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Olympic champion inducted to Sport Australia Hall of Fame

<p>Olympic gold medallist Sally Pearson and surfing legend Mick Fanning have joined the most elite group of Australian sportspeople, after being inducted to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (SAHOF). </p> <p>Pearson is one of only nine Australian women to win an Olympic track and field gold medal, winning her first gold in London 2012. She won a silver medal in 2008 for the 100m hurdles, and has World Championship success in 2011 and 2017.</p> <p>She is also the first Australian to be named World Athlete of the year, and won the SAHOF’s “The Don” Award twice. </p> <p> Pearson said it was “surreal” to be included in such esteemed company, including the likes of Cathy Freeman, her childhood hero.</p> <p>“I don’t think it’s really sunk in. It’s so surreal. It feels like it just happens to people you see on TV,” she said.</p> <p>“I still feel like I’m watching the Sydney Olympics and watching Cathy Freeman run. When Steve Hooker won gold in Beijing I was sitting on the sidelines.</p> <p>“Even though I won silver, I was thinking, this is really cool. I’m watching this person, this athlete, just doing amazing things. It’s a bizarre feeling that I’m one of those people now.”</p> <p>Surfing legend Mick Fanning, who is already a member of the World Surfers’ Hall of Fame and Australian Surfing Hall of Fame and said he was pretty “flabbergasted” to be elevated into the SAHOF. </p> <p>“Australia produces so many incredible sporting stars and to be honoured as one of those, among the greats, I’m pretty flabbergasted, to be honest,” he said.</p> <p>“It’s not something that we ever look for when we’re doing our sport, but to be acknowledged later in life is very special and I’m very honoured to be able to share it with people who have supported me.</p> <p>“I wasn’t the most talented person, I wasn’t the most gifted, I didn’t have the most money or anything like that, but I just gave it my all.’’</p> <p>Fanning enters as a three-time world champion for surfing. </p> <p>Motorsport great Mark Skaife, former Kookaburras’ captain Mark Knowles, lawn bowls trailblazer Karen Murphy and dual-sport Paralympics champion Liesl Tesch are some of the other 2024 inductees. </p> <p><em>Image: Colorsport/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

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"The issue is, he's alive": AFL mistakenly commemorates Hawthorn great

<p>The AFL has found itself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after prematurely mourning a former player’s death at this week’s Hall of Fame ceremony.</p> <p>The ceremony, held on Tuesday night, saw Collingwood great Dane Swan inducted into the Hall of Fame and Hawthorn’s Jason Dunstall elevated to Legend status. But amidst the celebrations and the teary-eyed tributes, the AFL managed to pull off a major faux pas during the "In Memoriam" segment, which is of course supposed to honour those in the game who have passed away within the last year.</p> <p>Hawthorn's John Kennedy Jr was the first to express his shock on Channel 7’s <em>The Front Bar</em> program on Thursday night. "That 71 team, obviously a famous team and important team in Hawthorn’s history," host Sam Pang began, setting the stage for Kennedy’s bombshell. “But I believe, John, you have a cheerio you’d like to give to one of the players.”</p> <p>Kennedy, not one to miss an opportunity, replied: “I’d like to send one out to Michael Porter who played in the ’71 Grand Final. ‘Portholes’ they called him. He was noted as deceased last night on the AFL Hall of Fame, as one of the deceased people. The issue is he’s alive. So Portholes, if you’re listening mate or you’re up there in NSW, let us know when the wake is because we’ll be all there mate!”</p> <p>Indeed, the prematurely deceased Porter, who played 78 games for Hawthorn and was part of their 1971 VFL premiership team, took the news of his untimely death with remarkably good humour. Instead of sending a ghostly telegram from the great beyond, he simply called up former Hawks captain David Parkin, who was in the room for the Hall of Fame ceremony in Melbourne, to confirm he was alive and well.</p> <p>A league spokesman, likely blushing a shade of crimson, said: “Once this innocent mistake was realised we moved quickly to ring and apologise to everyone affected, including Michael, and thank him for his understanding.”</p> <p>Michael Porter, now thrust back into the limelight in the most unexpected fashion, might just hold the unique distinction of being the only player to attend his own wake and live to tell the tale. We can only hope he’s planning a grandiose party with a guest list featuring all his mates who would’ve otherwise been mourning his "passing".</p> <p>So, here’s to Michael Porter – alive, well and hopefully laughing his head off at the AFL’s latest gaffe. And for the AFL, perhaps a lesson: next time, double-check the list before sending anyone to the great footy oval in the sky.</p> <p><em>Images: Network 7</em></p>

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Hall of Fame fighter hospitalised after saving elderly parents from fire

