Placeholder Content Image

Aldi's surprise new business move

<p>Aldi just keeps on giving, from being the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/australia-s-cheapest-supermarket-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cheapest supermarket</a>, to launching their own travel website, the German retailer has taken things to a whole new level. </p> <p>On Wednesday, the supermarket giant launched their Aldi Holidays online portal, so now Aussies can plan their next holiday with a bunch of exclusive Aldi escapes, cruises and tour deals, in a first for Aussie supermarkets. </p> <p>“We are excited to be taking off in a new direction to make planning and booking a holiday a more enjoyable experience for Australians and in our signature Good Different way with Aldi Holidays,” Rodney Balech, Group Director, Aldi Australia said in a statement. </p> <p>“This service, in partnership with Ignite Travel, will unlock incredible value and help all types of travellers create truly unforgettable experiences.</p> <p>“With Aldi Holidays we’re bringing our Special Buys to the skies, offering savvy travellers premium holiday options.”</p> <p>Aldi Holidays will have a similar concept to their bi-weekly special buys, where there will be a limited number of exclusive holiday deals, which will be available until sold out, and there are some pretty good deals on offer. </p> <p>Some of the Aldi holidays available include five nights in Daydream Island Resort, Whitsundays, from $899 per person twin share and seven nights in Novotel Phuket, Thailand from $599 per person twin share.</p> <p>They also offer a few other international packages including  seven nights in the Outrigger Resort, Fiji, from $1,799 per person twin share and six nights at the Grand Mirage in Bali from $1,199 per person twin share.</p> <p>Aussies keen for a cruise can also snag a few deals including nine nights on a Royal Caribbean Cruise through the Pacific Islands from $1,499 or 14 nights on Celebrity X Cruise through Japan, from $4,990. </p> <p>“Aldi Holiday customers can expect incredible savings with these exclusively curated holiday packages including flights, local experiences and more,” Ryan Thomas, the Ignite Travel Group CEO said.</p> <p>“We’re excited about the future of our partnership with Aldi,” he added. </p> <p>Holidays can be booked online or via the dedicated Aldi Holiday Sales Centre. </p> <p><em>Image: </em><em>Daria Nipot / Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Readers response: How do you feel about online shopping compared to traditional in-store shopping?

<p>When it comes to shopping for things we want and need, many people have a preference over whether they shop in a physical store or online. </p> <p>We asked our readers which they prefer when shopping for food, clothes or anything else their hearts desire, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said.</p> <p><strong>Ellen Polsen</strong> - Why would one buy online? I like to feel and see the things I purchase, particularly garments, as fabrics today are mostly rubbish.</p> <p><strong>Jennie Craven</strong> - I do a little of each. But usually use stores that I know or brands where the sizing is correct for me. I always use a payment system that I understand. </p> <p><strong>Gail Ladds</strong> - I love online shopping! I often forget that I’ve bought something then get a nice surprise when it arrives lol.</p> <p><strong>Debra Coats</strong> - Online is okay when you cant go to the store. I did online shopping for about 8 months after open heart surgery but when i was given the all clear to shop and drive, I was in my element as its a moment of getting out of the house and seeing others around me.</p> <p><strong>Karen Peardon</strong> - I have done some online shopping (mainly craft supplies) only because I have been very ill for months but I love in-store shopping more. Retail therapy!!</p> <p><strong>Christine Whyte</strong> - Have not and will not ever do it, very old school and too wary of the dangers out there, besides I like getting out and choosing for myself.</p> <p><strong>Helga Bonello</strong> - I like to see feel and touch products before I buy. Online scammers are a worry, besides we need a reason to go out and be sociable.</p> <p><strong>Olimpia Palumbo</strong> - My family does on line shopping and usually end up with the worst fruit and sometimes the wrong items.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Money & Banking

Placeholder Content Image

Australia's cheapest supermarket revealed

<p>Australia's cheapest supermarket has been revealed, and here's how much you could actually save. </p> <p>Customer advocacy group Choice has released its first “basket of goods” report, which analyses supermarket prices across the country. </p> <p>As part of their research, they deployed 81 mystery shoppers to different regional and metropolitan supermarkets across the country, including Aldi, Woolworths, and Coles. </p> <p>The mystery shoppers recorded the prices for 14 common grocery items including apples, carrots, Weet-Bix, sliced white bread, flour, penne pasta, white sugar, tea bags, tinned diced tomatoes, a block of tasty cheese, full-cream dairy milk, frozen peas, minced beef and butter.</p> <p>They found that Aldi is Australia's cheapest supermarket saving customers around $17. </p> <p>“Aldi was the clear leader on value for money in our first supermarket basket survey for 2024, with our basket of 14 products costing just $51.51 – coming in at about 25 per cent cheaper than Coles or Woolworths,” the watchdog’s CEO, Ashley de Silva, said.</p> <p>"Coles was the most expensive at $69.33, while the basket at Woolworths came in at $68.58.”</p> <p>The research was funded by the federal government as part of their action on supermarket pricing. </p> <p>This comes after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a review into the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct earlier this year, warning supermarkets to pass on any savings they make from suppliers to consumers. </p> <p>The code is currently voluntary, with calls for it to be made mandatory, which could result in huge financial penalties on supermarkets with annual revenues above $5bn that breach the agreement.</p> <p>The final review is reportedly expected later this week.</p> <p>Aldi has also issued a statement following the findings, saying it “reaffirms Aldi’s Price Promise” which ensures the supermarket “won’t be beaten on the cost of your weekly shop”.</p> <p>“The data reflected across this basket of goods is indicative of the savings across our entire range,” Jordan Lack, Managing Director at Aldi Australia, said.</p> <p>“We take our role as Australia’s most affordable supermarket seriously and every day, every element of our business is oriented around how we can continue to deliver on our ambition to provide high quality groceries at the lowest possible price.”</p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Money & Banking

Placeholder Content Image

ALDI's epic snow gear sale is back!

