Category Archives: AFTNews

AFTNews, AFTNews, Travel & Wellness

Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou, makes its debut offering luxurious wellness-focused retreats amidst nature

Via PRNews/GIG

New resort brings holistic well-being to the fore with comprehensive dining, wellness, and lifestyle facilities.

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has continued its expansion in China with the opening of the highly anticipated Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou – the 11th luxury Dusit-branded property in China.

Designed to appeal to business and leisure travellers who appreciate superior levels of comfort and unique opportunities to enhance their physical and mental well-being, Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain is located at Ying Valley Resort (the east foothills of Mogan Mountain) in the heart of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Shanghai’s economically thriving region. Just a short 20-minute drive away lies Huzhou city centre, while Hangzhou can be reached in one hour and Shanghai in two hours. The high-speed railway station (Deqing) is conveniently accessible within 30 minutes.

Mogan Mountain is celebrated for its pristine, unspoiled environment and abundant tea plantations. In this lush, green landscape, the air carries a remarkable negative oxygen ion concentration, measuring approximately 60,000 ions per cubic centimetre – six times higher than the city. This abundance of pure, refreshing air is another boon for travellers seeking to enhance their well-being and rejuvenate in a serene sanctuary away from the stresses and strains of modern life.

Thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with its stunning natural surroundings, the beautiful eco-friendly Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain boasts 22 deluxe guest rooms decorated in a contemporary Thai style, plus three spacious villas with sweeping views of Lion Lake and the adjacent tea plantations. The next phase of the property development, including 100 guest rooms and nine villas, is slated to follow in stages.

Reflecting Dusit’s group-wide focus on wellness, Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain will also soon open its exclusive Devarana Wellness centre, offering a wide range of Thai-inspired massage therapies and beauty treatments. This tranquil space features a traditional Thai healing spa, hot water pools, a fitness and movement centre, an outdoor swimming pool, and dedicated spaces for mindful and energising activities such as Yoga, sound healing, and meditation.

Making the most of the resort’s natural surroundings, guests can also arrange multi-day retreats and wellness programmes supported by invigorating activities such as minigolf, bike riding to Tiger Lake, hiking to Mogan Mountain, and paddle boarding on Lion Lake.

Following the three core pillars of Devarana Wellness – Pause, Focus, and Growth – the resort also provides spaces for holistic, multisensory wellness experiences, supporting positive lifestyle changes while helping guests to disconnect and reconnect mindfully.

Embracing a farm-to-table concept and working with top local suppliers to source the finest and freshest ingredients, the resort boasts a Chinese Restaurant and an all-day dining restaurant serving local and international delicacies. Complementing this diverse culinary selection is a dedicated wellness menu thoughtfully crafted to invigorate and promote optimum health. The resort also offers ample space for conference activities, weddings, and business and social functions, with one banquet hall and a camping site.

“We are honoured and delighted to continue our expansion in China and bring our unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to the beautiful hills of Mogan Mountain,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International.” As an exquisite retreat catering to discerning business and leisure travellers alike, Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou, offers a tranquil haven where guests can rejuvenate their bodies and minds amidst nature, indulging in a transformative experience rooted in holistic wellness.”

To celebrate its opening, Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou is offering a special ‘Dusit Experience’ room package starting at only CNY 1,388 (USD 189) per night for a Lake View Deluxe Room with breakfast for two, and complimentary minibar.  This offer is valid until 31 December 2023.

For more information and reservations, please visit: Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou

Continue reading Dusit Thani Mogan Mountain, Huzhou, makes its debut offering luxurious wellness-focused retreats amidst nature →

AFTNews

Verstappen & Perez Compete In The World’s Cleanest Challenge Ahead Of Singapore Race Weekend

Via PRNews/GIG

On their return to Singapore, Oracle Red Bull Racing champions, Max Verstappen and Sergio “Checo” Perez, embraced a uniquely fun challenge. They hopped on motorized cleaning carts, racing on a specially constructed indoor track, in the cleanest race ever, all within the stunning Jewel Changi Airport.

The first part, a mock sprint race, began with an electrifying “Le Mans” style start. Max gained an early advantage by firing up his cleaning cart first. He maintained a solid lead until Checo attempted to take a shortcut that violated track limits, securing Max’s victory.

