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"Hilarious" number plate somehow slips past the censors

<p>In a world where innovation knows no bounds, one Perth driver has taken the art of personalised license plates to a whole new level, leaving us all wondering: is it plain rude, or just plain hilariously?</p> <p>The car in question, a humble Kia Sportage, seems innocent enough at first glance. But wait, what’s that? A custom plate that reads 37OHSSV? Seems harmless, right? Wrong.</p> <p>It turns out, if you dare to flip the plate upside down, you'll unveil a cheeky message that spells out none other than "a**hole" in bold, red letters. Yes, you read that correctly. Someone actually managed to sneak that past the scrutinizsng eyes of state transport officials.</p> <p>Unsurprisingly, the discovery of this plate sent the internet into a frenzy, with the post garnering over 2000 shares and nearly 1000 comments. And guess what? Almost everyone loved it!</p> <p>“This is so clever and hilarious,” exclaimed one amused user, echoing the sentiments of many.</p> <p>“That’s the best I’ve ever seen,” chimed in another, probably still laughing.</p> <p>“That is brilliant, I love it,” added a third, undoubtedly already planning their own witty plate.</p> <p>But amid the laughter and applause, there’s a serious question lingering: How did this driver manage to bypass the stringent regulations that typically govern custom plates?</p> <p>In the last financial year alone, nearly 1000 applications for personalised plates were rejected in Western Australia due to being deemed too offensive for the road. Among the rejected gems were GEN3CID, SAUC3D, and RAMP4GE. Clearly, the censors were not amused.</p> <p>And let’s not forget the demographics at play here. According to the stats, a whopping 71 percent of custom plate holders are men, with the average age hovering around 41. So, it seems that mid-life crisis isn’t just limited to buying flashy sports cars; it extends to personalised license plates as well.</p> <p>So whether you find this particular plate downright rude or ingeniously innovative, one thing’s for sure: it's got people talking. And in a world where monotony often reigns supreme, a little dose of humour and creativity on the road might just be what we need. So, hats off to you, mysterious Perth driver. You may be a bit of an a$$hole – but you’re our kind of a$$hole.</p> <p><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Australia’s most expensive number plate breaks record

<p dir="ltr">Australia’s most rare licence plate has broken records in the days before it is set to be auctioned off, with the single-digit number plate expected to sell for over $10 million. </p> <p dir="ltr">Heritage number plates are in high demand amongst collectors, with the first plates coming out of each state only branded with a single number. </p> <p dir="ltr">The first ever NSW heritage plate, which was first made for the state's first police commissioner, is being auctioned off for the first time in over a century, with the plate simply reading “1” attracting nation-wide attention. </p> <p dir="ltr">The plate was last year <a href="https://www.lloydsonline.com.au/LotDetails.aspx?smode=0&amp;aid=47033&amp;lid=4617672&amp;_ga=2.27604924.1274045232.1705885942-1957527670.1705885942">listed</a> on Lloyds Auctions, where bidding soared to over $10 million within the first 72 hours on the site. </p> <p dir="ltr">Lloyds described the plates as “the holy grail must-have for any blue-chip passion investor or the no. 1 gift for that person who has ‘everything’.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Lloyds Auctions chief operations officer Lee Hames called the plate a “unicorn” and said the public auction listing was “truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Generally, rare heritage plates such as these are usually passed down through generations within families,” Hames said.</p> <p dir="ltr">After being made for the police commissioner in 1910, the number 1 plate was then handed over to Sir Fredrick Stewart, the founding chairman of Australian National Airways, who held onto the plates until his death. </p> <p dir="ltr">The extraordinary value comes from the rarity of the plates, with only nine single digit number plates available in each state and territory.</p> <p dir="ltr">“These are as rare as hens’ teeth and the perfect addition to any rare classic or prestige vehicle,” Mr Hames continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">“In fact, you could potentially say that the number plate will be most likely worth MORE than the car you put it on.”</p> <p dir="ltr">At its current bidding levels, NSW 1 will be the most expensive number plate ever to sell in Australia.</p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 18pt;"><em>Image credits: Lloyds Auctions</em><span id="docs-internal-guid-345c72a0-7fff-c7dd-0126-edd3a30b52a7"></span></p>

Money & Banking

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Bring a plate! What to take to Christmas lunch that looks impressive (but won’t break the bank)

