Category Archives: AFTNews

AFTNews, Mental Health

Mental health recognised as a critical concern by people in Asia, yet are unlikely to seek external support

FWD Group survey finds people in Asia view mental health as a critical concern, yet are unlikely to seek external support – positive reframing of the issue may hold the key to bridging the gap.

·       65% of people in Asia believe mental health will be one of the most critical issues in the coming year, yet only one-third are open to seeking external support

·       31% of respondents in Asia believe renaming “mental health” can help people to open up

·       40% of respondents in Asia say the cost of treatment is the biggest impediment to seeking outside help for mental health care

Hong Kong, 10 October 2022 (AFTNN/PRNews) – FWD Group Holdings Limited (“FWD Group”) today released the findings from its international mental health survey, one of the largest completed in Asia, to identify insights and ideas to help promote better overall emotional well-being.

In collaboration with Blackbox, an independent research company, the survey interviewed more than 10,000 people across 16 international markets between June and July 2022, including nine markets where FWD operates: Cambodia; Hong Kong; Indonesia; Japan; Malaysia; the Philippines; Singapore; Thailand and Vietnam.

Sim Preston, Managing Director and Group Chief Operating Officer, FWD Group, said, “While it’s great that mental health is gaining more and more awareness, especially in Asia, the stigma and cost of treatment remain barriers for people to seek the help they need. Published on World Mental Health Day, we hope this survey contributes insights and ideas that can help further raise awareness for this critical issue. As an insurer, we also look forward to making mental health protection more inclusive and focused on building mind strength, to enable people to celebrate living.”

While the survey found that 65% of people in Asia believe that mental health will become a critical issue in the coming year, only one-third of them prefer discussing their concerns externally. Given the cultural and societal stigmas associated with mental health, the survey findings showed that reframing mental health in a more positive way, such as ‘mind strength’, may reduce the stigma attached to the more traditional term and encourage more people in the region to open up about their challenges.

Cost of treatment was also identified as one of the most significant barriers to receiving care for mental health challenges in Asia, and 76% of respondents expressed their interest in exploring insurance options to address such challenges. The survey also uncovered that people in Asia worry about their families and jobs, which can lead to a higher rate of mental health challenges.

“Our survey showed that contributing factors to mental stress include concerns about a wide range of family responsibilities, coupled with work-related stress, rising inflation and post-pandemic adjustment. Given we also know that people may not be comfortable seeking help externally as individuals, family assumes a particularly important role. Opening up and addressing these challenges as a family unit first instead of individually, can make a difference as people may feel more comfortable,” added Joanna Chu, Group Head of Product Proposition, FWD Group.

Overall key findings of the survey include:

  1. Mental health issues will become more prominent around the world, yet stigma remains:

o        65% of people in Asia believe mental health will be one of the most critical issues in the coming year

o        74% of people said they had experienced (16%) or known someone close (28%) and distant (30%) to them who had suffered from mental health challenges

o        People in Asia place a higher value on self-help rather than seeking outside assistance, only 34% prefer discussing issues openly with others

o        31% of people in Asia believe renaming “mental health” can help people to open up

  1. Inflation and the future of children/family are top concerns leading to mental health challenges today

o        Concerns around inflation (47%) cause more mental health challenges than post-pandemic adjustment (30%)

o        People in Asia worry about their jobs (31%) and family-related concerns, including the future of children/family (34%) and increasing family responsibilities (32%)

  1. People in Asia are interested in insurance options for mental health

o        76% of people want to explore insurance to assist them in dealing with mental health challenges

o        The cost of treatment is one of the most significant barriers to receiving mental health care in Asia; 40% of people in Asia say the cost of treatment is the biggest impediment to seeking outside help.

– Ends –

About FWD Group

FWD Group is a pan-Asian life insurance business with approximately 10 million customers across 10 markets, including some of the fastest growing insurance markets in the world. Established in 2013, FWD is focused on making the insurance journey simpler, faster and smoother, with innovative propositions and easy-to-understand products, supported by digital technology. Through this customer-led approach, FWD is committed to changing the way people feel about insurance.

For more information, please visit www.fwd.com

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AFTNews, Features Malaysia, Fit Tech & Gadgets, Fitness, Olympics

Dato Pandelela Rinong dives into the “OpenSea” with release of non-fungible token (NFT) collectible, ‘P.ZERO1’

AFT News | Malaysia

(PRNewsGIG/AFTNN) – Malaysian athlete Dato Pandelela Rinong revealed her exclusive non-fungible token (NFT) collectible ‘P.Zero1’, which is up for auction until 31 August 2022 via the digital NFT market, OpenSea. Fans will have the opportunity to bid to become the sole owner of the NFT which unlocks a priceless personalised experience with Pandelela and a framed printout of the NFT hand-delivered by the athlete herself.

