EID AL-FITR 2021 Employment Eid Mubarak!

THE WORLD INSIGHT

THE WORLD OBSERVER NEWS PAPER أفخر أنواع الحلويات والبوظة العربية المصنوعة في معاملنا Established online 2007 $2.00 Fortnightly - 13th May | 2021 40 751 Punchbowl Road, Punchbowl NSW 2196 - Phone(02) 9708 2774 www.theworldobserver.com Pages (inc. GST) Alafrah Sweets: www.alafrahsweets.com.au Federal budget 2021: Winners and Losers

The Coalition has unveiled its second federal budget since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. The budget, handed down by Treasurer Josh Frydenberg on Tuesday night, revealed a deficit set to reach $161 billion this year – $52.7 billion lower than what was expected around six months ago. Continued page 14 - 15

UN Secretary General Calls for ‘Immediate’ End to Deadly Hostilities in Israel, Gaza Strip

Earlier, reports surfaced indicating that the UN Security Council would be convening on Sunday to hold discussion regarding the ongoing clashes along the Gaza Strip between Hamas and Israeli troops. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has once again weighed in on the latest round of clashes taking place along the Gaza Strip, calling on both parties to end hostilities. "Out of respect for the spirit of Eid, I appeal for an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities in Gaza and Israel," Guterres relayed in a Continued page 15 Magic Quality Stonemasonry work خبرة طويلة يف تركيب ونحت جميع انواع احلجارة Driving School Phone: 0414447554 0403 522 501 Email: [email protected] National News األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 2 We can cope with India arrivals: Dutton US Secretary of State says Australia won’t face China’s ‘economic coercion’ alone

Secretary of State Antony Blinken pitch, in the face of economic coercion says the United States will not leave by China," Mr Blinken said at a press Australia alone in the face of economic briefing with Foreign Minister Marise coercion from China, and that such Payne. behaviour toward US allies will hamper "And we've made clear to the PRC Defence Minister Peter Dutton “We will continue to work improvement in US-Sino relations. how such actions targeting our insists the quarantine system will be particularly with vulnerable groups Washington has repeatedly criticised closest partners and allies will hinder able to cope when a travel ban lifts to help them back into our country what it says are Beijing's attempts improvements in our own relationship and flights from India resume. as quickly as possible,” he told Nine to bully neighbours with competing with China," Mr Blinken said, using The first plane load of Australians on Friday. interests, and US President Joe Biden the acronym for the country's official from India will land on Saturday “We have put in other measures has sought to bolster ties with allies name. morning, after flights were around pre-flight testing and in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's China has imposed a series of trade

suspendedTHE for severalWORLD weeks making sure if we’re bringing growing power. sanctions on Australian exports to allow the Howard Springs people out of a zone like India at "I reiterated that the United States will ranging from wine to coal as the two quarantineINSIGHT facility to deal with the moment, we can do it safely so not leave Australia alone on the field, countries' tensions have worsened in positive COVID-19 cases before we don’t undo what is a magnificent or maybe I should say alone on the recent years. more potentially infectious people story here in Australia.” arrived. Complicating that story are mixed Mr Dutton said the Commonwealth messages about the timetable for the THE WORLD The 'David and Goliath' battle behind had been working closely with the vaccine rollout. Telstra's huge ACCC fine over its Northern TerritoryINSIGHT government Mr Dutton insists everyone willing since the India travel ban was to be vaccinated will receive two treatment of Indigenous customers imposed. shots by the end of this year.

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General Manager and Editor Sitting on her favourite beach in her being pushed into phone plans they Mamdouh Sukkarieh hometown of Broome, Caitlyn Roe couldn't afford, only to be hit with 0419 979 499 is a world away from Melbourne's huge bills and in many cases, chased [email protected] Federal Court. by debt collectors. In that courtroom on Thursday, the Caitlyn's story was one of the country's largest telco was slapped 108 — a story that helped trigger Sydney: with a $50 million fine — one of an investigation by a group of 2, 2 Compass Centre the most significant penalties in financial counsellors working in 85 North Terrace NSW 2200 Australian corporate history. different parts of the country and Postal Address: P.O.Box 1107 The decision came after weeks eventually exposed systemic mis- Bankstown NSW 2200 considering evidence put forward by selling by Telstra at five stores. Telstra and the consumer watchdog, The judgement closes an ugly Email:[email protected] in a case described as "outrageous" chapter for the telco giant, one www.theworldobserver.com by those involved. where it admitted sales staff put www.theworldobserver.com.au The court heard 108 examples commissions above the needs of Indigenous Telstra customers of vulnerable customers. National News 3 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 By Mamdouh Sukkarieh

PRIME MINISTER Technology MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER and EID AL-FITR 2021 Employment Eid Mubarak!

