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Ben Roberts-Smith loses defamation appeal over war crimes findings

Decorated war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith has lost a high-profile legal appeal seeking to overturn findings that he likely engaged in war crimes during his service in Afghanistan. The Federal Court dismissed the former soldier’s defamation appeal on Friday, marking a major defeat for Australia's most decorated living soldier and potentially concluding a years-long legal battle that has captivated the nation. Roberts-Smith, who was not present in court, now faces a substantial legal bill estimated to exceed $25 million. Lawyers for Nine newspapers, who published the original reports in 2018, were seen embracing outside the courthouse, visibly jubilant over the outcome. "The smile says it all," one lawyer told reporters. In contrast, Roberts-Smith’s legal team declined to comment as they left the building. Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, sued Nine and investigative journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters over a series of reports alleging he was involved in the unlawful killing of unarmed civilians while deployed with the SAS in Afghanistan. In 2023, Justice Anthony Besanko ruled the allegations were substantially true, including claims that Roberts-Smith was involved in the murder of four unarmed Afghan men. Among the most damning accusations were that Roberts-Smith executed a man with a prosthetic leg and encouraged fellow soldiers to use the leg as a drinking vessel. He was also accused of ordering the killing of an elderly prisoner in 2009 to initiate a junior soldier, and of kicking a bound prisoner off a cliff before having him executed in 2012. Another killing was linked to a weapons cache found in the village of Cinartu. These claims were upheld by Justice Besanko on the balance of probabilities, a standard used in civil cases. Friday's ruling confirmed the original judgment, with the full court dismissing the appeal. The court’s written reasons are expected to be released in the coming days. Nine successfully argued that its reporting was grounded in solid evidence and that Justice Besanko’s findings were appropriately supported. Roberts-Smith, once hailed as a national hero for his bravery under fire and named Australian Father of the Year, now faces the prospect of paying Nine’s legal costs for both the original trial and the failed appeal. His legal team may consider taking the matter to the High Court, but such a move would be his final legal recourse in a saga that has spanned more than seven years. Despite the serious nature of the findings, Roberts-Smith has not been criminally charged in relation to any of the alleged incidents. Image: Today show

Legal

Chaos at Sunrise as Nat Barr and Shirvo told to evacuate

It was a normal morning at Sunrise – until it wasn’t. Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington, Australia’s trusted duo for morning headlines, found themselves in an unexpected plot twist when a blaring alarm interrupted their broadcast. Just as they were busy reminiscing about The Sound of Music turning 60, their usual smooth delivery was derailed by an insistent fire alarm. “Hey, that’s a fire alarm! We might have to evacuate here,” a concerned Shirvo said, his journalistic instincts kicking in faster than a sprinter off the blocks. Barr, ever the professional, sought confirmation from the floor crew. “Are we being told to evacuate?” she asked, as though a second opinion might change the fact that alarms generally mean "leave". Despite a classic “Should we stay or should we go?” moment, the pair was finally ushered out – only to be showered in gold confetti by the Sunrise crew, who clearly had been planning this for weeks. “Of course it is – April Fools’,” Shirvo said, shaking his head as he wiped glitter from his suit. Barr, likely already composing a strongly worded email to the prank masterminds, chuckled in defeat. And so, another Sunrise April 1st came and went, proving once again that news anchors aren’t just here to report the stories – they sometimes are the story. Images: Network 7

