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How niggling hip pain led a squash coach to life-saving cancer diagnosis

<p>Melbourne squash coach and player Malcolm McClarty had been experiencing frequent pain in his right hip area for about 12 months before he mentioned it to one of his clients, a top medical oncologist, in October last year.</p> <p>The 63-year-old father-of-three coaches Professor Niall Tebbutt at the Kooyong Lawn and Tennis Club in Melbourne. </p> <p>Despite having lost his younger sister to pancreatic cancer just months earlier, Malcolm had been brushing off the pain, thinking it was a niggling sporting injury. </p> <p>Now Malcolm credits Niall, who ordered a prostate-specific antigen test (PSA), with saving his life. </p> <p>Malcolm also coaches Weranja Ranasinghe, a urologist with the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ), who has been his ‘unofficial second opinion’ throughout the journey. </p> <p>Associate Professor Ranasinghe says Malcolm’s diagnosis comes as the newly-released Lancet Commission on Prostate Cancer predicts cases worldwide will double from 1.4 million to 2.9 million by 2040. </p> <p>The USANZ says although the findings are alarming, Australia is well-placed to manage the spike thanks to availability of advanced diagnostic tools, improvements in treatments and quality control registries, but it needs to be coupled with more awareness. </p> <p>“Australia is better placed than many other nations to deal with a sharp spike in prostate cancer cases, but the urgent review of guidelines can’t come soon enough,” says Associate Professor Ranasinghe.</p> <p>“Prostate cancer is not commonly understood or spoken about, particularly amongst high-risk younger men, leaving too many in the dark about their cancer risk and that can be deadly,” he added. </p> <p>“Prostate cancer is already a major cause of death and disability, and the most common form of male cancer in more than 100 countries,” says Associate Professor Ranasinghe. “It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia with over 25,000 new cases every year, and more than 11 deaths a day.”</p> <p>Malcolm was devastated to learn his cancer was aggressive Stage Four and had spread to three spots in the pelvic bone. He also experienced other symptoms including frequent and weak-flow urinating at night. </p> <p>He will begin radiotherapy, with chemotherapy on the cards as well. But his attitude is positive; he’s hoping to live for another six to 10 years. </p> <p>Malcolm’s message for other men is simple: if you’re 50 or older, get tested for prostate cancer now. He warns waiting can lead to complex and limited treatment options. </p> <p><strong>Five Risk Factors For Prostate Cancer</strong></p> <p><strong>1.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Age</strong> - the chance of developing prostate cancer increases with age.</p> <p><strong>2.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Family history</strong> - if you have a first-degree male relative who developed prostate cancer, like a brother or father, your risk is higher than someone without such family history.</p> <p><strong>3.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Genetics</strong> - while prostate cancer can’t be inherited, a man can inherit certain genes that increase the risk.</p> <p><strong>4.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Diet</strong> - some evidence suggests that a diet high in processed meat, or foods high in fat can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.</p> <p><strong>5.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Lifestyle</strong> - environment and lifestyle can also impact your risk, e.g. a sedentary lifestyle or being exposed to chemicals. </p> <p>For more information, visit <a href="https://www.usanz.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.usanz.org.au/</a></p>

Caring

Jess Rowe explains her husband's absence from the news desk

<p>Jessica Rowe has shared the reason why her husband Peter Overton has been absent from his presenting duties on the <em>9News</em> desk for the last few weeks. </p> <p>Taking to her Instagram, Rowe explained that Overton has been at home recovering from surgery and will remain on leave for another few weeks. </p> <p>“Many of you have been missing Petee from your TV screens these past couple of weeks & have asked me where he is!” the 53-year-old began in her post. </p> <p>“Well he’s at home recovering from hip replacement surgery & getting lots of TLC. Petee will be back @9newssydney soon!”</p> <p>In her post, the former Studio 10 host shared a photo of her husband, 58, with his feet up on the bed, appearing in good spirits.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5r02QYydV1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5r02QYydV1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jessica Rowe (@jessjrowe)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Her followers thanked Rowe for the update while also wishing the beloved news anchor a speedy recovery from the extensive procedure. </p> <p>“Oh! We miss seeing you Pete! Get well soon,” wrote one, while another commented, “Thank you we have missed Pete wondering what had happened to him. Wishing Pete all the very best for a speedy recovery.”</p> <p>“Legend! The best in the business! Hope you are back reading the news soon. Miss seeing you read the evening news so much,” wrote yet another.</p> <p>Others who had undergone the same surgery shared their words of encouragement, with one person commenting, “OMG Peter I had hip replacement surgery 5 weeks ago. Hang in there buddy it gets better I promise.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

50 years on, Advance Australia Fair no longer reflects the values of many. What could replace it?

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/wendy-hargreaves-1373285">Wendy Hargreaves</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a></em></p> <p>On April 8 1974, Prime Minister Gough Whitlam announced to parliament the nation’s new national anthem: <a href="https://www.pmc.gov.au/honours-and-symbols/australian-national-symbols/australian-national-anthem">Advance Australia Fair</a>.</p> <p>Australia was growing up. We could stop saving “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God_Save_the_King">our gracious Queen</a>” and rejoice in being “young” and “girt”.</p> <p>Finding a new anthem hadn’t been easy. There were unsuccessful <a href="https://www.naa.gov.au/help-your-research/fact-sheets/australias-national-anthem">songwriting competitions</a> and an unconvincing opinion poll. Finally, we landed on rebooting an Australian favourite from 1878.</p> <p>After Whitlam’s announcement, Australians argued, state officials declined the change and the next government reinstated the British anthem in part. It took another ten years, another poll and an official proclamation in 1984 to adopt the new anthem uniformly and get on with looking grown-up.</p> <p>Advance Australia Fair was never the ideal answer to “what shall we sing?”. The original lyrics ignored First Nations people and overlooked women. Like a grunting teenager, it both answered the question and left a lot out.</p> <p>On its 50th anniversary, it’s time to consider whether we got it right. Advance Australia Fair may have helped Australia transition through the 1970s, but in 2024, has it outstayed its welcome?</p> <h2>How do you pick a national anthem?</h2> <p>A national anthem is a government-authorised song performed at official occasions and celebrations. It unifies people and reinforces national identity. Often, governments nominate a tune by searching through historical patriotic songs to find a <a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/golden-oldie">golden oldie</a> with known public appeal.</p> <p>For example, the lyrics of the Japanese anthem <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimigayo">Kimigayo</a> came from pre-10th-century poetry. Germany’s anthem <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Deutschlandlied">Deutschlandlied</a> adopted a 1797 melody from renowned composer <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Joseph-Haydn">Joseph Haydn</a>. An enduring song or text offers star quality, proven popularity and the prestige of age.</p> <p>In the 1970s, Australia’s attempt at finding a golden oldie was flawed. In that era, many believed Australia’s birth occurred at the arrival of explorer <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/James-Cook">James Cook</a> in 1770. Hence, we narrowed our search to hymns, marches and fanfares from our colonial history for possible anthems.</p> <p>With 2020s hindsight (pun intended), <a href="https://theconversation.com/our-national-anthem-is-non-inclusive-indigenous-australians-shouldnt-have-to-sing-it-118177">expecting First Nations</a> people to sing Advance Australia Fair was hypocritical. We wanted to raise Australia’s visibility internationally, yet the custodians of the lands and waterways were unseen by our country’s eyes. We championed “history’s page” with a 19th-century song that participated in racial discrimination.</p> <h2>Changing anthems</h2> <p>With a half-century on the scoreboard, are we locked in to singing Advance Australia Fair forever? No.</p> <p>Anthems can change. Just ask <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Morrison_(jazz_musician)">James Morrison</a>. In 2003, the Australian trumpeter played the Spanish national anthem beautifully at the <a href="https://www.daviscup.com/en/home.aspx">Davis Cup</a> tennis final. Unfortunately, he <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2003-11-28/spanish-angry-over-anthem-mix-up/1516684">played the old anthem</a> that heralded civil war.</p> <p>Morrison’s accidental performance incited a fist-shaking dignitary and an enraged Spanish team who temporarily refused to play. Morrison did, however, to his embarrassment, later receive some excited fan mail from Spanish revolutionists.</p> <p>If we want to change our anthem, where could we begin? We could start by revisiting the golden-oldie approach with a more inclusive ear. Perhaps there’s a song from contemporary First Nations musicians we could consider, or a song from their enduring oral tradition that they deem appropriate (and grant permission to use).</p> <p>If we have learnt anything from Australian history, it’s that we must include and ask – not exclude and take.</p> <p>We could also consider Bruce Woodley and Dobe Newton’s 1987 song <a href="https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/asset/101146-i-am-australian-various">I Am Australian</a>, which reached golden-oldie status last year when the <a href="https://www.nfsa.gov.au/slip-slop-slap-i-am-australian-join-sounds-australia">National Film and Sound Archive</a> added it to their registry. The lyrics show the acknowledgement and respect of First Nations people that our current anthem lacks. The line “we are one, but we are many” captures the inclusivity with diversity we now value.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KrLTe1_9zso?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>I Am Australian wouldn’t be a problem-free choice. Musically, the style is a “light rock” song, not a grand “hymn”, which could be a plus or minus depending on your view. Lyrically, romanticising convicted killer <a href="https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/kelly-edward-ned-3933">Ned Kelly</a> is controversial, and mispronouncing “Australians” could be considered inauthentic (fair dinkum Aussies say “Au-strail-yins”, not “Au-stray-lee-uhns”).</p> <p>That said, Australians are quite experienced at patching holes in our anthem. Advance Australia Fair required many adjustments.</p> <p>If the golden-oldie approach fails again, how about composing a new anthem? We could adopt <a href="https://nationalanthems.info/ke.htm">Kenya’s approach</a> of commissioning an anthem, or could revive the good ol’ songwriting competition. Our past competitions weren’t fruitful, but surely our many talented musicians and poets today can meet the challenge.</p> <h2>It’s time to ask</h2> <p>Fifty years on, we acknowledge Advance Australia Fair as the anthem that moved our nation forward. That was the first and hardest step. Today, if Australians choose, we can retire the song gracefully and try again with a clearer voice.</p> <p>Changing our anthem begins with asking whether the current song really declares who we are. Have our values, our perspectives and our identity changed in half a century?</p> <p>Australia, it’s your song. Are you happy to sing Advance Australia Fair for another 50 years? <img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/226737/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/wendy-hargreaves-1373285">Wendy Hargreaves</a>, Senior Learning Advisor, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/50-years-on-advance-australia-fair-no-longer-reflects-the-values-of-many-what-could-replace-it-226737">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock | Wikimedia Commons</em></p>

