Domestic Airfare Easter Sale

It's on now until the 2nd of April. As usual, Virgin Blue and Jetstar (not to forget Qantas) are having a domestic sale. The sale if for travel between the 24th April and 21st of June 2007. So if you haven't planned your June holiday, now is the time to grab a bargain.

For more details, go to their website
www.virginblue.com.au
www.jetstar.com.au
www.qantas.com.au

New Breed of Xbox360

There has been emerging reports that Microsoft is going to launch an 'elite' version of their Xbox360. This is done to coincide with the 1st birthday of the console. The 'elite' Xbox360 is rumoured to be black in colour, has bigger hard drive (120 GB), has HDMI built-in and possibly an HD-DVD as well.

It is expected to be sold around US$479 and only available in limited quantities. Major announcement is expected tomorrow so I guess we will have to wait and see what is up Microsoft's sleeve.

picture courtesy of TheAge

Blu Ray vs HD DVD = PS3 vs Xbox360 ??

Well is it ? At the moment it looks like that's the case. PS3 is equipped with the new Blu Ray format and Xbox360 is offering HD-DVD drive as a peripheral (for AU$250).

A lot of people compare the battle between the two formats to the battle of Betamax and VHS, and VideoCD and DVD. The winner of course was VHS and DVD. But can't the 2 formats co-exist together ? In the case of Betamax and VHS, it's impossible because the size is different in the first place. But with Blu Ray and HD DVD, it is more likely. A lot of "neutral" manufacturers are developing a player that will support both formats. I say "neutral" because they are not taking sides (yet).

However, Blu Ray might have the lead in Australia. JB Hifi, one of the popular retailers for CDs and DVDs, has said that they will only stock Blu Ray movies. Hmmm.....I don't how much Sony need to fork out to get JB to say that.

JB is not the only onw influenced by Blu Ray, it turns out that Xbox360 might go with Blu Ray format as well if it wins the battle of the next generation format. A Microsoft representative in UK mentioned this. This might happen or it might not. But does this portray a defeat for the Xbox camp ? The answer to that might still be a long way ahead of us.

Right now, people are still happy with DVD right now, the price is right, the collection is abundant. The high definition (HD) revolution has only begun to be embraced and people are still learning about HDMI, 1080i, 1080p, etc etc.

So until we see $100 players for both formats and a whole stack of movies in the new format, we might not know the winner just yet. And as far as the consoles are concerned, I think it's should be up to the games to decide who wins instead of the format they support.

March, O March

March is probably the month you want to be in Melbourne. It is jam-packed with.....stuff. Some has past but there are more to come as well. So I would like you guys to keep updated with all the news.

FUTURE EVENTS

Daylight Savings
Daylight Saving will be over this Sunday (25th of March) so on Saturday night before you sleep, wind back you clock an hour. I always can't remember which is the one where you get an extra hour of sleep.

FINA Championship
The swimming championship is still on until the first of April.

Antipodes Festival
It's the annual Greek festival that happens on Lonsdale St. It's happening again this year on the 24th and 25th of March (this weekend). More info here.

Flower and Garden Show
The annual show will start next week on the 28th of March. It's a showcase of amazing gardens and beautiful flower arrangements. It's happening at Carlton gardens as usual. Check out their website.
I went to the event last year and it was spectacular. Tickets are a bit expensive though so make sure you get the best out of it. I don't know about this year though cause of the drought and stuff.


PAST EVENTS

PS3 Launch
It happened last night, all around the country. The long-awaited PS3 finally arrives in Australia. Retailers were opened from 11pm to welcome this black machine. Sony claims that it's the revolution for entertainment.
Anyway, I didn't go to any launch last night so I can't really report on anything I saw.

Stage 3A Water Restriction
Yup, it's going to happen again. Water level is still constantly dropping in Melbourne (and maybe Australia) so a tougher restrictions will be enforce. Currently, we are under stage 3 water restrictions. This has limited the use for water outdoors such as watering the plants, washing the car, etc. The 3A restriction will again toughen this. The major difference that I noticed for stage 3A (for the household) is limited in watering the garden, only mornings nor more in the evenings.
If there is no significant rain and the supply of water continues to decrease, further restrictions are possible. I believe stage 4 will not allow water to be used outdoor at all. And the ultimate restriction is water for drinking only. Let's hope that this will never happen.
Here is an FAQ provided by the government to help you understand the restriction better.

Apple TV shipped
Yeah I know there no relevance on putting this here but never mind. Apple TV has begun shipment in the US and Australia soon to follow. Some people have been kind enough to share their "take-it-out-of-the-box" experience and some has shared how to set it up properly. Others opt for a more different experience, dismantling the unit. Anyway, just want to let you see some pretty pictures (if you think transistors are sexy).

Moomba Festival
I didn't see anything much of Moomba this year. I blame it on "domestic dispute" with my wife.

F1 Championship
Again, I didn't see it happening at all, not even on TV. I only know the next day that the winner was Kimi Raikkonen followed by Alonso.
Anyway, one thing I find funny from F1 is the celebrity race. Hamish and Andy (from the Hamish and Andy radio show) were in the race. They decided to make a bet with each other, whoever loses the match must wear their helmet for a whole week. If you have been tuning to their show, you would know that Andy won the race and has been torturing Hamish with his helmet. The "torture" included playing drums at Hamish's helmet, throwing tennis ball at the helmet and so on.
This afternoon, Andy will decide whether he should let Hamish go from the agony or whether it will still be on until Sunday (the initial deal was Sunday). So tune in at 4-6pm at 101.9 Fox FM (if you're in Melbourne) for their show. If you would like to hear or see Hamish's agony, check out their website where you view pictures and subscribe to their podcast.

New Game Store Found !!!

Ok, I like games period. In Australia, we always get the last of everything. Games arrives here lasts, console delayed, etc, etc. So it's really sad. Imagine this, the US got the DS game, Final Fantasy III, about....ermm....several months ago and Australia just got it several weeks ago.

Anyway, that encourage me to look something overseas, getting import games and stuff. So far, I have not found any nice website that stocks lots of games. BUT, I have found one now. It's called Play-Asia. They have got a lot of stuff from the new consoles to the older ones. The consoles that they support include Sony PS3, Nintendo Wii, Xbox360, Nintendo DS, Gameboy, Dreamcast, Gamecube PSOne, etc etc. They also have games soundtracks, stuff that is really hard to get when you're in Australia, movies, and toys.

Another thing that I like about them is their shipping. To Australia, it's CHEAP. For a game, it might be US$3. This does vary and is based on the most economical option. If you like tracking, etc then obviously it will be more. Also unlike other websites, they tell you the shipping cost on the product page. So you know straight away, no more guessing with the parcel weight, etc.

Their price is alright. It's not that expensive and it's not that cheap. They use US dollars and you can pay with credit card or Paypal. I think they are "Verified by Visa" and "Mastercard Secure" merchant, which means extra protection if you want to use your credit card.

The games are mostly NTSC, meaning it's either from Japan, US or Asia. So for region specific console, make sure that your console can play them first. Shouldn't be a worry for PS3, PSP and DS cause they're all region-free. Just make sure you can understand the language.

I suggest you check them out. I'll give you some links to the games that I think would be an excellent play.

Good Stuff

Ok, who said that reading newspaper is boring and you cannot get anything from it ? Today for example, by reading the Herald Sun I found out that the newest edition of Zoo Weekly magazine has some 'saucy' photos of John Howard's potential daughter in law. The photos were taken way before when she was in university or something.


picture courtesy of Herald Sun

Anyway, there's another interesting news when I was reading The Age (let's not start on the debate of which is the greatest newspaper) and this one is really something HUGE. For every university student in Australia, you can buy Microsoft Office Ultimate 2007 for just $75 and that's yours to keep. Now that's what I call a good deal.

