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Family divided over unique baby name choice

<p dir="ltr">A woman has asked for advice after her choice of baby name sparked a family feud. </p> <p dir="ltr">The woman, a new mother, took to Reddit to explain that when she found out she was pregnant, she and her husband decided to use a traditional Irish moniker for their baby boy. </p> <p dir="ltr">“My husband is Irish and not in the Boston, my great great, great grandfather came over in the 1800s kind of way. But in the born in Galway kind of way,” the woman said.</p> <p dir="ltr">They decided on the name ‘Oisín’ for their son to honour the Irish heritage. </p> <p dir="ltr">Tensions soon arose when the woman’s brother and sister-in-law also announced they were expecting a baby, and quickly fell in love with the name Oisín and wanted it for their own son. </p> <p dir="ltr">“My brother and his wife have as much right to name their child whatever they want. I do not own the name. I have no right to dictate to my brother what he names his kid,” she explained.</p> <p dir="ltr">“However, neither my family nor my sister-in-law have any other connection to Ireland.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“She got pregnant right around when I did, and her son was born two months before ours. They named him ‘Oisín Miguel’,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I didn’t get upset or anything,” she added. “But she has flipped out that two cousins will have the same name. She is nuts because our family is Hispanic, and half of our cousins are named ‘Carlos’ or ‘Camilla’.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The woman’s sister-in-law is now “trying to insist that the couple call him by his middle name or change his name”, to which the woman said, “I told her to p*** off.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“My mum is staying neutral, but she was very surprised that my brother gave his son an Irish name which he knew I was planning on using. She expected him to name him after our late father.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The woman finished her post by saying that her “husband’s family thinks the whole thing is hilarious, my family thinks my sister-in-law is a ‘weirdo,’ and she thinks I’m an a**hole for copying her”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The woman’s post quickly went viral with thousands of people siding with the original poster. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Your husband’s family is right. So is your family. She doesn’t own the name,” said one.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not the a**hole. You’re right, anyone can use a name,” added a second.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You’re not the a**hole, sounds like someone in the family likes to manufacture drama,” said a third.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Honestly, it sounds like your sister-in-law is overreacting. You had that name picked out long before she got pregnant, and it’s not like you’re trying to steal her son’s identity,” added another.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Family & Pets

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Experience the magic of Ireland down under: A Taste of Ireland 2024 Australian Tour

<p>Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, captivating music and mesmerising dance of Ireland as <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>A Taste of Ireland</em></a> returns to enchant audiences across Australia in 2024. </p> <p>Featuring World Champion dancers from <em>Lord of the Dance</em> and <em>Riverdance</em>, prepare to be transported to the rolling green hills and vibrant streets of the Emerald Isle, right in your hometown!  </p> <p><strong>What is <em>A Taste of Ireland</em>?</strong></p> <p><em>A Taste of Ireland</em> is not just a performance; it's an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Ireland. Combining traditional and contemporary Irish music and dance, this spectacular show showcases the incredible talent and passion of some of Ireland's finest performers.</p> <p><strong>What to expect</strong></p> <p>From the moment the first note is struck, and the first step is danced, you'll be captivated by the energy and artistry on stage. Feel the rhythm of the bodhrán drum reverberate through your bones, and let the fiddles whisk you away to a land of ancient myths and legends.</p> <p>Prepare to be dazzled by the lightning-fast footwork and intricate choreography of the dancers as they weave tales of love, loss and triumph through their movements. Each step tells a story, each leap a celebration of life itself.</p> <p><strong>Why attend?</strong></p> <p>Whether you're a die-hard fan of Irish culture or simply looking for a night of entertainment unlike any other, <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> offers something for everyone. It's an opportunity to witness the magic of Ireland's rich heritage brought to life before your very eyes.</p> <p>Forget your troubles for an evening and let the music and dance sweep you away on a journey you won't soon forget. Whether you're tapping your feet to the lively jigs and reels or wiping away tears during a poignant ballad, <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> is an experience that will touch your heart and soul.</p> <p><strong>Tour dates and locations</strong></p> <p>The 2024 Australian Tour of <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> will be making stops across Australia for 80 shows from March to July, bringing the magic of Ireland to a venue near you. <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check the tour schedule</a> to find out when this unforgettable experience will be coming to your area.</p> <p><strong>Get your tickets now!</strong></p> <p>Don't miss your chance to experience the beauty and excitement of <em>A Taste of Ireland</em>. Tickets are selling fast, so book yours today and get ready for a night of music, dance, and memories that will last a lifetime. </p> <p>Witness the show that has received rave reviews across the globe. Don't rely on the luck of the Irish – <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">book now</a>, because tickets are selling out fast!</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Pace Live.</em></p>

Music

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Australia should follow Ireland’s lead and add stronger health warning labels to alcohol

