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Call for life ban after ugly post-Origin incident

NSW utility Connor Watson was nearly <a href="https://www.codesports.com.au/nrl/can-thrown-at-nsw-star-reece-robson/video/80a0dcf962b88497d7ad6a708b743739" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hit by a full can of alcohol</a> in a shocking post-match incident at Accor Stadium, moments after Queensland’s State of Origin win on Wednesday night. The ugly episode unfolded as the Roosters player made his way through the stands to see loved ones after the final whistle, with disturbing footage showing a projectile narrowly missing him as he greeted fans. <a href="https://www.codesports.com.au/nrl/can-thrown-at-nsw-star-reece-robson/video/80a0dcf962b88497d7ad6a708b743739" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Captured on video and shared by Code Sports</a>, Watson had been walking up the first tier of seating when the object – reportedly a full can of Canadian Club – was hurled from above. The video shows stadium-goers shouting Watson’s name before the can is thrown. The item lands alarmingly close to him just as he shakes hands with a spectator. Watson later described the moment as “shocking”. “I’ve had to go up there, my family and friends were up there,” Watson told Code Sports. “One of my mates is in a wheelchair, and he can’t come down the stairs, so I have walked up there to go see him. “As I’m walking, a can of Canadian Club lands right next to me and it’s like someone had thrown it at me. “If they did throw it... the words I want to use for it... I can’t say right now. “If it was thrown, it’s disappointing to think someone thinks it’s OK to do that. “If that got me in the head... it seemed like it came from the top level. “These younger guys, came up to me saying they have footage of the incident, of me walking and the can landing right next to me. “It’s disappointing to be honest. “I’m just going up to visit my family and friends, I shouldn’t have to worry about someone throwing a can at me. “If someone has done it, they should do something about it.” Security was later seen responding to the area. A stadium spokesperson confirmed the incident is under review. “Stadium security staff are reviewing CCTV footage and will work with police,” the spokesperson said. The person responsible could face a ban from future events at the venue, and police may launch a formal investigation. Images: Code Sports

Legal

Shock after true extent of Princess Kate's cancer battle revealed

Shocking new revelations have shed light on the true severity of Catherine, Princess of Wales’ private health battle, with reports now claiming the royal is “fortunate to even be speaking of recovery” following an intense and harrowing cancer fight throughout 2024. In June last year, the princess appeared poised and radiant at Trooping the Colour – waving to crowds and smiling with trademark composure. But hidden beneath her Jenny Packham dress was a semi-permanent port embedded in her chest, a small but vital medical device delivering life-saving chemotherapy. At the time, the extent of her illness remained entirely unknown to the public. Kensington Palace has never confirmed what type of cancer Kate was battling, nor offered a timeline beyond a brief video statement in March. But now, a deeply personal report by the Daily Mail’s royal editor Rebecca English has detailed just how critical her condition was – and the lengths the future queen went to maintain a sense of normalcy. English writes that the princess had already been “seriously unwell” before undergoing major abdominal surgery in January. Post-operative testing revealed cancer, prompting immediate chemotherapy and the insertion of the port – a direct line for potent treatment into a vein near the heart. “It was a literal lifeline,” English reported, “which offers no cast-iron guarantee of success, even if you are a royal.” Kate’s courage to appear publicly – even as she endured punishing side effects – was reportedly accompanied by deeply private suffering. Aides have since revealed she endured “months of hell” with multiple hospital visits conducted in secrecy, entering through side doors at London’s Royal Marsden Hospital. The new information arrives in the wake of a last-minute cancellation at Royal Ascot earlier this month, where palace insiders reportedly reacted with alarm after the princess withdrew just 30 minutes before her expected arrival. Rumours briefly swirled that she required urgent medical attention, a sign that her recovery remains fragile. Sources say the ordeal has prompted Kate to “recalibrate her entire life”, with royal duties to be dramatically scaled back for the rest of the year. She is still expected to attend Wimbledon and join the French state visit in July, but a broader return to public life appears uncertain. An overseas tour remains unlikely, and Prince William is expected to travel alone to Brazil in November for the Earthshot Prize. As one palace insider put it, the recent upheaval is “a good reminder that she was really seriously ill last year and underwent a significant period of chemo… It can take years [to recover].” While Kate is now said to be through treatment, the question of when – or if – she will return to a full royal workload remains unanswered. As English wrote earlier this year: “The Princess of Wales has been to hell and back.” Now, it’s clear just how far she had to travel – and how much strength it took to return. Images: Instagram

