its biggest competitors, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi, to follow suit.

These lower prices could also make Lillys insulins affordable to cash-paying patients. As a result, these...

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Thursday, 09 March

23:02

What is the Delphi Technique? - Questions For Corbett #098 "IndyWatch Feed National"

Peter writes in to ask how we should respond to the Bank of England's rigged survey about CBDCs. James answers by describing the Delphi method and how to anti-Delphi in real life.

21:49

Peace not war - IPAN calls for Aussies to moblilise against war plans "IndyWatch Feed National"

  • IPAN denounces recent rabid media war propaganda
  • Call for all people who want peace to mobilise and force the Australian Government off path to war

The Independent and Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN) believe the recent blatant war propaganda published by the Sydney Morning Herald and Melbourne Age under the title of Red Alert and similar propaganda by Murdochs Sky News hour-long Special, titled Are we ready?, represent an appalling misuse of the media ownership. Such media is clearly intended to create fear which it is not in any way justified by facts and has been done so in order to create support for a heavy increase in military spending in preparation for joining the United States in a war against China, alarmingly predicted to occur within the next three years.

Going to war with the United States against China over Taiwan is not Australia's business, nor in its interests. As former PM Paul Keating has stated, "Taiwan is not of strategic value to Australia". Taiwan is a province of China, recognised by the United Nations as such and the relationship between Beijing and Taiwan is a matter to be resolved between Beijing and Taiwan internally without external interference and, hopefully, peacefully.

Australias involvement in a U.S. war against China would be a catastrophic disaster for the Australian people, stated IPAN Spokesperson Dr Alison Broinowski.
 

Hugh White, a respected defence strategist says, servicewomen and servicemen losses in the war would exceed those losses in the Vietnam and Korean Wars. 

In addition, with 90% of Australias fuel supplies imported and the war disrupting this supply, transport would be hit heavily and trucking of essentials including food, stopped.
With 70% of everyday items (apart from food) imported from China, the import of such items would cease, resulting in empty shops. Essential imported medical supplies would be scarce, if available at all and the situation would be far worse than the recent pandemic.

Exports to China would cease and the economy would face a severe down- turn, with substantial job losses.

Community division would be stimulated with an upsurge of racism directed at any who have Asian features and that is 3 million Australians.

Additionally, the massive increase in military expenditure diverts spending from urgent community needs such as bringing our hospitals up to scratch, which according to the Australian Medical Association would require $20 billion. This is apart from the urgent need for affordable housing, increased resourcing of education and addressing the impact of climate change.

Why should Australians suffer catastrophically for the United St...

20:46

Hillsong accused of money laundering and tax evasion by Australian MP under parliamentary privilege "IndyWatch Feed National"

Hillsong accused of money laundering and tax evasion by Australian MP under parliamentary privilege

Andrew Wilkie claims church money spent on the kind of shopping that would embarrass a Kardashian as he tables alleged whistleblower documents.

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19:07

Something for everyone: Aireys Inlet Music Festival is proving itself a staple for local music lovers around the region "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

For so many of us, there is no better feeling than getting together with a bunch of mates to go and check out some live music. And with our region consistently boasting incredibly healthy crops of up-and-comers, Victorian fans arguably have it the best out of all music fans nationwide. Not only do we have access to local gigs, events and boutique festivals almost every weekend of the year, but we also have events that provide a clear focus on fostering aspiring artists, making it easy for Victorian punters to show support for bands still in their infancy.

This is just one of the reasons why Aireys Inlet Music Festival has become such a staple for local music lovers around the region. 

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Having previously established a reputation for showcasing the best local acts around, as well as for booking large-scale surprise acts to close the weekend, this years event is being run a little bit differently. Having dropped both the open mic aspect and the secret headliner schtick, Aireys 2023 leans more into the design of Queenscliff Music Festival, providing punters with an absolutely stacked three-day lineup presented across one main stage and many other pop-up stages around the township.  

Discussing changes to the festivals layout and overall design, newly appointed festival director Patrick Donovan stated, I love the idea of an open mic event, but as an open mic festival it means that artists were playing for free, which is a very outdated model.

Musicians were hit harder than anyone during COVID, so were not letting anyone play for free. Instead, we will be paying for acts which obviously means this year there is a very modest door charge of $60 dollars that will cover you for the three days.

 

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17:05

Hop-A-Long Geelong is the epic new craft beer festival hitting central Geelong in April "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Hail to the ale: Geelong beer lovers have just been blessed with a brand-new craft beer festival in a salute to the towns strong brewing traditions.

Brought to you by the minds behind local breweries, Bells Beach Brewing and Valhalla Brewing, Hop-A-Long Geelong is a beer festival run by brewers. Forming a part of Tastes of Central Geelong 2023, Hop-A-Long Geelong is taking place April 1, showcasing local and independent craft beer within Geelong CBD. 

Hop-A-Long Geelong

  • A beer festival run by brewers of Geelong
  • Six venues, 12 breweries, 24 smashing beers to try
  • It all goes down April, 1 2023 as part of Tastes of Geelong Festival
  • Tickets are on sale now

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

 

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16:15

5 Reasons to Upgrade to Motorised Blinds "IndyWatch Feed National"

Are you looking for a way to upgrade the look and feel of your home without breaking the bank? Motorised blinds are an easy, affordable solution that can add both convenience and style to any room.

From improved energy efficiency to enhanced safety features, motorised blinds offer numerous benefits that make them well worth considering. In this blog post, well explore five reasons why upgrading to motorised blinds is a smart move for anyone looking for an easy way to update their space.

Improved Convenience

Motorised blinds are a great choice if youre looking for convenience in window coverings. No more struggling with heavy curtains or winding strings with motorised blinds, all you have to do is press the button and watch your blinds go up and down as you please. These fantastic window coverings come with various options such as timer settings, voice commands, and more, which makes it easy to adjust your blinds accordingly even when away from home.

Motorised blinds can also be synced with other smart systems in the house and provide optimal light control and improved energy efficiency. All in all, you can upgrade to motorised blinds today for hassle-free convenience all day, every day.

Energy Efficiency

Homeowners looking to save money on energy costs should consider installing motorised blinds. They are an effective way to reduce the amount of air conditioning used in summer and heating in winter, while also helping to insulate the house from sunlight and other exterior elements.

With just a click of a button, you can easily open or close the blinds depending on the time of day or season for maximum energy efficiency. Installing motorised blinds will reduce your energy bills and create a more comfortable living environment all year round.

Increased Safety

diy Motorised Blinds

Upgrading to motorised blinds can be a great way to increase your familys safety in the home. Motorised blinds are operated remotely and allow for easy control, meaning no need to fiddle with cords or rods that can pose a risk to young children and pets that can get tangled up in them.

Motorised blinds also give you better control over the amount of sunlight and privacy coming into your home, he...

16:05

The Debt Crisis What Really Falls to Dust? "IndyWatch Feed National"

QUESTION: The sales pitch seems to be that there is this $2 quadrillion in global debt that overhangs everything. Paper assets, therefore, will all implode!  They seem to be saying that everything has risen due to this debt bubble and it was all created with Zero interest rates. Now that they are going up, the debt bubble will burst and everything will decline. The story seems to be that this decades-long Boom Bust cycle was created over and over by the Federal Reserve. 

This seems to be like you have said, they try to reduce everything to a single cause and effect.

What really happens?

PCJ

ANSWER: These people seem to keep preaching the same story b...

15:52

Albanese Government must act to end a decade of offshore cruelty "IndyWatch Feed National"

This week, the Federal Government had the opportunity to end a decade of cruel, inhumane treatment of 150 people stranded in offshore detention. Instead, the Albanese Government voted with the Coalition and One Nation to block Greens senator Nick McKims Evacuation to Safety Bill that would remove the last refugees from Nauru and Papua New Guinea. 

The vote came after the Senate committee examining the bill pushed the Albanese Government to urgently consider all options to evacuate the refugees remaining in offshore detention, but inexplicably stopped short of support for the legislation to require it.  

In its submission to the inquiry, the Human Rights Law Centre outlined the dysfunction of current processes for transfers to Australia and the ongoing impact of family separation caused by offshore detention.  

While in opposition, the Labor government supported the former Medevac legislation, and committed to improving processes for medical transfers and oversight of healthcare. The Albanese government has not acted on those commitments and has declined the opportunity offered by the bill to carry them out.   

Scott Cosgriff, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre said:  

Offshore processing is a failed policy that has cost far more in human suffering than can be measured by the billions of dollars wasted on it.  

Successive governments have sought to normalise the ongoing atrocity of offshore detention by prolonging the mistreatment of people who remain there year upon year, under the pretence that they are engaged in a resettlement process.  

The Albanese government cannot evade responsibility for people in offshore centres by pretending that it no longer controls peoples lives or medical treatment. With or without legislation, the Albanese government is directly responsible for the futures of the people trapped offshore, and has the power to act on that responsibility. 

The Albanese Government needs to evacuate the 150 people stranded in Nauru and Papua New Guinea, shut down offshore detention, and end this cruel, inhumane and heartless chapter in Australias history once and for all. 
 
Read the Human Rights Law Centres submission to the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee on the Evacuation to Safety Bill

Media Contact:
Thomas Feng
Human Rights Law Centre
Media and Communications Manager thomas.feng@hrlc.org.au
0431 285 275

15:08

The Valdai meeting: Where West Asia meets multipolarity "IndyWatch Feed National"

March 04 2023 At Russias Valdai Club meeting the easts answer to Davos intellectuals and influencers gathered to frame West Asias current and future developments. By Pepe Escobar The 12th Middle East Conference at the Valdai Club in Moscow offered a more than welcome cornucopia of views on interconnected troubles and tribulations affecting the region. []

13:30

We're on a path to war. How can we stop it? National Zoom Meeting "IndyWatch Feed National"

<p><div class= "field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p><strong>Were on the path to war. How can we stop it? Implications of the government reports on AUKUS, nuclear submarines, war powers reform & the Defence Strategic Review. National Zoom Meeting, Sunday 26 March, 6.30pm AEDT. Free registration details inside.

