In this interview, Paul Makin and Jeremy Cordeaux engage in a lively discussion about their experiences in radio, Australian culture, and politics. They reminisce about the golden days of radio, the colorful characters they’ve encountered, and their concerns about the current state of Australian society, particularly regarding political correctness and national identity.

Key Topics Discussed
Radio Career Reminiscence: Makin and Cordeaux reflect on their long careers in radio, discussing the industry's changes and memorable personalities.
Australian Culture and Identity: Discussion on the decline of Australian patriotism and the impact of political correctness.
Wokeness and Division in Politics: Concerns about how political correctness and the “Voice” referendum are dividing Australians.
Radio Personalities: Anecdotes about famous Australian radio personalities and their influence on the industry.
Historical Figures: Reflection on eccentric Australian figures like B. Miles and their place in cultural history.
Transitioning from Radio to Politics: Brief discussion about the challenges and temptations of entering politics as a former media personality.

In this interview, Paul Makin and Jeremy Cordeaux engage in a lively discussion about their experiences in radio, Australian culture, and politics. They reminisce about the golden days of radio, the colorful characters they’ve encountered, and their concerns about the current state of Australian society, particularly regarding political correctness and national identity.
Key Topics Discussed
<ul>
<li>Radio Career Reminiscence: Makin and Cordeaux reflect on their long careers in radio, discussing the industry's changes and memorable personalities.</li>
<li>Australian Culture and Identity: Discussion on the decline of Australian patriotism and the impact of political correctness.</li>
<li>Wokeness and Division in Politics: Concerns about how political correctness and the “Voice” referendum are dividing Australians.</li>
<li>Radio Personalities: Anecdotes about famous Australian radio personalities and their influence on the industry.</li>
<li>Historical Figures: Reflection on eccentric Australian figures like B. Miles and their place in cultural history.</li>
<li>Transitioning from Radio to Politics: Brief discussion about the challenges and temptations of entering politics as a former media personality.</li>
</ul>

Daily opinions from Commercial Radio Hall of Fame inductee and Walkley award winning journalist Jeremy Cordeaux.


Jeremy Cordeaux has worked successfully in all facets of the media: radio, television and print as well as marketing, promotions, public relations and media training.

 He has gone from Office Boy to Presenter, Programme Manager, General Manager, Managing Director and Owner of three highly successful radio stations.

He started his career at Radio 2GB at the age of 16, he moved to 2GF Grafton and one year later was recruited by Channel 10 Sydney.

At Channel 10 Jeremy Cordeaux learned the business of television: ‘general on-air duties’, ‘hostings’, and ‘news reading’.

Grundy’s chose him to host the very successful, national teenage show “Blind Date”.

He wrote, packaged and hosted his own programmes “The Better Half” and “Ten on Travel and People” (10 on TAP).

 In 1973 Cordeaux was asked to take over the John Pearce Morning Show on Radio 2GB. In 1974 he was promoted to the all important Breakfast programme.

Cordeaux moved to Adelaide in 1976 ahead of 2GB’s disastrous conversion to Rock ‘n Roll.

The following thirty years saw Jeremy Cordeaux’s Morning Show, “The Court of Public Opinion”, on Radio 5DN – always at or near the top of the ratings.

Over the years, amongst other achievements, Cordeaux has won:

         a Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism

            three Gold Medals from the International Radio Festival of New York for

Best Talk Show Host in the World

            a bronze medal for the Best Community Programme in the World

            twice a finalist as the Best Radio Personality in the World

While running the very successful Morning Show, Cordeaux acquired a ten percent interest in 5DN and six months later was promoted to Managing Director.

In the last thirty years Jeremy has worked for all the major television networks in Adelaide: presenting “Cordeaux’s Adelaide” for Channel 9, “State Affair” and the “Nightly News” for Channel 7 and editorials for “Ten’s News Hour”.

He wrote a popular column for the Murdoch afternoon newspaper “The News” for several years.

In 1990 Jeremy Cordeaux sold his interest in 5DN and bought Radio Stations 5AD and 5SE from Hoyts Media. 

