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"No-one is above the law": Pauline Hanson weighs in on wild Lidia Thorpe CCTV footage

<p dir="ltr">Pauline Hanson has urged police to investigate the moment Greens senator Lidia Thorpe lost control outside a strip club in Melbourne last weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr">Senator Thorpe was captured on CCTV as she became embroiled in a verbally abusive argument with a stranger in the early hours of the morning as she filmed bystanders from the door of a taxi.</p> <p dir="ltr">The One Nation senator said she wants Victoria Police to investigate the matter to see if Senator Thorpe broke the law during her tirade.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I think Victoria police should be carefully examining that footage to determine if Senator Thorpe has broken the law,” Senator Hanson said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The Australian Human Rights Commission might also consider examining the footage for possible breaches of Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act. I think the people subjected to her abuse on the weekend should come forward and see that she is held accountable, because the Senate has shown it’s too gutless to do so.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“No one – least of all an elected representative of the people – is above the law.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Hanson went on to say that Ms Thorpe was not an appropriate representative for Victorians.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Many Victorians would be asking if Senator Thorpe had any intentions of fairly representing them in Canberra given her obvious contempt for parliament and for those Australians who do not share her Aboriginal heritage, and even her contempt for those who do share Aboriginal her heritage but not her views,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“That contempt is on full display in this footage and has been during incidents in which she has verbally attacked Aboriginal elders, or protested at public events, and even when she has spoken on the floor of the Senate.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey Melbourne, Australia: <br />How did someone like Lidia Thorpe get into parliament? 🧐 <a href="https://t.co/w8VT9tCbjF">pic.twitter.com/w8VT9tCbjF</a></p> <p>— Meanwhile in Melbourne (@meanwhileinau) <a href="https://twitter.com/meanwhileinau/status/1647536448734904321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The incident, which occurred outside a strip club at 3 am and was captured in its entirety on CCTV, clearly shows Senator Thorpe circling a group of men waiting outside the club before pointing her finger at them and shouting about the size of their genitalia.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the confrontation, Senator Thorpe can also be seen walking up to a man with his back to the wall of Maxine’s Gentleman’s Club before shouting abuse.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Thorpe has now been banned for life from the Brunswick strip club, as manager David Ross told news.com.au that he had now formally banned the politician in a letter that was sent to her office.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

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"Above and beyond": Woolies worker's simple act of kindness

<p>A Woolies checkout operator has been praised for her generous deed after a relieved mother shared the experience online.</p> <p>The mum was a few dollars short and asked the woman at the checkout to remove an item so that she could afford the bill.</p> <p>The checkout worker disappeared and returned with $2 in hand and covered the difference in the bill.</p> <p>“My husband took our daughter to my in-laws so I could clean the house and have a little me time,” Jessica Hayat Atalla began in the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/515507852491119/permalink/725151458193423" target="_blank">post</a><span> </span>on the Facebook group The Kindness Pandemic.</p> <p>“Pretty much the first alone time I have had at home since she was born 10 months ago (and the longest we have ever been apart!),” the Woolies customer continued.</p> <p>“So I was a little excited , even though I missed her soooo much !</p> <p>“After I finished cleaning I walked across the road to the local Woolworths to pick up some afternoon treats but in my excitement I had left my wallet in the car, which my husband was driving, as it has the (baby’s) car seat.</p> <p>“I had a little bit of cash but ended up also getting some cleaning supplies and was just short.</p> <p>“I asked the young lady at the self checkout if she could remove one item as I didn’t have my wallet and I didn’t have enough cash on me.</p> <p>“She told me to hold on and I was thinking maybe she needed to get a senior staff member to remove the item, instead she came back with two dollars which was more than I needed and she even told me to keep the change.</p> <p>“It really made my day!!</p> <p>“Thank you so much the kind gesture was very appreciated.”</p> <p>The post was a hit with members of the group, with the post racking up more than 3,000 likes.</p> <p>Woolworths was impressed with the worker's kind act and wanted to find the worker so it could offer a reward.</p> <p>“At Woolworths, our teams strive to bring a little good to everyone everyday, and this is yet another great example,” a spokesperson told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/business/retail/woolies-worker-pays-for-womans-grocery-when-she-cant-afford-it-goes-viral-c-2045503" target="_blank">7NEWS.com.au.</a></p> <p>“It was a very thoughtful gesture and we’re glad it was well-received by the customer.</p> <p>“We’d love to hear from the customer directly, so we can recognise the team member for going above and beyond.”</p>

Money & Banking

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Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford jokes he's "punching above his weight"

