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Three Aussie men may face death penalty over fatal Bali shooting

<p>Three Australian men have been arrested by Indonesian police over <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/new-details-emerge-after-aussie-shot-dead-in-bali" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a deadly shooting</a> at a villa on the resort island of Bali that left one Australian dead and another seriously injured.</p> <p>Bali police chief Daniel Adityajaya confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, stating the men had “prepared and executed” the shooting, which took place just after midnight on Saturday at Villa Casa Santisya near Munggu Beach in Badung, north of Kuta.</p> <p>“We have arrested three suspects,” Adityajaya said, adding that the men face charges of premeditated murder. If convicted, they could face the death penalty under Indonesian law.</p> <p>The incident claimed the life of 32-year-old Zivan Radmanovic and left another Australian, 35-year-old Sanar Ghanim, seriously wounded. Radmanovic was shot in a bathroom where police later recovered 17 bullet casings and two intact bullets.</p> <p>Radmanovic’s wife, Gourdeas Jazmyn, 30, told police she awoke to her husband’s screams shortly before midnight. She hid under a blanket as she heard multiple gunshots, later finding Radmanovic dead and Ghanim critically injured. Ghanim, who was also beaten during the attack, was taken to hospital and has since been released under police supervision. He is considered a key witness in the case.</p> <p>Authorities initially arrested one of the suspects at Soekarno-Hatta airport near Jakarta as he attempted to leave the country. The two others were detained abroad with the assistance of Interpol in South-East Asia, although police have not revealed where those arrests took place.</p> <p>Officers seized a nine-millimetre firearm, a motorcycle, and two cars believed to have been used in the suspects’ escape.</p> <p>Police have not disclosed a motive for the crime and say investigations are ongoing. Adityajaya noted that a fourth suspect, believed to be the mastermind behind the attack, may still be identified.</p> <p><em>Images: Singapore police / 9News</em></p>

Legal

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Qantas jet collides with airbridge

<p>A Qantas flight arriving in Brisbane has been involved in a minor collision after its aircraft made contact with an airbridge while taxiing, prompting an investigation by both the airline and airport authorities.</p> <p>The Boeing 737-800, operating as flight QF186 from Queenstown, New Zealand, touched down at Brisbane International Airport around 6.30pm on Wednesday. While taxiing to its designated gate, the aircraft collided with the passenger bridge.</p> <p>No injuries were reported among passengers or crew, and all on board disembarked safely via portable stairs brought to the plane.</p> <p>In a statement, Qantas confirmed the incident and said engineers would assess and repair the aircraft before it returned to service. “We’re investigating how an aerobridge made contact with the front of one of our aircraft at Brisbane Airport,” the airline said.</p> <p>Brisbane Airport’s executive general manager of aviation, Ryan Both, stressed that safety remains the airport’s highest priority. “Last night a Qantas flight arrived from Queenstown and the aerobridge made contact with the aircraft, and we’re supporting Qantas with the investigation,” he said. “We really want to reinforce that safety is our first priority at Brisbane Airport and is absolutely paramount, so we’ll be doing everything we can to look into what happened and make sure we learn from it.”</p> <p>Both Qantas and Brisbane Airport Corporation say they are working together to determine the cause of the incident and prevent a repeat.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Scientists unpack the latest trend for getting better sleep

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>If you’ve been on social media lately – perhaps scrolling in the middle of the night, when you know you shouldn’t but you just can’t sleep – you might have seen those videos promoting a get-to-sleep technique called “cognitive shuffling”.</p> <p>The idea, proponents say, is to engage your mind with random ideas and images via a special formula:</p> <ol> <li>pick a random word (such as “cake”)</li> <li>focus on the first letter of the word (in this case, C) and list a bunch of words starting with that letter: cat, carrot, calendar and so on</li> <li>visualise each word as you go along</li> <li>when you feel ready, move onto the next letter (A) and repeat the process</li> <li>continue with each letter of the original word (so, in this case, K and then E) until you feel ready to switch to a new word or until you drift off to sleep.</li> </ol> <p>It’s popular on Instagram and TikTok, but does “cognitive shuffling” have any basis in science?</p> <h2>Where did this idea come from?</h2> <p>The cognitive shuffling technique was made famous by Canada-based researcher Luc P. Beaudoin more than a decade ago, when he published a <a href="https://summit.sfu.ca/item/12143">paper</a> about how what he called “serial diverse imagining” could help with sleep.</p> <p>One of Beaudoin’s hypothetical <a href="https://summit.sfu.ca/item/12143">examples</a> involved a woman thinking of the word “blanket”, then thinking bicycle (and imagining a bicycle), buying (imagining buying shoes), banana (visualising a banana tree) and so on.</p> <p>Soon, Beaudoin <a href="https://summit.sfu.ca/item/12143">writes</a>, she moves onto the letter L, thinking about her friend Larry, the word “like” (imagining her son hugging his dog). She soon transitions to the letter A, thinking of the word “Amsterdam”:</p> <blockquote> <p>and she might very vaguely imagine the large hand of a sailor gesturing for another order of fries in an Amsterdam pub while a rancid accordion plays in the background.</p> </blockquote> <p>Sleep soon ensues. The goal, <a href="https://summit.sfu.ca/item/17237">according to Beaudoin</a>, is to think briefly about:</p> <blockquote> <p>a neutral or pleasant target and frequently [switch] to unrelated targets (normally every 5-15 seconds).</p> </blockquote> <p>Don’t try to relate one word with another or find a link between the words; resist the mind’s natural tendency toward sense-making.</p> <p>While the research into this technique is still in its infancy, the idea is grounded in science. That’s because we know from <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31918338/">other research</a> good sleepers tend to have different kinds of thoughts in bed to bad sleepers.</p> <p>People with insomnia are <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0005796799001369?casa_token=Ycf204NAkdYAAAAA:EIYBaXLXetofajJ46yu0AQXfGRAmLsWIwP0S1Dzkaj1_X8Q_2GWbSnpiuqVseJuJ-Znj3Mrl39s">more focused on worries</a>, problems, or noises in the environment, and are often preoccupied with not sleeping.</p> <p>Good sleepers, on the other hand, typically have <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053810098903336">dream-like, hallucinatory, less ordered thoughts</a> before nodding off.</p> <h2>Sorting the pro-somnolent wheat from the insomnolent chaff</h2> <p>Cognitive shuffling attempts to mimic the thinking patterns of good sleepers by simulating the dream-like and random thought patterns they generally have before drifting off to sleep.</p> <p>In particular, Beaudoin’s <a href="https://summit.sfu.ca/item/17237">research</a> describes two types of sleep-related thoughts: insomnolent (or anti-sleep) and pro-somnolent (sleep-promoting) thoughts.</p> <p>Insomnolent thoughts include things such as worrying, planning, rehearsing, and ruminating on perceived problems or failings.</p> <p>Pro-somnolent thoughts on the other hand involve thoughts that can help you fall asleep, such as dream-like imagery or having a calm, relaxed state of mind.</p> <p>Cognitive shuffling aims to distract from or interfere with insomnolent thought. It offers a calm, neutral path for your racing mind, and can reduce the stress associated with not sleeping.</p> <p>Cognitive shuffling also helps tell your brain you are ready for sleep.</p> <p>In fact, the process of “shuffling” between different thoughts is similar to the way your brain naturally drifts off to sleep. During the transition to sleep, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0987705324000121">brain activity</a> slows. Your brain starts to generate disconnected images and fleeting scenes, known as hypnagogic hallucinations, without a conscious effort to make sense of them.</p> <p>By mimicking these scattered, disconnected, and random thought patterns, cognitive shuffling may help you transition from wakefulness to sleep.</p> <p>And the preliminary research into this is promising. Beaudoin and his team have <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277325155_A_test_of_the_somnolent_mentation_theory_and_the_cognitive_shuffle_insomnia_treatment">found</a> <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/300004607_Serial_Diverse_Imagining_Task_A_New_Remedy_for_Bedtime_Complaints_of_Worrying_and_Other_Sleep-Disruptive_Mental_Activity">serial diverse imagining</a> helps to lower arousal before sleep, improve sleep quality and reduce the effort involved in falling asleep.</p> <p>However, with only a small number of research studies, more work is needed here.</p> <h2>It didn’t work. Now what?</h2> <p>As with every new strategy, however, practise makes perfect. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t see an improvement straight away; these things take time.</p> <p>Stay consistent and be kind to yourself.</p> <p>And what works for some won’t work for others. Different people benefit from different types of strategies depending on how they relate to and experience stress or stressful thoughts.</p> <p>Other <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jsr.13763">strategies</a> to help create the right conditions for sleep include:</p> <ul> <li>keeping a consistent pre-bedtime routine, so your brain can wind down</li> <li><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6557693/?undefined&amp;utm_medium=organic&amp;utm_source=blog&amp;utm_campaign=meditation-for-sleep">watching your thoughts, without judgement</a>, as you lie in bed</li> <li>writing down worries or <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5758411/">to-do lists</a> earlier in the day so you don’t think about them at bedtime.</li> </ul> <p>If, despite all your best efforts, night time thoughts continue to impact your sleep or overall wellbeing, consider seeking professional help from your doctor or a trained sleep specialist.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/256444/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/melinda-jackson-169319">Melinda Jackson</a>, Associate Professor at Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/eleni-kavaliotis-2396793">Eleni Kavaliotis</a>, Research Fellow in the Sleep, Cognition, and Mood Laboratory at Monash University, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-cognitive-shuffling-and-does-it-really-help-you-get-to-sleep-two-sleep-scientists-explain-256444">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: </em><em>SHVETS production / Pexels</em></p> <p> </p> </div>

Mind

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Manhunt after baby injured in fire extinguisher attack

<p>Queensland Police have released footage of two people suspected of a disturbing attack that left a five-month-old baby injured after a fire extinguisher was sprayed into a car on the Sunshine Coast.</p> <p>The incident occurred on the night of June 15 at Sippy Downs. According to police, two people riding together on an e-scooter approached a car stopped at traffic lights and sprayed the contents of a fire extinguisher through an open window. The extinguisher had reportedly been stolen earlier that evening from a nearby carpark.</p> <p>The shocking act left baby Pixie, who was inside the vehicle with her mother’s partner, covered in white powder.</p> <p>Speaking to the ABC, Pixie’s mother, Tiffani Teasdale, described the terrifying ordeal.</p> <p>“The car just filled up with gas and white powder straight away,” she said. “(Pixie) was completely covered in white powder and just looked like she was in shock, she wasn’t even crying.”</p> <p>Pixie was rushed to hospital, where doctors had to flush her eyes.</p> <p>“I’ve never heard her scream like that before, I actually had to leave the room,” Ms Teasdale said. “The doctors had to hold her down for me because it was the most horrible thing I’ve ever heard … no one should have to go through that.”</p> <p>Despite the traumatic experience, Ms Teasdale said Pixie is recovering well.</p> <p>“(Pixie’s) as happy as ever, she is not showing any signs of breathing issues, her skin is a little bit irritated … but other than that she is doing really well,” she said. “Fingers crossed we find them.”</p> <p>Queensland Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of High Street, near Sippy Downs Drive, between 7.30pm and 8.20pm that Sunday night to come forward with information.</p> <p>The newly released footage shows the pair of suspects riding together on an e-scooter. Authorities hope the vision will help identify those responsible.</p> <p>Anyone with information is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers.</p> <p><em>Images: Queensland Police</em></p>

Legal

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Delta Goodrem marries in secret ceremony