Caring

Karl's Origin bet sees NRL star run nude across Bondi Beach

Nothing kicks off the weekend quite like your morning coffee, a cheeky croissant, and a surprise unblurred penis on national television. That’s exactly what Today show fans copped around 6am this morning when Channel 9’s breakfast crew decided, apparently, that broadcast standards were merely a suggestion. Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo were front and centre for the chaos, as sports reporter Danika Mason crossed live from Bondi Beach. Mason was joined by retired NRL star Aaron Woods – who, thanks to a State of Origin bet gone sideways, had only his dignity to keep him warm (spoiler: it didn’t). Woods had promised to streak if NSW lost Game 2. Queensland, being Queensland, delivered the goods in Perth on Wednesday night, so Woods kept his word, stripped down, and bolted starkers into the surf. The Today team howled with laughter as he made his break for the briny deep – so far, so PG. But then Woods did what no one expected. In what can only be described as a truly bold move, he turned to face the camera. Editors had roughly zero seconds to react. Viewers had roughly zero seconds to look away. And the Today show had roughly zero seconds before the complaints line started ringing off the hook. “No! Don’t show it!” shrieked Abo, as newsreader Jayne Azzopardi presumably contemplated her next career move. Meanwhile, Woods grinned like a man who knew exactly what he'd done. Danika Mason, ever the professional, summed up the moment with the sort of innuendo that will no doubt earn her a spot at next year’s Logies: “The smallest sporting event I’ve seen.” The man of the hour eventually reappeared on screen – mercifully clothed – declaring, “I’m feeling good, it was good fun. It was a long run, it was like ‘when is this water going to get closer?’” A sentiment shared by viewers who were wondering when their corneas might recover. It turns out Woods' bare-all sprint wasn’t just eyebrow-raising, but technically illegal. NSW Premier Chris Minns had warned him beforehand, but Woods seemed blissfully unaware that public nudity is frowned upon – even at Bondi. “But at the beach!” he protested, in what’s sure to become the rallying cry of accidental exhibitionists everywhere. Minns, showing off his dry wit, suggested Woods try his luck at one of Sydney’s many legal nude beaches next time. “It’s been illegal forever,” he deadpanned on radio. Woods could now be staring down a fine, though fans are hoping common sense (and perhaps a sense of humour) prevails. Meanwhile, Woods’ mate Beau Ryan said the footy star was “genuinely shocked” by the revelation. “You can’t be nude in public,” Ryan told him. Woods: “But at the beach!” Ryan: “Still public, mate.” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLGNU0tToP9/?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/DLGNU0tToP9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by thetodayshow (@thetodayshow)</a> </div> </blockquote> To add another layer to the inter-state banter, Minns himself has a State of Origin bet with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli – the loser must star in the other state’s advertising campaign. So at least if Woods ends up in court, he can rest easy knowing that somewhere out there, a Premier might soon be forced to smile awkwardly in a “beautiful one day, perfect the next” ad. In the meantime, Today producers are probably googling “delay button for live TV” and breakfast viewers are recovering from seeing a little more than they bargained for with their Weet-Bix. Images: Today show

Meet the young princess and future queen who's moving to Australia

In a delightful development that has captivated royal watchers and Australians alike, Norway's Princess Ingrid Alexandra is preparing to start an exciting new chapter – right here in Australia. (Sydney, to be more precise!) The 21-year-old royal, who is second in line to the Norwegian throne, will soon trade Oslo’s snowy landscapes for Sydney’s sunny shores as she embarks on full-time university study. The Royal House of Norway confirmed that the princess will begin a Bachelor of Social Science at the University of Sydney this August, with a focus on international relations and political economy. Adding a touch of tradition to this modern tale, Princess Ingrid Alexandra will be living on campus at the prestigious St Andrew's College. In a warm message to students, the college principal, Dr Daniel Tyler, encouraged the community to respect the princess’s privacy as she settles into campus life. While the Norwegian royal family may be lesser-known in Australia compared to their British or Danish counterparts, that’s expected to change quickly. Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Ingrid’s mother, also has ties to Australia, having studied at Wangaratta High School in Victoria as a teenager. Now, it’s her daughter’s turn to embrace life Down Under. Born in Oslo in 2004, Princess Ingrid Alexandra is poised to make history as Norway's first queen regnant in over 600 years. Her grandfather, King Harald V, currently holds the throne as Europe’s oldest reigning monarch at 88. Ingrid is the eldest child of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit and has a younger brother, Prince Sverre Magnus. Far from a traditional royal upbringing, Princess Ingrid has forged a path that blends duty, discipline and adventure. Just this April, she completed 15 months of military service, earning respect as an engineer soldier and rifleman with the Norwegian Army's Brigade North. “You are much stronger together,” she told Norwegian media of the experience. “Without [my team], I would not have enjoyed myself as much here.” Ingrid’s move to Australia will pause her official royal duties for up to three years, though she is expected to return home during breaks. She has only recently begun taking on regular public roles, including a landmark appearance at a state banquet earlier this year and joining her family on the royal palace balcony to celebrate Norway’s National Day. Passionate about the environment and global affairs from a young age, Princess Ingrid’s academic focus aligns with her growing commitment to public service. She began official engagements as a child, attending World Environment Day at just five years old, and by age 11 she had already christened a rescue vessel for the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue. And she’s not just a scholar or a soldier – she's also a sports fan. A talented surfer, Ingrid was named Norway’s junior surfing champion in 2020. She’s also an avid skier and kickboxer, embodying a refreshingly modern image of royalty. With a surfboard possibly in one hand and a textbook in the other, Princess Ingrid Alexandra’s time in Sydney promises to be a uniquely royal adventure – and Australia will be watching with warm anticipation. Images: Instagram