(From Left): Jolene Knight, Founder & Brand Manager of Knight Communications, Pandelela Rinong, Nicholas Chuan, the digital artist behind the “P.Zero1” NFT and Yong-Chul Yun, Founder of Prime Sports NFT

Intrigued by the evolving NFT industry globally, Pandelela was driven to create her own line of digital artworks as an expression of her professional and personal journey as an athlete.

My vision for ‘P.Zero1’ was to share a piece of my story with the world and to pay homage to the sport which has drastically changed my life from a young Bidayuh village girl to an internationally recognised sportswoman. The adage ‘Zero to One’ reflects the journey I went through – of fate, perseverance, mental strength and dedication that has taken me thus far as well as this whole process of creating something radically new. It is an exciting phase for me and it challenges me to learn and try new things. As they say – the sky’s the limit and my message is for people to always strive for self-discovery and growth with an unwavering commitment to their goals.

Dato’ Pandelela Rinong, Malaysian Olympian & World Championships medalist

I have seen Lela grow from a shy young lady to a confident and courageous adult who is always curious about the world outside sports. There are so many things for her to learn and so many opportunities to explore to create and establish her own brand – something which she could be proud of. This is her first step towards more exciting things. This project has been months in the making and we are excited to share ‘P.Zero1’ with Malaysians and the world. As NFT innovation continues to develop globally, both Pandelela and I are thrilled to venture into this space with the goal of contributing positively and inspiring the youth. We are also thrilled to organise this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the NFT owner to have a tailor-made personalised experience with Pandelela”.

Jolene Knight, Founder and Brand Manager of Knight Communications who has journeyed alongside Pandelela as her Business Manager for 7 years.
Pandelela Rinong holds a framed printout of her NFT collectible – ‘P.Zero1’

Embarking on this creative journey with a prolific athlete like Pandelela has been monumental. Our mission has been to nurture the creative process between athlete and artist while bringing the NFT to market for the fans. We are strong proponents of promoting closer bonds between athletes and fans and are constantly looking for ways to innovate these engagements.”

Founder of Prime Sports International (PSI), Yong-Chul Yun

The collaboration with Pandelela also marks the second initiative and brainchild of Prime Sports NFT which aims to connect the world of sports, arts and culture. Following its recent success with footballer Safee Sali’s ‘SEPULUH’ NFT collection, Prime Sports NFT has been making waves to further partnerships with athletes, artists and partners in the region to be part of the rising industry.

Hailing from Penang, Nicholas Chuan is the digital artist behind Pandelela’s ‘P.Zero1’ NFT who also carries a portfolio of illustrations for world-renowned organisations such as UEFA, Formula 1’s Red Bull Racing, Liverpool FC and FC Bayern and most recently football legend Safee Sali’s ‘SEPULUH’ NFT. “I’m proud to be able to once again represent and work closely with a prominent Malaysian athlete like Pandelela. In addition to her accomplishments, I have always admired her work ethic, determination and courage as a female athlete and wanted to translate her amazing story and core values into ‘P.Zero1’. I hope the fans will enjoy it as much as I have.”

Pandelela’s ‘P.Zero1’ NFT goes live on auction for a period of 7 days beginning 24th August to 31st August 2022 via OpenSea. Fans will have the opportunity to bid to become the exclusive owner of the exclusive NFT which will unlock exciting benefits including a unique personalised experience with Pandelela and a framed printout of ‘P.Zero1’ handed to the NFT owner by the athlete herself.

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AFTNews, Commonwealth Games, Features Australia/NZ

Women’s sport celebrated at Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games

International Working Group on Women and Sport calls for more to be done to drive global gender equality

August 4, 2022 via PRNews/GIG – Key figures from sport, media and politics have gathered to celebrate the success of women’s sport at the Commonwealth Games at a special event at New Zealand House. The event, staged in partnership with the International Working Group (IWG) on Women & Sport, was also an opportunity for global leaders to discuss what more can be done to achieve gender equality in sport and the benefits of doing so.

Birmingham 2022 is the first major multi-sport event in history to award more medals to women than men, while the debut of women’s T20 cricket has proved one of the success stories of the competition so far. 

The event at New Zealand House, which is part of the official handover of the IWG from Aotearoa New Zealand to the United Kingdom, saw CGF President Dame Louise Martin DBE, IWG Co-Chairs Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY and Raewyn Lovett ONZM, Minister for Sport Nigel Huddleston and New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister, Grant Robertson come together to celebrate the growing success of women’s sport. It was also an opportunity to reflect on the work still to be done to bring about true equality given:

  • Only 7% of Chairs and Presidents in Olympic and Paralympic sport are women ;
  • According to Forbes, only one of the top 50 highest paid athletes in 2020 was a woman;
  • In 2018 the Lancet Global Health found that more than a quarter of adults globally are insufficiently physically active and across most countries, women are less active than men which means that millions of women globally are missing out on physical health, mental health and social rewards of taking part in sport and activity.