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lauren-ball-14718">Lauren Ball</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-kirkegaard-1401256">Amy Kirkegaard</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/breanna-lepre-1401257">Breanna Lepre</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emily-burch-438717">Emily Burch</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a></em></p> <p>Christmas lunch is at your friend’s house this year, and they’ve asked you to bring a plate. Money is tight. So, you find yourself wondering, “What’s cheap, healthy but also looks impressive?”</p> <p>While a tray of mangoes would certainly be a cheap, healthy and colourful contribution, you want to look as if you’ve put in a bit of effort.</p> <p>If you’re struggling for inspiration, here are some tried and tested ideas.</p> <h2>First, choose your ingredients</h2> <p>Check your pantry for inspiration or ingredients. Crackers, dried fruit or nuts are great ideas for a charcuterie board. You can use herbs and spices to add flavour to dishes, or you could use up packets of dried pasta to make a <a href="https://nomoneynotime.com.au/healthy-easy-recipes/salmon-and-pasta-salad">pasta salad</a>. This is also a great way to clean out your pantry.</p> <p>Focus on fruit and vegetables that are in season, so are cheaper and more readily available. Keep an eye out at your local fruit and veggie shop or market as it will usually have in-season fruit and vegetables in bulk quantities at reduced prices. Check out <a href="http://seasonalfoodguide.com/australia-general-seasonal-fresh-produce-guide-fruits-vegetables-in-season-availability.html">this seasonal food guide</a> to help you plan your Christmas menu.</p> <p>Ask around for deals by chatting to your local butcher, fishmonger or grocer and let them know your budget. They may suggest cheaper cuts of meat (such as, <a href="https://www.australianbutchersguild.com.au/the-blog/the-abg-blog/underrated-cuts-of-beef/">oyster</a>, <a href="https://www.australianbeef.com.au/know-your-meat/beef-cuts/">blades, rump caps</a>). Try cooking <a href="https://www.bestrecipes.com.au/recipes/slow-cooker-corned-beef-mustard-sauce-recipe/z47lwrbv?r=entertaining/9clz7475&amp;h=entertaining">corned beef</a> or <a href="https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/slow-cooker-roast-chicken">roast chicken</a> in a slow cooker with lots of vegetables. Slow-cooked meals can be frozen and can come in handy for left-overs.</p> <p>Lean into <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4608274/">legumes</a>. These are packed with fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals. They are also budget-friendly and a great way to add texture to salads. Tinned chickpeas, or cannellini, kidney, or butter beans are quick and easy additions that can make filling dishes go further. You could even turn tinned chickpeas into homemade hommus for a healthy and delicious side dish. Check out these healthy legume <a href="https://nomoneynotime.com.au/healthy-easy-recipes/filter/keywords--legumes">recipes</a>.</p> <h2>7 ways to keep food costs down this Christmas</h2> <p><strong>1. Plan ahead</strong></p> <p>Plan your menu by asking how many people are coming and checking for any food preferences or dietary requirements. Check for items you already have at home, and make a shopping list for only what you <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/BFJ-12-2017-0726/full/html">need</a>.</p> <p><strong>2. Use free recipes</strong></p> <p>Use free online recipe collections and e-books tailored for budget cooking that can help you design your Christmas menu to meet your budget. This <a href="https://nomoneynotime.com.au/uploads/Our-Guide-to-the-Perfect-Christmas-Feast.pdf">one</a> was created by a group of <a href="https://dietitiansaustralia.org.au/working-dietetics/standards-and-scope/role-accredited-practising-dietitian">accredited practising dietitians</a> and has healthy, budget friendly recipes and ideas. You could also try this budget friendly collection of Christmas recipes from <a href="https://www.taste.com.au/recipes/collections/budget-christmas-recipes">taste</a>.</p> <p><strong>3. Involve the family</strong></p> <p>Get together with other family members and make it a challenge to see who can make the cheapest, most delicious dish. Get the kids involved in fun activities, such as making a DIY gingerbread house or putting together mixed skewers for the barbecue.</p> <p><strong>4. Pool your resources</strong></p> <p>Larger quantities of a single dish will be cheaper than multiple different dishes (and easier to prepare).</p> <p><strong>5. Frozen is fine</strong></p> <p>Use frozen fruits and vegetables if you need to. These can have just as <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25526594/">many vitamins and minerals</a> as fresh, are often cheaper than fresh produce and last longer. Try using frozen berries to decorate the pavlova or add them to your favourite cake, muffin or pie.</p> <p><strong>6. Make your own drinks</strong></p> <p>You could make your own drinks, such as home-brewed iced tea. See if anyone in your family has a soda stream you can borrow to make sparkling mineral water. Add some freshly squeezed lemon or lime for extra flavour.</p> <p><strong>7. Reduce waste</strong></p> <p>Use your own crockery and re-use leftovers to reduce waste. After all, washing up is cheaper than buying plastic or paper plates and better for the environment. Remember to save any leftovers and re-use them. Leftover fresh vegetables could be used to make a hearty soup or chutney.</p> <h2>It doesn’t have to be perfect</h2> <p>Christmas comes and goes quickly. If your cooking ideas don’t work out, it’s not the end of the world. Choosing healthy foods on a budget is important all year around, so you may like to think about trying these tips throughout the years to come. <!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><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/196565/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lauren-ball-14718"><em>Lauren Ball</em></a><em>, Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-kirkegaard-1401256">Amy Kirkegaard</a>, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/breanna-lepre-1401257">Breanna Lepre</a>, Research Fellow, Mater Research Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emily-burch-438717">Emily Burch</a>, Dietitian and Researcher, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</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/bring-a-plate-what-to-take-to-christmas-lunch-that-looks-impressive-but-wont-break-the-bank-196565">original article</a>.</em></p>

Food & Wine

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"Impossibly sad": P-plater jailed over fatal crash

<p>A southwest Sydney community is reeling after Tyrell Edwards was sentenced for causing the deaths of five children in a fiery crash last year. </p> <p>Edwards, 20, was driving recklessly at speeds of 147km/h in the suburb of Buxton when he crashed into two trees and struck five teenagers. </p> <p>Lily Van De Putte, Gabby McLennan, Summer Williams, all aged 14, Tyrese Bechard, 15, and Antonio Desisto, 16, were all killed in the devastating incident. </p> <p>Appearing in Campbelltown District Court on his 20th birthday, Edwards sentenced to 12 years in prison, and will be eligible for parole in seven years, after pleading guilty to five counts of aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death at a speed more than 45km/h over the limit.</p> <p>The judge described the deaths of the five victims as “tragic and impossibly sad”. </p> <p>“The loss of these five young people diminishes us all,” he said. </p> <p>“Their deaths were completely avoidable and responsibility for them lies squarely at the feet of the offender.”</p> <p>Gasps were heard in the courtroom as the sentence was read, with families of the victims sharing their disappointment at the sentencing. </p> <p>Speaking outside court on Friday, family members of three of the teenagers hit out at the “unfair” sentence. </p> <p>Samantha McLennan said her heart “dropped” as she heard the ruling, while Exavan Desisto said he was “speechless”.</p> <p>“I knew the outcome wouldn’t be spectacular but to hear it was a big shock,” he said. “The justice system absolutely stinks.”</p> <p>John Van De Putte said he expected the sentence to be low, but felt it did not match the crime. </p> <p>“There’s five lives lost. Seven years in jail,” he said. “You’d get more if you killed someone with a baseball bat</p> <p>Mr Van De Putte had previously told the court there was “no excuse” for Edwards, a licensed driver, to have driven so recklessly and endangered the lives of his underage passengers. </p> <p>“No matter what you get, it will not bring back the five lives,” he told the 20-year-old.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

News

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Australian cruise passenger dies during onshore expedition