<p>Planning a ski trip or a family getaway in the Snowy Mountains? </p> <p>Aldi has got you covered with the return of its popular Snow Gear Special Buys sale set to hit the shelves on May 18. </p> <p>The highly anticipated sale will see more than 70 products on offer with prices starting from just $4.99 and nothing over $100. </p> <p>Rodney Balech, group director for National Buying at Aldi said this year's range is back and “better than ever”. </p> <p>“Whether you’re planning a solo ski trip or a friendly snowball fight with the family, Aldi’s Snow Gear range offers everything you need at an affordable price, without compromising on quality.”</p> <p>“We’re the also introducing more unisex options for kids, making it easier than ever for parents to hand down outfits to save on buying new sizes year after year.” </p> <p>“While price and affordability are on everyone’s minds this year, we have also ensured that every item in our range meets the highest benchmarks.”</p> <p>He also said that they have worked with their partners across the globe to ensure that they create “high quality products across every layer”.</p> <p>“[And] now in more sizes than ever. Each item is embedded with innovative technology that is built to provide top-of-the-line durability and comfort in all conditions, so you can feel assured that both you and your budget will feel great carving down the slopes in this year’s range.”</p> <p>A lot is on offer this year, including Adult’s Premium Ski Jackets for just $99.99 and Ski Pants for $79.99, which can often cost more at other retailers. </p> <p>They have also dropped affordable new snow hoodie for $49.99, which they say is highly waterproof and  "perfect for newcomers to the snow looking to set themselves up with the right gear without having to blow the budget." </p> <p>Gloves, goggles, helmets, thermoboots and kids knitted accessories are also on offer. </p> <p>For those with younger children, Toddler’s Snow Suit will be up for sale for just $34.99 with a few  “mini-me” designs on offer for parents who want to match with their kids. </p> <p>The sizing for teens and young adults have also been extended to give more options for those who are growing up or in between sizes. </p> <p><em>Images: Aldi/ news.com.au</em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Aldi shopper mercilessly mocked over "shotgun pellet" claims

<p>An Aldi shopper has been slammed online after claiming she found "shotgun pellets" in a piece of meat. </p> <p>The mum from Canberra took to a Facebook group dedicated to parents who shop at Aldi, to share pictures of a mysterious find in her corned beef.</p> <p>She claimed the slab of meat was laced with small metal balls, and after her growing concern about what she ingested, the woman went so far as to book in an abdominal x-ray. </p> <p>“Today I prepared a whole piece of meat in a pressure cooker that I bought at ALDI in Gungalhin, I was in a hurry so I only added one garlic and salt,” she wrote on Facebook.</p> <p>“While I was tasting a piece that had just been taken out of the pot, I felt something hard and noticed that it was a metal ball."</p> <p>“I checked the pot thoroughly but it was not part of the pot. Then I helped myself to another piece and realised there was one more I didn’t chew, I took it out and looked — ball was IN BETWEEN.</p> <p>“Can I complain to Aldi? Has it happened to you? I was going to give that meat to my two-year-old daughter, now I’m afraid. I prefer to throw it away.”</p> <p>She later added, “Update: shotgun pellets inside the cow meat! I have an abdominal [x-ray] for tomorrow to check if I ate some before noticed. There are more inside the meat."</p> <p>Despite her grave concerns, other shoppers were quick to slam her claims, with many arguing back that the small black balls appeared to be peppercorns and maintained that “no livestock are slaughtered with shotguns”.</p> <p>“Aren’t cows shot with a power head not bullets?” one said.</p> <p>Another wrote, “Cows aren’t shot with a shotgun they get a metal rod through the brain. Farmers don’t even use a shotgun, they use a gun that uses one bullet through the brain. This is very odd.”</p> <p>Many people also claimed that the round balls seemed to be peppercorns, prompting the mum to defend herself.</p> <p>She said, “That is not peppercorn! It’s completely round, the other one half is being covered by the meat. Definitely looks like something that shouldn’t be in there.”</p> <p>An ALDI Australia spokesperson has told <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline">7News</a></em> that it has not received any similar complaints.</p> <p>“We are in direct contact with customer and are investigating the possibility that this product has not met our strict quality and safety standard,” the spokesperson said.</p> <p>“We have not received any further complaints of a similar nature, however, customers can return any product they are not satisfied with for a full refund or replacement.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Major supermarket director slams "woke" rivals' Australia Day boycott

<p>John-Paul Drake, director of family-owned Drakes Supermarkets, has slammed rival supermarkets for moving away from stocking Australia Day merchandise. </p> <p>The fiery rant posted on social media came after the independent grocery retailer, which has 66 stores across South Australia and Queensland, shared their latest catalogue promoting Australia Day. </p> <p>The supermarket director said that his objection to “wokeworths” was about “choice”.</p> <p>“Whether you choose to celebrate Australia Day or not is totally up to you,” he wrote. </p> <p>“As a retailer, it’s my responsibility to let my customers choose if a product is suitable for them.</p> <p>“Just because you’re lactose-intolerant, does that mean I shouldn’t sell dairy products in store? How would you feel if I told you I didn’t like chocolate so we’ll no longer be selling it?</p> <p>“I agree that there is a broader discussion to be had around the date we celebrate our country," he added. </p> <p>“But until that date is changed, I will choose to gather with my friends and family and celebrate how bloody lucky we are that we live in a country where we can choose to have these kinds of debates.”</p> <p>He added that he understands some "may not agree with me, and that's ok." </p> <p>“Some of you may choose to boycott our stores – and I respect your right to choose where you spend your money,” he wrote. </p> <p>“I do ask, however, that you respect my team if you do enter our stores. They do not deserve to cop abuse for my values.”</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-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2Q56xUvOVW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;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/C2Q56xUvOVW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by jp drake (@shake.and.drake)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>This comes after <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/woolworths-under-fire-for-dropping-australia-day-merch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Woolworths</a> confirmed that it would no longer be selling Australia day merchandise last week, with Big W and Aldi following suit.</p> <p>Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was quick to call for a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/peter-dutton-calls-for-woolworths-boycott" target="_blank" rel="noopener">boycott</a> against the supermarket giant, for their "woke agenda".</p> <p>Coles, on the other hand, confirmed that they will continue to sell a small-range of Australia Day themed products for those who wish to celebrate the day. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram/ Facebook</em></p> <p> </p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Woolies store vandalised over controversial Australia Day decision