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emmanuel-kuntsche-430354">Emmanuel Kuntsche</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/la-trobe-university-842">La Trobe University</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paula-obrien-4221">Paula O'Brien</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/robin-room-3770">Robin Room</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/la-trobe-university-842">La Trobe University</a></em></p> <p>From <a href="https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/industry/labelling/Documents/q-and-a-pwl-requirements-sep-2020.pdf">August 2023</a>, Australian beer, wine, spirits and pre-mixed drinks have to warn of the <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-has-some-of-the-highest-rates-of-drinking-during-pregnancy-its-time-to-make-labelling-mandatory-142645">harms of drinking alcohol while pregnant</a>. But they don’t have to mention the other harms of alcohol for the wider population.</p> <p>Ireland <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/22/ireland-to-introduce-world-first-alcohol-health-labelling-policy">recently signed legislation</a> to introduce tougher alcohol warning labels, to warn about the risks of liver disease and fatal cancers from drinking alcohol. These will be in place from 2026.</p> <p>Considering the ongoing efforts of the industry to undermine the introduction of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214109X21005702">effective alcohol labelling</a> worldwide, the Irish example is an important victory for public health.</p> <p>In Australia, it’s time to put consumer health and rights before commercial interests and warn people drinking and buying alcohol of the risks.</p> <h2>Educating consumers about the health risks</h2> <p>Alcohol causes <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol">more than 200 diseases, injuries and other health conditions</a>.</p> <p>There is strong evidence that from the first drink, the risk of various cancers (of the breast, liver, colon, rectum, oropharynx, larynx and oesophagus) <a href="https://adf.org.au/insights/alcohol-cancer-risk/">increases</a>. This is <a href="https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/preventing-cancer/limit-alcohol/how-alcohol-causes-cancer">because</a>:</p> <ul> <li> <p>ethanol (pure alcohol) and its toxic by-product acetaldehyde damages cells by binding with DNA, causing cells to replicate incorrectly</p> </li> <li> <p>alcohol influences hormone levels, which can modify how cells grow and divide</p> </li> <li> <p>direct tissue damage can occur, increasing the absorption of other cancer-causing substances.</p> </li> </ul> <p>Alcohol use kills <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/causes-death/causes-death-australia/2021">more than four Australians</a> a day (the highest rate in the past decade) and results in <a href="https://ndri.curtin.edu.au/ndri/media/documents/publications/T302.pdf">A$182 million of avoidable costs</a> per day.</p> <p>Yet only half of Australians know drinking alcohol <a href="https://adf.org.au/insights/alcohol-breast-cancer/">can cause cancer</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://www.jsad.com/doi/10.15288/jsad.2020.81.249">Research shows</a> mandatory health labelling is an important way to increase awareness and should form part of a comprehensive <a href="https://fdslive.oup.com/www.oup.com/academic/pdf/openaccess/9780192844484.pdf">alcohol control strategy</a>.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530732/original/file-20230607-17-hl3pvs.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="Person pours wine into a glass at a lunch" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Many people are unaware of the link between alcohol and cancer.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/making-sure-glasses-stay-full-shot-2151108503">Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure> <h2>Countering industry influence</h2> <p>The alcohol industry currently uses alcohol labels and packaging as a marketing and branding tool. Alcohol warning labels help counter these marketing messages.</p> <p>Alcohol industry interests have so far succeeded in exempting alcoholic drinks from the usual <a href="https://fdslive.oup.com/www.oup.com/academic/pdf/openaccess/9780192844484.pdf">consumer information requirements</a>. Under the <a href="https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/en/">international labelling guidelines</a>, all processed foods must have all ingredients listed on the label. But alcohol industry interests have so far succeeded in these rules <a href="https://movendi.ngo/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Hepworth-et-al-2020.pdf">not being applied to alcoholic beverages</a>.</p> <p>In Australia, the alcohol content and number of standard drinks must be <a href="https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/consumer/labelling/Pages/Labelling-of-alcoholic-beverages.aspx">listed on the product’s label</a>. However, there is no requirement, as for other foods and drinks, that ingredients (except for certain allergens such as milk or gluten) and nutritional information (energy, carbohydrates, and so on) be listed.</p> <p>Aside from warnings to pregnant women to abstain from alcohol, there is no provision for consumer information about the risks of alcohol consumption on alcohol packaging. Yet such warnings are required for other hazardous substances taken into the body, such as tobacco.</p> <h2>How Ireland is leading the charge</h2> <p>Ireland is leading the world with its alcohol labelling. From 2026, drinks containing alcohol will have to inform consumers about the specific risks of liver disease and fatal cancers.</p> <p>Labels will also have to notify buyers of the alcohol risks to pregnancy, the calorie content of the beverage, and the number of grams of alcohol it contains.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/530734/original/file-20230607-16366-8nixs9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="People walk past a pub in Ireland" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Health warning labels will be mandatory in Ireland from 2026.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/dublin-ireland-july-11-2021-outdoor-2007076256">Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p>The new labelling move <a href="https://www.cancer.ie/about-us/news/irish-cancer-society-statement-on-the-introduction-of-health-warning-labels-on-alcohol-products">demonstrates</a> the government has prioritised reducing alcohol-related disease and has widespread support. A recent <a href="https://academic.oup.com/eurpub/article/33/2/323/7067991">household survey</a> in Ireland found 81.9% of the more than 1,000 participants supported the introduction of health warning labels on alcohol.</p> <h2>Barriers to overcome in Australia</h2> <p>In 2020, in the face of intense pressure from industry groups, the Australian government decided on new labelling requirements for alcoholic beverages, but only to warn about the <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-has-some-of-the-highest-rates-of-drinking-during-pregnancy-its-time-to-make-labelling-mandatory-142645">risks of drinking during pregnancy</a>. From a public health point of view, this was a mediocre compromise.</p> <p>Australia is currently considering introducing energy content (kilojoule) labelling on alcoholic beverages. This would be a positive step and but it is as far as Australia seems willing to go for now. There are no plans for Australia to follow Ireland’s lead.</p> <p>Some countries seem to be <a href="https://www.ibec.ie/drinksireland/news-insights-and-events/news/2023/05/16/strong-international-opposition-to-irelands-alcohol-labelling-proposals">gearing up</a> to use the World Trade Organization’s processes to oppose Ireland’s new labels.</p> <p>Australia <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22716074/">previously opposed</a> enhanced alcohol warning labels Thailand proposed, at the same time Australia was seeking international support for its tobacco plain packaging laws. This time, Australia should prioritise the public’s health over commercial interests and support Ireland’s alcohol warning messages in the World Trade Organization.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/206985/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emmanuel-kuntsche-430354">Emmanuel Kuntsche</a>, Director of the Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/la-trobe-university-842">La Trobe University</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paula-obrien-4221">Paula O'Brien</a>, Associate Professor in Faculty of Law, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/robin-room-3770">Robin Room</a>, Professor, Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/la-trobe-university-842">La Trobe University</a></em></p> <p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-should-follow-irelands-lead-and-add-stronger-health-warning-labels-to-alcohol-206985">original article</a>.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Shocking footage exposes police officer attacking “defenceless” wheelchair user

