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Socceroos star's cause of death revealed

<p>Former Socceroos star Stephen Laybutt is believed to have taken his own life over the weekend. </p> <p>The 46-year-old had been visiting friends in Casuarina, in northern New South Wales, on Friday before he was reported missing the following day. </p> <p>The massive search for the former football player came to a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/search-for-missing-socceroo-ends-in-tragedy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tragic end</a> on Sunday, after his body was found in NSW bushland near Cabarita, where he was last seen. </p> <p>NSW Police have reportedly ruled out both misadventure and a medical episode, and revealed that his death was not being treated as suspicious. </p> <p>A report will also be prepared for the coroner. </p> <p>The talented footballer played 15 matches for the Socceroos between 2000 and 2004, while also representing Australia while playing for the Olyroos at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. </p> <p>Laybutt struggled with keeping his sexuality private throughout his career, and came out as gay after he retired. </p> <p>“Nobody knew. It takes a fair bit of effort to hide like that,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald in 2021.</p> <p>“Just lying to yourself all the time. That breaks you, and you head down a path of self-destruction.”</p> <p>At the time, he recalled how he had "spiralled out of control" because he thought that things would get easier after coming out. </p> <p>But things improved when he met his partner, Michael Lutteral, in 2010.</p> <p>In the days after his passing, Laybutt's friends have paid tribute to the Socceroos legend. </p> <p>"I can't stop thinking about the pain he must have been in," one friend wrote on social media. </p> <p>"I don't think you realised how many lives you touched and how many people loved you," another wrote. </p> <p>"I'll never forget you mate, love ya." </p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Caring

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Search for missing Socceroo ends in tragedy

<p>Police officers have found the body of Stephen Laybutt in New South Wales bushland, less than 48 hours after he went missing. </p> <p>The ex-Socceroo was reported missing on Saturday morning after he couldn't be located or contacted by his loved ones, sparking a massive search for the 46-year-old. </p> <p>Laybutt's car was found near a set of shops in Cabartia, on the NSW North Coast, at 11:30am on Saturday, only a few kilometres away from where he was last seen at a friend's house at Casuarina on Friday night. </p> <p>Officers then located Stephen Laybutt’s body close to Cabarita at about 7pm on Sunday after an extensive police search.</p> <p>Tributes have begun to pour in for the ex-Socceroo, with football legend Robbie Slater describing his death as a tragedy. </p> <p>“He was a very good player, I played against him a few times when he was with the Brisbane Strikers,” Mr Slater told <em>The Daily Telegraph</em>.</p> <p>“He was a big guy, uncompromising, he had a very good career... He was an extremely courageous person."</p> <p>A talented footballer, Mr Laybutt played 15 matches for the Socceroos between 2000 and 2004 and remained with the A-League’s Newcastle Jets until he ruptured his achilles tendon in 2008 and was forced to retire. </p> <p>He also represented Australia at the 2000 Olympics with the Olyroos team.</p> <p>After retiring, Laybutt came out as gay, later revealing that hiding his sexuality was something that had a “massive effect” on his career. </p> <p>Mr Laybutt also made headlines in 2021 when he selflessly donated his kidney to a man on dialysis he had met while working at the rehabilitation unit at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

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Stephen Fry rushed to hospital

<p>Beloved British icon and actor Stephen Fry, aged 66, found himself in a hospital bed following a dramatic tumble off the stage at London's O2 Arena. The incident occurred right after he had delivered a talk about artificial intelligence (AI) at the CogX Festival.</p> <p>Reports indicate that Fry plummeted an alarming six feet to the ground, resulting in injuries to his leg and ribs. A spokesperson for the conference issued a statement expressing their concern and support for Fry, explaining that the unfortunate accident transpired after his inspiring discourse on the influence of AI. They emphasised their collective thoughts and well-wishes for his speedy recovery. They also mentioned that they had initiated their own investigation but were unable to disclose further details at the moment.</p> <p>Prior to his fall, Fry had engaged the audience with thought-provoking ideas, saying, "We have to choose whether we want to be Prometheus or Zeus." He humorously added, "The one thing we can agree on is that it's a f--king weird time to be alive."</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks to everyone who joined us at CogX Festival’s 7th AI &amp; Transformational tech event at London’s iconic O2 arena.</p> <p>Watch our quick Day 3 recap and visit our website to be the first to hear about our plans to make it even bigger and better next year!<a href="https://t.co/K1fBIE0R0G">https://t.co/K1fBIE0R0G</a> <a href="https://t.co/IqRwpRwwiZ">pic.twitter.com/IqRwpRwwiZ</a></p> <p>— CogX Festival (@CogX_Festival) <a href="https://twitter.com/CogX_Festival/status/1704538018369954103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p>In another intriguing revelation, Fry discussed an incident where a historical documentary utilised an AI-generated replication of his voice without his consent. He clarified to his fans that he had not uttered a single word in the narration; instead, a machine had performed the task.</p> <p>He expressed astonishment at the technology's capabilities, noting that it could potentially manipulate his voice to convey any message, from a call to storm Parliament to explicit content, all unbeknownst to him and without his authorisation. "And this, what you just heard," he said, "was done without my knowledge."</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Caring

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5 of the best things to do in Port Stephens