<p>A Woolworths Metro store in Brisbane has been vandalised over the supermarket giant's controversial decision to not stock Australia Day merchandise. </p> <p>The Woolies in the north-east suburb of Teneriffe was hit with a flare and graffitied with the message "5 days 26 Jan Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Woolies f*** u” on the side of the building. </p> <p>One local shared on social media that a flare was also set off at the front entrance, setting off the fire alarm about 5am on Monday morning, shortly after staff were seen cleaning the graffiti. </p> <p>Queensland Fire and Emergency Services confirmed three crews “responded to an alarm activation” at the store, where firefighters found smoke at the scene and ventilated the area. </p> <p>They left the vandalised store at 6am, where police took over the scene. </p> <p>“Thankfully no team members or customers were injured as this occurred before the store opened,” a Woolworths spokesperson said in a statement.</p> <p>“We’re grateful to the police and fire brigade who attended."</p> <p>“There’s no reason for vandalism and we’ll continue to liaise with Queensland Police.”</p> <p>The vandalism comes just days after the supermarket giant <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/woolworths-under-fire-for-dropping-australia-day-merch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced</a> they would not be stocking any specialised merch ahead of Australia Day. </p> <p>Woolworths shared that the reason for pulling Aussie decorations off the shelves was due to the “gradual decline” in demand for the merchandise over the years and “broader discussion” about the January 26th date and “what it means” to different parts of the community.</p> <p>“While Australian flags are sold within BIG W all year round, we don’t have any additional themed merchandise available to purchase in-store in our Supermarkets or BIG W ahead of Australia Day,” a spokesperson said.</p> <p>“We know many people like to use this day as a time to get together and we offer a huge variety of products to help customers mark the day as they choose.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News / Shutterstock</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Aldi launches fancy new range beloved by Adele and the Beckhams

<p>ALDI Australia is about to introduce a fancy homewares range that has the Beckhams and Adele collectively nodding in approval.</p> <p>Yes, you heard it right – ALDI, the place where you normally hunt for discounted Vegemite and budget-friendly meats – is stepping into the world of high-end homewares. Prepare your wallets and your finest monocles, because the supermarket chain has joined forces with the UK's luxury juggernaut, Liberty, to create a line of exclusive designer goodies. Christmas just got a whole lot bougier!</p> <p>Set to hit shelves on November 29, this collaboration promises to bring a touch of sophistication to your life – without forcing you to auction off your grandmother's vintage tea set to afford it. The range includes 12 new products, each bearing Liberty's iconic print designs. And with prices starting at a jaw-dropping $2.99, you might need a moment to let that sink in. We'll wait.</p> <p>Belinda Grice, ALDI Australia’s buying director of Special Buys, expressed her excitement, saying, "It’s so exciting to bring an extra touch of luxury to our customers. A high-quality product at an affordable price is what we do best, so this collaboration with Liberty is a match made in heaven."</p> <p>It's basically like finding a caviar-flavoured chip in your bag of mixed nuts.</p> <p>The range includes everything from candles to notebooks, diaries, hand creams, teapots, diffusers, soap bars and probably a golden unicorn or two. It's a cornucopia of poshness. We imagine this is the sort of stuff the Queen used to take notes during her royal corgi tea parties.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/11/Liberty_aldi.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>For British expats Down Under, this is the homecoming they never knew they needed. It's a bit like getting a surprise visit from King Charles himself, only instead of royal decrees, he bears scented candles and aesthetically pleasing teapots.</p> <p>But wait, there's more! ALDI is not just here to elevate your home decor game; it's also here to sprinkle some goodness in the world. Ten percent of Liberty’s proceeds from the collection will go to support Camp Quality, an organisation on a mission to bring joy, fun and laughter back into the lives of kids facing cancer. So not only can you deck out your living room like a Buckingham Palace waiting room, but you can also feel good about it. It's a win-win situation, or as the posh say, a "triumphantly exquisite dichotomy".</p> <p>As we gear up for the holiday season, let's raise a teacup to ALDI for making luxury accessible to all. Who needs a silver spoon when you can have a $2.99 Liberty teapot? Just remember, the next time someone questions your taste, you can proudly declare, "It's ALDI x Liberty, darling. Look it up."</p> <p><em>Images: Getty / ALDI</em></p>

Food & Wine

Placeholder Content Image

“You look like Nicolas Cage!”: Tiny Busselton store shocked by megastar’s visit

<p>Busselton, Western Australia - It's not every day that you walk into your local neighbourhood store and encounter a Hollywood A-lister browsing the snack aisle. Yet, that's precisely what happened to shop owner Annie Liban in her small Asian grocery store in Busselton, when none other than Nicolas Cage strolled through her doors.</p> <p>Cage, known for his eclectic roles and memorable performances, is rumoured to be filming his latest movie, <em>The Surfer</em>, in the scenic Western Australian region. The film apparently revolves around his character's return to his hometown and his unexpected feud with a local gang of surfers. A picturesque backdrop indeed for a film about beach drama, but it seems even Nic Cage needs to restock the fridge occasionally.</p> <p>The rumour mill had been buzzing with whispers of Cage's impending visit for a while now, but these tidbits of information didn't reach Ms Liban until the actor himself, in all his enigmatic glory, was casually perusing her store shelves one sunny afternoon.</p> <p>"I said, 'oh, he looks like Nicolas Cage,' but I was like, 'what's he doing in this store?'" Ms Liban recalled with astonishment <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-17/nicolas-cage-sighted-in-busselton-filming-the-surfer-movie/102986390" target="_blank" rel="noopener">to the ABC</a>. "Why is he grabbing some eggs and kimchi? We couldn't stop staring."</p> <p>It seems that even Ms Liban's eagle-eyed staff had a hard time recognising the star at first, but eventually, curiosity got the better of them, and they mustered up the courage to ask the million-dollar question: "Who are you?"</p> <p>Ms Liban described the uncanny clues that finally cracked the Cage case. "<span style="font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">There were some clues … he was wearing boots in hot weather and a jacket, wearing some Prada sunglasses and the voice as well,</span>" she said. "<span style="font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">And then when he picked up the oranges in front of the shop we said to him 'we only accept cash' and he said 'I only have US dollars.</span>'" </p> <p>"We said, 'oh you do look like Nicolas Cage' and he said, 'I am.'"</p> <p>It appears that Busselton's small Asian grocery store unexpectedly became a portal to Hollywood for a brief moment.</p> <p><em>The Surfer</em> is expected to feature local surfers from WA's South West and will be shot in the stunning locales of Margaret River and Yallingup. A call-out for the movie even went to high school students a while back, seeking youngsters with the right amount of "attitude" to star in the film.</p> <p>Ms Liban, a fan of Nicolas Cage from her days growing up in the Philippines, is eagerly looking forward to the movie. "We love Nicolas Cage, so I'm excited to see what he's doing here in Australia," she said with a smile.</p> <p>City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley shared his enthusiasm for the unexpected Hollywood cameo in the region. "[These types of productions] have a significant economic impact on the area. Accommodation and costs for a crew of this magnitude, with 100 people here for a month, inject a substantial amount of money into the local economy," he explained.</p> <p>While Busselton has seen its fair share of Australian film productions like <em>Drift</em> with Sam Worthington and the karting-themed <em>Go!</em>, having Hollywood come to town adds a new layer of excitement. "I think this movie clearly has star power to bring someone like Nicolas Cage on board," Mr Henley mused. "It's a higher magnitude than some of the Australian-made films with smaller budgets and distributions. I might just bump into him while he's out exploring the region and having some fun."</p> <p>So if you're in the area, keep your eyes peeled as you stroll the aisles of your local grocery store – you never know when you might bump into a world-famous actor picking up some oranges and kimchi. Cage, with his eclectic filmography, truly knows how to keep us all on the edge of our seats, even when he's just shopping for groceries.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Major twist in store for final season of The Crown

