Search

Father and grandfather drown after rescuing toddler

<p>The father and grandfather of a two-year-old have tragically died after jumping into a hotel pool to save the toddler from drowning. </p> <p>On Easter Sunday evening, Dharmvir Singh, 38, and his 65-year-old father Gurjinder Singh drowned in the pool at the Top of the Mark Holiday Apartments in Surfer's Paradise when Dharmvir’s two-year-old child fell into the pool.</p> <p>The family members, who had travelled from Victoria to Queensland for their holiday, jumped in to save the two-year-old, although none of the family could swim. </p> <p>While the mother and child were both able to return to safety, Dharmvir and Gurjinder both died in the rescue.</p> <p>Emergency services were called to the Queensland hotel where the men were found unconscious, as paramedics performed CPR and attempted to revive the men but were unsuccessful. </p> <p>The mother and toddler were taken to hospital, and did not need any further treatment. </p> <p>Mitchell Ware from Queensland Ambulance Service said it was an “extremely emotional scene”.</p> <p>“Obviously, anyone could understand that not just to lose one family member but to lose two family members,” he said, according to the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13258481/Top-Mark-Holiday-Apartments-Surfers-Paradise-drowning-Father-grandfather-killed-rescuing-toddler.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Daily Mail</em>.</a></p> <p>"I will just reiterate to the community to exercise due care, especially if you're not a strong swimmer, and especially if there's young children around, that you are really careful because we know that children and even adults can drown in a matter of seconds."</p> <p><em>Image credits: ABC</em></p>

Caring

Eating some chocolate really might be good for you – here’s what the research says

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dan-baumgardt-1451396">Dan Baumgardt</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a></em></p> <p>Although it always makes me scoff slightly to see Easter eggs making their first appearance in supermarkets at the end of December, there are few people who aren’t delighted to receive a bit of chocolate every year.</p> <p>It makes sense that too much chocolate would be bad for you because of the high fat and sugar content in most products. But what should we make of common claims that eating some chocolate is actually good for you?</p> <p>Happily, there is a fair amount of evidence that shows, in the right circumstances, chocolate may be both beneficial for your heart and good for your mental state.</p> <p>In fact, chocolate – or more specifically cacao, the raw, unrefined bean – is a medicinal wonder. It contains many different active compounds which can evoke pharmacological effects within the body, like medicines or drugs.</p> <p>Compounds that lead to neurological effects in the brain have to be able to cross the <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-13443-2_7">blood-brain barrier</a>, the protective shield which prevents harmful substances – like toxins and bacteria – entering the delicate nervous tissue.</p> <p>One of these is the compound <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3672386/">theobromine</a>, which is also found in tea and contributes towards its bitter taste. Tea and chocolate also contain caffeine, which theobromine is related to as part of the purine family of chemicals.</p> <p>These chemicals, among others, contribute to chocolate’s addictive nature. They have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, where they can influence the nervous system. They are therefore known as <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15549276/">psychoactive</a> chemicals.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HloqayQdR6M?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>What effects can chocolate have on mood? Well, <a href="https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/71/10/665/1931144?login=false">a systematic review</a> looked at a group of studies which examined the feelings and emotions associated with consuming chocolate. Most demonstrated improvements in mood, anxiety, energy and states of arousal.</p> <p>Some noted the feeling of guilt, which is perhaps something we’ve all felt after one too many Dairy Milks.</p> <h2>Health benefits of cocoa</h2> <p>There are other organs, aside from the brain, that might benefit from the medicinal effects of cocoa. For centuries, chocolate has been used as a medicine to treat a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10917925/">long list of diseases</a> including anaemia, tuberculosis, gout and even low libido.</p> <p>These might be spurious claims but there is evidence to suggest that eating cacao has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. First, it can prevent <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8068178/">endothelial dysfunction</a>. This is the process through which arteries harden and get laden down with fatty plaques, which can in turn lead to heart attacks and strokes.</p> <p>Eating dark chocolate may also reduce <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1537189115001135?via%3Dihub">blood pressure</a>, which is another risk factor for developing arterial disease, and prevent formation of clots which block up blood vessels.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8VUcPCbSSCY?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>Some studies have suggested that dark chocolate might be useful in adjusting ratios of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20968113/">high-density lipoprotein cholesterol</a>, which can help protect the heart.</p> <p>Others have examined insulin resistance, the phenomenon associated with Type 2 diabetes and weight gain. They suggest that the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996900000697#:%7E:text=Cocoa%20is%20rich%20in%20polyphenols%20particularly%20in%20catechins,and%20cocoa%20powder%20have%20been%20published%20only%20recently.">polyphenols</a> – chemical compounds present in plants – found in foodstuffs like chocolate may also lead to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29993262/">improved control of blood sugars</a>.</p> <h2>Chocolate toxicity</h2> <p>As much as chocolate might be considered a medicine for some, it can be a poison for others.</p> <p>It’s well documented that the ingestion of caffeine and theobromine is highly toxic for domestic animals. Dogs are <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4801869/">particularly affected</a> because of their often voracious appetites and generally unfussy natures.</p> <p>The culprit is often dark chocolate, which can provoke symptoms of agitation, rigid muscles and even seizures. In certain cases, if ingested in high enough quantities, it can lead to comas and abnormal, even fatal heart rhythms.</p> <p>Some of the compounds found in chocolate have also been found to have potentially negative effects in humans. Chocolate is a source of oxalate which, along with calcium, is one of the main components of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20301742/">kidney stones</a>.</p> <p>Some clinical groups have advised against consuming oxalate rich foods, such as spinach and rhubarb – and chocolate, for those who suffer from recurrent kidney stones.</p> <p>So, what should all this mean for our chocolate consumption habits? Science points in the direction of chocolate that has as high a cocoa solid content as possible, and the minimum of extras. The potentially harmful effects of chocolate are more related to fat and sugar, and may counteract any possible benefits.</p> <p>A daily dose of 20g-30g of plain or dark chocolate with cocoa solids above 70% – rather than milk chocolate, which contains fewer solids and white chocolate, which contains none – could lead to a greater health benefit, as well as a greater high.</p> <p>But whatever chocolate you go for, please don’t share it with the dog.<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/226759/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dan-baumgardt-1451396"><em>Dan Baumgardt</em></a><em>, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </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/eating-some-chocolate-really-might-be-good-for-you-heres-what-the-research-says-226759">original article</a>.</em></p>

Body

Here’s why having chocolate can make you feel great or a bit sick – plus 4 tips for better eating

