TrulyAus – August-September 2023

This August, Rex turns 21. Over more than two decades, we have methodically built both a regional and domestic network ensuring capacity meets demand and making sure we don’t get ahead of ourselves. Ambition must be tempered by the practical realities of airline economics, common sense and managing community expectations.

The arrival of our eighth Boeing 737-800NG has enabled us to expand our domestic network and with our ninth 737-800NG due to be delivered in mid-September, we continue to look out over the horizon for new opportunities.

Deciding where we’ll fly to is never easy. While the degree of difficulty will be determined by myriad factors –including, but not limited to, a destination’s popularity, enough room in the market to be commercially viable, the strength of the relationship with airports and local councils, to name but a few – all underpinned by almost indecipherable analytics.

It is also important for Rex to link our vast regional and domestic networks so that regional communities can also benefit from Rex’s domestic expansion with seamless and affordable connectivity.

But when we do decide to press the ‘go’ button it’s a collective effort from a veritable army of specialists all working together in order to complete all regulatory and company requirements to achieve the scheduled launch date.

Such has been the case at Rex over recent months. In late June we began flying between Sydney and Adelaide. The daily service was the first time we have connected these two capital cities. Another first will follow on August 17 when we launch a much anticipated new route from the mainland to the Apple Isle. The daily Melbourne-Hobart service is our fourth Tasmanian destination.

Working in partnership with Adelaide Airport, South Australian Tourism Commission, Hobart Airport and Tourism Tasmania has been an integral part of Rex commencing operations on these two routes.

Indeed, we may possibly take another two Boeing jetliners before the end of this financial year and with a fleet of 11 aircraft there will be options aplenty as we continue to grow in a measured, sustainable way. Eventually our plan is to fly to, and between, every capital city in the country so that more Australians can enjoy our trademark reliability and affordable fares delivered with country hospitality. So, as you flick through the pages of this edition and come across our route map please remember it’s not how fast you grow as an airline, but how you grow.

Thank you for your support these 21 years, and here’s to many more.

Enjoy your flight!

Neville Howell Chief Operating Officer

EDITORIAL

Publisher & Editor: Michelle Hespe publisher@trulyaus.com

Deputy Editor: Emily Riches editorial@trulyaus.com

Designer: Ryan Vizcarra

Sub-editor: Claire Hey

ADVERTISING publisher@trulyaus.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Alexis Buxton-Collins

LJ Charleston

Winsor Dobbin

Steen Jakobsen

Danielle Lancaster

Jess Makarewitsch

Ali Manges

Matilda Meikle

Fran Molloy

PRINTING

IVE Print Sydney

81 Derby Street, Silverwater, NSW 2128

Truly Aus is published by Publishing ByChelle, (ABN: 78 621 375 853 ACN: 621 375 853) Level 1, 3 Westleigh Street, Neutral Bay, NSW 2089 publishingbychelle.com

The reproduction of any content, in whole or part without prior written permission by the publisher is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the content are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the publisher. All information in this magazine was believed to be correct at the time of publication, and all reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Publishing ByChelle cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. We apologise if we don’t get back to your email, as we do receive a large volume of communication via various online channels. Some images used in TrulyAus are from iStock and Getty Images, and we make every effort to credit all contributors.

STEP

INTO A WORLD FAR, FAR AWAY

A PLACE WHERE WILD WONDERS AND PEACEFULNESS RESIDE

Ettricks Rocks’ Retreats offers guests a choice of three different villas – all of them perched on a wonderfully wild landscape above the ocean on remote King Island. From the peace and warmth of your abode you can look out as the roaring forties plays havoc with the waves and the native Australian landscape. It’s a space where you can truly relax while appreciating the power and beauty of mother nature.

W: ettrickrocks.com.au

• E: info@ettrickrocks.com.au

• P: 1300 195 596

ETTRICK ROCKS

For those of you who love reading TrulyAus, we have some exciting news to share.

This month we launched our geotargeted TrulyAus for Rex newsletters, so that you can now have travel stories and Rex deals sent straight to your inbox. We also have a great new destination and experience-led website that is packed with great stories on the many incredible destinations that Rex flies to. Check it out at rex.trulyaus.com

In this issue, we’re out to inspire you with wonderful things to do and see in spring, as there are so many amazing destinations that you can fly to within an hour or two.

City-wise, we dive into thriving, bustling Brisbane, get the lowdown from a local on all that is happening in Hobart, and dip into some ways to explore stunning Sydney.

We also head out into some peaceful national parks in the ACT where you can unwind and recharge, and leap into charming Griffith, which has its Spring Fest coming up in October.

Then there’s the beautiful Adelaide Hills, where you can indulge in lovingly made Australian produce – from artisan chocolate to cool climate wines and limited edition gins and liqueurs, we have your tastebuds well covered. The many galleries, cafes and stores brimming with the work of local artists makes it a perfect weekend getaway for gourmands and art-lovers.

We can’t get excited about spring without exploring the many offerings of New South Wales, which, when the warmer months roll around, is blessed with huge expanses of fields bursting with the joyful hues of canola. A great place to check out the spectacle is in Parkes, where you can also visit the famous Parkes Radio Telescope – otherwise known as The Dish.

We also travel far up north to Burketown – a small locality in the Gulf of Carpentaria which is a remarkable place to learn about the traditional owners of the land, the Gangalidda Garawa people.

In AusBiz we look into the conservation of the dingo, check out some game-changing agricultural innovations, delve into the future of lithium production, and consider how the pandemic impacted first home buyers. You’ll also find a truly fascinating story on the link between Alzheimer’s and your retina.

Enjoy this issue and drop us a line anytime –we love hearing from our readers.

DOWN BY THE RIVER Chilling out by The Darling River in Wilcannia.

FLOWER POWER:

Get out and about in NSW this spring with our top picks of outdoor activities.

Image: Destination NSW.

Inside TrulyAus

upfront

12 Rex news

Rex launches new route between Adelaide and Sydney, wins Best Regional Airline Australia & Pacific, and welcomes an eighth Boeing 737-800NG.

Features

26 The best of buzzing Brisbane

52

Queensland’s sparkling Sunshine Capital is bursting at the seams with cultural, foodie and nature experiences – time to see what all the fuss is about!

34 Hip and happening Hobart

Everyone knows that Hobart is the place to be: we dive into some of the best new restaurant and hotel openings, gallery experiences and day trips with insights from a local.

AusBiz.

Check out AusBiz at the back of our magazine.

FINANCE

Saxo CIO Steen Jakobsen offers his predictions on the economy.

MINING

An Australian start-up has found a way to produce greener, cheaper lithium.

PROPERTY

How were first home buyers impacted by the pandemic?

40 Escape the city

Sometimes you just need good old fresh air. Here are some awesome nature escapes from Canberra.

48 The unmissable Adelaide Hills

Few Adelaide Hills attractions top these: experience artisan chocolate, Spanish paella, a famous artist’s studio, and more.

56 Indigenous Burketown

Take a stargazing tour with the Traditional Owners and learn about this rich culture.

60

ENVIRONMENT

A new study shows wild dingoes have less dog ancestry than previously expected.

SCIENCE

Scientists show the link between Alzheimer’s disease and your retina.

Stay connected on the fly with Wi-Fi

Time to sit back and relax with entertainment and internet at your fingertips on selected domestic flights operated by our Boeing 737-800NG.

Enjoy a great selection of free blockbuster movies and addictive TV shows or stay connected by purchasing Wi-Fi Passes and surf the net in the sky – complimentary for Business class passengers.

Step by step: How to connect onboard

Choose network. Turn on device’s Wi-Fi and connect to the Rex Wi-Fi network “REX”.

Welcome. Browser should open automatically. If needed, open your internet browser and navigate to wifionboard.com to connect.

Once connected, passengers can access complimentary in-flight entertainment.

Wi-Fi Passes available for purchase

Regular speed for browsing

Suitable for simple web browsing, email, instant messaging and social media (excludes video and app stores).

30 minutes from $6.50* Entire flight from $9.99*

High-speed for streaming

Suitable for a faster connection speed supporting video streaming services such as YouTube (excludes app stores).

30 minutes from $9.75* Entire flight from $14.99*

Purchase a Wi-Fi Pass to start streaming (free for Business Class)

Have a question?

For any questions or troubleshooting, live chat is available 24/7 to assist you.

*Prices are subject to change at any time. Please access the Rex in-flight web portal for more information. Terms and conditions apply.

BAGGAGE

Carry on baggage

CHECK-IN

Online check-in

You can check-in online through the Rex website, rex.com.au, on your desktop or mobile devices between 48 hours and 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of your flight.

Airport check-in

If you have checked baggage, we recommend that you arrive at the airport for check-in at least 60 minutes before the scheduled departure of your flight at all airports except Burketown, Queensland (90 minutes before).

Rex check-in closes:

• 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Burketown airport.

• 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Queensland airports (with the exception of Burketown above).

• 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at regional airports in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA.

Special requirements:

Passengers with special requirements must check-in at the airport (online check-in is not available) no later than:

• 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights and flights departing from Burketown.

• 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure for regional flights departing from major cities and all Queensland regional airports except Burketown (please see below).

• 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA regional airports.

REX AIRCRAFT FACTS

* no one piece may weigh more than 10kg

Checked baggage

Passengers with international connections (within 24 hours) are permitted a 23 kilogram baggage allowance upon presenting a valid itinerary or ticket.

Please refer to rex.com.au for more baggage allowance information.

Excess baggage

Additional checked baggage allowance may be purchased during booking.

For baggage presented at check-in which is over the baggage allowance, excess baggage is subject to capacity and a surcharge of $5.50 (incl GST) per kilogram is applicable.

INFLIGHT INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

As you sit back in comfort en route to your destination, the Rex crew hope you enjoy this entertaining and informative light reading.

Q. Why do the flight attendants insist that all window blinds be up for take-off?

A. The most critical phases of a flight are the take-off and landing. In the most unlikely event of a situation that requires an emergency evacuation, it is important that crew and passengers are able to have a clear view of the outside conditions in case of obstructions. For example, before exits are opened, staff must check for fire or other obstacles that may present potential hazards during the evacuation.

Q. Why do I have to stow my hand luggage in the overhead lockers, under the seats or in the seat pockets for take-off and landing?

A. Flight crews are required by Civil Aviation Regulations to secure the cabin as well as possible for take-off and landing. As mentioned, these are the most critical phases of the flight, and securing as much hand luggage as possible ensures that, in the unlikely event of an emergency, the exits and aisles stay as clear as possible, in case evacuation is necessary. It is also important to keep hand luggage secure whenever possible to ensure heavier items do not become airborne within the cabin. This is especially important when the aircraft is experiencing turbulence.

Q. Why do I feel so tired from flying?

A. As the aircraft altitude increases, air pressure decreases. As the pressure decreases, the body absorbs less oxygen than it would at sea level – so, it must work harder to supply oxygen to the body’s cells. As the body is working harder, it becomes more tired.

Q. Why do I sometimes feel pain in my ears or sinuses during ascent or descent?

A. The sinuses and middle ear are air-containing cavities that connect with the nose via narrow channels. As aircrafts ascend and cabin pressure drops, air passes out of these cavities (without any effort from the passenger) to balance the cabin pressure. It is a different matter during descent, as the cabin pressure increases. The channels close down and must be actively opened by holding the nose and blowing to inflate the cavities. Facial and ear pain can occur during descent if re-inflation does not occur, and this is much

more likely if the passenger has nasal congestion. If you must fly with hayfever, use a decongestant nasal spray before descent and buy some ‘ear planes’ to plug your ears.

(Information contributed by Dr Daniel Hains, ENT surgeon.)

Q. When can electronic equipment such as laptops, iPods and mobile phones be used?

A. All Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) must be placed in flight mode if access to the tarmac (including by bus) is required during boarding or disembarkation, and when instructed to do so by the cabin crew. Small handheld PEDs weighing less than 1kg, such as mobile phones, can be used in flight mode during all stages of flight. PEDs over 1kg, such as laptop computers, must be stowed appropriately for taxi, take-off and landing, and are permitted to be used only during cruise when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off. PEDs cannot be used while crossing the tarmac.

Q. What is the average speed of the aircraft when cruising in flight?

A. Our Saab 340 has an average cruising speed of approximately 500 kilometres per hour. The Boeing 737-800 NG has an average speed of 830 kilometres per hour.

Q. Why do I have to get permission from the Captain to move to a vacant seat?

A. The aircraft’s take-off speed is calculated by the weight and balance of the aircraft, and many factors need to be considered for a successful take-off. Factors include the weight of passengers and where they are seated, the weight of cargo, freight and fuel, the distance available on the runway, etc. For example, if there are 100 or more kilograms of freight in the cargo, the balance of the aircraft will be better maintained if passengers are seated in the forward rows.

AIR TURBULENCE

Q. Aircraft often experience air turbulence, but what causes it?

A. Imagine the air around the aircraft is water in a stream. We can see how water is disturbed around rocks

or when two streams converge. Turbulence in the air is similar: as the aircraft passes through cold air or in the vicinity of terrain that has disturbed the airflow – often incorrectly referred to as ‘air pockets’ – the aircraft climbs and descends in the same way that a boat moves on water. Though turbulence can be uncomfortable, it poses no threat to the aircraft and is akin to driving on a rough or unsealed road. More severe turbulence can be associated with developing thunderstorms. Aircraft have a sophisticated weather radar that pilots use to avoid these areas. Occasionally, a flight attendant will discontinue serving passengers in turbulent conditions; this is a precaution to ensure everyone’s safety.

Q. Why should I keep my seatbelt fastened even when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off?

A. On occasion, the flight crew cannot foresee turbulence or it is not picked up on the flight-deck radar. Because of this, we could unexpectedly experience turbulence at any time. The company recommends that you always keep your seatbelt fastened while you are seated – for your safety, just in case unexpected turbulence is encountered.

ENGINE NOISES

Q. Why do the aircraft’s engine noises change during the flight?

A. Aircraft need more power to climb than to descend, in the same way that a car needs more power to go up a hill than down one. Rex aircraft have more than enough power to climb, so shortly after take-off you will notice a change in noises as the power is reduced. The pilots also control the pitch angle of the propellers for various stages of the flight, and as they ‘change gears’ this can also be heard in the cabin.

Q. What should I do if I see or hear something that does not look or sound right?

A. Please advise your flight attendant. The flight attendant may be able to answer your query and allay any fears. If not, the flight attendant will contact the flight deck and advise the pilots of anything unusual. Rex encourages open communication and will always treat a passengers’ concerns with the utmost seriousness.

National Jet Express (NJE), a Rex Group company which specialises in Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO), charter and freight, recently celebrated the launch of a new route from its brand-new Brisbane base. NJE’s first passenger flight took to the skies in Queensland in July, operating for BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA). The departure was celebrated with a traditional water cannon salute and cupcakes for passengers.

Image: Dylan Hardie.

Welcome aboard, Captain Lachlan!

Our base in PER recently had a delightful visit from Lachlan. Lachlan is 15 years old and has been into aviation since the day he was born. When he wrote in to Rex to say that he’s a big fan, we knew we had to invite him to meet some of the team.

“It was an experience that I never thought would’ve happened, especially the kindness of the staff to go out of their way to make a little aviation enthusiast’s day,” said Lachlan.

“The staff allowing me to wear a pilot’s hat was a dream! Rex has done the best job. To go behind the scenes, to the meet the crew and the pilots was insane! I definitely recommend flying with Rex, as your day will only get better. From the Saab to the B737, Rex is the way to go!”

Thanks for your support Lachlan, it was great to meet you. See you in the skies soon!

Lachlan and his dad pictured with our crew in Perth (second and third from the left).

Reef of resilience

“We are, as Indigenous people, natural storytellers, and we can tell the story of our Country through our songs and dances, but we can also interpret that into another medium like art and contemporary art.”

Telling the story of Mornington Island reef, Lardil woman Renee Wilson’s striking Indigenous artwork ‘Mundarlbi’ captures the strength of the place she calls home.

Situated in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Kunhanhaa (Mornington Island) is the northernmost and largest of 22 islands that form the Wellesley Islands group, fringed by mangrove forests, crystal clear waters and coral reefs.

“It’s where you can actually go back to your homelands and just be on Country and know that you’re from there,” the Mornington Island artist reflects. “It’s really a feeling that’s very hard to describe at times, but I think that’s my favourite part.”