Beloved Neighbours star reveals his dying wishes

Ian Smith has shared his final wishes after being told he has more time to live, despite battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Smith, 86, was diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma and given a terminal prognosis in 2024. However, in a recent interview on BBC Radio 5 Live, he revealed he had defied expectations and was still going strong. "I'm going to die soon, but I seem to be defying the odds, which is good. I'm not unhappy about that at all," Smith said. The veteran actor recalled the moment he received the unexpected news in December last year, jokingly expressing his gratitude: "The knowledge is saying, 'Ian, you are going to die in March.' I almost gave in, and then on Friday the 13th, I got this good news and, you know what? I just had to say, 'Well, thank you, someone.'" Rather than dwell on his diagnosis, Smith is determined to make the most of the time he has left. While he admits he is still unsure of how best to spend it, one thing on his bucket list is buying a new car – specifically, an electric one. "I'm now thinking of buying a new car. That's not what you do if you're going to die in March," he said with a laugh. "I'm determined to have an electric car before I die. And I was speaking to a salesman. I said, 'Now, what about the delivery? Can you get to me before I'm dead?' And he was so shocked! I said, 'Come on, let's have a giggle.'" Smith has had a long and celebrated career in television, most notably for his role as Harold Bishop on Neighbours. First joining the show in 1987, his character quickly became a fan favourite. Over the years, he made several departures and returns, with his most recent appearance in 2024 before stepping away due to ill health. Jason Herbison, Executive Producer of Neighbours, spoke highly of Smith’s contributions to the show, saying, "The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn't love him more than we do." Beyond Neighbours, Smith also appeared in the cult series Prisoner and worked extensively in theatre since the 1950s. Smith has faced significant personal challenges over the years. His wife, Gail, passed away in 2019 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a marriage that spanned over 50 years. Additionally, Smith discovered later in life that he had been adopted. He was 54 when his adoptive mother, Connie, revealed the truth shortly before her passing. Smith eventually reunited with his biological mother, Peg Kline, who had been a victim of sexual assault at age 14. They maintained a relationship until her death in 2005, also from cancer. "Dying does change how you live," he said in a previous interview with The Guardian. "I feel like I have become more forgiving, more understanding." Despite his illness, Smith remains grateful for the life he has led. "I know I have cancer because doctors keep telling me I have it. I may get very sick again one day. But I have lived the most privileged life." Images: Supplied

Caring

Steve Smith's huge retirement news

Australian veteran cricketer Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day International cricket. The 35-year-old, who stepped in to fill Pat Cummins’ captaincy role during the ICC Champions Trophy tournament, has played his 170th and last match in the ODI format, losing to India by four wickets. After the epic showdown, Smith fronted the media to make the bombshell announcement that his time in the green and gold 50-over uniform had come to an end, effective immediately. He said, “Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way.” A two-time Australian ODI player of the year and a member of the ICC’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015, Smith plans to continue playing Test matches for some time yet. “Test cricket remains a priority and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies in the winter and then England at home,” he added. “I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.” Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg led the tributes to Smith, stating: “Congratulations to Steve on an amazing One-Day International career during which he has made a vast contribution to Australia’s performances in the 50-over format." “Right up until his final ODI innings Steve exhibited an incredible ability to accumulate runs in all conditions and his astute leadership has been crucial in the team’s ongoing success including the 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup victories." “We’re fortunate Steve still has much to offer in the Test and T20 arenas and I look forward to witnessing the next stage of one of cricket’s great careers.” Image credits: RAHAT DAR/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial

Retirement Life

Maggie Smith's son reveals her final moments

Dame Maggie Smith's son Toby Stephens has shared details of the last few weeks of his mother's life, and how he wasn't by her side when she passed away. Toby and his brother Chris Larkin announced the death of their famous mother, revealing she died peacefully in hospital in September 2024 at the age of 89. Stephens, who is also an actor, has now opened up about Maggie's last weeks, telling <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/toby-stephens-acting-mother-maggie-smith-zd0979rf8?region=global" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Times</a> that he was filming a movie in New Zealand when his mother died. Despite her health troubles, Smith encouraged her son to take the role in the horror movie Marama, as he explained, “She was in hospital. She was supposed to be coming out, but the last two years of her life had been a decline: she would get worse, then she would get better, then she would get worse.” “So I said, ‘Look I’ve got this film,’ and before I could even ask her, she said, ‘Go do it. God, you don’t want to hang round here, I’m fine.’” However, when Stephens arrived in New Zealand, he was informed by hospital staff that his mother’s condition would not improve, as he said, "But it could take two months, two weeks, they didn’t know." Soon afterwards he started filming the movie, his mother stopped being able to communicate. “I’d spent hours and days sitting with her at home and in hospital over the course of two years, and there was nothing I had left unsaid,” Stephens said. Maggie Smith died on September 27th, the day before Stephens finished filming. His wife, actress Anna-Louise Plowman, and their three teenage children were all with her at the hospital the day before she died. Maggie's other son Chris Larkin was at Smith’s bedside for her final moments, as Stephens said, “I was so sad not to be with him.” “I found that very difficult, but she was no longer aware. And it allowed me some space to actually get my head round what had happened.” Elsewhere in the interview, Stephens said he had been touched by the response to his mother’s death and the number of people who remembered her for her earlier roles. He added, “The thing that really got me was: it’s very rare that you have actors that everyone likes." Image credits: Colorsport/ITV/Shutterstock Editorial