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/saman-khalesi-366871">Saman Khalesi</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a></em></p> <p>Australians are <a href="https://www.retail.org.au/media/sweet-spending-boon-predicted-for-easter-retail">predicted</a> to spend around A$1.7 billion on chocolates, hot cross buns and other special foods this Easter season.</p> <p>Chocolate has a long history of production and consumption. It is made from cacao beans that go through processes including fermentation, drying, roasting and grounding. What is left is a rich and fatty liquor that is pressed to remove the fat (cocoa butter) and the cacao (or “cocoa”) powder which will then be mixed with different ingredients to produce dark, milk, white and other types of chocolates.</p> <p>There are several health benefits and potential problems that come in these sweet chocolatey packages.</p> <h2>The good news</h2> <p>Cacao beans contain <a href="https://foodstruct.com/food/cocoa-bean">minerals</a> like iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus and some vitamins. They are also rich in beneficial chemicals called <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23150750/">polyphenols</a>.</p> <p>These are great antioxidants, with the potential to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465250/">improve heart health</a>, increase <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25164923/">nitric oxide</a> (which dilates blood vessels) and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3488419/">reduce blood pressure</a>, provide food for gut microbiota and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/7/1908">promote gut health</a>, boost the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465250/">immune system</a> and reduce inflammation.</p> <p>However, the concentration of polyphenols in the chocolate we eat depends largely on the cocoa solid amounts used in the final product.</p> <p>In general terms, the darker the chocolate, the more cocoa solids, minerals and polyphenols it has. For example, dark chocolates may have around <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942912.2011.614984">seven times more polyphenols</a> compared to white chocolates and <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942912.2011.614984">three times more polyphenols</a> compared to milk chocolates.</p> <h2>But also some bad news</h2> <p>Unfortunately, the <a href="https://theconversation.com/treat-or-treatment-chocolate-is-good-but-cocoa-is-better-for-your-heart-3084">health benefits of cocoa solids</a> are easily offset by the high sugar and fat content of modern-day chocolates. For example, milk and white chocolate eggs are on average 50% sugar, 40% fat (mostly saturated fats) – which means a lot of added kilojoules (calories).</p> <p>Also, there may be some side effects that come with ingesting chocolate.</p> <p>Cocoa beans include a compound called theobromine. While it has the anti-inflammatory properties responsible for some of the health benefits of chocolate, it is also a mild brain stimulant that acts in a similar way to caffeine. The mood boost it offers may also be partly responsible for how much we <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2015.00030/full?crsi=662496658&cicada_org_src=healthwebmagazine.com&cicada_org_mdm=direct">like chocolate</a>. Dark chocolate has higher theobromine compared to milk and white chocolate.</p> <p>But accordingly, overindulging in chocolate (and therefore theobromine) may lead to feeling restless, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3672386/">headaches</a> and nausea.</p> <h2>What else is in your chocolate?</h2> <p>Milk and dairy-based chocolates may also cause stomach upset, abdominal pain and bloating in people with <a href="https://dietitiansaustralia.org.au/health-advice/lactose-intolerance">lactose intolerance</a>. This happens when we don’t produce enough lactase enzymes to digest milk sugar (lactose).</p> <p>People with lactose intolerance can usually tolerate up to 6 grams of lactose without showing symptoms. Milk chocolate can have around <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310258/">3 grams of lactose</a> per 40 grams (the size of a standard chocolate bar). So two chocolate bars (or the equivalent in milk chocolate eggs or bunnies) may be enough to cause symptoms.</p> <p>It’s worth noting that lactase enzyme activity dramatically declines as we age, with the highest activity in newborns and children. So lactose sensitivity or intolerance may not be such an issue for your kids and your symptoms may increase over time. Genetics also plays a major role in how sensitive people are to lactose.</p> <p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6815241/">Allergic reactions</a> to chocolate are usually due to the added ingredients or cross-contamination with potential allergens such as nuts, milk, soy, and some sweeteners used in the production of chocolate.</p> <p>Symptoms can be mild (acne, rashes and stomach pain) or more severe (swelling of the throat and tongue and shortness of breath).</p> <p>If you or your family members have known allergic reactions, make sure you read the label before indulging – especially in a whole block or basket of the stuff. And if you or your family members do experience symptoms of an allergic reaction after eating chocolate, <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/allergic-reactions-emergency-first-aid">seek medical attention</a> immediately.</p> <h2>4 take home tips</h2> <p>So, if you are like me and have a weakness for chocolate there are a few things you can do to make the experience a good one.<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/202848/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <ol> <li>keep an eye out for the darker chocolate varieties with higher cocoa solids. You may notice a percentage on labelling, which refers to how much of its weight is from cocoa beans. In general, the higher this percentage, the lower the sugar. White chocolate has almost no cocoa solid, and mostly cocoa butter, sugar and other ingredients. Dark chocolate has 50–100% cocoa beans, and less sugar. Aim for at least 70% cocoa</li> <li>read the fine print for additives and possible cross-contamination, especially if allergies might be an issue</li> <li>the ingredients list and nutrition information panel should tell you all about the chocolate you choosing. Go for varieties with lower sugar and less saturated fat. Nuts, seeds and dried fruits are better ingredients to have in your chocolate than sugar, creme, syrup, and caramel</li> <li>finally, treat yourself – but keep the amount you have within sensible limits!</li> </ol> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/saman-khalesi-366871">Saman Khalesi</a>, Postdoctoral Fellow of the National Heart Foundation & Senior Lecturer and Discipline Lead in Nutrition, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</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/heres-why-having-chocolate-can-make-you-feel-great-or-a-bit-sick-plus-4-tips-for-better-eating-202848">original article</a>.</em></p>

Food & Wine

“Heartbreaking”: Jimmy Barnes’ emotional tribute to Jock Zonfrillo leaves viewers sobbing

<p dir="ltr">Jimmy Barnes has left viewers sobbing after his emotional tribute to Jock Zonfrillo on <em>The Sunday Project</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The rock legend performed a moving rendition of The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond, accompanied by bagpipes, for fellow Scot Jock Zonfrillo.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sunday Project</em> posted a tweet of the tribute with the caption: “The last time Jimmy Barnes sang the traditional Scottish song 'The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond' was with his fellow Scot Jock Zonfrillo.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Tonight, he sings it in tribute to his great mate.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m still recovering from that whole tribute, simply beautiful and gut wrenchingly sad 😢,” wrote one user in response to the post.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Beautiful, heartbreaking tribute ending with Jimmy Barnes and Loch Lomond. And the tears flowed … 😭” wrote another.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was keeping it together until the bagpipes. Now I'm a mess. Nothing but love to the ones that he loved and that loved him. Going to miss you Jock Zonfrillo,” commented a third.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Oh my! Tears rolling. Vale Jock . Love to fellow MasterChef fans. Hugs to his family,” wrote a fourth.</p> <p dir="ltr">“'F***ing hell. Now Jimmy Barnes is making me cry again,” another user tweeted.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Scottish-Australian chef <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/shattered-hearts-culinary-world-mourns-tragic-death-of-jock-zonfrillo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passed away</a> on Monday, May 1, his sudden death shocking the culinary and entertainment world.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Network 10, The Project</em></p>

Music

Three-time Olympian rushed to hospital

<p>Three-time Olympian Vicki Roycroft is in intensive care after suffering a suspected heart attack at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. </p> <p>It has been reported that the 70-year-old equestrian was preparing to participate in an equestrian show jumping competition when she suffered a heart attack and was rushed to Concord Hospital.</p> <p>Vicki’s sister shared an update in the wake of the terrifying incident, informing Vicki’s friends and fans that she had endured a “large tear in her aorta” and according to eyewitnesses had not been breathing for 10 minutes. While she had been stabilised at that stage, she was also in the midst of an 8 hour bypass surgery with doctors who were “amazed with her fitness”, and it would be roughly 3-4 days until they knew exactly how much damage the former Olympian was facing.</p> <p>The medical episode was confirmed by a spokesperson from the Easter Show, who told the <em>Sydney Morning Herald </em>that “the on-site St John Ambulance team attended to her immediately, with treatment also provided by NSW Ambulance paramedics.</p> <p>“The thoughts of the entire Royal Agricultural Society of NSW and horse community at the show are with Vicki and her loved ones at this time.”</p> <p>As news continued to break, support flowed in across Vicki’s social media account, with many also wishing the athlete a happy birthday, who had turned 70 while in hospital. </p> <p>Alongside the well wishes came a further update from Vicki’s partner Neil Trickett, who shared with everyone that their beloved Vicki had had “a brief moment of semi-consciousness” and was “holding her own”. </p> <p>He also reported “she did not squeeze a medical staff member's hand when asked, but maybe was lapsing back into unconsciousness. At this stage she will continue with heavy sedation until possibly tomorrow afternoon/evening, when a decision will be made on whether to allow her to begin to fully wake-up.”</p> <p>Neil added that a full assessment would take place over the coming days to determine any potential neurological deficits Vicki may be facing, but that “Vicki's will and determination, not to mention the incredible medical professionals in whose care she remains, are what will get her through the next few days. That she survived due to a clot that was plugging the tear in her aorta is indeed miraculous.</p> <p>“She is going to be utterly blown away by the good will that is spreading around the country - and around the world - when she wakes up.”</p> <p>And for those worried about the future of Vicki’s career and passion for it, he had an optimistic answer, explaining “if that [the support] was all it took to get her back to full strength, she'd be riding tomorrow. It may take a little longer, but she WILL be back on the horse.”</p> <p><em>Images: Getty, Shutterstock</em></p>

