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Sydney Morning Herald
7 hours ago
- Politics
- Sydney Morning Herald
Let's march for Gaza, and don't forget the hostages
The right to protest is a democratic freedom we must protect (' MPs slam Minns over march fight ', July 30) while the starvation of Gazans is a crime against humanity. These two issues come together in the proposed controversial march across Sydney Harbour Bridge. Perhaps this march might be less divisive if the protest organisers also demanded that Hamas release the remaining Israeli hostages, whose continued detention is also a crime against humanity. Rob Phillips, North Epping Last week, aged over 60, I took part in my first protest march, as I could not sit at home any longer preparing dinner and listening to the dreadful reports about the situation in Gaza and the starving children. I wanted to do something. I was slightly nervous, as I wasn't sure what to expect, but found everyone very gracious and welcoming, not in a politically motivated way, just thankful. The demographic was very mixed across races and ages, as we all feel the same as members of the human race and cannot stand by while others are suffering so appallingly. There were far too many police, who had nothing to do but guide us around and it was extremely peaceful. I was pleased to have taken part; there was a great feeling of camaraderie among like-minded people. This whole Minns v Josh Lees controversy is just a distraction and creating anxiety, inventing an idea of there being a threat of violence while this is a peaceful collection of people who want the violence to stop. I am not an extremist, just a mother who could not stand by watching other mothers holding their dying, starving children. Sometimes, as Greens MP Sue Higginson describes Lees, a justice warrior is what is required to motivate others. I am not anti-anyone or particularly pro-anyone; I just feel very saddened by this situation and hope to march across the bridge this Sunday. Sarah Gatliff, Avalon Premier Chris Minns says he won't let Sydney 'descend into chaos' by allowing a protest on the Harbour Bridge. But chaos is not thousands of people marching peacefully to stop a genocide. Chaos is Gaza – where children are starving, hospitals are bombed, while the world keeps watching. The bridge has been closed before. For World Pride. For reconciliation. Even for a Ryan Gosling movie shoot. But not, apparently, for a mass demonstration against one of the most horrific humanitarian crises of our time. What does that say about our priorities? If there's no room for protest on the bridge, is there room anywhere? Or are Palestinians to be starved into silence while Australians are policed into passivity? A march for humanity is not a threat to safety. It's democracy in motion – imperfect, urgent, necessary – insisting that law serves life. Let them march. Fernanda Trecenti, Fitzroy (Vic) In 2000, 250,000 people walked across Sydney Harbour Bridge supporting reconciliation and the rights of Indigenous Australians. Unfortunately, not much has changed for the better since, but at least disruption of traffic was not considered a reason to prohibit that historic march. One can only wonder why it's a major stumbling block in 2025. Ross Duncan, Potts Point I've never marched in a political rally in my life, but I am seriously considering marching this weekend. Please don't call me antisemitic – it's been overused and doesn't work any more. I do not want to take sides, but the violence and inhumanity in Gaza has to stop. Dick Barker, Epping These people wishing to disrupt traffic on Sydney Harbour Bridge do not help the situation in any way, and their protests and demonstrations will not be heard at the location of the actions. Hold a gathering in a park but don't close down busy thoroughfares. If they chartered a couple of 747s and went to the location, their voices would be heard. Australia cannot do anything from here. Ron Field, Bermagui Acting Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna says the march will block firefighters, police and ambulances from crossing the bridge for six hours. Has he not heard of the Harbour Tunnel? This is what Sydney traffic will be using at the end of August when the bridge is closed for eight hours to accommodate the Sydney marathon. Mike Kenneally, Manly I walked to protest against the Vietnam War and I will protest again because it is the right thing to do when children are starving to death. Take note, Premier Minns. Zuzu Burford, Heathcote I am an 83-year-old woman still grieving the loss of my beloved husband little more than a year ago. My grief has been a turbulent journey, but I cannot even begin to comprehend the communal weight of grief felt by the Palestinian people. I can hardly bring myself to read or watch the images coming out of Gaza today. The world cannot continue to ignore the plight of these starving people, and although there is little that I personally can do, I will be marching on Sunday in protest. Premier Minns says we cannot inconvenience people, but I am prepared to do just that to try to help highlight the fact that our government needs to recognise a state of Palestine. Surely it is time for actions rather than simply words. Jan Bohan, Eastwood While the concern about creating chaos by holding a march across the Harbour Bridge has merit, of overwhelming and overriding concern is the situation in Gaza. Granted, one march over our beloved Coathanger won't stop Israel's persecution of the Palestinians in Gaza, but it's sure to draw greater worldwide attention to the plight of a people whose lands were dispossessed, whose culture is being destroyed, and whose existence is being threatened by what has now been agreed is nothing short of