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Maggie Beer celebrates 80th birthday

<p>Maggie Beer has celebrated her 80th birthday. </p> <p>The beloved celebrity chef's official Instagram account shared a video of her celebrating her milestone birthday with loved ones and the caption: “We would like to wish our wonderful Maggie a very happy 80th birthday today!</p> <p>"A true icon, and much loved by everyone. Thank you for always inspiring us and providing us with the most delicious recipes &amp; products.</p> <p>"We love you Maggie."</p> <p>Fans across the nation were quick to send their birthday wishes to the celebrity chef, with many thanking her. </p> <p>“Many happy returns Maggie! Thank you for being a great source of joy for us all,” one wrote.</p> <p>“Bless you Maggie. Happy birthday and thank you for all that you have done, especially for Aged Care," another commented. </p> <p>“Have a great Birthday Maggie 80 wow have a fantastic day,” commented another.</p> <p>“Happiest of birthdays to Mrs Maggie Beer a national treasure and Australian icon thanks for all you do love your work !!”</p> <p>“Happy Birthday Maggie – you are unstoppable and we love you heaps.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE_DBEUq4cF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE_DBEUq4cF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Official Maggie Beer (@maggie_beer)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The birthday celebrations come after a rough year Beer, as she continues to recover following <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/maggie-beer-rushed-to-hospital" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a fall at her home</a> in 2024. </p> <p>At the time, her family shared on social media that while she had suffered a couple of injuries including "minor bone fractures", she was being taken care off by her doctors who "are confident she will make a full recovery". </p> <p>In a recent interview with <em>The Australian</em>, Beer revealed that she has "come such a long way" in her recovery journey, and learned a few valuable lessons. </p> <p>“I’ve come such a long way, considering I’ve been home from hospital for a month and when I first came home I’d be up for an hour and back to bed for an hour,” she told the publication at the time.</p> <p>“Yesterday, I was up all day without resting – that is a monumental step forward. Full recovery takes time and I’m not the most patient person in the world.</p> <p>“So I’m learning to be a different kind of person, accepting that things go slowly sometimes.”</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Australia's first supermodel dies at age 87

<p>Australia's first supermodel Maggie Tabberer has passed away at the age of 87. </p> <p>The two-time Gold Logie winner and Australian television icon died on Friday morning, her daughter confirmed in an emotional Instagram post.</p> <p>“This morning we lost our beautiful mother and Nanna,” Maggie’s daughter, author and stylist Amanda Tabberer wrote.</p> <p>“She was an icon in every sense of the word and we will miss her dearly … along with the rest of Australia. Rest in peace Nanna. We love you to bits forever.”</p> <p>Kicking off decades of work in the modelling and television industry, Ms Tabberer was one of Australia’s best-known entertainment personalities after being named Australia’s Model of the Year in 1960.</p> <p>Throughout her career, Tabberer wrote a fashion column for <em>The Daily Mirror</em>, was the subject of two Archibald prize winning artworks, hosted her own chat show, launched her own clothing label, and was the fashion editor of <em>The Australian Women’s Weekly</em>.</p> <p>In 1998, Ms Tabberer was awarded the Order of Australia for her contributions to the fashion industry and support for various charities.</p> <p>Journalist Andrew Hornery led the tributes for Maggie, as he took to his Instagram account with a touching tribute to Ms Tabberer, calling her a “legend, icon (and) champion”.</p> <p>“There are not enough descriptors to truly encapsulate what she represented over a seven decade career,” Mr Hornery wrote. “We crossed paths many times and it was always a pleasure."</p> <p>“She enjoyed a little tittle tattle and had a wonderful sense of humour - self deprecating but always positive. What a life. Vale lovely lady.”</p> <p>TV host and journalist Leila McKinnon wrote, "Beautiful Maggie, what a wonderful woman, vale to such a generous spirit, we loved her. Sending our love to you ❤️."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram / Australian Women’s Weekly / news.com.au</em></p>

Caring

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Maggie Smith farewelled in emotional funeral

<p>Dame Maggie Smith has been farewelled in a "poignant but not sad" funeral service. </p> <p>The intimate service was attended by Smith's closest friends, family and colleagues, as mourners gathered at the Mortlake Crematorium in London to celebrate her life. </p> <p>According to one attendee, guests paid tribute to the late actress with "brilliant eulogies" and by "belting out hymns", with the service described as "beautiful, warm, and full of laughter". </p> <p>"Such a beautiful goodbye to Maggie Smith today," the guest said. "It was warm and funny and full of love and brilliant eulogies, with the best hymns bringing belted out by all. It was poignant but not sad because hers was a life so richly lived."</p> <p>"I knew her because of [the guest's husband's] decades of working with her but I adored her."</p> <p>"[The guest's daughter] was traumatised when she first met her as she knew her as the terrifying housekeeper Mrs Medlock in The Secret Garden! Maggie was as funny and sharp as it gets. One of the greats."</p> <p>The news of Dame Maggie Smith's <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/harry-potter-stars-pay-tribute-to-dame-maggie-smith" target="_blank" rel="noopener">death</a> was confirmed by her family, who announced she has died on September 27th at the age of 89.</p> <p>Smith's sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens wrote in a statement, “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September."</p> <p>“An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.” </p> <p><em>Image credits: Daily Mail</em></p>

Caring

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Maggie Beer wins top award while on the road to recovery

