Category: Human Interest

The AIID facility is scheduled for completion in 2029 with commissioning and operations to follow . Learn more about the AIID facility from our leaders in this video: With government funding secured, a strong business case finalised and site …

Good morning, Melbourne! If you’ve been following the construction updates on the future Infectious Diseases site, you’ll be thrilled to know that progress is being made—albeit at a pace that might make a tortoise look like it’s running a marathon. You asked for progress shots, and what do we have? Behold, a bigger hole! Yes, folks, the hole is bigger, and it’s just as exciting as it sounds.

Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Great, another hole!” let’s take a moment to appreciate the significance of this construction project. It’s not just any hole; it’s a hole that will eventually house a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to combating infectious diseases. So, while it may seem like we’re just digging a large pit for no reason, there’s a method to this madness.

Infectious diseases are a serious issue, and having a dedicated facility in Melbourne will enhance our ability to respond to outbreaks, conduct research, and provide better care for those affected. So, every shovel of dirt removed is a step closer to a healthier future for all of us. But let’s be real, we’re still waiting for the day when we can actually see the building rising from this impressive excavation.

For those who enjoy a good construction update, the current status is that the digging crew is hard at work, and by ‘hard at work,’ I mean they’re probably having a lively discussion about whether the hole looks bigger than last week’s hole. It’s a tough job, folks, but someone’s got to do it!

As we await further updates, let’s take a moment to consider the implications of this project. Imagine a facility that can swiftly handle outbreaks, conduct research on new vaccines, and keep our community safe from the next big virus (because let’s face it, it seems like every year brings a new contender). It’s like building a superhero headquarters, but instead of capes and tights, we have lab coats and microscopes.

In conclusion, while we may just be staring at a bigger hole today, let’s keep our eyes on the prize. This site will play a crucial role in the future of public health in Melbourne. So, next time you pass by this construction site, remember: it’s not just a hole—it’s a beacon of hope for a healthier tomorrow. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll even get to see some walls go up! Until then, let’s keep cheering on our hardworking diggers and hope they find something interesting down there—like buried treasure, or at the very least, a time capsule from the 90s.

Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, folks: good things come to those who wait (even if it’s just a bigger hole).

Inspired by: “Infectious diseases site update” (r/melbourne)

A busy Melbourne street was plunged into lockdown after police discovered an unidentified body outside a popular convenience store . Victoria Police officers cordoned off a stretch of Collins Street in Melbourne's CBD about 4.15am on Saturday …

Ah, Collins Street in Melbourne—often dubbed the ‘Paris End’ of the city, where high fashion meets high finance. It’s a place where you can sip a flat white while pretending to understand the stock market. But, as our fellow Redditor /u/girlanachr0nism_ discovered, sometimes you encounter something that makes you wish you could just blend into the pavement.

So, what exactly did they see? While the post didn’t include a detailed description (cue dramatic music), I can only imagine the scene: perhaps a rogue pigeon strutting around like it owns the place, or someone in a questionable fashion choice that makes you reconsider your own wardrobe. Either way, it’s enough to make any self-respecting Aussie experience a deep sense of embarrassment.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the irony here. Australians are known for their laid-back, easy-going nature, but when it comes to our beloved cities, we can be a bit protective. We’ll defend our beaches, our coffee, and even our unique way of saying ‘G’day’ with passion. But when something cringeworthy happens in the heart of Melbourne, it’s like watching your younger sibling trip over their own feet at a family gathering. You just want to sink into the ground.

Now, Collins Street is usually a bastion of sophistication. Think elegant boutiques and iconic buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. But like that one friend who shows up to the party in a turtleneck sweater in summer, sometimes things just go wrong. Maybe it was a street performer who took their act a little too seriously, or a group of tourists trying to take the perfect selfie while blocking the entire sidewalk. Whatever it was, it was enough to make our Redditor question their national pride.

To be honest, we’ve all had that moment where we want to crawl under a rock when something embarrassing happens in public. It’s like when you accidentally wave back at someone who wasn’t waving at you—awkward! But let’s not forget that these moments are part of what makes Melbourne, well, Melbourne. We’re a city of contrasts, where the posh meets the peculiar in a delightful dance of chaos.