Caring

Body language expert weighs in on Prince George

<p>Prince George has stunned fans by stepping out ahead of his family during the annual Easter Sunday service at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.</p> <p>9-year-old George was accompanied by his parents - the Prince and Princess of Wales - and his siblings, seven-year-old Princess Charlotte and four-year-old Prince Louis. And while in 2022 the young royal stood between her parents as they made their way into the service, all eyes were on George in 2023 when he took the lead and strode a step ahead of them. </p> <p>And now, body language expert Judi James - who took note of George at both the 2021 and 2022 services as well - has spoken to<em> The Daily Mail </em>about what she believes the 9-year-old’s new “grown-up dynamic” means - both for himself, and the future of the British royal family. </p> <p>“At this Easter service there was a status step-up from George, who walked ahead to lead his family into the service,” she explained, “showing a newly grown-up dynamic from the five Wales’ when it comes to royal outings.</p> <p>“George used to be the one holding his father’s hand and looking rather timid, but here it was Charlotte walking in alongside William, while Kate held Louis’s hand beside them.”</p> <p>Judi went on to note that even this line-up “had its own upgrade”, outlining how Charlotte had appeared to check in on her younger brother, before sharing “a beam of pride at his impeccable behaviour.”</p> <p>“On the way out of the service it was Charlotte mirroring her mother, walking beside Kate and offering her own shy wave to the crowds in a gesture that showed who she takes her own lead from,” she continued. </p> <p>“Louis was a very different boy from the playful, fidgety young royal <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/adorable-prince-louis-upstages-entire-royal-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we saw at the Jubilee</a>. Walking beside Kate he looked serious and confident, offering a level stare at the crowds of fans and well-wishers, who seemed to have saved a special cheer for this mother and son duo.</p> <p>“Kate looked down at Louis with a grin of pride before smiling back up at the crowd, as though sharing her admiration for his grown-up behaviour. Louis even appeared to look down to straighten his tie as he entered the chapel.”</p> <p>Judi circled back to George while discussing the family leaving the service, noting that George was the first to exit, and that he demonstrated initiative when he set out “shaking hands without any prompting.”</p> <p>Meanwhile, many fans just couldn’t believe how quickly the young royal had grown before their very eyes, taking to social media in the wake of the service to voice their surprise. </p> <p>“How grown up does Prince George look today?” wrote one. </p> <p>“Can't believe how much Prince George has grown up,” said another. “He will be as tall as Prince William soon.”</p> <p>“It has been wonderful to see him grow in confidence as well as height,” someone agreed.</p> <p>Another noted that George bore a strong resemblance to Charles Spencer, and that the “Spencer genes are currently running strong.”</p> <p>While others couldn’t forget the rest, declaring “Princess Charlotte & Prince Louis too! They are so adorable!”</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Family & Pets

"Where's Karlos?": Michael Clarke pokes fun at himself in return to Noosa

<p>Aussie cricket legend Michael Clarke has given his social media followers a chuckle with a self-deprecating update post from Noosa.</p> <p>The post comes three months after his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/karl-stefanovic-and-michael-clarke-caught-in-public-scuffle-over-cheating-claims" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scuffle with Karl Stefanovic</a> at the Queensland tourist hotspot that made headlines nationwide.</p> <p>Over the Easter long weekend Clarke returned to the scene of the spat which went viral online, but this time the post saw him with family members as he was off from his hosting duties on the <em>Big Sports Breakfast</em> morning radio show.</p> <p>He posted a sweet family photo, including his daughter, Kelsey Lee, 7, and his mother Debbie.</p> <p>Clarke made fun of himself in the post, pairing the image with the caption, “Back in Noosa, a little more wholesome this time,”</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/Cq4nnb3JkMa/?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/Cq4nnb3JkMa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Michael Clarke AO (@michaelclarkeofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p> His Instagram post attracted hundreds of comments, many making fun of the viral incident with Stefanovic.</p> <p>“Where’s Karlos?” one comment read.</p> <p>“Stefanovic on his way up there surely?” wrote another.</p> <p>Karl Stefanovic was also pictured in Noosa over the long weekend, but there were no signs of him meeting up with the cricket icon.</p> <p>Stefanovic also took to Instagram, looking elated as he shows off a fish he had caught on the beach at Noosa.</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/Cquk0OYuy-f/?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/Cquk0OYuy-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by karl stefanovic (@karlstefanovic_)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Clarke has had a tough 2023 so far, with his Noosa altercation reportedly costing him a $150,000 commentary gig for Australia’s recent cricket tour of India.</p> <p>He also <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/rip-pop-michael-clarke-reveals-further-heartbreak" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suffered the loss of his best friend </a>in March 2023.</p> <p>Since the Noosa spat, the cricket great has been backed by Tabcorp, the owners of <em>Sky Sports Radio</em>, who have supported Clarke as he continues his role on <em>Big Sports Breakfast</em>.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Easter eggs: their evolution from chicken to chocolate

<p>A lot of Easter traditions – including hot cross buns and lamb on Sunday – stem from medieval Christian or even earlier pagan beliefs. The chocolate Easter egg, however, is a more modern twist on tradition.</p> <p>Chicken eggs have been eaten at Easter for centuries. Eggs have long symbolised rebirth and renewal, making them perfect to commemorate the story of Jesus’ resurrection as well as the arrival of spring.</p> <p>Although nowadays eggs can be eaten during the fasting period of Lent, in the middle ages they were prohibited along with meat and dairy. Medieval chefs often found surprising ways around this, even making mock eggs to replace them.</p> <p>For Easter – a period of celebration – eggs and meat, such as lamb (also a symbol of renewal), were back on the table.</p> <p>Even once eggs were permitted in fasting meals, they kept a special place in the Easter feast. Seventeenth-century cookbook author John Murrell recommended “egges with greene sawce”, a sort of pesto made with sorrel leaves.</p> <p>Across Europe, eggs were also given as a tithe (a sort of yearly rent) to the local church on Good Friday. This might be where the idea of giving eggs as a gift comes from. The practice died out in many Protestant areas after the Reformation, but some English villages kept the tradition going until the 19th century.</p> <p>It’s not known exactly when people started to decorate their eggs, but research has pointed to the 13th century, when King Edward I gave his courtiers eggs wrapped in gold leaf.</p> <p>A few centuries later, we know that people across Europe were dying their eggs different colours. They usually chose yellow, using onion peel, or red, using madder roots or beetroots. The red eggs are thought to symbolise the blood of Christ. One 17th-century author suggested this practice went as far back as early Christians in Mesopotamia, but it’s hard to know for sure.</p> <p>In England, the most popular way of decorating was with petals, which made colourful imprints. The Wordsworth Museum in the Lake District still has a collection of eggs made for the poet’s children from the 1870s.</p> <h2>From dyed eggs to chocolate eggs</h2> <p>Although dyeing patterned eggs is still a common Easter activity, these days eggs are more commonly associated with chocolate. But when did this shift happen?</p> <p>When chocolate arrived in Britain in the 17th century, it was an exciting and very expensive novelty. In 1669, the Earl of Sandwich paid £227 – the equivalent of around £32,000 today – for a chocolate recipe from King Charles II.</p> <p>Today chocolate is thought of as a solid food, but then it was only ever a drink and was usually spiced with chilli pepper following Aztec and Maya traditions. For the English, this exotic new drink was like nothing they’d ever encountered. One author called it the “American Nectar”: a drink for the gods.</p> <p>Chocolate was soon a fashionable drink for the aristocracy, often given as a gift thanks to its high status, a tradition still followed today. It was also enjoyed in the newly opened coffee houses around London. Coffee and tea had also only just been introduced to England, and all three drinks were rapidly changing how Britons socially interacted with each other.</p> <p>Catholic theologians did connect chocolate with Easter in this time, but out of concern that drinking chocolate would go against fasting practices during Lent. After heated debate, it was agreed that chocolate made with water might be acceptable during fasts. At Easter at least – a time of feasting and celebration – chocolate was fine.</p> <p>Chocolate remained expensive into the 19th century, when Fry’s (now part of Cadbury) made the first solid chocolate bars in 1847, revolutionising the chocolate trade.</p> <p>For the Victorians, chocolate was much more accessible but still something of an indulgence. Thirty years later, in 1873, Fry’s developed the first chocolate Easter egg as a luxury treat, merging the two gift-giving traditions.</p> <p>Even in the early 20th century, these chocolate eggs were seen as a special present, and many people never even ate theirs. A woman in Wales kept an egg from 1951 for 70 years and a museum in Torquay recently bought an egg that had been saved since 1924.</p> <p>It was only in the 1960s and 1970s that supermarkets began to offer chocolate eggs at a cheaper price, hoping to profit off the Easter tradition.</p> <p>With rising concerns over long-term chocolate production and bird flu provoked egg shortages, future Easters might look a little different. But if there is one thing that Easter eggs can show us, it’s the adaptability of tradition.</p> <p><em> Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/easter-eggs-their-evolution-from-chicken-to-chocolate-203074" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.</em></p>

