Father Mbaka Speaks On Bandit Attack On Nigerian Defence Academy, Predicts What Will Come

The Spiritual Director, Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Father Ejike Mbaka, has said Nigeria is sinking with worsening insecurity.

And according to him, the situation may get worse except President Muhammadu Buhari takes drastic steps to address it.

Mbaka said the recent attack by bandits on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) was just the beginning of calamities that can befall Nigeria if Buhari did not change and God did not intervene.

Gunmen had last Tuesday attacked the Afaka campus of the NDA, which is Nigeria’ foremost military training school, killing two officers and abducting one Major Christopher Datung.

Another officer was hospitalised within the institution as a result of gunshot wounds.

The bandits later reportedly reached out to the military, demanding a ransom of N200 million for the release of the abducted officer.

Mbaka, however, said the arrest of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), would not solve the problem of insecurity in the country.

He, therefore, called for his release, saying Kanu was not the cause of insecurity in the country.

Mbaka said this during Sunday Mass, describing the recent attack on the NDA as a preamble.

Mbaka said, “Did you not hear that yesterday (Saturday), bandits entered into our most secured place in this country, Nigerian Defence Academy? The NDA, the impenetrable place in Nigeria and killed some Nigerian military officers.

“And people are still talking of Father Mbaka and Adoration. And some Catholics are still attacking the worship of Blessed Sacrament through adoration; what are they going there to do?  The country is sinking just as I told them last time. The arrest of Nnamdi Kanu; will it solve any problem? Will it stop any agitation? Now, the attack on the NDA; is it Nnamdi Kanu now?

“Is it not better he is released? Since he is still under their custody and NDA could be perforated, violated and mesmerised, what is the hope of this country if it can happen in Nigeria Defence Academy? Where else is safe?

“As I told you people last two months that what you are seeing is just the beginning of the trouble and that the main trouble is coming. This one that they did (NDA attack) is just the elementary part of it. The secondary part of it is still coming.

“I am only asking God to intervene because what is happening in Afghanistan right now; if God is not ready to help us, Nigeria’s situation will be worse in the future. You are free to attack Father Mbaka and criticise me, that one is your problem.

“I am doing my prophetic work, and I don’t need apology or affirmation or support or approval from anybody apart from the Holy Spirit who sent me on this risky assignment. Even if I want to stop it, I can’t even stop it.”

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

'Buhari Refusing To Stop Bandits Terrorising Citizens, He Was Able To Declare War On IPOB's Kanu, Igboho' —Prophet Isa El-Buba Asks Nigerians To Mobilise

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Governor Orders Closure Of Major Roads In Buhari’s Home State Over Killings, Abductions

Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari has ordered the “immediate and total closure” of the Jibia-Gurbin Baure Road to all motorists indefinitely.

This is effective from Tuesday, August 31, 2021.

File photo used to illustrate story.

“Travellers plying that road are advised to go through Funtua,” an executive order signed by Masari on Monday said.

He also closed Kankara-Sheme Road to commercial vehicles.
Katsina is the home state of President Muhammadu Buhari, but this has not stopped bandits from terrorising its poor communities.

For instance, 344 schoolboys were kidnapped from Government Science Secondary School, Kankara in Katsina State by bandits on December 11, 2020. They were released about a week later.

Bandits riding on motorcycles killed 12 persons and injured six others in Duba in the Batsari Local Government Area of the state on the night of Saturday, August 21.

However, regarding the new development, the governor explained that the closure of the roads and other measures were in the exercise of powers conferred upon him by sub-section (2) of Section 176 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

He tagged the notice, “Security Challenges (Containment) Order” and shall come into effect from August 31, 2021.

Regarding the closure of Kankara-Sheme Road to commercial vehicles, motorists were advised to go through Funtua.
The order said, “Only private non-commercial vehicles are to ply the road and lorries, trucks carrying firewood from the bush are totally banned.

“Suspension of sale of all animals at the markets of the following Local Government Areas: Jibia, Batsari, Safana, Danmusa, Kankara, Malumfashi, Charanchi, Mal’adua, Kafur, Faskari, Sabuwa, Baure, Dutsinma and Kaita.

“Ban on transportation of cattle trucks from Katsina State to any other state in Nigeria.

“Total ban on carrying three persons on motorcycles and more than three passengers on a tricycle.

“Total ban on the sale of second-hand motorcycles at the Charanchi market.

“Re-enforcement of the ban on the operation of commercial tricycles and motorcycles from 10.00 p.m to 6.00 a.m in the state capital and 6.00 p.m to 6.00 a.m in the frontline Local Government Areas.

“Re-enforcement of the total ban on the sale of petrol in jerry cans at filling stations.

“Only two designated filling stations are allowed to sell fuel of not more than N5,000.00 to motorists in Jibia, Batsari, Safana, Danmusa, Kankara, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, Musawa, Matazu, Dutsinma, Kurfi, Danja and Kafur Local Government Areas.

“Identified essential workers (health personnel, security personnel and Journalists) could use tricycles and motorcycles beyond the banned periods.”

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

SPONSORED: Zenith Bank Shows Resilience As Profit Before Tax (PBT) Grows By 3% In H1 2021

In a clear demonstration of its resilience, Zenith Bank Plc has announced its audited results for the half-year ended 30 June 2021, recording positive growth across key financial metrics despite a challenging macroeconomic environment exacerbated by the COVID 19 pandemic.

