Latest news with #McFarlane
9 News
23-07-2025
- Business
- 9 News
'Head in the sand': How Australia needs to 'rethink' AI and work
Your web browser is no longer supported. To improve your experience update it here Artificial intelligence is making increasing inroads into the Australian workplace, but one education and skills training leader sees it as an opportunity, not a thing to lament. Global education company Pearson's AI modelling division, Faethm, recently found that just three technologies are responsible for 80 per cent of the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce. These include robotic process automation, simple chatbots, and the more complex large-language model (LLM) chatbots. AI is bringing change to the modern workplace. (Getty) And the Faethm data also showed which industries were set to feel the heaviest impacts from AI in the coming three years, namely, professional, scientific, and technical services; financial and insurance services; health and social care; and manufacturing. Pearson Enterprise Learning and Skills Asia Pacific vice president Craig McFarlane said this data revealed a number of truths. "A lot of people have their head in the sand about AI," he said. Craig McFarlane, Pearson APAC vice president. (Pearson) "This is not a head-in-the-sand moment." McFarlane said Pearson's focus was on the skills gaps likely to emerge in the next few years - what workplace activity would become redundant, and, crucially, the new skills that would be required. But he emphasised the potential in AI for improving productivity and offering everybody new opportunities in the workplace. Healthcare is one of the industries most impacted. (Getty) "The first step is around awareness of what this can do and how it can help you," he said. "We tell people go out and experiment with what's out there, have a play - the best way to learn how to do something is by trying it." Fears of job losses linger in the air of many discussions around AI, but McFarlane suggested that was born of a limited perspective. "When (Microsoft) Excel came out, everybody thought it was going to be the death of the accounting sector - this magic program could do it all for you," he said. "But I mean, accountancy is stronger than ever. Industries pivot." What will change as AI becomes ever more ingrained, however, is peoples' roles in their respective workplace. AI is likely to fill workplace needs for process-based tasks, such as administration and support - McFarlane estimates he can save up to a day going through post-holiday emails now compared to three years ago. "The data shows which early-career industries could be most affected as well," he said. "We have to rethink how we prepare young people for the workforce." Artificial Intelligence jobs work workplace Australia national Tech CONTACT US Auto news: Why Australians are still driving around without insurance.
Daily Record
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Outlander and The Dark Knight actor Colin McFarlane receives 'outstanding' honour
The Hollywood and Outlander star was presented with a special accolade Colin McFarlane, known for his roles in Outlander and The Dark Knight, has been honoured with an honorary degree from Loughborough University, reports the Express. The 63 year old British actor, writer, and producer, who portrayed the character of Gillian B. Loeb in Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight Trilogy, was recognised for his "outstanding contributions to the arts and his role in championing men's health issues" by the institution where he completed his studies. A graduate of Loughborough University, McFarlane earned a BA in Drama back in 1983 and went on to play the butler Ulysses in seasons four and five of Outlander opposite Maria Doyle Kennedy. The actor also later learnt he had an incredible connection to the Battle of Culloden. His versatile acting career includes roles alongside Liam Neeson in The Commuter, as well as appearances in Doctor Who, Father Brown, The Larkins, and more. In addition to his screen work, McFarlane is also celebrated for his voice acting, contributing to children's favourites such as Thomas & Friends, Peppa Pig, Bob the Builder, Fireman Sam, Hey Duggee, and even the Final Fantasy video game series. On the theatrical front, he has received critical praise for his stage work, including performances with Sir Lenny Henry in Fences, Sir Harold Pinter's The Collection, and starring roles opposite Corin Redgrave and later Steven Berkoff in Coriolanus. He is set to make his next appearance in the Doctor Who spin-off, The War Between the Land and the Sea, reprising his role as General Austin Pierce from Torchwood and Doctor Who. The upcoming series centres around the notorious Doctor Who villain, the Sea Devils, and features a star-studded cast including Russell Tovey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Jemma Redgrave, Shanice Archer and Ruth Madeley. In recent times, McFarlane has emerged as an advocate, speaking openly about prostate cancer following his own diagnosis in 2023, and encouraging others to undergo potentially life-saving checks. Moreover, he is the co-founder of the charity Justice4Windrush, which campaigns for compensation for the victims of the Windrush scandal and legal recognition of their right, and that of their descendants, to reside in the UK. Upon receiving the doctorate, McFarlane remarked: "I feel very lucky to be able to come back and be recognised for the work I've done. It's a wonderful full circle moment." This is where it all began, where the dreams began. "My younger self wouldn't believe that one day I'd be in a Batman movie, work with Liam Neeson, become the voice of an iconic game show, produce, direct and write, be offered lovely roles in Hollywood, and make my parents proud." And the bonus is that this has given me a platform to help other people. That wasn't something that was in my dream, but dreams evolve. So, yes, it's very special to come back to where it all began. "He also delivered an inspiring address to the graduating students: "You're at the beginning of your journeys, and we need your generation to step up and make a difference. "Nelson Mandela said 'education is the most powerful tool we have to change the world'. That's your superpower. Use it, and you can change the world."