<p dir="ltr">Shocking CCTV footage has captured the moment a police officer strikes at a wheelchair user in Shepparton, North Victoria. </p> <p dir="ltr">Kevin Scott was at home celebrating his 36th birthday on February 28, when the officer arrived in response to a noise complaint. </p> <p dir="ltr">In the footage, Scott can be seen wheeling towards the police officer and appeared to lightly kick the officer in the leg. </p> <p dir="ltr">In response, the officer strikes him in the head and is later seen shoving Scott backwards. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I couldn’t do nothing,” Scott recalled.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I seen him shut his fist and I wheeled back. Next minute he just hit me straight in the mouth, in the jaw. When I pointed at my camera, that’s when he walked off,” he said. </p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking to <em>7News</em>, Scott said that he was “defenceless” and that the attack was unprovoked. </p> <p dir="ltr">Kay Scott, his sister, has also spoken out on the incident and said that the attack was “shocking” and “disgusting”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It would be different if my brother spat or tried to throw a punch or put up a fight with them but he never did,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He was in a wheelchair, defenceless. We need to be able to feel safe in our community, people need to be aware that this does happen,” she added. </p> <p dir="ltr">Scott struggles with his health due to drug and alcohol addiction. </p> <p dir="ltr">Victoria Police have confirmed that they are aware of the incident and have launched an investigation.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The male sergeant in the video has been identified and transferred to other duties while the investigation is carried out,” they said in a statement to <em>7News</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Watch the entire footage <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/vic/cctv-footage-emerges-of-police-officer-striking-defenceless-wheelchair-user-in-shepparton-c-9987037" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">7News</span></em></p>

Legal

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Sigrid Thornton's home crowned most popular in the country

<p dir="ltr">Sigrid Thornton’s home was the most viewed property of 2022 after it was listed for sale.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em>Sea Change</em> star and her husband Tom Burstall moved into the historic home on 2 Carroll Street, in North Melbourne, Victoria in 1977.</p> <p dir="ltr">The stunning four bedroom, two bathroom house was the most-viewed property of the year across the country as well as topping the most-viewed property for 2022 in Victoria.</p> <p dir="ltr">When the pair listed the stunning home for sale earlier this year, people thought they were “crazy”.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It wasn't gentrified, but we didn't worry about that. We found this building, and we loved it," Thornton told <a href="https://www.nine.com.au/property/homes/domains-most-popular-home-of-the-year-has-a-surprise-celebrity-owner/f4b76f08-20b1-4a74-9a04-dbb3eeaf6d44" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domain</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a price guide between $3.8 million to $4.1 million, the house went up for auction on October 22.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lucky new homeowner won the bid at $3.9 million before once again being listed for private sale. It is not available anymore.</p> <p dir="ltr">Take a look!</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Domain/Getty</em></p>

Real Estate

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Australian man among 10 killed in Ireland explosion

<p dir="ltr">An Australian man has been identified as one of ten victims who died following an explosion at a petrol station in Ireland.</p> <p dir="ltr">James O’Flaherty, a 48-year-old who hailed from Sydney, died in the blast which police say occurred shortly after 3pm local time on Friday, October 7 at a petrol station in the village of Creeslough.</p> <p dir="ltr">The blast levelled the service station building, damaged an adjacent apartment building and shattered windows in nearby cottages.</p> <p dir="ltr">An additional eight people were injured in the explosion and hospitalised, with one person flown to Dublin in critical condition.</p> <p dir="ltr">An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s police force, released the names and photos of the ten victims, ranging in age from 5 to 59 years old.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-10645834-7fff-dd8f-bd18-3654d533e181"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The victims included: James O’Flaherty, 48, Jessica Gallagher, 24, Martin McGill, 49, Catherine O’Donnell, 39, and her son James Monaghan, 13, Hugh Kelly, 59, Martina Martin, 49, Robert Garwe, 50, and his daughter Shauna Flanagan Garwe, five, and Leona Harper, 14.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/ireland-victims1.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-fad55178-7fff-f6d1-5667-b03852cf0f28">James O’Flaherty, 48, Jessica Gallagher, 24, and Martin McGill, 49, were among the victims who died in the blast. Images: An Garda Síochána (Facebook)</span></em></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/ireland-victims2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-8d2194f2-7fff-1716-1df2-6b57776acd84">Catherine O’Donnell, 39, and her son 13-year-old James Monaghan, Hugh Kelly, 59, and Martina Martin, 49, were among the victims who died in the blast. Images: An Garda Síochána (Facebook)</span></em></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/ireland-victims3.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Robert Garwe, 50, his five-year-old daughter Shauna Flanagan Garwe, and 14-year-old Leona Harper were among the victims who died in the blast. Images: An Garda Síochána (Facebook)</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Mr O’Flaherty, who was living in Rinclevan, Dufanaghy, will be laid to rest on Wednesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">He is survived by his wife Tracey and son Hamish.</p> <p dir="ltr">As police investigate the cause of the blast, superintendent David Kelly said evidence “is pointing toward a tragic accident”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Irish police superintendent Liam Geraghty said the event has left locals traumatised.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was a very, very traumatic scene that people came across," he said. </p> <p dir="ltr">"It was a very, very confusing, as you can imagine. And there was a lot of debris." </p> <p dir="ltr">Siobhan Carr, an eyewitness, said the area was covered in ash and “a puff of smoke”.</p> <p dir="ltr">"And just within seconds, people from the community had just come running up the roads," she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Cars stopped, people getting out of cars running towards the building to see who could help."</p> <p dir="ltr">Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said the incident has had a national impact and that the country is in mourning.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The entire nation is mourning and really shocked and deeply saddened," he said at the cordon surrounding the blast site.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The young child in the shop loses her life and two teenagers, along with men and women who are going about their lives as well." </p> <p dir="ltr">“It is a very close-knit community and our heart goes out to them.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Talking to those on the front line and everyone involved, they were very moved by the extraordinary support they got from the community here almost immediately.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Many volunteers rushed to the scene to try and do everything they could to help because it was a horrific scene they came upon and we must always remember our emergency services.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8e64f6b-7fff-35a3-26d3-b1f2a4a63ae2"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: An Garda Síochána (Facebook)</em></p>