Touring as a professional dancer in Australia and internationally, Renee has shared the story of her remote

island community and the traditional stories of her ancestors through dance and now contemporary art.

“Meeting people, sharing, connecting and educating at the same time, has made me a prouder Lardil person,” she says.

She tells the story of ‘Mundarlbi’: “It’s a song, and a dance that goes with it. An old man who’s passed now, Ngawalin, hard rock, he owned that song, and it means the sea and the rock.

“In the dance, there’s dancers representing the rock, and dancers representing the waves; and in the actions of the dance, you see the dancers imitating the waves bashing up against that rock, trying to knock it down, but the rock will always remain.”

With family connections to NRL Cowboys House – a boarding facility for Indigenous secondary students from some of Australia’s most remote and geographically disadvantaged communities – Renee is inspiring a

new generation of Indigenous youth and showcasing her culture on the national stage, with ‘Mundarlbi’ commissioned to feature on the 2023 North Queensland Cowboys Indigenous jersey and NRL Cowboys House polo shirt.

Her key message is one for all: “No matter what happens in life, try to be strong like the rock, no matter what comes over you, tries to wash over you, always remember to be strong like the rock, Mundarlbi.”

The Cowboys Indigenous jersey and the NRL Cowboys House polo are available through the Cowboys Team Shop.

Rex Airlines is a proud supporter of NRL Cowboys House: cowboysfoundation.org. au/programs/nrlcowboys-house

Fly Melbourne to Canberra

Visit Floriade’s Floral Wonderland this spring

Floriade, Australia’s Biggest Celebration of Spring returns to Canberra from Saturday 16 September to Sunday 15 October.

See Canberra come to life with beauty, colour and vibrancy when over one million blooms create a stunning display in Commonwealth Park, as Floriade celebrates its 36th year.

While the beautiful flowers are the main attraction, Floriade offers so much more with a festival filled with entertainment, market stalls, food, wine and workshops with leading horticulturalists, florists and Floriade’s gardeners.

Visit floriadeaustralia.com

Rex awarded Best Regional Airline Australia

& Pacific by Skytrax

Rex Airlines was awarded the prestigious title of Best Regional Airline Australia & Pacific at the 2023 World Airline Awards hosted by Skytrax.

“We congratulate the management and staff of Rex Airlines for this great success at the World Airline Awards,” said Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax.

“Their achievement in being named Best Regional Airline Australia & Pacific is a fantastic accolade for the airline management and staff, which recognises the product and service quality being delivered to passengers,” he added.

Lim Kim Hai, Rex’s Executive Chairman, emphasised the significance of this recognition for the airline’s dedicated staff.

“Being voted as the best regional airline means so much to the 2,000 staff in the Rex Group as they go above and beyond every day in conditions that are still extremely challenging,” he said.

Established in 1999, the World Airline Awards are the most coveted quality accolades for the airline industry and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”

Travellers across the globe take part in the largest airline passenger satisfaction survey.

*T&C’s apply. Payment Method Surcharge and Booking/Handling Fee apply.

Photo Credit: VisitCanberra

Farewell Max Hazelton

With a Rex Saab 340 parked outside, 500 people attended a special memorial service to honour Max Hazelton AM OBE.

Max, one of Australia’s greatest aviation pioneers, passed away on April 9, three weeks short of his 96th birthday.

Max was the founder of Hazelton Airlines – one of the two component airlines of Rex.

The service was held in an aircraft hangar adjacent to the Max Hazelton Aero Centre at Orange Airport Aero Club.

Parked inside the hangar was a four-seater Auster Aiglet, Max’s first and favourite aircraft.

“As Ralph Waldo Emerson, said once, ‘Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no

path and leave a trail’. And that’s exactly what Max Hazelton did throughout his life,” said the Hon John Sharp AM, Rex Deputy Chairman.

“Max did things differently to everybody else.

“That’s because he was different. That’s because he was brave and that’s because he was a pioneer.

“There were so many things that came out of that powerful, determined, pioneering spirit.

“Max and his wife Laurel are credited with one of the most vital elements of the infrastructure of regional Australia, and that’s regional airlines.

“Today Rex carries on the tradition of Hazelton Airlines – providing an air service to country people around Australia.”

New Adelaide to Sydney route as network expands

The inaugural flight between Adelaide and Sydney, Rex’s eighth domestic route, took to the skies recently. The Hon John Sharp AM, Rex Deputy Chairman and Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox, cut the spectacular cake at a launch celebration held at Adelaide Airport.

Watch, read & listen

books

Compiled by: MatildA meikle

But the Girl by Jessica Zhan Mei Yu

August, Penguin, Young Adult Jessica Zhan Mei Yu delivers a beautiful coming-of-age story about the tension between finding your identity and living up to expectations. Girl is finally breaking away from her family. Born on the day her parents immigrated to Australia from Malaysia, she’s excited to carve her own path. But what if this means understanding the people who made you first?

Did I Ever Tell You This? by Sam Neill

Out now, Text Publishing, Memoir National treasure Sam Neill recounts his journey to becoming one our top actors. Written over a few months in 2022, this heart-warming story explores Sam’s trials and triumphs as he starred in some of the biggest blockbusters in the world. This lighthearted book is genuinely funny and entertaining, a must-read for film lovers and book lovers alike.

Holly by Stephen King

Sept, Hodder & Stoughton, Thriller King’s latest page-turner marks the return of his beloved character, Holly Gibney, as she attempts to solve the disappearance of a young girl from a small midwestern town. The courageous detective comes up against two depraved professors in a narrative full of twists and turns. Be prepared for shocks and revelations, right up until the final page.

The Dictionary of Lost Words

September 22 – October 14

Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Esme spends her childhood in the Scriptorium – a converted garden shed in Oxford where her father and a team of lexicographers are gathering words for the very first Oxford English Dictionary. When she finds words that have been neglected by the men, she begins a collection of her own: the Dictionary of Lost Words. statetheatrecompany.com.au

Challengers

September, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Challengers follows the story of Tashi and her husband Art, who finds himself competing against his rival and former best friend in a challenger tennis event after a recent losing streak. Full of humour, tension and passion, Challengers is a must-watch for sports and comedy fans alike. It stars Zendaya, Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor. sonypictures.com

Believe in Magic

Narrated by Jamie Bartlett

This true crime series follows the story of Megan Bhari, a 16-year-old girl who in 2012 launched a charity called Believe in Magic, to grant wishes for seriously ill kids.. However, over the course of seven episodes, Bartlett uncovers a much darker reality involving a web of lies, deceit and secrets as he begins to question the truth behind Megan’s miracle charity. podcasts.apple.com.au

THEATRE PODCAST film

Aug 1-31

SALA Festival

Various locations, SA

Discover the many talented visual artists of South Australia at the 25th SALA Festival, with exhibitions, open studios, workshops and public art tours taking place in more than 600 venues across the state. salafestival.com

aug 3-6

Great Barrier Reef Festival

Whitsunday Islands, Qld

The Great Barrier Reef Festival is an annual celebration that showcases the lifestyle and community in Airlie Beach – known as the “heart of the reef.” This four-day festival offers beach parties, workshops and a Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade. greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au

What’s on & what’s hot

Our pick of the very best gigs, festivals, and culinary and cultural events from around the country.

August 3-6

agriCULTURED

Launceston, Tas Celebrate Tassie’s rich agricultural heritage with a weekend full of local dishes and fresh produce. agricultured.com.au

August 3-20

Melbourne International Film Festival

Melbourne, Vic

See exceptional films on the big screen at one of the oldest film festivals in the world. This is a stunning celebration of world cinema and local Australian filmmaking. miff.com.au

August 3-20 BLEACH*

Mermaid Waters, Qld BLEACH* is one of Australia’s leading and most exciting site-specific contemporary arts programs, celebrating dynamic and adventurous artists. bleachfestival.com.au

August 10-27

Darwin Festival

Darwin, NT

Bask in the hot nights of the tropical Top End while enjoying every form of live entertainment you can imagine, from live music to poetry slams, to magic shows. darwinfestival.org.au

Compiled by: Ali Manges

SALA Street Tour. Image: Sam Roberts.

August 13

City2Surf

Sydney, NSW

Join in on the world’s largest fun run! Dress in your finest activewear or a wild costume to run or stroll the iconic 14 km from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach. city2surf.com.au

August 19-26

Hamilton Island Race Week

Hamilton Island, Qld

Dance under starry night skies with a sparkling cocktail in hand at Hamilton Island Race Week. The island comes alive with glamorous parties and celebrations as hundreds of yachts race in the jewel-blue waters of the Whitsunday Islands, in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. hamiltonislandraceweek. com.au

August 25-27

Junction Races and Gymkhana

Carnarvon, WA

Get your fix of good oldfashioned fun with a weekend of horse, car and barrel racing. Make sure to bring the whole family for live bands, food stands and kids discos. junctionraces.com

September 1-3

SPRINGTIME

Gold Coast, Qld

This music festival is completely free and boasts a stellar line-up of artists from Benee to Matt Corby. springtimegc.com.au

september 1-23

Brisbane Festival

Brisbane, Qld

Explore an explosion of arts and culture at Brisbane’s most anticipated event of the year. From a massive firework extravaganza, to an abundance of art installations, this festival is sure to delight. brisbanefestival.com.au

September 7-11

Broken Heel Festival

Broken Hill, NSW

A Priscilla: Queen of the Desert inspired festival, Broken Heel promises discos, divas and most importantly drag. bhfestival.com

September 16 - October 15

Floriade

Canberra, ACT

The annual flower festival features blooming displays, intricate sculptures and roving entertainment for an unforgettable burst of color and fun to ring in spring. floriadeaustralia.com

September 19-23

Outback Festival

Winton, Qld

Take a walk on the wild side and test your endurance in sporting events, enter the Dunny Derby with mates, or enjoy live music, art exhibits and bush poet breakfasts. outbackfestival.com.au

September 30

Toyota AFL Grand Final

Melbourne, Vic

Hear the roar of the crowd at the MCG as the Grand Final sees the top two teams for 2023 battle it out to win the AFL’s premiership cup and flag. afl.com.au

September 30- October 1

Ceduna Oysterfest

Ceduna, SA

Get a taste of the sea in Australia’s oyster capital. Experience carnival rides, live performances, food stalls and, of course, all things oyster.

cedunaoysterfest.com.au

Floriade.

TALE A mitey

Words: Emily Riches

Few Australian know the name Cyril Callister, but many of us would consider his invention a national icon. Today, more than 22 million jars of Vegemite are sold every year, yet when it was first produced in 1923, the divisive spread wasn’t eagerly embraced by the public.

Its distinctive tangy flavour, overwhelmingly both salty and yeasty, divides tasters into one of two camps: those who love it and those who hate it. The rules about the proper way to consume it often spark passionate debate, while its uses have spread beyond those of a mere condiment, becoming an addition to soup, bakes and even ice cream.

In writing Vegemite: The True Story of the Man Who Invented an Australian Icon (2023), Cyril’s grandson Jamie Callister initially set out to learn more about the grandfather he’d never met, but had grown up hearing about.

He spent seven years researching Cyril’s previously unknown and untold story, and discovered a man of immense determination and innovation. Jamie writes: “... with the exception of the odd game of lacrosse, his career was his hobby. It may also have been his life, too.”

Cyril was a chemist living in Chute, west of Ballarat, with his wife and three young children when Melbourne’s Fred Walker & Co hired him to create an alternative

to Marmite, the popular yeast spread from the UK. With food shortages after WWI, it could have been an incredibly lucrative venture. However, many still didn’t like the taste.

Cyril dedicated himself to the task of getting the recipe right – often to the detriment of his family relationships. While it took him a year to perfect the blend, it took another 15 years for the salty black paste to become a household staple.

Spanning the Gold Rush, the Depression and two World Wars, this book also offers a fascinating look into modern Australian history. This revised edition features a collection of photographs, a new introduction and an epilogue that shares the story of how Vegemite returned to Australian hands when it was bought by Bega in 2017.

As Jamie says:

“This is not just my grandfather’s story, but a story of us as a nation with a people forever changing and evolving... it’s a tale of which we can all be enormously proud.” TA

ABOVE: The cover of Jamie Callister’s Vegemite: The True Story of the Man Who Invented an Australian Icon (2023). Published by Murdoch Books.

As Vegemite celebrates 100 years in production, this biography takes a look at the man who invented the iconic Australian spread.

11 Breweries

80 Beers

370 Kilometres

www.southcoastaletrail.net.au @southcoastaletrail

What a difference a day makes…

Whether you are travelling on business, attending a medical appointment, have a job interview in Brisbane or are playing tourist – or just wanting to put your feet up between flights – relax with a hotel room for the day at Brisbane Airport Hotels Group. Choose from the ibis, Novotel or Pullman Brisbane Airport and enjoy the full benefits of the hotel services.

The 3.5 star ibis Brisbane Airport offers affordable accommodation and is designed to tick all the boxes. For those who aren’t keen to venture far, delegates can ‘hang ten’ at the Cribb Island Beach Club, a modern bistro with a funky beach club twist.

Adjoining the ibis, delegates can experience a five star luxury escape for the day at the award-winning Pullman Brisbane Airport. Voted Best Airport Hotel in Australia/Pacific as well as 6th Best Airport Hotel in 2022, the Pullman Brisbane Airport will meet the needs of even the most seasoned traveller. Stepping out onto the resort-style pool terrace, refresh with a dip in the swimming pool or relax with a signature cocktail.

Alternatively, the 4.5 star Novotel Brisbane Airport offers premium accommodation, perfectly positioned

within the Brisbane Airport and Skygate precinct. Escape the airport for a few hours and clear your mind in one of the hotel’s modern guest rooms or enjoy a meal in Catalina Restaurant. Beat the jet lag with a workout in the fully equipped gym or take a break in the sauna.

Take full advantage of a hotel room for the day on your next journey by booking a Day Stay and Refresh Package at the ibis Brisbane Airport, Novotel Brisbane Airport or Pullman Brisbane Airport.

Visit bnehg.com.au.

Stretching from Wollongong to Pambula, the South Coast Ale Trail visits a range of diverse craft breweries as it winds its way along some of the country’s most beautiful coastline. The South Coast Ale trail is a journey, not a destination.

Style and substance at Dorsett Hotels

DORSETT MELBOURNE

The recently opened Dorsett Melbourne has been described as an art lover’s oasis with a collection of commissioned pieces by local artists scattered throughout the hotel. Marta Figueiredo’s ‘The Diva Garden’ in the central courtyard of the hotel is arguably Melbourne’s most significant secret artwork, as the only way to see these towering totems is by staying in a Diva Garden room that overlooks the central atrium.

As well as enjoying the artwork, guests will delight in the convenient, central location of Dorsett Melbourne. Located at 615 Little Lonsdale Street in the CBD, Dorsett Melbourne is the perfect base from which to explore the city.

Ovolo Hotels: where wonders never cease

Amenities include The Dorsett Melbourne Club Lounge, an exclusive area to work, dine or relax; an indoor heated pool including a spa, sauna and steam room; and a well-equipped gym complete with the latest Techno gym equipment.

Enjoy a signature cocktail at the ground floor Jin Bar or a meal at the Port Bistro restaurant, open for breakfast daily and for dinner on select evenings. Executive chef Julio Martinez of Dining Concepts has designed menus with sustainability front of mind, specialising in local Victorian ingredients.

DORSETT GOLD COAST

Located within The Star Gold Coast’s world-class entertainment and leisure

precinct, Dorsett Gold Coast offers guests sweeping views of the Gold Coast skyline, plus access to world-class bars and restaurants, theatre, conference rooms and other entertainment facilities.

The hotel’s Level 19 Executive Lounge is unique to the Gold Coast, adding a touch of traditional VIP treatment for guests. Guests staying in an Executive room are treated to the stunning Gold Coast panorama with complimentary breakfast, daily snacks and sunset drinks and canapés. The expansive resort-style pool overlooks Broadbeach and includes the Isoletto Pool Club, inspired by the sun-kissed Gold Coast lifestyle that surrounds the hotel.

Since 2002, Ovolo Hotels has cemented is reputation as a fun, glamorous brand where creative surprises go hand-inhand with avant-garde style, friendly service and tonnes of perks.