  <strong>National Zoom Meeting</strong><br>  <strong>Sunday 26th March, 6.30pm AEDT</strong></p> <p><a class="twitter-timeline-link" href= "https://rlexye.clicks.mlsend2.com/te/cl/eyJ2Ijoie1wiYVwiOjMyOTM0MCxcImxcIjo4MjEyNzg3NTU0OTk1NjAwNCxcInJcIjo4MjEyNzg3NjMwNTk3OTI4Mn0iLCJzIjoiYjljYmNkNGZjMjU4MjQ1MCJ9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Register here</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Speakers</p> <p><strong>Dr Alison Broinowski AM:</strong> President, Australians for War Powers Reform. Formerly an Australian diplomat, Alison is the author or editor of 14 books about Australias dealings with the world, Asian countries in particular. Her PhD is in Asian Studies at ANU. She has researched and taught there, at Macquarie University, and at the University of Wollongong.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Dr Alison Boinowski</strong> will speak on the implications of the Inquiry into War Powers Reform</p> <p><strong>Brian Toohey</strong> was a columnist with the <em>Australian Financial Review</em> who has also written for <em>The Nikkei Asia Review, The West Australian, The Sunday Age</em> and other publications. He was editor of <em>The</em> <em>National Times</em> and a Canberra and Washington correspondent for <em>AFR</em>. He is the author or co-author of four books: <em>Oyster: The Story of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service</em>;<em> Tumbling Dice: The Story of Modern Economic Policy</em>;<em> The Book of Leaks</em> and <em>The Winchester Scandal</em>. Among other subjects, he has written extensively about national security policy since 1973. Brian currently writes for The Saturday Paper and Pearls & Irritations.

Brian Toohey </strong>will speak on the implications of the report on Aukus and the Nuclear Submarines</p> <p><strong>Dr Vince Scappatura</strong> teaches Politics and International Relations at Macquarie University. He has a recently published...</p> </div> </div> </div></strong></p>

12:33

January 6th A Citizens Guess as to What Happened "IndyWatch Feed National"

(L) Costumed protestor untouched by armed guards in Capitol (C) People using rods and sticks to whack someone (not visible) (R)  Senator McConnell, Photo: C-Span

by Mary W Maxwell, LLB

There are many conspiracy theories about wrongdoing by government. A typical one is The CIA deliberately arranged for JFKs motorcade to be in a place where he could get assassinated. It remains only a theory no member of the motorcade team ever swore in court, or on a TV news show, that they had been instructed to let the assassination happen.

Of course, there could be a general investigation in which eyewitnesses or expert witnesses tell whatever they know and a panel of judges draws a conclusion, for example, that The CIA knowingly contributed on November 22, 1963, to the...

12:24

Eastern Kuku Yalanji People #2 Native Title Claim "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Eastern Kuku Yalanji Peoples native title claim group is comprised of those Aboriginal persons who are descended by birth or by adoption in accordance with the traditional laws and customs of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji People from one or more of the following ancestors:

Register extract is here
External boundary description is here
Map of the application area is here

1. Siblings Wawuyilkinga, Lily Kajakaja, Ulurban, Kurlur, Juwalkji, Jinabaji;
2. Kilkil (Gilgil) and Yougie (Emera);
3. Ngamubaralba;
4. Jimmy Johnson Snr and his brothers Toby King and Peter King;
5. Brothers Billy King, Willie King 1 and Willie King 2;
6. Siblings Nambaji, Bijun (Dangara) and Jimmy (Mandilba) Rossville;
7. Old Man Jimmy and Sarah;
8. Kurukuna and Nellie;
9. Bluja King Kunarra and his three wives Ngingkibaji #1 and Ngingkibaji #2, and Baral-Baral;
10. Dimbanga and Mara Baril Baril;
11. Sisters Mujala and Rosie;
12. Brothers Dickie Springvale and Mundy Nunn;
13. Jilngarr;
14. Burradi and Wawu Dimbi;
15. Siblings Jimmy, Polly (Jukura), Nellie (Wuynkul-baka), Charlie (Junjurr or Munjurr), Lily (Jabi or Chubby) Blanket;
16. Rosie Gurrmurragudgee;
17. Brothers George Doughboy, Toby Bloomfield and Peter Bloomfield (Kalka Jurungu);
18. Brothers Charlie Ball (Dirrakari) and Billy Collins and Davey Douglas and Sandy Peterson;
19. Isabella Henderson (Wawu-kuwa)
20. Ginny Bamboo;
21. Siblings Archibald (Bauly) Mossman, Jessie Mossman (Bawanya) and Billy Mossman;
22. Siblings Jessie Buchanan (Babi Milbija or Narrijinya) and King Charlie Diamond;
23. Henry Bloomfield;
24. Yangki and Buji;
25. Willy Ngamu-Darrba and his two wives Molly Kalumba and Yimaday;
26. Kalkamanangu and Duraja;
27. Kalkaymba;
28. Rosie Maund Jankarji and her husbands Tommy Jinjarrba Lefthand, Tommy Ngangkun Johnson (Buchanan), Barney Lunn (Lund), Billie Lunn (Lund) and Tommy Jindalman Hide;
29. Big Friday Ngamu-Ngulmbay and Ruby;
30. Leslie Yerry;
31. Brothers King Toby and Old Man Toby (Jinjirrba);
32. Maggie Queen;
33. Siblings Miliji, Kalkabinda, Kuruwuja, Peter Smith (Marray-Marray or Murranb...

11:34

Australia has been selling China 'doped' gold for years, could be forced to return up to $9 billion, Perth Mint also faces separate fraud investigations "IndyWatch Feed National"

Up to $9billion worth of gold that the Perth Mint sold to China could be recalled after it was discovered some bars were diluted with other metals. The WA government-owned mint, which is the largest refiner of newly mined gold in the world, started 'doping' its gold in 2018 - a process which involves mixing in silver or copper while still keeping the purity above 99.99 per cent. While the product met widely accepted standards on the global gold market, up to 100 tonnes of bullion shipped to China potentially falls short of the more stringent standards of the Shanghai Gold Exchange (SGE). Some of the gold the SGE tested from Perth Mint exceeded the allowable silver content.

11:01

CCC: Heres how the UK can get reliable zero-carbon electricity by 2035 "IndyWatch Feed National"

The UK can build a reliable, secure and cost-effective electricity system that is decarbonised by 2035, says the governments advisory Climate Change Committee (CCC).

The CCCs new report is based on new hour-by-hour modelling of the countrys electricity system out to 2035, which includes stress-tests of how it could ride out extended wind droughts.

In effect, the report is a 131-page answer to the question often posed by those sceptical of climate action: But what about when the wind does not blow and the sun does not shine?

The CCC sees cheap  but variable  wind and solar meeting 70% of demand. While nuclear and biomass might meet another 20%, they are relatively inflexible. Therefore, the final 10% is key.

This 10% will largely come from flexible low-carbon solutions, such as batteries, compressed air storage and responsive demand. Crucially, however, gaps lasting days to weeks at a time will be filled by gas with carbon capture and storage (CCS) and/or hydrogen power.

As an additional source of security, the committee endorses a small remaining role for unabated gas power in 2035. This would meet up to around 2% of annual demand, down from 40% today.

The importance of hydrogen is clear, as nearly one-quarter of the report is given over to its role. 

However, the committee stresses the risks of medium-term scarcity in hydrogen supply, which would be even larger if the government prioritises using hydrogen to heat homes.

Overall, the CCC says the flexible, secure and decarbonised electricity grid of 2035 is within sight, but only with urgent reform.

Its 25 recommendations for government include easing the planning and regulatory regimes, so that energy infrastructure can be built at the speed necessary.

These reforms are required to unlock hundreds of billions in investment needed to build a reliable, decarbonised grid by 2035, the CCC says.

10:51

Safe to Fly? Pilots and Flight Attendants Who Recently had Cardiac Arrests In-Flight and Died Suddenly "IndyWatch Feed National"

by Dr. William Makis MD
COVID Intel

There has been an increasing number of stories of pilots and flight attendants suffering cardiac arrests and sudden deaths in-flight, and here are some that made it into mainstream media:

UK Pilot Instructor, age 57, died suddenly in-flight (Jun.2022)

...

10:50

Safe to Fly? Pilots and Flight Attendants Who Recently had Cardiac Arrests In-Flight and Died Suddenly "IndyWatch Feed National"

by Dr. William Makis MD
COVID Intel

There has been an increasing number of stories of pilots and flight attendants suffering cardiac arrests and sudden deaths in-flight, and here are some that made it into mainstream media:

UK Pilot Instructor, age 57, died suddenly in-flight (Jun.2022)

...

10:12

Safe to Fly? Pilots and Flight Attendants Who Recently had Cardiac Arrests In-Flight and Died Suddenly "IndyWatch Feed National"

by Dr. William Makis MD
COVID Intel

There has been an increasing number of stories of pilots and flight attendants suffering cardiac arrests and sudden deaths in-flight, and here are some that made it into mainstream media:

UK Pilot Instructor, age 57, died suddenly in-flight (Jun.2022)

...