<p>P&amp;O Cruises have confirmed an Australian passenger has died during an onshore expedition in Vanuatu. </p> <p>The cruise line made the announcement on Wednesday, saying the passenger passed away during a Pacific island stop at Mystery Island, one of the stops included on the Pacific Adventure journey.</p> <p>The passenger's cause of death has not been disclosed. </p> <p>“P&amp;O Cruises Australia can confirm a guest of Pacific Adventure has tragically passed away while in port at Mystery Island, Vanuatu,” a P&amp;O spokesperson told <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/world/po-australia-passenger-dies-ashore-vanuatus-mystery-island-during-pacific-adventure-journey-c-12028678" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a></em>.</p> <p>“We extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones and are doing everything we can to support them during this difficult time."</p> <p>“As we are working with the relevant authorities and to protect the privacy of the family, it would be inappropriate to comment further."</p> <p>This incident is now the second time a cruise ship passenger has died on Mystery Island in a few months time, with an Australian Carnival Cruise Line passenger dying amid their nine-day South Pacific journey in May, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed.</p> <p>At the time of the incident, a passenger told <em>7News</em> that the guest died while snorkelling. </p> <p>“Carnival Cruise Line is deeply saddened by the death of a guest on Mystery Island, following what appears to be a medical situation while swimming,” Carnival Cruise Line said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: P&amp;O</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Woman finds piece of art history on sale for $8

<p dir="ltr">It’s every thrifter’s dream to find something in an op shop that is being sold for far less than it’s worth. </p> <p dir="ltr">Many frequent their local thrift shops to find hidden treasures from designer brands with a much more reasonable price tag, finally giving them the chance to own a piece of luxury. </p> <p dir="ltr">One experienced thrift shopper has taken this dream to the next level, after she found a series of ceramic dishes in her local Salvation Army store that are a piece of art history.</p> <p dir="ltr">Nancy Cavaliere, a native New Yorker, has shared the story of her ultimate thrifting experience, which began on her way home from work in the summer of 2017.</p> <p dir="ltr">Nancy recalled stopping by the store and browsing for a while before resigning herself to defeat after not snagging a bargain. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I see nothing. I almost leave,” she said in her now-viral TikTok.</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/CqTY-WXJ4DM/?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/CqTY-WXJ4DM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Nancy Cavaliere (@casacavaliere)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">However, one more peruse past the china aisle was all Nancy needed for something to catch her eye, as she spied four unusual black plates with geometric faces hand-painted on them, with each plate marked with a $1.99 sticker. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I was going to buy them to make a tablescape,” Cavaliere said in the video. </p> <p dir="ltr">She bought the plates and left the store happy, and began to research her purchase once she got home. </p> <p dir="ltr">The plates, it turned out, belonged to Picasso’s “<em>Visage Noir</em>” series of hand-painted ceramics, produced in a pottery studio in the southern French town of Madoura in the 1940s. </p> <p dir="ltr">“When I tell you I googled this set… and saw how much they were worth and almost cried, passed out—I’m not lying,” Cavaliere said. </p> <p dir="ltr">Nancy then contacted several auction houses in New York, such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s, to have the plates appraised and authenticated. </p> <p dir="ltr">She was told they were each worth $3,000 to $5,000, and the following year, she sold three of her four plates at Sotheby’s for roughly $12,000, $13,000, and $16,000, respectively.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was in my office at my lunch break watching this live auction go down, crying my eyes out,” she said. </p> <p dir="ltr">The fourth piece, which bears Picasso’s signature, Nancy decided to keep and store in a safe deposit box. </p> <p dir="ltr">Cavaliere plans to sell it in 20 years and give the money to her daughter, perhaps for a trip around Europe. </p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s crazy,” she said, “that I actually own something that Picasso signed for himself.” </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Art

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What’s better than a hand-knitted jumper they’ll never wear?

<p>Grandchildren are so simple when they’re young. You give them all the things that their parents say no to – late bedtime, endless sugary treats and drum kits, for example – and you’re good to go. That special bond you share is strong, and you’re at the centre of their world. But as they start to get older, grandchildren can get a whole lot more complicated.</p> <p>What was cool last year is embarrassing this year, and who can keep up with all the technology and media they’re into these days?</p> <p>Yes, you could put some cash in a card, but this approach can lack that personal touch. And while a few fifties inside a birthday card, or something you knitted yourself, may seem like a safe and lovely gift, you know you can do better. That’s why Personalised Plates are an excellent gift idea that your grandkids will cherish for many years to come.</p> <p><strong>Show you really know them</strong></p> <p>The beauty of Personalised Plates is that you can tailor them to be unique and distinctive, making them the perfect way to show your grandchild that you care about them and their interests. More than just a random collection of letters and numbers, Personalised Plates give you the chance to celebrate your grandchild’s hobby, career, interest, identity, family nickname, or even simply just their name, in a way that’s fun and memorable.</p> <p>And unlike those fifties or that jumper, a personalised plate won’t be forgotten by this time next year – it will be around for years to come.</p> <p>Something else that makes Personalised Plates a great gift is that they’re practical. Your grandchild will use it and be reminded of you every time they drive their car. </p> <p><strong>It’s perfect for everyone</strong></p> <p>Plus, it’s a gift that can suit anyone, regardless of their age or interests. That versatility means you can get one for each grandchild – for birthdays or Christmas, or perhaps to celebrate them passing their driving test or when they get their first car. It can be your thing – and you don’t have to think of a new gift for each grandchild. All you have to do is come up with a personalised plate idea for each one as they reach that milestone.</p> <p><strong>How to choose</strong></p> <p>When it comes to choosing the right Personalised Plates for your grandchild, the options are almost endless, but don’t let that overwhelm you.</p> <p>When you’re choosing Personalised Plates for your grandchild, the first thing you’ll need to do is check whether the plate combination you want is available. That’s the unique number and letter combination. You can check availability on the <a href="https://www.ppq.com.au/?utm_campaign=gifting&utm_source=over_sixty&utm_medium=fabulate&utm_content=grandparents" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PPQ website</a>.</p> <p>Let your imagination (or family stories or your own unique relationship) be your guide here, but if you want some help getting started, some ideas you can use are:</p> <ul> <li>Name</li> <li>Initials</li> <li>Birthday</li> <li>Anniversary</li> <li>Family nickname</li> <li>Job or business name, or perhaps their career goal</li> <li>Hobbies</li> <li>Personality trait</li> <li>A family joke or shared memory.</li> </ul> <p>Then it’s time to choose the plate design. Choose from a range of different styles and themes to find something that suits your grandchild. Are they a big rugby league fan? An animal lover? Are they into DC Comics or Loony Tunes? Or do they prefer classic European or Japanese styling? There’s a personalised plate to suit all tastes. </p> <p><strong>Get creative</strong></p> <p>While many of the more popular names and words might be taken, don’t be afraid to get creative with the spelling, by using numbers or phonetics.</p> <p>Think P3TER, K4REN, D4V3. Or JESSSS or JOOLS.</p> <p>Plates really are the perfect personalised gift, because they’ll suit all your grandchildren, but they’ll never see another one quite like the one you’ve given them. And no matter what you choose, now and into the future, their Personalised Plates will be a reminder of your special bond, and your grandchild can be reminded of how much you care every time they hop into their car. </p> <p>It’s a gift that can last them a lifetime.</p> <p>Start designing your perfect personalised plate gift on the <a href="https://www.ppq.com.au/?utm_campaign=gifting&utm_source=over_sixty&utm_medium=fabulate&utm_content=grandparents" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PPQ website here</a>. </p> <p>Or, if you want to give your grandchild the gift of Personalised Plates but you’re worried about making the right choice, give them a PPQ gift voucher and let them decide for themselves. Gift vouchers start at $100. <a href="https://www.ppq.com.au/products/gift-vouchers?utm_campaign=gifting&utm_source=over_sixty&utm_medium=fabulate&utm_content=grandparents" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more here</a>. </p> <p><em>Images: Supplied.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">PPQ.</span></em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Picking up a King Charles III coronation commemorative plate? You’re buying into a centuries-old tradition

