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AFL legend passes away after cancer battle

<p>The Australian football community is in mourning following the death of one of its most revered figures, Robert Walls, who passed away peacefully on Thursday morning at the age of 74.</p> <p>Walls died at his East Melbourne home, surrounded by his children Rebecca, Daniel and David, and partner Julie, after choosing to end his life through voluntary assisted dying. His decision followed a two-year battle with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a rare form of cancer he was diagnosed with in 2023.</p> <p>A towering presence in the game both on and off the field, Walls was a Carlton legend, Australian Football Hall of Famer, and beloved figure whose impact stretched across generations of players, fans and fellow commentators.</p> <p>Having endured over 250 nights in hospital during his fight, Walls made the difficult decision to forgo further rounds of chemotherapy in favour of spending his final weeks with loved ones. His family confirmed he spent his last days in peace, tidying up affairs and reconnecting with those closest to him.</p> <p>“Having battled cancer for more than two years, Robert did it his way,” read a statement from the AFL on behalf of the Walls family. “His massive contribution to football at Carlton, Fitzroy, Brisbane and Richmond will be celebrated at the MCG in coming weeks.”</p> <p>Walls’ experience with illness was shaped not only by his own diagnosis but by the heartbreak of losing his wife, Erin, to lung cancer just months after she had gone into remission. The grief and perspective from that loss influenced how he chose to approach his own battle.</p> <p>“(The diagnosis) was a shock. I guess I thought ‘my turn’,” Walls said in an interview with 7NEWS last year.</p> <p>Robert Walls’ football journey began as a 16-year-old prodigy debuting for Carlton in 1967. Over the next two decades, he would play more than 200 games and win three premierships with the Blues during a golden era. He later coached the club to premiership glory in 1987 – one of his most cherished achievements.</p> <p>Walls also took the reins at Fitzroy, the Brisbane Bears, and Richmond, earning respect for his ability to rebuild struggling sides and mentor young players. At Brisbane, his groundwork helped lay the foundation for the Lions' historic premiership three-peat from 2001 to 2003. Among those he coached were future champions Michael Voss, Jason Akermanis and current AFL coaches Chris Scott and Craig McRae.</p> <p>After retiring from coaching, Walls remained a steadfast presence in the game through a distinguished media career. A former schoolteacher, he brought insight and sharp analysis to Channel 7’s Talking Footy and penned a widely read column for <em>The Age</em>.</p> <p>In 2011, he was elevated to Legend status at Carlton – an honour that spoke volumes about his legacy at the club. He was also recognised by the Brisbane Lions for his contributions to both Fitzroy and the Bears.</p> <p>Even after stepping away from the spotlight, Walls remained devoted to the game. In 2019, he volunteered as a mentor to Carlton coach Brendon Bolton and his staff, offering guidance and support behind the scenes.</p> <p>Walls’ passing comes just days after the football world farewelled another Carlton favourite, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/carlton-mourns-the-loss-of-one-of-the-greats-of-the-game" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peter Bosustow, who died aged 67 following his own cancer battle</a>.</p> <p>As the AFL community reflects on the life of Robert Walls, tributes continue to pour in for a man whose life was inseparable from the game he loved.</p> <p>He is survived by his three children and seven grandchildren. A public celebration of his life and football legacy will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the coming weeks.</p> <p><em>Images: Reddit</em></p>

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Shock after Aussie Olympian dies at just 53

<p>Australia’s sporting community is in mourning following the unexpected death of Olympian and former baseball superstar Adam Burton, who passed away on Monday at the age of 53.</p> <p>Known affectionately as “Hollywood” or “Burto”, Burton’s impact on and off the field spanned decades, from representing Australia at the 2000 Sydney Olympics to shaping the grassroots game across countless local clubs.</p> <p>Burton’s career began with extraordinary promise. A prodigious talent from Melbourne’s southeast, he came through the ranks at Waverley Baseball Club before earning a professional contract with Major League Baseball's Baltimore Orioles as a teenager – a rare feat for an Australian player at the time. Though injuries and circumstance curtailed his American journey, he would later sign with the Atlanta Braves before returning to dominate the Australian Baseball League (ABL).</p> <p>Waverley Baseball Club, where Burton first made his mark, said they were “shattered” by the loss of “one of the finest players to represent them and Australia”.</p> <p>“Adam carried the moniker ‘Hollywood’ during an 11-year ABL career that few matched,” the club said in a heartfelt tribute. “He was brash, cocky, entertaining – with a ‘can’t take your eyes off him’ talent. He had style. He had charisma. He would light up a room.”</p> <p>Burton’s career in the ABL was marked by highlight-reel moments and consistent excellence. He played over 330 games and compiled a .312 batting average, with multiple All-Star selections. He was instrumental in Waverley’s 1995 championship, and in one of the league’s most remarkable seasons, he led the Melbourne Reds from last place to champions with a league-best .388 average, 21 home runs and 18 stolen bases.</p> <p>“Adam Burton was a guy who could put the team on his shoulders without feeling the burden,” Waverley’s statement continued.</p> <p>While an ankle injury hampered his performance during the 2000 Olympics, his selection and presence on Australia’s national team only cemented his legacy in the sport. He also represented Australia in the Baseball World Cup, the Intercontinental Cup and the World Youth Series.</p> <p>Beyond his professional accolades, Burton remained deeply connected to the local game, coaching and playing with unwavering passion at clubs such as Blackburn, Melbourne, Preston and Watsonia.</p> <p>Baseball Victoria paid tribute to his enduring love for the game: “Adam will always be remembered for his unwavering love of the game and infectious personality. He was a beloved member of the Victorian baseball community and will be truly missed.”</p> <p>Burton’s coaching achievements in later years were as impactful as his playing career. In 2017-18, he led Preston Pirates to a VSBL Division 2 Premiership, and just last year, he played a key role in Watsonia’s A Grade Grand Final campaign.</p> <p>Watsonia Baseball Club described him as a figure who “clearly impacted all he met,” while Blackburn Baseball Club remembered him as both a “genius” and a mentor to the next generation of players.</p> <p>“Behind the cheeky smile, was a baseball genius and gifted teacher of the game,” said Blackburn’s statement. “We consider ourselves incredibly lucky to have had Adam as a member of our club… one of the all-time greats.”</p> <p>As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, the deep shock and sorrow of his passing is shared by teammates, friends, fans and especially the many young players who looked up to him as a hero.</p> <p>Adam Burton is survived by his children, Cienna and Brock.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Oscar-winning filmmaker passes away at 92