I’m delighted to send my best wishes to Australia’s Muslim community for a happy and Self-checkout stations have become normalityblessed Eid al-Fitr. across Australia; you see them appearing more and After a period of worship and sacrifice, this is a celebration of renewal in faith, mind and more in stores like Woolworths, Coles, Big W andbody. Kmart. This has become a method for these large organisations to cut back on spending and maximiseAt this joyful end to Ramadan we remember our blessings and draw strength from one their efficiency. The concern that arises from another.these cost cutting strategies is, what is the real cost for the No doubt, this year, you will remember the subdued mood of Eid in 2020, when your economy and society as a whole. homes became your places of worship. When your celebrations were muted by the Due to these companies introducing technologyrestrictions of the global pandemic. that allows them to reduce the number of employees numerous people will be losing jobs and lessAt this time, I extend my grateful thanks to Australia’s Muslim community for the Australians will have the opportunity to work forrestraint, care and compassion you shared during the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic – and for your constant support throughout this shared national effort. these Cash Cow giants. This in turn affects our economy and only affects society negatively. EarlierAs we emerge in 2021, we can see our religious traditions with fresh eyes and welcome this year Woolworth’s distributed guides to theirthem again with joyful hearts. staff that provided information about a restructure We are reminded of the strength we draw from faith and the values that come from being that will be progressing within the organisation. PRIME MINISTER In the guide, Woolworths provide the disclaimerin community with others. that they will be attempting to keep as manyWith a safe and effective vaccinationMESSAGE FROM program THE PRIMEunderway, MINISTERwe can renew our trust in a team members as possible which is why they aresecure, peaceful and prosperous future for our families, our communities and our country. implementing “Redeployment” a scheme to move EID AL-FITR 2021 current employees to other departments rather thanAt Eid al-Fitr,Eid I Mubarak thank !Australia’s Muslim community for sharing so freely and openly this joyous festival of your faith. make their positions redundant. However, this is I’m delighted to send my best wishes to Australia’s Muslim community for a happy and not a guarantee as in the same guide there is also blessed Eid al-Fitr. the mention of redundancies “If your role is made After a period of worship and sacrifice, this is a celebration of renewal in faith, mind and redundant, it is not a reflection on you or your body. performance. At this joyful end to Ramadan we remember our blessings and draw strength from one another. A role or job is made redundant, not the person performing it”. This does not only apply to No doubt, this year, you will remember the subdued mood of Eid in 2020, when your The Hon Scotthomes Morrison becameMP your places of worship. When your celebrations were muted by the supermarket stores, fast food companies such Primeas Ministerrestrictions of Australia of the global pandemic. McDonalds have also taken the same approach At this time, I extend my grateful thanks to Australia’s Muslim community for the having no cashiers in some stores and very few Mayin 2021 restraint, care and compassion you shared during the darkest days of the COVID-19 others. pandemic – and for your constant support throughout this shared national effort. Another factor to consider is most young teenagers As we emerge in 2021, we can see our religious traditions with fresh eyes and welcome them again with joyful hearts. and students entering the workforce depend on We are reminded of the strength we draw from faith and the values that come from being these organisations to provide them with a starting in community with others. position to kick off their careers, as the majority With a safe and effective vaccination program underway, we can renew our trust in a would require more experience. This only emphasises secure, peaceful and prosperous future for our families, our communities and our country. the issues that will arise due to theses cost cutting At Eid al-Fitr, I thank Australia’s Muslim community for sharing so freely and openly schemes. this joyous festival of your faith. It can also be seen that the government has made no Big effort to support the average Australian worker who struggles to pay the rent or ever have the hope of owning a property. This is clear through the supporting of these Cash Cow organisations for The Hon Scott Morrison MP the sake of a ‘strong economy’ that will only benefit Prime Minister of Australia those on the top of the end of town. May 2021 National News األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 4 China’s media mouthpiece threatens ‘long- range missile strikes’ on Australian soil China’s media mouthpiece has “China has a strong production issued an ominous warning amid capability, including producing deteriorating relationships with additional long-range missiles with d,,KE>y,t<DW Australia. conventional warheads that target D/E/^dZ&KZ/DD/'Zd/KE͕/d/E^,/W͕D/'ZEd^Zs/^E State-run outlet The Global Times on military objectives in Australia when Dh>d/h>dhZ>&&/Z^ Saturday published an editorial from the situation becomes highly tense.” its editor-in-chief Hu Xijin. The ill-concealed warning comes MESSAGE FOR EID AL-FITR 2021 It was headlined: “China needs to after Australia’s home affairs secretary make a plan to deter extreme forces of spectacularly said the “drums of war”I send my best wishes to the Australian Muslim community as you come together to Australia.” were beating. celebrate Eid Al-Fitr and mark the end of the sacred month of Ramadan.