<p>Mugs and plates celebrating the coronations, marriages and deaths of British royalty are not unusual sights in the Australian home. With the forthcoming coronation of King Charles III on May 6, such memorabilia cluttering our cupboards are only likely to increase. </p> <p>Guides to “<a href="https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/king-charles-coronation-memorabilia-2023">the best King Charles III memorabilia</a>” are already advising what souvenirs to buy, including commemorative coins, biscuit tins, tea towels, plates and, of course, mugs. </p> <p>Yet the royal souvenir is not a recent invention.</p> <h2>History of the royal mug</h2> <p>The tradition of celebrating royal events with a mug or drinking vessel dates to at least the 17th century when the current king’s ancestor and namesake, Charles II, was restored to the English throne in 1660-1. </p> <p>Several mugs and cups produced at the time have survived and depict the “<a href="https://www.historyextra.com/period/stuart/charles-ii-guide-restoration-why-merry-monarch-how-many-children-rule/">merry monarch</a>”.</p> <p>The restoration of Charles II (after his father Charles I had been executed by order of parliament in 1649) was greeted with rejoicing throughout England, Scotland and Ireland. </p> <p>The famous social climber and diarist Samuel Pepys embodied the general feeling of this time when he wrote that on the day of Charles II’s coronation he watched the royal procession with wine and cake and all were “<a href="https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/1661/04/22/">very merry</a>” and pleased at what they saw.</p> <p>Drinking and eating in celebration may account for why mugs and plates were, and remain, such popular forms of royal memorabilia; they were used to <a href="https://stuarts.exeter.ac.uk/education/objects/delftware-cup-c-1661/">drink loyal toasts</a> of good health to the monarch on special days of celebration. </p> <p>While a strong ale was the preferred liquid for 17th-century toasts, as the British Empire expanded tea drinking became a common pastime. Teacups became popular royal souvenirs during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century.</p> <h2>Fostering support</h2> <p>The earthenware mugs made for Charles II’s coronation were relatively inexpensive, but not produced on a mass scale. </p> <p>With the industrial revolution of the 19th century and the rise of souvenir culture, royal memorabilia in all forms became more <a href="https://theconversation.com/royal-family-why-even-a-charles-and-diana-divorce-mug-is-important-for-the-monarchy-176588">popular and widespread</a>. </p> <p>Since 1900, royal births, deaths, marriages and coronations have been big money for manufacturers of royal memorabilia.</p> <p>The pitfalls of mass production were realised in 1936 when Edward VIII abdicated from the throne just months before his planned coronation in May 1937. Manufacturers were stuck with <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/178313173?searchTerm=%22coronation%20mug%22">thousands of mugs</a>, plates and other items celebrating the coronation of a king that would not happen. </p> <p>Many of these mugs still made their way out to the market, while other manufacturers such as Royal Doulton <a href="https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/H_2012-8022-5-a-c">adapted existing designs</a> and used them for the coronation of his brother, George VI.</p> <p>English monarchs were not the only royals to encourage the use of their image on objects collected, worn or used by their subjects. </p> <p>Renaissance Italian princes popularised the <a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2016/renaissance-portrait-medals/exhibition-themes">portrait medal</a> and the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain, Charles V, fostered support in his vast territories using mass-produced medallions <a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/197126">bearing his image</a>.</p> <p>Objects with images of royalty served similar functions in the 20th century. Australian school children were often <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/141777602?searchTerm=%22coronation%20mug%22">given medals</a>to commemorate coronations, while children in England were gifted pottery mugs to drink to the sovereign’s health. </p> <p>When Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953, <a href="https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/coronation-of-hm-queen-elizabeth-ii">English children</a>received mugs, tins of chocolate and a spoon or coin.</p> <h2>Measuring popularity</h2> <p>Royal memorabilia don’t just foster support but act as a barometer of the popularity of the royal family around the globe. </p> <p>Coronation mugs became popular in the reign of Charles II in 1661 because these objects captured the joyous feeling of a nation that had endured 20 years of warfare and political chaos.</p> <p>Support for the royal family has often been shown through royal weddings and marriages: plates depicting Charles II and his Portuguese bride, Catherine of Braganza, were made to celebrate their union in 1662.</p> <p>Recently a <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/metal-detectorist-discovers-rare-gold-pendant-celebrating-henry-viiis-first-marriage-180981557/">gold pendant</a> inscribed with the initials of Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, likely worn by a supporter, was also discovered.</p> <p>For Prince William and Kate Middleton’s highly anticipated wedding in 2011, thousands of types of mundane and wacky <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/gossip/la-et-royal-wedding-souvenirs-pictures-photogallery.html">souvenirs</a> were produced, such as plates, mugs, magnets, graphic novels, toilet seat covers and PEZ dispensers.</p> <p>Over 1,600 lines of official merchandise were produced for the marriage of Princes Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. <a href="https://issuu.com/accpublishinggroup/docs/june_july_2022_mag/s/15960301">Less than 25 lines</a> were produced for Charles’ unpopular second marriage to Camilla Parker Bowles in 2005.</p> <p>While Charles may not be <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2023/03/01/celebrities-dont-care-to-perform-for-king-charles-iii/?sh=56487b7a20f8">as popular</a> as his mother, coronation fever has most definitely taken hold in the United Kingdom. Royal fans are set to spend £1.4 billion (A$2.6 billion) on <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/21911733/shoppers-spend-billion-king-coronation-may/">coronation parties and souvenirs</a>. </p> <p>The availability of coronation souvenirs and party supplies in Australia is somewhat more limited – perhaps an indicator of Australia’s diminishing appetite for the royal family amid increased calls for another <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-24/king-charles-australias-head-of-state-alternative-republic/101470156">vote on a republic</a>.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/picking-up-a-king-charles-iii-coronation-commemorative-plate-youre-buying-into-a-centuries-old-tradition-200646" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>