<p>The release date for the sixth and final season of <em>The Crown</em> has finally been announced, with royal fans everywhere marking their calendars for the last instalment of the royal drama. </p> <p>The hit Netflix series will be returning to screens on November 16th, but the final season of the show is set to come in two phases. </p> <p>On November 16th, four episodes of the show will be available to stream, and will follow Princess Diana, played by Australian actress Elizabeth Debicki, in the last year of her life. </p> <p>Her final days will be explored, including her death in Paris in 1997.</p> <p>Then, the final part of the series will be available to stream from December 14th, and will pick up from the mid-2000s, as her children Prince William and Prince Harry deal with the aftermath of their mother's passing.</p> <p>"Prince William tries to integrate back into life at Eton in the wake of his mother's death as the monarchy has to ride the wave of public opinion," a synopsis for part two says.</p> <p>"As she reaches her Golden Jubilee, the Queen reflects on the future of the monarchy with the marriage of Charles and Camilla and the beginnings of a new royal fairy tale in William and Kate."</p> <p>Royal fans were delighted to wake up to a new teaser trailer for the sixth and final season of <em>The Crown</em> that was posted on social media overnight, with the post already racking up over 90,000 likes.</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/reel/CyLmKalP7dF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;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/reel/CyLmKalP7dF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Netflix UK &amp; Ireland (@netflixuk)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The 46-second teaser was released showing Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II walking through Buckingham Palace before appearing on the famous balcony.</p> <p>All three actresses to play the late Queen appear in the trailer, including Claire Foy and Olivia Colman.</p> <p>"The crown is a symbol of permeance. It's something you are, not what you do," the voice of Foy says.</p> <p>"Some portion of our natural selves is always lost. We have all made sacrifices. It is not a choice. It is a duty," Colman can be heard saying.</p> <p>Finally, it ends on Staunton who says, "But what about the life, I put aside? The woman I put aside?"</p> <p><em>Image credits: Netflix - Instagram</em></p>

TV

Placeholder Content Image

Shoppers lash out at Aldi for “ridiculous” price hikes

<p>A group of Aldi shoppers have lashed out at the supermarket chain after its series of "ridiculous" price hikes. </p> <p>Aldi, which consistently ranks as Australia's cheapest major supermarket, received some criticism this week after the store's popular skinless salmon fillets was hit with a $4 price increase seemingly overnight. </p> <p>“So explain to me, Aldi Australia, how do you justify a 28.5 per cent overnight increase on fresh salmon?” one outraged customer wrote on the Aldi Australia Facebook page.</p> <p>“This is outrageous. Last week, it was $13.99 for four pieces, this week $17.99. Guess where it stayed? On your shelf, NOT in my trolley.”</p> <p>The post triggered a wave of fury, with many threatening to abandon the German retailer and shop at competitor supermarkets. </p> <p>“Everything is so expensive at Aldi now might as well shop at Coles and Woolies,” one shopper wrote. </p> <p>“Well why did a can of baked beans price rise by nearly 50% and the same with small tins of tuna?? Ripping us off — not happy with the excessive price rises!! I think it my be time to shop elsewhere,” fumed a second.</p> <p>“Not impressed by Aldis price increases, a big frozen box of lasagne was $8.99 now $11.99, cheese was $8.99 now $11.99, whisky $34.99 now $36.99, cooking bacon $5.99 now $6.99. I can justify a small increase, but $3 … time to look around,” commented a third. </p> <p>The supermarket chain has responded to the criticism, acknowledging the price hikes, while insisting that they are committed to providing Aussies with great value products. </p> <p>“Aldi’s entire business model is oriented around saving customers money to ensure that we continue to lead as Australia’s lowest-price supermarket," an Aldi spokesperson said.</p> <p>"We always aim to cut unnecessary costs and pass these savings directly onto customers.</p> <p>“We know that the price of essential goods has never been more important to Australians, so we remain absolutely committed to delivering the best value for our customers while also supporting our supplier partners by maintaining fair pricing at all times," they concluded. </p> <p>Last month, Aldi ranked first as Australia’s favourite supermarket. </p> <p>It is the only brand to rank five stars for overall satisfaction, value for money, freshness of produce, quality of private label products and availability of deals/specials, according to the Canstar Blue <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">survey for its </span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">annual Supermarket Satisfaction Ratings. </span></p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