genocide. Frederick Jansohn, Rose Bay Recognise renters The federal opposition doesn't seem to realise that there is a housing crisis in their desire to disallow regulations for the proposed government build-to-rent program (' Coalition to attack Labor on housing ', July 30). For many people who are priced out of the housing market, renting is the only option, most likely for the rest of their lives, and so it makes sense for the government to increase the supply of rental properties with this scheme, where 8000 of these dwellings will be allocated as affordable. Leo Sorbello, Leichhardt Opposite of trust David Crowe asks if the world can trust Donald Trump (' Can we trust president's bluster on anything?' , July 30). Well, let's see – he is a cheat, a compulsive liar, a convicted felon, and he exhibits the characteristics of a malignant narcissist and a sociopath. He has no respect for law and order and is arguably the most corrupt US president ever. Of course the world can't well trust him. Graham Lum, North Rocks Can the world trust Trump? In a word, no. Paul Fergus, Croydon Productivity has pros and cons Ross Gittins (' We don't work just for more stuff ', July 30) has provided another insightful and helpful demystification of the world of economics, this time around productivity. However, while I agree that work is about much more than material wealth, the problem for today's workers is that their income is not seen to be keeping up with living standards, let alone providing the wherewithal for aspiration. For the government, the problem is productivity equals taxes. Without an increase in GDP, the government will need to raise taxes to continue providing the services that support dignity and social cohesion. Like Gittins, I would like to see Australians living in contentment rather than chasing the mirage of materialism. Philip Cooney, Wentworth Falls Ross Gittins has hit on the weak point in the government's obsession with higher productivity. This higher productivity will, in theory, improve the standard of living for all, as well as, no doubt, increase tax earnings. In this lucky country, is this higher standard necessary? A high standard of living is environmentally destructive as people consume more carbon-intensive goods and fly more frequently. The poorest people in the world have the lowest carbon footprints. However, if one considers the average standard of living in Australia, there is certainly one way it can be increased. It is unacceptable that a significant number of Australians live in relative poverty, some with food insecurity. Far more needs to be done to improve their welfare – without this unconscionable stain, our average standard of living will increase, and we will be better off. Geoff Harding, Chatswood Thank you, Ross Gittins. I've been wondering what this 'productivity' thing was, but have been afraid to ask for fear of trolling. I have the luxury of being retired but agree that a satisfying job with reasonable and fair employers is what I wanted, and agree that most people would too. The lack of this pushed me to retire earlier rather than later. Fiona Hainepettet, Pullenvale (Qld) One factor Gittins misses is 'envy'. Most of us will be happy with our productivity and lifestyle but unfortunately we are envious of others' earning and possessions, something that the economic structure capitalises upon through glitzy marketing and the constant upgrading of products. We can satisfy our envy by constantly feeding it, and more and more growth in productivity lubricates the endless spiral that can only lead our lives and planet into a sinkhole. Manbir Singh Kohli, Pemulwuy Degree costs are a scandal As someone who did an arts degree by correspondence many years ago when it was free, I was shocked to read that there is not just one fee for such a degree but rather it is determined by the subjects that you choose within that degree (' Fee schedule for arts degrees is all ancient Greek to me ', July 30). What type of government interfering is this? It's just another stuff-up by the then Morrison government – the current government should bring university degrees back to ones that are earned at a reasonable cost, and not try to engineer what choices you have within that degree. Ken Pares, Forster Thank you, Saria Ratham, for explaining in dollars and cents the workings of Scott Morrison's Job Ready policy, manipulating our next generation of leaders to learn what to think, not how to think. Richard Holliday, Cremorne Beauty of e-bikes E-bikes make undeniable sense (' E-bike-to-work incentive makes perfect sense ', July 30), not just for reducing traffic congestion, cutting emissions and improving health but for convenience. I ride my e-bike for errands and appreciate being able to park outside the shop or business I'm visiting. The proposal to financially support cycling to work is the kind of forward-thinking policy NSW needs. With more than a million e-bike and e-scooter owners in the state, and a third of central Sydney residents already onboard, the uptake is clear. Paying commuters to switch to e-bikes, through per-kilometre allowances or one-off purchase rebates, would not only ease pressure on our public transport system but also support a broader shift towards sustainable commuting. Of course, challenges remain. More dedicated bike paths and enforcement of basic safety rules - especially helmet use - are essential. Riders who flout traffic laws should be fined. All it takes is political will and a commitment to a cleaner, healthier and more productive future. John Kempler, Rose Bay Food for thought I couldn't help laughing at the notion that making food into medicine was something new and a breakthrough (' Fries that work like Ozempic in push for medicines you can eat ', July 