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Bill Kelty, a Labor elder statesman, has criticized Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his perceived inaction on various issues, including the housing crisis and support for the AUKUS agreement. Kelty, who played a significant role in shaping Australia's economy through the Accord, a formal agreement between unions and the government, believes that the government should focus on building more houses to address the housing affordability crisis. He also criticizes the government's handling of interest rates and its lack of direction in growing the economy. While some may disagree with Kelty's specific policy recommendations, many agree with his broader diagnosis of the government's lack of direction. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the challenges faced by "Yes" campaigners in Australia's debate on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum. It discusses how the campaign has been marred by misinformation and bad faith arguments, including claims about ballot paper symbols favoring one side, the length of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and concerns about the Voice's potential influence and the article emphasizes the importance of addressing the issues surrounding the Indigenous Voice.

The article discusses the history of the "Curse of the Bambino" that plagued the Boston Red Sox for 86 years after the sale of Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees in 1920. The curse was believed to be a result of commercialism and greed in baseball, with anti-Semitic sentiments also playing a role in the narrative. The curse was finally broken in 2004 when the Red Sox, led by a young and analytical general manager, Theo Epstein, won the World Series, ending decades of suffering for the team and its fans. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the harrowing experiences of former tennis prodigy Jelena Dokic, who endured years of abuse at the hands of her father, Damir Dokic, while striving for success in the sport. Despite facing immense physical and emotional trauma, Jelena managed to achieve significant milestones in her tennis career, only to be met with continued abuse and control from her father. Jelena's resilience and courage to speak out about her traumatic past have garnered both respect and public scrutiny, highlighting the complexities of her journey from victim to survivor. [Extracted from the article]

Karen Murphy, a successful lawn bowler, was recently inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, becoming the first female lawn bowler to receive this honor. Murphy's career in lawn bowls began at a young age, and she went on to achieve numerous gold medals and international recognition. Despite the sport's initial lack of popularity and cultural perceptions, Murphy's dedication and skill have helped elevate the status of lawn bowls in Australia. She has since retired from international competition but continues to play at the club level and serve as the assistant coach of the national team. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses incidents of anti-Semitism at the University of Sydney, particularly focusing on a lecture disrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters. The protesters accused the professor of supporting genocide, leading to a tense situation in the classroom. The university's response to the protests, including changes in policy and disciplinary actions, has sparked controversy and criticism. The article highlights the complexities of balancing freedom of speech with ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students and staff. [Extracted from the article]

The article in "Saturday Paper" explores the life and career of Ange Postecoglou, the first Australian to manage an English Premier League club. It delves into his early passion for soccer, his successes and challenges as a coach, and the controversies he faced throughout his career. Postecoglou's coaching philosophy, known as "Angeball," emphasizes fanatical romanticism and a rejection of self-defeating pragmatism in Australian soccer. Despite facing criticism and doubts, Postecoglou's career has seen remarkable success, culminating in his current role as manager of Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the art of sportswriting and its purpose in the modern age. It acknowledges the skill and creativity required to write about sports effectively, highlighting the work of Geoff Lemon as an example. The author explores the challenges of describing the beauty and excitement of sports in writing, noting the potential for clichés and overwrought language. The article also touches on the role of sportswriting in providing gossip and serving as a distraction from other news. It concludes by recognizing the value of sportswriting that goes beyond match summaries and gossip, but acknowledges that the accessibility of sports through technology has changed the landscape of sportswriting. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the 1969 film "Downhill Racer" and its unique portrayal of a sports hero. Unlike typical sports films that focus on sentimental underdog stories, "Downhill Racer" presents a protagonist, David Chappellet, who is ambitious but lacks soul. The film explores the emotional and intellectual sacrifices made by elite athletes and highlights the callousness that can exist outside of physical grace. The article draws parallels between Chappellet and disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong, both driven by ambition and lacking in empathy. Despite its critical acclaim, "Downhill Racer" was overshadowed by another film starring Robert Redford, "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." [Extracted from the article]