Four years later he set up the first radio “combo” in Australia owning and running the highly successful number one FM music station 5AD and the number one AM talk station 5DN: All the while continuing to present his Morning Talk Show from 9.00am till 1.00pm.

In 1996 Cordeaux sold his company to the Australian Radio Network. He remained on-air for the next ten years.

Jeremy Cordeaux was the founding Chairman of the Variety Club of SA, is currently an Ambassador and Life Member for Variety’s Tent 75; a Life Member of the Royal Institution for Deaf and Blind Children in NSW; Patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association of SA; on divisional council Red Cross for ten years; on the board of SA Great for ten years and on the board of the Smith Family for five years.

He is a member of the Australian Club, the Union and Pioneer’s Club, and a Life Member of the Order of Australia Association.

In 2003 he was Knighted by The Order of St John for his services to the community, and in 2006 acknowledged in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List with an Order of Australia, AM.

Jeremy and his wife, Caroline Peacock, have homes in Adelaide, Sydney and Hamilton Island. They have one son and Jeremy has three adult children from a previous marriage.

His latest venture was producing and presenting a news, talk, current affairs, chat show which he calls “The Court of Public Opinion” – an “eccentric” programme recorded in Cordeaux’s extensive garage.  

His hobbies include: the media, art, old cars, reading and gardening.

Daily opinions from Commercial Radio Hall of Fame inductee and Walkley award winning journalist Jeremy Cordeaux.
 Jeremy Cordeaux has worked successfully in all facets of the media: radio, television and print as well as marketing, promotions, public relations and media training.  He has gone from Office Boy to Presenter, Programme Manager, General Manager, Managing Director and Owner of three highly successful radio stations. He started his career at Radio 2GB at the age of 16, he moved to 2GF Grafton and one year later was recruited by Channel 10 Sydney. At Channel 10 Jeremy Cordeaux learned the business of television: ‘general on-air duties’, ‘hostings’, and ‘news reading’. Grundy’s chose him to host the very successful, national teenage show “Blind Date”. He wrote, packaged and hosted his own programmes “The Better Half” and “Ten on Travel and People” (10 on TAP).  In 1973 Cordeaux was asked to take over the John Pearce Morning Show on Radio 2GB. In 1974 he was promoted to the all important Breakfast programme. Cordeaux moved to Adelaide in 1976 ahead of 2GB’s disastrous conversion to Rock ‘n Roll. The following thirty years saw Jeremy Cordeaux’s Morning Show, “The Court of Public Opinion”, on Radio 5DN – always at or near the top of the ratings. Over the years, amongst other achievements, Cordeaux has won:          a Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism             three Gold Medals from the International Radio Festival of New York for             Best Talk Show Host in the World             a bronze medal for the Best Community Programme in the World             twice a finalist as the Best Radio Personality in the World While running the very successful Morning Show, Cordeaux acquired a ten percent interest in 5DN and six months later was promoted to Managing Director. In the last thirty years Jeremy has worked for all the major television networks in Adelaide: presenting “Cordeaux’s Adelaide” for Channel 9, “State Affair” and the “Nightly News” for Channel 7 and editorials for “Ten’s News Hour”. He wrote a popular column for the Murdoch afternoon newspaper “The News” for several years. In 1990 Jeremy Cordeaux sold his interest in 5DN and bought Radio Stations 5AD and 5SE from Hoyts Media.  Four years later he set up the first radio “combo” in Australia owning and running the highly successful number one FM music station 5AD and the number one AM talk station 5DN: All the while continuing to present his Morning Talk Show from 9.00am till 1.00pm. In 1996 Cordeaux sold his company to the Australian Radio Network. He remained on-air for the next ten years. Jeremy Cordeaux was the founding Chairman of the Variety Club of SA, is currently an Ambassador and Life Member for Variety’s Tent 75; a Life Member of the Royal Institution for Deaf and Blind Children in NSW; Patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association of SA; on divisional council Red Cross for ten years; on the board of SA Great for ten years and on the board of the Smith Family for five years. He is a member of the Australian Club, the Union and Pioneer’s Club, and a Life Member of the Order of Australia Association. In 2003 he was Knighted by The Order of St John for his services to the community, and in 2006 acknowledged in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List with an Order of Australia, AM. Jeremy and his wife, Caroline Peacock, have homes in Adelaide, Sydney and Hamilton Island. They have one son and Jeremy has three adult children from a previous marriage. His latest venture was producing and presenting a news, talk, current affairs, chat show which he calls “The Court of Public Opinion” – an “eccentric” programme recorded in Cordeaux’s extensive garage.   His hobbies include: the media, art, old cars, reading and gardening.