Walk into any of the strikingly bold hotels and there’ll be many things that put a smile on your dial – it could be the gorgeous DJ in a pretty pink booth spinning tunes in a fairytale-like setting in Sydney’s Woolloomooloo property, or, in the case of Ovolo South Yarra, a huge 70s-style orange leather couch fanned around a sculptural fireplace, a wall of music paraphernalia and a table of dress-up gear so you can whip up a new look for the wall of Polaroid photos.

And that’s just the lobbies and hang-out spaces. The many different rooms at Ovolo South Yarra are designed to delight, with the Groovy Suite offering a luxurious king-sized bed and Studio 54 vibes – with glamorous retro interiors, city views, a stylish sitting

area and super chic amenities. Then there are the Rockstar Suites dedicated to some of the top artists of all time, including your own selection of vinyl records to pop on the turntable. Bright, bold and forever fabulous, the Sonny and Cher Suites are a salute to all things glitz and glamour. Or for creative geniuses, the John and Yoko Suites showcase the former couple’s mission to go against the status quo, while also celebrating everything good about staying in bed all day.

In line with one of Ovolo’s many catch-cries – ‘Came for the experience, stayed for the perks’ – Ovolo’s South Yarra is bursting at the seams with freebies. Enjoy complimentary drinks at social hour, feast on an array of midnight treats from your minibar and enjoy breakfast on the house. Guests also have superspeed WiFi, a self-service laundry and gym access.

All of this is offered when you book direct at ovolohotels.com.

Japanese culture meets Italian decadence

Anyone who has spent time exploring Sydney’s seemingly endless array of culinary offerings knows that the city is brimming with Japanese restaurants. However, if you’re after a unique dining experience, Kanade is Australia’s first Japanese-Italian fusion kaiseki: a traditional multi-course Japanese meal with Italian influences that celebrates Japanese culture. And the setting – the hub of Sydney’s bustling CBD – gives Kanade a vibrant, crazy-busy Tokyo feel.

Guests can perch on a bar stool at Kanade’s raw bar, situated beneath a

bright red timber cage that pays homage to the torii gates that mark the entrance to a Shinto shrine. Or you can be tucked away behind blood red curtains in simplistic yet moody spaces that have a theatrical, cabaret bar-like feel.

Hideki Okazaki, who heads up the kitchen team, has worked in Michelinstarred restaurants Arnolfo, in Tuscany, and Shangahai’s Frasca. He also worked under Tony Bilson in Sydney.

Delve into some Japanese classics such as Chicken Nanban Karaage

Southern Kyushu Style with a creamy egg and pickle mayonnaise, or indulge in a succulent and refreshing Alaskan King Crab salad roll stuffed with cabbage, celery and carrot. Embrace the Italian influence and dine on Wafu spaghetti prepared in a Japanese fashion – the bacon, mozzarella, onsen egg and fluffy miso cream is lip-smackingly good. The barbecued scampi with nori butter sauce and sweet potato fries is a heartily delicious combination, as is the Wagyu sirloin with smashed kipfler, asparagus and moromimiso sauce.

There’s a tantalising range of Japanese-inspired cocktails served in saké barrels, and some experimental cocktails that are firsts for Sydney’s dining scene. The menu is designed to delight and inspire guests to try something different. However, in a nod to one of Italy’s best exports, the wine list is amazing, and the waiters will happily pair some of their top drops with decadent dishes such as lobster karaage with deep fried soba noodles and Yukari rice.

kanade.com.au

Julia Zemiro GREAT AUSTRALIAN WALKS WITH

A broken ankle and wild weather were just a couple of hurdles Julia Zemiro had to overcome when filming Great Autralian Walks. In this new SBS show, Julia takes viewers on 10 amazing walks around the country, diving into the history and culture of each place.

Congrats on the new show Julia. Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration that led to the creation of Great Australian Walks?

This is the first new show I’ve done post-COVID. It was the freedom of being outside that really appealed to me. During COVID, people also discovered how much they liked walking, and then when our borders opened and we could finally go out, we thought: maybe I don’t need to go overseas – maybe I can just see what’s in my own backyard. We did six walks in New South Wales, three in Victoria, one in the ACT and one in lutruwita (Tasmania). The walks on this show are all doable in a day and can be done by beginners.

I’ve never been a walker for fitness per se. I didn’t start driving till I was 35 years old. But walking is free.

You need no equipment. You can wear what you want. And I love that you’re experiencing things in real time. When I’m sad, confused or need to be creative, I go for a walk. It doesn’t have to be miles and miles. It’s literally just about getting up and moving.

The series is described as an entertaining waltz through history, geography, science, travel and culture. What are some of the most interesting things you learnt along the way?

In general, each walk has an Indigenous beat, a colonial beat, a migration beat and an environmental beat. We had a bug expert in the Blue Mountains, volcanic experts at Kiama, through to historians on the Mornington Peninsula where we talk about Harold Holt. We spoke to an

amazing guy called Tim who had a form of encephalitis and lost the use of his legs. He was an active walker and fisherman in Tasmania, and he talks about the inaccessibility of tracks. So it’s not just about walking: it’s about the accessibility of being in nature. At the centre of it all really is taking your time. There’s a certain slowness to the show, with long drone shots mimicking the time it takes to do a walk. When you do things on foot, you see more detail.

Australia has a long history of walking and storytelling in Indigenous culture. How did you engage with this history during the series?

In nipaluna (Hobart), we met an amazing girl called Nunami who runs a group called Blak Led Tours. She takes you on a walking tour around Hobart and opens up the Indigenous urban history that has always been there. Everywhere you go in this country, you

Words: Emily Riches

find powerful Indigenous history that we just don’t talk about. I also loved learning all the Indigenous place names, like kunanyi for Mount Wellington. It’s exciting that we’re starting to normalise that again.

What were some of your favourite walks from the series?

What was interesting for me was the Bondi to Coogee walk. I grew up in Bondi, and I thought I knew everything about it, but I discovered plenty of new things. I’ve also got the luxury of being able to find interesting people to come with me along the way. We didn’t want it to just be well-known faces but to include locals as well, so it has been a beautiful, happy medium of doing a bit of both. On the Lake Burley Griffin walk, we spoke to senator David Pocock, this incredible man and amazing sportsperson, who is so environmentally conscious and passionate about helping his state. He’s the real deal and, on a walk, you get to see this whole other side of someone. In that episode, we also met the Japanese ambassador who took us to the fog sculpture along the walkway at the National Art Gallery. So there’s something in it for everyone.

What were some of your most memorable moments shooting outdoors, and what were some of the biggest challenges you faced?

When we decided to start filming in Kiama in January 2022, La Niña kept us from filming for two months. When the walk was finally dry enough and we could film, I broke my ankle the following week. So, then we had to postpone for three months, which

was really frustrating. The other part of our limitations around the walks were what was still open, what was slightly more COVID-friendly and what was accessible to us, weather-wise. Filming a documentary outside may not be that easy anymore!

The strangest part was also having to film a walk. So, I never did the full walk from A to Z: I did bits of the walk three times in three different ways. We had a drone and two other cameras, and an incredible crew. It was nice in a way, because I would do an intense interview and then do the walk again by myself with just the drone. It gave me time to reflect on what I’d just learnt.

Where is your favourite place to travel in Australia?

I suppose my favourite place is somewhere I haven’t been enough yet. I’d love to do more of Western Australia and explore the wildness of that side of the country, as well as learn more about the Indigenous culture and stories there.

OPPOSITE, THEN TOP TO BOTTOM: Julia on the Great Yarra Tail, Victoria. Image: Sarah Enticknap, supplied courtesy of Mint Pictures; kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Tasmania; Julia and gold prospector Craig Skinner in the goldfields, Victoria; Julia and Jan Barham (ex-mayor of Byron Shire) in Byron Bay, NSW. Images courtesy of Mint Pictures.

Great Australian Walks with Julia Zemiro premieres on Thursday August 10 at 7.30pm on SBS and SBS On Demand. TA

READ IT ONLINE

THE BEST OF BRISBANE:

Qld's sparkling

Brisbane has upped the ante on cultural hubs and tours, cool eateries and bars, boutique retail outlets, and its already thriving arts scene.

WORDs: Michelle Hespe and Emily Riches

capital

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Picnic in New Farm Park; QAGOMA; Fish Lane; Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; New Farm Park; Mount Coot-tha Lookout; Eat Street. Images courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.

BRISBANE IS widely known as Queensland’s Sunshine Capital, and is also often called The River City. More colloquially it’s known as Brissie or Brisvegas. Whatever the moniker may be, this sparkling city that began as a penal colony in 1824 has gone through a rebirth in the past decade.

Even though Brissie has a population of almost 2.5 million, it has always had a laidback vibe more like that of a town. And in recent years it has shaken off its ‘Brisvegas’ reputation and upped the ante on cultural hubs and tours, cool eateries and bars, designer and niche retail outlets, and its thriving arts scene.

With a sub-tropical climate (meaning long, warm summers and short mild winters) Brisbane is a city to be enjoyed all day and long into the night. Add to that a unique mix of city life blending into the native bushland right on its doorstep, and Brisbane ticks all the boxes.

DOWN BY THE RIVER

Brisbane enjoys a dry and sunny climate year-round and the best time to visit is from March to May, or September to November, when the

weather is mild and the crowds thin out. At the peak of summer there’s a lot of great things going on, but make sure to pack your umbrella as January and February often see plenty of dramatic thunderstorms.

The Brisbane River is affectionately known by locals as the ‘Brown Snake’ due to its muddy colour and the way it winds serpent-like through the centre of the city. It is the longest river in South East Queensland, although it is essentially an estuary as it is influenced by the tide. The mud and silt from the riverbanks never settle, causing its brown appearance.

Arching above the river is Story Bridge – a heritage-listed cantilever bridge that was opened with much fanfare in 1940. Make sure you get photos at night when the bridge, the river and the city sparkle in all of their combined glory.

One of the best ways to experience the city is via the Riverwalk, where you can follow the boardwalk on foot around some of Brissi's most wellknown suburbs, passing by traditional Queenslander homes oozing with character. Or if you want to go at a faster pace, hire a bicycle, e-bike or a

scooter and zip along the meandering bike paths.

En route, explore the trendy, artistic suburb of New Farm, where you’ll find cool homewares stores and designer jewellery shops alongside a plethora of awesome bars and restaurants.

Fortitude Valley (known as The Valley to locals) is the city’s premier nightlife and live music district. It’s also home to Brisbane’s Chinatown, so if you’re a yum cha fan, this is where it’s at. If other Asian cuisines take your fancy, there’s Korean barbecue, Indonesian, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants galore.

Visit historic Howard Smith Wharves – which has been dubbed the beating heart of Brisbane’s entertainment scene – and under Story Bridge you’ll find Felons Brewery Co – a top spot to chill and taste some balanced brews and hang with the locals.

If you want to dodge the crowds and soak up some of that famous sunshine, have a picnic in New Farm Park. This pretty riverfront spot is a fave for locals, and it's also near the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse, where you can catch some of the best theatre or comedy shows in town. 

FROM TOP LEFT:

If you’re keen to get out on the river itself, strap on a life jacket, grab an oar and hop aboard a kayak with Riverlife Adventure Centre. Glide under the Story Bridge, and enjoy a totally different side of the city. For those who prefer less self-propelled adventures, you can also relax on a guided tour with River City Cruises with a cocktail in hand in the evening, or enjoy a delicious morning tea.

If you would rather be on top of it all with a bird’s eye view of the action, then climb Story Bridge and learn about Brisbane's colourful history. It is one of only three bridge climbs in the world where you can walk on top of the bridge. The two others are the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Auckland Harbour Bridge.

BACK TO NATURE ON BRISBANE’S DOORSTEP

Brisbane sprawls out into leafy suburbs with large gardens and tree-lined streets, and then blends beautifully into nature. The city’s largest natural reserve, Mount Coot-tha, is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre and home to more than 1,600 hectares of eucalypt forest, rainforest gullies, trails and picnic areas. Visit at twilight to see the sun sink behind magnificent views of the sparkling CBD.

Another cultural attraction with an Aussie icon at its heart is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, just 30 minutes southwest of downtown Brisbane. It is the world’s largest koala sanctuary with a mission to inspire individuals and communities to live in balance with the natural world.

Brisbane is also the jumping off point for day trips to stunning Moreton Island and Stradbroke Island. Hop on a ferry to experience the many pristine beaches and truly scenic headlands

and excellent snorkelling spots. You can also get your adrenaline pumping during some beach 4WDriving.

INDULGE IN ECLECTIC OUTDOOR EATERIES

Brisbane does farmers markets right. The vibrant West End markets are held every Saturday in Davies Park in the trendy inner-city suburb of West End. Visit over 150 unique vendors selling farm-fresh produce, delicious food, boutique fashion and handcrafted gifts, all under the shade of beautiful fig trees.

For the best street food in the city, make sure you head to open-air market precinct Eat Street Northshore. This huge riverside hub on a historic wharf is made entirely from recycled shipping containers, and features over 70 stalls, with five themed bars, eclectic shops and delicious international street food from every corner of the globe.

On the south side, Fish Lane is your go-to for eating al fresco. This bustling laneway is full of local favourites and is a popular spot for street artists to show their work. Every surface of the laneway is covered in ever-changing murals, so grab a bite and take a wander through this inspiring outdoor gallery.

CLOCKWISE

Eat Street Northshore; Riverlife Adventure Centre; West End market; Fish Lane; Story Bridge and Felons Brewing Co. Image: Richard Greenwood; Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; Powerhouse Brisbane. Images: Tourism and Events Queensland.

FOR CULTURE VULTURES

South Bank is Brisbane’s premier cultural precinct located on the southern banks of the Brisbane River. It stretches from the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art in the north to the Queensland Maritime Museum in the south, with 17 hectares of inner-city parklands, more than 90 cool restaurants, cafes and bars, a performing arts centre, cinema and the eye-catching 60-metre-tall Wheel of Brisbane.

In the city, you’ll find Birrunga Gallery and Dining – an Indigenousowned-and-operated cultural hub like no other in Australia, that was founded by Wiradyuri man, Birrunga Wiradyuri. Enjoy some lovingly made food, peruse the excellent art gallery, grab a drink at the wine bar, or sit back and enjoy a live performance. The café uses native herbs and ingredients to create 'modern Australian cuisine with a native twist'. Try the Trio Tostada with native meats on a tortilla with salsa and sriracha mayo, or tuck into the Dorrigo Pepper Croc – a delicious beer battered croc tail served with waffle fries and coleslaw. TA

Rex flies to Brisbane

COLLABORATING ON TRENDS IN MINING, INVESTMENT AND INNOVATION TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) is where the most influential people in the mining industry come together, delivering ideas, inspiration and serving as a meeting ground for the industry. From ground-breaking technology and world-class content to a vivid showcase of all the elements that make the mining industry great, IMARC is an opportunity to learn from more than 500 mining leaders and resource experts with a program covering the entire mining value chain.

The world-class conference program now features seven concurrent streams with more than 340 technical talks, panel discussions and strategic keynote presentations taking place throughout the three days. Gain strategic insights from c-suite executives on topics including reshaping the mining value chain, progressing ESG and environmental resilience, accelerating mining’s energy transition and so much more.

Attend one of the many networking events or simply catch up with industry colleagues on the 18,500m2 expo show floor featuring 470+ leading companies. There are thousands of opportunities to network, brainstorm, and knowledge share across the three days at the ICC Sydney from 31 October - 2 November 2023.

IMARC 2023 will also see us celebrate 10 years of IMARC and industry, reflecting on the progress the industry has made, and the new directions that mining companies, METS, Governments, and its value chain partners are embarking on to prepare for the future.

There are several ways you can get involved in IMARC, from accessing the full conference on a Delegate Pass, adding on networking events including the Gala Dinner or confirming your Expo Pass for as little as $15.

EARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW. LEASE USE CODE TRULYAUS10 TO SAVE 10% ON DELEGATE PASSES.

7 conference streams across 3 days

18,500m2 expo show floor featuring 470+ leading companies

OVER 470 OF THE WORLDS MOST INFLUENTIAL COMPANIES

Hobart Hip and happening

Just 12 years ago, Hobart still had a reputation as a sleepy backwater. Now, as new hotels, restaurants and galleries open up, people are drawn to Tassie’s buzzing capital.

Words: Winsor Dobbin

COLONIAL settlement in the Tasmanian capital dates to 1804, making it the secondoldest city in Australia. Prior to British settlement the area was occupied by Indigenous people who now call themselves Palawa.

