Dumbo and Co: Charming Pics of Mid Century Elephants

Elephants are one of the largest land mammals on earth and also one of the longest lived, with a lifespan averaging 60 years or longer. In the Buddhist tradition, a white elephant is considered to be the incarnation of Buddha. Thus the rare appearance of a white elephant is still heralded as a manifestation ofContinue reading “Dumbo and Co: Charming Pics of Mid Century Elephants”

Free Online Course for Dreamers: Origins – Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life

This is quite possibly the most amazing course ever presented on Coursera. It’s called Origins – Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life. A sweeping epic that begins at the moment of the Big Bang and the creation of matter and careens along at a throttling pace through Deep Time towards the HumanContinue reading “Free Online Course for Dreamers: Origins – Formation of the Universe, Solar System, Earth and Life”

Cruelty Free Product Review: Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil

Trilogy’s brand genesis essentially begun with the discovery by New Zealanders Catherine de Groot and Sarah Gibbs of the marvelous benefits of rosehip oil. In 2002, the two ladies launched the Trilogy brand based on the efficacy of rosehip oil as a natural and effective alternative to synthetic skincare ingredients. As their hero product, certified organicContinue reading “Cruelty Free Product Review: Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil”

The Three Step Guide to Buying Cruelty Free

Firstly, The Dodgy List  Although many brands do test on animals or use animal-based ingredients (ie. non-vegan) ingredients, they get around this with some amazing marketing spin. As an self-described spin-doctor for brands myself, I still find this sort of deception repulsive.  Here’s some confusing and vague words to watch out for on product packaging:Continue reading “The Three Step Guide to Buying Cruelty Free”

Are Sharks A Real Summer Danger in Australia?

Great white sharks are found all over the world and live up to 30 years and grow up to 6 metres in length. Feeding primarily on fish and seals, they are one of the majestic masters of the world’s oceans. Sparked by recent spate of fatal shark attacks, Western Australia’s Premier recently gave the greenContinue reading “Are Sharks A Real Summer Danger in Australia?”

Take the quiz: What New Zealand native species are you?

Take this quiz that originally appeared on the NZ Department of Conservation’s website. It is a lot of fun.  Image Source Kauri You’re one of the world’s mightiest characters. You’re tall and strong and are respected by many. But with great power comes great responsibility, and you find that often you’re reassuring people that ‘My homeContinue reading “Take the quiz: What New Zealand native species are you?”

Impossibly Beautiful Marine Life in Sydney Harbour – Part 4

So far I have lovingly described a lot of Sydney natives who live under the sea. In our final of the series I look at the Gloomy Octopus and Eastern Blue Devil Fish, two of the most reclusive, mysterious and strangely beautiful residents of Sydney Harbour. I hope that you’ve enjoyed this series on ImpossiblyContinue reading “Impossibly Beautiful Marine Life in Sydney Harbour – Part 4”

Bill Bailey Demands Release Of Land Snails in Polynesia

In a fascinating Guardian interactive entitled Seven Digital Sins, Comedian Bill Bailey muses on how the abundance of campaigns on social media causes us all to go into meltdown. As a consequence, we never become deeply involved in social causes and ideas that we are passionate about, beyond the paltry click-click of our keyboards. HisContinue reading “Bill Bailey Demands Release Of Land Snails in Polynesia”

Impossibly Beautiful Marine Life in Sydney Harbour – Part 3

As promised, here are more amazing creatures both big and small who call Sydney Harbour home. Although if you are planning on a snorkelling or diving expedition, be aware that most of these creatures will be elusive, shy and unwilling to interact with you. Seahorse Seahorses are gorgeous, mystical and delicate creatures. They have captivatedContinue reading “Impossibly Beautiful Marine Life in Sydney Harbour – Part 3”

Impossibly Beautiful Sea Life of Sydney Harbour – Part 1

In case you’ve been living under a rock in the harbour, you will know that Sydney offers some amazing snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. It’s a really clean body of water. The proof is in the snorkelling too. A recent study revealed that Sydney harbour has more marine species than any other harbour in theContinue reading “Impossibly Beautiful Sea Life of Sydney Harbour – Part 1”