10:09

"IndyWatch Feed Nthamerica" "IndyWatch Feed National"

<p><p>Welcome to <a href= "https://www.thelastamericanvagabond.com/daily-wrap-up/" rel= "nofollow noopener" style="color: #ff0000;" title= "This link will take you away from steemit.com">The Daily Wrap Up</a>, a concise show dedicated to bringing you the most relevant independent news, as we see it, from the last 24 hours (3/8/23).<br> As always, take the information discussed in the video below and research it for yourself, and come to your own conclusions. Anyone telling you what the truth is, or claiming they have the answer, is likely leading you astray, for one reason or another. Stay Vigilant.<br> (<a href= "https://www.rokfin.com/TLAVagabond">https://www.rokfin.com/TLAVagabond</a>)(<a href="https://www.bitchute.com/channel/24yVcta8zEjY/">https://www.bitchute.com/channel/24yVcta8zEjY/</a>)<br> https://rumble.com/embed/v29p1qw/?pub=2q643<br> <br> <br> Video Source Links (In Chronological Order)<br> <br> <a href= "https://www.thelastamericanvagabond.com/tn-anti-trans-bill-independent-palestine-testing-contradicts-epa-lab-leak-last-resort/"> TN "Anti-Trans Bill", Independent E. Palestine Testing Contradicts EPA & The Lab "Leak" Last Resort
(30) The Vigilant Fox on Twitter: "Dr. Robert Redfield: "There's No Doubt That NIH Funded Gain-of-Function Research" Ms. Malliotakis: "Is it likely that American tax dollars funded the gain-of-function research that created this virus?" Dr. Redfield: "I think it did not only from NIH but from the State https://t.co/OqsTsb1hFg" / Twitter</a><br> <a href="">New Tab</a><br> <a href= "https://twitter.com/remarks/status/1633269275019423744?s=12&t=QZjhwQnW81iyM5uOBlF0HQ"> (31) Remarks on Twitter: "JUST IN: Maryland Democrats seek to prohibit anyone under the age of 25 from being charged with felony murder, citing that 'their brains arent fully developed.'" / Twitter</a><br> <a href= "https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/debate-continues-on-bill-preventing-youth-under-25-from-facing-1st-degree-murder-charge"> Debate continues on bill preventing youth under 25 from facing 1st degree murder charge | WBFF</a><br> <a href= "https://www.cf.org/news/democrat-lawmakers-introduce-bill-preventing-anyone-25-under-from-being-charged-with-felony-murder/"> Democrat Lawmakers Introduce Bill Preventing Anyone 25 Under from Being Charged with Felony Murder</a><br> <a href= "https://marylandreporter.com/2021/03/16/carter-proposes-legislation-that-would-prohibit-minors-from-being-convicted-of-felony-murder/"> Carter proposes legislation that would prohibit minors from being convicted of felony murder - MarylandReporter.com</a><br> <a href= "https://twitter.com/TLAVagabond/status/1633513002900103168">(35) LastAmericanVagabond on Twitter: "So if a pe...

08:38

How the Interpersonal Model Explains, and Heals, Mental Pain | James Barnes "IndyWatch Feed National"

From Aeon: When I was studying philosophy years ago, I had what felt like a nervous breakdown. I wasnt able to think clearly or articulate my thoughts, and sometimes stuttered. I thought something had gone wrong in my brain. I went for brain scans but found no answers. I ended up with a psychologist who turned out to be a relational psychoanalyst. That term didnt mean too much to me at the time, but it was life-defining. Through my therapy, I came to realise that there was, in fact, nothing wrong with my brain. It was in my relationships, especially early ones, where the issue lay. As my mind gradually came back to me, I trained to be a relational psychotherapist myself, and became fascinated by the ideas and theories behind it. What I found was nothing short of revolutionary.

Id already been deeply interested in the limitations of Western models of mind, especially in terms of the enduring influence of Ren Descartess dualism between mind and body, mind and world, which set the West into modernity in the 17th century. But this had been a very academic and abstract pursuit. In relational theory, however, I found not only the answers to the problems that our dualistic heritage bestowed upon us, but also to my own suffering, and the roots of much psychological and emotional distress in general.

Prior to Descartess time, mind and world had been understood as entangled, interpenetrating, open to each other. But in the inexorable march of the physical sciences and the mechanistic explanation of the world during the scientific revolution, mind (and soul) were mortally threatened. This led Descartes to split the mind off from the world (and the body that was unarguably part of the world) in order to save it from reduction to physical mechanism. All experience, meaning and purpose once of mind and world both  were withdrawn from the world and put solely into Descartess new mind-substance, something that had not existed before.

When the new scientific discipline of psychology separated off from philosophy in the mid- to late 19th century, it adopted an essentially the present day, certainly in mainstream psychology, psychiatry and psychotherapy. Instead of seeing mind as a separate substance, this neo-Cartesian perspective assumes that the mind is somehow identifiable with the brain, brain states and brain functioning. Much like Descartes, however, it maintains the very same vision of mind as an experientially private interior, categorically cut off from the world and others outside.

For Descartes and for modern neo-Cartesian models alike, our experience of the world and others occurs on the inside in our individual minds or brains. For modern psychology, this meant that mental life could be studied and measured in isolation, lending itself to empirical and qu........

08:30

Reform needed to strengthen Queensland's whistleblowing laws "IndyWatch Feed National"

Queenslands public sector whistleblowing laws are in need of an urgent overhaul, a coalition of organisations have told an independent review into the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 (Qld) being undertaken by former Supreme Court judge Alan Wilson KC.

In the submission, the Centre for Governance and Public Policy at Griffith University, Human Rights Law Centre and Transparency International Australia have called for significant reform to ensure Queenslands public sector whistleblowers are protected and empowered in speaking up. 

The Wilson review was commissioned by Attorney-General Hon Shannon Fentiman following the Coaldrake Review into culture and accountability in Queensland government and the Commission of Inquiry into the Crime and Corruption Commission. 

Queenslands public sector whistleblowing laws were once world-leading; they now lag behind other Australian jurisdictions. To better protect Queensland whistleblowers, the joint submission identifies four central reform priorities: 

  1. The establishment of an independent body to oversee and enforce the PID Act, and provide support to whistleblowers; 

  2. Accessible and practically-enforceable remedies, given shortcomings in the current law; 

  3. A positive duty on Queensland government agencies to protect whistleblowers; and 

  4. Careful reform to exclude personal work-related grievances from the laws scope. 

The Wilson Review is expected to report in late April. 

A J Brown, Professor at Griffith University and Board member at Transparency International Australia, said: 

Queensland once led Australia in protecting whistleblowers, becoming only the second jurisdiction in the world with dedicated whistleblower protection laws following the first Fitzgerald Inquiry. But Queenslands PID Act has not kept pace with subsequent legislative innovation domestically and internationally, and is now out of date. 

Recent inquiries and reviews have underscored the importance of whistleblowers to upholding an accountable, transparent and pro-integrity culture within the Queensland public service. The reforms we propose would ensure Queensland is once again the leading Australian jurisdiction in empowering whistleblowers to speak up about government wrongdoing. 

Kieran Pender, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre, said: 

When whistleblowers speak up about government wrongdoing and human rights violations they make Queensland a better place. But too often, their whistleblowing goes unheeded or they face retaliation at work for doing the right thing. We are encouraged by this important review and the Queensland government...

07:50

The earthquake in Turkey and Syria and Nicaraguas 1972 experience "IndyWatch Feed National"

Contributed by Glen Davis

Around the world people are stunned, horrified, at the scale of the recent earthquakes in Syria and Turkey. The death toll continues rising, the damage to infrastructure, and the economy, almost immeasurable.

Syria is in the middle of a long running bloody war. There is the government of Bashar-al-Assad, supported by Russia. Against his forces are Islamist opponents, who have attracted some limited support from the United States and its

Turkey is recognised as a constitutional republic overseen by the President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, an autocratic leader who sees current day Turkey as a modern contemporary of the Ottoman Empire. His government is only too quick to crack down on any sign of dissent, let along give any acknowledgement to the needs of groups like the Kurds.

Photo by sin Akgul/AFP: Turkish soldier walks among destroyed buildings in Hatay

With the wide scale collapse, destruction, of built structures, people are wondering why these buildings collapsed so easily, killing, trapping thousands. Fingers are being pointed at planning, or lack of proper planning, involved in the building processes. The government appears complicit in these actions, actions that exacerbate this human tragedy.

Turkey, Syria, neither are bastions of democracy as in both places the bulk of the populace remain poor, disenfranchised from the real power in their nations. The impact of these devastating earthquakes can only increase the prevalent inequality.

Anyhow while were on earthquakes lets go back in time to the 1970s to another severe earthquake. In Nicaragua 1972 saw a serious earthquake magnitude 6.2. This particularly hit the capital Managua and claimed the lives of over 10,000 of its population of 400,000. Over 80,000 of Managuas commercial buildings were destroyed. Devastation meant a massive rebuilding program.

...

07:45

The 15 Minute City - A Good Life or an Infringement on Freedoms? "IndyWatch Feed National"

 

The 15-Minute City: a term to describe compact, mixed-use neighborhoods, has become a political football, where critics believe the idea could result in an infringement on personal freedoms. 

On this Upzoned podcast, host Abby Kinney and special guest Kevin Klinkenberg, talk about this contentious topic and answer the question: Are the concerns people have about 15 minute cities warranted, or is this something that we should all be rolling our eyes at and moving on from? 

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 
  

07:42

The Right to Be Let Alone: When the Government Wants to Know All Your Business "IndyWatch Feed National"

<p><blockquote> <h5><a href= "https://www.rutherford.org/publications_resources/john_whiteheads_commentary" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><span style="color: #003366;">By John & Nisha Whitehead | The Rutherford Institute | March 7, 2023

There was a time when the census was just a head count.

That is no longer the case.