<p>From magnificent coastline to whale watching and sunsets that will take your breath away, these are five of the best things to do in Port Stephens. Be warned: After reading this you’ll want to hop in the car immediately.</p> <p><strong>1. Camp in luxury safari tent (pictured above)</strong></p> <p>If you’re looking for that up-close-and-personal-with-nature feel that goes hand in hand with camping, but don’t want to go with out the luxuries of a resort, the safari tents at <a href="http://www.twsr.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Thou Walla Sunset Retreat</span></strong></a> are for you. Labelled as “Glamping Safari Tents,” the experience is just that – camping with all of the glamourous trimmings. From the king-size bed to the large flat-screen TV, you can expect all the features that you get from a luxury hotel room, including an electric fireplace, fridge and a big bathroom with a shower and toilet – they are, however, eco friendly with a few different bells and whistles. The tents themselves are located a stone’s throw from the marina and the calm waters of Soliders Point, which runs alongside one length of the site. Located around 15 minutes from Nelson Bay, the award-winning retreat is home to villas as well as the safari tents. If you are adverse to noises in the night, you may want to pack you earplugs to drown out the noisy birds – but apparently they don’t make a ruckus all year round and in any case, the piece des resistance that is the amazing sunset, enjoyed from your tent’s deck with a tipple in hand, by far makes up for the noise. It is absolute bliss.</p> <p><strong>2. Hike up to Tomaree Head</strong></p> <p>Tomaree Head sits 161 metres above Port Stephens and offers the most incredible views of the region. The track to the summit is just over two kilometres and will take around an hour, but you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Zenith, Wreck and Box beaches, the lighthouse and WWII gun placements, Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah islands, and potentially even whales or dolphins. There’s a picnic table at the top, so bring your lunch for a meal with a view.</p> <p><strong>3. Go whale watching</strong></p> <p>Every year, thousands of humpback and southern right whales make their way past Port Stephens during their annual migration. At this time of year, the southern migration has begun and you’ll see many mothers with newborn calves returning from the breeding grounds. There are plenty of spots to watch the whales from shore, but for the real experience you need to be out on the water. <a href="http://www.imaginecruises.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Imagine Cruises</span></strong></a> runs whale-watching tours every day from May to November. You’ll be sailing on a 16-metre catamaran as the whales swim right alongside or breach from the water in a stunning display of aquatic acrobatics.</p> <p><strong>4. Spend the day at the beach</strong></p> <p>Port Stephens is surrounded by more than 20 golden sandy beaches so enjoy a classic stop on the shore. There’s a beach for just about every kind of water activity you could ask for, from swimming and surfing to snorkelling, parasailing, fishing and jetskiing. Divers can explore the sea caves and shipwrecks of Fly Point Marine Park. Or you can just spread out your towel, pick up a good book and soak up some sun.</p> <p><strong>5. Have dinner by the water</strong></p> <p>The Port Stephens region is famous for its food and wine, and one of the best spots to taste it is the <a href="http://littlebeachboathouse.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Little Beach Boathouse</span></strong></a>. The restaurant sits right on the water at Nelson Bay – but set away from the main shops on the marina. Styled like a cool, breezy beach house, the menu features fresh local produce like rock oysters, fish and prawns, accompanied by wines from the nearby Hunter Valley and Murray Brewery Beers brewed in Port Stephens. Arrive early for dinner to watch the sunset with a glass of bubbles.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><strong>Related links</strong></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/09/10-of-the-most-incredible-landmarks-in-australia/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 of the most incredible landmarks in Australia</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/08/10-images-showcase-the-beauty-of-tasmanian-wilderness/"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>10 images showcase the beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness</strong></span></em></a></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/08/12-aerial-photos-showcasing-south-australias-beauty/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">12 aerial photos showcasing South Australia’s beauty</span></em></strong></a></p>

Domestic Travel

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Retiree shocked to find super account drained of funds

<p dir="ltr">A retired couple have received the shock of their life after finding out their super was drained to next to nothing after years of hard work. </p> <p dir="ltr">Stephen Lockwood worked his entire life but was forced to retire after having open-heart surgery, a plate placed in his neck for sciatic nerve, and two hip replacements. </p> <p dir="ltr">At 65 years old, Stephen believed that he had enough in his super account for him and his wife Denise.</p> <p dir="ltr">But when Denise went to take a look at the account, she was horrified to find only $48,863.80 of the expected $200,000 that was meant to be in there. </p> <p dir="ltr">It is understood that in 2010, Stephen took advice from MBA Financial Strategists to merge all his super accounts into one.</p> <p dir="ltr">Based on life insurance cover, all three accounts were merged into AXA's Summit Personal Super Plan before merging into AMP the following year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Five years later, Stephen had a record of $79,613.71 in his super but things took a turn despite the couple contributing $800 each month. </p> <p dir="ltr">This was caused by multiple fees each month, particularly for his life insurance and total permanent disability cover, which almost quadrupled from $509 per month in 2013 to $1960 a month this year. </p> <p dir="ltr">He was also being charged for a financial advisor. </p> <p dir="ltr">"They were taking $24,000 a year," Stephen told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/adelaide-couple-call-out-superannuation-fees/3bf0e217-3d45-4dd2-b155-7842490d0205?ocid=Social-9News&amp;fbclid=IwAR0r0e5KfoEOrTIjSGaa_K70Cf7fGheE6E6HeLrsWbGFxDBx6y_pyGX5iv4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Stephen admitted he wasn’t keeping tabs on his account and assumed that being charged for an advisor from MBA Financial Strategist was okay. </p> <p dir="ltr">MBA Financial Strategists told the publication that they attempted to reach out to Stephen in 2017 but heard no response. </p> <p dir="ltr">"At his most recent review in 2017, we alerted Mr Lockwood that his life insurer was increasing his premiums and it would be prudent to review his level of cover," a spokesperson told A Current Affair.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We made multiple attempts to contact Mr Lockwood over a number of years to assist with his annual review, however due to lack of contact we ceased charging his annual fee for advice in 2020.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Stephen’s account has since been referred to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority with AMP cooperating to receive the best possible solution. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: ACA</em></p>

Retirement Life

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Aussie speedster Steven Bradbury sells luxe apartment