The Office Ultimate 2007 is the top of the range for the Office packages, it includes everything: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, and so on, and so on. Check here for complete products and its functionality. It retails for more than $1000 and it can be yours for $75 forever or $25 for 1 year. Just check out this website, www.itsnotcheating.com.au.

picture courtesy of Microsoft

The website might look a bit doggy and you are normal if you think that this is some kind of spam or fraud. I mean, come on, what did we (students) do to Microsoft to get the honour of 95% discount ? To earn your trust, it actually have a link back to Microsoft's website that explain the deal.

The website has all the details of how you can get the deal, each person is only allowed one copy and MUST be a student of the university listed. Payment can only be done via credit card and you MUST have a valid university email. This last one is important cause your serial/unlock code will be delivered to that email.

Although you might want to be careful when you type in the website. If you type in itsnotcheating.com.au without the www then you will go to the xbox360 website instead of the offer. Give it a try though.
[update: Microsoft has fixed the wrong link so you will get to the offer page however you type it in]

I'm not being paid by Microsoft nor will I get anything by telling you all this. However, I am trying to enter their blogging competition and I wouldn't mind the Vespa cause I got a motorcycle license from a year ago and I've never ridden a bike ever since (pathetic, I know).

So, just check it out and if you're a student, make sure you get it even though you don't need it. Cause this deal will not repeat itself. It will end on 28th of May 2007 but just get in early, in case the directors changed their mind and decide to withdraw the whole thing. It's one decision that you will not regret.

Just as a personal opinion, MS Office is a nice and handy product to have on your computer. Unlike it's relative Vista, Office does not get a lot of beating from critics. And if you are in university, there's a 100% chance that you will use the Office products. I know cause I survived my Bachelor degree with Word and Excel. So why not get an original and legitimate product and do the right thing.

Is PS3 going to be Sony's downfall ?

PS3 will launch in Australia sometime in March, 23rd of March to be exact, just 5 months shy from the US and Japan launch. Launch price is $999.95 with the 60GB hard disk. Retailers have been taking pre-orders and offering bonuses to come with it. Dick Smith will invite you to a PS3 launch party with celebrities with $5 pre-order, BIG W will give you an extra controller, Toy's R Us will give you a game for half price and many more.

But that's not what I'm going to talk about here. Instead, I want to look at Sony's downfall. Future doesn't look so good with this Japanese electronic giant. Why ? Because Sony is not delivering the 'goods' anymore.

Sony has always been a popular brand. They had a long standing in TVs, Hi-Fis, LCDs, DVDs and so on. But what they like to do is to create a revolutionary product. They achieved this with their Walkman several years ago, gaming industry with PS1 and PS2, and now with their Blu-Ray technology. However, they are slightly losing their touch. Walkman has not been keeping up in the digital music industry, and now PS3 seems to fail the games industry as well.

Sony's downfall seem to start when they recalled thousands of laptop batteries that they supply to other companies (such as Dell, Apple). Apparantly, the batteries can overheat and you can fry an egg while browsing the internet. Some might think that this is an innovation but not for people who puts their laptop on their lap.

Sony then decided to make PS3 launch simultaneously (well, almost) worldwide, Japan would launch first (of course), North America after, then lastly Europe and Australia. I think this is a good marketing strategy to show that PS3 is not region-locked, meaning they can play all games coming from all over the place. This was suppose to happen on November last year but then Sony doesn't have enough screws to bolt the PS3 together so they postpone Europe and Australia's launch.

Even with separate launch, Sony wasn't able to fully ship PS3 to their loyal supporters on the launch day at US and Japan. So eBay had to take over, PS3 was seen to reach $6000 during launch.

But for us in Australia, all we can do was wait. Wait until the launch day is announced, wait for the specifications to be downgraded. What ? Yes, the PS3 specifications for Australia has been downgraded. They will not include a 'chip' that enables PS3 to backward play PS2 games. But instead they will use a software to emulate this capability. Arghhhh, for $1000, you expect Sony to give you a royal treatment but instead Sony is giving you junk. I'm upset by Sony. I've always backed them all the way but now, I'm seriously considering my position.

Maybe closer to the release date, we will get a new announcement. "The Australian PS3 will not have a cover and you must always hold if you want it to work" or something like that. Sigh. You lost my vote Sony.

Anyway, back to Sony. This kind of behaviour is unusual of Sony (well, it's not unusual behaviour for a corporation that seeks profit at all cost). So, is this the start of their downfall ? Will Sony brand be less known by people in a few years time ? Will PS3 be the cause ? Will you start buying Toshiba ? Will you support HD-DVD ?

Well, I hope Sony will not go from bad to worse and plunge to their death. I still have some hope for you. But for the PS3, you definitely smashed all my hope and expectations.

DVD by Mail ?

Do you like to watch movies? Do you watch a lot a lot of movies? Well, I do. If you do too then maybe you want to check out Quickflix. It's basically an online store where you can rent DVDs, all the latest release and a whole lot more. Think of it as Blockbuster or VideoEzy without the store. Everything is done online.

How does it work ?
So, this is how it works. You sign up with them, choose your plan. They have 2 types of plan, the limited and unlimited one. Limited means you have a maximum number of DVDs per month and unlimited means you can have as many DVD as you want. If you like to watch movies, choose unlimited but if you're a casual person choose the limited. With unlimited, you have to choose the number of DVD that you can borrow at any one time. I'd recommend 2 or 3 DVDs. But if you live in front of the TV or make a living out of watching movies, well go crazy.

Once you sign up, you have to make a list of all the movies you like to borrow. This is your queue list. You order the list based on priority, meaning the movie that you really want to watch you put it in number 1, and so on. Just so you know, putting it number 1 doesn't mean that you'll get it tomorrow. It just means that you really really want it and if they have it, they will send it to you absolutely but if everybody wants it, then you might have to wait. With every movies, there is an estimate time, whether a lot is available or only a few left.

The DVD will then be sent to you via mail. If you have 3 DVDs out at one time then 3 will come, not necessarily at the same time. Then you watch it and return it whenever you like. If you return 1, another 1 will be sent to you. If you don't return anything, no more movies will be sent.

To return the movies is quite simple as well. The movies all come with a reply-paid envelope, so just pop it in and put it in the mailbox.

What's the catch ?
As far as I know there is no catch. So, it is possible for you to get as many DVDs as you want. You must make sure that you have a long queue list though.

There are other provider (Bigpond is one) that do this sort of thing but I like Quickflix. They've got a huge library and more delivery centres so you can get your movies faster. One of the reason why Quickflix has a big library is because in a couple of years ago they obtain Homescreen, which is another DVD-in-the-mail provider and their library just doubled.

Tips
If you like Quickflix and decide to subscribe, I have a few tips to get the most out of your membership.

1. Try to return your DVD before 5pm. The postman will empty the box at around 6pm depending on your area so you want to get there before him. Normally, it will reach the Quickflix centre the next (business) day so they can tick it off and send you another one ASAP. However, if it's a Friday see tips #2.
   
2. Do NOT return your DVD on Friday cause they are close on weekends so there is no use. Instead, return in on Sunday before 5pm. If you don't know, the postman also empties the post box on Sunday but not on Saturday. So you can enjoy your movies with you mates over the weekend.
3. Make a long lists so they can choose anything of it. Put a combination of the rare items and the available ones in the top 10 if you really want to see those rare ones.
4. With TV shows, try to separate each discs. If you put Grey's Anatomy Season 2, disc 1 to 8 as your number 1 to 8 list then there is a chance that you will get disc 2 first or 8 for that matter. You should put all the 1st disc of the show in the top 10 and the rest outside the top 10. Once you get the 1st disc, shuffle the 2nd disc to the top 10 and so on. That way you'll always get it in sequence.

