The content discussed in the article focuses on the risks associated with brain damage in combat sports and football codes, particularly boxing and the Australian Football League (AFL). The authors highlight the known risks of participating in combat sports, such as boxing, and emphasize the need for stricter regulations around contact sports for young children. They also criticize the AFL for not taking scientific findings seriously and for promoting full contact versions of their sports for young children. The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia’s recommendation to limit full contact sport to over 14s is mentioned as a solution to reduce the risk of brain damage.
Former world heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali’s struggle with brain damage is highlighted as an example of the devastating effects of boxing on the brain. The authors call for better supervision of boxing at all levels to prevent catastrophic damage due to repeated head trauma. Criticism is also directed towards the NRL media for supporting boxing while trying to mitigate the effects of concussion in their sport. The suggestion to ban professional boxing as a spectator sport is raised, citing the increasing violent nature of society due to exposure to the brutalities of boxing and online war games.
The article then shifts its focus to public housing in Sydney, particularly the displacement of public housing tenants in affluent areas like Millers Point and The Rocks. The Housing Minister’s pledge to provide public housing in all areas of Sydney is discussed, with concerns raised about the destruction of unique communities and the impact on the lives of displaced tenants. The need for more public housing, particularly in suburbs close to public transport for essential workers, is emphasized, pointing out past mistakes in selling off existing public housing in better suburbs for profit.
The risks associated with hydrogen as a “wonder fuel” for reducing greenhouse gas emissions are highlighted by a retired engineer, citing difficulties in handling hydrogen safely. The need for extensive risk assessment and caution when transitioning to general usage, such as for vehicle fuel, is emphasized. The article also discusses the impact of the influx of traffic in Pyrmont due to the Western Distributor improvements, raising concerns about the pressure on local streets and the lack of planning for traffic relief valves amidst ongoing developments.
The article then delves into the censorship of UNSW student paper Tharunka and the importance of an independent student voice. The abolition of student unions and the need to bring issues of censorship to student meetings for resolution are mentioned, reflecting on the role of student publications in exposing corruption and defending student rights. The article concludes with a letter discussing the benefits of gardening for health and well-being, particularly in the context of growing a vineyard and producing homemade wine. The therapeutic nature of gardening and the satisfaction of seeing the fruits of one’s labor are highlighted as valuable aspects of the practice.
