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Man convicted of stealing $9m golden toilet

<p>In a heist that sounds more like the fever dream of a mischief-loving magpie than a real-life crime, a British man has been convicted for pilfering an 18-carat golden toilet from Winston Churchill’s birthplace.</p> <p>Yes, you read that right. A fully functioning, solid gold loo. Some people steal hearts, others steal diamonds – these guys stole a throne fit for, well, a rather ostentatious king.</p> <p>The golden commode, a conceptual masterpiece titled "America" by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, had been proudly displayed at Blenheim Palace just north of Oxford in the UK, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, up until 2019, a place where even the most refined guests could contemplate the intersection of art and plumbing. But on September 14 of that year, a group of highly motivated men drove two stolen vehicles through the palace’s locked wooden gates, demonstrating a particular lack of subtlety.</p> <p>Once inside, they broke a window, smashed down a wooden door and ripped the toilet from the wall with what one can only assume was the determination of someone who just realised they were late for work. The entire escapade lasted five minutes.</p> <p>The golden lavatory, weighing a hefty 98kg and insured for a staggering $US6 million ($AUD9.4 million), is believed to have been melted down and sold off in smaller pieces. We can only hope its new form is as artistically significant as its previous one, though it’s far more likely that some of it is currently jingling around in someone’s pocket as loose change.</p> <p>At Oxford Crown Court, 39-year-old Michael Jones was found guilty of burglary after his rather ambitious attempt at indoor redecorating. His associate, Fred Doe, 36, was convicted of conspiracy to convert or transfer criminal property – namely, the gold. Meanwhile, 41-year-old Bora Guccuk walked free, having been acquitted of that charge, presumably to pursue other, less toilet-related endeavours.</p> <p>The ringleader, James Sheen, had already pleaded guilty to burglary, conspiracy and the conversion of the gold, proving that while he may have been skilled at lifting toilets, he wasn’t quite as adept at covering his tracks. Text messages between Sheen and Doe revealed their not-so-cryptic code for the golden loot, referring to it as a “car”.</p> <p>“I’ll link up with ya, I got something right up your path,” Sheen texted Doe, a message that is oddly poetic for a toilet heist.</p> <p>Doe’s reply, equally inspired, read, “I can sell that car for you in two seconds … so come and see me tomorrow.” One can only assume the conversation continued with at least one instance of, “Mate, why do you keep calling a car a toilet?”</p> <p>Shan Saunders of the Crown Prosecution Service called the theft “an audacious raid which had been carefully planned and executed”. Unfortunately for the thieves, their execution left a trail of forensic evidence, CCTV footage and phone data, ensuring their time in the spotlight would be less <em>Ocean’s Eleven</em> and more <em>World’s Dumbest Criminals</em>.</p> <p>Despite authorities never recovering the gold, Saunders remains confident that the prosecution “has played a part in disrupting a wider crime and money-laundering network”. </p> <p>For now, the golden throne remains lost to the ages, a cautionary tale for aspiring art thieves and a lingering question for the art world: when does a toilet become more than just a toilet? The answer, it seems, is when it’s worth six million dollars and inspires one of the strangest heists in British history.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Steve Price slams woman's savvy Airtasker job

<p>Steve Price has launched into a tirade on <em>The Project </em>over a story about a woman's savvy use of Airtasker. </p> <p>The Sydney woman posted a job on the site to pay a stranger $100 if they delivered her a pair of sneakers to the Ivy nightclub, after her high heels began hurting her feet at 1am.</p> <p>Her ingenuity quickly went viral, with <em>The Project</em> panellist Georgie Tunny explaining the situation.</p> <p>"Someone came through (and delivered the shoes), and her followers applauded her, calling it genius hack," Tunny said. </p> <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: currentcolor !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; border-style: none; vertical-align: baseline; width: 591px; outline: currentcolor !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7476683192787946770&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40aimee.clairee%2Fvideo%2F7476683192787946770%3Fembed_source%3D121374463%252C121468991%252C121439635%252C121433650%252C121404359%252C121497414%252C73319236%252C121477481%252C121351166%252C121487028%252C73347567%252C121331973%252C120811592%252C120810756%252C121503376%253Bnull%253Bembed_masking%26refer%3Dembed%26referer_url%3Dwww.dailymail.co.uk%252Ftvshowbiz%252Farticle-14454879%252FThe-Project-Steve-Price-sneakers-nightclub-heels.html%26referer_video_id%3D7476683192787946770&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-sg.tiktokcdn.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-alisg-p-0037%2Fo4gbklEViYI8Bu8LPiDDiBnRVC8KAIVEAZBDy%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1741222800%26x-signature%3Dr1zBofQ2NEGTc0Et0FGfYs3KRQY%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>Steve Price, however, wasn't impressed by the woman's determination to be comfortable, blasting her "ridiculous" request.</p> <p>Price crinkled his face in disgust at the harmless story and let loose, mincing no words as he shared his opinion.  </p> <p>"Don't be stupid. That's the most ridiculous, over-privileged w**ky thing I've heard of" he said. </p> <p>"That woman has too much money.  She got secondhand smelly sneakers," Steve added.</p> <p>Georgie defended the woman, saying that in her clubbing days, she would absolutely have paid someone a decent sum in order to be in comfortable shoes and spare her feet. </p> <p><em>Image credits: The Project</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Woman slammed for using GoFundMe for house deposit