International Travel

Bubsie rides again: A century-old journey retraced across Australia

A century ago, a humble 5-horsepower car named "Bubsie" made history by becoming the first motor vehicle to circumnavigate the Australian continent. Now, a century later, its spirit roars back to life as a devoted team of enthusiasts prepares to retrace its entire 17,500km journey – in a painstakingly restored replica of the original 1923 Citroën 5CV. The year was 1925. With little more than swags, spare tyres and unwavering faith, 22-year-old Seventh-day Adventist missionary Nevill Westwood and his friend Greg Davies set off from Perth in a tiny yellow car. They had a simple mission: deliver literature to the remote outback. What they accomplished was far more profound: a trailblazing voyage across Australia, at a time when roads were scarce and courage was the only constant. Through flooded riverbeds, makeshift tracks and across the sun-scorched Nullarbor, the young men pressed on. With knees jammed beneath the steering wheel, they bounced across the nation in what Westwood affectionately dubbed "Bubsie". The 5CV was small, simple and entirely unsuited for such a grand expedition – yet it carried them across six states, through monsoonal downpours and desolate plains, forging a path for motoring history. Now, exactly 100 years since that audacious journey, a new crew is preparing to retrace their route in a meticulously restored 1923 Citroën 5CV. The project, dubbed <a href="https://rightaroundaustralia.tij.tv/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Right Around Australia</a>, is led by the faith-based media group The Incredible Journey and has brought together passionate motoring enthusiasts from across the country. Warren May, a car restorer from Western Australia, joined the project in mid-2023 and quickly immersed himself in the mammoth task of rebuilding a vehicle worthy of the original Bubsie. After months of searching, the team found the perfect base: a rare 1923 Citroën 5CV owned by collector Paul Smyth. "It was 102 years old – and in rough shape," Mr May <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-18/bubsie-citroen-circumnavigation-1925-retraced-in-2025/105257744" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told the ABC</a>. “We had to fabricate a lot of new panels because it was just so old.” The motor, miraculously, was still in good shape. But the bodywork was another story. What followed was a year-long restoration odyssey, with over 1,000 hours of labour, rust cut away and replaced, and every nut and bolt sandblasted and repainted. With the help of friends Colin Gibbs and Graham Tyler, the team brought the little French car back to life – ready to relive one of Australia’s great adventures. The replica has been touring Australia since early 2025, and this June, it will officially begin retracing Bubsie’s route. Starting from Bickley, Western Australia – where Westwood once lived – the car will travel thousands of kilometres, mostly by trailer but driving short stretches through regional towns and historic locations. “It’s about commemorating the courage and determination of those early explorers,” said event organiser Kevin Amos. “Nevill and Greg didn’t have highways. Sometimes they had no roads at all. They literally bush-bashed their way across the country.” Indeed, from the Kimberley to Mount Isa, their journey was defined by improvisation and grit. When they came to the Fitzroy River in northern WA, locals rigged a pulley system to carry Bubsie across. In the Northern Territory, they slid through mud and monsoon rains. They stopped to help others – including a stranded trio near the Nullarbor, who were out of water and near death. Westwood gave them water, fixed their car, and saved their lives. For the modern team, this centennial journey isn’t just about honouring history – it’s about reliving a story of quiet faith and mateship. Dr Laura Cook, curator at the National Museum of Australia where the original Bubsie now rests, said Westwood’s photographs and letters provide a vivid, almost daily account of the 1925 expedition. “His story is more than just a motoring milestone,” she said. “It captures the spirit of a generation who dared to push boundaries. These weren’t professional drivers – they were people of vision and courage.” By December 1925, after six gruelling months, Westwood rolled back into Perth – completing the first full circumnavigation of Australia by car. His companion Greg had returned home early to resume nursing studies, but Westwood pressed on alone. When he returned from overseas the next year, he tracked Bubsie down (it had been sold) and bought it back. Today, Bubsie is more than a car. It’s a symbol of Australia’s pioneering spirit. And as its modern twin prepares to hit the road once more, that legacy rolls forward – not in horsepower, but in heart. So keep an eye out for Bubsie's twin as it rolls through your town, and history comes alive. Images: National Museum of Australia / Right Around Australia

Domestic Travel

Millions of Aussies set to receive cost-of-living pay bump

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has thrown his government’s support behind a “fair” pay rise for Australia's lowest-paid workers, setting the stage for a potential showdown with employer groups ahead of the Fair Work Commission’s annual wage review. In a submission to the Commission, the federal government recommended a real wage increase – meaning one above the rate of inflation – for around three million Australians earning either the minimum wage or under an industry award. The push is part of Labor’s broader strategy to ease cost-of-living pressures and boost household incomes. “This will help around three million workers across the country, including cleaners, retail workers and early childhood educators,” said Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth in a joint statement. “Boosting wages, cutting taxes for every taxpayer and creating more jobs are central parts of our efforts to help Australians with the cost of living.” While the government did not specify an exact figure, it made clear that any increase should outpace inflation, a stance likely to be met with resistance from employers. Business groups, including the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, are calling for a more modest 2.5% increase, warning that anything higher could hurt struggling businesses, especially with superannuation contributions set to rise from 11.5% to 12% on July 1. Last year, minimum wage earners received a 3.75% pay rise, lifting the national minimum wage to $24.10 per hour, or $915.90 per week. With headline inflation then at 3.6%, workers saw only a marginal real wage increase of 0.15%. However, the economic backdrop has shifted. In the year to March, overall wages grew by 3.4% while the consumer price index rose just 2.4%, indicating a real wage growth of 1% for many Australians. Inflation is now within the Reserve Bank’s target band of 2-3%, which the government says supports its call for a generous, yet “economically responsible” wage hike. “An increase in minimum and award wages is consistent with inflation sustainably remaining within the RBA's target band and will provide further relief to lower income workers who are still doing it tough,” Chalmers and Rishworth added. Since Labor took office in 2022, the minimum wage has surged by historically high margins: 5.2% in 2022 – the largest rise in 16 years – and 5.75% in 2023. In total, the minimum wage has increased by $143 per week under the Albanese government. Despite concerns from employers over weak economic growth and rising business costs, the government remains optimistic about a rebound in domestic demand. Its submission acknowledged global risks, including the potential impact of Donald Trump's trade policies, but forecast stronger growth in 2025 and 2026. Prime Minister Albanese reinforced Labor’s commitment to wage growth during a cabinet meeting this week, saying a further increase to the minimum wage would be one of his top priorities heading into the next federal election. “Labor will always stand for improving people's wages and conditions,” he declared. Still, the looming expiry of the government’s $75 quarterly electricity rebates at the end of 2025 poses a risk of reigniting inflationary pressures – something the Fair Work Commission will weigh carefully as it prepares to announce its decision in June. The outcome of the review will directly affect 180,000 workers on the national minimum wage and an additional 2.7 million on industry awards, making it a critical flashpoint in the battle over how best to balance worker welfare and economic sustainability. Images: Instagram

Money & Banking

“Mum always found the joy”: Beatrice and Eugenie open up on royal divorce

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have spoken candidly about the impact of their parents’ divorce and the enduring strength of their mother, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. Appearing on the "Lessons from our Mothers" podcast, hosted by Isabella Branson and Cressida Bonas – actress and former girlfriend of Prince Harry – the royal sisters shared heartfelt reflections on their upbringing and the lessons imparted by their mother during challenging times. Beatrice recalled the difficult period during their parents' separation, which began in 1992 when she was just eight years old and Eugenie was six. Despite the emotional turmoil, she remembered it as a time still filled with positivity and a sense of adventure, thanks to their mother’s optimistic spirit. “Mum's ability to sort of jump into any situation,” Beatrice said, was something she admired and now emulates. “There was always an adventure to be had. Even during some of the harder times through divorce and through challenging moments… she had an ability to kind of jump into things with two feet.” She added that those early memories are precious and formative: “It's this sort of way with which she just brought that joy to moments.” Prince Andrew and the Duchess of York, affectionately known as "Fergie", were married in 1986 and formally divorced in 1996. Long naval deployments and conflicting responsibilities are believed to have contributed to the breakdown of their marriage. In a 2007 interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Fergie explained, “I wanted to work; it's not right for a princess of the royal house to be commercial, so Andrew and I decided to make the divorce official so I could go off and get a job.” Despite the separation, the couple have maintained a close relationship, cohabiting in separate wings of the Royal Lodge since 2008. They often refer to themselves as the "happiest divorced couple", setting a rare example of post-divorce harmony. Images: Instagram

