Sunday, December 31, 2023

Palestinean civilian death toll in Gaza soon to surpass Battle of Britain


Palestinean civilians are being killed at twice the rate of British civilians during the Battle of Britain and The Blitz.


In an interesting, if gruesome historical comparison, the civilian death toll among Palestinian residents of Gaza will soon surpass that of British civilians during the Battle of Britain.

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

What's happening here? Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s …

 

(c) SEHMUZ BAYHAN / Life Framer


A super scenario welcomes the viewer as they make sense of this impromptu street shot. Superman strikes a strong confident shape within the frame as he clearly directs a tourist – only the tightly gripped wad of cash in his hand betraying his mortal existence. No matter which way it’s dressed up, the simple act of manners and helping someone out is wonderful to see in any street scene. A humorous, well-timed and engaging picture. Bravo

See more: https://www.life-framer.com/humans-2023

STARTED OUT JUST DRINKING BEER - THE Mental As Anything STORY


 A superbly researched and written account of one of Australia’s most popular bands, with unfettered access to all the key players, and a defacto social history of a time when living in Sydney was cheap and fun. 

The Mentals went from the top of a pool table to the top of the charts. Enjoy the untold stories behind Aussie classics like: Live It Up, Too Many Times, If You Leave Me Can I Come  Too?, Berserk Warriors, Egypt, The Nips are Getting Bigger, and a whole lot more.  

“In fact, the Mentals had more charting singles than any other Aussie band in the 80s and 90s,” says author, Stuart Lloyd. “26 in all, compared to INXS’ 17.”

Plus, tales from the road as told by Greedy, Martin, Bird, Pete & Reg — and a star-studded cast including Colin Hay, Richard Gottehrer, Mark Opitz, Ross Wilson and Wreckless Eric —  in this access-all-areas official biography. 


“It’s an official biography, but that doesn’t mean it’s been sandpapered and varnished into some sort of saccharine version of the truth,” says Lloyd. “I told them upfront it had to be warts and all, or not at all, and to their credit, they have signed off on the good the bad and the ugly of the band’s 43-year journey … including the acrimonious wrongful dismissal court case in 2004, an on-stage death at Australian Made 1987, a punch-up between Greedy and Bird that put the drummer in hospital while touring New York, a payola scandal which affected Live It Up, and so on. But overall it’s a celebration of one of Oz Rock’s hardest-working most prolific and creative bands. A great summer read, I’d say.”

== -- ==

“Love it!!! Brought up lots of memories. Thoroughly enjoyable.” —KIRK PENGILLY, INXS

“This book gives us a big gulp of one of Australia’s most uniquely talented and popular bands.”—ANTHONY (TONY) FIELD, The Cockroaches, The Wiggles.

“An extraordinary and horrific portrait of five butchers who were country-killed specialists, shot through with black humour and near-naked burlesque attire.’— H.G. NELSON, comedian and broadcaster

“Stuart Lloyd captures the alchemy that saw Australian bands flourish from the arid plains of our suburban lives. I loved the Mentals and I love this book.” —DAVE WARNER, author, Countdown: The Wonder Years, and 25 Years of Mushroom Records

“Takes us behind the showbiz curtain. A deep-dive beyond the colourful personalities and the larrikin-esque cheerfulness of a uniquely Australian band who have been the soundtrack of our lives for decades. Had me glued to each page.” —JANE GAZZO, music journalist and broadcaster


Stuart Lloyd
has interviewed the likes of Paul Kelly, Bic Runga and REM, on songwriting, and his travel and music features have appeared in publications such as Variety (US), The  Australian, Sydney Morning Herald, and Songsmith. This is his 19th non-fiction book. The  Telegraph (UK) described him as ‘The Perfect Storyteller!’ 


Wednesday, September 20, 2023

What are these men doing? Is it the end of the world?

 


Just what exactly is going on here?

A scene from the latest Zombie apocalypse movie? No, it's actually a sculpture from Isaac Cordal, a famous Belgian-based, Spanish Galician sculptor and photographer whose work revolves around the urban environment. 

This scene forms part of one of his better-known installations entitled Follow The Leaders from ten years ago. The work has travelled around the world and has been seen in Colombia, France, Germany and his home town in Belgium. It also takes other forms and representations.

He describes it as "a critical reflection on our inertia as a social mass. Representing a social stereotype associated with power compound businessmen who run the global social spectrum."

Fancy talk, but the message is clear: While the elite talk and plot, the world crumbles.

