Reptiles are not only deadly and numerous, they are also creatures who have some of the most bizarre behaviours in the world. Inhabiting every single land mass with the exception of Antarctica, reptiles are everywhere. Reptiles are generally classified into four main groups; crocodiles and alligators, lizards, snakes and turtles and tortoises. They are all cold-blooded, which means they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. They also have cool, dry skin, which is either scaly or joined together with bony plates. Reptiles are also not very hands-on parents. Though alligators raise their young over a period of two years, they are the exception and not the rule. Generally, reptiles lay their eggs in a simple nest and then abandon their young. Reptiles are also masters of disguise, using camouflage as a mechanism for self-defence often. This week we will explore the weird and wonderful world of reptiles; their habits, behaviours and some of the strange methods they use to keep themselves safe.

In 1975, the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh fell to a rebel movement known as the Khmer Rouge. These Marxist revolutionaries seized control of the country and unleashed a reign of terror rarely seen in modern history. Over the next four years, the regime, led by dictator Pol Pot, was responsible for the deaths of nearly a quarter of Cambodia’s population. Entire communities were destroyed, and the nation’s religious and cultural heritage was systematically dismantled.

The horrors of the Cambodian killing fields are difficult to confront, but they cannot be ignored. In a 1948 speech to the British House of Commons, Prime Minister Winston Churchill warned, “Those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.” So what can we learn from the story of the Cambodian killing fields, and how can we ensure such a tragedy is never repeated?

It's 70 years since one of the most extraordinary achievements occurred. This accomplishment is spoken of, remembered, and often used as the gauge of success. And so, it is no surprise that the name of this one man is carved indelibly into history. In his home country, he's considered a hero and has been voted the most admired person in the nation. He even has a commemorative five-stamp series to honour his status and achievements. He is the best-known New Zealander in the world. But it's not just his achievement as a mountaineer, the conqueror of Mount Everest, the first man, along with Tenzing Norgay to climb to the top of the highest mountain in the world that he is honoured. It's because Edmund Hillary showed us how an ordinary life can become a truly extraordinary one. He has shown us that greatness is possible.