But not much happened in Hobart despite its stunning natural setting beneath kunanyi/Mount Wellington and on the banks of the River Derwent. It was, to be frank, just a little dull.

Then a wealthy dreamer named David Walsh opened a museum called MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) in 2011. Suddenly, the historic Tasmanian capital was hip and happening.

New hotels began popping up, quirky festivals enlivened the chilly winter months, cafes, bars and restaurants opened to cater for the booming tourism industry and the world fell in love with Tasmania’s artisan wines and spirits. Now it can be hard to find a hotel room in Hobart on weekends – and tourism contributes $2.59 billion to the local economy.

Visitor figures to Hobart by mid-2023 had already exceeded pre-pandemic numbers. Here, we offer some insider tips on the best places to stay on a range of different budgets, where to eat and drink, and some of the best day trip destinations.

THE MUST-DOS

The Salamanca bar and restaurant precinct on the waterfront is home to the iconic Salamanca Market, which is held every Saturday

morning, and the SydneyHobart Yacht Race finishes at Constitution Dock, next to where the popular annual Taste of Summer gourmet festival is held.

The nearby Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are a regular venue for concerts and events, while local produce is a feature of the many eateries in the suburbs of North Hobart and Sandy Bay, which are also home to many galleries and arts and crafts establishments.

It is de rigueur to stop for a glass of local refreshment at one of the many local pubs: the Shipwright’s Arms in Battery Point, Customs House and Tom McHugo’s are among the standouts.

On Sundays, gourmets venture to Hobart Farm Gate Market to buy fruit, veg, baked goods, drinks and other fresh produce direct from the farmers.

And, of course, no trip to Hobart is complete with taking the MONA Roma ferry from Brooke Street Pier to the northern suburb of Berriedale to visit the landmark MONA and its many attractions, including The Source restaurant.

WHERE TO STAY

Hobart accommodation choices range from the grand, to the historic and budget.

The best address in town depends on personal taste, but contenders include recent arrival The Tasman, a Marriott Luxury Collection property, the Henry Jones Art Hotel, and waterfront MACq01. All three are just

THIS PAGE: The MACq01 Hotel overlooking the Port of Hobart. Image courtesy of Stu Gibson.

steps away from Salamanca Market, St David’s Park and historic Sullivan’s Cove.

The Tasman has a range of upmarket room options and is home to Peppina restaurant, helmed by renowned Tasmanian chef Massimo Mele, and craft cocktail bar Mary Mary.

MACq01, where each room is themed in honour of a famous Tasmanian, is home to The Story Bar and Evolve Spirits Bar, as well as the Old Wharf restaurant with spectacular water views.

Long-time favourite The Henry Jones is in a former jam factory that was Hobart’s oldest waterfront warehouse. Australia’s first dedicated art hotel boasts delightfully idiosyncratic rooms and the

Peacock & Jones restaurant.

Other good accommodation choices include stately Islington and historic Hadley’s Orient, which has recently been refurbished, along with the boutique The Moss and the elegant Lenna of Hobart with its spectacular suites.

Impressive recent arrivals include the centrally situated Mövenpick (don’t miss Chocolate Hour each afternoon) and Vibe Hobart, while super-budget travellers willing to share bathrooms are well catered for at the funky Alabama Hotel.

The reasonably priced ibis Styles on the city fringe is home to Mr Good Guy, an excellent Asian fusion eatery, while The Old Woolstore is another affordable option for those travelling on a budget.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

It would be a crime to visit Hobart and not enjoy some flathead and chips, or fresh-caught scallops, from one of the fish punts – floating restaurants and fish markets.

Fish Frenzy is a go-to fast food fish and chippery, while Blue Eye chef Joff Jennings offers a more sophisticated seafood experience.

Fine but casual dining can be found at Italian accented Fico (with an exceptional wine list), Landscape and Templo, while the Lubiana family of local wine fame recently opened chic wine bar Molto on the edge of the city. Families will enjoy the casual Amici in North Hobart, while Me Wah is a local institution for stylish Cantonese food and fine wine.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Frank Restaurant. Image: Osborne Images; Summit of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Image: Samuel Shelley; The Henry Jones Art Hotel. Image: The Henry Jones and Adam Gibson.

Destination

ENABLING A MENOPAUSE FRIENDLY BUSINESS

MENOPAUSE FRIENDLY WORKPLACE RECOGNITION

Menopause Alliance Australia has a team of experts in the field, including our Directors –gynaecologist, endocrinologist and fertility specialist, Professor Roger Hart; gynaecologists Dr Bernadette McElhinney and Dr Jennifer Pontre; women’s health specialist, general practitioner and menopause specialist, Dr Lesley Ramage, and highly experienced business professionals.

Menopause Alliance Australia can help you enable a menopause friendly business by:

✓ Engaging and providing guidance with implementing a workplace policy to reflect menopause.

✓ Certified evidence-based education and training.

✓ Advice and valuable support options tailored to your workplace.

✓ Online resources.

Be recognised with our endorsement badge as a MENOPAUSE FRIENDLY WORKPLACE by the expert panel of Menopause Alliance Australia.

“Investing in menopause can offer many rewards. Growing awareness of the problem and fem-tech could lead to better-run companies delivering higher returns.”

Financial Times

FISHERMEN SPOKE AND VICTORINOX LISTENED

Victorinox has released its go-to knife for filleting and deboning, and it now comes with a protective sheath. Prices range from $69.95 for the 16cm curved blade boning knife up to $89.95 for the 20cm curved flexible blade filleting knife.

The Swibo range is available at bcf.com.au and leading tackle stores across Australia

Image:Luke Rutts

@Skipperrutts

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Void Bar at MONA. Image: MONA and Jesse Hunniford; Farm Gate Market. Image: Tourism Australia; The Bruny Baker. Image: James Vodicka. Dark Mofo: Winter Feast. Image: Adam Gibson.

Other fun places to eat and drink include Bar Wa Izakaya, Aloft, The Glass House, recently opened Moo Brew city micro bar/eatery Manky Sally’s, Suzie Luck’s and meat-centric Frank Restaurant.

Wine lovers should book a tasting at the city winery of GlaetzerDixon Wines, while other popular and fun local drinking dens include Sonny, Lucinda, Dier Makr and Institut Polaire. A whisky tasting at Lark is another must.

BEST DAY TRIPS

Bruny Island is close to 100 kilometres long and can be almost deserted midweek, so makes for the perfect escape from city hustle and bustle. From white wallabies to quolls and pademelons, a colony of fairy penguins and all manner of birds, this is the spot to enjoy some local wildlife.

The Huon Valley, with Hastings Caves, the Tahune Airwalk and cute small towns such as Geeveston, Franklin and Cygnet, is also worth a day of exploring, as are the Derwent Valley, centred on the emerging town of New Norfolk, and the Coal River Valley, with the historic town of Richmond at its heart. All are bursting with wine and cider tasting opportunities.

Head to the Tasman Peninsula to visit the historic Port Arthur site before popping into the brand-new Bream Creek Vineyard cellar door for a tasting and a platter. Port Arthur is World Heritage-listed and is regarded as the best-preserved convict era site in Australia. TA

Rex flies to Hobart

THE CITY Escape

These national parks near Canberra are only a short distance from the city, but they will make you feel like you’re worlds away, surrounded by the peace and quiet of Aussie bushland.

Words: Danielle Lancaster and Michelle Hespe

THE BEAUTIFUL BRINDABELLAS

At the most northern part of the Australian Alps, this park is only 58 kilometres from Canberra and a perfect escape from the city for a day trip or weekend away. Within the 18,450-hectare park, there are spectacular views, plenty of 4WD and walking trails, and some terrific fishing spots all located within this remote alpine environment. The area is the traditional home of the Walgalu Aboriginal people who named the valley Brindabella, meaning ‘two kangaroo rats.’

Brindabella National Park is home to an enormous range of native animals, birds, reptiles and plants: many are threatened like the corroboree frog and powerful owl. Over 80 species of birds have been spotted inside the park, including the peregrine falcon and yellow-tailed black cockatoo. The tiger quoll also calls this park home. Most of Brindabella sits on volcanic rocks dated at 400 million years old, with a large part of these belonging to a group called the Mountain Creek Volcanics. From the peak of Mount Coree – which towers over the park with some steep approaches – you are rewarded with sweeping views.

The park has a great system of 4WD tracks, including the well-known Powerline tracks, with some more challenging than others. There are steep climbs and zig-zagging descents, and something for every off-road adventurer.

TALLAGANDA NATIONAL PARK

This remote forest area (In NSW but only an hour from Canberra) crosses thousands of hectares, boasting a unique range of landscapes with excellent opportunities for bushwalking, camping, mountain biking and orienteering. And it also has some of the best 4WD tracks near Canberra.

At the highest point within the national park, you will discover sub-alpine snow gums and even a high-altitude swamp along with other amazing flora and fauna. The eastern side of the Great Dividing Range is dominated by moist forest consisting of ribbon gum and narrow-leaved peppermint, while on its western slopes, mountain gums reign. It’s a nature lover’s delight.

ANCIENT NAMADGI NATIONAL PARK

Namadgi National Park is a must-do if you want to get out into the bush while in the ACT. On Ngunnawal Country, this ancient and diverse landscape has been managed by Ngunnawal people for tens of thousands of years.

This huge National Park is a conservationist's dream, protecting 106,095 hectares of alpine, sub-alpine and mountain bushland, and it takes up almost half of the ACT.

High-altitude sphagnum bogs –which offer critical habitat for endangered species, and act as giant sponges slowly releasing pristine water into the ACT's water supply –are also protected here.

OPPOSITE, THEN TOP TO BOTTOM: Canberra, with the majestic Brindabellas in the background; Calming waterfalls and sunsets in Brindabella National Park.

You will find many more interesting facts about this region if you pop into the Namadgi Visitor Information Centre. The friendly staff will let you know where you can go in the park, and while there you can also pick up a map and buy some firewood. It gets cold in the ACT, especially during winter, so it's always nice to have a fire to sit by, where and when you can.

Namadgi is renowned for its granite tors, with many marked trails taking you straight to these aweinspiring geological wonders.

When it comes to activities, you can go hiking, 4WDriving, fly fishing, rock climbing, horse riding, mountain biking and bouldering.

If you like a good hike, and enjoy one in snow shoes, then the Pryor's Hut Walk (about 16 kilometres) is for you. Enjoy the winter wonderland while you take in beauty of the park, the utter quietness adding to the sense of peace.

For some camping options in the park, Mount Clear Campground offers basic facilities, but it is unsuitable for campervans and caravans. Camping fees apply and no dogs are allowed. Woods Reserve is located on the banks of Gibraltar Creek south-west of Canberra and it is a popular place for camping – tents and campervans are allowed. Dogs are welcome on-leash within the campground only.

For those who love a roof over their heads in the wildernesss, Ready-Cut Cottage is an early prefabricated kit home in the picturesque Gudgenby Valley, which is on the southern bank of the Gudgenby River.

It was originally built for the Bootes family in the 1920s, and then sadly fell into ruins. It then became a part of an arts program, offering a place in the mountains for artists to work in the wilderness, and so was restored into the lovely cabin that it is today.

The first artist to stay in the cabin was well-known Canberra glass artist Kirstie Rae. She stayed there in 2009, taking long walks and absorbing her surrounds, and then working on her many projects in the cosy cottage. The many dingoes, kangaroos, eagles and the fascinating historical aspects of the property influenced her future work and style.

The cabin sleeps up to seven guests and has a nice and simple balthroom and kitchen with all of the cooking utensils you'll need to whip up meals while enjoying the serendipity. It's a delightful place to simply sit on the balcony taking in the mountain views, or light the fire and kick back with a book or a nice glass of red from one of Canberra's many vineyards. There are plenty to choose from, but that's another story.TA

Rex flies to Canberra

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: Kangaroos graze in the paddocks around ReadyCut Cottage in Namadji National Park; Metal bridge on one of the walking trails in Namadji National Park; Charming Pryor's Hut in winter.

The next great thing from King Island – whisky made with love

Local King Island resident Heidi Weitjens was the tenth person to open a distillery in Tasmania, and the first to do so on King Island. Inspired by King Island’s incredible produce, made with love, and guided by the mentoring of The Godfather of Tasmanian whisky – Bill Lark, Heidi’s Distiller Choice is a whisky to watch, and it’s already a whisky to love.

King Island Distillery also produces native gin, ruby grapefruit spirit, Bella Chella Limoncello, a cold brew coffee martini that rivals any on the market, and Heidi’s signature spirit, Peerless Point cask aged vodka. And the first ever garlic spirit – local manuka honey meets lemon garlic and ginger to create an antibiotic tonic.

Griffith JUMP INTO SPRING WITH

SPRING FEST

Visit Griffith this October from 8–22 to enjoy Griffith Spring Fest: a celebration of the citrus harvest, incredible local open gardens and an abundance of food, wine and art in this stunning Riverina city.

CITRUS SCULPTURES

Sunday 8 – Saturday 21 October

The centrepiece of Griffith Spring Fest is the Citrus Sculpture display which is now in its 26th year. View more than 60 sculptures in all shapes and sizes created from an impressive 100,000plus locally grown oranges and grapefruit. 800 community volunteers come together to build these impressive monuments. Visitors can spot everything from cars, castles, animals and more as they wander through the display. All of the citrus fruit is juiced by sponsor Real Juice Company at the end of the festival with nothing going to waste!

ABOVE AND BELOW: Emeri De Bortoli garden boardwalk; Citrus Sculptures in 2019. Images: Visit Griffith.

LAUNCH PARTY

Friday 13 October

Griffith Spring Fest kicks off with a lively Launch Party, where visitors and locals alike gather at the Griffith Tourism Hub Carpark next to the Citrus Sculpture display. The free street party runs from 5pm to 8.30pm and is a family friendly event, featuring plenty of children’s activities, live music, games and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. There will be plenty of delicious food and drinks available to keep you fuelled up.

OPEN GARDENS

Saturday 14 – Sunday 15 October

Now in its 31st year, the 2023 Open Gardens will see six beautiful private gardens open their gates to enthusiastic visitors. From clever town gardens to rambling country farms that are immaculately tended, there’s plenty to inspire avid green thumbs. Relax while you’re there with a snack or lunch hosted by the community charities.

PICCOLO FAMILY FARM: A DAY IN THE ORCHARD

Saturday 7 October

A Day in the Orchard is set within an orange orchard on a boutique working farm. The ticketed familyfriendly event celebrates the region’s produce, music and art with local food and drink stalls and fantastic live entertainment.

GARDEN BUS TOURS

Friday 13 – Sunday 15 October

Garden bus tours will be running throughout the festival, departing the Griffith Tourism Hub and exploring exclusive open gardens accompanied by a light lunch amongst nature.

SIP & STRETCH AT YARRAN WINES

Saturday 14 October

What better way to start your weekend than with a wonderful morning of yoga and bubbles?

Join Em from Saltbush Stretch for

a 45-minute yoga class on the winery lawns, followed by a light breakfast and a glass of Yarran bubbles amongst the vineyards with a view of the serene Cocoparra National Park from the cellar door terrace.

SIP AND SAVOUR AT FOOD & WINE EVENTS

Griffith’s delectable food and wine will be on offer each day for visitors to sample throughout the festival. It’s the perfect time to take an organised tour, enjoy a special meal or head to your favourite vineyard for a tasting.

Discover more at griffithspringfest. com.au. TA

Rex flies to Griffith

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Launch party bar; Emeri De Bortoli gardens; Citrus Sculptures; On the streets at the Launch Party. Images: Visit Griffith.

The 5 most fascinating things about

Papua New Guinea boasts more than 850 different languages and approximately 1,000 different cultures. It is definitely one of the most diverse countries in the world. To put this into perspective, the land mass of PNG is about 462,840 square kilometres with over 600 islands, and a population of just over seven million people. So, on average there are 8,200 people speaking the same language over an area of 540 square kilometres per language. In some places only 2,000 people can speak just one language and live in an area of less than five square kilometres.

Find out more about our culture here: papuanewguinea.travel/culture

Papua New Guinea is home to 5 per cent of the world’s biodiversity, even though it only covers 1 per cent of Earth’s total land area. It has more than 20,000 plant species, 800 species of coral, 600 species of fish and 750 species of birds. Since the country is less explored and exploited than other regions, it still retains much of its diversity.