Music

Run out of butter or eggs? Here’s the science behind substitute ingredients

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paulomi-polly-burey-404695">Paulomi (Polly) Burey</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a></em></p> <p>It’s an all too common situation – you’re busy cooking or baking to a recipe when you open the cupboard and suddenly realise you are missing an ingredient.</p> <p>Unless you can immediately run to the shops, this can leave you scrambling for a substitute that can perform a similar function. Thankfully, such substitutes can be more successful than you’d expect.</p> <p>There are a few reasons why certain ingredient substitutions work so well. This is usually to do with the chemistry and the physical features having enough similarity to the original ingredient to still do the job appropriately.</p> <p>Let’s delve into some common ingredient substitutions and why they work – or need to be tweaked.</p> <p><iframe id="IitfH" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: none;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/IitfH/1/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0"></iframe></p> <h2>Oils versus butter</h2> <p>Both butter and oils belong to a chemical class called <a href="https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Introductory_Chemistry/Map%3A_Fundamentals_of_General_Organic_and_Biological_Chemistry_(McMurry_et_al.)/23%3A_Lipids/23.01%3A_Structure_and_Classification_of_Lipids">lipids</a>. It encompasses solid, semi-solid and liquid fats.</p> <p>In a baked product the “job” of these ingredients is to provide flavour and influence the structure and texture of the finished item. In cake batters, lipids contribute to creating an emulsion structure – this means combining two liquids that wouldn’t usually mix. In the baking process, this helps to create a light, fluffy crumb.</p> <p>One of the primary differences between butter and oil is that butter is only about 80% lipid (the rest being water), while <a href="https://www.nutritionadvance.com/types-of-cooking-fats-and-oils/">oil is almost 100% lipid</a>. Oil creates a softer crumb but is still a great fat to bake with.</p> <p>You can use a wide range of oils from different sources, such as olive oil, rice bran, avocado, peanut, coconut, macadamia and many more. Each of these may impart different flavours.</p> <p>Other “butters”, such as peanut and cashew butter, aren’t strictly butters but pastes. They impart different characteristics and can’t easily replace dairy butter, unless you also add extra oil.</p> <h2>Aquafaba or flaxseed versus eggs</h2> <p>Aquafaba is the liquid you drain from a can of legumes – such as chickpeas or lentils. It contains proteins, kind of how egg white also contains proteins.</p> <p>The proteins in egg white include albumins, and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5912395/">aquafaba also contains albumins</a>. This is why it is possible to make meringue from egg whites, or from aquafaba if you’re after a vegan version.</p> <p>The proteins act as a foam stabiliser – they hold the light, airy texture in the product. The concentration of protein in egg white is a bit higher, so it doesn’t take long to create a stable foam. Aquafaba requires more whipping to create a meringue-like foam, but it will bake in a similar way.</p> <p>Another albumin-containing alternative for eggs is <a href="https://foodstruct.com/compare/seeds-flaxseed-vs-egg">flaxseed</a>. These seeds form a thick gel texture when mixed with a little water. The texture is similar to raw egg and can provide structure and emulsification in baked recipes that call for a small amount of egg white.</p> <h2>Lemon plus dairy versus buttermilk</h2> <p>Buttermilk is the liquid left over after churning butter – it can be made from sweet cream, cultured/sour cream or whey-based cream. Buttermilk mostly <a href="https://www.journalofdairyscience.org/article/S0022-0302(06)72115-4/fulltext">contains proteins and fats</a>.</p> <p>Cultured buttermilk has a somewhat tangy flavour. Slightly soured milk can be a good substitute as it contains similar components and isn’t too different from “real” buttermilk, chemically speaking.</p> <p>One way to achieve slightly soured milk is by adding some lemon juice or cream of tartar to milk. Buttermilk is used in pancakes and baked goods to give extra height or volume. This is because the acidic (sour) components of buttermilk interact with baking soda, producing a light and airy texture.</p> <p>Buttermilk can also influence flavour, imparting a slightly tangy taste to pancakes and baked goods. It can also be used in sauces and dressings if you’re looking for a lightly acidic touch.</p> <h2>Honey versus sugar</h2> <p>Honey is a <a href="https://resources.perkinelmer.com/lab-solutions/resources/docs/APP_Analysis-of-Sugars-in-Honey-012101_01.pdf">complex sugar-based syrup</a> that includes floral or botanical flavours and aromas. Honey can be used in cooking and baking, adding both flavour and texture (viscosity, softness) to a wide range of products.</p> <p>If you add honey instead of regular sugar in baked goods, keep in mind that honey imparts a softer, moister texture. This is because it contains more moisture and is a humectant (that is, it likes to hold on to water). It is also less crystalline than sugar, unless you leave it to crystallise.</p> <p>The intensity of sweetness can also be different – some people find honey is sweeter than its granular counterpart, so you will want to adjust your recipes accordingly.</p> <h2>Gluten-free versus regular flour</h2> <p>Sometimes you need to make substitutions to avoid allergens, such as gluten – the protein found in cereal grains such as wheat, rye, barley and others.</p> <p>Unfortunately, gluten is also the component that gives a nice, stretchy, squishy quality to bread.</p> <p>To build this characteristic in a gluten-free product, it’s necessary to have a mixture of ingredients that work together to mimic this texture. Common ingredients used are corn or rice flour, xanthan gum, which acts as a binder and moisture holder, and tapioca starch, which is a good water absorbent and can aid with binding the dough. <img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/202036/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paulomi-polly-burey-404695">Paulomi (Polly) Burey</a>, Associate Professor (Food Science), <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/run-out-of-butter-or-eggs-heres-the-science-behind-substitute-ingredients-202036">original article</a>.</em></p>