Established almost 30 years ago in Brighton, the IWG is the world’s largest network dedicated to advancing gender equality in sport and physical activity. The network is committed to leading positive change which aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goal to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

The IWG is currently hosted by New Zealand; with the 8th IWG World Conference on Women & Sport taking place in Auckland on 14-17 November 2022.

The UK will then receive the hosting baton for the quadrennial period of 2022-2026, with the 9th IWG World Conference taking place in Birmingham in four years’ time.
The event at New Zealand House helped to profile the upcoming conference in New Zealand, as a Graphic Illustrator captured discussions for a piece of artwork that aims to showcase the rise of women and sport, while outlining hopes for the future of gender equality.

CGF President Dame Louise Martin DBE said: “A key focus of our Games is women’s sport. 

“In that respect, Birmingham 2022 is quite special as the first major multi-sport event in history to have more medals for women than men. We can be so proud of the progress we have made and we have come a long way towards gender equality in sport, but there is still much more to be done.

“So, while today is a celebration of women’s sport, it is also a chance for us to look ahead and to continue to collaborate to bring about further progress.

“To that end, we are proud to help promote the work of the International Working Group on Women & Sport as they continue to advance gender equity and equality in sport across the world.” 

IWG Co-Chair Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY said: “In the week when England won the women’s Euros, helping to catapult women’s sport into the spotlight like never before, it’s the perfect time to be pushing to achieve gender equality across the globe. 

“The IWG network is a platform to both advocate for change and share insights and learnings to help advance gender equality, harnessing the knowledge and momentum from within the IWG movement.”

New Zealand Co-Chair of the IWG, Raewyn Lovett said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to have been kaitiaki – to have been the guardian – of the world’s largest network dedicated to advancing gender equity and equality in sport, physical education and physical activity. 

“Today, we opened the circle, with IWG UK taking over Secretariat leadership globally. IWG New Zealand will continue to lead delivery of the 8th IWG World Conference on Women & Sport through to its staging in Auckland this November: where we will close the circle and complete the handover.

“The people and organisations in the room today have extraordinary power and influence and the ability to positively impact the lives of women and girls the world over. We issued them with an invitation to bring this expertise to the table in Auckland, to help us drive change through sport.”

Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “It’s been a seismic week for women’s sport with the Lionesses’ stunning victory at Wembley and many incredible performances at Birmingham 2022.  

“While women’s sport continues to go from strength to strength, we know there is more to be done to support women both on and off the field of play.

“The handover of the IWG is an incredible opportunity to build on the success so far and to push for true gender equality in sport.” 

CEO of UK Sport, Sally Munday, said: “The handover of the IWG from New Zealand to the UK is an opportunity that goes far beyond the four years that we will host it.

“The important thing is that we are consciously making decisions which nurture a strong legacy for gender equality globally. Being part of the world’s largest network that is devoted to achieving gender equality in sport means we all have a responsibility to inspire positive change. The impact that this change will have on the next generation of sport is in our hands.

“What we have witnessed both at the women’s Euros and over the last week here in Birmingham reflects what an exciting time this is for female athletes and all of us involved in sports administration to be promoting change. The scope for progress in this space is immense and I am looking forward to seeing women and girls in sport thrive in the future.”

Tim Hollingsworth, CEO of Sport England, said: “The UK taking the baton as hosts of the IWG could not be coming at a better time as we look to capitalise on the incredible success of so many of our brilliant female sporting stars. 

“Their achievements are a reminder that the work to break down the barriers that stop so many women and girls from participating fully in sport must continue to be a huge focus for us all. 

“Becoming hosts of the IWG provides an important and exciting catalyst for this work, and we must ensure that we use its potential to bring decision-makers and influencers together to create lasting change.”

Dame Janet Beer, Chair of the Sport and Recreation Alliance said: “I am delighted that the collaborative work led by the Sport and Recreation Alliance for the last two years has now officially reached the stage when the Secretariat for this prestigious group moves to the UK. As a part of the Alliance’s strategic commitment to support the improvement of equality, diversity and inclusion, the most influential, impactful and diverse voices from sport and recreation were convened to make this happen and we look forward to playing our part as leaders from across the global sporting stage.”

New Zealand Olympic Committee CEO Nicki Nicol: “New Zealand’s female athletes have contributed to New Zealand’s proud Olympic and Commonwealth Games History and at Birmingham 2022 we have, for the first time, more women than men in the team. Their feats of strength, speed, resilience and commitment contribute to building our nation’s identity. Their potential to connect with and inspire new generations of young boys and girls cannot be understated and we are delighted to be supporting conversations and progress around women in sport.”