The Court of Public Opinion with Jeremy Cordeaux AM

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Global News Headlines to bring you up to speed.

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LIVE Radio Wars: How Paul Makin and Jeremy Cordeaux Shaped the Australian Airwaves

In this Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux covers a wide range of political and social issues affecting Australia and the world.

Jeremy begins by congratulating Adelaide-based visual effects company Rising Sun Pictures for their Oscar nomination, highlighting South Australia’s growing role in the global film industry.

The discussion then moves to Australian politics, including the upcoming South Australian election and the potential impact of One Nation candidates. Jeremy also examines rising petrol prices and claims from former competition regulator Rod Sims that the issue may be more about pricing practices than supply shortages.

Fuel security becomes a major talking point, with comparisons to countries like Japan and South Korea that hold far larger reserves than Australia. Jeremy warns that Australia’s limited fuel storage could create national vulnerabilities.

The episode also explores the cost-of-living crisis, government spending, tax reform, and criticism of renewable energy policies. Jeremy questions the effectiveness of the United Nations and criticises the media industry following regulatory action against the controversial Kyle and Jackie O radio show.

Other topics include charity advertising campaigns, the treatment of women in Iran, and Australia’s offer of asylum to Iranian women footballers.

The episode concludes with reflections on historical events associated with St Patrick’s Day.