Home & Garden

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Victorian man’s anti-Dan Andrews plates deemed “offensive” by government

<p dir="ltr">A Victorian man could lose his personalised number plates referencing Premier Daniel Andrews after the state government’s transport body said they had deemed them to be “offensive” and “inappropriate”.</p> <p dir="ltr">In September, Peter Dunlevie received plates that read, “DANOUT”, from VicRoads and attached them to his 2003 Commodore ahead of the state election on November 23.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Well, I want Andrews gone,” he told <em>7NEWS</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m just sick of him.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-907adc51-7fff-b3f2-85a0-ade8c73e54ba"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The plates are accompanied by other anti-Andrews messages, including stickers reading, “Save Victoria” and “SACK ANDREWS”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/11/danout1.jpg" alt="" width="880" height="495" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Peter Dunlevie attached plates reading ‘DANOUT’ to his white Commodore. Image: 7NEWS</em></p> <p dir="ltr">However, VicRoads has since written to the Gippsland man and told him to return the plates, writing that the plates are “negative”, “offensive” and “inappropriate”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A review of our records has identified that the combination ‘DANOUT’ has specific negative references, and may be considered offensive by the broader community,” the letter read.</p> <p dir="ltr">Dunlevie has questioned VicRoads’ assessment of the plates, telling the news outlet that it’s just “a bit of fun”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“What’s offensive about them?” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is just an old bloke having a bit of fun.”</p> <p dir="ltr">While VicRoads has the authority to cancel personalised plates, Dunlevie said he felt like the transport authority was “trying to gag me”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following the letter from VicRoads, the state’s Department of Transport has begun a review into the decision to remove the plates from Dunlevie.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2976ccdd-7fff-1b07-2086-9bc20f7378ca"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: 7NEWS</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Standing ovation for Pink's stirring tribute to Olivia

<p>P!nk has received a standing ovation for her emotional tribute to Olivia Newton-John at the 50th annual American Music Awards. </p> <p>The singer, whose real name is Alecia Moore Hart, took to the stage in front of a monitor flashing images of the late singer and performed a rousing rendition of <em>Hopelessly Devoted to You</em>. </p> <p>The song was originally sung by Newton-John for the hit musical film <em>Grease</em>, and its accompanying soundtrack went on to reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and number seven on the Adult Contemporary chart.</p> <p>Melissa Etheridge first came on the the AMA stage to introduce P!nk, but before the pop star came to the stage, Etheridge shared a few sweet sentiments about Newton-John.</p> <p>"From the moment you were in the presence of Olivia Newton-John, you sensed her sweetness, you stood in awe of her welcoming beauty, and you basked in the feeling that she was connecting to you alone," she began.</p> <p>She went on to share how to hear her sing "was to feel the power of art to transform feelings, the feelings we all have of love and elation and disappointment into something sublime."</p> <p>P!nk then took to the stage for her emotional performance, with members of the audience singing along. </p> <p>By the end of the performance, the crowd erupted into a loud applause that quickly transformed into a standing ovation, that was led by Pink's husband Carey Hart, 47, and their two children, 11-year-old daughter Willow and five-year-old son Jameson. </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dOmHZj8n71w" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Music

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Ancient insect calls for update to Jurassic Park soundtrack