Caring

"Dying does change how you live": Beloved Neighbours star opens up about cancer battle

Veteran Neighbours star Ian Smith, best known for his role as Harold Bishop on the popular long-running show, has shared insights into his ongoing battle with cancer, revealing that despite the challenges, he feels "good". Smith, 86, was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/non-fixable-neighbours-icon-reveals-terminal-diagnosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer</a> in 2024, leading to his departure from the beloved soap opera. In a candid interview with The Guardian, he recently reflected on his journey, saying, "I thought I would be stronger, but I am as weak as any human. Dying does change how you live." He added that his illness has made him "more forgiving, more understanding". The actor began chemotherapy and immunotherapy as part of his treatment, which has proved effective despite his terminal diagnosis. Initially, doctors predicted he wouldn’t survive past March 2024, but his successful response to treatment has extended his life expectancy to Christmas 2026. "I know I have cancer because doctors keep telling me I have it," he said. "I may get very sick again one day. But I have lived the most privileged life." Smith first appeared as Harold Bishop in Neighbours in 1987, introduced as the former love interest of Madge Mitchell, played by Anne Charleston. His character became a fan favourite, with Smith making multiple returns to the show over the decades. He initially played Harold from 1987 to 1991 before returning from 1996 to 2009. He later made guest appearances in 2011, 2015, 2022, and most recently in 2024 before stepping away due to his illness. Upon Smith’s most recent departure, Neighbours Executive Producer Jason Herbison paid tribute to his contribution to the show. "The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn't love him more than we do," Herbison told the Herald Sun. A spokesperson for Network 10 also expressed admiration for the actor, stating, "We are deeply saddened to hear of Ian Smith's cancer diagnosis. He is a cherished member of the Neighbours family." Beyond Neighbours, Smith appeared in the cult TV series Prisoner and worked extensively in theatre since the 1950s. His personal life has been marked by both joy and sorrow. His wife, Gail, passed away in 2019 after her own battle with cancer, after the couple had been married for more than 50 years. Smith also faced personal revelations later in life. At 54, he discovered he had been adopted after his mother, Connie, disclosed the truth before her passing. He later found his biological mother, Peg Kline, who revealed she had conceived him at 14 following a sexual assault. The two maintained a relationship until her death in 2005, also from cancer. Smith shared his adoption story on ABC’s Australian Story. Despite his health struggles, Smith remains positive and reflective, cherishing the life he has led. His impact on Australian TV has certainly solidified his place as one of the industry’s most beloved figures. Image: Network 10

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Matt Doran's next move revealed after quitting Weekend Sunrise

Matt Doran's next move has been revealed, two months after his <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/weekend-sunrise-star-s-emotional-farewell" target="_blank" rel="noopener">departure</a> from Weekend Sunrise. The TV journalist is set to relocate to the United States with his wife Kendall Bora, who is leaving her role as executive producer of Today on Channel Nine to become the network’s US bureau chief. According to reports from the Daily Mail, Kendall shared the news with staff on Tuesday, explaining that her and Matt would be moving to Los Angeles for her new role. Fiona Dear, Nine's director of news and current affairs, also confirmed the news and told the publication that she’s looking forward to seeing Kendall take on the position. “Kendall has had a stellar run at Today Show as EP and has spearheaded a number of transformative projects, including the streamlining of the entire Today Show team,” she said. “I'm excited about what she can achieve as head of Nine's famed US bureau.” It’s unknown exactly what Matt will be doing in LA, however, it's believed he is hoping to make documentaries. During his farewell announcement in November, Doran admitted he has felt the pull back to being an investigative reporter and wants to focus more on crime stories and documentaries. “It is my unshakeable belief that this role — specifically, being entrusted with the telling of people’s most intimate, most personal stories — is one of the more privileged positions on the planet," he said. “And actually, storytelling is probably at the heart of this decision – finding ways to tell stories that break the mould. I came to the Seven Network eight years ago with a background in crime and documentaries, and I’m being pulled back in that direction again now.” Image credits: Instagram / Sunrise