Food & Wine

"Hopefully it's permanent": Karl's surprise holiday replacement announced

<p>Karl Stefanovic's Christmas leave replacement on the Today show was announced on Monday, when it was revealed that Dr Nick Coatsworth, Australia's former deputy chief medical officer, would be filling Stefanovic's hosting shoes from December 26, granting the veteran host a well-deserved New Year's rendezvous with his family.</p> <p>However, the digital realm erupted with mixed emotions following the news, with some online users not just celebrating Stefanovic's temporary absence but actively calling for the replacement to be made permanent.</p> <p>Social media platforms buzzed with comments like, 'Please make it a permanent break', and 'Complete overhaul needed', suggesting a desire for a fresh face at the helm of the popular morning show. One disgruntled user even quipped, 'Hopefully it is permanent; the only one who thinks he is funny is him. Poor co-hosts with their fake laughs.'</p> <p>As the summer breeze of change swept through the <em>Today</em> show, co-host Sarah Abo found herself replaced for the holiday season by regular <em>Today</em> show reporter Mia Glover, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the show's temporary makeover.</p> <p>The real thunderstorm, however, came with the surprising decision to appoint Dr Coatsworth as the temporary host. A prominent figure in the medical field, Coatsworth had been a regular contributor to Channel Nine, particularly on matters of medicine.</p> <p>Reports surfaced of disquiet among viewers, claiming 'plenty of noses are out of joint' over this unconventional choice. This sentiment likely stems from the fact that Dr Coatsworth, despite his frequent appearances as the show's medical expert during the pandemic, has never before taken on the role of the show's host.</p> <p>Dr Coatsworth also has a new show in the pipeline titled <em>Do You Want to Live Forever?</em>, set to be broadcast on Nine next year. This unexpected move only adds to the intrigue surrounding the doctor's stint as a morning show host.</p> <p>This shakeup comes at a critical juncture for the <em>Today</em> show, as its arch-rival, <em>Sunrise</em>, gears up for its 20th year of dominating the breakfast ratings war. According to the 2022 OzTam survey, Sunrise boasted an average national daily audience of 397,000 viewers, proudly claiming to be '31 per cent bigger than its nearest competitor.' <em>Today</em>, on the other hand, has struggled in recent years to close the gap with <em>Sunrise</em>, facing challenges exacerbated by a revolving door of presenters on the Nine show.</p> <p><em>Images: Nine</em></p>

Ally Langdon's ACA replacement announced

<p>Less than one year after taking over the coveted hosting role of <em>A Current Affair</em>, Ally Langdon's replacement has officially been announced. </p> <p>Langdon is taking a well-deserved annual leave break for a few weeks, with another veteran female journalist taking the reins while she's away. </p> <p>Just weeks after being axed from her role at 2GB radio, Deborah Knight will take over from Langdon while she's enjoying her leave. </p> <p>Knight revealed her temporary new role on Instagram on Tuesday, writing, "In the @acurrentaffair9 hot seat for a couple of weeks while @allisonlangdon enjoys a break. Tune in!"</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0bJu0-JYsb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0bJu0-JYsb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Deborah Knight (@deborah_knight)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>It's unclear how long Ally will be away, but it appears to be just for the summer holidays. </p> <p>The news of Deb Knight's new role comes just days after her <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/deb-knight-s-2gb-replacement-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">replacement</a> on 2GB was announced, with Michael McLaren taking over the <em>Afternoons</em> program from January 15th next year. </p> <p>The 38-year-old presenter told Ben Fordham on Thursday that he had "big boots to fill" but was excited to start the role. </p> <p>"I am honoured to be doing it. There has been a rich and great legacy on 2GB for years and years on afternoons and most recently with Deb so it is big boots to fill," McLaren said. </p> <p>"I am going to do my best."</p> <p>According to <em>The Sunday Telegraph</em>, Knight reportedly felt "shattered" after Nine Radio informed her earlier this month that she would be axed as host after her four year stint. </p> <p>Knight was told of the decision just one week before the news was broken to the public, but shared that she would not be leaving the network for good, as she will be taking up a new role as the national host of <em>Money News.</em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine - A Current Affair</em></p> <p> </p>

Deb Knight's 2GB replacement revealed

<p>After four years as host of the 2GB <em>Afternoons</em> program, Deb Knight has been axed from the coveted role. </p> <p>Knight's brutal dismissal comes after a noticeable <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/deb-knight-facing-the-chopping-block" target="_blank" rel="noopener">decline in ratings</a>, with Knight holding a mere six percent market share, as indicated by the latest radio ratings survey.</p> <p>From January 15th next year, Deb will be replaced by Michael McLaren, as the 38-year-old presenter told Ben Fordham on on Thursday that he had "big boots to fill" but was excited to start the role. </p> <p>"I am honoured to be doing it. There has been a rich and great legacy on 2GB for years and years on afternoons and most recently with Deb so it is big boots to fill," McLaren said. </p> <p>"I am going to do my best."</p> <p>The 38-year-old father added he is excited to bring his own niche interests and signature wit to the talkback show while covering the latest news and entertainment. </p> <p>"We are going to do traditional afternoon radio, the open line will drive it," McLaren said. </p> <p>"We will be across the news but we will also be across the entertainment things. My interests are sort of a little esoteric at times – I like the history stuff so we will have plenty of that."</p> <p>"I am told I have a dry sense of humour so I will bring that hopefully to the table as well."</p> <p>According to <em>The Sunday Telegraph</em>, Knight reportedly felt "shattered" after Nine Radio informed her earlier this month that she would be axed as host after her four year stint. </p> <p>Knight was told of the decision just one week before the news was broken to the public, but shared that she would not be leaving the network for good, as she will be taking up a new role as the national host of <em>Money News</em>.</p> <p>"I am stepping back as host of afternoons. I am not, however, leaving 2GB. In fact I'm taking on a new broader network role," she said. </p> <p>"I have missed too many school drop offs and pick ups over the years, I do often put work first. So I'm very much looking forward to being able to be here a lot more for my family."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 2GB</em></p>

Music

Squats and lunges might help you avoid knee surgery

<p>Whether it’s another round of squats and lunges, or a longer wall sit, researchers say working those quads could help lower your risk of a knee replacement.</p> <div> <p>In Australia, <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/musculoskeletal-conditions/contents/arthritis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">about 9% of the population</a> has osteoarthritis, a condition known to lead to hip and knee surgery in severe cases. About 14 million Americans suffer from knee osteoarthritis, about half are expected to face knee replacement surgery. </p> <p>But new research offers hope, finding stronger quadricep muscles could play a role in avoiding knee replacement surgery.</p> <p>A study presented to <a href="https://press.rsna.org/timssnet/media/rsna/newsroom2023.cfm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">annual meeting</a> of the Radiological Society of North America, offers hope to people with arthritis, finding stronger quadriceps could help in avoiding a knee replacement.</p> <p>The two most important muscles in the knee are the extensors or quadriceps, and the hamstrings. Quads are the strong muscles located at the front of the thigh, which play a key role in gait. Hammies at the back of the thigh, are essential for hip and knee flexibility.</p> <p>The two muscles act as opposing forces, allowing physical activity while also protecting the knee. An imbalance can change the body’s biomechanics, and may progress to osteoarthritis.</p> <p>Using MRI scans – from the time of surgery as well as 2 and 4 years prior – researchers analysed thigh muscle volume in 134 participants from a national study called the Osteoarthritis Initiative. </p> <p>Using artificial intelligence to compute muscle volume from the MRI scans, the researchers compared 67 of the cohort who had a total, single knee replacement with 67 control participants who had not undergone knee replacement surgery.</p> <p>They found patients who had a higher ratio of quadricep to hamstring volume had significantly lower odds of a total knee replacement. Higher volume hamstrings were also associated with lower odds of surgery.</p> <p>The results suggest strength training – focusing on the quadriceps – may be beneficial, both in people with arthritis as well as the general population.</p> <p> <em><img id="cosmos-post-tracker" src="https://syndication.cosmosmagazine.com/?id=289325&title=Squats+and+lunges+might+help+you+avoid+knee+surgery" width="1" height="1" loading="lazy" aria-label="Syndication Tracker" data-spai-target="src" data-spai-orig="" data-spai-exclude="nocdn" />Image credits: Getty Images</em></div> <div> </div> <div><em><a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/health/body-and-mind/squats-and-lunges-might-help-you-avoid-knee-surgery/">This article</a> was originally published on <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com">Cosmos Magazine</a> and was written by <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/contributor/petra-stock/">Petra Stock</a>. </em></div>

