We are now inundated with streaming services, as the world continues its technological shift with regard to ways to put content in front of our faces. We’ve moved from video cassette tape to DVD, to Blu-ray and now to streaming. It’s convenient, offers up huge catalogues of content and best of all, allows us to spend all day in bed if we wish.

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But while many places and publications will recommend the best TV shows and movies to watch on the likes of Netflix, Stan and relative newcomer, Binge, SBS On Demand movies have some infectious content of their own for your viewing pleasure. The semi-publically-funded Australian TV network offers a number of TV shows and movies to watch completely free of charge, and the selection on offer is on constant rotation, so there’s always something new to find.

Content is specially curated too, so some decent thought has gone into what you’re presented with, so we suspect you’ll easily be able to find a new favourite (just make sure you sign up for a free account first).

There is over 7,000 hours worth of content to choose from, but we’ve picked out some of the best movies that caught our eye, to take a little bit of stress away from this global situation.

Here are our picks for the best SBS On Demand movies.

The post The 14 Best Movies On SBS On Demand For Real Cinema Lovers appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

When there’s a worldwide pandemic, it’s fair to expect people to stay indoors and avoid contact with anyone else until the problem has lifted. While that may be true for some countries, in Australia, we are still – legally – permitted to get out to keep fit and look our best.

It’s because of this desire to continually sculpt our abs and build our biceps that fitness studios such as F45 need to stay open, but adapt their ways of working to combat the virus. And that’s exactly what they’ve done, as I found out when I went to my local Bondi Beach studio.

For now, the Bondi Beach studio is open for business as usual, but studio manager Lucy Francis tells us “At present (in Australia) it is up to the individual studios as to whether they close their doors or not, it will only be compulsory if imposed by the government. If this situation prevails we will take our training outside an continue to keep our Bondi community fit and healthy.”

For now, I’ll still be attending classes, and from the moment I stepped in for my most recent, it was clear that Australians, or Bondi Beach residents at least, aren’t too worried about the global pandemic. I expected to see a drop in attendance, but no, there was still a good 30 people at my class. Fortunately, the studio must have expected this, as they have a number of hygiene measures in place – and I’ll be honest, I was surprised by how serious they’re taking the issue.

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Lucy adds, “Each F45 studio is reacting differently, we’ve decided to do everything we can in order to stay open which means adopting the strictest hygiene policy possible and trying to preempt what the next regulations from WHO might be and implement them ahead of time.”

“We have ordered a hand wash station, due to be delivered on Monday so that people can fully sanitise before they even enter the gym. Furthermore, we are in the process of instating outdoor classes so as to avoid training in a contained environment and handling lots of equipment. “

My F45 studio – and all F45 studios at that – is putting a strong emphasis on cleaning the equipment being used. They provide all gym-goers with a bottle of hospital strength sanitiser at each station or piece of equipment, which we have to use to wipe down whatever it is we use, in between each set of exercise.

The extra cleaning measures have, however, brought in a slight change in the structure of classes. For the class I attended, I had to complete three sets of an exercise at the same station, before wiping it down and moving on. Usually, I would rotate through the various stations one set at a time, but the studio is trying to minimise the amount of shared contact between stations instead.

We were also gifted longer breaks in between sets of around 50 seconds. But while this could be seen as a good thing to help recovery in between sets, it actually in some ways slows down the pace of the class (and one of the reasons I signed up for F45 in the first place). I can obviously understand why the extra time is needed to properly clean stations and equipment, but I left the class not really feeling like I got a proper sweat on.

Once a class has finished, the F45 team go around once again with the cleaner to give the whole place another going over, to make sure it’s sparkly clean for the next class. It’s also because of this second coat of cleaner that there are now also longer breaks in between classes. This may have an effect on some members who can only make certain classes, but again, it’s understandable.

However, Lucy tells us “the overwhelming majority of our client base is still keen to keep their fitness up! There has of course been a slight drop off as the uncertainty of our current situation is understandably alarming.”

