SHARE - Cautiously pessimistic</h1> <article> <h1>SHARE - Cautiously pessimistic</h1> <p>drdamien — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 05:47:00 GMT</p> <p>Have you seen the latest article based on the results of the share surveys?</p> <br /><p><a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/cautiously-pessimistic-20100728-10w84.html">http://www.smh.com.au/business/cautiously-pessimistic-20100728-10w84.html</a><br /><span style="color: #666666;"></span> </p> <br /><p>Investor Pulse week 27 </p> <br /><div></div> <br /><p><strong>Investors are still feeling gloomy despite Australia weathering the global financial crisis better than most economies. </strong></p> <br /><p>IF THE earnings season got off to a rocky start with 50 per cent profit downgrades from insurance companies QBE and IAG, as well as disappointing quarterly sales figures from Harvey Norman and Woolworths, then the true test lies ahead.</p> <br /><p>According to the latest Investor Pulse - a joint venture between market research group Colmar Brunton and BusinessDay - in a survey of 2000 investors, expectations were highest for the mining, banking and energy sectors.</p> <br /><p>When asked to rank which sectors are likely to post the best performance, mining came in first with 52 per cent of investors. A distant second was financial companies with 18 per cent and energy was on 13 per cent.</p> <br /><div id="adspot-300x250-pos-3" class="ad adCentred"></div> <br /><p> <br /><script type="text/javascript"></script> <br /></p> <br /><p>The so-called defensive sector, including consumer staples, health and telecommunications, failed to win the confidence of investors, with few expecting a good result.</p> <br /><p>Put simply, investors are expecting two-speed profits. But, overall, investor sentiment entering profit season is bearish, with 57 per cent expecting earnings to generally disappoint and 53 per cent expecting dividends to be cut.</p> <br /><p>This sentiment would not have been helped by IAG's decision to cut dividends in half and building materials group Alesco's announcement yesterday that it had cut its full-year dividend after a $124.3 million loss, compared with a $12.8 million loss the previous year.</p> <br /><p>Looking forward six months, investor sentiment is similarly cautious about where the overall market is headed, with 55 per cent expecting the market to be at the same level in six months.</p> <br /><p>The 17 per cent that expect the overall market value to rise 5 per cent or more were cancelled out by the 18 per cent expecting a fall of 5 per cent or more.</p> <br /><p>What is suppressing investors' spirits? When asked what are the most significant influences over the sharemarket for the next six months, investors displayed an usually high anxiety about the global economy, with 37 per cent ranking the unknown pace of China's slowdown just ahead of the 36 per cent who are worried that the US could head into a double-dip recession.</p> <br /><p>Even Europe's austerity measures ranked higher than the local earnings season as a force on future prices. Either Australian investors are overly pessimistic, so if the global economy stabilises we will witness a big bounce on stock values, or they are being realistic about the risks facing global and, by extension, Australian growth.</p> <br /><p>In terms of expectations for specific stocks in the latest profit season, there were three clear winners.</p> <br /><p>Expectations were highest for BHP Billiton, with 21 per cent of investors looking to it for the highest profit growth. Next was Rio Tinto on 17 per cent and third was Commonwealth Bank on 16 per cent.</p> <br /><p>Wesfarmers continued its rise in investor sentiment, pipping rival Woolworths for sixth place, and Origin outperformed Woodside.</p> <br /><p>For the overall market, 62 per cent of investors expect earnings per share growth of 5 per cent or under. Only 11 per cent expect EPS growth above 5 per cent.</p> <br /><p>There was also little faith in any expansion in the market's overall price-earnings multiple.</p> <br /><p>Brokers estimate that the market is trading on a multiple of 11 times forward earnings versus a historic average of 14. Yet 41 per cent of investors expect the multiple to remain where it is or fall as low as nine.</p> <br /><p>Only 12 per cent were bullish enough to estimate expansion.</p> <br /><p>It is easy to see the source of this dour sentiment as 71 per cent of investors see the recovery in the Australian economy slowing.</p> <br /><p>Moreover, when asked to define the key themes for the coming profit season, by far the strongest response went to reduced debt at 36 per cent. The next highest, at 20 per cent, was cost-cutting, which dominated over revenue rises at only 12 per cent of investors.</p> <br /><p>These themes are not typical of a post-recession recovery in which pent-up demand is unleashed on a corporate sector made lean by cost-cutting in the downturn.