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Claremont Quarter’s New ‘Laneway’ Precinct: A Foodie Destination Unveiled

by February 25, 2026

written by

Claremont Quarter in Perth’s western suburbs has unveiled a newly revitalised hospitality precinct, known as The Laneway, following a year-long redevelopment project. The precinct features a range of restaurants, including Izakaya Gin, Bellissimo, Grill’d, Chilli Jam, and Yo-Chi, and aims to establish the shopping centre as a key dining destination.

The Laneway’s design incorporates increased alfresco dining areas and enhanced greenery, creating a more connected and contemporary space within Claremont Quarter. According to Claremont Quarter General Manager Doug Addis, the revitalisation is part of a broader strategy to diversify the centre’s offerings beyond retail. “The revitalisation of The Laneway strengthens our commitment to fostering a thriving retail and hospitality environment well into the future,” Addis stated.

The project, which began early last year, seeks to enhance the centre’s “vibrancy” and improve the connection between its retail spaces, building on Claremont Quarter’s position as a western suburbs hub since 2019. Addis explained that the design prioritises a relaxed and contemporary atmosphere. “The Laneway enhances the Centre through improved connectivity, considered design, and fresh greenery, creating a setting that feels relaxed and contemporary,” he said.

Addis also highlighted the collaborative approach taken with hospitality partners to curate a diverse and high-quality dining experience. “Working closely with our hospitality partners, we’ve brought together a mix that balances local favourites with fresh energy. The result is a precinct that offers variety and quality in equal measure.”

To mark the launch of The Laneway, participating restaurants will offer exclusive promotions throughout February and March, including complimentary spritzes and desserts, two-for-one pizza deals, and kids-eat-free options, available every Friday to Sunday.

February 25, 2026 0 comments

Technology

Lost Ancient Amphibian Fossils Found After Museum Mix-Up | WA Discovery

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 23, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

The ancient coastline of Western Australia, now a searing desert in the Kimberley region, has yielded a remarkable paleontological discovery. Researchers have confirmed the existence of not one, but two species of early marine tetrapods – four-limbed vertebrates that transitioned to life in the ocean – from fossils first unearthed in 1972. The uncover, detailed in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, sheds modern light on the diversity of life emerging after a major extinction event and highlights the importance of museum collections, even those with a history of mislabeling.

The story of this discovery is one of both scientific breakthrough and institutional mishap. Fossils of these creatures, dating back 252 million years to the Mesozoic era, were initially discovered on Noonkanbah cattle station east of Derby. One fragment, identified as belonging to a new species named Erythrobatrachus noonkanbahensis, was subsequently mislabeled and remained hidden in the vault of the University of California, Berkeley for over half a century. The rediscovery in 2024 sparked a renewed investigation into the original finds, revealing a more complex picture of prehistoric marine life than previously understood.

Unearthing a Lost Chapter in Marine Evolution

These early tetrapods represent a crucial stage in the evolution of marine ecosystems. Following the Permian-Triassic extinction event – the most severe known mass extinction in Earth’s history – modern marine ecosystems were beginning to take shape. Tetrapods, the ancestors of modern amphibians and reptiles, were among the first to establish themselves as dominant predators in these recovering seas. While most fossils of these creatures have been found in the Northern Hemisphere, the Australian discoveries offer a rare glimpse into their presence in the ancient southern oceans. The West Australian reports that Erythrobatrachus grew up to 2 meters in length and was a trematosaurid temnospondyl – a crocodile-like relative of modern salamanders and frogs.

Two Species from One Location

The key to the new discovery lay in high-resolution 3D imaging. By comparing the rediscovered Berkeley fragment with a plaster cast of another Noonkanbah specimen, researchers realized they weren’t dealing with a single species. The analysis revealed the presence of not only Erythrobatrachus, but also a species belonging to the genus Aphaneramma. This is significant because Aphaneramma fossils have previously been found in geographically disparate locations, including the Scandinavian Arctic, the Russian Far East, Pakistan, and Madagascar.

“The findings suggest that these early Mesozoic marine tetrapods were far more widespread than previously thought,” explained researchers involved in the project. The presence of Aphaneramma alongside Erythrobatrachus in Australia expands the known range of this genus and provides valuable insights into the dispersal patterns of these ancient creatures.

Repatriation and Future Research

The recovered fossils of Erythrobatrachus are now being repatriated to Australia, a move celebrated by paleontologists and cultural heritage advocates. This repatriation ensures that these key specimens will be available for ongoing research and public display within their country of origin.

The discovery underscores the importance of continued paleontological exploration and the meticulous work of museum collections. It also highlights the potential for re-examining existing specimens with new technologies to unlock previously hidden information about Earth’s past. Further research will focus on understanding the ecological roles of Erythrobatrachus and Aphaneramma in the ancient Kimberley marine environment and their relationships to other early tetrapods. The ongoing analysis of these fossils promises to further refine our understanding of the evolutionary history of life on Earth.