Ends.

About the CGF
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is the organisation that is responsible for the direction and control of the Commonwealth Games, and for delivering on the vision of the Commonwealth Sports Movement: through sport, we build peaceful, sustainable and prosperous communities across the Commonwealth. 

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PRNews

ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital and Viatris drive awareness on scoliosis

Via PRNews/GIG

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that most often is diagnosed in adolescents. ​Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some curves worsen as children grow and severe scoliosis can be disabling. An especially-severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly, and thus creating complications such as chronic pain, breathing difficulties, and a reduced capacity for exercise.

In conjunction with the official Scoliosis Awareness Month in June 2022, ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia has partnered with pharmaceutical company, Viatris to drive awareness among Malaysians. The collaboration will be held across four pharmacy branches in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya and walk-in visitors will receive a complimentary posture screening to detect early signs of Scoliosis if any.

“As a healthcare institution, we are committed to drive awareness and educate Malaysians to detect early signs of Scoliosis. Without early treatment, prolonged Scoliosis can severely impact health in the long term. We are also honoured to have partnered with Viatris who believes in the importance of driving awareness and educating fellow Malaysians on Scoliosis,” said Assoc. Prof. (C) Dr. G Ruslan Nazaruddin Simanjuntak, Consultant Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon and Chairman, ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital.

“Through these screenings, we hope to make a difference in the patients’ lives and improving their quality of life. This is aligned with our mission of empowering people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life” said Jeff Bote, Country Manager of Viatris Malaysia.

The Scoliosis community screenings are supported by strategic healthcare partners, Caring Pharmacy
and Health Lane Family Pharmacy. The screenings will be held throughout Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya in Malaysia with location and dates available via the website: www.altyortho.com.

Read more about Scoliosis in the Ministry of Health Malaysia website: Scoliosis – PORTAL MyHEALTH.

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Image copyright: Anna Shvets via Pexels.

AFTNews, Events, Fitness, Fitness Apps

Les Mills Live – The biggest festival of fitness heads to Melbourne in August 2022

Update: Tickets are A$64.95 for Les Mills Instructors and A$84.95 for non-Les Mills Instructors. Secure your spot: www.lesmills.com.au/live/melbourne.

Les Mills Instructors and class devotees across Australia and Southeast Asia will want to mark their calendar because LES MILLS LIVE – the ultimate international fitness festival – is heading to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 13th and 14th of August. The event promises incredible workouts with epic music, lights, energy and excitement. It’s also your chance to meet and work out with the world’s most inspiring Program Directors, Presenters and Instructors.

After two years of relentless lockdowns across Australia and Southeast Asia, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is confirmation the live revival has well and truly emerged. The Les Mills 2021 Global Fitness Report revealed that class attendances reached 120 per cent of pre-COVID levels across worldwide markets after restrictions lifted. This strong recovery by gyms across the globe has been reinforced by the trend of Instructors and members alike flocking back to group fitness as they celebrate the return to in-person exercise; which is why, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is expected to sell out.

Over two days, a thousand attendees will experience the brand new Q3 Releases across most Les Mills programs. This unforgettable event gives Instructors and LES MILLS+ subscribers the chance to enjoy the true essence of Les Mills programs, which lies in the unrivalled magic of a live experience. Plus, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is also a rare opportunity for attendees to meet some of their favourite Presenters and Program Directors from whom they’ve been working out with on-screen, including:

  • Dan Cohen (Program Director for BODYCOMBAT®)
  • Khiran Huston (Trainer/Presenter for LES MILLS SPRINT®, LES MILLS TONE®, THE TRIP®, RPM®, LES MILLS GRIT® and BODYPUMP®)
  • Vili Fifita (Les Mills Ambassador and Presenter for BODYCOMBAT and BODYPUMP)
  • Reagan Kang (Les Mills Ambassador, Trainer, Presenter for BODYCOMBAT, BODYPUMP and LES MILLS GRIT)
  • Bas Hollander (Education Director at Les Mills International, and Trainer for the Les Mills GRIT Series, LES MILLS SPRINT®, LES MILLS THE TRIP® and LES MILLS TONE®)
  • Dee Rowell (Les Mills Ambassador, Trainer and Presenter for RPM®, LES MILLS SPRINT, BODYSTEP® and LES MILLS TONE)
  • Bevan James Eyles (BODYATTACK® Presenter).

So, if you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable fitness experience that is much like a rock concert experience mixed with your favourite high energy workouts and Presenters, and shared with a thousand friends and fans, then mark your diary because tickets go on sale in June.

LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is set to be the group fitness event of the year, so to ensure you never miss a beat in the lead up to when registrations open, visit www.lesmills.com.au/live/melbourne and subscribe to receive priority notifications.

Les Mills Live Singapore 2018

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AFTNews, AFTNews, Events, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Fitness, What's On ?

Les Mills Live – The biggest festival of fitness heads to Melbourne in August 2022

Les Mills Instructors and class devotees across Australia and Southeast Asia will want to mark their calendar because LES MILLS LIVE – the ultimate international fitness festival – is heading to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 13th and 14th of August. The event promises incredible workouts with epic music, lights, energy and excitement. It’s also your chance to meet and work out with the world’s most inspiring Program Directors, Presenters and Instructors.

After two years of relentless lockdowns across Australia and Southeast Asia, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is confirmation the live revival has well and truly emerged. The Les Mills 2021 Global Fitness Report revealed that class attendances reached 120 per cent of pre-COVID levels across worldwide markets after restrictions lifted. This strong recovery by gyms across the globe has been reinforced by the trend of Instructors and members alike flocking back to group fitness as they celebrate the return to in-person exercise; which is why, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is expected to sell out.

Over two days, a thousand attendees will experience the brand new Q3 Releases across most Les Mills programs. This unforgettable event gives Instructors and LES MILLS+ subscribers the chance to enjoy the true essence of Les Mills programs, which lies in the unrivalled magic of a live experience. Plus, LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is also a rare opportunity for attendees to meet some of their favourite Presenters and Program Directors from whom they’ve been working out with on-screen, including:

  • Dan Cohen (Program Director for BODYCOMBAT®)
  • Khiran Huston (Trainer/Presenter for LES MILLS SPRINT®, LES MILLS TONE®, THE TRIP®, RPM®, LES MILLS GRIT® and BODYPUMP®)
  • Vili Fifita (Les Mills Ambassador and Presenter for BODYCOMBAT and BODYPUMP)
  • Reagan Kang (Les Mills Ambassador, Trainer, Presenter for BODYCOMBAT, BODYPUMP and LES MILLS GRIT)
  • Bas Hollander (Education Director at Les Mills International, and Trainer for the Les Mills GRIT Series, LES MILLS SPRINT®, LES MILLS THE TRIP® and LES MILLS TONE®)
  • Dee Rowell (Les Mills Ambassador, Trainer and Presenter for RPM®, LES MILLS SPRINT, BODYSTEP® and LES MILLS TONE)
  • Bevan James Eyles (BODYATTACK® Presenter).

So, if you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable fitness experience that is much like a rock concert experience mixed with your favourite high energy workouts and Presenters, and shared with a thousand friends and fans, then mark your diary because tickets go on sale in June.

LES MILLS LIVE Melbourne is set to be the group fitness event of the year, so to ensure you never miss a beat in the lead up to when registrations open, visit www.lesmills.com.au/live/melbourne and subscribe to receive priority notifications.

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Originally published in AsiaFitnessToday.com Les Mills Live – The biggest festival of fitness heads to Melbourne in August 2022 is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International license. Source: https://www.asiafitnesstoday.com/les-mills-live-2022/

AFTNews, AFTNews, Baseball

Auckland Tuatara to return to ABL in 2022/23 season

The Australian Baseball League (ABL) promised for a “Bigger and Better 2022/23 ABL” and what a better way to begin with the announcement of the Auckland Tuatara re-joining the league after a two-year hiatus ahead of the 2022/2023 season.

The Tuatara brand returns even stronger, boasting a new successful NZNBL Basketball team, with hopes of building on the brand’s early ABL success.

Based in Auckland the Tuatara entered the league in the 2018/2019 season, named after the oldest surviving species endemic to the country. The proud Tuatara name  is derived from the Māori language and means “peaks on the back”.

With six ABL teams locked in from Australia, the addition of the New Zealand team lets more fans from around the world tune into baseball ahead of what will be an exciting summer of baseball.  The ABL is proud to welcome the city of sails franchise back, after their historical playoff push in 2019/20.

With the count-down to the start of the season the Tuatara team is looking to showcase New Zealand and what it can offer at their home ‘North Harbour Stadium.’

Auckland Tuatara CEO Regan Wood says it’s an important step for the history of club, “We think we contribute; we bring a different style of baseball.  Our coaching staff want to win baseball, they want to win every day. But we also want to make sure we engage with the public.”

“One of our goals is to have the largest crowd, one of our goals is to have the most amount of people turning up to a game.  We are refreshed and we’re looking forward to playing again.”

Delivering an exciting global brand of baseball to the world is key to the growth and the participation of the sport something the ABL is eager to showcase.