News

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Grace under pressure: Princess Kate heckled in Ireland

<p dir="ltr">Princess Kate was the subject of a heckler in Northern Ireland, where she was greeting crowds after visiting a suicide prevention charity.</p> <p dir="ltr">Footage has emerged of the Princess of Wales shaking hands with the heckler, who filmed herself telling the royal that “Ireland belongs to the Irish”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Nice to meet you but it would be better if it was when you were in your own country,” the woman said.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-33624c49-7fff-e851-b17e-b59d386e2ae7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The princess laughed off the comments before letting go of the woman’s hand and continuing to greet other members of the crowd.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">This woman reefing the arm off Kate Middleton and telling her 'Ireland belongs to the Irish'.... <a href="https://t.co/KK2gAqZ0Kv">pic.twitter.com/KK2gAqZ0Kv</a></p> <p>— Caolán Mc Aree (@Caolanmcaree) <a href="https://twitter.com/Caolanmcaree/status/1578095529233641472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Northern Ireland has been a hotly contested region since 1922, when the southern part of the country become gained independence and became the Republic of Ireland while Northern Island remained in the United Kingdom.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the tense interaction, Princess Kate’s time in Belfast seemed quite successful, as she and her husband Prince William visited several cross-community support organisations.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a197fca1-7fff-6746-3b76-235f45d6e206"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Earlier in the day, the royal was spotted making and enjoying a cheeky drink with her husband after the couple travelled to the city centre to view the new outdoor street food and retail market.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/kate-belfast.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Kate Middleton was spotted trying her hand at cocktail making during her visit to Belfast, Northern Island. Image: Getty Images</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The market, which opened in July, was designed as a place for the community to come together to enjoy artisanal food and local products.</p> <p dir="ltr">The pair also met with workers from PIPS, a suicide prevention charity, and spoke to them about their work helping people at risk of suicide and self-harm.</p> <p dir="ltr">During their visit, the charity arranged for William and Kate to take part in an art therapy session, which saw them paint pumpkins with children whom PIPS has supported.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-dc55e41c-7fff-872e-4632-e3782f547000"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: The Sun, Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Elderly resident rescued from a potentially fatal flooding incident

<p>A 72-year-old woman has been rescued from her car with only moments to spare after she was swept off the road and trapped in neck-deep flood water during an extreme weather event.</p> <p>Police responded to the elderly woman's triple zero call around 2:30 pm on Wednesday the 6th of July, after a flooded rural crossing in Collombatti, north of Kempsey on the NSW mid-north coast, swept her car downstream and wedged it in a line of trees.</p> <p>In the panicked call she said she was trapped inside the car with water up to her chest.</p> <p>A sergeant from Mid North Coast Police District used a 4WD winch cable as a safety line before entering the floodwater to find the vehicle.</p> <p>The officer, with the help of five other police, opened the woman's car door as water began to reach her neck, this incident could've been fatal.</p> <p>It is believed she was trapped in the car for about 45 minutes. She was then taken to the Kempsey Hospital where she was treated for hypothermia and exhaustion.</p> <p>The officers were not injured during the incident and the command is considering recommending all officers to be recognised for their efforts.</p> <p>About 60,000 people are still feeling the threat of widespread flooding in the Sydney, Hunter and mid-north coast regions following a week-long rain event.</p> <p><em>Image: NSW Police</em></p>

News

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What happens when a petting zoo visits an aged care home

<p dir="ltr">In June 2022, residents, families and team members at Arcare North Lakes had an a-moo-sing time with the beloved animals from mobile petting zoo, Amazing Animals. </p> <p dir="ltr">Residents had the opportunity to feed and pat the farm animals which included ducks, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, sheep and baby animals such as piglets, a one-month-old calf and a three-week-old goat.</p> <p dir="ltr">While holding onto the baby goat, resident Joyce Crawford said, “I love you! I would take you home in a flash; I just need a bag big enough to steal him,”</p> <p dir="ltr">Joyce’s husband John, who is also a resident at Arcare North Lakes and is visually impaired, spent quality time with the animals as the Lifestyle team made sure to bring them close to him. He fed and cuddled them and enjoyed the sensory experience.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I had a great time with the animals and I’m glad we could spend time with them today,” John said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The residents enjoyed their visit so much that they have already booked them in for another visit.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Animal therapy is a wonderful way to support aged care residents as it promotes confidence, supports sensory and tactile stimulation and enables them to relive memories as many of the residents grew up on farms. One question was asked time and time again "can we keep them!" it was such a special moment for them to enjoy.” - Lifestyle Coordinator Maree said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There were smiles, laughs and enthusiasm as resident’s shared stories and fond memories of their own experiences working on their farms,” lifestyle Coordinator Maree said.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-fab907f1-7fff-bd8d-2734-04ce2488949d"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the adorable gallery below.</p>

Retirement Life

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Inspired retirement apartments in Waitara, Sydney