Placeholder Content Image

Kmart and Target join forces to create mega discount stores

<p dir="ltr">Two of Australia’s favourite retail giants are about to get better in a huge merger creating a $10 billion discount giant.</p> <p dir="ltr">Wesfarmers is set to fold Target into Kmart with hopes that it will improve sales, provide better value for customers, and allow both stores to share backend technology.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ian Bailey the Managing Director of Kmart Group has said that there will be “no impact” to stores, and that the move was an "internal reorganisation".</p> <p dir="ltr">"With customers now demanding value more than ever, this new operating model will unlock a new level of scale and productivity across both brands, so we can deliver even greater value to our customers in the future," he said in a statement.</p> <p dir="ltr">"For store networks and 50,000 store team members – it's business as usual – as we continue to focus on providing the best value products to the thousands of customers in Australia and New Zealand who choose to shop at Kmart or Target every day."</p> <p dir="ltr">The move comes as the cost of living crisis is forcing more and more Aussies to be mindful of their spending habits.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a statement to the <em>The Australian Financial Review</em>, Bailey said that there would likely be “a handful of redundancies" but more jobs overall by next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">He added that one of the benefits of tighter integration and better technology is the ease in which the prices of products can be reduced.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said that the price drop on 1000 Kmart products this month was assisted by merchandise planning tools and a self-navigating inventory scanning robot.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Kmart and Target are both strong businesses. I don't see us doing this from a position of weakness. It's quite the opposite,” he told the publication.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I'd say we're strong, but I think there's an opportunity to really capitalise on this time and find ways to continue to deliver better value for customers."</p> <p dir="ltr">"What we found was that running two businesses it was very, very difficult to get the tech into Target, and to get those benefits. This is really why we decided to push the two businesses into one."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

Placeholder Content Image

Gorgeous iconic department stores throughout history


<p>Do you remember shops with names like Farmer’s, Boan’s, John Martin’s, Buckley & Nunn, or McWhirter’s? Or maybe you're more familiar with David Jones and Myer? If any of these names ring a bell, a team of historians wants to speak to you.</p> <p>Professor Robert Crawford leads a team of historians at RMIT University and Macquarie University that are researching the history of department stores in Australia since the Second World War.</p> <p>“Department stores have played such an important role in the lives of countless Australia, but their history has hardly been documented,” explains Professor Crawford.</p> <p>Supported by the Australian Research Council, the project aims to collect Australian stories and experiences of their department store.</p> <p>While the project is keen to collect stories from those who worked in these stores, it is equally interested in hearing from shoppers.</p> <p>“Shoppers are an essential part of this story – their custom makes or breaks any retail outlet and department stores are no different,” notes Professor Crawford.</p> <p>“By collecting the stories of shoppers and staff, this project offers a unique perspective of the department store,” he adds.</p> <p>The research team has already interviewed a range of people across the country.</p> <p>“This week I spoke to a lady about shopping with her mother at Grace Brothers in Sydney in 1947 and the next day I spoke to a man about taking his daughter to David Jones in suburban Brisbane in 1995,” recounts Crawford.</p> <p>Participants of the project have recalled a range of familiar and forgotten experiences. <br />“Many have recounted their family’s unique rituals of going into to town and having lunch at the cafeteria, while others remember specific bits like the lift operators or the pneumatic tubes to transfer cash from the tills.”<br />While the project has undertaken many interviews, the research team is eager to speak to more people about their unique memories and experiences, so that they can get a fuller picture of the past.</p> <p>If you’re interested in participating in the project or learning more about it, further details can be found at <a href="https://www.departmentstorehistory.org.au/">https://www.departmentstorehistory.org.au/</a> </p> <p><em>Image credit: WikiMedia</em></p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Groceries option even cheaper than ALDI

<p>With the cost of living crisis many Aussies are struggling to put dinner on the table, so they’re turning away from big chains like IGA and Coles and heading over to supersize store Costco.</p> <p>Originally an American chain, there are only 15 Costcos across the country, but with inflation rising to seven per cent and interest rates sitting above six per cent, Aussies are rethinking where and how they shop.</p> <p>Costco is being boasted as a lifesaver and worth the drive if you don’t live near one of the stores.</p> <p>Many Aussie parents have turned to Costco to help their families through the tough times, but it’s not your ordinary grocery store.</p> <p>Costco required you pay a $60 annual membership fee to shop there. The fee entitles members to exclusive access to its petrol stations as well.</p> <p>Although an upfront fee may leave shoppers hesitant, plenty of Aussies have shared online that it’s worth the money.</p> <p>Costco differs from other grocery stores because it’s a wholesaler, so you can only buy things in bulk.</p> <p>The idea is that shoppers spend more to begin with, but it ends up costing them less in the long run. It’s very much suited to large households.</p> <p>An Aussie mum posted on Facebook to share that popping her “Costco cherry”, saved her over $500.</p> <p>“I did a bit of maths, if I did the same shop at Woolies/Coles, I would have spent $1160. If I shopped at Aldi, I would have spent $985. If you can afford to buy in bulk, I highly recommend it will save you in the long run,” she wrote on Facebook.</p> <p>She shared exactly what she bought to have that much cash left over, and believes she managed to buy enough snacks to last an entire school term.</p> <p>“School lunch snacks x3 kids, will last the whole of next term (I do a three snack rule and put them in a zip lock bag, to grab and go, chips – vege chips, smith’s or jumpys, tiny teddy’s or panda Bickies and some muesli bar/fruit stick) then I just have to add a sandwich, fruit and popper.”</p> <p>The mum also bought some everyday items like, “Toilet paper, poppers and water,” and stocked up on meat to last a good while.</p> <p>“Mince, pork, beef, all divided up into 1kg lots and frozen,” she explained.</p> <p>She also stocked up on hand wash, cheese and fruit and veg, but shared that some of the most significant savings came from buying pantry basics.</p> <p>“Spices and sauces, Big savings here if you use a lot, like I do, as I cook most things from scratch,” she said.</p> <p>She added she thinks the membership is worth it if shoppers are savvy in their approach.</p> <p>“Everyone says the $60 membership isn’t worth it; well, if you shop smart, it’s well worth it; I’m going to aim to go 4 times a year,” she shared.</p> <p>She’s no outlier when it comes to Aussie mum’s shopping at Costco.</p> <p>One mum shared that with three kids in high school, the savings are worth it.</p> <p>“The snacks are so much cheaper than at supermarkets,” she revealed, adding that she heads over to Costo every few months to stock up.</p> <p>“I spend a few hundred every two or three months, and it saves me on buying expensive snacks every week.”</p> <p>Another mum chimed in, agreeing that it was a lifesaver for snacks and cheap meat options.</p> <p>“It is good for meat products and lunch box items,” the woman said.</p> <p>Another shared that it is worth the investment, particularly to find affordable options for school lunches.</p> <p>“If you have kids at school! 100 per cent I recommend it. I got a month’s worth of school stuff for what I was spending a fortnight,” she shared.</p> <p>While another revealed that Costo has helped keep her budget down during these tough times.</p> <p>“Costco saves us so much money on school snacks and meat alone!”</p> <p>Plenty of shoppers have been referred to ALDI if their regular shop is proving too costly, but Costco can save you the big bucks.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Food & Wine