<p dir="ltr">Aussie Olympian Steven Bradbury has sold his beachside investment apartment in Queensland after holding onto it for over a decade.</p> <p dir="ltr">The gold medallist skater listed the four-bedroom ground-floor apartment in the coastal suburb of Kings Beach in Caloundra earlier this year and has gone on to offload the flat for an undisclosed price.</p> <p dir="ltr">After 11 years of owning the apartment, Bradbury initially <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/unit-2-kings-palazzo-4-6-orvieto-terrace-kings-beach-qld-4551-2017750581" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listed</a> the home for $2 million in May before agents Danelle Wiseman and Jonathan Pattinson of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate revised the price to $1.8 million, per <em><a href="https://www.smh.com.au/property/news/steven-bradbury-times-his-run-perfectly-with-kings-beach-pad-20220517-p5am5r.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sydney Morning Herald</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even with the reduction, Bradbury’s potential earnings were more than double the amount his investment company, Pricefinder, paid in 2011.</p> <p dir="ltr">Prior to its sale on August 16, the home was maintained as a weekender and rental with an asking price of $660 a week in rent.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sitting just metres aware from the surf of King’s Beach, the 111-square-metre flat includes plenty of luxe amenities, such as its two courtyards - with one on each floor - timber herringbone hard floors in the living areas, and a large granite waterfall bench in the well-appointed kitchen.</p> <p dir="ltr">The flat also has access to the amenities offered by the Kings Palazzo complex, including a pool and BBQ area shared with just 11 other apartments.</p> <p dir="ltr">Bradbury, a four-time Olympian, shot to fame after his unlikely win at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games, getting through the semi-final and earning gold in the final after his competitors all crashed in the final seconds.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite trailing behind them all, Bradbury was able to skate into first place, giving rise to the phrase “doing a Bradbury” for winning as an underdog.</p> <p dir="ltr">Earlier this year, Bradbury took to Instagram to reflect on that fateful win 20 years later.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ll always be seen as an overnight success, but it took me many years of sweat, tears and plenty of blood to get there and I’ll always appreciate those who helped me and backed me against the odds,” he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CaBaljsvBl5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Courage, belief, determination and a little luck, all helped me to be the original #lastmanstanding, and now it’s fantastic to see our next generation of @ausolympicteam legends taking our Winter Olympic Dream into the future!”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-414adfac-7fff-b93d-0e1b-4618063616c7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @stevenbradburyofficial (Instagram) / Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate</em></p>

Real Estate

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Vale Stephen Wilhite, the creator of the GIF

<p dir="ltr">Stephen Wilhite, the man who invented the wildly popular GIF, has died aged 74.</p> <p dir="ltr">His wife, Kathleen, broke the news that he died of Covid on March 14.</p> <p dir="ltr">Wilhite created the Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) - an image format with a short, looping video - while working at CompuServe in 1987.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He invented the GIF all by himself - he actually did that at home and brought it into work after he perfected it,” Kathleen told <em><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/3/23/22992066/stephen-wilhite-gif-creator-dies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Verge</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He would figure out everything privately in his head and then go to town programming it on the computer.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He was later recognised for his work in 2013 when he was awarded a Webby lifetime achievement.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5373d36-7fff-91ae-017d-d7e2872911b0"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“I saw the format I wanted in my head and then I started programming,” he told The New York Times that same year, adding that the first image he created was of an airplane.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/04/01-06-17Avion.gif" alt="" width="400" height="149" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The first GIF created was of an airplane that seemed to move through clouds. Image: <a href="https://thefanatic.net/this-was-the-first-ever-gif/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TheFanatic.net</a></em></p> <p dir="ltr">The inventor and programmer also ended the debate on how to pronounce the name of his creation once and for all, saying it used a soft ‘g’ sound, like Jif peanut butter.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Those using the hard ‘g’, as in ‘got’ or ‘given’ are wrong,” he said. “End of story.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Kathleen said there was more to her husband than his invention of the GIF, and his love of trains led to him having a room dedicated to them in the basement of their home with “enormous train tracks”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even after he retired in 2001, she said “he never stopped programming”.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to his <a href="https://www.megiefuneralhome.com/obituaries/Stephen-E.-Wilhite?obId=24311617" target="_blank" rel="noopener">obituary page</a>, he had 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren and “remained a very humble, kind and good man” even with all his accomplishments.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>An unknown icon in internet culture</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Though Wilhite's name might be unfamiliar to many, his creation certainly isn’t. From an origin as a method of distributing high quality graphics in colour when internet speeds were at a snail’s pace, the GIF has become an useful tool used to communicate in digital spaces.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-35eb45d2-7fff-ff93-c0f8-c33ac4146eb0"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">In linguist Gretchen McCulloch’s book, <em><a href="https://gretchenmcculloch.com/book/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Because Internet</a></em>, she describes how GIF’s are used most frequently now as depictions of people, animals or cartoon characters doing a certain action to represent your own body.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/04/safe_image-1.gif" alt="" width="640" height="572" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Modern-day GIFs are often used to represent us laughing, crying, or gesturing in real life, just like this one in response to one of our memes. Image: Facebook</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Whether that’s commenting on a funny image with a GIF of an animal that’s beside itself in invisible laughter or sharing birthday messages with GIFs of cakes covered in flickering candles, most of us can recall a time we relied on these instead of writing or speaking.</p> <p dir="ltr">She also describes their use as emblems, a linguistic term for nameable gestures like the middle finger, jazz hands, eye rolling, winking, and dropping an invisible microphone, as well as a way to show that we’re actively listening to someone.</p> <p dir="ltr">Social media platforms have even caught onto how we use GIFs to communicate.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When you go to insert a GIF on Twitter, the built-in categories of GIF you’re offered are nameable, stylised gestures… such as applause, eww, eye roll, facepalm, fistbump, goodbye, happy dance hearts, high five (and others),” McCulloch writes.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-b5dedcec-7fff-2d78-d4df-fe30ad8fae1b"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“Certain GIFs are so emblematic that they can be invoked by name, without an image file … when you want to convey your excitement in observing other people’s drama, you can send a GIF of Michael Jackson eating popcorn in a darkened movie theatre, eyes avidly glued to the screen, but you can also simply say #popcorngif or *popcorn.gif*.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/04/giphy.gif" alt="" width="420" height="315" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The MJ GIF in question. Image: Giphy.com</em></p> <p dir="ltr">With that in mind, Wilhite’s 35-year-old creation will stay popular as long as we continue to interact with others online in a legacy that many aren’t afforded. </p> <p dir="ltr">Yet Wilhite was more than his creation, and it’s important that we remember his name just as easily as we remember our go-to GIFs.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe4257ee-7fff-52b3-15fe-147ff01552f8"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Technology