<p>A woman has been relentlessly mocked online after launching a GoFundMe page to ask strangers to contribute money to her house deposit. </p> <p>Emmalee Potter, a mother-of-three from Victoria, wrote on the page that she had been "suffering a rough few years" and relying on friends and family for help with accommodation. </p> <p>Now however, Potter is finally in the position where she is tantalising close to being able to purchase her new home after "working hard towards saving", but still finds herself $3,000 short of her goal. </p> <p>As she wrote on the fundraising page, "I'm almost at the final stage but I'm short on the deposit so I'm calling on my village. Please help me get over this last hurdle, every little bit truly helps, a house is more than just a place to live."</p> <p>"It's a foundation for the next chapter of life, a space where memories are made, and where I can really begin to feel settled. Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping me achieve this dream."</p> <p>While Ms Potter thanked those who could contribute, many were not impressed at her using the platform in order to fund her house. </p> <p>"No hate but you expect people to donate to you so you can buy a house?" one person asked, while another added, "I'm sorry but that is ridiculous. If we are all going to start GoFundMe accounts, I may as well start one so I can go on a holiday to Greece."</p> <p>Another person wrote, "It's a tough time for everyone trying to buy a house, especially with the cost of living, so I'm kind of confused why you're asking for donations. The first paragraph of your listing says 'I'm now in a position to purchase a home' but you're asking strangers to send you money for the deposit?" </p> <p>Ms Potter defended the fundraising page as she responded to one outraged commenter, writing, "It's not about 'funding me a house' it's the small amount still needed to buy something."</p> <p>"Me and my kids are living in a room at my friends. Buying is actually cheaper than renting. We've applied for over 100 rentals and been knocked back. I can get the home loan and pay the repayments [I'm] just needing the last bit of the deposit."</p> <p>Others were quick to defend the woman, as one person wrote, "There's nothing wrong with asking for help."</p> <p><em>Image credits: GoFundMe / Facebook </em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Disgusting": Radio host slammed over women's sports comments

<p>Triple M host Marty Sheargold has been slammed online for comments he made on-air about the Matildas and women's sport, with many calling him "disgusting" and "a f**king joke". </p> <p>When the Triple M program and podcast, <em>The Marty Sheargold Show</em>, began discussing the Matildas performance in the annual SheBelieves Cup along in the US along with Japan, Colombia and the host nation.</p> <p>During their discussion of the competition, Sheargold used the opportunity to rip into the world of women's sport, leaving the radio station flooded with complaints. </p> <p>The conversation between Sheargold and co-hosts Troy Ellis and Will Ralson began with Ralston mentioning the tournament to date, as he said, “In football or soccer it’s been a nightmare tournament for the Matildas over the last three or four days over in the US,” referencing the Tillies' defeat to Japan. </p> <p>Sheargold immediately jumped in with the following rant, including downplaying the Matildas’ semi-final appearance at the 2023 FIFA World Cup on home soil.</p> <p>“There’s something wrong with the Matildas,” Sheargold began. “They had that wonderful tournament out here where we all fell in love with them, even though they didn’t make the quarters."</p> <p>“You know what they remind me of? Year 10 girls,” Sheargold continued, as laughter rang out in the background.</p> <p>“All the infighting and all the friendship issues, ‘the coach hates me and I hate bloody training and Michelle’s being a b***h’. Now I’m sorry to undermine the whole sport, but that’s what I think of it so you can stick it up your arse.”</p> <p>Ralston then tried to continue with the sports news bulletin, stating: “So we’re playing in the SheBelieves Cup.”</p> <p>Sheargold jumped in, screaming “Oh, she believes in what? It better be men” as more laughter rang out in the studio. </p> <p>“We’re 12 months out from Australia hosting the Women’s Asian Cup, so hopefully we have a better runway to improve before that comes around,” Ralston said as he tried to continue the sports report. </p> <p>Sheargold responded: “Oh god. The Asian Cup. I’d rather hammer a nail through the head of my penis than watch that,” as a sound affect and more laughs were heard, before he added, “Got any men’s sport?”</p> <p>Ralston replied: “Yeah I do, baseball, the New York Yankees have dropped their 49-year ban on beards, on facial hair,” as Sheargold was quick to comment, “Now this is a good story.”</p> <p>The sexist exchange came to light after Olympic hockey player Ambrosia Malone posted part of the on-air clip on TikTok with the caption: “I honestly don’t know what is wrong with the world."</p> <p>“I heard this on the radio yesterday in prime time (5.30pm) on the way to training and all I could think about was the young girls sitting in the car with their parents, maybe on the way to or from their own training sessions hearing this."</p> <p>“I’m sure many of them would have been hurt and confused … I was in disbelief. This is apparently acceptable on mainstream afternoon radio??? HOW??”</p> <p>Many were quick to share their outrage in the comments section, with one person writing, “Is this a f**king joke?!? I feel like I’m living in a simulation. That cannot be a real recording.”</p> <p>Another added, “Disgusting. Can’t believe they think this is OK to air,” while someone else simply called Sheargold an "awful human."</p> <p>In response to the backlash, an SCA spokesperson said, “Marty Sheargold’s comments regarding the Matildas - made during Triple M Drive on Monday, 24 February - do not align with Triple M's views and values, and Triple M remains steadfast in its strong support of all women's and men's sports. We are sorry for any offence caused.”</p> <p>Marty Sheargold also responded to the controversy, saying in a statement, "Any comedy, including mine, can miss the mark sometimes, and I can see why people may have taken offence to my comments regarding the Matildas. I sincerely apologise.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Triple M / Getty Images </em></p>

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"Easter is cancelled": Coles and Woolies slammed over "insane" chocolate prices