For more, visit his fascinating website: Cement Eclipses


Friday, September 8, 2023

Confirmation Bias: Why people fall for stupid shit

 


Confirmation bias is a cognitive bias that refers to the tendency of individuals to favour information that confirms their preexisting beliefs or values while ignoring or discounting information that contradicts those beliefs or values. In other words, people often seek out, interpret, and remember information in a way that supports their existing viewpoints or expectations, and they tend to dismiss or downplay information that challenges those viewpoints.

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

These are the top 10 banter capitals of Australia, new survey finds


A survey conducted by the e-learning platform Preply asked more than 1,500 residents of the 50 largest metropolitan areas to rate the banter level in their city.

Monday, August 21, 2023

Qatar Airways Showcases The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ Trophy At Local Football Club


The Award-Winning Airline Reaffirms its Commitment to the Australian Market and the Community

The spirit of unity, football, and community was at the forefront of a memorable event held by Qatar Airways, a proud sponsor of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™. The esteemed Pennant Hills Football Club played host to an unforgettable day where the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ winner's trophy took centre stage, creating lasting memories and emphasising Qatar Airways' commitment to both football and the local community.

The event that took place on Saturday, August 19th, brought together football enthusiasts, players, and families to celebrate the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ on Australian soil. Amid the excitement, Qatar Airways highlighted its dedication to supporting women's football and fostering community connections.
 
"Football has the extraordinary power to bring people together, and our partnership with FIFA reflects our commitment to fostering this unity within the Australian market, utilising the power of the beautiful game, promoting sportsmanship, diversity, and togetherness," said Justin Kestel, Qatar Airways Regional Manager of Australia and New Zealand.

Qatar Airways' dedication to the local Australian community was further underscored during the event, with the airline's extensive repatriation efforts to bring Australians home during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic being noted.

The event began with an engaging soccer clinic, allowing young local players from both Pennant Hills and neighbouring association clubs to experience the joy of the game first-hand, further enriched by the presence of renowned football freestylers, who captivated the crowds with their mesmerising skills and exceptional talent. Qatar Airways' cabin crew members proudly unveiled the prestigious FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ winner's trophy, a symbol of women's football excellence and achievement. The trophy's victorious journey, including with Australia's own "Matilda's", served as a powerful testament to the sport's unifying power.

"The FIFA Women's World Cup ™ has lit a fire in the hearts of young girls and boys, showing them that they can kick start their dreams on their local football field. As a female player and coach, seeing the trophy here at Pennant Hills FC, will hopefully further build on the dreams of junior players", said Emily Graham, Director of Coaching.

Tony Macko, President of Pennant Hills Football Club expressed his gratitude to Qatar Airways for bringing a piece of history to the local community. "We are honoured to have been part of this remarkable event. Qatar Airways' commitment to football and its efforts to uplift Australian communities truly aligns with our values. The event has left an indelible mark on our club and its members", Tony said.

The celebration concluded with a classic Australian touch – a delicious sausage sizzle that brought everyone together to reflect on the significance of teamwork and shared experiences. Attendees departed with exclusive Qatar Airways giveaways, symbolising a day that encapsulated the power of sport and community.

Qatar Airways is the national carrier of the State of Qatar, and it takes great pride in its role as a global ambassador, connecting communities, cultures, and continents through its extensive network. As a proud sponsor of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™, Qatar Airways is committed to celebrating and promoting women's football on a global scale.

Sunday, August 20, 2023

FROM NEVADA TO NEW SOUTH WALES: HUMAN NATURE CLOSE OUT BROKEN HILL MUNDI MUNDI BASH WITH EPIC VEGAS SHOW


Legendary Australian pop vocal group, Human Nature, brought the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas to Broken Hill as they drew the Mundi Mundi Bash, outback NSW's biggest ever event, to a spectacular close.

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

ChatGPT review: Disappointing Experience on Carnival Cruise Line



Rating: ★★☆☆☆

I recently embarked on a cruise vacation with Carnival Cruise Line, and unfortunately, my experience left much to be desired. Despite the company's reputation as a popular cruise line, I encountered several issues that greatly impacted my overall enjoyment of the trip.

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Can a rocket work in the vacuum of space?


Yes, a rocket can work in a vacuum. In fact, rockets are specifically designed to operate in the vacuum of space where there is no air or atmosphere. The principle behind a rocket's propulsion is based on Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

A rocket works by expelling high-speed exhaust gases in one direction, which creates a corresponding force that propels the rocket in the opposite direction. This expulsion of gases is achieved through the combustion of rocket propellant in the rocket engine. The reaction gases are expelled through a nozzle at high speeds, generating thrust that propels the rocket forward.