Food & Wine

Easter travel: Best weekend getaways in Northern Territory

<p>The Easter public holidays are the perfect time to travel to the Territory’s Top End and Red Centre for a memorable getaway, whether its short stay in Darwin, camping and waterfalling hopping in the pristine national parks or a road trip through the outback. The Dry Season also commences soon in April, greeting travellers with warm weather and ideal temperatures for outdoor adventures, and an exciting roster of art, culture, music and sporting events.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>SHORTER NT TRIPS</strong></span></p> <p><strong>Darwin staycation: </strong>Spend a long weekend exploring the tropical city of Darwin, where you can soak up the laid-back atmosphere, sample delicious local cuisine, and take in the stunning sunset views.</p> <ol> <li>For foodies, the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/darwin-gourmet-tours">Gourmet Food Tour</a> samples some of the city’s most iconic restaurants or queue up for an iconic steaming bowl of laksa at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/parap-markets">Parap Markets</a>.</li> <li>Take in the sights of the beautiful Darwin Harbour, whether its enjoying the breeze on a luxurious <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/sail-darwin/champagne-sunset-sail-3-hr-dinner-cruise-on-darwin-harbour">champagne sunset dinner cruise</a>, or racing on a thrilling <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/00seven-jet-ski-adventures">jet ski tour</a>.</li> <li>Visit the diverse Aboriginal <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/art-and-culture/art-galleries">arts galleries</a> around town, including NATSIAAs exhibition at Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). If time allows, book the immersive <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/sealink-northern-territory/tiwi-by-design---tiwi-islands-day-tour">Tiwi By Design</a> art and culture tour to the remote Tiwi Islands, introducing you to the Aboriginal community of Wurrumiyanga</li> <li>Learn about Aboriginal traditions and stories with Larrakia man, Trent Lee, at <a href="https://www.saltwaterculturaltours.info/">Saltwater Cultural Tours</a>. Just an hour’s from Darwin, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/pudakul-aboriginal-cultural-tours">Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours</a> offers authentic tours in the Adelaide River floodplains, where local guides demonstrate basket weaving, dilly bag making, and touch upon bush medicine.</li> <li>Consider timing your trip with <a href="https://www.bassinthegrass.com.au/">BASSINTHEGRASS</a> music festival which returns to Darwin’s Mindil Beach on 20 May. Expect an incredible lineup including May-A, Tones and I, and more.</li> <li>Stay at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/mindil-beach-casino-resort">Mindil Beach Casino Resort</a>, where you can wine and dine to your heart’s content, and relax at the infinity pool. Stay at the Lagoon rooms, which have a private balcony or deck, and offer sweeping views of the deluxe tropical Lagoon pool.</li> <li>Stay in the middle of the action at the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/vibe-hotel-darwin-waterfront">Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront</a> on Darwin’s promenade, surrounded by excellent restaurants and family activities like Wave Lagoon.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Greater Litchfield Loop (2-4 days): </strong>The <a href="https://northernterritory.com/drive/greater-litchfield-loop?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+dsa+drive&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhr8AX0rImnQzV2rgI1xTbNf4Oa4SUJbmMcxk4uBfsAFw0BesQbtUHwaAq1kEALw_wcB">Greater Litchfield Loop</a> is the perfect road trip to explore <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/litchfield-national-park">Litchfield National Park</a>, located just 90 minutes from Darwin. Litchfield is a true nature lover’s respite with crystal-clear waterfalls, hiking trails, incredible monsoonal forest scenery and towering termite mounds.</p> <ol> <li>Enroute to Litchfield, book a <a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/tours/spectacular-jumping-crocodile-cruise">Jumping Croc Cruise</a> at Adelaide River to witness wild crocodiles in their natural habitat and watch them spring out of the water around you.</li> <li>Head south to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/berry-springs-nature-park">Berry Springs</a> to soak up the first of many water holes in this stunning region.</li> <li>Meet some of the animals that call the NT home at the <a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/territory-wildlife-park">Territory Wildlife Park</a> including walking through tree top aviaries.</li> <li>Stop by locals’ favourite, Berry Springs Tavern, before continuing to Litchfield to bask in iconic water holes like Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole.</li> <li>Retreat to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/hideaway-litchfield">Hideaway Litchfield,</a> a set of three luxurious and sustainable shipping containers-turned cabins located in the secluded and beautiful surrounds of the Park</li> <li><a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/litchfield-tourist-park">Litchfield Tourist Park</a> also has a range of accommodation options, from camping to caravanning and cabins, and is perfect for families and groups.</li> <li>Extend your road trip by checking out and staying in the coastal towns of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/dundee-beach">Dundee Beach</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/crab-claw-island-resort">Crab Claw Island</a>, both famous fishing spots in the Top End.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Finniss River Lodge: </strong>Located on Finniss River Station, a working cattle property which is a 90-minute drive from Darwin and set near lush floodplains, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/finniss-river-lodge">Finniss River Lodge</a> is NT’s newest experiential luxury wilderness retreat. The Lodge boasts six luxe ensuites, described as ‘bush character meets contemporary elegance’, and can cater for 12 guests at a time. Visitors can witness station life, like musters or indulge in the Cows n Canapes experience, participate in private wilderness tours and enjoy thrilling airboat rides. Minimum two-night stay.</p> <p><strong>Alice Springs: </strong>A gateway to the Red Centre, Alice Springs is a thriving outback town, surrounded by fantastic natural wonders and ancient sites.</p> <ol> <li>Time your trip with one of NT’s most anticipated cultural events, <a href="https://www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/">Parrtjima-A Festival in Light</a>, 7-16 April 2023. This is an extraordinary 10-night celebration of First Nations art, culture and light including projections against the West MacDonnell Ranges, large-scale installations, talks, performances, workshops and films.</li> <li>Wake up in awe with a sunrise <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/outdoor-activities/hot-air-ballooning">hot air balloon ride</a> and float silently alongside the rugged Ranges.</li> <li>Visit <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/the-kangaroo-sanctuary">Kangaroo Sanctuary</a>, where the little ones can cuddle orphaned kangaroos, feed baby joeys and learn more about wildlife preservation in the outback.</li> <li>Experience the best stargazing at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/earth-sanctuary-world-nature-centre">Earth Sanctuary</a>, with the outback home to some of the clearest skies. For a magical experience, sleep under the stars at the Sanctuary’s Space Camp.</li> <li>Outside of town, there are no shortage of picturesque natural swimming holes including <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/glen-helen-gorge">Glen Helen Gorge</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ellery-creek-big-hole">Ellery Creek Big Hole</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ormiston-gorge-and-pound">Ormiston Gorge</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/redbank-gorge">Redbank Gorge.</a></li> <li>For a comfortable stay, book at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/accommodation/doubletree-by-hilton-alice-springs">Double Tree By Hilton</a> or Lasseters</li> </ol> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">LONGER ROAD-TRIPS</span></strong></p> <p>Nature’s Way (8 days): Experience the best of the Top End along the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/litchfield-national-park">Nature’s Way road trip</a>. Start the journey in Darwin, then take Arnhem Highway to reach the nature-lovers’ paradise that is dual-World Heritage listed <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+brand+location+e&utm_term=kakadu%20national%20park&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhphmWv0ReRoIv2zhmrPF2SiFthW-Jxb4NA9Jbr4p3DNPcjOxeQ-e2waAkNMEALw_wcB">Kakadu National Park</a>. Then, continue to Katherine and explore the incredible sandstone gorges of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/destinations/nitmiluk-national-park">Nitmiluk National Park</a>, before stopping by Litchfield.</p> <ol> <li>At Kakadu, cruise on the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/destinations/yellow-water">Yellow Water Billabong</a> lined with lily pads, native birdlife and sunbaking crocodiles, and marvel at ancient rock art galleries at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/see-and-do/burrungkuy-nourlangie-rock-art-site">Nourlangie</a> and <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ubirr">Ubirr</a>.</li> <li>Attend Kakadu’s unique cultural dining experiences including the ultimate bush food experience, <a href="https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/taste/#:~:text=Karrimanjbekkan%20An%2Dme%20Kakadu%20%2D%20Taste,unlike%20anything%20else%20on%20Earth.">Taste of Kakadu</a>, 13-21 May 2023, and <a href="https://kakadutourism.com/explore-kakadu/kakadu-full-moon-feast-361">Full Moon Feast</a> dinner, 1 April 2023</li> <li>Stay at the Kakadu’s <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/accommodation/cooinda-lodge-kakadu">Cooinda Lodge</a>, offering camping, lodges and Outback Retreat glamping.</li> <li>At Nitmiluk National Park, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/outdoor-activities/canoeing-and-kayaking">hire a canoe</a> and paddle along the gorges to see waterfalls, or book a river cruise and listen to Jawoyn guides share their world of culture and history.Stay at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/accommodation/cicada-lodge">Cicada Lodge</a>, a luxury lodge overlooking the Katherine River with rooms opening to the sounds and sights of the native bush.</li> <li>When in Katherine, visit local Aboriginal guide and TikTok sensation Manuel Pamkal at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/top-didj-cultural-experience">Top Didj Cultural Experience</a>.</li> <li>Bathe in natural thermal waters of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/bitter-springs">Bitter Springs</a> and <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/katherine-hot-springs">Katherine Hot Springs</a>.</li> <li>Discover the ancient, limestone caves at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/cutta-cutta-caves-nature-park">Cutta Cutta Caves National Park</a>, 30km south of Katherine and home to rare wildlife like the orange horseshow bat.</li> <li>Visit award-winning <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/katherine-outback-experience">Katherine Outback Experience</a>, where kids can watch horse and working dog demonstrations, pet station animals, and take a glimpse into farm outback life.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Red Centre Way (5 days):</strong> The <a href="https://northernterritory.com/sg/en/drive/red-centre-way?psafe_param=1&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+dsa+drive&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhoUHqy0pLQC2nf_isF3X1izKaGUaHE8ibr20nVlZvf1418JkOv3YzoaAgluEALw_wcB">Red Centre Way</a> is the quintessential outback road trip. Uncover the breathtaking beauty, rugged landscapes and sacred cultural icons of the Red Centre, stopping by Alice Springs, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds">Uluru</a>-Kata Tjuta National Park and Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon).</p> <ol> <li>Follow the Red Centre light trail starting from <a href="https://parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/">Parrtjima – A Festival in Light</a> in Alice Springs, then Bruce Munro’s newest <a href="https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/kings-canyon/discovery-kings-canyon/activities-and-attractions/light-towers">Light Towers</a> installation at Kings Canyon, and the beautiful <a href="https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/experiences/field-of-light">Field of Light</a> installation and <a href="https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/wintjiri-wiru">Wintijiri Wiru</a> 1000 drone, laser and projection show at Uluru.</li> <li>Embark on a <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/uluru-camel-tours">camel tour</a> through the desert.</li> <li>See <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+brand+location+e&utm_term=uluru&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhrq3SflUZ97TDA3wh7ny2O-uepl-SZdhetXbqjkBBifwHdwSDqrXDIaAoHcEALw_wcB">Uluru</a> in all its glory, whether it’s walking the 10km base, hiring a bike, heading on a guided Mala tour or capturing the changes colours at sunset at the viewing platforms.</li> <li>Explore some of Australia’s leading Aboriginal art galleries and centres including Araluen Cultural Precinct and Hermannsburg Potters at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/art-and-culture/art-galleries">Alice Springs</a></li> <li>The halfway point between Alice Springs and Uluru, Kings Canyon is a majestic valley 400-million-years in the making. Enjoy the endless red desert views from <a href="https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/kings-canyon/discovery-kings-canyon/activities-and-attractions/light-towers?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhqrcruswwFLPiR3CSQtEhtyHP8CyLGb_3IAlOodHYCaJ_1F9OpPKhUaApBtEALw_wcB">Discovery Kings Canyon</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds/accommodation/kings-creek-station">Kings Creek Station</a>, with camping and glamping options available.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Arnhem Way (7-10 days):</strong> Arnhem Land is a must-visit for the ultimate immersion into Aboriginal culture and is one of Australia’s last unspoilt areas. <a href="https://northernterritory.com/drive/arnhem-way">Arnhem Way</a> road trip starts near Katherine and ends in Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula. This region is also home to some of Australia’s most pristine white sand beaches, incredible fishing, diverse marine life and stunning wetlands.</p> <ol> <li>Visit galleries showcasing local artists for a deeper understanding of traditional practices like <a href="https://yirrkala.com/">Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre</a> at Yirrkala.</li> <li>Find time for a sunset drink at the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/food-and-drink/gove--boat-club-and-manyimi-campgrounds">Gove Boat Club</a> with unhindered views of the horizon.</li> <li>Visit <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/groote-eylandt">Groote Eylandt</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/little-bondi-beach">Little Bondi Beach</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/cobourg-peninsula">Coburg Peninsula</a> for some stunning coastal views.</li> <li>Escape to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/accommodation/banubanu-beach-retreat">Banubanu Beach Retreat</a> for an impressive eco, beachfront experience.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image credit: Tourism NT </em></p>