<p>music star Delta Goodrem has tied the knot with her longtime love, Matthew Copley, in a magical and intimate wedding on the picturesque island of Malta.</p> <p>The beloved singer, 40, and her guitarist partner, 38, reportedly exchanged vows on June 16 in front of close family and friends. Among the guests were some familiar faces, including Goodrem’s best friend Renee Bargh, Nine’s entertainment reporter Richard Wilkins and his son Christian, as well as Delta’s mum Lea and brother Trent.</p> <p>The ceremony, described as star-studded yet deeply personal, took place at a location that holds special meaning for the couple. Malta was where Copley proposed in 2023 during a holiday that doubled as a family visit – and now, the idyllic European island is where they’ve officially begun married life together.</p> <p>In true Delta and Matthew style, the couple have so far kept the happy news off their social media accounts, choosing to celebrate privately rather than in the spotlight. It’s a decision that reflects their approach to their relationship, which Goodrem has described as grounded in “respect and love”.</p> <p>The pair, who have been together since 2017, are more than just romantic partners – they’re also creative collaborators. Copley, a talented musician in his own right, is a member of Goodrem’s band, and fans have long admired the chemistry the two share on stage.</p> <p>Back when they announced their engagement, Goodrem delighted followers with a simple but heartfelt post: “My best friend asked me to marry him.” Speaking later on the Something To Talk About podcast, the singer revealed that their European tour at the time turned into a kind of rolling engagement celebration: “It was beautiful – because it felt like we’d done an engagement party in every single city.”</p> <p>Goodrem, who has had several high-profile relationships in the past, has made a conscious choice in recent years to keep her love life out of the headlines. “I made a choice that I’m not even going to comment ‘yes’ or ‘no’ … I’ve said nothing for three or four years,” she shared in an earlier interview.</p> <p>What has always been clear is the depth of her connection with Copley. “He’s my best friend, he’s kind and just a beautiful human being. I’m very lucky. It’s all very natural and I think that comes from a beautiful respect and love. I feel so grateful,” Goodrem has said.</p> <p>Fans around the world will no doubt be overjoyed at the news and wish the happy couple a lifetime of love, music and adventure.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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Council to refund up to $12m in parking fines after 12-year error

<p>Drivers across Melbourne’s inner north are set to be refunded millions of dollars in parking fines after Merri-bek City Council admitted to overcharging motorists for more than a decade due to an administrative blunder.</p> <p>The council, formerly known as Moreland, revealed this week it had incorrectly issued parking fines worth up to $12 million between July 1, 2013 and June 11, 2025. Around 248,000 infringements are believed to be affected, with individual refunds ranging from $43 to $59 depending on when the fine was issued.</p> <p>The error stemmed from the council charging 0.5 penalty units for certain parking violations – without having the necessary resolution in place. Under Victorian law, in the absence of a formal resolution, the maximum charge should have been 0.2 penalty units.</p> <p>“Unfortunately, it has recently been discovered that there was no resolution in place setting this value,” the council said in a statement. “This was due to an administrative error in 2013, which has not been identified until recently.”</p> <p>The fines in question relate primarily to overstaying time limits in “green sign zones” and other minor parking infringements. The 11 affected offence types include failing to park at the correct angle, parking outside a marked bay, or stopping in designated motorbike or bicycle parking areas.</p> <p>Merri-bek City Council chief executive officer Cathy Henderson apologised for the long-standing oversight.</p> <p>“Today’s announcement reflects Merri-bek City Council’s commitment to integrity, transparency and fairness. Now that we have found the mistake, we are fixing it,” she said. “This is a regrettable historical administrative error, and we apologise for the impact of the overcharge.”</p> <p>Henderson emphasised that parking fines are reinvested into community services and facilities, and that parking controls remain necessary to ensure fair access to limited spaces.</p> <p>The council will launch a Parking Fines Refund Scheme in July, offering affected motorists 12 months to apply for a refund. Fines Victoria has confirmed it will place impacted outstanding fines on hold during this process, suspending enforcement action and additional fees.</p> <p>“Fines Victoria will continue to work with Merri-bek City Council as they take action to resolve this matter,” the agency said in an online statement.</p> <p>Drivers keen to find out if they are eligible for a refund can <a href="https://www.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/my-council/news-and-publications/news/parking-fines-refund-scheme/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">visit the Merri-bek City Council website</a> for further details.</p> <p><em>Image: Merri-bek City Council</em></p>

Legal

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"Her light touched millions": TV chef found dead at home

<p>Beloved chef and television personality Anne Burrell has died at the age of 55, leaving fans, colleagues and loved ones heartbroken.</p> <p>The Food Network star was found unconscious at her Brooklyn home on Tuesday morning, local time, and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services, according to the New York Police Department. The cause of her death has not yet been determined, with authorities confirming that an investigation is ongoing.</p> <p>Burrell’s family shared a moving statement, remembering her as a “beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend”.</p> <p>“Her smile lit up every room she entered,” the statement read. “Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit and boundless love remain eternal.”</p> <p>The Food Network also paid tribute to the culinary icon, describing Burrell as “a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.”</p> <p>“Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss,” the network’s statement continued.</p> <p>Burrell’s sudden passing came just days after she shared a cheerful selfie on Instagram, appearing happy and healthy. Known for her signature spiky blonde hair and vibrant personality, Burrell built a career that inspired home cooks and professionals alike.</p> <p>She married Stuart Claxton in 2021, becoming stepmother to his son, Javier. The couple wed in Burrell’s hometown of Cazenovia, New York, in a ceremony filled with joy and personal touches that reflected her zest for life.</p> <p>A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Burrell honed her craft in Italy before returning to the US, where she worked in renowned kitchens and later taught at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her television break came as a sous chef on <em>Iron Chef America</em> in 2005, followed by her own show, <em>Secrets of a Restaurant Chef</em>, which ran for eight seasons. She also became a familiar face on <em>Worst Cooks in America, Chopped, Chef Wanted</em>, and other Food Network programs.</p> <p>Only months before her death, Burrell welcomed viewers into her colourful Brooklyn loft, a space she described with characteristic humour and charm. “Everything here is a little crooked, and I think that suits me just well,” she said at the time. “I think I’m a little crooked, so I feel right at home here.”</p> <p>Anne Burrell’s sudden loss leaves a void in the culinary world, but her influence – and the joy she found in sharing her passion for food – will not be forgotten.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Jaws at 50: how two musical notes terrified an entire generation

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>Our experience of the world often involves hearing our environment before seeing it. Whether it’s the sound of something moving through nearby water, or the rustling of vegetation, our fear of the unseen is rooted in our survival instincts as a species.</p> <p>Cinematic sound and music taps into these somewhat unsettling instincts – and this is exactly what director Steven Spielberg and composer John Williams achieved in the iconic 1975 thriller <em>Jaws</em>. The sound design and musical score work in tandem to confront the audience with a mysterious killer animal.</p> <p>In what is arguably the film’s most iconic scene, featuring beach swimmers’ legs flailing underwater, the shark remains largely unseen – yet the sound perfectly conveys the threat at large.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rW23RsUTb2Y?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>Creating tension in a soundtrack</h2> <p>Film composers aim to create soundscapes that will profoundly move and influence their audience. And they express these intentions through the use of musical elements such as rhythm, harmony, tempo, form, dynamics, melody and texture.</p> <p>In <em>Jaws</em>, the initial encounter with the shark opens innocently with the sound of an offshore buoy and its clanging bell. The scene is established both musically and atmospherically to evoke a sense of isolation for the two characters enjoying a late-night swim on an empty beach.</p> <p>But once we hear the the low strings, followed by the central two-note motif played on a tuba, we know something sinister is afoot.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yrEvK-tv5OI?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>This compositional technique of alternating between two notes at an increasing speed has long been employed by composers, including by Antonín Dvořák in his 1893 work <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOofzffyDSA&amp;pp=ygUcdGhlIG5ldyB3b3JsZCBzeW1waG9ueSBuby4gOQ==">New World Symphony</a>.</p> <p>John Williams <a href="https://limelight-arts.com.au/features/the-music-of-jaws-an-interview-with-john-williams/">reportedly used</a> six basses, eight cellos, four trombones and a tuba to create the blend of low frequencies that would go on to define his entire Jaws score.</p> <p>The bass instruments emphasise the lower end of the musical frequency spectrum, evoking a dark timbre that conveys depth, power and intensity. String players can use various <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violin_technique">bowing techniques</a>, such as staccato and marcato, to deliver dark and even menacing tones, especially in the lower registers.</p> <p>Meanwhile, there is a marked absence of tonality in the repeating E–F notes, played with increasing speed on the tuba. Coupled with the intensifying dynamics in the instrumental blend, this accelerating two-note motif signals the looming danger before we even see it – tapping into our instinctive fear of the unknown.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BQKLJ2MuHvY?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>The use of the two-note motif and lower-end orchestration characterises a composition style that aims to unsettle and disorientate the audience. Another example of this style can be heard in Bernard Herrmann’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kvzZ6nkZ6Q">car crash scene audio</a> in <em>North by Northwest</em> (1959).</p> <p>Similarly, in Sergei Prokofiev’s <em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&amp;v=Y4U7wNZu-CU%22%22">Scythian Suite</a></em>, the opening of the second movement (Dance of the Pagan Gods) uses an alternating D#–E motif.</p> <p>The elasticity of Williams’ motif allows the two notes to be played on different instruments throughout the soundtrack, exploring various timbral possibilities to induce a kaleidoscope of fear, panic and dread.</p> <h2>The psychology behind our response</h2> <p>What is it that makes the Jaws soundtrack so psychologically confronting, even without the visuals? Music scholars have various theories. <a href="https://boldentrance.com/the-power-of-jaws-is-in-john-williams-two-note-musical-score/">Some suggest</a> the two notes imitate the sound of human respiration, while others have proposed the theme evokes the heartbeat of a shark.</p> <p>Williams explained his approach <a href="https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-ca-john-williams-20120108-story.html">in an interview</a> with the Los Angeles Times:</p> <blockquote> <p>I fiddled around with the idea of creating something that was very … brainless […] Meaning something could be very repetitious, very visceral, and grab you in your gut, not in your brain. […] It could be something you could play very softly, which would indicate that the shark is far away when all you see is water. Brainless music that gets louder and gets closer to you, something is gonna swallow you up.</p> </blockquote> <p>Williams plays with the audience’s emotions throughout the film’s score, culminating in the scene Man Against Beast – a celebration of thematic development and heightened orchestration.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xrjUIz7fy6c?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>The film’s iconic soundtrack has created a legacy that extends beyond the visual. And this suggests the score isn’t just a soundtrack – but a character in its own right.</p> <p>By using music to reveal what is hidden, Williams creates an intense emotional experience rife with anticipation and tension. The score’s two-note motif showcases his genius – and serves as a sonic shorthand that has kept a generation behind the breakers of every beach.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/258068/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alison-cole-1443114">Alison Cole</a>, Composer and Lecturer in Screen Composition, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/jaws-at-50-how-two-musical-notes-terrified-an-entire-generation-258068">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: </em></p> </div>

Movies

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Habemus Papam! – We have a pope!

<p>In a moment charged with history and hope, the Catholic Church has elected its first American pontiff: Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.</p> <p>The 69-year-old, who has spent much of his career in Peru, made his first appearance as pope from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica at 7:24pm local time, just over an hour after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, sending the world a long-awaited message: <em>Habemus Papam!</em> (We have a pope!)</p> <p>Cheers erupted from the tens of thousands gathered in the square, with flags waving, church bells ringing and emotion rippling through the international crowd as the new pontiff smiled, waved and offered a heartfelt greeting. His first words: <em>“La pace sia con tutti voi.”</em> (“Peace be with you.)”</p> <p>Delivering his inaugural speech in Italian and Spanish, Pope Leo XIV struck a tone of unity, humility, and dialogue. “We must build bridges,” he declared, echoing the spirit of his predecessor. “Build bridges with dialogue, coming together, uniting, becoming one single people – one single people in peace.”</p> <p>The election of an American pope is a stunning departure from centuries of Vatican tradition, with many believing the idea had long been off the table due to the global influence of the United States. But Leo XIV’s unique path – from Chicago to Chiclayo – positioned him as a bridge-builder between North and South, tradition and change.</p> <p>His deep ties to Latin America, including years as a missionary and later as Archbishop of Chiclayo, Peru, along with his recent role as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, gave him a global pastoral perspective. He also served as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.</p> <p>Leo’s election comes after a dramatic and closely watched conclave. On Thursday afternoon, the 133 cardinal-electors gathered for a fourth round of voting. Just after 6pm, the unmistakable white smoke billowed into the Roman sky – the signal that consensus had been reached.</p> <p>By the time the Swiss Guard and military band took their positions, the anticipation in the square was electric. Crowds, including school groups, pilgrims and reporters from around the world, packed the piazza. And when the ancient formula <em>“Habemus Papam!”</em> was pronounced from the loggia, followed by Leo XIV’s public appearance, the square exploded with joy.</p> <p>Leo’s election drew swift global attention. Even US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to extend congratulations, writing: “It is such an honour to realise that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honour for our Country.”</p> <p>While the conclave was notably longer due to the large number of electors – 108 of whom were appointed by Pope Francis – it reflected the wide diversity of today’s global church. Cardinals came from places like Mongolia, Tonga and Sweden, a testament to Francis' efforts to make the Church more inclusive.</p> <p>Back in St Peter’s Square, the celebration continues, with some faithful expressing hope that Pope Leo XIV will carry forward Francis’ work of outreach and reform – and perhaps take it even further. As one young Argentine pilgrim, Pedro Deget, put it: “Francis opened the Church to the outside world. Let’s see what Leo can do now.”</p> <p><em>Images: Sunrise</em></p>