According to the bank's audited half-year financial results presented to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the Group recorded a growth in profit before tax of 3% from NGN114 billion reported in H1 2020 to NGN117 billion in H1 2021. The Group also recorded a 9% growth in non-interest income from NGN116 billion in June 2020 to NGN127 billion in June 2021. Overall, the significant reduction in interest expense by 26% and growth in non-interest income by 9% culminated in improved profitability.

Zenith Bank

The Group's retail journey continues to deliver positive results as retail deposits grew by NGN38.2 billion from NGN1.72 trillion to NGN1.76 trillion year-to-date (YTD). Savings balances grew marginally by 2% YTD to close at NGN1.18 trillion from NGN1.16 trillion as at December 2020. The drive for increased retail deposits and a low-interest yield environment helped reduce the cost of funding from 2.2% to 1.3% in the current period. Operating expenses grew by 10% YoY, but growth remains below the inflation rate, while the Group improved its Earnings per Share (EPS) which grew 2% from NGN3.30 to NGN3.38 for the half-year ended June 2021.

The Group also increased total customer deposits by 8% to close the period at NGN5.77 trillion, demonstrating growth in the market share. Total assets grew marginally to NGN8.52 trillion as at 30 June 2021 from NGN8.48 trillion recorded as at 31 December 2020. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic induced challenges and the challenging operating environment, the Group grew its risk assets as gross loans were up by 3% YTD, from NGN2.92 trillion to NGN2.99 trillion. This was conservatively achieved at a low Non-Performance Loans (NPL) ratio of 4.51% (FYE 2020: 4.29%) and a reduced cost of risk of 1.3% (June 2020: 1.8%). Prudential ratios such as liquidity and capital adequacy also remained above regulatory thresholds at 69.9% and 22.0%, respectively.

Despite the continued prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is cautious optimism that the global economy will continue to recover as vaccination programmes are intensified. On the domestic economy, Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 5.01% in the second quarter of 2021, and the inflation rate, which peaked in March 2021 at 18.17%, is gradually trending down (currently at 17.38% as at July 2021).  The Group is well-positioned to maximise the opportunities that these recovering fundamentals present while leveraging technology to expand its retail footprints to deliver improved returns to all its stakeholders.

In recognition of its track record of excellent performance, Zenith Bank was voted as Best Commercial Bank in Nigeria in the World Finance Banking Awards 2021, Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker's Bank of the Year Awards 2020, Best Bank in Nigeria in the Global Finance World's Best Banks Awards 2020 and 2021, and Best in Corporate Governance 'Financial Services' Africa 2020 and 2021 by the Ethical Boardroom. Also, the bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021, and Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital in the "2021 Top 1000 World Banks" Ranking by The Banker Magazine. The bank was also recognised as Bank of the Decade (People's Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Retail Bank of the year at the 2020 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Awards, and Best Company in Promotion of Good Health and Well-Being as well as Best Company in Promotion of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the Sustainability, Enterprise and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2020.

Zenith Bank has grown enormously in 30 years to become Nigeria’s largest and one of Africa’s largest financial institutions by tier-1 capital, with shareholders’ funds of NGN1.1 trillion ($2.64 billion) as at 31st December 2020. The Bank continues to distinguish itself in the Nigerian financial services industry through superior service offerings, unique customer experience and sound financial indices. Zenith Bank is the clear leader in the digital space with several firsts in the deployment of innovative products, solutions and an assortment of alternative channels that ensure convenience, speed and safety of transactions.

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

ADF soldiers killed in Townsville crash praised for service

Two Australian Defence Force soldiers killed in a vehicle rollover in North Queensland have been praised for their service and sacrifice.

Brendan Payne, 29, was travelling from Brisbane to Townsville with an as yet unnamed warrant officer when the heavy vehicle they were in crashed and rolled down an embankment.

The soldiers were part of Brisbane's 7th Combat Brigade and were on their way to Townsville to participate in Exercise Diamond Dagger at Townsville's Field Training Area.

READ MORE: Two Defence personnel die in vehicle crash near Townsville

Queensland emergency services were called to the scene at Dotswood shortly before 1pm today following reports of a heavy vehicle crash.

Despite defence medics and Queensland Ambulance officers arriving a short time later, both were declared dead at the scene.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk acknowledged the officers today, offering her sympathies to their loved ones.

"I extend my deepest condolences to their family and friends and the entire ADF community who are mourning the loss two of their own in such tragic circumstances," Ms Palaszczuk said.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison also honoured the fallen officers Tweeting: "We honour them for their service and sacrifice and grieve with their friends and family and the tight-knit Townsville community".

READ MORE: Perth man dies after being struck by car while changing tyre

"I am devastated at the news two of our brave, serving ADF personnel lost their lives today when their army vehicle rolled over near Townsville," Mr Morrison wrote.

"Wherever the sacrifice of our brave men and women of our ADF occurs, it is a great price for them to pay, all in equal measure."

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing and the ADF is working with Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Garage erupts in flames from scooter battery spark

Authorities are urging scooter owners to be cautious after a house in Perth's north almost burnt down when the vehicle's lithium-ion battery exploded.