Cision Canada
07-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
ARIS MINING ANNOUNCES SALE OF JUBY GOLD PROJECT TO MCFARLANE LAKE MINING
VANCOUVER, BC and TORONTO, July 7, 2025 /CNW/ - Aris Mining Corporation (Aris Mining) (TSX: ARIS) (NYSE-A: ARMN) and McFarlane Lake Mining Limited (McFarlane) (CSE: MLM) (OTC: MLMLF) are pleased to announce the signing of a definitive asset purchase agreement (the Agreement) for the sale of Aris Mining's Juby Gold Project and related interests in Ontario, Canada. The total consideration is valued at US$22 million, payable as outlined below. The Juby Gold Project is an exploration-stage gold project located in the Shining Tree area of Ontario's Abitibi greenstone belt. The transaction includes Aris Mining's 100% interest in the Juby Gold Project and its 25% joint venture interest in the adjacent Knight property. Neil Woodyer, CEO of Aris Mining, commented "The sale of Juby reflects our strategic focus on building a leading gold mining company in Latin America. Juby is a promising exploration property but is non-core to our operations in Colombia and Guyana. We are pleased to see it move into the hands of a dedicated and experienced management team that is well positioned to unlock its potential." Mark Trevisiol, CEO and Chairman of McFarlane, added "Our team is very excited to be working with Aris Mining on the acquisition of the Juby Gold asset. The addition of this project to McFarlane's portfolio will be accretive to our business and ultimately shareholder value. This acquisition transforms our junior gold exploration company into a gold exploration and development company. The team at Aris has been excellent to work with and we look forward to having them as a significant shareholder of McFarlane." Under the terms of the Agreement, Aris Mining will receive total consideration of US$22 million, comprised of: US$10 million in cash, payable on closing; common shares of McFarlane, representing the balance of the consideration payable up to a maximum of 19.9% of its post-financing share capital, issued at the price of McFarlane's concurrent equity financing, and issuable on closing; and an additional payment, if required to reach the total US$22 million purchase price, payable within 12 months of closing in either cash or additional shares (subject to Aris Mining holding in aggregate no more than 19.9% of McFarlane's share capital), at McFarlane's option. Completion of the transaction is conditional on McFarlane raising at least US$10 million in gross proceeds from a concurrent financing and other customary closing conditions, including required regulatory and third-party approvals, with the transaction expected to close within 90 days. Aris Mining will hold a first-ranking security interest over the Juby Gold Project until full payment of the purchase price is received. About Aris Mining Founded in September 2022, Aris Mining was established with a vision to build a leading Latin America-focused gold mining company. Our strategy blends current production and cashflow generation with transformational growth driven by expansions of our operating assets, exploration and development projects. Aris Mining is listed on the TSX (ARIS) and the NYSE-A (ARMN) and is led by an experienced team with a track record of value creation, operational excellence, financial discipline and good corporate governance in the gold mining industry. Aris Mining operates two underground gold mines in Colombia: the Segovia Operations and the Marmato Complex, which together produced 210,955 ounces of gold in 2024. With expansions underway, Aris Mining is targeting an annual production rate of more than 500,000 ounces of gold, following the Segovia mill expansion, completed in June and ramping up during H2 2025, and the construction of the Bulk Mining Zone at the Marmato Complex, expected to start ramping up production in H2 2026. In addition, Aris