As global temperatures, measured by satellite data, return to levels that existed before the 2016–17 El Niño event, some climate scientists have raised concerns that the recent dramatic fall in solar sunspot activity might foreshadow a prolonged fall in global temperatures. Sunspots are dark spots that appear on the surface of the sun. Astronomers have…
After a four-week hearing, Melbourne Magistrate Belinda Wallington dismissed the most serious charges brought by police against Cardinal George Pell, and ordered that lesser charges be heard in the Victorian County Court at some time in the near future. Cardinal Pell has repeatedly and firmly denied the allegations made against him. Cardinal George Pell The…
The recent controversy over Australian cricketers’ ball tampering in South Africa, the increasing incidence of road rage, “one-punch” attacks, home invasions, online bullying and public vandalism reflect a deepening malaise in Australian culture. A generation ago, these would have been either rare or even unthinkable, and their causes deserve to be…
After sitting on his hands while Alinta Energy closed South Australia’s Northern Power Station in 2016 and Engie closed the Hazelwood Power Station in Victoria in 2017, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull faces a third test of his leadership over plans by energy monopoly AGL to close the Liddell Power Station (pictured) in New South Wales.…