Find out more about our dive experiences here: papuanewguinea.travel/scuba-diving

The hooded pitohui is a bird native to the New Guinea island. It is medium-sized with black and chestnut plumage. The pitohui produces batrachotoxin compounds in its feathers, skin, and other tissues. The poison helps protect the birds from predators and parasites. Local hunters always try to avoid killing these birds. Find out more about our bird watching packages here: papuanewguinea.travel/bird-watching

Although Papua New Guinea sits 160km north of Australia – just below the equator – and enjoys a tropical climate, snow has been known to fall on the mountaintops of the mainland. Find out more about Mt Wilhelm and other trekking sites here: papuanewguinea.travel/trekking

The island of New Guinea is home to the third largest rainforest in the world, coming in after the Amazon and the Congo. This rainforest covers almost 288.000 square kilometres of the island's land mass from Papua New Guinea to West Papua in Indonesia. Find out more about our provinces here: papuanewguinea.travel/provinces-regions

THE UNMISSABLE

Adelaide Hills

Booze, chocolate, art and food – what more could you want from a destination?

WORDs: Alexis Buxton-Collins

HIGH ABOVE Adelaide sits a picturesque agricultural region where winding roads pass through mistshrouded valleys and a patchwork of mixed farmland. Artisanal food and drink producers make the most of the abundant fresh produce. Artists have long flocked here for the magical light. Here are some of the best Adelaide Hills attractions to tick off.

RED CACAO –CHOCOLATIER OF THE ADELAIDE HILLS

Just 20 minutes from the centre of Adelaide, the charming town of Stirling is the gateway to the Adelaide Hills. The tree-lined streets are full of cute cafés and shops and Red Cacao is the perfect place to stop in for a morning treat. There’s always a range of gorgeous cakes and freshly made waffles available. Don't leave without trying the legendary Aztec hot chocolate: rich dark drinking chocolate spiced up with cinnamon and chilli.

Owner Marcus Booth-Remmers spent years training as a chocolatier across Australia and Europe. Now he uses the best quality European couverture chocolate with cream, fruit and even red wine from local producers. On any day of the week he’ll be pouring, filling, coating and decorating hundreds of blocks and truffles.

The single origin cacao beans are chosen for their unique flavour profiles, and the same is true of the coffee. Get the best of both worlds with the Chocolate Coffee Experience. Simply choose a single origin bean and the trained staff will recommend two handmade chocolates to draw out and complement the flavours.

THE CEDARS – HANS HEYSEN GALLERY

Venturing further, the village of Hahndorf was settled by Prussian

Lutherans in 1839 and still bears a strong German influence. This wasn’t what drew Hans Heysen to the area, though – the landscape painter was captivated by the quality of the region’s light.

Heysen was one of the first Europeans to eschew the conventions of his home continent and paint Australia as it is. His watercolours changed the way white Australians perceived this country by capturing the lines of monumental gum trees and the mesmerising colours of the arid Flinders Ranges.

Fittingly, the 1870s villa just outside Hahndorf where he lived is overlooked

OPPOSITE PAGE, THEN CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Cedars. Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone; Longview Vineyard. Image: Longview Vineyard; The Cedars Hans Heysen Gallery. Image: The Cedars; Red Cacao hot chocolate. Image: Red Cacao.

by a collection of ancient gums. Some of them are 600 years old! Himalayan cedars in the immaculately manicured gardens give the property its name. However, the highlight of any visit is Australia’s oldest publicly accessible artist’s studio. This is where Heysen captured the essence of Australian light and landscapes in his famed watercolours.

COMIDA HAHNDORF

When he ran Comida out of the Adelaide Central Market, chef Brad Sappenberghs’ chicken and chorizo paella was one of Adelaide’s favourite dishes. You can find it on the menu at his new venue in Hahndorf, as well as a vegetable paella and a special seafood paella (just keep an eye on their socials to find out when this one is dished up).

During the week, coffees and cold pressed juices accompany simple breakfasts with a Spanish twist. And for lunch, Sappenberghs has upped the ante considerably. His elegant diner is a must-visit Adelaide Hills attraction. The venue's enclosed deck, richly textured walls, exposed timber and beautiful terracottacoloured ceilings make for a wonderful dining experience.

Tasty tapas plates arrive first. Then come the mains, divided into

meat, seafood and a large vegetable section that includes the legendary patatas bravas. If you prefer a less formal setting, you can select a few items from the display fridge. It's well stocked with local cheeses, cured meats and olives (plus a few Spanish items). Then borrow a picnic rug and find a comfortable space in the large gardens out back.

LONGVIEW VINEYARD

The Adelaide Hills is one of Australia’s premier cool climate wine regions. Picturesque cellar doors abound, but as the name suggests, the views at Longview Vineyard are worth travelling for. Built around a centuryold pink sandstone cottage, this rustic-chic cellar door utilises recycled timber and steel in a modern design with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Outside, gently undulating hills covered with row upon row of perfectly manicured vines lead to ridges lined by magnificent gums. A short walk away, the lookouts afford spectacular views over Lake Alexandrina. You can see all the way

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Signature Collection. Image: Red Cacao; Beef carpaccio. Image: Comida Hahndorf; The Cedars. Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone; Applewood Distillery gin. Image: Brad Griffin Photography.

across the Coorong sand dunes and out to the Southern Ocean.

At Longview Vineyard, Northern Italian wines like nebbiolo and barbera are paired with a seasonal menu. If you find the views as intoxicating as the wine, the good news is you don’t have to leave. After a day spent exploring the region, you can relax in the onsite 4.5 star accommodation spread between a heritage homestead and a dozen chic modern suites set in the vines.

APPLEWOOD DISTILLERY

One of our favourite boozy Adelaide Hills attractions, Applewood Distillery is a fabulous afternoon stop. This industrial former cold store, full of exposed brick and jarrah beams, is the unlikely home to some of the most inventive drinks being produced in this country. Two things fuel the incredible creations coming out of Applewood Distillery: the vibrant imaginations of Brendan and Laura Carter, and the rich library of flavours found in Australia’s native flora.

Plants like riberries, desert limes, peppermint gum and lemon myrtle

find their way into distinctive, richly flavoured gins and liqueurs.

At Applewood, there are no limits to their creativity. You’ll also find off-kilter creations like a gin featuring shiitake mushrooms and Chinese plum, plus, a range of limited edition spirits.

All the botanicals are ethically and sustainably sourced. Alongside tastings (don’t miss the økar amaro), there’s a seasonal cocktail menu with a section featuring only ingredients that would otherwise have been wasted. TA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Comida interior. Image: Comida Hahndorf; Longview Vineyard. Image: Ryan Cantwell; Applewood gin. Image: Erik Rosenberg; Cacao beans. Image: Red Cacao; The Cedars. Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone.

Rex flies to Adelaide

New South Wales

IN FULL BLOOM

Warm, sunny days and cool nights make spring a fantastic time to explore the great outdoors in NSW. From incredible wildflower walks to spring festivals and amazing animal encounters, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do this spring.

THIS PAGE, THEN OPPOSITE, TOP TO BOTTOM: Picture-perfect canola fields in Parkes; Spectacular Sydney Harbour; Parkes Radio Telescope;. Images: Destination NSW.

WORDs: Emily Riches

EXPLORE SOME MORE IN SPECTACULAR SYDNEY

Sydney is the place to be in spring. With perfect daytime temperatures, the city’s sparkling harbour and glorious beaches beckon locals and visitors. The best way to enjoy this spectacular weather is out on the iconic harbour. Get a bird’s eye view from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with BridgeClimb, or see it all from the water with an adrenalinefuelled jet boat experience. Luna Park also offers a fun, entertaining day out for the whole family.

In spring, the city becomes blanketed in vibrant purple jacaranda blossoms. Stroll around Circular Quay and The Rocks, or through suburbs like Lavender Bay, Kirribilli’s famous McDougall Street, Zetland, Parramatta or Paddington for the best viewings. While you’re out and about, make sure to check out the scenic walk from Bondi to Tamarama as the coastal track is transformed into a stunning temporary sculpture park for Sculpture by the Sea, starting in October.

For more cultural experiences, don’t miss the weird, wonderful and salacious Sydney Fringe Festival, which highlights artists, comedians, musicians and performers in over 450

shows across the city. And don’t forget to pack your fascinators, as the Sydney Everest Carnival also kicks off in September for eight weeks of worldclass racing at Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens.

Rex flies to Sydney FIELDS OF GOLD AND A DASHING DISH

for their high quality – so enjoy the sights, but please do not enter the canola fields as it may risk contaminating the crop.

A different kind of gold fever struck Parkes in 1861 and you can explore the region’s gold mining heritage on the Newell Gold Trail. Visit nearby Peak Hill, a 35-minute scenic drive north of Parkes, which has a heritage open-cut gold mine from 1893.

Head to the historic town of Parkes in Central NSW where canola crops transform paddocks into breathtaking fields of gold. Take off on a cycling or self-drive tour around the canola fields and soak in the vibrant swathes of colour, or see it from the air with Balloon Joy Flights out of Canowindra. Australia produces around two to three million tonnes of oilseed crops each year, which are regarded globally 

Parkes is also famous for the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope, nicknamed ‘The Dish’ and now known as Murriyang, which helped broadcast the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing. At 64 metres in diameter, it is one of the largest single dish telescopes in the Southern Hemisphere. You can visit the observatory and see astronomy and space science exhibitions as well as 3D theatre shows.

TOP TO BOTTOM:

Explore

Some of the best places to spot these magnificent giants are on NSW’s North Coast in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Port Macquarie has excellent vantage points such as the Heritage-listed Tacking Point Lighthouse, and headlands in Kattang Nature Reserve and Crowdy Bay National Park. You can book a cruise with Port Jet Cruise Adventures or see the action by sea plane with Port Macquarie Adventure Flights.

In Coffs Harbour, Jetty Dive is the only company that offers the incredible opportunity to swim with humpbacks during August and September, while the best views from land are at Muttonbird Island’s Eastern Side lookout, Woolgoolga Headland or Look At Me Now Headland (where you’ll also be able to spot kangaroos).

There’s also plenty more to explore in this region in spring, especially for foodies. Grazing Down The Lachlan, held on 16 September in nearby Forbes, is an annual food festival that celebrates the local produce of the Central West region. Set alongside the picturesque Lachlan River, ‘grazers’ can wander along Nine Mile Reserve between six stations offering delicious food with a beverage to match. Or head to the month-long Orange Wine Festival throughout October where you can indulge in the region’s cool climate wines and thriving food culture.

Rex flies to Parkes HAVE A WHALE OF A TIME ON THE COAST

From May to November, a record number of humpback whales are making their 10,000 kilometre migration along Australia’s east coast from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef and back. In spring, they’ll be heading south with their new calves in tow.

Eden on the South Coast is a pristine coastal wilderness with a long whaling history. The region is known as the ‘Humpback Highway’ and in spring many spend a few days in the area with their calves, resting, feeding and playing. In mid-October, enjoy the celebrations of The Eden Whale Festival with talks, workshops and whale-watching tours, and make sure to check out the Eden Killer Whale Museum. You’ll find plenty of shoreline vantage points around Twofold Bay, the third-deepest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere, as well as along the coast in Beowa National Park.

Rex flies to Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Merimbula

GO BLOOMING MAD FOR WILDFLOWERS

In spring, NSW bursts into life with vibrant native wildflowers flourishing along coastal walking tracks and in national parks.

If mountain hikes are your thing, when the winter snow has melted in Kosciuszko National Park, open fields of wildflowers proliferate across the alpine landscape: visit between November and April to spot purple

the many wonderful cellar doors and vineyards of Orange; Eden on the South Coast is an ideal place to whale watch, especially from the Eden Killer Whale Museum; Kosciuszko National Park is awash with wildflowers in spring. Images: Destination NSW.

eyebrights, yellow billy buttons and everlasting daisies. The Blue Mountains National Park is brimming with natural beauty, with World Heritage-listed rainforests, stunning cliff-top escarpments and beautiful wildflowers. See the red ‘mountain devil’ flower near Leura, or head out of Blackheath for scribbly gums and vibrant red waratahs.

If you prefer coastal tracks, Bouddi National Park on the Central Coast boasts a flower rarely found on Australia’s walking trails: the stunning, snow-white flannel flower. While this delicate, daisy-like native can only be seen between September and December, the spectacular views from the coastal tracks are enjoyable year round. Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay is a wonderland of more than 460 indigenous plants, and is also home to Australia’s only Aboriginalowned botanic gardens, Booderee Botanic Gardens. Join a guided tour to learn how local Aboriginal people use native plants and wildflowers in bush tucker and medicine.

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Spring is a great time to visit zoos and wildlife parks across NSW, as many of the animals are about and active. For a great family day out, get up close and personal with rare native animals, experience a safari tour with exotic creatures and learn about important conservation work.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a must-visit: this immersive open-range zoo in Dubbo is home to over 5,000 animals from 350 species. In the Lion Pride Lands experience, you can head into the lions’ den to see their growing lion cubs, or visit the other newest additions to the zoo including meerkat pups, spider monkey babies and five giraffe calves. As the zoo is a sprawling 300 hectares, we’d recommend hiring a kart or bicycle to travel through. You can even spend the night amongst the animals at the lodge, self-contained cabins or in a safari tent.

Symbio Wildlife Park, found just south of Sydney, also houses exotic animals such as meerkats, lemurs, tigers and cheetahs. You can also meet Australian favourites such as wombats and echidnas, hand-feed kangaroos or take a selfie with a koala.

At the Australian Reptile Park on the Central Coast see Elvis the five-metre saltwater croc being fed on weekends, then visit spiders, snakes, platypus and even a giant Galapagos tortoise and Komodo dragon up close. Heading further up the coast, you can find other great attractions such as the Koala Hospital and Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie, and the Butterfly House and Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in Coffs Harbour. TA

Rex flies to Dubbo

TOP TO BOTTOM: Koala cuddles at Symbio Wildlife Park; Giraffes a-plenty at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo; Stunning Booderee National Park. Images: Destination NSW.

INCREDIBLE

INDIGENOUS EXPERIENCES IN

Burketown

It may be a small locality in the Gulf of Carpentaria, but Burketown is a treasure trove of Indigenous experiences and tours that celebrate the traditional owners of Australia.

Words: Matilda Meikle

YAGURLI TOURS is an Indigenousowned-and-operated business, run by the Gangalidda Garawa people, which provides visitors with many opportunities to learn about the heritage and culture of Australia’s first peoples. With tours, festivals and experiences tailored to sharing Indigenous culture and knowledge with others, it’s no surprise that so many people have named Burketown as their next travel destination.

WATER

Burketown is known for its iconic water features, which are a major part of its traditional culture. The town is situated on the banks of the Gambumanda (Albert River), which connects to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Twelve kilometres away, visitors will also find Dean’s Creek. A popular spot for launching boats, fishing and mud crabbing, it is also culturally important as the location of the Groper Dreaming Story.

Luckily, Yagurli tours offers visitors the chance to explore these stunning waterways and learn about the connection between culture and land. Aboard a Gambumanda Sunset Cruise, you will cruise the calm waters of Gambumanda as an Indigenous guide shares their traditional knowledge of the area and its diverse wildlife. This includes the mighty saltwater croc, which is known as an undefeatable spirit within the Gangalidda Garawa community. Heading down the river, there’s a 

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Yaliya's Stories (stargazing), Yagurli Tours; Gambumanda near Burketown; Burketown sunset. Images: Tourism and Events Queensland.

good chance you will see one of these amazing animals. This is a unique opportunity to explore Burketown’s history and culture while soaking in the beautiful sunset.

LAND

Burketown is found within the lower Gulf area, home to the largest saltpans in Australia. During the dry season, the flat land stretches on for miles, while in the wet season it is transformed into a wetland of over two million hectares.

Visitors can experience this natural wonder by joining a Marrija 4WD Cultural Tour hosted by Yagurli Tours. This experience is designed to teach you about the Indigenous uses for native plants, as well as how

Indigenous people have read the land for signs of changing weather for centuries. Bush tucker and medicine are also abundant in the area, if you know where to look –and the locals certainly do.

SKY

Free from big-city light pollution, the sky above Burketown offers unabridged views of the stars and night sky. For the Gangalidda Garawa people, it strongly connects to their culture and Dreamtime stories.