Unlike an airplane, which requires air to generate lift, a rocket does not rely on atmospheric air for propulsion. Instead, it carries its own oxidizer along with the fuel, enabling it to operate in the vacuum of space where there is no air. This is why rockets are used to launch satellites, explore other planets, and conduct space missions.

More: NASA explains how rockets work

Wednesday, July 5, 2023

ASICS GEL-KAYANO 30 launches, marking 30th anniversary of the iconic shoe

In 1993 Paul Keating was the Australian Prime Minister, Jurassic Park was the highest-grossing film and the first GEL-KAYANO™ TRAINER was created.

Fast forward to 2023 and how things have changed. Today, ASICS celebrates the landmark 30th iteration of the iconic GEL-KAYANO™ series which has been developed as the result of the ASICS Design Philosophy. This unique approach embodies ASICS' long-standing commitment to rigorous user testing, biomechanical science, sustainability and decades of continuous innovation to create products that feel best for both body and mind.

It is this approach that has enabled the creation of the GEL-KAYANO™ 30. The shoe reimagines the level of comfort that can be achieved in a stability shoe through the inclusion of new 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ technology that supports runners by adapting to pronation changes over the course of a run caused by fatigue.

Instead of bracing the feet to restrict movement, the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEMTM features an integrated design that works with movement of the body to continue providing optimum stability and enhanced comfort when a runner needs it most.

GEL-KAYANO™ 30 has also been specially developed to deliver softer landings thanks to its new PureGEL™ technology, providing increased shock absorption and smoother transitions for the runner. In addition, the shoe features improved comfort and speed through a combination of lightweight FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning, and an increased 4mm in stack height.

The result of all these advancements is a shoe so comfortable it barely feels like a stability shoe at all. In test conducted by ASICS Institute of Sport Science in Kobe the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 delivers significant improvements in comfort to its predecessor. Testers also experienced that the shoe was even more comfortable after long runs than when they first put them on.

Alexander (AJ) Andrassy, Global Director of Performance Running Footwear said: "There's a reason why the GEL-KAYANO™ shoe is an ASICS legend. For decades it has been a fan favorite for runners looking to take on everything from 5km races to full marathons. That's why we are so excited to make such a landmark development for GEL-KAYANO™ 30. The new shoe offers advanced stability, comfort and cushioning – all while weighing less - to deliver a fit and ride that's better than ever."

To celebrate the release of the GEL-KAYANO™ 30, ASICS have created a pop-up time-travel portal at Westfield Bondi Junction to give Sydney fans the opportunity to step back in time to 1993 when the GEL-KAYANO™TRAINER was first created and learn all about the ways this iconic shoe has evolved since then. Runners will also have the opportunity to wear-test the new GEL-KAYANO™ 30 and experience the next level of comfort in a stability shoe.  For this interactive experience head to Level 2 (Opposite Glassons) until 18th July.

The new GEL-KAYANO™ 30 will be available to buy instore and online from today at www.asics.com.au and retailers. RRP $280. Runners when considering the product will benefit for the first time from ASICS labelling the shoe with its total amount of CO2e emissions emitted across its lifecycle, enabling consumers to make an informed purchase decision when it comes to the shoe's environmental impact. The GEL-KAYANO 30's carbon footprint is 14% lower than the industry average.

To find out more about GEL-KAYANO™ 30, visit www.asics.com.au. To learn more about ASICS' commitment to sustainability, visit http://www.asics.com/au/en-au/mk/sustainability

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

What is an app?

 


An app can perform a wide range of functions depending on its purpose and design. Here are some common functions that apps can perform:

  • Communication: Apps can enable users to communicate with each other through messaging, voice or video calls, and even file sharing.
  • Social Networking: Apps like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter provide platforms for users to connect, share content, and interact with each other.
  • Entertainment: Apps can offer various forms of entertainment such as streaming movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, or providing access to e-books and digital magazines.
  • Productivity: Apps can help users be more productive by offering features like task management, note-taking, document editing, calendar integration, and collaboration tools.
  • E-commerce: Apps like Amazon, eBay, or Alibaba allow users to browse, purchase, and sell products online.
  • Navigation and Mapping: Apps like Google Maps or Waze provide navigation services, real-time traffic information, and location-based services.
  • Health and Fitness: Apps can track and monitor fitness activities, provide workout routines, track sleep patterns, offer guided meditation, or provide access to health-related information.
  • Financial Management: Apps enable users to manage their finances, track expenses, make payments, transfer funds, or access banking services.
  • News and Information: Apps can aggregate and deliver news articles, personalized content, weather updates, and information on various topics.
  • Education and Learning: Apps can provide interactive learning experiences, language learning tools, educational games, and access to online courses.
  • Travel and Hospitality: Apps assist users in booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and provide travel guides, recommendations, and reviews.
  • Photo and Video Editing: Apps offer tools to edit photos and videos, apply filters, add effects, and share content on social media.