<p>Kokoda Residences’ unique vertical village in Sydney’s upper North Shore offers a community heart with transport, retail and recreational convenience second to none.</p> <p>Constructed by Sydney’s highly regarded builder Richard Crookes Constructions, alongside the equally reputed WMK architects, Kokoda Residences’ inspiring apartments now stand for Waitara to see and admire.</p> <p>Whether it's a one, two or three-bedroom apartment, each has been purpose-built to be light and refreshingly open, with a superior level of design, finish and building integrity. Kokoda Residences offers an array of floorplan layouts and aspects, with generously sized balconies, and distinctly curated neutral colour palettes designed to suit any furnishings.</p> <p>Quality European appliances feature throughout luxuriously designed kitchens, with beautifully styled and easy-to-use taps, soft-closing drawers, along with ovens, thoughtfully positioned at a comfortable height and location. Each apartment is insulated for comfort in summer and winter, with double glazed windows, ducted reverse cycle and multi-zoned air conditioning, block out blinds that are automated in the dining and living area, luxurious 100% wool carpets underfoot and so much more. To watch display apartment videos, <a href="https://kokodaresidences.com.au/display-apartment-video/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here</a>.</p> <p>The ground floor spaces become the time and place where Kokoda Residences’ community can truly connect, grow, and flourish. A suite of engaging facilities will generate a real neighbourhood of friendly, active, and like-minded people. Featuring a bar and lounge with a toasty fireplace, café, hairdresser, cinema, terrace garden and gym with specialised over 55s HUR gym equipment. All of these amenities can be enjoyed by residents and their friends and family, so there's little need to even leave their home to have a warm cup of coffee, have a glass of red by the fire, get their hair cut or watch a movie on the big screen.</p> <p>Kokoda Residences’ location is proving to be its own inspiration with future residents, being so close to everything - and everyone - they love. The train station is less than 100m walk away where they're one stop from Westfield Hornsby or the beautifully quaint Wahroonga Village. Magpies Waitara is just a few steps up the road with PCYC Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai and Mark Taylor Oval right next door, so life’s never boring at Kokoda Residences.</p> <p>For the security minded, Kokoda Residences has the added peace of mind of secure underground parking, which provides swipe-card access to resident-only lifts. What's more, Kokoda Residences doesn't have renters or allow Airbnbs, so you can always feel safe knowing your neighbours. All of which allows those keen travellers to 'lock-up and leave' whenever they wish.</p> <p>The benefits of choosing retirement living are as reassuring as they are delightful, like having no home maintenance to worry about with Kokoda Residences’ gardens, all taken care of for residents. Kokoda Residences is an innovative development in retirement living, proudly created by Vasey Communities, a trusted not-for-profit organisation who has been operating four other retirement villages across Sydney, and this year is celebrating their 60-year Diamond Jubilee.</p> <p><a href="https://kokodaresidences.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kokoda Residences</a> still has a range of beautifully finished one and two-bedroom apartments from $599,000*, including their own car space and additional basement storage. So, if you want to discover how to make Kokoda Residences your time and your place, please call our sales team on (02) 9299 3953.</p> <p><em>*Correct as at June 2022. You may have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://vasey.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vasey Communities</a>.</em></p>

Real Estate

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Group rescued after drawing SOS in sand

<p dir="ltr">Two men, a woman and a toddler have been rescued from a remote beach after a huge SOS was spotted in the sand. </p> <p dir="ltr">The two men, a 19-year-old and a 23-year-old, a 23-year-old woman and a two-year-old girl left Pormpuraaw in a car headed for Kowanyama, in Far North Queensland about 2pm on Friday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their vehicle was located by a member of the public, abandoned and bogged south of the Coleman River.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is believed they may have left the vehicle on foot in search of assistance.</p> <p dir="ltr">A ground and aerial search ensued before Queensland Government Air Helicopter spotted the SOS drawn in the sand.</p> <p dir="ltr">The group was eventually located safe and well about 11.30am on Sunday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Acting Senior Sergeant Rob Morris said it was important to stay with their vehicle in the event it breaks down and not wander off. </p> <p dir="ltr">​​"People who wander off to seek help run the risk of perishing if they do not have the adequate supplies or knowledge on how to stay safe," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">He also recommended having emergency water and food supplies. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Queensland Police</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Sinead O’Connor shares emotional tributes after her son is found dead

<p>Sinead O'Connor's son has been found dead in Ireland just days after he was reported missing. </p> <p>Police said the missing case was closed after the body of 17-year-old Shane was found in the town of Bray, 20km south of Dublin. </p> <p>The singer shared a series of emotional tweets saying how her son "decided to end his earthly struggle" and urged others not to do the same. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“My beautiful son, Nevi’im Nesta Ali Shane O’Connor, the very light of my life, decided to end his earthly struggle today and is now with God,” she said.</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“May he rest in peace and may no one follow his example. My baby, I love you so much. Please be at peace.”</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">It is believed that Shane went missing after escaping from hospital while on suicide watch. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">In Sinead's series of tweets, she vowed to "never forgive" the authorities who were caring for Shane before his untimely death. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><span>She said, "I have now formally identified the remains of my son, Shane. May God forgive the Irish State for I never will."</span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><span>"I’m going to take private time now to grieve my son. When I am ready I will be telling exactly how the Irish State in the ignorant, evil, self-serving, lying forms of Tusla and the HSE (Health Service Executive) enabled and facilitated his death."</span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><span>Shane was under the care of child and family agency Tusla when he escaped, as Sinead claims the organisation has "too many kids dying on their </span>watch."</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">Shane was one of four of Sinead's children, and his father was Irish musician Donal Lunny. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">Finishing her tributes to her late son, Sinead dedicated the Bob Marley song <em>Ride Natty Ride</em> to Shane, adding "<span>This is for my Shaney. The light of my life. The lamp of my soul. My blue-eye baby. You will always be my light. We will always be together. No boundary can separate us."</span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Twitter @OhSineady</em></p>

