Australian-First Infant Hearing Program Screens Over Two Million Babies

By Jeff Gibbs

This month, NSW celebrates a major milestone: screening more than two million newborns for hearing loss since the launch of the Statewide Infant Screening Hearing Program (SWISH) in December 2002.

Hearing loss is a common disability, affecting one in ten people either at birth or later in life. Each year, more than 90,000 newborns in NSW are screened, with approximately 180 babies identified as having significant hearing loss.

Early diagnosis and access to specialist treatment are critical for speech, language, and overall development, giving children the best chance to thrive.

Under SWISH, a trained screener conducts a hearing test while the newborn sleeps or rests. The screening, completed in just 20 minutes, is offered in public and private birthing facilities, community clinics, or at home. Results are immediate, with parents receiving explanations and guidance as needed.

Babies who do not pass the initial screening are retested. If further assessment is required, newborns are referred to one of NSW’s three paediatric audiology centres:

• The Children’s Hospital Westmead
• Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick
• John Hunter Children’s Hospital Newcastle

Health Minister Ryan Park said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring all infants have the best possible start to life by identifying hearing issues early and providing specialised treatment. Hearing loss is an invisible disability that impacts many, making early identification and intervention vital.”

SWISH Coordinator Judith McCloskey added:

“Before infants say their first words, they’ve already been listening for months. Early hearing screening allows families to access the right advice and support, ensuring children with hearing loss develop language and education skills on par with their peers.”

The SWISH program continues to provide reassurance to families, supporting early detection and intervention for lifelong benefits.

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YANKS TO RACE AT CASTROL LISMORE SPEEDWAY

By Dennis Newlyn

The Americans are coming to town in their bid to collect the $10,000 winner’s payout for the Lil’ Aussie Sprintcar Open, sponsored by O’Neill Auto Group, at Castrol Lismore Speedway, January 8.

In a short space of time this event has consolidated its place not only on the Aussie Sprintcar calendar, but also has been added to the list of annual races at the historic Lismore Showground Speedway venue over the past 55 years of uninterrupted seasons.

The Sprintcar nominations, combining both the 410 and 360 LS divisions, currently sit at 32, headed up by visiting Yanks, Texan Chase Randall and youngster Andy Pake from Minnesota.

“We have some of the heavy hitters on hand for the Lil’ Aussie Open and it promises to produce some fabulous Sprintcar racing,” co-promoter Kim Sauer said.

“Chase Randall has been here before and it will be wonderful to welcome twenty-one year old Andy Pake to our Lismore track this season. My thanks also to the O’Neill Auto Group for supporting Mick and I by sponsoring the race.”

American entrant for January 8 at Castrol Lismore Speedway, Andy Pake. Photo: Tony Powell.

Randall hauls into Lismore fresh from his 5k feature race victory competing in the Victorian SRA Series at Simpson Speedway.

Driving for DKM Motorsport, Chase has had a busy schedule leading to Lismore, having contested the Brandt Sprintcar Speedweek in southern states with five events in seven days.

Randall is obviously in top form and is potentially the driver they all have to beat.

Pake links with Tullboro Race Store Motorsport Rental Sprintcar team – an outfit that also comprises Brodie Tulloch (Q#11), Bradi Owen (Q#88) and Brent Kratzmann (Q#2).

Pake, who joined the 410 Sprintcar ranks in recent seasons, heads to Lismore after racing at Toowoomba Speedway.

There are a number of Aussie contenders who will definitely take the challenge to the Americans. Brock Hallett has had a busy interstate schedule so far this summer, while Harry Stewart also has been in sizzling form north of the border and comes into strong calculations. The line-up includes former Australian Sprintcar Champion Marcus Dumesny and the Attard duo, Alex and Jessie, both arrive in Lismore after enjoying recent success at Sydney International Speedway. Luke Oldfield, Mitch Randall (no relation to Chase), Jy Corbet, Daniel and Tony Bridge all have done more than a ton of laps on the Showghround bull ring and cannot be discounted for race honours.

The 410 and LS 360 Sprintcars will be supported with racing for Wingless Sprints, Production Sedans and Compact Speedcars.

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The Best Student Laptops

What Laptop should you buy for a student in 2025?

By Liam Jennings

With the school year about to start, you may be asking what the best laptop to buy for a student might be. With a whole range of options out there, and a whole lot of different systems, let’s have a look at what the requirements are and some good options to buy.