My opinion
Quickflix is an excellent service for movie-lovers, no need to go out to get movies, just wait for it to come with the mail. I absolutely love it. One is the convenience and another thing is the library selection, they've got anime, non-Hollywood movies, TV shows and many more.

Just give it a go. They have a 14 day free trial, so just try it whether it's suitable for you and your area. Here is what I think you should look out for during the trial period:

• If the DVD delivery takes 3-4 business day to reach you then forget it, don't join them.
• If the DVD is received by them longer than 2 business days then don't join them.

I'm not saying this because they're bad but this service heavily relies on the post service so if the post in your area is not so good the you might be better off going to your local video store.

So, take the trial first then see whether it suits you. Click here or the banner below to take the trial. Enjoy Quickflix.

New Number Plate Style

Melbournians or should I say Victorians, good news. I just got a letter today from Vicroads (thank God it's not a bill or a fine). The letter was about a new style of number plates that will be launched next week. They call it the Signature Plates. It's a 2 letter, 2 letter+1 number, and 2 letter + 2 numbers combination so it's like AA, AA2 and AA12.

I have no detail on the price yet but I'm guessing it'll be above $500. Some limited edition ones, like RR, GT, SS, GT0 will be auctioned on Monday 12th March at the Melbourne Motorshow. Then, the rest will be available the day after from Vicroads and vplates.com.au.

The colours for the new plates is quite awesome as well, check out the colour combination below.

Pictures courtesy of Vicroads

I personally like the gold ones. They would look really nice if I have a car to match it. So for the number plate junkie, circle 13th of March, bold it, write it in your diary, make a poster, do anything so you won't forget it.

Chadstone VIP Night

I just received an email from Chadstone. They will have another VIP night next Wednesday, 7th of March from 5.30 pm to 10pm. Full details check on their website and for offers on the night check here.

End of February 2007

Yup, last day of February. Let's see what is going on in this last day of the month before going onto a new month tomorrow

Jesus' grave found...along with wife, child
Yes, it's for real, not another book by Dan Brown. This time, James Cameron is involved. The whole family graveyard of Jesus, Maria (2 Marias), and Judah (acclaim to be the son of Jesus) was found in Jerusalem. This is a part of a documentary to be screened soon. Everybody is taking sides, is it for real or is it for ratings ? Anyway, just decide for yourself, the DNA test should be coming.

Parking inspectors get new uniforms
Yes, that's right. City of Melbourne is changing the look of their parking inspectors. They don't want their parking inspectors to look like the police wearing a blue uniform, instead they want them to look more like boy scouts or a ranger. Nice. I think every parking inspectors need to get 10 issued fines to get the new uniform. If they want the sweater, they must issue another 5 fines and so on.


Picture courtesy of Herald Sun - taken from their website.

Petrol is going up up and away
It's rumoured that petrol will stay around $1.25 a litre after spending quite some time at $1.09. It's time to take out your bicycle again guys.

Skeleton mania in Australia
It seems that everywhere in Australia, they've just found a skeleton of human remains. One in Windsor station (near South Yarra), another one in Northern Australia. Maybe you'll find one in your backyard as well.

A boy age 8, weigh 88 kg is found
And I thought I was fat. Man, something seriously need to be done to combat these problems. Maybe Americans should start eating rice. And for you people that are wandering, they don't have Chinese parents and the number 8 is just coincidental.

Yeah, I think that's enough news for today. We'll anticipate the coming of tomorrow, a new day, a new month.

Bye Hard Rock Cafe!!

Hard Rock Cafe in Melbourne will close down in July when their lease with Windsor Hotel ends. But it is not goodbye forever as they might plan to relocate somewhere else (Fiuh, I can still eat those delicious ribs).

The current space will be incorporated into Windsor Hotel. The hotel is planning a major refurbishment. Windsor was recently changed owner and I believe, one of the co-owner is Indonesian.

Nice quote

I found this quote in my Church Weekly Bulletin, it is definitely interesting. Made me think for a while. It is true, do you agree ?

Aren't we strange - we pray for a long life but fear old age

Spice Girls is BACK!!!

How exciting, the Spice Girls is apparently going to team up together again for a charity concert. They had similar ideas in the past but nothing happened. But this one seems to be for real. I heard that they want to get the royalty from the TV station that will air the concert, maybe everybody ran out of money (well maybe not for Posh Spice) ?

If you don't know Spice Girls, they're an all-girl group. They were big in 1997 with their zig-a-zig-ah from their Wannabe hit. They promoted "Girl Power", went on and make a ridiculous movie, Spiceworld. I can't remember when they split up but it was Geri H. who first left the group. Another album after that, they all went their separate ways. Everybody tried a solo career after that but only a few survived. I guess 5 is still better than 1.

Spice Girls consists of Baby Spice (Emma B.), Scary Spice (Mel B.), Sporty Spice (Mel C.), Posh Spice (Victoria B.), and I forgot the one for Geri, I think it was Ginger Spice :)

Shuffle those colours

If you don't know, a couple of weeks ago Apple launched more colours for their iPod Shuffle range. It's still the same price but you get the newer headphones. Check out Apple Store or retails locations.

Evanescence ROCKS!!!

Evanescence is currently touring Australia. They had their concert in Melbourne last weekend (Sat and Sun). I was lucky enough to be able to go for the Sunday concert. The Saturday one was sold out. The only reason that I went to their concert because my partner loves them. But it turned out to be a good concert.

I arrived around 7.30pm and the ticket says that it's going to start at 8pm. I went and find a park at Alessandra Ave. I thought it will be packed but it's not hard to find a carpark. In fact, there were plenty. Apparently most of them parked near Vodafone Arena or dropped off by their parents/friends.

I reached Vodafone Arena around quarter to 8 and there are a couple of security checks, as usual. As I had a General Admission ticket, I had to get myself banded. After that, I was surprised that there were a lot of people in the foyer just lingering around even though I heard some noise from inside the stadium. I just went inside, and it was dark. They have covered both the seats on the sides so the only seating was straight in front of the stage and that's it.

I went inside to the arena and was quite excited cause it was only half full, cause that means better view. The opening band was already playing when I came in. They were called Shade or Shihad or something like that. They're not bad. A curtain (Collingwood style - Black and White) was blocking the entire view. They played on until 8.45pm.


At 9pm, I thought that Evanescence will start but nothing. There was only a guy standing on stage doing mike checks, "Mike check, one, two", he said that like 10 times.

9.15, everything went dark, curtain pulled to the side and the show started. I can't remember what song they started. As I said, I came to the concert cause of my wife so I don't really have time to listen to their stuff. Anyhow, I think it was Sweet Sacrifice which I think will be their next single after Lithium and Call Me When You're Sober.

The band was wearing all black, except Amy Lee which also wore a Scandinavian type skirt. The band's logo was highlighted on the background. The drummer has 2 sets of drum, which I think incorporates the digital one as well.
There were 2 guitarist and a bassist.



After they started then it was NON STOP ROCK. All I can say is Amy Lee, the singer, is truly a talented person. She's got an amazing voice. She did all the numbers flawless and she actually drank less water than everybody in the band. Amazing. Her voice quality did not even go down after a few "screaming" songs.


After a few songs, Amy Lee took the stage by herself and a grand piano. There was some "snow drops" during the songs.

All and all, it was about one and a half hour of good ROCK. They played songs from the new album, and a couple of songs from their previous album, Fallen, the album that launched them internationally.

In the end, the band gave out a few "merchandise". Amy Lee threw out some water bottles (Mt Franklin, I think), the guitarist threw a couple of picks, and the drummer threw his sticks.
It was really interesting to see how many people are so interested with the water bottles.

I've got some photos (blurry ones) from the concert at my flickr. It was only from my camera phone so nothing special.

Finished about 10.30pm and I've got to say their songs are not bad at all. I'm listening to them now so I suggest you do the same. The new album is The Open Door and the band is EVANESCENCE.