Placeholder Content Image

Creative ways to store more in your tiny bathroom

<p dir="ltr">Having a small bathroom doesn’t necessarily have to mean you don’t have enough space, you just have to think outside the box! Getting creative with storage can make the smallest of bathrooms look stylish. </p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>1. Towel racks</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Using vertical space will help to clear out storage spaces built into your bathroom. Invest in a wall-mounted rack for towels, using bright-coloured towels can add a pop of colour to the room as well. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Basket Shelves</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Mount a set of baskets on your bathroom wall, you can keep cosmetics here or some candles and an indoor plant for decoration.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Adhesive hooks</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Make use of the space behind your bathroom door. Attach adhesive hooks to the inside of the door to store hair dryers, brushes and accessories.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Roll-away cart</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">If you’ve got a really cluttered bathroom, use a wheeled cart to store your soaps, lotions, shampoo and conditioner. It saves a cluttered sink and you can roll it in and out for convenience.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Dual purpose mirror</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">A two-in-one mirror can be a lifesaver for small spaces. Store your cosmetics, health care products and toothbrushes behind a stylish mirror. </p> <p dir="ltr">Don't think you can't have it all in a tiny space! With a creative mindset, you can fit all of your goodies into your bathroom. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Aldi’s popular $50 travel item is back

<p dir="ltr">Have you ever been so tired you wished you could roll out of bed and bring it with you? Well, this Aldi sleeping bag takes you one step closer to fulfilling your dream.</p> <p dir="ltr">The “One-Z wearable sleeping bag” is back by popular demand as part of Aldi’s Easter ‘Special Buys’ camping range.</p> <p dir="ltr">The onesie sleeping bag has arms, legs (with detachable feet), and even a hood so that you can become one with your sleeping bag.</p> <p dir="ltr">The $49.99 item is fully insulated, with an elastic waistband, dual zipper access, and side ventilation on the legs.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s officially coming back in stores nationally on Saturday, March 25 and will be available in three sizes – small (suitable for someone around 155cm-169cm tall), medium (170cm-183cm) and large (184cm-200cm).</p> <p dir="ltr">The One-Z has been so popular for years that when a German retailer announced it was back in 2017, the post generated over 92,000 comments.</p> <p dir="ltr">“ALDI Australia: Please tell me these gems will be restocked!” one person commented after learning how quickly the item sold out.</p> <p dir="ltr">Aldi will also put up four-person tents for $169 and six-person tents for $199.</p> <p dir="ltr">Travel camp quilts, another camping essential that will keep you warm will also be up for grabs and this time for $10 cheaper than last year, now priced at $59.99.</p> <p dir="ltr">Some other items that will be up for sale include a portable hammock with a foldable frame for $79.99, and a solar portable charger that you can attach to your backpack for $59.99.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 28W mono folding solar charger will be able to charge your electronic gadgets including phones, tablets, power banks and some DSLRs.</p> <p><em>Images: Aldi</em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Year of the Rabbit: What 2023 has in store for you

