NSW has launched a $20M Shore Power project at White Bay Cruise Terminal, providing electricity to docked cruise ships to reduce emissions. This will cut over 4,000 tonnes of emissions annually, benefiting local communities. The project, to be completed by 2026, aligns Sydney with global ports and enhances sustainability in NSW’s cruise industry.
Tougher domestic violence laws
THE NSW Government has introduced tougher domestic violence laws, including higher penalties for breaching Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs). New offences target intentional and persistent breaches, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison. A Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Order (SDAPO) has been introduced for high-risk offenders, with similar penalties for violations. Additional reforms include enhanced stalking definitions and electronic provisional AVOs. The laws complement earlier measures and a $245.6M investment in victim support.
Salvos are calling for volunteers
THE Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) is urging NSW residents to volunteer ahead of the upcoming disaster season. Volunteers provide vital support during disasters, offering meals, supplies, and emotional assistance to first responders and survivors. With a long history of disaster relief, SAES seeks passionate volunteers for various roles. The thorough application process ensures the right fit, with training provided. Visit the Salvation Army website for more details.
E- Scooter riders face tough penalties
E-SCOOTER riders can face significant penalties for breaking the law, similar to car drivers. Slater and Gordon Legal Counsel, Jess Lyons, warns of license loss for offenses like exceeding alcohol limits or speeding. Rules vary by state, with speed limits ranging from 15-25km/h. Helmets are mandatory, and restrictions apply on where e-scooters can be ridden. South Australia has the strictest regulations, requiring registration and insurance for e-scooters used outside private property.
Looking at better training for venues
THE NSW Government is exploring adding sexual harassment and violence prevention training to the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) handbook for licensed venues. This follows recent updates addressing drink spiking, requiring staff to take specific actions during incidents. Advocacy groups have pushed for expanded RSA training, and the revised handbook, issued to training providers, must be updated by September 30, 2024. Campaigns like “Ask for Angela” complement these efforts to improve venue safety.
Grant money for cancer research
THE NSW Government is committing $2.1M in grants for cancer research, coinciding with World Cancer Research Day. Funding includes $700,000 each for Professors Georgina Long and Paul Timpson for advanced imaging systems to study tumor environments. Three clinical trials grants, worth $250,000 each, aim to improve access to trials for underserved communities. The Cancer Institute NSW has invested over $470 million in research over the past 20 years.
Critical shortage of stem cells
AUSTRALIA faces a critical shortage of registered stem cell donors, with 1,000 patients urgently waiting for a match, mostly blood cancer patients. The Leukaemia Foundation and Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry are urging Australians aged 18-35 to sign up as donors, especially from diverse backgrounds. Most stem cell donations are simple, similar to plasma donation. Increasing local donors can improve patient survival chances. Sign up at Strength to Give.
Doctors say don’t ignore symptoms
DOCTORS are urging Australians not to ignore hay fever symptoms, particularly asthmatics, as allergy season begins. Bupa’s Dr. Tony MacDermott warns that hay fever, affecting 1 in 5 Australians, can worsen asthma, potentially leading to serious health issues if untreated. Symptoms of hay fever and asthma can overlap, making diagnosis challenging. Dr. MacDermott advises consulting a GP for proper treatment and ensuring asthma prevention measures, like checking inhalers, are up-to-date.
Need for early dementia detection
RESEARCH from CHeBA’s Sydney Memory and Ageing Study, led by Dr. Russell Chander, reveals that dementia and mild cognitive impairment significantly affect social cognition, which includes interpreting social cues and empathy. Over 300 adults aged 70-90 were assessed, showing dementia worsens social skills, while mild cognitive impairment leads to subtler deficits. This highlights the need for early detection and targeted interventions to maintain social engagement and reduce the burden on caregivers.
Diabetes medicine has been approved
THE Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Mounjaro, a medicine originally for type 2 diabetes, for chronic weight management in Australians with obesity or overweight and a related health issue. It is used alongside diet and exercise. Mounjaro mimics two hormones to regulate blood sugar and promote fullness. Healthcare professionals welcome the approval, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based treatments in tackling Australia’s obesity epidemic, which affects two-thirds of adults.
Scouts appoint Anthea as its Chair
SCOUTS NSW has appointed Anthea Cudworth as Chair and Kaylene Hubbard as Deputy Chair following its Annual General Meeting. Anthea brings over 20 years of corporate affairs experience and has volunteered with Scouts for over a decade, while Kaylene has 25 years in professional services and is a former Managing Partner at KPMG. The Board also welcomed new Ex-Officio Directors Philip Cooper and Niamh Hitchman. Chief Commissioner Lloyd Nurthen praised the new leadership’s potential to navigate challenges in the not-for-profit sector.