</p> <br /><p>Rather, they look similar to the themes of deleveraging and stagnation afflicting other Western nations.</p> <br /><p>Despite official and media rhetoric that the Australian economy is exceptional following the global financial crisis, investors expect much the same outcome: low economic and profit growth.</p> <br /><div></div> <br /> <br /><p><strong>Source: <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/"><span style="color: #00548c;">The Age</span></a></strong></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>drdamien's Song Of The Week: Nas & Damian Marley - As We Enter</h1> <p>drdamien — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 02:06:00 GMT</p> <p><span style="color: #000000;"><i><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">'Every week, OpinionsPaid's very own drdamien breaks the mainstream mould and brings a music track worthy of attention, listening to or simply discover. You might have heard it on the radio but most likely you won't. Diversity is what makes the world a richer and more interesting place.'</span></span></i></span></p> <br /><p><span><span style="font-size: small; color: #333300; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">Who would have thought a few years ago that Nas and Damian Marley would be maturing like good wine. I find it fascinating to see 'alternative' acts coming of age when artists enter their 30s.</span></span></p> <br /><p><span><span style="font-size: small; color: #333300; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">Damian, the youngest of Bob Marley's eleven children, pairs his reggae with Nas's hip-hop. The result is quite pleasing, even to those unaccustomed ears. Here's the offcial video:</span></span></p> <br /><p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">(Please visit the site to view this media)</span></span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #333300; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">As usual, <strong>As we Enter</strong> is available on iTunes for $1.69 as part of the album <strong>Distant Relatives</strong>. I had a quick listen and will probably give it a go.</span></p> <br /><p><span style="color: #333300; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #333300;">Ho<span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">w about you? Does this music appeal to you? Let us know your opinion below please. <em>Only members can leave a reply so if you're not on OP yet, just join in and share the fun.</em></span></span></span></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Females wanted in North Ryde for product evaluation – Tell your friends!</h1> <p>andrew.maresca — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 05:42:00 GMT</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are you female, and between the age of 13 and 49 or know anyone who is?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should contact our crew at North Ryde to see if you qualify to join us in some research.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <br /><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s running between now and the end of July and you’ll get a $40 Coles Myer voucher for 40 minutes of your time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The number to call is 1800 888 683.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If leaving a message, make sure to include Full Name, Phone Number and say the call is about Project Pink</span></span></span></p> <br /><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span></span></p> <br /><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks guys!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>drdamien's Song Of The Week: Aeroplane - We Can't Fly</h1> <p>drdamien — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 04:34:00 GMT</p> <p><span style="color: #000000;"><i><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">'Every week, OpinionsPaid's very own drdamien breaks the mainstream mould and brings a music track worthy of attention, listening to or simply discover. You might have heard it on the radio but most likely you won't. Diversity is what makes the world a richer and more interesting place.'</span></i></span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #993366; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">Last week was better late than never. This week I decided to give you a few days to get used to this summery anthem. It definitely sounds more like Jamaica rather than it's place of origin: Belgium.<br />There isn't much information available on these guys, other than great remixes here and there.</span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #993366; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">I did think this track was quite uplifting despite it's title. It is available on iTunes for $2.19 making it worth almost 1c per second.