Latest news with #Fairbairn
Techday NZ
21-05-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Sat.One unveils resilient managed LEO satellite service for ANZ
has launched Resilient, a managed multi-constellation Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite service for critical infrastructure, enterprise, and remote operations in Australia and New Zealand. The company's latest offering is designed to address the challenges posed by the adoption of LEO satellite networks, which have become increasingly important for organisations seeking to extend communications beyond terrestrial reach. As enterprises turn to Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) connectivity, the support for high-availability and consistent performance across multiple satellite constellations is becoming more complex. Resilient is powered by ARGO, a software-defined edge platform developed specifically for LEO satellite operations. According to ARGO enables the service to anticipate and adapt to link degradation in real time, a capability not found in traditional SD-WAN solutions. The company states that this approach delivers service level agreements (SLAs) with 99.9% availability, with plans to move towards 99.99%. Dan Fairbairn, Chief Executive Officer of said, "LEO connectivity is redefining what's possible for enterprise communications. But unlocking its full potential requires more than just access, it demands resilience. That's why we designed and built Resilient from the ground up, powered by ARGO, to meet the highest expectations for performance, availability, and reach." The managed service targets enterprise and government customers and aims to provide reliable connectivity in remote and hybrid environments. It integrates with existing customer networks, offering features such as intelligent link management, always-on multi-constellation coverage, and standardised network handoff mechanisms. At the core of Resilient is ARGO, which describes as a platform capable of anticipating service degradation from factors such as weather, radio frequency interference, or satellite movement. Unlike SD-WAN products, which typically react after link quality drops, ARGO employs advanced machine learning to identify and address potential issues before they affect service quality. Fairbairn explained, " tested multiple SD-WAN products and found none met the performance thresholds needed for enterprise-grade LEO. Unlike SD-WAN, ARGO proactively mitigates link degradation before it impacts the user. No SD-WAN can achieve this." By using predictive analytics and real-time corrective actions, ARGO aims to maintain packet loss below 0.1% and deliver consistent user experiences for latency-sensitive applications, including VoIP, telemetry, real-time video, and remote system control. The platform is designed to integrate seamlessly into SD-WAN deployments and supports standard network protocols and industry-specific service classes, such as those provided by OneWeb. reports that Resilient is already in use across government, emergency services, and resource sectors, supporting projects that require high availability and operational certainty. The solution is positioned to address increasing regulatory and operational demands in critical infrastructure sectors. " Resilient gives enterprise customers the certainty and performance they need," Fairbairn said. "With enterprise LEO connectivity that's managed, monitored, and mission-ready, there's no substitute. As expectations rise and policy tightens around critical infrastructure, organisations need connectivity they can trust." The new service is available exclusively through network of telecommunications channel and managed service provider partners. It is designed for integration into partner offerings to deliver additional resilience for customers operating in remote areas or in need of alternative network paths in case of terrestrial outages. described its approach as focused on enabling customers and partners to achieve reliable communication links, regardless of location or environmental conditions. continues to work with technology partners and user terminal manufacturers, including Intellian, Kymeta, and Hughes, to further expand the reach and performance of its services for enterprises and communities throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Proposed bill would start relief funding to Northern Michigan to help with ice storm toll
NORTHERN MICHIGAN — Almost three weeks after a historic ice storm brought destruction to Northern Michigan, legislators are working on a proposal to bring $300 million in relief to the region. State Rep. Parker Fairbairn of the 107th district proposed House Bill 4328 on April 16. The proposed bill is a $75 million state budget plan, working in tandem with "any future federal disaster declaration for Northern Michigan," according to a release from Fairbairn's office. If the plan is approved, $75 million in state relief would be sent to the region, which would be a start to securing an additional $225 million in federal aid. According to Fairbairn's office, federal relief dollars require a 25% match from the state, which would be covered by the $75 million if approved. More: Up North residents hit by ice storm endure cold, power outages: 'How are we gonna manage?' More: 'A generational storm': Northern Michigan ice storm was worst in over 100 years Following the multi-day ice storms at the end of March, tens of thousands of residents faced extended power outages. Some small pockets of the region were still without power weeks later. Additionally, people faced property damage from fallen trees, electrical towers and power lines. Many roads were impassable for days, limiting access to food and fuel for some. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a State of Emergency for 12 Northern Michigan counties after the storm, and deployed the Michigan National Guard to assist in recovery efforts. More: PHOTOS: Ice storm aftermath in Northern Michigan A recent estimate from the Michigan State Police, according to Fairbairn's release, puts the cost of recovery efforts at upwards of $200 million. Fairbairn said he expects that number to rise. 'As recovery efforts are still ongoing, it's unclear just how financially devastating this storm was for our Northern Michigan communities,' Fairbairn said in a statement. 'There are several debris drop-off locations that have been forced to close because they've filled up, and the local officials have run out of money to get rid of the debris themselves. That's the situation we're facing. Every single dollar at our disposal is going to support recovery efforts, but it's becoming alarmingly clear that we're going to need a lot of dollars if we ever hope to get this mess cleaned up.' More: How to help: Donation options for ice storm relief, recovery in Northern Michigan More: Ice storm delivers crushing blow to Northern Michigan's maple syrup industry The proposed $300 million in funding would support disaster relief grants, aiding communities in emergency management assistance. Additionally, they could assist the continued operation of warming centers and purchase of supplies, cleanup and recovery efforts, unemployment benefits and temporary employment opportunities for displaced workers, energy assistance, and the repair and replacement of public infrastructure, according to Fairbairn's release. State Rep. Ken Borton of the 105th district backed the bill. 'The pictures and videos cannot show the amount of devastation that's up here,' said Borton in a statement. 'I've talked to linemen who have worked across the country, and they've told me they've worked category five hurricanes that weren't this bad. This widespread damage was unprecedented. We still have thousands of people who don't have power and many who can't get to their homes. There is so much debris that's just been pushed into the right-of-way because there's nowhere for it to go and no one to clean it up because we're running out of funding. We've exhausted our resources to the point that it's created a tinderbox we need to address immediately.' State Rep. Cam Cavitt of the 106th district also spoke in support of the bill. 'This crisis isn't over yet; we still have around 4,000 people out of power in my district,' Cavitt said during testimony on April 16. 'The storm came on a Friday and stayed with us through Sunday. I recorded two inches of ice on my bird feeder outside my home. We had nursing homes without power. We had hospitals without oxygen. We had 911 calls that went unanswered because trees made roads impassable. This was literally a life and death situation.' In a Facebook post, State Sen. John Damoose of the 37th district said that even if the $75 million in state aid passes, "Federal funding is far from granted." In the post, he noted Whitmer has formally asked for a presidential declaration of emergency, which would start the process of receiving funds. He also added that U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman of Michigan's 1st congressional district has been leading the effort to try to access federal funds. "While I am hopeful these funds are forthcoming, we cannot place all of our hope in receiving any relief from the federal government," Damoose wrote. "North Carolina was just denied approval to extend its full reimbursement period from Hurricane Helene, and we must not forget that Gaylord was turned down in its quest for federal disaster aid after it's devastating tornadoes in 2022." Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage More: Amid ice storm recovery, Whitmer seeks federal emergency aid for Northern Michigan Damoose also shared with his followers on April 16 that he introduced Senate Bill 212, which would forgive the days schools were not in session during the state of emergency, lasting from March 31-April 10. Each year, Michigan schools are allotted six days where class can be canceled for any reason, whether it be illness, weather concerns or power outages. After six days, school districts can then request a waiver for three additional days off, up to nine. Most districts in the storm-affected region had four or more days off, putting most of them above the allowance of nine. Damoose said forgiving those additional days "is one of the many practical things we will need to do to provide families and schools stability and peace of mind in the months ahead." Both Harbor Springs Public Schools Superintendent Brad Plackemeier and Public Schools of Petoskey Superintendent Jeff Leslie spoke during school board meetings the week of April 14 about the issue. They said they have been in communication with their local representatives and legislators, who have told them they are confident the additional days off will be forgiven. — Contact reporter Karly Graham at kgraham@ Follow her on Twitter at @KarlyGrahamJRN. This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Legislation would start funding to aid Northern Michigan after ice storm