Body

Slashing salt can save lives – and it won’t hurt your hip pocket or tastebuds

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/peter-breadon-1348098">Peter Breadon</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lachlan-fox-1283428">Lachlan Fox</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a></em></p> <p>Each year, more than <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/eb5fee21-7f05-4be1-8414-8b2bba7b4070/ABDS-2018-Risk-factor-supp-data-tables.xlsx.aspx">2,500 Australians</a> die from diseases linked to eating too much salt.</p> <p>We shouldn’t be putting up with so much unnecessary illness, mainly from heart disease and strokes, and so many deaths.</p> <p>As a new <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/sneaky-salt/">Grattan Institute report</a> shows, there are practical steps the federal government can take to save lives, reduce health spending and help the economy.</p> <h2>We eat too much salt, with deadly consequences</h2> <p>Eating too much salt is bad for your health. It <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41569-018-0004-1">raises blood pressure</a>, which increases the risk of <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.119.14240">heart disease and stroke</a>.</p> <p>About <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/risk-factors/high-blood-pressure/contents/summary">one in three</a> Australians has high blood pressure, and eating too much salt is the biggest individual contributor.</p> <p>Unfortunately, the average Australian eats far too much salt – <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.5694/mja17.00394">almost double</a> the recommended daily maximum of 5 grams, equivalent to <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/sodium-and-salt-converter#:%7E:text=We%20recommend%20adults%20eat%20less,about%201%20teaspoon%20a%20day">a teaspoon</a>.</p> <p>Australian governments know excessive salt intake is a big problem. That’s why in <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-preventive-health-strategy-2021-2030?language=en">2021 they set a target</a> to reduce salt intake by at least 30% by 2030.</p> <p>It’s an ambitious and worthy goal. But we’re still eating too much salt and we don’t have the policies to change that.</p> <h2>Most of the salt we eat is added to food during manufacturing</h2> <p>Most of the salt Australians eat doesn’t come from the shaker on the table. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7231587/">About three-quarters</a> of it is added to food during manufacturing.</p> <p>This salt is hidden in everyday staples such as bread, cheese and processed meats. Common foods such as ready-to-eat pasta meals or a ham sandwich can have up to half our total recommended salt intake.</p> <h2>Salt limits are the best way to cut salt intake</h2> <p>Reducing the amount of salt added to food during manufacturing is the most effective way to reduce intake.</p> <p>Salt limits can help us do that. They work by setting limits on how much salt can be added to different kinds of food, such as bread or biscuits. To meet these limits, companies need to change the recipes of their products, reducing the amount of salt.</p> <p>Under salt limits, the United Kingdom reduced salt intake <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.120.16649">by 20% in about a decade</a>. <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41371-021-00653-x">South Africa</a> is making even faster gains. Salt limits are cheap and easy to implement, and can get results quickly.</p> <p>Most consumers won’t notice a change at the checkout. Companies will need to update their recipes, but even if all the costs of updating recipes were passed on to shoppers, we calculate that at most it would cost about 10 cents each week for the average household.</p> <p>Nor will consumers notice much of a change at the dinner table. <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/6/10/4354">Most people don’t notice</a> when some salt is removed <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622031224">from common foods</a>. There are many ways companies can make foods taste just as salty without adding as much salt. For example, they can make <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704534904575131602283791566">salt crystals finer</a>, or use <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4520464/">potassium-enriched salt</a>, which swaps some of the harmful sodium in salt for potassium. And because the change will be gradual, our tastebuds will <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/eurjcn/zvac060.077">adapt to less salty foods</a> over time.</p> <h2>Australia’s salt limits are failing</h2> <p>Australia has had voluntary salt limits since 2009, but they are badly designed, poorly implemented, and have reduced population salt intake by just <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/articles/healthy-food-partnership-reformulation-program-two-year-progress">0.3%</a>.</p> <p>Because Australia’s limits are voluntary, many food companies have chosen not to participate in the scheme. Our analysis shows that 73% of eligible food products are not participating, and only 4% have reduced their salt content.</p> <h2>Action could save lives</h2> <p>Modelling from the University of Melbourne <a href="https://mspgh.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/4783405/The-Health-and-Cost-Impacts-of-Sodium-Reduction-Interventions-in-Australia.pdf">shows</a> that fixing our failed salt limits could add 36,000 extra healthy years of life, across the population, over the next 20 years.</p> <p>This would delay more than 300 deaths each year and reduce health-care spending by A$35 million annually, the equivalent of 6,000 hospital visits.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/jhh2013105">International experience</a> <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.120.16649">shows</a> the costs of implementing such salt limits would be very low and far outweighed by the benefits.</p> <h2>How to fix our failed salt limits</h2> <p>To achieve these gains, the federal government should start by enforcing the limits we already have, by making compliance mandatory. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S216183132300042X">Fifteen countries</a> have mandatory salt limits, and 14 are planning to introduce them.</p> <p>The number of foods covered by salt limits in Australia should more than double, to be as broad as those the <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/604338/Salt_reduction_targets_for_2017.pdf">UK set in 2014</a>. Broader targets would include common foods for which Australia does not currently set targets, such as baked beans, butter, margarine and canned vegetables.</p> <p>A loophole in the current scheme that lets companies leave out a fifth of their products should be closed. The federal government should design the policy, rather than doing it jointly with industry representatives.</p> <p>Over the coming decades, Australia will need many new and improved policies to reduce diet-related disease. Reducing salt intake must be part of this agenda. For too long, Australia has let the food industry set the standard, with almost no progress against a major threat to our health.</p> <p>Getting serious about salt would save lives, and it would more than pay for itself through reduced health-care costs and increased economic activity.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/213980/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/peter-breadon-1348098"><em>Peter Breadon</em></a><em>, Program Director, Health and Aged Care, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lachlan-fox-1283428">Lachlan Fox</a>, Associate, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/slashing-salt-can-save-lives-and-it-wont-hurt-your-hip-pocket-or-tastebuds-213980">original article</a>.</em></p>

Body

“So... about the crutches”: Lisa Curry explains major health issue

<p dir="ltr">Lisa Curry has shared the details of her major health ordeal that left her in the intensive care unit. </p> <p dir="ltr">The former Olympian sparked concerns among her fans after she was snapped using crutches.</p> <p dir="ltr">Curry, 61, posted a photo alongside her two children, with her Instagram followers flocking her comments section to ask why she was relying on the crutches. </p> <p dir="ltr">Now, Curry has provided a long explanation of an accident that left her “with fractured bones”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So … about the crutches!! Four weeks ago I had a hip replacement,” she revealed in a new Instagram post.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CymGyjfBQiY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CymGyjfBQiY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lisa Curry AO (@lisacurry)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Spent a couple of nights in ICU with low blood pressure. Lost my appetite, lost my taste for coffee even!!”</p> <p dir="ltr">She explained that the issues began during a trip in January to Canada, where she went dog sledding.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We had to cross a frozen river on a bend. The huskies went across the ice no problem but the sled slid and kept sliding,” Curry described.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You can’t let go of the sled because the dogs will keep going 😂.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“So I held on and held on until I couldn’t and eventually fell still holding onto the sled which immediately puts the brakes on, so the dogs stopped … and fell on my hip.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The former swimmer said she had been “sore all year” and spent a lot of time thinking her problems were muscular. </p> <p dir="ltr">However, she decided to undergo a CT scan when she could “barely walk”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“(The scan) showed fractured bones floating between the ball and socket joint,” she described.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I couldn’t have it operated on before our European and USA tours so just lived on painkillers for that 10-week trip.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Following the surgery, Curry said, “Each day it’s getting better and I’m now able to exercise and swim again so I’m happy about that!!”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Learning how to walk without a limp, doing simple tasks again.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“But geez, you don’t realise how many things you take for granted — putting a sock or undies on is like dressing a wriggly wet octopus!! So exhausting 😂.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Lisa went on to thank her husband for taking care of her during her recovery, as friends and fans flocked to the comments on her Instagram post to wish her well. </p> <p dir="ltr">“You won’t know yourself. I had one in April and life is good!!! Happy healing xx,” radio host Amanda Keller said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Sending healing hugs 🤗❤️,” another person wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Jamie Oliver tipped to replace Jock Zonfrillo on MasterChef