In the subsequent Cleaning Challenge, the drivers navigated an expanded track with obstacles like muddy footprints, dirt, rubbish, and leaves. Max, starting in pole position, maintained his lead throughout the race until an exciting head-to-head battle emerged in the back section of the course. Despite Checo’s attempts to overtake him, Max held his ground. During the pit stop, it was clear that Max’s vehicle had cleaned more debris. With a significant lead, Max sprinted (albeit slowly) to the finish line, clinching first place in the inaugural World’s Cleanest Race. He was presented with a pre-broken trophy in recognition of his victory by Oracle Red Bull Racing ambassador, Josh Denzel, sparing him the effort of breaking it himself.

“It was great,” stated Checo when asked about the challenge. “When I got to see the cart for the first time, I was shocked with it.”

When asked about the unique nature of today’s event, Max laughed stating, “At this stage, being with the team, I’m quite used to it. They come up with quite a lot of things so this was another one.”

Supported by Jewel Changi Airport and the Singapore Tourism Board, there was no better venue to host the event than at the world’s best airport, renowned for its autonomous fleet of cleaning robots, offering a stunning backdrop featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall nestled within the lush indoor forest.

With Singapore as a vibrant backdrop, a city renowned for its diverse culinary culture, captivating attractions, and lush gardens, the beauty of the Lion City and FORMULA 1’s first night street race has always been an attraction for avid racing fans and the Oracle Red Bull Racing drivers, as well.

It’s always good to be in Singapore. It’s an incredible track and the fact that it’s a night race makes it even more special. It is of course a very warm race which can be challenging, so it’s definitely one of the toughest races on the calendar,” said Max.

Checo echoed similar sentiments, adding, “It’s a track that’s really hard on us and the cars. We just have to deliver to the maximum.”

The one-of-a-kind World’s Cleanest challenge, held ahead of the highly anticipated Singapore Grand Prix (15 to 17 September), was just the warm-up the racers favoured before tackling the big one. It’s at the forthcoming night race that Checo hopes to repeat his incredible performance from last year.

“That would be really nice to repeat what we did last year,” said Checo. “I look forward to it, and hopefully we are able to have a tremendous race.”

Max, in particular, is focused on extending his record-breaking streak with a potential first-time victory in Singapore.

“Street circuits always bring a few more challenges but we’ll definitely try,” declared Max. “We have a quick car, but we know that on a street circuit there are a lot of other cars that can be quick as well and the gaps will be very tight. We of course want to win so let’s see what we can do.”

To catch the epic action and the infectious laughter of Max Verstappen and Checo Perez, zoom over to Oracle Red Bull Racing’s YouTube channel to watch the World’s Cleanest Race in its entirety.

AFTNews, AFTNews, Seniors' Health

Ageism Awareness Day This Saturday 7th October

EveryAGE Counts

Ageism Awareness Day designated on Saturday 7th October reminds all Australians of the harmful and damaging effects of stereotyping, discrimination and mistreatment directed towards older Australians.

The recognition of this day was pioneered by EveryAGE Counts which is Australia’s national campaign against ageism. Ageism Awareness Day has now been recognised around the world including by the American Society on Ageing.

EveryAGE Counts is a national coalition of organisations and individuals including the Australian Human Rights Commission, over 30 local government Councils and over 100 community based, advocacy and research organisations who are working together to tackle these issues in the Australian community.

The results of an EveryAGE Counts major national survey of over 1000 people over 50 years of age last year, revealed that 68% agreed that ageism against older people is a “serious problem in Australia” and this figure increases as people get older.

A spokesperson for the EveryAGE Counts Campaign Robert Tickner said, “ageism is not some hollow empty trendy word, and there was hard evidence that stereotyping and discrimination against older people was damaging to the health and well-being of older Australians in many areas”.

“It often starts when people, in their earlier fifties, are denied jobs or promotions. Later on in life it is often a root cause and contributor to elder abuse and the mistreatment in aged care exposed by the Aged Care Royal Commission”, Mr Tickner said.

“The statistics on unemployment of people over 50 are very revealing. 20 years ago 1 in 20 people who were unemployed were between 50 and 65 but now that figure has doubled to 1 in 10, and worse, these people make up a much larger group among the long term unemployed”.

“All of us, if we live into our fifties or older will be impacted by ageism and that is one of the reasons we support intergenerational solidarity. Older Australians like the rest of the community want to be treated as individuals and not treated differently simply because they are older.”