“That said our clients are pretty clued up and know that a consistent exercise regime, healthy nutritional choices and good amounts of rest are the foundations of a solid immune system.”

Oh, and where we would usually all high five each other when a class has finished for a job well done, that’s now strictly prohibited. The screens around the studio display messages to remind you not to touch your fellow F45 brethren, but you can instead do the “Wuhan-shake”, where you shake feet with someone else, instead of using your hands.

I have to commend F45 on their response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Where some gyms are shutting completely to avoid the risk of spreading the disease, F45 has instead implemented a rigorous cleaning regime to ensure its members are safe but can still get their fitness fix.

• The Seven Day F45 Bender That Changed My Opinion Of This ‘Fitness Cult’
• Photographer Reveals How Seriously Bondi Locals Are Taking The World’s Woes

The post Gym Hygiene: An F45 Training Studio May Be Cleaner Than Your Own Home appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Every year the major phone brands wheel out their latest gladiator to compete in the colosseum, strapping on more weaponry, standing taller and looking shinier than ever. Sitting up in the good seats, we assess the Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G to find that Achilles heel. Here’s what we learned.

The Cameras Are A Mix Of Hype And Euphoria

If smartphones today could still be used to make phone calls you’d be surprised. The marketing behind every smartphone and their announcements focus largely on their ability to capture that perfect picture. The S20 Ultra 5G is no exception, with a whopping 100x zoom and an array of cameras, you’ll expect big things.Firstly, this phone is capable of shooting video in 8K, perfect if you have a TV ready for it. If not, you’ll be able to make the most of the millions of pixels when you edit. When it comes to selfies, we were left a little unimpressed as we felt the Samsung lacked in comparison to the iPhone 11, especially with the perfect portrait shot.When it comes to taking a photo with any of the rear cameras, you’ll appreciate the optical zoom lens for getting closer to a bird without frightening it. But the 100x digital zoom will absolutely reveal more than the eyes could see but you’ll be left with a mosaic or something more Picasso than National Geographic. It’s a great camera, but the 100x zoom is a creepy gimmick.

It’s Needier Than A Burmese Cat

From the moment you turn the phone on, the Galaxy S20 is asking you questions. It’s asking you to grant permissions to use its own apps. Samsung has been so beaten up when it comes to tin-foil hat society that they need your permission to do the most basic functions that if denied, will limit functionality.This includes opening the Samsung built apps that are pre-installed on the device. Samsung has however also added their own assistant, named Bixby. This time however it pays attention to how you use your phone and makes suggestions around your habits. If you regularly put your phone on mute before bed it will ask whether you’d like to automate that and do so.When you arrive home your phone can automatically turn Wi-Fi on, change the lock screen shortcuts to Twitter and WhatsApp and put your phone on Vibrate only. These routines are easy to setup and your phone will recommend more, so you can do less.

It Has Olympic-Level Performance

Like a Ferrari, you don’t have to know the specifications to know it’s a high-performance car. The Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G is the most powerful phone we’ve ever had our hands-on. Able to run games and productivity apps with ease, including multi-tasking, for example, you can watch a video while you also scroll Twitter.The ability to use Samsung DeX on this smartphone is also a potential life-saver. DeX is essentially a desktop operating system, like Windows that can be used for day to day work, but which runs on your phone. You can connect your phone to a monitor, keyboard and mouse and get started with no computer in between.Alternatively, you can connect your phone to your computer, run DeX, and be using all the functions of your phone on your computer. Your boss won’t know you’re scrolling Instagram when your phone is placed on the desk away from you.