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Rory McIlroy conquers Augusta at last with agonising final hole victory

<p>Rory McIlroy has finally done it! In a heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat finale at Augusta National, the Northern Irish superstar captured his long-awaited first Masters title, ending an 11-year major championship drought in unforgettable fashion.</p> <p>After years of close calls and crushing near misses, McIlroy delivered a performance packed with drama. His road to the iconic green jacket was anything but smooth – and that's what made this triumph so electrifying.</p> <p>Sunday at Augusta began with fireworks as McIlroy double-bogeyed the first hole, immediately falling into a share of the lead with Bryson DeChambeau. But true to form, the four-time major winner stormed back, building a commanding five-shot lead midway through the final round over DeChambeau and English veteran Justin Rose.</p> <p>Just when it seemed McIlroy might cruise to victory, the course bit back. Disaster struck at the treacherous 13th when McIlroy found water and carded another double bogey, watching his lead evaporate as Rose surged to 11-under, becoming the shock leader.</p> <p>But Augusta’s relentless drama wasn’t finished yet. Rose bogeyed shortly after, and McIlroy steadied himself to reclaim the lead. DeChambeau, too, stumbled out of contention with a costly trip to the water hazard.</p> <p>As the tension mounted, Rose delivered under pressure with a brilliant birdie at the 18th, pulling level with McIlroy at 11-under and setting the stage for a nail-biting conclusion. McIlroy birdied the 17th and had a golden chance to seal the victory with a simple par on the final hole. But golf, as ever, proved unpredictable – McIlroy’s putt went millimetres astray, forcing a playoff that had the gallery roaring with anticipation.</p> <p>In the playoff showdown, McIlroy's grit and class shone through. With unwavering focus, he outduelled Rose to capture the elusive green jacket, completing his career-defining triumph at Augusta on his 11th attempt.</p> <p>This moment was more than just a victory – it was the culmination of a decade-long pursuit of golfing glory. For McIlroy, it’s a Masters win for the ages, and for fans around the world, it’s a reminder of why we love this sport: the drama, the heartbreak, and the unforgettable joy of watching a champion finally reach the mountaintop.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Captain Cook statue vandalised ahead of Australia Day

<p>A statue of Captain Cook has been vandalised in Sydney just days ahead of Australia Day. </p> <p>The statue, which sits on Belmore Road in Randwick, had its hand ripped off in the attack and parts of its face destroyed before it was covered in red paint. </p> <p>It's the second time in 12 months the statue has been vandalised, with the attack being condemned by Randwick councilor Andrew Hay. </p> <p>"The Captain Cook Statue has been vandalised again," he said in a statement. "They've broken the sandstone and cut off his hand and nose."</p> <p>"Low lives in Randwick know no bounds, or have any reverence for great people of history, and will vandalise him to make a political point that he's not directly related to."</p> <p>Randwick City councillor Dr Carolyn Martin told <em>2GB</em> radio that the vandals scaled the fence around the statue and left it in an "absolute mess".</p> <p>"It's absolutely disgraceful behaviour. We're all absolutely horrified," she said.</p> <p>Randwick mayor Dylan Parker also called out the vandalism, saying, "Vandalism has no place in public discussion."</p> <p>"Vandalism is an illegal act that does a disservice to progressing your cause, a disservice to the community and a disservice to reconciliation."</p> <p>"Council will clean and restore the statue. The statue was cleaned and restored last year after a similar incident in February 2024."</p> <p>Australia Day, which is recognised each year on January 26th, marks the landing of the First Fleet in 1788 when the first governor of the British colony of New South Wales, Arthur Philip, hoisted the Union Jack at Sydney Cove. </p> <p>But for many First Nations people, it is regarded as 'Invasion Day' or the 'Day of Mourning' because it marks the beginning of Australia's colonisation. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 2GB </em></p>

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Man dies and several others injured after severe storms lash NSW

<p>A man has tragically died after severe thunderstorms pummelled New South Wales on Wednesday night. </p> <p>The extreme storm system swept through the eastern part of the state on Wednesday evening, leaving several people injured and thousands without power. </p> <p>In the central west town of Cowra, 300km west of Sydney, a man in his 80s was killed when a tree fell on his car as the region experienced wind gust speeds of 107km/h at the time, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.</p> <p>Police were in attendance at the scene and had launched an investigation into the incident, while the man has yet to be formally identified.</p> <p>Four campers have also been injured when their shelters were destroyed in high winds at Wagga Wagga in the Riverina region in the state’s southwest.</p> <p>The storm also triggered major power outages with Endeavour Energy reporting more than 47,000 impacted customers across the Blue Mountains, Western Sydney, Illawarra and the South Coast at 10pm, and Ausgrid reporting more than 62,000.</p> <p>On Thursday morning, the SES said they had received 2250 calls and responded to more than 1800 incidents in the last 24 hours, with the majority of the incidents were for fallen trees, powerlines and damaged properties.</p> <p>Scattered showers and severe storms are expected to continue on Thursday, particularly in the east and north east of the state. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News</em></p>

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Travel

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"Mona Lisa moan": Mass tourism causes shutdown of The Louvre

<p>The Louvre Museum, global icon of art and culture, stood eerily silent on Monday as striking staff forced its sudden closure, leaving thousands of bewildered tourists stranded beneath its iconic glass pyramid.</p> <p>In a dramatic scene rarely witnessed at the world’s most-visited museum, the very people entrusted with preserving and presenting humanity’s greatest artistic treasures – from the Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo – walked off the job in protest at what they describe as dangerous overcrowding, chronic understaffing, and decaying infrastructure.</p> <p>“It’s the Mona Lisa moan out here,” quipped Kevin Ward, 62, a visitor from Milwaukee, as he waited in an unmoving queue. “Thousands of people waiting, no communication, no explanation. I guess even she needs a day off.”</p> <p>The walkout came without warning during a routine internal meeting, as gallery attendants, security staff and ticket agents jointly refused to take their posts. While the Louvre has closed its doors in the past – during wars, the pandemic, or in isolated strikes — rarely has it done so so abruptly, leaving crowds with tickets in hand and nowhere to go.</p> <p>Monday’s strike follows a wave of anti-tourism protests across southern Europe just a day earlier, where thousands in cities like Venice, Lisbon and Barcelona rallied against what they say is the destructive impact of mass tourism.</p> <p>Inside the Louvre, workers say they’ve reached a breaking point. “We can’t wait six years for help,” said gallery attendant Sarah Sefian, referring to President Emmanuel Macron’s decade-long “Louvre New Renaissance” rescue plan announced earlier this year. “Our teams are under pressure now. It’s not just about the art – it’s about the people protecting it.”</p> <p>The Mona Lisa lies at the heart of the storm. Around 20,000 visitors daily cram into the Salle des États to glimpse da Vinci’s masterpiece – a scene more akin to a rock concert than a contemplative art experience. “You don’t see a painting,” lamented Ji-Hyun Park, 28, visiting from Seoul. “You see phones. You see elbows. You feel heat. And then, you’re pushed out.”</p> <p>Macron’s ambitious plan promises a dedicated Mona Lisa room, a new Seine-side entrance, and a modernised visitor experience by 2031. Yet staff argue that these promises mask a deeper crisis, with state funding for the Louvre’s operations shrinking by more than 20% over the past decade even as visitor numbers have soared.</p> <p>“We take it very badly that Monsieur Le President makes his speeches here,” said Sefian. “Scratch the surface and the financial support gets worse every year.”</p> <p>Louvre president Laurence des Cars, in a leaked memo, described parts of the building as “no longer watertight” and warned of dangerous temperature fluctuations that could threaten priceless artworks. She characterised the visitor experience as “a physical ordeal,” citing limited bathrooms, poor signage and few rest areas, exacerbated by the pyramid’s greenhouse effect in summer heat.</p> <p>By late Monday, workers said they might briefly reopen a limited “masterpiece route” – offering access to the Mona Lisa and other highlights – but the full museum is expected to remain closed until at least Wednesday.</p> <p>As the Louvre teeters between record-breaking crowds and crumbling infrastructure, staff and visitors alike are left grappling with an unsettling reality: France’s most cherished cultural treasure is struggling to cope with the very popularity that makes it world-famous.</p> <p>Images: Instagram / Pexels / Mahmut</p>

Travel Trouble

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Idiotic tourist breaks "Van Gogh chair" by sitting on it for a selfie

<p>In the kind of absurd "accident" that would make even the most patient museum curator clutch their pearls – or perhaps, their Swarovski crystals – a tourist visiting Italy’s Palazzo Maffei in Verona recently left behind more than just memories, after crushing a delicate, crystal-encrusted chair and making a hasty exit.</p> <p>Captured on surveillance video (and now immortalised on Facebook for all to see), the visitor can be seen plonking down onto Nicola Bolla’s "Van Gogh chair" – a fragile work of art bedazzled with hundreds of Swarovski crystals. The result? A dramatic collapse that sent the chair, and possibly the tourist’s dignity, crashing to the floor.</p> <p>“The nightmare of every museum has become a reality, even at Palazzo Maffei,” the museum lamented in a Facebook post, sharing the video. A staff member in the clip sums it up perfectly: “What you just saw would be ridiculous if it hadn’t, unfortunately, actually happened.”</p> <p>According to the museum, the tourist waited until security’s back was turned before staging what we can only assume was an ill-advised attempt at a glittery throne selfie. Alas, the chair – described by the museum as “extremely fragile” – was no match for the moment.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h5iItn5ojrk?si=7Kp2vG5XYK06Dk8Q" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>For several tense days, curators feared that the damage might be irreparable. But happily, a number of skilled restorers, police and security teams came together to save the chair.</p> <p>“Heartfelt thanks go to the police, our security department and the restorers, whose valuable work allowed the recovery of the work,” the museum announced, surely with a collective sigh of relief (and perhaps a vow to invest in sturdier furniture).</p> <p>The price tag for the restoration remains a mystery, as does the identity of the crystal-crushing culprit. For now, the museum is using the incident to call for more respect for art – ideally, the kind that doesn’t involve sitting on it.</p> <p>Let this be a reminder to all tourists: look, admire, but maybe keep your behinds off the artworks.</p> <p><em>Images: Courtesy of <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Palazzo Maffei, Verona</span></em></p>

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New details emerge after Aussie shot dead in Bali

<p>An Australian man has been killed and another wounded in a shocking shooting at a villa in one of Bali’s most popular tourist regions.</p> <p>The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday in the Badung area, just over 10 kilometres north of Kuta, when gunfire erupted inside the accommodation.</p> <p>Zivan Radmanovic, 32, who had strong ties to Melbourne, was identified as the man who died at the scene from gunshot wounds. His wife, who was in the villa at the time, was unharmed but witnessed the attack. Another Melbourne man, Sanar Ghanim – aged in his 30s and previously jailed over a non-fatal shooting in Melbourne – was also shot and taken to hospital for treatment.</p> <p>Badung Police chief Arif Batubara confirmed the details, telling media: “A shooting incident has happened. There are two victims, both Australian nationals. We cannot yet determine the motive for this shooting and also who the perpetrator is until our investigation is complete.”</p> <p>According to a police statement cited by the ABC, Mr Radmanovic’s wife awoke shortly after midnight to the sound of her husband’s screams. She reported seeing a man wearing a bright orange jacket and dark helmet shoot her husband in the bathroom before fleeing. Moments later, she heard further gunshots and Mr Ghanim’s cries for help.</p> <p>Witnesses said they saw a man on a scooter wearing a green ride-hailing jacket and face covering, speaking in what they described as a strong Australian accent, saying: “I can’t start my bike.”</p> <p>No arrests have been made, and police say investigations are ongoing.</p> <p>The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it was providing consular assistance to the families. “We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” a spokesperson said. “DFAT stands ready to provide consular assistance to another Australian injured in the same incident.”</p> <p>Mr Ghanim, who remains in hospital, is known to have links to the Melbourne underworld and has a child with the stepdaughter of slain crime figure Carl Williams.</p> <p><em>Images: 9 News / Facebook</em></p>