Eagles star announces retirement after shock health diagnosis

Steuart Smith, the lead guitarist of iconic rock band The Eagles has announced his retirement. The 72-year-old musician, who joined the band back in 2001, shared that he would be leaving the band following a shock health diagnosis. "It is with profound regret that, due to performance issues associated with my recently diagnosed Parkinsonism, I find that I must bow out of my role with The Eagles while I can still do so gracefully," Smith told People magazine. "It's been a great quarter of a century, and I had hoped to be able to finish out this year with the band, but I must now do what’s best for all concerned." According to Parkinsons.org.uk, parkinsonism is "an umbrella term used to cover a range of conditions that share similar symptoms to Parkinson's". Bandmate and founding member of The Eagles, Don Henley, also released a statement praising Smith's talents, adding that the group will "be forever grateful" for his contributions to the band and their tour. “Steuart Smith has retired from touring. The Eagles will be forever grateful for the extraordinary talents that he brought to both our recordings and live performances," he told the publication. "Steuart will be greatly missed, but he will always be a part of our musical family. We know our many fans join us in wishing him well." The Eagles, were formed in 1972 with founding members Henley, Glenn Frey, Bernie Leadon and Randy Meisner. They are known for their hit songs like Hotel California and Lyin Eyes. <em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial

Caring

Weekend Sunrise star's replacement revealed

Matt Doran's replacement on Weekend Sunrise has been revealed just days after he officially <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/weekend-sunrise-star-s-emotional-farewell" target="_blank" rel="noopener">left the show</a>. The Seven Network announced on Thursday that David Woiwod will join the weekend breakfast show from this weekend onwards, co-hosting the program with Monique Wright. Weekend Sunrise viewers are already familiar with Woiwod, who often appeared on the show as a reporter for four years, before he was assigned 7News’ US Bureau Chief, where he has been based in LA for the last five years. This week, he made his return to Australia for his Weekend Sunrise gig, and has expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. “Five years on the road as a foreign correspondent covering the world’s biggest events has prepared me for the major stories, early hours and bad coffee that 3am starts demand – I’m excited and ready,” he said in a statement. “In all seriousness, this is a thrilling full circle moment for me. I’m beyond excited to return to the Sunrise family and to keep telling the stories that matter most to Australians. “Mon is the most talented, generous, hilarious and wickedly smart person to work with and I look forward to riding her coattails until the bosses notice. “Aussies lead busy lives, so to be invited into their homes on precious weekend mornings is a privilege not lost on me.” Matt Doran made his final appearance on Weekend Sunrise last Sunday after five years on the show. “You guys know how much I love you,“ said on the show at the time. “It sounds like a thing that people say but the crew... Thank you to every single person here. They do the most amazing job.” Images: Seven