Family & Pets

"First time I've really cried": Star shares sad family news

Christina Applegate is mourning the loss of her father, Robert "Bob" Applegate, who passed away last week. The 53-year-old actress shared the heartbreaking news during an emotional episode of her podcast MeSsy, which she co-hosts with fellow actress Jamie Lynn Sigler. Applegate broke down in tears as she revealed her father had died just a week earlier, marking the first time she publicly grieved his passing. "You're probably wondering why I'm crying right now, I'm sorry," Applegate said through tears. "My dad just passed away a week ago. This is the first time I've really cried." Struggling to hold back emotion, the Dead to Me star admitted that she had been suppressing her grief. "I think kind of, like, I wasn't allowing myself to have that yet. [I was] too busy with this, too busy with that." Applegate hinted that her father's death followed an illness, though she did not share specific details. “We knew he was going to die," she said. "Is that an excuse for not feeling? Because you know that someone's gonna go, and you've said your goodbyes?” The episode of MeSsy centreed on a conversation about grief with guest JoAnna García Swisher. Sigler, aware of how raw the topic might be, warned that the discussion could be "triggering" for Applegate. At the time, Applegate believed she would be able to handle it – but as the recording unfolded, her sadness surfaced. “I thought I was going to be OK, and I’m not,” she said. “I’m insanely sad.” Christina Applegate, the only child of Bob Applegate and actress Nancy Priddy, has largely kept her family life out of the spotlight. However, she and her father did share a public moment together in 2013 on TLC’s Who Do You Think You Are, exploring their family’s roots. Bob Applegate’s passing comes during an already difficult chapter in Christina’s life. In 2021, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She has spoken candidly about her battle with the illness, revealing on a recent episode of Dax Shepard's Armchair Expert that she has “30 lesions” on her brain. “My biggest one is behind my right eye, so my right eye hurts a lot,” she shared. Images: Instagram

Caring

What every parent should read before becoming the bank of mum and dad

In late 2023, economists Jarden estimated <a style="color: #467886;" href="https://www.afr.com/companies/financial-services/the-bank-of-mum-and-dad-is-good-for-70-000-new-analysis-concludes-20231129-p5enpp">15 per cent of mortgage borrowers received some form of financial support</a> from their parents. A separate poll by comparison site Finder around the same time <a style="color: #467886;" href="https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/first-home-buyers-reveal-huge-amount-aussie-parents-gifted-them-201221909.html">put the figure at 11 per cent</a>. Fast forward to February this year, with a UBS survey <a style="color: #467886;" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-06/cost-of-living-sting-lessened-by-bank-of-mum-and-dad/104882754">suggesting almost half of first home buyers receive parental assistance</a>. Clearly, the Bank of Mum and Dad is a rapidly growing source of funds for younger people seeking to purchase property. However, some older Australians are now paying a hefty price for having done so without adequate planning and protections. On the hook Amid the excitement of homebuying, many parents overlook the fact they could be left on the hook to cover any shortfall. The worst-case scenario here is losing your own home, as well as your child losing theirs, if you went guarantor on their loan and they defaulted and you didn’t have a backup plan. If you loaned them money which they subsequently can’t repay, the principal amount goes unrepaid and you also miss out on the interest/compound growth that money could have earned if invested elsewhere. You may even be asked to fork out more in future if your child needs help to keep the property or to subsequently buy a replacement property. Unlike for a real bank, there is no public bailout for the Bank of Mum and Dad. Financial shortfall A common problem that I and other financial advisors are now seeing is parents inadvertently giving their children more than they can actually afford. Take people who acted as Bank of Mum and Dad before the pandemic hit. They budgeted how much they would need for retirement and then gave their adult kids money towards buying a home of their own. Then COVID-19 arrived. Countless jobs were lost and businesses shuttered. Many would-be retirees were forced to stay in the workforce for longer than planned. Next came the inflation crisis, with mortgages and living costs soaring. Retirement budgets blew-out as more money was suddenly needed for everyday expenses, particularly energy, insurance and food. Meanwhile ballooning house prices over the pandemic years saw first homebuyers needing even larger deposits. That all translated to significant financial shortfalls for the Bank of Mum and Dad. Elder abuse <a style="color: #467886;" href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/family-domestic-and-sexual-violence/population-groups/older-people#abuse">Government figures from 2023</a> estimate one in six older Australians suffer elder abuse in some form, with 2.1 per cent experiencing financial abuse – undue control, pressure or restricted access to their own money and financial decisions. Half (53 per cent) of elder abuse perpetrators are family members, with adult children the most common offenders. Given the amount of money involved in property purchases, and the stresses associated with housing affordability, the potential for the Bank of Mum and Dad to suffer elder abuse is alarmingly high. Relationship breakdowns Money is perhaps the greatest source of tension in relationships. Usually that is between partners, yet these can multiply for the Bank of Mum and Dad and its stakeholders. Some examples include: <ul> <li>You and your partner disagree on what or how much assistance to provide.</li> <li>Your other children feel disadvantaged if they don’t receive the same financial assistance.</li> <li>Having provided the finances, you then interfere in how your child manages the property or their general finances, causing resentment to build.</li> <li>A marriage breakdown (yours or your child’s) affects the repayment of a loan or the nature of a mortgage guarantee.</li> </ul> Protect yourself While supporting children is the foremost concern of the Bank of Mum and Dad, it is important to protect yourself too. A written agreement outlining the nature of the support, conditions and contingencies is crucial to keep every aligned. Independent advice from your financial adviser, lawyer, mortgage broker and accountant ensures you fully understand what you are on the hook for, how much you can afford to contribute, and whether there are less-risky options. Finally, be sure that the decision to support your child’s property ambitions is your own and that you aren’t coerced into it. If you’re concerned that you may be experiencing elder abuse, call the free <a style="color: #467886;" href="https://www.health.gov.au/contacts/elder-abuse-phone-line">elder abuse line on 1800 353 374</a>. Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of the new book, Money For Life: How to build financial security from firm foundations (Major Street Publishing $32.99). Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who hold a master’s degree in the field. Proceeds from book sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women and children. Find out more at <a style="color: #467886;" title="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/" href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a> Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature only and does not constitute personal financial or product advice. Any opinions or views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of people, institutions or organisations the owner may be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated. Helen Baker is an authorised representative of BPW Partners Pty Ltd AFSL 548754. Image: Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Pope Francis' cause of death and burial wishes revealed

