Latest news with #Balfe
Sky News AU
2 days ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
Thousands of Australian households set to be slapped with mammoth bill hike amid cost of living crunch
Thousands of Tasmanians are set to see their water bills skyrocket by almost 40 per cent in the coming years as the state grapples with deteriorating infrastructure. Tasmania's water infrastructure is facing mounting difficulties with existing pipelines and treatment plants dating back decades. This has led to complications such as widespread leaks, water quality concerns and mass disruptions to services, with TasWater undertaking a major $1.9 billion reconstruction program over the next five years. Despite the government-owned utility provider moving to freeze prices at zero per cent from 2019-2021 during the peak of the pandemic, it was revealed that TasWater would hike prices by 3.5 per cent in the 2025-26 financial year. After warning customers in late May that future increase 'are likely to be higher' TasWater released its new Price and Service Proposal on Thursday which proposed a 40 per cent hike in water bills over four years. The controversial proposal, which comes amidst a cost-of-living crisis includes a yearly increase of 8.8 per cent from the period of 2026 to 2030. However, the proposal which represents a significant jump from the previous spike must first be approved by the Tasmanian Economic Regulator. The regulator has previously made amendments to such price hikes in the past. The average water bills for Tasmanian households will balloon from $1,407 in 2026 to $1,929 in 230, an eye-watering increase of $522. General manager of customer and community services at TasWater Matt Balfe conceded the decision would pile on added pain to Tasmanian families, but stressed the move was necessary to finance critical reconstruction works on the states failing sewerage system. "Unfortunately, the investment required is large. We're looking at $1.7 billion over the next four years,' Mr Balfe told ABC Radio Hobart. "This is a network that spills too often, that is discharging to the environment in an unacceptable fashion.' The explanation mirrors TasWater's justifications for the price hike announced in late May for the 2025-26 financial year where it said bills would continue to surge as 'operational costs rose and infrastructure continued to age.' The Tasmanian Council of Social Services (TasCOSS) which is the peak body for the community services industry in Tasmania lashed the move and said residents were already facing record high electricity and gas bills. "Significant increases in the price of water and sewerage services could contribute to higher rents and water costs for private rental tenants, whose landlords have the option to pass on the increased costs," TasCOSS chief executive Adrienne Picone said in a statement. 'Tasmanians on the lowest incomes are already making enormous sacrifices to afford their household bills, with prices for the essentials still continuing to rise. 'We know those who are struggling the most are already rationing and trading-off the basics — going without food, medication and energy to pay their bills.' Mr Picone said that while the TasWater's existing discount to concession customers was welcome, she outlined it was only offered to property owners and neglected renters completely and that more cost-of-living relief was desperately needed from the state government. Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff whose government is currently in a state of political limbo after Saturday's election resulted in a hung parliament, scrapped its plan to explore the privatisation of publicly owned assets and companies, including TasWater.
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Outlander's Caitriona Balfe joins star-studded cast for Sense and Sensibility adaptation
Outlander star Caitríona Balfe will star in a new adaptation of a Jane Austen classic Outlander star Caitríona Balfe has unveiled her latest venture following her role in the Starz series as it comes to an end and her recent film, The Amateur, reports the Express. On Instagram, she excitedly announced her involvement in the new Sense and Sensibility adaptation, based on Jane Austen's classic 1811 novel. She shared a screenshot from the Deadline article about the casting news for Sense and Sensibility and expressed: "I am so thrilled to be joining this excellent cast for this exciting project. "In the 250 year anniversary of Austen's birth, with the visionary Georgia Oakley at the helm, a new Sense and Sensibility for a new generation. "So proud to be Mother to these amazing young women @focusfeatures @workingtitlefilms @daisyedgarjones #EsmeCreedMiles @george__mackay @_frank_dillane_ #FionaShaw @herbertnordrum #georgiaoakley." At 45, the actress known for her portrayal of Claire Fraser will step into the shoes of Mrs Dashwood, mother to central characters Marianne and Elinor Dashwood, who will be played by Hanna's Esmé Creed-Miles and Normal People's Daisy Edgar-Jones, respectively. The film's recent update introduced six fresh faces to its cast, including Frank Dillane of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince as the nefarious John Willoughby, Fiona Shaw from Killing Eve as Mrs Jennings, George MacKay of 1917 as Edward Ferrars, Herbert Nordrum known for Promising Young Woman as Colonel Brandon, Bodhi Rae Breathnach debuting as the youngest Dashwood sibling Margaret, and naturally, Balfe herself. Production on Sense and Sensibility has kicked off in the UK, with BAFTA Award nominee Georgia Oakley at the helm as director, while best-selling author Diana Reid is adapting the screenplay. Balfe's Outlander co-stars were quick to shower her with congratulations in the comments section of the post. Karen Pirie and Marsali Fraser from Outlander, played by Lauren Lyle, posted: "The QUEEEEEN! [sic]." Sophie Skelton, who portrays Balfe's onscreen daughter Brianna MacKenzie in Outlander, penned: "Here she comes." Tim Downie, known for his role as Governor Tryon, exclaimed: "This is fantastic!". Sam Heughan, who stars as Jamie Fraser, commented: "Ooooh mr Pickering! ! [sic]." This could potentially be a nod to illustrator Ferdinand Pickering, the first to illustrate Austen's novels. Izzy Meikle-Small, who plays Rachel Hunter, and Caitlin O'Ryan, who portrays Lizzie Wemyss, also extended their congratulations. The official Outlander Instagram account chimed in with a playful comment: "We know her! We know her! Congratulations @caitrionabalfe!". This new film represents the latest cinematic adaptation of Austen's cherished classic, following Emma Thompson's Oscar-winning version back in 1995. The BBC also produced a 2008 mini-series featuring Janet McTeer, Hattie Morahan, Charity Wakefield, Dan Stevens, David Morrissey, and Dominic Cooper. Sense and Sensibility tells the story of the Dashwood sisters as they strive to make sensible matches amidst financial hardship faced by their family. Mrs Dashwood endeavours to guide her daughters through their altered circumstances, with Elinor and Marianne exhibiting contrasting attitudes towards love.