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CCTV released after at least 290 die in Air India plane crash

<p>At least 290 people have died after an Air India flight bound for London crashed into a residential area shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.</p> <p>The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 to London’s Gatwick Airport, was carrying 242 people when it went down moments after takeoff, plummeting into the doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College and Hospital. The crash ignited a massive fire that engulfed part of the building and nearby residences, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.</p> <p>Emergency responders raced to the scene, where they found the fuselage partially embedded in the hospital structure and surrounding trees scorched. Dozens of victims, including passengers, hospital residents and local civilians, were transported to nearby medical centres, though authorities have warned the death toll is likely to rise.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nrFTKHnH00Q?si=d6L3VN0CZlEAvuwy" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>Among the victims were several minors and at least three medical students. Between 50 and 60 more students were admitted to local hospitals, with two to three currently in intensive care, the Federation of All India Medical Association said.</p> <p>Miraculously, at least one person survived the crash. British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, reportedly seated in 11A, was pulled from the wreckage and is receiving treatment. Speaking from his hospital bed, Ramesh told <em>The Hindustan Times</em>, “Thirty seconds after takeoff, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed. It all happened so quickly.”</p> <p>Flight operations at the Ahmedabad airport were temporarily suspended following the disaster but have since resumed on a limited basis.</p> <p>Air India confirmed the passenger manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals and one Canadian. A reception centre has been established at Gatwick Airport to assist families and provide updates.</p> <p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, saying the country had been “stunned and saddened” by the tragedy, which he described as “heartbreaking beyond words”. Air India chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran called it a “tragic accident”, assuring the public that the airline was doing “everything in our power” to support emergency crews and affected families.</p> <p>In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the scenes were “devastating” and confirmed he is receiving ongoing updates. Foreign Secretary David Lammy told the House of Commons that crisis teams have been activated in both London and Delhi to assist British nationals.</p> <p>King Charles III released a statement saying he and Queen Camilla were “desperately shocked” by the crash, offering their thoughts to victims and praising the “heroic efforts” of emergency responders.</p> <p>The disaster marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its introduction in 2011. Boeing, which has more than 1,175 Dreamliners in service worldwide, said it is working closely with Air India and expressed condolences to all affected.</p> <p>As investigations begin into the cause of the crash, India and the international aviation community are left grappling with one of the deadliest air disasters in recent history.</p> <p><em>Images: CCTV / YouTube</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Health

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Bruce Willis' daughter reveals sad new health update

<p>Hollywood icon Bruce Willis’s family has shared a poignant and devastating update about the beloved actor’s health on social media.</p> <p>Willis, 70, known to millions as the wisecracking hero of <em>Die Hard</em> and <em>Pulp Fiction</em>, has been waging a quiet, painful battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) for several years. Now, his family reveals, the star has heartbreakingly lost the ability to speak.</p> <p>His eldest daughter, Rumer Willis, 36, expressed her sorrow and longing in a deeply emotional tribute posted on Instagram.</p> <p>“Today is hard,” she wrote on Father's Day. “I feel a deep ache in my chest to talk to you and tell you everything I’m doing and what’s going on in my life. To hug you and ask you about life and your stories and struggles and successes. I wish I asked you more questions while you could still tell me about it all.”</p> <p>Despite her heartbreak, Rumer shared that she is trying to focus on gratitude. “I can still hold you and hug you and kiss your cheek and rub your head. I can tell you stories. I will be grateful for every moment I have with you. I love you so much dad. Happy Father’s Day.”</p> <p>Rumer also extended support to others facing similar grief: “Sending love to all those who are in the boat with me or have lost their fathers, to the single mums who are the dads too.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK7qQadSgi5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK7qQadSgi5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rumer Glenn Willis (@rumerwillis)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Willis’s battle with FTD has been well documented by his family, including ex-wife Demi Moore, 62, and his wife of 16 years, Emma Heming Willis, 46. Together with his children – Rumer, Scout, 33, Tallulah, 31, Mabel, 12, and Evelyn, 10 – they have united to share his journey, raising awareness about a little-understood disease.</p> <p>Frontotemporal dementia affects parts of the brain responsible for personality, behaviour and language. Unlike Alzheimer’s, which primarily impacts memory, FTD robs its victims of speech and social functioning – devastating symptoms for someone once celebrated for his charisma and quick wit.</p> <p>Emma Heming Willis previously reflected on how Bruce’s stutter as a child masked the early signs of his condition. “When he began to experience difficulties with language, it seemed like it was just a part of his stutter,” she told <em>Town and Country</em> magazine. “Never in a million years would I think it would be a form of dementia for someone so young.”</p> <p>The family has called for greater awareness and research into FTD, describing it as a “cruel disease” and urging the public to focus attention on finding treatments.</p> <p>“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others,” the family said. “If he could today, he would want to bring global attention to this disease and help connect those who are also dealing with its devastating effects.”</p> <p><em>Image: Rumer Willis / Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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“We are righting the wrongs”: Excavation begins to unearth nearly 800 lost children

<p><em><strong>WARNING: Distressing content</strong></em></p> <p>A tranquil, walled patch of grass in a quiet Irish housing estate is about to expose one of Ireland’s darkest secrets. The site, in the town of Tuam, 220km west of Dublin, is the final resting place for significant quantities of human remains – the victims of a brutal chapter in the nation’s history known as the “mother and baby” home scandal.</p> <p>From 1925 to 1961, Tuam’s mother and baby home, run by the Bon Secours nuns, housed women who became pregnant outside of marriage – and their children, many of whom died in disturbing numbers. The institution was demolished in 1972, but the land lay largely untouched. That will change next month, as excavation teams begin the delicate task of recovering the bodies buried in what is believed to be a disused septic tank.</p> <p>“There are so many babies, children just discarded here,” said Catherine Corless, the local historian whose painstaking research uncovered the mass grave and sparked national reckoning. In 2014, Corless, now 71, produced evidence showing that 796 children, from newborns to age nine, died at the Tuam home. “There are no burial records for the children, no cemetery, no statue, no cross – absolutely nothing,” she said.</p> <p>Despite early investigations and the identification of human remains in underground chambers in 2016 and 2017, it took until 2022 for Ireland’s parliament to pass legislation allowing excavation of the Tuam site. For Corless, it has been a long and painful campaign. “It’s been a fierce battle – when I started this, nobody wanted to listen. At last, we are righting the wrongs,” she said. “I was just begging: take the babies out of this sewage system and give them the decent Christian burial that they were denied.”</p> <p>The mother and baby homes were institutions where unmarried pregnant women were sent, isolated from society and often separated from their babies through forced adoption. A state inquiry revealed that between 1922 and 1998, around 56,000 women and 57,000 children passed through 18 such homes across Ireland. More than 9,000 children died.</p> <p>Anna Corrigan, 70, is among those seeking answers. She only learned in her 50s that her late mother had given birth in Tuam to two boys – John and William – whose fates remain unclear. “They prevaricate, they obfuscate, they make it difficult for people to get to the truth,” Corrigan said. “There are dirty little secrets in Ireland that have to be kept hidden.”</p> <p>For Corrigan and others, the coming excavation is a bittersweet step forward. A specialist team, appointed last year, will search for remains, conduct DNA testing and arrange dignified reburials. “I never thought I’d see the day that we’d get over so many hurdles – push them to finally excavate what I call the ‘pit,’ not a grave,” Corrigan said. “I’m glad it’s starting, but if we can even find and identify a certain amount, it’s not going to give us all closure.”</p> <p>As excavation crews prepare to break the ground that has kept these stories hidden for so long, Ireland faces a fresh confrontation with a painful past – and the opportunity, at last, to honour lives lost in silence.</p> <p><em>Images: Aeon.com</em></p>

Caring

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Veteran police officer shot dead during rural call-out

<p>A veteran police officer with 25 years of dedicated service has been shot and killed while attending a property in North Motton, in Tasmania’s northwest.</p> <p>The 57-year-old constable was critically injured and died at the scene after allegedly being fired upon by a resident of a rural property on Allison Road around 11am on Monday. The officer had been executing a court-issued warrant to repossess the property when the shooting occurred.</p> <p>A second officer at the scene returned fire, subduing and arresting the alleged offender, who was not seriously injured. The man remains in custody and is yet to be formally charged.</p> <p>Tasmania Police Commissioner Donna Adams described the incident as “absolutely devastating” and said the officer’s family, colleagues and the broader community are reeling from the loss.</p> <p>“He was a respected and committed officer who has served the community with dedication for 25 years, and his loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,” Commissioner Adams said.</p> <p>“My heart goes out to his wife and family today. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.”</p> <p>Out of respect for the officer’s loved ones, his name was not initially released as some family members had not been notified, however the deceased has now been formally identified as Constable Keith Anthony Smith.</p> <p>Commissioner Donna Adams said the officer had a "distinguished career" with Tasmania Police and was highly regarded by his colleagues. Smith joined the Tasmanian police force in September 2000, graduated from the academy in May 2001, received the Commissioner's Medal in 2011, the National Police Service Medal in 2016, and received his 20-year clasp for service in 2021.</p> <p>Premier Jeremy Rockliff expressed his sorrow, stating: “To everyone who had the honour of knowing this officer, especially his family and his colleagues, the love of an entire state is with you today. You will have every possible support made available, as we come to grips with this heartbreaking tragedy.”</p> <p>Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also paid tribute, calling it “a tragic day for Tasmania and for our nation”.</p> <p>“The loss of a police officer in the line of duty is a solemn reminder of the risks our police face to keep us safe,” she said. “We owe a debt to our police who willingly go towards danger to keep us safe. We can never forget their service and sacrifice.”</p> <p>A crime scene has been established at the property, and Allison Road remains closed between Walkers Road, Preston Road and Saltmarshs Road as investigations continue. Police have assured the community there is no ongoing threat but have urged residents to avoid the area.</p> <p>Commissioner Adams said the incident would be thoroughly investigated, and Tasmania Police would review all aspects of the response.</p> <p>“Wellbeing support is being provided to all officers and individuals affected by the incident,” she said. “The emotional impact is profound.”</p> <p>Tasmania Police has appealed for anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward.</p> <p>Further details about the officer’s career and funeral arrangements are expected to be shared in the coming days.</p> <p><em>Images: Tasmania Police / 7News</em></p>

Caring

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Weight loss drug approved to treat sleep apnoea