<p>In the heart of Ohio, a story of heroism and sacrifice has emerged from the flames of a devastating house fire.</p> <p>Mark Coleman, a revered figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), found himself in the midst of a harrowing ordeal, where his actions transcended the octagon to demonstrate unparalleled bravery and love for family.</p> <p>On a fateful Tuesday morning, as the dawn painted the sky over Fremont, Ohio, tragedy struck the Coleman household. Details of the fire initially emerged through local news outlets, shrouded in anonymity. However, it wasn't long before the truth surfaced – it was Mark Coleman, the UFC legend, who had selflessly rushed into the inferno to rescue his elderly parents from imminent danger.</p> <p>Reports indicated that Coleman, aged 59, wasted no time in the face of adversity. With unwavering determination, he courageously carried both of his parents, Dan and Connie Foos Coleman, to safety, braving the engulfing flames that threatened to consume their home. Yet, his valour knew no bounds as he plunged back into the fiery abyss, driven by an instinctive urge to save another beloved member of the family – their loyal dog, Hammer.</p> <p>Tragically, despite his desperate efforts, the canine companion did not survive the blaze. Coleman's daughter, Kenzie, revealed on social media that Hammer's persistent barking had roused her father from slumber, ultimately saving his life. This heartbreaking loss added another layer of sorrow to an already traumatic event.</p> <p>As news of Coleman's heroic act spread, an outpouring of support and prayers flooded social media platforms. His second daughter Morgan, in an emotional Instagram post, recounted her father's selfless deeds and pleaded for continued prayers during this trying time. To the Coleman family, Mark wasn't just a UFC pioneer; he was a beacon of strength and resilience, a cherished father and a beloved friend.</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/C4bQHaopteq/?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/C4bQHaopteq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Morgan Coleman (@mocoleman18)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Mark Coleman's legacy in the world of MMA is undeniable. Dubbed "The Godfather of Ground-and-Pound", he etched his name in the annals of UFC history as the organisation's inaugural heavyweight champion in 1997. His contributions to the sport earned him a well-deserved place in the UFC Hall of Fame in 2008, solidifying his status as a true icon.</p> <p>However, beyond the glitz and glory of the octagon, Coleman's journey has been marked by personal struggles and triumphs. In 2020, he battled a heart attack, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity. A year later, he confronted his demons, seeking rehabilitation for alcoholism, and emerged stronger, embracing a healthier lifestyle.</p> <p>Author Jonathan Snowden, who shared a close bond with Coleman and was poised to document his remarkable life story, offered a glimpse into the aftermath of the fire. Through poignant images capturing the devastation, Snowden provided a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the ordeal. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is what's left of the house Mark Coleman and his family were in last night. </p> <p>Mark's dog Hammer woke him up to a house in flames. He saved both his parents and is fighting for his life. <a href="https://t.co/hicYhv7SDm">pic.twitter.com/hicYhv7SDm</a></p> <p>— Jonathan Snowden (@JESnowden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JESnowden/status/1767637195555299781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p><em>Images: Instagram / Twitter (X)</em></p>

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Lauren Brant and Barry Hall share huge family news

<p dir="ltr">Lauren Brant and Barry Hall have shared that they will be welcoming a new addition to their family later this year. </p> <p dir="ltr">The former <em>Hi-5</em> star and the AFL legend are set to welcome their fourth child together in July, with the couple sharing a sweet announcement with their three kids.</p> <p dir="ltr">Posting a series of photos to Instagram, Lauren showed off her growing bump while her husband and three sons, Miller, six, Houston, four, and Samson, two, gathered around. </p> <p dir="ltr">Writing in the caption, Lauren shared the news saying, “Our year is about to get a whole lot more colourful.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Baby Hall number four arriving July. We are so excited to share this news with you all,” Lauren wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">An influx of Lauren's celebrity friends quickly took to the comment section to offer their well wishes and congratulations for the growing family. </p> <p dir="ltr">Lauren and Barry started dating in 2016, and are already proud parents of three boys. </p> <p dir="ltr">In June 2021 during an emotional interview on <em>A Current Affair</em>, the couple confirmed they secretly married that February and were expecting their third child. </p> <p dir="ltr">The couple secretly tied the knot so that Lauren’s terminally ill sister-in-law Sandra could attend the wedding.</p> <p dir="ltr">She tragically died just two weeks later, after her second battle with stage-four bowel cancer. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-e680fe66-7fff-aa80-5288-db945a56378d"></span></p>

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"I can't go for that": Hall & Oates in bitter legal battle

<p>In a turn of events to rival any classic Hall & Oates song about heartbreak, betrayal and possibly a saxophone solo, the iconic musical duo has found themselves embroiled in a legal battle that might just be their most melodramatic performance yet.</p> <p>Daryl Hall, the soulful half of the duo, has accused longtime partner John Oates of committing the "ultimate partnership betrayal". Forget "Maneater", this is more like "Share Eater". In a court declaration that reads like the lyrics of a soulful ballad, Hall lamented the deterioration of his relationship with Oates, and trust us, it's not your typical "I can't go for that (no can do)" situation.</p> <p>The duo's joint venture, including trademarks, personal name and likeness rights, record royalty income and even the sacred social media assets, are now centre stage for a legal showdown. It's not quite the Hall & Oates Reunion Tour we were all hoping for.</p> <p>It appears Oates is planning to sell his share of Whole Oats Enterprises LLP without Hall's permission (cue dramatic music) – and Hall is not taking this lying down; he's filed a lawsuit to keep the transaction on pause, turning their dispute into a legal chart-topper.</p> <p>A judge has issued a temporary restraining order, effectively hitting the pause button on Oates' plan to part ways with Whole Oats Enterprises, with lawyers no doubt drafting lyrics for the inevitable courtroom musical as we speak.</p> <p>Oates, not one to let the accusations slide, fired back in his court filing, expressing disappointment in Hall's "inflammatory, outlandish, and inaccurate statements". He claims he's been trying to enhance their business partnership, but it seems like Hall might not be feeling the groove.</p> <p>The legal documents reveal that Hall is deeply troubled by the deterioration of their relationship, and who can blame him? It's not every day your musical partner decides to sell the band without even a courtesy call.</p> <p>Amid accusations of confidentiality breaches and timing that could rival the best plot twists, this court drama has all the elements of a hit '80s ballad. Will the duo find a way to harmonise once more, or is this the end of the road for Hall & Oates? We'll have to wait for the next verse in this legal serenade.</p> <p>In the meantime, keep those records spinning and maybe throw in some tissues for the emotional rollercoaster. It's a private affair gone public, and the fans are left wondering, "Did I miss the memo about this 'Global Divorce' album?"</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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"It breaks my heart": Robbie Williams' dedication to fallen Sydney fan