News

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North Korean man sentenced to death for distributing Squid Game

<p>A man in North Korea has been handed the death penalty after smuggling in copies of the hit Netflix show <em>Squid Game</em> and illegally distributing them. </p> <p><span>Sources in the North Hamgyong province told Radio Free Asia that the man brought in the copies on USB drives from China and sold them to high school students. </span></p> <p><span>The operation was foiled when authorities caught seven students watching the hit South Korean drama. </span></p> <p><span>The perpetrator has been sentenced to death by firing squad, as North Korea tightens its laws on letting capitalist media into the country. </span></p> <p><span>One student that purchased the show has been sentenced to life in prison, while six others who watched <em>Squid Game</em> have been sentenced to five years hard labour.</span></p> <p><span>The students were punished under North Korea’s new Elimination of Reactionary Thought and Culture law, which keeps a firm grip on outside media. </span></p> <p><span>Penalties were extended to the school too, with reports teachers, the principal and other administrative staff were dismissed.</span></p> <p><span>The nine-part fictional Netflix drama sees 456 bankrupt contestants compete for a multi-million dollar cash prize. </span></p> <p><span>The contestants take part in a series of children's games to win the money, and those who lose the games end up paying with their lives. </span></p> <p><span>After being released in September, <em>Squid Game</em> has quickly become the most popular show in Netflix's history. </span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Netflix</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Queen cancels trip on doctor's orders

<p><em>Image: Getty </em></p> <p>The Queen has “reluctantly” cancelled a trip to Northern Ireland on medical advice, though royal experts have assured the public the decision is no cause for concern.</p> <p>Her Majesty had planned to travel to Northern Ireland on Wednesday afternoon, but Buckingham Palace announced she would be unable to attend, following doctors advice to “rest”.</p> <p>“The Queen has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days,” the spokesperson said.</p> <p>“Her Majesty is in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements today and tomorrow."</p> <p>“The Queen sends her warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland and looks forward to visiting in the future.”</p> <p>No further details were revealed about why the 95-year-old has been ordered to rest at home, sparking speculation among the public.</p> <p>However, royal sources confirmed to multiple outlets that the Queen’s decision to cancel the trip had nothing to do with the UK's spike in COVID-19 numbers.</p> <p>“We are told there is ‘no cause for alarm’ about the Queen’s health,” ITV’s royal editor Chris Ship tweeted in the wake of the announcement.</p> <p>Northern Irish leaders sent their well-wishes to the Queen with Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, tweeting that he trusts the Queen "will keep well and benefit from a period of rest".</p> <p>At 95 years of age, Queen Elizabeth is Britain's oldest monarch, but that hasn't stopped her from continuing to carry out public royal duties well into her 90s.</p> <p>It's understood that she will now retire to Windsor Castle for a few days' rest before returning to her planned royal duties next week.</p> <p>In the meantime, other senior royals including Prince Charles, Princess Anne and Prince William may step up to attend some of the engagements she will be forced to miss.</p>

Caring

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Kate Middleton shows she has nerves of steel

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A day after <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/movies/royals-hit-the-red-carpet-at-bond-world-premiere" target="_blank">gracing the red carpet</a> premiere of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">No Time To Die</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Prince William and Kate Middleton have made a <a rel="noopener" href="https://honey.nine.com.au/royals/prince-william-kate-middleton-duchess-of-cambridge-northern-ireland/3073b11b-6622-49c2-b939-55f4829b6e40" target="_blank">series of appearances</a> in Northern Island.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">During their first visit to Derry-Londonderry, the couple made a stop at the petting zoo on Ulster University’s Magee Campus, where Kate held a tarantula named Charlotte in the palm of her hand.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“A surprise guest appearance from Charlotte the tarantula,” the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge wrote on social media.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Prince William appeared less enthused and seemed to keep his distance from the arachnid in photos.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">He also joked that Kate’s bright purple suit prompted the spider to be unusually animated.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Maybe she’s not so keen on purple, or maybe she thinks you’re a flower,” he quipped.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead, the Duke of Cambridge was spotted holding a snake, admitting that his eldest son would have loved it.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“George is obsessed with snakes, he’s going to be so upset he missed this,” William said of the eight-year-old.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The royal couple then made a stop at the Student Union, which was hosting a “Culture Shock” event, and sampled some local treats, as well as whiskey and Guinness.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Duke and Duchess then played a game with the students that saw them attempt to pronounce Irish words.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m going to have another drink, I’m not doing very well at this,” William joked.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The pair also met with some nursing students they had spoken to earlier this year, then kicked a football around with City of Derry Rugby players, coaches, and volunteers involved in the Sport Uniting Communities initiative.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Images: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Author recalls swimming with Prince Charles in her new book