Topics Covered


Rising Sun Pictures Oscar nomination recognition


South Australian election discussion


One Nation and Frank Pangallo political prospects


Early voting concerns in elections


Petrol price increases and Rod Sims comments


Fuel excise and government fuel tax debate


Australia’s low fuel reserves compared with other countries


Renewable energy policies and cost-of-living pressures


Potential interest rate rises and economic outlook


Budget expectations and tax reform debate


Criticism of socialism and global political systems


UN Security Council criticism and veto power issues


Kyle and Jackie O radio controversy and ACMA licensing action


Celebrity radio culture and broadcasting standards


Save the Children charity advertising debate


Starvation in developing nations and global responsibility


Iranian women footballers seeking asylum in Australia


Women’s rights issues in Iran and Islamic societies


Historical examples of female oppression


St Patrick’s Day historical events and birthdays

In this Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux covers a wide range of political and social issues affecting Australia and the world.
Jeremy begins by congratulating Adelaide-based visual effects company Rising Sun Pictures for their Oscar nomination, highlighting South Australia&rsquo;s growing role in the global film industry.
The discussion then moves to Australian politics, including the upcoming South Australian election and the potential impact of One Nation candidates. Jeremy also examines rising petrol prices and claims from former competition regulator Rod Sims that the issue may be more about pricing practices than supply shortages.
Fuel security becomes a major talking point, with comparisons to countries like Japan and South Korea that hold far larger reserves than Australia. Jeremy warns that Australia&rsquo;s limited fuel storage could create national vulnerabilities.
The episode also explores the cost-of-living crisis, government spending, tax reform, and criticism of renewable energy policies. Jeremy questions the effectiveness of the United Nations and criticises the media industry following regulatory action against the controversial Kyle and Jackie O radio show.
Other topics include charity advertising campaigns, the treatment of women in Iran, and Australia&rsquo;s offer of asylum to Iranian women footballers.
The episode concludes with reflections on historical events associated with St Patrick&rsquo;s Day.
Topics Covered
<ul data-start="1762" data-end="2825">
<li data-section-id="148s6a2" data-start="1762" data-end="1814">
Rising Sun Pictures Oscar nomination recognition
</li>
<li data-section-id="18g31fo" data-start="1815" data-end="1855">
South Australian election discussion
</li>
<li data-section-id="6w2sd0" data-start="1856" data-end="1909">
One Nation and Frank Pangallo political prospects
</li>
<li data-section-id="1wi4nt6" data-start="1910" data-end="1948">
Early voting concerns in elections
</li>
<li data-section-id="qrj5lg" data-start="1949" data-end="1997">
Petrol price increases and Rod Sims comments
</li>
<li data-section-id="18lt221" data-start="1998" data-end="2044">
Fuel excise and government fuel tax debate
</li>
<li data-section-id="1mesicw" data-start="2045" data-end="2108">
Australia&rsquo;s low fuel reserves compared with other countries
</li>
<li data-section-id="s04gu9" data-start="2109" data-end="2167">
Renewable energy policies and cost-of-living pressures
</li>
<li data-section-id="vt8i6n" data-start="2168" data-end="2222">
Potential interest rate rises and economic outlook
</li>
<li data-section-id="144opns" data-start="2223" data-end="2268">
Budget expectations and tax reform debate
</li>
<li data-section-id="y8lwcj" data-start="2269" data-end="2324">
Criticism of socialism and global political systems
</li>
<li data-section-id="n055eb" data-start="2325" data-end="2380">
UN Security Council criticism and veto power issues
</li>
<li data-section-id="1iql99o" data-start="2381" data-end="2446">
Kyle and Jackie O radio controversy and ACMA licensing action
</li>
<li data-section-id="1prfeb6" data-start="2447" data-end="2501">
Celebrity radio culture and broadcasting standards
</li>
<li data-section-id="iu8qva" data-start="2502" data-end="2550">
Save the Children charity advertising debate
</li>
<li data-section-id="1nu1lgd" data-start="2551" data-end="2613">
Starvation in developing nations and global responsibility
</li>
<li data-section-id="iosm7p" data-start="2614" data-end="2671">
Iranian women footballers seeking asylum in Australia
</li>
<li data-section-id="11ii51" data-start="2672" data-end="2727">
Women&rsquo;s rights issues in Iran and Islamic societies
</li>
<li data-section-id="1u22h74" data-start="2728" data-end="2772">
Historical examples of female oppression
</li>
<li data-section-id="rzofpp" data-start="2773" data-end="2825">
St Patrick&rsquo;s Day historical events and birthdays
</li>
</ul>

Fuel Prices, Election Politics and Media Chaos – The Court of Public Opinion

LISTEN: Australia’s Fuel Crisis, Rising Costs and Media Scandals – Jeremy Cordeaux Speaks Out

In this Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux delivers a wide-ranging commentary on Australian politics, government bureaucracy, immigration, gambling advertising and the future of the nation’s economic structure.

Jeremy questions whether Australia’s federal system has become an expensive duplication of government and explores the controversial idea of dissolving the federation of states. He also criticises gambling advertising, media spending decisions such as the massive radio contract for Kyle and Jackie O, and the authenticity of charity advertising campaigns.

The episode also tackles immigration levels, Australia’s fuel security risks, rising petrol prices, and the discipline imposed on political representatives within party systems. Jeremy closes by previewing the upcoming live Friday broadcast and reflecting on historical events that occurred on March 12.

