Independent Australian news and analysis across politics, business, technology, world affairs and culture
Anyone who’s tried a lash growth serum for more than a few weeks already knows: results don’t come cheap, and safety concerns can linger. Babe Lash Serum, one of the most popular eyelash enhancers, promises longer, fuller lashes with biotin and amino acids, but a class-action lawsuit over alleged false advertising and a key ingredient … Read more
You’ve got a phone full of photos and a vague memory of setting up Google Photos at some point. Maybe you’re switching phones, helping a family member get started, or just want to see your vacation shots on a laptop. Whatever brought you here, this guide walks through every sign-in, sign-up, and account-management step across … Read more
There’s something about boarding a ship in Sydney Harbour that feels like the start of a real adventure. With the Harbour Bridge and Opera House as your backdrop, a cruise from Sydney in 2026 is more than a holiday—it’s an experience that blends city energy with island escape. Cruise lines departing Sydney: 5+ (Princess, Royal … Read more
If you’ve ever tried to figure out the right order to watch the Star Wars movies and shows, you know the timeline can feel like its own galaxy, but Lucasfilm’s Story Group maintains a canonical chronology that spans roughly 1,000 years, from the High Republic all the way to the Rise of the First Order. … Read more
When Ali France stepped into the chamber of the 48th Parliament, she carried more than a speech. She carried the memory of her son Henry, whose four‑year battle with leukemia ended at 19 in February 2024. Here is how a mother’s tragedy became a political spark—and why her tribute moved even hardened opponents to tears. … Read more
If you’re shopping for a Kia Sportage in Ireland right now, you’re probably staring at a wide spread of prices and wondering what you’re actually supposed to pay. The short answer is that a new 2026 Sportage starts at €44,900 and runs up to €53,000 for the hybrid GT-line, while decent used examples start from … Read more
There’s a certain energy that comes with a race day at Caulfield—the crowd, the turf, the anticipation of the first jump. If you’re planning to head to the track today, knowing the schedule and logistics can make the difference between a smooth day and a stressful one. Races today at Caulfield: 8 · First race … Read more
A hospital changes hands, and suddenly a city’s healthcare map shifts. Mater Group’s acquisition of Gold Coast Private Hospital in early 2026 reshaped who runs the biggest private facility on the coast, raising practical questions for the 1,400 employees and thousands of patients who walk through its doors each year. Beds: 314 (official site) · … Read more
The Age Pension age stays at 67 in 2026, but proposed changes to asset thresholds and a possible shift to 68 by 2030 mean retirees face a shifting landscape. Here are the key numbers and what they mean for your planning. Current pension age: 67 · Proposed pension age (2030): 68 · Max full pension … Read more
There’s a reason outdoor enthusiasts and podiatrists alike reach for merino wool socks when comfort matters most: unlike cotton or synthetics, merino wool naturally regulates temperature and wicks sweat away, making it ideal for those managing neuropathy or diabetic nerve pain. Fiber diameter: 15–24 microns · Moisture capacity: 35% of weight before feeling damp · … Read more