Otago Daily Times
29-04-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Blue Sky Property Group: Making a real impact on Dunedin's property scene
Blue Sky Property Group is dedicated to building smarter, warmer homes that feel great to live. Lyndon Fairbairn hasn't counted how many nails Blue Sky Property has used, 'but it's a lot!' he says. The managing director of the Dunedin company and his small team are making a big impact on the city's property development scene. Since Blue Sky Property was launched in 2021 they've focused on creating high-quality homes in great locations. And there's something for everyone including first home buyers, downsizers, and investors. 'We take a lot of pride in delivering new builds that are stylish, low maintenance, and built to last,' Fairbairn says. He and the other directors Tony Illingworth, David Smillie, and Leon Hallett are all Dunedin locals. Between them they have an impressive 120 years of experience in the building industry. Each of them brings something different to the board table: surveying and building, property law, home design, and marketing. 'It's a real team effort and we love what we do,' Fairbairn says. Blue Sky Property works with a broad range of clients, but they have found a particular niche creating homes for downsizers. When the Rawhiti Residences – a trio of beautifully designed single-level townhouses in Musselburgh - sold out in days, the company knew they were on the right track. 'In fact, some of our projects sell out within hours,' Fairbairn notes. 'We often have waitlists for upcoming releases.' Another standout project that sold out rapidly is Villa St Clair, a development of four high-end homes just a block from Dunedin's favourite beach. Architecturally designed, the homes feature raked ceilings, ensuite bathrooms, and beautiful finishes including cedar detailing, stone benchtops, and Fisher & Paykel appliances. Villa St Clair was specifically designed for downsizers, families, and professionals, and is a showcase of Blue Sky Property's passion for luxury and location. They are currently working on their 17th development in Dunedin, comprising around 90 homes and over $80 million is sales. 'Behind those numbers is a commitment to quality, thoughtful design, and making homes that people genuinely love to live in,' Fairbairn says. He and the team are now looking forward to bringing The Grendon Collection to the Dunedin market. This new project on Maori Hill's Grendon Street sees Blue Sky Property working with the highly respected and award-winning Dunedin architecture company Mason & Wales. The luxury development on a prime corner site includes two beautifully designed north-facing three-bedroom homes. In one of the city's most prestigious neighbourhoods, they will offer warm and contemporary living. Supporting the local industries is important to Blue Sky Property. They prioritise New Zealand made on their developments – and even Dunedin made when they can. As well as having kitchens, staircases, and windows made in Dunedin, they also work with standout local partners Lewis Architecture, while NZ Property Solutions provide fantastic sales and marketing. 'It really does take a village!' Fairbairn reflects. 'We're incredibly grateful to all the experts who've been a part of the journey so far. Their hard work means everything to us.' Another big focus for Blue Sky Property is sustainability. They go above and beyond in that sphere, particularly in terms of insulation and natural light. The company uses eco-friendly materials and techniques whenever possible, and all of their developments meet the standards for Healthy Homes. 'It's all about building smarter, warmer homes that feel great to live in,' Fairbairn concludes. 021 562 232 30 Lochend Street, Musselbugh, 9013, Dunedin
BBC News
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Book aims to make Manx folklore 'more modern and accessible'
A book of illustrations explaining the Isle of Man's mythological characters aims to make Manx Folklore "more modern and accessible", an author has An Illustrated Guide to the Folklore of the Isle of Man, the book was created by writer Caitlyn Fairbairn along with illustrator Juan Gonzalez. The work, which was launched on Wednesday evening, features characters such as Manx gods, saints, fairies, witches, wizards, mythological creatures and Viking Fairbairn said she hoped the book would "keep the characters themselves alive, and promote more interest in their stories". Two hundred copies of the book have been published, funded by the Isle of Man Arts Fairbairn said she and Mr Gonzalez had noticed that there was currently not a book that talks about Manx mythological characters. The first character was an Arkan Sonney, a lucky pig in Manx folklore, with the book describing their appearance, behaviour, and the supposed good fortune they brought for those who caught one. While there were many folklore books, "a lot of them were very dated", having been written in the 16th and 17th century, and were also "hard to find", she said. Making the information more accessible would enable people to "learn about our culture", she Gonzalez said he used Ms Fairbairn's research, but also drew inspiration from other folklore books, as well as video games. Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.