<p>Robbie Williams has dedicated an emotional song to the woman who passed away after an incident at his concert in Sydney.</p> <p>Robyn Hall, a woman in her 70s, died after spending a week in an induced coma, after she suffered a serious head injury at Williams' show at Allianz stadium on November 16th. </p> <p>Performing in Melbourne on Thursday, Williams addressed the devastating incident and dedicated his hit song <em>Angels</em> to Robyn and her family. </p> <p>He said on stage to the crowd at AAMI Park, “It breaks my heart and I’ve been thinking about it an awful lot and I’ve thought about it through the show tonight.”</p> <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 600px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7304437214732094728&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40theageaustralia%2Fvideo%2F7304437214732094728%3Fembed_source%3D121355059%252C121351166%252C121331973%252C120811592%252C120810756%253Bnull%253Bembed_masking%26refer%3Dembed%26referer_url%3Ddk79lclgtez2i.cloudfront.net%252FPyWtRc2%253Fapp%253D1%2526v%253D1%2526img%253D1%2526lazy%253D1%26referer_video_id%3D7304437214732094728&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-sg.tiktokcdn.com%2Ftos-alisg-p-0037%2Fo8cJDW8MgQerjBKI3SeYVvhS6CfAUQUwXD1FgA%7Etplv-dmt-logom%3Atos-alisg-i-0068%2FocfI48S6IAgjMyAgAEvQA5EgSDvWQfdeKwXIAF.image%3Fx-expires%3D1700949600%26x-signature%3DfCsDz4T93Vyn5CSPoqnmFZJY%252FOc%253D&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>“I just want to give a big shout out and lots of love from me and my band to Robyn and Robyn’s family."</p> <p>“Let’s all sing up, she was somebody just like you who came to the gig just like you did tonight, this is for her.”</p> <p>After Robyn <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sydney-woman-who-died-at-robbie-williams-concert-identified" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tragically died</a> in St Vincent's Hospital, her son Michael paid tribute to his mum on Facebook, saying he had lost his "best friend". </p> <p>“I haven’t got the words to say what my mum meant to me,” he said.</p> <p>“Taken from under me and my best friend is no longer with me … I love you forever.”</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">A family friend said Hall loved the British singer and had “thoroughly” enjoyed the evening before tragedy struck.</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">“She was one of those ones who looked 50 but was 70. She took care of herself and didn’t need carers,” he said.</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">“Robyn was the most beautiful human I have ever met. Through all adversity, she smiled, hugged and laughed her way through,” he said.</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">“Broken hearts amongst all her family and friends, she will be missed by all who knew her.”</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><em>Image credits: Facebook / Getty Images</em></p> <div id="fuse-injected-22953829264-1" class="fuse-slot-dynamic publift-video-ad" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-top: 24px; padding-bottom: 24px; display: flex; justify-content: center;" data-fuse="22953829264" data-fuse-injected-at="1700777022430" data-fuse-code="fuse-slot-22953829264-1" data-fuse-zone-instance="zone-instance-22953829264-1" data-fuse-slot="fuse-slot-22953829264-1" data-fuse-processed-at="892"> <div id="fuse-slot-22953829264-1" class="fuse-slot" style="box-sizing: border-box; max-width: inherit; max-height: inherit;"></div> </div>

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Sydney woman who died at Robbie Williams concert identified

<p>The woman who tragically died after falling down six rows of seats at Robbie Williams' Sydney concert has been identified. </p> <p>Robyn Hall, who was in her 70s, passed away at St Vincent's Hospital after spending a week in an induced coma after the fall. </p> <p>Her son Michael paid tribute to his mum on Facebook, saying he had lost his "best friend". </p> <p>“I haven’t got the words to say what my mum meant to me,” he said.</p> <p>“Taken from under me and my best friend is no longer with me … I love you forever.”</p> <p>A family friend said Hall loved the British singer and had “thoroughly” enjoyed the evening before tragedy struck.</p> <p>“She was one of those ones who looked 50 but was 70. She took care of herself and didn’t need carers,” he said.</p> <p>“Robyn was the most beautiful human I have ever met. Through all adversity, she smiled, hugged and laughed her way through,” he said.</p> <p>“Broken hearts amongst all her family and friends, she will be missed by all who knew her.”</p> <p>Robyn had remained in an induced coma since Thursday November 16th, when she was rushed from Sydney's Allianz Stadium where Williams was performing on his Australian tour. </p> <p>It is understood that Robyn was climbing over chairs when she slipped and fell down six rows of seating. </p> <p>Paramedics were called to the stadium around 10:15pm, after Robyn suffered serious head and face injuries. </p> <p>She was treated at the scene before being rushed to hospital.</p> <p>The sold-out show kicked off just after 7pm and had wrapped by about 10pm when the 40,000 fans began making their way to the exit.</p> <p>It was around this time the woman began climbing over the seats and fell.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook</em></p>