<p>Five months after the untimely death of <em>MasterChef</em> judge Jock Zonfrillo, rumours of his replacement for the new season of the show are beginning to emerge. </p> <p>According to a Channel 10 insider, British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has reportedly signed a $2 million deal to take over the hosting role for the next season. </p> <p>In reports to <em><a href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/reality-tv/masterchef" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Women's Day</a></em>, Oliver will be taking over the show for the new season, which is set to begin filming in November, but has not yet agreed to take over Zonfrillo's role permanently. </p> <p>"Jamie has inked a deal worth around $2million," the source told <em>Women's Day</em> in the latest issue.</p> <p>The publication went on to say the contract with the best-selling cook book author includes a trip home to the UK for Christmas as well as an accommodation allowance for his family when they visit in January.</p> <p>When Jock Zonfrillo's untimely death made headlines in April, Jamie Oliver was one of the first celebrity chefs to share their condolences. </p> <p>"I'm in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo," he wrote on Instagram.</p> <p>"We had the best time working together for this years <em>MasterChef</em>, I can't tell how good it was to work with him!"</p> <p>"Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show and for that I was really grateful… Melisa, Andy & Jock work as the most inspiring judges and mentors and each have there very own unique view and style… Jock will be so very missed…"</p> <p>He added, "I can't believe I'm writing this…….Sending heart felt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and his second family the master chef team and contestants xxx. Love Jamie."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Ten </em></p> <p> </p>

Food & Wine

"We did it. We survived": Chezzi Denyer's emotional revelation about baby girl

<p>Chezzi Denyer is celebrating a "huge leap" made by her youngest daughter Sunday. </p> <p>Sunday, 2, was diagnosed with hip dysplasia when she was a baby and had to wear a hip brace for nine months.</p> <p>Hip dysplasia occurs when a hip joint doesn't develop properly, and if left untreated can damage the joint over time which causes hip pain and arthritis. </p> <p>Now, almost a year after getting her hip brace, Sunday is running around "unstoppable," and her proud mum took to Instagram to share the highs and lows of the past year. </p> <p>She began the post by encouraging parents who are experiencing a similar diagnosis to "hang in there." </p> <p>"The nights are long and the days even longer when you’re got a baby in a brace or a spica cast," she continued. </p> <p>"It’s absolute torment seeing your baby in pain or uncomfortable. <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">You think you won’t be able to cope.</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> </span></p> <p>"The lack of sleep. The constant discomfort. The lump in your throat when you encourage your baby to go in for another procedure. Another general anaesthetic. The fear you feel in the pit of your stomach. Trying to keep your eyes on the end goal. </p> <p>"You need to be strong for them.</p> <p>"The heat of the cast. The pressure points. The dry sore skin you massage and moisturise where you can. And the mess. The spica cast mess and the smell…" she wrote. </p> <p>She then listed all of the medical appointments, procedures and tests they had to go through for the past year and how challenging it was having to adjust. </p> <p>“Adapting and changing your entire life for an indefinite period can be paralysing - New prams, specially created car seats, cots, mattresses, high-chairs, specially made clothes, nappies, accessories, activities.</p> <p>“Having to stop work, take leave, giving up daycare with little hope of getting your days back down the track, not being able to travel easily, having to sacrifice activities with older kids, nursing your toddler for hours unable to do much else, trying to keep them occupied when they can’t move and they’re bored… all of these might seem trivial to someone on the outside...</p> <p>“But when you’re in it, every single thing you know or you’ve learnt or even want to do must change to accommodate your hippy baby, and that too can be terrifying," she added. </p> <p>She also shared how "hard and tiring and stressful and scary" it was to take care of not only your baby, but yourself, and encouraged other parents to feel and express these emotions when they can. </p> <p>The wife of former <em>Sunrise</em> weather presenter Grant Denyer also expressed her gratitude towards all the mums that have helped her throughout this journey. </p> <p>“I remember so many experienced parents telling me that their child once was in a cast or a brace and how they remember the time well.</p> <p>“Many of those kind-hearted parents telling me their child now runs or dances etc and you wouldn’t even know… and when I was deep in it, it felt like that was a lifetime away.</p> <p>“But here we are, one year on from getting the rhino brace on, and little Sunday is running around unstoppable.”</p> <p>Although Sunday is "not out of the woods" yet as she will need an operation or two when she is around four years old, the mum of three couldn't help but express how proud she was. </p> <p>“I am celebrating this milestone with so much pride. I’m so proud of her. She’s incredibly resilient.. but I’m also proud of me. We did it. We survived.</p> <p>“We have come out the other side and we are stronger for it. And I hope that can help some other parents either going through this or about to. Xxx,” her post ended.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

Stan Grant's replacement announced

<p>Months after Stan Grant's shock departure from ABC's <em>Q+A</em> program, his replacement has been announced to take over the coveted hosting gig. </p> <p>Grant walked away from the program earlier this year after a seemingly endless barrage of criticism and racism over his coverage of King Charles coronation, saying he was stepping away from the show indefinitely. </p> <p>On Monday morning, the national broadcaster announced his replacement, more than two months after Grant's final <em>Q+A</em> show. </p> <p>Patricia Karvelas is set to replace Grant as host of the show for the remainder of the year, as ABC confirmed Grant is still on indefinite leave. </p> <p>Karvelas will continue to host <em>Breakfast</em> on Radio National from Tuesday to Friday, and has been filling in as the program’s temporary anchor following Grant absence.</p> <p>The broadcaster’s director Justin Stevens said Karvelas “has been doing an outstanding job as fill-in host and we’re delighted she has agreed to continue in that role”.</p> <p>Stan Grant's sudden departure shocked audiences, as he called out the racist vitriol he was constantly subject to as a public figure, while also condemning ABC for not speaking up in his defence. </p> <p>"Racism is a crime. Racism is violence. And I have had enough,” he wrote at the time of his departure. </p> <p>“I am writing this because no one at the ABC — whose producers invited me onto their coronation coverage as a guest — has uttered one word of public support,” he wrote. </p> <p>“Not one ABC executive has publicly refuted the lies written or spoken about me."</p> <p>“I don’t hold any individual responsible; this is an institutional failure.”</p> <p>Grant will continue to stay on at ABC and contribute to “a number” of different programs, with Justin Stevens commending him as “one of the country’s finest journalists, storytellers and broadcasters”.</p> <p><em>Image credits: ABC</em></p>

Eggs are so expensive right now. What else can I use?

