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STV News
23-06-2025
- General
- STV News
Scots zoo welcomes 'rare and elusive' Madagascan predator
A zoo in Fife has welcomed a new 'rare and elusive' animal native to Madagascar. Fife Zoo announced the arrival of a new male fossa, named Isalo, on Monday. Fossas are carnivores native to Madagascar, often mistaken for a type of big cat or mongoose. Isalo came from Chester Zoo in early June and is part of a carefully managed European endangered species conservation programme (EEP), which aims to preserve healthy and genetically diverse populations of at-risk animals. Fife Zoo Fife Zoo announced the arrival of a new male fossa, named Isalo, on Monday. Fife Zoo The unique species is rarely seen in zoos, with Fife Zoo saying this is an 'extraordinary opportunity' for visitors to learn more about one of the world's lesser-known carnivores. Visitors will be able to see the Isalo in his habitat from June 28 after a brief acclimatisation period to help him adjust to his new surroundings. Zoo director, Michael Knight, said the team was 'delighted' to welcome the new addition, saying: 'Fossas are Madagascar's top predators, but they're also under threat due to habitat loss, fragmentation and persecution by people. 'By caring for them here, we can raise awareness of their threats and support global conservation efforts.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
News.com.au
05-06-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
Inside downfall of iconic Sydney theme park
It was meant to be Sydney's answer to Disneyland – a neon-lit, multi-level temple to gaming glory that promised to bring the future of entertainment Down Under in the late 90s. But by 2000, Sega World had pulled the plug. Now, more than two decades on, former employees have reflected on the ambitious indoor theme park that opened with a bang but quietly fizzled out just a few years later. Sega World Sydney was a short-lived icon of 90s optimism, housed inside Darling Harbour's Pavilion building with a rumoured price tag of over $80 million. Its colourful corridors, virtual reality (VR) simulators, parades and under-18 dance parties were a far cry from Luna Park's rickety charm. Instead, Sega was supposed to be a cutting-edge 'high-tech adventure playground' backed by Sega's global gaming empire. Featuring nine rides and simulators, a bustling food court, live entertainment and over 200 arcade games, it seemed that Sega World had something for everyone – big or small. It was officially launched on March 18 in 1997 by Michael Knight, the Minister at the time responsible for the Sydney Olympic Games and the bustling Darling Harbour precinct. 'They were anticipating huge crowds coming to Sydney and Sega World for the Olympics,' former staff member Andrew said in an interview with Sega fanatic DrScottnik. 'They didn't get they wanted and they weren't making any money,' he added. A big bet that didn't pay off The park was a joint venture between Japanese gaming giant Sega and Sydney Harbour casino developer Jacfun. They poured millions into the project, banking on Olympic tourism and the growing popularity of video games. Instead, ticket sales dwindled despite desperate initiatives such as free entry and free rides. 'We tried various schemes to make people come including free entry, buy passes as you go or buy a ticket at the gate which covered everything. We also tried making games completely free,' said ex-staffer Peter. 'But I guess ultimately, the interest wasn't there.' By early 2000 – just months after the Olympics – Sega had quietly pulled out of the operation, leaving the theme park to gather dust. Not even an auction to sell off the contents of the park in 2001 was able to draw a crowd, with a few hundred-odd punters gathering to pick up arcade games for bargain prices. Jacfun managed to keep the lights on at the site for another three years but by 2003, the dream was officially over. Today, there's little sign that Sega World ever existed at all. Gone, but not forgotten 'I can vividly remember going into the control room and saying, 'Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, Sega world is closed for this evening,' for the very last time,' former manager Jonathon recalled. For many others, Sega World remains a brightly-coloured memory of their childhood. 'My favourite place was shut down for reasons as a kid for reasons that I just couldn't understand,' said ex-visitor Nick. 'It brought us all so much joy and memories. I always remember this as the beginning of the end for that area of the city. For me, the city has never been the same after that,' he said. An online fandom of Sega Sydney lovers still exists, with X accounts dedicated to keeping the memory alive. On eBay, you can even score the iconic Sonic swipe access pass for $277. Many other nostalgic 90s babies weighed in on the clip, sharing their fond memories of the park. 'I went there on my first big Sydney trip. Monorail, aquarium, National Museum and Sega world! Was absolutely ecstatic!,' said one. 'What a nostalgia trip, I think I almost bankrupt my parents by begging to be taken there every school holidays back in the day,' said another. 'I went there as a kid and made friends with another kid after checking out the 3D/4D VR simulation. A few months later he ended up moving away. Fast forward 25 years, he was the best man at my wedding – I'll always have a huge soft spot for Sega World because of that,' shared a third.
The Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 3 Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a sneak peak into its Vision V electric range, which is also set to launch in 2026. The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge."
Scottish Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
The quirky feature will emulate the feeling of driving an F1 car OUT OF THIS WORLD OUT OF THIS WORLD Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 The new Mercedes EQS EV limo is set to launch next year Credit: Mercedes-Benz AG 3 The yoke has a semi-circular shape with controls placed on two central panels Credit: Mercedes-Benz Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a sneak peak into its Vision V electric range, which is also set to launch in 2026. The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge."
The Irish Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 The new Mercedes EQS EV limo is set to launch next year Credit: Mercedes-Benz AG 3 The yoke has a semi-circular shape with controls placed on two central panels Credit: Mercedes-Benz Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. read more motors news Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. Most read in Motors With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge." 3 The yoke gives customers a futuristic experience Credit: Mercedes-Benz