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Halle Berry's priceless response to troll over naked balcony pic

<p>If you’ve got it, flaunt it. And if you’re Halle Berry, do it while sipping wine and basking in the sunshine, rising above a troll or two along the way. </p> <p>And that’s the exact approach the Academy Award winning actress has taken with her latest social media share, to the delight - and amusement - of fans all over. </p> <p>In a picture posted to Halle’s various online accounts, the 56-year-old can be seen standing nude on a balcony with a wine glass in hand, glowing in the light from above. </p> <p>Some strategic limb placement and shadow work keep the snap well within posting guidelines, though that likely wouldn’t have kept the actress from sharing her peaceful moment, with her caption reading “I do what I wanna do.” </p> <p>Comments flooded in for the <em>Catwoman</em> star, and while some were far more appropriate than others, the general consensus was that Halle should absolutely continue to do exactly what she wanted, with the heartfelt support of her fans behind her, and many applauding her bold statement. </p> <p>“Well behaved women never made history,” wrote author and wellness expert Maria Emmerich. </p> <p>“The blueprint,” declared American rapper Saweetie. </p> <p>“YES!!!!” gushed singer Kelly Rowland.</p> <p>“I’m 61. If I looked like her, I would be way worse!” said one fan. “She looks gorgeous.”</p> <p>“I just wanted to see the sunrise but this is 1000% better!” another chimed. </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/Cqyh2CYrZq6/?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/Cqyh2CYrZq6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Halle Berry (@halleberry)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>However, despite the celebration from the majority, there were still those who saw fit to spew their cruelty, with some going so far as to blame Halle’s joy in her body for any hardships in her relationships. Halle silenced them soon enough though, confirming with one fan that it had actually been her own boyfriend - singer Van Hunt - who took the picture. </p> <p>And when someone took issue with Halle daring to bare all in her 50s, the star once again took the high road (to the balcony), drawing attention to the sheer absurdity of the original comment with her unique - and entirely unforgettable - comeback.</p> <p>“Imagine being in your 50s still posting nudes for attention in menopause when you should be chilling with your grandkids,” wrote Halle’s hater, “ageing with dignity is no longer a thing.” </p> <p>And Halle, in a move that gave the ageist comment none of the attention it was craving, merely asked of her followers, “did you guys know the heart of a shrimp is located in its head?” </p> <p>The comment was never going to sit well with the actress, who has been open about her thoughts on ageing in Hollywood - and life in general - in the past, even telling <em>AARP</em> in 2022 that “we’re all going to get older. Our skin is going to shrivel up and we’re going to look different. I see things changing with my face and body, but I’ve never put all my eggs in that basket. I’ve always known that beauty is deeper than the physical body you’re walking around in.”</p> <p>“I refuse to become someone who just tries to hold on to a youthful face and not embrace what’s most important about being beautiful - how you live your life, how you give back to others, how you connect to people, how you strengthen your mind, body, and soul and nourish yourself, how you give in a meaningful way of yourself. The most beautiful people have something radiating inside.</p> <p>“Women are told that when we reach a certain number, we’re no longer valuable. I believe the opposite. Society should look at us as jewels as we get older.</p> <p>“Because the older women get, the more formidable we are.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Deck the halls with Carnival's Grinchmas in July cruises

<p>Roll out the mince pies! Carnival Cruise Line announces it will offer five ‘Grinchmas in July’ themed sailings onboard Carnival Splendor to its existing roster of fun-filled cruises.</p> <p>As part of Carnival’s ongoing Dr. Seuss partnership, the Grinch-themed cruises will bring the very best of ‘Christmas in July’ traditions to sea, allowing Australian guests to experience the fun of a wintry ‘Christmas’.</p> <p>The new additions come as part of Carnival’s ‘<a title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seuss at Sea</a>’ offerings, including its Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, Seussapalooza and Seuss Storytime.</p> <p>Grinchmas in July will see Carnival Splendor transformed into a magical winter wonderland, its giant Christmas tree adorned with glittering lights and baubles galore; there’ll even be winter ‘snow’ on board.</p> <p>Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the full holiday spirit by enjoying a delicious array of festive food and beverage offerings, including Christmas-themed beverages and specialty dining options, ensuring a very merry time.</p> <p>The festive fun comes on top of the full array of 45+ activities guests have come to know and love on a Carnival Cruise.</p> <p>The Grinch himself will join the festivities with special appearances and a screening of <em>How the Grinch Stole Christmas</em> at the Dive-In Movies. The fun doesn’t stop there, as guests can party like a Who from Who-ville, to a ‘Jingle Bell Jam’ soundtrack, as well as Christmas carolling, festive games, trivia and arts and crafts. There’s even an ugly Christmas sweater night and festive outfit competition for the fashionistas of the family.</p> <p>VP of Carnival Cruise Line, Kara Glamore comments, “Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but why should we limit the fun to December? With three within the winter school holidays, there’s no better way to spend time with the family during the school break”.</p> <p>Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney starting from 30th June 2023. The full list of sailings include:</p> <ul> <li>Friday 30th June: 9-night sailing to the South Pacific visiting three amazing ports including Noumea, Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Sunday 9th July: 4-night sailing including a trip to the picturesque Moreton Island, one of Australia's best kept secrets</li> <li>Thursday 13th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler where guests can soak in the very best of Sydney’s famous landmarks whilst getting a taste of the fun on board</li> <li>Sunday 16th July: 12-night South Pacific tour with just under two weeks sailing around the stunning South Pacific. Enjoy the sunshine in Noumea, whilst stopping off at other stunning locations such as Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Friday 28th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler</li> </ul> <p>Fares for Carnival Cruise Line’s Grinchmas in July sailings start from $414* per person twin share interior.  For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit <a style="color: #007c89;" title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: #0000ff;">https://www.carnival.com.au/</span></a></p> <p><em>Image credits: Carnival Cruises </em></p>