<p>Maggie Beer has been honoured with a top award just days after opening up about her recovery following a fall last month.</p> <p>The 79-year-old Aussie chef won Best Host of a Format at the C21 International Format Awards in Cannes for her role hosting <em>Maggie Beer’s Big Mission</em> on the ABC.</p> <p>The leading awards recognises creativity and excellence across the global television industry.</p> <p>Beer was the only woman in the category, beating some of the television industry's biggest names including Jimmy Kimmel for <em>Who Wants to Be a Millionaire US</em>, Stephen Fry in <em>Jeopardy UK</em>, Alan Cumming for <em>The Traitors US</em> and Big Zuu for <em>Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes in 12 Hours.</em></p> <p><em>Maggie Beer’s Big Mission</em> was inspired by the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care in 2021, which  exposed high rates of malnutrition in older adults living in aged care.</p> <p>In the show she led a world-first social experiment to transform the meals and dining experience at an aged-care home in Perth, WA. Beer and team of experts changed the menu, dining rooms and gardens using the "care model" to improve nutrition and wellbeing of residents. </p> <p>In a statement, Beer said it was a “privilege to actually live the experience in an aged-care home brave enough to show warts and all.”</p> <p>She learned what was acceptable to feed residents and what wasn't but “…most of all how to begin the journey of change to show the difference that is made to the happiness and wellbeing not only of the residents but the staff as well,” she said.</p> <p>“With her extraordinary leadership she has put older Australians first and given them a voice,” managing director of Artemis media, Celia Tait said.</p> <p>This comes just days after Beer opened up on her fall in August, where she suffered minor bone fractures and related injuries, telling her instagram followers that "even though I want to tell you how good I’m feeling now, I still have a way to go."</p> <p>“I will make a full recovery, and part of it is the care and the love that I’ve been given.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Harry Potter stars pay tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

<p>The stars of the <em>Harry Potter</em> franchise have paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, after the Oscar-winning actress passed away on Friday at the age of 89. </p> <p>Smith, who played the role of Professor McGonagall throughout the eight movies, was honoured by dozens of her co-stars, including Harry Potter himself: Daniel Radcliffe. </p> <p>Radcliffe shared a statement to Entertainment Weekly, writing, "She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny."</p> <p>"I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie."</p> <p>Emma Watson also shared a tribute on Instagram alongside the two actresses working together, reflecting on Smith's impact on set. </p> <p>She said, "When I was younger I had no idea of Maggie's legend — the woman I was fortunate to share space with. It is only as I've become an adult that I've come to appreciate that I shared the screen with a true definition of greatness."</p> <p>"She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring. Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God you held your own. Thank you for all of your kindness. I'll miss you."</p> <p>Rupert Grint also shared a photo of the pair together, referencing a particular fan favourite scene from the fourth <em>Harry Potter</em> film, writing, "Heartbroken to hear about Maggie. She was so special, always hilarious and always kind. I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a set with her and particularly lucky to have shared a dance. I'll miss you, Maggie. Sending all my love to her family."</p> <p>Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the franchise, shared a statement with Entertainment Weekly on Maggie's passing, praising her acting talents, saying,  "Maggie Smith, one of the true Greats along with [Laurence] Olivier and [John] Gielgud… those who saw her dazzling talent on the stage say they can never forget her. Her magnificent film performances remain for all to see and enjoy. Such an artist comes along about every other generation. If one is lucky."</p> <p>The news of Maggie Smith's passing was confirmed by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens who said in a statement, “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September."</p> <p>“An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Warner Brothers/Paul Marriott/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Caring

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Maggie Beer rushed to hospital

<p>Maggie Beer has been rushed to hospital after she suffered a nasty fall in her Barossa Valley home in South Australia. </p> <p>The Aussie food icon shared a statement with her followers on Instagram to share to the news, saying she had suffered minor bone fractures and a few cuts and bruises. </p> <p>The 79-year-old assured her fans that she will make a full recovery after her stint in hospital, but her family said in the post “it may just take a little while”.</p> <p>Maggie's family wrote on Instagram that her husband Col had been at home at the time of the fall, adding that "she is now in the excellent hands of her doctors who are confident she will make a full recovery."</p> <p>“More than anything else, Maggie hates letting people down. But she has multiple events and public engagements coming up that she may have to miss,” the social media post said.</p> <p>“She has asked us to apologise on her behalf to all those affected — and has asked for your patience as she recuperates.”</p> <p>Maggie's famous friends and fans were quick to comment well wishes on her post, wishing her a speedy recovery. </p> <p>“Sending you all our love and healing energy beautiful Maggie,” fellow celebrity chef, Kylie Kwong said.</p> <p>Chef Peter Gilmore added, "Look after yourself Maggie. You are loved by so many people an inspiration, take time to heal."</p> <p>“Maggie is one of the very best x hugs for a full recovery very soon. Wonderful lady, get better soon,” a fan commented.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Coronation Street star dies after sudden accident