“There are so many false assumptions about older people which strip them of their agency and right to control their own lives, as our survey also revealed. Things like false assumptions about the inevitability of dementia as we age, lack of capacity of older people in the workforce when many want to, and are capable of, working, and false assumptions about needing help when many want to be self-reliant. Too often older people are talked down to in the community and in health care which further strips them of their autonomy and dignity.”

“Sure some older people may need support but the bottom line is that it is best to see older people as individuals and not make generalised assumptions or gratuitous, thoughtless and offensive jokes about their age.”

“Our EveryAGE Counts website ( everyagecounts.org.au ) features a fabulous publication called “The Real Old” which I encourage people to read. It is a myth busting publication blowing false stereotypes about ageing out of the water,” Mr Tickner said.

“These issues cross party lines and EveryAGE Counts has received support from Ministers responsible for Ageing on both sides of the political fence and we want to keep it that way. These issues are above politics. These issues are about all of us. We are all getting older”.

“The World Health Organisation has found that ageism can be damaging to the health and well-being of older people and can reduce life span by up to 7.5 years as people become disrespected, devalued and robbed of their humanity.”

“We also want to see an Australia where people of different ages are not falsely pitted against each other but where people of all ages are valued and respected. That is another reason we stand for building bridges across the generations”.

Mr Tickner said, “As the Australian population ages these issues are going to become increasingly critical to address and that is why the EveryAGE Counts Campaign believes that there is a need for a national public awareness and education campaign around ageism and its impacts and we are seeking resources to conduct this campaign.”

“Australian politicians from all parties have united to make Age Discrimination illegal in every State and Territory but such discrimination remains rampant as surveys reveal.“

“The challenge is now to change what is in people’s hearts and minds and educate people that age discrimination and exclusion harms us all and diminishes our society.

We can be a world leader in the work of tackling ageism and enhancing the quality of life of people growing older in Australia”, Mr Tickner said.

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AFTNews, AFTNews, Airsports

3,2,1… Go! The 2023 Fai World drone racing Championship in Korea starts this Friday

The city of Namwon in the Republic of Korea is buzzing with excitement as the world’s best drone racing pilots have arrived to compete in the 2023 FAI World Drone Racing Championship (WDRC), part of the World Drone Festa.

Renowned as the biggest competition of its kind, a total of 115 competitors are registered for the Championship. They will battle it out in Namwon’s Sports Town complex, Jeollabuk-do from 6-9 October 2023, in an exhilarating high-speed drone race, with cash prizes up for grabs.

The challenging track twists and turns around ramps, tunnels, hoops, straights and a cube feature, and has been designed to test the skills of the pilots over an optimised trajectory of 725m.

Drone racing tends to attract highly focused younger pilots. In total there will be 40 juniors competing, as well as 65 seniors, with ages ranging from nine years old to 47.

Twelve female pilots will participate, including Thailand’s Wanraya Wannapong who won the female champion title in both previous editions of the WDRC in 2018 and 2019.

France’s Killian Rousseau is currently top of the World Cup Ranking, followed by Pawel Laszczak of Poland and Roland Ronto from Hungary.

There are 29 national teams plus six wild card individual competitors registered, and pilots are travelling from as far afield as Finland, Israel, South Africa, the USA and a number of Asian countries.

Prize money is on offer for the top four pilots in Individual, Female and Junior categories, plus the top six Nations. The best individual will win 15,000,000 South Korean won (just over 11,000 US dollars).

This is the third edition of the 2023 FAI World Drone Racing Championship. Previous events were held in 2018 and 2019 and this is the championship’s hotly anticipated return after the pandemic.

EVENT SCHEDULE

FRIDAY 6 OCTOBER

  • 2023 FAI e-Drone Racing Cup – Part 1 (8 races) and Opening Ceremony

SATURDAY 7 OCTOBER

  • 2023 FAI e-Drone Racing Cup – Final (7 races)
  • WDRC Qualifying rounds 1-3 (24 races each)

SUNDAY 8 OCTOBER

  • WDRC Additional and Elimination rounds

MONDAY 9 OCTOBER

  • WDRC Elimination rounds, Juniors Final, Women’s Final, Overall Final
  • Medals & Closing Ceremony

FOLLOW THE LIVE STREAMING

FAI Air Sports Channel

  • 11:30-21:10 (KST), October 7, 2023
  • 08:30-20:20 (KST), October 8, 2023
  • 09:00-14:00 (KST), October 9, 2023