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis died from a stroke followed by heart failure, according to an official statement released by the Vatican press office. The 88-year-old pontiff passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, with underlying health conditions also contributing to his death. In a statement signed by Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Health and Hygiene Directorate of the Vatican City State, the Vatican revealed that Francis had suffered a previous episode of acute respiratory failure, along with arterial hypertension and type II diabetes. Pope Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, where he delivered a brief Easter blessing to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square. Unable to finish reading his address, the ailing pope sat as an aide delivered the rest of the speech, which called for peace in war-torn regions such as Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. Following his death, the Vatican also made public the burial wishes outlined in the pope’s will. Francis requested a simple burial in the ground at Rome’s Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – marked only with the Latin inscription Franciscus. This will be the first time in over a century that a pope will be buried outside the Vatican. According to the will, an anonymous benefactor has agreed to cover the costs of his burial. With the pontiff’s passing, the Catholic Church now enters a traditional period of mourning known as the Novendiales, lasting nine days. During this time, Pope Francis will lie in state as preparations for his funeral are made. The conclave – the sacred process to elect a new pope – is expected to begin no sooner than 15 days and no later than 20 days following his death. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. His death marks the end of a papacy defined by humility, progressive stances and a deep focus on global humanitarian issues. Images: Wikimedia Commons

Caring

Princess Diana’s largest-ever wardrobe auction set to dazzle the world

Get ready for royal fashion history to be rewritten... This June, the largest collection of clothing ever owned by Diana, Princess of Wales, will hit the auction block – and it promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Julien's Auctions, the house behind this extraordinary event, has announced that over 200 breathtaking pieces will go under the hammer, many of which have never been seen by the public before. From the timeless elegance of Princess Diana to the grandeur of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, plus historic treasures from Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen Mother, and even royal heirlooms dating back to the 19th century – this auction is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. Fittingly titled <a href="https://www.juliensauctions.com/en/auctions/princess-diana-s-style-a-royal-collection" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"Princess Diana's Style & A Royal Collection"</a>, the auction will unfold at the glamorous Peninsula Beverly Hills on June 26. According to Julien’s, the sale offers fans and collectors a rare and intimate chance to own a piece of history and connect with Diana’s iconic style legacy. "Princess Diana holds a special place in the heart of Julien's Auctions, and we are honoured to continue to preserve her legacy," shared Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien's. "This collection is the most significant offering of her wardrobe ever presented at auction – each item a window into a moment in history and a tribute to a woman whose humility, style, and personal warmth continue to inspire the world." Among the crown jewels of the collection is the charming 1988 Bellville Sassoon floral day dress, affectionately known as Diana’s "caring dress." The late princess famously wore this bright, cheerful ensemble during hospital visits and engagements with children, knowing its joyful print would lift spirits. Diana even skipped the matching hat, saying, "You couldn't cuddle a child in a hat." While Julien’s is keeping the full list of auction items under wraps for now, excitement is mounting. Some pieces originally featured in Diana’s legendary 1997 Christie's auction – which raised an astounding $5 million for charity – will make an encore appearance. Before the big day, the dazzling collection will go on display in museums in Seattle and Ireland, giving fans worldwide the chance to admire these royal treasures up close. The auction follows a streak of record-breaking sales for Diana’s wardrobe. In 2023, her unforgettable ballerina-length black and blue evening gown by Jacques Azagury fetched a staggering $1.4 million, shattering records at 11 times its estimate. And let’s not forget her beloved emerald green Kurt Geiger shoes, which sold for an eye-watering $693,000. Perhaps most astonishing of all: Diana's famous sheep-print jumper by Warm and Wonderful, which leapt to an incredible $1.7 million at auction last year – a jaw-dropping 14 times its expected price. Image: <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #2c3338; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;">Julien's Auctions

Beauty & Style

"It's not our way": Young Indigenous woman speaks out against Acknowledgment of Country