John Healy, a former inmate and alcoholic, discovered chess while in prison and became highly skilled at the game. Healy's talent for chess replaced his addiction to alcohol, and he dedicated himself to the game. After his release, he played against county champions and even grandmasters, gaining media attention. However, Healy's bitterness and trauma affected his behavior, leading to conflicts and ultimately the cancellation of his memoir by the publisher. Despite the challenges he faced, Healy's life is seen as remarkable, as he excelled in both self-destruction and his pursuit of chess. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "Lessons in the cards," discusses the impact of the sudden death of NBA star Reggie Lewis on the author, who was a 12-year-old child at the time. The author reflects on the significance of his basketball card collection, which included a card of Reggie Lewis, and how it provided comfort and solace during a time of anxiety and fear. The article also explores Lewis's basketball career, his tragic death due to a heart condition, and the legal battles that followed. The author draws parallels between Lewis's death and their own experiences with their father's illness. The article concludes with a reflection on the author's childhood and the complex emotions surrounding the suffering of others. [Extracted from the article]

Dustin Martin, a prominent Australian Rules football player, recently announced his retirement from the sport in a refreshingly modest manner. Unlike other famous athletes who have had grand farewell events or public announcements, Martin quietly informed his teammates and released a statement through his club. This decision reflects Martin's lack of interest in self-aggrandizement and his preference for privacy. The article also criticizes the media's tendency to blow trivial issues out of proportion and highlights the importance of personal agency in shaping public discourse. Overall, Martin's understated retirement stands out as a rare and commendable departure from the norm. [Extracted from the article]

According to a recent article in The Saturday Paper, teachers in Australia are facing numerous challenges that are making their job increasingly difficult. Teachers are expected to fulfill multiple roles, including being teachers, social workers, family counselors, and mediators. They are also expected to manage communication with families outside of working hours and implement well-being programs in their classrooms. The increase in responsibilities, along with issues such as managing disruptive student behavior and ensuring teacher safety, has led to teacher burnout and attrition. Reports and surveys have shown that many teachers feel unsafe at work, and there has been a significant increase in student suspensions. The article also highlights debates surrounding the use of suspensions and expulsions, as well as the inclusion of disabled students in mainstream education. Teachers express frustration with the lack of support and resources to address these challenges. Overall, the article emphasizes the need for better support and resources to make the teaching profession more manageable. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the 30th anniversary of the basketball game between the Tune Squad and the Monstars, as depicted in the documentary film Space Jam. The game was a stand for good against evil, as the Monstars, who had stolen the talents of NBA stars, threatened to enslave the Looney Tunes characters. Key figures involved in the game, including Michael Jordan, share their memories. The article also includes perspectives on the game's implications and controversies, such as the lenient refereeing. [Extracted from the article]

