Editors Picks
08 September 2024
WHY WE ARE RETIRING MUCH EARLIER
A HESTA survey reveals that 49% of Australians aged 18-39 have taken action to plan for retirement, driven by cost-of-living pressures over the past year. This includes salary sacrificing and using online tools to track superannuation. In comparison, 44% of those aged 40-54 and 29% of those 55-plus have taken similar steps. The survey highlights growing awareness among younger Australians about the importance of superannuation for long-term financial security, with running out of money being their top retirement concern.
08 September 2024
WHY THE DIFFICULTY GIVING PETS MEDICINE?
ADMINISTERING medications to dogs can be challenging, often straining the pet-owner bond. Many owners struggle with traditional methods, leading to missed doses and stress. A study shows 65% of pet owners face difficulties giving pills, with 29% feeling stressed. Veterinary experts emphasise the importance of stress-free medication routines for managing chronic conditions like skin diseases. Innovations in pet medications, such as palatable treat-like options and long-acting injectables, are making the process easier, ensuring pets receive necessary treatments consistently and improving their overall well-being.
08 September 2024
GLOBAL PANDEMIC OF SUPER BUGS
RESEARCHERS warn that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals, particularly in Southeast Asia, could lead to a global pandemic of deadly superbugs. A study in the International Journal of Food Science and Technology highlights the risk posed by overuse of antibiotics in food animals, which can transfer resistant bacteria to humans. The team, including experts from RMIT University, recommends regional collaboration, stronger regulations, public awareness, and innovation in alternative treatments to combat AMR and safeguard public health.
08 September 2024
BOOST FOR SUPER PAYMENTS TO MUMS
THE Australian Government's decision to legislate superannuation payments on its parental leave scheme will help reduce gender inequity and boost a mother of two’s retirement savings by approximately $14,500. This reform will benefit around 180,000 Australian mothers annually and narrow the gender superannuation gap, which currently stands at $50,000 for those nearing retirement. Super Members Council CEO Misha Schubert urges swift passage of the Bill, highlighting its potential to significantly improve financial security for women and advance gender equity in retirement.
08 September 2024
MEDIA DEAL FOR WOMEN'S SPORT COVERAGE
FOOTBALL Australia and Paramount Australia have announced a multi-year agreement, making Network 10 and Paramount+ the exclusive broadcasters of CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos matches in Australia until 2028. This includes major events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ and AFC Asian Cup 2027™. The deal ensures 96% of Australian homes can access the games, with at least 50 matches on free-to-air TV. The agreement aims to enhance fan accessibility, boost football’s exposure, and support women’s football.
29 August 2024
BOOK INTO CASTLE HILL LIBRARY EVENTS
THIS September is fully booked with exciting activities as Castle Hill Library celebrates 20 years since its doors first opened in 2004.
Castle Hill Library has been around since before The Hunger Games, Twilight, and the complete Harry Potter series was published. Over the past 20 years the library has attracted award winning authors such as Nicholas Sparks, Markus Zusak, Paullina Simons, and Andy Griffiths.
Mayor of The Hills Shire Council, Dr Peter Gangemi said that the library is a very special place for the community.
“Castle Hill Library is more than somewhere to just borrow a book. It’s a place where the whole Hills community, from preschoolers, to school students, to seniors can enjoy workshops, services, and events,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“Congratulations to the library staff who work tirelessly to create an ideal space for studying and learning, where residents feel connected to their local area. Castle Hill Library was voted among the top five best libraries in Sydney to study in.
“I invite everyone to celebrate the great milestone of 20 years and come along to the special events arranged to reminisce and reflect upon how far the library has come.”
To celebrate the anniversary, Castle Hill Library is hosting five events.
The first event is an exciting scavenger hunt for primary school kids on Sunday 1 September and runs through the whole month. Collect stickers and earn rewards along the way.
The second event on Tuesday September 3 is Perform Education’s new musical Maybe a Miracle! which is a fun, interactive adventure aimed at primary school students. Tickets are $10 per person.
The next event is the Urban Gardens – History of the Australian Backyard free talk with horticulturalist, writer, and presenter Judy Horton on Friday 13 September. Join Judy and delve into the trends, world events, and social changes that impact Aussie gardens.
The fourth event on Tuesday 17 September and Friday 20 September is a free birthday storytime, filled with fun stories, songs, and craft activities for preschoolers aged 2 to 5.
To close off the birthday celebrations, the final event on Monday 30 September is an author talk with leading Australian crime fiction novelist Chris Hammer who will discuss his brand-new thriller The Valley with award-winning author Dinuka McKenzie. Tickets are $10 per person.
For more information on each event, visit this link, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Residents/Library
Featured
19 August 2024
FOUR MORE MEDICARE MENTAL HEALTH CENTRES
Two scheduled to open in Western Sydney
ON Friday, August 16 at the Adult Mental Health Centre, Parramatta, the locations of four additional Medicare Mental Health Centres for NSW were announced.