<p>For the past 150 years, the single known specimen of a species of katydid-like insect known as <a href="http://orthoptera.speciesfile.org/Common/basic/Taxa.aspx?TaxonNameID=1129138" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Prophalangopsis obscura</em></a> has sat quietly in the London Natural History Museum but now some scientists have worked out what it would have sounded like.</p> <p>A British/Austrian team, used some seriously fancy equipment and an understanding of the physics of insect acoustics to work out what this species would have sounded like when it sang for a mate, giving insight into the ancient insect soundscape of the Jurassic period.</p> <p>Katydids are grasshoppers and crickets.</p> <p>This holotype, or single known specimen, is one of only eight remaining species from the 90 or so which were abundant during the Jurassic period.</p> <p>The research team has shown the sounds produced by this particular insect would have been similar to, although distinguishable from, other related species around this period.</p> <figure class="wp-block-audio"><audio src="../wp-content/uploads/2022/08/journal.pone_.0270498.s002.wav?x88132" controls="controls"></audio><figcaption>The reconstructed calling song of <em>Prophalangopsis obscura</em>. Credit: Woodrow et al. 2002/PLOS ONE, CC-BY 4.0</figcaption></figure> <p>The chirp produced by <em>P. obscura</em> is a pure tone, emitted at around 4.7 kHz — well-within the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK10924/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">range of human hearing</a>.</p> <p>Aside from helping researchers understand what the insect world sounded like when dinosaurs roamed the Earth some 145 to 201 million years ago, the findings also suggest that early insects of this type were limited to frequencies below 20 kHz.</p> <div class="newsletter-box"> </div> <p>This is important because the other species of <em>Prophalangopsis </em>known today have evolved to be flightless, using their wings exclusively for sound production and attracting a mate. These evolved species have also developed ultrasonic sound production organs to assist in deterring ground-based predators.</p> <p>That <em>P. obscura </em>retained its ability to fly — even just short distances — and did not develop ultrasonic capabilities, suggests it followed a different evolutionary path to the other species still in existence today, giving extra insight into the evolution of this species and their relatives.</p> <p>But, how do you hear an insect that has been dead for 150 years?</p> <p>Like katydids and their relatives, <em>P. obscura</em>, produced sound by scraping one of its wings with a ‘file’ (or row of teeth). These vibrations would then by amplified by special structures within the insect’s wing and radiated out into the surrounding environment.</p> <p>Scientists at the University of Lincoln, the Natural History Museum, London, UK and Karl-Franzens-University, Graz, Austria used a technique called micro-scanning Laser-Doppler Vibrometry (LDV) to scan and then reconstruct the wings and sound-producing organs of the holotype. They then applied knowledge of close relatives of the species, they were then able to infer the “carrier frequency” (the central frequency at which the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jeb.13179" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overall sound reaches its maximum energy</a>).</p> <p>Due to its low frequency and pure tone, the song <em>P. obscura</em> sang may have reverberated far and wide across the Jurassic landscape.</p> <p><!-- Start of tracking content syndication. Please do not remove this section as it allows us to keep track of republished articles --></p> <p><img id="cosmos-post-tracker" style="opacity: 0; height: 1px!important; width: 1px!important; border: 0!important; position: absolute!important; z-index: -1!important;" src="https://syndication.cosmosmagazine.com/?id=201424&amp;title=Ancient+insect+calls+for+update+to+Jurassic+Park+soundtrack" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><!-- End of tracking content syndication --></p> <div id="contributors"> <p><a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/biology/ancient-insect-jurassic-sound/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T<em>his article</em></a><em> was originally published on <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cosmos Magazine</a> and was written by <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/contributor/clare-kenyon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clare Kenyon</a>. Clare Kenyon is a science writer for Cosmos. She is currently wrangling the death throes of her PhD in astrophysics, has a Masters in astronomy and another in education, and has classroom experience teaching high school science, maths and physics. Clare also has diplomas in music and criminology and a graduate certificate of leadership and learning.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Charlie Woodrow</em></p> </div>

Family & Pets

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Australia set to have “near normal” cruise season

<p dir="ltr">As Australia and the rest of the world continue to live with Covid-19, it's hard to believe that the cruise industry is almost back to normal. </p> <p dir="ltr">P&amp;O Cruises Australia announced that their latest addition, Pacific Encounter, has set sail from Singapore and is on its way to Sydney. </p> <p dir="ltr">This is “another step” toward a “near normal” for the cruise industry which pumps $5 billion into Australia every year. </p> <p dir="ltr">Pacific Encounter will have a “brief encounter” in Sydney before heading up to Brisbane.</p> <p dir="ltr">President of Carnival Australia and P&amp;O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald said Pacific Encounter’s arrival is the right way forward for cruising. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Knowing that we have a second P&amp;O ship only weeks away reminds us all that cruising is making a return to normal scheduling,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It is hard to believe that as warmer weather returns, Australia is now on the way to having a near normal 2022-23 summer cruise season.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is testament to our onboard and shoreside teams and to the many P&amp;O passengers who were patiently waiting during the pause for the opportunity to cruise again.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“We can’t wait for Pacific Encounter to depart on her first guest cruise from Brisbane on August 20, a 7-night Barrier Reef Discovery Cruise. This itinerary will include Pacific Encounters' maiden call to Cairns helping to bring cruise tourism back to Far North Queensland.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Cruising

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Pacific Explorer receives TONNES of food

<p dir="ltr">Cruise ship Pacific Explorer has received tonnes of food as they prepare for their return to the seas on May 31.</p> <p dir="ltr">After a two-year ban due to Covid, cruises are gearing for massive return to the seas which will also see an eye-watering $5 billion pumped into the economy and will help more than 18,000 people get a job. </p> <p dir="ltr">Pacific Explorer received more than 220 pallets with 7.3 tonnes of meat, 9.6 tonnes of fruit and vegetables, 6.6 tonnes of seafood and 30,000 shelled eggs on Friday. </p> <p dir="ltr">P&amp;O Cruises Australia celebrity chef Luke Mangan commended the quality of the foods which worked as a perfect opportunity for farmers. </p> <p dir="ltr">“As a chef and restaurant owner and operator including a number of signature outlets on P&amp;O Cruises Australia ships, I know that the quality of Australian produce is the key to success,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So, it is fantastic to see that the return of cruising also means the return of opportunity for our farmers and other producers including winemakers and craft beer makers. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Many have done it tough over the past two years and it is good to know that the benefits will only increase as cruising ramps up.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Marguerite Fitzgerald, President of Carnival Australia and P&amp;O Cruises Australia, echoed Chef Mangan’s comments saying this was just one of many big deliveries. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Today’s big delivery of produce to Pacific Explorer is where cruising and economic opportunity meet. It is also strong confirmation of the multiplier effect of cruise tourism and the diversity of the ‘cruising ecosystem’.”</p> <p dir="ltr">NSW Minister for Transport and Veterans David Elliott described the tonnes of food as the “tip of the iceberg” in helping stimulate the economy. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The cruise industry is an economic powerhouse because its impacts are felt from the farm gate, through our freight and supply chains all the way to our tourism destinations – it generates jobs far beyond the ship, boosts regional economies and supports farming communities.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Pacific Explorer is due to set sail from Sydney on May 31 on its first commercial cruise since the cruise ban in Australia was lifted. </p> <p dir="ltr">Guests will enjoy a four-night itinerary with a call to Brisbane on June 2 where Pacific Explorer will become the first cruise ship to berth at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Cruising

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P-plate speedster loses licence an hour after passing driving test