<p>Hollywood has lost one of its most beloved and quietly brilliant storytellers. Robert Benton, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind <em>Kramer vs. Kramer</em> and <em>Places in the Heart</em>, has died at the age of 92. His longtime assistant, Marisa Forzano, confirmed the news to the<em> New York Times</em>, marking the end of an era in American cinema.</p> <p>Benton's career was never about loud proclamations or showy success. Instead, it was built on deeply human stories, told with warmth, honesty, and quiet grace. His path to filmmaking was anything but traditional. Fired from his job as an art director at <em>Esquire</em> magazine in the early 1960s, Benton – who struggled with dyslexia – decided to try his hand at screenwriting.</p> <p>“I decided to write a screenplay,” he once said in an interview. “I am dyslexic. I cannot spell or punctuate. I knew a young editor at <em>Esquire</em>, a wonderful writer, David Newman. I sold him on the glamorous life of the Hollywood screenwriter.”</p> <p>That leap of faith became a defining moment – not just for Benton, but for cinema. With Newman, he co-wrote <em>Bonnie and Clyde</em> (1967), a film that changed the landscape of American filmmaking. The biographical crime drama, starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, was a bold, stylish and violent film for its time, earning the pair an Academy Award nomination and raking in $70 million from a modest $2.5 million budget.</p> <p>The duo would collaborate again on <em>What’s Up, Doc?</em> (1972), a screwball comedy that became the third-highest-grossing film of its year, proving Benton's versatility and deep love for the history of cinema.</p> <p>By 1977, Benton stepped into the spotlight with <em>The Late Show</em>, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. A year later, he co-wrote <em>Superman</em> with Newman – yet another blockbuster hit. But it was in 1979 that Benton delivered what many consider his masterpiece: <em>Kramer vs. Kramer</em>. The emotional legal drama about a custody battle, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep, struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, winning Benton two Academy Awards for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.</p> <p>In 1984, he returned to the Oscars stage once more for <em>Places in the Heart</em>, a quietly powerful story that earned him his third Academy Award, this time for Best Original Screenplay.</p> <p>Though he never sought fame, Benton left his mark on generations of filmmakers and viewers. He had a gift for coaxing raw, honest performances from actors – from Hoffman and Streep to Nicole Kidman in<em> Billy Bathgate</em> (1991), and Anthony Hopkins in <em>The Human Stain</em> (2003). His last film, <em>Feast of Love</em> (2007), starred Morgan Freeman and Selma Blair, capping off a career that was always deeply human, emotionally rich, and never anything less than sincere.</p> <p>In his final years, Benton was quietly working on his memoir. It will remain unfinished – a bittersweet reminder of a storyteller who still had more to say. He is survived by his son, John.</p> <p><em>Image: United Films / IMDB</em></p>

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What is a blood cholesterol ratio? And what should yours be?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>Have you had a blood test to check your cholesterol level? These check the different blood fat components:</p> <ul> <li>total cholesterol</li> <li>LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which is sometimes called “bad cholesterol”</li> <li>HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which is sometimes called “good cholesterol”</li> <li>triglycerides.</li> </ul> <p>Your clinician then compares your test results to normal ranges – and may use ratios to compare different types of cholesterol.</p> <p><iframe id="8KC9s" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8KC9s/6/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> <p>High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This is a broad term that includes disease of blood vessels throughout the body, arteries in the heart (known as coronary heart disease), heart failure, heart valve conditions, arrhythmia and stroke.</p> <p>So what does cholesterol do? And what does it mean to have a healthy cholesterol ratio?</p> <h2>What are blood fats?</h2> <p>Cholesterol is a waxy type of fat made in the liver and gut, with a small amount of pre-formed cholesterol coming from food.</p> <p>Cholesterol is found in all cell membranes, contributing to their structure and function. Your body <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513326/">uses cholesterol to make</a> vitamin D, bile acid, and hormones, including oestrogen, testosterone, cortisol and aldosterone.</p> <p>When there is too much cholesterol in your blood, it gets deposited into artery walls, making them hard and narrow. This process is called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atherosclerosis">atherosclerosis</a>.</p> <p>Cholesterol is <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513326/">packaged with</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triglyceride">triglycerides</a> (the most common type of fat in the body) and specific <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apolipoprotein">“apo” proteins</a> into “lipo-proteins” as a package called “very-low-density” lipoproteins (VLDLs).</p> <p>These are transported via the blood to body tissue in a form called low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.</p> <p>Excess cholesterol can be transported back to the liver by high-density lipoprotein, the HDL, for removal from circulation.</p> <p>Another less talked about blood fat is Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a). This is determined by your genetics and <a href="https://www.victorchang.edu.au/heart-disease/high-cholesterol">not influenced by lifestyle factors</a>. About one in five (<a href="https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2021/may/lipid-management-and-implications-for-australian-g">20%</a>) of Australians are carriers.</p> <p>Having a high Lp(a) level is an independent cardiovascular disease risk factor.</p> <h2>Knowing your numbers</h2> <p>Your blood fat levels <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/high-blood-cholesterol">are affected by</a> both modifiable factors:</p> <ul> <li>dietary intake</li> <li>physical activity</li> <li>alcohol</li> <li>smoking</li> <li>weight status.</li> </ul> <p>And non-modifiable factors:</p> <ul> <li>age</li> <li>sex</li> <li>family history.</li> </ul> <p><iframe id="S7Xp4" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/S7Xp4/1/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> <h2>What are cholesterol ratios?</h2> <p>Cholesterol ratios are sometimes used to provide more detail on the balance between different types of blood fats and to evaluate risk of developing heart disease.</p> <p>Commonly used ratios include:</p> <h2>1. Total cholesterol to HDL ratio</h2> <p>This ratio is used in Australia to <a href="https://www.cvdcheck.org.au/calculator">assess risk of heart disease</a>. It’s calculated by dividing your total cholesterol number by your HDL (good) cholesterol number.</p> <p>A higher ratio (<a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cholesterol-ratio-calculator#how-to-calculate">greater than 5</a>) is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, whereas a lower ratio is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.</p> <p>A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36589799/">study</a> of 32,000 Americans over eight years found adults who had either very high, or very low, total cholesterol/HDL ratios were at 26% and 18% greater risk of death from any cause during the study period.</p> <p>Those with a ratio of greater than 4.2 had a 13% higher risk of death from heart disease than those with a ratio lower than 4.2.</p> <h2>2. Non-HDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ratio (NHHR)</h2> <p>Non-HDL cholesterol is the total cholesterol minus HDL. Non-HDL cholesterol includes all blood fats such as LDL, triglycerides, Lp(a) and others. This ratio is abbreviated as NHHR.</p> <p>This ratio has been used more recently because it compares the ratio of “bad” blood fats that can contribute to atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) to “good” or anti-atherogenic blood fats (HDL).</p> <p>Non-HDL cholesterol is a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31170997/">stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease risk</a> than LDL alone, while <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37228232/">HDL is associated with</a> lower cardiovascular disease risk.</p> <p>Because this ratio removes the “good” cholesterol from the non-HDL part of the ratio, it is not penalising those people who have really high amounts of “good” HDL that make up their total cholesterol, which the first ratio does.</p> <p>Research has suggested this ratio may be a stronger <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39949279/">predictor of atherosclerosis in women than men</a>, however more research is needed.</p> <p>Another <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39415313">study</a> followed more than 10,000 adults with type 2 diabetes from the United States and Canada for about five years. The researchers found that for each unit increase in the ratio, there was around a 12% increased risk of having a heart attack, stroke or death.</p> <p>They identified a risk threshold of 6.28 or above, after adjusting for other risk factors. Anyone with a ratio greater than this is at very high risk and would require management to lower their risk of heart disease.</p> <h2>3. LDL-to-HDL cholesterol ratio</h2> <p>LDL/HDL is calculated by dividing your LDL cholesterol number by the HDL number. This gives a ratio of “bad” to “good” cholesterol.</p> <p>A lower ratio (<a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cholesterol-ratio-calculator#how-to-calculate">ideal is less than 2.0</a>) is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.</p> <p>While there is lesser focus on LDL/HDL, these ratios have been shown to be predictors of occurrence and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35843962/">severity of heart attacks</a> in patients presenting with chest pain.</p> <p>If you’re worried about your cholesterol levels or cardiovascular disease risk factors and are aged 45 and over (or over 30 for First Nations people), consider seeing your GP for a Medicare-rebated <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/heart-health-checks">Heart Health Check</a>.<!-- 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/253126/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/clare-collins-7316">Clare Collins</a>, Laureate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-newcastle-1060">University of Newcastle</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erin-clarke-1314081">Erin Clarke</a>, Postdoctoral Researcher, Nutrition and Dietetics, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-newcastle-1060">University of Newcastle</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-a-blood-cholesterol-ratio-and-what-should-yours-be-253126">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Everlabs</em></p> </div>