These are just a few examples, and the functionalities of apps can vary greatly depending on their intended purpose and target audience.

Saturday, April 8, 2023

Neon Alley founders bring lemon sorbet straight from Italy to the Royal Easter Show


With the sun shining on the Royal Easter Show today Neon Alley's I Love Gelato airstream food truck is gearing up for a bumper day.

With Neon Alley already the hottest new food destination at the show, the specially customised air stream I Love Gelato food truck is stocked with neon and traditional gelatos as well as a specialty lemon sorbet that the family behind Neon Alley have imported direct from Italy and are serving in real frozen lemons.

"Like moths to a flame, showgoers have been drawn in by all our bright lights and the wild neon foods. Some of our new world-first foods - like the gummy bear loaded fries - have divided opinion.  But that's only till they try them and realise how amazing the sweet and savoury combo is.  With the sun out in full force, it feels like the next food star in our Neon Alley line-up will be the authentic Italian lemon sorbet, served in a real lemon.  I first tried the sorbet in a lemon on a holiday to the Amalfi coast and I'm excited to now be bringing it all the way from Italy to Neon Alley.  I hope today's temperatures keep rising and show goers get to cool down in European style with our lemon sorbet."

The bright yellow lemon sorbet in the shell of a real lemon will hold its own among the kaleidoscope of colour at the immersive explosion of food, lights and sound that is Neon Alley.

While the warmer weather will see the lemon sorbet take centre stage, neon coated dagwood dogs with neon sauces, neon gelato, neon sugar dusted cronuts and churros, neon hot dogs with neon buns and sauces, neon freak shakes, the viral neon gummy bear loaded fries and the Elvis fried chicken burger on Krispy Kreme donuts are just some of the unique glowing foods that are being served from custom made Air-Stream food trucks in a technicolour laneway of more than 500 neon lights.

Neon Alley is the biggest ever food truck installation in the 200-year history of the Royal Easter Show.

"It looks amazing.  We've already had thousands of people taking pics with our neon angel wings and within our gorgeous bright alleyway.  And we have some of the best food deals at the Show.  In addition to the neon foods, we also have show staples like dagwood dogs – including our world's biggest 2ft dagwood dog – that are made using a traditional family recipe that hasn't changed since the 1930s when our family bought the very first dagwood dog to Australia.  We don't use any frozen or pre-made dagwood dogs.  Ours are all fresh and handmade," said Jade Evans, founder/operator of the new family-operated Neon Alley and Ace Attractions.

The special customised rose gold and silver Air-Stream food trucks that make up Neon Alley include individual 'I love Fairy Floss', 'I love Hot Dogs', 'I love Churros', 'I love Gelato & Shakes' and 'I love Fairy Floss' custom builds that shine bright in the Show food destination.

In addition to the cool sweetness being served from I Love Gelato other sweet treats include the world's biggest, fluffiest fairy floss at an enormous 6ft of neon spun sweetness in strawberry, bubble gum and Unicorn flavours as well as neon Freak Shakes are available at Neon Alley.

Seven generations of the Evans and Foster families, who are running the new Neon Alley, have shared a proud history with Royal Easter Show.

"Our families have been involved with the Show for close to half the time it's been running.  For 95 years the Foster and Evan's families have been a part of the Show with food and rides – and this year our kids are heavily involved in Neon Alley.  Our sixteen-year-old daughter Ava is running her 'I love Churros' air stream at Neon Alley and seventeen-year-old son Austin will also be running a food truck,' said Jade Evans, who along with her husband Josh, kids and other family members are running the new Neon Alley.

Rounding out the family fun at the Royal Easter Show is the Evan's 11-year-old twin daughters Willow and Faith who are selling old-school Kewpie Dolls on a stick from a stall alongside their parents.