So, to /u/girlanachr0nism_: Hang in there. Yes, it’s embarrassing to be an Australian sometimes, but it’s also what makes us relatable. We’re all in this together, navigating the beautifully chaotic landscape of our cities, one cringe-worthy moment at a time. Next time you’re on Collins Street, just remember: if you can laugh at the absurdity of life, you’ll fit right in. And who knows? Maybe next time, you’ll be the one making someone else facepalm.

In conclusion, let’s embrace the awkwardness and keep our heads held high. After all, it’s just another day in the life of a Melburnian!

Inspired by: “Saw this on Collins Street today” (r/melbourne)

I would be one of many disabled … impairment and so on. It's absolutely predatory to have the only way to cancel a subscription to be able to make a phone call when you didn't need to do that to sign up ….

Ah, the world of subscriptions. It seems like every service under the sun has decided that the best way to make money is to lock us into a never-ending cycle of payments. And Amazon Prime? Well, that’s just the cherry on top of the subscription cake that nobody asked for but somehow everyone is forced to eat.

So, picture this: you’re sitting there, scrolling through your bank statement, and you see that pesky Amazon Prime charge. You pause and think, “Do I even use this?” Maybe once in a blue moon you order something that you could have easily picked up at the local store. But hey, who doesn’t love the idea of free two-day shipping for those impulse buys of random kitchen gadgets?

But now you’re at a crossroads. You’ve decided that enough is enough. It’s time to cancel that Prime subscription because, let’s face it, you’re not using it enough to justify the cost. You muster up your courage, navigate to the website, and prepare for what you think will be a simple click of a button. Spoiler alert: it’s never that easy.

Instead, you’re greeted by a barrage of pop-ups, questions about why you want to leave, and offers that sound like the world’s worst breakup lines. “Are you sure you want to leave us? We can offer you a discount!” It’s as if Amazon is saying, “Come on, baby, don’t go! I can change!” But deep down, you know it’s a one-sided relationship.

The submitter of the Reddit post, who goes by the handle /u/exboxthreesixty, perfectly captures this struggle. They noted that it feels like Amazon just wants them to forget about their subscription and keep taking their money. It’s like that friend who always borrows money and promises to pay you back but never does. You know the one.

And let’s not even get started on the customer service experience. If you thought canceling was hard, just wait until you try to get a human on the line. You’d have better luck finding a unicorn in your backyard.

After fighting your way through a labyrinth of menus and automated responses, you finally manage to reach someone who says, “I’m sorry to hear you want to cancel. Can I interest you in a free trial of our latest subscription service?” At this point, you’re left wondering if you accidentally walked into a used car dealership instead of Amazon’s help center.

So, what’s the lesson here? If you find yourself in a similar situation, take a deep breath and prepare for a battle of wills. Remember, canceling subscriptions shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth. It should be as easy as clicking a button, not like negotiating peace treaties. And if you do manage to escape the clutches of your Prime subscription, congratulations! You’ve just won the ultimate game of adulting.

In conclusion, whether you’re trying to cancel Amazon Prime or any other subscription, just know you’re not alone in this mildly infuriating adventure. We’re all in this together, fighting the good fight against auto-renewals and the sneaky little charges that seem to multiply in the shadows. So, go forth and conquer those subscriptions, my friends. And remember, if they try to keep your money, just remind them that your loyalty is not for sale.

Inspired by: “Wanted to cancel prime subscription because I don’t use Amazon.” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

Montgomery Ward: Adventures in Microwave Cooking [young, dianne] on Amazon.com. FREE shipping on qualifying offers. Montgomery Ward: Adventures in Microwave Cooking

Ah, the joys of being a teenager left home alone. The world is your oyster—or, in this case, your kitchen. So what’s a kid to do when the parents are off gallivanting, leaving you with nothing but a fridge full of questionable leftovers and the daunting task of preparing your own meal? Enter our protagonist, a brave teen who decided that today was the day to tackle the culinary beast known as microwave oatmeal.