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Bindi shares heartbreaking update from hospital bed

<p>Beloved Aussie conservationist Bindi Irwin has updated fans following a recent health scare that saw her <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/bindi-irwin-rushed-to-hospital-in-the-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rushed to hospital</a> during a trip to Las Vegas. The 26-year-old was in the city to attend the annual Steve Irwin Gala Dinner, held in honour of her late father, when she was suddenly hospitalised.</p> <p>In a heartfelt video recorded from her hospital bed, Irwin addressed her concerned followers, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support she’s received.</p> <p>“Hey guys, Bindi here. I just wanted to thank you so much for your incredible well wishes. I just got out of surgery about an hour ago,” she said in the clip, visibly groggy but smiling.</p> <p>Irwin revealed the extent of her medical ordeal, explaining that doctors had removed her appendix and discovered 14 new endometriosis lesions, which were also excised. Additionally, surgeons repaired a hernia during the operation.</p> <p>“I’m sorry if I’m a little out of it in this video,” she said, “but I just wanted you to know that I’m on the road to recovery one step at a time and I am so lucky to have so much love in my life from my beautiful family.”</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/reel/DJkni9ypEfA/?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/reel/DJkni9ypEfA/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Her younger brother, Robert Irwin, 21, confirmed that Bindi’s appendix had ruptured, calling the situation an unexpected shock for the family. Speaking from the gala event, where he stepped in for his sister, he told reporters: “She’s going to be OK, but surgery – out of all the things we were ready for, that was not one of them.”</p> <p>This is not the first time Irwin has opened up about her health. In March 2023, she publicly shared her struggle with endometriosis, a painful condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing chronic pain and fatigue. At the time, she underwent surgery and disclosed that doctors had removed 37 lesions and a large ovarian cyst, commonly referred to as a “chocolate cyst”.</p> <p>“Going in for surgery was scary but I knew I couldn’t live like I was,” she said last year. “Every part of my life was getting torn apart because of the pain.”</p> <p>She also recalled the sobering words of her doctor post-operation: “How did you live with this much pain?”</p> <p>Bindi’s family has rallied around her once again, with brother Robert writing under her latest post, “Stay strong Bindi! Love you!” Her husband of five years, Chandler Powell, also commented: “Strongest person I know.”</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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Dr Charlie Teo's plea to have Aussie ban lifted

<p>Famed neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo has formally asked the Medical Council of New South Wales to lift the restrictions that have effectively barred him from performing complex brain surgeries in Australia for the past two years.</p> <p>In a letter submitted by his legal team, Dr Teo requested the removal of conditions requiring him to obtain written support from a Council-approved neurosurgeon before operating on patients with recurring malignant brain tumours or brain stem gliomas – some of the most challenging and high-risk cases in neurosurgery.</p> <p>These conditions were imposed following a Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) inquiry that found Dr Teo had recommended surgeries in two cases where the risks were deemed to outweigh the potential benefits. The inquiry also criticised the consent process for being “too optimistic”.</p> <p>Since the restrictions came into effect, Dr Teo has continued operating abroad, performing more than 230 surgeries in countries including China, Spain, Germany, India, Switzerland, Peru and South Africa. According to a submission provided to the Medical Board, of these 236 cases, 202 were classified as having "excellent" outcomes, 28 as "good", four as "fair", with two mortalities and none listed as "poor."</p> <p>“I’ve done exactly what was asked of me in Australia, albeit abroad and not by choice but by necessity,” Dr Teo <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/can-only-hope-neurosurgeon-charlie-teo-requests-end-to-aussie-operating-ban/news-story/85b9d25f40db864bac9d1a03a859a1d0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told news.com.au</a>. “The supervising neurosurgeons have been extremely impressed with my results, and I guess I have even surprised myself.”</p> <p>Dr Teo said he was proud of maintaining his high standards under intense scrutiny. “Now that I have been able to focus on the real enemy – brain cancer – and not be stressed by potential vilification and persecution is a Godsend.”</p> <p>One of the many Australian patients who travelled overseas to receive treatment from Dr Teo is Tanya Miles, a mother of six who was diagnosed with recurrent glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. After undergoing surgery abroad, she said she is now optimistic about having more time with her children.</p> <p>“I’m angry that I couldn’t make the same choice in my own country,” Ms Miles said. “But I’m so relieved I listened to my gut. Now I have the best possible chance of spending years, not weeks, with my children.”</p> <p>Dr Teo said his push to have the restrictions lifted is not just about regaining the right to operate in Australia but about a broader principle of patient choice and access. “I may not necessarily get a job back here, which would be a real shame for Australian brain cancer and brain tumour patients,” he said. “But I am hopeful that one day some of my fellow neurosurgeons will put patient care above politics. Having the restrictions lifted may be the catalyst.”</p> <p>Dr Teo remains active in brain cancer advocacy and fundraising and will appear at the Rebel Ball in Sydney on May 31, an event expected to draw many of his patients, including Ms Miles.</p> <p>The Medical Council of NSW has not yet responded to Dr Teo’s request. </p> <p><em>Image: News.com.au</em></p>

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Bindi Irwin rushed to hospital in the US