Matt Formston, a legally blind Paralympic cyclist turned surfer, has overcome numerous challenges throughout his life. Diagnosed with macular dystrophy at a young age, Formston faced bullying and discrimination but used his anger as motivation to excel in sports and prove others wrong. He became a world champion in adaptive surfing and set his sights on conquering the legendary waves of Nazaré, Portugal. Despite skepticism from others, Formston meticulously prepared for the challenge, assembling a skilled team and calculating the risks involved. The documentary "The Blind Sea" follows his journey, highlighting his remarkable abilities and determination. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges facing the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as its managing director, David Anderson, steps down. The ABC is described as both cherished and derided, with its purpose and role in the media landscape being contested. The resignation of Anderson has sparked speculation about the compatibility between him and the ABC's chair, Kim Williams. Williams highlights the decline of regional reporting and the importance of emergency broadcasting as key challenges for the ABC. There is also a discussion about the generational divide among journalists and differing opinions on impartiality within the organization. The article concludes by noting the financial constraints faced by the ABC. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the topic of superstition in sports, focusing on the rituals and beliefs of athletes and fans. It highlights examples such as Kevin Rhomberg, a baseball player with a diagnosable disorder that compelled him to touch anyone who had touched him, and Patrick Roy, a hockey player who believed that the goals themselves had thoughts and intentions. The article also mentions various superstitions of other athletes and fans, such as Wade Boggs only eating chicken before a game and Nick Hornby's rituals as an Arsenal fan. The author reflects on their own superstitions and wonders if their optimistic writing about their favorite team, the Fremantle Dockers, may have jinxed their chances. Overall, the article provides an interesting exploration of the role of superstition in sports. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the performance of Australian Olympic breaker Dr. Rachael "Raygun" Gunn at the Paris Olympics, which received widespread attention and ridicule. Some speculated that her performance was a form of protest against the inclusion of breaking in the Olympics, while others saw it as a result of her lack of core competency. The article also mentions Gunn's academic work on the gender politics of movement and breakdance, as well as her advocacy for hip-hop and breaking. The author expresses a mix of amusement and criticism towards Gunn's performance and academic writings. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the experiences of Rosie Batty, a mother who lost her 11-year-old son, Luke, to murder by his father. Batty reflects on her grief and the process of sorting through Luke's belongings after his death. She discusses her regrets about not spending more time with Luke and the ongoing pain she experiences. Batty also talks about her struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder and the pressure she felt as Australian of the Year. Despite her grief, Batty emphasizes the importance of finding moments of happiness and not being defined solely by her suffering. The article also mentions Batty's meeting with Olga Edwards, another mother who lost her children to murder and later took her own life. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses various athletes and their experiences at the Paris Olympics. It highlights Patty Mills, an Australian basketball player known for his passion and commitment to representing his country. The article also mentions Yusuf Dikeç, a Turkish pistol shooter who became a subject of online memes due to his unique appearance and shooting style. Additionally, it mentions Arisa Trew, a 14-year-old skateboarder who became the youngest gold medalist ever for Australia. Lastly, the article discusses Gary Hunt, a cliff diver known for his eccentricities and persistence in pursuing his Olympic dream. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the drama and events surrounding the Paris edition of the Olympic Games. It highlights various incidents, such as the security threats and espionage plots that occurred before the opening ceremony. The article also mentions notable performances by athletes, including the Aussies' success in swimming, Simone Biles' triumphant return, and the Australian men's hockey team defender Matthew Dawson's decision to amputate his finger in order to compete. The opening ceremony itself is described as mysterious and controversial, with elements that drew criticism from some groups. Overall, the article provides a glimpse into the drama and achievements of the Paris Olympic Games. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the ongoing debate over how best to teach reading to children, with a focus on the use of phonics. It highlights the recent decision by the Australian state of Victoria to mandate the systematic teaching of phonics, a move that has been met with both support and opposition. The article argues that the evidence from linguistics and cognitive science favors explicit instruction and phonics, and criticizes the whole-language approach that has been popular in the past. It also emphasizes the negative impact of poor reading instruction on disadvantaged students and the need for teachers to be better prepared in evidence-based reading instruction. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent experiences of the Fremantle Dockers, an Australian Football League (AFL) team, and their fans. It mentions a recent incident where a charter flight carrying the team ran out of water, causing unsanitary conditions on board. Despite this setback, the Dockers went on to win a game against Melbourne with an impressive performance. The article expresses hope for the team's future success and highlights the positive changes and improvements in their gameplay. The author also shares their personal experience as a fan and their optimism for the team's potential. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the life and actions of Donald Sterling, a billionaire landlord and former owner of the LA Clippers basketball team. Sterling was known for his vulgarity, racism, and eccentric behavior. He owned extensive property in southern California and named buildings after himself. He had a reputation for mistreating his basketball team, the Clippers, and was fined and banned from the NBA after a recording of him making racist remarks was made public. The article also mentions a miniseries called Clipped that dramatizes Sterling's downfall. [Extracted from the article]

The downfall of former CFMEU Victorian secretary John Setka has caused turmoil within the union and the Labor Party. Setka, known for his defiance and refusal to apologize, unexpectedly resigned in response to ongoing allegations of corruption and maladministration within the CFMEU. Nine reporters had been investigating these allegations, which included claims of bikie infiltration, kickbacks, and intimidation. The resignation has left the union in a state of damage control, with the national secretary, Zach Smith, attempting to consolidate power but facing criticism and mockery. The revelations have shocked union members, who question how such misconduct could persist for so long without intervention from authorities or politicians. [Extracted from the article]

Rachael Gunn, also known as B-girl Raygun, is the first-ever breaker to represent Australia at the Olympics. She will be joined by Jeff "J Attack" Dunne in Paris, where they will compete for an Olympic medal. Breaking, also known as breakdancing, has never been included in the Olympics before and may not be included in future games. Gunn feels the burden of advocating for her sport's legitimacy and educating the Australian public about it. She has taken on the responsibility of preparing for the Olympics and representing her country, despite the lack of institutional support or funding for breaking. Gunn acknowledges the privilege of being a white practitioner of an art form created by Black and Hispanic Americans and has reflected on the potential appropriation of the dance. She aims to bring her own level of authenticity to her dance and advocates for breaking to be more accessible to a diverse range of people. The breaking competition at the Olympics will take place on August 9 for B-girls and August 10 for B-boys. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the life and work of George Plimpton, a New York blue blood turned writer known for his sports journalism. Plimpton was known for his entertaining and humorous approach to sports reporting, often participating in the sports himself. The article highlights one of Plimpton's most famous stories, "The Curious Case of Sidd Finch," which turned out to be a hoax. Despite this, Plimpton's participatory journalism and his ability to write with grace and lightness made him a respected figure in the field. Plimpton passed away in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of entertaining and insightful sports writing. [Extracted from the article]