Domestic Travel

Aldi’s popular $50 travel item is back

<p dir="ltr">Have you ever been so tired you wished you could roll out of bed and bring it with you? Well, this Aldi sleeping bag takes you one step closer to fulfilling your dream.</p> <p dir="ltr">The “One-Z wearable sleeping bag” is back by popular demand as part of Aldi’s Easter ‘Special Buys’ camping range.</p> <p dir="ltr">The onesie sleeping bag has arms, legs (with detachable feet), and even a hood so that you can become one with your sleeping bag.</p> <p dir="ltr">The $49.99 item is fully insulated, with an elastic waistband, dual zipper access, and side ventilation on the legs.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s officially coming back in stores nationally on Saturday, March 25 and will be available in three sizes – small (suitable for someone around 155cm-169cm tall), medium (170cm-183cm) and large (184cm-200cm).</p> <p dir="ltr">The One-Z has been so popular for years that when a German retailer announced it was back in 2017, the post generated over 92,000 comments.</p> <p dir="ltr">“ALDI Australia: Please tell me these gems will be restocked!” one person commented after learning how quickly the item sold out.</p> <p dir="ltr">Aldi will also put up four-person tents for $169 and six-person tents for $199.</p> <p dir="ltr">Travel camp quilts, another camping essential that will keep you warm will also be up for grabs and this time for $10 cheaper than last year, now priced at $59.99.</p> <p dir="ltr">Some other items that will be up for sale include a portable hammock with a foldable frame for $79.99, and a solar portable charger that you can attach to your backpack for $59.99.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 28W mono folding solar charger will be able to charge your electronic gadgets including phones, tablets, power banks and some DSLRs.</p> <p><em>Images: Aldi</em></p>

Travel Tips

“You are not alone”: Prince Harry pens emotional letter to bereaved children

<p dir="ltr">Prince Harry has penned a letter to children whose parents have died as a result of being in the military, telling him they share a bond in losing a parent and experiencing grief.</p> <p dir="ltr">The former royal wrote of how he learnt to cope with grief and encouraged the children to “lean into your friends” in his letter, which was shared by the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers on Remembrance Sunday.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As many of us observe and reflect on Remembrance Sunday, I wanted to write to you and let you know you are all in my thoughts and heart today,” he began.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-319fa701-7fff-1059-e37f-7ace750a752b"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“We share a bond even without ever meeting one another, because we share in having lost a parent. I know first-hand the pain and grief that comes with loss and want you to know that you are not alone.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/11/prince-harry-nov-letter.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Prince Harry penned a letter to children supported by the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers for Remembrance Sunday. Image: Scotty’s Little Soldiers</em></p> <p dir="ltr">"While difficult feelings will come up today as we pay tribute to heroes like your mum or dad, I hope you can find comfort and strength in knowing that their love for you lives and shines on. Whenever you need a reminder of this, I encourage you to lean into your friends at Scotty’s Little Soldiers.</p> <p dir="ltr">"One of the ways I've learned to cope has been through community and talking about my grief, and I couldn't be more grateful and relieved that you have amazing people walking beside you throughout your journey.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We all know some days are harder than others, but together those days are made easier."</p> <p dir="ltr">Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity that supports children who have lost a parent in the military, was founded in 2010 by Nikki Scott, whose husband Corporal Lee Scott was killed in Afghanistan in 2009 and left behind two young children.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7881f497-7fff-4422-2c10-4168c81f7623"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">On Sunday, 55 children and their parents took part in the Remembrance Sunday parade wearing black and yellow scarves.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">A proud moment for Scotty’s 💛 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RemembranceSunday?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RemembranceSunday</a> <a href="https://t.co/CsD7wL9BQP">pic.twitter.com/CsD7wL9BQP</a></p> <p>— Scotty's L Soldiers (@CorporalScotty) <a href="https://twitter.com/CorporalScotty/status/1591767075567333378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">In his letter, Prince Harry acknowledged that taking part in the parade would be “hard but equally important to do” to raise awareness for others.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Today you will bring new awareness to young people, just like you, who will benefit from this community of support,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I salute you for serving others in need, in the most honourable memory of your parent.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The Duke of Sussex has long supported the charity, which was one of the organisations chosen by Harry and Meghan Markle to benefit from donations they received as gifts for their 2018 wedding.</p> <p dir="ltr">In 2017, he met with children who’d lost a military parent at a special party on the grounds of Buckingham Palace.</p> <p dir="ltr">This year, he and Meghan attended a service on Remembrance Day to pay their respects to those who died in war across the US and the Commonwealth.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-78e8d8b1-7fff-62de-8d2f-a91f99007698"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