Topics Covered


Calls to abolish daylight saving


Debate about dissolving the Australian Federation


Western Australia’s wealth and complaints about federal funding distribution


Criticism of bureaucracy and duplication between states and Canberra


Proposal to ban gambling advertising


Criticism of the $200 million radio deal for Kyle & Jackie O


Discussion about whether syndicated radio works across Australian cities


Concerns about charity advertising authenticity


Former Labor minister Ed Husic criticising party discipline


Immigration levels and assimilation debate


Pauline Hanson’s immigration population warnings


Australia’s limited fuel reserves and national vulnerability


Rising petrol prices and comments from Rod Sims


Preview of upcoming Friday live broadcast panel guests


Historical events and birthdays for March 12

In this Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux delivers a wide-ranging commentary on Australian politics, government bureaucracy, immigration, gambling advertising and the future of the nation&rsquo;s economic structure.
Jeremy questions whether Australia&rsquo;s federal system has become an expensive duplication of government and explores the controversial idea of dissolving the federation of states. He also criticises gambling advertising, media spending decisions such as the massive radio contract for Kyle and Jackie O, and the authenticity of charity advertising campaigns.
The episode also tackles immigration levels, Australia&rsquo;s fuel security risks, rising petrol prices, and the discipline imposed on political representatives within party systems. Jeremy closes by previewing the upcoming live Friday broadcast and reflecting on historical events that occurred on March 12.
Topics Covered
<ul data-start="1207" data-end="2075">
<li data-section-id="qiqg5y" data-start="1207" data-end="1243">
Calls to abolish daylight saving
</li>
<li data-section-id="at6c9c" data-start="1244" data-end="1297">
Debate about dissolving the Australian Federation
</li>
<li data-section-id="nhhy19" data-start="1298" data-end="1378">
Western Australia&rsquo;s wealth and complaints about federal funding distribution
</li>
<li data-section-id="nrxhrk" data-start="1379" data-end="1451">
Criticism of bureaucracy and duplication between states and Canberra
</li>
<li data-section-id="1ehuk0t" data-start="1452" data-end="1492">
Proposal to ban gambling advertising
</li>
<li data-section-id="1rer4ug" data-start="1493" data-end="1557">
Criticism of the $200 million radio deal for Kyle &amp; Jackie O
</li>
<li data-section-id="1yhjzjx" data-start="1558" data-end="1634">
Discussion about whether syndicated radio works across Australian cities
</li>
<li data-section-id="1tqq3a9" data-start="1635" data-end="1686">
Concerns about charity advertising authenticity
</li>
<li data-section-id="1sbmtud" data-start="1687" data-end="1750">
Former Labor minister Ed Husic criticising party discipline
</li>
<li data-section-id="1mbj6io" data-start="1751" data-end="1797">
Immigration levels and assimilation debate
</li>
<li data-section-id="12bn2xz" data-start="1798" data-end="1850">
Pauline Hanson&rsquo;s immigration population warnings
</li>
<li data-section-id="1b9wtlm" data-start="1851" data-end="1915">
Australia&rsquo;s limited fuel reserves and national vulnerability
</li>
<li data-section-id="91wf66" data-start="1916" data-end="1967">
Rising petrol prices and comments from Rod Sims
</li>
<li data-section-id="1geq74i" data-start="1968" data-end="2026">
Preview of upcoming Friday live broadcast panel guests
</li>
<li data-section-id="1rug61z" data-start="2027" data-end="2075">
Historical events and birthdays for March 12
</li>
</ul>

Is Australia’s Government Too Big? Jeremy Cordeaux Sounds the Alarm

LISTEN: Is Canberra Too Big? Jeremy Cordeaux Questions Federation, Immigration and Media Power

In this special Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux sits down with legendary Australian entertainer Johnny Mac, one of the oldest living pop stars at 94 years of age.

Johnny shares remarkable stories from a lifetime in show business, including performing alongside some of the biggest names in music history — from Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison to Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers. He reflects on his unexpected rise from Adelaide to international recognition, including the success of his song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses, which charted in the United States.

The conversation explores the golden age of radio, early recording studios, touring in North America, and the intense realities of life as a professional entertainer. Johnny also shares memories of performing for troops in Vietnam, working in television, and the deep satisfaction he found through charity performances.

Now in his nineties, Johnny continues recording music, recently releasing a new song titled “Come What May”, proving that passion for music never fades.

This fascinating interview captures the life, humour, and wisdom of a true Australian show business pioneer.