“Given that Australian hawks keep Mike Pezzullo said Australia mustEid Al-Fitr is a time of celebration following the self-discipline and sacrifice of Ramadan. hyping or hinting that Australia will strive for peace, but not at the cost ofIt is a time for gathering with family and friends to give thanks, share your faith and show generosity and compassion to those in need. assist the US military and participate its liberty. in war once a military conflict breaks He did not specify a countryThroughout this holy month of Ramadan, I have been honoured to attend and share in the out in the Taiwan Straits, and the that Australia was at odds at wasIftar meal and I thank you for sharing this joyous festival with the entire Australian community. Australian media outlets have been subsequently told to tone down his actively promoting the sentiment, I language. At this special time, I want to acknowledge the contribution the Australian Muslim community continues to make to our society. suggest China make a plan to impose “In a world of perpetual tension retaliatory punishment against and dread, the drums of war beat Despite- the hardships of the past year, you have embodied the values of generosity and Australia once it militarily interferes in sometimes faintly and distantly, andkindness , and I want to thank you for the care and support you continue to show all Australians during this pandemic. the cross-Straits situation,” Hu wrote. at other times more loudly and ever “The plan should include long-range closer,” he said. Your leadership, community spirit and constant message of peace and harmony has contributed significantly to building a united, cohesive Australia. strikes on the military facilities and “Today, as free nations again hear the relevant key facilities on Australian beating drums and watch worryinglyI wish you all a blessed and joyous Eid Al-Fitr. soil if it really sends its troops to the militarisation of issues that we had, Eid Mubarak! China’s offshore areas and combats until recent years, thought unlikely to against the PLA (People’s Liberation be catalysts for war.” Army).” His comments came after Defence He goes on to say that “China loves Minister Peter Dutton expressed peace” but also threatens “disasters” his concerns on Beijing’s stance on against Australia. Taiwan. d,,KE >y,t<DW >y,t< D/E/^dZ&KZ/DD/'Zd/KE͕/d/E^,/W͕D/'ZEd^Zs/^E Dh>d/h>dhZ>&&/Z^ MESSAGE FOR EID AL-FITR 2021 I send my best wishes to the Australian Muslim community as you come together to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr and mark the end of the sacred month of Ramadan.

Eid Al-Fitr is a time of celebration following the self-discipline and sacrifice of Ramadan. It is a time for gathering with family and friends to give thanks, share your faith and show generosity and compassion to those in need.

Throughout this holy month of Ramadan, I have been honoured to attend and share in the Iftar meal and I thank you for sharing this joyous festival with the entire Australian community.

At this special time, I want to acknowledge the contribution the Australian Muslim community continues to make to our society.

Despite the hardships of the past year, you have embodied the values of generosity and kindness, and I want to thank you for the care and support you continue to show all Australians during this pandemic.

Your leadership, community spirit and constant message of peace and harmony has contributed significantly to building a united, cohesive Australia.

I wish you all a blessed and joyous Eid Al-Fitr.

Eid Mubarak!

>y,t< Local News 5 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 Leila Abdallah ‘humbled and privileged’ to be named Mother of Year a year after Oatlands tragedy

A mother whose three children a day after Oatlands Golf Club Clr George Zakhia were killed by a drunk driver was rejected a proposal for a memorial shocked when she received a call garden next to where the accident informing her she would be named happened. Clr George Zakhia hope you have Mother of the Year. The club turned down the plans, a wonderful and safe As Leila Abdallah prepares to saying the garden was too big. receive the Family Voice award Ms Abdallah said they won't "force" Eid Al-fitr she said she is "humbled" at the the issue but implored the club to recognition. look "reconsider their decision". It comes more than a year after "If they can do it with love we يتقدم السيد جورج زخيا the Abdallah's children died on a would really appreciate it. We عضو مجلس احلكومة احمللية footpath in Oatlands, in Sydney's don't want to force it," she said. .northwest in February من اجلميع بأطيب األمنيات مبناسبة حلول .I feel thankful, humbled and "The memorial means a lot to us" عيد الفطر السعيد privileged to have this award," the This is a special place to us, where كل عام وانتم بخير mother-of-six, told Today. we go, we pray. Danny Abdallah said he is proud Earlier this month Samuel of his wife, who has championed Davidson was jailed for a minimum forgiveness after the accident. of 21 years for four counts of "She is my rock," he said. "You know, manslaughter. best thing I did (was marry her). I He was drunk and travelling was in my 20s, I don't know how 133km/h in a 50km/h zone when I did it, you make dumb decisions he fatally struck Abdallah siblings then, but I got this one right." Antony, Angelina and Sienna, along The family revealed their plans with their cousin Veronique Sakr.

I wish the Islamic community, especially in the East Hills Electorate, the warmest wishes on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr. Eid Mubarak Wendy LINDSAY mp State Member for East Hills 02 9772 2774 [email protected] WendyLindsayMPEastHills

Authorised by Wendy Lindsay MP, 20 Revesby Place, Revesby NSW 2212. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. Messages األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 6

Chris Bowen MP Federal member for McMahon Shop 3&4/ 398 Hamilton Road Fairfield West NSW PO Box: W210, Fairfield West NSW, 2165 P. (02) 96040710 - F. (02) 96093873 E. [email protected] Wishing everyone a Happy and safe Eid ul-fitr MAY THIS SPECIAL TIME BRING LIGHT TO THOSE SUFFERING HARDSHIP أمتنى للجميع عيد الفطر سعيد أمتنى أن تكون هذه املناسبة فرصة للعطاء لنجعل الذين ميرون مبراحل صعبة يشعرون باألمل

Authorised by Chris Bowen MP, ALP, Shop 3&4/ 398 Hamilton Rd, Fairfield West NSW 2165