David Longney was at home shortly after 8pm yesterday when, in a matter of seconds, a single spark set off a blaze just metres away in the garage.

Security footage from across the road showed how quickly the flames took over the building, as the Marangaroo man frantically tried to extinguish the growing blaze while waiting for fire crews.

READ MORE: Man lucky to escape after electric bike explodes

"I ran out desperately, in vain, just with my light hose from the backyard to try and control it, but within a minute I knew I was fighting a losing battle," Mr Longney told 9News.

The footage shows a driver who sees the flames pull to the side of the road to help the young father.

But as the man comes to help, Mr Longney comes running out, then dashes back into the burning building when he realises the family dog is trapped inside.

"I think the design of the house — if the brick wall didn't go all the way up, I wouldn't be looking at much of a house right now," Mr Longney said.

READ MORE: Man found dead after granny flat goes up in flames in Sydney

Fire crews believe the blaze was started by a spark from a combusting lithium-ion battery attached to a brand new scooter.

"It just started shooting hot flames, it was quite dangerous," Mr Longney said.

While the building damage was covered by insurance, the majority of Mr Longney's belongings, including the scooter and a motorcycle were destroyed in the fire.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Gunmen Invade Bishop Oyedepo’s Church In Kogi, Abduct Members

Three members of the Living Faith Church Worldwide founded by Bishop David Oyedepo have been kidnapped at Osara community in the Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

It was learnt the kidnappers invaded the church during the weekend, shooting indiscriminately to scare people away before successfully whisking their victims away.

Illustration

The assailants reportedly invaded the church while some members were holding a meeting.

The chairman of the local government area, Joseph Omuya Salami, confirmed the abduction of three members of the church to journalists, through his special adviser on media and publicity, Habeeb Jamiu.

See Also Politics Nigerians Will Never Repeat The Kind Of Error That Put Buhari In Power In 2015—Bishop Oyedepo 0 Comments 13 Hours Ago

He said the council chairman and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Osara Division had visited the crime scene, and that the council was working with security agents to rescue the victims.

“Even before now, we had a series of meetings with the people of Osara community and entire farm centre. And I told them to restrict every night activities for now, and whoever that want to hold any activity in the night should get appropriate quarters informed and also get their approval to ensure that adequate security is provided, but out of their disobedience, they chose otherwise.

“We all know the security challenges of this country, and the administration of Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello is doing everything humanly possible to keep Kogi State safe, protect lives and property. So, all hands must be on deck to strengthen the peace in our various communities,” he said.

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Many Injured, Motorists Flee As Fulani Herders Clash With Hausa Traders In Delta

At least ten people have reportedly sustained varying degrees of injury as Hausa traders and Fulani herders engaged in a bloody clash at the popular Hausa Market along Benin-Warri Road, Amukpe, Sapele in the Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was learnt that some shops at the market were destroyed during the clash that occurred on Monday.

Delta State Map

SaharaReporters gathered that the clash led to tension, apprehension and gridlock as many motorists fled the area, leaving their vehicles behind.

A source said trouble started on Sunday night after a Fulani herder allegedly stabbed a Hausa boy.

It was learnt that Hausa traders were enraged when they saw the stab wound.

"The Hausa people in the market retaliated by attacking the Fulani herders’ settlement around there. The Fulani people also fought back and a full scale crisis started," the source said.

It was learnt that operatives from Sapele Police Command led by CSP Harrison Nwaboisi, later went to the scene to restore peace and order.

Similarly, at least six people were reportedly killed in February while several others sustained varying degrees of injury when Yoruba and Hausa communities clashed at Shasha market in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The clash also saw vehicles vandalised, kiosks, shops, houses and various other structures razed and destroyed.

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Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Armed intruder caught in heroic neighbourly effort

A man and his neighbour have heroically stopped a man who was allegedly armed and broke into a home in Adelaide's west, pouncing on him until police arrived.

The resident of Elms Avenue, in Richmond, woke to an allegedly armed man standing over his bed just after 7pm yesterday.

The man screamed, chasing the alleged offender out the house and continuing to yell to alert his neighbours.

READ MORE: Family dog saves young woman during home invasion

He tackled the alleged intruder to the ground and a neighbour came

to help hold him down.

"I just heard a man yelling 'I can't breathe' and 'I'm going to f---ing kill you'," witness Congyi Hu told 9News.

Security footage showed police come rushing down the driveway to help the man and his neighbour who had the alleged offender pinned to the ground.

"He was very strong, I remember that – I saw them struggling to keep him down even though he was on the ground and had his arms pinned," neighbour Scott told 9News.

READ MORE: Thief pulls knife on Gold Coast resident in bungled home invasion

The man allegedly punched the resident and neighbour in the chaos, leaving them too scared to speak on camera about the ordeal.

But the residents thanked their neighbours for coming to their aid before police arrived.

A 58-year-old man from Edwardstown has been charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and assault.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Cougar that was kept as illegal pet removed from NYC home

A 36kg cougar was removed from a New York City apartment where she was being kept illegally as a pet, animal welfare officials said Monday.

The owner of the 11-month-old female cougar surrendered the animal on Thursday, Kelly Donithan, director of animal disaster response for the Humane Society of the United States, said in a news release.