Now, let’s set the scene. Our hero, who we’ll affectionately refer to as ‘Chef Oatmeal’ (because why not?), readied themselves for a kitchen adventure. Armed with nothing but a packet of oatmeal, some cold milk, and a healthy dose of confidence (and perhaps a sprinkle of naivety), they were ready to conquer breakfast. The instructions on the oatmeal packet, as clear as they could be, stated: “Warm up in microwave for 1-2 minutes.” Simple enough, right?

But here’s where things took a turn. Our brave chef, in a moment of sheer genius or perhaps madness, decided that the standard cooking time clearly didn’t account for the use of cold milk instead of the recommended water. Because who needs to follow instructions when you can just wing it? So, Chef Oatmeal cranked the microwave timer up to 3 minutes. Yes, 3 whole minutes of heating milk and oats. What could possibly go wrong?

As the microwave hummed away, the aroma of cinnamon began to fill the air. A delightful scent, one might say, until you realize that it’s also the smell of impending disaster. You see, 3 minutes in the microwave is like giving a teenager a credit card—there’s bound to be some overindulgence. And just like that, the oatmeal was transformed into a bubbling, frothing concoction that could only be described as a cinnamon volcano.

When the microwave finally beeped, Chef Oatmeal opened the door to reveal a scene that would make any parent cringe. Oatmeal was everywhere, spilling over the sides of the bowl like it was auditioning for a role in a food fight. The microwave, now smelling like a cinnamon-scented disaster zone, bore the battle scars of an overly ambitious cooking attempt.

And let’s not forget the toppings. In the aftermath, Chef Oatmeal decided to salvage the situation by adding a banana, some frozen grapes (because why not?), and—wait for it—leftover stale cereal that had been forgotten in the depths of the pantry. Now, I don’t know about you, but nothing says gourmet breakfast quite like a hodgepodge of ingredients that were never meant to go together.

So, what’s the takeaway from this culinary escapade? Well, it’s a reminder that cooking is an art, not a science. Sometimes, you just have to embrace the chaos. Sure, Chef Oatmeal might have created a mildly infuriating mess and a breakfast that even the most daring Instagram foodie would hesitate to post, but they did it with style.

In the end, isn’t that what being a teenager is all about? Experimenting, making mistakes, and trying to figure out life one microwave disaster at a time? So here’s to you, Chef Oatmeal. May your future culinary endeavors be slightly less explosive and maybe just a tad more delicious. And if all else fails, there’s always cereal.

Inspired by: “Home alone teen that can’t cook tries to make microwave oatmeal.” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

Another danger of many types of cooking is the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxide, among others.

Let’s set the scene: You’re in the kitchen, apron on, channeling your inner Gordon Ramsay. The aroma of dinner fills the air, and it’s almost enough to make you feel like a culinary genius. But suddenly, the sweet symphony of sizzling pans is interrupted by a shrill alarm that sounds a lot like a cat being stepped on. That’s right, folks – your carbon monoxide alarm just went off. Cue the panic!

Now, for our friend on Reddit, this wasn’t just a mild inconvenience; it was a full-blown episode of ‘What Not to Do When You Smell Gas.’ With two foster kids in the mix, the stakes were high. Our hero decided to take the responsible route: evacuate the kids, call 911, and get the professionals involved. Sounds like a solid plan, right?

But then came the landlord’s response, which was almost as shocking as the alarm itself. Apparently, it was our Redditor’s choice to call 911. Yes, because ignoring a potentially lethal gas leak is definitely an option everyone should consider. “Oh, what’s that? My alarm is blaring? Nah, I think I’ll just roll the dice and see if I wake up tomorrow!”

The fire department arrived, confirmed that the levels of carbon monoxide were elevated but not toxic, and proceeded to unplug the stove. They even opened all the windows – which, let’s be honest, is the adult equivalent of waving a white flag and saying, “I’m not going down without a fight!” But the utility company advised against plugging that stove back in until a technician could take a look.

Now, here’s where it gets even more interesting. Our Redditor reaches out to the landlord – you know, the guy who should be on top of these things – and asks for a technician to come out. Instead of a prompt response, he casually states that it was her choice to call 911. As if choosing to prioritize the safety of two children and herself was a debatable decision!