The <a href= "https://www.rutherford.org/publications_resources/legal_features/constitutional_qa_american_community_survey">American Community Survey</a> (ACS), sent to about 3.5 million homes every year, is the byproduct of a government that believes it has the right to know all of your personal business.</p> <p>If you havent already received an ACS, its just a matter of time.</p> <p>A far cry from the traditional census, which is limited to ascertaining the number of persons living in each dwelling, their ages and ethnicities, the ownership of the dwelling and telephone numbers, the ACS contains some of the most detailed and intrusive questions ever put forth in a census questionnaire.</p> <p>At 28 pages (with an additional 16-page instruction packet), these questions concern matters that the government simply has no business knowing, including questions relating to respondents bathing habits, home utility costs, fertility, marital history, work commute, mortgage, and health insurance, among other highly personal and private matters.</p> <p>For instance, the ACS asks how many persons live in your home, along with their names and detailed information about them such as their relationship to you, marital status, race and their physical, mental and emotional problems, etc. The survey also asks how many bedrooms and bathrooms you have in your house, along with the fuel used to heat your home, the cost of electricity, what type of mortgage you have and monthly mortgage payments, property taxes and so on.</p> <p>And then the survey drills down even deeper.</p> <p>The survey demands to know how many days you were sick last year, how many automobiles you own and the number of miles driven, whether you have trouble getting up the stairs, and what time you leave for work every morning, along with highly detailed inquiries about your financial affairs. And the survey demands that you violate the privacy of others by supplying the names and addresses of your friends, relatives and employer.</p> <p>The questionnaire also demands that you give other information on the people in your home, such as their educational levels, how many years of school were completed, what languages they speak and when they last worked at a job, among other things.</p> <p>Individuals who receive the ACS must complete it or be subject to monetary penalties.</p> <p>Although no reports have surfaced of individuals actually being penalized for refusing to answer the survey, the pot...</p>

07:00

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sacks Freedom of Information Commissioner Leo Hardiman by constructive dismissal "IndyWatch Feed National"

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has forced Freedom of Information Commissioner Leo Hardiman to resign from his position by making it impossible for him to do his job properly which is a textbook []

06:57

Credibility of alleged victims defended as sex abuse trial of former principal Malka Leifer draws to a close "IndyWatch Feed National"

These ladies, sisters, have been fighting for justice for a long time. I hope they are suitably rewarded.

Ive always believed them.

...

06:55

Dozens of countries condemn interference in Beirut blast probe "IndyWatch Feed National"

Dozens of countries condemn interference in Beirut blast probe

Rights groups and family members of victims have accused Lebanons political establishment of undermining the probe into the explosion
MEE staff Wed, 03/08/2023 - 19:55
Lebanese demonstrators lift placards demanding top prosecutor Ghassan Oueidat be held accountable for the 2020 port blast, during a rally in the capital Beirut, on 28 January 2023 (AFP)

Thirty-eight countries at the UN Human Rights Council have condemned the obstruction and interference in a Lebanese judicial probe into 2020 Beirut port explosion, which killed more than 200 people and destroyed swaths of the capital.

A joint statement delivered by Australia before the UN Human Rights Council on Tuesday called on Lebanon to to take all necessary measures to safeguard, in law and in practice, the full independence and impartiality of the Lebanese judiciary and to ensure that a swift, independent, impartial, credible, and transparent investigation into the explosion be carried out.

We urge Lebanon to abide by its international human rights obligations to take all necessary measures to safeguard, in law and in practice, the full independence and impartiality of the Lebanese judiciary, the letter stated.

'It's time for answers': Victims of Beirut port blast file complaint in US court
...

06:44

Meeting Climate Pledges Could Reduce Future UK Flood Damage By Up to 20%, Study Finds "IndyWatch Feed National"

Does it matter if countries meet their existing climate pledges, even if they currently arent enough to limit global heating to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels?

For the UK, the answer is definitely yes, according to a new study from the University of Bristol and flood risk modeler Fathom. The researchers found that flood damage in the country could be limited to less than five percent above recent levels if the nations of the world met their COP26 climate promises through 2030 as well longer-term net zero pledges. 

For the first time this flood model gives us a more accurate and detailed picture of the impact of climate change on the risk of flooding in the future across the UK, study lead author, University of Bristol Professor of Hydrology and Fathom Chairman Paul Bates said in a university press release. The results are a timely warning to the countrys political leaders and business sector that global commitments to significantly reduce carbon emissions must be taken very seriously, and ultimately take effect, in order to mitigate increased losses due to flooding.

Flooding is considered the UKs No. 1 environmental hazard, according to the study published in Natural Hazards and Earth System Science Tuesday. The research team looked at potential flood damage in...

05:57

Lowland Snow Flakes in March Plus Does Global Warming Contribute to Cold Waves "IndyWatch Feed National"

 My new podcast (see information below) not only talks about the current weather situation but answers a question many of you are asking:

Has Global Warming/Climate Change contributed to increased numbers and intensity of cold waves...and particularly cold waves over the western U.S.?

The answer is definitively no, something noted by statistics provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a number of peer-reviewed articles (see EPA graphic below).

Graphic courtesy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

And then there is the current chilly situation.  Unbelievably, forecast models show two situations with the potential for light lowland snow (with little accumulation).

The accumulated SNOWFALL through 10 AM Thursday is shown below.  Nothing major, but southwest Washington and northeast Oregon may get some flakes. Light snow over the eastern slopes of the WA Cascades.


...

05:43

Shockwaves rocking the 'cosmic web' connecting galaxies seen for the 1st time "IndyWatch Feed National"

"We are seeing emissions from the shockwaves in the largest structures in the universe." Scientists have discovered the first evidence of shockwaves rippling through the "cosmic web," a massive network of interweaving filaments that represents the largest structure in the universe. The discovery represents tantalizing evidence of magnetic fields weaving through the gas, dust, and dark matter tendrils which link galaxies together. Scientists first began to think that on the largest scales, the universe is ordered in a web-like pattern with filaments that cross vast voids in space and pull galaxies into clusters in the 1960s. Two decades later using computer modeling, researchers were able to determine what this vast universal network might look like for the first time. Astronomers have since mapped the cosmic web with actual observations in the process answering questions about its structure. One element has remained frustratingly shrouded in mystery, however: The magnetic fields...

04:51

Baseball Fans Can Now Instantly Receive Bitcoin After Perth Heats Most Exciting Plays "IndyWatch Feed National"

A new Lightning partnership will let Perth Heat fans scan QR codes after stolen bases and home runs, rewarding them with bitcoin instantly.

The Perth Heat, the Australian Baseball Leagues most successful baseball team, has announced a new partnership that rewards fans in bitcoin every time a player from Perth Heat steals a base or hits a home run.

The partnership with Bitrefill, Wallet of Satoshi and IBEX will allow fans to Steal Sats by scanning a QR code displayed on the game stream or on the team's social media channels when a player makes an impressive play. Fans will receive their reward instantly after scanning the code with a Lightning-enabled wallet, introducing a novel fan interaction system that brings further excitement to thrilling moments in games.

"We are thrilled to be launching Stealing Sats in partnership with Bitrefill, Wallet of Satoshi, and IBEX," Steven Nelkovski, CEO of the Perth Heat, said in a press release sent to Bitcoin Magazine. "This is an innovative way to engage with our fans and offer them something new and exciting. We believe this program will further enhance the fan experience and incentivize our players to push themselves to achieve their best on the field."

The baseball team made headlines in 2021 when they adopted a Bitcoin standard and integrated Lightning, becoming the first professional sports team to do so. Afterwards, the Heat proved their desire to further integrate Bitcoin, widely introducing Lightning services to their stadium and fan experiences. The team then announced sats4stats, which is a way to boost fans favorite players through the Lightning Network.

The latest introduction of Stealing Sats is simply another innovation for the team using Bitcoin and Lightning.

Ry Sterling, business development at IBEX, described how they seek to play a role in revolutionizing fan engagement, saying, At IBEX our focus is spreading innovation via the Lightning network and with the lead from Perth Heat, #stealingsats and #satsforstats has opened our eyes to a whole new market of global fandom that we had not considered before.

Chris Pavlesic, Bitrefills Australia manager, said that "With Stealing Sats, fans can now participate in the game in a whole new way, and we are excited to see how this will continue to evolve over time."

Daniel Alexiuc, CEO at Wallet of Satoshi added, "The whole team at Wallet of Satoshi is really excited about Stealing Sats with Perth Heat It's such an innovative way to demonstrate that Bitcoin is easy and it is for everybody.

03:48

'Wrinkles' in time experience linked to heartbeat "IndyWatch Feed National"

How long is the present? The answer, Cornell researchers suggest in a new study, depends on your heart. They found that our momentary perception of time is not continuous but may stretch or shrink with each heartbeat. The research builds evidence that the heart is one of the brain's important timekeepers and plays a fundamental role in our sense of time passing - an idea contemplated since ancient times, said Adam K. Anderson, professor in the Department of Psychology and in the College of Human Ecology (CHE). "Time is a dimension of the universe and a core basis for our experience of self," Anderson said. "Our research shows that the moment-to-moment experience of time is synchronized with, and changes with, the length of a heartbeat." Saeedeh Sadeghi, M.S. '19, a doctoral student in the field of psychology, is the lead author of "Wrinkles in Subsecond Time Perception are Synchronized to the Heart," published March 2 in the journal Psychophysiology. Anderson is a co-author with...

03:00

Fixing The Incentives: How Fiat Money Broke The World "IndyWatch Feed National"

The global history of fiat money and U.S. world reserve status has incentivized many countries to abandon their own cultures and sovereignty.

This is an opinion editorial by Jimmy Song, a Bitcoin developer, educator and entrepreneur and programmer with over 20 years of experience.

In the first three parts of this series, I examined the different ways that fiat money has led to terrible incentives at the individual, corporate and national levels. We are more isolated than ever, we are less satisfied with our work and we work under tyrannical, authoritarian governments as a result of fiat money. In this article, I go through the ways the entire world is incentivized by fiat money.

The previous articles spoke more generally about how individuals, companies and nations are affected by fiat money. This article will be a lot more specific as there's only the one world we live in and we don't need to speak generally. Thus, I will start this article with some historical context as that will give us a better understanding of why the financial incentives in the world are the way they are.

Bretton Woods

We start the analysis of global fiat money incentives with one of the major historical events that precipitated the world we live in today and that's the Bretton Woods Agreement from 1944.

Bretton Woods is a small town in New Hampshire where government bureaucrats from all over the world came to establish what they called "a new monetary world order." If that sounds ominous and sinister, that's because it is.

The idea of the conference was to fix the problems from World War I (WWI), where reparation payments and loopholes around the then re-established gold standard wreaked havoc over so many economies and eventually led to World War II (WWII). Returning to the pre-WWI gold standard was too difficult to square with the central banking monetary control that every country had gotten used to, so the conference was a way to figure out how to establish some other monetary order.