<p>The turn of the new year means supermarkets are never far away from gearing up for the next holiday. And, just like clockwork, novelty Easter chocolate items such as bunny-shaped treats and the humble egg are being placed on the shelves – some at surprisingly high prices.</p> <p>It appears Easter isn’t just a celebration of chocolate anymore; it's now a financial endurance test. Every year, families prepare to stock up on sweet treats for the annual egg hunt, but now it seems more like a game of "Spot the Cheapest Bunny" – a game with few winners.</p> <p>The cost of Easter treats has continued to climb steadily over the last few years, and early indications show no signs of any relief for shoppers this year. Customers at Coles and Woolworths have recently called Easter chocolate prices "a joke", and one Brisbane woman even suggested "Easter is cancelled" in her household now due to the exorbitant costs.</p> <p>Easter is cancelled? Imagine explaining that to the kids. "Sorry, Timmy, the Easter Bunny took out a mortgage on his chocolate factory and had to downsize. He left you this... single M&M. Enjoy."</p> <p>One shopper came across a Cadbury's 350g Easter egg priced at $20, while also being seemingly unimpressed by a bag of Coles brand eggs being priced at $9. Meanwhile, another woman complained online about the price of chocolate bunnies on display in Woolworths.</p> <p>At this rate, it won't be long before people start taking out short-term loans for a bag of Mini Eggs. Interest rates might be lower than the cocoa inflation rate.</p> <p>After sharing the supermarket finds online, Aussies have been calling the situation "insane" and many have simply encouraged others "just not to buy anything" Easter related. A bold strategy – but also an excellent way to avoid that annual sugar crash.</p> <p>Last year, a Lindt chocolate Easter egg was on Big W shelves for a whopping $120, with the retailer explaining the kilogram egg was a "limited edition" for "chocoholics" to indulge in. However, many Aussies believed it was a step too far. At $120 per egg, you’d expect it to come with a personal message from the Lindt chocolatier, a guided factory tour and possibly a small stake in Wonka's chocolate river.</p> <p>There are reasons why Easter-specific chocolates are more expensive than regular chocolate in stores, according to Gary Mortimer, a professor in retail marketing and consumer behaviour at the Queensland University of Technology.</p> <p>"We generally source cocoa out of West Africa and when you're sourcing such a product and constructing an egg or bunny shape for a very discrete time, maybe only two months, obviously the costs inflate," he told Yahoo News last year.</p> <p>So what you’re saying, professor, is that because the chocolate has been artistically molded into the shape of a bunny, it somehow becomes a luxury item? At this rate, next year we’ll see a Fabergé-inspired chocolate egg with a diamond-studded ribbon.</p> <p>Getting an Easter egg or bunny hollow is much more "complex" than the regular block of chocolate that we all know and love, while the mass distribution of the item is also logistically more difficult due to its shape. Protecting packaging and special machinery is also sometimes required for transport. But if this is the case, why not start a new trend? Flat Easter chocolate. No fancy molds, no structural risks, just a classic chocolate slab with "Happy Easter" written on it. Simple. Affordable. Delicious.</p> <p>Professor Mortimer pointed at general inflation playing a role in the growing cost of Easter chocolate, with things like electricity, water and transport costs going up for businesses, while cocoa prices have also been on the rise, hitting a record high this month. "Naturally this gets passed on to consumers," Mortimer said.</p> <p>Translation: "This is your problem now. Good luck."</p> <p>So, what’s the plan for Easter 2025? Do we raid the clearance aisle in May? Take up chocolate sculpting as a side hustle? Or perhaps, in the most radical move yet, we finally accept the age-old truth: it's the hunt that matters, not the chocolate.</p> <p>And if kids start complaining, we can always say, "Look, back in our day, we had to make do with carob."</p> <p><em>Images: TikTok</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Travellers slammed for "abhorrent" koala-coaxing video

<p>Two travel influencer have been slammed for posting a step-by-step video on how to coax wild koalas out of trees to pat and take selfies with them. </p> <p>The NSW-based travellers advertised their DIY six-step video as a "foolproof process" to avoid paying for professional photos with koalas at expensive wildlife parks, with the nation’s largest rescue group calling the video “abhorrent” and warned anyone copying their behaviour risked severe injury.</p> <p>The video, which has since been deleted, attracted attention from the Department of Environment and WIRES, warning people that trying to touch or attract wild koalas can greatly impact the animals, and could result in injuries to those trying to pat the creatures. </p> <p>After watching the video, the Conservation Regulator, which sits within the Department of Environment, said told <em><a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/travelling-aussie-influencers-delete-video-of-abhorrent-koala-trick-after-backlash-021934239.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo News</a></em>, “We need to let wildlife be wild. Disrupting the natural behaviour of wildlife can contribute to them losing their fear of humans or becoming dependent on humans for food. It can also be dangerous for koalas to be down on the ground where they are at risk of injury.”</p> <p>Dr Tania Bishop, the head vet at WIRES animal rescue service, was also troubled by the influencer couple's video, asking, "Why would you post something like that?"</p> <p>Bishop still carries scars from a koala bite in the muscle of her right hand, and she’s seen members of the public also wounded.</p> <p>“What looks like them reaching up for help is actually them preparing to do a big swipe. They see us as natural predators, they’re frightened of us, and that’s what worries me when I see videos like this,” she said.</p> <p>There’s one particular moment in the clip, when Bishop believes the woman risked being scalped by the koala, as she said, “When she’s taking a selfie, if that koala was frightened of her being in its way and in its territory,... there’s every reason it could have dug her teeth or claws into her head.”</p> <p>Queensland-based wildlife biologist Ellie Sursara said the video is part of a larger problem on social media, calling out the influx of dangerous travel content now available that can put people at risk.</p> <p>“It’s symptomatic of the climate right now for wildlife and travel Instagram content, and whether or not the boundaries are being pushed purposefully for the views, and I think they are,” Susara said.</p> <p>“There’s a real lack of accountability for that kind of content. They’re not often reported or even looked at properly by Meta, so they’re just floating out there. And there are a lot of creators who gain lots of followers from videos like this, so it makes sense there are copycats.”</p> <p>The couple behind the stunt told <em>Yahoo News</em> they "were just playing around".</p> <p>In Victoria, where the video was filmed, interfering with a koala without a permit can carry a fine of up to $46,154 and/or two years in jail. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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"Please stop": I'm A Celeb viewers slam Ten's "ridiculous" broadcast