Topics Covered:


Introduction of legendary entertainer Johnny Mac


Johnny Mac’s age and long career in entertainment


Early show business experiences


Performing with major music legends


Meeting artists such as Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly


Early radio career and the importance of radio promotion


Recording the hit song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses


The Seekers backing Johnny Mac early in their career


Chart success in America


Touring and performing in Canada and the United States


The realities of life in show business


Drug use and pressure within the entertainment industry


Charity performances and touring Vietnam for troops


Visiting children’s hospitals and performing for sick children


Downsides of fame and lack of privacy


Owning Elvis Presley’s Cadillac


Selling pieces of Elvis memorabilia for charity


Receiving the Dusty Boots Award


Johnny Mac’s latest song “Come What May”


Modern music streaming versus physical records

In this special Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux sits down with legendary Australian entertainer Johnny Mac, one of the oldest living pop stars at 94 years of age.
Johnny shares remarkable stories from a lifetime in show business, including performing alongside some of the biggest names in music history &mdash; from Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison to Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers. He reflects on his unexpected rise from Adelaide to international recognition, including the success of his song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses, which charted in the United States.
The conversation explores the golden age of radio, early recording studios, touring in North America, and the intense realities of life as a professional entertainer. Johnny also shares memories of performing for troops in Vietnam, working in television, and the deep satisfaction he found through charity performances.
Now in his nineties, Johnny continues recording music, recently releasing a new song titled &ldquo;Come What May&rdquo;, proving that passion for music never fades.
This fascinating interview captures the life, humour, and wisdom of a true Australian show business pioneer.
Topics Covered:
<ul data-start="1452" data-end="2464">
<li data-section-id="12tlh5o" data-start="1452" data-end="1504">
Introduction of legendary entertainer Johnny Mac
</li>
<li data-section-id="1uuk4fq" data-start="1505" data-end="1558">
Johnny Mac&rsquo;s age and long career in entertainment
</li>
<li data-section-id="1npkjyb" data-start="1559" data-end="1594">
Early show business experiences
</li>
<li data-section-id="p67l0z" data-start="1595" data-end="1634">
Performing with major music legends
</li>
<li data-section-id="18ohtvy" data-start="1635" data-end="1703">
Meeting artists such as Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly
</li>
<li data-section-id="1buil2t" data-start="1704" data-end="1764">
Early radio career and the importance of radio promotion
</li>
<li data-section-id="1gnesp9" data-start="1765" data-end="1833">
Recording the hit song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses
</li>
<li data-section-id="1yhzbfd" data-start="1834" data-end="1890">
The Seekers backing Johnny Mac early in their career
</li>
<li data-section-id="6zchcg" data-start="1891" data-end="1919">
Chart success in America
</li>
<li data-section-id="4ju034" data-start="1920" data-end="1978">
Touring and performing in Canada and the United States
</li>
<li data-section-id="iwj9vo" data-start="1979" data-end="2021">
The realities of life in show business
</li>
<li data-section-id="1szqlvz" data-start="2022" data-end="2081">
Drug use and pressure within the entertainment industry
</li>
<li data-section-id="hmge0q" data-start="2082" data-end="2137">
Charity performances and touring Vietnam for troops
</li>
<li data-section-id="1ifffyf" data-start="2138" data-end="2204">
Visiting children&rsquo;s hospitals and performing for sick children
</li>
<li data-section-id="2draid" data-start="2205" data-end="2246">
Downsides of fame and lack of privacy
</li>
<li data-section-id="tss1rs" data-start="2247" data-end="2282">
Owning Elvis Presley&rsquo;s Cadillac
</li>
<li data-section-id="13cnw0a" data-start="2283" data-end="2334">
Selling pieces of Elvis memorabilia for charity
</li>
<li data-section-id="iacgl0" data-start="2335" data-end="2370">
Receiving the Dusty Boots Award
</li>
<li data-section-id="1fnr0t" data-start="2371" data-end="2415">
Johnny Mac&rsquo;s latest song &ldquo;Come What May&rdquo;
</li>
<li data-section-id="1f2amet" data-start="2416" data-end="2464">
Modern music streaming versus physical records
</li>
</ul>

94-Year-Old Pop Star Reveals Untold Stories of Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison

LIVE Radio Wars: How Paul Makin and Jeremy Cordeaux Shaped the Australian Airwaves

The Court of Public Opinion with Jeremy Cordeaux AM

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The Court of Public Opinion with Jeremy Cordeaux AM

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