And let’s talk about that stove for a minute. Apparently, one of the burners hasn’t been functional since they moved in, and the landlord’s brilliant solution was to hand over a lighter. Because who needs a functional stove when you can just set things on fire manually?

But here’s the kicker: the landlord is on vacation and thinks it’s perfectly acceptable to leave a family without a stove for a week. It’s like saying, “Enjoy your week of cold sandwiches and takeout, but hey, it’s your choice!”

Now, some might argue that our friend overreacted by calling 911. But let’s be real – when it comes to carbon monoxide, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you hear that alarm, it’s not just a suggestion; it’s a wake-up call (literally) that something might be wrong.

So, what can we take away from this mildly infuriating tale? First, always prioritize safety when it comes to your home. If an alarm goes off, don’t just ignore it because you’re in the middle of cooking a fancy dinner. And second, landlords really need to step up their game. If you’re renting, make sure your place is safe – and if your landlord hands you a lighter instead of fixing the stove, maybe it’s time to find a new place to call home.

In conclusion, while cooking can sometimes feel like a high-stakes game, let’s not forget that safety should always come first. And if your landlord gives you attitude instead of assistance, well, you might just need to cook up a plan to find a new one!

Inspired by: “It’s my *choice* to call 911” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

psule, which is 1.35 ounces, packs 60 mg of caffeine. That’ s a bit less than a typical shot of espresso, which has around 70-80 mg of caffeine.

Ah, the Nespresso machine. The sleek little gadget that promises you a barista-level coffee experience without the need for a degree in coffeeology. Sounds great, right? Well, it is—until you realize your family has turned your kitchen into a mini coffee factory, and you’re the one financing their caffeine dreams.

Let’s talk about the reality of owning one of these machines. When my wife decided to switch us to a Nespresso a couple of months ago, I thought it was a brilliant idea. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a rich, creamy espresso without leaving the house? But now, two months later, I’m starting to think that maybe, just maybe, Nespresso is the new gold rush, and we’re the poor miners digging for coffee-flavored nuggets.

In a mere two months, we’ve gone through 250 pods. Yes, you read that right—250! That’s approximately 125 cups of coffee, and if my math is correct (which it usually isn’t), that’s around $375 spent on coffee pods alone. At this point, I half-expect to see a Nespresso executive knocking on my door, asking if I’d like to invest in their next big venture.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the pod usage. I’ve caught my family in the act of using TWO pods for one coffee. I mean, who are they trying to impress? A Nespresso ambassador? And then there’s the almost-full cup that I find lurking in the fridge, like some sad little coffee ghost. When I ask why it was left there, the answer is always, “It was too strong; I didn’t like that one…” Oh, the horror! A coffee that didn’t meet their high standards! Who knew coffee could be so finicky?

And here’s the kicker: whenever I voice my concerns about our rapidly dwindling savings account, my wife reminds me that I own a motorcycle. Fair enough. But I’m not the one guzzling down $1.50 to $2 pods like they’re candy! Meanwhile, everyone else is just chilling, sipping their lattes, completely oblivious to the financial train wreck happening behind the scenes.

Now, I’ve had friends reach out, suggesting I get refillable pods. Oh, they are so optimistic. My wife loves trying all the flavors and insists that the creamy topping is an essential part of the experience. “Just let me have this!” she says with a smile that could charm a snake. And who am I to argue with that? I mean, what’s a few hundred dollars when you can have a delicious cup of coffee?

But let’s get real for a moment. Nestlé knows exactly what they’re doing. They’ve crafted this delightful little ecosystem where we’re all just pawns in their caffeinated game. They’ve created a product that’s not just about coffee; it’s about the experience, the flavors, the crema—oh, the crema! It’s almost like an art form at this point.

So here I am, stuck in this Nespresso-induced conundrum. On one hand, I love seeing my family happy and caffeinated. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m financing the next wave of coffee billionaires. What’s a guy to do? Maybe I’ll just embrace the chaos and start a support group for disgruntled Nespresso owners. We can meet over a strong cup of coffee—if we can afford it, that is.