<p>Viewers of <em>I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!</em> have slammed Network Ten's broadcast of the program over their relentless interruptions. </p> <p>After only two episodes back on air for the 2025 season, frustrated viewers have taken to social media after admitting they turned the show off thanks to the sheer amount of ads.</p> <p>Not only were there constant advertisements during the episodes, but the show's editors also interrupting the action and, at some points, even cutting people off mid-sentence. </p> <p>Viewers have taken to social media to slam Ten for the constant interruptions and voice their frustrations. </p> <p>One fan shared their frustration on X, writing, "Love the show but PLEASE STOP THE ADS!!! OMG!! It is ridiculous!! Literally 5 mins of footage and then 10 minutes of bloody ads!! So over it."</p> <p>"Anyone else’s ads starting randomly in the middle of a sentence &amp; cutting off part of the show?" another asked.</p> <p>"Seems to have been an issue @channel10au," a third said. "Less than half of the program being shown with ads out of nowhere interrupting most key moments."</p> <p>"What’s with all the ads, counted 12 in a row," someone else wrote. "Think I’ll just watch it later on 10 Play," another said. "The ads are ridiculous."</p> <p>"Just as many ads on 10 Play," one viewer responded. "I missed a bit last night and just wanted to skip through to find it… had to sit through several ad breaks"</p> <p>"Omg the ads and now the show is jumping ahead seriously sort it out," another wrote.</p> <p>"More ads than celebrities? Switching to the tennis..." yet another said.</p> <p>The criticism comes after the 2025 season of <em>I'm a Celeb</em> was slammed for their lacklustre cast. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Ten - Instagram </em></p>

TV

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"29-year-old child": Footy great slams Nick Kyrgios

<p>AFL Premiership winner Kane Cornes has slammed Nick Kyrgios after the tennis superstar has been making headlines for his Australian Open exit. </p> <p>There have been plenty of stories about the tennis player's fitness and his future in the sport, and Cornes, who is now one of the most outspoken members of the sporting media has had enough of the Kyrgios drama.</p> <p>“I just feel we talk about this guy too much,” Cornes began on SEN 1116 radio.</p> <p>“I understand why, but he’s absolutely dominated the headlines in the last two-to-three weeks in the lead-up to the Australian Open.</p> <p>“That’s not unusual, that happens, and we’re not going to hear the last of him.</p> <p>“I feel like his role in the game will be significant whether he’s playing or not because he is box office.</p> <p>“And despite him being our most disappointing Australian athlete ever, he will still have a role to play because people are interested in him.”</p> <p>“This is a guy who sits there and criticises everyone else,” Cornes continued.</p> <p>“He sits on his high horse and criticises everyone, be that ball kids, line judges, other opponents.</p> <p>“Look at the class which Roger Federer or other players with a similar level of talent as Nick carried themselves.</p> <p>“He’s a child. He’s a 29-year-old child. The way that he carries himself, the ambassador that he’s been, put all that in the mix, I think no one has disappointed more.</p> <p>“No one has been spoken about more with less results than this guy over a long period of time.</p> <p>“Yet still, here we are, and I get it and it’s a credit to him that people are interested in him, that we’re still talking about him.”</p> <p>Kyrgios has hit back at the comments on X, saying that Cornes' criticism was unfounded. </p> <p>"Gotta love comments from an athlete who didn't play a global sport," he posted. </p> <p>Social media users were quick to share their own opinions on disappointing athletes in response to Cornes' comments, with one person writing: “He’s not even the most disappointing tennis player. Tomic has him well covered.”</p> <p>Another sports fan said:  “Cmon guys... Nick is Nick but that Raygun could not even be defined as an athlete so she leads the list of ‘international disgraces’ and its daylight to second, whoever that may be.”</p> <p>However others backed Kyrgios, with one writing: “Nick has played in an era where there are 3 absolute legends of the game who have dominated and he’s beaten all 3 something no one else has managed to do!! Wake up you clowns comparing Nick to Raygun, Ben Simmons, Tomic, Jarryd Hayne etc absolute disgrace you guys are!”</p> <p><em>Image: Channel 7/ </em><em>Rachel Bach/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Retirement Life

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Aussies slam "horrendous" passport quality