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>Last week, Australia’s <a href="https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&amp;id=CP-2023-PI-02114-1&amp;d=20250603172310101">Therapeutic Goods Administration</a> (TGA) approved <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/healthcare-and-fitness/tga-approves-weight-loss-drug-to-treat-sleep-disorder-20250604-p5m4vq">the weight-loss drug Mounjaro</a> to treat sleep apnoea, a condition in which breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep.</p> <p>The TGA has indicated Mounjaro can be used to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea in adults with obesity (a body-mass index of 30 or above).</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-medication-obstructive-sleep-apnea">United States Food and Drug Administration</a> approved the same drug for sleep apnoea last year.</p> <p>So how could this drug, most commonly used for weight management and conditions such as type 2 diabetes, help people with sleep apnoea?</p> <h2>What is sleep apnoea?</h2> <p>Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder affecting almost <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(19)30198-5/abstract#:%7E:text=To%20our%20knowledge%2C%20this%20is,and%20to%20maximise%20cost%2Deffectiveness.">1 billion people</a> worldwide. It’s characterised by repeated closures of the airway during sleep (called “<a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/obstructive-sleep-apnoea">apnoeas</a>”). These can be partial or complete closures, meaning breathing can become shallow or stop completely.</p> <p>As well as causing fragmented sleep, repeated collapse of the airway disrupts oxygen flow to the body. This strains the heart and contributes to an increased risk of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1875213620300413">cardiovascular and metabolic complications</a> <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11172971/">such as</a> diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.</p> <p>One of the key risk factors for obstructive sleep apnoea is obesity. About <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9130173/">80% of people</a> with the condition live with obesity. In fact, obesity and sleep apnoea share a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0939475325001681">bidirectional relationship</a>, with obesity increasing the risk of developing sleep apnoea, and vice versa.</p> <p>Obesity increases the risk of sleep apnoea by adding fat around the neck, which narrows the airway and impacts breathing during sleep.</p> <p>In turn, sleep apnoea can contribute to weight gain by disrupting hormones that regulate hunger (ghrelin) and fullness signals (leptin). Fatigue also contributes, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight and easier to gain weight over time, creating <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5836788/">a vicious cycle</a> where each condition worsens the other.</p> <p>Weight loss is a key part of <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9059581/">treating sleep apnoea</a>. It helps reduce the severity of symptoms and also lowers the risk of heart disease and other health problems which may arise as a result of <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7874414/">sleep apnoea</a>. However, achieving and sustaining weight loss through lifestyle changes is often challenging.</p> <p>A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is generally the <a href="https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2024/june/management-of-obstructive-sleep-apnoea-in-primary">first-line therapy</a> for managing moderate to severe sleep apnoea. It delivers a steady stream of pressurised air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep, which stabilises breathing and improves sleep quality.</p> <p>Despite being an effective treatment, many people find the CPAP machine uncomfortable, unattractive or hard to use regularly. This can mean people don’t always <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30684472/">stick to it</a>.</p> <p>Given the significant human and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34015136/">economic costs of sleep apnoea</a> it’s pertinent to keep exploring new prevention and management strategies.</p> <h2>What is Mounjaro, and how could it help people with sleep apnoea?</h2> <p>Mounjaro is the brand name of a drug called tirzepatide. Elsewhere, it goes by other brand names, such as Zepbound.</p> <p>Tirzepatide works by <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2116506119">mimicking two hormone receptors</a> in the gut, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP).</p> <p>These <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212877818309001">two hormones</a> play a key role in regulating our appetite, food intake and blood sugar levels. GLP-1 and GIP are released naturally in the body when we eat, but by mimicking their effects, tirzepatide allows people to feel fuller with smaller meals.</p> <p>If a person is eating less overall, this can lead to weight loss.</p> <p>In <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2404881">a study of 469 people</a> with obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea, one year of tirzepatide treatment was associated with up to a 60% reduction in sleep apnoea severity. This is compared to a 3% reduction in people receiving a placebo.</p> <p>In addition, evidence shows tirzepatide is associated with improvements in <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11598664/pdf/nihms-2005020.pdf">several key health indicators</a>, including reduced systemic inflammation, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11972082/">enhanced insulin sensitivity</a> and lower blood pressure. Changes <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10157777/">such as these</a> may improve respiratory function and help protect against cardiovascular and metabolic complications, which are common outcomes of untreated sleep apnoea.</p> <h2>Are there any side effects?</h2> <p>While Mounjaro could be helpful for people with sleep apnoea, gastrointestinal <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10088547/pdf/jomes-32-1-25.pdf">side effects</a> are relatively common with this medication. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and loss of appetite. These side effects typically go away as the person gets used to the medication.</p> <p>Some patients have also reported <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2790392">gallbladder problems</a>.</p> <p>Despite these concerns, there is an <a href="https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/review_article/pdf/343603/20250405-83416-dhs9d8.pdf">interest in Mounjaro as sleep apnoea treatment</a> as it provides the first pharmaceutical option for a condition that has traditionally relied on mechanical treatments such as CPAP machines.</p> <p>That said, it’s important to note Mounjaro is indicated for use in patients with obesity, and <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9130173/">not all patients</a> with sleep apnoea are overweight or obese.</p> <p>In some <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(25)00153-1/fulltext?rss=yes">people of a healthy weight</a>, narrow skeletal structure or upper airway anatomy, such as larger soft palates (which can reduce airway space and make it more prone to collapse during sleep), could contribute to obstructive sleep apnoea.</p> <p>For those patients, non-pharmacological treatment options such as mandibular advancement devices (oral appliances that move the lower jaw forward and keep the airway open) and upper airway surgery may be needed to effectively manage the condition.</p> <p>Mounjaro is given as a weekly injection. In Australia, Mounjaro is not currently subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and is available only by private prescription, with prices beginning at around <a href="https://cosmeticclinic.net.au/mounjaro-australia-cost/#:%7E:text=On%20average%2C%20the%20cost%20of%20Mounjaro%20in%20Australia,the%20frequency%20of%20use%20and%20the%20required%20dosage.">A$395 per month</a>. The significant out-of-pocket cost will limit access to Mounjaro for many patients.</p> <p>Mounjaro’s approval for the treatment of sleep apnoea may offer new hope for many people. But considering the diversity in patient presentations and limited data from large population studies, it’s too early to say whether this will transform sleep apnoea care in Australia.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/258195/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yaqoot-fatima-2407464">Yaqoot Fatima</a>, Professor of Sleep Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-the-sunshine-coast-1068">University of the Sunshine Coast</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nisreen-aouira-2407465">Nisreen Aouira</a>, Research Program Manager, Thompson Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-the-sunshine-coast-1068">University of the Sunshine Coast</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-weight-loss-drug-mounjaro-has-been-approved-to-treat-sleep-apnoea-how-does-it-work-258195">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Body

Lifestyle

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Ash Barty welcomes baby girl in sweet family news

<p>Retired tennis champion Ash Barty has delighted fans with the joyful announcement of the birth of her second child, a baby girl named Jordan.</p> <p>The 29-year-old sporting icon shared the happy news on Instagram on Monday, posting a touching black-and-white photo of the newborn alongside a heartfelt caption: “Welcome to the world, Jordan. You are loved unconditionally and we are so grateful to have you in our arms, gorgeous girl.”</p> <p>The update was met with a flood of warm wishes from fellow athletes and fans alike. Former tennis star Sam Stosur wrote, “Congrats Ash and Garry. How exciting to welcome Jordan into your family. She’s a lucky girl.” Swimmer-turned-commentator Gian Rooney and Ash’s close friend Casey Dellacqua also sent their congratulations, with Dellacqua adding, “Here she is. Hi gorgeous Jordan. Can’t wait to cuddle you soon. Good job Mum and Dad xx.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK8dBirBLqX/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK8dBirBLqX/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Ash Barty (@ashbarty)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Little Jordan joins big brother Hayden, who turns two next month. In a heartwarming Christmas Day post last year, Barty and Kissick had recruited their toddler to help announce the pregnancy, sharing a photo of him in a T-shirt that read, “I am going to be a big brother”.</p> <p>Barty, who stunned the world by retiring from professional tennis in 2022 after winning three grand slams – including the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon – has embraced life beyond the court. Since stepping away, she’s published children’s books, released her memoir <em>My Dream Time</em>, launched a foundation, and mentored rising tennis talent Olivia Gadecki.</p> <p>Ash and Garry, who <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/adorable-honeymoon-photos-of-ash-barty-and-husband-garry-kissick" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tied the knot</a> in a private ceremony in Queensland in 2022, now look forward to life as a family of four, with their latest bundle of joy already bringing smiles to loved ones near and far.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Royal family shares sweet Father’s Day moment with Prince William

<p>Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis have delighted royal fans by sharing a heartwarming Father’s Day tribute to their “Papa”, Prince William.</p> <p>The post, shared on the official social media pages of the Prince and Princess of Wales, features two joyful photos captioned “before and after” – showing the children first hugging their father, and then in a playful heap on top of him.</p> <p>“Happy Father’s Day, Papa (before and after!) We love you! G, C & L,” the message read.</p> <p>The candid images were captured earlier this year in Norfolk by photographer Josh Shinner, who also took Prince Louis’s birthday portraits. One photo shows Prince William, dressed casually in a green jumper and jeans, with his arms around George, 11, and Charlotte, 10, as Louis, seven, beams in front. The second picture captures a fun moment with the family bundled together, lying on grass dotted with daffodils.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Father’s Day, Papa (before and after!) We love you! G, C & L 💖 </p> <p>📸 Josh Shinner <a href="https://t.co/elSVlgcyWQ">pic.twitter.com/elSVlgcyWQ</a></p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1934159671868223532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>The post comes just a day after the family marked Trooping the Colour, celebrating King Charles’s official birthday, with another rare posed photo.</p> <p>Royal Father’s Day tributes are a cherished tradition. Last year, Prince William shared a nostalgic snap of himself playing football with King Charles in 1984, while this year Buckingham Palace posted touching images of Prince Philip with a young King Charles, and the Queen with her father on her wedding day.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">To all Dads everywhere, we wish you a happy Father’s Day today. <a href="https://t.co/pqIK97NqlW">pic.twitter.com/pqIK97NqlW</a></p> <p>— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1934159021633675308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>The message from Buckingham Palace echoed the warm sentiment: “To all Dads everywhere, we wish you a happy Father’s Day today.”</p> <p><em>Images: X (Formerly Twitter)</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Another Matildas star ties the knot in stunning island ceremony

<p>Love is well and truly in the air for the Matildas, with midfielder Katrina Gorry tying the knot with her long-time partner Clara Markstedt in a breathtaking beach wedding on Hamilton Island.</p> <p>Just days after teammate <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/absolutely-stunning-matildas-star-ties-the-knot" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ellie Carpenter wed her partner Daniëlle van de Donk</a>, Gorry and Markstedt exchanged vows in front of about 70 guests, including Matildas teammates Charli Grant and Michelle Heyman. The couple kept the vibe relaxed and joyful, with guests dancing the night away under the stars.</p> <p>"We just wanted people to relax, have fun, and have a good time," Markstedt told <em>New Idea</em>.</p> <p>The pair’s children played special roles on the day. Gorry’s three-year-old daughter Harper was a proud flower girl, while their one-year-old son Koby watched on, with Markstedt adding, “We wanted Koby to be able to walk next to her, but he's a little late!”</p> <p>Both brides looked radiant in outfits by Melbourne designer Anna Campbell. Gorry chose a two-piece set featuring a cropped blouse and A-line skirt, while Markstedt stunned in a floral one-sleeved gown with a front slit.</p> <p>The couple, who met in 2021 when Gorry joined Swedish club Vittsjö GIK and became engaged in June 2023, said their “I dos” with the ocean as their backdrop – a perfect setting for their love story.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK4CM13yKgl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK4CM13yKgl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by New Idea Magazine (@newideamagazine)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Their wedding follows the recent celebration of Matildas defender Ellie Carpenter, 25, who married Dutch football star Daniëlle van de Donk, 33, in France. Carpenter shared beautiful photos from the day with the caption, “I choose you. I will always choose you.”</p> <p>Both Carpenter and van de Donk wore stunning white gowns, with Carpenter in a strapless mermaid-style dress and long veil, and van de Donk opting for a princess gown with delicate lace detailing.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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"Call me Brax": Footy star reveals newborn's name

<p>Former AFLW star Abbey Holmes and husband Keegan Brooksby have shared the joyful news of the arrival of their first child – a beautiful baby boy named Braxton John Brooksby.</p> <p>In a heartwarming Instagram post filled with adorable newborn photos, the couple introduced their son to the world with the caption: “Hi Everybody!! My name is Braxton John Brooksby but my friends can call me Brax.”</p> <p>Holmes, 33, shared a few sweet details about Braxton’s birth, revealing that he arrived via caesarean section at 5:49pm on June 6, weighing 3.585 kilograms.</p> <p>“Mummy labored all day on Friday, only for me to be born via c section… My head was faaaar too large so we had to change our plans late in the piece!” the post joked, before adding, “I’m suuuuuuuuuper cute & Mum and Dad are obsessed with me! @kjbrooksby.”</p> <p>The announcement was quickly met with an outpouring of love from friends and fans alike. Olympian Steph Rice wrote, “Awwww my gosh, congratulations you two❤️🥰,” while fellow <em>Survivor</em> contestant Sharn Coombs commented, “Welcome to the world beautiful Braxton! Can’t wait to meet you.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKwDrdUyuWA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKwDrdUyuWA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Abbey Holmes (@abbeycholmes)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The journey to parenthood has been a memorable one for the couple, who discovered they were expecting shortly after Holmes completed the New York Marathon last November. They spent the festive season sharing the exciting news with loved ones, and made it public with a gorgeous photoshoot on New Year’s Day.</p> <p>“This year is certainly set to be our biggest & best yet, with the ultimate little teammate joining us in June!!” they wrote at the time.</p> <p>The arrival of baby Brax caps off a huge year for Holmes and Brooksby, who tied the knot just last year. Now, they’re celebrating a new and even more exciting chapter – parenthood.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

Finance

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What does Trump’s looming ‘revenge tax’ mean for Australia?