Named in honour of their 'nanna's', who both sold kewpie dolls at shows around Australia when they were young, 'Betty & June's Dolls' will have thousands of hand-made retro kewpie dolls on a stick for sale.

The renowned Evan's family Dagwood dogs were supersized for the Royal Easter Show last year when they offered show-goers the World's Biggest Dagwood dog at a mouth-watering 2 foot long.  This year the Evan's dagwood dogs are also available in a neon bouquet for sharing with Jade Evans always sensitive to keep costs as low as they can for families.

"I have a large family with six kids so we're always trying to do the best we can to give families a deal," added Jade Evans.

King of the Dagwood Dogs, Josh Evans - whose family first introduced the show food staple to Australia in the early 1930s - says, "We're still hand making our Dagwood dogs using the recipe my Grandparents bought back from an American fair, along with Australia's first food trucks.  Even the neon doggies are made using my grandparents' original recipe.  The only slight change is that we're now also offering a gluten-free dagwood dog."

"This is by far our biggest involvement with the Royal Easter Show, and is also our most significant investment since Covid.  My husband Josh's family introduced food trucks to Australia, long before they became as trendy as they have in recent years – so it's a proud moment to see the next generation, our kids, so excited to be part of their family history," added Jade Evans.

Sixteen-year-old Ava Evans saved up to purchase her 'I Love Churros' food truck which she's operating from a sleek silver air stream surrounded by neon lights.  Ava is serving neon versions of the cinnamon sugar Spanish street food staple as well as Oreo churros and loaded options with toppings such as Bischof and Tim Tams.

The budding young entrepreneur says, "I saved all of the money I made working at shows with mum and dad to purchase my food truck.  I've grown up going to the Royal Easter Show and its always great fun but this year it's a whole new level of epic."

Neon Alley is located on Monaro Street behind the woodchopping precinct and opens at 9am running through till the show closes every day until April 17th.


Monday, April 3, 2023

Major new Royal Easter Show attraction all set up and ready

 

 

NEW NEON ALLEY BRINGS HIGH VOLTAGE FOOD FUN TO 2023 EASTER SHOW

World's biggest fairy floss and dagwood dogs go neon!

A totally immersive explosion of food, lights and sound will hit the 2023 Royal Easter Show in a kaleidoscope of colour when Neon Alley launches at the iconic event next month.

Neon coated dagwood dogs with neon sauces, neon gelato, neon sugar dusted cronuts and churros, neon hot dogs with neon buns and sauces, neon freak shakes and neon gummi bear loaded fires are just some of the unique glowing foods that will be served from custom made Air-Stream food trucks in a technicolour laneway of more than 500 neon lights.

When the gates swing open from April 6 till April 17th Neon Alley will be the biggest ever food truck installation in the 200-year history of the Royal Easter Show.

"It's going to look amazing. It will look like part of the Vegas strip has landed at the Royal Easter show. We'll be located right in the heart of the show on Monaro Street, and every inch of Neon Alley and our amazing foods will be insta worthy. Our Air Stream food trucks – including some that are a never before been seen rose gold finish – are so shiny they'll reflect and amplify the lights," said Jade Evans, founder/operator of the new family-operated Neon Alley and Ace Attractions.

The Air-Stream food trucks will include individual 'I love Fairy Floss', 'I love Hot Dogs', 'I love Churros', 'I love Gelato & Shakes' and 'I love Fairy Floss' custom builds that will shine bright in the Show food destination.

Super-sized neon foods will be the stars of Neon Alley, with the world's biggest, fluffiest fairy floss at an enormous 6ft of neon spun sweetness in strawberry, bubble gum and Unicorn flavours – and also available with a special glow stick. A 2ft world's biggest neon dagwood dog and a new Elvis Burger created with Southern fried chicken on neon glazed Krispy Kreme's will also tempt showgoers.

In a further nod to the neon 90s Neon Alley will vibe with a 90s themed play list .

Five generations of the Evans and Foster families, who are running the new Neon Alley, have shared a proud history with Royal Easter Show.

"Our families have been involved with the Show for close to half the time it's been running. For 95 years the Foster and Evan's families have been a part of the Show with food and rides – and this year our kids are heavily involved in Neon Alley. Our sixteen year old daughter Ava will have her 'I love Churros' air stream at Neon Alley and seventeen year old son Austin will also be running a food truck,' said Jade Evans, who along with her husband Josh, kids and other family members will run the new Neon Alley.