30) when all along unadulterated foods have been that – healing and medicinal – until bastardised by processing and additives. It was Hippocrates who said, 'Our food should be our medicine and our medicine be our food.' It is not rocket science. Gordana Martinovich, Dulwich Hill Just breathe Your correspondent is correct in saying nose-breathing is a good thing and should be explained to all children and adults alike (Letters, July 30). As a physio, I understand why and advise my clients to use 'in through the nose, out through the mouth' breathing, especially when out and about. It cuts down the likelihood of picking up the products of those coughing and sneezing nearby, as the nose has fine 'filters' in its lining which the mouth doesn't. Nose breathing deeply also benefits the lungs. Dorothy Gliksman, Cedar Brush Creek We need good news I fully support your correspondents' calls (Letters, July 30) for more good news. Perhaps the first four, even six pages should contain stories about achievements, discoveries, kindliness, the niceness of the national and international world. Readers could start their day in good humour, then skip over the nasties and go straight to the Letters and Column 8, and then on to the puzzles for some mental stimulation, perhaps first checking that they do not appear in the funeral notices. Graham Carter, Eglinton (WA)
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Brigade Group launches luxury residential project in Bengaluru, eyes ₹1,000 crore revenue
Bengaluru-based listed real estate developer Brigade Group has launched an ultra-premium residential project, Brigade Avalon, in Bengaluru's Whitefield, the company said in a statement. With a development area of approximately 6.4 lakh square feet, the project is expected to generate revenue of over ₹1,000 crore. Brigade Group has launched Brigade Avalon, an ultra-premium residential project in Whitefield, Bengaluru, with a projected revenue of over ₹ 1,000 crore. (Representational Image)(File Photo ) Spread across 4.36 acres on Whitefield Main Road, Brigade Avalon will offer 206 3BHK and 4BHK homes. It also includes flexible home-office spaces in line with evolving hybrid work trends. 'The launch of Brigade Avalon marks a significant step in our strategic growth roadmap for Bengaluru and reinforces our commitment to shaping the future of urban living across South India,' said Pavitra Shankar, managing director, Brigade Enterprises Limited. 'Whitefield is a high-priority micro-market for us, and with Avalon, we are introducing a thoughtfully designed community with premium amenities and long-term value.' The project also includes a clubhouse equipped with high-end amenities for all age groups. Also Read: Brigade Group to develop its first plotted development in East Bengaluru, eyes ₹175 crore Previous launches In January, Brigade Group signed an agreement to develop a residential land parcel on Whitefield-Hoskote Road with a development potential of ₹2700 crore. Sprawling across 20 acres, the residential project will have a total saleable area of approximately 2.5 million sq ft and a total land cost of about ₹630 crore through its subsidiary Ananthay Properties Private Limited. Also Read: Brigade Group acquires Bengaluru land near IT parks, to develop ₹5,200 cr mixed-use project The Group also signed a joint development agreement for a new plotted development project in East Bengaluru with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of ₹175 crore, the company announced on April 21. Currently, the company has a pipeline of upcoming residential projects, with approximately 12.61 million square feet of new developments across Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
TV show Taskmaster launches new free experiences across top UK attractions this summer
FANS of the comedy series Taskmaster, where comedians compete in a series of usually embarrassing and tricky tasks, need to check out this new experience. This summer, English Heritage and Taskmaster have joined forces to bring family fun and games to 17 historical sites across the UK - and it's absolutely free. Advertisement 4 You can play Taskmaster at 17 English Heritage sites across the UK Credit: 4 The experience is complete free and is included with the price of entry for the site Credit: Taskmaster, the Channel 4 show, sees five comedians attempt a series of strange and hilarious tasks set by The ultimate goal is to score the most points by impressing the Taskmaster himself, Greg Davies. By the end of the series, the Now, families across the UK can give the TV show a go in their own way. Advertisement Read More on UK Attractions Across various English Heritage sites like These family-friendly tasks are full of laughs, and while the experience is suitable for all ages, it's likely they'll prove to be trickier than you think. After all, the tasks in the TV show are known for being much harder in real-life than in theory. Over the course of the experience there are six challenges in total. Advertisement Most read in Family Exclusive Exclusive Each one takes up to five minutes, so you really can take your time in perfecting the task and beating your opponents. The challenges are spread out over each of the heritage sites and will be clearly marked so you won't miss them. Taskmaster viewers all say the same thing as series 15 winner is revealed - and next batch of celebrities are confirmed 4 The experience is based on the Channel 4 comedy series Credit: Avalon While it's summer, make sure you dress for rain or shine as it will be outside. Advertisement At the end, you can tot up your scores to reveal the winner. The only downside is that neither Alex nor Greg will be there give you a round of applause. The experience runs from now until August 31, 2025. The