<p>Conservationist and TV personality Bindi Irwin was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery in Las Vegas after suffering a ruptured appendix, her brother Robert Irwin confirmed over the weekend.</p> <p>The 26-year-old daughter of the late Steve Irwin had travelled to Las Vegas to attend the annual Steve Irwin Gala, which honours her father’s legacy and raises funds for Wildlife Warriors, the conservation organisation he founded. However, an unexpected medical crisis derailed her plans.</p> <p>“She’s going to be OK, but surgery – out of all the things we were ready for, that was not one of them,” said Robert Irwin, 21, in an interview with <em>People</em> at the gala. “She’s just come out the other side of endometriosis and now the appendix goes. Health is so important – it really is.”</p> <p>Bindi had reportedly intended to attend the high-profile event despite experiencing severe discomfort. “She came to Las Vegas and was ready to come to the gala, put on a brave face in a lot of discomfort and a lot of pain and said, ‘Nope, I’m just going to tough it out, I’m going to go for it,’” Robert said. “But the surgeon said, ‘No, your appendix is going. That thing’s gotta come out.’ Health has to come first.”</p> <p>Their mother, Terri Irwin, 60, also skipped the gala to be by Bindi’s side during her recovery. “She’s very sad,” Robert said of his sister. “She’s devastated that she and Mum can’t be here, but I know she’ll make a speedy recovery.”</p> <p>“Bindi has become an incredible advocate for women’s health particularly," <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">continued Robert, "</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">and I think it’s really important to prioritise getting help.”</span></p> <p>Just a day before her hospitalisation, Bindi shared cheerful photos on social media alongside her mother and brother in Las Vegas. “Khaki by day – Bellagio chic by night! Here in #LasVegas for the #SteveIrwinGala raising funds and awareness for Wildlife Warriors,” she captioned the post. “Supporting conservation and remembering Dad’s extraordinary legacy.”</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/DJdlZ9zOTNd/?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/DJdlZ9zOTNd/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The Steve Irwin Gala is held annually to raise awareness and funds for conservation efforts in honour of Steve Irwin, who died tragically in 2006 after a stingray attack.</p> <p>Bindi has been candid about her long battle with endometriosis, which went undiagnosed for a decade. In a February episode of the A Life of Greatness podcast, she spoke openly about the debilitating symptoms and challenges she faced before undergoing surgery in March 2023. “Every day the fatigue and the battle,” she said, describing how the illness affected her daily life and relationships.</p> <p>“There’s no cure for endometriosis, but if you’re able to get surgery you have a better shot at life,” she said. “Maybe in five or 10 years, I’ll have to get another surgery, but for now, it’s all gone, which I’m very grateful for.”</p> <p>Despite her health setbacks, Bindi continues to inspire many through her advocacy and commitment to wildlife conservation – a mission she proudly carries forward in her father’s name.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Guy Sebastian hospitalised for very Aussie reason

<p>Beloved Aussie pop prince Guy Sebastian has taken one for the team – literally – by rupturing his Achilles tendon during a local Division 5 footy match.</p> <p>The silky-voiced <em>Australian Idol</em> winner known for soaring ballads and immaculate falsetto decided to swap the stage for the slog and ran out with AFL great Brendan Fevola for a game with Masala Dandenong’s Thirds. A bold move, considering this is a team that, just one week prior, lost by a modest 229 points – which is less a scoreline and more a cry for help.</p> <p>But help arrived in the form of boots, bravado and bangers. Not only did Guy show up in full kit, he delivered a halftime concert to a local crowd who probably didn’t realise their sausage sizzles came with a side of chart-topping vocals. Fevola, ever the ringmaster of Aussie larrikin spectacle, convinced Sebastian to both sing and suit up, promising little more than community spirit and maybe a bruised ego.</p> <p>What no one promised was a ruptured Achilles.</p> <p>According to Fevola, Sebastian was only meant to drop in for a bit of singing and sideline spectating before heading back to Sydney for a mate’s 40th. But apparently, once the footy fever hits, it hits hard. Sebastian got caught up in the magic of the Masala comeback – perhaps the first time “magic” and “Masala Dandenong” have shared a sentence – and opted to return to the field for the second half.</p> <p>It was a decision his body did not co-sign.</p> <p>Cue the fourth quarter, and down he went. “He just fell,” Fevola recalled helpfully, between fits of laughter. “Singers shouldn’t play footy, footy players shouldn’t sing – stick to your genre.” Wise words from a man who once sang “My Way” on national television while three sheets to the wind.</p> <p>Sebastian, true to form, kept things classy. He joined the post-match victory song on crutches, then posted on Instagram with his usual charm: “Unfortunately I’ve done a proper number on myself. #realitycheck #sticktosinging #footyglorydaysareover.” It was the first time in history that a ruptured tendon trended so positively on social media.</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/reel/DJd-h2TRvk_/?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/reel/DJd-h2TRvk_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by guysebastian (@guysebastian)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>To his credit, Fevola managed to boot six goals and lead the team to an unlikely 8.5 (53) to 7.13 (55) win, ending a 20-game losing streak and likely earning himself free drinks at Lois Twohig Reserve for life. Guy, meanwhile, will be earning some much-deserved rest – and probably a renewed appreciation for low-impact cardio.</p> <p>Get well soon, mate. And next time, maybe just bring the guitar.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Olympic rugby player killed in tragic incident at just 30

<p>The rugby world is in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of Fijian rugby star and Olympic silver medallist Josaia Raisuqe, who died at the age of 30 in a devastating road accident in France.</p> <p>Raisuqe, who had been playing for the French Top 14 club Castres Olympique since 2021, was reportedly killed when his vehicle was struck by a train at a level crossing. Local authorities confirmed the fatal collision occurred late Wednesday night, with news reaching his club the following morning.</p> <p>In a heartfelt statement, Castres announced the postponement of their upcoming fixture against ASM Clermont, saying, “The entire CO family is shaken by this terrible news. Josh had been part of the club since 2021. He was a wonderful teammate, very much appreciated by all, and by the Castres supporters who had adopted him. We extend our sincere condolences and our thoughts to his family and loved ones.”</p> <p>Born in Fiji, Raisuqe had a dynamic rugby career that began with the national sevens team, culminating in a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Fiji lost to host nation France 28-7 in the gold medal match, but Raisuqe's contribution was pivotal throughout the tournament. His strength, speed and spirit made him a beloved figure both at home and abroad.</p> <p>The Fiji Drua, who compete in the Super Rugby Pacific competition, joined the chorus of tributes, writing, “We lost more than a player – we lost a brother, a teammate and a true son of Fijian Rugby. Rest in peace, Jo. Your spirit will forever live on in the game and in our hearts.”</p> <p>Raisuqe’s impact stretched beyond the field. His partner posted an emotional tribute on Instagram, alongside cherished photos of their time together: “Babe, my love, my beautiful husband. Thank you for all my love. I love you all my life, way up there.”</p> <p>Raisuqe began his professional career in France in 2015 with Stade Français, later joining second-division side Nevers. Known for his fiery play and passionate spirit, he once made headlines in 2021 for exuberantly lifting a referee in celebration after a victory – an act that, despite earning him a red card, endeared him to fans as a joyful and larger-than-life personality.</p> <p>Castres chairman Pierre-Yves Revol remembered him as “a radiant boy on and off the field, a pillar of the Fijian community we have at the club and to which we are very attached”.</p> <p>He added, “It is also difficult at this time not to mention the faith of all these (Fijian) players and of Josaia. My thoughts are with his fiancée and his entire family.”</p> <p>As tributes continue to pour in from across the rugby world, Josaia Raisuqe is remembered not only for his strength and skill, but for the light he brought to every locker room, every field and every heart he touched.</p> <p>He is survived by his partner, his family in Fiji, and his extended rugby family around the world.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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“Angels in scrubs”: Cancer survivor's pledge to repay the nurses who saved his life

