Pelican Press

NBA playoffs: Pacers cruise to blowout win in Game 4 as Cavaliers lose Donovan Mitchell to ankle injury – Yahoo Sports NBA playoffs: Pacers cruise to blowout win in Game 4 as Cavaliers lose Donovan Mitchell to ankle injury – Yahoo Sports NBA playoffs: Pacers cruise to blowout win in Game 4 as Cavaliers lose Donovan Mitchell to ankle injury Yahoo SportsWhen it comes to the Cavs, ‘embarrassing’ is too kind a word – Terry Pluto Cleveland.comPacers push Cavs to brink in NBA playoffs, Pacers pull even with Nuggets Yahoo SportsCavs fall to Pacers 129-109 FOX 8 NewsCavaliers vs. Pacers Game 4 Predictions: Odds, expert picks, recent stats, trends and best bets for May 11 NBC Sports Source link #NBA #playoffs #Pacers #cruise #blowout #win #Game #Cavaliers #lose #Donovan #Mitchell #ankle #injury #Yahoo #Sports Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

*** immigration has seen a trend over the last 30 years *** immigration has seen a trend over the last 30 years In Pictures via Getty Images Images Immigration into the *** is, arguably, the standout social and demographic change of the 21st Century and also one of the biggest and most transparent political failings, when you compare rhetoric to reality. Whatever your own view about immigration, the trends over the last generation are worth a look. For the last 30 years, the number of people migrating to the *** has been greater than the number emigrating, every single year. In the 30 years before the mid 1990s, net migration, the number arriving minus the number leaving, bobbed up and down but was broadly balanced. In other words, net migration was zero. But from 1994 onwards, it began to climb, jumping during Labour’s time in office in the early 2000s – and doing so by more than they publicly estimated when the EU expanded and the *** didn’t impose any limits on those who could move here. By the time the Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government came to power in 2010, it had become a sufficiently potent political issue that the Tories promised to “take steps to take net migration back to the levels of the 1990s – tens of thousands a year, not hundreds of thousands.” They failed. “Over the last 25 years, both immigration and emigration have increased to historically high levels, with immigration exceeding emigration by more than 100,000 in every year between 1998 and 2020,” a research paper from the House of Commons Library notes. In other words, the numbers remained historically high. Immigration became a key issue for many in the EU referendum in 2016. Brexit, once it was eventually delivered, meant political leaders could no longer blame anyone else for immigration. Freedom of movement with EU member states ended. The government at Westminster would have all the levers necessary, if they were willing to use them, to control who was allowed to come to the ***. In 2021, a new immigration policy was set out. There were changes to the criteria needed for work visas, in what was widely described as a points based system. The net migration figures shot up, despite the demands of many, expressed at the time of the EU referendum. for the opposite to happen. In the year to June 2023, net migration was 906,000. In the year to June 2024, it was 728,000. A week on Thursday, the latest data will be published. It will likely show a significant fall in the calendar year 2024, as we already know there was a dramatic fall in visas granted last year. All of this is the context for what we are seeing the government now set out. Before the week is out, expect to hear more from ministers about ******** immigration. For now the focus is on legal immigration. Both fall within what senior figures see as one of their three pillars, a trio of priorities: secure borders – alongside the health service and more money in people’s pockets. The current net migration numbers are “beyond unsustainable”, one senior government figure told me. Put simply, there is a political imperative to get the numbers down and they hope they have found a way to do it that helps people feel better off, rather than having a negative economic impact. So expect, for instance, that the most prized immigrants – the most highly skilled and the most high earning – will be able to secure permanent residence much quicker than others. The White Paper is the work of the last six or seven months. Ministers hope to deliver some things quickly – cutting by 50,000 the number of lower skilled and care workers coming to the *** pretty much straight away. Other plans are expected to be set out in an immigration bill at the next King’s Speech. The aim is that by the time the next general election is close, in 2028 or 2029, the Prime Minister can point to a trend which bucks what we have seen so far this century. His credibility, and that of the Conservatives, Reform *** and others will be shaped by how successful or otherwise he is. Source link #immigration #trend #years Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘I don’t think he’s alone in that speculation’: Trent Robinson addresses DCE contract rumours as potential loan deal gets shot down ‘I don’t think he’s alone in that speculation’: Trent Robinson addresses DCE contract rumours as potential loan deal gets shot down Roosters coach Trent Robinson insists there’s been no progress between the club and Daly Cherry-Evans’ management about where he might play in 2026, while he also weighed in on what could happen to young half Hugo Savala if the Sea Eagles veteran does join the glamour club. Cherry-Evans has been strongly linked with the Roosters since he dropped a bombshell that he’d leave Manly at the end of the season, but nothing has been made official in the weeks since, with the skipper’s form dropping off. He would form a potent halves pairing alongside Sam Walker, with skipper James Tedesco roving at fullback and new recruit Reece Robson to play hooker when he joins from the Cowboys next season. The Roosters have freed up some cash with Brandon Smith to join the Rabbitohs effective immediately, while Dom Young was reportedly off to the Knights before that move fell apart. Camera IconDaly Cherry-Evans is expected to join the Roosters next season. NRL Photos Credit: Supplied “I said six weeks ago that we were interested,” Robinson said. “We haven’t had any discussions since then with management, and that’s still the case. “The freeing up (of salary cap space) is about building the best squad we can possibly build. We’re in negotiations with three of our guys that are already under contracts – some of the younger guys – so it’s always a mix of both. “We’ve recruited Reece from outside for next year, and there is an interest there (for Cherry-Evans). “I think we’ve been really clear on what we’ve been trying to do this year. “Everyone expected us to make some big move last year, but we’ve played a lot of these (younger) guys and we’ve got 29/30 out of our full squad that have come through our system. That’s as much as any team in the competition, and that’ll continue.” Smith spoke last week and said the Maroons halfback was essentially a done deal at the Roosters, but Robinson insisted that wasn’t the case. Camera IconTrent Robinson is adamant that the Roosters haven’t signed Daly Cherry-Evans yet. NRL Photos Credit: The Daily Telegraph “I don’t think he’s alone in that speculation. I think a lot of people have said that,” he said, with Smith also urging the Roosters to spend his money on upgrades for young forwards Blake Steep and Naufahu Whyte. “I said that we were interested, but we haven’t got to the point where we’ve sat down and had a conversation with his management. “We’ll get to it in due course whether it can be worked out.” With Cherry-Evans tipped to sign for 2026 and possibly 2027, towering halfback Hugo Savala suddenly becomes the odd man out, which prompted his manager to ponder whether the club could loan him for a season to continue his development. “I’ve heard speculation about that, but the manager hasn’t approached us directly about anything like that,” Robinson said, keen to keep the local junior at the club. “We’ve really loved watching Hugo do his bit this year. He’s definitely a Rooster through and through, and his future is here.” Source link #dont #hes #speculation #Trent #Robinson #addresses #DCE #contract #rumours #potential #loan #deal #shot Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

A Hidden Supermassive ****** Hole Has Just Revealed Itself in Deep Space A Hidden Supermassive ****** Hole Has Just Revealed Itself in Deep Space A supermassive ****** hole around a million times the mass of the Sun just gave away its position in spectacular fashion. When a passing star veered a little too close, it was torn apart in the ****** hole’s gravitational field, releasing an enormous flare of light. That flare of light, a tidal disruption event recorded by telescopes on Earth, was named AT2024tvd, and its detection revealed something very peculiar about the galaxy 600 million light-years away in which the event took place. The ****** hole responsible, according to a team of astronomers led by Yuhan Yao of the University of California, Berkeley, is a wanderer, untethered from the nucleus of a galaxy. It is not even in a binary orbit with the supermassive ****** hole that is at the heart of the host galaxy. “AT2024tvd is the first offset tidal disruption event (TDE) captured by optical sky surveys, and it opens up the entire possibility of uncovering this elusive population of wandering ****** holes with future sky surveys,” Yao says. “Right now, theorists haven’t given much attention to offset TDEs. I think this discovery will motivate scientists to look for more examples of this type of event.” ****** holes, when they’re just lurking around in space, are very difficult to spot, especially in other galaxies. They don’t emit any radiation we can currently detect, and that’s our main tool for studying the cosmos. We can detect ****** hole pairs by way of gravitational waves when they smack into each other, but a lone ****** hole doing nothing is invisible. There’s an exception. When something gets close enough, the powerful tidal forces within the ****** hole’s gravity field will rip it apart, and send it spiraling down beyond the event horizon. This process, known as a tidal disruption, emits a blazing flare of light across the electromagnetic spectrum that we can detect from millions to billions of light-years away, and deconstruct to learn about the ****** hole responsible. AT2024tvd was just such a flare, first detected on 25 August 2024 by the Zwicky Transient Facility, a wide-field sky survey designed to pick up transient events like supernovae and TDEs. Astronomers rapidly followed up, using radio, optical, and X-ray telescopes to capture as much of the event’s light as possible. AT2024tvd and its host galaxy. The TDE is shown in blue, and the galactic center in yellow. (Yao et al., arXiv, 2025) Yao and colleagues were able to trace the event to a point in the sky 600 light-years away, where, conveniently, a large galaxy can also be found. But, although their analysis revealed a supermassive ****** hole as the culprit for the TDE with a mass between 100,000 and 10 million Suns, the point in the galaxy from which the flare originated was not the galactic center. This is really interesting. Supermassive ****** holes are usually found sitting in the centers of galaxies – the gravitational hub around which the entire kit and kaboodle revolves. AT2024tvd’s host galaxy, however, already has a supermassive ****** hole in its center, one that’s around 100 million solar masses. Now, there are galactic centers that have two or more supermassive ****** holes, locked in a gravitational dance that will one day see them merge to form one even huger ****** hole. However, the two supermassive ****** holes in the galaxy in question are not gravitationally bound in a binary. They’re separated by a distance of around 2,600 light-years, and the smaller one is just moseying about the galactic bulge. Galaxies gain extra supermassive ****** holes when they collide with other galaxies; over time, the two supermassive ****** holes at their hearts find each other, which is when we see them locked together as a system. The presence of a second supermassive ****** hole in this particular galaxy means that, at some point in its past, it merged with another galaxy. What we don’t know is whether it’s on its way into or out of the galactic center. It’s entirely possible that the center already hosts a binary. If this is the case, then the third ****** hole may have once been among them, and was booted out by a three-body interaction. Or we could just have caught it on an inbound trajectory on its way to the center, where it will enter a binary interaction with the ****** hole already therein. Either scenario is possible. One way to learn more about this ****** hole configuration is to find more galaxies that have similarly offset rogue supermassive ****** holes. This research, the team says, offers a potential pathway to do so. “Tidal disruption events hold great promise for illuminating the presence of massive ****** holes that we would otherwise not be able to detect,” says astronomer Ryan Chornock of UC Berkeley. “Theorists have predicted that a population of massive ****** holes located away from the centers of galaxies must exist, but now we can use TDEs to find them.” The research has been accepted into The Astrophysical Journal Letters, and is available on arXiv. Related News Source link #Hidden #Supermassive #****** #Hole #Revealed #Deep #Space Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The Midnight Walk Review – A Quiet Masterpiece of Horror and Heart | COGconnected The Midnight Walk Review – A Quiet Masterpiece of Horror and Heart | COGconnected The Midnight Walk is a game that whispers its story rather than shouts it, but can it hold its own among the genre’s greats? Source link #Midnight #Walk #Review #Quiet #Masterpiece #Horror #Heart #COGconnected Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The Last of Us Recap: Don’t Go in the Basement – Vulture The Last of Us Recap: Don’t Go in the Basement – Vulture The Last of Us Recap: Don’t Go in the Basement VultureThe Last of Us: Season 2 Episode 5 Review IGNWho is Isaac on ‘The Last of Us’? Jeffrey Wright’s expanded origin story, explained Entertainment Weekly‘The Last of Us’ Episode 5: Something in the Air Rolling Stone‘The Last of Us’ Season 2, Episode 5 Recap: You Wouldn’t Like Me When I’m Angry The Ringer Source link #Recap #Dont #Basement #Vulture Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Review – Hot Rod Mayhem (PS5) | WayTooManyGames Review – Hot Rod Mayhem (PS5) | WayTooManyGames WTMG’s Leo Faria: “Overall, whilst Hot Rod Mayhem is a competent kart racer in terms of visuals and performance, it’s just not the most fun experience. It lacks speed, it lacks track variety, and most importantly, it lacks charisma. As much as the idea of creating racers of your own sounds appealing, they are almost always too ugly to look at. The sound department is far from memorable (the announcer sucks) as well. All in all, you will only have a crack with this game if it’s literally the only kart racer at your disposal. And I highly doubt that will ever happen to literally anyone out there.” Source link #Review #Hot #Rod #Mayhem #PS5 #WayTooManyGames Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Three sailors rescued from sinking yacht in Coral Sea, 350km east of Brisbane Three sailors rescued from sinking yacht in Coral Sea, 350km east of Brisbane Three sailors have been rescued from a sinking yacht, stranded hundreds of kilometres from the *********** coast. Source link #sailors #rescued #sinking #yacht #Coral #Sea #350km #east #Brisbane Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

New Virtua Fighter Game Reveals the Return of Wolf Hawkfield New Virtua Fighter Game Reveals the Return of Wolf Hawkfield Richard Bailey Jr. of The Koalition writes: The fighting game genre has been red-hot over the last several years thanks to the release of a few notable hard-hitting titles. Street Fighter 6, Mortal Kombat 1, and Tekken 8 all had great launches while Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics was the perfect trip down memory lane. With a new year now upon us, the question on my mind is which fighting game will be the most talked about? Source link #Virtua #Fighter #Game #Reveals #Return #Wolf #Hawkfield Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