Jodi McKay MP Jihad Dib MP Julia Finn MP Paul Scully MP NSW Labor Leader Member for Lakemba Member for Granville Member for Wollongong Member for Strathfield Ph: (02) 9759 5000 Ph: (02) 9637 1656 Ph: (02) 4226 5700 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Ph: (02) 9230 2310 E: [email protected]

Tania Mihailuk MP Guy Zangari MP Nick Lalich MP Edmond Atalla MP Member for Bankstown Member for Fairfield Member for Cabramatta Member for Mount Druitt Ph: (02) 9708 3838 Ph: (02) 9726 9323 Ph: (02) 9724 3381 Ph: (02) 9625 6770 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Authorised by Jodi McKay MP, Jihad Dib MP, Julia Finn MP, Paul Scully MP, Tania Mihaiuk MP, Guy Zangari MP, Nick Lalich MP, Edmond Atalla MP. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements Messages 7 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 ADVERTISEMENT As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end I want to thank the Islamic community for the generosity and charity they have shown to every Australian during the month of Ramadan.

As the holy month of Ramadan comes to TONY BURKE MP MEMBER FOR WATSON an end, I would like to wish you and your family a happy and blessed Eid.

HON TONY BURKE MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR WATSON

Office: Shop 29/1 Broadway Punchbowl 2196 Phone: (02) 9750 9088 Email: [email protected] www.tonyburke.com.au @Tony_Burke Tony Burke MP

Authorised by Tony Burke MP, Australian Labor Party, Shop 29/1 Broadway Punchbowl 2196

Authorised by A. Stanley MP, ALP NSW, Hinchinbrook

Ofﬁce: Shop 41 Plumpton Marketplace, Cnr Hyatts & Jersey Road, Plumpton NSW 2761

Authorised by Ed Husic MP, ALP, Shop 41 Plumpton Marketplace, Cnr Hyatts & Jersey Road, Plumpton NSW 2761. Local News األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 8 Australian Arab Business Council Monthly Dinner

The Australian Arab Business council is warmly inviting all the members and corporate partners to AABC Ramadan Dinner. The evening was filled with Joy, laughter and delicious food. The next dinner of the AABC will be held as usual on the second Wednesday of the month, on 9 June AABC is a true networking event that allows members to show case their own businesses. Photos by Abu George Messages 9 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021

Jihad Dib MP EID AL-FITR Member for Lakemba May the blessings you received in Ramadan be with you in the year Shop 21, Broadway Plaza, Punchbowl NSW 2196 ahead. PO Box 80, Punchbowl, NSW 2196 P. (02) 9759 5000 - F. (02) 9759 1945 E. [email protected]

May your fasting and acts of charity during Ramadan be accepted. Wishing you and your families a happy and blessed Eid – el-Fitr نرجو أن يقبل اهلل صيامكم وصدقاتكم يف Linda Burney MP Member for Barton شهر رمضان رمضانكرمي Authorised by L. Burney, ALP, 203/13 Montgomery Street, Kogarah NSW 2217 أمتنى لكم متمنيا ولعائالتكم لكم كل اخلير ولعائالتكموالسالم يف عيد شهر فطر ؤمضان سعيد املباركومبارك Authorised by Jihad Dib MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Guy Zangari MP State Member for Fairfield

Fairfield Electorate Office P. 02 9726 9323 E. [email protected] 55A Smart Street Fairfield NSW 2165 PO Box 771 Fairfield NSW 1860

Wishing everyone a Happy and safe Eid ul-fitr MAY THIS SPECIAL TIME BRING YOU BEST WISHES TO YOU PEACE AND HAPPINESS أمتنى للجميع AND YOUR FAMILY عيد فطر سعيد ON THE OCCASION ًآمال أن حتمل لكم هذه املناسبة OF EID UL FITR السعادة واخلير والسالم Lynda Voltz MP MEMBER FOR AUBURN P (02) 9737 8822 E [email protected] A Mezzanine Level 92 Parramatta Road Lidcombe NSW 2141 Authorised by Lynda Voltz MP, Mezzanine Level, Lidcombe Centre, 92 Parramatta Road, Lidcombe NSW 2141.

Authorised by Guy Zangari MP, 55A Smart St Fairfield NSW 2165 using Parliamentary entitlements, May 2021 Messages األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 10 Eid Mubarak

Eid Mubarak

May you and your family enjoy the blessings of this special time.

I wish all Muslim Australians a blessed and happy Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. May this occasion bring peace and fulfilment. Mayor Wendy Waller

Cr Bob Dwyer www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au Lord Mayor City of Parramatta

126 Church Street, Parramatta | PO Box 32, Parramatta NSW 2124 | P 02 9806 5050 E [email protected] W cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au

COP_Eid_QPC_115x175_03.indd 3 7/5/21 12:03 pm

Rachelle Harika Deputy Mayor

I wish you and your families Safe and Happy Eid Al-fitr

أمتنى لكم وعائالتكم عيد فطر سعيد Messages 11 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021

As we come to the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, on behalf of the City of Canterbury Bankstown, I offer my congratulations and warm wishes to our Muslim residents and their families on this happy occasion of Eid El-Fitr.