Otago Daily Times
04-06-2025
- Health
- Otago Daily Times
Oxford scholarship follows career ‘punt'
University of Otago master's graduate Joseph Balfe has received a University of Oxford scholarship. PHOTO: SUPPLIED From musician to neuroscientist, an Oamaru man's career change has paid off. Former Waitaki Boys' High School student Joseph Balfe has been awarded the prestigious Clarendon Scholarship at the University of Oxford in England. About 38,000 graduates apply each year for the fully funded scholarship at the collegiate research university. Mr Balfe was one of only 200 people selected worldwide. Mr Balfe, 25, attended WBHS from 2012-16, and achieved his master's of science (with distinction) in neuroscience at the University of Otago last year. He will undertake his PhD in psychiatry at Oxford. Mr Balfe said he was astounded to receive the scholarship. "I'm very surprised but absolutely grateful at the same time because it was definitely a lot of work to get to this point. "I'm really looking forward to being surrounded by very like-minded people who are working very hard and excited and passionate about what they do." After completing his bachelor's degree in music he was "at a bit of a crossroads" and said he "kind of fell into neuroscience". "It was a bit of a punt because I wasn't really a science person, but I just gave it my best shot and now it's gone pretty far obviously, and my life has gone in a completely different direction." WBHS rector Darryl Paterson said the school community was "incredibly proud of Joseph" as they were of "many old boys who are changing the world". "To be recognised for such a prestigious scholarship is an amazing achievement and a tribute to his talents." Being a prefect, Mr Balfe was an outstanding student as well as a talented musician, public speaker and sportsman, Mr Paterson said. "Speaking with many of his former teachers, and having met him in 2017, he is a most humble and hardworking young man, highly respected by all." After graduating, Mr Balfe completed an internship in cancer diagnostics at Pacific Edge Ltd, where he now works as a clinical trials associate in the Centre for Innovation. He is also a part-time research assistant at the University of Otago. Over the past two and a-half years, Mr Balfe has been working on developing a novel wearable smart device to detect and relieve asthma attacks by harnessing the interconnectivity of the nervous system. "A lot of what has driven me forward academically has been what I've done with Otago through this device that I'm developing with my supervisor, Associate Prof Yusuf Cakmak, called the VentiMate," he said. Mr Balfe will join Oxford's Translational NeuroStimulation Laboratory, where he will investigate a novel form of brain stimulation for the treatment of depression. His concern for mental health sparked his initial curiosity for neuroscience, after he worked in a support role in residential colleges and met many young people with mental health issues. He said it was a tremendous advantage to continue to work on novel technology that had the potential to make a difference for people who were suffering daily. "That's an enormous privilege and I'm quite humbled to be a part of such an important mission." Born in Portsmouth, England, Mr Balfe moved to Oamaru with his Filipina mother and British father at the age of 6. He "owes everything" to his parents, who were excited for him to attend Oxford. Mr Balfe said music would always be a part of his life. He had a couple of "cool shows" coming up in Dunedin, before he moved to Oxford in mid-September to begin his scholarship course in October.