Boys Toys Night

If you're not doing anything tonight, Chadstone Shopping Centre has an event called Boys Toys Night. It's some kind of celebration for the upcoming Formula 1. So, expect to see everything cars, gadget and games. I think the girls won't miss out as well cause I saw a few offers from other retail that doesn't have anything to do with cars. So tonight, starts at 6.30pm. Check their website.

Apple Sale (in Australia)

Last week in US and some other lucky countries, Apple did a sale event which was called a Black Friday sale. It's a similar concept to the Boxing Day sale in Australia. So, one day after Thanksgiving, the stores hold sale events to suck you dry of the pocket money you might received during the holiday season.

Anyway, Apple did the sale last Friday, 24th of November 2006 for the US and some lucky countries (I think Canada was one of them). However, Apple decided to include some of the unlucky countries that missed out on the sale. So, on the 1st December (this Friday), Apple will again hold a sale, for Australia only (I lied, and UK as well).

Unlike the US sale which happened at both retail stores and online, the Australia sale seems to be online only and UK seems to be focused more on retail stores.

So, browse the Apple Store now to have a look what are available and get ready for next Friday. The sale in US include discounts for ipods (not the shuffle), macs and some accessories. We can only hope that it will be the same here.

Check out www.apple.com.au and click on store for further details.

Getamac campaign

Also, if you're a fan of the Get a Mac campaign (the commercial with PC and Mac), you might want to check out the US site for 3 new commercials. As always, the commercial is hilarious.

The new ones are,

• Gift exchange - PC and Mac exchange gifts
• Sales Pitch - PC is trying to sell itself with subliminal messages
• Meant for Work - PC is exhausted of too much work

Check out http://www.apple.com/getamac/.

Chadstone Summer VIP night [updated]

I just went pass Chadstone (Chaddy) and I saw the announcements for another VIP night. It is going to be on Wednesday, 22nd of November 2006. I guess the time would be after 6pm as usual, I didn't manage to look at the time. There are no details on the website yet but will keep you all updated when more news come.

Update:
It has been confirmed that the VIP night will be held on Wednesday. The sale will start from 5.30 pm until 12 am (yes midnight). There is also free shuttle bus to and from Chadstone every hour on the night.

For all the special offers on the night, please click here (pdf file).

Some of the highlights (from Chadstone's website):

• Enjoy exclusive one night only discounts of up to 60% off at selected stores
• Savour complimentary wine & Mainland cheese on arrival
• See 3 star Michelin Chef, Marc Brown cooking up Christmas storms at Chadstone Corner
• Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Cadbury chocolates & Christmas cake sampling
• Great door prizes including a getaway to The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley Wellness Retreat and a weekend golfing package up for grabs
• The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley will be conducting spa treatments and massages to rejuvenate tired shoppers and a mini golf putting green to keep shopping buddies entertained
• You could be in the running to WIN a Summer South African Safari valued at almost $20,000
• Purchase a Variety Heart for the Chadstone Christmas Tree from the Customer Service Desk, located at the Jag entry

Offers from Microsoft

PC

Currently Microsoft is running a few promo for its products. As we know, next year Microsoft will revamp its product line by introducing the new OS, Microsoft Windows Vista and the new office applications, Microsoft Office 2007.

So, if you buy the current version of Windows XP or Microsoft Office that is specially marked, Microsoft will give you an upgrade to next version for $27. So if you buy Windows XP, you'll get Windows Vista for $27 (although it's not really that simple).

The version you buy now will determine the version you'll get later. So for example,

• Microsoft Office Professional 2003 Academic > Microsoft Office Professional 2007 Academic
• Microsoft Office Standard 2003 > Microsoft Office Standard 2007 Version Upgrade
• Windows XP Home Edition > Windows Vista Home Basic Upgrade
• Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade > Windows Vista Home Basic Upgrade
• Windows XP Professional > Windows Vista Business Upgrade
• Windows XP Professional Upgrade > Windows Vista Business Upgrade

For a full list of what software, you'll receive check this website. http://www.microsoft.com/australia/windows/terms.mspx

If you bought it already, you can redeem the offer here,
http://www.microsoft.com/australia/windows/upgradeguarantee.mspx


To bad the XP Pro doesn't upgrade to Vista Ultimate. I'm not sure though who wants to buy Vista Ultimate considering the price is going to be AU$751. Nice.

Note though that these products (Office 2007 and Vista) have yet to have a launch date. I just read that Office 2007 is completed and MS will begin shipping to business customers this month. But for common users like us, expect the products to launch early 2007 (Feb/Mar if MS doesn't delay anymore).

MAC

Anyway for Mac users, Microsoft has a deal going on as well. If you buy the Office 2004 for Mac (any versions - including the Student and Teacher edition), you can get a Microsoft Laser Wireless Mouse or $50 cashback. The mouse has an RRP of $99.


Purchase must be done at qualifying retailer then you can download the coupon and send it to Microsoft.


Further details here, http://www.microsoft.com/australia/office/mac/holidayoffer.aspx

New Macbook just released !!!

After releasing the new Macbook Pro line a couple of weeks ago, only the Macbook line is left with the Core Duo processors. Update by Apple was predicted by everybody before Christmas and it's finally here.

The new Macbook line still has 3 different models to choose from, two of them are white and one is black. The upgrade includes the processor, RAM and hard drive. The processor is now 1.83GHz or 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo.

In Australia, the prices are $1749, $2099 and $2399 for the 1.83GHz White, 2.0GHz White and 2.0GHz Black respectively. All has 13.3 inch glossy screen.
The cheapest version only has a Combo Drive (no DVD burner) and 512MB RAM whilst the
rest comes standard with a Super Drive and 1GB RAM. Hard disks vary according to the model.

Unlike its predecessor, the difference between the white and the black now is only around $50 (if you upgrade the hard drive and have the same spec). So, basically you're buying the black paint for $50. Last time, you basically bought the paint for around $200.

I don't think that the changes are really significant except of course the processor. So I guess if you have been waiting to buy a Macbook, this is the perfect time. But if you're upgrading, maybe I'd wait until it comes with the Leopard (OS 10.5) at least.

Domestic airfare ON SALE NOW

Jetstar and Virgin Blue are doing it again. They are on a price war. Their latest sale will end at 6th of November 2006. So, grab it soon. Unlike previous 'wars', now Virgin and Jetstar are completely different sale.

Virgin has the normal, price cut sale. Travel is between 16 Jan 07 - 29 Mar 07. Some of the specials from Melbourne are as follows,

• Melbourne to and from Sydney: $79
• Melbourne to and from Gold Coast: $69
• Melbourne to and from Hobart: $55

Full details check out www.virginblue.com.au

Jetstar has two sale, one for domestic and one for international.

The domestic one is a bit different. You must travel in twos to take advantage of the offer. Travel is between 01 Feb 07 - 31 Mar 07. Some of the specials,

• Melbourne to and from Hamilton Island: $169 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Sunshine Coast: $109 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Gold Coast: $109 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Hobart: $79 for 2

For weekend dates, I think there's only a few left but there's still plenty on the weekday.

For the international fare (note: Jetstar will start flying international end of November), the travel must be done between 22 Jan 07 - 31 Mar 07.

• Melbourne to and from Christchurch: $199
• Melbourne to and from Bali: $299
• Melbourne to and from Bangkok: $329
• Melbourne to and from Honolulu: $429

For full details, check out www.jetstar.com.au

Qantas has a sale as well but obviously it will be a bit pricy as compared to Jetstar and Virgin Blue.

what is rule 72 ?

Do you know about rule 72 ? I recently came across the term when I was reading a book about investment property. If you're in accounting, the term would be familiar to you.

It's a simple way to count how long your money will double in value given the current interest. It's not a sure answer but gives a very good approximation.