Former and current union officials are frustrated with CFMEU Victorian leader John Setka's leadership style and his lack of consultation with members. In September 2021, union members rioted outside the union's headquarters due to grievances with Setka and his handling of work conditions. Setka's reign has been marked by controversy, including convictions for harassment, the loss of a defamation suit, and employing private investigators to target union members. There is anger towards Setka within the CFMEU, and many members and officials are concerned about his capacity for vengeance. The government has passed a bill allowing the manufacturing division of the CFMEU to vote on its formal divorce from the union. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the close relationship between sporting leagues, such as the AFL, and gambling agencies, highlighting the appointment of Gillon McLachlan as Tabcorp's managing director and chief executive. McLachlan's tenure as AFL boss saw an increase in commercial arrangements between the league and gambling companies, resulting in a saturation of betting ads during games. The public's concern over the impact of gambling advertising led to a parliamentary inquiry in 2022, which found evidence of social harm. The article also mentions the previous AFL chief, Andrew Demetriou, joining Crown Resorts, a company later found unfit to hold a gaming license. The author questions the integrity of these public figures and their close ties to the gambling industry. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the troubled life of Paul Gascoigne, a talented football player from England. Gascoigne, also known as "Gazza," had a successful career but struggled with personal issues, including violence, addiction, and mental health problems. Despite his talent, Gascoigne's behavior off the field often overshadowed his achievements. The article also mentions Gascoigne's involvement in a bizarre incident where he attempted to negotiate with a dangerous criminal. Gascoigne's story highlights the complexities of fame and the challenges faced by individuals in the public eye. [Extracted from the article]

John Setka, the head of the Victorian branch of the CFMEU, is preparing to step down in December. While some view him as an effective advocate for better wages and conditions, others criticize his aggressive tactics and egotistical behavior. Setka recently campaigned against the AFL's head of umpiring and has faced backlash for his comments about Rosie Batty and his own harassment conviction. The CFMEU has become divided under Setka's leadership, with some members expressing dislike for him. The union will hold leadership elections in December, with potential outcomes including Setka retaining influence, a power struggle, or a transformative leader emerging. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent staging of ICC Men's T20 World Cup matches in the United States, which has introduced cricket to American sports fans. The author answers a series of questions from an American reader to help them understand the sport. The article also touches on cricket's history, different forms of the game, and infamous scandals. While the author acknowledges that cricket may not become widely popular in the US, they highlight the significance of the sport's introduction to American audiences. [Extracted from the article]

Heather McKay, an Australian squash player, is often overlooked as one of the country's greatest athletes. McKay's dominance in squash is unparalleled, having won every Australian Championship she entered and every British Open, which was considered the world championship at the time. She did not lose a single match between 1962 and 1981, barely dropping a game. Despite her incredible achievements, McKay received little media attention and financial compensation during her career. McKay's success can be attributed to her discipline, technical skill, and determination. She was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and received various honors for her contributions to squash. [Extracted from the article]

A new documentary titled "The Final: Attack on Wembley" revisits the chaotic events that unfolded during England's appearance in the UEFA European Football Championship final against Italy in July 2021. The match, which took place at Wembley Stadium, was marred by thousands of drunken and drug-addled fans storming the stadium. The documentary explores the disorder and violence that occurred, highlighting the breaching of the stadium and the dangerous situations that unfolded. The Casey report, which investigated the events, revealed the potential for fatalities and life-changing injuries. The documentary also addresses the racist abuse that followed the match, targeting the three Black England players who missed penalties in the shootout. Despite this incident, subsequent events, such as the women's England team winning the Euros and Australia co-hosting the Women's World Cup, have demonstrated peaceful and non-violent celebrations. [Extracted from the article]

The article describes the author's visit to the Australian Sports Museum with his young daughter. The author reflects on the significance of the museum visit and the memories it stirs, such as his own experiences with sports and personal milestones. The author also contemplates the nature of nostalgia and the passage of time. The article provides a personal and introspective perspective on the museum visit and its emotional impact. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the life and legacy of O.J. Simpson, a former football player and actor who became infamous for his trial for the double murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. The article explores Simpson's rise to fame, his abusive relationship with Nicole, and the racially charged trial that divided America. Despite being acquitted of the murders, Simpson was later found liable in a civil trial and ordered to pay the victims' families. The article also mentions Simpson's later criminal conviction for armed robbery and his recent death from cancer. [Extracted from the article]