What comes next for this research is a deeper dive into the paleoenvironment of the Noonkanbah region. Researchers will continue to analyze the surrounding rock formations to uncover more clues about the conditions that supported these ancient marine predators. The story of the ‘sea-salamander’ is a reminder that even after decades, the Earth continues to reveal its secrets.

Share your thoughts on this incredible discovery in the comments below!

February 23, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Rottnest Channel Swim Cancelled: Bad Weather Forces Disruption

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 20, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Perth’s iconic Rottnest Channel Swim has been cancelled just hours before its scheduled start, leaving approximately 2,500 swimmers and their support crews disappointed. The decision, announced late Friday afternoon, comes as authorities cite dangerous weather conditions and prioritize the safety of all involved. This marks only the third time in the event’s history that the swim has been called off, with previous cancellations occurring in 2007 and a mid-race abandonment in 2024.

The 19.7-kilometer open-water swim, a Western Australian sporting staple, was slated to begin Saturday. However, forecasts of strong winds and choppy seas prompted organizers to produce the challenging call. While the weather outlook has been known for several days, officials delayed the final decision to allow for any potential improvement, adhering to their established risk management protocols.

“This isn’t the call that we want to make, we don’t want people not be swimming to Rottnest, but we want people to be safe,” said organiser Will Rollo, speaking to ABC Radio Perth. He noted that a small number of participants – fewer than 100 – had already withdrawn in the 48 hours leading up to the cancellation.

The Rottnest Channel Swim Association (RCSA) acknowledged the disappointment of swimmers and support crews in a statement, emphasizing that safety remains the paramount concern. The RCSA also confirmed that no refunds will be issued for registration fees, citing event costs and pre-existing terms and conditions, which stipulate no refunds for cancellations after November 28, 2025.

Lessons Learned from 2024 Incident

This year’s cancellation follows a challenging 2024 event, where the race was abandoned mid-way through due to deteriorating weather conditions. PerthNow reported that several swimmers required assistance and were taken to hospital for assessment during that event. Organizers stated they have incorporated lessons from 2024 into their decision-making process this year.

The RCSA explored the possibility of rescheduling the swim, but ultimately determined it was not feasible due to the significant logistical challenges and costs associated with managing the shipping lane and other event infrastructure.

Impact on Participants and the Community

The cancellation impacts not only the registered swimmers but also the broader community that supports the event, including volunteers, boat operators, and local businesses. The Rottnest Channel Swim is a significant event on the Western Australian sporting calendar, attracting participants and spectators from across the state and beyond.

While disappointment is widespread, the RCSA’s decision underscores the importance of prioritizing safety in open-water swimming events. The challenging conditions in the waters between Perth and Rottnest Island demand careful consideration and a proactive approach to risk management.

Looking ahead, the RCSA will likely review its risk assessment protocols and explore options for improving weather forecasting accuracy to minimize the potential for future cancellations. The focus will remain on delivering a safe and enjoyable event for all participants when conditions allow.

Share your thoughts on the cancellation and the importance of safety in open-water swimming in the comments below.

February 20, 2026 0 comments

Health

A ‘chia seed’ trend on TikTok promotes a ‘quick fix’ to weight loss, but is it safe?

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health February 1, 2026

written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

A staple in the Aztec diet has become a viral TikTok trend sweeping social media — the “chia seed challenge” promising weight loss, improved gut health and digestion.

Not entirely new to the health scene, the tiny nutrient-dense grains are being spruiked online by health and wellbeing influencers and artificial intelligence (AI) creators.

The benefits of consuming chia have been well documented, but social media experts and dieticians are warning internet users to be aware of content containing incorrect or exaggerated information.

With tens of millions of online videos related to the superfood, how do you know what you are viewing is backed by medical research?

Health and wellbeing influencers and AI creators promote the benefits of chia seed consumption online. (Supplied: TikTok)

What are chia seeds?

Table of Contents

1. What are chia seeds?
2. Are they really good for you?
3. Quick chia jam
4. Do I need to soak them?
5. Should I trust what I see in the videos?
6. Beware of AI-generated videos
7. Can eating large amounts of chia seeds cause esophageal blockage?
8. A ‘Chia Seed’ Trend on TikTok Promotes a ‘Swift Fix’ to Weight Loss,But Is It Safe?
9. the TikTok Trend: What’s Happening?
10. Why ‘Quick Fixes’ Don’t Work (and Can Be harmful)
11. The Risks of Excessive Chia Seed Consumption
12. The Actual Benefits of Chia Seeds
13. How to Incorporate Chia Seeds Safely
14. Real-World Example: A Case Study in Responsible Chia Seed Use
15. Beyond weight Loss: Chia Seeds and overall Health

Chia seeds come from the purple flowering lavender look-alike plant Spanish sage.