A young Indigenous woman has sparked controversy by criticising the Acknowledgement of Country, claiming the practice is 'made up' and not representative of Indigenous Australian culture. Kiescha Haines Jamieson was asked on social media whether the formal observation is an 'actual traditional practice' or a 'modern white saviour thing'. 'It is a made up protocol by Reconciliation Australia,' she claimed. 'It's not culture. It's not our way.' The Acknowledgement of Country is a relatively recent practice, emerging in the 1990s during what the Keating Government called 'the Reconciliation Decade'. It was formalised as part of efforts to improve Indigenous-state relations, with former Labor senator and Yawuru man Pat Dodson playing a key role in its establishment. 'The work of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation encouraged strangers to recognise country, then, as people got stronger, the welcome developed,' Dodson explained. The practice is distinct from a Welcome to Country, which is a ceremony performed by a traditional owner to formally welcome visitors to their land. Acknowledgement of Country, by contrast, is often delivered by non-Indigenous people or organisations to recognise traditional owners. Ms Jamieson argued that the practice has now been 'institutionalised to make people think that it is our culture'. Her comments resonated with some social media users, who agreed that the protocol was 'made up'. 'Finally someone with the guts to tell the truth,' one user wrote. However, others pushed back, arguing that acknowledging country has deep cultural significance for some Indigenous groups. 'It's a traditional thing for our mob, but not as grand as it's shown on TV,' one commenter noted. 'It's not really a welcome, it's more like a way to notify the spirits and ancestors that mob are travelling.' Another person added: 'You don't speak for all mobs and you don't speak for mine.' Yawarllaayi/Gomeroi elder Barbara Flick Nicol has previously stated that welcoming and acknowledging visitors has existed for thousands of years in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 'It's always been something that we did as a people, understanding and observing the fact that when you are in somebody else's country, that you acknowledge them,' she told NITV in 2020. Ms Flick Nicol said that formal acknowledgments began appearing in New South Wales after the landmark Mabo decision in 1992, with councils raising Aboriginal flags and formally recognising traditional owners at meetings and conferences. Former federal politician and Wiradjuri woman Linda Burney, who was involved in the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, defended the practice, saying it evolved organically. 'It wasn't strategised or planned. Once it got out to civic life it was something that people saw as an important way to tell the truth of the Australian story,' she said. Images: Instagram

Legal

Grief as European royal passes away at just 46

Archduchess Estelle de Saint-Romain of Austria has passed away at the age of 46. A statement published in Le Figaro's Carnet du Jour confirmed that Estelle Lapra de Saint-Romain, wife of Archduke Carl Christian of Austria, died on March 4, 2025. Her family laid her to rest at the Monastère de Cimiez in Nice, France, a week later. "Her husband, Archduke Carl Christian, their children, her parents, and her in-laws are deeply saddened to announce that Archduchess Estelle of Austria, née Lapra de Saint Romain, was called to God on Tuesday, March 4, 2025," the statement read in translation. The cause of death was not disclosed, though reports indicate she had previously been diagnosed with cancer. Born in 1979, Estelle married Carl Christian in 2007. He is the great-grandson of Emperor Charles I of Austria, the last ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Together, they had five children: Zita, 17, Anezka, 15, Anna, 12, Paola, 10, and Pier-Georgia, 4. The funeral service, attended by several European royals, took place at the historic Monastère de Cimiez. Among those in attendance were Belgium's Princess Astrid, Luxembourg's Princess Marie-Astrid, the Duke of Castro, and Ferdinand of Habsburg. Brother Antonio Basso led the ceremony, remembering Estelle for her "loving wisdom" and recalling how she and her family regularly attended Mass at the monastery. Despite the dissolution of the Austrian monarchy in 1918, the Habsburg family remains prominent in European society. Estelle and Carl Christian’s wedding in 2007 attracted significant attention, with crowds gathering to witness the event. Three hundred distinguished guests attended, including Princess Astrid, Liechtenstein’s Prince Gundakar, and Jean-Christophe, Prince Napoléon. Carl Christian, the eldest son of Archduke Rodolphe de Habsbourg-Lorraine and Archduchess Marie-Hélène, née Baroness de Villenfagne de Vogelsanck, is part of an extensive noble lineage. His cousin, Archduke Karl von Habsburg, is the current head of the Austrian Imperial House. Archduchess Estelle’s passing marks a great loss for the Habsburg family and the European aristocracy, as she is remembered for her grace, devotion, and dedication to her family and faith. Image: Instagram

Caring

Prince Robert of Luxembourg announces youngest son's death

Prince Robert of Luxembourg has announced the heartbreaking loss of his youngest son, Frederik, at the age of 22. Frederik is Prince Robert's youngest son with wife Princess Julie of Nassau. According to a statement shared on the <a href="https://polgfoundation.org/frederik/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">POLG Foundation's</a> website, Frederik died on March 1 in Paris, France, from POLG Mitochondrial disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive multiple organ dysfunction and failure. "It is with a very heavy heart that my wife and I would like to inform you of the passing of our son, The POLG Foundation Founder and Creative Director, Frederik," the statement, written by Robert began. Frederik, was born in Aix-en-Provence, France, on March 18, 2002, with POLG Mitochondrial disease, but was only diagnosed at the age of 14. He and his father later co-founded the POLG Foundation, with Frederik serving as Creative Director while Robert served as Chair. "Last Friday, February 28th, on 'Rare Disease Day', our beloved son called us in to his room to speak to him for one last time," the statement continued. "Frederik found the strength and the courage to say goodbye to each of us in turn." That included his brother, 27-year-old Prince Alexandre, his sister, 29-year-old Princess Charlotte and her 27-year-old husband, Mansour Shakarchi. Frederik also said his final goodbyes to his father's sister, Princess Charlotte, her husband Marc Victor Cunningham, and their three children: Charly, Louis, and Donall. "He had already spoken all that was in his heart to his extraordinary mother, who had not left his side in 15 years," Robert continued. "After gifting each of us with our farewells – some kind, some wise, some instructive – in true Frederik fashion, he left us collectively with a final long-standing family joke. "Even in his last moments, his humour, and his boundless compassion, compelled him to leave us with one last laugh….to cheer us all up." Prior to his other goodbye messages, Robert said, Frederik asked him: "Papa, are you proud of me?" "He had barely been able to speak for several days, so the clarity of these words was as surprising as the weight of the moment was profound," Robert wrote. "The answer was very easy, and he had heard it oh so many times, but at this time, he needed reassurance that he had contributed all that he possibly could in his short and beautiful existence and that he could now finally move on." "Frederik knows that he is my Superhero, as he is to all of our family, and to so very many good friends," Robert continued, noting how his son "was born with a special capacity for positivity, joy, and determination." "When he was little, I would always say that if there is one child of ours that I would never need to worry about, it was him," he continued. "He has social skills like no other, an amazing sense of humour, an emotional intelligence and compassion that were off the charts, a sense of justice, fairness and decency that knows no bounds. He was disciplined and organised beyond belief. " "Frederik is particularly headstrong (at times, I might have used the word stubborn). This serves him well. I cite him as being here in the present because I know that, though physically absent, he is still here, inspiring us and pushing us forward. His mission is not complete, and we all have much work left to do." Robert then thanked their family for their "messages of support and love", before asking those reading the tribute to volunteer with or donate to the POLG Foundation in Frederik's memory. "With our Superhero's help we hope to turn our deep grief into positive results and therewith follow his unwavering example," he wrote. "His ultimate message is one of hope, compassion, and resilience! We are all so very proud of you, Frederik. I am so very proud of you! We love you!" Images: The POLG Foundation