More Equipped Than A Swiss Army Knife

It’s what you can’t see that can sometimes be most impressive. There is a fingerprint reader IN the screen on the S20, so you can easily unlock it without staring gormlessly at it. You can even use your phone as a wireless charger, whereby you can charge your wireless headphones, such as the Buds+ for example, or even charge your mates phones if you’re so kind, simply by placing said device on the back of the S20.With 5G onboard, you’re able to make the most of the growing high-speed network. Download speeds of over 300mb/s are commonly achievable and if you need to quickly download a season from Netflix before a flight it’ll be done in seconds.As for the battery, well, during our testing we ran from Sunday morning to Tuesday morning without coming close to draining the phone. Battery life is outstanding and the way it manages the battery is the real secret herbs and spices we’ll never see Colonel Samsung reveal.

You’ll Live Without That Kidney, I Think

The base model Samsung Galaxy Ultra 5G, with 128GB storage capacity, will set you back $1,999 RRP in Australia. We respect that we’re holding onto our phones for longer so you could justify $500 per year if you keep it for four years. The initial swipe of the credit card, however, will hurt.It’s not a cheap phone, and compared with Apple, you’d pick up the iPhone 11 Pro with 256GB storage for the same money. With Samsung you’ll have 5G and some hardware that will outshine Apple, but if all you care about is the camera you might be sticking with what’s in the fruit bowl.Geoff Quattromani is a tech commentator across radio, print, online and television. Check out his podcast “Technology Uncorked” for new information each week.

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The post Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G Review: Our Verdict appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Australian airlines cut customers a break earlier this week with the announcements that Qantas frequent flyers would receive a 12-month status extension and that Virgin Australia Velocity members would receive free frequent flyer points proportionate to what they would usually earn over the next three months, to make up for their point amassing potential being curtailed by the Coronavirus.

Virgin Australia to roll out a monthly serve of free status credits for Velocity frequent flyers – although we have to say, Qantas’ approach of an entire free year of status is a far more generous offer https://t.co/tYQjXUmXTe #PaxEx

— Executive Traveller (@AusBT) March 18, 2020

The general consensus was that Qantas’ offer was more generous, with frequent first-class flyer Immanuel Debeer, founder of frequent flyer point hacking website Flight Hacks, telling DMARGE on Wednesday,  “I feel that Virgin Australia misread the situation and went a similar route as Cathay Pacific. Qantas on the other hand pulled out all the stops [and] is now offering the most generous status extension out there.”

“I think both marketing teams knew from each other that they were working on a deal but of course they didn’t know the specifics.”

“It will be interesting to see if other airlines loyalty programs follow Qantas’ lead and extend status by a full 12 month,” he continued, in a statement that has now proved prophetic, as Virgin Australia has now updated their offer to match Qantas and go one better.

“The situation in Australia relating to coronavirus is rapidly evolving, as is our response as a business. This situation has developed further in the last couple of days since we developed the below Status Credit gift offer, and we’re really pleased to have an additional announcement,” Virgin Australia told DMARGE yesterday.

Awesome for frequent flyers like me – to offset #COVID19Aus stoppage Virgin Australia is extending Silver/Gold/Platinum frequent flyer memberships for next 12 months #VirginAustralia https://t.co/96w0oPlRHw

— Ross Wilson (@rosswilsonmusic) March 19, 2020

Velocity Frequent Flyer is now providing members with a 12-month extension of their current status tier, in addition to their Status Credit gift. This means all Silver, Gold and Platinum Velocity members will receive: the below Status Credit gift and a 12 month extension to their current status (meaning that there are no minimum flight sectors required for members to maintain their current tier for the next year).

“We know these times are tough, and it’s particularly hard where travel is concerned. In this changing environment, the safety and needs of our members and guests are key and we are really pleased to be able to offer this 12-month Status extension in addition to the Status Credit gift. We hope it gives them some peace of mind,” Virgin said yesterday.

Virgin Australia has just informed me my gold status will be automatically extended for 12 months due to Coronavirus. I cant buy loo roll but at least if i get desperate i can make the 500km round trip to use the lounge dunny.#auspol

— LubiePhilrunfreeFionn (@lubiephil) March 19, 2020

Fair play. But also smart: as frequent flyer Imannuel told us: “In the end, when/if things go back to normal, they will need their most loyal customers on their side.”