Requirements

NESA has released a Computer Buying Guide with some requirements to buy. These are:

• Operating system Microsoft Windows 10 or later
• Apple MacOS 10.10 or later
• • Needs to be wireless with 5GHz 802.11n wireless support
• • Needs to be a laptop, not a tablet
• • Screen size should be at least 10 inch
• • Should have a sperate keyboard, not a on screen touch pad
• Should have at least 8gb of Ram
• Battery life should be at least 4 hours
• Needs a web cam, headset and at least 1 USB port

Recommended Laptops for Students

Acer Swift Go 14

The Acer Swift Go 14 is a sleek and lightweight Ultrabook, perfect for students and professionals. Powered by modern Intel Core processors, it delivers solid performance for productivity tasks. Its standout feature is the optional OLED display, offering stunning visuals with vibrant colours and sharp resolution. With up to 10+ hours of battery life, it’s ideal for all-day use. The Swift Go’s slim design and premium build make it easy to carry, ensuring portability without compromising performance.

MacBook Air

The MacBook Air, powered by Apple’s M1 or M2 chip, is a powerhouse of efficiency and performance. It boasts a fan-less design for silent operation and offers up to 18-20 hours of exceptional battery life. Its Retina Display provides sharp resolution and excellent colour accuracy. The lightweight build ensures portability, while macOS delivers a smooth user experience.

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook is a compact, budget-friendly 2-in-1 device perfect for basic web-based tasks. It features a 10.1” detachable touchscreen display, combining the versatility of a tablet with a detachable keyboard. Running on Chrome OS, it’s ideal for students or casual users who rely on Google Workspace, browsing, and cloud storage. With excellent battery life of over 10 hours and its ultra-lightweight design, it’s highly portable. Affordable and easy to use, the IdeaPad Duet is a great solution for everyday tasks and learning on the go.

Microsoft Surface Go 3

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a 2-in-1 tablet-laptop hybrid designed for ultimate portability. Featuring a 10.5” PixelSense touchscreen, it works seamlessly with the Surface Pen for note-taking and creativity. Powered by Intel Pentium or Core i3 processors, it’s suited for light tasks like browsing, streaming, and basic productivity. Running Windows 11, it provides a full desktop experience in a compact package. Though limited in performance, its lightweight design and versatility make it ideal for students or users needing a portable device for on-the-go work or study.

Acer Aspire 5 (15.6″)

The Acer Aspire 5 is a budget-friendly laptop offering solid performance for everyday computing. Its 15.6” display provides ample screen space for productivity, streaming, and multitasking. Powered by AMD Ryzen or Intel Core processors, it handles basic tasks efficiently, while its variety of ports and upgrade options add flexibility. Although slightly bulkier compared to ultrabooks, the Aspire 5 delivers excellent value with its performance, large display, and affordability.

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3D Printing: The Evolution and Impact of 3D Printing Technology

By Liam Jennings

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has transformed the way we approach design, manufacturing, and even everyday problem-solving. Over the past decade, this technology has gone from a niche tool used by engineers and researchers to a widely accessible innovation, enabling creators from various fields to turn ideas into tangible objects with remarkable ease.

What is 3D Printing?

At its core, 3D printing involves creating three-dimensional objects by layering materials according to a digital design. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, which often involve cutting or moulding, 3D printing builds objects layer by layer. This approach minimises waste, allows for intricate designs, and enables rapid prototyping.

The process begins with a digital 3D model, typically created using computer-aided design (CAD) software. The model is then sliced into thin layers, and the printer deposits material—such as plastic, resin, metal, or even organic substances—layer by layer until the object is complete. The precision and versatility of 3D printing make it ideal for a wide range of applications.

Applications of 3D Printing

• Healthcare Revolution: In the medical field, 3D printing has become a game-changer. Customised prosthetics, implants, and even surgical tools can be printed with unparalleled precision, improving patient outcomes and reducing costs. Researchers are also experimenting with bioprinting—using bio-inks to print tissue and organs. Although this is still in its infancy, the potential for saving lives is immense.
• Manufacturing and Prototyping: For manufacturers, 3D printing is a powerful tool for rapid prototyping. Engineers can create and test prototypes quickly, iterating designs without the need for expensive moulds or tooling. Small-scale production runs are also feasible, enabling startups and innovators to bring their products to market with minimal initial investment.
• Education and Creativity: In education, 3D printing provides hands-on learning opportunities in STEM fields. Students can design and print their projects, fostering creativity and practical problem-solving skills. Artists and hobbyists also benefit, using 3D printers to craft sculptures, jewellery, and even custom tools.