<p dir="ltr">British actress Maggie Fox, known for her roles on <em>Coronation Street</em> and <em>Shameless</em>, <a href="https://celebrity.nine.com.au/latest/maggie-fox-dead-sudden-accident/d25e9cd5-b1ed-4852-95ff-cba0b642b5ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">has passed away</a> following a “sudden accident”.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is understood she was 58 when she died, reportedly passing with her loved ones surrounding her at home.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sue Ryding, Fox’s comedy partner, announced the news on social media, writing that Fox’s family were “in a state of shock” after her passing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of Maggie Fox, my comedy partner of 40 years and co-Artistic Director of LipService. Maggie passed away yesterday with her family around her,” Ryding wrote on Tuesday night.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-8732801b-7fff-1ad1-f66c-efa517a99f33"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“Consequently, the Spring Tour of Chateau Ghoul has been cancelled. As you can imagine I am completely heartbroken.”</p> <p><iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLipServiceTheatre%2Fposts%2F10160212086563641&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="781" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p dir="ltr">Ryding recalled how the pair first met as students studying drama at Bristol University in the 1970s and reflected on their relationship since.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We were in a very serious production of Ibsen’s The Lady For the Sea but for some reason the audience was on the floor laughing. A tragedy for Ibsen (he was good at those) but the launch of an epic comedy partnership,” Ryding wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our theatre company LipService was officially launched in 1985 and we have written 22 original comedies, touring all over the world, managing to have children in between!</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s notoriously difficult to present new work in theatre and we are really proud that we managed to do so and to build an audience for it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are still all in a state of shock as this was very sudden following an accident.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ryding revealed that a digital version of their latest work, Chateau Ghoul, would be shared later in the year “in memory of Maggie”, as well as live events using archived footage.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0bb40d89-7fff-3e03-1255-922eb1edd7f5"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">She went on to thank their fans for supporting them over the years, promising that more details would come.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Really sorry to hear about the death of Lipservice’s Maggie Fox. I know how well loved she is in Manchester in particular. She will be sorely missed. <a href="https://t.co/ooSeD3W0FB">pic.twitter.com/ooSeD3W0FB</a></p> <p>— Rachel Fox (@therealdaftbear) <a href="https://twitter.com/therealdaftbear/status/1506238880269447173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Tributes to Fox soon emerged online from fans, colleagues and others in the theatre world, with many praising her talent and sending their thoughts to her family.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So sad to hear the news about Maggie Fox,” theatre publicist Duncan Clarke wrote. “I had the pleasure of working with her &amp; she was such a wonderful lady.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-4654b448-7fff-5e62-a176-d3d9c89a57e4"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“Even had the honour of sharing the stage with her once in a cameo as a Ninja in the fab Jane Bond. My thoughts are with Sue &amp; Maggie’s family.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maggie Fox. We completed a bathroom renovation for her last year and some other repairs round the house. Last time I saw her she was on the mend so I’m shocked by today’s news, I was actually next door to her today too. A really lovely woman. Thoughts to her husband and daughters</p> <p>— James (@Stellify_J) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stellify_J/status/1506306413647253507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Heartbroke to read of the sudden passing of the incredible, hilarious Maggie Fox, who alongside Sue Ryding has entertained audiences since 1985,” one fan shared.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ve been lucky enough to see you many times.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-72217a0d-7fff-7eab-af5c-9f1a8fa0a6a3"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“I can’t even fathom the depth of devastation.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Maggie Fox of <a href="https://twitter.com/LipServicetour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LipServicetour</a>. Maggie and Sue have been bringing their brilliant comedy partnership to Harrogate Theatre for years and were much loved by all.Our thoughts go out to Maggie’s family, friends and of course Sue. <a href="https://t.co/svn0npxjwn">https://t.co/svn0npxjwn</a></p> <p>— Harrogate Theatre (@HGtheatre) <a href="https://twitter.com/HGtheatre/status/1506213750763888644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Incredibly sad to hear this news about the brilliant Maggie Fox. Much love to Sue and their families x,” another wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">In addition to her role as Ruth Audsley on <em>Coronation Street</em>, Fox was known for her work in <em>Reckless</em> and <em>The Forsyte Saga</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-4c05a526-7fff-99a6-dd54-fb33576e2231"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: LipService Theatre (Facebook)</em></p>

News

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Grieving Maggie Beer finds amazing way to honour her late daughter

<p>Australian culinary legend Maggie Beer and her husband Colin have found a heart-felt way to honour their late daughter Saskia. </p><p>Saskia, who shared her mother's passion for cooking and ran her own business, is about to be honoured in the form of a Churchill Fellowship. </p><p>"It allows people for, say, four to eight weeks, depending on what they envisage doing, of going overseas to find something that can't be learnt in Australia... that's the strength of it, and when they bring it back, they have to give back to the community in large what they have learnt," Maggie told <em>A Current Affair</em>.</p><p>"Through the Saskia Beer Churchill Fellowship, the people who are awarded that Fellowship will pay tribute to Saskia's life and continue her legacy through their passion for food," Winston Churchill Trust CEO Adam Davey said.</p><p>Two years ago, Maggie and Colin were blindsided by the sudden death of their 46-year-old daughter, who passed away unexpectedly in her sleep in February 2020. </p><p>Maggie said the beginning of the pandemic gave their family valuable time to grieve together. </p><p>"COVID to me was a bit of a gift, to isolate... we didn't want to talk to anyone except for our very closest," Maggie said.</p><p>After her daughter passed away, Maggie found solace in the kitchen: a space that they both shared a deep love for. </p><p>"My happy place is being in the kitchen... so it gave me comfort," Maggie said.</p><p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Downton Abbey: A New Era full teaser FINALLY released