<p>Just six months after completing one of the most aggressive cancer treatment regimens his hospital had ever seen, Shane Whiteford is lacing up his running shoes – not to escape his past, but to honour those who carried him through it.</p> <p>Diagnosed in December 2023 with a rare and dangerously situated Ewing Sarcoma in his neck, Shane’s year-long battle with cancer included major surgery, a gruelling 12 months of chemotherapy, and four relentless weeks of daily radiation.</p> <p>Now in recovery, the devoted father of two, husband and son is taking on a different kind of challenge: running 200 kilometres in the month of June to raise funds – not for hospital equipment or research – but for the nurses he calls “angels in scrubs”!</p> <p>“They help you understand the complexities of treatment, they talk you through each step,” Shane said. “And along the way, they become friends, therapists, a shoulder to cry on, and your rock to rely on.”</p> <p>From chemo chairs to emotional breakdowns, the oncology nurses at <a href="https://www.calvarycare.org.au/hospitals/calvary-mater-newcastle/services-and-clinics-3/cancer-services-3/medical-oncology" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Calvary Mater Newcastle’s Day Treatment Centre</a> were with Shane through it all. And now, he wants to give back.</p> <p>“This fundraiser is for them,” Shane wrote on his <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/oncology-nurses-at-calvery-mater-newcastle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe page</a>. “Not the hospital, not the directors… but for my great support team.” The funds raised will go toward whatever the nursing team chooses – “something to make their workdays a little brighter.”</p> <p>Running an average of six kilometres per day, Shane’s goal is part of his ongoing rehab – his return to physical fitness only beginning in February 2025 after months of debilitating treatment.</p> <p>“I am now six months clear and have started to gain my ‘new’ normal life,” he shared. “This run is my way of saying thank you. I couldn't have done my journey without them.”</p> <p>With every kilometre, Shane is not only rebuilding his strength but reminding the world of the quiet heroes in our hospitals. His battle cry?</p> <p><em>“FU Cancer. I kicked your ass.”</em></p> <p>And now, with every step, he’s lifting others up – one stride, one donation and one angel in scrubs at a time.</p> <p><em>Image: GoFundMe</em></p>

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"Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love": Tragedy strikes at BSB

<p>A devastating multi-bike crash during the opening lap of the British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park has claimed the lives of two riders and left several others injured, casting a dark shadow over the start of the 2025 racing season.</p> <p>The incident, described as a "catastrophic" chain-reaction crash involving 11 motorcycles, occurred at the exit of the first turn during Monday’s season-opening feature race. The race, which was being broadcast live on television and served as a support event for the top-tier Superbike Championship, was immediately red-flagged and later abandoned.</p> <p>British rider Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, a 29-year-old father of two from New Zealand, were both tragically killed in the collision. Organisers confirmed Jenner succumbed to a catastrophic head injury despite emergency treatment at the track and further resuscitation at the circuit medical centre. Richardson was initially stabilised at the scene but passed away en route to Royal Stoke University Hospital from severe chest trauma.</p> <p>The crash also left veteran racer Tom Tunstall, 47, hospitalised with serious back and abdominal injuries. He remains under medical care.</p> <p>Several other riders suffered injuries in the incident, with Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood sustaining minor harm. Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker and George Edwards escaped without injury.</p> <p>In an official statement, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB) and MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) confirmed that an investigation into the full circumstances of the accident is underway in collaboration with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.</p> <p>Richardson, who proudly raced with the New Zealand flag on his No. 28 Suzuki and finished ninth in last year’s championship, had just placed 11th in Sunday’s opening race. His passing marks another tragic blow to New Zealand motorsport, following the death of fellow Kiwi Damon Rees two years ago.</p> <p>Australian reigning Supersport champion Ben Currie, who narrowly avoided the crash, expressed his heartbreak: “Hard to put into words what happened today. Gutted for everyone involved. Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love. Thoughts are with all that are involved. RIP boys.”</p> <p>Fellow rider Freddie Barnes, writing from hospital, echoed the grief of the paddock: “My condolences go out to Owen and Shane’s family and friends. I’m absolutely devastated… ride on in paradise boys.”</p> <p>The emotional toll of the incident was evident as tributes poured in across the motorsport community.</p> <p>Racer TJ Toms wrote: “Two lads I feel absolutely privileged to call mates… My heart, love and thoughts go out to OJ’s family and to Hanna and Shane’s little family. Thank you for all our memories boys.”</p> <p>Joe Sheldon-Shaw added: “Had some great races with both these lads, and a lot of laughs off the track with OJ. Heartbreaking day today… The paddock won’t be the same without them.”</p> <p>Despite the tragedy, the Supersport Championship is set to resume in two weeks at Donington Park. As the racing world mourns, it does so with heavy hearts, united in grief and remembrance of two riders lost far too soon.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Can drinking champagne reduce your risk of sudden cardiac arrest?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>“My only regret in life is that I didn’t drink enough champagne,” the English economist and philosopher John Maynard Keynes (1883–1946) is reported to have said. As it turns out, there may be a surprising ounce of truth to that quote.</p> <p>Picture this: a glass of champagne – bubbly, crisp and, for many, reserved for toasts and celebrations. Now imagine it being mentioned in the same sentence as a way to help prevent <a href="https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/cardiac-arrest">sudden cardiac arrest</a>: a condition where the heart abruptly stops beating, killing tens of thousands each year, often without warning. Sounds too good to be true, right?</p> <p>Yet, <a href="https://onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(25)00171-0/fulltext">a Canadian study</a> has uncovered a curious link. Using data from over half a million people in the health research database the <a href="https://www.ukbiobank.ac.uk/">UK Biobank</a>, researchers found that those who consumed moderate amounts of white wine or champagne had a lower risk of experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Surprising, especially given the widely held belief <a href="https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/46/2/173/7920813?login=false#google_vignette">that red wine</a>, not white, is what benefits the heart.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9JvI392Iep8?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>To rule out coincidence, the researchers double-checked their findings using genetic data – and the connection seemed to hold firm. This suggests there might be more to the story than chance alone.</p> <p>The study didn’t stop at wine. It explored more than 100 lifestyle and environmental factors tied to sudden cardiac arrest, including diet, exercise, air pollution, emotional wellbeing, body composition and education levels – all of which have been independently associated with risk. The conclusion? Up to 63% of sudden cardiac arrest cases could potentially be prevented by addressing these risk factors.</p> <p>Among all the protective factors identified, a few stood out: fruit consumption, regular computer use (yes, really) and moderate drinking of white wine or champagne were all linked to a reduced risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Why? That remains uncertain.</p> <p>One theory is that white wine contains antioxidants that may support heart health. Another possibility is that people who drink these types of beverages may also be more affluent and more likely to engage in other healthy behaviour, such as eating well, exercising regularly – and have access to better healthcare.</p> <p>But before you pop a cork in celebration, a word of caution: alcohol remains a complex and often contradictory player in heart health. Other large-scale studies suggest a <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/356/bmj.j909">U-shaped relationship</a> between alcohol and cardiovascular disease. Non-drinkers may have a certain level of risk, moderate drinkers of one glass of wine a day <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7020057/">may see</a> some benefit, but heavy drinking sharply increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart failure.</p> <p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.10.022">One observational study</a> involving over 400,000 participants even found that moderate drinking could raise the risk of <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/arrhythmia/">arrhythmias</a>, which in some cases can lead to sudden death.</p> <p>So while champagne may offer a hopeful glimmer, it’s no magic bullet. The study’s broader message was clear: it’s the overall lifestyle that matters most. Better sleep, regular physical activity and <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-heart-patients-have-trouble-sticking-to-a-healthy-diet-and-3-things-that-help-them-eat-better-239172">a balanced diet</a> significantly reduced the risk of sudden cardiac arrest – and could prevent nearly one in five cases.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jdgYN1QgKng?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>On the flip side, obesity, high blood pressure and chronic stress were among the strongest risk factors, along with lower education levels and exposure to air pollution. These findings underscore that preventing sudden cardiac arrest isn’t just about personal habits: it’s also about the environments we live in and the policies that shape them. Cleaner air, better education and easier access to nutritious food could all play a role.</p> <p>Sudden cardiac arrest is not entirely random. Many of the contributing factors are within our control. Managing stress, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, getting quality sleep – and yes, perhaps enjoying the occasional glass of white wine – can all help. But the real power lies in stacking small, healthy choices over time. Prevention is rarely about a single change; it’s about the cumulative effect of many.</p> <p>And in case you were wondering: Keynes suffered a series of heart attacks in 1946, beginning during negotiations for the <a href="https://history.blog.gov.uk/2020/12/07/whats-the-context-signing-the-anglo-american-financial-agreement-6-december-1945/">Anglo-American loan</a> in Savannah, Georgia. He described the process as “absolute hell”. A few weeks after returning to his farmhouse in Firle, East Sussex, he died of a heart attack at the age of 62.</p> <p>Maybe he was right about drinking more champagne after all.<!-- 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/255708/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/david-c-gaze-312661">David C. Gaze</a>, Senior Lecturer in Chemical Pathology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-westminster-916">University of Westminster</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/can-drinking-champagne-reduce-your-risk-of-sudden-cardiac-arrest-heres-why-its-only-a-small-part-of-the-story-255708">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> </div>