Originating in Mexico, chia has in recent decades been introduced to the Northern TerritoryQueensland and Western Australia’s Ord Valley region in the Kimberley.

The super seed is highly regarded for its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and is commonly added to smoothies and overnight oatsand is used in chia pudding and jam recipes.

Chia crop — Chia seeds come from a flowering lavender look-alike plant named salvia hispanica. (Supplied: The Chia Company)

Often found in the health food section of supermarket aisles, chia seeds can be black or white in colour, with no nutritional difference between them.

Are they really good for you?

Amelia Harray, a dietician at the University of Western Australia, said consuming chia seeds had many benefits for the body.

“Like lots of nuts and seeds, chia seeds are absolutely superfoods,”

she said.

“They are about 24 per cent protein, and they’re also what we call a ‘complete protein source’, which means they contain all nine amino acids.”

A woman holding fresh vegetables. — Amelia Harray says chia seeds don’t need to be soaked in order to activate the nutritional benefits. (Supplied: Matt Biocich)

Chia seeds are also high in dietary fibre, promoting gut health.

“They’re about 33 per cent fibre, including both soluble and insoluble fibre,” Dr Harray said.

“Fibre not only benefits our gut health, it can also help lower blood cholesterol levels to reduce risk of heart disease, and it helps us feel fuller for longer.”

glass of water with chia seeds being poured in with spoon — Ameila Harray says chia seeds are safe to be consumed soaked or unsoaked. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seabourne)

While many of the online videos touted chia as responsible for “weight-loss transformations”, Dr Harray cautioned people with low-fibre diets against suddenly increasing their intake.

“Because they’re really high in dietary fibre, if someone naturally has a really low-fibre diet … and then they start eating lots of chia seeds, they may get some abdominal discomfort,” she said.

“Bloating or cramps if they go from zero to 100 really quickly.”

Do I need to soak them?

Chia can safely be consumed soaked or unsoaked, according to Dr Harray.

When added to liquid, the seeds absorb it and expand in size.

Despite many online creators warning the seeds must be soaked before consumption, it is safe to eat chia “raw” by sprinkling them over foods like cereal or yoghurt.

A green breakfast smoothie in bowl topped with "superfoods" like chia, quinoa, goji berries, fresh berries and sunflower seeds. — Dieticians say it is safe to sprinkle raw chia on foods. (Getty Images: GMVozd)

We asked Dr Harray if there was a distinct right and wrong way to eat chia seeds.

“We know you do not need to soak chia seeds in order to activate the nutritional benefits,” she said.

“This is something I have seen on social media, but it’s really not supported by the evidence.”

upclose picture of chia seeds in a class with water — TikTok trends often see health food products promoted as cures to gut health, digestion and skin conditions. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seabourne)

But the dietician did not recommend people eat dry chia seeds by the spoonful.

“The dangers of swallowing dry chia seeds are really if they get stuck in your throat,” she said.

close up woman drinking chia and water out of glass — Many content creators promote “chia seed water” as a weight loss drink. (ABC Kimberley: Andrew Seabourne)

Dr Harray said the nutritional benefits of soaked and unsoaked chia were similar.

“When a chia seed is soaked, it forms a gel, so anyone that’s eaten them would know it gets thick quite quickly,” she said.

“This can be really great for our gut health, and help our digestive system, but we know if you’re eating them unsoaked, they’re still excellent sources of fibre.

“The key is to eat them in a way you enjoy.”

Should I trust what I see in the videos?

Internet studies professor Tama Leaver said he was not surprised to see another health product “doing the rounds” on social media, calling it the “wellness loop”.

“Some [creators] are probably describing it in a way consistent with health advice,” he said.

“And then you’ve got the full end of the spectrum where people are claiming it’s basically the next miracle cure for anything to do with your inner health.“

Professor Leaver said wellness advice was often exaggerated and “over-hyped”.

A male university academic stands outside a building. — Tama Leaver says social media users shouldn’t take health and wellness advice at face value. (Supplied: Tama Leaver)

“There are also a lot of people who are just jumping on the trend and exacerbating claims about the usefulness of these products to get more clicks,” he said.

“That’s how they make a living, that is their business model.

“It’s not based on health or medical knowledge — that’s the real danger here.”

Beware of AI-generated videos

The Curtin University professor said AI was increasingly being used in the promotion of health products on social media, and AI creators could generate videos in just 30 seconds.

“We can’t take anything at face value,”

Professor Leaver said.

“I looked up chia seeds yesterday, and the first five videos were these deep, booming AI voiceover videos proclaiming the wondrous nature of chia seeds, how it would fix your gut health forever.”

Generic image of a phone displaying a folder of social media apps — Tama Leaver says social media users need to verify the information they see in online content. (Supplied: Unsplash)

He said users needed to be aware of health and wellness claims and verify them before taking the advice.