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Only a week ago, it was announced that the new teaser trailer for </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Downton Abbey: A New Era</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> would only be shown in cinemas ahead of showings of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Belfast</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fortunately, those of us that haven’t been to the cinema can now enjoy it from home, with the </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/full-teaser-trailer-online-for-downton-abbey-a-new-era/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">release</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of the footage online.</span></p> <p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2ZLjAORkXS0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the release of the new trailer, more of the film’s plot has been revealed.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Specifically, Dame Maggie Smith’s Violet Crawley reveals that she had a casual fling in the past that has resulted in her inheriting a French Villa.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845740/downton1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/65764e4a03a342509dd9174c34fdafd7" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: @downtonabbey_official (Instagram)</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Plus, the family are gearing up to welcome a royal visitor to the estate.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The film also promises to include the wedding of assistant cook Daisy Mason to footman Andrew Parker.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845741/downton2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/172d00698e014b368b3a3a4e57822057" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Universal Pictures UK / YouTube</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The list of returning faces includes: Hugh Bonneville (Lord Grantham), Laura Carmichael (Lady Grantham), Jim Carter (Charles Carson), Brendan Coyle (Mr Bates), Michelle Dockery (Lady Crawley) and Joanne Froggatt (Anna Bates).</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845742/downton3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/9f2f1567c0724ca79f57a3111e92b8da" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: @downtonabbey_official (Instagram)</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Joining them are newcomers Hugh Dancy (</span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hannibal</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">), Laura Haddock (</span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Guardians of the Galaxy</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">), Nathalie Baye (</span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch Me If You Can</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">), and Dominic West (</span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Wire</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Directed by Simon Curtis and scripted by Julian Fellows, </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Downton Abbey: A New Era</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is due to arrive in cinemas on March 18, 2022.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: @downtonabbey_official (Instagram)</span></em></p>

Movies

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Maggie Beer hailed for "ethical" move

<p dir="ltr">Maggie Beer Holdings, formerly Longtable Group, has proved why it’s an Aussie favourite: by returning the $825,000 it was given by the federal government as part of the JobKeeper program during the pandemic.</p> <p dir="ltr">In September, it became mandatory for publicly listed companies to disclose their wage subsidies, as well as if repayments had been made. On Tuesday, it was revealed that Maggie Beer Holdings, a company that consists of four brands: Maggie Beer, Paris Creek Farms, Saint David Dairy and Hampers &amp; Gifts Australia, had been given $825,000 during the 2020-21 fiscal year that has been paid back in its entirety.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking to<span> </span><em>NCA Newswire,<span> </span></em>Labor MP Andrew Leigh congratulated Maggie Beer and her company for the move, saying, "Maggie Beer has demonstrated admirable corporate citizenship by voluntarily handing back JobKeeper support that it didn't need.</p> <p dir="ltr">"No one will ever be forced to repay JobKeeper, but it's terrific to see firms like Maggie Beer doing the right thing."</p> <p dir="ltr">He added, "I'll be buying some extra Maggie Beer products as Christmas gifts, and I'm sure many shoppers will likewise choose to reward their ethical decision."</p> <p dir="ltr">In addition to heading up a company trying to navigate the pandemic, in 2020 Maggie Beer had to deal with the passing of her beloved daughter Saskia at the age of 46. Speaking to<span> </span><em>The Weekly<span> </span></em>last November, Beer said she was “taken aback” by the number of people paying their respects. "It was something that was so extreme – in the numbers of people and the real understanding of Saskia's contribution. She had done so much in that short life. The support was huge and wonderful and really unbelievable."</p> <p dir="ltr">From 30 March to 27 September 2020, eligible businesses were able to receive $1500 per fortnight per employee to cover the cost of wages, in an effort to help keep businesses afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many companies have been criticised for keeping the money paid to them by the government during this time despite making a profit during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 financial years.</p> <p dir="ltr">Maggie Beer is known for producing picnic favourites like the Maggie Beer pate, quince paste, and truffle triple cream brie, as well as gourmet ice cream. Paris Creek Farms produces organic dairy products including butter, yoghurt, milk, and cheese. Saint David Dairy, based in Fitzroy, produces similar products, and aims to “bring the small local dairy back to the streets of Inner Melbourne.” Hampers &amp; Gifts Australia consists of The Hamper Emporium, which specialises in premium gift hampers, and Gifts Australia, which focuses on on-trend gifts.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Robert Prezioso/Getty Images</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Maggie Beer warns fans of "despicable" scam

<p>Beloved cooking icon Maggie Beer is urging people to beware of a "despicable" scam that's falsely using her name and image to sell a "cure all" made from cannabis.</p> <p>Fake stories published online show Maggie Beer appearing to promote CBD dummies, including a phone interview motored to look as if it was published by The Australian Women's Weekly.</p> <p>"I want everyone to be aware there are scams circulating using my image, my name," Maggie said in an emphatic warning to her fans. "They've stolen this. I have nothing to do with any of these purported products that I am supposedly endorsing. It is nothing to do with me.</p> <p>"Please check your facts and take care not to be taken in by these despicable people."</p> <p>Maggie and<span> </span><em>The Weekly</em><span> </span>have no association with the product and are urging anyone who has seen the endorsement not to click on it.</p> <p>"Please don't click on any links or give any personal information or payment details to these people, they will take your money," Maggie's website says in an official statement.</p> <p>One of the fake stories claimed Maggie used CBD gummies to treat her husband's type-2 diabetes.</p> <p>Unfortunately, many of Maggie's followers have already fallen for the predatory marketing ploy.</p> <p>"Unfortunately I didn't check in to this page until after I was scammed out of $338," one woman commented on a Facebook post warning of the scam.</p> <p>"I ordered the oil in the hope it would help my arthritis," the woman wrote.</p> <p>Another woman wrote, "Got done myself this morning. Thought I was savvy enough not to get caught. Unfortunately I wasn't."</p> <p>One woman reported she had seen the same ad endorsed by Olivia Newton-John.</p> <p>"Exact same offer and same label on bottles. Scam address in Vegas, no information, no rebate, no invoice or receipt," Michelle wrote.</p> <p>If you have been caught by this scam immediately report the fraud to your bank.</p> <p>You can also report the fake ads to the ACCC via<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam" target="_blank">https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam</a></p>