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/evangeline-mantzioris-153250">Evangeline Mantzioris</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a></em></p> <p>The price of eggs <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-14/egg-shortage-high-prices-blamed-on-shift-from-cage-to-free-range/102474282">is rising</a>. So many of us may be looking for cheaper alternatives.</p> <p>First, the bad news. Nothing can replace a boiled, poached or fried egg.</p> <p>Now, the good news. Lots of other ingredients can make foods puff and rise, give your meal a rich taste, or hold together ingredients.</p> <p>So try using some of these egg substitutes and save the real eggs for your breakfast.</p> <h2>Why are eggs so popular?</h2> <p>Eggs are incredibly <a href="https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/science/monitoringnutrients/afcd/pages/default.aspx">nutritious</a>. They’re a <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/3/684">rich source</a> of protein, vitamins A and D, pigments called carotenoids, and minerals.</p> <p>Eggs are also versatile. We use them to make a range of savoury and sweet foods, sauces and drinks, not to mention breakfast.</p> <p>Their popularity and versatility lies in the unique characteristics of the two main parts of the egg – the white and yolk. Each contribute <a href="https://www.amazon.com.au/Food-Cooking-Harold-McGee/dp/0684800012">different properties</a> in cooking.</p> <p><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/3/684">Egg yolk</a> is about 55% water, 27% fats, 16% protein (with small amounts of carbohydrate). <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/3/684">Egg white</a> is about 10% protein and 90% water, with only traces of fat and carbohydrates. Different types of protein in egg white contribute to them foaming when whisked.</p> <h2>Eggs are versatile</h2> <p>Eggs have a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0268005X2200131X?casa_token=1yXlEb1uvwQAAAAA:s3h5KCozwn-hjIn6kLOEoW45An255V6Z0G8TcJAQgTejfLEwV7nKqkS6VPWXiNkNxR4m5Mr2lHc">different role</a> in different types of cooking.</p> <p><strong>1. Eggs are a raising agent</strong></p> <p>Beaten or whisked eggs act as a raising agent by creating pockets of air in foods, which expand with cooking, making the foods puff and rise. This gives baked products like cakes, biscuits and muffins volume and an airy feel.</p> <p>Using just the egg white leads to a remarkably light and delicate foam, as we see in meringues. In mousse and souffles the whites and the yolk are beaten separately, then mixed together. This leads to a light, airy and smooth texture.</p> <p><strong>2. Eggs hold together other ingredients</strong></p> <p>Eggs combine ingredients and hold them together during cooking. This gives foods – such as vegetable or meat patties – their structure.</p> <p><strong>3. Eggs bind other liquids</strong></p> <p>The liquid from eggs binds other liquids from other ingredients in the recipe into a soft, moist and tender mass. We see this in scrambled eggs, omelettes and egg custard.</p> <p><strong>4. Eggs act as emulsifiers</strong></p> <p>The egg yolk contains different proteins (livetin, phosvitin) and lipoproteins (lecithin). These act as emulsifiers, allowing fat and water to mix together in foods such as mayonnaise and hollandaise sauce.</p> <p><strong>5. Eggs boost flavour</strong></p> <p>The fat in egg yolks helps carry and release the flavour of some fat-soluble components of food. These foods <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924224401000796">may taste differently</a> without the eggs. Eggs also contribute to foods feeling soft in the mouth.</p> <p>As eggs have different roles in cooking, you may need different egg substitutes depending on the outcome you want. Here are some cheaper (and vegan) options.</p> <h2>Aquafaba</h2> <p>Aquafaba is the liquid drained from cans of bean – typically from chickpeas as it has the most neutral flavour. This is the all-round winner, especially as most of us probably throw it away without realising what a gem it is.</p> <p>Aquafaba is <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924224421001424?casa_token=P45Z4G2SFdsAAAAA:DRy8adcAU_QHl96LONyWOEhUXvrExVZsJ18xKvc8OiPYeVKHSOkGOKefiixXFPY9UhdscEaHF70">versatile</a>. You can whip it up like egg whites to form a foam that can be used to make meringue (even pavlova), gelato, in baked goods, and for binding ingredients in patties. It also contains emulsifiers and can be used to make mayonnaise.</p> <p>You’ll need different quantities of aquafaba depending on the recipe. Generally, though, you use about two to three tablespoons of aquafaba to replace the volume of fluid from an egg.</p> <p>On the downside, aquafaba can taste a bit beany. So it is best to use it with stronger flavours to overcome this.</p> <p>Nutritionally, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924224421001424?via%3Dihub">aquafaba</a> has small amounts of carbohydrate (about 2.6g/100 millilitre), and negligible levels of protein (about 1.3g/100 millilitre).</p> <p>You can also freeze aquafaba.</p> <h2>Vinegar and baking soda</h2> <p>Mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a tablespoon of vinegar can replace an egg in most baked goods. This produces carbon dioxide, which is trapped into air pockets, and makes foods rise.</p> <p>This is a very cheap option, however its success may be limited by how heavy the rest of the ingredients are. This combination also has very little nutritional value.</p> <h2>Commercial egg replacements</h2> <p>These are available at most supermarkets, are very cheap compared with eggs, have a long shelf life, and are easy to use, with instructions on the packaging.</p> <p>Typically, they contain different starches from potato, tapioca and pea protein (which act as leavening agents and form foams), along with raising agents. They are recommended for use in baked goods. However they have very little nutritional value compared to an egg.</p> <h2>Flaxseed meal and chia seeds</h2> <p>Use either a tablespoon of flaxseed meal, or chia seeds, added to about three tablespoons of water. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to form a gel.</p> <p>The gels can be used in baked goods, however this option isn’t as cheap as the others, and has a slight nutty taste.</p> <p>Both these seeds provide nutritional value. They are both rich in the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid. We <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/59/6/1304/4715808">can convert</a> this fatty acid into healthy omega-3 fatty acids, but at a slow rate. These seeds also provide fibre, polyphenols and antioxidants.</p> <h2>Tofu</h2> <p>Tofu, which is made from soybeans, is widely available and fairly cheap. It has the most “eggy” appearance and so makes it ideal as a substitute for scrambled eggs and in quiche. However, you will need to use silken tofu and puree it.</p> <p>Tofu is highly nutritious and provides protein, fat, calcium, polyphenols and anti-oxidants.</p> <p>You could also use soy flour. Add one tablespoon to three tablespoons of water, then use immediately in baking and for binding ingredients together. However, soy flour does not contain calcium, which tofu does.</p> <h2>Mashed fruit</h2> <p>Mashed bananas or applesauce are also used as egg substitutes. These mainly act to bind and hold moisture in the food and help carry the flavours.</p> <p>You also get the nutritional value of the fruit. Due to the natural sugar that in fruit, this will sweeten your baked goods so you will need to drop the sugar by about a tablespoon (or more) for each piece of fruit you add.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/207837/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/evangeline-mantzioris-153250">Evangeline Mantzioris</a>, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/eggs-are-so-expensive-right-now-what-else-can-i-use-207837">original article</a>.</em></p>

Food & Wine

World famous chefs in the running to replace Jock Zonfrillo

<p>Channel Ten is on the hunt for a new judge to join the <em>MasterChef Australia</em> team, two months after the shocking death of Jock Zonfrillo. </p> <p>Several world-famous chefs are set to be in the running to join Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, with many prospects appearing on the show as guests before. </p> <p>"International names such as Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and Shannon Bennett have all been thrown around," an insider told <em>Woman's Day</em>.</p> <p>Despite the hopes for these chefs to join the cast, the insider said their intense schedules has made booking them for the competitive cooking show "a pipe dream".</p> <p>The network is also reported to be considering bringing back "heritage" names to the show, such as original judges George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan, to attract older viewers.</p> <p>Despite the discussions of Zonfrillo's replacement, rumours have also circulated that Leong and Allen may continue on as co-hosts of the show without a third colleague. </p> <p>The <em>Herald Sun</em> reported that the cooking duo may instead go into the next season alongside a rotating roster of guest judges. </p> <p>Meanwhile, others have suggested Melissa, 41, and Andy, 35, may be planning to quit <em>MasterChef</em> as they continue to grapple with the tragic death of their co-star.</p> <p>Some fans are convinced the entire hosting panel may be replaced altogether, after Channel Ten refused to confirm Jock's replacement in the recent casting call.</p> <p>The popular cooking show was thrown into disarray after Jock Zonfrillo's devastating death on April 30th, the day the newest season of <em>MasterChef</em> was due to air, with the premiere of the show being delayed a week after his passing. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Food & Wine

“Prime contender” for Dr Chris Brown’s replacement revealed

<p dir="ltr">The “prime contender” for Dr Chris Brown’s replacement on <em>I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here</em> has been revealed by Channel 10 insiders. </p> <p dir="ltr">The source told <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12255915/Im-Celeb-AU-Household-set-replace-Dr-Chris-Brown.html">Daily Mail Australia</a></em> that Sam Pang is in the running to join Julia Morris as the co-host of the reality television show, following the celebrity vet’s shock departure. </p> <p dir="ltr">While Dr Chris has long been a fan favourite with his charismatic charm, one network spy said, “Pang could provide a fresh spin on the popular reality show with his comedic genius”, saying he is the “prime contender to fill the big boots left behind” by the dashing vet.</p> <p dir="ltr">Pang, best known for his witty retorts and deadpan humour on <em>Have You Been Paying Attention?</em>, seems ready to trade in the studio for the wild world of the jungle. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Our viewers love a good laugh and Sam's knack for making even the most serious situations hilarious is just what we need to bring a new dynamic to the show,” the source added.</p> <p dir="ltr">The news of Dr Chris’ replacement comes after Julia Morris told <em><a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/julia-morris-spills-on-new-im-a-celebrity-co-host-completely-different-012241033.html">Yahoo Lifestyle!</a></em> that the show will go in a “completely different way” following the departure of her co-host after they shared the screen for almost a decade.</p> <p dir="ltr">She also admitted she is testing her “chemistry” with potential candidates for the highly sought after role. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I'm going to have to leave everything of the past behind,” the 55-year-old told the publication. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Whoever comes in is going to want to build that together,” Julia went on. </p> <p dir="ltr">“So there's plenty of space for that person, we're just looking forward to finding out who that's going to be.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Whoever that person is is going to have a huge effect on whether I'm working over the next few years, so I want it to work,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

All-electric homes are better for your hip pocket and the planet. Here’s how governments can help us get off gas