"I’m saying that hands down": Matt Shirvo's bold prediction

Matt Shirvington has made an enormous call about the future career of 16-year-old sprinter known as Gout Gout, saying he could be one of Australia's greatest athletes. The Brisbane teenager shot to <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/i-don-t-want-my-son-to-be-called-a-disease-name-gout-gout-s-dad-weighs-in" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fame</a> over the weekend after blitzing the 200m track record, completing the race in just 20.04 seconds. The Sunrise host and former Olympic runner heaped praise on the lightning-fast teen, claiming “he will be the greatest athlete we have ever produced in this country”. “This kid, just on the fact that he is such an amazing athlete, the most coveted record in (Australian) sprinting was Peter Norman’s 1968 200m record that he did in that iconic race, of course that Black Power race in Mexico City,” Shirvington began on Channel 7’s Sunrise. “The fact he has come out as a 16-year-old — he is not 17 until the 29th of December — is a phenomenal thing." “The other thing, he ran a windy 10.04 — that’s the fifth fastest in all conditions by an Australian. He will be the greatest athlete we have ever produced in this country. I’m saying that hands down.” Shirvo's Sunrise co-hosts were taken aback by his claims, but his praise didn't stop there, as he even predicted he could be one of the greatest athletes in the world in years to come. “A lot of people are comparing Gout to the GOAT, which is Usain Bolt, of course,” Shirvington said. “I think he’s got more to produce the goods." “And I sat down with a British coach who has trained some of the best 400m runners in the world ever and he reckons over the 400 he could very well be the world record holder too. “Who knows, 100, 200, 400 — he may make it happen. In terms of the 100, breaking the 10 second barrier, it will not only be a blip on his radar, he will do it 100 times and it won’t even be a barrier for him.” “He’s so young, so talented, he has a great team around him, his coach Di Shepherd, his manager James Templeton, his parents are just beautiful people,” Shirvington continued. “He is one of 7 siblings, he’s got a great story. And heading into 2032, there is going to be a huge support for him. He has the world at his feet." “He’s going to train with Noah Lyles in January — of course Noah Lyles the Olympic champion. He’s going to be brilliant. For me, greatness is destined for Gout Gout.” Image credits: X / Sunrise

Today Extra bids farewell to beloved reporter

Davina Smith has delivered all the latest breaking news to Today Extra viewers across the country for the last 10 years. In an emotional send off on Thursday, the beloved journalist became teary-eyed as she said her goodbyes on the show. "I'm just so thankful, it's the best job in the world, we have heartbreaking stories to tell, but the team behind the scenes are extraordinary," Davina said through tears. "We're so lucky to sit beside incredible people, but have people in our ears and in our hearts every day who are helping so much - thank you." Her colleague and dear friend David Campbell also had a special message for her. "I actually can't believe I'm doing this video," he began. "I just want to say that it's been a real honour to sit next to you, to work with you, I've learned so much over this period of time working with you. "I know we've had a lot of laughs, I know we've had a lot of banter, I know you've thrown a lot of pens at me, but I also wanted to tell you how much I actually respect you, not only as a journalist, but as a person, as a human and very much so as a parent. "You are going to be sorely missed, my friend, don't make me cry." Davina will continue to work for Nine, but is taking on a new role as a reporter for A Current Affair in Queensland. Her new role will give her more time to spend with her daughters, Hope and Rose and her husband mark. Images: Today

Weekend Sunrise star’s emotional farewell

Matt Doran has announced he is leaving the team at Weekend Sunrise to focus on his family, and to pursue other career opportunities. Doran made the announcement on-air on Sunday, describing his five years at the show, hosting alongside Monique Wright as "the best job in the world". “Before we go today, a bit of breaking news from the Doran household. I want to share with you a decision I’ve made, with my beautiful wife Kendall — and of course in earnest consultation with our beloved Italian greyhound Murphy — and that is, after five years at Weekend Sunrise, I will be finishing up at the end of the year,” he said. “It’s something I’ve agonised over because it’s honest to say this is one of the best jobs on earth, but we think it’s right — and at the right time — for our little family." “While I’m sad, and I’m doing everything possible presently not to look Mon in the eye, where I am right now is honestly a place of incredible gratitude. For the laughs, the lessons, the tears, the phenomenal sense of life perspective, the carousels of astonishing snacks (even the tofu).” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCu7BmfOrOW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCu7BmfOrOW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sunrise (@sunriseon7)</a> </div> </blockquote> He then went on to share that his last show will be December 8th, and admitted he has felt the pull back to being an investigative reporter and wants to focus more on crime stories and documentaries. “It is my unshakeable belief that this role — specifically, being entrusted with the telling of people’s most intimate, most personal stories — is one of the more privileged positions on the planet. “And actually, storytelling is probably at the heart of this decision – finding ways to tell stories that break the mould. I came to the Seven Network eight years ago with a background in crime and documentaries, and I’m being pulled back in that direction again now.” Doran said he was thankful to the viewers, especially the ones that wrote in with feedback. “What a monstrous honour to be afforded a few hours of your precious time on your precious weekends no less. That is one thing I have never, ever taken for granted,” he said. “When I say this, I am saying it from the very bottom of my heart – you have supported me, in ways I never imagined would be possible." Doran then shared some emotional words to Wright, his co-host and “best friend”. “There will be time over the next few weeks to properly say goodbye and thank my family and the amazing Weekend Sunrise family but for now.. I do need to say this,” he said. “Mon… you are not just a colleague; you are my best friend, and I am going to miss you." “Let me tell you, however incredible you think Mon is on camera, it’s 10-fold behind the scenes – it’s the little things she does as a friend for her friends, that she doesn’t broadcast, and they in my opinion sum up her character, and define her.” Wright said she was “honoured” to work alongside Doran, as she said, “Our friendship and laughs will continue off screen and while I’ll miss him terribly at work, I’m so happy for Matt and Kenny (Matt’s wife Kendall) and for them to now enjoy their much-deserved weekends together.” Image credits: Weekend Sunrise

