Wake Up Australia

Michael chats with Roy Masters about comparing the events and impacts of Spanish Flu in sport in 1920, to the current Coronavirus pandemic.

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Michael is joined by Sarah Sydrich, President of the National Sheep Dog Trials, who many credit for reinvigorating this highly-competitive and challenging sport under her leadership.

 

A fascinating insight into Australia's rural life, the highly-competitive and challenging National Sheep Dog Trials was set up 77 years ago in 1943 to raise funds for Legacy during the Second World War.  

 

A wonderful example of extraordinary teamwork, it sees enthusiasts gather from the ACT, New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and the Northern Territory.

 

An enthusiastic Ms Sydrych says “It used to be the most prestigious trial in Australia, and we’re just trying to get back that recognition.”

 

“I don’t know of any other capital city that has a heritage event like this going on right at their doorstep. I think it’s amazing.”

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Michael is joined by Foreign Correspondent investigator Emma Alberici, who braved a no-man’s land near Naples to report on a ruthless new crime group that’s moving in on the local mafia.

 

The mafia is one of Italy’s most famous international business brands, with an estimated annual turnover of $250 billion a year, but its market share is being challenged by a group of ruthless new players.

Ms Alberici investigates the growing power of Nigerian organised crime in the birthplace of the Italian mafia.

As Coles & Woolworths announced they will open early specifically for elderly & those with disability, Michael is joined by Ian Henschke, Chief Advocate for National Seniors Australia, about the impact of Coronavirus our seniors.

 

The Federal Government has released stimulus packages for the healthcare sector and the economy, in response to the spreading coronavirus. 

 

Aiming to boost pensioner income, strengthen aged care practices aged care has been identified as a priority area during this coronavirus threat.

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Michael is joined by Murray Wilton, General Manager of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, which has been forced to cancel due the coronavirus pandemic. 

This is the first time in almost a century, the show has been abandoned due to public health concerns coming after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the cancellation of non-essential mass gatherings of more than 500 people from today.

Every Monday morning Michael McLaren talks movies and entertainment with Managing Editor of Screen-Space, Simon Foster.

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