On a Yaliya’s Stories stargazing tour, an Indigenous guide shares some of these stories as they lead visitors on an unforgettable stargazing experience. Starting

with the constellations, and ending with the use of a professional telescope, you’ll be immersed in stories of the universe, and leave with a better understanding of the stars.

Of course, Indigenous experiences in Burketown don’t stop there. The annual Morning Glory Festival, which celebrates the rare natural cloud phenomenon, has expanded to include Indigenous dance and art, as well as bush food experiences. Plus, the Burketown Visitor Centre is open year-round to welcome all travellers. TA

Rex flies to Burketown

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Marrija 4WD Cultural Tour; Landscape near Burketown; Yaliya's Stories stargazing tour. Images: Tourism and Events Queensland.

TrulyAus Products

OUR TOP PICKS OF AUSSIE-MADE PRODUCTS FOR BRINGING IN SPRING.

Compiled by: Ali Manges

1. Outback Tails – snazzy Leather Dog Collar

Spring fashion doesn’t have to be just for people – style your pup this year with lovely artwork from Aboriginal artists. These adorable collars are adorned with beautiful designs of traditional Dreamtime stories. Ten per cent of proceeds goes directly back into the pocket of the artist, helping to support Aboriginal communities and platform their art, stories and voices.

outbacktails.com

$32.95

2. Oz Smart – Reversible & Stylish Bucket Hat

Being safe from the sun has never looked so fashionable. Stylish, soft and silky, this breathable bucket hat blocks UVA and UVB rays to keep you protected, while also sporting a reversible design, so you can have fun in the sun all spring long – and summer, too!

ozsmart.shop

$29.99

3. Orange Brown – Daypack

Whether you’re hiking through the outback or simply headed to the park, this daypack from Orange Brown is a spring activity staple. Pack exactly what you need without the cost of comfort. With a lightweight design, padded shoulder straps and rollable closing technology to protect from rainy conditions, this bag not only looks good but will equip you for a gorgeous day in the great outdoors.

orangebrown.com.au

$190

4. Auguste – Delilah Bloom Kirby Maxi Dress

Frolic through freshly blooming fields of flowers in this to-die-for flowy maxi dress. With a flattering neckline, adjustable wrap design and stunning silky fabric, this dress will help you rock the season in style while keeping cool and comfy.. Slip on some summer sandals or pair this dress with leather boots and jacket for a versatile, high-quality piece for every occasion.

au.augustethelabel.com

$189

5. Worthy – Blue Steel Sugarcane Drink Bottle

Celebrate spring this year by being kind to Mother Nature. Crafted from sustainably grown sugar cane, non-toxic and 100 per cent recyclable, it’s hard to find a more eco-friendly bottle on the market. The Worthy bottle is a cute and convenient way to stay hydrated everywhere you go while limiting your waste. It’s also lightweight and dishwasher safe – win, win! worthyau.co

$29.95

6. Trifine – Corduroy Tote Bag

A homegrown company out of Adelaide, Trifine is committed to creating high-quality handbags at affordable prices. This blush corduroy tote is the perfect bag to throw over your shoulder for a much-needed beach day or night out on the town. Show off this spring with a bag that’s both chic and super-functional, thanks to its sturdy, durable design and zip-up pockets.

trifine.com.au

$49.95

Shutter Film Co – Reusable Film Camera

Capture every moment this spring on film. Shutter Film Co’s reusable design, built-in flash and charming vintage feel makes shooting film accessible and fun. Point, shoot and crystallise every picture-perfect memory this season! shutterfilmco.com

$185

all-natural Miracle Balm

Partnering with Save the Bees Australia, EmbodyBee’s Miracle Balm is miraculous in more ways than one. This easy on-the-go essential is created from all-natural ingredients including beeswax and lemongrass to help protect and nourish your skin. embodybee.org

$28

Gelatissimo – Caramel Cookie Butter Pint

Take home your favourite mouthwatering flavour from Gelatissimo in a new pint size portion, now available at Coles. This to-die-for Caramel Cookie Butter pint is a blissfully rich gelato dream, perfect for kicking off a season full of warm spring afternoons. gelatissimo.com.au

$8

Avocado Zinc – SPF50 Natural Physical Sunscreen

With the excitement that sunny days bring after a season of chilly winter nights, it’s easy to rush to the beach and forget to protect your skin. This Perth-made 3-in-1 facial sunscreen primes, moisturises and protects, all while boasting a soothing blend of natural ingredients like avocado and coconut oil. Layer it underneath your makeup or simply wear as is for the perfect glowing complexion just in time for spring.

avocadozinc.com.au

$40

The Beach People – super cute Picnic Basket

What better way to bring in the spring than starting a garden? This ecofriendly kit is on a mission to make gardening a catalyst for sequestering carbon in the soil, not the atmosphere. The all-natural plant tonics maximise your plants’ growth and ability to capture carbon without the harmful chemicals. With everything you need, from garden trowels to plant food to an educational printed guide, this kit can help you earn your green thumb. thecarbongarden.com.au

$200

Kick off the warmer weather this spring with casual picnics under blue skies. Curated carefully by sisters and beach experts Emma Henderson and Victoria Beattie in the sunny Northern Rivers region, this picnic basket has everything you need for the perfect seaside picnic, from a built-in cheeseboard lid to insulating technology lining the inside. Not to mention its absolutely classic design – how much cuter can it get?

thebeachpeople.com.au

$199

7.

10.

12.

8. EmbodyBee’s

11. The eco-friendly Carbon Garden Kit

9.

A fool for glass

Artist Eloise McCullough trained in stained glass craftsmanship during lockdown. Now her business, Fools Glass, is setting out to revitalise the traditional art form, one contemporary piece at a time.

Words: Ali Manges

Your background is primarily in graphic design. How did you make the transition into glass art?

I’ve always been interested in glass in general. During the COVID lockdown in Melbourne, I started doing a short course in glass art down the road from me. That was part time over a couple of years. I learned all about leadlighting, copper foiling, fusing glass and all the different types of practices. I also learned that you can put your own spin on it, and make it more creative or contemporary. I think I saw the opportunity in that and developed my own style. I thought I’d just be doing it as a hobby, but then I began getting some work opportunities and it just got bigger and bigger.

How would you describe your artistic style?

Eclectic, abstract or art deco inspired. It’s usually quite colourful, and I like mixing in different textures and bold colours to give it that contemporary look.

Can you talk about why reigniting the love for quality craftsmanship is important to you?

I believe consumers have grown to appreciate the quality of craftsmanship and the work that goes behind it. Personally, I would rather save and invest my money on a beautiful and unique piece for my house, over a mass produced product. It’s so easy to get something the next day with services like Amazon, but I think people are more accepting of the slow pace of things now, maybe because we did go through COVID

and things slowed down a lot then, especially in Melbourne where we endured the longest lockdown in the world.

Can you walk us through your creative process?

In my process, I’m very collaborative and I like to work with the client to make sure the colour palette, design and size is what they envisioned. There are so many different processes that a piece can take a couple of months from design to completion.

Is there any piece that stands out as a favourite?

I’m working on three large scale leadlight windows for Sporting Club Hotel in Brunswick, which has been my biggest project to date. So that’s been a really exciting one, and the fact that it’s going to be in a permanent fixture in the venue is pretty cool.

What’s next for Fools Glass?

I love collaborating with architects and interior designers on commercial and residential projects, so I’ll continue to seek opportunities in that space. I’m also working on art pieces that I’ll make available in my online store, and I’ll expand my fused glass range beyond the coasters that I currently offer.

Where is your favourite place to travel in Australia?

Tasmania is really beautiful for a winter escape. I really like the slow pace and the pubs down there. MONA art gallery is always a fun spot. TA

Find Eloise at foolsglass.com or @foolsglass on Instagram.

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: Eloise McCullough; Stained glass artwork; Eloise in her studio. Images: Shannen Johnstone.

86. A DOGGONE DISCOVERY

Dog or dingo? New research suggests that dingoes have far less dog ancestry than previously thought, changing how we view the species and conservation efforts.

A DISCOVERY OF DRAGONS

In South Australia, four new species of sand dragon lizards have been discovered.

Dr Daniel Edwards, the curator of terrestrial vertebrates at The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, is responsible for finding and identifying these animals.

The lizards, which belong to the Ctenophorus family, have all been given Indigenous names: they are the tjakalpa, kartiwarrui, ibiri and the tuniluki lizards. Tjakalpa is the Indigenous name for the Great Victorian Desert, where that lizard was first identified. Kartiwarrui means red-backed lizard in the Dieri language, and is located in the Strzelecki Desert. Ibiri is a Bangarla term meaning ‘small lizard’, and tuniluki means ‘sand lizard’ in the Ngarrindejeri language.

The search for these newly identified species began back in 2008, when Daniel and Mark Hutchinson from the South Australian Museum began wondering if more sand dragon species may exist in the wild.

At the beginning of their studies, only

Positive prevention

Scientists are calling for an end to unnecessary vitamin D testing in children. According to research from Macquarie University, blood tests for vitamin D deficiency have become 30 times more common over the last 15 years. However, this hasn’t led to an increase in detection. The university is instead suggesting that children take supplements to ensure essential nutrients are being delivered to their body, rather than continuing with these invasive and costly tests.

Vitamin D deficiency is a serious condition, putting children at risk of nutritional rickets and fatal diseases within the first 12 months of their life. To prevent this, the current global measure recommends children receive vitamin D supplements over their first year of life. However, the use of these supplements rapidly declines after the first year.

In a study carried out by Macquarie University, 46,960 children had their blood tested for the level of vitamin D. Researchers found that while rates of testing have become 30 times greater since 2003, the chance of detecting deficiency has remained roughly the same. As such, the experts are pushing for prevention over testing, arguing that by encouraging the continued use of vitamin D supplements for children, rates of vitamin D deficiency will decrease, while also reducing the cost and resources associated with testing for this illness.

three species were known to exist. Now, they have found a total of 11 species, including the four previously completely unknown to science. Interestingly, each of the lizard species can be identified due to differences in colour and markings. They also differ based on their environment. Daniel is excited about the scientific and environmental insights these lizards can offer about the Australian ecosystem.

We have been providing highly skilled and experienced heavy mobile equipment maintenance personnel to our clients in the resources sector for over twenty years. We are always on the lookout for dedicated mechanical tradespeople, whether you are highly skilled and experienced or just starting out, we will find the right job for you; and what’s more, we will pay for your interstate flights and accommodation, or fly you to any destination for your R&R, including overseas.

Make the change, feel the difference!

Business enquiries welcome.

1300 65 75 45

AI: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE BUBBLE

What's more likely: 1. AI stocks keep climbing, 2. interest rates stay high or 3. a deep recession? Steen Jakobsen, Chief Economist and CIO of Saxo takes a deep dive into the economy and predictions for the next quarter.

words: Steen Jakobsen

“Recessions are periods when the economy goes on a diet,” said Paul Samuelson, an American economist. In normal economic cycles, central banks raise interest rates in response to high inflation, a tight labour market and easy financial conditions –essentially, the reality we see all around us. The central banks tightening of policy is meant to cool the economy and prevent an overheating that worsens the eventual recession. However, since the 2008 financial crisis, central banks have been reluctant to trigger a recession and have become very nervous about tightening policy and taking interest rates into truly activity-dampening territory.

The market believes that the Federal Reserve has done enough with its 500 basis points of hikes, but the reality is that in most economic cycles, the Fed Funds rate needs to at least match the nominal GDP growth rate in order to slow down economic activity enough to take the pressure off both inflation and a tight labour market. As of Q1 data, US GDP was growing at a nominal rate of 720 basis points year-on-year, suggesting that Fed policy is not tight, but neutral at best.

It seems that the dual mandate of price stability and full employment has been replaced with a number one priority of no recession ever, or in Samuelson’s metaphor quoted at the head of this article, “no diet!”

THE DAM WILL BREAK

After the COVID-19 pandemic, many people believe that the economy is returning to a normal path. They believe that low interest rates will continue to support growth and that a “soft landing” is possible. However, this view is naive. The economy is currently loaded with excess debt and asset valuations are at all-time highs. A “soft landing” is very unlikely in this environment and, as an economic concept, is extremely rare!

The global economy is currently more like a river that has been dammed up. The dam represents the various factors that have been

holding back economic growth, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions and the war in Ukraine.

As these factors start to dissipate, the dam will begin to break and the river will flow more freely. This will lead to an extension and resurgence of economic growth and inflation, contrary to the prevailing consensus of an imminent recession together with a credit crunch and housing crisis. The freeing of obstacles will allow the overall economy to steer clear of a deep recession and possibly a minor recession, even in real GDP terms.

This means that the Fed and the

economy will have a run rate in nominal GDP terms that is higher than expected. There is ample pent-up demand at state levels, company levels, and from the IRA (the Inflation Reduction Act) and the CHIPS and Science Act to keep employment firm.

THE AI BUBBLE

An insufficiently restrictive policy backdrop has set up a potential bubble in the stock market. The valuation this year has been driven by three impulses: the Silicon Valley Bank and regional bank mini-crisis, the trouble lifting the debt ceiling, and the super-valuation of the sub-set of mega caps and large cap stocks most associated with the introduction of generative AI applications (OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard).

The first two created a liquidity injection of more than $1 billion. The third became the driver of superexponential prices for the most

directly AI-linked names. The hype surrounding AI is the chief driver of the latest stock market surge, with talks of this being a new iPhone moment or even akin to the introduction of the internet. This is not a knock on AI, as we are keenly aware of the potential for generative AI to increase productivity over time. But the market is getting ahead of itself in selecting winners, and current valuations are already discounting too much of the longer-term future gains to be had.

The surface of this economic sea may be calm, with volatility at extremely low levels. However, beneath the waterline, there are strong currents and counter-currents, which, to our minds, set up a difficult second half of 2023.

We don’t have the ability to time and project where the markets are going, but we do have the ability to recognise when a bubble is forming and where data doesn’t support the narrative. This bubble, and all bubbles, are accelerating when the fundamentals don’t support the narrative.

The good news is that a deep recession is unlikely to happen. The bad news is that interest rates will need to stay high for longer. We simply don’t think the “audio matches the video” looking at complacent market expectations versus the likely path from here.

Extract from Saxo Australia’s Quarterly Outlook. For more, visit home.saxo/en-au.

“The hype surrounding AI is the chief driver of the latest stock market surge, with talks of this being a new iPhone moment or even akin to the introduction of the internet.”

SOWING THE SEEDS OF INNOVATION

Two new agricultural innovations are set to shake up Australia's growing industry, improving efficiency and production.

words: Matilda Meikle

NOT JUST ANOTHER BERRY

A new initiative hopes to breed strawberries for automated picking. Run by Hort Innovation, the program aims to develop strawberry varieties that can be harvested by robots, and integrate them into the national market. If successful, these plants could improve the efficiency of growth and production, enhancing the strawberry market for farmers and consumers alike.

In 2021/22, Australia’s strawberry industry had an estimated value of $417 million. The industry supplies around 11,000 jobs, with growth occurring most commonly in Queensland.

In fact, the country has an Australian Strawberry Breeding Program, which was developed by the Queensland Department of

Agriculture to test new varieties of strawberries created through natural breeding. Each year, experts sample all new varieties of strawberries to identify the best tasting and yielding crops for the upcoming season. This ensures farmers are growing varieties best suited to the Australian climate, and consumers are offered the best tasting fruit.

THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY

Over the last three years, the size of Australia’s horticulture workforce has decreased by around 20 per cent. This has led to 40 per cent of growers turning to machinery to support their business.

According to Hort Innovation chief executive Brett Fifield, this highlights a need to move with the times and integrate technology into everyday farming practices.

THIS PAGE: NEW STRAWBERRY VARIETIES AND KIKUYU GRASS ARE TWO INNOVATIONS SET TO IMPROVE THE AG INDUSTRY.

“The development of a sweet, rich red and aromatic strawberry that is ideal for automation will prove a game changer for growers who want to apply new technologies on-farm,” he says.

“While harvesting strawberries using automation is not common practice yet in Australia, it will be before we know it.”

The focus of Hort Innovation’s program will be on growing strawberries with unbranched flower stems. Without these stems, the fruit can be picked faster and easier. Scientists also want to breed strawberries that are a consistent size, an aesthetic preferred by consumers.