EQT Asia's Salata on PE Opportunities in Asia EQT Asia's Salata on PE Opportunities in Asia EQT Asia’s Salata on PE Opportunities in Asia Source link #EQT #Asia039s #Salata #Opportunities #Asia Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Panel Images From The Magic The Gathering/Final Fantasy Line From PAX East Panel Images From The Magic The Gathering/Final Fantasy Line From PAX East Skewed and Reviewed have posted panel images from the big reveal at PAX East. Source link #Panel #Images #Magic #GatheringFinal #Fantasy #Line #PAX #East Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Qatar is said to be giving Trump a new plane – NPR Qatar is said to be giving Trump a new plane – NPR Qatar is said to be giving Trump a new plane NPRTrump administration poised to accept ‘palace in the sky’ as a gift for Trump from Qatar: Sources ABC NewsTrump defends gift of 747 jet from Qatar as new Air Force One Financial TimesTrump Is Poised to Accept a Luxury 747 From Qatar for Use as Air Force One The New York TimesQatar offers Trump jumbo jet to serve as Air Force One Fox News Source link #Qatar #giving #Trump #plane #NPR Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Batt-Doyle refines focus after Tokyo blitz Batt-Doyle refines focus after Tokyo blitz An *********** record on the Toyko streets flanking Japan National Stadium has inspired Izzi Batt-Doyle to chase 10,000m qualification and run inside it at the world championships later this year. The 29-year-old from Adelaide has raced the 5000m at the last two Olympics, but boasts the third-fastest marathon by an *********** woman and wants to run a 10,000m at a global championship. That prospect firmed after she clocked 30 minutes and 44 seconds at last week’s World Athletics-sanctioned Asics event to launch the brand’s new race shoe. Buoyed by her Tokyo time despite battling sickness, Batt-Doyle will head to Europe this week for a series of track and road races over the distance. The women’s qualification time to race the one-off 10,000m final in Tokyo this September has been quickened from 30:40 to 30:20. “It’s fast, but that race showed me I’m around the mark and if I get another good 10km on the track I could get myself in the rankings for a spot anyway,” Batt-Doyle told AAP. “It takes a year or two to figure out what being a pro means … now I’m four years into what I’d call my career and think I’m seeing the rewards of consistency and hard work. “The mindset’s shifted to not just being happy to be there, but wanting to compete.” Batt-Doyle was among six *********** women to run the qualification time for last year’s Olympics marathon in Paris but was not selected in the three-strong team. Running the Los Angeles Olympics marathon in 2028 and Brisbane’s 2032 Games remain her long-term goals but Batt-Doyle wants to make the most of her track talents first. “I’m in a ******* of time where normally decisions are made for you by the way things are going,” the Nic Bideau-coached talent said. “I probably didn’t expect to be running such fast times (marathon) so early. “But the competitiveness globally and in Australia … the needle’s shifted as to what is, ‘a good time’, or what you need to run to put yourself in the equation. “I’m working hard, doing well in a number of events and it’s difficult (to choose), but I’ve got a short-term plan. “Part of me would like to focus on marathon now, forget about the track and shorter stuff because I’m not as comparatively competitive. “I don’t want to spend the next 10, 12 years doing two or three marathons a year, the same training and get stagnant. “I want to challenge myself, work on my speed and take these opportunities while I can.” Source link #BattDoyle #refines #focus #Tokyo #blitz Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

16-year-old killed in Bargersville ****** 16-year-old killed in Bargersville ****** 16-year-old killed in Bargersville ****** Source link #16yearold #killed #Bargersville #****** Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

2025 GMC Yukon Denali review 2025 GMC Yukon Denali review There’s a flood of new auto brands entering the *********** market at the moment and almost all of them are ********. Those that aren’t belong to American giant General Motors. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert Luxury brand Cadillac recently started local deliveries of its electric Lyriq, as it establishes itself here as an electric-only alternative to the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz and being offered through a new retail network. Now, joining Chevrolet products in the existing GM Specialty Vehicles network is GMC, with its first product being the GMC Yukon Denali, recently treated to a significant facelift. Thus far, GM Australia and New Zealand hasn’t confirmed any other GMC products for our market, and we’d be surprised if any more eventuated. See, GM in Australia is now pursuing only niche, more premium-priced products, and GMC’s product range is produced only in left-hand drive. That leaves the Yukon Denali having to be remanufactured in right-hand drive in Victoria by Walkinshaw subsidiary Premoso, joining the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Silverado HD that also see their steering wheels swap sides in Melbourne. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert GM says it used 10 Yukons for local development work, driving upwards of 100,000km – including a 14,000km round trip around Australia – and evaluating everything from the strength of the firewall to the effectiveness of the SUV’s wipers. “But wait,” you may be thinking, “Just what is GMC?” For many decades, GMC was little more than another badge Chevrolet pickups and SUVs were sold under. GM would swap the gold bowtie for a red three-letter badge, call the vehicles “Professional Grade”, and then sell them alongside Buicks and Pontiacs. In 1992 it debuted the Yukon name on its version of the Chevrolet Tahoe, and in 1999 this gained a posh version called the Denali, named for the Alaskan mountain (Yukon, by the way, is a ********* territory that shares its border with Alaska). Eventually, GMC rolled out Denali versions of almost all its models. In the early 2000s, GMC also started giving its vehicles unique sheetmetal, and there has continued to be even greater differentiation – at least visually – between GMC and Chevrolet models. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert Sure, in North America you can get fancy High Country versions of the related Chevrolet Tahoe and its stretched Suburban sibling, but in terms of positioning the GMC Yukon Denali (and longer Yukon XL Denali, not coming here) sits somewhere in between those and the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV. These Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac SUVs all share the T1 platform that also underpins GM’s full-sized combustion-powered pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. This means a body-on-frame platform like the Nissan Patrol and Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, though the Yukon Denali is priced well aloft of those. It sits smack-bang in the middle of the Lexus LX range price-wise. The Yukon Denali isn’t cheap, then, though it’s not the most expensive vehicle sold through GMSV showrooms either. Australians get the Yukon Denali with almost all its factory options offered in North America, though GMC recently introduced a Denali Ultimate with a few more goodies. How much does the GMC Yukon cost? Despite its lofty price, the Yukon Denali is still cheaper than a comparably equipped Cadillac Escalade would be if it were sold here. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The most affordable Escalade 4WD in the US with air suspension and Magnetic Ride Control costs over US$108,000 (~A$168,000), or around US$20k (~A$31,000) more than the most affordable Yukon Denali 4WD with these features. To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What is the GMC Yukon like on the inside? Opening the door sees the power running boards deploy, making it easy to step up into the cabin. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The driver gets an A-pillar grab handle, though the front passenger misses out – one of the few RHD conversion quirks present in the Yukon. Everything feels pretty solidly screwed together, and any gripes we have with materials are probably best levelled at GMC rather than the conversion crew at Premoso. See, the Yukon interior has a thoroughly modern, attractive design, but look closer and start poking and prodding and some deficiencies become apparent. The dash top with its pronounced, elephant-like graining and prominent stitching? It’s rock hard. That A-pillar grab handle? It’s entirely hard plastic and has a sharp seam. We don’t expect soft-touch trim around the cargo area and third row, but the plastic used here in the Yukon reminds me of my family’s Holden Equinoxes. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert There are also a lot of different textures and grains to the plastic and upholstery up front, betraying a lack of sophistication. The storage compartment atop the dashboard is lined, but it has a flimsy lid. It’s a shame as GMC has nailed the overall design. The charred wood trim is distinctive, the piano ****** is used relatively sparingly and to elegant effect, and there’s soft-touch trim where you really want it (the centre console sides, the door tops). Sadly, we miss out on the Teak and Light Shale interior offered in North America, which gives the interior more of an upmarket vibe. But through the use of brightwork and wood trim, the ******-on-****** cabin avoids looking funereal. The infotainment touchscreen is huge and has attractive graphics and a logical interface. You also have rocker switches underneath for functions like the climate control, though these could feel more substantial. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The digital instrument cluster, too, has attractive graphics and information is presented clearly and legibly. There are also a handful of selectable themes, and the display is shrouded in ****** trim which gives it somewhat of a floating appearance. There’s a helpful head-up display, but there’s one thing missing from this cabin: satellite navigation. You may be thinking, “That’s fine, I just use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay anyway.” And as expected, the Yukon has both of these, and with wireless connectivity to boot. But you’ll need to download offline maps if you’re venturing anywhere without mobile reception, and while GM executives have said these blackspots are disappearing, we lost phone service immediately after leaving Canberra. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert GM says it’s working on introducing satellite navigation to vehicles Down Under that don’t currently offer it, as well as a suite of connected services. The front seats are comfortable and feature heating and ventilation, though we miss out on the massaging function of the Denali Ultimate offered overseas. While the seats aren’t aggressively bolstered, you won’t find yourself rolling around too much in corners like you’re in some 1970s land yacht. Step into the second row and you’ll find a pair of 12.6-inch displays on the front seatbacks, allowing you to view speed and trip information – though, of course, no maps – as well as connect a pair of wireless headphones and plug into one of the two HDMI ports and watch something. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert Second-row occupants also get heated outboard seats, climate controls, a pair of USB-C outlets, map pockets, a pair of cupholders in the centre console, and another two cupholders in a fold-down centre armrest. The second-row bench helpfully tumbles forward in two parts, and getting back to the third row is about as easy as in the Yukon’s Japanese rivals. Clambering back there, I found at 180cm tall I had quite a good amount of headroom and knee room even with the second-row bench back as far as possible. Toe room was a bit constricted, however you can slide the second-row seats forward to free up a bit more room. Third-row occupants get roof-mounted air vents, plus a USB-C outlet and a pair of cupholders on each side. Crucially, the curtain airbags also extend back here. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert If you’re installing child seats, you’ll find top-tether points for all second-row and both outboard third-row seating positions, as well as ISOFIX anchors for the outboard second-row seats. There are no ISOFIX points for the third row. GM ANZ doesn’t quote boot space with all three rows up; a conversion of US-market numbers yields a figure of 722L behind the third row. Dropping the second and third rows, which can be done using switches in the cargo bay, nets you a total of 3480L of cargo space. You’ll be able to fit a large suitcase back here, but the Yukon doesn’t have the sheer cargo capacity of its longer Yukon XL sibling offered overseas. To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What’s under the bonnet? The GMC Yukon is launching here with a single powertrain: a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre petrol V8 mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert It’s a shame we miss out on the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six offered in the US, which produces 227kW of power and a stout 671Nm of torque. In the US, the 6.2-litre is rated at a combined 14.7L/100km while the diesel is rated at 10.7L/100km. GM ANZ, however, says the 6.2-litre gives the Yukon Denali a point of differentiation locally, and cites positive feedback from owners of Silverados with the same mill. Notably, GM has made key changes for 2025 to help it avoid mechanical issues that led to a global recall of vehicles equipped with the engine. The GMC Yukon has a braked towing capacity of 3628kg, more than the 3500kg figures of the LX, Patrol and LandCruiser, with a maximum tow ball weight of 363kg. This is provided you use a 70mm weight-distributing hitch kit with a 70mm towbar tongue and ball. With a 50mm tongue and ball these figures drop to 3500kg and 350kg respectively, while without a weight-distributing hitch you can only tow 2720kg with a maximum tow all weight of 272kg. Across a 200km drive from Canberra to Bawley Point on New South Wales’ South Coast, we averaged 13.6L/100km. From here to Sydney Airport, around 260km, we averaged 11.7L/100km. The official combined cycle claim is 12.8L/100km. Our brief 13km towing loop saw fuel consumption of 21.9L/100km. The Yukon Denali features automatic stop/start technology. To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool How does the GMC Yukon drive? The Yukon Denali has that beefy, substantial feeling you get in a Chevrolet Silverado, but with greater refinement. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The first leg of our drive took us across an extensive stretch of unsealed roads. These roads mightn’t have been littered with potholes, but they helped demonstrate one thing: a body-on-frame vehicle riding on enormous 24-inch wheels can actually be made to ride well. Aiding the Yukon in delivering a plush ride is its combination of adaptive air suspension and GM’s Magnetic Ride Control, the latter first introduced over 20 years ago. It’s not that GM’s other body-on-frame vehicles like the Silverado ride unpleasantly – on the contrary – but the Yukon’s ride is exceptionally supple. There are variable rate air springs at all four corners, with automatic load-levelling. You can adjust the stiffness of the suspension, and you can also drop the car to make it easier to get in and out of. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The Yukon automatically lowers by 50mm when entering and exiting the vehicle, automatically raising when you exceed 8km/h. There’s also an aerodynamic ride height that sees the Yukon drop by 20mm – provided you’re not towing and don’t have the tow/haul mode selected – when you exceed 105km/h for a ******* of time, returning to the default height when you drop below 48km/h. At speeds below 80km/h or when off-road or terrain modes are selected, you can also increase the ride height by 25mm. As for Magnetic Ride Control, this is an electronic valving system in the shock absorbers using magnetorheological fluid that helps to vary the stiffness based on road conditions. The technology debuted in the 2002 Cadillac Seville, and has been used by other brands such as Ferrari and Ford. Mind you, a Silverado does without all this tech and offers a soft, cushy ride, but you don’t get the adjustability that you get in a Yukon. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert You’ll feel the ride become firmer in Sport mode – if with still a little float and body roll in corners – though we wish there was a custom drive mode so you could, say, have firmer damping without the transmission holding gears for longer as it does in Sport mode. Drive mode selection is also a bit odd. It’s achieved through a button/knob combination buried over to the right-hand side of the steering wheel; you twist to change the drive mode, but you push a button on it to adjust the suspension. Regardless of drive mode, though, the Yukon feels surprisingly tied-down for a full-size American SUV. Despite this, you get heavy steering reminiscent of a Silverado’s unit so the full-size SUV does feel its size, particularly in close quarters. While the Yukon shares its powertrain with Silverado 1500s sold here, the big V8 sounds different. GMC appears to have used more sound deadening, so while you can still hear the sonorous bent-eight when you mash the pedal, it doesn’t have the persistent roar it has in the Chevy. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert The V8 doesn’t rock you back in your seat when you accelerate, but the Yukon gathers pace quickly and effortlessly. It’s aided by a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, almost imperceptibly. The muted engine note and the smooth, powerful V8/auto combo means you can find yourself speeding far too easily. There are paddle shifters but they scarcely seem necessary, and oddly you have to press a button on the steering wheel to activate them. Such a V8 engine seems ideal for towing, and we got to put that to the test by hooking up a 2.3-tonne horse float. Our towing loop was only short and didn’t include any high-speed driving, but the Yukon stayed nice and level with the trailer hooked up, while Tow/Haul mode saw the transmission hold onto gears for longer. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert We also had to brake suddenly from around 50km/h for an errant kangaroo and braking performance was decent, though there’s not a great deal of brake pedal feel. We didn’t get to take the Yukon off-road, but it features a two-speed transfer case and selectable low-range gearing, while the ability to raise the vehicle’s air suspension should help it in the rough stuff. That is, if you want to take your chrome-laden $175k SUV off-roading… Back on the road, highway driving is made easier with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, we don’t get Super Cruise like in Yukon Denalis in North America, which combines adaptive cruise and lane centring and supports hands-free driving on myriad roads. We do get GM’s Safety Alert seat, which vibrates the seat to warn you of danger – for example, if you’re about to reverse into an approaching vehicle. Many find this to be a weird sensation, but in my view it’s superior to audible chimes that serve only to alarm all your passengers. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What do you get? Apart from some missing items like satellite navigation, the ***********-market Yukon Denali comes with more standard equipment than the US-market one with GM ANZ ticking a raft of option boxes. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert 2025 GMC Yukon Denali equipment highlights: Magnetic Ride ControlAir Ride adaptive suspensionActive Response 4WD system with electronic limited-slip differential3.23 rear axle ratio24-inch Selective Machined and Painted Pearl Nickel wheelsBridgestone 285/40R24 all-season tyresMaxxis Bravo HT-750 265/70R17 spareTow bar (doesn’t include tow ball and tongue)12-pin wiring harnessElectric trailer brake controllerLED headlightsAutomatic high-beamRain-sensing wipersRear camera mirror washerDigital rear-view cameraAcoustic laminated glassHands-free power tailgateProximity entry with push-button startPanoramic sunroofPower-retractable side steps11-inch digital instrument cluster16.8-inch touchscreen infotainment systemWireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto15-inch head-up displayBose 14-speaker sound systemDual 12.6-inch rear screens with wireless headphonesWireless phone chargerDual-zone climate control12-way power-adjustable front seats with driver’s memoryHeated and ventilated front seatsHeated rear seatsHeated, leather-wrapped steering wheelPower tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustmentCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpertCamera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert GMSV will offer a range of 25 accessories, including puddle lights and illuminated badges. The local Yukon Denali misses out on features exclusive to the Denali Ultimate overseas, such as night vision, massaging front seats and 18- or 22-speaker Bose sound systems. Is the GMC Yukon safe? The GMC Yukon hasn’t been tested by ANCAP. Given it won’t be sold in Europe, there’s no Euro NCAP score that we’ll be able to rely on should ANCAP not test it. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert There’s no score for the Yukon from the US Insurance Institute of Highway Safety either, though the related Chevrolet Tahoe missed out on Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ statuses. Standard safety equipment includes: Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detectionAdaptive cruise controlBlind-spot monitoringLane-keep assistRear cross-traffic alertSurround-view cameraFront and rear parking sensorsTrailer hitch guidance with hitch viewTrailer sway controlTyre pressure monitoringFront and front-side airbagsCurtain airbags for all three rows There’s no front-centre airbag to stop the two front-seat occupants from colliding into each other in a ******. To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool How much does the GMC Yukon cost to run? The GMC Yukon Denali is backed by a three-year warranty, an offering that looks decidedly retro in 2025 when even most luxury brands offer five years of coverage. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert GM says it has no plans at this stage to expand its warranty offering or introduce capped-price servicing. To see how the GMC Yukon lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool CarExpert’s Take on the GMC Yukon Last time GM tried to bring a full-size American SUV here, it chose to bring the Chevrolet Suburban – wearing Holden badges – as a rival for the Nissan Patrol and Toyota LandCruiser. But it was too large, and by most accounts too vague, floaty and cheaply finished. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert This time around, GM is aiming higher by bringing the GMC Yukon Denali. It has chosen the more “sensible” of its two sizes of full-size SUV, which still gives it a comfortable third row, but it has opted to take on high-end SUVs this time. Dynamically, the Yukon Denali is an impressive affair with the smooth, torquey V8 performance you expect, but also a plush ride and the adjustability that comes with air suspension. It’s a satisfying vehicle to drive, being refined and powerful, and it boasts class-leading towing capability as well as a spacious eight-seat interior. Toyota and Lexus don’t make their fanciest LandCruiser and LX grades with even a seven-seat configuration, let alone eight. While GM name-checked the likes of the LandCruiser, LX and Land Rover Defender at the Yukon’s launch, it argues the vehicle is in a class of its own given its level of capability and performance. And to be fair, the Yukon Denali is one of just three vehicles – the Nissan Patrol and Land Rover Defender 130 being the other two – to offer eight seats and a V8 engine. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert But while a V8 Defender 130 has a dizzying price tag of over $200,000 before on-roads, a fully loaded, seven-seat Nissan Patrol Ti-L can be had for a whopping $73,000 or so less than the Yukon. The Patrol may be showing its age but it still has a smooth and torquey V8 and has finally received a modern interior. Drop down to the Ti and you get eight seats and an even lower price tag. GM seems to think the Yukon Denali is best compared with luxury-brand rivals, but while it’s competitively priced against a Lexus LX or a V8-powered Defender 130, it’s missing features like satellite navigation and a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, while its attractive interior is let down by some disappointing material choices. The after-sales package also disappoints. These might have been more acceptable at a lower price point, but at around $175,000 before on-roads they’re disappointing – even if the GMC is the only full-size American SUV on ***** in Australia. So it can’t match mass-market brands on price, while it can’t give Lexus and Land Rover owners the full luxury experience. Perhaps GM is right, the Yukon is in a class of its own. Camera Icon2025 GMC Yukon Denali Credit: CarExpert Interested in buying a GMC Yukon? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here MORE: Everything GMC Yukon ProsPlush rideSmooth, effortless powertrainClass-leading towing capacityConsInterior doesn’t feel fancy enough for the priceMuch more expensive than Nissan, Toyota rivalsSome missing features Source link #GMC #Yukon #Denali #review Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Palestinians in Gaza resort to grinding pasta, beans or lentils to make bread Palestinians in Gaza resort to grinding pasta, beans or lentils to make bread Amid Israel’s ongoing blockade, war-weary Palestinians in Gaza have increasingly suffered to feed their children as famine looms in the coastal territory. No aid entered Gaza for more than two months. Markets have almost run out of food. (AP Video: Mohammad Jahjouh / Production: Wafaa Shurafa) Source link #Palestinians #Gaza #resort #grinding #pasta #beans #lentils #bread Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump administration offers refugee status to 49 white South Africans – The Guardian Trump administration offers refugee status to 49 white South Africans – The Guardian Trump administration offers refugee status to 49 white South Africans The GuardianWhite South Africans Granted Refugee Status by Trump Leave for U.S. The New York TimesFirst Afrikaners granted refugee status due to arrive in U.S. NPRFirst white South Africans board plane for US under Trump refugee plan ReutersTrump is bringing white South Africans to the US as refugees, but what persecution are they facing? AP News Source link #Trump #administration #offers #refugee #status #white #South #Africans #Guardian Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Angus Taylor rejects Liberal senator’s claim he sabotaged Peter Dutton Angus Taylor rejects Liberal senator’s claim he sabotaged Peter Dutton Angus Taylor has rejected as “false” a Liberal senator’s claim he was plotting to “topple” Peter Dutton during the election campaign. Hollie Hughes, who has accused Mr Taylor of ensuring she lost her Senate preselection fight, has been publicly attacking the Liberal Party leader hopeful since Labor’s landslide federal election win, blasting his performance as shadow treasurer. The NSW senator escalated her attacks on Monday, suggesting Mr Taylor was “already in the stages of a coup against Peter Dutton” during the election campaign. Camera IconSenator Hollie Hughes has accused Angus Taylor of plotting to ‘topple’ Peter Dutton. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp AustraliaCamera IconMr Taylor is running for the Liberal Party leadership. NewsWire / Monique Harmer Credit: News Corp Australia “I remain incredibly supportive of Dutton and have absolutely done everything I could to support the Liberal Party because I do believe we are a party of government and a party that will be better for the *********** people,” she told Sky News. “Yet it turns out those who were more interested in their own ambition, not for the country, but for themselves. “And they’re planning to topple Dutton, whether he won his seat or won, you know, it just beggars belief that these people think they can now throw their hat in the ring for leadership positions.” The allegation came a day out from the Liberal Party leadership vote. Mr Taylor, who put himself forward with National party room defector Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, has rubbished Senator Hughes’ comments. “These claims are false and frankly low,” a spokesperson said. More to come Source link #Angus #Taylor #rejects #Liberal #senators #claim #sabotaged #Peter #Dutton Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Economic jitters and soaring gold prices create a frenzy for US jewelry merchants Economic jitters and soaring gold prices create a frenzy for US jewelry merchants LOS ANGELES (AP) — As gold prices soar to record highs resulting from global economic jitters, hundreds of thousands of U.S. dollars’ worth of gold are circulating through the doors of the St. Vincent Jewelry Center in downtown Los Angeles on any given day. Many of the 500 independent merchants in the largest jewelry center in the United States say they have never seen such a surge in customers. People are flocking in to sell or melt down their old jewelry, while others are investing in gold blocks to keep as stable assets. Gold’s current rally comes as President Donald Trump issues ever-changing announcements of tariffs, roiling financial markets into volatility and threatening to reignite inflation. ____ This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Source link #Economic #jitters #soaring #gold #prices #create #frenzy #jewelry #merchants Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

NASA Just Got a Rare Look Inside Uranus – Here’s What They Found – SciTechDaily NASA Just Got a Rare Look Inside Uranus – Here’s What They Found – SciTechDaily NASA Just Got a Rare Look Inside Uranus – Here’s What They Found SciTechDaily Source link #NASA #Rare #Uranus #Heres #SciTechDaily Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Matildas announce four-game series against Slovenia and Panama to be played in Perth and Bunbury Matildas announce four-game series against Slovenia and Panama to be played in Perth and Bunbury Western Australia is set for its second multi-game instalment of Matildas fever in the space of two years, with the national team heading west for a four-game slate. The Matildas confirmed on Monday they would return to WA to take on both Slovenia and Panama in a two-game series for four games in 13 days. The two Slovenia games will be played at HBF Park on June 26 and June 29, before a historic game against Panama at Hands Oval in Bunbury on July 5. Australia’s second match against Panama will take place back in Perth at HBF Park on July 8. The games could serve as something of a homecoming for Sam Kerr, although the *********** superstar and Matildas captain is yet to feature for Chelsea this season despite being 16 months removed from a torn ACL. Panama, who are no strangers to Perth having played Jamaica at HBF Park during the 2023 Women’s World Cup, are ranked 57th in the world, while Slovenia are 38th in the FIFA rankings. The Matildas last played in Perth in October 2023, when they drew three sold-out crowds for a trio of Olympic qualifiers. Camera IconYoung Matildas players Ischia Brooking, Jessica Skinner and Theo Mouithys are pictured with young soccer players from the Perth community. Credit: Michael Wilson/The West *********** They will also kick off the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup at Optus Stadium on March 1 next year. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said bringing the Matildas back to WA was a coup for the state. “Who doesn’t love the Matildas? We all fell in love with them during the World Cup. They inspired young girls and young boys to play the world game,” he said. “What these events do is they put Western Australia and Perth on the map as a destination for big, must-see events, big sporting events.” The Bunbury fixture will be the Matildas’ first-ever match in regional WA and Whitby said it would be the perfect opportunity for fans to explore the South West. “We get people in the area, they’re here for a couple of days. They’re going to taste and explore, they’re going to be spending their money, so a great boost for local businesses,” he said. “We’re going to see hospitality, accommodation providers, tourism operators, pubs, bars, cafes, all benefiting millions of dollars worth of investment.” Source link #Matildas #announce #fourgame #series #Slovenia #Panama #played #Perth #Bunbury Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