Maggie Smith farewelled in emotional funeral

Dame Maggie Smith has been farewelled in a "poignant but not sad" funeral service. 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. 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". "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." "I knew her because of [the guest's husband's] decades of working with her but I adored her." "[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." 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. Smith's sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens wrote in a statement, “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September." “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.” Image credits: Daily Mail

Caring

Veteran ABC journalist dies at age 72

Veteran ABC journalist Matt Peacock has died at the age of 72. The pioneering reporter had a stellar career with the public broadcaster after first joining in 1973, going on to be the chief political correspondent for current affairs radio in Canberra and foreign correspondent in London, Washington and New York. He also worked for several flagship ABC radio and television shows including AM, The World Today and PM. Peacock died following a battle with pancreatic cancer. ABC chair Kim Williams paid tribute to the journalist, saying, “Since starting at the ABC as a cadet in 1973, he was dedicated to pursuing the health impacts of asbestos in different communities, defending the marginalised and giving a voice to people who needed their story to be told.” “Our audiences trusted him and knew him as a courageous and principled journalist who pursued those who hid from their responsibilities." “He loved the ABC and believed in its integrity and standards and he urged his colleagues to uphold these values without compromise." “We will miss his friendship and advice. Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.” Other media colleagues also shared their condolences online, including Aussie author, academic and community leader Everald Compton, who wrote on X, “Vale Matt Peacock. Quality journalist. One of the best ABC has had." Journalist, researcher and activist Wendy Bacon also wrote on X. “So sad to see Matt Peacock go." “I knew him for more than 50 years. Very good ABC News reporter but should also be remembered as a fierce anti-censorship campaigner and defender of prisoners’ rights and Indigenous Australian. Generous friend to many. A giant of journalism." During his time at the ABC, Peacock specialised in reporting on politics, the environment and science, and was best known for exposing how global materials giant James Hardie Industries covered up the deaths of thousands of Australians from asbestos. He also campaigned against censorship and defended the First Nations rights and those of the incarcerated. Image credits: ABC <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;">

Caring

Cleo Smith’s abductor learns fate

Terence Kelly has learned his fate after his lawyers attempted to have his sentence reduced. Kelly abducted Cleo Smith from her parents' tent at a remote West Australian campsite north of Carnarvon in late 2021, sparking a massive manhunt before she was found at his home by police 18 days later. The 37-year-old appealed to have his 13 year and six months sentence shortened, with the decision handed down in court on Monday that the sentence would stand. After being jailed in April 2023 following his admission that he kidnapped Cleo, his lawyers argued his mental impairments, including severe personality dysfunction, contributed to his decision to snatch the young girl. His lawyers also maintained the sentencing judge erred in finding Kelly's use of methamphetamine had a "significant and causal role in the offending". They also say the judge didn't give enough consideration to Kelly's childhood disadvantage and trauma. In sentencing, WA District Court Chief Judge Julie Wager said Kelly's actions were at the "highest level of seriousness" and that Cleo and her family would be "permanently impacted". In the court's ruling on Monday, the court accepted the sentence was "severe" but found it reflected the seriousness of the crime. "On any view, the appellant's abduction of such a young and highly vulnerable child from her parents, at night, and then holding her captive in his house for 18 days was extraordinarily serious," Justices Robert Mazza and Stephen Hall found. "As tragic as the appellant's background is, the sad fact remains that his risk of reoffending required that the sentence imposed upon him have regard to the sentencing objective of public protection." Kelly had faced a maximum of 20 years in jail but he got a 25 per cent discount of five years for his early guilty plea. Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram

Legal

Harry Potter stars pay tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

The stars of the Harry Potter franchise have paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, after the Oscar-winning actress passed away on Friday at the age of 89. 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. 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." "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." Emma Watson also shared a tribute on Instagram alongside the two actresses working together, reflecting on Smith's impact on set. 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." "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." Rupert Grint also shared a photo of the pair together, referencing a particular fan favourite scene from the fourth Harry Potter 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." 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." 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." “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.” Image credits: Warner Brothers/Paul Marriott/Shutterstock Editorial

Caring

TikTok couple slammed for leaving toddlers unattended in cruise cabin

TikTok Influencers Matt and Abby Howard have been slammed online for their controversial parenting choice while on a family vacation. In a now deleted video, the couple explained that they had brought their sons Griffin, 2, and August, 1 on a family cruise, and they went to dinner without the boys, but monitored the room through FaceTime. "So we ended up taking them for 5 nights and it became apparent that they weren't enjoying it and therefore we weren't either," they said in the caption. "So THEN we switched our dinner time to AFTER their bedtime and FaceTimed the monitors while we ate." Abby noted that baby monitors "don't work on board unless you're only like 10 feet away", adding that their dinnertime solution worked out "much better for everyone" Social media users were quick to respond to their decision, with many highlighting the safety concerns. "They literally could not have gotten to them fast enough if anything had happened and I cannot stop thinking about that. It’s sickening," one wrote on Reddit. "It's literally common sense that you do not leave a baby alone unsupervised," another added. "The fact that they would so willingly leave their children in an unfamiliar environment completely alone is shocking," another added. "Are they seriously that f****** dumb? Do they not watch the news, have they not seen what happened to Madeline McCann?" a fourth wrote. Following the controversy, the couple released a video claiming that a family member was always with the children while they were at dinner, although they didn't clarify who. "We take our roles as parents extremely seriously and we love our children more than anything in the entire world, and we're very protective of our kids," Matt said in the video. "We had someone with our children at all times on this boat," he continued adding that the speculation surrounding them is "completely untrue". "I do want to clarify that we have not, would not, will not ever leave our children unattended. We would would never, ever want to put them in harms way in anyway," Abby added. She explained that her family would "tag team" to help the couple out with watching their children. Viewers were quick to speculate whether they were telling the truth, while others were glad they clarified. "Thanks for the clarification because it did come off like the boys were alone- context is everything," one wrote. "I hope this is the truth," another added. "For them to post about it like it's some genius parenting hack is just wild," a third wrote. Image: Instagram

Family & Pets

Cleo Smith's parents share heartwarming update

Three years after her kidnapping, Cleo Smith is adjusting well to her normal life, with her parents sharing a heartwarming update. On Sunday, her parents shared the now seven-year-old's latest achievement - winning her first gymnastics competition. The snaps posted by 60 Minutes on Facebook, showed Cleo smiling as she proudly held up a medal and certificate with all her ribbons on it after a routine on the balance beam. “Such a beautiful brave girl who Australia got to know. Glad she is doing so well and you should be so proud of your gymnastics achievement,” one commenter said on the post. “I love seeing an update on how she is going.” "Bless her little heart! Her whole family are the epitome of resilience," another added. "I think the whole of Australia is behind you Cleo! Well done," a third wrote. The update was shared just two months after the family shared a collection of photos of <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/new-photos-of-cleo-smith-show-insight-into-her-life-after-kidnapping" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cleo enjoying life</a> with her family. The snaps included Cleo celebrating her seventh birthday, a family fishing trip, and her playing with her little sister Isla, and their first day of school. Cleo was just four-years-old when she was kidnapped from her tent while camping with her family in Western Australia's Gascoyne region, around 10 hours north of Perth, on October 16, 2021. Police and rescue personnel spent nearly three weeks looking for her, and 18 days later she was found in Terrence Kelly's home in Carnarvon, just minutes away from her own family home. Kelly was arrested near the home and has been in custody in Perth since. He is appealing the 13-year and six-month prison sentence he received for the abduction. At an appeal hearing in February, the court was told Kelly has various mental impairments, including a severe personality dysfunction, which they say was a significant factor in the crime. Images: 60 Minutes Facebook