Paul Gonzalez ABL GM states, “The Tuatara bring an exciting dynamic to the ABL, their fan engagement, competitiveness and international reach to millions, as they strive for the 2022-23 Claxton Shield.”

 

AFT Features, AFTNews, Events, Features Australia/NZ, What's On ?

Academy-award nominated filmmaker Baz Luhrmann joins Vivid Sydney line-up at ideas talk & Sydney premiere of ELVIS

The visionary filmmaker joins Aaron Sorkin, Gretchen Carlson & Troye Sivan as headline talent for Vivid Ideas.

Vivid Sydney 2022 presents renowned filmmaker and global storyteller Baz Luhrmann at Vivid Ideas: The Business of Baz followed by the highly anticipated Red Carpet Gala premiere of ELVIS – fresh from its World Premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. Both events will take place at the iconic State Theatre in Sydney on 5 June 2022.

The Business of Baz is an intimate, one-of-a-kind conversation hosted by acclaimed journalist and podcaster Marc Fennell. Baz will discuss his remarkable career, the power of storytelling, creativity in chaos and his multi-faceted partnerships with Catherine Martin and Craig Pearce, enthralling audiences with behind-the-scenes tales from the filming of Elvis.

Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis will be released across most Asia Pacific cities on 23 June, 2022. More dates here.

I am delighted that Baz Luhrmann, one of our nation’s greatest cultural luminaries, will be part of Vivid Sydney 2022. His dynamic artistic talents traverse film, television, opera, theatre, music, and recording. His insights into the fashion and art worlds make him incredibly interesting and highly relevant for the Vivid Ideas program.

A seat at an audience with Baz will be one of the hottest tickets in town. This is a one-off opportunity to get first-hand insight into the genius behind his art, his career and of course, his latest movie Elvis. Culminating in the Sydney premiere of his highly-anticipated biopic about another cultural icon–the first time in the festival’s history we have included a film premiere.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres

Baz Luhrmann joins a powerful, thought-provoking Vivid Ideas line-up for 2022, as a Global Storyteller alongside Aaron Sorkin, Gretchen Carlson & Troye Sivan. Baz is a creative visionary with a body of work that embodies everything Vivid Ideas is about–celebrating those who push creative boundaries, tell stories that challenge the status quo and drive change for good. Both he and Catherine Martin personify Sydney style and creativity.

Vivid Sydney 2022 Festival Director, Gil Minervini

Coming from a very small town about four hours north of Sydney, it’s not an exaggeration that David Williamson’s description of it as the Emerald City was spot on, for I always looked toward Sydney on my journey down the yellow brick road. From growing up on the northern beaches, opening The Bond Theatre Company and creating experimental opera, during my time at NIDA, and throughout the development and shooting of my first film, Strictly Ballroom, Sydney has been a haven for me and a place abuzz with energy”. “CM and I will never forget the romance of this majestic city, which is forever in our hearts. We created our first-ever Australian opera, La Bohème, at the Sydney Opera House back in 1993, so, it’s only fitting that we return to the Emerald City to share our latest work, Elvis, fulfilling the dream that we Australians can conceive of anything, bring it to life here, and deliver it to the world.

Baz Luhrmann

Baz Luhrmann is appearing as part of Vivid Idea’s Global Storytellers series, which include fearless women’s rights advocate and Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, Gretchen Carlson, Oscar and Emmy Award-winning theatre and film director Aaron Sorkin and iconoclastic musician, fashion maverick and creative powerhouse Troye Sivan.

ELVIS is in cinemas in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Australia from 23 June. More dates here.

Event details:

  • Baz Luhrmann and Marc Fennell discussing the Business of Baz, Sunday 5 June, 3pm–4pm, State Theatre, Sydney: A household name synonymous with fantasy, romance and decadence, Baz Luhrmann is a creative visionary and has captured audiences around the world with his highly theatrical and flamboyant productions–he will chart his rise from small town NSW to the heights of Hollywood and the trials and tribulations along the way. Purchase a ticket to the Business of Baz Ideas talk now: https://www.vividsydney.com/event/ideas/the-business-of-baz.
  • Warner Bros. Pictures and Vivid Sydney present the Sydney Premiere of Elvis, Sunday 5 June, From 6pm, State Theatre, Sydney: Vivid Sydney is proud to present alongside Warner Bros. Pictures the Sydney premiere of Baz Luhrmann’s latest work, Elvis. Starring Austin Butler and Oscar winner Tom Hanks, the film explores the life and music of Elvis Presley (Butler), seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Hanks). Australia native Olivia DeJonge also stars as Priscilla. Purchase an Elvis Premiere Package now, including a ticket to both the Business of Baz Ideas Talk and the Elvis premiere: https://www.vividsydney.com/event/ideas/the-business-of-baz

Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of creativity, innovation and technology, will transform Sydney’s CBD into a fusion of Light, Music and Ideas for 23 nights, from 27 May to 18 June 2022. Business of Baz joins more than more than 85 intriguing talks and workshops as part of the Vivid Ideas program, which explores the forces that shape not only Sydney’s unique community, but all great cities around the world.