Netflix recently announced that it will be live streaming an exhibition fight between Jake Paul, a former YouTube prankster turned professional boxer, and Mike Tyson, a former heavyweight champion and convicted rapist. The fight, scheduled for July 20, has sparked controversy among purists who view it as a desecration of the sport. While Paul's boxing talent may be modest, his profile and the novelty of the match are attractive to promoters. Despite Tyson's troubled past, he continues to enjoy popularity and cultural recognition. [Extracted from the article]

In a recent speech to parliament, independent MP Andrew Wilkie made allegations about illicit drug use among AFL players and secretive drug-testing policies within the league. Wilkie claimed that players were encouraged to feign injury or illness to avoid integrity testing, and that the AFL kept the results of off-the-books drug tests secret. The AFL denied Wilkie's characterizations and emphasized the importance of player welfare and confidentiality. While Wilkie's claims have generated headlines and public outrage, some commentators have provided nuanced perspectives on the issue. The AFL has two separate drug policies, one focused on player welfare and the other on sporting integrity, and there is a tension between the two. The AFL's Illicit Drug Policy allows for player confidentiality and counseling for first-time offenders, while the Australian Football Anti-Doping Code imposes suspensions for multiple positive tests. The AFL also allows club doctors to order their own testing and may direct players to stay off the field if they have used drugs. The issue raises questions about the disproportionate attention and scrutiny placed on athletes compared to other professions, such as the police force, where random drug testing is less frequent. The tension between player confidentiality and the fans' right to know is a complex issue that is difficult to resolve. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the costs and challenges associated with hosting world-class sporting events, focusing on the cases of Victoria and Queensland in Australia. The Victorian government's acceptance and subsequent withdrawal from hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games resulted in a waste of over $589 million. Similarly, the Brisbane Olympic Games have faced difficulties, including a lack of planning and public opposition to costly infrastructure projects. The International Olympic Committee's new guidelines prioritize hosts with existing infrastructure to avoid excessive spending. The article emphasizes the need for greater clarity and transparency in the decision-making process for hosting such events to prevent wasteful spending. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the public's reaction to the news of Australian soccer player Sam Kerr being charged with "racially aggravated harassment." The author criticizes the media's sensationalized coverage and impulsive judgments, highlighting the lack of available facts. The article provides a summary of the alleged incident involving Kerr, where she argued with a taxi driver over the fare and allegedly insulted a police officer. The author questions the excessive hand-wringing and calls for Kerr to be temporarily removed as captain of the Matildas. The article concludes with a personal anecdote about the author's daughter's disinterest in watching a football match. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the rise of Basil Zempilas, the lord mayor of Perth and a prominent media personality. Zempilas, who is also a columnist and sports commentator, has recently been preselected as the Liberal candidate for the state parliament seat of Churchlands. The article highlights Zempilas' controversial and often divisive public persona, as well as his close ties to media mogul Kerry Stokes. It raises concerns about conflicts of interest and the concentration of media power in Western Australia. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a new biopic about the Von Erich family, one of professional wrestling's most famous families. The film explores the destructive impulses and coercive control of the family's patriarch, Fritz Von Erich, and the tragic consequences that result. The Von Erichs became an American wrestling dynasty with the promotion and coaching of Fritz, and they helped revolutionize the sport in the early 1980s. The article highlights the real injuries and physical toll that professional wrestling takes on its performers, as well as the blurred lines between scripted narratives and real-life experiences. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the devastating coal mine fire that occurred in Morwell, Victoria, ten years ago. The fire was started by an arsonist and caused significant destruction and pollution in the area. The community of Morwell, already struggling with high unemployment and poor health, felt abandoned by the government and the corporate owners of the mine. The article also highlights the mismanagement and inadequate safety measures taken by the company that owned the mine, which ultimately led to the closure of the plant. The closure of the plant was met with mixed emotions by the community, as it marked the end of an industry that had provided jobs and financial security but also caused significant harm to the environment and public health. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the aftermath of the failed Voice referendum in Australia, exploring the perspectives of individuals close to the referendum, including government insiders and campaign supporters. It delves into the challenges faced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who exhibited confidence in achieving the reform but faced opposition from figures like Peter Dutton, ultimately leading to the referendum's defeat and the piece questions whether the failure stems from a divided nation.