The Guardian
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Alabaster DePlume: A Blade Because a Blade Is Whole review
Alabaster DePlume's seventh album comes with a statement of purpose. 'What is it FOR?' asks the accompanying blurb, written by the artist, born Angus Fairbairn. 'To inspire and facilitate our independent healing … Recently I told everyone to 'go forward in the courage of your love' and 'be brazen like a baby'. Following this incitement to boldness it is only fair that I offer a perspective on healing whatever comes as a result.' There is more – a lot more, including a poem – but you get the gist. An album arriving with an explicit mission statement is an unusual occurrence, but to anyone familiar with Fairbairn and his work, the obvious response is: well, of course it does. The only variable is whether you say that in a tone of delight or with a roll of the eyes. Since his 2020 breakthrough with the soothing To Cy and Lee: Instrumentals Vol 1, the saxophonist – known for his tremulous, vibrato-heavy style – and spoken-word artist has carved out a unique small space, so specific that it's almost bound to be divisive. There are those who find his whole shtick delightful and inspiring, who would argue that it's not a shtick at all, merely the unguarded expression of an open-hearted personality: refreshing in a world of irony and artifice. Equally, there are sceptics, those for whom everything from his wacky stage name to his mission statements to the interviews that occasionally begin with him thanking the journalist for merely existing, carry the tang of affectation; for whom his words often sound remarkably like something you might see on a poster for sale on Etsy: 'We can only forgive each other once we forgive ourselves.' There are brief moments during A Blade … where you concede the latter faction might have a point. Admittedly an outlier, the acoustic guitar-driven Invincibility recalls the flower-power era's self-styled 'humble minstrel' Donovan at his most whimsical, not a reference one reaches for often in 2025. Fairbairn's vocals, meanwhile, are an acquired taste – so much so that you find yourself wondering if To Cy and Lee: Instrumentals Vol 1 might not be his most successful album because of the instrumental aspect. On A Blade … they're delivered in a sprechgesang that draws equally on time-honoured hepcat declaiming, rap and performance poetry, and occasionally bring to mind not Lawrence Ferlinghetti in the company of Stan Getz, but Faithless's late frontman Maxi Jazz. But they occupy less than half the album, and when they do appear they're usually thickly framed with instrumental passages that are diverting enough. On closer That Was My Garden, the vocals are over almost before the track has begun, leaving room for a lengthy passage that slowly changes its mood from scrabbling and tentative to striding and triumphant. Even Invincibility shifts away from its initial singer-songwriter style into an intoxicating eddy of Middle Eastern-influenced strings that may have its roots in the period Fairbairn spent in Palestine – his 2024 EP Cremisan: Prologue to a Blade featured two tracks recorded in Bethlehem. And therein lies the rub: Fairbairn's divisiveness is rendered beside the point in the face of the music he makes. It's tempting to say that his greatest skill lies not in his vocals nor his trademark sax playing, but as a writer of melodies: entirely gorgeous, cyclical tunes that rise and fall in intensity. His saxophone carries them, but is regularly and very effectively doubled with wordless vocals or strings, testament to the simpatico skills of arranger Macie Stewart. Sign up to Sleeve Notes Get music news, bold reviews and unexpected extras. Every genre, every era, every week after newsletter promotion As opener Oh My Actual Days ebbs and flows, or Fairbairn's sax soars over a backing that views jazz through the lens of dub reggae on Salty Road Dogs Victory Anthem, it's hard not to think that even the most cynical would feel ambushed by what they're hearing. At heart, A Blade Because a Blade Is Whole is packed with beautiful music – the string-laden backing of Form a V that tilts gently in the direction of reggae and lusciously upholstered soul; the gently insistent waltz-time motion of Who Are You Telling, Gus. It's music that seems to affect listeners emotionally far more effectively than the words. You could take that as a failing, but it isn't: after all, that's what music is for. Listen to tracks from A Blade Because a Blade Is Whole on Apple Music or listen on Spotify This article includes content hosted on We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as the provider may be using cookies and other technologies. To view this content, click 'Allow and continue'. Adore – Stay Free Old Stranger Produced by Gilla Band's Daniel Fox, Stay Free Old Stranger sounds like raging garage-y alt-rock, until the tempo suddenly drops, there's a spoken-word interlude and it returns reborn as ferocious hardcore punk. Familiar yet surprising.