<br />It's worth it though. Have a listen:</span></p> <br /><p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">(Please visit the site to view this media)</span></span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #993366; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">If you like this, you might also like Friendly Fires - Paris 'Aeroplane remix' (also available as a download):</span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">(Please visit the site to view this media)</span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: small; color: #993366;">As usual, we'd love to hear what you think of our musical recommendations. Only members can leave a reply so if you're not an OP member yet, just join in and share the fun.</span></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>drdamien's Song Of The Week: XXXO by M.I.A.</h1> <p>drdamien — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 04:35:00 GMT</p> <p><span style="color: #000000;"><i><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino;">'Every week, OpinionsPaid's very own drdamien breaks the mainstream mould and brings a music track worthy of attention, listening to or simply discover. You might have heard it on the radio but most likely you won't. Diversity is what makes the world a richer and more interesting place.'</span></i></span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: book antiqua,palatino; color: #800000;">Sorry everyone. Sunday is a bit late for the Song Of The Week, I know. To make up for it, I found a cracker of a track.<br /><br />Taken M.I.A.'s new album released last Monday (interestingly titled /\/\ /\ Y /\ - got it?) it is called XXXO and is apparently a piss take out of Lady Gaga and Britney Spears. You'll have to trust the word of the internet on this as I don't really listen to either of the aforementioned artists.<br /><br />That said, M.I.A. has done a terrific job with the background rhythm section, with a melody that is not obvious as quite low frequency. Her voice does the rest. Better than talk about it, have a listen (it's a radio rip from YouTube - not great quality I am afraid):<br /><br /> <br />(Please visit the site to view this media)<br /><br />For those of you not familiar (yet) with Maya Arulpragasam aka M.I.A.; you have probably heard 'Paper Planes' if you went to see the film 'Slumdog Millionaire' last year. Those of you listening to young or urban radio stations will also be aware of the track 'Jimmy'.<br /><br />The song is available for $1.69 on iTunes. Also at the same price is the Jay-Z remix which isn't too different from the original track but enjoys a touch from the master himself.<br /><br />As usual, your comments are very welcome. If you're not an OP member yet, just join in and share the fun.</span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>SHARE - Bubble-burst fears rise</h1> <p>kmason — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 04:16:00 GMT</p> <p>Have you seen the latest article based on the results of the share surveys.</p> <br /><p> <br /><h1 class="cN-headingPage prepend-5 span-11 last">Bubble-burst fears rise</h1> <br /><p> <br /><p><strong>For the first time this year, most investors surveyed are expecting house prices to remain flat or fall.</strong></p> <br /><p>SENTIMENT among Australian property investors is turning increasingly bearish, according to the latest Investor Pulse poll of investors conducted by Colmar Brunton and BusinessDay.</p> <br /><p>For the first time this year, the number of investors expecting house prices to remain flat or fall outweighs those who see prices rising. The fundamental reason for the shift in sentiment is a dawning belief that Australian housing is in a ''bubble'' that at some point will burst and return to historic levels of affordability.</p> <br /><p>When asked about recent comments by famed US fund manager and property bubble expert Jeremy Grantham - who described Australian and British property as the only two of 34 bubbles he had studied that had not yet burst - 43 per cent of investors agreed that reversion to the mean would involve considerable pain. Only 25 per cent of investors disagreed with the bubble diagnosis and 32 per cent were undecided.</p> <br /><div class="ad adCentred" id="adspot-300x250-pos-3"></div> <br /><div class="cT-imageLandscape"> <br /><p>Source: Colmar Brunton</p> <br /></div> <br /><p>For more go to <a href="http://theage.domain.com.au/real-estate-news/bubbleburst-fears-rise-20100715-10bod.html?autostart=1">http://theage.domain.com.au/real-estate-news/bubbleburst-fears-rise-20100715-10bod.html?autostart=1</a></p> <br /><p> </p> <br /></p> <br /></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>'Red Bull gives you wings' then takes them away...</h1> <p>drdamien — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 05:15:00 GMT</p> <p><strong></strong></p> <br /><p><strong>...well as far as Mark Webber is concerned really.