Rounding out the family fun at the Royal Easter Show will be the Evan's ten-year-old twin daughters Willow and Faith who will be selling old-school Cupid Dolls on a stick from a stall alongside their parents.

Named in honour of their 'nanna's', who both sold cupid dolls at shows around Australia when they were young, 'Betty & June's Dolls' will have thousands of hand-made retro Cupid dolls on a stick for sale.

The renowned Evan's family Dagwood dogs were supersized for the Royal Easter Show last year when they offered show-goers the World's Biggest Dagwood dog at a mouth-watering 2 foot long. This year the super-sized treats will have a neon overhaul – and will also have the option of being served in a neon bouquet.

"What could say I love you more than a huge bouquet of neon dagwood dogs?," joked Jade Evans. "It will be the perfect date night dinner, or is ideal for sharing with family or friends."

King of the Dagwood Dogs, Josh Evans - whose family first introduced the show food staple to Australia in the early 1930s - says, "We're still hand making our Dagwood dogs using the recipe my Grandparents bought back from an American fair, along with Australia's first food trucks. Even the neon doggies will be made using my grandparents original recipe."

"This is by far our biggest involvement with the Royal Easter Show, and is also our most significant investment since Covid. My husband Josh's family actually introduced food trucks to Australia, long before they became as trendy as they have in recent years – so it's a proud moment to see the next generation, our kids, so excited to be part of their family history," added Jade Evans.

Sixteen-year-old Ava Evans saved up to purchase her 'I Love Churros' food truck which she will operate from a sleek silver air stream surrounded by neon lights. Ava will serve up neon versions of the cinnamon sugar Spanish street food staple as well as loaded options with toppings such as Bischof and Tim Tams.

The budding young entrepreneur says, "I saved all of the money I made working at shows with mum and dad to purchase my food truck. I've grown up going to the Royal Easter Show and it's always great fun, but we've never done anything as big as Neon Alley at the show before. This year will be epic."

Monday, March 27, 2023

How to pack holiday entertainment for your kids without exceeding baggage allowances

 Lovevery Launches in Australia with its Award-Winning Early Learning Program 

Designed by child development experts and sold by subscription, the Play Kits support families by making the most of playtime at every stage. 

Saturday, March 25, 2023

ChatGPT reviews Qantas Airlines


 

Qantas Airways is Australia's flag carrier airline, and it has been in operation for over 100 years. Despite being one of the oldest and most established airlines in the world, Qantas has not been immune to criticism from its customers.

One of the most common complaints from passengers is that Qantas can be quite expensive compared to other airlines. This can be especially true for long-haul flights, where passengers often report paying a premium for the Qantas brand name.

Another issue that some passengers have reported is that Qantas can be quite strict with its baggage allowances. Some passengers have found that they are charged extra fees for even slightly overweight bags, which can be frustrating and can add to the overall cost of their trip.

In-flight entertainment is also a concern for some Qantas passengers. While Qantas offers a variety of movies, TV shows, and music options, some passengers have reported that the selection can be quite limited, especially on shorter flights.

Some passengers have also reported issues with customer service on Qantas flights. While the airline does have a reputation for being reliable and punctual, some passengers have found that customer service can be lacking, with flight attendants appearing disinterested or unhelpful.

On the positive side, Qantas has also received praise from many passengers for its comfortable seats and overall flight experience. The airline's Airbus A380 planes, in particular, have been lauded for their spaciousness and comfort.

In summary, Qantas airlines has received a mixed review from passengers. While some passengers have had positive experiences with the airline's comfort and reliability, others have reported issues with customer service, in-flight entertainment, and pricing. As with any airline, it's important for passengers to research Qantas before booking a flight to ensure that it meets their individual needs and preferences.

Produced using ChatGPT Mar 14 Version


Friday, March 3, 2023

Why don't people like DropBox? Let's ask ChatGPT


I've long been a user of Flickr for sharing my images with editors and colleagues. After the collapse of Fotopic in 2011, I sought out a more reliable platform and at the time Flickr was part of the Yahoo! giant. It was sold to the folks at SmugMug in 2018 and has well over 100 million registered members and more than 3.5 million new images uploaded daily. I also use it to host images on my various blogs, thereby preserving my paid Google space for the important stuff. 

Founded in 2007, Dropbox has experienced criticism and generated controversy for issues including security breaches and privacy concerns, yet seems to be the industry standard for sharing and distributing images and digital assets. Why is that?

Famous American whistleblower, Edward Snowden, warned against Dropbox saying it is "hostile to privacy" and urged users to "get rid of Dropbox".

