The fragility of peace and the need for vigilance in the face of aggression and of other existential threats to our community life is cause for serious reflection on the eve of our upcoming Anzac Day commemorations.  The Middle East, Ukraine, the South China Sea are all actual or potential flashpoints.  Few people realise that young Australian soldiers, sailors and airmen and women are actively involved in all of these theatres, albeit in non-combat roles. Give a thought to their parents, families and loved ones who suffer a constant level of fear for their safety and for what the future might hold for them and for all...

Across the country, Australians are replacing ageing gas appliances with electric alternatives — heat pump hot water systems, reverse-cycle air conditioning, induction cooktops, rooftop solar. For many households, electrification is now the most straightforward way to reduce energy costs over the long term. Hepburn Energy has set up a free electrification support service, supported by the State Government, to help local residents work through the decisions involved, what to upgrade, which installers to use, when, what it should cost, and what subsidies and finance options are available. The case for getting off gas Around 65% of Victorian households use gas for cooking, heating, or hot water. It’s familiar, but...

The fragility of peace and the need for vigilance in the face of aggression and of other existential threats to our community life is...

I spent a significant amount of my childhood at libraries, op-shops and playgrounds. Mum was thrifty and recognised the inherent value of these places and...