</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>Red Bull Racing (RBR) did bring two new front wings to last weekend's Formula 1 British grand prix. The one mounted on Mark's team-mate's car broke (apparently through no fault of the driver).</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>Being left with only one 'new' wing, the one on Webber's car, the team decided to take it off Mark's car to give it to Sebastian Vettel as he was leading the championship battle (albeit marginally).</strong></p> <br /><p><strong></strong></p> <br /><p>Photo: AP / Source: BBC Sport website</p> <br /><p><strong></strong></p> <br /><p><strong>This has generated a feud within the team and a lot of comments and opinions across many F1 forums. Mark's comments at the end of the race were "Not bad for a number two" whilst RBR insist they are giving equal treatment to both drivers were inspired.</strong></p> <br /><div></div> <br /><p><strong>Why take it away from Webber's car to put it on Vettel's in mind boggling; especially considering that the perception of favouring one driver over the other feels like deja-vu with the</strong> <a target="_self" href="/op/blogs/motorsport/archive/2010/05/31/is-mark-webber-our-best-sportsman-ambassador-right-now.aspx" title="Vettel collides with Webber at the Turkish GP">Turkish Grand Prix collision between the two of them</a><strong>.</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>To the F1 fan that I am, this is nothing new as I have been watching the sport since the eighties. For newcomers and casual fans, you must be wondering why Red Bull keeps shooting themselves in the foot by employing such tactics to help the driver they see as the future win over Webber.</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>1. This is bad PR and Red Bull Racing is really just a PR exercise from an energy drink company.</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>2. History shows fierce team rivalry rarely helps winning world titles (Williams lost it in '86 and McLaren in '07).</strong></p> <br /><p><strong>So what do you think? Do you think this other incident will affect sales of Red Bull cans in Australia?</strong></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>drdamien's Song Of The Week: DREAMING OF ANOTHER WORLD by MYSTERY JETS</h1> <p>drdamien — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 06:56:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <br /><p><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;">I thought I'd share this one out. Mystery Jets have been around for a few years and have only had selected airplay so far.</span></strong></p> <br /><p><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;">However, I think they'll have their big break with this very catchy tune. Quite melodic too.<br />Good promotional video too. It has this kind of nostalgia photography that gives it this feel good British 60's look.</span></strong></p> <br /><p><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;">(Please visit the site to view this media)</span></strong></p> <br /><p><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;">The track is available on iTunes for $1.69 as part of their new album 'Serotonin' released last Monday (5th July).</span></strong></p> <br /><p><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;">Worth recommending is the remix of the same track: Mystery Jets ‘Dreaming Of Another World (Lindstrom/Prins Thomas Remix)’</span></strong></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OP movies: Animal Kingdom</h1> <p>drdamien — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 01:08:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <br /><p></p> <br /><p>I’m a HUGE fan of Australia’s overglamourized TV Drama <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1119176/">UNDERBELLY</a> hence I was even more excited for ANIMAL KINGDOM</p> <br /><p>ANIMAL KINGDOM I’d heard was a suburban crime drama, so I expected something hard-hitting, over-stylized yet the focus is on the commercialization of crime if you must, however ANIMAL KINGDOM is no UNDERBELLY; it’s quite easily one of the most poignant crime dramas in recent times, and certainly a triumph of sorts for Australian cinema.<br /><span id="more-2478"></span></p> <br /><p>ANIMAL KINGDOM is a riveting insight into a 1980′s Australian crime family. The film trails a teenage boy named Joshua ‘J’ Cody (FRECHEVILLE). Who, caught in unfortunate family circumstances eventually leads him to live with his grandmother and mentally psychotic uncles.</p> <br /><p>This isn’t UNDERBELLY nor is it SOPRANOS, and it’s certainly a far cry from Varma’s brand of cinema as well, ANIMAL KINGDOM is a quaint, quiet, haunting and lyrical piece of cinema which takes the viewer into the lives of a rather strange crime family.