So why do people get all excited about Dropbox? I find it clumsy and limiting. It's hard to include captions and EXIF and only stores files in the original size - which are usually way too big for online use. (But more about that later) 

So I asked that new font of all knowledge, ChatGPT. Here's what he/she/it told me.

There could be several reasons why some people don't like Dropbox, such as:

  • Security concerns: Some people may be wary of Dropbox's security measures and how their data is stored and protected.
  • Privacy concerns: Similarly, some people may not trust Dropbox with their personal data and may be uncomfortable with Dropbox's privacy policies.
  • Cost: While Dropbox offers a free basic plan, it can be quite limited in terms of storage space, and upgrading to a paid plan can be expensive for some users.
  • User interface: Some people may find the Dropbox interface confusing or unintuitive, making it difficult to use.
  • Alternatives: With so many cloud storage options available, some people may simply prefer other services over Dropbox. (like Flickr)

Ultimately, whether or not someone likes Dropbox depends on their personal preferences and needs, as well as their trust in the service's security and privacy measures.

Okay, thanks ChatGPT. Now please tell me why some people prefer Flickr over DropBox?

Flickr and Dropbox are both cloud-based storage services that offer different features and benefits, so people's preferences may vary based on their specific needs. However, here are some reasons why some people may prefer Flickr over Dropbox:

  • Image-centric focus: Flickr is primarily designed for sharing and storing photos, making it a great option for photographers or anyone who needs to store and organize large collections of images.
  • Social features: Flickr offers social features that allow users to follow other photographers, discover new content, and connect with a community of other users who share their interests.
  • Customizable privacy settings: Flickr allows users to customize their privacy settings, making it easy to control who can view and download their photos.
  • Free storage space: Flickr offers 1,000 GB of free storage space, which is significantly more than Dropbox's free plan, making it a great option for users who need to store a large number of photos.
  • Unlimited photo resolution: Flickr does not compress photos like Dropbox, so users can store and share high-resolution images without sacrificing quality.

Overall, while Dropbox is a great option for general file storage and sharing, Flickr may be a better choice for users who primarily need to store and share photos.

That seems like a reasonable summation. What are your thoughts?

Related posts: How to download images from Flickr || How to send graphic files online


Saturday, February 25, 2023

What are some of the benefits of Ozone?


 Ozone treatment, also known as ozone therapy, is a form of alternative medicine that involves using ozone gas to treat various medical conditions. Ozone is a colourless gas composed of three oxygen atoms (O3), which is a highly reactive and unstable molecule.

In ozone therapy, medical-grade ozone gas is created by passing oxygen through an ozone generator. This ozone gas can then be used in a variety of ways, including:

  • Directly injecting the gas into a patient's bloodstream
  • Administering the gas through an enema
  • Applying the gas topically to the skin
  • Inhaling the gas through a mask or nasal cannula

The theory behind ozone therapy is that ozone gas can help stimulate the body's immune system, improve circulation, and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Some proponents of ozone therapy also claim that it can help treat a variety of medical conditions, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and chronic pain.

However, the effectiveness and safety of ozone therapy are still controversial, and there is limited scientific evidence to support its use. Some possible side effects of ozone therapy include coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. In rare cases, ozone therapy can lead to more serious complications, such as lung damage or even death.

It is important to note that ozone therapy is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical condition, and it should only be performed by a qualified healthcare provider under controlled conditions.

What about air purifying and pest control?


Yes, ozone can work as an air purifier and pest control agent. Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent that can react with and neutralize many contaminants in the air, such as bacteria, viruses, mould, and mildew. As a result, ozone is sometimes used in air purifiers to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses.

However, it is important to note that ozone can also be harmful to humans and pets in high concentrations. Ozone can irritate the respiratory system, cause coughing and shortness of breath, and worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, ozone air purifiers should only be used in well-ventilated areas and according to the manufacturer's instructions.

As for pest control, ozone can be effective in killing insects, rodents, and other pests. Ozone can disrupt pests' respiratory systems and cause them to die, making it a popular choice for pest control in industrial settings. However, ozone can also harm beneficial insects and other wildlife, and it is not a recommended method for pest control in residential areas. Additionally, it is important to use ozone generators in a controlled and safe manner, as high concentrations of ozone can be harmful to humans and animals.