The cougar, nicknamed Sasha, spent the weekend at the Bronx Zoo receiving veterinary care and is now headed to the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas, officials said.

READ MORE: Goats brought in to prevent bushfires in NSW Central West

The Humane Society coordinated with zoo officials, the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York Police Department on the big cat's removal.

“I’ve never seen a cougar in the wild, but I’ve seen them on leashes, smashed into cages, and crying for their mothers when breeders rip them away," the Humane Society’s Donithan said.

“I’ve also seen the heartbreak of owners, like in this case, after being sold not just a wild animal, but a false dream that they could make a good ‘pet.’”

Donithan said this cougar was relatively lucky because her owners, who live in the Bronx, recognised that a wild cat is not fit to live in an apartment and surrendered her.

“The owner’s tears and nervous chirps from the cougar as we drove her away painfully drives home the many victims of this horrendous trade and myth that wild animals belong anywhere but the wild," Donithan said.

READ MORE: Mountain lions destroyed after eight-year-old attacked

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said that while cougars "may look cute and cuddly when young, these animals can grow up to be unpredictable and dangerous."

Bronx Zoo director Jim Breheny said the exotic pet trade makes no contribution to the conservation of endangered species.

“These animals often end up in very bad situations, kept by private individuals who don’t have the resources, facilities, knowledge, or expertise to provide for the animals’ most basic needs,” Breheny said. "In addition to these welfare concerns for the animals, the keeping of big cats by private people poses a real safety hazard to the owner, the owner’s family and the community at large.”

New York has seen other notable cases involving dangerous animals in private residences, including Ming, a 180kg tiger that was removed from a Harlem apartment in 2003.

Ming’s owner, Antoine Yates, was arrested and sentenced to five months in prison for reckless endangerment. Ming died in 2019 at the Noah’s Lost Ark Exotic Animal Rescue Centre in Ohio.

Police Commissioner Dermot Shea said the cougar's case “is currently under investigation and no further information is available at this time.”

READ MORE: US deputy fights off mountain lion attack

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Adelaide woman attacked by neighbour's French Mastiff

A young woman has been hospitalised after she was attacked by her neighbour's dog in Adelaide's north.

Emergency crews were called to Squires Place, Gawler South, just before 10am today after reports the woman had been set upon by a neighbour's French Mastiff.

The woman was rushed to Royal Adelaide Hospital where she remains tonight with serious injuries to her face, arm and abdomen.

READ MORE: Pet owner's nightmare as dog mauled to death in Brisbane backyard

READ MORE: Dog attack hot spots in NSW

Council members returned to the street just after 1pm today and seized the dog with a full investigation underway.

The woman, aged in her 30s, is yet to provide council with a statement, but the distressed owners of the seized dog are fully cooperating with officials.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Dating app for fitness lovers booms during lockdown

A new dating app targeted specifically towards fitness lovers has contributed to a boom in online dating in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Australian app Fitafy, which helps fitness-focused singles match based on their fitness levels and goals, has recorded 15 million swipes and 600,000 messages since it launched last year.

The app connected Port Melbourne couple Karla and Adam last year, leading to the pair moving in together in lockdown.

READ MORE: How to take care of your mental health in COVID-19 lockdown

On their first anniversary this year, Adam popped the question.

"My mum always told me, when you know, you know, didn't take long after Karla moved in to know she was the person for me," he said.

Karla said lockdown really "solidified" their relationship.

"We learned so much about each other," she said.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

What happened to the countries who opened up during COVID-19

The hopes of a regular post-COVID-19 life in Australia are largely centred on the eligible population reaching a vaccination rate of 80 per cent or more.

According to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, once Australia hits 80 per cent of its eligible population vaccinated, states should end the practice of "generalised lockdowns".

As of August 30, 35 per cent of eligible Australians over the age of 16 are fully vaccinated.

LIVE UPDATES: The new COVID-19 mutant strain detected in seven countries

Australia is not unique in its planning based on the hypothesis of 80 per cent of a nation's population vaccinated against COVID-19.

Denmark has confirmed that it will remove all COVID-19 restrictions on September 10, now that 71 per cent of the Danish population is fully vaccinated.

Denmark has a population of around 5.8 million people. Since late July, it has been recording between 700 to 1000 new cases of the virus everyday.

The current seven-day rolling average for Denmark is 944 cases.

READ MORE: How to get a COVID-19 vaccination: State-by-state guide

In Australia – taking into account all states – the seven day rolling average is 1099 cases.

In a statement, Denmark's Health Minister Magnus Heunicke explained that the local laws that permitted COVID-19 restrictions demanded that the virus be "generally dangerous" and "socially critical".

"We have now completed this assessment and our conclusion is that we will not extend the classification of COVID-19 as socially critical," Mr Heunicke said.

"If there are sudden, serious developments, new variants appear or something else that threatens epidemic control in Denmark, we will not hesitate to intervene again. But the special rules of the Epidemic Act should not be the new normal in society."

READ MORE: Australia fast-tracks 500,000 Pfizer doses

Denmark is not the only country ease restrictions on the back of high vaccination rates.

The UK lifted most of its COVID-19 restrictions in late July, allowing places such as pubs and nightclubs to reopen.

Currently just over 64 per cent of the UK's eligible population of 66.65 million people are fully vaccinated. The UK is currently holding a seven-day average of daily new cases of 33,296.