Girlfriend’s heart-warming tribute to Easter Show victim

<p>The girlfriend of the teenage boy who was stabbed at the Sydney Easter Show has paid tribute to her late boyfriend with a heart-warming gesture. </p> <p><a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/baby-born-from-easter-show-tragedys-lasting-link-to-the-dad-he-will-never-meet/news-story/ab6b7ebc65b1d152376d147210fa6bc8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a> reported that Taylor Piliae gave birth last week, nearly seven months after her boyfriend Uati “Pele” Faletolu was killed while working at the Royal Easter Show in April.</p> <p>Piliae’s early pregnancy was <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/more-heartbreaking-details-emerge-of-easter-show-stabbing-victim" target="_blank" rel="noopener">confirmed on social media</a> following Faletolu’s death, with an outpouring of support from family and friends.</p> <p>In tribute to her baby's father, Taylor named him Uati after the father he will never meet.</p> <p>Relatives told The Daily Telegraph both the mother and baby are doing well, while photos posted on Instagram show the newborn being held by loved ones.</p> <p>“Welcome to the world bubba my heart’s so full, I love you so much,” his aunt Bree Piliae posted.</p> <p>One person wrote that it “was (Faletolu’s) biggest goal, to become a dad”, saying how proud Uati would be of his son. </p> <p>Seventeen-year-old Uati Faletolu died almost instantly after being knifed at the show about 8pm on April 11th.</p> <p>Uati was on a break from his part-time job working on the Break Dance ride at the show when he was killed.</p> <p>Two 18-year-old men and a 14-year-old boy were arrested months after the violent knife attack and each charged with murder.</p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News</em></p>

Family & Pets

How to overcome the ‘Sunday scaries,’ according to a therapist

<p><strong>How to overcome your Sunday scaries</strong></p> <p>According to an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report, most Australians are working longer hours – spending more time on the job than on their household activities, caring for family, education, meals, personal care and leisure combined. If this grind sounds familiar, you probably don’t need scientific data to tell you how much Mondays can suck (though back in 2011, University of Vermont researchers used Twitter data to confirm indeed, we all hate. Mondays the most). In recent years, these Monday blues have crept into our off-the-clock hours, too: a phenomenon that’s increasingly coming to be known as the ‘Sunday scaries.’</p> <p><strong>Five reasons this ‘anticipatory anxiety’ happens</strong></p> <p>“The Sunday scaries is an overwhelming feeling of dread and anxiety about going to work or school the next day,” says clinical psychologist, Dr Renée L. Goff. Depending on your schedule, this anxiety doesn’t necessarily have to hit on a Sunday, but whenever you’re spending what’s meant to be personal time stressing about upcoming work.</p> <p>And what do the Sunday scaries feel like? “Some people describe it as a heaviness they can feel in their body, while others feel so jittery they could jump out of their skin,” Dr Goff says. “You’re also very aware of the time ticking away and the freedom of your weekend coming to a close.”</p> <p>It’s also extremely common. Based on different polls, 75 to 80 per cent of people experience the Sunday scaries, says therapist Amanda Stemen. But just because it’s widespread doesn’t mean it’s not manageable. Here’s how experts say you can ease your Sunday anxiety.</p> <p><strong>Structure your Sunday</strong></p> <p>“Structure can be a best friend when [you’re] feeling the Sunday scaries,” says psychotherapist, Angela Ficken. “Instead of sitting on the couch and watching the clock, go do something that you enjoy.” You might still get whiffs of that sense of dread, but that feeling is harder to hold onto when you are engaging in something that makes you feel good, she says. Plus, research tells us that adding structure to our days can help give us a greater sense of control and improve mental health. That’s why it’s not just important to structure your Sundays, but to be consistent with it, Ficken says.</p> <p><strong>Don’t forget to relax</strong></p> <p>The Australian Government Department of Health data shows just how little time we have during the week to tend to non-work activities – but when you’re planning out your Sunday, try not to cram in too many errands and chores. If you’re feeling more stress in general, it’s important to make space for relaxing activities in your Sunday plan to ground yourself, says marriage and family therapist Naiylah Warren. And there’s no right way to relax. “Maybe a body scan meditation, maybe a mid-afternoon shower or bath, maybe an engaging movie or show,” Warren says. “[Whatever] feels like a helpful distraction to reground from the scaries.”</p> <p><strong>Pinpoint anxiety sources behind the Sunday scaries</strong></p> <p>Anxiety is a normal human experience, and one of the main ways to manage it is to identify your personal triggers. “Try to pinpoint what is really causing you to dread the week,” Dr Goff says. “Is it a deadline, meeting or presentation?”</p> <p>Even if there’s not a sole reason behind your Sunday anxiety, organising the stress you expect from the week ahead into bite-size chunks can help make it all more manageable. “Create multiple to-do lists,” Dr Goff recommends. One list for tasks that need to be completed immediately, another for tasks that are less urgent, and a final list for tasks that you’d like to complete at some point. “Seeing these can help put into perspective what is important and what you can let go of for now,” she says. “This can help decrease the anticipation of the stress and dread of the week.”</p> <p><strong>Create some excitement for the week ahead</strong></p> <p>Getting rid of the Sunday scaries isn’t just about tempering the doom-and-gloom of the week ahead, either. “Having something to look forward to also gives you something to think about that’s pleasing rather than only focusing on the dread you feel,” Ficken says. It’s a form of reframing your thoughts: instead of focusing on the awful things you expect from the week, build excitement over a coffee or lunch date with a friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with. “This gives you the opportunity to shift your thoughts to something fun and will help improve your mood.”</p> <p><strong>End your Sunday with the right energy</strong></p> <p>Whether you want glowing skin, a sounder sleep or a mental health boost, a great nighttime routine can come with major health benefits. But if you suffer from the Sunday scaries, you may want to build a special routine for these more anxiety-ridden evenings, Warren says. “This is an opportunity to give yourself proper wind-down time – maybe you want to journal, do a face mask, read a few pages of your book – allow yourself to decompress so you can feel empowered and confident you’ll be ready for the next day,” she says. And do your best to honour this “you” time.</p> <p>That means, when possible, make Sunday night about your self-care – and leave the work emails for Monday morning.</p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-5bed761a-7fff-0943-dc43-615bbc260f03">Written by Leslie Finlay. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/conditions/mental-health/how-to-overcome-the-sunday-scaries-according-to-a-therapist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a></span></em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Mind

Julie Goodwin puts colleague in his place

<p dir="ltr">Julie Goodwin appeared as a host on <em>The Sunday Project</em> and was quick to have the audience in stitches.</p> <p dir="ltr">The beloved <em>MasterChef Australia</em> star was introduced by co-host Hamish MacDonald who expressed his disappointment that she didn’t cook something for the team. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Please put your hands together for the one and only, MasterChef's Julie Goodwin,” Hamish said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It's great to see you, but I'm not happy that you didn't bring snacks.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Julie was quick and witty in her response: “If we're going to be colleagues, get used to that!”</p> <p dir="ltr">The rest of the panel and the audience laughed before Hamish responded sarcastically saying Julie is “so much nicer in real life”. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheProjectTV?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheProjectTV</a> is coming live from the traditional lands of the Gadigal People. We begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we gather today, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. <a href="https://t.co/pIvth3zTAN">pic.twitter.com/pIvth3zTAN</a></p> <p>— The Project (@theprojecttv) <a href="https://twitter.com/theprojecttv/status/1548586383752810499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Following the finale of <em>MasterChef Fans & Favourites</em>, Julie had managed to make it to the top five before she was eliminated for presenting a burnt sticky date pudding to the judges. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 51-year-old accepted the decision and was asked by guest host Mitch Tambo what she has “against sweets”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It's just not my jam, so to speak. I'm a savoury kind of a cook. So you know, I do desserts when I need to... it's just not my forte,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I would have preferred any one of the other courses but you get what you're given on MasterChef. You've got to run with it.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Julie recently opened up about her fear of rejoining the series after winning the first ever season of MasterChef.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was pretty scary because there was a feeling there that everything's on the line. I won the show 13 years ago and built a career out of that," she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"To put myself back into that situation, that competition, I felt like I may be risking all of that.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Channel 10</em></p>