The main problems were that every country wanted the legitimacy of gold but also the stealth taxation of central bank fiat money. The solution they came up with was to add a level of indirection to gold redemption.

Prior to WWI, gold was convertible directly at banks. In the U.S., you could exchange $20.67 for one ounce of gold. In the U.K., you could exchange 4.25 for one ounce......

01:33

Death in the metaverse: Web3 aims to offer new answers to old questions "IndyWatch Feed National"

As contemporary society continues to digitize, life in the metaverse raises the same timeless questions about what happens after death.

01:32

Speech by Kellie Tranter: Australia - Silent Collaborator against Assange "IndyWatch Feed National"

Previously 7 March 2023 on Consortium News and on 4 March 2023 at : At the Belmarsh Tribunal for Julian Assange, held at Sydney Universitys Great Hall on Saturday 4 March, Kellie Tranter (), a lawyer, researcher, and human rights advocate, in a 7:40 minute speech, reported that despite private and public requests for diplomatic assistance for the WikiLeaks publisher, Canberras policy shown by FOI documents has been one of complicit inactivity in the face of his persecution:

The significance of the Belmarsh Tribunal could not be greater, and not only for Julian Assange and his family. We have reached a critical point in history for press freedom, and for all human rights intertwined with it.

Julian Assange once said:

I understood this a few years ago. And my view became that we should understand that Australia is part of the United States. It is part of this English-speaking Christian empire, the centre of gravity of which is the United States, the second centre of which is the United Kingdom, and Australia is a suburb in that arrangement.

And therefore we shouldnt go, Its completely hopeless, its completely lost. Australian sovereignty, we are never going to get that back. We cant control the big regulatory structure which were involved in in terms of strategic alliances, mass surveillance, and so on.

No, we just have to understand that our capital is Washington. The capital of Australia is D.C. Thats the reality. So when youre engaging in campaigns, just engage directly with D.C., because thats where the decisions are made.

And thats what I do, and thats what WikiLeaks does. We engage directly with D.C. We engage directly with Washington, and thats what Australians should do.

Julians proposition is validated by the Freedom of Information documents Ive obtained and examined over almos...

01:24

10 Best Swimming Towel in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

There is nothing worse than getting out of the pool and feeling like youre covered in a layer of slime. Gross! The best swimming towels are those that are lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying. In this blog post, well share our top picks for the best swimming towels on the market.

01:11

War Over Taiwan: Australias Gang Of Five "IndyWatch Feed National"

Australia remains a satellite of the US imperium, and its officials seem obligated to pave the way for a conflict with China.

The post War Over Taiwan: Australias Gang Of Five appeared first on OrientalReview.org.

00:54

10 Best Teddy Bear Clothes in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

A teddy bear is a soft toy in the form of a bear. They are usually stuffed with soft materials such as cotton. Teddy bears are among the most popular gifts for young children and are often given to adults to express love, congratulations, or sympathy. The Best Teddy Bear Clothes: Fun and Functional Outfits for Your Favorite Furry Friend! Teddy bears are more than just cuddly companions theyre also fashionistas! Whether your teddy bear is dressing for a special occasion or just wants to look their best for everyday adventures, there are plenty of cute and stylish clothes options to choose from. Functional teddy bear clothes can also be found, such as raincoats and snow suits to keep your furry friend warm and dry during inclement weather. And dont forget accessories! Hats, scarves, and even sunglasses can add that extra bit of personality to your teddy bears outfit. With so many fun and stylish teddy bear clothes available, its easy to find the perfect look for your furry friend!.

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00:33

Sanctions on Syria: Australias Complicity in Policide "IndyWatch Feed National"

In 1998, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Iraq, Denis Halliday, resigned in protest against UN Security Council sanctions on Iraq, using the term genocide when he explained reasons for his resignation.

Before Hallidays resignation, the US ambassador to the UN, Madeleine Albright had been asked if she thought the deaths of 500,000 Iraqi children from US sanctions were worth it. She replied: I think that is a very hard choice, but the price, we think, the price is worth it.

Australias strategic allies in the UNSC America and Britain had voted for the sanctions on Iraq, while Russia, France and China abstained: no country used its veto power to oppose them, so they became law.

People walk past damaged buildings at the Yarmouk refugee camp on the southern outskirts of Damascus Reuters

Sanctions on Syria are quite a different matter. They are unilateral coercive sanctions imposed by individual countries, including Australia. It means, basically, that we contribute to any suffering in Syria that results from the imposition of sanctions.

In a 2021 interview, Denis Halliday explained: We kill people with sanctions. Sanctions are not a substitute for warthey are a form of warfare.

If we accept this as a truth, then Australia has been involved in a war on Syria and its people since 2011 when Julia Gillards government imposed sanctions on Syria. According to DFAT: Australia has imposed sanctions in relation to Syria to reflect Australias grave concern at the Syrian regimes deeply disturbing and unacceptable use of violence against its people.

But what do we know about the truth of events in Syria?

We have come to accept lies were told to enable a war on Iraq. For those of us who are aware of US and UK interference in Syrian affairs over decades, we can safely assume lies have been told to enable the war on Syria.

Today, for a broade...

00:24

10 Best Gardening Hose in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If youre looking for the best gardening hose, look no further! In this blog post, well discuss the top 10 gardening hoses on the market, based on customer reviews and ratings. Well also provide a buyers guide to help you choose the right hose for your needs.

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Wednesday, 08 March

23:53

10 Best Nipple Cream in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If you are breastfeeding, you know how important it is to keep your nipples healthy and free from cracks. Using a good nipple cream can make all the difference. In this blog post, we will share with you our top picks for the best nipple creams on the market. We will also give you some tips on how to choose the right one for you and your baby.

23:08

10 Best Curtain Ring Clips in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If youre looking for the best curtain ring clips, youve come to the right place. In this blog post, well take a look at the top three curtain ring clips on the market and find out which one is the best for your needs.

22:39

10 Best Pool Leaf Skimmer in Australia (2023) [Top Picks] "IndyWatch Feed Cvic"

If you have a pool, you know that keeping it clean can be a challenge. leaves and other debris can quickly make your pool look dirty and uninvited. A good leaf skimmer can help make cleaning your pool a breeze. In this blog post, we will review the best pool leaf skimmers on the market to help you find the right one for your needs.

22:00

Ob-gyn loses PhD after committee finds he made up research "IndyWatch Feed National"

It was dj vu last month when a university in Belgium stripped Egyptian physician Hatem Abu Hashim of his doctorate after he was found to have fabricated data in his thesis. 

Just weeks earlier, another Egyptian doctor, Ahmed Badawy, lost the PhD degree he had earned at a Dutch university in 2008. Abu Hashim and Badawy are both professors in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Mansoura University in Egypt.

According to an investigation by the Vrije Universeit Brussel (VUB), which awarded Abu Hashim his PhD in 2013, the researcher was in serious violation of scientific integrity based on overwhelming evidence of fabrication of statistical outcomes and clear lack of statistical proficiency. 

Ben Mol of Monash University in Australia, a researcher turned data sleuth who alerted VUB and Utrecht University to problems with Abu Hashim and Badawy s research in 2021 and 2020, respectively, told Retraction Watch by email, The good news is obviously that there is a firm conclusion from both universities after a robust process independent of the complaint. 

Mol also laid out his concerns in a study published wit...

21:45

Virgin Australia Flight from Adelaide to Perth Forced to Make Emergency Landing as First Officer Suffered Heart Attack 30 Minutes After Departure on March 3, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

All Global Research articles can be read in 51 languages by activating the Translate Website button below the authors name (desktop version)

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The post Virgin Australia Flight from Adelaide to Perth Forced to Make Emergency Landing as First Officer Suffered Heart Attack 30 Minutes After Departure on March 3, 2023 appeared first on Global Research.

19:13

COVID Origins Riddle: Is the Answer as Simple as ABC? "IndyWatch Feed National"

Now that the US government has all but admitted that COVID is a bioweapon, will Patreon and YouTube restore my accounts and pay damages?

19:10

Wanting War over Taiwan: Australias Gang of Five "IndyWatch Feed National"

All Global Research articles can be read in 51 languages by activating the Translate Website button below the authors name.

To receive Global Researchs Daily Newsletter (selected articles), click here.

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter and subscribe to

The post Wanting War over Taiwan: Australias Gang of Five appeared first on Global Research.

17:07

Spinning Half boss Steven Nichols teams up with Geelong institution Lambys to bring original music back to the CBD "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

In some huge news for the local music scene, Spinning Half boss and former award-winning venue owner Steven Nichols has teamed up with Geelong institution Lambys to bring original music back to the Geelong city centre in 2023.

Servicing Geelongs music scene since 2007, Spinning Half has been responsible for some big names performing in Geelong Parkway Drives All Aussie Adventure Tour, and Gang of Youths, among many others, and was instrumental in cultivating The Bended Elbows name in the Geelong live music circuit back in the day.

In the following years, Nichols saw The Workers Club become one of Geelongs most iconic live music venues before its closure, attracting some of Australias most renowned musicians and performers over the years, including Mojo Juju, The Bennies, LANKS, Hein Cooper, Lime Cordiale, Abbe May, Client Liaison, Northeast Party House, Luca Brasi, and British India just to name a few.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Now, Nichols has his sights set on seriously reviving the original live scene, joining forces with iconic underground nightclub Lambys to bring some big names to the stage this year.

Anyone who knows me understands that its been a long time out in the covid wilderness since the loss of our award-winning music venue Workers Geelong (now operating as the mobile Workers Barbecue) and this opportunity has created a new lease on life, says Nichols.

I cant wait to announce more shows and start booking more tours!

Kicking off the new partnership, Australian singer-songwriter Clint Boge will be heading to Lambys on May 18 to celebrate the release of his highly anticipated new solo album, The Final Days of Autumn, next month.

 

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16:25

Some of the brilliant local women-owned brands to support this International Womens Day "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

This day focuses on creating gender equity across four key areas social, economic, cultural, and political. With only 30% of businesses in Australia owned by women, there is so much potential for gender equity!