So, if you want to know when that $100 in your bank account is going to be $200, then you will use this formula. It's just simply,

72
number of years needed = --------
interest

And for your $100, with the current interest of around 6%, it will be 12 years before your money double up.

This can also work with inflation, I think currently the inflation is around 3% (I THINK). That means your $100 in 24 years (72/3%) will only be worth $50. This concept is a bit harder to understand because the value of money decreases overtime.

So that's just a short lesson in Rule 72.

bring on the fat

I'd say thank God that I don't live in the States. Just have a look at what they've got on the menu.

This is from KFC. They called it the Famous Bowls. The content: a tub of mashed potatoes or rice, with yellow corn, fried chicken nuggets, gravy and three types of cheese.

This one belongs to Burger King (Hungry Jack's here in Oz). It's called a Quad Stacker. The content: four beef patties, cheese and bacon (NO vegetables or salad) squeezed into a bun.

Last but not least, who could resist two of your favourites....PANCAKES AND SAUSAGE ON A STICK. Very nice indeed and to top it all off, some cholocate chip. If you don't like the chocolate chip, I think they've got one with berries.

change of look

As you can see, it's a new design.....it's Blogger Beta and I'm still learning so please be patient with me if you see any hiccups here and there.

another store in VIC

Krispy Kreme has done it again. After opening a store in the city (Melbourne), they are now going to open the third store in Victoria and take a guess where are they going to open it........it's at Chaddy (Chadstone). Yes, that's right.....the shopping centre. Here is the news that came on my email today.

Big news for our Friends in Victoria! We're excited to announce that our third store is set to open at Chadstone Shopping Centre this November. Chadstone – the fashion capital has just become Chadstone – the Krispy Kapital

You'll be able to meet the Store Manager, Kylie and her team for a fresh espresso coffee and doughnut from 7:30am on Thursday 2 November. Don't forget, it's Spring Carnival time and the weather and the fashions are hotting up in Melbourne – call in for a Krispy Kreme Ice Kreme while you're shopping for your Melbourne Cup outfit. See you at Chadstone!

Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road (Warrigal Rd entrance, located near bus stops)

red ipod nano

Apple has released a red iPod nano. They name is (PRODUCT) RED, don't know why. I am not sure whether it will be available in Australia, so far there is no word about it. It's the 4GB model and it's the same price with other 4GB model, US$199.

For every red nano that they sell, they will give $10 to the Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa.

So, let's just hope that it will come to Australia soon. That way you can have another excuse to buy an ipod, charity (or you can persuade your parents with this excuse as well).

Jobs on Zune

This is what Apple's CEO got to say about Zune (the new Microsoft media player to compete with iPod).

- Are you worried about Zune ?

In a word, no. I've seen the demonstrations on the Internet about how you can find another person using a Zune and give them a song they can play three times. It takes forever. By the time you've gone through all that, the girl's got up and left! You're much better off to take one of your earbuds out and put it in her ear. Then you're connected with about two feet of headphone cable.

no more student discount on ipod

How sad.....

Final Fever

It's next week, the final battle between West Coast Eagles and Sydney Swans. It's AFL of course. It's a repeat final battlle between the two. The pair met last year and Sydney won it. So let's see who'll win it this year.

There's going to be the usual show (the parade, etc) during the week ahead. And I think there will be free concert on Federation Square by the Australian Idol 06 finalist and Marcia Hines, Young Divas (if I'm not mistaken). Just check with the website, www.thatsmelbourne.com.au

And also coming next week is the opening of Krispy Kreme store in city, right at the end of Collins St. (not the Paris end). It's near Spencer St. It's opening on Tuesday, 26th of September. They are opening accross the street from Fitness First Collins St. I hope the gym junkies don't turn into sugar junkies. :)

I think the Royal Melbourne Show is still on. I'm not sure.....hmmm..no...yes...no...YES, it's still open, I just saw a pig fly.

summer in september

Look at that. This is the temperature for Tuesday, 19 of September 2006. And I thought, summer is a still a couple of months away.

Picture taken from The Age.

Wii is coming...

Newsflash,word just come for the release of Nintendo Wii. I had just received an sms from Nintendo Australia.

"As a nintendo.com.au member, we thought you'll want to be the 1st to know the Wii will arrive in Aus on Dec 7th for SRP AU$399.95. Unsubscribe at nintendo.com.au"

This is cool stuff. US will get it sooner though, on the 19th of November 2006. More news just check out www.nintendo.com.au for local news.

i'm a married man

I can't believe it. For you people that don't know, I got married last Wednesday with a nice little ceremony at the Cathedral and a nice little dinner somewhere in Kew.

It was a really special day for me because not only that I got married but I've got family and friends celebrating it with me. It was a really wonderful day

I (and my wife) just like to thank everybody who helped me (I mean us) with the wedding. I'll try and get some photos up on the web.

new iMac

WOW, after checking the Apple's website for a couple of weeks, finally, the new iMac is released. And they added a new 24 inch model.


They are loaded with the new Intel Core 2 Duo and the 24 inch model uses nVidia 7300GT. Prices start at AU$1599 for the 17 inch model and goes up to $2999 for the 24 inch model.

A new line up is also released for the mac Mini. Apple discontinued the Intel Core Solo and used Intel Core Duo for both models.

This is so exciting. I'm going to the stores to check out the 24 inch screen. Nice!!!

do not laugh!!!

Japanese and their creative minds.

Steve Irwin: A Wildlife Warrior

Yesterday, I opened a newspaper website and found out that Steve Irwin has died. He died in an accident while filming a documentary.

I am deeply saddened by the news. I think Steve Irwin is a great guy. He is so passionate on what he does. His family is great as well. It's just a terrible terrible news.

My thoughts and prayers goes to the family he left behind. You're a great man, mate. You're a legend. We will all miss you.

computer update

Today, we mark the end of August. Tomorrow, it will be September and officially the start of spring. Since yesterday, Melbourne temperature is hovering around the 20s. Nice....I only hope that it will stay that way until mid-September (so selfish of me)....ok until the grand final then.

A couple of days ago, I messed up my computer. Tried to install a new RAM and a new USB 2.0 expansion slot but ended up destroying it. Lesson to be learnt, never fix your computer while it is still in standby mode, plug the damn cord first. But, I think my computer's time is up. This baby has been serving me for nearly 6 years. I think it's time to go dual core.....terabyte......

I always like Mac but I'm the kind of people that still hesitated on getting one because of this and that (well, mainly about software wise). But now, I'm seriously thinking of getting one. I've been researching the Apple range, from iMac, Mac Mini, and Macbook. I was deciding between a 20-inch iMac


or 13-inch black Macbook.


The iMac was the first to use Intel processors and it's been there for a while. Macbook however, was just released as the iBook G4 replacement.

Then, I just thought to myself. Maybe I should just get a new PC with the Intel Core 2 Duo alias Conroe. But I decided not to because Vista's release is still uncertain. I think if I do get a PC, I would want to wait until the Vista is launched and ready to go.

But the same problem comes with Mac. The new OS, Leopard, is going to be released in 2007. So, it'll be nicer if you get the Mac with the new OS as well.
On top of that, there is rumour going on that Apple will launch their new range by using the Intel Core 2 Duo. It is rumoured to come up around September. But the rumour was for Mac mini. I don't know.

Confusing.

Maybe I'm not destined to change computer after all :(

Anways, in the meantime, check out Apple's new commercial about PC vs Mac here.

busy busy busy....

Fiuhhhh....

again the promise of keeping the blog updated is not kept.
Well, this month and the next is going to pretty busy for me.

Beginning of the month, my brother graduated from uni. Yayyy...
He's preparing to end his life in Melbourne and start anew back home.

Anyways, I've just read news that Krispy Kreme is opening in Indonesia.
Ok, I know you're probably bored to death with Krispy Kreme again and again.
I'm not trying to promote them at all.