Cruising

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Breakfast Club star finally joins the baby club

<p>Actor Anthony Hall and his wife, Lucia Oskerova, have shared the delightful news that they are expecting their first child together.</p> <p>In a statement to <em>People</em>, the 54-year-old actor, best known for his roles in <em>Sixteen Candles </em>and <em>The Breakfast Club</em>, opened up about how 34-year-old Lucia broke the news - a far cry from his <em>The Breakfast Club</em> character Brian Johnson’s stubborn “it's personal business. It's my personal, private business.”</p> <p>"Lucia and I were at home,” he explained. “She surprised me by revealing that she was pregnant with an at-home pregnancy test. We were kissing, hugging, and thanking God. We immediately started dancing and laughing in our bathroom to celebrate the good news.” </p> <p>Anthony went on to add that the couple will be having a boy, and that they already have a name for the little one picked out - “Michael Anthony the II”. Anthony’s full name is Michael Anthony Hall, but he changed it as many celebrities do upon joining the Screen Actors Guild in 1976. </p> <p>Of their upcoming dive into parenthood this summer, he gushed, "my wife and I are feeling so blessed, excited and filled with joy in anticipation of our son being born this summer.”</p> <p>Lucia took to Instagram to share their exciting news, with a post that also wished their fans a happy Valentine’s Day, tagging it “#babynews” and “#firsttimeparents”. </p> <p>“Congratulations!” Wrote Boardwalk Empire actor Chris Caldovino, to the thanks of both expectant parents. </p> <p>“I’ve been waiting FOREVER for the announcement of my new baby buddy! Love, love, love!” Declared one loved one, to whom Lucia responded that “it was starting to get hard to keep it a secret.” </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/Cop_osxSaGM/?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/Cop_osxSaGM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lucia Oskerova (@luciaoskerova)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Anthony had nothing but praise for his wife when asked about her pregnancy experience, telling People she’s been a “champ throughout”. </p> <p>"She's tending to every important detail as a proud, expectant mother-to-be,” he explained. “She is now six and half months along.</p> <p>"As a new father-to-be, I've been taking care of family business and making sure we all eat well, with a healthy diet of good foods — plenty of greens, vegetables, fresh fruit, and protein-rich food. Lucia makes great smoothies for us. And we are all getting good sleep each night."</p> <p>Anthony, as character Brian Johnson, once announced that he was “in the math club, uh, the Latin, and the physics club”. Whether or not Anthony himself has ever added any of these to his resume as well, he’ll soon be a lifetime member of The Baby Club.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty </em></p>

Family & Pets

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Former ABC presenter arrested and charged with 23 offences

<p dir="ltr">A former ABC news presenter has been arrested after a police investigation found a stash of illegal drugs in two hotel rooms. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ashley Hall was arrested in Sydney’s CBD on Wednesday after police raided two hotel rooms and found illegal drugs worth a whopping $600,000. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 52-year-old was arrested and charged with 23 offences, including eight counts of supplying a prohibited drug at an indictable commercial quantity.</p> <p dir="ltr">Soon after his arrest, police conducted a search of two hotel rooms in Wentworth Street and Bond Street, Sydney. </p> <p dir="ltr">During the search warrants, officers seized 500 MDMA tablets, 100g of cocaine, 3.2kg of 1,4-butanediol, 700g of methylamphetamine, more than a 1kg of cannabis, and more than $70,000 cash. </p> <p dir="ltr">"That male would come and go from those hotel rooms to meet with different buyers of those drugs where he would supply large quantities of GHB, cocaine, meth and MDMA," Detective Acting Superintendent Ben Kinns said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hall was denied bail and is due to appear in court in February 2023. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: NSW Police</em></p>

Legal

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Kyle Sandilands reveals why he's never been fired