States bear the brunt of House GOP Medicaid plan States bear the brunt of House GOP Medicaid plan House Republicans opted against some of the most dramatic changes they had been considering for Medicaid, the joint federal-state program covering nearly 80 million Americans. But they are plowing forward with other major initiatives that could leave millions without coverage as the GOP starts laying out key provisions of its party-line domestic policy megabill. The House Energy and Commerce Committee proposal released Sunday night attempts to strike a balance between satiating conservatives’ thirst for deep cuts to the program and placating moderates wary of major coverage losses for low-income Americans. It does not include the most controversial ideas, including per-capita caps on federal Medicaid payments to states, but it incorporates new mandates that will likely force states to revamp how they finance their programs or cut benefits. It also includes new work requirements that are expected to lead many people to lose coverage, as well as a new cost-sharing requirement for some beneficiaries in the program, not to exceed five percent of a patient’s income. The Energy and Commerce plan also hits on hot-button social issues — proposing, for instance, to cut federal funding for groups like Planned Parenthood and ban the use of Medicaid dollars for gender-affirming care for youth. It also scales back funding from states that use their own funds to offer coverage for undocumented people. “Democrats will use this as an opportunity to engage in fear-mongering and misrepresent our bill as an attack on Medicaid,” Chair Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) wrote in a Wall Street Journal op-ed Sunday. “In reality, it preserves and strengthens Medicaid for children, mothers, people with disabilities and the elderly — for whom the program was designed.” The panel has been tasked with finding $880 billion in savings to help finance a massive portion of the GOP’s party-line package of tax cuts and extensions, border security investments, energy policy and more. Committee Republicans have been under significant pressure to make politically difficult cuts to Medicaid as part of that effort. Guthrie told committee Republicans on a call Sunday that the package will create more than $900 billion in savings. Moderate Republicans have been hesitant to make major cuts to the popular safety net program for vulnerable Americans, while fiscal hawks have been angling for transformative “structural” changes. Democrats and many players in the health care industry, including hospitals — which are major employers in many districts — are expected to fiercely oppose the proposal. “Republican leadership released this bill under cover of night because they don’t want people to know their true intentions,” Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), the top Energy and Commerce Democrat, said in a statement. “Taking health care away from children and moms, seniors in nursing homes, and people with disabilities to give tax breaks to people who don’t need them is shameful. Democrats have defeated Republican efforts to cut health care before and we can do it again.” Guthrie worked behind the scenes to placate both moderates and conservatives to get to a deal that both sides can live with, but it remains to be seen whether he and his leadership have in fact landed on a winning strategy. Energy and Commerce is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 2 p.m. to debate and advance the bill. One of the largest potential sources of savings will come from a policy curbing states’ ability to levy taxes on providers, which could force states to make major changes since the taxes can pay for a state’s share of Medicaid costs. The legislation would freeze state provider taxes at their current rates and prohibit them from establishing any new taxes. Conservatives argue that states use the taxes to boost their federal share of Medicaid payments without having to use their own revenue. Doctors and hospitals don’t mind because a state can direct the extra funds back to them, making up for the tax hike. Every state except for Alaska relies on a provider tax of some form, an analysis from the research firm KFF found. Last year, 32 percent of states’ contributions to Medicaid costs came from other sources such as local government funds and the provider taxes. States cannot levy more than 6 percent of a provider’s income and must tax those on and off Medicaid. Some states have already warned Washington about what would happen if they can’t levy Medicaid taxes. New Jersey’s Medicaid agency released a model of potential changes back in February and would lead to an estimated $2.5 billion in cuts to federal funding. It also will mandate every state to install a work requirement for certain beneficiaries. Able-bodied adults without any dependents would have to work at least 80 hours a month or perform other activities such as community service. It would not apply to pregnant women and only adults from 19 to 64. Tribal members are also exempt as well as those with serious medical conditions. Congress would leave it up to states to verify compliance with the work requirement. The bill would also target state-directed payments, which gives states more power over provider payments and allows some providers to get reimbursed more in line with what commercial insurers pay them. The goal of the payments is to bolster pay rates for providers and encourage them to enter value-based payment arrangements where doctors are paid based on the quality of care delivered. Conservatives have argued there isn’t enough transparency in the payments. Here’s what else the package would — and wouldn’t — do: Non-health care policies: The package would allow the federal government to auction off wireless spectrum in a move that is expected to generate $88 billion, Guthrie said. It would also claw back Biden-era green energy spending, including climate spending under the Inflation Reduction Act. Take on some parts of Medicaid expansion: The package would lower the federal share of payments to states that have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act if the state allows undocumented immigrants to get Medicaid coverage. It is ******** for undocumented immigrants to get coverage, but several states take on the full amount of coverage without any federal match. Stricter eligibility checks: The legislation would roll back Biden-era rules limiting Medicaid eligibility checks to once annually, allowing them to be made twice a year. Savings would ensue as more are kicked off the rolls. Address cuts to doctor pay in Medicare: Doctors have been angling to reverse payment cuts mandated by a formula that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle say doesn’t account for rising costs. The package aims to blunt that. Pharmacy benefit manager reform: The package includes an overhaul of the business practices in Medicaid of the pharmacy intermediaries, which pharmaceutical companies argue have driven up the cost of prescription drugs. PBMs have argued they help negotiate lower drug prices and the reforms would limit their ability to do so. Drug price negotiation: The package would also soften Medicare’s new power to negotiate drug prices under the Inflation Reduction Act for certain drugs. Source link #States #bear #brunt #House #GOP #Medicaid #plan Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Why You Should Reconsider DIYing Your Solar Panel Installation Why You Should Reconsider DIYing Your Solar Panel Installation You might be surprised to learn that over five million households in the United States use solar energy. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the statistics forecast a bright and sunny future for this renewable energy source that can seriously help reduce your monthly utility bills. By 2030, the number of homes with solar panels will double, and by 2050, the majority of our power grid may be solar-powered. Adding solar panels can have a major impact on your home’s value, and because of their growing popularity, DIY kits are becoming more widely available. But according to Bret Biggart, CEO of Freedom Solar Power, because they come with installation, electrical, roofing, and regulatory complexities that require specialized expertise, you should probably reconsider DIYing your solar panel installation yourself. “Installing solar panels is much more complex than it looks,” Biggart told House Digest during an exclusive interview. “Mistakes can cause major safety problems, cost a lot to fix, or even void your warranties and incentives.” To offset the upfront expense of solar panels, which average just over $27,000 according to Angi’s List, there are several federal and state tax credits, utility company rebates, and even incentives that offer payments for solar energy generated by your system. Specific eligibility criteria vary widely. DIY labor costs and grid tie-ins may not always be covered under certain programs. “It’s one of those projects where experience matters, and the risks of DIYing your installation outweigh any potential savings,” Biggart cautioned. “A professional installer brings expertise that protects your home, your system, and your investment.” Read more: The Most Trustworthy And Reliable Appliance Brands, According To Experts DIY Solar Panels Put Your System And Your Safety At Risk A large solar panel is lowered from the roof of a house to the outstretched arms of a person on the ground – Mario Tama/Getty Images There’s a lot of information out there about solar panels, and not all of it is entirely reliable. Once you’re in the market and begin to do your research, it won’t take long to hear about some of the big scams to watch out for with solar panel installers. To avoid the risk of winding up with an unscrupulous company, you may be tempted to purchase a kit and go it alone. But during his exclusive interview with House Digest, Bret Biggart said this impulse could result in serious headaches. “The list of cons greatly outweighs any pros of DIYing a solar installation,” Biggart said. Along with safety and efficiency concerns, the solar expert told us many homeowners will struggle with complex permitting processes. “If the installation doesn’t meet local codes or inspection requirements, you could face fines or delays, or even be forced to remove the entire system,” he explained, adding that hiring a reliable professional is the best way to ensure long-term performance and peace of mind. Potential cost savings are another reason some homeowners may consider DIYing a solar panel installation. But according to Biggart, the risks aren’t actually worth it. “You might save 20 to 30% upfront, but it’s important to remember the hidden costs,” Biggart said. “You will still have to pay for permitting and probably hire a licensed electrician or roofer. And if anything goes wrong, repairs could get very expensive, not to mention putting your own safety at risk.” You Can Also Run Into Warranty Issues With Your Roof Itself An installer uses a drill to mount solar panels on a roof – zstock/Shutterstock So are DIY solar kits worth it or a waste of your energy? During his exclusive interview with House Digest, we asked Bret Biggart how our readers can determine if they should install solar panels themselves or seek professional help. “Homeowners should consider their own experience, their ability to pull permits, their willingness to take on liability, and how much they value their home’s safety and resale value,” he said. “They should also think about the complexity of the project itself.” The solar expert said that the size of your system, the amount of battery storage, and any additional integrations add a degree of difficulty to the installation process. Biggart told us there’s one more problem that DIYers don’t realize until it’s too late. “Most manufacturers require that their products be installed by certified professionals,” he explained. “If you install it yourself, even if you’re careful and do your research, you still run the risk of losing protection on the panels, inverter, and even your roof.” Whether you hire a professional or DIY, it is extremely important to check with your roofing manufacturer before installing solar panels to make sure your system is installed according to the correct specifications. Biggart told us that professional installers, like those at Freedom Solar, will make sure your system meets both manufacturer requirements and local codes. “Professional installation isn’t just the safer choice — it’s the smarter investment,” he advised. “You really are better off leaving it to the pros.” Enjoyed this article? Get expert home tips, DIY guides, and design inspiration by signing up to the House Digest newsletter! Read the original article on House Digest. Source link #Reconsider #DIYing #Solar #Panel #Installation Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Thunder 92-87 Nuggets (May 11, 2025) Game Recap – ESPN Thunder 92-87 Nuggets (May 11, 2025) Game Recap – ESPN Thunder 92-87 Nuggets (May 11, 2025) Game Recap ESPNOKC overcomes clutch woes to win gritty Game 4 ESPNNBA playoffs: Dismal start dooms Nuggets as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads Thunder rally in Game 4 win Yahoo SportsThunder win ugly in Game 4 vs. Nuggets: Winners, losers from NBA playoff game USA TodayNuggets’ other guys lift Nikola Jokić for a change in Game 3 OT win over Thunder The New York Times Source link #Thunder #Nuggets #Game #Recap #ESPN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Sharks dominate, Kats inspire and Falcons soar in action-packed NPFL round three Sharks dominate, Kats inspire and Falcons soar in action-packed NPFL round three The Dampier Sharks roared into round three of the North Pilbara Football League with a commanding performance against the South Hedland Swans at the weekend. Firing on all cylinders from the opening bounce at Windy Ridge Oval, the Sharks blitzed the first quarter with four goals, with Swans responding well in the second, using their youth and pace to apply pressure and outscore the Sharks two goals to one. Despite losing key players to injury in the third quarter, the Sharks held their nerve adding another four goals while keeping the Swans goalless. The final quarter was the Sharks’ best yet, with six unanswered goals sealing the win 117-26. Hayden Yarran made an unforgettable debut, slotting five goals, while Revis Ryder and Seaton Puzey delivered standout performances at league level to round out the Sharks’ commanding effort. At Wickham Town Oval, the Karratha Kats claimed a hard-fought 104-78 victory over the Wickham Wolves. The emotional highlight came in the third quarter when a stirring tribute was delivered in memory of Kats member Julian “Lappa” Le Plastrier, after his recent passing. The team lifted in his honour, finishing strongly to secure the win. The Kats Reserves followed suit, producing a clinical 140-14 win for the club. Elsewhere in Port Hedland, the Karratha Falcons clinched the win by 44 points (109-65) against the Hedland Rovers, at Colin Matheson Oval. With 10 regulars missing from the Rovers’ line-up, the Falcons took advantage, controlling the game from start to finish. The Rovers Reserves had better luck, battling through a tightly contested match before pulling away in the final term to notch a 45–29 win. Camera IconSouth Hedland Swans’ Lincoln Vile. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconDampier Sharks’ Lance Jungine. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconRiley Brown, Jalen Coppin, Ricky Cary. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconDampier Sharks’ Lance Jungine. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconDampier Sharks versus South Hedland Swans at Windy Ridge Oval. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconKarratha Kats versus Wickham Wolves at Wickham Town Oval. Credit: Lavinia McKayCamera IconDampier Sharks deputy vice-captain Leroy McCawley, captain James Rhodes and vice-captain Guy Langdon. Credit: Madelin HayesCamera IconSouth Hedland Swans’ Tommy Carlton. Credit: Madelin Hayes Source link #Sharks #dominate #Kats #inspire #Falcons #soar #actionpacked #NPFL Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]