May we be inspired and reminded of our obligation to care for each other, our families, friends and to the vulnerable people in our communities.

Happy Eid!

Clr Khal Asfour MAYOR City of Canterbury Bankstown

CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL

On this joyous occasion, I wish an Eid Al Fitr Mubarak to the Muslim community. May this Eid prove to be very special for you and your family. I hope it brings joy and peace for all. Have a safe and happy Eid Al Fitr! Mayor - Steve Christou Arround the world األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 12 Ellen DeGeneres ‘Now I’m convinced’: Charles and Camilla’s ‘Aussie son’ reveals why she moved in with sends Facebook wild with new Prince William proof Friends star Courteney Cox

Dorante-Day has long claimed to be Prince Charles and Camilla’s ‘secret son’.

The Queensland grandfather who claims to be resemblance. Prince Charles and Camilla’s “secret son” has “This comparison really caught my eye,” Dorante- shared a new piece of evidence. Day told 7NEWS.com.au. Simon Dorante-Day has gained worldwide “It’s getting a big reaction too, people talking notoriety with his claims, which are the culmination about the resemblance - the jaw, the nose, the of decades of research (see box below). ears. Now the 55-year-old has released a new photo “People keep saying how much I look like Courteney Cox and Ellen DeGeneres pictured during comparison between him and Prince William William - but I keep joking that he looks like me! The 21st Annual People’s Choice Awards at Universal and even hardcore sceptics are now looking twice. I was born first!” Studios in 1995. The images show Dorante-Day and the popular Many Facebook users have commented on the Ellen DeGeneres has revealed details about her royal both looking to the side with their lips similarities. new living arrangements. pursed, leading many to comment on the “That jawline!” said one. The talk show host, 63, has moved in with Friends star Courteney Cox in California. During her show on Thursday, she shared how Coldplay's Chris Martin says lockdown made him confront his ego she had moved into the home after selling her Beverly Hills mansion - not because of any marital issues. “I’m not living with Courteney Cox because I’m kicked out of my house,” she joked. “We sold our house here in Beverly Hills and I needed a place to stay and you were kind enough to say, ‘Yes, stay at my house.’” Cox, who appeared on the show to speak about the upcoming Friends reunion, said she was excited about DeGeneres moving in but might be regretting it now. The star, who is currently based in London, said she rushed to get the home ready. “I had it cleaned. I moved everything off of the right side of the bathroom, so you’d have your space in the drawers. I was just really ready for y ou .” She said when her assistant recently stopped by the home, she was shocked by what she discovered. Coldplay premiered their new single via the International Space Station “And all of the sudden it was like, ‘Wait a minute. Coldplay's Chris Martin says that the pandemic single, Higher Power. Ellen’s toothbrush is on my side.’ I had her open has forced him to reassess his relationship with They premiered the 80s-inspired pop song on the drawer and I was like, ‘Well, where’s my fame. board the International Space Station overnight makeup?’” "Last year was a quite an eye opener," he told BBC - teaming up with French astronaut Thomas “So essentially you’re a terrible roommate. You Radio 2. "I was like, 'Who am I without Wembley Pesquet, who beamed the music back to Earth by took over my side and your side.” Stadium saying, 'you're awesome'?" satellite. The Finding Dory star blamed her wife Portia de "I'm trying in my life right now to not attach too In a video chat, Chris Martin told the 43-year-old Rossi for the bathroom take-over. much to being a pop star. I'm trying not to get my aerospace engineer: "Right now we aren't able to She assured her the makeup was still there. self worth from external validation." play for anybody on Earth, so we thought we'd “It was just one toothbrush on that side,” she said. He was speaking as Coldplay unveiled their new just play for you. It's like our one-man concert." Arround the world 13 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 101 carat diamond to be auctioned in Geneva jewellery sale Shark attack survivor turns trauma into activism

The diamond is one of 144 lots on offer in the sale, which also includes rings, earrings, brooches and other pieces made with diamonds, sapphires and rubies.

The largest diamond ever cut in Russia - a cut from a rough stone that originally weighed 100.94 carat stone called the Alrosa Spectacle more than 200 carats. It was called the Sergei - will be auctioned in Geneva later this month. Diaghilev rough diamond and it was mined in The diamond could fetch between 12 and 18 2016," Marie-Cecile Cisamolo, a specialist in million Swiss francs ($19.96 million) when it the auction house's jewellery department, said. goes under the hammer at Christie's on May "Between the rough and diamond that we're 12. offering today, it took one year and eight "This fantastic 100 carat D color diamond was months to cut into this perfect stone."