Around 100 people die of the virus in the UK each day.

READ MORE: COVID-19 presents greater blood clot risk than vaccines, study finds

The Netherlands, where 61.9 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated, scrapped almost all of its counter-virus measures in late June.

Weeks later, it was hit by the Delta strain of the virus and recorded a 500 per cent weekly jump in cases, so much so that the government was forced to issue a snap lockdown.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Last minute Father's Day tech and gaming ideas

It's Father's Day in just a few days, and if you've left it a little late to get dad a gift - fear not.

There are plenty of gifts that can be delivered instantly thanks to the power of the digital world.

Here at 9News we've put together a list of ideas, gifts you can get your tech-obsessed dad without leaving home as well as last minute, instant gifts.

Google has just released the new Pixel Buds Series-A ($159), as well as the Nest Doorbell ($329).

READ MORE: Indie game developers speak to the success of Xbox exclusive 'Death's Door'

The Nest Doorbell retails for about $150 more than the Ring Doorbell by Amazon, but has inbuilt technology that can detect familiar faces and differentiate between a car and the postman.

READ MORE: Police hurt, more than 100 arrested and 430 fined at anti-lockdown protests

For the forgetful dad, Apple's new AirTags are budget friendly.

Starting at $49 for one, the AirTag, much like the Tile, can be attached to dad's bag, keys, or even the puppy to make sure you can always find it when missing.

READ MORE: US dropped 'Ninja bomb' to kill terrorists in Afghanistan

For the gamer dads out there, now's the time for next-gen gaming.

PlayStation have recently released two new coloured DualSense controllers for the PS5, Cosmic Red ($119.95 and Midnight Black ($109.95).

Other accessories for the new console include the Wireless Charging Station ($49.95) and the Pulse 3D Wireless Headset ($159.95).

For the states in lockdown, all of these things are simple click and collect away.

There's plenty of new games coming out next month - you can pre-order all of these digitally and have them ready for launch.

READ MORE: Melbourne made video game 'Cult of the Lamb' showcased during Gamescom opening night

NBA 2K22 releases on all platforms on the 10th, PS5 exclusive Deathloop lands on September 14th and the Director's Cut of Death Stranding is out on the 24th.

Dad loves golf? Mario Golf Super Rush ($69) is the latest Mario game for Nintendo Switch, it's out now.

Digital gaming subscriptions are a great way to keep dad entertained.

PlayStation's subscription service, PlayStation Plus, will set you back about $34 for three months, that'll allow dad to access the PlayStation Collection on his PS5, as well as give him downloadable games each month - in addition to online multiplayer gaming.

A subscription to Xbox Games Pass wouldn't go astray, for under $50 you can pick up three months of the service.

Games Pass gives Xbox and PC gamers access to over 100 of the best video games - new and old.

If a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X is out of your budget, the Xbox Series S may be more appealing.

$500 will get next-gen quality gaming for a fraction of the cost of a PC.

Speaking of PC, if dad like to game on the desktop, perhaps a new keyboard or mouse is in order?

READ MORE: Mario's brother Luigi finally get his own LEGO set

HyperX's new Alloy keyboards range from $140 - $180 and will brighten up any setup. They've also got a cool new gaming mouse, HyperX Pulsefire ($89) that weighs a mere 59 grams.

Don't forget video streaming services. Stan, Disney+, Amazon Prime and Netflix are all great, affordable ways to glue dad to the couch.

If all else fails, it's a fact that dads and father figures alike love a new pair of socks and undies.

Mark the date on your calendar - September 5.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Victorians more concerned about mental health impacts of lockdown than virus

Victorians are more concerned about the impact of lockdown on mental health and jobs than contracting the virus.

A new YouGov poll found more than 60 per cent of people are worried about the impact of shutdowns on mental health, as well as the damage to businesses and job losses.

Sixty per cent of people are suffering from a lack of contact with family and friends.

Pam Jones, 45, from Melbourne's north-east, told 9News she is struggling to see the light at the end of the lockdown tunnel.

READ MORE: How to take care of your mental health in COVID-19 lockdown

The administration professional is worried about her daughters' wellbeing and her family in the UK, who she has not seen for two years.

"I'm trying to work from home and home school at the same time and it's incredibly, incredibly difficult," she said.

The mental repercussions of ongoing lockdowns are now of greater concern for many Victorians than the risk of catching COVID-19.

Calls to Lifeline continue to rise as Victoria's gruelling lockdown continues.

READ MORE: 'Shadow' mental health pandemic spreading among Victorian children

"These numbers are extraordinary," Lifeline Australia Chair John Brogden said.

"We've seen a 32 per cent increase in the number of calls we are receiving in Victoria compared to two years ago."

Professor Patrick McGorry from mental health group Orygen said the surge in psychological distress, particularly in children, needs urgent attention.

"Our modelling shows this mental ill health will last months and probably years. So we've got to have a solution now."

For mental health support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Lightning strike kills young lifeguard in the US

A young lifeguard was killed and seven other people, including three other lifeguards, were injured when lightning struck a Jersey Shore beach on Monday afternoon, authorities said.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy confirmed that a lifeguard in Berkeley Township, New Jersey, was killed in the afternoon.