THE FIRST EVER E-DRONE RACING CUP

Not only will spectators see the elite of the drone racing world race around the obstacles at high speeds, but they will also be part of the World Drone Festa, which includes the final of the 2023 FAI e-Drone Racing Cup in which 32 pilots will compete for cash prizes. This is the first ever race of its kind, and will be livestreamed on the FAI Air Sports Youtube Channel:  13:30-15:30 (KST), October 6, 2023 09:00-11:00 (KST), October 7, 2023

DRONE SOCCER OPEN INTERNATIONAL CUP

Drone Soccer originates from Korea, and visitors to the World Drone Festa will also be able to watch the Korean FAI Drone Soccer Open International Cup, which will feature 70 competitors in two categories. Live Streaming: Korea Aero Models Association Channel: 10:00-17:00 (KST), October 7, 2023, 10:00-18:00 (KST), October 8, 2023, 10:00-16:00 (KST), October 9, 2023.

Continue reading 3,2,1… Go! The 2023 Fai World drone racing Championship in Korea starts this Friday →

AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Fitness

Four reasons to study fitness in Australia

Via PRNews/GIG

Fitness is a thriving sector in Australia. The country has quickly become one of the top destinations, for individuals wanting to further their education. Sport, whether for recreation or health and fitness, has become an inseparable part of Australian culture. The fitness industry is continuously growing, and this is reflected in the demand for fitness jobs over the last few years. Because of their love of sports, Australian institutions are an excellent fit for international students who want to learn about the science of exercise and sports.

If you want to further your education and career in fitness, keep reading to learn why studying in Australia is the best choice for you.

Diverse programme selections

One of the many benefits of studying fitness in Australia is the variety of programmes offered by Australian institutions.  With these diverse options, individuals can choose a programme that aligns with their interests and goals.

Six of the top 100 universities in the world are located in Australia, including some of the top universities that offer various fitness programmes. Individuals interested in becoming personal trainers can take courses specialising in personal training, while those interested in recreational sports can take a diploma in sport and recreation. This variety enables students to select a course that best meets their interests and career objectives. Moreover, completing an exercise and sports science diploma can lead to a variety of professional pathways both in Australia and abroad.

Dundee Kim seated left, with his team at Fit Education Australia.

Top-notch education

Home to a world-class educational system, Australia has built a reputation for offering high-quality education to the fitness industry, among others.  As a result, Australia’s fitness programmes are well regarded on a national and international level, and this recognition has assisted many graduates in finding jobs related to their subjects of study.

Furthermore, the Australian fitness sector is quite competitive and demands a high level of knowledge and professionalism. As a result, the courses provided in Australia are designed to address these needs and provide graduates with the knowledge and abilities they need to be successful in the field.

Nearly 100 courses from 25 Australian institutes are accredited by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA), the professional organisation dedicated to creating, promoting, and maintaining the careers of tertiary-trained exercise and sports science professionals. This is to ensure that exercise and sports science courses meet a high standard of excellence.

Dundee’s Boxing Gym Brisbane, where you can train with champions

Modern infrastructure with a vast network

From small gyms in the alleyways to big personal training studios, the fitness industry in Australia is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Many gyms and fitness centres include various equipment and facilities, such as cardio machines, weight machines, and group exercise programmes. There are also numerous fitness plans and applications available online. The programmes offer personalised workout plans and diet recommendations that cater to people with specific needs.

In addition, many established companies, such as Dundee and Fit Education, are investing in the fitness industry, providing networking and employment opportunities for graduates. The industry events, seminars, and workshops these establishments organise allow individuals to network and learn from professionals in the field. Networking is vital for individuals just beginning their fitness careers as it may lead to future employment opportunities.

Dundee Kim and team at Fit Education Australia

Growing fitness industry

The fitness industry in Australia is a vibrant and vital component of the Australian economy. Over the last few years, the industry has grown significantly, with a number of new fitness facility chains established nationwide. This comprises smaller fitness studios, indoor and outdoor personal training facilities, health clubs, fitness centres, and fitness franchises.

These businesses offer various fitness and exercise services, including personal training, classes, memberships, and casual gym use. Australians spend an estimated $8.5 billion annually on fitness-related products and services, with the fitness sector alone bringing in $3 billion for the country’s economy. This growth has also resulted in an increase in the number of fitness events, seminars, and workshops, allowing individuals to thrive in this booming industry.