Baz Luhrmann reveals Heath Ledger missed out on starring opposite Nicole Kidman in ‘Moulin Rouge’

Lisa Mondy nearly lost her life to a great white shark but remarkably she is still trying to protect the ocean predator. Baz Luhrmann has revealed why the Aussie heart-throb never made the cut. Credit: 7news Ten years ago, the Port Stephens resident was Christian and Satine, the star-crossed lovers at the was in her 30s. And, as Jake Gyllenhaal (who would attacked while wakeboarding with friends near heart of Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 musical “Moulin go on to star with Ledger in “Brokeback Mountain”) Jimmys Beach in Port Stephens. Rouge” swept everyone who saw them off their feet. revealed in 2018, he was also up for the role at one She had fallen off her board into the water, when And in large part, that was thanks to the chemistry point. the four-metre shark lunged at her. between stars Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman. Kidman, now 53, went on to earn an Academy Ms Mondy managed to make it back to the But ... it could have been quite different. Award nomination for her performance, and the surface before being rushed to the John Hunter Luhrmann revealed recently he had another actor film took home two Oscars. Ledger tragically died Hospital in a Westpac rescue helicopter. who would have fit the role perfectly: Heath Ledger. of an accidental prescription drug overdose in 2008, She spent 16 hours in emergency surgery thinking “It turned out they (Ledger and Kidman) did really and won an Oscar posthumously for his work in she was going to die. work together (in pre-casting workshops). And it “The Dark Knight.” Reminders of the horrific attack are with her all was quite beautiful,” he told News Corp. Fortunately, McGregor worked out perfectly: He the time. Yep! Australian Luhrmann could have made it a was 30 at the time, and Luhrmann knew he’d found After suffering such a life-changing trauma, the double-Aussie bill (Kidman was born in Hawaii his romantic poet. He noted that he still had video last thing you'd think she'd do is protect the but grew up in Australia, while the late Ledger was of them during the first day of rehearsals. animal that attacked her. But Ms Mondy is now born Down Under) if he’d gone through with it. The “They were hysterical and wonderfully matched,” on a mission to save the ocean predators. problem? he said. “They were great. (McGregor) was just the Shark nets kill hundreds of marine animals every Ledger was just 21 at the time. Kidman, meanwhile, perfect partner for Nicole.” year, including endangered species. From page one األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 14 Continued from page1 The government is also tipping in $3.9 billion over the next four years to mandate the "care minutes" of 240,000 aged care residents and 67,000 people accessing respite services — another of the royal commission's recommendations. Federal budget 2021... Workforce training is also on the agenda, with $216 million over three years to provide more specialised training and $91.8 million over two years for 13,000 With a number of new policies revealed on Tuesday building on those previously new home care workers. announced, here’s a quick look at who the budget is set to benefit. CHILD CARE WINNERS After being criticised for not providing any new childcare funding in last year's VACCINES pandemic-focused budget, the government is putting an extra $1.7 billion over An extra $1.9 billion will be spent on our vaccine strategy over the next five the next three years into the industry. years, with the government also confirming it's set aside a pool of money to The $566 million or so a year will go toward changes to the Childcare Subsidy invest in mRNA vaccine production in Australia. Scheme which will come into effect in July 2022. Currently, mRNA vaccines can't be made in Australia but after the official health Under the changes, the annual $10,560 cap on households with an income of advice that the preferred COVID-19 vaccine for people under 50 be Pfizer more than $189,390 will be abolished, matching Labor's pledge. (mRNA), many called on the government to look at producing them locally. If you have one child in childcare, the subsidy stays at 65 per cent but if you have While mRNA technology was in development before the pandemic, it hadn't two or more, it's 95 per cent for each kid. been used in vaccines until companies like Pfizer and Moderna rolled out their treatments. PRESCHOOL The government is also chipping in another $1.5 billion for COVID-related Usually the government provides annual funding for preschool, but this year health services like testing and contact tracing. it's giving a firmer commitment, promising $1.6 billion over the next four years. The funding agreement still has to be worked out with the states and territories WOMEN and will pay for at least 15 hours a week. Last year's budget was criticised for its lack of specific focus on funding for women — while this year is a completely different story, the funding across TAXPAYER multiple areas falls below what many services and advocates had called for. The so-called "Low and Middle Income Tax Offset" will remain in place for In addition to changes to the childcare subsidy, the government's tipping in another year. $354 million for women's health. The tax rebate, which workers receive after completing their tax returns, is That includes $100 million for improving cervical and breast cancer screening worth different amounts to different income groups. programs, including extending the free mammogram service to now cover It was supposed to finish on June 30 but it will be extended by another 12 women aged 40 to 74 (previously it was for women aged 50 to 74). months. More than $47 million is being put toward depression services for pregnant women and new mothers, $95.9 million on screening of embryos during IVF BUSINESSES and $13.7 million to reduce pre-term birth rates, especially among Indigenous As well as the support announced for particular industries like small brewers, communities. video gaming and medical and biotech start-ups, the budget also has a few The government's spending $21.6 million on other health initiatives including perks for other businesses. education and pain management programs for endometriosis. Last year's business write-off perks are being extended by another 12 months. It's also putting $998 million over the next four years towards reducing domestic That means businesses with a turnover of up to $5 billion will be able to write off and family violence, and supporting survivors. the full value of any eligible asset like a work vehicle or equipment they bought For perspective, Women's Safety NSW said it estimated the sector needed $1 between last budget and June 30, 2023. billion a year just for frontline services. The extension also mean any losses incurred up to June 2023 can be offset There'll also be a new trial program which gives women fleeing violent against prior profits made going back to the 2018-19 financial year. relationships up to $5,000 in assistance, split into a $1,500 payment and $3,500 in expenses like rent, legal fees and furniture. FARMERS Another $107 million will be directed to help family law case management and Farmers will benefit from the instant asset write-off which has been extended legal and mental health supports, taking the total spending on safety measures until June 2023, allowing them to immediately deduct the full cost of eligible to $1.1 billion. depreciable assets. To help women when they retire, the government will now make it so that There's also $200 million for a National Soil Strategy that will include rebates employees who earn less than $450 a month will be paid the superannuation for farmers that share the results of soil testing, and $370 million for biosecurity guarantee. measures to stop the spread of pests and diseases. Lastly, a new four-year scheme will offer 10,000 single parents who have dependent children assistance to buy a home with as little as a 2 per cent deposit. LOSERS According to the latest ABS data, 81 per cent of single parents are women, RENEWABLES meaning the program could potentially give many a leg up into the housing There is no new direct funding in the budget for renewables, except for $30 market. million over the next year for a big battery and microgrid project between Katherine and Darwin in the Northern Territory. AGED CARE Most of the government's spending on energy is focused at low emissions The government is putting an extra $17.7 billion toward aged care over five technologies. years, or roughly $3.5 billion a year. The government's putting $643.4 million over the next four years into low While it's a significant injection, it's worth noting the royal commission into emissions technologies, including $539 million in funding for two "clean" aged care declared the sector was underfunded by about $10 billion a year. energy schemes announced before the budget by the Prime Minister. The money will be spent on 80,000 new home care packages over the next two It includes $275 million towards developing four more hydrogen production years, bringing the total to more than 275,000 by June 2023. hubs in regional areas, and $237 million for carbon capture and storage projects As at June 30 last year there were more than 100,000 people on the waiting list (CCS) and hubs. for home care packages, with the royal commission recommending the wait Critics from the Climate Council and The Australia Institute have raised list be cleared by the end of this year, something that will not happen with the concerns with both projects, saying unless hydrogen is produced using entirely current spend. renewable power it will still contribute toward emissions. From page one 15 األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 On CCS, the Climate Council has labelled it an "extremely expensive" technology that does not deliver zero emissions and hasn't worked around the world.