Legal

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Maggie Beer blasts crooks using her identity to scam trusting Aussies

<p><span>Celebrity chef Maggie Beer has blasted online scammers using her identity to swindle Aussies out of their hard earned cash.</span><br /><br /><span>The well-known author is the latest celebrity to fall victim to online fraudsters.</span><br /><br /><span>This time, the scammers peddled vials of "cannabis oil" in her name.</span><br /><br /><span>Ms Beer, 75, said she felt violated.</span><br /><br /><span>"People trust me and therefore they see the name and … it takes something away from me every time,” she said.</span><br /><br /><span>One of the phony cannabis oil endorsements seen by A Current Affair purport to quote Ms Beer as saying, "I can finally accompany my family to the park".</span><br /><br /><span>Another scam claimed that Ms Beer "(I) no longer need a wheelchair,".</span><br /><br /><span>The chef says this claim disturbed her.</span><br /><br /><span>"I think at my age I have more energy than a lot of people a lot younger, and for me to be in a wheelchair would be beyond my ken."</span><br /><br /><span>Fans even visited Ms Beer’s store and restaurant in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, asking to buy the oil.</span><br /><br /><span>Melbourne pensioner Jeremy Nyhouse, 79, also fell victim to a similar scam that used Olivia Newton-John's name.</span><br /><br /><span>Mr Nyhouse said he lost $500 to the scammers, although he thought he was paying just $75.</span><br /><br /><span>"I'd love to think I'm a fairly businesslike, careful person," Mr Nyhouse said.</span><br /><br /><span>"Our finances are limited and $500 is a lot of money."</span><br /><br /><span>The Therapeutic Goods Administration said medical cannabis products can only ever be prescribed by a doctor.</span><br /><br /><span>"Products purchased over the internet may be counterfeit and contain undisclosed ingredients or potentially harmful ingredients or contaminants, and may not meet the same standards of quality, safety and efficacy as those approved by the TGA for supply in Australia," a TGA spokesperson said.</span></p>

Legal

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Maggie Beer's heartbreaking year

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Maggie Beer had a great start to the year as three generations of her family enjoyed time in Noosa.</p> <p>It was Maggie's 75th birthday as well as her and her husband Colin's 50th wedding anniversary.</p> <p>"They're just two days apart, a very special celebration," says Maggie.</p> <p>"So we took the whole family to Noosa. We had the most beautiful time with fantastic food. Usually it's [daughter] Saskia and I who do the cooking together, but we took our chef, Tim Bourke [from Maggie's Barossa Valley restaurant The Farm Eatery], who's like part of the family. I didn't want to go out to restaurants, I just wanted to be with the family."</p> <p>Maggie often reflects on that peaceful time with her family as just four weeks later, her daughter Saskia passed away at the age of 46.</p> <p>"All we know is that it was peaceful," she explained tearfully.</p> <p>"I don't know that you do cope. You find things to do, to engage you. I don't know that anyone really copes. Your life is changed forever and this year has been the worst of my life. But you have to turn your trauma into new things."</p> <p>Helping her three children, Max, 23, Lilly, 21 and Rory, 17 through their grief was a priority for Maggie and Colin.</p> <p>"It's about being there and making sure we all talk about things that Sassy would love, what she would do." </p> <p>The outpouring of love from thousands of people around the nation was something that surprised the Beer family.</p> <p>"I was so taken aback," says Maggie.</p> <p>"It was something that was so extreme – in the numbers of people and the real understanding of Saskia's contribution. She had done so much in that short life. The support was huge and wonderful and really unbelievable."</p> <p>The family decided to create a lasting memorial that will ensure Saskia's memory lives on.</p> <p>"We've created <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.churchilltrust.com.au/" target="_blank" class="editor-rtflink">a Churchill Fellowship</a> in Saskia's honour, so her name will be perpetually there to in some way continue the work she was doing in terms of farming innovation," Maggie says proudly.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8xNdvgjqKt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8xNdvgjqKt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Official Maggie Beer (@maggie_beer)</a> on Feb 19, 2020 at 4:40pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>A Churchhill Fellowship offers Aussies the opportunity to travel overseas for four to eight weeks to explore a topic or issue they're passionate about.</p> <p>"The wonderful thing about the Churchill Fellowships is that they are open to absolutely all walks of life…Our Churchill Fellowship will be called the Saskia Beer Churchill Fellowship, and that's really important to us."</p> <p>The Beer family are joining the judging process.</p> <p>"It's for travel overseas and we're looking for innovation, something new in food or farming. We've made it as wide as that because we can't even predict what might be in somebody's mind, but you want something that's creative and new and will bring benefit.</p> <p>"Having an open mind at this stage is important. It's about someone who wants to research or learn something that's not available within Australia. This is not a junket. An applicant has to have planned where they're going, who they're going to see, what they're going to learn. It's very structured. The necessity is that they write a report when they return to Australia and it's available for anyone to access."</p> <p>"Potential applicants apply on the fellowship site and there is a huge amount of judging done statewide, then nationally. It's a wonderful process."</p> </div> </div> </div>

Caring

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Maggie Beer reveals her three ingredient roast potatoes recipe