best bit is that the Taskmaster challenge is at no extra cost either - it's included in your entry ticket to each Advertisement The price of entry at each English Heritage site does vary, for example, entry to At Stonehenge, entry for adults start at £27.20 with children costing upwards from £17.20. For any English Heritage members, entry to each site is completely free. While you can't book ahead for the Taskmaster challenge, you can book a day ticket to the site online, and save 15 per cent if you book before the day of your visit. Advertisement Or you can choose to buy a membership from £42 meaning you get free entry to over 400 sites across the UK. You can bring up to six children under 18 per adult for free and members' kids eat free this summer too at certain English Heritage cafes. Here are Plus, this Advertisement Here's A List of Participating English Heritage Sites Dover Castle Osborne Walmer Castle Audley End Battle Abbey Beeston Castle Belsay Hall Bolsover Castle Brodsworth Hall Carisbrooke Castle Eltham Palace and Gardens Framlingham Castle Kenilworth Castle Pendennis Castle Scarborough Castle Stonehenge Wrest Park 4 Taskmaster and English Heritage has teamed up for a family-friendly experience Credit: English Heritage
Irish Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson fuel romance rumors with Titanic moment
Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson have fuelled dating rumors after the two Hollywood stars recreated an iconic Titanic scene at the premiere of their latest movie, Naked Gun. Both actors attended the UCI Luxe East Side Gallery on Thursday for the latest screening on their press tour for the movie. In the upcoming Naked Gun, the crime spoof comedy sees Anderson playing Beth and Neeson in the role of Frank Drebin Jr. Heading down the same path as his father, Detective Frank Drebin Jr. now has to solve a murder case to stop the police department from shutting down. The on-screen chemistry between Anderson, 58, and Neeson, 73, as well as how comfortable they seem around each other off-camera, has led to speculation that they're an item. A pic that the former Baywatch star posted on Instagram of them posing together around a boat further fuelled rumors. As did the video she shared of her and Liam redoing a famous scene from the 1997 beloved romance flick Titanic, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson in Berlin (Image: IMAGO / Avalon) She portrayed Winslet's character Rose, and let her "Jack," aka Neeson, pretend to be her love interest and hold her her waist, just like DiCaprio did in Titanic. "From London to Berlin... this tour has been full of smiles, laughter, and so much love... Thank you to everyone who came out to giggle with us (and watch on the big screen). NYC next!" she wrote in the caption. Additionally, on Tuesday, the pair were quite handsy during their premiere carpet premiere in London. On the red carpet earlier this week, they got chummy with each other as the former Playboy bunny planted a soft kiss on Liam's cheek while they posed for the cameras. Red carpet appearances and cutesy Instagram posts aren't the only things fuelling rumours about the actors' relationship. Neeson jokingly saying that his favorite part of making the movie was filming "the sex scenes" with his co-star also strengthened the gossip. According to The Sun, he and Anderson were provided with an intimacy coordinator on set. "I'd never had one before. But she was in the background. There was no kind of, 'OK! Excuse me!'" Neeson said. Also, Anderson confessed that the intimacy coordinator knew when to walk away, and joked that the coordinator had actually stormed off. She claimed that the coordinator had walked away, throwing up her hands in the air, "'I can't take this! This is too hot for me. I'm going for coffee.'" Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
The Age
5 days ago
- General
- The Age
This restaurant within a sleek Claremont development reinterprets Mediterranean cooking for the western suburbs set
Not every dish sticks its landing, however. The pasta dough in the UFO-like tortelli filled with roasted pumpkin was too thick for purpose. Striploin steak had little of the char, crust or smoke that one hopes to enjoy on cow grilled over charcoal. Soggy, under-salted chips make baby Jesus cry. Every kitchen has off nights, sure, but when you're talking about a restaurant spruiking mains north of $40, these misfires can jar, especially when the dining room isn't especially busy. Service can also waver. One moment, dapper waiters will materialise tableside offering, unprompted, a taste of a wine that they think you'll enjoy. (They're right!) Another, they'll become oddly defensive when you ask whether the beef Wellington is a single slice cut from a bigger portion or a smaller, individual pastry for one: all fair questions, I think, when considering dropping $73 on your dinner. While I personally reckon Avalon would be a more compelling prospect if the food leaned harder into Tsimpidis' Greek heritage, I accept that such a narrow focus mightn't work for what is essentially an upmarket neighbourhood restaurant servicing some of Perth's most desirable postcodes. Still, the menu feels big and tricky to navigate. Could trimming the carte improve things for guests and the kitchen alike, I wonder? But perhaps sharply composed plates gleaned from the Mediterranean nations and served in a fancy room is precisely what well-heeled locals want. While some of us yearn for meals to tide us over until that next Japanese holiday, others crave edible postcards that conjure sunny memories of July getaways to Nice, Santorini, Positano and the like. (And should they happen to share an address with the restaurant and live in the apartments above, even better.)