It marked the second death of a young lifeguard at the Jersey Shore in a little over a week.

READ MORE: Hurricane Ida traps Louisiana residents, shatters the power grid

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy said the others were taken to hospitals with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

"Our hearts are with the family and friends of the young lifeguard killed by today's horrific lightning strike on the beach in Berkeley Township, and we pray for a full recovery for those injured," Mr Murphy, the state's Democratic governor, wrote on Twitter.

"I've spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time."

Ms Amato said his township's beaches will be closed Tuesday through Thursday as crisis counsellors are made available to beach staff and lifeguards. Four of those struck were lifeguards and four others were beachgoers.

"This is a tragic and heartbreaking day for our town and the entire Jersey Shore," Ms Amato said in a statement.

"This young person was out there every day protecting the lives of others. Our lifeguard teams, like so many along the shore, develop special connections with our community throughout the summer, which makes this loss even greater.

"On behalf of myself and our entire community, I offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of this young man," he said.

The identities of the lifeguard who died, as well as the others hurt by the lightning strike were not immediately released.

A handwritten note in purple ink was left with flowers Monday night at the base of a lifeguard stand at the beach.

READ MORE: US dropped 'Ninja bomb' to kill terrorists in Afghanistan

"We were at the beach today and are grateful for what you've done for us by keeping us safe at the beach," the note read. "We are so sorry for your loss."

Police were called at 4.31pm to a beach on 21st Avenue in Berkeley Township, near the entrance to Island Beach State Park, which is just south of Seaside Park.

Pete Tortorelli was tending an outdoor bar a block away from the beach when, he said, lightning struck seemingly out of nowhere.

"It looked a little cloudy in one direction but clear as anything in the other direction, and it was the first lightning of the day," he said. "Literally two minutes after I saw the lightning, every cop car in this town was screaming down the street."

Thomas Taberoni was at a beachfront house 90 metres away from the lifeguard stand, noticing that it was beginning to get cloudy, when he heard what he described as the loudest noise he had ever heard.

"Have you ever been to an air show when they break the sound barrier with that boom and you weren't prepared for it?" he asked. "This was like 100 times louder than that."

READ MORE: A look inside the communities hit by one of the most powerful US hurricanes

Lynda McHugh had just left the beach when she saw two large bolts of lightning come straight down. Within moments, people were running up the ramp from the beach and down the wooden stairs to safety.

Police said in a Facebook post that they were investigating reports of lightning strikes in the township, and would release further information as it becomes available.

A police dispatcher said she could not release any information other than what the department had posted on Facebook. Messages have been left for police commanders.

On August 20, 16-year-old lifeguard Norman Inferrera III died a day after an accident in Cape May, on New Jersey's southern tip. A lifeboat he was rowing was struck by a wave and flipped over, knocking him unconscious, authorities said.

And on August 12, a 13-year-old boy died after he was struck by lightning at Orchard Beach in the Bronx in New York City. Carlos Ramos was one of a group of people gathered at the beach who were struck by lightning during a fast-moving storm. Six others also were injured in that lightning strike.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Two women with COVID-19 die in Victoria

Two Victorians women with COVID-19 have died in their homes, marking the state's first recorded COVID-19 deaths this year.

A woman in her 60s from Hume and a woman in her 40s from Darebin have both died in their respective homes today while infected with COVID-19.

It remains unclear why they were not hospitalised and whether they had any other health conditions.

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READ MORE: Victoria's lockdown to continue but 'modest changes' to restrictions on the way

Their vaccination status also remains unknown.

The two deaths with be recorded in tomorrow's COVID-19 numbers.

They come as the Premier is set to announce a slight easing of the state's lockdown restrictions tomorrow.

Mr Daniel Andrews today said he would announce a roadmap -including case number thresholds - to get Victoria out of lockdown tomorrow.

The state recorded 76 new local cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, taking Victoria's total number of active cases to 836.

Victoria had recorded no deaths of people with COVID-19 in 2021 before today.

Last year, 820 people with COVID-19 died in Victoria.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

New Zealand records 49 new coronavirus cases

There are 49 new cases of COVID-19 linked to the Delta community outbreak in New Zealand, bringing the total number of cases to 612.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield gave the update in a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Among the recent cases was a prison officer at Spring Hill Corrections Facility, and a security officer at Auckland's Middlemore Hospital, it was revealed.

READ MORE: Auckland to remain in level four restrictions as city records 53 new cases

All 49 new cases were in Auckland. This is the lowest number of new cases in six days.

Dr Bloomfield said that provided "further reassuring indication that our public health measures are rapidly, slowing the spread of the virus".

There have now been 597 community cases in Auckland and 15 in Wellington since the start of the Delta outbreak two weeks ago.

Thirty-three people are in hospital, eight of which are in intensive care. Two are on a ventilator.

A contract security officer on duty at Middlemore Hospital on August 26 tested positive for COVID-19 after exposure in the community.

READ MORE: Critics mock New Zealand's risk-averse approach to COVID-19

The security staffer is fully vaccinated and while on duty at Middlemore was wearing full PPE, including an N95 mask.

The risk of exposure to patients and staff is considered to be low, and to date no staff at Counties Manukau Health have contracted the virus while at work.