International Virgin Australia flights will be grounded from the 30th March until at least the 14th June 2020. It is also temporarily reducing domestic flights by around 50% (Qantas has done much the same).

The Australian government has also imposed mandatory self-isolation for all inbound international passengers, and DFAT has updated its travel advice for the entire world to “do not travel” due to the spreading Coronavirus. In addition, the Australian government has announced a temporary ban on non-Australian residents from entering the country.

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The post Virgin Launches Brand New 'Status Gift' After Frequent Flyers Express Disappointment appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image="249249" img_size="medium" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" link="https://huckberry.com/store/topo-designs/category/p/62565-rover-pack-tech"][vc_column_text]Should you be planning to escape the virus by leaving your current locale in search of...

↬ Click here to view the full article/gallery on D'Marge

 

The post This $129 Technical Backpack Is Perfect For Any Escape Plan appeared first on DMARGE.

From Napoleon to Tom Cruise short men have had to ‘grow a pair’ (rather than say, an inch), since the dawn of time. Although sometimes the slights are real, most men with ‘short man syndrome’ mostly act aggressive to compensate for perceived judgements from their more giraffe-like mates.The reality is: most people don’t care as much about your height as you do. And the idea that all short guys are pre-disposed to aggression has always been an urban myth—an intergenerational joke thought up by lanky cavemen jealous of the testosterone exhibited by their pint-sized compatriots.However a new study suggests that there may be scientific grounds to stir-up your pocket-rocket mates. Researchers at Holland’s Vrije University in the Netherlands took men of different heights and made them play a money-sharing game.After being split into pairs, half of the men were given a small amount of ‘money’, in the form of eighteen tokens, before being led into separate rooms.According to the game’s rules, although the person with the cash was encouraged to share some of the loot with other players, that portion could have been as small as zero.It was found that the shorter men (1.7m and below) acted more aggressively as long as there was no threat of repercussions. They kept most of the loot for themselves, at around 14 of the 18 tokens, while the tallest men, around 2m kept just 9.This suggests short man syndrome, also known as Napoleon Complex, is real, and influences the everyday lives of shorter men.

“It’s probably smart for short men to be like this because they have less opportunities to get resources,” lead researcher Jill Knapen told New Scientist.

This theory has supporting evidence too, various studies having shown that taller men tend to win more elections and get better jobs. So it makes sense short men have adopted this tactic.Not convinced? We talked to a former commando, Mike Webby, a self-proclaimed “giraffe working in male-dominated jobs” who says he is a magnet for “small, insecure, testosterone-fuelled guys wanting to prove how big they are.”

“In my time in the Commandos I have come across many short aggressive men, especially when alcohol is involved! Little man syndrome definitely exists.”

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. If you’re insecure—regardless of whether or not you’re short—Mike says, “Learning martial arts or combat skills is definitely a confident booster for anyone.”

“You will learn great ways to channel your aggression while learning so many skills you can transition into your life like breath-work for relaxing, self defence, mindset, movement, fitness and better values.”

So: bad news—the syndrome exists. Good news: you can just let your inner Napoleon loose on some punching bags, and you’ll be right.

Napoleon Complex FAQ

The post Napoleon Complex Really Exists For Men appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

With countries closing their borders, flights coming to a standstill and our favourite pubs shutting down for indefinite periods, the world isn’t exactly the happiest of places right now, due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak. But to help provide some happy among all this sad, Huckberry has decided to throw a sale, and a big one at that.Huckberry was born in 2010 when two San Francisco city workers, who also had adventurous lifestyles, decided there weren’t any clothing stores that were targeted at them. Today, it stocks clothing and accessories from brands you may not have heard of before, but ones that you can be confident will offer high-quality products.For this weekend only, until 11.59 pm PST on Sunday the 22nd March, the online retailer is offering discounts of up to 70 per cent off a range of clothing, shoes and home accessories. Best of all, you don’t need to venture out your home to go and buy any of Huckberry’s catalogue (although some poor delivery driver will need to brave the outside) so you sit back and relax while you update your wardrobe.Shop The Huckberry ‘Work From Home’ Sale