Among some of the highlights at Vivid Sydney 2022, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and ‘Our Connected City’ will be illuminated. Photo credit: Mandy Lights/Destination NSW

To book tickets to Vivid Sydney events and performances, and for more information on the program go to www.vividsydney.com.

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AFTNews, Commonwealth Games

Australia’s state of Victoria to host 2026 Commonwealth Games

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has confirmed that the 2026 Commonwealth Games will be hosted by the State of Victoria in Australia. 

The announcement follows a successful exclusive dialogue period between the CGF, Commonwealth Games Australia (CGAus) and Victoria, where an exciting proposal to stage the major multi-sport competition across the State was agreed. 

The proposal capitalises on the 2026/30 Strategic Roadmap, which provides renewed flexibility to be innovative and creative in delivering the Games.

In what will be a first ever predominantly regional Commonwealth Games, Victoria 2026 will be staged in March 2026 across multiple cities and regional hubs including Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland. The Opening Ceremony will take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The approach will showcase the best of what the State has to offer and ensure a uniquely Victorian experience for the athletes and spectators. 

There will be a phased approach in creating the sports programme for Victoria 2026. An initial 16 sports have been put forward for the Games, with further sports to be added later this year. 

The CGF, CGAus and Victoria entered an exclusive dialogue period in February 2022. A CGF and CGAus visit to Victoria took place later that month. This was followed by a Victoria 2026 delegation presenting their 2026 Games Proposal to the CGF Executive Board in Birmingham, England in March 2022. The Proposal has now been approved by the CGF Executive Board, with the Host Contract to be signed in Victoria today. 

CGF President Dame Louise Martin said: “The Commonwealth Games Federation is absolutely delighted to award the 2026 Commonwealth Games to Victoria. 

Commonwealth Games Australia and the Victorian Government have set out a bold and innovative vision for hosting our major multi-sport event. 

In Victoria, we believe we have found the perfect partner for the next stage of our journey. 

This is a very special moment for the Commonwealth Sport Family and on behalf of the entire Movement, I would like to congratulate Commonwealth Games Australia and Victoria on their successful Games submission. We now look forward to a bright future as we work together to stage a Commonwealth Games like no other.”
 
Premier of Victoria Daniel Andrews said: “It’s a great honour to have Victoria chosen as the host venue for the 2026 Commonwealth Games – we can’t wait to welcome the world to all of our state.”

“The Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria is great for jobs, hospitality and our economy.”

Australia has staged the Commonwealth Games on five occasions, with Victoria playing host to the Melbourne 2006 Games; widely considered one of the most successful editions of the event in history. The country has also staged the Games in Sydney in 1938, Perth in 1962, Brisbane in 1982 and most recently Gold Coast in 2018. Victoria has also hosted the Commonwealth Youth Games in Bendigo in 2004.” 

Commonwealth Games Australia President Ben Houston said: “Commonwealth Games Australia is thrilled to welcome the athletes of the Commonwealth back to Australia and we look forward to working with both the CGF and the Victorian Government to bring the Games to life across Victoria in 2026.”

“A home Games will provide immeasurable benefits for our Member sports and will inspire our athletes in what will be a unique and exciting Games”.

The 2026 Games will be the 23rd edition of the major multi-sport competition, which first began in Hamilton, Canada in 1930.

Victoria is a world-leading major events and tourism destination. The State has a strong track record for staging high profile sporting competitions including The Australian Open tennis grand slam, the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup. Victoria also regularly hosts elite cricket, golf and Australian Rules Football competition.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games will be staged in Birmingham, England from 28 July – 8 August.

Victoria 2026: Initial 16 sports on the programme 
 

Sport Proposed Location
Aquatics
(Swimming, Para Swimming and Diving)		 Geelong
Athletics & Para Athletics Ballarat
Badminton Gippsland
Boxing Ballarat 
Beach Volleyball Geelong
Cricket T20 Geelong, Gippsland, Ballarat, Bendigo
Cycling Gippsland to Bendigo
Gymnastics Geelong
Hockey Geelong
Lawn Bowls & Para Lawn Bowls Bendigo 
Netball Bendigo
Rugby Sevens Gippsland
Squash Bendigo
Table Tennis & Para Table Tennis Geelong
Triathlon & Para Triathlon Geelong
Weightlifting & Para Powerlifting Bendigo

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AFTNews, Mental Health, PRNews

Relationship between COVID-19 stressors and health behaviours: results from The Psycorona Study

The pandemic is teaching us key lessons about the relationship between different types of stressors and health outcomes.