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"I'm going straight into surgery": Barnaby Joyce opens on cancer diagnosis

<p>Former Deputy Prime Minister and long-time Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has revealed he is battling prostate cancer, using the opportunity to encourage Australian men to prioritise their health.</p> <p>In his first public comments since the diagnosis, Joyce spoke candidly with <em>Sunrise </em>on Monday morning, just hours before heading into surgery.</p> <p>“Literally, straight after this … I’m going … straight down the road and straight into surgery,” the newly re-elected Member for New England told host Natalie Barr.</p> <p>Joyce said he was feeling well despite the diagnosis, highlighting a common danger with prostate cancer. “I feel fine. I suppose that’s the problem with prostate cancer, you don’t feel bad.”</p> <p>He explained that his cancer was discovered during the election campaign, thanks to a persistent doctor who urged him to take a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. “It was like ‘bingo’ – there were elevated levels,” Joyce recalled.</p> <p>Following a PSA test, Joyce underwent an MRI and then a biopsy, which confirmed the presence of early-stage prostate cancer. “They said, ‘You’re lucky, it’s early stages, you’ve got to do something about it,’” he said.</p> <p>Despite the diagnosis, Joyce chose to delay surgery until after the election to avoid disrupting his campaign. “I didn’t want a big circus going on during the election,” he said.</p> <p>In a lighter moment, Joyce revealed he was delayed getting to hospital because of a flat tyre. “I can’t help myself, can I?” he joked.</p> <p>Joyce said his experience serves as a warning to other men. “If you’re a man, or you know a man, if you’re in your 40s, 50s, go get a PSA test and clear your own mind that everything is fine,” he urged. “If you get it early you’re overwhelmingly going to be OK.”</p> <p>Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, also appearing on <em>Sunrise</em>, praised Joyce’s decision to speak openly about his diagnosis. “I really do think that having high-profile people like Barnaby talk about their health challenges is really important to encourage other men to get the test,” she said.</p> <p>Professor Damien Bolton, Urologist and President of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ) also added a message of support in response to Joyce’s openness. “By being open and honest about his prostate cancer diagnosis, Barnaby Joyce is helping raise awareness about a disease that is the second most common cause of cancer related deaths in men,” said Bolton. “If caught early, prostate cancer is nearly always curable with 97 percent of men still alive five years after their diagnosis.”</p> <p>Joyce concluded with a message of hope and perspective: “Look at this beautiful world; you want to live as long as you possibly can.”</p> <p><em>Image: Sunrise</em></p>

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Lauren Zonfrillo speaks on husband Jock’s sudden death

<p>In a moment that has resonated with grief across Australia and beyond, Lauren Zonfrillo has spoken publicly for the first time about the devastating loss of her husband, celebrated chef and <em>MasterChef Australia </em>judge Jock Zonfrillo.</p> <p>Zonfrillo, just 46 years old, was found dead in a Melbourne hotel room in May 2023. The suddenness of his passing left his family shattered – his wife Lauren and their two young children were on the other side of the world in Italy when they received the unimaginable news.</p> <p>Since then, many questions have lingered, especially around the cause of his death. But Lauren has now made it clear: those details will remain private.</p> <p>Speaking in an emotional interview with Liz Hayes for <em>7NEWS Spotlight</em>, Lauren shared how she and the coroner agreed not to make Jock’s cause of death public – a decision made out of respect, protection and love.</p> <p>“We spoke to the coroner multiple times because the inquest took a while,” she said. “It was just sort of agreed that for the privacy and safety of our family... that it wouldn’t be in the public’s best interest or our best interest, and that was determined well before the report was finalised.”</p> <p>In Victoria, coronial findings are not always made public, and discretion can be used if deemed to be in the public interest. Earlier this year, it was confirmed that the investigation into Zonfrillo’s death was concluded in August 2024, with no report to be released.</p> <p>While some sources close to the family have said the beloved chef died of natural causes, Lauren said it was her desire to shield her family from further public scrutiny – and to preserve some part of the man who, to them, was far more than a television personality.</p> <p>“Up until Jock’s death, yes, he was a public figure,” she said. “But, since we lost Jock, I’d been trying to reclaim some of his privacy… to give him some peace as much as I can. To us, he’s Dad, Papa, husband – and he’s not a public figure to us anymore.”</p> <p>As tributes to Jock continue to pour in, the grief of his family remains raw – and the privacy they seek a small comfort in the shadow of profound loss.</p> <p><em>Images: 7NEWS Spotlight</em></p>