<p>An Australian traveller has expressed his frustration over the persistent curling issue of the world's most expensive passport. </p> <p>The citizen slammed the "horrendous" quality of the R Series travel document on social media. </p> <p>“My mind is blown. Our passport is the most expensive in the world and the quality of them is horrendous,” they said with a photo of their passport curling at the edges. </p> <p>“I got this passport a month or two ago for my current trip and every time it’s not in a sleeve for more than an hour, this happens,” they said.</p> <p>“No, it’s never gotten wet, or (had) any weather damage. This is just how it is. I know Malaysia’s humidity is bad but no way it’s this bad.”</p> <p>The traveller, who asked to remain anonymous, told 7News that the photo was taken after the $398 passport had been sitting in a temperature-controlled room set to 18C for eight hours.</p> <p>“I’d had no issues with the old one. The old passport looks newer than this one, which is the most ridiculous part of it,” they said.</p> <p>They added that the passport “fixes itself less and less and less” after each time it folds, and was unacceptable considering the cost. </p> <p>The post triggered a wave of responses, with many sharing their own experiences. </p> <p>“Mine has lived under a heavy book ever since I got it because of this,” one person said.</p> <p>Another claimed their passport curling “inside the envelope it arrived in”.</p> <p>A third said it was only a “matter of time” before an Australian traveller is “stranded” because their passport is refused.</p> <p>One person claimed theirs “already has several loose pages”, with another traveller saying their son's passport was “holding on by the merest thread” even though he has not used it yet.</p> <p>The Australian Passport Office explained that the curling does not invalidate the document. </p> <p>“You may notice a slight curling on the cover of your R Series passport. This occasionally occurs due to changes in humidity,” the office said.</p> <p>“It’s not a manufacturing defect and doesn’t affect the validity of your passport.</p> <p>“Keeping your passport tightly secured will help prevent this curling.</p> <p>“For example, you can use an envelope or passport holder to store and protect your passport between use.”</p> <p><em>Image: </em><em>ChameleonsEye / Shutterstock.com/ </em><em style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Reddit</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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"Absolute disappointment": Home and Away fans slam season finale

<p>Fans of <em>Home and Away</em> have been left outraged after the finale of the 2024 season, with many claiming it was "boring and predictable".</p> <p>Viewers of the long-running Aussie soap were disappointed by the feature-length episode that  promised "bloodshed" and "deadly consequences" and while it ended with two lives hanging in the balance.</p> <p>The show is set to return on January 13th and pick up where it left off, leading to the resolution that will see fans waiting almost two months for answers.</p> <p>After Thursday night's finale, hundreds of fans flocked to social media to share their annoyance over all the drama being crammed into the last 10 minutes of the episode, despite its 90-minute runtime. </p> <p>"Found the last episode so boring and predictable," one fan said. "How many more coppers are going to end up in jail?"</p> <p>"I have to say, that was ridiculously s**t for a season finale," another complained. "The best bit was the last 15 seconds."</p> <p>"That was the worst ending," someone else said, with another agreeing. "What an absolute disappointment for this year's final episode. Love Home and Away, but this was by far the worst final episode of the season ever."</p> <p>"I was so disappointed with the ending," another fan said. "I expected it to be more drama/suspense but it was quite boring in my opinion. Now an almost 2 month wait for the show to return."</p> <p>While many were disappointed, others were excited to see how the dramatic storyline is set to be resolved in the new year. </p> <p>"I'm so excited for the new season," one fan said. "What am l going to do without this lol it’s pretty sad when you so look forward to it at 7pm," another lamented. "I can't believe I've got to wait till next year, it's already killing me," someone else agreed.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Home and Away </em></p> <p> </p>

TV

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Tourist's disrespectful Machu Picchu act slammed

<p>A tourist has been slammed online after she was filmed sprinkling her loved one's ashes at Peru’s Machu Picchu. </p> <p>The clip posted to TikTok by Peruvian tour operator IncaGo Expeditions has been taken down amid fierce backlash, but not before it was reshared on other platforms online. </p> <p>In the video, the woman stood atop one of the 15th-century Inca citadel’s terraces as she scattered the ashes. The footage ended with her taking a bow and embracing another person. </p> <p>Her actions have been slammed online, with one person saying: “may the full weight of the law fall on the person who did this act, there was no respect for Machu Picchu." </p> <p>“What is the need to do it in a universal jewel, such as Machu Picchu?” another commented. </p> <p>The sacred landmark,  has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage landmark in Peru, and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. </p> <p>Peruvian cultural officials have also criticised the behaviour and called for greater action in preserving the history of the landmark. </p> <p>T’ika Oregón, a lawyer with the Cusco Commission of Jurists, told local media that “archaeological areas are not repositories of any type of ashes, much less of a deceased person,” reported the <em>Daily Mail</em>. </p> <p>She also claimed that the ceremony could've been a promotional stunt orchestrated by the tour operator. </p> <p>“It must be determined if it is an agency that is dedicating itself to this objective or if it is a person, and according to the level of participation, of seriousness, the maximum penalty will have to be given,” she said.</p> <p>The Ministry of Culture is currently trying to identify the woman and tour agency responsible for the desecration. </p> <p>“Machu Picchu deserves respect and protection from visitors and tourism operators, who are obliged to comply with the provisions contained in the regulations for visiting the Inca city of Machu Picchu,”  they said in a statement. </p> <p><em>Image: TikTok</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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"Completely out of touch" boomer slammed for housing advice

