⏱️This edition of the National Account’s newsletter is a five-minute read.
👋 G’day everyone, Archie here.
Today we’re talking about head knocks (just in time for State of Origin) and whether One Nation’s gas policy could benefit Australians.
Let’s dive into it.🗞️
The fact that we can't see the brain doesn't mean that it hasn't sustained that injury. What's worrying to me is not really the actual sports … but I do think every person should have that self-awareness around, you've had a major injury.
🗣️ Why did she say that?
Contact sports are a big part of Australian culture, this is clear on State of Origin nights like tonight.
However, we are also learning and talking a lot about the health consequences of playing some of our favourite games, especially when it comes to concussions.
I was curious to know what the future of playing our favourite games looks like in terms of trying to moderate the risks that repeated head knocks could pose.
Like, how do you know when it's safe to go back on the field after a head knock?
I had a chat with brain imaging researcher Professor Fatima Nasrallah from the University of Queensland.
She explained what actually happens to the brain during a concussion, why current sideline assessments are essentially guesswork, and what scientists are working toward, including a blood or breath test that could tell you objectively whether a player is safe to return.
She also talks about the need for a cultural shift when it comes to getting players back on the field before their brains have healed.
Watch the full interview below:
Pauline’s gas plan 🔥
A few days ago Pauline Hanson announced her party’s plan for taxing the nation’s gas exports.
Despite being occasionally accused by my peers of being full of hot air, I’m no gas expert. So I had a chat with the lead Australian Gas Analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, Joshua Runciman.
Watch my full rundown below:
Thanks for catching up with me. As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts, feedback and any other suggestions on who you think I should talk to.
I’ll be back on Friday 👋.
Cheers, Archie