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Sir David Attenborough marks 99th birthday with special appeal

<p>As he nears his 99th birthday, Sir David Attenborough – the beloved voice of the natural world for generations – has delivered perhaps his most emotional and urgent message yet: time is running out, not just for him, but for the planet.</p> <p>In a new documentary titled <em>Ocean: With David Attenborough</em>, set to release in cinemas on May 8 – the very day he turns 99 – the legendary broadcaster confronts the fragility of Earth’s ecosystems with stirring honesty. It is a deeply personal reflection on a lifetime of observing the planet’s wonders and wounds.</p> <p>“Now, as I approach the end of my life,” he says, “we know the opposite is true,” referring to the misguided idea that the sea was once a wilderness to be conquered. “The key to saving the planet is not on land, but at sea.”</p> <p>These words don’t come from a man resigned to despair, but from one who has spent nearly a century in awe of the world’s resilience. And yet, Attenborough doesn’t shy away from the pain of witnessing environmental decline. “The planet is in such poor health,” he admits, “that I would find it hard not to lose hope – were it not for the ocean.”</p> <p>It is here, in the depths of Earth’s oceans, that Attenborough finds not only scientific promise but emotional solace. “If we save the sea, we save our world,” he declares with conviction. “After a lifetime of filming our planet, I’m sure nothing is more important.”</p> <p>The documentary, as sweeping as it is intimate, takes viewers across oceans in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Oceania, exploring coral reefs, mangroves, coastal communities, marine sanctuaries and more. It highlights bold efforts by scientists and communities working to reverse the damage caused by humanity’s relentless exploitation – efforts that offer not only solutions but hope.</p> <p>With characteristic reverence and poetic clarity, Attenborough traces the sea’s central role in sustaining life on Earth. The film does more than educate – it pleads for connection, for urgency, for action.</p> <p>From <em>Zoo Quest</em> in the 1950s to <em>Life on Earth</em>, <em>The Blue Planet</em>, <em>Planet Earth</em> and <em>Dynasties</em>, Sir David’s work has been a chronicle of the natural world’s magnificence and its mounting distress. But never before has his message felt so personal – or so final. It's a legacy project: not just a film, but a farewell letter from a man who has given his life to showing us the beauty of this planet.</p>

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Outrage after shirtless man knocks out 92-year-old woman

<p>In a horrifying broad daylight attack that has shaken the Williamstown community southwest of Melbourne, CCTV footage has captured the moment a shirtless man allegedly knocked a 92-year-old woman unconscious outside a busy shopping centre.</p> <p>The unprovoked incident occurred just after midday, as the elderly woman was walking along Douglas Parade in Williamstown. According to Victoria Police, a shirtless man approached her and suddenly swung his arm, striking her in the head. The blow sent the woman crashing to the pavement, rendering her unconscious.</p> <p>Disturbing CCTV vision shows the man calmly walking away from the scene as the elderly victim lies motionless on the ground. Witnesses can be seen rushing to her aid moments later, with some members of the public reportedly restraining the man until police arrived.</p> <p>Ambulance Victoria confirmed the woman was transported to hospital in a stable condition. Miraculously, her injuries are not considered life-threatening.</p> <p>In a statement later released from her hospital bed, the woman expressed deep gratitude to those who came to her aid.</p> <p>"I wish to thank all those who have been so caring of me," she said. "I remember nothing of the actual incident, but when I woke up, I was surrounded by the police and ambulance and caring onlookers. I wish to thank everyone for their concern. I'm pleased to go home as I have a loving family and supportive friends."</p> <p>The alleged attacker, a 39-year-old man with no fixed address, was arrested on the scene and has since been charged with intentionally causing injury.</p> <p>Police are continuing their investigation and are urging anyone who witnessed the attack or has further footage to come forward.</p> <p><em>Images: Victoria Police</em></p>

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"Find a life worth enjoying": King Charles opens up on his battle with cancer

<p>King Charles III has opened up publicly for the first time about his battle with cancer, offering a heartfelt reflection on the lessons he has learned during a special event at Buckingham Palace.</p> <p>The monarch, who was diagnosed with cancer in February 2024, described the experience as one that “brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity”, as he addressed guests gathered to celebrate community initiatives raising cancer awareness and supporting those affected by the disease.</p> <p>“Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones,” the King said. “It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening.”</p> <p>The event was attended by healthcare professionals, volunteers, advocates and families affected by cancer, many of whom Charles has supported throughout his public life. He praised their efforts, noting that his own experience had reinforced a long-held belief: that compassion and connection are vital to the healing journey.</p> <p>“The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion,” he said, highlighting the roles of hospice volunteers, specialist nurses and support groups in forming what he called a “community of care”.</p> <p>Charles also expressed his family's deep gratitude to the healthcare professionals involved in cancer treatment across the UK. “They have my whole family’s deepest admiration and gratitude,” he said. “Their care represents the very best our country can offer.”</p> <p>While the King has kept the specific details of his condition private, Buckingham Palace confirmed he was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/king-charles-admitted-to-hospital" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hospitalised last month</a> due to side effects from his treatment. His diagnosis came just weeks before Princess Kate, 43, revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy, sparking concern and sympathy across the nation and beyond.</p> <p>Global statistics underscore the urgency of the fight against cancer: in 2022, approximately 20 million new cases were diagnosed worldwide, with 9.7 million lives lost, according to the American Cancer Society.</p> <p>Concluding his remarks, King Charles shared a quote from Dame Deborah James – the beloved British journalist and campaigner who died of bowel cancer in 2022 – whose parents were in attendance at the Palace.</p> <p>“‘Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope,’” he said.</p> <p><em>Image: Sunrise</em></p>

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"First time I've really cried": Star shares sad family news