FRUITS OF LABOUR

The program received $11.5 million from the federal and Queensland governments, and will take place over four years. Run by Hort Innovation and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland, the primary focus is on developing technological capacity within the industry.

Already, conversations have begun with tech companies and scientists to better understand how technology could play a role in the harvesting process. Tech has the capacity to

reduce the time needed for picking, packing and shipping strawberries, resulting in increased financial outcomes for farmers. It will also increase the efficiency of their production.

Mark Furner, Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Queensland, says: “Queensland remains on the cutting edge of ag-tech, which will be vital to the future of agriculture and the thousands of good jobs it supports in our state.

“I commend the great work of Hort Innovation and my department and look forward to seeing the fruits of this investment benefitting the industry for years to come.”

With technology becoming an increasing part of mainstream farming, the research into its

implications for strawberry picking has the opportunity to significantly improve this sector. It remains to be seen what the program will uncover, but experts are hopeful that the strawberry industry will thrive as a result.

GREAT GREEN GRASS

Experts have successfully bred disease-resistant grass, and it’s set to result in major opportunities for commercial exports. What started as an accidental opportunity has led to the development of disease-resistant Kikuyu grass. This new seed has major benefits for dairy farmers across the country, as well as providing new trade opportunities for Aussies.

Kikuyu grass first came to Australia all the way from the Belgian Congo in 1919. Today, it is mostly used in

LEFT TO RIGHT: HORT INNOVATION IS GROWING STRAWBERRIES WITH UNBRANCHED FLOWER STEMS; FLOWERING KIKUYU GRASS. IMAGE: FOREST AND KIM STARR.

“The development of a sweet, rich red and aromatic strawberry that is ideal for automation will prove a game changer for growers who want to apply new technologies on-farm.”

agricultural regions in NSW and south-east Queensland. It has become popular as an inexpensive and relatively drought resistant crop, which grows and repairs itself quickly.

Kikuyu grass is commonly used as cattle feed on dairy farms.

However, it also had several initial setbacks. It was known to become diseased regularly, and was also sensitive to common herbicides. Plus, if black spots grew on its leaves, cattle would refuse to eat it.

BREAKING NEW GROUND

In 2014, retired agricultural research scientist Dr Bill Fulkerson was offered thousands of Kikuyu seeds that were heading straight for the dumpster. Realising a possible opportunity, he took the seeds and began a decadelong research program that sought to replace typical commercial grasses with a variant that could withstand harsh conditions and diseases.

Bill created a type of Kikuyu which was resistant to disease and black

spots on its leaves, working out of his own backyard. This project was recently purchased by Nick Eykamp, a commercial seed producer, who obtained exclusive marketing rights to this plant variety. He could see the great potential of the plant, including the possibility for export and trade opportunities.

“Everyone’s been planting the same variety for 30 years and something that has disease resistance is a benefit for everyone,” he says.

To ensure the seed was marketready, many dairy farmers offered to plant seeds in their paddocks to test whether lab results would withstand real-world conditions. So far, they’ve discovered that this new Kikuyu variety has a yield increase of 24 per cent, while also being resistant to disease.

IMPACT ON HOME SOIL

As well as opening up several opportunities in the international market, the plant has repercussions on home soil as well.

Almost all dairy farmers along the east coast of Queensland plant Kikuyu grass to feed their cattle. Therefore, this new strain of plant could have major benefits for the industry, removing fears of disease and fungus as well as increasing the reliability of the crop.

This means farmers can confidently invest in Kikuyu grass, without concerns over whether their cattle will eat the crop, or if it will be overrun by fungus. It is also a more economically viable solution.

With many farmers still recovering from recent floods, which eroded pastures and destroyed crops, the search for reliable and consistent seeds has only increased. This is just another way the new Kikuyu grass can support Aussie farmers.

There’s no telling what would have happened if Bill hadn’t rescued those Kikuyu seeds years ago. Thanks to his quick thinking and research, many doors have been opened for Australian farmers, and others around the world.

THIS PAGE: KIKUYU GRASS HAS MAJOR BENEFITS FOR THE AG INDUSTRY, INCLUDING REMOVING FEARS OF DISEASE AND FUNGUS, AND INCREASING THE RELIABILITY OF THE CROP.

THIS PAGE: AERIAL VIEW OF SILVER PEAK LITHIUM MINE, NEVADA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA. IMAGE: SIMONKR.

THE FUTURE OF LITHIUM PRODUCTION

Words: Matilda Meikle

ElectraLith, a start-up from Monash University, has created an extraction system that takes lithium from brine in a clean and environmentally conscious way. This means the essential metal could be extracted from salt lakes, mine tailings and other similar brine solutions while remaining affordable for businesses.

WHAT IS LITHIUM?

Lithium is a metal used in batteries and renewable energy storage. It is most commonly found in batteries for mobile phones, laptops, cameras and electric vehicles.

Lithium resources occur in two categories: lithium minerals from the mineral spodumene, and salts from lithium-rich brines in salt lakes. Canada, China and Australia have significant resources of lithium minerals, while lithium brine is produced predominantly in Chile, Argentina, China and the US.

According to recent studies, the demand for lithium is set to increase by up to 800 per cent before 2050 due to an increased call for renewable energy alternatives. This is equivalent to around one million additional tonnes of lithium every year, meaning the development of new extraction methods has never been more important.

WHAT IS ELECTRALITH?

ElectraLith’s project was led by Professor Huanting Wang, Director of the ARC Research Hub for Energy-efficient Separation at Monash University’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering.

According to Huanting, “current lithium extraction methods involve either roasting hard rock at high temperature and dissolving it with hot sulphuric acid, or evaporating brines in a solar pond, both of which use chemicals to precipitate lithium out. It is time consuming,

An Australian start-up has discovered a way to produce greener, cheaper lithium.

disruptive, expensive and wasteful. My research in nanostructure membranes is all about efficiency and ingenuity to make the most of this limited mineral resource.”

The project uses electro-filtration membrane technology to extract the mineral from brine. It draws on sources of renewable electricity, such as solar panels, to produce greater amounts of lithium without large amounts of wastage.

This low-impact, high-efficiency method reduces production costs by 40 per cent, making ElectraLith competitive in the global market and acting as an incentive for businesses to adopt this environmentally conscious method.

Already, this start-up is making waves both nationally and

internationally. ElectraLith was chosen by Aussie tech incubator Cicada Innovations to share its project at Cicada x Tech23 in July, one of the country’s top deep tech conferences. This demonstrates the potential of the project to help reduce emissions while increasing renewable energy production.

WHAT ’ S NEXT?

ElectraLith is hoping that its new technology will transform the battery market, offering a more environmentally friendly processing option. However, while it is sparking plenty of interest, there is still work to be done before it reaches its full potential.

According to Dr Zhouyou Wang, who was awarded an Australian

Research Council Early Career

Industry Fellowship thanks to her role in the project, “even though seawater is a brine, the concentration of lithium is too low for cost effective extraction, but we are already thinking about designing the next generation of membranes to improve lithium extraction, so maybe in the future we can extract lithium from new sources.”

There is more work and research to be done before this sustainable start-up can be integrated into all aspects of the industry, but it is certainly sparking hope that green, environmentally conscious energy practices are becoming more accessible than ever.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: THE ELCTRALITH TEAM. IMAGE: ELECTRALITH; LITHIUM IS MOST COMMONLY FOUND IN BATTERIES FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND MOBILE PHONES.

“The concentration of lithium is too low for cost effective extraction, but we are already thinking about designing the next generation of membranes to improve lithium extraction, so maybe in the future we can extract lithium from new sources.”

HOW THE PANDEMIC IMPACTED FIRST HOME BUYERS

The dream of owning a home has become increasingly elusive for first home buyers, and experts point to Australian government intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant factor.

Words: LJ Charleston

A recent study on first home buyers (FHBs) highlights the potential consequences of economic measures implemented to stimulate recovery during the pandemic.

The research has been published in the journal Buildings – and it’s significant because it’s one of the few qualitative studies examining the impact of financial stimuli on FHB entry amidst the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic.

THE STUDY

To gather insights, researchers conducted a survey involving 61 FHBs in NSW. The respondents shared their experiences of navigating the housing market during a period marked by significant COVID-19 economic policies, including interest rate cuts, superannuation withdrawals, mortgage payment pauses and income supplementary programs.

The findings are alarming, with approximately 71 per cent of respondents indicating that their purchasing price range had escalated throughout the pandemic. Moreover, 83 per cent of FHBs expressed that the process had become more arduous and complicated, presenting substantial barriers to home ownership.

The study highlights a potential link between government intervention and the inflationary impact on property prices. While these economic responses aimed to stimulate recovery and alleviate financial strain, the consequence is a more arduous road for aspiring homeowners.

As FHBs continue to grapple with the obstacles in home ownership, it’s crucial for stakeholders such as the government and industry players to collaborate and implement targeted measures that support this vital segment of the housing market.

According to Associate Professor Chyi Lin Lee, discipline director of construction management and property at UNSW and co-author of the study, the economic policies that were aimed at promoting home ownership – such as the first home loan deposit schemes – might have harmed people by heating the market.

“The pandemic saw extraordinary economic responses from the government to stabilise the economy and businesses, but they arguably had

unintended consequences for FHBs that put them in a more disadvantageous position than before the pandemic.”

LOCKED OUT OF THE MARKET

Home ownership in Australia has been on the decline for decades. Chyi says one of the main barriers to entry for FHBs is a widening deposit gap, which increased significantly with rising house prices during the pandemic.

“Capital city property prices increased by nearly 20 per cent, raising the time and money needed to make a down payment. As income-to-house-price ratio continued to expand during the pandemic, FHBs reported taking longer to save up a deposit,” Chyi says.

“Meanwhile, investors, particularly those already in the market who benefited from soaring house prices, can refinance for another purchase and are seen to outbid FHBs easily.”

The survey participants

highlighted market inequality as the primary hurdle, with 48 per cent identifying investors and the advantages enjoyed by existing homeowners due to favourable tax policies regarding holding or selling property.

During the pandemic's peak in mid-2021, there was a notable increase in investor activity in the market, accompanied by a decline in the number of FHBs.

“Not only do policies of discount capital gains tax and negative gearing encourage investor activity and further pressure house prices, but monetary policy, such as record low-interest rates during the pandemic, may be considered further stimulus to encourage investing,” Chyi says.

STILL JUST A DREAM

FHBs acknowledged an escalating dependence on financial assistance from their parents, assuming higher levels of economic vulnerability and opting to move to regional areas to enter the housing market.

PREVIOUS PAGE: FIRST HOME BUYERS ARE BEING LOCKED OUT OF THE HOUSING MARKET.

Only 27 per cent of survey participants contemplated paying a 20 per cent deposit, whereas 21 per cent received a monetary gift to aid their deposit, and approximately 12 per cent obtained a guarantee. Additionally, a significant 77 per cent stated that acquiring any property held greater significance than finding their dream home.

“Even before the pandemic, many FHBs were finding it difficult to get into the market, with many predicting the situation will likely get worse,” Chyisays.

“This is driving a fear of missing out, resulting in many taking on higher levels of debt, rushing into purchases without completing thorough due diligence, relocating for affordability reasons or reducing their expectations for their first property.

“Policymakers should consider expanding support for FHBs beyond demand-side subsidies and invest more resources into supply-side interventions, primarily introducing more housing into the market.”

Sydney has reached a point where gaining entry without substantial aid has become exceedingly difficult. It already holds the title of the least affordable city in Australia for housing and ranks second-least affordable globally, according to the latest Demographia International Housing Affordability survey. Meanwhile, Melbourne ranks fifth-worst due to high demand brought on by low interest rates and dangerous borrowing levels.

All Australian mainland state capitals are among the 20 most expensive for housing globally, with Adelaide 14th, Brisbane 17th and Perth 20th.

THIS PAGE: SYDNEY RANKS AS THE LEAST AFFORDABLE CITY IN AUSTRALIA, AND THE SECOND-LEAST AFFORDABLE CITY GLOBALLY.

“Capital city property prices increased by nearly 20 per cent, raising the time and money needed to make a down payment.”

A BYTE TO EAT

As technology continues to evolve and permeate every aspect of our lives, it’s no surprise that the hospitality industry is also being transformed by robotics and Artificial Intelligence.

Words: LJ Charleston

From robot bartenders to smart rooms that adjust to guests’ preferences, technology is revolutionising the way we experience hotels, resorts and restaurants.

As the hospitality industry is a key contributor to the economy, many businesses are embracing AI to provide customers with a personalised and efficient experience. Let’s take a look at how tech is changing the hospitality industry and what it means for businesses and customers alike.

STREAMLINING OPERATIONS

Robotic process automation (RPA) is one of the most significant advancements in the hospitality industry. RPA is a technology that automates repetitive and timeconsuming tasks, allowing staff to focus on more important responsibilities.

Hotels and restaurants use RPA to streamline operations, such as front desk check-ins, cleaning and restocking. This technology helps businesses to save time, reduce labour costs and improve efficiency.

IMPROVED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

The hospitality industry is all about providing excellent customer service. Technology and robotics are helping businesses to achieve this goal in a more efficient and effective manner. This includes the introduction of chatbots: computer programs that simulate conversation with human users. Chatbots can be used for a variety of tasks, such as making

reservations, answering FAQs and even ordering food. It’s all about enhancing the customer experience. They also provide instant responses and 24/7 availability.

PERSONALISED RECOMMENDATIONS

With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), hotels and restaurants can now provide personalised recommendations to their guests. AI algorithms can analyse customer data, such as past bookings, food preferences and reviews, to suggest services and products.

A hotel can recommend local attractions based on a guest’s interests, or a restaurant can suggest dishes based on a diner’s dietary requirements.

ENHANCING SAFETY AND HYGIENE

Robotics and technology have played a critical role in enhancing safety and hygiene measures in hotels and restaurants. Robots can be used for cleaning and disinfecting rooms and public areas. They can also be used for contactless delivery of food and beverages, reducing the risk of contamination. Technology such as sensors and cameras can also monitor compliance with safety protocols, such as social distancing when required.

EFFICIENT INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

Robotics and technology are making inventory management more efficient, accurate and cost-effective. “Smart shelves” can monitor stock levels and

THIS PAGE: A HOSPITALITY ROBOT AT WORK. IMAGE: ISTOCK/ KINWUN.

“Robotics and technology have played a critical role in enhancing safety and hygiene measures in hotels and restaurants.”

automatically reorder products when they run low. This technology eliminates the need for manual inventory checks and reduces the risk of overstocking or understocking.

AI-powered systems can analyse sales data and suggest the optimal amount of inventory to keep on hand, reducing waste and increasing profitability.

AUTOMATION OF FOOD PREPARATION

Robots can be a great help when it comes to food prep: such as chopping vegetables, mixing ingredients and even cooking food. This technology helps to reduce labour costs, increase

efficiency and maintain consistency in quality.

Restaurants such as Dodee Paidang in Melbourne use robots known as Bellabot to help with staffing issues. The Bellabot is able to carry many more plates than a waiter, and navigates itself around the tables using lasers to prevent it from bumping into furniture… and people!

SMART ROOM TECHNOLOGY

Hotels are increasingly incorporating smart room technology into their rooms, enhancing the guest experience. Smart room technology allows guests to control various

THIS PAGE: A HOTEL SERVICE ROBOT. IMAGE: ISTOCK/CHESKY_W; FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY. IMAGE: ISTOCK/ZEPHYR18.

aspects of their room, such as lighting, temperature and entertainment, using a smartphone or tablet. This technology also allows hotels to monitor and adjust room conditions remotely, improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.

FACIAL RECOGNITION FOR CHECK-IN

Facial recognition is also being used in some hotels and resorts to streamline the check-in process. Guests can simply scan their face to check in, eliminating the need for traditional check-in procedures, such as presenting identification and credit cards.

This improves the guest experience, and also increases security measures by reducing the risk of fraud.

Binu Matthews, CEO of hospitality solutions provider IDS Next, stated in a recent opinion piece: “Leveraging data and analytics can revolutionise the effectiveness of digital marketing and help personalise the guest experiences for hotels to improve the overall ROI.”

ROBOTIC BARTENDERS

Robotic bartenders are becoming increasingly popular in the hospitality industry. The machines can mix and pour drinks with precision and speed, without the need for human intervention. Robotic bartenders typically have a touchscreen interface that allows customers to select their preferred drinks and customise them to their liking.