Caring

Gene Hackman's cause of death revealed

The cause of death of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, has finally been confirmed, more than a week after they were <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sad-new-details-emerge-in-gene-hackman-case" target="_blank" rel="noopener">discovered in their Santa Fe home</a>. The couple was found deceased in their residence on February 26, prompting an investigation by authorities. Dr Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Examiner for New Mexico, disclosed at a press conference that Hackman succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease being a significant contributing factor. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, died around seven days earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare infectious disease contracted through exposure to rodents and their excrement. Authorities found evidence of rodent intrusion in the couple’s home, believed to be the source of Arakawa’s infection. Based on her movements and email communications, Dr Jarrell determined that Arakawa likely passed away on February 11, while Hackman is believed to have died on February 18. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that Hackman was likely at home with his deceased wife for seven days before his own death. Dr Jarrell noted that Hackman was in "very poor health", and it was unclear how he managed in his final days without his wife's assistance. Given his advanced Alzheimer’s, Jarrell suggested that it was possible he was unaware that his wife had passed away. “There was no food in his stomach, which means he had not eaten recently, but he had no evidence of dehydration,” she stated. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a severe and often fatal respiratory disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, it begins with flu-like symptoms and rapidly progresses to serious lung and heart complications. The best prevention is avoiding contact with rodents and properly managing rodent-prone areas. Dr Jarrell’s findings confirmed that Hackman had severe heart disease, with evidence of multiple prior heart attacks and chronic high blood pressure. A full-body post-mortem examination showed no signs of trauma. He tested negative for COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory illnesses, as well as hantavirus and carbon monoxide poisoning. Similarly, Arakawa’s autopsy revealed no external or internal trauma. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of hantavirus, ruling it as the cause of her death. Other tests for respiratory viruses and toxins returned negative results. Dr Jarrell said that there were “no other significant natural disease findings” in either case, and that all medications found in the home were taken as prescribed and did not contribute to their deaths. The tragic passing of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa marks the end of an era for Hollywood, with fans mourning the loss of the two-time Academy Award-winning actor. Hackman, known for his roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven and The Royal Tenenbaums, retired from acting in 2004. The couple had been residing in Santa Fe for many years, enjoying a quiet life away from the public eye. Image: Instagram

Caring

Meghan Markle shares rare glimpse at Princess Lilibet

Meghan Markle has shared a rare glimpse at her daughter Princess Lilibet spending time with her sports star "Auntie", Serena Williams. The Duchess of Sussex took to Instagram <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #333333; font-family: 'Proxima Nova', system-ui, -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">to share a series of photos and videos of Lilibet playing a game with the tennis star at their home. "When the aunties comes to celebrate … and to play! Love you @serenawilliams," shared in her stories. The three-year-old was pictured playing a personalised 'Archie & Lili Candy Land' board game, wearing a long-sleeved top and floral pants, with Serena watching over her. With the upcoming release of the royal's newest Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, a series where she holds candid conversations with friends while also sharing "practical how-tos" in the kitchen, garden and more, the royal spent some time with family and friends to celebrate. "[Three] days until the party begins. All are invited ❤️ @netflix," Meghan shared a follow up Instagram story, with a picture of her embracing Serena. Williams and the royal first met at the Super Bowl in 2010 and have remained close friends since. They recently spent time together at the Paley Honours Fall Gala in December of last year. Image: Instagram

Family & Pets

Princess Diana's former lover opens up in rare interview

Army Major James Hewitt, who had a five-year affair with the late Princess Diana from 1986, has spoken about the royal in a rare television interview with Good Morning Britain on Tuesday. When asked about whether he thinks Diana may have been able to reunite her sons, who have barely spoken in five years, he replied: "I think any mother would be worried and concerned about such a rift, as you put it." "And she'd do her best to try and get them together." Major Hewitt, who now spends his time doing aid work in Ukraine, revealed that the last time he had spoken to the late Princess was "just after" her BBC Panorama interview with Martin Bashir in November 1995, during which she admitted to their affair. He described the conversation as "distant" and admitted that the interview did "create problems" for him from which he was "trying to move on". After the affair was revealed, Major Hewitt was labelled as a "love rat" by the tabloid media and found his reputation in ruins. He also said that the interview was "very distressing" for the late Princess, as someone she had trusted had used their connection to make money. "It was a stitch-up job," he said of the Panorama interview. "It was appalling of Bashir to [have] inveigled, lied to her, criminal activity, absolutely appalling." "As I've said, I hate bullies and bullying and arrogant people and I think it's appalling." Major Hewitt, who was Diana's riding instructor at the time, has previously denied claiming to have been a "father figure" to the princes but has said that he "played with them, swam with them, taught them to ride". The Duke of Sussex had also addressed the rumours that Major Hewitt was his biological father in his memoir Spare, saying that he felt the rumours were designed to turn him into a "laughing stock". "One cause of the rumour was Major Hewitt's red hair, but another was sadism," he wrote in his memoir. Image: Ken McKay/ITV/ Shutterstock Editorial

