The Conversation Hour

The Office for Women in Sport and Recreation and the Preventing Violence Through Sport Grants Program has been cut in the State budget, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore the impact the cuts will have on women in sport. 

With a mission statement to "redefine superhumanity through science innovation and sports" in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at controversial Enhanced Games — where athletes are allowed to use performance-enhancing drugs. Plus, as video games enthusiasts eagerly await the release of Grand Theft Auto 6, which also has controversies of its own, we look at why it remains so popular and who is still playing it. And, it was a big win for the Tottenham Hotspurs — we celebrate the legacy of Ange Postecoglou.

Yesterday's State budget saw significant investment into hospitals, but as hospital parking remains an ongoing issue for patients, families and health professionals in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at how much it will be factored into planning. Plus a Lancet report into adolescent health as outlined the challenges young people face including poor mental health and rising obesity, we speak with one of the researchers about how to best meet these challenges. 

CFA volunteers and farmers have protested against the emergency services tax across the state today. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at how far reaching the impact of this tax could be. Plus, we as homeowners wait with baited breath for the RBA interest rate decision — we look at what it will mean for the housing market. We also talk how the State Budget will shake out this afternoon. 

There has been a lot of discussion over the weekend about suicide prevention in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the role of grass roots community action. 

Cricket commentator and former international cricketer Mel Jones OAM was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Sport award this week at the Victorian Sports Awards, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with Mel about her work in supporting women in the game. Also, in this edition, we discuss injuries caused by energy based cosmetic treatments such as laser treatments, we also delve into the delicate terrain of when friendships get romantic.

Record amounts of plastic have been discovered in the seabirds of Lord Howe Island, so much so that you can hear their bodies crunch. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk what it would take to cut back plastic use. Plus, we look at the new national guidelines for the treatment of early pregnancy loss.

A new study has looked at the impact of Secondary Traumatic Stress on teachers and the role it could play in driving teachers out of the profession, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss the importance of formal recognition of the condition and what might help alleviate the stressors. Also in this edition we discuss whether there needs to be stronger legal protections for employees who are dismissed for having a criminal record, plus learn about some new technology to help prevent falls.

In this engaging discussion, Sol Kim shares her heartfelt journey as a mother navigating palliative care for her son, highlighting the invaluable support from Very Special Kids. She emphasizes the emotional complexities of dealing with life-limiting illnesses and the importance of celebrating life amidst sorrow. Ray Chamberlain reflects on the pressures faced by umpires at all levels, sharing anecdotes from his career and stressing the need for respect and support for officials. Together, they illustrate the profound impact of compassion in both palliative care and sports.

In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at where a love of reading stems from and whether it is something that in innate or can be developed. Also, as farmers in some of the lushest parts of the state run out of water, we look at the impact it is having on livestock producers and just how serious the issue is becoming. And a controversial mural in Fitzroy prompts questions about what the role of public art should be.