<p>An Aussie boomer has been slammed online after sharing advice for younger generations to buy a house, with her words of wisdom being labelled as "infuriating". </p> <p>The Sydney homeowner shared her matter-of-fact views when asked about her own property journey for a TikTok video by property app Coposit Street, who regularly hit the streets to ask people of all ages about their opinions on home ownership. </p> <p>The woman, who chose not to disclose her age or how much she has in savings, didn’t hold back when asked about younger Aussies, saying they “don’t make sacrifices” in order to break onto the property market. </p> <p>“When I was younger …. I never did brunches and partied and now (it’s what) they wanna do, she explained in the video, before admitting “it’s harder for them now”. </p> <p>“Things are so expensive but they can start off small. A lot of people buy places that are too big but you’ve got to make sacrifices.”</p> <p>When asked how she built her savings, she added, “I take my own lunch to work, I always have.” </p> <p>“If you want a place of your own, start small but make the sacrifices, do two jobs, work a lot. Don’t go out as much as you want to.”</p> <p>“I mean I feel sorry for the younger generation now because they’re thinking why bother because it’s too expensive, I’m just going to party and have a good time, which you can still do.”</p> <p>“When I entered (the property market) it was quite a while ago. I had a lot of difficulty because I was a single woman and I had prejudice against me so my father had to go guarantor and that was able to help,” she explained.</p> <p>“I had two jobs, I worked really hard. I was actually trying to save to go overseas and then I cancelled that and I was renting … and I thought, well, maybe if I saved a bit of money and worked hard, I could put a deposit down for myself.”</p> <p>These days, the woman acknowledged the cost of living in Sydney is “very expensive”, saying, “It’s terrible … Rents have all gone up and everyone’s willing to pay for everything so people are just thinking we’ll charge this and then everyone’s charging on top, and people aren’t getting assistance so it’s hard these days.”</p> <p>The woman's comments were met with a wave of backlash online, with many younger Australians calling her advice "infuriating". </p> <p>“We’ve turned our cars into taxis and our spare rooms into hotels to try and afford the same thing they had on a single income,” one person wrote. </p> <p>“How are people this completely out of touch?” another wrote. “Most of my mates have worked since 14/15 (years old), Not gone away internally (sic), have clacked out cars and still only scrape by. I’m 20 and I can’t even remember the last time I went clubbing.”</p> <p>“Yes not buying coffee is going to be enough to save for a house,” another sarcastically quipped.</p> <p>The woman's comments come after research conducted last year shows Gen Z and Millennials have a tougher path to buying a home than previous generations, with the latter facing mortgages 12 times their average income.</p> <p><em>Image credits: TikTok</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>

Money & Banking

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Hunt for Australia's first Golden Bachelor begins

<p>While former <em>Sunrise </em>host Samantha Armytage has been confirmed to host Nine's new reality series <em>The Golden Bachelor,</em> there are still a few major roles to fill. </p> <p>The bachelor and all the women needed for the series are yet to be found, but one well-known businessman is believed to be a leading contender for the show. </p> <p>“We are looking for Australia’s first Golden Bachelor and many incredible women who want to find love again,” read the official casting website. </p> <p>Nine are looking for people aged between 60 and 75 years old who are “looking for the last great love” of their life, live in Australia and are single. </p> <p>“Do you know someone in their golden years who deserves one more shot at their happily ever after?” the casting notice read. </p> <p>According to TV Blackbox expert Steve Molk, “Mark Bouris is being touted as their guy.” </p> <p>Bouris, 68, is a podcaster for <em>Straight Talk</em> and a former host of Nine's <em>The Celebrity Apprentice</em>. </p> <p>Molk added that it's not uncommon for a network to create buzz with the announcement “in the hope it will help shake the trees for prospective applicants to flock and submit their audition”.</p> <p>Although Nine has yet to confirm their broadcast date, Molk believes that it's likely to air mid next year. </p> <p>“This gives them time to cast and film while still showing partners why they would want to drop their cash with Nine."</p> <p>Armytage said the Australian version of the show has “got a different spin”. </p> <p>“This is for people who are looking for love again, who’ve got some miles on their tyres and are ready to fall in love again,” she told Nine's <em>Today</em> on October 29. </p> <p>“These are people with life experience. There’s going to be some great stories here, some kind of sad stories in some.</p> <p>“We’re looking for a happy fairytale ending.”</p> <p><em>Image: Nine</em></p>

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“Is it really that bad?”: New mum slammed for baby name choice

<p>One woman has taken to social media to explain her dilemma after people around her made her second-guess the name she and her husband chose for their unborn son. </p> <p>The woman shared her situation on Reddit, and explained that the name has a special family significance to her, but so far people around her have absolutely hated it. </p> <p>"My grandpa was my favourite person in the whole world. Growing up, I always loved his name because I thought it was unique and I loved him. I always said if I had a son I would name him after my grandpa," she explained in the post. </p> <p>"Now I'm pregnant, and the very few people I've told the name to HATE IT. The name is Earl. Is it really that bad?"</p> <p>She added that she doesn't want her son to grow up hating his name, but she still wants to use it as it is so special to her. </p> <p>"Few other things: husband is on board and loves it, and it does sound really nice with our last name," she added. </p> <p>Many of the commenters urged her to go with the name if she loves it and to disregard what anyone else says. </p> <p>"This. Is. Your. Baby You don't need to poll the audience or tell anyone the baby's name before he is born. Protect your peace, and Earl's," replied one person. </p> <p> "I love Earl! Easy to say and spell. Uncommon but not made up. The emotional connection is wonderful too!" commented another. </p> <p>"It's a lovely name!!! Don't let other people shame you out of using it because you'll regret listening to them later," a third person assured her. </p> <p>"Earl is dated and country but it's cute and it means something to you and you both love it. It will be fine," another woman said. </p> <p>Some suggested that if she was really struggling with the name after the hate she received, there are other ways to incorporate it. </p> <p>"It's extremely dated but not bad. I personally think it's better as a middle name," replied one person. </p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Sam Armytage breaks silence on Golden Bachelor