In the spirit of highlighting the achievements of women in our community, this International Womens Day is the perfect time to spotlight some incredible local businesses run by inspiring women!

Stay up to date with whats happening in and around the region here.

Heres the list of some of our picks for local businesses you can support this International Womens Day!

Tribe Skincare

You may have seen Tribe Skincare all over your social feeds, but did you know that not only is this brand woman-owned, but its local too? Down in Torquay, the team at Tribe Skincare is crafting viral products designed for sensitive skin.

After noticing a gap in the market while running her own skincare clinic, founder Kayla Houlihan decided to create Tribe Skincare so her sensitive-skinned clients could use active skincare ingredients without their skin reacting.

Their viral Brightening Vitamin C Serum launched with huge success selling a huge $13,000 worth of product in only four hours! Their other hit products include their Soothing Anti-Redness Serum which uses Green Tea and Peach Extract to soother inflammation and their new Resurfacing 2-in-1 Exfoliant which uses Fruit Enzymes and Kaolin Clay to leave your skin bright and smooth.

Plus the brand is all-natural, pregnancy-safe, vegan-friendly, and Australian made! Doesnt get much better than that!

Still not convinced? Take one look at the before and afters on their website and you will be! Gorgeous, glowy skin for everyone.

To help your skin shine its brightest head to their website https://tribeskincare.com.au/

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15:10

Valhalla Taproom announces temporary closure due to significant venue damage "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Geelong-based brew legends Valhalla Brewing has been dealt a massive blow this month, with the venue announcing a temporary closure due to significant damage to the beloved Union Street taproom.

Announced in a post to social media this week, Valhalla revealed that sewage has flooded and contaminated the venue, with a high likelihood of the venue fit-out needing replacing.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

On Sunday night we had an incident in the venue caused by a lack of overflow relief gully in our building which resulted in a surge of sewage coming up through our toilets, flooding and contaminating the venue, Valhalla shared.

We are in the early stages of cleaning and assessing the damage with various insurances. Initial outlooks for the immediate future are not ideal, and at this stage there is the real possibility a significant portion of the venue fit-out may need to be removed and rebuilt which would see us unable to trade from Union Street for the immediate future.

 

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14:45

Two-time Oscar winner Geena Davis to headline ACMIs Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion exhibition "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

<p>The ACMI-curated exhibition opens at Australias national museum of screen culture on 5 April before touring internationally.</p> <p>Globally renowned for her show-stopping performances in hits such as Thelma & Louise, A League of Their Own, Beetlejuice and The Accidental Tourist, Geena Davis is a true Hollywood movie star. Beyond her impact on screen, she is also a leader in leveraging research, education and advocacy to influence systemic change in onscreen character portrayals in global film, television, advertising and gaming through her Institute.

Stay up to date with whats happening within the regions art scene </i></b><a href= "https://fortemag.com.au/arts/"><span class= "s1"><b><i>here</i></b></span></a><b><i>. </i></b></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <p> </p> <div style="display: flex;"> <div style= "background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex;"> <div style= "background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style= "background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style= "display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style= "color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;"> View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; margin-bottom: 14px;"> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style= "background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> ...</div> </div> </div> </blockquote>

14:21

Gippsland Country Music Festival launches the Local Country Showcase, seeking locals to join the lineup "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Seeking local Gippsland musicians, the 2023 Gippsland Country Music Festival happening on Saturday, April 22 has launched the first Local Country Showcase to feature locals on the 2023 lineup.

Already a popular part of the events sister festival in the Goulburn Valley, the Local Country Showcase is part of the festivals commitment to supporting the local community.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

As Gippsland Country Music Festival celebrates its third year with a move to Lardner Park, the addition of onsite camping, and an impressive lineup headlined by Lee Kernaghan and Troy Cassar-Daley, with Adam Brand, Beccy Cole, Sara Storer, Kaylee Bell, Josh Setterfield, Jade Gibson and Gareth Leach, organisers are now looking for some fantastic local talent to share the stage. To enter the Local Country Showcase, performers must be from the Gippsland region.

 

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14:08

With songs that consume, entrance, enchant, and inspire, Geelongs Demi Violet is a beacon of light "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Demi Violet, real name Demi Valitutti, has firmly established herself as an up-and-coming indie star, whose raw emotions, intimate reflections, and radiant sounds capture lifes fragile, breathtaking wonder.

From taking Facebook by storm with her raw, soul-wrenching rendition of Crave You by Flight Facilities back in 2017 and studying at Oxygen College, to performing live across the state and being named Festival of Sails Emerging Artist runner-up, Demi draws from a lifetime of experience. Singing from a young age, Demi was destined to become the purveyor of intimate emotion and uninhibited, unrestrained self-expression she is today. 

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

I started singing at around seven years old. Id come home from school and sing for hours on end, Demi says. 

I was obsessed with music and would choreograph entire shows with costume changes, song transitions and get all of my family involved. It was a healthy form of escape for me and also helped me connect to myself from a young age.

As soon as Im alone and come into silence, I start singing. Its like an automatic reflex. I sing a lot while driving and often end up writing songs without even intending to, Demi adds, explaining her approach to songwriting now. 

Usually a melody and lyrics come to mind and then I figure out the harmonic side later on, by adding chords and other instruments. The meaning of the song typically comes later, as the varying pieces of my subconscious merge and form something unified. I might start singing about how I feel alone but then the song evolves into a perpetual sense of stuckness and a resignation to that.

 

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12:47

Australian and other nuclear news this week "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Some bits of good news. International Womens Day: 15 trailblazing women making the world better.    Historic treaty to protect oceans biodiversity.

Coronavirus. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Weekly Epidemiological Update ( March 2023)

Climate.   The 2023 Climate Risk Landscape

Nuclear. Where to start?  Well, the danger of nuclear war is the most urgent thing.  Theres Ukraine with Zelensky wanting to attack Crimea, and with Biden surrounded by his warmongering advisors Victoria Nuland, Jake Sullivan and more- whatever it takes.

The USA warhawks are getting smarter. Instead of starting a war, with USA troops, as in Iraq, Afghanistan etc the system now is to goad another country into an invasion    Russia invading Iraq,  That not only preserves USA troops from any danger, but is a business coup for US weapons company, as in Ukraine buying $billions of weapons. Intended result   a weakened Russia

Next step, even cleverer     get Australia to buy $171 billions of nuclear submarines, goad China into attacking its own province, Taiwan, and let Australia as Chinas adversary and target, take the human and financial brunt of it all . Intended result a weakened China.  USA is in dire need of some intelligent leaders and advisors.

Christina notes. Pauvre chere Agnes unhappy about discrimination against nuclear energy!

AUSTRALIAMovie Premiere -The Road to War Australia is being set up to be the US proxy in its...

12:45

Why doesnt EA divest from crypto? "IndyWatch Feed National"

After Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) was arrested for massive fraud in November, there has been a reckoning in the EA movement to which SBF belonged. Ive linked to several critics discussing how SBFs actions could have been attributed to EA philosophy and practices, and even offered my own humble commentary.

Of course, its very easy to get distracted by philosophical arguments, and miss whats staring in our face. The much more obvious takeaway from the whole affair is: EA was overinvested in cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is evil, why were they invested in it at all?

Yes, fraud can come from any sector, and no, not every person involved in crypto is fraudulent to the same degree as SBF. No, SBF is not proof of the depravity of crypto. What SBF proves, is that EA has been supportive of, and dependent on crypto. EA insiders must have already known, and maybe some readers already knew, but I didnt know! I didnt know EA had so much crypto in it! Why is that? And why dont they stop?


The most likely and obvious answer is that many people in EA are convinced that crypto is good, or at least not convinced that its bad. And if any EA folks are anti-crypto, they are either unable or unwilling to do anything about it.

In general, I am pessimistic about ever persuading people in EA of anything, because theyre the sort of people who demand conformity to their own rigorous style of argument. No, I dont have any new arguments as to why crypto is evil. Instead, I observe that crypto-skepticism is curiously muted in EA. Rather than expecting someone like me to supply a criticism of crypto, EA should be spending its own damn analytical, educational, and institutional resources to learn how to invest ethically.

Lets look at what people have said about crypto in the EA forums.

Crypto as a cause area

From February 2021, The Transformative Potential of Cryptocurrencies. This is an article proposing that crypto as a possible cause areathat is to say, something EA could donate to in order to produce good in the world. Among other things, they make the absurd argument that crypto is good for the world because some people get rich from it.

2) Smart individuals (or lucky early-adopters) can become, or have become quite rich by utilizing the enormous growth of the crypto market which...

12:21

Link "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

<p>Following on from a sell-out debut performance at Memo Music Hall in St Kilda in January, Melbournes own celebration of Gainesville, Floridas finest, Learning To Fly A Celebration of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers returns in May with three shows.</p> <p>The show will take place on Friday, May 19th at The Memo in Healesville, Saturday, May 20th at the Brunswick Ballroom, and Sunday, May 21st (arvo) at The Capital in Bendigo for a special celebration of one of rocknrolls greatest ever bands.</p> <h3>Learning To Fly A Celebration of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

Fri May 19th The Memo, Healesville
Sat May 20th Brunswick Ballroom
Sun May 21st The Capital, Bendigo (arvo)

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews </i></b><a href= "https://fortemag.com.au/music/"><span class= "s1"><b><i>here</i></b></span></a><b><i>.</i></b></p> <p><em>Learning To Fly</em> is a true labour of love, put together by true fans. Local musicians Josh Owen, Dan Lethbridge, Rick Plant, Ben Wiesner and Jethro Pickett, who have played with the likes of James Reyne, Buddy Miller, Missy Higgins, Glenn Richards, The Audreys and more, are a skilled and knowledgeable bunch, well versed in the songs of Petty and the musical roots 60s rock and pop, folk, blues and country that he and his band drew upon.</p> <p>Together they will be our more than capable Heartbreakers. And they will back some of Melbournes finest Petty-loving vocalists artists also steeped in the music and with a deep appreciation for where it came from in Nick Barker, Rebecca Barnard, Sal Kimber, Charles Jenkins, and the Huxton Creepers Rob Craw.</p> <p>Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers were a special kind of band. A band that sustained a decades-long career while never compromising to industry trends. Together for over 40 years, they scored iconic rock n roll hits in each one of those decades, earned 18 Grammy nominations and entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.</p> <p>Tom Petty will be remembered as an extraordinary singer, songwriter, and band leader. His career included hugely successful solo albums and time as a Travelling Wilbury, while always returning to the Heartbreakers as the place he called home. All the while the band continued to spread their wings and together, they recorded 13 albums, along with collaborations with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash.</p> <p>From early FM radio favourites such as American Girl to the anthemic Free Fallin' and the swagger of Mary Janes Last Dance, Pettys song writing continued to reveal layers. He would go on to record some of the most treasured songs ever written.</p> <p><strong>Find out more <a href= "https://www.leicashow.com.au/">here</a>. </st...