<p>Christina Applegate is mourning the loss of her father, Robert "Bob" Applegate, who passed away last week. The 53-year-old actress shared the heartbreaking news during an emotional episode of her podcast MeSsy, which she co-hosts with fellow actress Jamie Lynn Sigler.</p> <p>Applegate broke down in tears as she revealed her father had died just a week earlier, marking the first time she publicly grieved his passing.</p> <p>"You're probably wondering why I'm crying right now, I'm sorry," Applegate said through tears. "My dad just passed away a week ago. This is the first time I've really cried."</p> <p>Struggling to hold back emotion, the <em>Dead to Me</em> star admitted that she had been suppressing her grief. "I think kind of, like, I wasn't allowing myself to have that yet. [I was] too busy with this, too busy with that."</p> <p>Applegate hinted that her father's death followed an illness, though she did not share specific details. “We knew he was going to die," she said. "Is that an excuse for not feeling? Because you know that someone's gonna go, and you've said your goodbyes?”</p> <p>The episode of MeSsy centreed on a conversation about grief with guest JoAnna García Swisher. Sigler, aware of how raw the topic might be, warned that the discussion could be "triggering" for Applegate. At the time, Applegate believed she would be able to handle it – but as the recording unfolded, her sadness surfaced.</p> <p>“I thought I was going to be OK, and I’m not,” she said. “I’m insanely sad.”</p> <p>Christina Applegate, the only child of Bob Applegate and actress Nancy Priddy, has largely kept her family life out of the spotlight. However, she and her father did share a public moment together in 2013 on TLC’s <em>Who Do You Think You Are</em>, exploring their family’s roots.</p> <p>Bob Applegate’s passing comes during an already difficult chapter in Christina’s life. In 2021, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She has spoken candidly about her battle with the illness, revealing on a recent episode of Dax Shepard's <em>Armchair Expert</em> that she has “30 lesions” on her brain.</p> <p>“My biggest one is behind my right eye, so my right eye hurts a lot,” she shared.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Aussie teen surfers earn worldwide praise for saving grandmother and grandson

<p>A wave of global praise is crashing over four incredible teenage surfers who risked their lives to save a grandmother and her young grandson from dangerous surf conditions at Adelaide’s West Beach.</p> <p>In a moment of pure bravery and instinct, 14-year-old Kai Nixon sprang into action after spotting a 10-year-old boy caught in a fierce rip current. Without hesitation, Kai paddled through treacherous waters to reach the child, ultimately guiding him to the safety of nearby rocks.</p> <p>But the rescue didn’t stop there.</p> <p>As cries for help echoed across the beach, fellow teenage surfers Cruz Campbell, Louis Kempster and Riley Kellock – who were nearby – zeroed in on a second, even more urgent crisis. The boy’s grandmother was being pulled farther out to sea. Working together, the three boys launched into action and successfully brought her back to shore.</p> <p>Though the teens didn’t all know one another, their combined effort was seamless. “They didn’t know each other so they were two different groups of boys who were able to come together and just execute a really seamless plan,” said Louis’ proud mother, Dana.</p> <p>Now, the story of their heroic actions is resonating far beyond Australia. Interview requests are coming in from media outlets across the United States, and people around the world are hailing the boys as heroes.</p> <p>Among those singing their praises is South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, who offered high commendation: “Nothing but the offer of the highest of praise to these young fellas who have shown extraordinary courage. They demonstrate there’s a lot of good among young people.”</p> <p>Kai, who has been a member of the West Beach Surf Life Saving Club since 2016, is set to be formally recognised for his courage. Club president Graeme Cunningham was effusive in his admiration: “Kai assessed the situation and acted cool and calmly. The outcome was good and he did a fantastic job.” The club will be submitting the rescue for review by Surf Life Saving SA, putting Kai in the running for a prestigious state-level award.</p> <p>Just months before this life-saving moment, Kai had completed his surf rescue certificate – a training that proved invaluable. “The skills they learn are able to be used in real life situations,” Cunningham said. “Our members use these skills when they’re not on patrol.”</p> <p>Surf Life Saving SA chief executive Damien Marangon echoed the praise: “Their quick-thinking and skilled response, undertaken despite the personal risks, are truly commendable and turned a potentially tragic incident into a story of bravery and exceptional rescue.”</p> <p>Thanks to these extraordinary teenagers, a family was reunited, a tragedy was averted – and the world gained four new heroes.</p> <p><em>Images: 9 News</em></p>

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Carlton mourns the loss of one of the greats of the game

<p>The Australian football world is in mourning following the passing of one of the game's most electrifying figures, Peter Bosustow, aged 67.</p> <p>Bosustow, affectionately known as "The Buzz", died early Monday morning in Perth after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife Shelley, son Brent and daughter Brooke, who were by his side to say their final goodbyes.</p> <p>The son of former Carlton player Bob Bosustow, Peter lit up Princes Park from the moment he crossed from Perth in 1981, joining fellow Western Australian Ken Hunter. Both became instant sensations, but it was Bosustow's acrobatics, sharp goal sense and larger-than-life personality that quickly made him a Carlton cult hero.</p> <p>In just three seasons and 65 games for the Blues, Bosustow made an indelible impact, booting 146 goals and helping lead the club to back-to-back premierships in 1981 and 1982. His inaugural season remains one of the most memorable in AFL history, winning both the Goal of the Year and Mark of the Year awards, alongside lifting the premiership trophy.</p> <p>Former teammate Ken Hunter remembered Bosustow fondly, saying, “I think of what a character ‘Buzz’ was and how much he took to the big stage. He was a unique character and a rare football talent in equal measure. The Carlton people loved ‘Buzz’ and he loved Carlton.”</p> <p>Bosustow's highlight reel moments – none greater than his soaring mark over Geelong's John Mossop at Princes Park and his instinctive goal against Ian Nankervis at VFL Park – are still cherished by Blues fans. His ability to turn a game in a few magical moments made him a constant crowd favourite.</p> <p>Former Carlton coach David Parkin paid a heartfelt tribute, describing Bosustow as “an exceptional talent” who was "probably as exciting a player to watch as we ever had". Parkin recalled Bosustow's breathtaking smother, gather and goal during the 1981 semi-final as the quintessential example of his rare brilliance.</p> <p>After three seasons, Bosustow returned to WA in 1984 due to his father's illness. He continued to shine at WAFL level with Perth, where he played 141 games and kicked 379 goals, also representing WA against Victoria and South Australia. He topped Perth’s goalkicking three times and was later named in the club's Team of the Century.</p> <p>A comeback attempt at Carlton in 1986 ultimately fell short, but his connection with the club and its supporters never wavered.</p> <p>Bosustow's final years were marked by courage in the face of illness. Diagnosed with bowel and liver cancer, he fought valiantly and even celebrated a brief cancer-free period in 2023. However, his second battle with cancer recently became public, and earlier this month he was hospitalised in Perth.</p> <p>Remarkably, Bosustow spent his final evening watching his beloved Blues claim a stirring victory over Geelong at the MCG – the same club against which he once performed some of his most iconic feats. According to reports, he raised a fist in celebration at the final siren.</p> <p>Throughout his illness, Bosustow received widespread support from the football community, with fundraising efforts in 2022 attended by many of his former teammates and friends.</p> <p>Peter Bosustow leaves behind a legacy as one of football’s most charismatic and spectacular talents. His high-flying marks, impossible goals and infectious spirit will forever be part of Carlton's rich history — and in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to witness "The Buzz" in full flight.</p> <p><em>Images: Carlton FC</em></p>

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