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Married couple at the centre of bizarre billion-dollar drug bust

<p>A recently married couple from Melbourne alongside an IT worker have been arrested and charged with running a customs importing business which dealt with over $1 billion worth of 1.6 tonnes of ice and heroin.</p> <p>It is the nation’s largest uncovered methamphetamine haul.</p> <p>Rachel Annette Cachia and Donovan Mark Rodrigues, both 37, have been described as “trusted insiders” in the customs industry and advised clients on the logistics of importing and exporting goods through their independently owned business.</p> <p>However, the couple have suffered a violent fall from grace as they may be met with life imprisonment if convicted over the seizure of 1.6 tonnes of ice and heroin found hidden inside speakers being shipped to Melbourne in April 2019.</p> <p>On social media, the couple showed off their lavish lifestyle, including holidays with their two young children and luxury sports cars.</p> <p>Alongside Ms Cachia and Mr Rodrigues is Bayside IT worker Stephen Mizzi, 38, who has also been charged after the Australian Federal Police raided properties in the Melbourne suburbs of Darley, Sunshine West, Brooklyn, Elwood and Murrumbeena.</p> <p>All three individuals are to face numerous charges of importing illicit drugs.</p> <p>Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Neil Gaughan alleged the couple were "middle to high up" in the drug operation.</p> <p>"We feel to a certain extent that they’ve been used," he said.</p> <p>"They [allegedly] used their positions of trust to circumvent the border control. It will be alleged that two of the three suspects charged are trusted industry insiders."</p> <p>Australian Border Forces uncovered the drugs after they asked for sea cargo sipped from Bangkok, Thailand to be inspected at a container examination facility, in April.</p> <p>Officers spotted “anomalies” inside the speakers after an X-ray and took them apart in result.</p> <p>They found numerous packages containing methamphetamine and heroin that had been vacuum-packed and stuffed inside the speakers.</p> <p>Court documents allege that Mr Rodrigues and Ms Cachia had begun dealing with proceeds of crime in December 2016.</p> <p>Then, between June 2017 and July this year, the couple allegedly began arranging the movement of goods without authorisation through ports on numerous occasions between West Melbourne and Brooklyn.</p> <p>By December 2018, it’s alleged that Mr Mizzi joined in on the drug operation with the plan to help ship heroin and ice to Australia.</p> <p>Mr Mizzi has also been additionally charged with dishonestly obtaining identification information from a mobile phone in April this year.</p> <p>The trio faced Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday, where lawyers said it was the first time in custody for both men and that Mr Mizzi had a "blood pressure issue".</p> <p>Liliana Dubroja, the lawyer representing Ms Cachia, requested a nurse assess her client due to kidney and mental health concerns.</p> <p>Commonwealth prosecutor Jamey Ellis said police required extra time to compile their brief of evidence due to the extensive number of phone taps.</p> <p>"There is a significant amount of listening device and telephone material," he said.</p> <p>The trio was remanded in custody to face court again on May 7. They have not applied for bail.</p>

Money & Banking

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The shocking moment judge is dragged from court to begin prison sentence

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Footage from inside a courtroom has gone viral after it depicted a juvenile judge being dragged away from court by police to immediately begin her prison sentence. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Ohio-based judge, Tracie Hunter had been on a mission since 2014 fighting her conviction and six-month jail sentence for allegedly using her influential position to help a family member, as reported by </span><a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/female-judge-dramatically-dragged-away-from-court-to-begin-prison-sentence-045522601.html?guccounter=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yahoo News. </span></a></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Chaos in the courtroom: <br /><br />This was the scene in a Hamilton County courtroom Monday morning as former juvenile judge Tracie Hunter was ordered to serve six months in jail and dragged out: <a href="https://t.co/8NEFZWOVcY">https://t.co/8NEFZWOVcY</a> <a href="https://t.co/HBlImlDxnI">pic.twitter.com/HBlImlDxnI</a></p> — WLWT (@WLWT) <a href="https://twitter.com/WLWT/status/1153304329215991808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2019</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tracie’s brother Stephen Hunter allegedly struck a young person while working as a youth corrections officer in 2013 - which led to his boss recommending he be fired.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tracie requested documents on the teenage offender and handed them over to her brother, according to prosecutors. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She was the first African American to be elected to Hamilton County’s Juvenile Court and maintains her prosecution was politically motivated. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She was handcuffed after the judge made his decision and was hastily taken away despite her protest. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The courtroom was filled with supporters who believed the woman was wrongfully prosecuted and sent letters to the personal address of the presiding judge in the hearing - however, his overall decision was not influenced.</span></p>

Legal

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5 of the best writing tips from Stephen King