<div class="theconversation-article-body">The Australian Labor Party just won an <a href="https://theconversation.com/albanese-increases-majority-and-dutton-loses-seat-in-stunning-election-landslide-255616">election victory for the ages</a>. Now, it may be forced to walk back one of the key achievements of its first term.</p> <p>Here’s why: United States President Donald Trump is about to declare an income tax war on much of the world – and we Australians are not on the same side.</p> <p>Over in the US, the “<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text">One Big Beautiful Bill act</a>” – a tax and spending package worth trillions of dollars – has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/22/what-is-trump-big-beautiful-bill">passed</a> by the House of Representatives. It’s now before the Senate for consideration.</p> <p>Within it lies a new and highly controversial provision: <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/30/taxes-section-899-big-beautiful-bill">Section 899</a>. This increases various US tax rates payable by taxpayers from any country the US claims is maintaining an “unfair foreign tax” by five percentage points each year, up to an additional 20% loading.</p> <p>Having been an integral part of an international effort to create a global 15% minimum tax, Australia now finds itself in the firing line of Trump’s “<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/revenge-tax-buried-deep-budget-213451951.html">revenge tax</a>” warfare – and it’s a fight we’re unlikely to win.</p> <h2>A global minimum tax rate</h2> <p>The origins of the looming income tax war <a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/2013/07/action-plan-on-base-erosion-and-profit-shifting_g1g30e67.html">started in 2013</a>, when the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (<a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/about.html">OECD</a>) released its plan to stamp out “base erosion and profit shifting”.</p> <p>This refers to a range of strategies often used by multinational companies to minimise the tax they pay, exploiting differences and gaps in the tax rules of different countries.</p> <p>The OECD’s first attempt to tackle the problem was a collection of disparate measures directed not only at corporate tax avoidance, but also controlling tax poaching by national governments and “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/apr/29/sweetheart-tax-deals">sweetheart deals</a>” negotiated by tax officials.</p> <p>Under both Labor and the Coalition, Australia was initially an enthusiastic backer of these attempts.</p> <p>However, the project was not a widespread success. Many countries endorsed the final reports but, unlike Australia, few countries acted on them.</p> <p>After the failure of this first project, the OECD tried again in 2019. This evolved to encompass two “pillars” to change the global tax rules.</p> <p><a href="https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/topics/policy-issues/cross-border-and-international-tax/pillar-one-amount-a-fact-sheet.pdf">Pillar one</a> would give more tax to countries where a company’s customers are located. <a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/sub-issues/global-minimum-tax/global-anti-base-erosion-model-rules-pillar-two.html">Pillar two</a> is a minimum tax of 15% on (a version of) the accounting profits of the largest multinationals earned in each country where the multinational operates.</p> <p>Labor picked up this project for the 2022 election, <a href="https://jimchalmers.org/latest-news/media-releases/labor-s-plan-to-ensure-multinationals-pay-their-fair-share-of-tax/">promising</a> to support both pillars – and they honoured that promise.</p> <h2>Mixed success</h2> <p>Around the world, the two pillar project had mixed success. Pillar one was dead-on-arrival: most countries did nothing. But Australia and several other countries, mostly in Europe, implemented pillar two – the global minimum tax.</p> <p>The OECD has always maintained the base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) project was a coalition of the willing, meant to rebalance the way income tax is allocated between producer and consumer countries, and rid the world of tax havens.</p> <p>In the US, Republicans <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/yellen-us-negotiating-rd-tax-credit-part-global-tax-deal-2024-04-30/">did not share that view</a>. For them, BEPS was simply another attempt by foreign countries to get more tax from US companies.</p> <p>This Republican dissatisfaction with the OECD is now on full display. On the first day of his second term, Trump issued an <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/the-organization-for-economic-co-operation-and-development-oecd-global-tax-deal-global-tax-deal/">executive order</a>, formally repudiating any OECD commitments the Biden administration might have given.</p> <p>He also directed his officials to report on options for retaliatory measures the US could take against any foreign countries with income tax rules that are “extraterritorial” or “disproportionately affect American companies”.</p> <h2>Why Australia is so exposed</h2> <p>Australia could find itself in the firing line of Trump’s tax warfare on many fronts. And the US doesn’t lack firepower. Section 899 adds to a number of <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-90-year-old-tax-rule-trump-could-use-to-double-us-taxes-on-foreigners-248154">retaliatory tax provisions</a> the US already had at its disposal.</p> <p>The increased tax rates would affect Australian super funds and other investors earning dividends, rent, interest, royalties and other income from US companies. Australian super funds in particular are heavily invested in US markets, which have outperformed local stocks in recent years.</p> <p>It would also affect Australian managed funds owning land and infrastructure assets in the US, as well as Australian entities such as banks that carry on business in the US.</p> <p>And there are other measures that would expose US subsidiaries of Australian companies to US higher tax.</p> <p>The bill would even remove the doctrine of sovereign immunity for the governments of “offending” countries. <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/your-tax-return/if-you-disagree-with-an-ato-decision/object-to-a-decision/what-to-include-in-your-objection/supporting-information-to-provide/sovereign-immunity">Sovereign immunity</a> refers to a tax exemption on returns that usually applies to governments. This means the Australian government itself could have to pay tax to the US.</p> <p>There are <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-30/trump-revenge-tax-would-lower-foreign-investment-in-us-scorekeeper-predicts">concerns on Wall Street</a> this will dampen demand for US government bonds from foreign governments, which are big buyers of US Treasuries. The argument may sway some in the Senate – but how many remains to be seen.</p> <h2>What Australia may need to do next</h2> <p>We may be incredulous that anyone would consider our tax system combative, but enacting the OECD pillar two was always known to be risky.</p> <p>There are other, homegrown Australian tax measures that have drawn American ire.</p> <p>In 2015, Australia enacted an income tax measure (commonly called the “<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/the-economy/google-restructures-to-avoid-hefty-penalties-in-australia-as-tax-bill-hits-16-million-20160429-goi8fl.html">Google tax</a>”) specifically directed at US tech companies. In 2017, we followed this up with a <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/international-tax-for-business/in-detail/doing-business-in-australia-or-overseas/diverted-profits-tax">diverted profits tax</a>. Trump’s bill specifically targets both measures.</p> <p>Tying ourselves to the OECD’s global minimum tax project might have seemed like a good idea in 2019. In 2025, it looks decidedly unappealing, and not just because of Trump.</p> <p>First, there is not actually any serious revenue in pillar two for Australia. Treasury’s <a href="https://archive.budget.gov.au/2023-24/bp2/download/bp2_2023-24.pdf">revenue estimate</a> totalled only $360 million after four years, just slightly more than a rounding error in the federal budget.</p> <p>Second, we are increasingly alone and vulnerable in this battle. It might feel emotionally satisfying to stand up to the US. If there was a sizeable coalition alongside us, there might be some point.</p> <p>If Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill act does pass through the US Senate, the Australian government and business will be left exposed to much higher costs.</p> <p>Since abandoning the US market is not really an option, it might be time to surrender quietly and gracefully – by reversing, at the very least, the contentious bits of pillar two.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/257961/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/graeme-cooper-3215">Graeme Cooper</a>, Professor of Taxation Law, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-is-in-the-firing-line-of-trumps-looming-revenge-tax-its-a-fight-were-unlikely-to-win-257961">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Pexels / <span style="font-family: 'Canva Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Roboto, -apple-system, blinkmacsystemfont, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre;">Nataliya Vaitkevich</span></em></p> </div>

Money & Banking

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How this driver lost 22 demerit points and $1800 in a single traffic stop

<p>A NSW learner driver has been hit with nearly $1,800 in fines and an eye-watering 22 demerit points in a single traffic stop, prompting police to issue a stern reminder about the importance of following road rules – especially for novice drivers.</p> <p>The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when Mittagong Highway Patrol officers clocked a silver Saab convertible travelling at 129km/h in a 110km/h zone on the Hume Highway near Penrose.</p> <p>What initially appeared to be a simple speeding matter quickly snowballed into a catalogue of serious offences. The driver – a male holder of a NSW Learner's Class C licence – should not have been travelling above 90km/h and was also found not to be displaying the required yellow L plates on either the front or rear of the vehicle.</p> <p>Upon stopping the vehicle at 4.15pm, officers discovered a mobile phone mounted near the steering wheel, playing a YouTube music video. When questioned, the driver swiped the screen to a map app and claimed he was "just looking at the map". In NSW, learner and provisional drivers are prohibited from using a mobile phone for any reason, including navigation.</p> <p>Compounding the offences, the driver’s female supervisor told police she had been asleep in the passenger seat – a direct violation of her legal duty to actively supervise the learner.</p> <p>The full list of infringements included: <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Exceeding speed by more than 30km/h: $1,045 fine and 10 demerit points (doubled for long weekend); </span>Learner using a mobile phone: $410 fine and 10 demerit points (doubled); Failure to display L plates: $320 fine and 2 demerit points (doubled).</p> <p>With double demerits in effect due to the long weekend, the driver racked up 22 demerit points – far exceeding the four-point limit for learners – resulting in an automatic licence suspension, with a formal disqualification from NSW Transport to follow.</p> <p>The female supervisor also received a penalty for failing to fulfil her supervisory obligations.</p> <p>NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol officers said the case is a stark example of reckless behaviour behind the wheel and urged all drivers, especially learners, to understand and respect the rules of the road.</p> <p><em>Images: NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol Command</em></p> <p>“This is exactly what not to do,” an officer said.</p>

Legal

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Bones and clothing found in new search for Madeleine McCann

<p>Fragments of bone and items of clothing discovered during a recent search for Madeleine McCann in Portugal have been sent to Germany for forensic testing, according to new reports that offer a glimmer of hope in the long-running mystery.</p> <p>Despite initial claims the three-day operation yielded nothing significant, German media outlet Berliner Morgenpost reports that investigators did, in fact, collect “several objects” from the search site near Praia da Luz – an area linked to the prime suspect, Christian Brueckner.</p> <p>German police, in collaboration with Portuguese authorities, used ground-penetrating radar and heavy excavation equipment to comb through scrubland believed to have been used as a “rat run” by Brueckner, a convicted rapist. While early reports suggested the search was a flop, it has now emerged that small bone fragments and pieces of adult clothing were retrieved and sent to Germany for further analysis.</p> <p>A source quoted in the Morgenpost said: “Several objects have apparently been discovered, which are now being examined in more detail by the police in the laboratory. As Portuguese media report, clothing debris and bones were found, among other things. The investigators have not officially commented on whether the finds could have anything to do with Madeleine’s disappearance but that is clearly their hope.”</p> <p>Christian Brueckner, 38, has been under intense scrutiny since 2020 when German police named him as the prime suspect in the case. He is currently serving time in prison for unrelated offences, but prosecutors have struggled to secure a fresh arrest warrant tied to Madeleine’s disappearance due to a lack of concrete forensic evidence.</p> <p>This latest development may prove critical. Without a direct link tying Brueckner to the crime, authorities risk being unable to extend legal proceedings against him.</p> <p>Adding fuel to the speculation, British tabloid <em>The Sun</em> recently aired a bombshell documentary <em>Madeleine McCann: Inside the Secret Evidence</em>, which sheds light on disturbing findings at Brueckner’s abandoned factory in Germany. Items uncovered there include children’s clothing, a toddler’s bike, toys, a mask, guns and disturbing writings about child abduction – all part of what investigators describe as an overwhelming file of circumstantial evidence.</p> <p>The documentary also revealed that Brueckner allegedly discussed using chemicals like ether to kidnap a woman and child outside a preschool – details pulled directly from seized police files.</p> <p>While none of the recently discovered items have been definitively linked to Madeleine, their forensic examination is now seen as a vital next step. If a match is found, it could represent the most significant breakthrough in the case since Brueckner was identified as a suspect five years ago.</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

Legal

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Outrage after Aussie journo shot at LA protest