<p dir="ltr">A P-plater has been caught driving at a whopping 193 km/h and lost his licence just one hour after passing his driving test.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 18-year-old Sydney man was pulled over by police from Burwood Highway Patrol in Moombooldool, about 50km east of Griffith, after he was clocked speeding in an old Toyota Hilux.</p> <p dir="ltr">The officers - also from Sydney - were en-route to Griffith to start a traffic enforcement campaign in the area and shared their encounter on social media.</p> <p dir="ltr">“After stopping the vehicle and speaking to the driver (officers) discovered the driver had only (an) hour earlier passed his driving test,” the post on NSW Police’s Traffic and Highway Patrol Command page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TrafficServicesNSWPF/posts/5245654198832851" target="_blank" rel="noopener">read</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police revealed the driver’s teenage sibling was also in the car and that the driver received a hefty punishment, including a penalty notice for speeding by more than 45 km/h and not displaying his newly-received P plates.</p> <p dir="ltr">“His licence was suspended on the spot for a minimum of six months, which will be extended due to the excessive loss of demerit points,” the post read.</p> <p dir="ltr">Highway patrol officers based in rural areas who spoke to <em><a href="https://www.drive.com.au/news/p-plate-driver-busted-at-193km-h-moments-after-getting-licence-also-a-toyota-hilux-can-do-193km-h/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drive</a></em> said they were surprised by how many city motorists get caught at high speeds.</p> <p dir="ltr">“People don’t realise (the highway patrol) are everywhere across the state,” one officer told the publication.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A lot of people think they can floor it in remote areas, but the dangers are significant, with wildlife, livestock and trees by the side of the road.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s also easier to detect speeds because there is usually only one road in or out of a regional centre. If you speed, you will get caught because we’re out there.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-70bf46dc-7fff-991a-76a5-f558967d6201"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Traffic and Highway Patrol Command - NSW Police Force (Facebook)</em></p>

Legal

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What needs to be done before cruises arrive

<p dir="ltr">The return of cruises is high on most people’s bucket lists (or relaxing lists) as they head back to Australia’s shores in May. </p> <p dir="ltr">After a two-year ban on all cruises due to Covid, the government lifted the ban and all ships are set to sail! </p> <p dir="ltr">The industry pumps an eye-watering $5 billion and will help more than 18,000 get a job. </p> <p dir="ltr">But before they set sail, there are quite a few things that need to be sorted.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Rehiring staff and shopping</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Graeme Blackman of Inter-Marine said workers who were laid off due to the pandemic should look forward to being rehired.</p> <p dir="ltr">His tools which were used to ensure everything was working need to also be checked due to being idle for two years. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Inter-Marine lost almost 90 per cent of its $7 million turnover during the ban.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It'll be a slow, progressive start but we're so glad we could last this long."</p> <p dir="ltr">Steven Biviano, from Sydney Select Fresh Providores, is required to ensure the ship is stocked with all ingredients on offer for the delicious meals. </p> <p dir="ltr">Before the pandemic hit, Steven was delivering 40-semi trailers of fruit and vegetables to cruise ships. </p> <p dir="ltr">Then his team of 30 was cut to just three people which he said will now change.</p> <p dir="ltr">"(I'll be) getting a team re-established, speaking to growers, agents," he told Nine News. </p> <p dir="ltr">Jeremy Goodman, Supply Chain Director for P&amp;O Cruises Australia, will then ensure all products needed are on board. </p> <p dir="ltr">The first cruise will require: 4,500 dozen eggs, 15 tonnes of fresh vegetables and 6.5 tonnes of poultry.</p> <p dir="ltr">"When Pacific Explorer resumes cruising on May 31, more than 300 pallets of products of various kinds will be delivered," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Each pallet weighs around 500k kilograms so that is around 50 tonnes of fresh produce."</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cooking up dishes</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The delicious meals that will be prepped and cooked with the products will be created by P&amp;O Cruises Australia Corporate Executive Chef Uwe Stiefel. </p> <p dir="ltr">Chef Uwe has been practicing new dishes in his Sydney restaurant and said it will be interesting to see what people enjoy after almost two years of takeaway food.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Entertainment</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">P&amp;O Cruises Australia's Head of Entertainment Brett Annable and Corporate Entertainment Director, Zoltina-J Medwik Dale have been busy recruiting entertainers to welcome aboard passengers.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We are about to welcome our first production show cast into rehearsals for their debut at the end of May and we are putting the finishing touches to our brand-new production show, 'Musicology', which is launching later this year on Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure," Brett said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Covid-19 rules</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Cruising is set to be different thanks to covid with new protocols put in place to ensure the safety of all staff and customers. </p> <p dir="ltr">All passengers must be fully vaccinated before jumping on a cruise, with Covid tests to be mandatory before departing as well as another test done while on board. </p> <p dir="ltr">Cruise lines will have their own rules when it comes to wearing masks but will most likely have the rule in place where social distancing isn’t possible. </p> <p dir="ltr">Staff will however be required to wear masks except for outside on the deck and will be trained with Covid protocols. </p> <p dir="ltr">The delicious buffets are still on offer but will be served by staff from behind screens to help stop the spread of the disease.</p> <p dir="ltr">All mealtimes will also be staggered for passengers to ensure social distancing is in place</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>First cruise to leave</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">P&amp;O’s Pacific Explorer will be the first cruise ship to start its journey leaving from Sydney on May 31 for a relaxing four night voyage to Brisbane. </p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

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P&O Cruises celebrates diversity

<p dir="ltr">As cruises make their way back to Australia, P&amp;O Cruises is celebrating with a weekend at sea for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, their friends, family and supporters. </p> <p dir="ltr">The ship will set sail on November 4 from Sydney and is a three-night event to allow Aussies from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and inclusion.</p> <p dir="ltr">The celebrations won’t stop there though, with a Pride Cruise departing from Melbourne on December 9, as well as another three cruises in 2023. </p> <p dir="ltr">P&amp;O Cruises Australia’s Partnership Manager Chris Rich said the cruise line was excited to return to service and offer guests its first dedicated Pride sailing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Guests on the Pride cruise will be able to celebrate the themes of love, compassion, respect and understanding through lectures, educational and spiritual events, same sex marriages and renewal of vows,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The cruise will welcome everyone who is a member or supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community – as well as the unique blend of love and laughter that makes the LGBTQIA+ spectrum so special.”</p> <p dir="ltr">LGBTQIA+ community organisations such as Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, Harbour City Bears and Queer Screen have helped P&amp;O Cruises make this possible. </p> <p dir="ltr">The cruise line has gone a step further to include some of “the best names in the Australian entertainment business” to make the three nights memorable. </p> <p dir="ltr">Some names dropped by the cruise include international superstar Hans the German, Simon Dunn - the first openly gay male to represent any country in the sport of bobsled – P&amp;O Cruises Queensland Rugby League ambassador Meg Ward and ex-Rabbitohs rugby star Ian Roberts.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: P&amp;O Cruises</em></p>