In the end, I suppose we all have our vices. Some people collect stamps; others collect coffee pods. At least mine comes with a side of sarcasm and a dash of mild frustration. Cheers to that!

Inspired by: “Wife’s Nespresso Machine… someone is getting rich off us.” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

Most communities enforce flair with an AutoModerator rule that automatically removes posts submitted without a flair and sends a removal message. That is why an unflaired post can appear briefly and then disappear. Resubmit with a flair selected and it should stay up.

Hey there, fellow Redditors! Buckle up, because the world of post flairs in the ‘mildlyinfuriating’ subreddit just got a major upgrade. Yes, you heard that right! In a bold move that’s sure to shake the very foundations of our online community, we now have brand new post flairs to choose from. So, what’s the big deal? Let’s break it down, shall we?

First off, let’s give a round of applause to the mods. They’ve been listening to our cries for more flair options, and they finally delivered! It’s like they’ve been watching us suffer in silence, staring at the same old boring flairs, and thought, “Hey, let’s sprinkle some fun into this mildly infuriating mix!” And sprinkle they did!

So, what can you expect from these new additions? Let’s start with the classic, the legendary—drumroll, please—”wet socks!” Yes, that’s right. Nothing says mild irritation quite like the feeling of squishy footwear. It’s the kind of annoyance that makes you question your life choices, like why you decided to wear those shoes in the rain. It’s relatable, it’s real, and now it’s flair-worthy!

And then there’s the crowd favorite, “that’s not milk.” Now, if you’ve ever opened a carton only to find something that looks suspiciously like a science experiment, you’ll understand the sheer brilliance of this flair. It’s a perfect way to convey your frustration without needing to type out a long-winded explanation. Just slap that flair on and let your fellow Redditors commiserate with you.

But wait, there’s more! These new flairs aren’t just for show; they’re a way to express our collective annoyance in a fun and quirky manner. Imagine scrolling through posts and seeing a delightful mix of “wet socks” and “that’s not milk” pop up alongside someone’s everyday grievances. You might even find yourself chuckling at the absurdity of it all.

Now, let’s be real for a second. Some might say, “Why bother with flairs?” To that, I say—why not? Flairs are like the sprinkles on top of a cupcake. Sure, the cupcake is delicious on its own, but who doesn’t love a little extra flair? Plus, it gives us a chance to showcase our personalities. Are you feeling particularly annoyed today? Choose “wet socks!” Feeling a little sassy? “That’s not milk” is your go-to. The possibilities are endless!

And for those of you who are still on the fence about using flairs, fear not! You can choose to use them or not—no pressure! It’s not like the mods are going to come knocking on your door demanding a flair usage report. “Excuse me, sir, we noticed you haven’t utilized your flair options. We need to talk about your subreddit engagement levels!” Yeah, that’s not happening.

In closing, let’s embrace the new flairs! Dive in, explore the options, and have some fun with it. Because let’s face it, life is too short to take everything seriously. And while you’re at it, if you happen to come across a mod survey feedback form, maybe drop them a five-star review? After all, they’ve worked hard to make our subreddit a little more colorful.

So, what are you waiting for? Go forth and post with flair (pun intended)! Happy redditing, folks!

Inspired by: “New Post flairs available!!” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

Promotional pricing means you make your product cheaper for a short time. It helps to bring more attention, get new customers, or sell faster. The price goes back to normal after the promotion ends.

Ah, promotions! Those magical moments when retailers promise us the world for just a fraction of the cost. Who doesn’t love a good sale? But sometimes, just sometimes, you come across a promotion that leaves you scratching your head in confusion, or worse, shaking your fist at the sky in mild annoyance. Enter the infamous ‘1 cent off’ promotion.

Picture this: you’re strolling through your favorite store, perhaps on a mission to save the world (or just find a snack). Suddenly, your eyes lock onto a sign that screams, “Promotion Alert: 1 Cent Off!” You stop, blink a couple of times, and think, “Did I just win the lottery?” Spoiler alert: you didn’t.