</p> <br /><p>Jacki Weaver is absolutely amazing as the matriarch of the family and plays “Grandma Smurf” to some scary new heights. The incestuous overtones are disturbing as they are disgusting and the film proves brave in it’s vision and execution. Guy Pearce is spectacular is his most exciting performance since L.A CONFIDENTIAL and RAVENOUS. Aussie veterans Andrew (Ben Mendelsohn), Darren (Luke Ford) and Craig (Sullivan Stapleton) play the 3 psychotic uncles and all three are equally brilliant though Mendelsohn steals the show.<br /></p> <br /><p>This is a dramatic, well-made film that haunts the mind. Graphic, fluidly written, thrilling and poignant in equal measure. The director emphasises realistic dialogue, multi-dimensional characters and to a large extent underplays the simmering violence which is prevalent in the background. The violence is there and it is shocking, but it’s natural in the proceedings of the film and isn’t over-played for the purpose if glamourizing it’s power. The ending is satisfying and gave distant echoes of the NZ Drama ONCE WERE WARRIORS.</p> <br /><p></p> <br /><p>ANIMAL KINGDOM is a must-see!</p> <br /><p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OP Movies: Toy Story 3 - "That was totally Awesome!"</h1> <p>kmason — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 19:20:00 GMT</p> <p> "That was Totally Awesome!" Master 4 shouted in excitement as the credits finished rolling. He had spent the entire movie sitting on the edge of his seat, eyes fixed to the screen, he would not move until the lights came up at the end. When we got home Woody, Buzz & Jesse had to be found and have gone back to being tucked into bed with him at night.</p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p> <br /><p>Often with sequels the quality drops but that is not the case with the Toy story series. The original cast have stayed which is always a good sign and the Pixar team once again have delivered a great Movie!</p> <br /><p>Toy Story 3 is great adventure with the characters we have grown to love. It was targeted at an older starting audience then the 1st two in the series as there are some quite scary scenes which some 0-3yo would not be ready for. In saying that Pixar have once again delivered a film which will be loved by young and old.</p> <br /><p>The new characters like Lotso and Ken blended nicely with the old favourites. The characters are multi-dimensional in way you don't see in the majority of animated films. The referencing of movies such as "cool hand luke" & "The Mummy" was done with Pixar charm. </p> <br /><p>Don't be fooled by this being a cartoon it is a real tear jerker, I could have easily gone trough a box of Kleenex in the last 15 minutes. Master 4 was also tearing up in one scene. </p> <br /><p>Toy story 3 <a target="_blank" href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0435761/" title="Toy Story 3">http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0435761/</a> has now replaced AKIRA <a target="_blank" href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094625/" title="AKIRA">http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094625/</a> as being my favourite animated film. </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>England: "We're not as bad as France"</h1> <p>drdamien — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 06:30:00 GMT</p> <p><span style="font-size: small; color: #ffffff; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; background-color: #000000;"><strong>Something that will cheer you up, whether you are mourning or rejoicing of England's loss overnight.</strong></span></p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #ffffff; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; background-color: #ff0000;"><strong>It was originally broadcast after the second games of the first round were completed. Well done to BBC Radio 5 live for their wonderful World Cup Daily podcasts (available free via iTunes).</strong></span></p> <br /><p><span style="font-size: small; color: #000000; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; background-color: #ffff00;"><strong>Your thoughts?</strong></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Should the Australian Flag be changed?</h1> <p>kmason — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 04:43:00 GMT</p> <p></p> <br /><p>19% of Australian think the Flag should be changed. What do you think?</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Fury rises over payout for David Jones boss</h1> <p>kmason — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:38:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <br /><p><a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/fury-rises-over-payout-for-david-jones-boss-20100624-z3mk.html">http://www.smh.com.au/business/fury-rises-over-payout-for-david-jones-boss-20100624-z3mk.html</a></p> <br /><p> </p> <br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU">This week <br />we look at the reaction to David Jones’s CEO resignation, following his <br />skulduggery with a female staff member AND reaction to the Telstra/NBN agreement <br />made over the weekend.