I'm just rambling here, don't know what I'm really going to talk about.
I am actually busy with my master project and the wedding. I can't believe
that you need to think about so many things for just a wedding, my GOD.
Once this is all over, I'll tell you my wedding story from the beginning.

For now, I'm just going to stop writing. Nothing is making sense (sorry people).
Oooo, a few days ago I just found YouTube....ok I know, it's not new and it's been
there all this time. It is cool that you can share video from other people. I guess
the time is already upon us where everybody has a broadband connection.

Also, Intel just released their Intel Core 2 Duo, imagine saying this to the sales guy
to buy. It's easier to say 'the new Intel processor'. Apparantly they are going to stop
Pentium and Core Duo chips eventually because this baby can deliver 40% more power
with 40% less power (???) .

Ok ok I'll stop, I really don't know what I'm taking about, better get back to my chair.
Ciao.

touch down at krispy kreme

Today, I managed to get myself INSIDE Krispy Kreme store in Fountain Gate. I went through pass the door after 40 minutes of standing outside in the cold.

The store fairly big. Once you go in through the doors, you'll see the toilet on your left. The toilet has a baby change facility BUT only one at a time, which can be a bit hard after drinking lots of water to wash down the sugar from the doughnuts (or donuts, the way they say in the states).

Alrighty back to the store. Once you pass the toilet and the rubbish bin. Trust me, this is the worst place to queue - the door to the toilet is very big and swing outwards, i.e. towards you, so make sure you stick to the right.

After that, you'll be entertain with the process of "making the original glazed". They have explanation for each step of the way but it's a bit hard to read considering that people are still queuing there. Well basically the donuts are rollep up and down, up and down, up and down and then fried on the oil, flipped, glazed and cooled down (just to keep things short).

Passing the donut-making-demo, I was greeted with a donut - I should say it's FRESH from the conveyor belt. It was a sample that was given to everybody. But somehow after eating that donut, I don't feel like ordering anymore donuts. I don't know why. Maybe the blood sugar is talking.....I don't know. But the donut is soft, warm, and totally sugar loaded......yummm.

Ok, then when you finish the 'charade of donuts', you actually get to ORDER. Then you pay for it. You can pay by cash (of course), eftpos and credit card (Amex not yet - according to the staff, Amex is still working on it but it's been more than a month and they still haven't fixed it).

Well, my trip this Sunday took 67 minutes from the outside until I received the donuts in my hand. The total was under $60 for 2 sampler and 2 bottles of Mt. Franklin. This does not include the travel time and petrol etc etc. Was it worthed ? I don't know. Frankly, I can't answer that question. One side you know that queuing for donuts is stupid but on the other side, well let's just say you need the sugar.

Don't know whether I'll be back pretty soon though. Although maybe I just might......

so out of date

I have been visiting my own blog these couple of weeks and noticed how out-dated everything is. I kept thinking that I should update and put in a couple of entries for the the blog but I never get around to do it. Everytime I have an idea or thought to put in my blog, I'm always away from the computer. And if I am in front of the computer, it will be a public computer (like in state library, been going there these couple of weeks) or a uni computer, where they can track what I do.

Well, now finally I am able to put something down. Not a lot happened since the Aussie went out of the world cup. That is if you exclude the war in Lebanon, more tsunami in Indonesia, North Korea testing its missile that can reach Australia, Italy won the World Cup, etc, etc. Other than that, it's same old.

Anyways, I will update my blog link. Apparantly, a lot more of my frens are interested in blogging. I will try to update my blog every day. My passion to actually make a website like aerowalk's has not come true. I still need some guidance from him :) So, just wait and see.

Ok, will post some new topics soon. Please check again. And thanks to everybody that has been patient with me and my blog.

aussie out of world cup

I have no idea how many Australians who actually watch the game live, must have been plenty, but unfortunatly they lost. A bitter lost, I might add. 90 minutes of fighting and it was ended by a penalty kick.

So with the final score of 1-0 favouring Italy, Aussie is now out of the World Cup. Well the good news is we will be able to sleep like we used too.

a stupid bird

Please turn on your speaker for the bird.


Want one? Go to www.geocities.com/testiflash

don't worry...

I like this,

The future is unclear. Instead of hoping for what it could be, just wait and see.

krispy kreme in VIC (not melbourne)

Yes, it is TRUE. Krispy Kreme, the famous American donuts (or doughnuts, whatever), is coming to Victoria. So far, they've only open stores in NSW.
Well, everybody knows this. But now there is a definite date on the store launch. It's 4 MORE DAYS. The 22nd of June (correct me if I'm wrong but that Jakarta's birthday right ?) is the date when the only Victorian store will open. The fun starts at 6.30am.


As you are all aware, the store is located in Narre Warren, exactly it's on Fountain Gate Shopping Centre. If you have the VIC map, Narre Warren is south-east of Melbourne. It's pretty easy to go there. You can just take Princess Highway and after a series of traffic lights, you'll reach there. Ok, I don't want to mislead you, it is quite far. I think it's about 1.5-2 hours drive from Melbourne (or maybe more). So make sure when you go there, you fill up the car's boot with donuts, about 10-15 dozen maybe ?


They're saying that the store will open 24 hours and provide a drive in service, you know....like McDonalds. For the opening, there will be performances, bands, etc and I think they're going to continue for 4 days. For more information, go to http://www.krispykreme.com.au. Over there as well, you can join to be a FRIEND of KRISPY KREME. But, there is one condition; you must be obese or at least fat. Ok, just joking. Everybody can sign up and receive news about the upcoming store.

Well, before I finish. I have one more thing to say. Just something to remember when you're eating that mouth-watering tempting enticing alluring original glazed donut.....mmm..... To burn 1 donut, an average person of 75kg need to walk for 30 minutes.

cheap petrol

Everybody wants cheap petrol these days. When I first came to Melbourne, petrol was around 70-80 cents a litre. Apparantly a couple of years before, it was only about 50-60 cents a litre. In the recent months, the price of petrol has jumped so high, it's leaving us with a big hole in our wallet. So, we want something to stitch back our wallet.

Firstly, the supermarket docket. Spend $30 or so dollars and they'll give you a coupon to save on petrol. Savings vary but normally it is 4 cents, some supermarket has 30 cents discount but there is a lot of conditions (only 30 litres, spend more than $50, fill up at independent petrol kiosk, etc). But I seriously don't understand why the supermarkets are still giving discounts at 4 cents a litre. They're giving 4 cents discounts when fuel was 70 cents a litre and now when it's nearly $1.50 a litre. Ok, just imagine with 4 cents discount coupon, you will save:

• small car: 4 cents x 30 litres = $1.20 savings per fill
• medium car: 4 cents x 50 litres = $2 savings per fill
• large car : 4 cents x 60 litres = $2.40 savings per fill

That's not a lot, not a lot AT ALL. Last time, to fill up a tank of petrol, I need to fork out around $40-50 but now, I'm spending $60-70 on petrol. That's about $20 difference and the docket is only helping me with $2, nice....

But, if you do shop at supermarket and get the docket anyway, just use it. As my mom always say, $999 is not $1000 without the dollar, every dollar (and cents) count.

Another way to get cheap petrol is by regularly checking websites like this one, http://au.maps.yahoo.com/fuelwatch/. Yes, I know that there is a lot out there but I think this one is kind of cool. You search by suburb or postcode and it will then give you a map of the suburb. You can zoom in or zoom out, but the nearest petrol stations are displayed. This includes, the cheapest petrol station, the most expensive one and average. They label this with stars, green for cheapest, red for most expensive and yellow for in between.

Then, you can click on the start and find out the price for unleaded petrol, the address and the petrol kiosk operator (Coles Express, Mobil, Caltex, etc etc). Nice. I haven't actually checked whether the price on the website match the real one but I guess it should be pretty acurate cause Yahoo is doing it with Motormouth (which is a website that looks at petrol prices and stuff).