<p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/6769599ade9143b4beea9b742c4674a9" /><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/401044158a9d43b69893430da54a1b30" />In her new book <em>Finding Fabulous Over 60</em>, Lesley Thomas opens up about how she had some drinks and swam with Prince Charles in 1983 – as well as a collection of other amazing life lessons. </p> <p>Lesley Thomas was the woman we saw swimming with Prince Charles on the front page of all the newspapers when he visited back in 1979 and 1983. She says, however: "I was not the model who ran up and kissed him in the surf!"</p> <p>But she did swim with Prince Charles several times at the North Cottesloe surf club beach when he visited Perth. She adds: "He turned up unexpectedly late one Sunday afternoon. The full story is in my book, but he came to the party and stayed two hours and had a great time because there were no press, no cameras, no mobile phones and he could relax, have a couple of drinks and enjoy himself - which is exactly what he and his entourage did."</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843165/lesley-thomas-book-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/401044158a9d43b69893430da54a1b30" /></p> <p>As well as these stories there's much more from Thomas in her new book including how she overcame serious addictions, ended toxic relationships and lost weight, to wind up as she says: “a fit, vibrant 67-year-old woman – or so I’m told!”</p> <p>Her autobiographical book documents her darkest moments when she prayed to a power greater than herself for help. Even though the road was rocky, she based her recovery, weight loss, fitness, and absolutely brilliant sense of wellbeing on those prayers being answered and her path being guided.</p> <p><strong>Here at <em>Over 60</em>, we talked with Thomas and asked her what inspired her to sit down and write her book – <em>Finding Fabulous Over 60?</em></strong></p> <p>I wanted to help others to know it is possible to overcome and recover from addictions, childhood traumas, weight issues and toxic relationships and find for themselves the level of inner peace and joy that I have experienced more and more in my life. When Covid arrived in 2020, space opened for me when I lost my job and that is when I was guided to start writing.</p> <p><strong>Your book is autobiographical and you’ve said it’s about a “transformation” and “overcoming addictions – in particular alcohol addiction.” Was this something you struggled with yourself and you wanted to write and let people know how you became sober?</strong></p> <p>Yes, the 'disease of addiction' is debilitating, more so when you are trying to quit. You are fighting with your body, which wants a substance far more than you can cope with. It may sound dramatic, but anyone who has experienced it will know exactly what I am talking about. You feel like you are going insane and that you can hardly bear to be awake at times. The mental and physical anguish and torment are unbearable. I am hoping that the stories of my experiences with overcoming my addictions to nicotine and alcohol in particular, but also my struggles with my addiction to processed sugar and flour and overeating will give people hope that they too can overcome their addictions.</p> <p> <img style="width: 428.2700421940928px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843166/lesley-and-children-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/6769599ade9143b4beea9b742c4674a9" /></p> <p><strong>You also talk about ‘overcoming childhood traumas’ in your book. Was this another area you found helped you in your life?</strong></p> <p>Unprocessed childhood traumas crippled me mentally and emotionally, especially in my adult life and I wasn't even aware of it. I didn't start seeking professional help until I was 45 and it was the best thing I could have done for myself. Starting the process of dealing with childhood traumas assisted me enormously as I worked on overcoming my addictions. It wasn't easy and it took a long time, but it was certainly worthwhile.</p> <p><strong>Many people would be interested in how you ‘detached from a three-year toxic relationship’. Does it inspire you to let people how you’ve dealt with issues so you can help them?</strong></p> <p>Absolutely. It is so wonderful seeing 'hope' or 'the realisation of possibilities' come into someone's eyes. I used the word 'detached' in that phrase because it wasn't just a matter of physically leaving, I had to detach mentally and emotionally (from what seemed like a soul level) as well as physically and I could hardly believe how painful that was, but I knew in my heart I had to do it and get through it for my sanity and wellbeing.</p> <p>Key to this was a willingness to look at and address honestly my own 'stuff'. In any relationship, we each have our part and we kid ourselves if we think it's 'all' someone else's fault when the relationship breaks down. Also, if we don't do this work, we will take out 'stuff' into the next relationship and it will all happen again.</p> <p><strong>So many men and women would be keen to know how you ‘lost weight and dealt with food addictions.’ Can you please give us a teaser of how you did this?</strong></p> <p>I had to accept the fact that nobody was going to do it for me. I also acknowledged that to be successful I needed to get out of my own way, become accountable, and get professional guidance.</p> <p><strong>Do you feel your life after death experiences with each of your parents after they passed has helped you on your journey?</strong></p> <p>Yes, enormously. Each of the visits of my parents after they passed that I describe in my book absolutely astounded me and left me in no doubt at all that there is life after death. It was a great comfort to me knowing that and that they are around me when I need them and are helping me.</p> <p><strong>Is there anything else you’d like to share with the readers of Over60?</strong></p> <p>With a grateful heart and a willingness to look on the bright side, I believe anything is possible for anyone. Truly! You are never too young or too old to take the first step to freedom, a better life, inner peace and a lot of laughs along the way. It's just the <em>best </em>feeling.</p> <p><strong>Lesley Thomas’s book is available on her website here: - </strong><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.findingfabulousover60.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.findingfabulousover60.com</strong></a></p> <p><strong>Here are some of the reviews of the book:</strong></p> <p>“An incredible read! A hugely inspirational story of transformation”<br /><strong>- Sue Stone - UK Author, Secret Millionaire and Inspirational Speaker</strong></p> <p>A recommended read for sure this book left me motivated to change ...in my case to lose weight (which I have since done) and in places the stories gave me a good old fashioned laugh. And who does not need a dose of that!!!!</p> <p><strong>- Henry Blatman</strong></p> <p>Photos: Courtesy of Lesley Thomas</p>

Books

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Byron Bay mayor blasts COVID-positive visitor from Sydney

<p>Mayor of Byron Bay Michael Lyon has said a man who broke Sydney’s lockdown to travel to the area has tested COVID-positive, and because he didn’t use QR codes it’s made contact tracing a “nightmare.”</p> <p>The mayor revealed the teenage children of the man have also tested positive. Mayor Lyon told the ABC the man should be punished appropriately for intentionally breaking the rules.</p> <p>“He got sick and didn’t get tested until he was really sick,” Mayor Lyon said.</p> <p>“It seems to be a clear case of negligence and intentional disregard. I think there needs to be some kind of penalty for that,” he added.</p> <p>The man is now being treated at Lismore Base Hospital and investigations are ongoing into why he travelled to the region.</p> <p><strong>Four NSW North Coast areas are now in lockdown</strong></p> <p>Four local government areas (LGAs) on the NSW North Coast are now in lockdown and they include the Byron Shire, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Ballina Shire. These areas are in lockdown until 12:01am on August 17.</p> <p>The lockdown affects anyone who has been in these areas on or after July 31.</p> <p>Anyone in these affected LGAs must stay at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave.</p> <p>These include essential shopping, such as groceries, for medical appointments or to get vaccinated, or to fulfil caring duties.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Inside Andrew O’Keefe’s North Bondi home going under the hammer