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <br /><p class="MsoNormal">Congrats must go to the Share members for your responsiveness, we were able to get these questions to you on Monday and results to fairfax out 2 days later!!! </p> <br /><p class="MsoNormal">Thank you for your amazing work!!!</p> <br /><p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Rudd or Gillard?</h1> <p>masterpraz — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:35:00 GMT</p> <p>Kevin Rudd has said he was voted in as Prime Minister by the Australian people, not the right wing fractions of the labour party. Tomorrow at 9am a ballot takes place to determine if he will continue as Australia's leader. Who would you vote for...Rudd or Gillard?</p> <br /><p> </p> <br /><p>Click <a target="_blank" href="/op/forums/t/6603.aspx" title="Rudd or Gillard">here</a> to cast your vote!</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OP movies: Harry Brown</h1> <p>drdamien — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 05:31:00 GMT</p> <p>"Wow... What a film this!" is what my colleagues Margaret, Damian (the statistician, not your loyal OP man), <a target="_self" href="/op/members/masterpraz/default.aspx" title="masterpraz">masterpraz</a> and <a target="_self" href="/op/members/drdamien/default.aspx" title="drdamien">myself</a> were like upon exiting the cinemas.</p> <br /><p>It's the kind of movies that cannot let you unmoved. We've all had at a time in our life been in a tough situation where we have to take it on the chin and resolve to be the victim or be ridiculed to avoid being hurt (physically). Yet this movie manages to turn the tables around with Harry Brown, an ex-Royal Marine (Sir Michael Caine) taking justice in his own hands.</p> <br /><p>Caine's performance is phenomenal and I agree with comments likening his to Clint Eastwood's in Gran Torino. There are some other familiar faces such as Emily Mortimer.</p> <br /><p>It still shows nationally and we'd recommend you go and see it (at least as an alternative to manufactured American hoodlum violence). Here's the trailer:</p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OP music: (oldie goodie) Muse's Black Holes and Revelations</h1> <p>drdamien — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:52:00 GMT</p> <p>Isn't it funny how some radio stations make you overdose a particular album?</p> <br /><p>Since I have switched from Triple J to podcasts on my iPod (listening to Switzerland 9th most listened to podcast last week: BBC Radio 5 Live's World Cup Daily), I find myself enjoying music a lot more.</p> <br /><p>Back to our topic. Muse's Black Hole and Revelations is very much like a good Bordeaux wine: it gets better with age (I did not touch this album for about three years). </p> <br /><p></p> <br /><p>There's a good vibe to it and the production is very crisp and clear. Muse also seem not to take themselves too seriously e.g. Knights of Cydonia sounds like a Queen track.</p> <br /><p>The sound quality in this video (from their youtube page) does do justice to the song but it should give you an idea of what I'm talking about:</p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p> <br /><p>Personally, I don't rate their latest album (The Resistance) very highly but digged this one out last week after not listening to it for three years and found the experience of listening back to it quite enjoyable.</p> <br /><p>Ever listened to it? Would you recommend it?</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Glebe Point Diner - Five Star Experience</h1> <p>kmason — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:41:00 GMT</p> <p>WOW what a night!!</p> <br /><p>I am always nervous about trying a new restraunt, eatability used to be reliable but these days the reviews seem to have been rigged. </p> <br /><p>Having been burnt a number of times I have now turned to the good food guide.</p> <br /><p>For my 15th anniversary mr right and I headed to Glebe Point Diner and it was amazing.</p> <br /><p>Having not been there before we drove down Glebe point road till we found it, then looped around to find a car park.</p> <br /><p>Heading up to the restaurant it was buzzing:-) we were met at the door by the matre d who greeted me by name (fantastic touch). She apologised for were we were seated as it was just outside the open plan kitchen. This was the most wonderful spot for me being a foodie it was great to watch the kitchen in full swing. The interior design was great it was funky and matched the food and patrons perfectly.