<p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is facing calls to seek an “urgent explanation” from the Trump administration after Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was shot with a rubber bullet while covering protests in Los Angeles.</p> <p>Footage that emerged on Monday shows the Nine News reporter being struck in the leg by a police-fired rubber bullet as she was delivering a live report amid chaotic scenes sparked by mass immigration arrests. The sound of sporadic gunfire can be heard as Tomasi stands in front of the camera before a police officer in the background raises a weapon and fires.</p> <p>Tomasi cries out in pain, visibly shaken, before a protester yells at police, “You just f***in’ shot the reporter!” She quickly reassures those around her: “Yeah, I’m good. I’m good.”</p> <p>Later, Tomasi posted on X that she was “safe and okay”.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yrFJ8Vhfgt4?si=6HBXJrdeVRFGedn1" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>The incident has drawn condemnation in Australia, with Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young describing it as “simply shocking” and demanding accountability. “It is completely unacceptable and must be called out,” she said. “The Prime Minister must seek an urgent explanation from the US administration.”</p> <p>Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles declined to comment directly on US immigration policy or law enforcement tactics under former president Donald Trump, but said he was relieved Tomasi was unharmed. “At the end of the day, how America operates its own immigration system is really a matter for the United States,” he told <em>Sky News</em>.</p> <p>Nine News issued a statement confirming Tomasi and her camera operator would continue their coverage, despite the risks. “This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests,” the network said.</p> <p>Tensions flared across Los Angeles on Monday after Trump ordered the National Guard into the city following sweeping immigration raids. Protesters blocked freeways and reportedly torched several self-driving cars. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, flash-bangs and rubber bullets, declaring the downtown area an unlawful assembly zone.</p> <p>National Guard troops have been stationed at federal buildings, as multiple demonstrations over immigration enforcement continue to erupt across the city.</p> <p>Tomasi was not the only journalist injured. British photojournalist Nick Stern is reported to have undergone emergency surgery after suffering a serious leg wound during the clashes. Other reporters have reported harassment from both law enforcement and demonstrators.</p> <p>The shooting has drawn comparisons to a 2020 incident when Channel Seven reporter Amelia Brace and cameraman Tim Myers were assaulted by US police while covering Black Lives Matter protests in Washington DC’s Lafayette Square. Brace later told the US Congress she was struck by non-lethal rounds and hit with a truncheon while Myers was shot in the neck with rubber bullets.</p> <p><em>Images: 9News</em></p>

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Entertainment

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New book seeks to understand what old age is for

<div class="theconversation-article-body">The “memoir boom” of the past few decades has brought an extraordinary expansion in the kinds of work written in the first person. Some offer new approaches, focusing on aspects or phases of the author’s life or feelings.</p> <p>Alongside these, a kind of hybrid form has developed in which authors, while not seeking to produce a memoir, include extensive discussion of their personal experience and reflections to illustrate different themes and issues.</p> <p>Bloomer, by Carol Lefevre, is a hybrid work of this latter kind. The author tells us quite a lot about herself and her current life, especially her experience of ageing. She deals at some length with her grief at losing her mother and with her own health issues. She makes clear her resentment of the growing invisibility that is such a common experience for older women, and her irritation at being patronised and discounted because of her age when engaging in journalism.</p> <p>Nonetheless Bloomer is not and does not present itself as a memoir. It is, as we are told very clearly at the start, a book about women and ageing in a society in which ageism is widespread – and directed particularly at women. It is seeking also to offer pathways that allow the possibility of flourishing in old age, written by a woman who is using herself as an example.</p> <p>The negative ways that ageing, especially women’s ageing, is seen and dealt with in contemporary Australian society and culture is evident from the start. She finds the prospect of “ageing in a time and place that does not value old people” “daunting”. Having devoted much of her life to activism of various kinds, she has decided to take on ageism.</p> <p>The book itself is a form of activism, concerned not only to critique and raise awareness about the many different forms of ageism that abound, but:</p> <blockquote> <p>to question the ageist narrative of decline and decrepitude, of ageing as a road that only runs downhill.</p> </blockquote> <p>Women today, Lefevre points out, enter old age with laptops and mobile phones and a range of new possibilities. It is within this framework that the concept of blooming is so important.</p> <h2>Tending to one’s garden</h2> <p>For Lefevre, the great consolation and antidote to ageing is gardening. She writes movingly of her immense pleasure in tending a small, walled garden which enables her to watch her flowers, herbs and trees bloom and flourish. Her enthusiasm for gardening is one of the most engaging aspects of the book.</p> <p>She includes several sections from her own gardening journals interspersed between chapters. Some of these depict the changing seasons, providing the structure for the book. There are also discussions of the ideas and practices of other gardeners and of the writing about gardens of several authors including Vita Sackville-West, Sylvia Townsend-Warner and an author who seems generally to be one of Lefevre’s favourites: <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Colette">Colette</a>.</p> <p>In the clearest illustration of how this book is intended to offer a pathway that others should follow, Lefevre points out how beneficial gardening is. Research has shown, we are told, getting one’s hands in the soil, “boosts serotonin levels and that serotonin, a natural antidepressant, strengthens the immune system”. No other group of people is so in need of garden therapy she insists “as those of us contemplating the more than half-empty glass”.</p> <p>As she contemplates the whole question of ageing and seeks to come to terms with her experiences, Lefevre turns not only to gardening, but to literature. Although insistent there are no novels with older women as heroines or central figures, she cites several novelists, memoirists, and writers of short stories who address ageing in their work, sometimes in insightful ways.</p> <p>Gardening writers are important here too. Lefevre deals with her own pain at her changing sense of time and losing a sense of herself at a younger age, for example, not only by gardening, but by reading Sackville-West, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Virginia Woolf. The slight she receives as an older woman seeking to photograph two young men for a magazine (involving a throw-away line about “old grannies”) leads her to the <a href="https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-grey-haired-and-radiant-reimagining-ageing-for-women-182336">reflections on ageing</a> and to a discussion of others who have written well about ageing: May Sarton and Doris Lessing.</p> <p>Alongside her own experiences, Lefevre deals with some of the serious issues and problems confronting older women. While she has a home and a garden, many other women face a crisis in terms of shelter and finding a place to live. Bemoaning the end of multi-generational families in which the elderly lives at home, she discusses the alarming incidence of homelessness among ageing single women. Residential care is sometimes available, but not without problems.</p> <p>One that concerns her particularly is that of unexpected intimacy, which is sometimes an affront to adult children and to nursing home administrators not accustomed to thinking about love in relation to ageing bodies. Loneliness too is dealt with here and so inevitably, is death and the question of voluntary assisted dying.</p> <p>The book provides useful information and reflections on many issues that face older women in a very accessible way. But it is not always an easy or engaging read. The hybrid form is clearly an issue here as the linking of personal experience and general discussion is sometimes a little awkward.</p> <h2>Still blooming</h2> <p>While being told about the author’s life, we are always held at arm’s length from her. One yearns sometimes for the kind of intimacy that allows the reader to share the author’s feelings, as we find in some memoirs of ageing, Diana Athill’s <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5960563-somewhere-towards-the-end">Somewhere Towards the End</a>, for example.</p> <p>There is also something slightly problematic about Lefevre’s central concern. In seeking to understand and overcome ageism, she wants not only to write sympathetically about women and ageing, but “to understand what old age is for”.</p> <p>I must confess to finding it hard to understand precisely what this statement means. Stages of life, in general, do not seem to be “for” anything. They are a necessary part of life and move one on to the next stage. In the case of old age, it is hard to see this could be anything other than moving one on to very old age – and inevitably death.</p> <figure class="align-left zoomable"><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>This concern to find a meaning and purpose for old age is linked to the sense of activism against ageism, something the author claims not only for herself, but enjoins other bloomers to undertake too. Having been shaped in the social and protest movements of the sixties, she wants us all to “do something about changing the ageing narrative” by talking about age and “rescuing the word ‘old’ from its position of insult”.</p> <p>There is no question about the extent and nature of ageism in Australia – especially in relation to women. Nor is there any doubt many older people, especially women, suffer from homelessness and isolation.</p> <p>At the same time, there is little recognition of the many facilities and social organisations available to older people or advocating for them, including the University of the Third Age or National Seniors Australia, or of the many ways “seniors” organise themselves – in walking, travel, theatre, film and book groups.</p> <p>The slightly embattled sense one has of the author and her enjoining of others to become active with her in protesting against the negative narratives of ageing seems to belie the many ways other older women are continuing to bloom.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/253130/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/barbara-caine-205093">Barbara Caine</a>, Professor Emerita of History, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-new-book-seeks-to-understand-what-old-age-is-for-but-is-this-the-right-question-253130">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Carol Lefevre / Affirm Press</em></p> </div>

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2025 Logie nominees revealed, all new category announced

<p>The nominees for the 65th annual TV Week Logie Awards have been announced, with a fresh award category paying tribute to one of Australian television’s most respected journalists.</p> <p>The Ray Martin Award for Most Popular News or Public Affairs Reporter, named after the legendary <em>Four Corners</em> and <em>60 Minutes</em> presenter, will recognise excellence in news and public affairs reporting. Among the inaugural nominees are <em>A Current Affair</em>’s Ally Langdon, <em>7.30</em> host Sarah Ferguson, and <em>60 Minutes</em> veteran Tara Brown.</p> <p>In the race for television’s most coveted prize, the Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality, former ABC Breakfast presenter Lisa Millar is a standout contender. She’ll face stiff competition from <em>Today</em> star Ally Langdon, past winner Sonia Kruger, and two-time Gold Logie recipient Hamish Blake – the only man in this year’s field of nominees.</p> <p>Blake, who previously took home the top prize in 2012 and 2022, joked about his inclusion, telling <em>Today</em> viewers: “I think it really does need to go to a far more worthy recipient — and I’m not just saying that because it would be a PR nightmare if the only bloke got up and stole the Gold Logie from a sea of deserving women. It can’t happen and it shouldn’t happen!”</p> <p>The ABC led the pack with an impressive 44 nominations, thanks to popular titles such as <em>Fisk</em>, which earned five nods, and Guy Montgomery’s <em>Guy Mont Spelling Bee</em>, which secured Montgomery a nomination for Most Popular New Talent.</p> <p>Streaming platforms also made a strong showing, with Netflix emerging as the most nominated streamer, bolstered by hits like <em>Apple Cider Vinegar</em> and <em>Territory</em>.</p> <p>The 2025 Logie Awards will be held in Sydney on August 3, with comedian Sam Pang returning to host the event for a third consecutive year.</p> <h2>Highlights of major categories:</h2> <p><strong>Most Popular Personality on Australian Television</strong></p> <ul> <li>Ally Langdon</li> <li>Hamish Blake</li> <li>Julia Morris</li> <li>Lisa Millar</li> <li>Lynne McGranger</li> <li>Poh Ling Yeow</li> <li>Sonia Kruger</li> </ul> <p><strong>Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter</strong></p> <ul> <li>Hamish Blake (<em>LEGO Masters Australia</em>)</li> <li>Julia Morris (<em>I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here!</em>)</li> <li>Ricki-Lee (<em>Australian Idol</em>)</li> <li>Sonia Kruger (<em>The Voice, Dancing With The Stars, Logies Red Carpet Show</em>)</li> <li>Todd Woodbridge (<em>Tipping Point Australia, Australian Open, Paris 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Games</em>)</li> <li>Zan Rowe (<em>Take 5 With Zan Rowe, ABC New Year’s Eve</em>)</li> </ul> <p><strong>Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent</strong></p> <ul> <li>Guy Montgomery (<em>Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee</em>)</li> <li>Hailey Pinto (<em>Home and Away</em>)</li> <li>Jenny Tian (<em>Taskmaster Australia</em>)</li> <li>Kate Miller-Heidke (<em>The Voice</em>)</li> <li>Kylah Day (<em>Territory</em>)</li> <li>Sofia Levin (<em>MasterChef Australia</em>)</li> <li><strong>Best Drama Program</strong></li> <li><em>Bump</em> (Stan)</li> <li><em>Heartbreak High</em> (Netflix)</li> <li><em>Return To Paradise</em> (ABC)</li> <li><em>Territory</em> (Netflix)</li> <li><em>The Newsreader</em> (ABC)</li> <li><em>The Twelve</em> (BINGE/FOXTEL)</li> </ul> <p><strong>Best Comedy Program</strong></p> <ul> <li><em>Austin</em> (ABC)</li> <li><em>Colin From Accounts</em> (BINGE/FOXTEL)</li> <li><em>Fisk</em> (ABC)</li> <li><em>Good Cop/Bad Cop</em> (Stan)</li> <li><em>Melbourne International Comedy Festival</em> (ABC)</li> <li><em>Optics</em> (ABC)</li> </ul> <p>With a blend of long-time favourites, fresh talent, and powerful new programs, the 2025 Logies are shaping up to be a night to remember.</p> <p><em>Images: TV Week / Channel 9</em></p>