Covid-19 Fatigue – Part One: A report by Australia Fitness Today

In a recent study published in Preventive Medicine Reports*, Dr Shian-Ling Keng, Associate Professor from the Department of Psychology at Monash University Malaysia, along with a team of 107 researchers from over 40 countries globally, are charting COVID-19’s deadly sweep across the world by delving into the virus’ often overlooked impact on people’s health behaviours. This study is conducted with Dr Michael Stanton, Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Health at California State University, East Bay as a co-leading investigator. Other key collaborators of the study include Dr LeeAnn Haskins (University of Georgia, USA), Dr Jeannette Ickovics (Yale University, USA), Dr Antwan Jones (the George Washington University, USA), Dr Diana Grigsby-Toussaint (Brown University, USA), and Dr Carlos Almenara (Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Peru).

Anxiety associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and home confinement measures have been found to be associated with adverse health behaviours, such as unhealthy eating, smoking, drinking, and decreased physical activity. These unhealthy behaviours are risk factors for non-communicable diseases, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which in turn increase the risk of contracting COVID-19 and greater disease severity and may eventually lead to increased mortality. However, to date, most studies have been limited by regional sampling, which precludes the examination of behavioural consequences associated with the pandemic at a global level.

Descriptive Statistics for COVID-19 Stressors and Health Behaviors. | Download Scientific Diagram (researchgate.net) – image via license: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

Using data from the global PsyCorona project, an international, longitudinal online study of psychological and behavioural correlates of COVID-19, Dr Keng and over 100 behavioural scientists surveyed 7,402 adult participants from 86 countries across three waves of assessment and measured  their perceived infection risk, economic burden, and engagement in health behaviours ranging from physical exercise, unhealthy eating, smoking, to alcohol consumption. By employing a multilevel regression approach in its data analysis, the team tested whether COVID-19 infection risk and economic burden correlate with a decline in healthy behavioural habits. The study found that perceived economic burden was linked with reduced diet quality and sleep quality, as well as increased smoking. There was also an interaction between perceived COVID-19 infection risk and economic burden, such that diet quality and sleep quality were lowest among those reported high levels of COVID-19 infection risk and economic burden. Neither binge drinking nor physical exercise were associated with perceived COVID-19 infection risk, economic burden, or their interaction.  

“The pandemic is teaching us key lessons about the relationship between different types of stressors and health outcomes across different socioeconomic groups. In particular, it highlights the importance of attending to cumulative, negative effects of high infection risk and economic burden on health outcomes”, said Dr Keng. This project began when Dr Keng was a faculty member with the Division of Psychology at Yale-NUS College, Singapore.

Since March 2020, the PsyCorona scientists have conducted ongoing 20-minute interviews with more than 60,000 people in 115 countries. The survey topics range from handwashing and mask-wearing to dissatisfaction with government messaging. The project is jointly funded by the New York University Abu Dhabi, the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III in Madrid, with Dr Pontus Leander (Wayne State University, USA) and Dr Jocelyn Bélanger (NYU Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) as principal investigators. 

“We are asking: If you perceive that you will get infected, and if you think that in the next few months your personal situation will be worse due to the economic consequences of COVID, will you sleep less, and will you eat more and eat unhealthy food?” Dr Stanton explained.

Preliminary findings from the study point to the value of developing interventions to address COVID-related stressors, which have an impact on health behaviours that, in turn, may influence vulnerability to COVID-19 and other health outcomes. Dr Keng noted that the relationships between COVID-19 stressors and health behaviours appear to be consistent across geographical regions — from impoverished nations to more developed European countries and the United States, and the relationships remained after controlling for variations in gender, age and levels of education. As a next step, the team aims to examine psychological mechanisms that may account for the relationships, including negative emotions and use of coping strategies such as problem solving and avoidance.

Dr Jones, Associate Professor from the Department of Sociology at The George Washington University, expressed that pandemics are notorious for inciting short- and long-term economic challenges. “However, there has been less attention on…how socially and economically vulnerable populations will be affected by the changing spatial landscape brought on by the consequences of the pandemic,” he stated.

Another co-author, Dr Grigsby-Toussaint, Associate Professor of Behavioural and Social Sciences and Epidemiology at the Brown University School of Public Health, indicated that supporting and engaging in international collaborative efforts are critical for mitigating the impact of COVID-19. “Although effective interventions targeting COVID-19 have to be tailored to the local context, it is important to have a broader view of stressors and health behaviours that are continuing to drive the pandemic.”

*Articles published on Preventive Medicine Reports are peer-reviewed and made freely available for everyone to read, download, and reuse in line with the user license displayed on the article.

AFT Ed.’s notes:

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