<p><span>Very few authors are as accomplished and influential as Stephen King. With 60 novels under his belt and more than 350 million copies sold worldwide, King’s works have become cultural icons and touchstones of the horror and suspense genre. His impact also extends beyond the literary world – many of his works have been adapted to classic box office hits, such as <em>IT</em>, <em>Carrie </em>and <em>The Shawshank Redemption</em>.</span></p> <p><span>Over the years, King has shared some of the tricks behind his masterful storytelling. Here are some of them.</span></p> <p><strong><span>1. Read a lot</span></strong></p> <p><span>King has no patience for aspiring writers who claim to have no time to read. “You can’t put it off… you gotta read just about everything,” he said during a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=19&amp;v=hqp7A0B7abc">lecture</a> at Yale University. </span></p> <p><span>A pleasant surprise awaits once you become a seasoned reader, King said. “There’s a magic moment – if you read enough, it will always come to you if you want to be a writer – where you put down some book and say, ‘This really sucks. I can do better than this. And this guy got published’.” </span></p> <p><strong>2. Be concise</strong></p> <p><span>King is a strong advocate of compact, incisive prose. “For me, a good description usually consists of a few well-chosen details that will stand for everything else,” he wrote in his book <em>On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft</em>. “It’s also important to know what to describe, and what can be left alone while you get on with your main job, which is telling a story.”</span></p> <p><strong>3. Avoid adverbs</strong></p> <p><span>You may think moderate use of adverbs elevate your work, but King is not a fan. “To put it another way, they’re like dandelions,” he explained. </span></p> <p><span>“If you have one on your lawn, it looks pretty and unique. If you fail to root it out, however, you find five the next day… fifty the day after that… and then, my brothers and sisters, your lawn is totally, completely, and profligately covered with dandelions. By then you see them for the weeds they really are, but by then it’s – gasp!! – too late.”</span></p> <p><strong>4. Edit, edit and edit</strong></p> <p><span>According to King, a manuscript is not done before it is marked up, polished and even rewritten multiple times. “Only God gets things right the first time,” he wrote in a <a href="https://jerryjenkins.com/stephen-king-writing-advice/">blog post</a>. “Don’t be a slob.”</span></p> <p><strong>5. Let go of the plot</strong></p> <p><span>In what might be his most <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/books/comments/8btcvo/why_is_stephen_king_not_considered_a_great_writer/dx9gu9j?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=web2x">controversial</a> piece of advice, King said that the best stories are unearthed rather than created.</span></p> <p><span>“I distrust plot for two reasons,” he said. “First, because our lives are largely plotless, even when you add in all our reasonable precautions and careful planning; and second, because I believe plotting and the spontaneity of real creation aren’t compatible.”</span></p> <p><span>Instead of trying to build a storyline, he simply acts as a narrator, watching characters react to predicaments. “Stories are relics, part of an undiscovered pre-existing world,” he said. “The writer’s job is to use the tools in his or her toolbox to get as much of each one out of the ground intact as possible.”</span></p>

Books

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5 things to do when visiting Port Stephens

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Port Stephens is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney and offers jaw-dropping views to boot. With beaches, sand dunes, national parks and coastal walks, you’re bound to find something to do that will suit your holiday style. </span></p> <p><strong>1. See the view from the top of Tomaree Head</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tomaree Head offers the best view of Port Stephens. It’s a 360-degree lookout post that’s easy to get to. The journey is about 25 minutes, 160 metre climb and there are steep steps in some places, but the view up the top is worth it. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You’re able to see the offshore islands, Fingal Spit in the distance as well as Yacaaba Head and the Myall Rover. Don’t forget to pick your jaw up from the floor once you leave.</span></p> <p><strong>2. Enjoy oysters fresh from the sea</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re a fan of seafood and freshly shucked oysters, head to Holbert’s Oyster Farm in Salamander Bay. The plain-brick shop is so simple you might miss it, but there’s plenty to enjoy. With large, cooked king prawns for $30 a kilo, you won’t want to miss out. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Grab a seat outside and enjoy the view of the oyster farms. However, there are no inside tables if the weather is bad, so this is something to keep in mind.</span></p> <p><strong>3. See some seals (or whales if you’re lucky!)</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Head down to Port Stephens during the migration period from May to November and you might just be lucky enough to see some humpback whales making the journey. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">More than 7,000 whales pass by the Port Stephens coastline, so if you go during the migration period, you might just get lucky. If you don’t manage to see any whales, there’s seal colonies, fairy penguins and dolphins to look at as well.</span></p> <p><strong>4. Relax with morning tea at the lighthouse</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enjoy some downtime in the heritage listed Nelson Head Inner Lighthouse along Shoal Bay. You’ll be able to enjoy beautiful water views whilst relaxing with some famous lighthouse scones. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a relaxed atmosphere and a range of food to suit a variety of tastes, this isn’t the worst place to spend a lazy morning.</span></p> <p><strong>5. Go to the beach</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saved the best for last. The best things in life are free, so take a sweet stroll along the magnificent coastline of Port Stephens. There’s plenty of beaches to choose from, but for some, the journey towards Fingal Spit is best. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You’re able to walk across the sand spit to the connecting island if the tide is low, but it’s best to keep an eye on the tide before attempting this journey.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do you have any places to recommend in Port Stephens? Let us know in the comments.</span></p>

Domestic Travel

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The outfit Meghan Markle is being criticised for

<p>On Monday, Prince Harry and Meghan made an appearance at a sombre event which has led to the former actress being slammed for her outfit choice.</p> <p>The engaged couple attended the memorial service of Stephen Lawrence, an 18-year-old British black man who was murdered in a racially-charged attack 25 years ago, reported <em>People.</em></p> <p>For the memorial service held at St Martin-in-the-Fields church, Meghan wore a sleeveless, printed V-neck dress from Hugo boss.</p> <p>At the event, the royal couple spoke with Lawrence’s mother and Harry gave a speech on behalf of his father, Prince Charles.</p> <p>British Prime Minister Theresa May also attended the memorial service and was seated next to Meghan.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">📸 More pictures of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MeghanMarkle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MeghanMarkle</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrinceHarry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrinceHarry</a> at the memorial service for Stephen Lawrence yesterday <a href="https://t.co/YoBLCfzesT">https://t.co/YoBLCfzesT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarryAndMeghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarryAndMeghan</a> <a href="https://t.co/cyKzO2c0gx">pic.twitter.com/cyKzO2c0gx</a></p> — Meghan Markle Fan I meghanmarklefan.com (@mmarklefancom) <a href="https://twitter.com/mmarklefancom/status/988741247853563904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>However, royal speculators have been quick to criticise Meghan’s outfit for the event.</p> <p>One user wrote, “Surprised to see Meghan Markle had her shoulders uncovered at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StephenLawrence?src=hash" target="_blank">#StephenLawrence</a> memorial – seems a bit of a fashion faux pas to me?”</p> <p>Another user, who referred to Meghan by her character’s name in <em>Suits</em>, said that Meghan’s outfit was not fitting for the occasion.</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MeghanMarkle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"></a><span>"It´s a memorial service for a murder victim. In a church. Is it too much to ask of Rachel to cover up with a jacket, wear stockings, sort out that messy hair for once and stop the holding hands!" </span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AGDLM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AGDLM</a><br />The Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the 25th Anniversary Of Stephen Lawrence Memorial Service in London on 04.23.18.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/principeharry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#principeharry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/meghanmarkle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#meghanmarkle</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/princeharry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#princeharry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/releza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#releza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/princeharryandmeghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#princeharryandmeghan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/meghanstyle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#meghanstyle</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fashion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fashion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/style?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#style</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/photooftheday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#photooftheday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dress</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/skirt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#skirt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shoes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shoes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/outfit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#outfit</a> <a href="https://t.co/N7av3wVM6f">pic.twitter.com/N7av3wVM6f</a></p> — A.Guardián dela Moda (@Angel_Guardian) <a href="https://twitter.com/Angel_Guardian/status/988737979232370690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>Other royal fans were more forgiving of Meghan’s outfit choice.</p> <p>“Give her time, she is still learning. We know it should have been a suit or a dress with a collar and sleeves. She is a fashionista of the mod world,” a supporter said. </p> <p>Despite the criticism of her outfit, <em>Vogue</em> noted that the couple’s presence at the Lawrence memorial could mark a “watershed moment for the royal family, which has traditionally discouraged its members from publicly expressing their own political views”. </p>