Dr Bloomfield also advised on Tuesday that 23 staff at Spring Hill Corrections Facility were asked to self-isolate and get tested after being in contact with a COVID-positive prison officer, who was fully vaccinated.

One hundred and twenty-three people in the unit are also being segregated and tested.

READ MORE: Auckland woman charged for allegedly forging mask exemption document

Dr Bloomfield said the ministry was also looking at whether wastewater testing could be utilised in that case.

Of note, 66 per cent of new cases reported to 9am on Monday were household contacts of an existing case, he said.

Of Monday's cases, 77 per cent did not create any new exposure events, reducing new potential chains of transmission. Twenty-three percent were considered infectious while in the community, compared with 30 per cent the day before and 35 per cent the day prior.

Six cases in the Auckland outbreak are under the age of one.

READ MORE: Widow of New Zealand soldier killed in Kabul says deployment not in vain

None of those younger children are in hospital, and Dr Bloomfield believed the youngest person in hospital is aged 18.

"All of this information reinforces the importance of us doing everything we can to stamp the virus," Dr Bloomfield said.

There are currently seven sub-clusters in the outbreak, the largest of which remain the Assembly of God Church in Māngere (308 confirmed cases) and the Birkdale social cluster associated with Case A (78 cases).

Overall, 566 cases have been epidemiologically linked to another case or sub-cluster. The link has yet to be fully established for a further 46 cases.

Nineteen of the 49 cases announced on Tuesday had not yet been epidemiologically linked.

READ MORE: Identifying source of neon green substance in Queenstown creek may take weeks

There were no new wastewater detections to report.

When asked whether she was encouraged by another decrease in daily case numbers, Ms Ardern said she wanted to see "sustained reductions" in case numbers over a period of time.

"It is good not to see some of the high numbers we were only a few days ago", but "we've still got a journey to go through", she said.

It has now been 14 days since Case A was detected in Auckland, which prompted a nationwide move to alert level 4.

All of New Zealand south of Auckland will move to alert level 3 from 11.59pm today.

Northland will remain at alert level 4 until 11.59pm on Thursday, pending the results of further testing. The Auckland region will remain in lockdown for another 14 days.

This story originally appeared on stuff.co.nz and has been republished with permission.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Turbulent weather patterns expected this spring

As many Australians soak up the sun on the last day of a warmer-than-average winter, a new weather system has taken hold of the country, bringing with it heavy rainfall across the south-east as well as increased flood risks.

Although winter was mild this year – with Darwin sweltering though 35 degrees on August 15, marking the earliest 35-degree day on record – it was also Australia's wettest since 2016.

That can be attributed to the negative Indian Ocean Dipole event (IOD), which is expected to continue heading into spring.

READ MORE: Hurricane Ida leaves at least one dead and all of New Orleans without power

The IOD is a natural climate phenomenon that influences rainfall patterns around the Indian Ocean, sometimes referred to as the "Indian Ocean's cousin" of the more well known El Niño and La Niña patterns.

While El Niño brings dry weather, La Niña brings wet weather. A similar comparison can be made with the IOD, which experiences positive and negative phases, respectively.

Negative IODs bring heavy rainfall and flooding, but are less frequent. While, positive IODs bring dry and warm weather (the Black Summer bushfires in 2019–20 were also linked to a positive IOD, among other factors).

"This pattern enhances winter-spring rainfall over much of southern and eastern parts of the continent. As a result, spring is likely to be wetter than average for much of the rest and two thirds of Australia," Climatologist Dr Andrew Watkins said.

"The first rains of the Northern Australia wet season are likely to be earlier than normal overmatch of Queensland and the Northern Territory.

"Where soil and catchments are wet and stream flows are high, further rainfall will increase the risk of flooding, particularly in eastern Australia."

READ MORE: A look inside the communities hit by one of the most powerful US hurricanes

Dr Watkins also said that in some parts of the country, the spring bushfire outlook shows "above normal fire potential" for the north-eastern parts of New South Wales, and southeast Queensland.

"Spring is likely to see above average rainfall for the eastern two thirds of Australia, warmer than average days for northern and southeastern areas" he said.

"An increased risk of flooding in parts of the southeast.

"And an increase fire potential in parts of the east and Northwest."

High temperatures from September to November are likely to be above average for the northern tropics and far south-east Australia, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

While below average daytime temperatures are more likely for other areas of southern Australia including southern Queensland.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Cast and crew on Russell Crowe film forced into isolation

Production on Russell Crowe's new psychological thriller has been forced to stop, with a member of the crew having tested positive for COVID-19.

Filming of new movie Poker Face, which has been taking place in the penthouse at Crown in Sydney's Barangaroo has come to a halt today after the NSW COVID-19 outbreak infiltrated the production team.

A barista has tested positive for COVID-19 after working five shifts on set last week while unknowingly infectious.

LIVE UPDATES: Vaccine swap deal with Singapore announced

https://twitter.com/LaurenTomasi/status/1432563813455253506

Crowe took to Twitter this afternoon to announce the "unfortunate" development.

"We have had a confirmed positive COVID case amongst our crew and a second possible positive under further investigation by our PokerFace Covid team and NSWHealth," he posted.

