Author: Emily Perkins

The level of alcohol-fuel crime in Wollongong has dropped over the last four year, according to lastest figures. Between 2016 and 2020 the percentage of alcohol-related crime declined by 15.1 per cent in the Wollongong LGA. In 2016 there were a total of 341 incidents compared to 177 incidents in 2020. With offences almost halved, the 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey found Australians now consume less alcohol. In 2016 7.6 per cent of people said they were giving it up compared to the increase of 8.9 per cent of people in 2019. High school PE teacher Ms Jane said…

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University of Wollongong and ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterial Science researchers have found seaweed molecules can help heal wounds. The scientists worked in collaboration with Venus Shell Systems to show the ‘magic molecules’ resemble those found in the human healing system. RadioU UOW · Seaweed molecules tackling medical challenges RadioU UOW · Seaweed molecules tackling medical challenges The bioprinting process involves the use of materials or inks made from biological sources, such as seaweed gels and human skin cells. The formulation of ingredients can then be used to create structures that can grow tissue in the desired place or…

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A new study has found teenage athletes who participate in two hours of sports-based mental health literacy and training are better equipped to deal with their own and others’ mental health problems. The training program was conducted in and around the Illawarra on 350 boys aged between 12 and 18 over a season-long period in soccer, rugby league and swimming. Principal researcher, Dr Stewart Vella, from the University of Wollongong, said the program taught young men to recognise the warning signs of mental health problems and to have the knowledge and confidence to seek help early. “The long-term goal is…

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A recent survey has revealed that two-thirds of epidemiologists believe that failing to ensure all countries have sufficient vaccines could render them ineffective in a year or less. The survey, conducted by The People’s Vaccine Alliance, involved 77 epidemiologists from 28 countries. Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh, Devi Sridhar, said that the more the virus circulates the more mutation variants will emerge. “Poor countries are being left behind without vaccines and basic medical supplies like oxygen,” Mr Sridhar said. “As we’ve learned, viruses don’t care about borders. We have to vaccinate as many people as…

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Enough Said Poetry Slam Wollongong has learnt to overcome and adapt to the challenges brought by COVID-19. The popular poetry showcase is back after a forced pandemic hiatus, its first return monthly workshop set down for tomorrow night. The group gained popularity over its early years but attendance dropped when it was forced to go online due to the pandemic last year. The group’s monthly slams were cancelled because volunteer numbers have dropped and COVID restrictions put too much pressure on events. Organising team member and Enough Said host Adara Enthaler said the team was sad about making the decision…

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Proposed changes to state legislation could change what fishers can use as live bait. The Animal Justice Party has proposed a change NSW legislation that would redefine crustaceans and cephalopods as animals. The change would ban species of octopuses, squid, cuttlefish, prawns, lobster, and crabs to be used as live bait by fishers. Professional fisher Jason Moyce said could force businesses to close and anglers out of the industry. “Most fishermen use live bait [for] commercial and recreation. Banning those would make fishing a lot harder and some commercial guys just wouldn’t make a living,” Mr Moyce said. Mr Moyce…

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