Beauty & Style

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Stephen Hawkings generous final gift

<p>Stephen Hawking will always be remembered for his scientific achievements, but one aspect of his life that sometimes is forgotten is the scientist’s generosity.</p> <p><a href="http://www.news.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>News.com.au reports</strong></em></span></a> the professor paid for 40 homeless people to enjoy an Easter feast as his final gift from the grave.</p> <p>FoodCycle Cambridge tweeted their thanks saying they were “so grateful” for the, “generous donation so we could give our guests an extra special Easter meal yesterday”.</p> <p>They added: “We had a little cheer in honour of Stephen Hawking before tucking in.”</p> <p>Alex Collis, East of England Regional Manager for the charity, added: “Lucy Hawking contacted me and mentioned that the family would like to make a donation so that while the funeral was taking place people would be sitting down to a hot meal ‘on Stephen’.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">We're so grateful to the Hawking family for their generous donation so we could give our guests an extra special <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Easter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Easter</a> meal yesterday. We had a little cheer in honour of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StephenHawking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StephenHawking</a> before tucking in. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cambridge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cambridge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/community?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#community</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lovefoodhatewaste?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lovefoodhatewaste</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/alltogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#alltogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/ali61X06iE">pic.twitter.com/ali61X06iE</a></p> — FoodCycle Cambridge (@FoodCycleCamb) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoodCycleCamb/status/980359807680032768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>“It was a really kind gesture that I think fitted well with the sympathy Prof Hawking felt for people who were having a tough time of things.”</p> <p>What are your thoughts?</p>

Mind

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Stephen Hawking’s final predication

<p>Professor Stephen Hawking passed away just two weeks after submitting his final research paper, where he hinted that scientists could find another universe and predicted the end of the world.</p> <p>The physicist remarkably completed the research from his deathbed, revealed co-author Professor Thomas Hertog.</p> <p>His research paper shares the foundational maths to find experimental evidence for the existence of a “multiverse”, the theory that we are only one of many universes.</p> <p>If the evidence had been found while Hawking was still alive, he might have finally received the Nobel prize that he missed out on. </p> <p>“This was Stephen: to boldly go where Star Trek fears to tread,” said Hertog, professor of theoretical physics at KU Leuven University in Belgium.</p> <p>“He has often been nominated for the Nobel and should have won it. Now he never can.”</p> <p>The paper tackles an issue that has been on Hawking’s mind since 1983 when he and James Hartle first developed the “no boundary” theory.</p> <p>In the pair’s “no boundary” theory, they described how the Earth was created during the Big Bang. The theory also predicted a multiverse, meaning other universes were created at the same time.</p> <p>The paper also reveals Hawking’s final predication of how the world will end.</p> <p>Hawking believed that our universe will one day fade into blackness as the stars run out of energy.  </p> <p>Hawking’s prediction about the end of the world is controversial among cosmologists including a friend of his, Professor Neil Turok.</p> <p>Turok, who is the director of Canada’s Perimeter Institute, disagreed with his ideas and said, “I remain puzzled as to why he found this picture interesting.”</p> <p>Other scientists are excited to see the potential of Hawking’s latest paper as it is the first theory that can be tested in experiments.</p> <p>The paper, <em>A Smooth Exist From Eternal Inflation</em>, had its latest revisions approved 10 days before Hawking died.</p> <p>According to <em>The Sunday Times</em>, the paper will be published by an unnamed “leading journal” after a review is complete.</p> <p>Hertog also revealed that he met with Hawking in person to get final approval before submitting the paper. </p>

Books

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Why did Stephen Hawking live so long?