</p> <br /><p>The menu was not long there were about 4 options for each coarse and two specials. All the food groups were covered from vego to hard core meat lover. The choices were all perfectly seasonal. I went for the fish on a bed of lentils and Mr right went for the scotch fillet. We could not have been happier this was the nicest meal I have ever had! The fish was perfectly cooked, the lentils still had bite and the flavour was amazing it was light but at the same time earthy it was like my taste buds were having a party. Mr rights steak could have been cut with a butter knife he was so happy. For dessert we shared a chocolate pudding and a ricotta tart. I did not know you could get such an amazing texture from a chocolate pudding it was like eating a warn rich mouse, it was so good I have been dreaming about it since!! The ricotta tart was a real eye opener the sweetness for the dessert came from the pastry and the praline, the ricotta was not sweetened and the fruit were natural so it balanced out perfectly. </p> <br /><p>This was truly a 5 star experience the wait staff were friendly and attentive, without the slightest hint of insincerity. The food could not be faulted. </p> <br /><p>Thank you Glebe Point Diner for making our 15th anniversary great. www.<b>glebe</b><b>point</b><b>diner</b>.com.au</p> <br /><div></div> <br /><div>Kate</div> <br /><p> </p> <br /><p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Which of the following clothing items do you think should not be worn in public:-?</h1> <p>kmason — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 20:43:00 GMT</p> <p></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Red Bull using forum to gauge public support for Mark Webber?</h1> <p>drdamien — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:27:00 GMT</p> <p>It has been a very interesting couple of days following Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel coming together on track at Istanbul last weekend.</p> <br /><p>Being a Market Research organisation, we thought is was interesting to see Red Bull Racing create a video interview with Mark, post it on <a target="_blank" title="Red Bull Racing - Webber Looks Back On The Turkish Grand Prix" href="http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Video/Webber-Looks-Back-On-The-Turkish-Grand-Prix-021242855170930?refmod=ContentFeed&refmodpos=A1">their website</a> and allow the world to criticise the team who chose blame Webber.</p> <br /><p> <br /> <br /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /> <br /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> <br /></object> <br /></p> <br /><p>Red Bull has invested millions of dollars in their Young Driver Development Program which helped Vettel find his way to F1 and somehow they have to justify this expenditure. Now Red Bull (the energy drink company) must be feeling the heat a little and fear a backlash for their 'cool' brand image and in the end, loss of sales to the likes of Monster Energy, V or (the Coca-Cola marketed) Mother.</p> <br /><p>We nevertheless think it is a brave and clever move that maybe Nestle should have embraced before clashing with Greenpeace and their KitKat campaign (<a target="_blank" title="Social Wizz - Nestle fumbles on Facebook" href="http://socialwizz.com/?p=1079">check out their facebook mistake here</a>).</p> <br /><p>You can share your views/support on <a target="_blank" title="Red Bull Racing - Webber Looks Back On The Turkish Grand Prix" href="http://www.redbullracing.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Video/Webber-Looks-Back-On-The-Turkish-Grand-Prix-021242855170930?refmod=ContentFeed&refmodpos=A1">redbullracing.com</a> and tell us what you think of this move below.</p> <br /><p><i>You need to be a member to post a comment or reply. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Membership to OpinionsPaid is free</span>.</i></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Is Mark Webber our best sportsman ambassador right now?</h1> <p>drdamien — Mon, 31 May 2010 00:55:00 GMT</p> <p>If you haven't watched the race last night, you'll probably have heard it in the sport news this morning.</p> <br /><p>Mark Webber and team mate Sebastian Vettel collided when victory looked certain for the Australian.</p> <br /><p>Watching the incident closely (see video below from 1:10min), it seems Webber holds his racing line and give Vettel just about a car width. Fair right?</p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p> <br /><p>Unlike Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton (the two McLaren drivers) who both managed to keep it on the road after a similar manoeuvre, Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing's team boss is blaming both drivers for not giving enough room to each other.</p> <br /><p>Now, with that point, I disagree - strongly. <strong>Why should Mark have backed off?</strong> He had no obligation to do so and I believe he was in his own right. He wasn't fighting for a minor placing but for a race win and has shown the world he is no push over. To a certain extent, he showed the world what 'Australian fair' means (even if it looked though).