Sam Mac accused of basically doing nothing

<p dir="ltr">Sam Mac has been called out in the Sunday Mail newspaper, with a local questioning what he actually does for a living.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em>Sunrise </em>weatherman shared the snippet onto Instagram titled “Not a cloud in the sky” which was sent in by Neill from Woodcroft.</p> <p dir="ltr">Neill said he smiled when Sam said he had a “fantastic week” before slowly drilling the weatherman and his antics.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I had to smile when Sunrise’s Sam Mac recently said he’d had a fantastic week,” the note began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Well, of course he would say that after being in the Hunter Valley all week. But what does he actually do?</p> <p dir="ltr">“It seems to me very little, except for giving the weather temperatures and telling viewers if it’s going to be raining or sunny.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not a bad job: getting paid while enjoying free accommodation, meals and, I presume, airfares.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’d like to know what he does for the rest of the day.”</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/CfBS5-TOXrX/?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/CfBS5-TOXrX/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sam Mac (@sammacinsta)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Sam responded to Neill by sharing his hobbies, making it unclear on whether or not he should be offended by the letter.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Hello Neill from Woodcroft, & thank you for your enquiry,” Sam began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Firstly, I must commend you on your accurate summary of my role as a Weatherman, ie telling people the weather. Well spotted Sir. You got me.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Now, in answer to your question, when I’m not basking in the glory of free accommodation, meals & airfares, I like to spend the rest of the day partaking in my favourite hobbies…Stone skipping, latin dancing, managing the anxiety of having to decide which jar to put my local matters bottle top in at Grill’d, collecting navel fluff, breakfast tv cosplay (aka “Kochplay”), beatboxing, downloading podcasts I have no intention of listening to, quilting, learning national anthems on the flute, & if there’s anytime left over, I like to write snide letters to my local newspapers.</p> <p dir="ltr">“How about you Neill? What do YOU do for the rest of the day? Sincerely, Sam.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Sam discussed the letter with his colleagues Nat Barr and David Koch, who laughed and said they agreed with Neill.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A guy named Neill, with two Ls, from Woodcroft in South Australia wrote a letter in the Sunday Mail asking ‘what does that weatherman do for the rest of his day?’,” Sam said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He thinks I’m just on holiday, he thinks I’m just having a laugh, but as you guys know, I do the hard yards!”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Neill is very perceptive. We get you, Neill,” Kochie said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Neill is all of us,” Barr laughed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Is your pen name Neill?” Sam then asked Kochie.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Toddler suffers brain damage after Easter egg hunt

<p dir="ltr">A young boy who suffered brain damage after a fun weekend may lose his toes and fingers after contracting a life threatening disease.</p> <p dir="ltr">Teddie was “bouncing around” with his siblings during an exciting Easter egg hunt on Good Friday but it was two days later when he woke up with a temperature.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mother Zoe Stewart noticed a pink looking bruise on his forehead which had then spread all over his stomach. </p> <p dir="ltr">Teddie’s condition began to rapidly deteriorate and he was rushed to hospital where he was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and septicaemia.</p> <p dir="ltr">The doctors said it was too late to wait for the painkillers to kick in and they had to drill into Teddie’s shin bones.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He was starting to bleed from his mouth and his nose, it was just terrifying,” Zoe told The Mirror.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We were told what all parents never want to hear, that we needed to understand there was a chance Teddie may not make it as he has a life-threatening infection.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Teddie was transferred to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital where he spent two weeks in the ICU - all while his parents feared the worst.</p> <p dir="ltr">Eventually he was taken off life support and began breathing on his own, however, he has suffered some brain damage of which the long term effects are still unknown. </p> <p dir="ltr">A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-little-teddies-parents?qid=ac29c369ef749c5c5d13b40672d8bdf7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page has been created to help the family. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: GoFundMe</em></p>

Caring

Hunt for Easter Show killer taken over by homicide squad

<p>The investigation into the violent Easter Show murder of teenager Uati Faletolu has escalated to the homicide squad, with dedicated investigators taking charge of the case . </p> <p>The 17-year-old was taking a break from working on one of the carnival rides at the Easter Show when he was targeted in the brawl that ended in the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/easter-show-chaos-one-teen-dead-one-in-hospital-one-arrested" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stabbing</a> and his eventual death en route to the hospital around 8pm on Monday April 11th.</p> <p>Forensic examiners have investigated the scene but have yet to find significant clues leading them in the direction of the killer. </p> <p>The dedicated homicide detectives, working in partnership with local police, are now focusing on video of the violent incident, calling on witnesses to submit any evidence to Crime Stoppers. </p> <p>Homicide Squad boss Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty said investigators were working meticulously through hours of CCTV and other vision to identify those involved in the incident.</p> <p>“Of the vision we have already reviewed, we know there was a significant amount of people filming the incident, many of whom have not yet supplied the vision to police,” Det Supt Doherty said.</p> <p>“In our experience, it is likely that someone – or many people – has unknowingly captured a clear shot of something of relevance to the investigation.”</p> <p>He said investigators were often faced with silence as perpetrators or victims were often “misguided by loyalties or fear of retribution”.</p> <p>Friends of Mr Faletolu told police they believed the attackers were from the rival postcode of Mt Druitt (2770).</p> <p>Uati, 17, has since been linked to the Doonside gang known as 67 for its postcode 2767.</p> <p>Detectives have appealed to anyone who was in the carnival area at the time of the brawl and hasn’t yet spoken to police to come forward.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

News

Five reasons to take your grandkids to the Sydney Royal Easter Show

<p dir="ltr">With rides, showbags, animals, and a host of entertaining events, the Sydney Royal Easter Show has plenty on offer that the whole family can enjoy - and there’s even more in store this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you’re still deciding whether to take the grandkids along this year, the Show’s celebrations of its 200th anniversary might be enough to convince you.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though there are plenty of reasons to take the grandkids to the Show in any given year, here are five reasons you should consider visiting this year.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Join in celebrating the Show’s past and present</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The street parades are a beloved part of the Easter Show, and this year’s Bicentenary Street Parade is just as special (if not more).</p> <p dir="ltr">The parade, held three times a day everyday, will feature floats devoted to past fads in fashion and entertainment, as well as </p> <p dir="ltr">Other <em>must-see events</em> include:</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2d8e28f6-7fff-b0e1-82e8-8397f8c506b4"></span></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">A Tribute to Our Spectacular Past - the nightly show in the main arena, which promises to take you on a trip from the Show’s origins with horse-drawn carriages to the daring stunts of today’s motorcyclists and precision drivers, rounded out with the classic fireworks display.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Car Parade - cars from some of Australia’s top collectors will be driven around the grounds at 5pm, with a different car club every day. If you miss the parade, you can also catch the cars on display from 8am til 5pm.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Heritage Pavilion - filled with snapshots and stories from the last 200 years, you can see the history of fashion, shopping, and other marvels on display every day.</p> </li> </ul> <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/CcNdEUNPaLp/?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/CcNdEUNPaLp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wentworth Point 😷 💉💉💉 (@parramattariver)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Daily shows from aeronauts on balloon bikes, the circus-inspired Cyclopod, the humorous penny-farthing duo The Gagliardies, and travelling medicine show called Gandini’s Medical Marvels are perfect from audiences young and old and perfect additions to your itinerary.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Enjoy the thrills and spills of the Kids’ Carnival</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The Easter Show isn’t complete without the rides, and kids (including kids at heart) will find the Kids’ Carnival is the best place to find some fun.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c2d99357-7fff-d20f-3c69-d793e011cb6c"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">From the intricately-detailed carousel to the sky-high super slide, the rides operate daily from 9.30am until late.</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/CcP9ptirRHo/?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/CcP9ptirRHo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Nicole Jandik (@babymustravel)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Kids Street, designed for younger kids, is home to the iconic Tea Cups, Merry Go Round, Mini Chairs, and Mini Bumper Cars, as well as carnival games and spots to refuel with hot food and coffee.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a first for the Show, tickets will no longer look like the traditional paper coupons and will instead take the form of a Carnival Fun Pass: a digital pass that you load with credits before you visit or top-up at specially marked kiosks in the carnival areas.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Give the kids a taste of some of Australia’s best arts, crafts, and produce</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Along with all the fun rides, carnival food, and jam-packed showbags, the Show can be a perfect place to learn something new about agriculture or take in some of the country’s best arts and crafts.</p> <p dir="ltr">From paintings and flower arranging to novelty cakes and fashion, you’re sure to find something that piques your (or the kids’) interest. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em><strong>Must-see events</strong></em> include the district exhibit displays, a hallmark of the Show that see produce turned into massive, artful displays, and the Bee-Zeebo, where you’ll learn all about how honey goes from the hive to the jar.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Meet the animals and see who’s Best in Show</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-36436adb-7fff-f38b-0405-29a9960480de"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Who doesn’t love getting up close to cats, dogs, cows, horses and other animals? Since the Show is organised by the Royal Agricultural Society, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that farm animals are a major part of what the Show has on offer. It also means that there’s plenty of cuteness to go around.</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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca3wIfmvoYF/?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/Ca3wIfmvoYF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MONDE Photo Credited Images. (@credit_mondephoto)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2040bd21-7fff-0e3d-9be6-335419feff2d"><em><strong>Must-see events</strong></em> include the daily competitions to crown the best in breed and show, and no matter which day you go, you can see goats, dogs, horses, cattle, sheep, chickens and even adorable puppies strut their stuff for the judges.</span></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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcP75edPdWZ/?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/CcP75edPdWZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mark (@dunn.photography.au)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The grandkids are also sure to enjoy the 10 Shake Farmyard Nursery, where they can meet, pat and even feed any of the 500 animals there, which can be rounded out with the nightly rodeo that pits international cowboys against Australia’s finest.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Spoil the grandkids with goodies they can take home</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7f6f3a05-7fff-2ba1-2fbc-23ebaf7c9fc7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Last, but definitely not least, is the classic showbag. With 392 varieties available this year, from Bertie Beetle to Bluey-themed, there’s heaps of choice.</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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca4QC2cvPId/?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/Ca4QC2cvPId/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MONDE Photo Credited Images. (@credit_mondephoto)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Bargain bags include the aforementioned Bertie Beetle range, priced between $3-$18.</p> <p dir="ltr">The fun-filled bags aren’t just for kids, either, with the Australian Women’s Weekly bag ($20), the RAS AG bag ($25), Licorice Lovers ($10), Metallica ($26), Darrell Lea ($25) and themed bags for a host of sports teams among the many popular choices.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sydney Royal Easter Show runs until Tuesday, April 19, with the main gates opening from 8.30am until 9pm every night.</p> <p dir="ltr">Plus, the final day of the Show is Kids’ Day, meaning that entry for kids is just $12 (or free for kids under three).</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-4974a222-7fff-653f-92a7-42a1552e41fc"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @sydneyroyal_eastershow (Instagram)</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Aussie airports brace for record crowds over Easter