12:19

Wanting War over Taiwan: Australias Gang of Five "IndyWatch Feed National"

Diligently, obediently and with a degree of dangerous imbecility, a number of Australian media outlets are manufacturing a consensus for war with a country that has never been a natural, historical enemy, nor sought to be. But as Australia remains the satellite of a Sino-suspicious US imperium, its officials and their dutiful advocates in the press seem obligated to pave the way for conflict.

The latest example of this came in articles run in the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age of Melbourne. The premise is already clear from the columnists, Peter Hartcher and Matthew Knott. Australia faces a Red Alert, and, to that end, needs a warring fan club. Not since the domino theory bewitched strategists and confused military planners have Australians witnessed this: a series of articles featuring a gang of five with one purpose: to render the Australian public so witless as to reject any peaceful accommodation.

First, the provocative colouring for the article, How a conflict over Taiwan could swiftly reach our shores. The Australian continent is shown bathed in a sea of red. Various military bases and facilities are outlined. For good measure, there is a picture of Australian soldiers firing an artillery piece in military exercises in 2018 at Shoalwater Bay, Queensland.

Then, the blistering opening lines of terror. Within 72 hours of a conflict breaking out over Taiwan, Chinese missile bombardments and devastating cyberattacks on Australia would begin. For the first time since World War II, the mainland would be under attack. The authors already anticipate a good complement of US troops to occupy the Australian north, some 150,000 seeking refuge from the immediate conflict zone.

The Red Alert panellists, anointed as defence experts, brim with such scenarios. All, as they state in a joint communique, agree on one thing: Australia has many vulnerabilities. It has long and exposed connections to the rest of the world sea, air and undersea yet is incapable of protecting them.

Leading the gang of five is Peter Jennings, who has had an unshakeable red-under-the-bed fantasy for years. A former deputy secretary for strategy in the Australian Defence Department, and steering the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) for a decade (thats Canberras revolving door for you), Jennings is adamant and steely. As I think of a conflict over Taiwan, what Im thinking about is something that very quickly grows in scale and location.

There is no reason at all why such a growth in scale or location should happen, but this is not the purpose of the exercise. The point of the Red Alert fantasy is to neutralise the....

11:30

Adalita announces intimate Anglesea show as part of national album tour "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Hot off the release of her third solo album Inland, Adalita is heading out on a national tour to celebrate the release. Kicking off in Canberra on April 14, Adalita will take to Sydney, Archies Creek, Richmond, Adelaide, Brisbane and the Gold Coast before finishing up in Anglesea on May 27.

Shell be joined by her powerhouse band, which consists of Matt Bailey (Paradise Motel) on bass, Dan McKay (Nation Blue, High Tension) on drums and Lewis Boyes (Dan Kelly and the Alpha Males, St Helens) on lead guitar. Special guest supports will be announced soon.

Adalita will perform at the Anglesea Memorial Hall in Anglesea on Saturday, May 27 courtesy of The Sound Doctor.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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11:05

The ultimate guide for a day trip on the Surf Coast "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

With iconic beaches, great shopping, and even better food and wine there are so many things to get out and do. So, while the water is still warm, the waves are still pumping, make the most of the sunny days. Weve compiled a list of things to give you the perfect day trip to hit up some of the Surf Coasts best. 

Head to the Surf Seconds in Baines Court

Start the day with some bargain hunting in Baines Court. The ultimate local shopping experience, score awesome discounted beach essentials from all of your fave surf brands including Ripcurl, Roxy, Quicksilver, and Ghanda. If you havent been before, allow a bit of time because youll be rifling through racks and boxes in search of that perfect fit.

Bonus tip: if youre a fan of cool vintage finds, make sure to stop off at The Garage while youre here. Featuring some of the coolest and most eclectic finds, The Garage is the most fun place to window shop and explore a slice of surf history.

Head to Point Addis

If youre in need of a holiday but cant quite find the time, Point Addis has the magical ability to make you feel like youre on a tropical, deserted island.

The cliffs, bushland, crystal blue water, rock pools (depending on the tide), and waves make Point Addis one of those beaches that has it all. And its short distance from Torquay and Anglesea makes it just that tiny bit less busy than other beaches in the area.

Bring a game (Finska on the beach is always a hit), a magazine (maybe Forte.), and your dog (on a lead). 

Just remember to pack sunscreen in your bag, because trust me, youll only want to walk up those steps once.

 

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10:20

Human Rights Law Centre welcomes Commissions push for Human Rights Act "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

The Human Rights Law Centre welcomes the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) release of a position paper calling for a Federal Human Rights Act. 

The AHRC paper, Free + Equal endorses the clear calls made by the Human Rights Law Centre and a coalition of over 80 organisations urging the Federal Government to follow the examples set by Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory and adopt a legally enforceable Federal Human Rights Act or Charter. 

A Federal Human Rights Act or Charter will help prevent human rights violations, provide a powerful tool to challenge injustice, and foster understanding and respect for human rights. 

Caitlin Reiger, CEO at the Human Rights Law Centre said: 

Charters of Human Rights are about ensuring that the values we all share like fairness, respect, dignity and compassion are always at the heart of all government decisions, laws and policies. We welcome the Australian Human Rights Commisions position paper that illustrates how to make this a reality. 

Australia is the only western liberal democracy without a Charter of Human Rights or similar in our laws. We see time after time situations where people have their rights violated but they are unable to take effective action, as shown in the Aged Care and Disability Royal Commissions to name two examples. We urge the Albanese Government to adopt the Human Rights Commission position paper so that everyone is free to enjoy their rights. 

"A Human Rights Act or Charter means that government decision making must factor in human rights at the outset, and people can take action when their rights are being breached. 

Learn more about the campaign for an Australian Charter of Human Rights 

Read Free + Equal, Australian Human Rights Commissions model on a National Human Rights Act

Background 

Charters of Human Rights promote respect for human rights and give people power to take action if their rights are breached. 

In Australia, Queensland (2019), Victoria (2006) and ACT (2004) all have protected human rights through charters of human rights. Recently, the 101 Cases report and website highlighted 101 examples of peoples rights being protected by the Charters of Rights that exist in the ACT, Victoria and Queensland. They also highlight the need for a national Charter of Rights. Read the 101 cases here 

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10:01

Groovin The Moo announce vibrant national community program for 2023 "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

Fresh from delivering a huge lineup earlier this year, Groovin the Moo has now returned with its 2023 National Community Program, heading to each of the six regions this April and May. These range from work experience for budding festival lovers, to programs for disadvantaged youth, to opportunities for local artists, to safe spaces and pop-up parties.

Heres an overview of the National Community Program for 2023.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Graffin the Moo

Every festival site has fence lines, traditionally covered with boring black scrim. The Graffin the Moo program provides opportunities for local emerging talent to bring the fence lines to life. Inspired by the GTM artwork, our line up and the local community, the young creatives from the majority of our regions are paired with established artists and use their artistic skills and diverse styles to make our festival sites a work of art.

LGBTQIA+ Safe Spaces

Most of GTM festival sites have a dedicated LGBTQIA+ Safe Space, hosted and curated by a local LGBTQIA+ group. The space is for anyone who wants to have fun and champion good causes all while raising awareness about the local support facilities for youth identifying as LGBTQIA+. The safe spaces bring fabulousness to the Moo in the form of glitter, good vibes, classic tunes and country drag.

Fatboy Slim, Denzel Curry, Eliza Rose lead Groovin the Moo 2023 lineup

Local Artist Showcases

You may have heard whispers of epic dance parties at GTMs Hilltown, Mootown or The Plot stages. At every GTM, there is a space dedicated to local artists and DJs, all handled by local stage managers. Promoters from nearby music venues are given the opportunity to program these stages which go off and are an absolute highlight for locals and visitors alike.

GTM also program multiple local artists to play on the main stages as part of our Fresh Produce line up, with artists to be announced very soon! One spot is also reserved for triple j who choose a local artist to be crowned the GTM triple j Unearthed winner in each area. The Unearthed...

09:05

Nullification - #SolutionsWatch "IndyWatch Feed National"

[iframe src="https://www.bitchute.com/embed/gR70qs7Q62L6/" width="90%" height="320" allow="fullscreen"]
Joining us today to discuss the latest wins for the nullification movement is Michael Boldin (NOT Boldrin!) of TenthAmendmentCenter.com. In this jam-packed conversation, James and Michael examine the historical and philosophical roots of nullification and how the idea is being used to derail federal government tyranny.

08:49

Market Talk March 7, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASIA:

 

Indias domestic economy is its primary engine of growth and the slowdown in economic activity late last year will only be temporary, said Moodys Analytics on Tuesday. Citing that the private consumption lagging overall GDP for the first time since the Delta wave of Covid-19 struck the economy in the second quarter of 2021, the Moodys Analytics in its report on emerging market outlook said growth slowed substantially on a year-ago basis. Notably, Indian economy grew 13.2 per cent in April-June quarter and 6.3 per cent in July-September quarter. While Indias gross domestic product (GDP) growth slowed to a three quarter low of 4.4 per cent in October-December, 2022, government data said.