<p>Stephen Hawking was just 21 years old when he was told he’d only have two years to live. But it wasn’t until earlier this week that he <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2018/03/stephen-hawking-has-died-aged-76/">died at the age of 76</a></span>.</strong></p> <p>The world-renowned physicist, cosmologist and author of <em>A Brief History of Time</em>, defied incredible odds by living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for over five decades.</p> <p>The average survival rate for people with the motor-neuron disease is two to five years from the time of diagnosis, making Hawking’s long life a mystery of medicine.</p> <p>Prof Tissa Wijeratne, who leads the neuroscience research unit at Melbourne’s Western Hospital, told <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.news.com.au/technology/science/space/medical-miracle-stephen-hawking-was-certainly-an-outlier/news-story/14d697c10cfa790b8e5d6f5ba3807471">news.com.au</a> </strong></span>neurology and disorders affecting the brain and nerves is a “fascinating specialty”.</p> <p>“On average many folks with ALS live a few years from the diagnosis,” he said.</p> <p>“There are people who live for a long long time too. This is due to the amazing variability of how this disorder affects different human bodies.”</p> <p>He added: “There are variants of ALS that progress very, very slowly: PMA or progressive muscular atrophy is one such example.”</p> <p>“These patients can live for a long long time.”</p> <p>Leo McCluskey, an associate professor of neurology and medical director of the ALS Center at the University of Pennsylvania, <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/stephen-hawking-als/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>told the Scientific American</strong></span> </a>that life expectancy was down to two things.</p> <p>“The first thing is motor neurons running the diaphragm — the breathing muscles,” he said.</p> <p>“So the common way people die is of respiratory failure. And the other thing is the deterioration of swallowing muscles, and that can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.</p> <p>“If you don’t have these two things, you could potentially live for a long time — even though you’re getting worse.</p> <p>“What happened to him is just astounding. He was certainly an outlier.”</p> <p>Dr. Lucie Bruijn, the ALS Association's chief scientist in the US, said, "We wish we knew because that would give us clues to treatment.”</p> <p> "His lifespan is exceptional. I think there are few — I certainly don't know of any others — that have had such a long lifespan,” he added.</p>

Body

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Stephen Hawking’s tangled love life

<p>Stephen Hawking will always be remembered by the science world for his revolutionary work as an astrophysicist, but there were times when the legendary professor’s personal life was just as interesting as the complex theories he was working on.</p> <p>Failed marriages, divided families, obsessed followers and accusations of abuse dogged Hawking for the course of his life, before he passed away yesterday at age 76.</p> <p>1963 was the year that changed Stephen Hawking’s life forever, where he met Jane Wilde at a New Year’s Eve party, shortly after he learned he had motor neurone disease.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">stephen hawking on his wedding day, 1966 <a href="https://t.co/aJmw9kUMnE">pic.twitter.com/aJmw9kUMnE</a></p> — vintage pics (@60spics) <a href="https://twitter.com/60spics/status/973871473432686592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>Within two years the couple were married and became a family, having three children.  </p> <p>The problems for the couple were believed to have began after the publication of <em>A Brief History of Time</em>. Accolades and worldwide fame flowed from this landmark work, but so too did extra attention from unwanted admirers.</p> <p>“I rather felt that the family had been left behind. To me, Stephen was my husband and the father of my children; one does not say to one’s husband, ‘Oh, you’re so clever! I must worship the ground under your feet, or in this case, wheels’,” Ms Wilde said in a 2014 interview with <em>Radio Times</em>.</p> <p>The marriage was over by 1990, and Hawking develop a new relationship with his nurse Elaine Mason.</p> <p>This marriage was hardly smooth sailing however, with Hawking’s children accusing their stepmother of restricting access to their father and further tension sparked in 2003 after there were accusations of physical abuse levelled at Ms Mason.</p> <p>After 11 years of marriage Ms Mason filed for divorce in 2006, although allegations of cheating were promptly denied by one of Mr Hawking’s spokespeople.</p> <p>“He is far too busy. This is just a distraction which is really annoying. We don’t have any time for any of this. We have no interest in any of the gossip that is going on,” was the official response.</p> <p>Neither of the women of Mr Hawking’s life have issued a statement following his passing, but his children said the following yesterday.</p> <p>“We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today. He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years,” the statement said. “His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.</p> <p>“He once said, ‘It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people you love.’ We will miss him forever.”</p> <p>What are your thoughts?</p>

Relationships

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Stephen Hawking has died aged 76

<p>Stephen Hawking, world-renowned physicist, cosmologist and author of <em>A Brief History of Time</em>, has passed away at the age of 76.</p> <p>Professor Hawking’s family confirmed the news via a statement, saying, “We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today.</p> <p>“He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years. His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.</p> <p>“He once said, ‘’It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people you love.’</p> <p>“We will miss him forever.”</p> <p>The English-born, Oxford- and Cambridge-educated scientist was diagnosed with a rare, early-onset form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 1963 that slowly paralysed him. However, he was still able to communicate via a single cheek muscle connected to a speech-generating device.</p> <p>Despite being given just two years to live, Hawking defied all expectations, going on to become one of the world’s most respected scientific minds.</p> <p>His life story became the subject of the acclaimed film <em>The Theory of Everything</em>, in which Hawking was portrayed by Eddie Redmayne, who won an Oscar for his role.</p> <p>As <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2018/mar/14/stephen-hawking-professor-dies-aged-76" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>The Guardian</strong></em></span></a> so <span>succinctly </span>put it, <span>"Those who live in the shadow of death are often those who live most."</span></p> <p>Our thoughts are with the Hawking family at this difficult time.</p>

News

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“The Crown” star Claire Foy’s sad announcement

<p>Claire Foy, best known for playing the Queen on Netflix’s hit drama <em>The Crown</em>, has split from her husband of four years, actor Stephen Campbell-Moore.</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7815721/gettyimages-529181678_498x245.jpg" alt="Gettyimages -529181678" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>The former couple first met while working together on the set of<em> Season of the Witch</em> in 2011. They were married in 2014 and welcomed their first child together, a daughter named Ivy Rose, a year later.</p> <p>“We can confirm that we have separated and have been for some time,” they said in a statement released to the media. “We do however continue as great friends with the utmost respect for one another. We ask for our privacy during this time.”</p> <p>The split comes just months after Stephen underwent lifesaving surgery to remove a brain tumour.</p> <p>According to the <em>Daily Mail</em>, Foy was seen not wearing her wedding ring on the red carpet at the BAFTAs last week.</p> <p>Speaking to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/5647856/claire-foy-splits-husband-stephen-campbell-moore/" target="_blank"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Sun</span></em></strong></a>, a friend of the pair said the separation came as a “real shock” to their friends and loved ones.</p> <p>“They’re lovely people and are determined to keep everything civilised,” the friend said. “Obviously it has been a very sad period for both of them, and for their wider families.</p> <p>“But they are wonderful parents, intelligent and both successful in their own right. They’ve just decided that unfortunately their relationship simply wasn’t working and that this would be for the best.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Netflix.</em></p>