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The home of former Channel 7 game show host Andrew O’Keefe and his ex-wife, Eleanor, has been put on the market with a $4.5 million price guide.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The two-level, four-bedroom, two-bathroom North Bondi residence was designed by award-winning architect Sam Marshall and will be going under the hammer at a yet-to-be-determined date.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Within walking distance of the beach, the home fuses a beach house with a country homestead across multiple living areas extending to the front and back gardens.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The four bedrooms are large and parents can enjoy a second level retreat, accessed by a suspended staircase.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With high ceilings, plywood finishes, and a solar hydronic heating system, the home has been designed to maximise exposure to sunlight.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The landscaped gardens are maintained by water tanks and a self-watering system.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ric Serrao, the principal real estate agent of Raine and Horne Double Bay/Bondi, and his colleague Mark Yeats anticipate the house will be popular.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s one of the most private eco-friendly properties I’ve seen in the local area for some time,” Serrao said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The garden is fantastic and full of sun and charm.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Best known for hosting </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Deal or No Deal </span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">and </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Chase Australia</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, O’Keefe bought the property with his former wife as a single-level home on a 468 sqm block for $1.89 million in 2007.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">They later commissioned the renovation by Sam Crawford.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The couple separated in 2017, and later divorced in 2019.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Images: Raine &amp; Horne </span></em></p>

Real Estate

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ALDI’s brand new "Corner Store" unveiled

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A photo of ALDI’s newest store has appeared on social media, with the supermarket giant unveiling its first ever “mini supermarket” in the Sydney suburb of North Sydney.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A shopper posted a photo of the new signage on the Aldi Fans Australia Facebook page, confirming the new store will be in the same location as the previous ALDI.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Open from today, the ALDI Corner Store offers groceries and Special Buys just like a regular ALDI but is only half the size and features a new store layout, an in-house cafe, fresh orange juice, an artisan bakery, and self-serve checkouts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">ALDI chief executive Tom Daunt said the new store will sell a slightly different range of grocery items - including smaller-sized packs, convenience food and fresh products.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“There will be some range changes, so some of the products that don’t typically really appeal to inner-city urban dwellers, like 10kg dog food, we have removed and that has given us space back and allowed us to squeeze a traditional Aldi store into a smaller format,” Mr Daunt told </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/retail/aldi-ceo-tom-daunt-says-the-chain-is-ready-to-innovate/news-story/5e0e43feef46ba87cc98a72b73f1181e" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Australian</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The corner store is about developing a format to allow us to bring the Aldi offer to those customers in high-density urban locations.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The store also offers ready-to-eat lunch and dinner options and ‘pup parking’ outside the stores where owners can tie their dogs while they shop.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The interior of the new store has been complemented by street artist and muralist Joel Moore, aka Mulga, who’s artworks in-store celebrate the store’s surrounding neighbourhood.</span></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/CRSmnR3NqTt/?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/CRSmnR3NqTt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by ⚡🦍🌴MULGA🌴🦍⚡ (@mulgatheartist)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Despite the current COVID-19 restrictions, the retailer decided to open the store without encouraging customers to visit just yet.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We have proceeded with opening the new ALDI Corner Store in North Sydney, taking into account all the current COVID restrictions,” an ALDI Australia spokesperson told </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-9785609/Aldi-Corner-Store-North-Sydney-cafe-serving-barista-coffee-bakery-self-serve-checkouts.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Daily Mail</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Given the lockdowns in Greater Sydney, we don’t feel it is appropriate to drive interest or additional customer traffic to Corner Store at this time.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We are fortunate that as an essential service we are open for trade, and in these challenging times feel it is our responsibility to ensure North Sydney locals have access to the re-opened store to make their essential grocery purchases as needed.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The completion of the store comes just months after the supermarket chain submitted an application to North Sydney Council to convert the existing outlet into a smaller store.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The new ALDI Corner Store will be open from 7am to 9pm from Monday to Friday and from 8am to 8pm on weekends.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Aldi Fans Australia / Facebook </span></em></p>

Food & Wine

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Queen looks back on special tour with Prince Philip: “I treasure my many memories”

<p>Queen Elizabeth has opened up about her fond memories with Prince Philip from their trip to Ireland over a decade ago.</p> <p>The royal recalled the 2011 tour that they had set on to pay tribute to the 100-year anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland.</p> <p>The monarch said the milestone was "a significant centenary for both the United Kingdom and Ireland".</p> <p>"This anniversary reminds us of our complex history," she said in a statement.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841072/philip-queen.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/656ed3331a824823a1057336ccf60d4c" /></p> <p>She added that it provided "an opportunity to reflect on our togetherness and our diversity".</p> <p>The monarch also mentioned how the trip to Northern Ireland was special for her husband and herself.</p> <p>"I look back with fondness on the visit Prince Philip and I paid to Ireland, ten years ago this month," she said.</p> <p>"I treasure my many memories, and the spirit of goodwill I saw at first hand."</p> <p>Northern Ireland was officially founded on May 3, 1921.</p> <p>The Queen's visit to Ireland in 2011 was the first by a British monarch since 1911.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841070/philip-queen-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/137ed183085446428eabe4bdb1f2862b" /></p> <p>The Queen said that political progress and processes of peace were "rightly credited to a generation of leaders who had the vision and courage to put reconciliation before division".</p> <p>"Above all, the continued peace is a credit to its people, upon whose shoulders the future rests," she added.</p> <p>"Across generations, the people of Northern Ireland are choosing to build an inclusive, prosperous, and hopeful society, strengthened by the gains of the peace process.</p> <p>"May this be our guiding thread in the coming years."</p>

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