The takeaway

A fitness career can be both interesting and lucrative. The future also appears promising, with studies predicting a 16% increase in fitness jobs by 2024. With such high demand, you must have a solid foundation in the industry. This is where a good fitness education programme comes in. Attending the best fitness institutions in Australia may give prospective personal trainers the resources, knowledge, and abilities they need to succeed in the fitness business.

Dundee Kim pictured wtih Australian Boxer, Jeff Horn.

Text and Photos contributed by Dundee Kim, Founder of Fit Education Australia.

Initially learning the art of boxing to protect himself from bullies, Dundee Kim eventually harnessed his skills to become a two-time amateur boxing champion in South Korea. From there he migrated to Australia to become the Associate Director of International Relations, and then the Regional Director of International Relations at James Cook University. He eventually became the founder of Dundee’s Boxing & Fitness gym in Brisbane.

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AFTNews, Commonwealth Games, Features Australia/NZ

Trinbago 2023 begins with spectacular opening ceremony

The 7th Commonwealth Youth Games and the first in the Caribbean kicked off in a carnival style at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Trinidad.

In a ceremony bursting with colour and energy, more than 1,000 athletes from around 70 Commonwealth Nations and Territories were welcomed to the first Youth Games since 2017.

Famous for their appearance at Carnival time, the Kiddies Carnival Kings and Queens performed alongside a youth steel pan side, while spectators enjoyed tassa and tamboo bamboo stands within the stadium.

Following the traditional parade of nations, there was a demonstration of the sports being played during the Games. Each sport was represented by an incredible Moko Jumbie, designed to not only glisten in the sunlight, but also show movement similar to the sport.

Dame Louise Martin, President of the Commonwealth Games told athletes in her opening address: “I truly hope you seize the moment and enjoy this Caribbean carnival of inspiring competition, personal development and global friendship.”

“You are diverse, unique and equal members of one big sporting family and especially in this Commonwealth Year of Youth – we will celebrate each and every one of you.”

Closing the festivities Trinidad and Tobago-born group, Freetown Collective performed the theme song ‘Stay Ready’ created especially for the Youth Games.

Diane Henderson, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Commonwealth Games Association (TTCGA), and the local Organising Committee, said: “What you saw today is a combined volunteer effort led by us here in Trinidad and Tobago and aided by persons from around the world.”

“I think as a nation, we can stand up and say proudly we are Trinbago 2023. Now, the work really begins as the real stars of the show take to the field over the next few days.”

From 4-11 August athletes will participate in Aquatics (Swimming), Athletics, Cycling (Road Race, Time Trial, and Track) and Triathlon, as well as Rugby Sevens and Beach Volleyball.

Netball’s shorter, faster format, FAST5, makes its debut at the Youth Games with eight women’s teams competing for a medal.

A fully integrated Para-Athletics programme will also make its first appearance at the Games with athletes competing in six medal events (three women’s and three men’s events).

The Youth Games are an established pathway towards the Commonwealth Games, and other major senior sporting events, providing an opportunity to showcase the stars of the future.

Buy tickets for Trinbago 2023 now.

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AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Rhythm & Movement

Desert Song Festival

The countdown to opening night gains pace with the 10th Anniversary Premium Content Series launched on August 9, 2023.

Six programs of Desert Song Festival performances by a global family of exceptional artists will be featured in August, September, October and December 2023, and in February 2024, via a dedicated platform: https://www.desertsongdigital.com/#/home. 

THE FIRST PROGRAM, DISCOVERING DSF – August 2023, IS FREE! and will also be available on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DesertSongFestival. Check it out and get in the mood for the 10th Anniversary festival. The other five are available at $20 for individual netcasts or $80 for the entire subscription. Details of broadcast dates will be published after Program #1 becomes available. 

AUGUST 2023: MAIN ATTRACTION SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR
 
“A stunning performance that’s uplifting, energising, and life-affirming” – Scenestr
 
“Uplifting harmonies that fill your soul” – Play and Go Adelaide
 
This musical powerhouse has been spreading sheer joy to audiences across the globe for nearly two decades with their powerful blend of African Gospel, Freedom Songs, and international classics.
 