Daily Record
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Outlander star Caitriona Balfe makes admission about Claire Fraser's parents in prequel
Outlander actress Caitríona Balfe opened up about the prequel Outlander: Blood of My Blood teased in trailer Outlander actress Caitríona Balfe has divulged a lovely anecdote about the runaway success of the Starz series, reports the Scottish Daily Express. The Irish sensation commented: "I mean, I did not start the show thinking I would ever meet my parents." She further revealed her excitement about the prequel developments, saying, "I didn't know that these guys were going to be part of the prequel and I was super excited when I found out they were because I think I was like, 'Oh great, like it's really cool that Claire's parents are in the show.'". Balfe also shared, "I don't remember what my vision of them in my head was. But when I saw these guys a week ago, I was like, 'It's really cool. It's really awesome.'". These revelations came during a Q&A session with cast members from Outlander: Blood of My Blood—Jeremy Irvine and Hermione Corfield—who bring life to Balfe's onscreen parents, Henry Beauchamp and Julia Moriston. Upon meeting the pair from Blood of My Blood, Balfe expressed, "Having met Hermione and Jeremy, I'm like they are definitely fitting parents." Admirers of Outlander have already observed the notable likeness between Balfe and Corfield, who are cast as daughter and mother characters. In reflection of her pivotal role on the show, Balfe disclosed: "I think Diana created the most incredible character in Claire. She is incredibly strong-willed. She has an innate sense of justice. She will fight for that justice." Balfe adds depth to her portrayal of Claire by stating, "She doesn't take slights lightly. But she lives and loves with incredible passion." Regarding her fictional lineage, Balfe mused, "She fights fiercely and she loves fiercely. And I don't know which one of my parents she got it from." The conversation then turned to the serendipitous romance that blossomed between Henry and Julia under rather extraordinary conditions. Corfield divulged: "So I'm working in a redaction office. You [Henry] write a letter that's sort of saying, 'All is lost and I'm in a horrible place and if anyone read this, I need help.'". Elaborating further, she added: "And then I write back and then we start writing." Irvine described his character's emotions, saying: "There's a poetic nature of Julia's letters. He really finds solace in the romance. In a very dark place, he finds this little ray of hope and this light and he really sort of clings onto that." 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' is set to delve into the backgrounds of Claire's parents, Henry and Julia, who have so far been cloaked in enigma within the narrative, unlike Jamie Fraser's (played by Sam Heughan) parents. Devoted followers are on the brink of uncovering truths about Henry and Julia, whose lives were truncated by a car crash, leaving Claire an orphan during her childhood years. Following the tragedy, Claire found a new home with her Uncle Quentin 'Lamb' Lambert, enacted by George Kemp in Outlander: Blood of My Blood. Operating without the framework of an existing book, the prequel series afforded its writers significant creative freedom to craft the storyline. Additionally, the show promises to captivate newcomers unfamiliar with Outlander as well as satisfy the intrigue of long-standing watchers, presenting elements to appeal to both camps.
Daily Record
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Caitríona Balfe addresses the end of Outlander in amazing tribute
Outlander's Caitríona Balfe paid tribute to the show Outlander star Caitríona Balfe has expressed her deep appreciation for the Starz historical drama during a recent virtual gathering, reports the Scottish Daily Express. The Irish actress, who portrays Claire Fraser, reflected on the show's achievements and extended her gratitude towards the team behind it. Balfe remarked: "I think we've been so spoiled to have so many years of the show doing so well and being promoted so well. "Every single year, Starz have been so amazing and they've put these massive billboards up and it's almost like you start to get used to it, until you realise this may never happen again and it's a really amazing thing that we've been a part of." She also shared her best wishes with the cast of the upcoming prequel series Outlander: Blood of My Blood: "And I hope you guys get to have the same experiences for a very long time because it's really very special and it's not to be taken for granted." Balfe was speaking at The Gathering, an online event hosted by Starz in celebration of Outlander Day on June 1, which marks the publication date of the first book in Diana Gabaldon's acclaimed series. The event was organised by Starz to offer a sneak peek at the anticipated prequel series Outlander: Blood of My Blood, bringing together actors from both the original and upcoming series to discuss what fans can expect. Actress Harriet Slater, who portrays Ellen MacKenzie in Blood of My Blood, expressed her admiration following Balfe's tribute: "I just want to say congratulations because you've made such an incredible show, and like you said, it's so rare for a show to go on that long these days. "I feel like things are cancelled left, right and centre, so it's amazing that you've made this and it's so loved and I feel very proud to be joining, and we've got some big boots to fill." Sam Heughan, famed for his role as Jamie Fraser, also offered his commendations to the cast of Blood of My Blood: "We're actually going to be the biggest fans of your show. "Honestly, I can't wait to see all the younger versions of ourselves or the characters we love." He continued: "A big thank you to our showrunners and writers, Diana Gabaldon who... she was the beginning of all this stuff. Good luck and we're rooting for you." Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to captivate audiences with a 10-episode run, delving into the romantic histories of Claire and Jamie's parents. Echoing its predecessor Outlander, the spin-off will span various time periods, showcasing Claire's parents' love story during World War One and the fervent relationship of Jamie's parents in 17th century Scotland. While Blood of My Blood isn't directly adapted from any of Gabaldon's novels, it draws upon the Outlander canon through anecdotes Jamie and Claire have recounted about their forebears. The absence of original material has allowed the scriptwriters greater creative freedom to experiment with the narrative and fill in some blanks, especially concerning Claire's parents Henry Beauchamp (Jeremy Irvine) and Julia Moriston (Hermione Corfield). Claire was only aware that her parents perished in a car accident, but it appears that Blood of My Blood will provide a definitive resolution to their destiny.