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM When the last budget was handed down in October, the government assumed that international borders would begin to gradually reopen towards the end of this year. NSW Parliamentary Friends of Palestine But given the issues with the vaccine rollout and ongoing international outbreaks, the government's now saying the border won't open until at least Co-Conveners: Julia Finn MP and David Shoebridge MLC Parliament House, Macquarie St, SYDNEY NSW 2000 mid-2022. Email: [email protected] [email protected] That's bad news for tourism operators who rely on international visitors. 12 May 2021

MIGRATION RATE Statement on Jerusalem and recent escalation of violence With the international borders still closed until at least mid next year, our The Co-Chairs of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Palestine are deeply distressed by the escalating acts of violence and incitement in Jerusalem. migration numbers are expected to keep going backwards. It's now expected that net overseas migration will fall by around 97,000 by June We condemn the violence against worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan. this year — a bigger drop than the 72,000-person decrease it predicted in last On the back of Human Rights Watch’s recent report on Israel’s violations of year's budget. international human rights and humanitarian law, attempts to change facts on the Migration will fall by a further 77,000 people between 2021-22 due to the ground must be condemned. border closure. This includes the discriminatory acts of violence, including the disproportionately high number of deaths amongst children. UNIVERSITY Recent decisions regarding settlements and forced evictions – including in Sheikh Universities around the country which rely on international students are likely to Jarrah – undermine progress towards a two-state solution and risk regional stability. continue to struggle given the delay on borders reopening, the slow COVID-19 Noting that several countries have raised objections to the violence – including the US – Australia should work constructively to support security and human rights to vaccine rollout and no clearer picture on the future of hotel quarantine. advance a lasting peace in the Middle East. Making matters worse there is no specific funding for universities in the budget.

The budget now estimates the international border will open in 2022 and while the government is working on a three-step plan to achieve that, it relies on the majority of the population being vaccinated.

Anthony Albanese spruiks affordable housing, workplace harassment reforms Julia Finn MP David Shoebridge MLC in budget reply Co-Chair Co-Chair Member for Granville Member of the Legislative Council Anthony Albanese has promised a Labor government would build dedicated affordable housing for critical workers, criminalise wage theft, and legislate to ensure employers have a duty to address sexual harassment at work. His budget reply speech on Thursday night caps off a budget week that has set the markers for an election battleground between wage growth and tax cuts. Announcing new policies on housing, creating apprenticeships in clean energy jobs, and a new ‘startup year’ fund for budding entrepreneurs, Mr Albanese accused the Morrison government of “neglect” and having “nothing built to l a s t ”. “It would be a disaster if we emerge from this crisis having learned nothing – and changed not at all,” Mr Albanese said in Parliament. Asking Australians a simple question, “Do you feel better off than you did eight years ago?” – which may end up as Labor’s election slogan of choice – Mr Albanese sought to mark out distinctions between the opposition and the government. It came 48 hours after Treasurer Josh Frydenberg delivered a budget that some commentators described as “Labor-lite”.