Ok, it doesn't actually let you save money like the docket but it's a great tool to find where's the cheapest fuel around.

Another tip is to follow the petrol price dynamics, the cycle, when it goes up and when it goes down. It always goes like this, slowly going down until it reaches the minimum point then sharp and sudden rise (about 10 cents rise), and then it slowly goes down again. The cycle normally repeats itself every week. Currently, the price always goes up every Wednesday and the lowest point is around Monday-Tuesday. It used to go up on Thursday so they're always changing so keep your eyes open.

Some other people has resort to something more dramatic like stealing petrol, not paying for it, putting another person's plate, etc etc.

Or you could always switch to public transport or cycling or motorcycling. I want to switch to motocycling but I don't have the dough to get a bike (and the helmet, jacket, gloves, and so on). But seriously, for long term I am considering motorcycle. They're saying that the petrol price could reach $2/litre by the end of this year. Imagina how hard would life be if that happens. That's another $20 extra per fill and not including the price increase on goods.

So that's why, bring on the next generation in transport: fuel-cell car, hydrogen powered car. But in the meantime, let's try and save up for every fill.

dion (in memory)

a good friend....

it has been 2 long years.....

rest in peace my friend.....

will always remember you....

God, please take care of him.....

Pam's Blog

Wow, I didn't realise that it's been a couple of months since I put an entry to my blog. I guess after a while, it's kind of hard to get a topic going. And when you do get one (or a few), you just have absolutely no time.

Anyways, the reason I'm adding an entry today is I have just seen Pam's blog. Well if you don't know, Pam is one of my friend who's been with me since the beginning of time...haha, I meant my time in Melbourne. She is a very funky girl and if you do know her, I think you will agree.

Well, here is the link to her blog. She's a really good writer and have very interesting topics/things that you might not even think at all. Her blog is http://itspams.blogspot.com/. I will add the link to my Links section as well.

Go Pam, we'll be waiting for your next blog.

save the environment

Hey people, this is something that we can all do to save the earth.

TAKE YOUR CANVAS BAG WHEN YOU GO TO THE SUPERMARKET.

This is a message that I got from the Royal Gala of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. This comedian managed to create a song for the canvas bag and in the whole song, the lyrics are

"take your canvas bag, take you canvas bag when you go to the supermarket..." (repeat 50 times)

Well, actually he did rap a bit in the middle of the song but that's not the point.

So, take your CANVAS BAG or GREEN BAG or ENVIRONMENTAL BAG or whatever you call it next time you go the supermarket. CONDEMN PLASTIC BAG.

even more things

Adding to the list of events.

Next Thursday, 30th of March, the AFL season is going to start. Yup, it's that time of the year again, footy.......
It won't play in Melbourne though. The MCG will be back for footy action on Anzac day, 25th April (I THINK - but it's definitely in April). They have to clean up the tracks from the Commonwealth Games.

And tomorrow (or today), Monday, there is going to be a parade for the Australian athletes. It will start at noon from the Arts Centre to Swanston St. and then Collins St.
I can't find more info on the route or anything else so I guess if you want to see the parade, just follow the crowd.

That's it for now.

more things to come

I wrote this yesterday but when I was trying to upload it to blogger, the server went down. Hence, some info is outdated but I'll just leave it here so you know what you miss

If you read my previous post, you'll know that Melbourne is going to host several big events. I'm just going to add some more events to the list.

Currently, there is still the Commonwealth games, where Australia has basically taken all the medals. The last time I checked it was 54 gold medals. Commonwealth games will end on Sunday 26th of March with a closing ceremony in the MCG.Check out www.melbourne2006.com.au for details.

I think the tally now has gone up to 57 gold medals for Aussie.

Today, the 23rd of March, xbox360 is being launched. If you're a games freak and you have $1000 to spend. Go and get one. The best deal is on Big, the complete system for $628 instead of $649 and the games are $75 each for TODAY only.Kmart has a sale also 15% off storewide for today and tomorrow but it doesn't include the console, damn.

A little comment on the xbox360. The games in BigW was practically sold out. So, if you didn't know about this yesterday, then tough luck yeah ?

Next Thursday, there will be the Grand Prix, the Foster's Australian Grand Prix. Shifted from being the first GP to start the year because of the Commonwealth Games. It will be on from the 30th of March until the 2nd of April. Who will win it this year? Renault again? What do you reckon?For info check out http://cars.grandprix.com.au/.

The after that, there will be the annual flower and garden show in Carlton gardens. This will be on from the 5th of April until the 9th of April. Check here for tickets, http://www.melbflowershow.com.au/.

The following week will be Easter holiday I think.

Fiuh, if I know more events, I'll let you know. Of course in a couple of months there will be FIFA World Cup 2006 in Germany.

Have fun.

banana alert

Danger for you banana lovers in Australia. If you haven't been following the news, there will be a shortage of bananas because of the storm.

A couple of days ago, there was a hurricane that hits northern part of Queensland. The hurricane was hurricane Larry. I wonder who named all these hurricane, Katrina, etc. Was there a papa hurricane and mama hurricane ?

Anyways, the storm hits Queensland quite hard and as a results, all the crops there are vanished (well, they didn't actually vanish). And that part of Queensland is the part where they grew fruits for all of Australia, especially bananas.

The farmers estimated that it will take at least 9 months to recover supply of bananas and to get back the their previous condition would take them years. SO, there will be a shortage of bananas for at least a year. Australia cannot import bananas because of strict import rules. Yesterday, in some places, bananas have already hit $6/kg. They normally sell for $2-3/kg. It is estimated that it will go to $9/kg. Amazing.

So if you really like bananas, better get them while it's still somewhat affordable and reasonable before it's too late.

Do you know that 70% of people buys bananas from impulse ? As in, they didn't planned to buy bananas but when they see it, they'll buy it.

stupid chain letter

Somebody send me this so called "chain letter". Frankly, I don't understand it (AT ALL). Maybe because it's in SINGLISH (Singapore English - casual way of speaking by mixing a few different languages in Singapore).

INSTANT NOODLES
Dear instant noodle lovers, make sure you break for at least 3 days after one session of instant noodles before you eat your next packet! Please read the info shared to me by a doctor. My family stopped eating instant noodles more than 5 years ago after hearing about the wax coating the noodles - the wax is not just in the styrofoam containers but it coats the noodles. This is why the instant noodles do not stick to each other when cooking. If one were to examine the ordinary Chinese yellow noodles in the market, one will notice that, in their uncooked state the noodles are oily. This layer of oil prevents the noodles from sticking together.
Wantan noodles in their uncooked state have been dusted with flour to prevent them sticking together. When the hawker cooks the noodles, notice he cooks them in hot water and then rinses them in cold water before cooking them in hot water again. This process is repeated several times before the noodles are ready to be served. The cooking and rinsing process prevents noodles from sticking together. The hawker then "lowers" the noodles in oil and sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking if they are to be served dry.
Cooking instructions for spaghetti require oil or butter to be added in the water when boiling the spaghetti to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Otherwise, one gets a big clump of spaghetti!
There was an SBC (now TCS) actor some years ago, who at a busy time of his career had no time to cook, resorted to eating instant noodles everyday. He got cancer later on. His doctor told him about the wax in instant noodles. The doctor told him that our body will need up to 2 days to clear the wax.
There was also an SIA steward who after moving out from his mother's house into his own house, did not cook but ate instant noodles almost every meal. He had cancer, and has since died from it. Nowadays the instant noodles are referred as "cancer noodles".

Ok, I don't understand what you mean to break. I just don't get it. Is it me or the languange or the people who actually uses this languange in the first place ? It's a puzzle.

it's already MARCH

Yo, haven't updated the blog in a while. This is because I didn't have internet for a few days (and also somebody from Singapore came to disturb my life here).