<p>Australian celebrity chef Maggie Beer has shared her surprisingly simple recipe for perfect roast potatoes using three ingredients and no herbs or extra fat.</p> <p>The beloved cook took to social media to reveal exactly how she makes her spuds crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside in a cooking video.</p> <p>And the good thing is, all you need are waxy potatoes, salt and olive oil.</p> <p>“First, have good potatoes. A base waxy potato like désirée are very accessible but any potato that will roast will be fantastic,” Maggie said from her Barossa kitchen.</p> <p>To prepare her roasted potatoes, Maggie sliced the potatoes in half with the skin on and then parboiled them in a pot of boiling salted water for 20 minutes – this will cut the roasting time in the oven and ensure the insides become fluffy.</p> <p><strong>How to make Maggie Beer's roast potatoes </strong></p> <p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p> <ul> <li>1kg waxy potatoes such as désirée</li> <li>Two tsp of salt </li> <li>Olive oil</li> </ul> <p><strong>Method</strong></p> <ol> <li>Preheat the oven to 230 degrees. </li> <li>Slice the potatoes in half with skin on. Parboil them in a pot of boiling salted water for 20 minutes, then drain in a colander. Allow them to cool.</li> <li>Next, gently half-squash each potato with a wooden spatula or a masher and place them into a large bowl. Season with salt and a generous amount of oil. Toss to coat.</li> <li>Transfer the potatoes to a heavy-based pan or baking tray.</li> <li>Roast for 20 minutes at a high temperature of 230 degrees or until crispy and golden all over.</li> <li>Remove the tray from the oven and serve.</li> </ol> <p>“I've got Désirée - waxy potatoes. They are crispy, beautiful, amazing potatoes. I've left the skin on and I cook them for 20 minutes at a simmer in salted water,” she said.</p> <p>Once the potatoes were done, she drained them in a colander.</p> <p>Next, Maggie gently half-squashed each potato with a wooden spatula and placed them into a large bowl. </p> <p>“What I'm going to do is squash these down, spreading them out. Keep some shape but only some, skins on and of course, you can peel them if you must,” she said.</p> <p>“I guess if you peel them, it'll be a little bit fluffier but the goodness in the skin, let alone the flavour in the skin are so worth it that there is no way I'm going to lose that.</p> <p>“They have to be cooked enough to be able to squash down like this.”</p> <p>Maggie then seasoned the potatoes with two teaspoons of salt and a generous amount of olive oil, then toss to coat.</p> <p>“I'm going to drizzle them liberally with olive oil... lots of olive oil to moisten the bits. Olive oil being the good fat but there's nothing against butter.”</p> <p>She placed the potatoes in a "very heavy based" baking tray and roasted them for just 20 minutes at a very high temperature of 230 degrees.</p> <p>“Now that's going to be another 20 minutes because I want all those jagged edges to become really crispy, and they'd be such a fight for them when they go on the table,” Maggie said. </p> <p>Once the potatoes are crispy and golden all over, Maggie removed the tray from the oven. </p> <p>“You can see how beautifully crispy they are,” she said.</p>

Food & Wine

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Maggie Beer shares her secret to perfect poached eggs

<p>Since Australians began staying inside amid the coronavirus pandemic, Maggie Beer has shared her cooking wisdoms from her Barossa Valley kitchen through a new video series titled <em>Cooking with Maggie.</em></p> <p>Now the celebrity chef and cookbook author has revealed the secret to perfect poached eggs.</p> <p>Beer explained that fresh eggs will hold its shape better when being poached, while older egg whites tend to be runny.</p> <p>When using an old egg, Beer recommended cracking it on a strainer to remove some of the liquid so that the poached version will be free from frills and “have a tighter shape”.</p> <p>She added, “It’s always easier when you’re poaching an egg to actually put it in a little container … so you’re not breaking the egg into the swirling water.”</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOfficialMaggieBeer%2Fvideos%2F297909041194072%2F&amp;show_text=1&amp;width=560" width="560" height="476" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p> <p>She also advised against using salt and vinegar.</p> <p>“There’s no point in using salt, you don’t need to use salt,” she said. “Nor do you need to use vinegar. Vinegar will help set the egg, but it makes the egg taste [like] the vinegar, and I hate that.”</p> <p>Instead, Beer recommended swirling the boiling water around in the pot to create a “vortex” and pouring the egg into the vortex.</p> <p>She said poaching takes two to three minutes, depending on the size of the egg.</p> <p>Beer seasoned the poached egg with salt and pepper upon serving. “I didn’t put salt in the water so it’s important to season with salt and pepper now.”</p> <p>The TV personality, who has been sharing new videos on her social media pages every day since early April, said she would be committed to the video series for however long the COVID-19 pandemic keeps people at home.</p> <p>“Whether it’s three months or six months, I will do it,” she told <em><a href="https://www.broadsheet.com.au/national/event/cooking-maggie">Broadsheet</a></em>.</p> <p>“It’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone cooking, don’t you think?”</p>

Food & Wine

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“Truly moving”: Maggie Beer responds to community outpouring