 
Since their first visit in 2011, Alice Springs has become one of their favourite destinations. They are returning – for their fifth visit for the 10th anniversary of the Desert Song Festival to present their brand-new concert HOPE at two sessions on Saturday 16th September at the Araluen Arts Centre @ 3pm and 7.30pm. In the past, these concerts have been fully sold out, so the organisers urge enthusiasts to book their tickets as soon as possible for one of the iconic entertainment events of the year Central Australia: https://www.desertsong.com.au/soweto-gospel-choir-3/
 
HOPE celebrates songs and anthems from the Freedom Movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, and the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s America. HOPE is a concert that will sing forever in your hearts! In these concerts, the Soweto Gospel will collaborate with the NIMA award-winning Central Australian Aboriginal Women’s Choir with whom they have developed a close relationship since first meeting these songwomen in 2011.
 
Book tickets to the Desert Song Festival here.

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AFTNews, AFTNews

TaiSPO 2024: Unlocking Business Opportunities in the Sports and Fitness Industries

– Advertorial –

Sports and Fitness Taiwan, also known as TaiSPO, is being organised by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and is scheduled to take place at Hall 2 of Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center from March 6 to 9, 2024. This highly anticipated exhibition will showcase a wide array of sports, fitness, and outdoor leisure products, bringing together manufacturers, service providers, and brand operators from both domestic and international markets.

TaiSPO holds a prominent position as the industry’s leading B2B exhibition and sales platform, facilitating interactions, communication, and collaboration among sports and fitness industry players, while also enabling them to enhance their market presence. Exhibitors are encouraged to take advantage of the early bird discount, which will be available until September 30 this year. We cordially invite businesses to register for this remarkable event. TaiSPO holds the distinction of being the longest-running sports and fitness industry exhibition in Taiwan. Following the lifting of pandemic-related border restrictions in 2023, the first exhibition drew an impressive turnout, with over 1,200 international buyers from 61 countries and more than 6,000 domestic visitors. In fact, the overall number of visitors surpassed pre-pandemic levels, experiencing an impressive 80% growth. This surge in popularity clearly indicates the positive reception of TaiSPO’s strategic decision to expand horizontally across industries and seamlessly integrate both soft and hard elements.

Sports and Fitness Taiwan, TaiSPO 2024: Unlocking Business Opportunities in the Sports and Fitness Industries Registration Opens on July 10th

Building on the success of the previous year, TaiSPO in 2024 will showcase a captivating lineup featuring three exciting themes: “Dynamic Fitness Society”, “Alternative Leisure Lifestyle,” and “Sports Tech Next Level”. These themes aim to highlight the diversity within the sports and fitness industry, the array of outdoor lifestyles available, and the boundless potential that technology brings to the sports ecosystem. To enhance the visual experience, the exhibition will introduce a fresh visual concept, incorporating the vibrant colors of “Energetic Light” and “Blue Ocean” that intertwine seamlessly. This choice of colors symbolises the dynamic change in body temperature during exercise. Moreover, polygonal lines will be employed to depict the multifaceted interactions between industries, underscoring the collective empowerment and growth within the sports and fitness sectors.

According to the Global Wellness Economy report, the global sports industry is projected to surpass a staggering value of US$1.1 trillion in 2023, with the Asia-Pacific region emerging as a key driver of high growth. The sports industry has witnessed a significant transformation due to the integration of cutting-edge technologies like the IoT and AI. To align with evolving industry trends and expand market presence for sports industry players, TaiSPO is poised to continue its transformative journey in the upcoming year, 2024. In addition to the existing seven sections encompassing “Indoor Fitness,” “Outdoor Sports,” “Water Sports,” “Health and Sports Fashion,” “All Age Fitness,” “Sports Tech,” and “Sports Marketing and Services,” new sections will be introduced to enhance the diversity of the exhibition. These new additions include “Intelligence Sites,” “Golf,” and “Glamping.”

By incorporating forums, lectures, group activities, and outdoor experiential opportunities, TaiSPO will once again serve as an annual platform for professionals within the sports and fitness industry to engage, establish networks, and discover the finest domestic and international sales channels and partnerships for Taiwanese businesses.