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/esther-suckling-1220357">Esther Suckling</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a></em></p> <p>If every Australian household that uses gas went all-electric today, we would “save” more than 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions over the next ten years. That’s because there are more than <a href="https://www.energynetworks.com.au/resources/fact-sheets/reliable-and-clean-gas-for-australian-homes-2/">5 million households</a> on the gas network, and the <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/getting-off-gas">avoided emissions per home</a> ranges from 5-25 tonnes over the coming decade, depending on the location.</p> <p>Most people would spend less money on energy too. Electric appliances use less energy than gas appliances to do the same job, making them cheaper to run.</p> <p>Our <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/getting-off-gas">new report</a> shows how much most households can save by switching from gas to electricity for heating, hot water and cooking. The extra cash couldn’t come at a better time: about <a href="https://www.rmit.edu.au/news/all-news/2023/may/hidden-energy-poverty">a quarter of Australian households</a> say they found it difficult to pay their energy bills this year.</p> <p>But many households face hurdles that stop them, or make it hard for them, to go all-electric. Governments could make it easier for people and bring emissions-reduction targets closer to reality.</p> <h2>Most households save by upgrading to electric</h2> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=393&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=393&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=393&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=493&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=493&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532139/original/file-20230615-29-h20bv5.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=493&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="A chart showing estimated savings for each household switching from gas to electricity, over 10 years, in each capital city" /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">Over 10 years, the estimated savings for each household switching from gas to electricity range up to $13,900 in Melbourne. It’s a flat $3,890 figure for Brisbane, rather than a range, because there’s no gas heating.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Grattan Institute</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>Households in Melbourne tend to use more gas than those in other mainland capitals, mainly because the winter is so cold. Our report found Melburnians who replace broken gas appliances with electric ones, or move into an all-electric home, could save up to A$13,900 over ten years. Households with rooftop solar will save even more.</p> <p>It’s a similar story in most parts of Australia except the west, where gas is relatively cheap. This mainly reflects differences in the historical development of the gas markets between the west and east coasts.</p> <p>Getting off gas could also be <a href="https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2022/december/health-risks-from-indoor-gas-appliances">good for your health</a>. Several studies link cooking with gas to <a href="https://www.nationalasthma.org.au/living-with-asthma/resources/patients-carers/factsheets/gas-stoves-and-asthma-in-children">childhood asthma</a>.</p> <p> </p> <h2>Households face a series of hurdles</h2> <p>Renters make up nearly a third of all households, and they have little or no control over the appliances that are installed. As most electric appliances cost more to buy than gas ones – and the subsequent bill savings flow to tenants – landlords have little incentive to upgrade their properties from gas to all-electric.</p> <p>Apartment living can increase the level of complexity. Multi-unit dwellings often bundle gas bills into body-corporate fees, limiting the occupants’ incentive to go all-electric. There can also be space constraints in these buildings. Centralised electric heat pumps, for example, take up more space than centralised gas water heaters.</p> <p>Then there are households that simply can’t afford the upgrade. Induction stoves and heat pumps are more expensive than their gas equivalents, by up to a combined $2,000. This initial outlay will soon be recovered by cheaper energy bills, but that doesn’t help households that don’t have the cash up front. The <a href="https://melbourneinstitute.unimelb.edu.au/data/taking-the-pulse-of-the-nation-2022/2023/energy-poverty">12% of households that skipped meals</a> to pay their energy bills in the past year are the most likely to remain locked into high gas bills.</p> <p>Some people also simply prefer cooking with gas. Some think induction cooktops will be no better than the poor-performing electric cooktops they may have used in the distant past. Others haven’t ever heard of a heat pump for hot water.</p> <h2>Here’s how governments can help</h2> <p>Governments, both state and federal, should lower the hurdles on the path to all-electric homes -– to reduce people’s cost of living and to cut carbon emissions.</p> <p>As a first step, state governments should ban new gas connections to homes. In 2021, more than 70,000 households joined the gas network. Trying to shift households off gas while allowing new connections is like pouring water into a bucket with a hole.</p> <p>Then, governments should provide landlords with tax write-offs on new induction stoves and heat pumps for hot water, for a limited time. After that, they should require every rental property to be all-electric. Governments should pay to upgrade public housing to all-electric, where they are the landlords. And they should pay not-for-profits managing community housing to do the same.</p> <p>The federal government should help all households to spread the cost of electric appliances over time. It should subsidise banks to offer low-interest loans for home electrification, via the Clean Energy Finance Corporation.</p> <p>And governments should set out to change people’s preferences, from gas to electric. They should embark on a multi-decade communication campaign, not unlike the campaign to upgrade from analogue to digital television in the early 2000s.</p> <p>A key challenge will be shifting people’s ideas about the best way to cook. There are precedents. In Gininderry, a new all-electric suburb of Canberra, one developer recruited chefs to run demonstrations on induction cooktops at the display village. The proportion of potential homebuyers <a href="https://ginninderry.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Ginninderry-2017-Householder-Attitudes-to-Residential-Renewable-Energy-Futures.pdf">willing to consider buying an all-electric home</a> rose from 67% to 88%.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K9ytSh5TM9M?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption><span class="caption">Induction cooking with Chef David Wei at Ginninderry.</span></figcaption></figure> <h2>‘Green gas’ is no panacea: electricity is cheaper</h2> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=719&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=719&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532117/original/file-20230615-23-n0wdqe.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=719&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Chart comparing the cost of hydrogen to electricity over time, showing hydrogen is more expensive and will remain so for decades" /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">Hydrogen is more expensive than electricity and will remain so for decades.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Grattan Institute</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>The gas industry has another solution in mind: instead of switching from gas to electricity, it suggests using “green gas” -– biomethane or “green” hydrogen. Biomethane is chemically identical to natural gas, but is derived from biological materials such as food waste, sewage or agricultural waste. Green hydrogen is made by using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.</p> <p>But both options are <a href="https://theconversation.com/hydrogen-where-is-low-carbon-fuel-most-useful-for-decarbonisation-147696">too expensive and too far away</a>. Under the most generous of assumptions, green hydrogen will only become cost-competitive with electricity after 2045. And there is not enough biomethane commercially available to replace gas in households.</p> <p>Meanwhile, more than three million Australian homes already run on electricity alone.</p> <p>Getting the five million homes that use gas to the same point won’t be easy. But with good policy, it is doable. For households, and the climate, there is much to be gained.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/207409/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/esther-suckling-1220357">Esther Suckling</a>, Research Associate, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/all-electric-homes-are-better-for-your-hip-pocket-and-the-planet-heres-how-governments-can-help-us-get-off-gas-207409">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Real Estate

This is how often you should be replacing your bed linen

<p>The ultimate bed is one you want to dive right in to. Beautifully dressed, lofty and full, it is accessorised thoughtfully with perfectly plump pillows, a soft throw and plush duvet. But knowing when to replace certain key elements is essential.</p> <p><strong>Mattress</strong></p> <p>A quality mattress should be chosen according to your age and perhaps body type. “Look for a mattress that promotes perfect posture and comfort, while reducing pressure on your entire body,” says Timothy Dutt from <u><a href="https://ultimatebeds.com.au/">Ultimate Beds</a></u>. “It should be constructed of natural materials and not include metals, latex or synthetic fabrics.”</p> <p>Contrary to popular belief, a premium mattress requires minimal maintenance, he says, and shouldn’t need to be flipped. “If it does, it is generally a sign that it will collapse, and the manufacturer is hoping to ensure it will collapse evenly,” says Dutt. “A quality mattress should also feature removable breathable covers and sit on a bed base with quality solid slats that provide adequate ventilation.”</p> <p>Because our bodies change as we get older, consider the support your mattress provides.</p> <p>“A general rule of thumb, is that a mattress should be changed every seven to 10 years. This is also for hygiene and health reasons,” says Dutt. “Look for signs it is failing, like lumps in the pillow top, dead spots in the springs, sleep impressions, waking up with aches and pains and not feeling rested.”</p> <p><strong>Pillows</strong></p> <p>When choosing your perfect pillow, being aware of your habitual sleep positions is imperative to make the right selection.</p> <p>“You might be a back, tummy or side-sleeper, or a bit of everything,” says Lauren Roe, Creative Director at <a href="https://www.ilovelinen.com.au/">I Love Linen</a>.</p> <p>“Different pillow styles are designed to support your head and neck based on how your body will be positioned at night. For example, if you prefer side-sleeping or you are a larger frame, a high-loft pillow might work best for you.”</p> <p>A pillow is only as comfortable as what is inside it. “Always ask about its inners,” she says. “If it’s microfibre, ensure it is soft, long-stapled and high quality, not cheap, rough polyfill. If the filling is natural fibres like feathers, ensure they are virgin. It means it is animal-friendly and a better quality filling.”</p> <p>Daily plumping is also essential for keeping your pillows in tip-top condition.</p> <p>“Every pillow has its own specific-care recommendations that should be closely followed,” she says. “Daily plumping is really effective for ensuring good air flow throughout and keeping fibres soft and supple.”</p> <p>Every 12 months check your pillows for signs of wear and tear. “You are spending so much time in close contact with your pillow, that for your own comfort and health it pays to replace them. If they feel flat or lumpy or show signs of holding too much dust, there could be dust mites trapped inside.”</p> <p><strong>Bed linen</strong></p> <p>“You know you have high-quality bed linen, when it’s still the set you want to dress your bed in years after you purchased it,” says Alex McCabe, designer at Australian bed linen company <a href="https://kipandco.com.au/">Kip and Co</a>.</p> <p>“When purchasing, look for fabrics that will really last. That means that they need to be good quality and can mix and match well. Always select for the season. I love the warmth and comfort of jersey and velvet, but during the warmer months I gravitate towards 100 per cent cotton or French linen.”</p> <p>This summer, beds are set to bloom with beautiful botanicals, she says. “Think timeless florals, creeping vines, stone and citrus-fruit pops,” says McCabe. “Our latest collection is called In Full Bloom. It’s inspired by colour-drenched Europe in the spring.”</p> <p>For long-lasting, dreamy bed linen, be sure to launder mindfully. “Bed linen doesn’t have a use-by date,” she says, “but it will last a long time if you follow the care instructions.”</p> <p>When the fabric begins to look worn out or threadbare, it’s time to be replaced. “For longevity, let each set of bed linen rest by rotating it regularly. Each season, add to your collection, but don’t throw out your old stuff. Changing it up means it lasts longer and is a great way to refresh the whole look and feel of your bedroom.”</p> <p><em>Written by Elizabeth Clarke. Republished with permission of Domain.com.au.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Home & Garden