In a recent Reddit post that went viral in the mildlyinfuriating subreddit, a user shared their experience with a promotion that was, quite literally, the only item in the promotion. Now, I’m not saying that a cent off isn’t appreciated. I mean, if I were to find a penny on the ground, I’d probably pick it up and feel like I just discovered a hidden treasure. But let’s be real—when the only item in the promotion is a mere penny off, it raises some serious questions about the marketing team’s decision-making skills.

For starters, what exactly are they trying to achieve? Are they hoping that consumers will feel so overwhelmed by the prospect of saving a single cent that they’ll rush to buy a product they don’t really need? “Oh boy, I’ve saved one cent on this can of beans! Time to celebrate with a victory dance!” If that’s the strategy, it’s not exactly foolproof.

And then there’s the irony of it all. You walk into the store thinking you’re about to score a great deal, only to find that the only thing on sale is practically worthless. It’s like being told you’ve won a free trip to Hawaii, only to find out it’s a trip to the local park. Sure, there’s grass, but I was kind of hoping for sandy beaches and fruity cocktails with little umbrellas in them.

Now, let’s talk about the psychological aspect of these promotions. It’s almost like a cruel joke. Retailers know that consumers love a good deal, and they often use that knowledge to lure us in. But when the deal is less than a cup of coffee, it can leave us feeling more than a little cheated. It’s like going to a buffet and finding out that the only thing on the menu is a single slice of stale bread. Thanks, but no thanks.

Ultimately, these 1 cent off promotions serve as a reminder that not all that glitters is gold. Sometimes, it’s just a shiny piece of foil wrapped around a very disappointing surprise. So the next time you see a promotion that seems too good to be true, take a moment to consider what’s really being offered. And if it’s only a penny off, you might want to just keep walking. After all, you can’t buy happiness, but you can certainly buy a decent snack for a dollar.

In conclusion, while we all appreciate a good promotion, let’s aim for something a little more substantial than a single cent. Because if I’m going to be lured into a store, I’d like to at least feel like I got a good deal, not just a gentle reminder that I should probably check my expectations at the door. Happy shopping, and may your promotions always be worth more than a penny!

Inspired by: “That’s the only item in the promotion” (r/mildlyinfuriating)

CDC Data Centres Laverton Campus is located at Leakes Rd, Laverton North VIC 3026, Australia. The gross building size for this location has not been provided. The gross colocation space is not available for this data center.

Ah, Leakes Road in Laverton—a place where the scenery is as exciting as watching paint dry, but it seems like that’s about to change. Recently, a post on Reddit sparked a curious debate about what exactly is being constructed on this otherwise unremarkable stretch of road. Will it be a shiny new data centre or yet another apartment complex that will probably end up looking like a brick wall? Let’s dive into the speculation!

First off, let’s talk about the source of this mystery. Reddit user /u/SigmaUserykyk threw the question into the ring, asking the burning question that’s on everyone’s mind: “What in actual is being built on Leakes Road?” It’s a question that feels almost philosophical when you consider the sheer excitement of the possibilities. Google, in all its infinite wisdom (and a sprinkle of algorithmic guesswork), seems to think we’re about to welcome a data centre into the neighborhood. Because nothing says ‘Welcome to the community’ quite like a massive building filled with servers humming away like they’re auditioning for a role in a sci-fi movie.

Now, if you’re wondering why a data centre is even a thing, let’s just say that in our digital age, these places are the backbone of the internet. They house all the data that makes our streaming, gaming, and social media lives possible. So, if you enjoy binge-watching your favorite shows, you might just owe a little gratitude to the folks who build these data centres. But on the flip side, they’re not exactly the most picturesque structures, are they? It’s like putting a giant industrial cake in the middle of a park.

On the other hand, there’s the possibility of an apartment complex. You know, those cookie-cutter buildings that seem to sprout up faster than mushrooms after a rainstorm? While they might provide housing, they also tend to come with a side of cramped living spaces and a hefty price tag. If you’re lucky, you might even get a view of the data centre—a true modern-day urban experience!

So, what’s it going to be? A data centre or an apartment complex? The truth is, we might not know for a while. Construction timelines can be as mysterious as the contents of a teenager’s bedroom. But here’s the kicker: no matter what it turns out to be, it’s bound to stir up some opinions. Some locals will cheer for the technological advancement (because who doesn’t want faster internet?), while others might lament the loss of what little charm Laverton has left.