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Hanging out for a cruise? You’re not alone

<p dir="ltr">It feels like a lifetime ago when we were actually able to book cruises for a relaxing getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thanks to Covid, that all stopped about two years ago to help stop the spread of the infectious disease.</p> <p dir="ltr">And let's not forget about the <em>Ruby Princess</em> fiasco…but we won’t go there. </p> <p dir="ltr">The ban on foreign cruises in and around Australian waters was extended until April 17, and cruise ship owners are hoping they can hit the waters once again. </p> <p dir="ltr">Marguerite Fitzgerald, the newly appointed President of Carnival Australia and P&amp;O Cruises Australia believes a return to the seas is on the horizon. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Once the ban is lifted, we expect there will be a lot of excitement and demand, and we want to be ready for that,” she told <a href="https://cruisepassenger.com.au/news/well-be-back-better-than-ever-new-carnival-boss-vows-a-party-to-celebrate-the-return-of-ships/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cruise Passenger</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">She predicts the cruise ban will be lifted by the middle of the year and is preparing a complete makeover of the ships following a grueling two-year break.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are cancelled through to the end of May. It takes a while to ramp ships back up, when you think about having to bring crew over and suppliers have a lead time to be ready to supply the ships.  </p> <p dir="ltr">“So a middle of the year return, assuming we continue to make good progress, that's what we are aiming for.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Watch this sea (space).</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Carnival Australia </em></p>

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The most trusted cruise operators in Australia

<p><em>Image: Getty</em></p> <p><strong>Most trusted cruise operator: Royal Caribbean</strong></p> <p>According to our data, people love Royal Caribbean for many different reasons. “They have high standards and offer very personal service,” said one respondent.</p> <p>“A hardworking cruise line that ensures your holiday is a relaxing and memorable one,” replied another.</p> <p>Royal Caribbean is bringing world-class, technologically-advanced ships to local waters, with amazing ‘Only On Royal’ activities, such as the North Star observation capsule, sky-diving simulators and bumper cars. With ships sailing from both Sydney and Brisbane from summer 2022-2023, guests have even more choice with departure points.</p> <p>Royal Caribbean has also assembled a taskforce of the world’s leading medical and scientific experts – the Healthy Sail Panel – to help establish measures to keep guests healthy and safe, including upgraded air filtration systems and upgraded onboard medical facilities and medical care.</p> <p><strong>Highly commended cruise operator: Cunard</strong></p> <p>Cunard passengers can travel in luxury on any number of voyages on Cunard’s three magnificent ships: the flagship ocean liner Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth, with guests able to experience a world of freedom and possibility, from learning fencing or tango, listening to an astronaut, or simply relaxing with a cocktail in one of the beautiful atriums.</p> <p>“I think Cunard offer premium quality cruises which makes me think of them as offering a higher quality experience than other operators,” said one happy guest.</p> <p><strong>Highly commended cruise operator: P&amp;O Cruises</strong></p> <p>P&amp;O’s local heritage coupled with an inherent understanding of how Aussies like to cruise is infused into everything it delivers, with the cruise line taking pride in leveraging local Australian talent and entertainment, locally sourced food and beverages, top Aussie chefs and unique live shows. In 2021, P&amp;O Cruises is welcoming two grand class ships, Pacific Adventure® and Pacific Encounter, both with a huge range of signature and new features. Enhanced health measures and protocols, improved impacts on the natural environment, as well as a refresh of onboard experiences including personalised digital applications, all await returning and new guests.</p> <p>“Wonderful experience. Everything that was promised was delivered,” enthused a previous guest.</p> <p>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/cruising/the-most-trusted-cruise-operators-in-australia">Readers Digest</a>. </p>

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P&O Cruises Australia Cancels More Sailings Until April 2022

<p><em>Image: Cruise Passenger </em></p> <p>P&amp;O Cruises Australia has cancelled further cruises until mid-April 2022.</p> <p>The extension of the government’s cruise ban in Australia marks two years since the line has sailed Down Under. Cruises departing from March 3 till April 16, 2022 from Sydney and Brisbane will be cancelled and this also marks the 23rd cruise cancellation announcement since the pandemic.</p> <p>President of <span>P&amp;O</span> Cruises Australia Sture Myrmell said that during this entire period guests had displayed incredible patience and loyalty to <span>P&amp;O</span> and cruising.</p> <p>“However, as we approach the two-year mark in our rolling pause in operations, it is understandable that our guests will be very disappointed and frustrated that there is still no agreed restart plan for cruising in Australia,” Mr Myrmell said.</p> <p>“Federal and state governments are yet to outline their requirements for restart despite the nation’s high vaccination rate, the cruise industry’s comprehensive health protocols, vaccination policies for guests and crew and the successful resumption of cruising in other international markets.</p> <p>“Our loyal guests, travel agents and many suppliers whose businesses depend on cruising along with thousands of jobs are simply looking for certainty so that they can plan for the future. Reaching this two-year anniversary is discouraging for so many of them.”</p> <p>Late last week, the Federal Government extended Australia’s cruise ban by another two months.</p> <p>“After an absence of two years, it will take us several months and significant cost to manage the complex logistics necessary to return a ship to service before sailing back to Australian waters,” Mr Myrmell said.</p> <p>“This includes engaging our crew and re-training them to meet new operating protocols when they are known as well as re-stocking the ship with local fresh produce and refreshing onboard guest service operations that have also been on-hold for such a long time.</p> <p>“It is a big task and we need to understand the operating environment before we begin the process of returning. To date, no government authority, federal or state, has provided feedback on the industry’s proposed operational guidelines to enable an informed decision on bringing our ships back to Australia.”</p> <p> </p>

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