TaiSPO 2024 is scheduled to take place at Hall 2 of Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center from March 6 to 9, 2024. Registration for the event will open on July 10th. For detailed information about the exhibition, please visit the official website: https://www.taispo.com.tw

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AFTNews, AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ

World Record Most Number of People Doing Sit-Ups

Over two in five Australians aged 16-85 years (43.7% or 8.6 million people) have experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life, 21.4% of people have had a mental illness that has lasted 12 months. This number is increasing in the younger generation with 39.6% of Australians between the ages of 15-24 having a 12-month mental illness. This is truly unacceptable, and something has to be done about this yet only 1 in 10 young Aussies seek help.

The Mental Wheels Foundation has made it its mission to understand how to improve mental health through positive actions and research; The Foundation supports the community through the promotion of accessible clinical programs and Mental Wheel of Life Workshops. Partnering MQ Health in research projects and treatment through MindSpot (a free mental online health clinic).

To raise much needed funds, The Mental Wheels Foundation has launched the ‘Sit-Up Challenge’. To take part in the Challenge participants will be doing 66 sit-ups every day for 21 days, this not only helps to improve the participants mental health through physical exercise but will also raise money and awareness. The challenge will take place from September 1.

To rally people to take action, the challenge aims to break a world record! The most people doing sit-ups simultaneously, the current world record set on 17th of November 2016 sits at 2,005 people simultaneously doing sit-ups. The Mental Wheels Foundation plans to beat this – but we need your support in order to do so.

There will also be an in-person challenge held in Sydney, Brisbane and Port Macquarie on Saturday September 2.

For either option, please register here https://the-situp-challenge.raisely.com/

If you ever do find yourself suffering from mental illness and feel it is affecting, you in a negative way please reach out for support from someone you trust and if you don’t feel like there is someone you can trust, seek support through one of these helplines:

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

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AFT Features, AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ

Give up a Fiver for Survivors of Slavery right here in Australia!

  • Did you know that there are currently 41,000* people trapped in modern slavery in Australia?
  • Can you imagine your workplace, your school or your local club advocating for human rights and wanting to do something practical to embrace change?
  • Everyone can take action to help victims of slavery in Australia, and it starts with just a $5 donation towards The Freedom Hub’s Survivor School (Fivers for Survivors).

The Freedom Hub, an Australian registered charity announces its annual ‘Fivers for Survivors’ campaign to align with the United Nations (UN) Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30 July 2023 in support of survivors of modern slavery.

The ‘Fivers for Survivors’ campaign has three goals:

  • to drive awareness about modern slavery and human trafficking,
  • to engage communities to look out for one another,
  • to support victims of slavery by donating $5 towards the The Freedom Hub Survivor School.

The Freedom Hub will provide free tool kits and resources to encourage schools, clubs, businesses or organisations to organise their own awareness campaigns about modern slavery and human trafficking. The tool kit contains all the necessary resources, videos, materials, and guidelines to facilitate a successful fundraising event, plus facilitates tips on effective community engagement.

Awareness campaigns can be fun and enjoyable for example wearing a silly hat for the day or hosting a walk, whichever that can engage your group or community. What’s important is the positive engagement of participants while broaching a very serious topic because their support helps get essential services to survivors, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Anyone who is interested to know more or contribute as a volunteer is invited to visit The Freedom Hub during the ‘Fivers for Survivors’ week from 24-31 July 2023 or arrange for a representative from the Freedom Hub to come to your school, club, business, or organisation to speak about the issues surrounding modern-day slavery for a nominal donation fee.

Caption: Sally Irwin, Founder of The Freedom Hub (Photo credit: TheFreedomHub.org)

Founded by social entrepreneur Sally Irwin to fill the gap in specialised long-term care for survivors of modern slavery, The Freedom Hub’s Cafe in Waterloo, Sydney and Ethical Business Services fund the organisation’s administration, meaning 100% of all donations go directly to supporting survivors.

“Once a survivor has escaped their situation, they will have to wait four to five years before their court case is heard – that’s long enough for people’s lives to be destroyed even further than what they’ve already been through. In addition, their mental and physical health usually deteriorates; they can find it impossible to trust anyone or function within society,” said Irwin.

“That’s where The Freedom Hub’s Survivor School comes in; we help them rebuild their lives to live independently and successfully. A small donation can bring impact for survivors, and that’s what ‘Fivers for Survivors’ is all about.

Together, we can make a massive difference, and everyone can be a part of it from as little as $5, and every cent goes directly to survivors,” said Irwin.

Register your event, donate, and read more about Fivers for Survivors on our website:

www.thefreedomhub.org/fivers-for-survivors.

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