<p>The last time it was the Year of the Rabbit, astrologer Jen Ingress found a new home. Like a rabbit deciding on the perfect spot to create a burrow, she was faced with a barrage of options. “It was hard for me to decide – there were many pros and cons,” she says. “I’m not saying that the Rabbit is indecisive. It just may not be entirely obvious what is the right decision when making a choice, and you might have to do some thinking like I did.”</p> <p>That was 2011, and it was a year marked by decisions – something that will also characterise 2023’s Year of the Rabbit, which started when the Lunar New Year kicked off on the second new moon after the winter solstice. (This year, it fell on Sunday, January 22.) There will also be a need for grace when it comes to interactions with others. This is quite different than last year’s Tiger year. Think of it this way: “Tigers can take on anything and bring courage, a strong moral code and responsiveness,” says Ingress. “Whereas this year, we can anticipate more diplomacy or more cautious approaches on the world stage and for individuals.”</p> <p> </p> <p>But that’s not all: In Chinese astrology, there aren’t just 12 astrology signs but also five zodiac elements, and this year, that element is Water. It’s the first time there’s been a Water Rabbit in 60 years. So, what will 2023’s Year of the Water Rabbit hold for you? Let’s find out.</p> <h3>Rabbit zodiac personality traits</h3> <p>Rabbits are known for being cute, lovable and high-spirited (not to mention bouncy), but they’re also a bit enigmatic. After all, you can never really tell what they’re thinking because they don’t exhibit a variety of facial expressions. “Rabbits are well-liked, but they’re not that easy to read or transparent,” Ingress notes. “These individuals are socially graceful, charming and diplomatic, but they also need time to themselves.”</p> <p>A potential pitfall for Rabbit people is that like an actual rabbit, they will tend to seek an easy escape when put on the spot or might not want to face the reality of the situation. And that’s definitely something to keep in mind when entering an entire year represented by this animal.</p> <h3>How 2023’s Year of the Rabbit will affect you</h3> <p>In general, Rabbit years abound with creativity and an appreciation for the arts. You might feel yourself being pulled toward exploring museums, music festivals and performances. In social gatherings, the Year of the Rabbit will encourage more cordiality and social niceties. If disputes arise, diplomacy will win out. Chances are, you’ll also face many options, but like the rabbit’s burrow, you should have multiple exit points and not get too attached to specific decisions. “Rabbits always like having a plan B,” Ingress says. “So this is a year to have more than one plan B – and [to have] continued social interactions in order to reach a decision.”</p> <h3>Water Element</h3> <p>Now let’s turn to 2023’s zodiac element, water, which signifies travel and movement. While 2022 was also a water year, it was more of a flood. People were itching to get back out into the world after COVID restrictions were lifted, so there was movement in the form of travel. On another note, the Russian invasion of Ukraine forced people to seek refuge in other countries. The element of water paired with the Tiger sign made the year one that required quick reactions and strong responses in the face of upheaval.</p> <p>In comparison, the Year of the Water Rabbit will feel more like a small stream when it comes to going places and, more generally speaking, the movement in our lives. “This year will bring learning opportunities, an expansion of ambitions, more time reaching for goals and a general sense of curiosity,” says Ingress. However, because of the unpredictable nature of water, the world might still feel precarious in 2023. So it will be important to stay alert – be ready to manage surprises and get comfortable with uncertainty in your life and the world.</p> <h3>Which signs will thrive in the Year of the Rabbit?</h3> <p>The Chinese zodiac signs that will have a great year are those that are compatible with the Rabbit – namely, the Goat, Dog and Pig. Each of these signs will see a wealth of opportunities for growth in their careers, relationships or creative passions. That said, not all opportunities will pan out: Like in the rabbit’s race with the turtle, do not be deceived by appearances when it comes to decision making – what appears to be the best decision might not be so. Specifically, Dogs and Pigs might face difficult decisions in the workplace.</p> <p>For all these signs, it is important to stay calm this year, even when things seem to be going well. Of course, that’s usually easier said than done, though these animal signs are the best equipped to face that challenge – especially when in one another’s company. Pig and Rabbit are a perfect match for each other in terms of temperament and personality. Add Sheep and Dog into the mix and you’ve got yourself a party. “When they’re all together, they balance each other out,” says Ingress. People with these signs tend to have an easygoing way about them and are deeply compassionate, and both of those qualities jibe with the Rabbit. Sheep’s romanticism, Dog’s supportiveness and Pig’s relatability work well with Rabbit, and a gentle yet responsive energy will radiate from groups of friends with these signs.</p> <h3>Which signs will have more difficulty in the Year of the Rabbit?</h3> <p>Sorry, Dragons, Snakes, Roosters and Rats – you will clash with the Rabbit energy this year. Dragons are born leaders and enjoy conquering challenges, but an eagerness to achieve will not pan out in the slower-paced Rabbit year where decisions will have to be deliberated carefully and a person’s choices might have to be revisited.</p> <p>Snake is sometimes considered a small dragon, and similarly, their determination may prove challenging this year. Rooster is also tenacious and high-achieving, as an animal known for greeting the morning sun. Finally, the resourceful and quick-witted Rat may be able to adapt to the surprises the Year of the Rabbit brings, but their lack of courage may cause them to falter when plans change.</p> <p>But don’t worry – all is not lost for these signs in 2023. According to Ingress, a specific Chinese zodiac year won’t predict whether luck comes your way or doesn’t, but rather whether the year will be like a river that is “smooth flowing or one that is more choppy and therefore stressful, with multiple obstacles to face.”</p> <h3>How will the other signs fare in the Year of the Rabbit?</h3> <p>People born in Ox and Horse years generally won’t experience any extreme highs or lows in 2023. Ox’s determination and Horse’s energy should be able to handle what the year throws at them. But Tigers may face some ups and downs. Tiger’s enthusiasm and boldness may or may not work to their advantage when it comes to the surprises a Rabbit year brings.</p> <p>As for people with the Rabbit sign, things are a little less clear-cut. You may have heard that a person’s zodiac birth year (Ben Ming Nian) can be extremely unlucky. So, should Rabbits watch their backs this year? Not necessarily. Ingress notes that this idea comes from another Chinese belief that change will occur every 12 years, in the Jupiter cycle of a person’s life. “That change could be positive or negative,” she shares. “But there is a change.”</p> <h3>Lucky times of the year for each sign</h3> <p>What do the tides of the Water Rabbit hold this year? Scroll down and find your Chinese zodiac sign to learn which months in 2023 will be the most prosperous for you.</p> <h3>Rat</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020</p> <p>People born in the Year of the Rat will likely experience abundance throughout the Year of the Water Rabbit, because like Rabbits, Rats are able to form networks and connections. In May, Rats will feel appreciated by others, and next January, Rats will have an opportunity to grow their wealth.</p> <h3>Ox</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021</p> <p>For those born in the Year of the Ox, December will be a lucky month. Ox people will feel a sense of balance throughout the year, without many highs or lows, though June and April may be trickier for them.</p> <h3>Tiger</h3> <p><strong>Birth years: </strong>1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022</p> <p>March will be the luckiest month for those born in the Year of the Tiger. May, on the other hand, might be more challenging. Overall, Tiger people will find themselves more in the middle of the road in 2023, faring well but not experiencing extraordinary success.</p> <h3>Rabbit</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011</p> <p>Get ready, Rabbits: Your lucky month is right around the corner! You’ll find increased luck in February, as well as in July. You might find yourself making less forward movement in April, June, September and December. Water Rabbits born in 1963 should be careful, as too much water elementally can be difficult to bear and cause stress.</p> <h3>Dragon</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012</p> <p>May and September will be fairly good months for Dragons, but they should be cautious in March, April, October and January. “The Dragon is struggling,” Ingress acknowledges. But, she adds, this should not be a cause for concern, because “in Buddhist tradition and the history of the Asian culture, there is a sobering tendency to acknowledge suffering more than success because successes are typically few and far between.”</p> <h3>Snake</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013</p> <p>Snake people may have a more trying year because their energy clashes with Rabbit energy, and they will have to deal with more conflicts throughout the year. April is their luckiest month of 2023, when they could attract more attention from colleagues or romantic interests.</p> <h3>Horse</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014</p> <p>The outlook for Horses in 2023 is a steady one, but they should proceed with a bit more caution in March and January. In February, there will be opportunities to develop relationships, and November looks to be the month where they will find the most luck. Those born in the Year of the Metal Horse (the last one was in 1990) should be more cautious about impulsive decisions this year.</p> <h3>Goat</h3> <p><strong>Birth years: </strong>1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015</p> <p>Goat will find opportunities throughout the year but especially in March, June and November. Just be warned that October and next January may be less steady. Wood Goats, born in 1955 and 2015, will find this year to be one of growth.</p> <h3>Monkey</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016</p> <p>September will be an optimal month for Monkeys. On the other hand, they should be wary in May, July and November, as surprises from the Water Rabbit might lead them to make rash decisions.</p> <h3>Rooster</h3> <p><strong>Birth years: </strong>1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017</p> <p>Rooster people might experience a turning point during the year when it comes to their health, career or finances. For the Rooster, April and August are shaping up to be months in which they will fare the best. September and December will pose more challenges for them.</p> <h3>Dog</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018</p> <p>While Dogs will experience many opportunities throughout 2023, they won’t all culminate in success. November may change all that, as that’s this sign’s luckiest month this year. September is the one month when they might feel their career trajectory take a downward turn.</p> <h3>Pig</h3> <p><strong>Birth years:</strong> 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019</p> <p>If Pigs focus their energy in March, July, August and October, their concentration should pay off. Born in 1935 or 1995? Those are the years of the Wood Pig, and people born then will be particularly lucky in 2023.</p> <p><em>Written by: Giannina Ong. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/culture/year-of-the-rabbit-what-2023-has-in-store-for-you" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. </em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p> <p><em>Caring, Horoscope, Zodiac, Year of the Rabbit</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