“We have to do that three clicks of contextual checking,” Professor Leaver said.

“Learn about the person who’s making the claim. Do they have a history? What are their other videos? Does it look like they’re just trying to make money?”

Can eating large amounts of chia seeds cause esophageal blockage?

A ‘Chia Seed’ Trend on TikTok Promotes a ‘Swift Fix’ to Weight Loss,But Is It Safe?

The latest wellness craze sweeping TikTok involves consuming chia seeds – often soaked in water or juice – as a purported shortcut to weight loss.While chia seeds are undeniably healthy, the way they’re being promoted online raises notable concerns.As a physician, I want to break down the science, the risks, and a realistic approach to incorporating chia seeds into a healthy lifestyle. This article will explore the TikTok trend, the potential dangers of relying on “quick fixes,” and how to safely benefit from this tiny but mighty seed.

the TikTok Trend: What’s Happening?

The core of the trend revolves around consuming large quantities of chia seeds with minimal food intake, frequently enough marketed as a “detox” or a way to suppress appetite. Videos showcase individuals consuming mixtures like “chia seed pudding” made with excessive amounts of seeds and very little liquid,or simply swallowing tablespoons of dry chia seeds with water. The claim is that chia seeds expand in the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness, leading to reduced calorie consumption and, ultimately, weight loss.

This is partially based on a physiological truth – chia seeds do absorb water and expand. Though, the TikTok trend frequently enough exaggerates this effect and promotes an unhealthy approach to dieting.

Why ‘Quick Fixes’ Don’t Work (and Can Be harmful)

Before diving deeper into chia seeds specifically,it’s crucial to understand why relying on “quick fix” diets is detrimental to long-term health.

* Unsustainable: severely restricting calories or relying on a single food source is rarely sustainable. These diets often lead to rebound weight gain once normal eating patterns resume.

* Nutrient Deficiencies: Eliminating food groups or drastically reducing intake can result in essential nutrient deficiencies, impacting overall health and well-being.

* Disordered Eating Patterns: Focusing on restrictive diets can contribute to the progress of unhealthy relationships with food and possibly trigger disordered eating behaviors.

* metabolic Slowdown: Prolonged calorie restriction can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight and easier to regain it in the future.

The Risks of Excessive Chia Seed Consumption

While chia seeds offer nutritional benefits, consuming them in the manner promoted on TikTok carries real risks:

* Esophageal Obstruction: This is the most serious concern. Dry chia seeds expand rapidly when they come into contact with saliva and fluids in the esophagus. This expansion can cause a blockage, requiring emergency medical intervention. Several cases have been reported, particularly in individuals who don’t consume enough liquid with the seeds.

* Digestive Issues: Even without a full obstruction,large amounts of chia seeds can cause bloating,gas,constipation,and abdominal discomfort.

* Choking Hazard: Swallowing dry chia seeds without adequate liquid increases the risk of choking.

* Nutrient Absorption Interference: The high fiber content, while generally beneficial, can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients if consumed in excessive amounts.

* Allergic Reactions: Although rare, chia seed allergies do exist. Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis.

The Actual Benefits of Chia Seeds

Let’s be clear: chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse when consumed responsibly. Here’s what they offer:

* Rich in fiber: Promotes digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and contributes to feelings of fullness.

* Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A plant-based source of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties.

* Protein: Contributes to satiety and supports muscle health.

* Antioxidants: protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.

* Minerals: Good source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese.

How to Incorporate Chia Seeds Safely

Instead of chasing a TikTok “quick fix,” focus on incorporating chia seeds into a balanced diet. Here are some practical tips:

Start Small: Begin with 1-2 tablespoons per day and gradually increase if tolerated.
Always Soak: Soak chia seeds in at least 8 ounces of water, juice, or milk for at least 10-15 minutes before consuming. This allows them to expand safely and prevents esophageal issues.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when consuming chia seeds.
Mix it Up: Add chia seeds to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, salads, or baked goods.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust your intake accordingly.

Real-World Example: A Case Study in Responsible Chia Seed Use

I recently worked with a patient,Sarah,who had seen the TikTok trend and was interested in incorporating chia seeds into her diet. However, she was concerned about the potential risks.We discussed a gradual approach, starting with 1 tablespoon of soaked chia seeds added to her morning smoothie. Over several weeks, we monitored her digestive health and adjusted the amount based on her tolerance.Sarah reported increased satiety, improved digestion, and a sustained energy level – all without resorting to restrictive dieting. Her success highlights the importance of a mindful and informed approach.

Beyond weight Loss: Chia Seeds and overall Health

The benefits of chia seeds extend beyond weight management. Research suggests they may play a role in:

* **Heart Health

February 1, 2026 0 comments

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