<p>After months of speculation about her potential new role, Samantha Armytage has confirmed she will be the host of <em>The Golden Bachelor</em>, hitting screens in 2025. </p> <p>Armytage said she is delighted to "be part of the Nine family" after her long-running career with Channel Seven, as she shared her excitement about the upcoming show that has already taken American audiences by storm. </p> <p>"I think you're all going to love this. It's love for the golden ages," Armytage said. </p> <p>"This show is about finding love for those who have lost love, or are looking for love a second time around. It's going to be beautiful and I can't wait."</p> <p>The show will see one charming <em>Golden Bachelor </em>embark on a heartfelt journey to find a soulmate, with Samantha guiding him every step of the way as he seeks a partner who can share the joys and adventures of life's later chapters.</p> <p>The show was announced at Channel 9's annual Upfronts events alongside its dazzling new host, who said she was excited to start the new hosting gig. </p> <p>"When I got the call to join the show, I didn't hesitate," she said. "[<em>The Golden Bachelor</em>] has been huge in America, and I have a feeling it's gonna be huge in Australia, too."</p> <p>Now that the show and host have been announced, attention has turned to finding Australia's first <em>Golden Bachelor</em> and the women he'll date to find true love.</p> <p>Armytage explained: "<em>The Golden Bachelor</em> is an extension of the original format but for people in their 50s and 60s, so we're appealing to the Golden Ages and people who have had love in the past and now want to find another love – a new love."</p> <p>"You're young at heart. You feel like an adventure. You're looking for some romance and you're looking for real love," she said. "This is about finding real love."</p> <p>Armytage is also encouraging young adults with parents or even grandparents who might be open to love to apply, saying, "This is going to be a great show, and you are really gonna wanna be part of this."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine</em></p>

TV

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Samantha Armytage hints at major career news

<p>Samantha Armytage has hinted at a major change, following reports that the former <em>Seven</em> star has joined rival network <em>Nine</em>. </p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The former <em>Farmer Wants a Wife</em> host </span>teased her new gig as she was being interviewed by <em>The Daily Telegraph </em>at The Everest in Sydney over the weekend. </p> <p>Last week, it was reported that Armytage had signed a deal with Nine to host the Australian version of the dating show <em>The Golden Bachelor</em> in the coming year. </p> <p>The publication also revealed that the deal is believed to be worth a significant amount, with insiders confirming the news to them. </p> <p>When asked whether she had signed with <em>Nine</em>, the TV veteran remained coy, saying with a smile: "Look, watch this space. Exciting times ahead."</p> <p>The news reportedly comes after months of negotiation between the TV star and her new network. </p> <p>"There was a bit of back and forth, but I believe the contract has been signed" an insider told <em>The Daily Telegraph</em> last week.</p> <p>The Golden Bachelor is a spin-off of <em>The Bachelor</em> series, but the contestants of the show are senior citizens instead. </p> <p>"This is a smart move for Sam and Nine. She is well suited to this gig and breathed new life into <em>Farmer Wants a Wife</em>," the insider added. </p> <p>Armytage announced her departure from Seven in August after 21 years with the network. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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King Charles' $97k arrival gift slammed as "waste of money"

<p>King Charles and Queen Camilla are set for a lavish welcome to commemorate their first visit since 2018, but taxpayers are not impressed with the massive cost. </p> <p>The sails of the Sydney Opera House will be illuminated from 8pm on Friday for four minutes with images from previous royal visits intended to show the "diverse ways in which Their Majesties have engaged with and celebrated NSW and Australia over the years."</p> <p>“We are lighting up the Sydney Opera House to warmly welcome The King and Queen to our beautiful harbour city," Premier Chris Minns said in a statement.</p> <p>"The photo projection on the Opera House sails celebrates a historic moment - The King’s first visit to NSW as Sovereign - and is a fitting tribute."</p> <p>The gesture does not come cheap, costing taxpayers an estimated $97,030, and many were unhappy about it. </p> <p>"Cannot support wasting our taxes on people who wouldn’t be here if we didn’t pay," one person wrote on Facebook. </p> <p>"At a time when rents are sky high ...more and more homeless.. Hospitals are overcrowded...Food and petrol prices are ridiculous...Do you really think it excites battling Aussies...having money spent this way?" another person asked.</p> <p>"How many homeless could be housed with the money spent on a visit by millionaires, paid by us?" another wrote. </p> <p>"Waste of money! Channel the funds to the needy. King who with the horse?!," another remarked.</p> <p>However, there were a few others who expressed their excitement about the royal visit. </p> <p>"I will definitely head in with the kids to see this," one wrote. </p> <p>"As a monarchist, yes I'm going there to warmly welcome them," another commented. </p> <p>"Can’t wait for their majesties arrival," a third added. </p> <p>Royal fans will have a chance to meet or see the monarchs, as they plant to engage with members of the public on the Sydney Opera House Forecourt on October 22nd at 4.20pm. </p> <p>Their appearance will be followed by a Fleet Review on Sydney Harbour, featuring an Australian Defence Force fly past.</p> <p>Members of the public can see the ships and fly past from various vantage points including  Farm Cove, Royal Botanic Gardens and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair at approximately 4.50pm.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Absolutely despicable": Anthony Albanese slammed for Tourette's comment

<p dir="ltr">Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued an apology after making a sarcastic comment about Tourette Syndrome during Parliament’s Question Time on Tuesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">During a heated discussion, the PM addressed Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor and said, “The idea - I mean this nonsense that they carry on with, the idea that we’re... have you got Tourette’s or something? You know, you sit there, babble, babble, babble.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Albanese immediately withdrew the comment and apologised. </p> <p dir="ltr">He went further on Tuesday evening, saying he knew the comment was inappropriate as soon as he said it. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Today in Question Time I made comments that were unkind and hurtful,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I knew it was wrong as soon as I made the comment. I apologised and I withdrew as soon as I said it but it shouldn’t have happened.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“And I also want to apologise to all Australians who suffer from this disability. I regret saying it, it was wrong, it was insensitive and I apologise.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite his apologies, his comments drew much criticism from Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston, who said that “mocking a disability is no laughing matter”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is absolutely despicable behaviour from (Albanese). The Prime Minister must immediately apologise to the entire Tourette’s community,” she posted on X, formerly Twitter.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Australians living with Tourette’s deserve the PM’s respect, not his ridicule.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia president Mandy Maysey, who has three children with the neurological disorder, was also outraged by the prime minister's comments, saying she was “absolutely livid”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m incredibly disappointed and just gobsmacked somebody that has the national stage would use that platform and Tourette syndrome to make an insult,” she told <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/anthony-albanese-slammed-for-tourettes-slur-during-question-time-c-16321667">7News</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“That’s my perspective as president of the association. As a parent, I am absolutely livid and disgusted. It shows a lack of education.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“At the very least he owes the Tourette’s community an apology,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This shows we have a very long way to go until Tourette syndrome is taken seriously as a condition.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