5 foods you shouldn’t store in the fridge

<p>There are some foods that simply cannot stand the cold and if stored in the fridge will lose their flavour, texture and freshness. These five items are best stored in your pantry rather than the refrigerator.</p> <p><strong>1. Cucumbers</strong></p> <p>They’re often stored in the fridge but according to researchers at the University of California, storing the vegetable under 10°C actually causes “chilling injuries” to the cucumber. At low temperatures, the skin shrivels and pits, and the pulp turns mushy.</p> <p>If you like your cucumbers chilled, pop them in the fridge an hour before you want to eat so the cold won’t do damage.</p> <p><strong>2. Garlic</strong></p> <p>Garlic bulbs are prone to developing shoots if stored in the fridge as the cold environment is similar to their growing conditions. It’s best to store garlic in place where it’s cool and with low humidity, like an airy pantry.</p> <p><strong>3. Chocolate</strong></p> <p>The fridge may seem like the obvious place to put a melting bar of chocolate, but unfortunately it’s not. Chocolate is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and can develop a white “bloom” that spoils the smooth texture of chocolate if stored in the fridge. Store well-wrapped chocolate at room-temperature, away from strong-smelling foods. </p> <p><strong>4. Basil</strong></p> <p>Do you store the herb in the fridge to extend in shelf life? As delicate Mediterranean herbs such as basil come from warm, sunny climates, the chilled fridge temperature speeds up oxidisation, turning the leaves black and ruining the herb's scent and flavour. Store fresh basil at room temperature in a jar with water. This will lengthen its shelf life and prevent premature discolouration.</p> <p><strong>5. Bread</strong></p> <p>This may come as a shock to many but refrigerating bread doesn’t actually prolong its shelf life. While it may stop bread going mouldy, the cool, drying environment dehydrates the bread and speeds up the process of staling. Instead, store your bread in the freezer, which does extend the life of bread. </p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Banksy encourages stealing from luxury store after unauthorised use of his artwork

<p dir="ltr">Banksy has appeared to encourage shoplifters to target a luxury fashion store in London after they used his artwork without permission. </p> <p dir="ltr">The elusive street artist told his followers on Instagram to go to the Guess store in Regent Street to steal items after they “helped themselves” to one of his most iconic artworks for a recent campaign. </p> <p dir="ltr">Posting a photo of the front window display of the store, he wrote, “Attention all shoplifters. Please go to GUESS on Regent Street.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“They’ve helped themselves to my artwork without asking, how can it be wrong for you to do the same to their clothes?” he told his 11.5 million followers. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Guess display, which showcased their capsule collection called Brandalised, features several of Banksy’s works, which he claims were used without his authorisation. </p> <p dir="ltr">The clothing company’s <a href="https://guess-hub.mmbsy.be/guess-in-partnership-with-brandalised-to-create-a-special-capsule-collection-with-graffiti-by-banksy">official announcement</a> for the capsule collection used the word “inspired” and said the items were produced in partnership with Brandalised, an urban graffiti license “whose mission is to offer Banksy fans affordable graffiti collectibles.” </p> <p dir="ltr">“The graffiti of Bansky has had a phenomenal influence that resonates throughout popular culture,” Guess Chief Creative Officer Paul Marciano said in the press release. </p> <p dir="ltr">“This new capsule collection with Brandalised is a way for fashion to show its gratitude.”</p> <p dir="ltr">After Banksy posted the message on Instagram, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-63682298">the BBC reported</a> that Guess closed the store, put security outside, and covered the window display.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram / Getty Images</em></p>

Art

Placeholder Content Image

Ground-breaking change coming to grocery stores

<p>While Australians are still copping the effects of supply chain issues in supermarkets, many shoppers are faced with the frustration of empty shelves at their local grocer. </p> <p>But now, a ground-breaking initiative could solve those issues for good.</p> <p>IGA's Local Grocer initiative will allow customers to actually decide what is in stores, in what is the biggest brand rollout in the country. </p> <p>With the use of technology, supermarket data and old school customer interaction, a bespoke offering will be created for locals, with no two Local Grocers will be the same, and each of the 400 stores set to open within months will cater to the specific wants and needs of their community.</p> <p>IGA’s flagship Local Grocer store has just opened in the Sydney northwest suburb of Epping, and the concept is already a hit with local shoppers.</p> <p>Run by brothers Antoine and Richard Rizk under the Mint Fresh banner, the Epping store is the pair’s fifth venture after working in the sector for more than a decade.</p> <p>Antoine told <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/massive-changes-coming-to-hundreds-of-australian-supermarkets/news-story/0e07af390f34ed331689ee607ee31d55" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a> it was designed so that “locals can get pretty much everything they need in one place”, and he said they had even chosen not to install self-service checkouts “so that we can truly get to know our local shoppers”.</p> <p>He explained they had used an app and focus group to get feedback about the types of products customers wanted to see in store before the launch.</p> <p>“There’s a lot of customisation for the local Asian community, and we have quite a big range in the grocery, dairy, freezer and fruit and vegetable aisles,” he said.</p> <p>“Being locals within the geographical area, we spoke to a lot of people and looked at a lot of competitors, and we also used an app … to recruit customers for a focus group."</p> <p>“The survey provided us with a bunch of feedback about how frequently they cook and what kinds of products they require."</p> <p>“We’ve had customers come in nearly every day since we opened, and that’s a good sign. Our customisation is a huge point of difference and it gives us a competitive advantage. Having that local knowledge is critical."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Food & Wine

Our Partners