<p>Kyle Sandilands has revealed why he has never been fired from his high-profile radio gig. </p> <p>On Saturday night, Kyle and Jackie O were inducted into the hall of fame at the annual Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) for their many influential years on the air. </p> <p>During their speech, Kyle shared the details as to why he always gets bailed out of his many controversies, before he has to run the risk of losing his job.</p> <p>While on stage, Kyle paid tribute to a former boss who always protected him throughout his career.</p> <p>“What no one knows is that when Jeff Allis hired me … He said to me, ‘There’s a lot of people here that are really good at their job and there’s a lot of 9-5 people just punching their time card,’” Kyle said on stage.</p> <p>“And he said, ‘between you and I, just f***ing do anything you want and I will be your get out of jail free card!’"</p> <p>“So I took full advantage, as a lot of you would be aware,” Kyle said. “A lot of management were like, ‘how the f**k did he not get fired 4000 times? Jeff Allis saved me every time.”</p> <p>During their emotional speech, Jackie thanked her ex-husband for “the opportunities that you’ve given me and for showing me the passion and the need for hard work in radio”.</p> <p>She also paid tribute to her daughter, Kitty, who was in the audience, saying, “She never made mummy feel guilty for not being there in the mornings for school drop off … She’s so cool and patient and kind.”</p> <p>And finally, she thanked Kyle, her co-host of 22 years, saying, “He is my ride or die. I know what you’re gonna say before you even say it."</p> <p>“We laugh, we cry … but you’ve always supported me and I am just so grateful that you have been the one by my side throughout this. If you ride off a cliff, I’ll ride off it with you.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p> <div id="indie-campaign-rHsIzpAmAj7xkA4llYlH-2" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 24px;" data-campaign-name="NCA ENTERTAINMENT newsletter" data-campaign-indie="newsletter-signup" data-jira="TSN-268" data-from="1640955600000" data-to="1677502800000"></div> <div class="AV62af35d851923c62777207b4" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px auto; width: 705.202209px;"> <div id="aniBox" style="box-sizing: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; overflow: hidden; transition: height 1s ease 0s; width: 705px; height: 1px; opacity: 0;"> <div id="aniplayer_AV62af35d851923c62777207b4-1667165633579" style="box-sizing: inherit;"> <div id="aniplayer_AV62af35d851923c62777207b4-1667165633579gui" style="box-sizing: inherit;"></div> </div> </div> </div>

Legal

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Keanu Reeves “gatecrashes” wedding

<p dir="ltr">The last thing anyone would want is for their wedding to be gatecrashed by an unexpected guest. </p> <p dir="ltr">This happened to James and Nikki Roadnight when they were exchanging their vows…but the guest was in fact someone they wanted there.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple from the UK were celebrating their marriage when James ran into John Wick star Keanu Reeves at the Fawsley Hall where the reception was being held. </p> <p dir="ltr">James invited the Hollywood heartthrob to the wedding and join the guests for a drink if he wanted to. </p> <p dir="ltr">"My husband saw him in the bar area and told him he'd just got married and invited Keanu to come over to say hello and have a drink with us if he wanted to,” Nikki told <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/keanu-reeves-unexpected-appearance-uk-wedding-reception-1736831" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Newsweek</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr">"He was very friendly and said he would later on. We didn't know if he would or not but it was cool that my husband had spoken to him!"</p> <p dir="ltr">About an hour later, hotel staff approached Nikki and told her there was a “special guest” who wanted to speak to her and she was then introduced to Keanu Reeves.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was all very exciting and I went to say hi and introduce myself, and I offered him a drink but he declined that and said he'd just had a long flight so wouldn't stay long but he was so kind and friendly and congratulated us on our wedding," she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"He was kind enough to do some pictures and our wedding photographer was able to capture some too! Then he took the time to speak to some of our guests and have more photos done!"</p> <p dir="ltr">The huge Keanu Reeves fans were ecstatic that their day was blessed with the actor’s presence. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Relationships

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“Healing from grief is an inside job”: Why Ashley Judd found and met with her abuser

<p dir="ltr">Content warning: This article includes mentions of sexual assault, rape and child sexual abuse (CSA).</p> <p dir="ltr">Ashley Judd has opened up about the conversation she had with the man who raped her more than two decades ago.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em>Double Jeopardy </em>star spoke about confronting the man who assaulted her in 1999 during an appearance on the podcast <em>Healing With David Kessler</em>, telling host David Kessler that they had a “restorative-justice conversation”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“To make a long story short, we ended up in rocking chairs sitting by a creek together,” Judd said. “And I said, ‘I’m very interested in hearing the story you’ve carried all these years’. And we had a restorative-justice conversation about that.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I wanted to share that story because there are many ways of healing from grief, and it's important to remind listeners that I didn't need anything from him and it was just gravy that he made his amends and expressed his deep remorse because healing from grief is an inside job."</p> <p dir="ltr">The 54-year-old added that she didn’t need closure from the man, whose identity is still unknown, or “his cooperation” or “for him to make amends” to continue healing, and that she was just “very interested in hearing” his side of the story.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Because I had the opportunity to do my trauma work, to do my grief work, to do my healing work, to have all these shifts in my own consciousness and to bond in these female coalition spaces with other survivors," Judd said. </p> <p dir="ltr">Recalling the incident, Judd described it as “crazy-making” and “unconscionable”.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I was very clear, my boundaries were intact. I was already an empowered, adult feminist woman," she recalled. </p> <p dir="ltr">"And that this could happen under these circumstances was unconscionable, unforeseen, and yet I have had a restorative-justice process with this person out of how replete my soul is today."</p> <p dir="ltr">Judd has publicly spoken about being a three-time rape survivor in the past and shared her story for the first time in her 2011 memoir, <em>All That Is Bitter &amp; Sweet</em>, and again in an <a href="https://www.mic.com/articles/113226/forget-your-team-your-online-violence-toward-girls-and-women-is-what-can-kiss-my-ass" target="_blank" rel="noopener">op-ed</a> she wrote for <em>Mic.com</em>’s ‘Pass the Mic’ series.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I am a survivor of sexual assault, rape and incest," she wrote at the time. </p> <p dir="ltr">"The summer of 1984 was tough for me. I experienced two rapes by an adult and systematic molestation from another adult, who also had another man in the room watching … This January, I read three different things that freshly triggered an additional, very specific memory from age 15 – an attempted oral rape by yet another adult man."</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><em>If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse and need support, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit their <a href="https://www.1800respect.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>, or contact <a href="https://blueknot.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BlueKnot</a> on 1300 657 380.</em></strong></p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-9fcf9217-7fff-3f43-fab5-e53785cce460"></span></em></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Mind