Mining operates the 51% owned Soto Norte joint venture, where studies are underway on a new, smaller scale development plan, with results expected in Q3 2025. In Guyana, Aris Mining owns the Toroparu gold/copper project, where a new Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) has been commissioned and its results are also expected in Q3 2025. Colombia is rich in high-grade gold deposits and Aris Mining is actively pursuing partnerships with the Country's dynamic small-scale mining sector. With these partnerships, we enable safe, legal, and environmentally responsible operations that benefit both local communities and the industry. Aris Mining intends to pursue acquisitions and other growth opportunities to unlock value through scale and diversification. Additional information on Aris Mining can be found at and on About McFarlane McFarlane is a gold exploration company focused on the exploration and development of its portfolio of properties, which include, the past producing McMillan and Mongowin gold properties, located 70 km west of Sudbury, Ontario, the past producing West Hawk Lake property located immediately west of the Ontario-Manitoba border, and the High Lake gold property located east of the Ontario-Manitoba border and 8 km from the West Hawk Lake property. McFarlane also owns the Michaud/Munro mineral property situated 115 km east of Timmins along the so-called "Golden Highway". McFarlane is a "reporting issuer" under applicable securities legislation in the provinces of, British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. To learn more, visit: Additional information on McFarlane can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements relating to the timeline for the completion of the transaction, the ability of Aris Mining and McFarlane to satisfy or waive closing conditions under the Agreement, including receipt of required regulatory and third-party approvals, the ability of McFarlane to satisfy the financing condition under the Agreement, receipt of any additional payment following completion of the transaction, statements included in the "About Aris Mining" section of this news release relating to the Segovia Operations, Marmato Complex, Soto Norte Project and Toroparu Project and statements included in the "About McFarlane" section of this news release are forward-looking. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward looking statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "will continue" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The material factors or assumptions used to develop forward looking information or statements are disclosed throughout this news release. Forward looking information and forward looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Aris Mining and McFarlane to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or forward looking statements, including but not limited to the ability to complete the transaction with McFarlane, including receipt of the required regulatory and third-party approvals and completion of McFarlane's concurrent financing, and those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Aris Mining's annual information form dated March 12, 2025 which is available on SEDAR+ at and with the SEC at and in McFarlane's annual information form dated November 27, 2024, which is available on SEDAR+ at Although Aris Mining and McFarlane have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements. Aris Mining and McFarlane have and continue to disclose in their Management's Discussion and Analysis and other publicly filed documents, changes to material factors or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements and to the validity of the information, in the period the changes occur. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and Aris Mining and McFarlane disclaim any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.