<p dir="ltr">Aussie travellers are facing ongoing mayhem across the country as airports feel the pressure of the Easter long weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sydney Airport is at the epicentre of the chaos, with travellers in the airport’s domestic terminals experiencing <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/domestic-travel/give-us-patience-chaos-continues-at-sydney-airport" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lengthy queues</a> and hours of waiting to check-in and get through security. </p> <p dir="ltr">With an already stretched staffing system and 82,000 people expected to go through the domestic terminal gates on Thursday - the busiest the airport’s been since 80,000 people filed through on March 6, 2020 - it’s unlikely that the pressure will ease anytime soon.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-72648aaa-7fff-12e4-a353-d8b7b6a6fc84"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">An additional 79,000 people are predicted to travel through the terminals on Good Friday, with numbers dropping to around 60,000 on Saturday and Sunday before picking up again.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Melbourne airport 5:45am.. big queues for bag drops but flights being called out to make sure people aren’t missing them. With traffic into airport too the advice is definitely still to get here early though! <a href="https://twitter.com/10NewsFirstMelb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@10NewsFirstMelb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbourneairport?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbourneairport</a> <a href="https://t.co/R0M8HcdoO2">pic.twitter.com/R0M8HcdoO2</a></p> <p>— Caty Price (@caty_price) <a href="https://twitter.com/caty_price/status/1513968147052736512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">But the chaos hasn’t been limited to Sydney, after Melbourne and Adelaide airports saw similar situations unfolding on Thursday morning.</p> <p dir="ltr">Melbourne is also expecting crowds over the Easter break, with 380,000 people set to walk through the airport over the entire long weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr">Brisbane hasn’t been spared either, with foot traffic of 56,000 predicted for Thursday.</p> <p dir="ltr">In response, Australians have been advised to arrive at least two hours before their domestic flight - or three hours for international flights - and expect delays.</p> <p dir="ltr">Lyall Stranby, the chief executive of Melbourne Airport, told <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/warnings/sydney-airport-chaos-to-continue-with-more-than-80000-people-expected-on-thursday/news-story/d7b9b0d277cd44cf7240de7ca36dcc5d" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a></em> impacts of the widespread redundancies among airline and airport staff during the pandemic are still being felt despite efforts to rapidly expand the workforce.</p> <p dir="ltr">“COVID-19 decimated airlines and airports and resulted in thousands of highly-skilled workers being stood down or made redundant,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7e015a95-7fff-460f-1493-cd76edce2e9e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“The airlines and their suppliers are now scaling up their workforce but given the safety-critical nature of the jobs they do; recruitment and retraining can take time.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">As someone who works at Sydney Airport, please be kind to us, we are trying to get you to where you need/want to be. Short staffed due to being dead quiet for like 1.5 years and then suddenly going full speed once the borders opened. </p> <p>We get it, it’s hard for us too</p> <p>— louis (@louis20016) <a href="https://twitter.com/louis20016/status/1512282830478356482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Travellers in Melbourne have also faced lengthy wait times for their luggage, with some waiting up to an hour to pick up their bags.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sydney Airport chief executive Geoff Culbert said this period has been challenging for everyone, including passengers.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We’ve got staff shortages, we’ve been rebuilding the business from the ground up,” Mr Culbert told 2GB’s Chris Smith on Wednesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You go back to November last year, and we were all in lockdown, we were operating at one percent of normal capacity and we all started recruiting for Easter back in December last year, right when we got a sense of the borders were going to open but we just haven’t been able to get enough staff.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Then you add on top of that the Covid issues, on any given day up to 20 percent of staff can’t come to work due to Covid. So we’re running at 60 percent of ordinary staff capacity.”</p> <p dir="ltr">As staff face the crowds, senior staff at Sydney Airport have been told to leave their offices to help manage queues, while retail and IT staff have been redeployed onto the security floor, as reported by <em>news.com.au</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">With airport service staff, including security workers, now recognised as critical workers in NSW and Victoria, they are exempt from isolating for seven days if they are close contacts and have no COVID-19 symptoms.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-115b4b9c-7fff-6be5-306d-6fc435f40145"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @cajlamb (Twitter)</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Police struggling to find Easter Show killer

<p dir="ltr">The knife-wielding killer who stabbed a teenager at the Easter Show is still on the loose and police struggle to pin him down. </p> <p dir="ltr">Uati “Pele” Faletolu was fatally stabbed at the family event in front of hundreds of horrified onlookers on Monday night. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 17-year-old was treated by paramedics at the scene but did not make it. </p> <p dir="ltr">Police are still trying to hunt down Uati's killer but are struggling due to the dark and grainy CCTV, <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/nsw/girlfriend-of-sydney-royal-easter-show-stabbing-victim-is-reportedly-pregnant-with-his-child-c-6434221" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a> reported.</p> <p dir="ltr">Witnesses with video footage are urged to come forward and assist police with investigations. </p> <p dir="ltr">Since the heartbreaking incident, the Show’s organisers have installed more flood lights and bag screening to ensure everyone’s safety.</p> <p dir="ltr">Uati was on his break from working at the Show’s "Break Dance" ride on Monday when he became involved in a confrontation around 8pm.</p> <p dir="ltr">The altercation included two groups of males, who police believe could be from rival postcode gangs in Sydney’s west, and are suspected to be behind the brawl.</p> <p dir="ltr">Uati was from Doonside, which has the postcode 2767, and friends have told police the people behind his death were from Mt Druitt, with the postcode 2770.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police from the Homicide Squad and Auburn Police Command are investigating reports that Uati was linked to the 67 street gang, which recently clashed with Mt Druitt’s Ready for Anything group.</p> <p dir="ltr">Strike Force Calle has been formed to determine whether the Easter Show incident was connected to a stabbing in Western Sydney last week and Uati’s 15-year-old relative has since been charged with carrying a knife in public and affray over his alleged involvement in the brawl.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was granted conditional bail in court on Tuesday, in light of his lack of criminal record and “minor role” in the alleged incident.</p> <p dir="ltr">It was also revealed that Uati was due to become a father, with his girlfriend’s sister confirming the pregnancy in a post on Instagram. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The rumours are true. My beautiful sister has been blessed with his baby,” Bree Piliae wrote in the post which showed the ultrasound as well as a photo of the couple.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Congratulations big sis, with you every step of the way. Can’t wait to meet you mini Pele.” </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/CcRVcGtvQ0O/?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/CcRVcGtvQ0O/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by BREANAH PILIAE 🦋 (@breepiliae)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">In another post, Bree paid tribute to her late sister’s partner saying the tragedy was “one of the worst things to see happen to someone you love”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Lost for words. Hands down one of the worst things to see happen to someone you love right in front of you,” she wrote in a story post.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m traumatised. My heart is aching for you so much my brother. I love and miss you so much. I’ll never forget you.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Such a good guy, beautiful smile and heart. You’re in God’s hands now my brother, I love you.”</p> <p dir="ltr">A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-lay-uati-to-rest?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> has been created to help lay Uati to rest.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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