New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has shown online retail trade has increased during the coronavirus pandemic. Online retail trade increased by 23.5 per cent in March from February 2020, as the majority of retailers shut their doors for the COVID-19 lockdown. “March was the eye of the COVID-19 storm for retailers, with all but essential service retailers forced into closure of their physical stores during lockdown,” Australian retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra said. “Whilst that pain of closure has continued during April and into May, we have seen some gentle upside begin as many stores enhance…
Author: Kass Rogan
Childhood researchers are concerned the COVID-19 pandemic could have long-term impacts on children’s sleep, physical activity and screen time. Researchers from 15 countries outlined the impact the pandemic was having on children’s health around the world in a co-authored comment piece published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, One of these researchers, University of Wollongong Senior Professor Tony Okely said data shows children are spending significantly less time active and outdoors, more time engaged with screens in sedentary behaviour, and are sleeping and waking later because they don’t have to travel to school. “If we see changes in those…
An Illawarra football podcast initiative has kicked early goals in the name of improved mental health. Thirteen teams competing in the FIFA 20 Pro Clubs Tournament have raised $1,025 for the Black Dog Institute and $40 for Talk2MeBro since the competition began a week ago. During the competition, the clubs have pledged certain cash amounts for each goal they score, and some for each goal conceded. The tournament, created by the pair behind UOWTV’s South Coast Footballholic podcast, is helping to fill the football void, as teams around the region have had their season put on halt due to the…
Dance and drama studios across the Illawarra have been forced to close their doors after state and federal government decisions to shut non-essential businesses to slow the spread of coronavirus. Many studios have turned to the online world to continue operating. Wollongong-based Kazzajazz Modern Dance Studio and Sharnae’s Speech & Drama Studio is conducting online classes so its students can continue to learn. It’s taken some adjusting for teachers and students, but the classes are proving popular. https://twitter.com/kassrogan/status/1247748909801193472
Local parents and teachers in the Illawarra are concerned schools remain open after the government announced a ban on all non-essential gatherings over 100 people to help combat the spread of COVID-19. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this morning schools would remain open for now based on advice from the government’s health experts. “There is only one reason your kids shouldn’t be going to school and that is if they are unwell. As parents, you are in the best position to know if your children are unwell. Don’t leave it to the teacher to work that out when they arrive,”…