The Future of 3D Printing

As the technology matures, its capabilities are expanding. One promising avenue is the development of new materials, such as carbon fibre composites and biodegradable plastics, which broaden the scope of applications. Additionally, 3D printers are becoming faster and more affordable, making them accessible to more people.

In industrial settings, advancements in metal 3D printing are enabling the production of complex aerospace components and automotive parts. The construction industry is also experimenting with 3D printing to build houses more efficiently and sustainably. In the future, we may even see 3D printers in space, creating tools and habitats for astronauts on-demand.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its potential, 3D printing is not without challenges. The technology can be time-consuming for large objects, and the cost of high-end printers and materials remains prohibitive for some users. Additionally, questions about intellectual property and the environmental impact of discarded 3D-printed items need to be addressed.

Conclusion

3D printing is reshaping industries and democratising innovation. From life-saving medical applications to inspiring creative projects, its impact is far-reaching. As technology advances and becomes more accessible, the only limit to what can be achieved with 3D printing is the imagination. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a curious hobbyist, the world of 3D printing offers endless possibilities for creation and discovery.

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The Best Travel Movies to Inspire Your Next Adventure

By Liam Jennings

Travel has the power to transform us, but when a plane ticket isn’t within reach, movies can ignite that same wanderlust. Some films don’t just tell stories—they transport us to breathtaking landscapes, immerse us in cultures, and challenge us to look at the world differently. Here are some of the best travel movies that promise to take you on a cinematic journey to remember.

Into the Wild (2007)

Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, Into the Wild follows a young man who abandons societal expectations to live a life of freedom and simplicity in the wilderness of Alaska. Directed by Sean Penn, the film showcases stunning landscapes, from the deserts of Arizona to the snow-laden expanses of Denali National Park. With its poignant themes of self-discovery, independence, and connection to nature, it’s a must-watch for anyone who dreams of breaking free from modern constraints.

Wild (2014)

Reese Witherspoon stars in this adaptation of Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, recounting her solo trek along the gruelling Pacific Crest Trail. Wild is not only a breathtaking journey through rugged terrains but also a deep dive into the protagonist’s emotional healing after personal tragedy. The film celebrates resilience and the transformative power of both nature and self-reflection, making it an inspiring watch for those yearning for their own fresh start.

Tracks (2013)

Tracks tells the extraordinary true story of Robyn Davidson, played by Mia Wasikowska, who walked 1,700 miles across the Australian Outback with her dog and four camels. The film captures the stark beauty of the desert and the challenges of solitude, interspersed with cultural encounters with Indigenous Australians. It’s a celebration of determination and the profound bond between humans and the natural world.

Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)

For those who dream of Italian getaways, Under the Tuscan Sun is a love letter to the rolling hills, vineyards, and sun-soaked villages of Tuscany. Diane Lane plays Frances, a writer who impulsively buys a villa in Italy after her marriage ends. The film beautifully blends themes of reinvention, community, and the healing power of travel, with picturesque Italian scenery stealing the show. Whether it’s the cobblestone streets or the endless plates of pasta, this movie will leave you craving la dolce vita.

Captain Fantastic (2016)

While not a traditional travel movie, Captain Fantastic takes viewers on a journey through the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest as a family raised off-grid navigates reentry into mainstream society. Viggo Mortensen’s performance as a fiercely independent father anchors this visually stunning film, which raises questions about societal norms, education, and family dynamics. The movie’s breathtaking landscapes and heartfelt story offer a unique perspective on the meaning of adventure and connection.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

Ben Stiller’s The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a visual feast and an ode to embracing adventure. The story follows Walter, a daydreaming office worker, as he embarks on a quest to track down a missing photo negative, traveling from New York to the icy terrains of Iceland and the Himalayas. The film is a reminder that life’s greatest moments often lie beyond the comfort zone, and its spectacular cinematography makes it an unforgettable journey.

Why These Films Resonate

What makes these films more than just travelogues is their focus on personal transformation. Each story, whether rooted in fact or fiction, highlights the profound ways in which travel changes not just where we are, but who we are. From the solitary resilience of Tracks to the community rediscovered in Under the Tuscan Sun, these movies encapsulate the myriad forms that wanderlust takes.

The Takeaway

If you’re looking to rekindle your sense of adventure or simply escape for a few hours, these films are the perfect ticket to anywhere. They remind us that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey, the lessons learned, and the memories made along the way. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and let these cinematic adventures inspire your next real-life expedition.

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