Do you realise that it is now MARCH ? It's the 3rd month of the year, soon....in 9 months, 2006 is going to end (okay, I might be exaggerating a bit). Aren't we all screwed ? Time flows faster when you're older.

For the people of Melbourne, March is a month that they can be proud of (or not). This month the city of Melbourne will be hosting a lot of events. Starting next week, the 13th of March, there will be the annual Moomba Festival.

Following that, the highly unanticipated Commonwealth Games. This will go on from the 15th until the 26th of March. Then finally, the Australian Grand Prix.

A crazy month huh ?

Stokers Pancake

Do you know about Stokers ? It's a pancake restaurant up in Heidelberg. Some people told me that it was a really nice place. They've got nice pancakes but a creepy toilet, that's what they told me.

Today, I tried it for myself and I can tell you, the toilet IS creepy. It's more like the walk to the toilet that is creepy not the toilet itself. The place is really...really...dark. The whole room is only powered by a few lights (2 or 3) except the kitchen.

They basically got 2 types of pancakes, the savoury one and the sweet ones. Average pancake price is around $9-$11. They've got a lot of different menus but none really catches my attention except chicken mornay and rum banana.

Anyways, I tried it and the portion was REALLY small for 10 bucks. And it's not even pancakes, it's more like crepes cause it's so thin. It's really nothing compared to Pancake Parlour. I think it's not really worthed to eat there. If you have a spare 10 bucks to spend on 2 small crepes with fillings then go ahead. The chicken mornay was not bad. Really think that they should do something with their price.

I still think Pancake Parlour has an advantage for pancakes. The pancakes there are delicious BUT you cannot eat too many of them. Pancakes are one of those things that make you full really fast.

Just have a look at THAT.


Watch that drool....., but realistically, you could only eat about this much.


Well, stop licking at your monitor already.

let's talk about love

Somebody on my MSN list has the following as his nick, Two words a guy never want to hear: JUST FRIENDS or I love you....like a brother.

Is that true guys ? Interesting isn't it ? So girls, I think you should find a better things to say if you want to reject guys...hehehe.

new nam loong

If you're a resident of Melbourne, you would know the restaurant Nam Loong. It's a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown that was hit with a few scandal a few years ago. It was something that they used in their cooking, a special recipe (hehehe....). However, let's not look and dig up the past. The fact is now Nam Loong is cleaner than ever and their food is still freat (especially the buns).

Nam Loong has opened a new branch after successfully opening Nam Loong 1 (original) and Wing Loong (Nam Loong 2). The new restaurant is called Nam Loong Seafood Restaurant. I haven't tried it personnally so I don't know what's on the menu but I think it'll be more of a dish type.

It's located in the same street as Nam Loong 1, Russel St. I think it's next to the Amusement or Asian Grocery there.

Anyway, it's worth a look at and give it a go.

happy valentine's day

valentine's day........

it's all about the flowers....


it's all about the chocolate....


it's all about loveeee.....


happy valentine's day everybody

good on ya iinet

Wuhuuuu...finally my exchange is going to be DSLAM enabled soon. Estimate is second quarter of 2006, then I can experience lightning fast broadband up to 24000 kpbs.

I highly recommend iinet and not because I'm using it. Because it's the best deal there is for internet (broadband).

The bad thing about iinet is you've got to connect your home phone with them and their rate is quite high (I think it's $29.95 + $3.41, the $3.41 is because of that bloody Tesltra). But then again, you could get a VOIP from them. VOIP is basically telephone using the internet instead of a normal phone line. Because it's using the internet, they can significantly reduce the cost.
So just use your VOIP, it's 10c per call.

PLUS, if you actually in the DSLAM area, your internet speed will be 24000 kpbs (depending on how far you are from the exchange). Ok, with that speed your download speed will be around 2.4 MB/s....FULLY SICK. Ok, reality is you will not get a speed that fast but it's still a good deal.

I'm not trying to promote iinet, just want to share my happiness that my exchange will soon be DSLAM enabled, that means I can enjoy FAST broadband. Huhuiiii.

For more info on internet provider in Australia, check Whirlpool. It's a good website to compare providers and while you're at it check the forum, see what other people think and what problems do they have.

dancing with the stars

You should all know about dancing with the stars, the TV show where celebrity dances and try impress the judges and audiences at the same time.

Well, for this season (2006), the Australian version of the show will put some of the best celebrity, including former Miss Universe, Jennifer Hawkins. YEAH!!!

Other names that will be on the show, includes

• Alicia Molik - Australian tennis superstar (I think she's suppose to be injured that's why she didn't go for Australian Open 2006)

• Simone Warne - Shane Warne's ex wife (the cricketer who has been involved with a lot of SMS scandal)

• Molly Meldrum - Australian icon (the man who lives in a cowboy world of his own)

• Kostya Tszyu - Australian boxer (I hope he doesn't punch his dance partner outside the ring...I mean, dance floor)
• Kate Langbroek - Australian radio presenter (I think she does morning show with Nova FM in Melbourne)

Well, if you want to bet on them, the current favourite is Jen, with $3.50...hehehe. I think she'll win. She's just gorgeous.......ok stop drooling guys...hehehe. Will it be worth a watch now ?

another CRAZY stuff

TWO GIRLS, 14 years old, have been charged with the murder of a cabbie (taxi driver) that happened a few days ago. For you guys who doesn't know about the story, here is how it goes. A taxi driver has been bashed and was left to die in the early morning. He was left on a street and finally died during the journey to hospital.

And now, 2 girls are charged with the murder. AMAZING yet again. What sick person will do such a thing ? Remember, we're talking about Sydney here. I expect the people there to be more civilised and educated. Yet, the behaviour of some people are worse than they who are in a third world country.

What were the girls thinking ? I don't think they should be tried in a children's court. I think they should be tried in adult's court. Prison for at least a few decades won't be enough.

I really don't understand what is going on their mind. SICK, truly sick.

ridiculous

AMAZING. Australia continues to amuse me. A man, 45 years old, has been charged for ASSAULTING a KITTEN. Can you believe that ? A kitten. Read the full news here.

I am no cat-lover so I don't really agree with the charge. Cats can sometime be quite annoying and frustrating. I don't know why people like cats. I am more of a dog-lover. I think cats are quite self-centered and selfish, whereas a dog is more loyal, obidient and fun (this may or may not include such breed as american pit bull, etc).

I just don't understand how the law works here. A man who bashed his wife and daugther (nearly killed the daugther by choking her with a cable, imagine that?) can be released on bail. WTF ? How is that possible ? And don't tell me that it is the law. That's stupid. The man could just go to the wife and kill her. And then what ? The man gets 20 years behind bars ? But the bloody wife is DEAD.

It's strange how laws are written. I think somebody should re-write the law book in a programming language, in if...then....else....statement. So it will be simple. IF a person robs your house THEN he is guilty. IF he is a murderer THEN kick him out (don't want to start a deabte about corporal punishment or maybe I'll write about it next time).

And he can't counter sue because you leave your knife lying around somewhere. If you don't know, in the US, a thief that failed to rob a house counter sue the owner for leaving the knife outside and the thief actually cut himself because of the knife. And guess what ? The thief won. He got compensation because the owner failed to have a safe house.

Ok, back to the kitten. Back a couple of months ago, there was another case of abuse. A man burn a kitten...hehehe. That's not sick, that's just simply crazy and that's just plain wrong.

Ok, just trying to write up something cause I haven't been adding anything to the blog.
I'm gonna try to make a website that will integrate the blog and will have other stuff. I hope I will have the time and ability to do it. Of course with the help of Mr. Aerowalk.

In the meantime, be safe. If you see a kitten, kick it.....no, I mean leave it alone, OK ?

did you know ?

In ancient Rome, women were told to spit three times into the mouth of a frog to prevent pregnancy...