In the end, whether it’s a data centre that keeps our online world spinning or another set of apartments that will likely be full of young professionals and their pets, one thing’s for sure—Leakes Road is about to get a whole lot more interesting. And who knows, maybe we’ll even get a coffee shop out of the deal. Because let’s face it, if you’re going to live near a data centre, you might as well have a caffeine fix to keep you awake during those late-night Netflix binges.

So, keep your eyes peeled, folks! The construction on Leakes Road could be the beginning of something that brings a little life to the area—or at least a few more cars in the traffic jam that is our daily commute. Either way, let’s hope it’s something that makes our lives just a tad more exciting. Cheers to that!

Inspired by: “What In actual is being built on Leakes Road north of Laverton” (r/melbourne)

The only thing we all have in common is we bought a ticket to this particular concert. That means we want to hear the music. We don’t want to hear you talking. If you don’t like the opener or you’re bored at any particular moment, head to the lobby or concourse, order a drink, and chat away. You and your buddy can do a live read of the My Dinner With Andre script for all we care. Just please don’t stay in your seats and yell to each other over the music.

Ah, the concert experience. It’s a magical place where the air is thick with excitement, the lights are blinding, and the music is pulsating through your very bones. You can almost taste the energy in the atmosphere. But then, just as you’re about to lose yourself in the rhythm, you hear it: the unmistakable sound of someone yelling about their day over the top of the band’s hard work.

Let’s talk about those people, shall we? You know who I mean—the ones who seem to think that a concert is just a fancy backdrop for their social hour. I recently attended a Modest Mouse show (which, by the way, was AMAZING) and I was treated to a live performance of “Loud Conversations in Front of the Stage.” It was like a two-for-one deal: I got to enjoy the music and simultaneously eavesdrop on a couple’s riveting discussion about their weekend plans. Spoiler alert: it was just as thrilling as it sounds.

Now, I understand that some folks may not be as enamored with the band as I am. Perhaps they were dragged there by a friend or maybe they just came for the overpriced nachos (I mean, who doesn’t love nachos?). But if you’re going to a concert, why on Earth would you choose to talk loudly over the music? It’s like going to a fine dining restaurant and deciding to whip out a can of beans. Totally missing the point!

What’s even more entertaining is when someone finally has the courage to tell these chatty Cathys to pipe down. At my concert, someone politely asked the couple to “Shut the Fck up,” and what do you know? Karen immediately took offense! Because, of course, she’s the real victim here for wanting to have a loud, two-sided conversation in the middle of a concert. I can just hear her now: “Excuse me, sir, but I paid for this ticket, and I also paid for the right to ruin your experience!”

And let’s not forget the icing on the cake: after 20 minutes of their precious conversation, they decided to leave early. But not without making a pit stop at the merch booth, where they proudly purchased shirts and hats as if they were the biggest fans in the universe. I guess they figured that wearing the band’s logo would somehow absolve them of their concert faux pas. Newsflash! It doesn’t work that way.

I’m not trying to be a concert snob here. I get it—everyone enjoys concerts for different reasons. But if you’re going to spend your hard-earned cash to attend a live show, at least try to engage with the music instead of your friend’s latest gossip. Trust me, the band worked hard to create that atmosphere, and they deserve more than just background noise while you discuss your life decisions.

So, the next time you find yourself at a concert, remember: the music is the main event, not your conversation. Let’s keep the volume at a reasonable level, shall we? And if you need to talk, there’s always the good old-fashioned coffee shop where you can discuss your weekend plans without ruining someone else’s night.

In conclusion, be a good concert-goer. Respect the music, respect the artists, and for the love of all that is holy, please keep your volume down. Because nothing ruins the experience more than a loud conversation drowning out the band you came to see. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a concert to get to—where I plan to yell at the top of my lungs, but only when it’s appropriate. Like during the guitar solos.

Inspired by: “People who talk to others LOUDLY at concerts…” (r/mildlyinfuriating)