TV

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ABC rumoured to be axing Q+A amid fresh round of cuts

<p>Long-running ABC current affairs program <em>Q+A</em> is reportedly facing the axe after 17 years on Australian television, with multiple media outlets citing unnamed sources within the national broadcaster.</p> <p>The influential panel show, which launched in 2008 with Tony Jones as host, is said to have been dropped ahead of its scheduled return in August. The decision places <em>Q+A</em> among a growing list of legacy programs facing the chopping block, coming just days after Channel Ten confirmed it was ending <em>The Project</em> following a 16-year run.</p> <p><em>Q+A</em> went into its scheduled hiatus in mid-May, and it remains unclear whether it will return at all in 2025. ABC’s new managing director, Hugh Marks, is expected to reveal sweeping changes at the public broadcaster this week, including potential staff redundancies and confirmation of the show’s fate.</p> <p>The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) warned ABC staff on Tuesday that job cuts were imminent, with employees reportedly being called into meetings to discuss a major restructure. Marks, who replaced David Anderson in March, has previously signalled a focus on streamlining the broadcaster’s operations, suggesting the ABC may need to “do fewer things better” in the future.</p> <p>In addition to cuts, the ABC is expected to announce new content initiatives, including a dedicated documentary unit championed by ABC chair Kim Williams.</p> <p>Created by executive producer Peter McEvoy, <em>Q+A</em> debuted in May 2008 and quickly became a flagship program for the ABC. Its format, inspired by the BBC’s <em>Question Time</em>, brought politicians, experts and members of the public together to debate national issues in real time.</p> <p>Following Jones’ departure in 2019, the show struggled to maintain its ratings. Hamish Macdonald took over as host in 2020, before stepping down amid mixed reviews. Stan Grant’s brief tenure in 2022 ended after he became the target of racist abuse unrelated to the show. The current host, Patricia Karvelas, has led the program since early 2023.</p> <p>While viewership has modestly improved under Karvelas, the show’s ratings remain among the lowest in the ABC’s current affairs stable. A 2023 “Garma Special” episode drew just 84,000 metro viewers – <em>Q+A</em>’s lowest figures on record.</p> <p>The ABC has not officially confirmed the program’s cancellation. However, the coming days are expected to bring clarity as the national broadcaster embarks on a major overhaul under new leadership.</p> <p><em>Image: ABC</em></p>

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Nick Kyrgios dealt another career blow

<p>Tennis bad boy Nick Kyrgios has been dropped by both the BBC and ESPN ahead of this year’s Wimbledon tournament, in a double blow to the 30-year-old as he continues to battle ongoing injury setbacks.</p> <p>Reports surfaced on Wednesday revealing the BBC has decided not to include Kyrgios in its broadcast team when coverage begins on June 30. The move comes a year after his controversial debut as a pundit for the network, which drew both praise and backlash from audiences and public figures.</p> <p>Adding to the disappointment, <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2025/06/10/nick-kyrgios-no-longer-part-of-bbc-wimbledon-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Telegraph</em></a> has also reported that Kyrgios will not feature in ESPN’s Wimbledon coverage, despite his recent commentary roles with the American broadcaster during the Australian Open in both 2024 and 2025.</p> <p>The former world No.13 has faced a difficult run of weeks, pulling out of the French Open last month due to a flare-up of a knee injury that also forced him to withdraw from this year’s Wimbledon. On Instagram, Kyrgios shared his frustration and assured fans he was working hard on his recovery:</p> <p>“Just wanted to give everyone a quick update – I’ve hit a small setback in my recovery and unfortunately won’t make it back for grass season this year… This is just a bump in the road though, and I’m already working hard to get back stronger than ever.”</p> <p>Kyrgios hasn’t played at Wimbledon since his memorable run to the final in 2022, where he lost to Novak Djokovic. Last year, with no plans to compete, he joined the BBC’s commentary team, offering insights that divided opinion. While some fans appreciated his frank analysis and distinctive personality, others criticised his laid-back delivery and flamboyant fashion.</p> <p>More seriously, his appointment in 2023 was condemned by women's rights groups and politicians due to a past domestic assault charge involving his former partner Chiara Passari. Kyrgios pleaded guilty, but the charge was later dismissed. Among his critics was UK MP Caroline Nokes, chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, who slammed the BBC for the hire, calling it “a disgrace” and accusing the broadcaster of showing “utter contempt” for women.</p> <p>At the time, the BBC defended its decision in a statement, saying it did not condone Kyrgios' past behaviour and that his involvement was strictly limited to tennis commentary.</p> <p>A source close to Kyrgios has since claimed his absence from this year’s commentary box was influenced by his desire to compete at Wimbledon in 2024 – hopes that were dashed by injury.</p> <p>As he continues his recovery, Kyrgios remains a polarising figure in the tennis world – equally capable of commanding attention with a racquet or a microphone, whether on court or off.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Property

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A decade in the making: Jamie Durie finally unveils dream home

<p>After a decade of meticulous planning, popular TV host Jamie Durie has finally revealed his dream home, a breathtaking sustainable property on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.</p> <p>The Seven Network presenter took to Instagram to share an album of images showcasing the eco-friendly sanctuary he built for his family. "Grateful. 10 years of planning, 2 years of construction and we’re finally back home," Durie, 54, captioned the post.</p> <p>The luxurious and environmentally conscious home is now the residence of Durie, his fiancée Ameka Jane, and their two children: three-year-old daughter Beau and one-year-old son Nash.</p> <p>The entire process of planning and construction has been chronicled on Durie’s latest TV venture, <em>Growing Home With Jamie Durie</em>, airing on Seven.</p> <p>"It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to build an off-the-grid house," Durie told <em>Woman’s Day</em> in November. "Ten years ago, I sketched the house. We lodged the plans five years ago, and then the last two years have been dedicated to construction."</p> <p>Durie said that the journey to completion was anything but smooth. "I don’t think poor Ameka had any idea what she was signing up for when we met. But she came up with a number of ideas that added a lot of value to it."</p> <p>He also admitted that building the house tested the family in a variety of ways. "Any family out there who’s building their own house will go through the same as what we’ve gone through," he said. "Huge budget blowouts, rising interest rates, massive construction costs that are constantly going up. We’ve had to go back to the bank four times." </p> <p>Despite the hurdles, Durie and Jane remained committed to using innovative eco-friendly features wherever they could. "We challenged ourselves with new eco-initiatives that not many people would ever dream of trying, or may not even know about," he said, before describing the experience as "the toughest project I have ever taken on in my whole life".</p> <p>Following Durie’s Instagram reveal, a wave of celebrity friends flooded the comments section with praise for the spectacular home. <em>The Morning Show</em>’s Larry Emdur wrote, "Mate!!! Just wow";fFormer Bachelor star Anna Heinrich called it "incredible"; while TV personality Sally Obermeder simply stated, "WOW". </p> <p>Comedian Dave Hughes was equally impressed, writing, "That’s proper wow. My god." <em>Getaway</em> host Catriona Rowntree described the home as "bloomin’ gorgeous".</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Real Estate

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Dr Chris Brown recalls "dramatic" personal renovation disaster

<p><em>Dream Home</em> host Dr Chris Brown has revealed his own renovation fail on the latest episode of the show. </p> <p>The vet turned TV star has taken on a new role where he guides six teams of aspiring renovators through the joys — and pitfalls — of house remodelling in the new Channel 7 reality show. </p> <p>Speaking to 7NEWS, the star recalled the terrifying moment his home nearly fell in on itself when he was trying to build a garage. </p> <p>“On my first renovation, I decided I needed a garage underneath my house,” he said, adding that he had council approval for the renovation. </p> <p>“With a couple of tradies, we went about digging out the garage underneath the house, in the sand.</p> <p>“We just kept on digging, digging, digging, until a rather large sound indicated the house was about to fall into the hole!</p> <p>“So that’s about as dramatic as it as it gets.</p> <p>“To have your house sort of falling in on itself, that was a pretty big learning curve.”</p> <p>He said that the problem was solved "very quickly" with a lot of underpinning and structural support. </p> <p>“A lot of those steel support posts that you can sort of wind up and down, they went in, and thankfully the house didn’t fold in half,” he said, laughing at the situation. </p> <p>He added that unexpected situations like this are what make renovation shows so appealing as "there’s so much natural drama, you don’t have to fake anything." </p> <p>“Choices have to be made, and it’s either the right way or the wrong way, and you only really discover that as you go along," he added. </p> <p>“Sometimes it’s too late to turn back once you realise you’ve made a terrible mistake.”</p> <p>Chris added that his role on the show is almost as a"coach" to the pairs, supporting them through the renovation challenges, and helping them get to the finish line. </p> <p>“What these couples are going through, and just how much they put on the line to get these renovations done, is quite inspiring and quite uplifting and but also thoroughly entertaining,” he said. </p> <p><em>Image: Seven</em></p>

Real Estate

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Yoko Ono selling John Lennon's New York home for first time in 50 years

<p>For the first time in 50 years, the house where John Lennon and Yoko Ono lived in New York City has hit the market.</p> <p>The brick, bluestone and terra cotta structure at 496 Broome St. was the first home the pair bought together in New York City before they moved to the Upper West Side of Manhattan. </p> <p>Yoko Ono has held onto the property since she first bought it with the late Beatles member, and has now listed it with her son with JLL Real Estate, for an asking price of $US5.5 million ($8.23m AUD).</p> <p>“The building on Broome St. was sort of like a base for their artistic ventures,” Philip Norman, author of “John Lennon: The Life,” told the <em><a href="https://nypost.com/2024/05/21/real-estate/yoko-ono-lists-former-nyc-home-for-5-5m/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New York Post</a></em>. “Bank Street was their salon, where people could just walk in.”</p> <p>First built in 1885, the two-storey building has an open-plan format, with a gallery-like ground floor space with 14.4-foot-high ceilings, an open kitchen and a lofted bedroom.</p> <p>On the second floor, there’s a live-work space and a recording studio.</p> <p>“496 Broome St. is both a unique piece of New York history and popular culture and a prime investment opportunity for the right buyer,” said Paul Smadbeck, who holds the listing.</p> <p>“Versatile zoning and its location in one of the city’s most desirable and trendsetting neighbourhoods offers an exciting opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind property.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Mediapunch / JLL Real Estate </em></p>

Real Estate

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Airbnb launches real-life "Up" house - and it actually floats!

<p>Airbnb is taking its latest listing to the sky - literally. </p> <p>The accommodation provider has announced a partnership that will see the iconic house from Pixar's hit film <em>Up</em> being lifted into the air, balloons and all. </p> <p>In their ongoing quest to redefine hospitality, Airbnb has launched a permanent category called “Icons,” which features partnerships with brands and celebrities that promise unforgettable experiences.</p> <p>Suspended over the New Mexico desert with the aid of a crane, the property looks like an exact replica of the home and contains adorable easter eggs from the film - including the Adventure Book. </p> <p>“Icons take you inside worlds that only existed in your imagination — until now,”  Airbnb CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky said in a statement.</p> <p>“As life becomes increasingly digital, we’re focused on bringing more magic into the real world … we’ve created the most extraordinary experiences on Earth." </p> <p>The house offers a stunning view of the desert, which you can enjoy while sitting on replica's of Ellie and Carl's chairs or have breakfast with a view in the kitchen. </p> <p>Alternatively, you could look at the stars while sitting on the front porch - but don't look down because the adventure is out there. </p> <p>Of course there are questions about the logistics of the stay, including plumbing and electricity, but the accommodation giant has assured that the house is “fully functional,” connected to generators and utilities that will be seamlessly managed before and after its flight.</p> <p>Other fantastical listings include a replica of the mansion from the “X-Men ’97” cartoon, a stay at the Ferrari Museum in Italy, and Prince's house that was featured in the legendary film <em>Purple Rain</em>. </p> <p>Check out the <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1126185893236246260?_set_bev_on_new_domain=1715826165_M2NkZDdkODdhMjcy&amp;source_impression_id=p3_1715826166_A20M4770EGAtl8AV&amp;modal=PHOTO_TOUR_SCROLLABLE" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Up</em></a> listing here, be warned the sweet listing may make you shed a tear or two. </p> <p><em>Images: Airbnb</em></p> <p> </p>

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