Relationships

Meghan Markle shares rare glimpse of Princess Lilibet

Meghan Markle has shared a rare glimpse of her daughter, Princess Lilibet, as she reintroduces her lifestyle brand under a new name – As Ever. Following trademark issues with her original brand name, American Riviera Orchard, the Duchess of Sussex officially confirmed the rebranding in a social media post. Accompanying the announcement, a newly launched website prominently features an image of Meghan and Lilibet walking hand-in-hand through a park, seemingly captured by a drone. This marks the third new image of three-year-old Lilibet shared with the public in just a few months. In December, Prince Harry and Meghan’s private Christmas card included a touching moment of the couple embracing Lilibet and her older brother, Prince Archie, 5. Then, in a tribute video following the passing of Meghan’s beloved rescue Beagle, Guy, fans caught another glimpse of Lilibet in a photo from Meghan’s private album, showing her with Guy in a park. The latest image appears to have been taken on the same day, as Meghan and her daughter are seen wearing similar outfits. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/LilibetMarkle_Insta.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> The heartwarming photo aligns with the essence of As Ever, which will offer a variety of products, including Meghan’s homemade jams. In a video accompanying the brand's launch, the Duchess excitedly shared her passion for the venture. “I think we're all clear at this point that jam is my jam, but there are so many more products that I just love and use in my home, and now it’s time to share them with you,” she said. “I can't wait for you to see it.” The name As Ever holds special meaning for Meghan’s followers, as it was originally her signature sign-off on her now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig. The phrase later appeared on her podcast, Archetypes, and has now been embraced as the identity of her revived business, which coincides with her reactivated Instagram account. “And if you’ve followed me since 2014 with The Tig, you know I’ve always loved cooking, crafting and gardening,” she explained. “This is what I do, and I haven’t been able to share it with you in the same way for the past few years, but now I can.” As Ever is expected to reflect Meghan’s personal style and passions, much like her previous work on The Tig, with a focus on home and lifestyle products. Images: As Ever / Instagram

Family & Pets

"Why are you attacking my dad?": I'm A Celeb finalist reveals behind-the-scenes heartbreak

The emotional on-air reunion between I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here contestant Matty J and his wife, Laura Byrne, along with their two children, Marlie-Mae and Lola Ellis, was a heartwarming moment <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/abrupt-viewers-stunned-by-i-m-a-celeb-winner-s-reveal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">during Sunday’s finale</a>. However, behind the scenes, Byrne has opened up about the significant challenges she faced while participating in the momentous event. In the lead-up to the finale, Byrne undertook an exhausting journey from Sydney to South Africa with their two young daughters. Speaking on the Life Uncut podcast, she detailed the arduous travel experience, which involved “three separate flights” and 24 hours of transit. “That in itself was really hard," she said. "It was like 24 hours by the time we got door to door. Midnight transfer with two children who were absolutely f***ing ropable.” The long journey was only the beginning of the difficulties though. Upon arrival, Byrne and the children had to share a single room with inadequate sleeping arrangements, all while preparing for a demanding day on set. Byrne also revealed that the experience of managing two young children on a chaotic production set was overwhelming. “I felt like I was the emotional buffer between the children and production … I felt like I’d just been flogged for days. It was hard. It was really hard for me,” she said. During the finale, Matty J and his fellow top three contestants – Big Brother star Reggie Bird and retired NRL player Sam Thaiday – were reunited with their families before participating in the final challenge. While this was an exciting moment for viewers, it was an emotionally challenging experience for the family. Matty J recalled the moment he had to part ways with his children soon after reuniting. “When we had our reunion, it was maybe half an hour I think where we had time together and then they’ve got to pull us apart,” he said. “The kids don’t get it, the kids don’t understand. They’re like, ‘I’ve just met my dad, and then I’ve got to go.’ And then we did that trial where we had to have s**t poured on our heads, and Lola’s in tears being like, ‘Why are you attacking my dad?’” Byrne explained that their children were repeatedly reunited with their father, only to be separated again. This happened three times – during the initial reunion, the final trial and then the announcement of the winner. The constant cycle of emotional reunions and abrupt separations took a toll, particularly on their youngest daughter, Lola. After the winner was announced, Byrne and the children expected Matty J to return home with them, but he was kept on set for several more hours. “They kept Matt on set until 6 o’clock and we went home earlier. And it was so hard on Lola particularly,” Byrne revealed. “And then I had to deal with her big emotions around ‘Why is my daddy not coming home?’ And it felt like this unfair false start.” She admitted that the combination of exhaustion, sleep deprivation and trying to manage the emotional needs of their children made the experience incredibly difficult. Byrne also shared that she had been against Matty J’s participation in the reality show right from the outset. “I wasn’t a supporter of it in the first place,” she admitted, reinforcing that the experience had only confirmed her concerns. Even Matty J himself struggled with the demands of the show. He confessed that he broke down early in his time at camp, an emotional moment that wasn’t shown on TV. “I just burst out crying, and I was like, ‘I f**king cannot do this,’” he recalled, explaining that a moment of solitude while washing dishes left him questioning his decision. “What have I f**king done? This is a nightmare.” It appears that, for the Byrne-Johnson family, what seemed like a joyful televised reunion was, in reality, a deeply exhausting and emotional ordeal. Images: Network 10

Dave Hughes reveals I’m A Celeb weight loss

Dave Hughes spent 25 days in the jungle for this year's season of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! and despite being eliminated, his three-and-a-half weeks of camp life had a staggering effect on his body. “I lost eight kilos and I’m stronger now than when I went in there,” he told news.com.au. He explained that when he first joined the show he struggled to do laborious tasks like carrying a crate of firewood back to camp without assistance. “I’d be holding one side of the crate while my fingers almost snapped off, with another burly bloke like (former NRL player) Sam Thaiday on the other side,” he said. “But by the end of the month, I’m carrying the whole crate on my own. My fingers are loving the task. I’m just living my best life.” He also made progress in the "jungle gym" a workout station contestants could use to keep fit. “There was a bench press there and on the first day, the heaviest weights, I could do 20 (reps). On the day I got kicked out, I did 52," he said. “Sam (Thaiday) says I now look like a pregnant greyhound … I think that’s a compliment, so I’m happy," he said. Image: I'm A Celeb/ news.com.au

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