The post Huckberry Sale: Clothing Sale Men Shouldn’t Miss appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

The COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic that’s affecting the entire planet is forcing many of us to stay indoors for several weeks to help minimise the spread of the disease. Sometimes just spending a few hours at home can be daunting enough, so extending that to weeks doesn’t bear thinking about.Fortunately, you can find entertainment in your own home by way of music, but to really enjoy it, you’ll need it to sound good. We certainly couldn’t subject ourselves to harsh, tinny sound if we’re listening to our tunes hours on end, day after day, and we suspect you wouldn’t be able to either.With technology advancing at breakneck speed and a whole hoard of companies now producing speakers, finding a good quality model at an affordable price is easy. We’ve picked out five of our favourites that not only sound amazing but double up as stylish accessories for whatever room you choose to place them in.Time to enjoy your self-isolation.

The post Gifts For Music Lovers: 5 Must-Have Bluetooth Speakers appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

Modern-day cars are subject to an incredibly long list of criteria they must meet that results in bland styling compared to cars of yesteryear. Classic and vintage cars weren’t subject to the same rules, so their designs could be a lot more interesting.One such car is the Porsche 356A Speedster, a vehicle that did away with the likes of roll-up windows and a ‘proper’ conventional roof, all in the pursuit of a more stripped-down, bare-bones version of a traditional cabriolet. Porsche made around 76,000 356s (a cumulative total of all the body styles and evolutionary updates), but only around half of those survive today, which makes this 356A Speedster, for sale on Carsales, that little bit rarer.

The 356 was the very first production automobile to come from the German manufacturer – though technically it was first made by the Austrian-based Porsche Holding – in 1948. It quickly became popular with enthusiasts, with a win at Le Mans in 1951 only boosting its appeal.The ‘A’ version of the car was introduced in late 1955 (and was succeeded by the ‘B’ in late 1959) and was the first model to offer Porsche’s bespoke ‘Carerra’ four-cam engine as an option. The Speedster model then came to fruition after Max Hoffman, who was at the time the sole US-importer of Porsches, suggested Porsche produce a more stripped-down version of the cabriolet model. Porsche obliged, and the Speedster was an instant hit and became incredibly popular in Southern California.

Its popularity was helped even greater after an appearance in Top Gun, where it was driven by Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Blackwood, the love interest of Tom Cruise’s ‘Maverick’.Stripped-down features on the 356 included fixed bucket seats and a non-folding soft-top ‘roof’. When in use, the sheet of leather covers the whole interior, save for the driver’s seat. It has a lower raked windscreen compared to the cabriolet, and no windows for the doors. It’s certainly not a car you’d want to own in countries more prone to rainfall, then.

This particular model on Carsales was originally a US left-handed model, received by Anatole Lapine, an automotive designer who worked for General Motors, Opel and even Porsche. He was at GM at the time he took ownership of this Speedster. After exchanging some hands, the previous owner bought it in 2010, brought it over to Australia and carried out a full restoration and right-hand drive conversion.The engine was replaced with a 1,800CC unit, built by 356 Enterprises, and new disc brakes have been fitted too. Add to that a full respray in the original Jet Black finish and a Bordeaux red leather interior and you have yourself a supremely stylish sports car.

Given its age, desirability and immaculate condition, don’t expect it to come cheap though. This Porsche 356A Speedster has an asking price of $500,000. But we reckon if you can afford it, just one look and you’ll fall in love.

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The post Porsche Speedster: Rare ‘Top Gun’ Porsche 356 Speedster For Sale In Australia appeared first on DMARGE Australia.