Legal

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Bedridden retirement village residents to lose homes just before Christmas

<p>Elderly and bedridden residents of a scandal-plagued retirement village are set to lose their homes just before Christmas, as Berkeley Living in Patterson Lakes prepares to close.</p> <p><a href="http://www.theage.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>The Age</strong></em></span></a> reports owners of the village’s units, who are financial victims of convicted crim Stephen Snowden, have been hit by fines and building repairs costs of $500,000 by the local council after the building was deemed dangerous.</p> <p>The City of Kingston in Melbourne has now ordered the facility to be closed, after a representative for the unit’s owners said they didn’t have the funds to carry our repairs.</p> <p>Utilities will be switched off on November 30, and while several elderly residents have already been moved to alternative accommodation, the fate of others remains unclear.</p> <p>The residents facing the prospect of being turfed out just before Christmas includes people in their 90s, a quadriplegic and another person with Alzheimer's.</p> <p>Mark Markovic, who owns six units, told The Age, “It is disgusting that a retirement village can be run this way. We hope something can be salvaged.”</p> <p>The closure comes after <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>The Age</strong></em></span></a> revealed state authorities had to intervene after staff went months without being paid, and more than 30 families who had sold units at the beleaguered retirement centre had never received the money owed.</p> <p>Mr Snowden has denied all allegations, yet refused to answer media questions. The fate of the elderly residents still living in the centre remains unclear.</p> <p>Victorian Consumer Affairs Minister Marlene Kairouz has released a written statement about the aged care centre, “In September, we appointed a Resident's Sponsor and a State Government Coordinator to protect the welfare of residents. We continue to help the remaining residents find alternative places to live.”</p> <p>What are your thoughts? Is enough being done to look after these residents?</p>

Retirement Life

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6 great Stephen King books turned into terrible movies

<p>Fifty-four novels, 350 million copies sold, nearly 200 short stories written – the prolific world of Stephen King has proved fertile ground for both the TV and movie world.</p> <p>But not everything this writing Midas has touched has turned to cinematic gold.</p> <p>With a new version of 1986 novel <em>It</em> wowing cinema audiences around the world, we thought it was a good time to look back at some of the worst adaptations of the King oeuvre on the big screen.</p> <p><strong>1. <em>Carrie</em></strong></p> <p>Nope, not the classic Sissy Spacek one, the terribly tween one launched in November 2013 and the one which starred Chloe Grace Moretz, fresh off the success of <em>Kick Ass</em>. All wide-eyed, open-mouthed, looking like she's permanently stubbed her toe as she wanders from one miserable encounter to the next, Moretz couldn't pull this together. </p> <p>While the telekinesis sequence at the prom ended up equal parts terrifying and balletic, I couldn't help but wish one of them would have hit me in the head to dull my senses. But alas, it did not, and another King-based misfire thudded into the cinema. – <strong>Darren Bevan</strong></p> <p><strong>2. <em>Cell</em></strong></p> <p>Samuel L Jackson and John Cusack had already successfully combined for 2007 King adaptation 1408.</p> <p>However, this 2016 effort deservedly basically went straight to on-demand, its premise of cell phone users being turned into rabid killers having already been executed to far better effect in 2015's Kingsman: The Secret Service. – <strong>James Croot</strong></p> <p><strong>3. <em>Dreamcatcher</em></strong></p> <p>While this 2003 sci-fi actioner boasts what would now be a dream cast – Morgan Freeman, Damian Lewis, Jason Lee, Donnie Wahlberg – what they collaborated on resulted in a nightmarishly unwatchable mess.</p> <p>Part of the problem lay in the original premise. What starts out as the tale of four friends with telepathic powers turns into an alien invasion movie of thudding ineptitude. Notable only for giving the world the word "s...weasel"  – coined by the characters as a nickname for the invading Byrum. –<strong> JC</strong></p> <p><strong>4. <em>Firestarter</em></strong></p> <p>Certainly not the finest two hours of Drew Barrymore, George C. Scott or Martin Sheen's career, this 1984 adaptation of King's 1980 pyrokinesis tale is mostly notable for taking a potentially interesting premise and turning it into something akin to watching paint dry.</p> <p>While the adults endlessly debate what should be done about little Charlie, Barrymore spends most of the movie screwing up her face in order to convey psychological powers. It's unknown whether James McAvoy used this as preparation for bringing to life Professor Charles Xavier decades later. – <strong>JC</strong></p> <p><strong>5. <em>The Lawnmower Man</em></strong></p> <p>Before he finally found his calling as 007, Pierce Brosnan struggled to make the transition from TV star to movies in clunkers like this 1992 sci-fi horror. He plays Dr Lawrence Angelo, a scientist who uses a human guinea pig for his experiments involving a combination of drugs and virtual reality.</p> <p>As well as boasting simply awful CGI (this was the year before <em>Jurassic Park</em> remember), the movie was also notable for bearing "no meaningful resemblance" to King's original 1987 short story, a fact the author himself brought up when he sued the producers for originally calling it Stephen King's <em>The Lawnmower Man</em>. –<strong> JC</strong></p> <p><strong>6. <em>Sleepwalkers</em></strong></p> <p>This 1992 duffer may have had an uncredited appearance from <em>Star Wars</em> alum Mark Hamill and King himself playing a caretaker in a cemetery (<em>Pet Cemetery</em> anyone?), but for many it'll be the film where cats laughably saved the day.</p> <p>Incorporating some guff about shape-shifting vampires, the film's decidedly silly tone clearly hadn't been passed on to the actors who were trying to take it seriously. Still, who knew vampires could be dispatched by some truly awful cat-got-your-tongue acting? – <strong>DB</strong></p> <p><em>Written by Darren Bevan and James Croot. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

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