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Lleyton Hewitt's huge career moment

<p>Lleyton Hewitt has taken his place among legends as the two-time Grand Slam champion was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. </p> <p>The 41-year-old was joined by his wife Bec and three children, Mia, Ava and Cruz, as he was presented with the prestigious award in a ceremony that was delayed due to Covid. </p> <p>The tennis champ from Adelaide was unable to travel to the Hall of Fame last year from Australia so his induction was postponed for a year and staged after Saturday’s ATP Hall of Fame Open semi-finals in the US.</p> <p>Coincidentally, the ceremony was staged on the court where Hewitt won his first ATP grass court match as a teen in 1998.</p> <p>“I think I needed that extra year to come up with some proper words,” Hewitt said in a speech.</p> <p>“This is an incredible honour for me. It has made it all the more special to be able to have my family and friends here.”</p> <p>“To think where it all began for me on junior tennis courts in the middle of nowhere in Adelaide in Australia, with no one watching, no TV cameras, and then to make the full tennis journey and actually now be coming into the Hall of Fame. For me, this is such a special place here in Newport,” he said.</p> <p>Lleyton was honoured for his extraordinary career, as he won the 2001 US Open and 2002 Wimbledon titles among 30 career ATP triumphs and helped Australia capture the Davis Cup in 1999 and 2003.</p> <p>Hewitt was a year-end world number one in 2001 and 2002 and his intense emotion combined with speed and skilled shotmaking made him a threat on any surface, great shots usually followed by the scream, “Come on.” </p> <p>Hewitt finished with a career record of 616-262 in ATP singles play.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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The Sydney Opera House unveils historic upgrades

<p id="docs-internal-guid-7079734f-7fff-28f3-48ba-27fd4d3951ee" dir="ltr">After being closed for two-and-a-half years of extensive renovations, the Sydney Opera House’s Concert Hall is finally ready to reopen to the public.</p> <p dir="ltr">Since closing in 2020, the venue has seen hundreds of construction workers, acousticians, and experts in architecture and heritage help deliver one of the biggest upgrades in nearly 50 years.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We’re thrilled to be welcoming the community back to the renewed Concert Hall,” Louise Herron AM, the CEO of Sydney Opera House, said in a <a href="https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/content/Non-Indexed/media/newsroom/media-release-soh-unveils-historic-concert-hall-upgrade.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Artists and audiences are set to experience world-class acoustics in a venue that is more accessible, safer and better equipped to present the full breadth of 21st century performance.”</p> <p dir="ltr">With more $190 million invested into the renewal project, improving acoustics and accessibility have been two major priorities.</p> <p dir="ltr">The old acrylic ‘donuts’ hanging above the stage have been replaced with magenta ‘acoustic petals’ - matching the Concert Hall seats - while a new lift and passageway now allows for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility to access all levels, including the Northern Foyer and its stunning harbour views.</p> <p dir="ltr">A state-of-the-art sound system and acoustic diffusion panels have also been installed throughout the venue, along with automated stage risers and other technology to make putting on a performance - whether it be an orchestra or musical - that much easier.</p> <p dir="ltr">Its reopening marks the final project in the Opera House’s Decade of Renewal, which has seen the World Heritage-listed building fitted with a range of improvements and new venues, all without interfering with the original concrete and structures.</p> <p dir="ltr">The venue will reopen to the public from July 20, marked by the return of the <a href="https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/events/whats-on/sydney-symphony-orchestra/2022/simone-young-conducts-mahler-2.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney Symphony Orchestra</a> performing Mahler’s <em>Second Symphony</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Lisa Maree Williams (Getty Images), Daniel Boud, Anna Kucera</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Australian Hall of Fame footballer killed in car accident

<p dir="ltr">The AFL world is in mourning after legendary footy player Neil Kerley AM died in a horrific car accident. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 88-year-old was towing a trailer in Walker Flat in the Murraylands, South Australia just before 5:30pm on Wednesday when he crashed through a fence and into a paddock.</p> <p dir="ltr">He tragically died at the scene. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Australian Hall of Fame icon, nicknamed Knuckles and King and Kerls, was affectionately known as the “King of South Australian football”.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a career spanning over 17 years, Kerley made a name for himself after playing 265 games in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL).</p> <p dir="ltr">He represented South Australia 32 times, six times of which he was captain. </p> <p dir="ltr">Kerley then went on to coach 628 games and was a two-time premiership coach and two-time premiership captain-coach.</p> <p dir="ltr">Eventually Kerley was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, as well as the South Australian Football Hall of Fame.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Twitter/Getty</em></p>

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Beloved Seinfeld star dead at 90

