Researchers at Royal North Shore Hospital and the University of Sydney are developing a world-first screening method to detect coronary artery disease before symptoms appear. The approach combines blood tests for biomarkers with CT imaging. More than 5000 people have taken part so far. Sydney mother Jennifer Tucker found she had a severe blockage in a coronary artery after collapsing while pushing a pram. Researchers want to expand the program into rural and remote areas, where heart attack rates are higher and preventative care is harder to access.
John McGrath has named Geelong's North Shore among its regional Victorian markets set for growth in the year ahead, according to its annual McGrath Report. The suburb's median house price is $770,000, and waterfront homes on The Esplanade have sold for a median of more than $1.3 million. Agents say the suburb is quieter than other Geelong waterfront areas and has a relatively low number of homes. McGrath also picked Jan Juc on the Surf Coast, where the median house price is $1.35 million after 8 per cent growth over the past year.
A Crows Nest shop called Boat Books, on the corner of Clarke and Oxley Streets next to the Crows Nest Metro, sells only books about boats. Its stock covers building, sailing, repairing, kayaking and fishing, along with history and humour titles. The newsletter also reports that Australia lacks a national framework for recycling solar panels, so most are exported or sent to landfill. The NSW Government plans to consult on a mandatory recycling scheme, and federal MP Zali Steggall has called for extended producer responsibility for manufacturers.
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The NSW Liberal Party has reshuffled its shadow ministry, promoting North Shore MP Felicity Wilson and Willoughby MP Tim James. Wilson, with nearly a decade in state parliament, has been appointed Shadow Minister for the Environment and Manager of Opposition Business. James takes on a new role as Shadow Special Minister of State, focusing on government scrutiny, while handing the Local Government portfolio to Adam Crouch.
The Reserve Bank of Australia's ban on card surcharges for Visa, Mastercard, and eftpos has been in effect for a week. The Post is investigating how this change is affecting local businesses and consumers in the North Shore and Northern Beaches. They are gathering data to determine if shoppers are saving money or if prices are increasing. Small business owners may be absorbing costs or adjusting prices to remain viable. The publication plans to share findings and expert advice in an upcoming feature.
Australia lacks a national framework for recycling solar panels, with most ending up in landfill or being exported. Energy expert Darren Johanneson highlights existing recycling plants in New South Wales and a successful Queensland study. The NSW government plans to consult on a mandatory recycling scheme, while federal Member for Warringah Zali Steggall advocates for a national approach to hold manufacturers accountable.