</p> <br /><p>Looking at various motorsport <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/andrewbenson/2010/05/pressure_of_f1_battle_beginnin.html" title="BBC F1 - Andrew Benson's blog">blogs</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/red-bulls-lock-horns-with-webbers-hattrick-dashed-by-teammate-20100530-wnor.html?autostart=1" title="Fairfax digital">websites</a> this morning, it appears the world agrees with Webber rather than team boss and team mate. It's worth remembering that Vettel is a Red Bull protege and the team needs to justify its investment in their young driver programme. F1 is as much about sport as it is about investment and politics. We have an exciting rest of the season ahead of us.</p> <br /><p>Now, is this all bad news? I don't think so.</p> <br /><p>Mark leads the F1 championship by 5 points over Jenson Button and has opened a 15 point gap over Vettel, Mark's fiercest and closest rival in my opinion.</p> <br /><p>What is your view? Has Mark done you and the country proud so far? We look foraward to your comments below.</p> <br /><p><em>You need to be a member to post a comment or reply. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Membership to OpinionsPaid is free</span>.</em></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OP music review: Two Door Cinema Club - Tourist History</h1> <p>drdamien — Sat, 29 May 2010 02:03:00 GMT</p> <p>Ever wondered what we are listening to in the Sydney office?</p> <br /><p>This week, we gave <b>TDCC's Tourist History</b> a go (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.myspace.com/twodoorcinemaclub/music-player?sindex=-1.0&shuffle=false&amix=false&pmix=false&plid=38740&artid=6466161&sseed=0&ptype=3&stime=0&ap=1&rpeat=false" title="TDCC Tourist History - MySpace popup player">click here</a> to listen to the album on myspace).</p> <br /><p>10 short tracks of bouncy uplifting rhythms and fashionable soundscapes. Very much in line with the 'new rave' concept and not too dissimilar to the likes of MGMT, Yeasayer or the Grammy award winning <i>Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix</i> from er... Phoenix.</p> <br /><p>A few catchy singles have been released so far. I actually discovered this act via iTunes's Single of the Week (<i>Undercover Martyn</i>) but <i>Something Good Can Work</i> steals the show.</p> <br /><p>If you like this type of sharp and sophisticated melodies, I must recommend <i>I Can Talk (Moulinex Remix)</i> from their label's compilation <a target="_blank" href="http://music.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=music.artistalbums&albumid=kitsune-maison-8-14350428&artistid=42835747" title="Kitsune Maison 8 - MySpace popup player">Kitsun<span style="font-size: small; font-family: Calibri;">é</span> Maison 8</a>. </p> <br /><p>I hope you'll enjoy this as much as we did.</p> <br /><p>PS: You need to be an OpinionsPaid member to post a comment. Membership is free.</p> <br /><p>(Please visit the site to view this media)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Project SIZZLE and NICKY</h1> <p>masterpraz — Fri, 21 May 2010 07:48:00 GMT</p> <p>Hey all,</p> <br /><p>Please note that the zoints for project SIZZLE and NICKY will take 7 working days to allocate,</p> <br /><p>Thanks,<br />Praz (OP)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Project CHECK-OUT and AISLE and Zoints</h1> <p>masterpraz — Wed, 19 May 2010 13:04:00 GMT</p> <p>Hi everyone,</p> <br /><p>Just to confirm, everyone will receive 400 zoints at the end of surveys Project CHECK-OUT and Project AISLE. Apologies for the confusion at the end of the survey which states 100 zoints. That has now been fixed.</p> <br /><p>Thanks for your ongoing support with this survey, we'll be announcing our next set of 10 winners soon!</p> <br /><p>Thanks,</p> <br /><p>Praz (OP)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>OpinionsPaid server downtime</h1> <p>masterpraz — Wed, 19 May 2010 11:10:00 GMT</p> <p>Hey all OP members, </p> <br /><p>Each morning from 5am to approx 5.08am there will be server downtime. So what does that mean? You won't be able to see or log-in to OP, and if one of you early birds is completing a survey at early hours, you won't be able to submit it. It would be preferable if you kept the site totally clear between those times. The small bit of downtime allows us to give faster delivery and functioning of surveys. </p> <br /><p>Thanks, Praz(OP)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>SHARE surveys update</h1> <p>masterpraz — Tue, 04 May 2010 05:18:00 GMT</p> <p>Hi everyone,</p> <br /><p>Firstly, just wanted to thank everyone for their on-going contribution and participation with the SHARE surveys. Your answers have provided some great insight.</p> <br /><p>Secondly, with last week and this week there will be 3 waves of the SHARE survey. Wave 16 finishes tomorrow, and Wave 17 goes in to field tomorrow (to finish Sunday 9th May)</p> <br /><p>If there is any confusion please e-mail panel@yrsource.com</p> <br /><p>Regards,</p> <br /><p>Praz )OP)</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> </main></body></html>