Melbourne and Australia’s second populous state of Victoria is on track to end a fourth lockdown this Friday.
The city entered its fourth hard lockdown, following mystery cases discovered with the Delta variant of COVID-19.
Authorities say the outbreak may have been caused by a hotel quarantine breach, with genomic testing revealing that the strain has an ‘identical match’ to a man who entered hotel quarantine a month ago.
Melbourne businesses are now crossing their figures as they await the news of restrictions easing. Many of them have been ordered to close when the city entered lockdown 4.0 almost two weeks ago.
Victoria has recorded today recorded two new local cases of COVID-19 renewing hopes lockdown will end as planned on Thursday at 11.59pm.
The Department of Health confirmed the two cases were linked to current outbreaks.
Testing clinic in Melbourne / Image AFP
Melbourne and regional Victoria were “on track” to ease restrictions later this week, despite the emergence of the Delta cluster, Acting Premier James Merlino revealed during a press conference.
Reported yesterday: 2 new local cases and 1 new case acquired overseas (currently in HQ). – 21,192 vaccine doses were administered – 22,814 test results were received
Melbourne businesses are again facing financial stress as the entire state swells through a fourth COVID-19 lockdown, caused by yet another outbreak.
Government support packages criticised by industry leaders
Throughout the fourth lockdown, industry leaders however have slammed the government for not only their response to the developing cluster, but also the “embarrassing” package offered to those having by a thread during this fourth lockdown.
Chrissie Maus, the General Manager of the Chapel Street Precinct has criticised the Governments response, and says businesses are calling the support offered to them “the nothing package”
Maus told Ticker News host Holly Stearnes that many organisations have lost “much more than a couple of grand”. She detailed that in one night alone, restaurants within her hospitality precinct are losing around $40,000, and the amount “goes up” on weekends.
Anthony Lucas is reporter, presenter and social media producer with ticker News. Anthony holds a Bachelor of Professional Communication, with a major in Journalism from RMIT University as well as a Diploma of Arts and Entertainment journalism from Collarts. He’s previously worked for 9 News, ONE FM Radio and Southern Cross Austerio’s Hit Radio Network.
Andrew Tate, the controversial 36-year-old influencer, has been granted a partial reprieve from the travel restrictions imposed on him.
Since August, Tate had been confined to the Bucharest area, requiring judicial approval for any travel beyond these limits. However, a recent court decision has slightly eased these restrictions, allowing him to move within Romania.
Andrew Tate has faced a litany of serious allegations, including human trafficking, rape, and involvement in an organized crime group. These accusations stem from his alleged exploitation of women to generate income for his webcam business. Multiple women have come forward, claiming they were deceived with promises of love and marriage, only to be subjected to sexual exploitation and control.
Despite the loosening of travel restrictions, it’s important to note that Tate remains unable to leave Romania. This development comes following his appearance in court this Tuesday, where he and his brother, Tristan, vehemently denied all allegations against them.
Outside the courthouse, Andrew Tate expressed cautious optimism, stating that “things are moving in the correct direction.” This statement reflects the ongoing legal battle and uncertainty surrounding his future. It remains to be seen how these legal proceedings will unfold and whether further changes in travel restrictions will occur.
The case of Andrew Tate continues to be a matter of intense public interest and debate, as the allegations against him are of a grave nature. As legal proceedings progress, many will be watching closely to see how this controversial influencer’s story unfolds.
Citigroup’s CEO, Jane Fraser, has unveiled a major restructuring plan that includes layoffs as the company seeks to streamline its operations and enhance profitability.
In a recent statement, Fraser emphasised the need to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure that every employee contributes actively to the bank’s success.
Fraser stated, “We don’t have room for bystanders. Citigroup is committed to being a leaner, more agile organization, and that means making tough decisions.”
This move comes as the financial industry faces increased competition, changing customer preferences, and technological advancements that require banks to adapt swiftly.
The overhaul plan aims to reduce costs significantly by cutting jobs across various departments. While specific numbers have not been disclosed, it is expected that thousands of employees will be affected. The restructuring will also involve consolidating certain business units and reallocating resources to areas with higher growth potential.
Citigroup’s CEO stressed that the goal is not just cost-cutting but also fostering innovation and digital transformation. The bank aims to invest in technology and modernize its services to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
As the financial industry continues to evolve, Citigroup’s decision to take proactive steps to remain competitive is in line with broader industry trends. Fraser’s leadership in making tough decisions reflects the bank’s commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
For centuries, the Roman Empire has remained an enduring fascination for men worldwide.
The allure of this ancient civilization seems impervious to the passage of time, and a recent study suggests that its unending appeal may be intertwined with what researchers are calling the “masculinity polycrisis.”
The study, conducted by a team of anthropologists and historians, delves into the reasons behind men’s persistent obsession with the Roman Empire. It points to a multifaceted phenomenon characterised by a crisis in masculinity – a sense of lost identity and purpose that many modern men grapple with.
It’s led to the rise of social media influencers like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson.
The Roman Empire, often associated with strength, power, and conquest, provides a historical backdrop against which men can examine and reevaluate their own masculinity. Its military prowess, stoic values, and patriarchal hierarchy offer a stark contrast to the evolving gender roles in today’s society.
Furthermore, the study highlights the influence of pop culture, where depictions of Roman warriors, gladiators, and emperors reinforce traditional ideals of manhood. From Hollywood blockbusters to bestselling novels, these portrayals perpetuate the enduring appeal of the Roman Empire.
In the age of digital media, online forums and social media platforms serve as virtual amphitheaters where men engage in discussions about Roman history, masculinity, and identity. These spaces provide a sense of belonging and validation for those seeking to navigate the complexities of modern masculinity.