<p>The prolific and beloved character actor Phillip Baker Hall has died at 90 years of age. Known for his roles in films like Boogie Nights and Magnolia and shows such as Seinfeld and Modern Family, he had an impressive career spanning over six decades.</p> <p>Hall's wife of nearly 40 years, Holly Wolfle Hall, confirmed the news, saying he died on the 12th of June in Glendale, California, surrounded by loved ones.</p> <p>His most memorable roles in film include playing the IRS Boss in Say Anything, Sydney in Hard Eight, Floyd Gondolli in Boogie Nights, Jimmy Gator in Magnolia, Jack Baylor in Bruce Almighty, Sherwood Morrill in Zodiac and a CIA director in Argo.</p> <p>When it came to TV, Hall gave over 200 guest performances, including as library cop Joe Bookman on Seinfeld, Senator Matt Hunt on The West Wing, Dr. Morrison on Curb Your Enthusiasm and Walt Kleezak on Modern Family.</p> <p>Born in Toledo, Ohio on September the 10th, 1931, Hall began his career as a United States Army translator in Germany and a high school teacher before pursuing acting as he entered his 40s.</p> <p>His career in film really picked up during the '80s, when he starred as Richard Nixon in Secret Honor (1984) and held supporting roles in movies like Garry Marshall's Nothing in Common (1986), Midnight Run (1988) starring Robert De Niro, John Hughes' classic rom-com Say Anything (1989) and Ghostbusters II (1989), in which he played the police commissioner.</p> <p>Hall also began working with Paul Thomas Anderson during the decade, starring in his short film Cigarettes &amp; Coffee in 1993, which then led to his directorial debut Hard Eight (1996) in which Hall stars alongside John C. Reilly.</p> <p>Later appearing in Anderson's films Boogie Nights (1997) and Magnolia (1999), playing an adult theatre magnate and a children's game show host.</p> <p>Hall's career in film continued to grow in the '90s and 2000s with films such as The Truman Show (1998), The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999), The Insider (1999), Dogville (2003), Bruce Almighty (2003), Zodiac (2007) and Argo (2012).</p> <p>Phillip is survived by his wife, his brother, four daughters and four grandchildren and will be missed by his fans and family.</p> <p>Image: Getty</p>

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"I am unmoored": Ashley Judd's sweet tribute to her late mother

<p dir="ltr">Ashley Judd has honoured her late mother in a heartwarming op-ed just a week after her death. </p> <p dir="ltr">Naomi Judd, one half of the duo The Judds, died at the age of 76 on April 30 following a battle with depression and mental illness.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My mama was an extraordinary parent under duress: She showed my sister and me the power of having a voice and using it, and there has been no greater lesson,” Ashley wrote in <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/voices/2022/05/06/ashley-judd-naomi-judd-mothers-day/96635010..." target="_blank" rel="noopener">USA Today</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It wasn’t supposed to be this way. I was supposed to visit her on Sunday, to give her a box of old-fashioned candy, our family tradition.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We were supposed to have sweet delight in each others’ easy presence. Instead, I am unmoored. But my heart is not empty. It is replete with gratitude for what she left behind. Her nurture and tenderness, her music and memory.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ashley and Wynonna teared up as they made an <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/we-lost-our-beautiful-mother-ashley-judd-s-heartbreaking-speech" target="_blank" rel="noopener">emotional acceptance speech</a> at the Country Music Hall of Fame induction on the Monday following their mother’s passing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I didn’t prepare anything tonight because I knew mum would probably talk the most,” Wynonna said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m gonna make this fast, because my heart’s broken, and I feel so blessed. It’s a very strange dynamic, to be this broken and this blessed.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The sisters also quoted Psalm 23, a common hymn for funeral services.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My mama loved you so much and I’m sorry that she couldn’t hang on until today,” Ashley began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Your esteem for her and your regard for her really penetrated her heart, and it was your affection for her that did keep her going in the last years, and please come see Pop,” she continued in reference to her stepfather and Naomi’s husband Larry Strickland.</p> <p dir="ltr">“While this is so much about the Judds as a duo, I want to take a moment to recognise my sister, a GOAT.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Wynonna then jumped in: “Though my heart is broken, I will continue to sing.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Naomi and daughter Wynonna, began singing together as a professional act in the early 1980s.</p> <p dir="ltr">They produced major hits loved by fans all over the world including "Mama He's Crazy" and "Love Can Build a Bridge”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty </em></p>

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"We lost our beautiful mother": Ashley Judd's heartbreaking speech

<p dir="ltr">The daughters of country music legend Naomi Judd teared up at an awards ceremony on behalf of their mother, a day after she passed away.</p> <p dir="ltr">Naomi Judd, one half of the duo The Judds, died at the age of 76 on Sunday following a battle with depression and mental illness.</p> <p dir="ltr">On Monday, Ashley and Wynonna teared up as they made an emotional acceptance speech at the Country Music Hall of Fame induction following their mother’s passing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I didn’t prepare anything tonight because I knew mum would probably talk the most,” Wynonna said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m gonna make this fast, because my heart’s broken, and I feel so blessed. It’s a very strange dynamic, to be this broken and this blessed.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The sisters also quoted Psalm 23, a common hymn for funeral services.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XPaqAPywFcs" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p dir="ltr">“My mama loved you so much and I’m sorry that she couldn’t hang on until today,” Ashley began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Your esteem for her and your regard for her really penetrated her heart, and it was your affection for her that did keep her going in the last years, and please come see Pop,” she continued in reference to her stepfather and Naomi’s husband Larry Strickland.</p> <p dir="ltr">“While this is so much about the Judds as a duo, I want to take a moment to recognise my sister, a GOAT.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Wynonna then jumped in: “Though my heart is broken, I will continue to sing.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Naomi and daughter Wynonna, began singing together as a professional act in the early 1980s.</p> <p dir="ltr">They produced major hits loved by fans all over the world including "Mama He's Crazy" and "Love Can Build a Bridge”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The sisters announced their mother’s death in a statement on Sunday.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Today we sisters experienced a tragedy. We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness," the statement read.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that, as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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