Kochie’s Sunrise replacement revealed

<p dir="ltr">It’s the news breakfast television fans across Australia have been waiting for: Kochie’s <em>Sunrise </em>replacement has been announced. </p> <p dir="ltr">Speculation had been rife in the week following the news of Kochie’s departure from the show, with the likes of Dr Chris Brown and Seven’s own Matt Shirvington fan favourites to take over in his absence. </p> <p dir="ltr">And they had it right, with Matt Shirvington - a familiar face at the network across both sport and entertainment - stepping up to the plate and joining his new co-host Natalie Barr at the<em> Sunrise</em> desk. </p> <p dir="ltr">Before the big news broke, Kochie had assured viewers that his replacement would be “younger and better looking”, and that he was happy with the decision the network had reached.</p> <p dir="ltr">Once news of the updated line-up had been made public, Kochie added that “Shirvo has been part of the <em>Sunrise</em> family and filling in for me for the last 18 months. He is the perfect fit to shift into my chair on a permanent basis.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A good bloke with solid values, he will do a terrific job and I wish him great success.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Unsurprisingly, Matt Shirvington shared that delight, releasing a statement to express his excitement over the new gig, which he is due to dive into on June 12. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m so excited but also humbled by the opportunity to co-host such an important show to so many Australians,” he said. “It’s a privilege to follow on from Kochie. He leaves behind a legacy of honesty, humility and a whole lot of fun, and I can’t wait to continue adding to that.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A big thank you to the Seven executive team, in particular James Warburton and Craig McPherson, for backing me to do this.</p> <p dir="ltr">“<em>Sunrise </em>is a tight-knit team of talented and passionate people who work ridiculously hard - none more so than Sarah Stinson and Sean Power. I admire you all and won’t let you down.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is a huge life shift for me that will take some juggling at home, and something I couldn’t have done without the loving support of Jess and our kids.</p> <p dir="ltr">“To my new on-air family, particularly Nat, thanks for making me feel so welcome right from the start. Brekky Central, my new home. I like the sound of that!”</p> <p dir="ltr">Seven West Media’s Managing Director and CEO - James Warburton - only had positive things to say, too, sharing that he was “delighted to welcome Matt to his new role co-hosting<em> Sunrise </em>with Nat. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Matt has become an invaluable member of the Seven team since he joined us three years ago. He is the consummate professional, all about the entire team - just like Kochie - and brilliant at his job.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Of course, Matt has big shoes to fill but we have already seen viewers welcome him with open arms during his time on the show.”</p> <p dir="ltr">And last but certainly not least, Natalie Barr had praise to sing for her incoming co-host, declaring that “Shirvo is an iconic Aussie and an all-round great guy. I can’t think of anyone better to join us on the <em>Sunrise </em>couch.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We’ve been working together for a couple of years now and I can tell you he’s interested in people, he really cares, he’s a hands-on dad and husband, and he talks almost as much as I do, so we get along really well!”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Sunrise / Seven</em></p>

News

Kochie responds to Chris Brown rumours as his replacement is confirmed

<p><em>Sunrise</em> viewers are set to see a new face alongside Natalie Barr following the news of Kochie’s <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/the-world-s-best-job-kochie-quits-sunrise" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shock departure</a>.</p> <p>One famous face in particular was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/rumoured-replacement-for-kochie-on-sunrise" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rumoured</a> to fill his shoes, but Channel 7 has now confirmed his successor has been appointed, with an announcement to be made on Monday, June 5.</p> <p>Kochie will host his final edition of <em>Sunrise</em> on Friday, June 9.</p> <p>The TV presenter, who holds the title of the longest-serving breakfast host in Australian history, will remain a valued part of the <em>Sunrise</em> team and the Seven Network, covering big financial news as a “guest rather than host”.</p> <p>Kochie was visibly emotional when he shared with viewers that he was stepping away from the “world’s best job”.</p> <p>Fellow presenters Natalie Barr, Lisa Wilkinson and Sam Mac posted online to <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/sam-mac-nat-barr-and-lisa-wilkinson-on-kochie-s-departure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">praise and congratulate</a> him on his 21-year run on the show.</p> <p>Following his announcement, Kochie appeared on <em>The Kyle & Jackie O Show</em>.</p> <p>Sandilands asked Kochie if there was any truth to the rumour that ABC presenter Stan Grant, who <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/surprise-new-contender-to-replace-stan-grant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recently resigned </a>from hosting Q+A, would be taking over his role.</p> <p>“Um, no, I don’t think so,” he replied.</p> <p>Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson proceeded to speculate over who is and isn’t likely to fill the position, including Today host Karl Stefanovic and former Channel 10 star Dr Chris Brown, who is making his way to <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/the-doctor-is-out-chris-brown-changes-the-script" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seven in July 2023</a>.</p> <p>“Well, it’s obvious they’re not going to take Karl,” Sandilands teased.</p> <p>“And it’s not going to be Dr Chris Brown either, is it?” Henderson asked, to which Kochie just laughed.</p> <p>“No, you can’t put a vet on there,” Sandilands joked. “How insulting. That’s like saying Mr Whippy’s gonna come and take over my job, like come on man, that’s ridiculous.”</p> <p>When pushed for a clue as to who his replacement might be, Kochie told the hosts that there is “plenty of great talent working on Sunrise”.</p> <p>“Look, to use football parlance, I’ve talked to the list managers, it’s time for the next generation to come through and they've got a lot to choose from,” he said.</p> <p>“All will be revealed next Monday, and then I leave on Friday.”</p> <p>Kochie also shared he won’t be moving back to his hometown of Adelaide when he finishes up with <em>Sunrise</em>.</p> <p>“I will stay here in Sydney,” he said. “Our kids are here, grandkids are here, and our family business is here.”</p> <p>In a statement from Channel Seven Kochie explained that he believes it’s time to change his routine after spending 21 years of waking up at the crack of dawn.</p> <p>“I know I'm going to miss it enormously, but it's time for me to work business hours, and for (his wife) Libby and I to have a bit more flexibility to enjoy our burgeoning family, to travel and focus on our family business interests in Pinstripe Media and the Ausbiz business channel,” he said.</p> <p>“As everyone knows, I'm a finance nerd so you'll still see me pop up every so often on RBA board meeting days or covering other big financial news, but as a guest rather than host.</p> <p>“Coming up to 20 consecutive years as Australia's most-watched breakfast show is a nice moment to exit stage left with an enormous sense of pride and gratitude. Thank you for the privilege.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

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