Caring

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Nat Barr slammed for “out of touch” comments about the housing crisis

<p dir="ltr">Nat Barr has been widely slammed online for her comments on the housing crisis, with many claiming she is “stirring the pot”.</p> <p dir="ltr">On Wednesday’s <em>Sunrise</em> show, Barr was just joined by two experts to discuss Labor’s Help To Buy Bill, which would allow Australians earning under $90,000 to buy a home with just a 2 per cent deposit.</p> <p dir="ltr">While discussing the legislation, Barr said she’s worried her two sons — aged 19 and 22 — won’t be able to purchase a home after finance spokesperson Jane Hume claimed “Australians have already rejected this policy right around the country”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m in the lucky position that I got to buy mine when they were cheaper years ago but I don’t know how my kids are going to buy one,” Barr said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Barr, who has hosted Sunrise since 2020, has never spoken publicly about her salary, but it has long been speculated that she earns more than $1 million per year. </p> <p dir="ltr">Viewers were quick to slam her comments on Facebook, claiming Barr will “set her kids up”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She is the last person who should speak. she’s wealthy and will set her kids up,” one person commented, while another added, “So many young people are buying houses every day without the help of mum and dad. Nat’s just stirring the pot.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Another commenter added, “She makes enough money to buy a house for each of her sons. They’ll be just fine. Check your privilege, Nat.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram / Sunrise</em></p>

TV

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World’s longest treasure hunt ends as Golden Owl finally unearthed in France

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">After more than three decades of mystery and intrigue, the world’s longest-running treasure hunt has come to a thrilling conclusion with the discovery of the elusive Golden Owl. Valued at approximately $240,000, the treasure had captivated the imaginations of thousands since it was first buried in France in the early 1990s.</span></p> <p>The hunt began with the publication of the now-famous book, <em>On the Trail of the Golden Owl</em>, written by communications expert Régis Hauser under the pseudonym “Max Valentin” and illustrated by artist Michel Becker. The 1993 book challenged readers to solve a series of intricate riddles and clues, which, when deciphered, would reveal the owl’s secret location.</p> <p>Despite years of painstaking attempts to crack the mystery, the Golden Owl remained hidden for decades, surviving even its creator. Hauser passed away in 2009, leaving the prize still buried. Michel Becker, who took over the management of the hunt, delivered the long-awaited news on October 3 via an online announcement that sparked a frenzy among treasure hunters: “A potential winning solution is currently being verified.”</p> <p>Two hours later, he confirmed: “Don’t go digging! We confirm that the Golden Owl countermark was unearthed last night.”</p> <p>The treasure hunt’s <a href="https://goldenowlhunt.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">official website was also updated with the announcement</a>, bringing an end to a search that has been both thrilling and, for some, overwhelming.</p> <p><strong>The obsession and madness behind the search</strong></p> <p>For over 30 years, the Golden Owl hunt transcended being just a hobby for many treasure hunters and became an all-consuming obsession. While some enjoyed it as a leisurely pursuit, others were driven to extreme lengths – financially, emotionally and mentally. The search for the owl has been linked to personal crises, including financial ruin and broken marriages. At least one individual reportedly ended up in an asylum due to their fixation on solving the hunt’s riddles.</p> <p>The toll wasn’t limited to individuals. Searchers caused considerable disruption across France, digging unauthorised holes in public and private lands. In one eastern French village, the local mayor was forced to plead with hunters to stop digging around its chapel, while in other cases, searchers brought power tools to banks and even considered destroying structures in the hopes of unearthing the treasure.</p> <p><strong>The Golden Owl’s elusive clues</strong></p> <p><em>On the Trail of the Golden Owl</em> contained a complex series of 11 riddles, each paired with a painting by Becker. The riddles, combined with maps, colours and hidden details, challenged readers to work out the owl’s hidden location.</p> <p>Before his death, Hauser revealed three crucial elements to solving the puzzle:</p> <p>The use of maps: Hunters needed to work with maps to narrow down the search area and use a specific map to pinpoint the final zone.</p> <p>A “mega trick”: This was the key to using the sequence of riddles to locate the final area where the owl was hidden.</p> <p>A final hidden riddle: Once in the final zone, hunters had to uncover one last riddle to lead them to the exact spot of the treasure.</p> <p><strong>Joyous celebration among treasure hunters</strong></p> <p>The treasure-hunting community was overjoyed when the news broke, with many expressing their disbelief and excitement. “Finally – liberated!” exclaimed one fan on the hunt’s Discord forum. Another added, “I didn’t think I’d live to see the day.”</p> <p>As of now, the exact location of the owl’s discovery and the identity of the finder remain undisclosed. However, Becker hinted at the complexity involved in concluding this monumental hunt. “Tons of emotions to manage for all those who are responsible for managing the end of this episode and complex logistics to put in place,” he said in a statement on October 6.</p> <p>For now, the Golden Owl, a treasure that has held a generation of sleuths in its grasp, has been unearthed. Yet, the fascination with its story will undoubtedly linger for years to come.</p> <p><em>Images/Illustrations: Michel Becker</em></p>

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