But as fascinating as these AI developments are, there are still several things AI cannot do: it certainly isn’t able to develop new theories based on original insight or indulge in any kind of critical thinking. But, perhaps most importantly, AI cannot empathise with people – a trait that is critical when it comes to customer service.

DINGO DNA DISCOVERY

DNA testing has revealed that wild dingoes have less dog lineage than previously believed.

Words: Matilda Meikle

Scientists from UNSW discovered that wild dingoes have significantly less dog ancestry than expected, contradicting the widely held belief that pure dingo populations were disappearing due to crossbreeding. This discovery has implications for conservation efforts around the country and could change the way we view these native animals as a whole.

DINGOES IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Dingoes are golden or gingercoloured canids native to Australia. They mostly hunt small game such as rabbits, rodents and birds, however they also eat fruit and plants. Dingoes inhabit a wide range of habitats, but are found most often in woodlands and grassy areas.

While they are genetically distinct from domestic dogs, crossbreeding can occur. This threatens pure species as they become more susceptible to genetic dilution, and possible extinction. The term ‘wild dog’ is commonly used to refer to dingoes, due to the long-held belief that most modern animals contain dog DNA.

DNA DETECTION

Scientists previously believed that pure dingoes were less common due to crossbreeding. However, the recent research published in Molecular Ecology challenges this view, suggesting the prevalence of dogdingo mixes has been overstated. According to UNSW conservation biologist and lead author of the study

Dr Kylie Cairns, “for decades, there was fear that dingoes were breeding themselves into extinction. But our findings suggest this isn’t the case, and dingoes are largely maintaining their identity, which has implications for their management and conservation.”

The study involved analysing the DNA of 391 dingoes across different regions in Australia. Researchers were then able to perform ancestry modelling and analysis, which revealed that dingoes had much lower levels of dog lineage than was previously assumed.

“The old method, which relied on a relatively small number of genetic

markers and limited reference population, overestimates the amount of dog ancestry in dingo samples – sometimes by over 30 per cent,” says Kylie.

“But with the new text, we can look at 195,000 points across the genome compared with just 23 previously. It’s a huge step up in reliability and accuracy.”

HYBRID HYPOTHESIS

Over the course of the study, scientists were able to completely revise their understanding of dingoes.

In Victoria alone, it was found that 87.1 per cent of dingoes tested as pure, contrasting the previously held

“We now have a more advanced approach using higher-density genomic data that can be applied to dingoes to assess populations more accurately and inform management strategies with bestavailable evidence.”

THIS PAGE: DINGOES ARE FOUND IN VARIOUS HABITATS IN EVERY STATE AND TERRITORY IN AUSTRALIA, EXCEPT TASMANIA.

belief that only 4 per cent of the population was pure.

Interestingly, no animal tested as a 50 per cent hybrid, meaning no dingoes were a direct offspring of a dog and dingo. For dingoes that weren’t pure, crossbreeding occurred four or five generations in the past.

“While there has been some hybridisation in the past, it’s not occurring at a rapid pace today,” says Kylie.

The team was also startled to discover four distinct regional variations in dingoes across Australia.

CALLS FOR CONSERVATION

This new discovery has several implications when it comes to conservation and management of dingo populations. According to Professor Mike Letnic, UNSW conservation biologist and senior author of the study, existing management decisions have been based on the findings from old DNA testing technology with limited resources.

“We now have a more advanced approach using higher-density genomic data that can be applied to dingoes to assess populations more accurately and inform management strategies with bestavailable evidence.”

Currently dingoes are classified as ‘wild dogs,’ due to assumptions about their hybridisation. This means they are classed as an invasive species and subject to eradication methods, even in national parks where native species are protected. This is dangerous, because without the presence of dingoes, habitats can become overrun by foxes and feral cats that hunt native animals and damage local flora.

“It’s convenient to paint all dingoes as wild dogs. But the term obscures the reality that many pure dingoes and dingo-dominant backcrosses are being killed,” Kylie says.

“In fact, no other native species is treated in quite the same way as the dingo, which is subject to lethal control measures across all landscapes, including ones where they should be protected.”

Researchers are hoping that this new discovery will lead to stronger conservation efforts for dingo populations. By separating them from feral dogs in conservation legislation, efforts to maintain their population levels and save this vital native species can be increased.

Greater education and awareness is another key step for the team, who believe that by better understanding these animals, they can be protected against extinction.

THIS PAGE: ON K'GARI (FRASER ISLAND), QLD, DINGOES ARE OF SIGNIFICANT CONSERVATION VALUE, AS THERE IS LIMITED CROSSBREEDING.

“It’s convenient to paint all dingoes as wild dogs. But the term obscures the reality that many pure dingoes and dingo-dominant backcrosses are being killed.”

HUNGRY HUNGRY CATERPILLARS

Caterpillars could be the key to reducing Australia’s plastic waste, according to a recent study from Macquarie University.

The research, undertaken as part of a collaboration between Macquarie University researchers and enviro-tech startup Samsara Eco, has made significant progress towards developing recycling practices for highly damaging single-use plastics. And the results are astounding.

AUSTRALIA’S PLASTIC PLIGHT

Each year, Australians are responsible for consuming 1 million tonnes of single-use plastic. Around 130,000 tonnes of this plastic ends up in the ocean and other marine environments, resulting in higher levels of carbon emissions and threatening the life of local marine animals. Australia recycles only 18 per cent of its plastic packaging, with the rest ending up in landfill or as litter in our natural environment.

In fact, unless serious action is

Words: Matilda Meikle

taken, experts believe that the amount of plastic in our oceans will outweigh the number of fish by 2050. This statistic has propelled many scientists into action in order to find sustainable solutions for plastic waste. For a team from Macquarie University, the results are already sparking hope.

ANALYTICS AND ANSWERS

The new research is thanks to a collaboration between Microbiologist and ARC Future Fellow Associate Professor Amy Cain, as well as partners such as Samsara Eco.

Amy was granted around $675,000 as part of the Australian Research Council’s Linkage Projects scheme to fund her work on polyurethane (PU) recycling.

According to Amy, “PU is ubiquitous in our lives, from lacquer coatings and elastane clothing to durable foam padding in car seats, cushions and mattresses. There are currently few avenues for recycling and much ends up in landfill.”

In fact, the only method for recycling PU currently involves re-using the material in other products like benches. However, this is only achievable once, as the process erodes the integrity of the plastic and limits its capabilities.

Some forms of PU aren’t recyclable at all. Polyurethane foam is used in mattresses, car seats and more. However, there is currently no process to recycle this material. As mattresses can hold up to 20 kilograms of foam, this can result in large amounts of waste ending up in landfill.

CLEVER CATERPILLARS

In an exciting discovery, Amy and her partners found that there are some

insects that can naturally support the biodegradation of PU.

Using molecular discovery, microbe bioprospecting and synthetic biology, the scientists found that insects have developed the capacity to break down plastics and other synthetics over a long process of evolution. In Macquarie University’s Applied Biosciences laboratories lives the only fully-functional facility for Galleria caterpillars, one such insect that is capable of breaking down single-use plastic.

“Galleria caterpillars attack beehives in Europe and eat the wax which has a similar chemical structure to polyurethane,” Amy explains.

“We are figuring out how they do what they do, picking out the relevant enzymes then creating platforms – in this case synthetic microbes – that eat the plastic more efficiently than the original.”

The team is currently working to better understand this process of plastic biodegradation, and how it can be utilised to sustainably recycle PU. If it is possible to turn PU into other plastics or biofuels, it may result in continued life for this otherwise harmful product.

“This process, which translates nature’s solutions into flexible and efficient synthetic enzyme technologies, will allow plastics to be infinitely recycled,” Amy adds.

The team believes that waste products such as carbon dioxide and water can serve as feedstock for other processes and products, giving them a renewed purpose and limiting the damage to the environment.

These caterpillars can break down more than just traditional single-use plastics. When they were fed polyurethane foam, they were able to eat through roughly 95 per cent in less than three days.

According to Amy, “The caterpillars’ appetite for plastics is so great that they will even eat right through plastic cages and have to be kept under lock and key in glass and metal enclosures.

“Once we fully understand how they are doing this, we will take out the active component and create a safe, synthetic microbe that can be scaled up to become industrially relevant.”

It’s an exciting prospect, and one which many experts believe will lead to more permanent recycling solutions.

OPPOSITE: THE GALLERIA CATERPILLAR. IMAGE: WAYNE BOO/USGS BEE INVENTORY AND MONITORING LAB; 130,000 TONNES OF OUR PLASTIC WASTE ENDS UP IN MARINE ENVIRONMENTS.

RIGHT: GALLERIA CATERPILLARS EAT THE WAX IN BEEHIVES, WHICH HAS A SIMILAR CHEMICAL STRUCTURE TO POLYURETHANE. IMAGE: ROSENDO SERRANO VALERA.

THE LINK BETWEEN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND YOUR RETINA

Aided by a retina map developed by Macquarie University researchers, a major international study has identified protein markers in the eye that mirror changes in the brain, offering hope for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.

Words: Fran Molloy

Changes in the eye could signal Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research showing that physical changes in cells of the retina can occur at the same time as brain changes found in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

A major international study into shared molecular markers and pathways by brain and eye in Alzheimer’s disease, has used the world’s first ‘proteome map’ of both eyes and brains concurrently affected by Alzheimer’s disease developed by Macquarie University researchers.

“Researchers have recognised in recent years that there could be changes in the retina quite early in the disease process, but trying to identify these in the eyes of live patients has proved tricky,” says Professor Stuart Graham, head of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at Macquarie University.

Stuart says that research at Macquarie is investigating how two proteins, called betaamyloid and tau, which are known to build up in the brain of Alzheimer’s patients, can also be found in cellular tissue of the eye, often long before symptoms are apparent. This research could potentially contribute to the future development of an imaging technique with the potential to detect Alzheimer’s disease with a non-invasive eye test.

“The accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau in the central nervous system might be a key initiating factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease,” says Associate Professor Vivek Gupta, a visual neurobiologist who leads Macquarie’s Vision Neurodegeneration research group. He says while the specific cause of Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear, “recent studies by our group and others have reported similar pathological processes and alterations in the retina.”

INTERNATIONAL STUDY

Together with proteomics expert Associate Professor Mehdi Mirzaei from Macquarie University’s Vision Science team, Stuart and Vivek have contributed to an important new international study that analysed donor brain and retina tissue from 86 people.

The group developed a holistic proteome map of human retinas, and of the brain of people who had Alzheimer’s disease, showing

protein changes at the molecular, cellular and structural levels of both eye and brain, and associated cell death and inflammation.

Donors included people with normal brain function, some with mild cognitive impairment, and others who were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as 39 people who had donated both retina and brain tissue, so researchers could directly compare protein levels in each.

The research spanned seven years and involved scientists from 18 different institutions in Australia, Italy and the US, headed by neuroscientist Maya Koronyo-Hamaoui, from Cedars Sinai Medical Center in California.

DISEASE BIOMARKERS

The international study found thatpeople who had Alzheimer’s disease showed nine times the amount of beta-amyloid protein in their retina compared to people who didn’t show any signs of cognitive impairment during their lifetime.

This protein is a specific marker of Alzheimer’s disease, and the study also found that these markers occurred at around five times the rate in people who had not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease during their lifetime, but had shown signs of mild cognitive impairment.

The researchers were also able to track patterns in the location of these markers within the retina, with higher levels found in the tissues of the retina’s inner layer.

“We don’t have a device in the clinic to identify these changes in a living eye yet; but if we can label these proteins, then develop an imaging device that can spot change at the

“The accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau in the central nervous system might be a key initiating factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.”

LEFT TO RIGHT: DR VIVEK GUPTA, DR MEHDI MIRZAEI AND DR STUART GRAHAM.

earliest stages, we may have a way to clinically diagnose diseases such as Alzheimer’s,” says Stuart.

COMMON PATHWAYS

Stuart says that a range of degenerative diseases (including Alzheimer’s) share common cell deterioration pathways, and identifying patterns in the types and locations of abnormal proteins in retinal cells may also help diagnose such diseases as glaucoma.

“We can readily diagnose advanced glaucoma now by imaging the back of the eye, but we also know there are changes occurring at the molecular or cellular level, long before we can see those structural changes when nerve fibres start to drop out,” he says.

The sooner a diagnosis is made in degenerative disease, the sooner treatments can be targeted at stopping the damage at an early stage.

Key to our ability to identify the progress of different degenerative diseases through changes in the eye is likely to be via understanding the ‘proteomics,’ or the protein make-up, of cells in the retina.

PROTEIN BARS

The development of a proteome map involved a detailed analysis of brain and eye tissue at molecular level, and drew on Macquarie University’s deep proteomics expertise.

“Proteomics is the study of the entire set of proteins present in a particular tissue or biological sample level,” explains Mehdi.

He says that quantitative proteomics has become a powerful tool in understanding, diagnosing and treating disease. It can help find markers to identify and predict diseases and mark disease progression. It can reveal potential new medicine targets, be used to create personalised treatments and even show the effectiveness of disease treatments.

“We’ve been applying these techniques in vision neuroscience for the past few years, in collaboration with Stuart Graham’s group, and with a range of other internal and external partners,” he says.

“Initially we focused on identifying the molecular mechanisms that were apparent in glaucoma, which paved the way for our ground-breaking

research into deciphering the shared molecular markers and pathways in Alzheimer’s disease.”

Mehdi says their work was meticulously compared against other crucial Alzheimer’s brain datasets available online, and also unearthed a remarkable similarity between human tissues and animal models of the disease.

“This underscores the immense potential of further studies on the proteome of the eye and brain in various animal models of Alzheimer’s disease, bringing us closer to developing future treatments,” he says.

Professor Stuart Graham is Head of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at Macquarie University. Dr Mehdi Mirzaei is an Honorary Associate Professor at the Macquarie Medical School. Dr Vivek Gupta is an Associate Professor at the Macquarie Medical School.

THIS PAGE: THIS RESEARCH COULD CONTRIBUTE TO A FUTURE IMAGING TECHNIQUE THAT DETECTS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE WITH A NONINVASIVE EYE TEST.

Ghost catsharks live just above the seabed in deep ocean water, mostly sticking to depths of around 2,000 to 6,000 feet. They grow to around 85 centimetres in length and lay their eggs in coral colonies far beneath the ocean’s surface.

There is little known about these unique creatures, mostly due to their deep-sea habitat. However, a ghost catshark egg collected by scientists around 40 years ago – which has remained in an Australian museum every since – has provided greater insight into this mysterious animal.

Recently, this egg sparked newfound interest when scientists noticed it was unlike any other shark egg they had seen, with strange ridges across the surface. While the egg was previously attributed to a

THE GHOST IN AUSTRALIAN WATERS

A new species of ghost catshark has been discovered by Australian scientists after an unusual egg, housed in an Australian museum for decades, sparked questions by experts.

Words: Matilda Meikle

species of freckled catsharks, further research suggested the egg belonged to an entirely new category of catshark. This resulted in an egg hunt through museum archives, eventually leading experts to conclude that the egg came from an entirely unidentified species. This new species of has been named Apristurus ovicorrugatus due to its corrugated eggs. Already, there are several theories as to the need for this rough egg surface. Many suggest that the ridges provide the eggs with additional strength and protection to defend against predators. Sea snails often drill holes into shark eggs for food, however this becomes significantly more difficult if the shell is covered in hard spikes.

Similarly, deep-sea trawling and mining pose a major threat to these animals, as they lay their eggs in coral ecosystems which are commonly trawled. Again, the shell surface may act as a last defence against these dangerous machines, which pose a major risk to the survival of all ghost catshark species.

The new discovery has prompted further research into the habits and habitats of these unique creatures. It opens up questions about their evolution, and also provides scientists with insight into the greatest risks facing these sharks. Armed with more information, they will be able to make better decisions when it comes to conservation and expand their knowledge on this new species.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Egg casing on coral; An adult ghost catshark; Embronic egg casing. Images: William White/CSIRO.

What is your final destination? We can help you get there.

Whatever you want in life, a secure platform is what will allow you to spread your wings and fly.

Every journey begins with a single step – wherever you are going, Saxo is here for you.

Built on Scandinavian values, designed in Denmark – invested in Australia.