Continued from page1 UN Secretary General... late Thursday tweet. "Too many innocent civilians have already died." "This conflict can only increase radicalization and extremism in the whole region," he underscored. Guterres remarks came moments after reports detailed that Egypt's security delegation had left Tel Aviv once Israeli officials reportedly rejected the prospects of a humanitarian cease fire deal. A source told that the Egyptian subsequently left "fearing the start of a military operation.' Over the last several days, thousands of rockets have been exchanged between Hamas and the Israel Defense Forces. Dozens have died and many have been injured as a result of the ongoing clashes. Local media in Gaza reported over 100 Israeli strikes in the Northern part of the Strip. More than 50 injuries have reached Beit Hanoun Hospital, as a result of the targeting of al-Baali area. Health األوبزرفر | ١٣ أيار | ٢٠٢١ The World Observer | 13th May | 2021 16 Cramps from working out? Popeye was right: Why we Here’s why you should drink should all be eating more leafy electrolytes, not plain water green vegetables

“I’m strong to the “finich”, ’cause I eats me spinach,” sang famous fictional sailor, Popeye. And it looks like Popeye was right. New Australian research has found that eating just a handful of leafy greens each day could supercharge your muscles. Adding as little as one cup of leafy green vegetables to your diet each day could be enough to boost muscle function, according to a study by researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) published in the Journal of Nutrition on Thursday. Leafy green vegetables are rich in nitrates, and researchers found that people who ate a diet rich in the naturally occuring compounds had significantly Drinking electrolytes instead of pure water can help prevent muscle cramps, better muscle function of their lower limbs than those who didn’t. new research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) has found. The findings are valuable because poor muscle function is associated with a The study is one of the few experimental investigations of cramp during host of health problems including greater risk of falls and fractures. exercise – and the findings are supported by anecdotal evidence and ECU researchers analysed data from 3,759 Australians taking part in observational studies. Melbourne’s Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute AusDiab study over a 12-year It’s a worthy research topic given that “around 39 per cent of marathon period. runners, 52 per cent of rugby players and 60 per cent of cyclists” experience Those who regularly ate nitrate-rich foods had 11 per cent better lower limb painful cramps during and after activity. strength than those with the lowest levels of nitrate intake and up to 4 per cent But the link between electrolytes, dehydration and cramp continues to be a faster walking speeds. matter of debate. “Our study has shown that diets high in nitrate-rich vegetables may bolster A personal inquiry your muscle strength independently of any physical activity,” said the study’s Lead researcher Professor Ken Nosaka, from ECU’s School of Medical lead researcher Marc Sim, of ECU’s Institute for Nutrition research. and Health Sciences, in a prepared statement said that many people think To “optimise muscle function” people should eat “a balanced diet rich in dehydration causes muscle cramps “and will drink pure water while exercising green leafy vegetables in combination with regular exercise”, including weight to prevent cramping”. training, Dr Sim said. But the researchers found that “people who solely drink plain water before Bolstering muscle function is considered vital for good overall health, and is and after exercise could in fact be making them more prone to cramps”. especially important for maintaing bone strength in later life, he said. This was likely because “pure water dilutes the electrolyte concentration in “With around one in three Australians aged over 65 suffering a fall each year, our bodies and doesn’t replace what is lost during sweating,” Professor Nosaka it’s important to find ways of preventing these events and their potentially said. serious consequences,” Dr Sim said. Professor Nosaka said he began researching the causes of muscle cramps after regularly suffering from them while playing tennis. Green power The sweaty experiment While most people know that vegetables are good for them, nitrate-rich leafy According to a statement from ECU: greens could be the best of the best. • The study involved 10 men who ran on a downhill treadmill in a hot From kale to lettuce and even beetroot leaves, the ECU researchers found that (35ºC) room for 40 to 60 minutes to lose between 1.5 and two per cent of their leafy greens provided the greatest health benefits. body weight through sweat in two bouts. “Green leafy vegetables provide a whole range of essential vitamins and • They drank plain water during and after exercise for one bout and minerals critical for health,” Dr Sim said. took a water solution containing electrolytes in the other. And Australians should be aiming to add more of them to their plates. • The participants were given an electrical stimulation on their calves “Less than one in ten Australians eat the recommended five to six serves of to induce muscle cramp. The lower the frequency of the electrical stimulation vegetables per day,” Dr Sim said. required, the more the participant is prone to muscle cramp. “We should be eating a variety of vegetables every day, with at least one of “We found that the electrical frequency required to induce cramp increased those serves being leafy greens to gain a range of positive health benefits for when people drank the electrolyte water, but decreased when they consumed the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system.” plain water,” said Professor Nosaka. Actually eating your greens is also superior to simply popping a vitamin pill. “This indicates that muscles become more prone to cramp by drinking plain “It’s also better to eat nitrate-rich vegetables as part of a healthy diet rather water, but more immune to muscle cramp by drinking the electrolyte water.” than taking supplements,” Dr Sim said.