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>Beloved Australian chef Maggie Beer has thanked her social media followers for their “overwhelming support” after the tragic passing of her daughter Saskia Beer at the age of 46.</p> <p>Maggie revealed that Saskia died peacefully in her sleep on Sunday night and thanked followers for their support during this time.</p> <p>"Dear family, friends, fans and followers, thank you. The overwhelming outpouring of sympathy and support for Maggie, Colin and family during this tragic time has been truly moving," Maggie wrote on Instagram.</p> <p>"We thank everyone for continuing to respect the family's privacy, and we will return to posting soon. The team at Maggie Beer's Farm Shop and MBP kitchens are keeping things running perfectly for which we are truly grateful."</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8xNdvgjqKt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8xNdvgjqKt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Official Maggie Beer (@maggie_beer)</a> on Feb 19, 2020 at 4:40pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Maggie shared the devastating news of her daughter on Sunday, February 16th, requesting her followers for some “time” as they process the loss.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8nnyFIDTws/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8nnyFIDTws/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Official Maggie Beer (@maggie_beer)</a> on Feb 15, 2020 at 11:17pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"It is with broken hearts we need to let you all know that our beautiful, extraordinary daughter Saskia died unexpectedly yet peacefully in her sleep on Friday night," Maggie wrote.</p> <p>"We ask for time/space as we grapple to come to terms with our loss and appreciate all the support we have been given. Maggie, Colin and family."</p> <p>Another statement about Saskia’s passing was shared by her husband, Petar Jercic, who vowed to keep Saskia’s business going after her passing.</p> <p>"Our beautiful, extraordinary daughter, sister, wife and mother died unexpectedly yet peacefully in her sleep on Friday night," it read.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwsy_2qA3bM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwsy_2qA3bM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Saskia Beer (@saskiabeerfarmproduce)</a> on Apr 25, 2019 at 6:15pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"The business Saskia grew and loved will continue on with me, her loving husband. We ask for time/space as we grapple to come to terms with our loss and appreciate all the support we have been given."</p> <p>Saskia followed in her mother’s footsteps and started up her own food company, Saskia Beer Farm Produce in 1997.</p> <p>Maggie spoke fondly of her daughter’s accomplishments to the<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/celebrity/celeb-news/maggie-beer-christmas-52768" target="_blank">Australian Women’s Weekly</a></em><span> </span>in 2018.</p> <p>“Saskia inherited my instinct for food, which I inherited from my father. Her knowledge of farming to cooking is amazing,” Maggie explained.</p> <p>"Any celebration, any reason, is based around food. The thing is, my girls try to boss me around. There's a competition as to who does something best. But that is all about creating flavour. Our family is a very flavour-driven family."</p> </div> </div> </div>

News

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Maggie Beer shares harrowing loss of daughter Saskia

<p>Acclaimed Australian chef, Maggie Beer has said her family is “broken hearted” while announcing the loss of her daughter Saskia Beer on Friday night.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwsy_2qA3bM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwsy_2qA3bM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Saskia Beer (@saskiabeerfarmproduce)</a> on Apr 25, 2019 at 6:15pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The chef and businesswoman who died at just 46-years-old passed away “unexpectedly yet peacefully” on Friday night.</p> <p>"It is with broken hearts we need to let you all know that Saskia, our beautiful, extraordinary daughter, sister, wife and mother died unexpectedly yet peacefully in her sleep on Friday night," the post wrote, shared on the social media accounts of Maggie Beer and<span> </span><em>Saskia Beer Farm Produce.</em></p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxN54DQDzUs/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxN54DQDzUs/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by the farm eatery (@thefarmeatery)</a> on May 8, 2019 at 2:50pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"We ask for time and space as we grapple to come to terms with our loss and appreciate all the support we have been given."</p> <p>The meat produce and catering business, which was once ran by Ms Beer, will now be taken on by her husband, Petar Jercic.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxV4RdKgv5O/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxV4RdKgv5O/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Saskia Beer (@saskiabeerfarmproduce)</a> on May 11, 2019 at 5:10pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Her website shared the young, driven cook had developed an “affinity for food” after being "surrounded by the principles of good farming and honest cooking" through her mother's restaurant and her father Colin's farming.</p> <p>Ms Beer is survived by her three children and her husband Petar who she married in April last year.</p>

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Dame Maggie Smith is named best actress for a shocking fifth time at Evening Standard Theatre Awards

<p>Dame Maggie Smith, 84, has surprised many after winning for a record-breaking fifth time for the Best Actress Prize at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards.</p> <p>She kept things simple and classy in a black satin blazer and showed off her trophy. The win comes 57 years after her first best actress prize at the event back in 1962.</p> <p>Smith won the award on Sunday for her portrayal of the secretary to Joseph Goebbels, who was a minister for propaganda in Nazi Germany in the play<span> </span>A German Life. It was her first time returning to the stage in 12 years.</p> <p>She took to the stage after winning the award and recalled when she won her first award.</p> <p>“It was just so long ago that I got one when I started. </p> <p>“I got it because they couldn’t think of anybody else to give it to.”</p> <p>Smith won her first Evening Standard theatre acting award for her role in<span> </span>The Private Ear<span> </span>and<span> </span>The Public Eye<span> </span>in 1962.</p> <p>She then won awards in 1970 for<span> </span>Hedda Gabler, 1984 with<span> </span>The Way of the World<span> </span>and in<span> </span>Three Tall Women<span> </span>in 1994.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery to see Dame Maggie Smith with her award on the night.</p>

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5 minutes with author Maggie Joel