1News
03-07-2025
- General
- 1News
Flood-hit school furious with 'crazy' timing of ERO evaluation
A primary school in Wairoa that was ruined in Cyclone Gabrielle and has been operating out of a temporary site is furious and frustrated with the Education Review Office over the timing of its evaluation. Nuhaka School has flooded twice since February 2023, and while it waits for the entire school to be rebuilt, the more than 100 students have been taking their lessons at a nearby Mormon Church. Last week, as the school was packing up to move back to its new buildings, ERO conducted a review. The Education Review Office (ERO) has admitted to RNZ that it got it wrong, and apologised to Nuhaka School about the timing of its review. A school in flux ADVERTISEMENT From the outside, it looks like a regular church, but step through the doors and every room is crammed with school tables and chairs, whiteboards and stationery supplies. The floor is covered in colourful blue mats and among the boxes of sporting trophies and rows of school bags hanging on the wall, framed paintings of Jesus peer out. The Mormon church where children have been going to school. (Source: As children help carry boxes out to the moving truck, Principal Raelene McFarlane tells RNZ how hard the past couple of years have been, and the struggle to get more resources. "This has just been a fight. It didn't need to be this hard. I didn't need to lose staff through burnout," she said. For most of the past 2.5 years, the students have been learning in makeshift classrooms - using the hall stage, offices, and meeting rooms to try and regain some sense of normalcy for the kids. "The crowding is huge. It got quite heartbreaking at times when we had kids who had to crawl under tables to get out to the loo and you know, and if they didn't make it that was really upsetting for them, it was upsetting for staff and whanau. "Without space you can't teach a quiet group, because the noise is just really compacted," said McFarlane. ADVERTISEMENT Nuhaka School principal Raelene McFarlane. (Source: She said they were just weeks away from moving back into their newly rebuilt school site, when the Education Review Office, known as ERO, decided it was time to conduct a review. McFarlane begged them to delay it by 10 weeks, so they would be settled back in their school buildings, but told RNZ that ERO would only shift the review by three weeks, to the last few days of term when they were still in the church. "When I contacted them and said 'we are literally going to have boxes walking out the door, we can't even do a lesson for you, that's crazy'. We were just told that they'll be sensitive and that it was going ahead," she said. Wairoa mayor Craig Little. (Source: The local iwi and mayor also tried to get the ERO review moved, but mayor Craig Little said he was astonished when ERO went ahead with its inspection. "These kids have absolutely gone through hell and back. And so now they're moving finally, thank God for the Mormon church. They've been in there and they're moving back to their school. But it's really hard and would you believe let's chuck an ERO report the same time they're moving. ADVERTISEMENT "It's just crazy. I've been on school boards and the ERO report is the biggest thing that can disrupt your school ever. And you get one shot at it and everybody is under stress. ERO should be saying, 'hey, let's just sort of forget about that at the moment'," said Craig. Instead, ERO visited the school last week while it was still operating out of the church buildings. "At least come and see us in the right place — do the right compliance checks on the right buildings — that would make more sense to me. "We don't understand, we feel pretty much... we don't know if it's targeted," said McFarlane. 'We got this one wrong' — ERO apologises ERO declined RNZ's request for an interview, but spokesperson Shelley Booysen told RNZ that where possible, it did its best to be flexible to meet the needs of schools. "In this case, the School Review team made the decision to go ahead with the review following a number of rescheduled dates. ADVERTISEMENT "In hindsight, the school's request for an extension during their move and until they are more settled into their new building was not unreasonable. We should have delayed the review. We got this one wrong and we sincerely apologise to the school and the community," she said. ERO said it wished Nuhaka School 'all the best' in their new school building. But Little worried the damage was already done. "Why would you do that to people? I'm getting calls from the parents, not only the school teachers, just saying 'hey, we're really worried about what's happening here'. "These teachers have been enough stress. Let's not put them under anymore," he said. Nuhaka School will reopen on July 14 for the first day of the new term. Nuhaka School students. (Source: ADVERTISEMENT
The Herald Scotland
23-06-2025
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
Nick Walsh lands major Euro clash after Hibs-Rangers gaffe
They have won praise for their handling of those games and that has led to their appointment for one of the last four clashes. Walsh will be the man in the middle as the Germans take on the French, assisted by McFarlane and Spence and with Dallas in charge of VAR. It comes around a month after the Scottish whistler was involved in a hugely controversial decision as Rangers drew with Hibs on the final day of the Scottish Premiership campaign. Read more: With camera evidence suggesting the ball had crossed the line for a Nicolas Raskin goal as Rocky Bushiri battling to keep it out, Walsh and his officiating team failed to give a goal. It led to Gers legend John 'Bomber' Brown being punished by the Scottish FA for making a comment about Scottish football being corrupt. The SFA's KMI panel later ruled that the goal should have been awarded. Walsh has been involved in other controversies, including the sending off of Mohamed Diomande for a 'slap' at Dundee United, which was later rescinded.