Friday, February 10, 2023

AirAsia fires AVA chatbot and introduces enhanced AI powered 'Ask Bo' as part of commitment to more transparent and enhanced customer experience: Media info inside

From left to right: Maryanna Kim, Group Head of Corporate Communications & Consumer Affairs , Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAisia Aviation Group Limited, Kesavan Sivanandam, Chief Airport and Customer Experience Officer and Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A at the launch of Ask Bo.



"We have listened." Capital A fires chatbot AVA and introduces new AI-powered 'Ask Bo' as part of commitment to more transparent, enhanced customer experience

Capital A Berhad, the parent company of Asia's leading low-cost carrier, AirAsia, today reiterates its commitment to transparent communications and better customer experience for all of its guests, as part of its vision to become the most communicative, responsive and answerable brand in the region.

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Rocco Fazzari: Reknown Australian artist and caricaturist

 Rocco Fazzari is an Australian artist and caricaturist. He is well known for his illustrations and political cartoons, which have been featured in a number of Australian newspapers and magazines, including The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Throughout his career, Rocco Fazzari has won several awards for his work, and his distinctive style and wit have made him one of the most well-regarded artists in Australia.

Rocco Fazzari's illustrations often address political and social issues, and his cartoons are known for their humor and sharp commentary on contemporary events. His work has been widely praised for its ability to capture the essence of public figures and current events, and he has been credited with helping to shape the public discourse in Australia through his illustrations and cartoons.

Aside from his work in newspapers and magazines, Rocco Fazzari has also had a number of exhibitions of his illustrations and cartoons, and his work has been included in a number of books and other publications. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Australian art and media scenes, and his work continues to be widely appreciated by audiences both in Australia and abroad.

Rocco Fazzari's work at Maunsell Wickes Gallery


Prince Harry: Spare

Opinions about Prince Harry's new book have been mixed. Some people have praised the book, titled "The Me You Can't See," for its honesty and the insight it provides into the struggles that Prince Harry has faced, including his struggles with mental health. Others have criticized the book, saying that it is an attempt by Prince Harry to rehab his image after his controversial departure from the Royal Family.

Overall, opinions about Prince Harry's book have been influenced by the individual's views on Prince Harry, the Royal Family, and mental health. Some people have found the book to be a valuable contribution to the conversation about mental health, while others have seen it as an attempt by Prince Harry to justify his actions and to criticize the institution he used to be part of.

Prince Harry has expressed anger and disappointment towards the British Royal Family for various reasons. Some of these reasons include:

Media scrutiny: Prince Harry has spoken about the intense media pressure and public scrutiny that he and his family have faced, particularly in the aftermath of the death of his mother, Princess Diana.

Racism and prejudice: Prince Harry has accused the media and parts of the British society of racist and prejudiced treatment of his wife, Meghan Markle.

Lack of support: Prince Harry has claimed that the Royal Family did not offer adequate support to him and his wife during a difficult time, and that they felt "trapped" in their roles as senior members of the Royal Family.

Royal duties: Prince Harry has expressed frustration with the restrictions and expectations placed on him as a senior member of the Royal Family, and has spoken about his desire for more autonomy and freedom.

These experiences have led Prince Harry to distance himself from the Royal Family and to pursue a more independent life with his wife and son.


All about Clint Eastwood


Clint Eastwood is an American film director, producer, actor and composer. He rose to fame in the 1960s as the "Man with No Name" in the "Dollars Trilogy" of spaghetti Westerns, and has since appeared in over 50 films. Eastwood has also directed more than 30 films, including the award-winning "Unforgiven" (1992) and "Million Dollar Baby" (2004). He is known for his distinctive style, which often includes minimal dialogue and a focus on action. Eastwood has won four Academy Awards, and has been nominated for five others. He is also a politically active individual, having served as the mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California from 1986-1988.

Here are some of Clint Eastwood's highly acclaimed films (not in any particular order):
  • "Unforgiven" (1992)
  • "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" (1966)
  • "Million Dollar Baby" (2004)
  • "Gran Torino" (2008)
  • "Dirty Harry" (1971)
  • "Letters from Iwo Jima" (2006)
  • "Mystic River" (2003)
  • "The Outlaw Josey Wales" (1976)
  • "A Perfect World" (1993)
  • "Invictus" (2009)
Clint Eastwood is still actively involved in the film industry. He continues to direct, produce, and act in films. His most recent films as a director include "Richard Jewell" (2019) and "Cry Macho" (2021). He has also been a producer on several films, including "The Mule" (2018), which he also starred in. Eastwood remains a prominent figure in Hollywood and continues to be recognized for his contributions to the film industry.
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