Caring

Grief-stricken father breaks silence after sons found dead

The devastated father of the two young boys who were <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/mother-arrested-after-two-boys-found-dead-in-blue-mountains-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">found dead</a> in their home in the Blue Mountains has spoken out about the "unimaginable" tragedy. Nick Smith found the bodies of his sons, Russell, 11, and Ben, 9, in their home in Faulconbridge on Tuesday afternoon. The children's mother and Nick's estranged ex-wife Trish Smith was arrested and spent Tuesday night under police guard in hospital, where she arrived in a stable condition but with self-inflicted wounds. Nick said the loss of their “beautiful boys” had caused “unimaginable pain and distress”. “Russell and Ben were happy, funny, outgoing boys, and were very much loved by their family and friends,” he said in a statement on Thursday. “Like other boys their age, they loved sports, soccer, the Penrith Panthers, fishing, books, music, spending time with their friends and Max their pup." “We cannot understand how our boys have been taken this way and we appreciate the kindness and compassion shown by the community.” Nick added they were requesting privacy at this time. Police are continuing their investigation into the tragedy and have refused to speculate on the events leading up to the deaths of the two boys, however, they confirmed hey are not looking for any other parties who could be involved. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill expressed the community’s grief in a statement over the tragedy, writing, "Our community has lost two precious souls in the most awful circumstances. Now is a time to come together and remember these two beautiful children." <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb acknowledged the profound emotional toll the incident has had on law enforcement officers. "I think the older and more experience you get in this job, things like this still cut to the core. It’s a tragic situation," she said. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">SANE: 1800 187 263; saneforums.org <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Image credits: NSW Police

Caring

Mother arrested after two boys found dead in Blue Mountains home

A mother has been arrested after the tragic discovery of her two sons, aged nine and 11, dead at their home in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales. The boys, Russell and Ben, were found by their father at the family's home in Faulconbridge shortly before 12:40pm. Their mother, Trish Smith, 42, was also found at the scene with several self-inflicted injuries. She has been taken to Westmead Hospital and is in a stable condition. No charges have been laid so far. Superintendent John Nelson of the Blue Mountains police confirmed that Mr Smith, the father, discovered the bodies and contacted authorities. "The father is helping us with inquiries, and he was the one who contacted police... all avenues are open for investigation," Nelson stated. While the police have not confirmed whether a weapon was involved, they are working to understand the sequence of events leading to the boys' deaths. The family, who had no prior history of domestic violence and minimal contact with the police, has left the community in shock. Superintendent Nelson said that the investigation is still in its early stages, and no speculation will be made at this time. The boys had attended school on Monday with no apparent issues, and authorities are now trying to trace their movements on Tuesday to piece together what might have happened. The nearby Springwood High School was involved in the emergency response as its oval was used as a helipad for medical evacuations. Homicide detectives from the State Crime Command have been assigned to the case, and police are continuing to speak with neighbours to uncover any possible motives. Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill expressed the community’s grief in a statement: "Our community has lost two precious souls in the most awful circumstances. Now is a time to come together and remember these two beautiful children." NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb acknowledged the profound emotional toll the incident has had on law enforcement officers. "I think the older and more experience you get in this job, things like this still cut to the core. It’s a tragic situation," she said. Authorities have confirmed that no one else is being sought in connection with the deaths, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. The investigation continues as police work to understand the full circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident. Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 SANE: 1800 187 263; saneforums.org Image: Supplied

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