 

The major Asian stock markets had a mixed day today:

  • NIKKEI 225 increased 71.38 points or 0.25% to 28,309.16
  • Shanghai decreased 36.93 points or -1.11% to 3,285.10
  • Hang Seng decreased 68.71 points or -0.33% to 20,534.48
  • ASX 200 increased 36.10 points or 0.49% to 7,364.70
  • Kospi increased 0.73 points or 0.03% to 2,463.35
  • SENSEX closed
  • Nifty50 closed

 

 

The major Asian currency markets had a mixed day today:

  • AUDUSD decreased 0.01366 or -2.03% to 0.65904
  • NZDUSD decreased 0.00819 or -1.32% to 0.61121
  • USDJPY increased 1.25 or 0.92% to 137.160
  • USDCNY increased 0.04449 or 0.64% to 6.99429

 

Precious Metals:

  • Gold decreased 32.13 USD/t oz. or -1.74% to 1,814.72
  • Silver decreased 0.967 USD/t. oz or -4.59% to 20.075

 

Some economic news from last night:

China:

Trade Balance (USD) (Feb) increased from 78.01B to 116.88B

Exports (YoY) (Feb) increased from -9.9% to -6.8%

Imports (YoY) (Feb) decreased from -7.5% to -10.2%

Australia:

Retail Sales (MoM) increased from -4.0% to 1.9%

RBA Interest Rate Decision (Mar) increased from 3.35% to 3.60%

Trade Balance (Jan) decreased from 12.237B to 11.688B

 

Some economic news from today:

China:

FX Reserves (USD) (Feb) decreased from 3.184T to 3.133T

Hong Kong:

Foreign Reserves (USD) (Feb)...

08:16

Seismic Diplomacy: Erdogan and the aftermath of the Turkish earthquakes "IndyWatch Feed National"

President Erdogan may be instrumentalizing what happens in the aftermath to craft his P.R. campaign ahead of the next elections. The setting: a cosy Ossetian restaurant owned by two Ossetian ladies close to Istiklal street, a very busy central area of Istanbul. The players: a smatter of Istanbul intelligentsia - academics, media, liberal professionals, lawyers, highly educated, secular, very critical of the AKP ruling party. The questions: during dinner, I asked the table their analysis of the state's response to the deadly earthquakes in Turkey, and how President Erdogan may be instrumentalizing what happens in the aftermath to craft his P.R. campaign ahead of the next elections. After our conversation, it was still not officially confirmed whether the next presidential elections will be held on May or June 2023. So the stage is set for an unedited exercise in direct democracy, with some stunning answers, and way more enlightening than what Turkish media and think tanks may be...

05:28

What If There Are No Solutions? "IndyWatch Feed National"

The unencumbered realist concludes that there are no solutions within a status quo structure that is itself the problem.

Realists who question received wisdom and conclude the status quo is untenable are quickly labeled pessimistsbecause the zeitgeist expects a solution is always at hand--preferably a technocratic one that requires zero sacrifice and doesn't upset the status quo apple cart.

Realists ask "what if" without selecting the "solution" first. The conventional approach is to select the "answer/solution" first and then design the question and cherry-pick the evidence to support the pre-selected "solution."

What if all the status quo "solutions" don't actually address the real problems? This line of inquiry is strictly verboten, for there must be a solution that solves everything in one fell swoop.

Examples of this approach abound: a one-size fits all solution that resolves all the systemic problems by itself. All we have to do is implement it.

Replacing fiat currencies is one example that I have explored:

You Want Truly "Sound Money"? A Thought Experiment

Contrarian Thoughts on the Petro-Yuan and Gold-Backed Currencies

I've also explored how real change works: it takes many years (or even decades) of sacrifices and high costs with none of the immediate payoff we now expect as a birthright. Real change pits those benefiting from the status quo against those finally grasp that the status quo is the problem, not the solution, and these political/social battles are endless and brutal because any gains come at somebody else's expense.

The Forgotten History of the 1970s

The 1970s: From Rotting Carcasses Floating in the River to Kayak Races

Fiat currencies contain the seeds of their own self-destruction, but establishing a gold or bitcoin standard creates its own problems. As I explained in the essays listed above, trade imbalances are inherent in a world of scarcity and so exporters of essentials will end up with all the gold / bitcoin and the importers of essentials will end up with no gold or bitcoin, and no means to buy exports. Since the exporting economies are mercantilist by nature, they cannot import enough from their customers to balance trade asymmetries.

The other problem with the gold / bitcoin standard is there is nothing inherently decentralized, equitable or democratic about these standards. In other words, any standard based on wealth distributed by scarcity is inherently neo.....

04:09

Second Ohio Norfolk Southern Train Derailment Escalates Rail Freight Safety Concerns "IndyWatch Feed National"

A month and a day after a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio forcing evacuations as it spewed toxic chemicals into the surrounding community another train from the same company derailed in the same state.

The derailment, which took place Saturday, March 4 at around 4:45 p.m. local time near Springfield, Ohio, in the states Clark County, did not release any dangerous chemicals, as company and state officials were quick to reassure residents. But it did raise concerns about the safety of Norfolk Southerns operations.

The railroads got a lot of questions theyve got to answer and they really havent really done it very well yet, Ohio Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown said on This Week, as The New York Times reported. 

Saturdays derailment saw 28 of 212 cars derail en route from Bellevue, Ohio, to Birmingham, Alabama. The overturned cars slid along the tracks and knocked over power lines, which shut off power to 1,500 Clark County residents, as NPR reported. The four or five homes within 1,000 feet of the crash were asked to shelter in place for 10 hours after the incident as a precaution. 

For residents, the incident brought up fears of a repeat of what had happened in East Palestine on Feb. 3, where hundreds of thousands of pounds of toxins including vinyl chloride were released from the crash site. Some people there are still complaining of suspicious odors and rashes. Removing contaminated...

03:16

Perth Mint Sold Diluted Gold To China, Got Caught, And Tried To Cover It Up "IndyWatch Feed National"

Via: ABC: The historic Perth Mint is facing a potential $9 billion recall of gold bars after selling diluted or doped bullion to China and then covering it up, according to a leaked internal report. Four Corners has uncovered documents charting the WA government-owned mints decision to begin doping its gold in 2018, and then []

00:23

Partners in the Blue Pacific (PBP): Who are they and what their goals are? "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

In early February 2023, Washington unveiled the US Indo-Pacific strategy. The document repeatedly emphasized the importance of the informal group Partners in the Blue Pacific (PBP), established in September 2022 and composed of the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United Kingdom. The purpose of the PBP is to strengthen relations with the 12 small island states located in the South Pacific region for their prosperity and maritime security. In this regard, the appointment of Frankie Annette Reed (US Consul General in Melbourne, Australia) as the first American envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum, an important regional intergovernmental organization founded in 1971 where the heads of South Pacific nations meet annually, was highlighted. The United States Indo-Pacific strategy includes the possibility of recognizing two New Zealand possessions, the Cook Islands (population 15 thousand) and Niue (population just under 2 thousand people), as sovereign states after appropriate consultations.

Such unprecedented American interest in the lives of small island states remote from the world centers of civilization can be explained by the fact that in the 2020s the issue of growing Chinese influence in the South Pacific region, which violates the geopolitical interests of the dominant regional players Australia and the United States. And who will be favored by the South Pacific small island nations will determine who will be the master of the Pacific in the coming years: The US or China.

Chinas Belt and Road trade and economic initiative, in which New Zealand and eight small island states, all of which are located close to Australian shores, have signed participation agreements since 2017, is aimed at more than just improving maritime logistics. However, the placement of Chinese military bases and intelligence equipment in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative over time will pose a serious threat to regional security. So decided Washington, Canberra and London, creating in September 2021 the Anglo-Saxon defense alliance AUKUS for friendship against China in the Pacific.

As part of AUKUS, the US committed to assisting Australia in improving its defense capabilities by providing nuclear-powered boats to the Australian Navy beginning in 2023. Australia then breached a contract with France to build non-nuclear submarines, prompting Paris to threaten to sever diplomatic relations with Canberra. When Australias new Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, took office in May 2022 and paid an official visit to Paris, the conflict was resolved.

Important events in the world...

Tuesday, 07 March

21:40

Darwin, Australia in the forefront for USAs Pacific war against China "IndyWatch Feed Vic"

preparing for possible island battles in the Western Pacific by acquiring additional bases in the area.

The first such installation to be established is the Marine Rotational Force (MRF) in Darwin, Australia. Located by the Timor Sea in Australias Northern Territory, the MRF facility is closer to the southern Philippines and the South China Sea than to, say, Sydney or Melbourne. As a result of an agreement signed by President Obama during a visit to Australia in 2011, the U.S. presence has grown from just 200 Marines in the first rotation to approximately 2,500 today. While in Australia, these troops engage in a six-month stint of training and exercises, usually in conjunction with Australian military personnel. In the event of a war with China, the Darwin facility could also be used to support combat operations throughout the South China Sea area.

Restructuring the Force

With China now identified by the U.S. Department of Defense as the most dangerous, or pacing threat to U.S. national security, all of the military services have been instructed to prepare for a U.S.-China conflict. Accordingly, both the U.S. Army and the Marine Corps are restructuring their Asia-oriented forces those committed to the Pentagons Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) to be capable of conducting multiple offensive and defensive operations throughout the Western Pacific. This has generally entailed lightening their arms and equipment to allow for easy deployment and acquiring more forward operating bases in the region. Both also seek new mobile missile systems (often called precision fires) for attacks on enemy ships and land installations.

Pentagon Prepares for Island Combat in the Pacific as US-China Tensions Rise The U.S. has been securing new basing facilities and conducting large-scale combat exercises in the Western Pacific. By Michael T. Klare , TRUTHOUT, February 28, 2023

the notion of another major amphibious campaign in the Pacific has largely evapora...

16:00

Perth Mint sold diluted gold to China, got caught, and tried to cover it up "IndyWatch Feed National"

Perth Mint is facing the potential $9b recall of diluted gold bars.

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