Crowe said production had been paused and the entire team had been told to isolate while the outbreak was investigated.

https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1432563181373718530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

The actor said the cast and crew had been following strict protocols while filming throughout the NSW COVID-19 crisis, including everyone being tested for the virus three times a week for the past 11 weeks.

READ MORE: AFL Grand Final locked in for Perth

"The crew have been masked on set the whole time except for three individuals with medical exemptions," he said.

"We feel for the crew members involved, like all the people on this show they are both very committed team players and diligent in their approach to their work responsibilities."

https://twitter.com/russellcrowe/status/1424701482494881793

"We also feel for the wider community going through these difficult times. We hope this situation will be confined and we can be back up and running very soon."

Crowe revealed the crew had been just six days from finishing filming.

The movie, which also stars Elsa Pataky and Liam Hemsworth, was being filmed in the NSW coastal town of Kiama earlier this month.

At the time, the production occurring during the state's lockdown attracted criticism.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward posted on Twitter than the production made "a total mockery" of the lockdown.

"People can't see family and friends, funerals limited to 10, no cases in Shellharbour but still locked down but apparently 'A-listers' producing movies is essential?" he wrote.

Crowe responded to criticism by posting that the film cast and crew were in a "bubble" that stopped them being in the community.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021

Camera discovery reveals last images of Australian mountain climber before he died

The hunt for the owner of a backpack led to the discovery of eerie photos of Australian man Steve Robinson's last mountain ascent before he died, and emotional memories for his climbing partner and family.

Found last year by Chris Hill, wedged in New Zealand's Hooker Glacier, at the bottom of Aoraki/Mt Cook, the backpack had personal items and a battered camera that contained an undeveloped film.

Initially, Mr Hill took the backpack to the police and asked the local community if they could shed light on who the owner might be.

READ MORE: Squatter cites archaic law in claiming ownership of $1m homestead

With no answers forthcoming, Mr Hill developed the remarkable photos documenting Mr Robinson's ascent of Aoraki/Mt Cook in 1997 and posted them on social media to see if they triggered anyone's memory.

On Saturday night, Mr Hill was contacted by Mr Robinson's climbing companion and friend Richard Stiles to say it was his backpack and he took the photos.

Speaking from his Lithgow home in Australia on Sunday, Mr Stiles recalled the tragic events that led to him losing his backpack and his mate.

On March 28, 1997, after ascending the technically challenging Sheila Face and enduring one of the coldest nights they had ever experienced, Mr Stiles and Mr Robinson, also from Australia, were relieved to reach the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

Describing the loose snow conditions they encountered during their climb as "intimidating and scary", Mr Stiles said he and Mr Robinson stopped on their descent for a much-needed breather on a ledge near Porter Col at 2600 metres and removed their backpacks.

The pair thought they had completed the hardest part of their adventure.

Mr Stiles remembers every part of the next three seconds that changed his life.

As a block of ice the size of an apartment building fell and crashed onto the snow, the pair had only moments to react.

In the rush of noise and wind from the accompanying avalanche, Mr Stiles never saw Mr Robinson. Instead, unusually, he managed to turn from facing a rock wall to running down a steep slope.

In three seconds Stiles believes he managed to traverse 150 metres leaping in steps.

Narrowly clearing the edge of the avalanche, Mr Stiles was blown hundreds of metres down the slope before he stopped.

With all his climbing tools gone, and his backpack, he miraculously found his snow stake in the debris, but Mr Robinson had been buried and was nowhere to be seen.

"I knew he was gone."

Using the stake, Mr Stiles made his way down to Empress Hut and raised the alarm.

READ MORE: Is COVID to blame for the deadliest avalanche season in the US?

Making the call to Mr Robinson's mother in Australia on the helicopter flight back to Aoraki/Mt Cook village was hard, he said.

Now almost a quarter of a century later, Mr Stiles has faced a mixture of emotions since viewing the photos from the camera he thought he had lost.

He has no desire to see the backpack, but the discovery has made him reflect on the "fine" person Mr Robinson was.

At the time of his death, the 29-year-old was a doctorate in solar physics at New South Wales University in Sydney.

A competent adventurer, Mr Robinson was a "great guy", Mr Stiles said.

READ MORE: Australian woman killed after falling 500m in Austrian avalanche

"He was one of those people that the world could benefit from having him around."

Mr Stiles said he had never gone mountaineering again but still has a thirst for adventure, having crossed Bass Strait, separating Tasmania from the Australian mainland, in a kayak.

Speaking to Stuff from Geelong, Mr Robinson's sister Christine Schiesser said she was shocked to learn of the photos of her brother.

"It's a lot to process. It's completely astonishing to look at the photos and know these were the last images of my brother."

Steve was a remarkable person, she said, and was a gifted physicist who was at the forefront of the development of solar cell technology, as well as an accomplished surfer, kayaker, rock climber and mountaineer, and a much-loved brother, son and uncle.

"Most importantly, he had soul and an incredibly kind and generous heart."

Prior to his death, Mr Robinson expressed a wish to take solar technology to the developing communities of South America so that they may have power for light, warmth and cooking, Ms Schiesser said.

She described the discovery of the backpack as being like a gift from beyond the grave.

"We miss him every day of our lives."

This story originally appeared on stuff.co.nz and has been republished with permission. Article by Nadine Porter.

Posted by Admin August 31, 2021