<p><span>In <em>5 minutes with author</em>, <em>Over60</em> asks book writers about their literary habits and preferences. Next in this series is Maggie Joel, a British-born writer and an operations manager based in Sydney. Her historical novels have been published in Australia, New Zealand, the US and the UK. Her latest book <em>The Unforgiving City </em>is out now.</span></p> <p><em><span>Over60</span></em><span> talked with Joel about writing while having a full-time job, Virginia Woolf, and the experience of reading evocative books.</span></p> <p><strong><em><span>Over60: </span></em>What is your best writing tip? </strong></p> <p>Maggie Joel: Definitely show not tell. I’m always surprised when writers tell us what their characters are feeling instead of showing us. It was drilled into me in every creative writing class I attended that the skill for the writer was in working out ways to show us the character’s emotions whether it be by mannerism, physical description, dialogue or whatever. Simply telling us they are scared or delighted or anxious is breathtakingly lazy almost to the point of disrespecting the sophistication of the reader.</p> <p><strong>What book do you think more people should read?</strong></p> <p><em>Little Boy Lost</em> by British author Marghanita Laski. In the ‘60s and ‘70s Laski was a well-known author and TV pundit in the UK, but she is all but forgotten now. This novel, published in 1949 and set in France in the months following the end of the war, appears to be a simple enough tale of a man’s search for his child – but don’t be fooled, this is a masterpiece of storytelling. I have never had such an emotional response to a novel before or since. It is a little gem.</p> <p><strong>What was the last book that made you laugh?</strong></p> <p>Probably the biography of Muriel Spark by Martin Stannard that a friend loaned me a few months ago. She was such a confident, witty and often quite savage observer of life and people that I’m sure I laughed out loud at various points in the book. To have that kind of confidence in your abilities and such utter contempt for the abilities and frailties of others is joyous to read. I relished it!</p> <p><strong>What do you think makes for a great </strong><strong>historical fiction work?</strong></p> <p>I think it all boils down to one thing: creating an emotional response in the reader. When I look at the books with a strong historical setting that have influenced me – <em>The Remains of the Day</em> by Kazuo Ishiguro, <em>The Go-Between</em> by L.P. Hartley, <em>The Shooting Party </em>by Isabel Colegate, <em>Brideshead Revisited</em> by Evelyn Waugh – they’re all books that look back, both fondly and critically, on the recent past, and where nostalgia for a bygone era plays a major role. They are incredibly evocative works, utilising research and literary devices to generate an emotional response within the reader.</p> <p><strong>What does your writing routine look like?</strong></p> <p>I work full-time, so my writing routine means weekends. If I am in the throes of a new novel, I will be at the computer by 8am Saturday morning and will work all day, and all-day Sunday. If I have managed things well, I take a few weeks of long service leave from work and that can make a huge difference in getting that first draft down, really in a matter of weeks. All my books involve a substantial amount of research which I try to fit in around the writing and in the evenings when I get home from work.</p> <p><strong>Do you deal with writer’s block? If so, how do you overcome it?</strong></p> <p>When I had writer’s block – for two years about eight years ago – I didn’t deal with it. That is to say, I tried everything and nothing worked. In the end I gave up trying, gave up reading even, and admitted I was no longer a writer. It was awful, like giving up a part of myself, but looking back I think I needed to reach that point, to start living a life that no longer involved writing, no longer involved books. After a year or so it just lifted, almost overnight. I haven’t suffered from it since. But really, if the book I am writing is not so utterly absorbing to me that I am compelled to write, then the book isn’t worth writing.</p> <p><strong>What trope grinds your gears? Alternatively, is there a cliché that you can’t help but love?</strong></p> <p>Diaries! That handy little journal that your character conveniently finds secreted away in the victim’s or suspect’s bedroom at exactly the right moment and that conveniently fills in all the blanks that the character otherwise could not know. And then we have to suffer page after tortuous page of italicised excerpts from said dairy. Dear God! Save me from it.</p> <p><strong>Which author, deceased or living, would you most like to have dinner with?</strong></p> <p>Oh, definitely Virginia Woolf. Cliched I know, but I’d be lying if I gave any other answer. Her life and writing have inspired me more than any other writer, I come back to her time and time again. Having said that, I can imagine her being a rather reticent, if not so say, prickly dinner guest who would sit there the whole evening contributing absolutely nothing then coming out with some pithy and piercing observation right at the end of the night that leaves the rest of the company speechless and slightly offended – at least I hope she would!</p>

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The X-rated joke that left The Great Australian Bake Off judges speechless

<p><span>A cook may have broken The Great Australian Bake Off’s PG rating with a crude joke.</span></p> <p><span>71-year-old Dennis Mews, one of the contestants on the baking competition, has left judges and fellow amateur bakers in shock with his quip on Thursday night’s episode.</span></p> <p><span>The Melbourne man was presenting his edible biscuit box to judges Maggie Beer and Matt Moran when he explained why he was satisfied with his creation.</span></p> <p><span>“I’m very pleased I got to construct it without it collapsing,” Mews said. “If I may say, my last two erections have been a big disappointment.”</span></p> <p><span>Silence ensued before Beer broke out in laughter, while Moran became visibly horrified before also cracking up.</span></p> <p><span>“Sorry, we’re gonna need a cup of tea for Maggie,” host Mel Buttle offered. “Maggie, talk about Dennis’ erection please.”</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr">Here for biscuits and pleasure. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BakeOffAU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BakeOffAU</a> <a href="https://t.co/6UCfDJFiiJ">pic.twitter.com/6UCfDJFiiJ</a></p> — #BakeOffAU (@BakeOffAU) <a href="https://twitter.com/BakeOffAU/status/1184790386398547969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2019</a></blockquote> <p><span>However, Mews’ wisecracking could not save him from elimination as he became the third person to leave the competition this season.</span></p> <p><span>Moran said Mews would “go down as having said one of the funniest things on TV”.</span></p>

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