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Clarke Gayford has joked that he is "punching above his weight" in his relationship with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.</p> <p>Gayford hosts fishing program<span> </span><em>Fish of the Day</em><span> </span>and shared some insight into his relationship with Ardern.</p> <p>He answered a question about how their relationship began on Australian radio station Nova 96.9.</p> <p>"I thought you were about to accuse me of punching [above my weight], and, well, you would be right!" he joked.</p> <p>Gayford explained to hosts Fitzy and Wippa that he met his now-fiancee through official channels.</p> <p>"This is slightly embarrassing, I had a constituency issue and I emailed my local MP and I got some really good advice," he laughed.</p> <p>The pair briefly met for the first time at an awards show in 2012, with Gayford reaching out to Ardern to discuss his concerns over a proposed bill.</p> <p>The pair's relationship became more high-profile in August 2017 as Ardern became the leader of New Zealand's Labour Party. Just seven weeks later, she was elected to the office of Prime Minister.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDGQlyUMOkS/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDGQlyUMOkS/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Clarke Gayford (@clarkegayford)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Gayford remembers that moment vividly.</p> <p>"As I was about to go down underwater I turned my phone off, like 'I don't want to know about this'," he told Nova's Fitzy and Wippa.</p> <p>"When I came back up the guy on the boat said, 'Yeah, mate, you might want to call back home. Your missus has had a promotion'."</p> <p>Gayford was diving in Queensland and was filming the new Discovery Channel documentary<span> </span><em>Shark Lockdown</em><span> </span>when Ardern was made Prime Minister.</p> <p>The pair are now engaged after having their first child, daughter Neve Te Aroha in June 2018.</p> </div> </div> </div>

Relationships

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“White Lives Matter” banner flown above football match

<p>Burnley have criticised a banner displaying “White Lives Matter Burnley” after it was flown above the Etihad Stadium, during a game against Manchester City on Monday night.</p> <p>The club quickly put out a statement after the banner, which was towed by a plane, flew over the grounds of the stadium.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAds2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAds2</a> - care to comment in your ad plane that flew above Burnley FC today towing a banner bearing the legend "White Lives Matter"? For instance, who bought that ad space? <a href="https://t.co/LqUQ5IEhjG">pic.twitter.com/LqUQ5IEhjG</a></p> — Di Middleton QC (@di_middleton_QC) <a href="https://twitter.com/di_middleton_QC/status/1275158013591027713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>Just a few minutes before, team members and match officials had taken a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.</p> <p>“We wish to make it clear that those responsible are not welcome at Turf Moor,” the statement read.</p> <p>“This, in no way, represents what Burnley Football Club stands for and we will work fully with the authorities to identify those responsible and issue lifetime bans.</p> <p>“The club has a proud record of working with all genders, religions and faiths through its award-winning Community scheme, and stands against racism of any kind. We are fully behind the Premier League’s Black Lives Matter initiative and, in line with all other Premier League games undertaken since Project Restart, our players and football staff willingly took the knee at kick-off at Manchester City.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">So apparently there was a plane carrying the flag" White lives matter" big disgrace, burnley <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCIBUR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCIBUR</a> <a href="https://t.co/auGrYN2o3w">pic.twitter.com/auGrYN2o3w</a></p> — GROOt (@UncleDr77939074) <a href="https://twitter.com/UncleDr77939074/status/1275144914158878723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“We apologise unreservedly to the Premier League, to Manchester City and to all those helping to promote Black Lives Matter.”</p> <p>After Manchester City took the victory 5-0, Burnley defender Ben Mee took aim at the banner, saying: “We can talk about football, but there’s something I want to speak about first: the plane banner.</p> <p>“I’m embarrassed and ashamed at the fans bringing that out. They’ve completely missed the point. These people need to come into the 21st century and educate themselves.”</p> <p>“It doesn’t represent what we’re about, what the club’s about, what the players are about and what the majority of our fans are about. We’d heard some whispers that it might happen and the club tried to stop it. I hope it doesn’t happen again. I’m upset that it’s associated with our club, my club.”</p> <p>The former Manchester City defender Micah Richards, said on Sky Sports: “It’s so disheartening, especially with how far we’ve cone in these last couple of weeks. It really does hurt me.” </p> <p>European quality body, Fare, released a statement slamming the stunt.</p> <p>“The racist backlash against the Black Lives Matter movement across Europe is a trend we have seen and documented,” Fare’s executive director, Piara Powar said.</p> <p>“Set against the BLM message of equal rights ‘White Lives Matter’ can only be motivated by racism and a denial of equal rights. It shows exactly why the fight for equality is so important and why the majority of people have supported it.</p> <p>“At this stage we don’t know who is behind this, but it’s clear they don’t see the relevance of the message to football or the impact that racism has on so many peoples lives. So be it. The movement, the issues that are being discussed and the change that will arise is unstoppable. History will judge that this was a moment that led to change.”</p>

Travel Trouble

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Federer and Nadal go above and beyond at Aussie Open's Rally for Relief

<p>The tennis world has dug deep to raise a staggering $4.8 million for bushfire victims in a night of thrilling entertainment at the Rally for Relief which took place at Rod Laver Arena.</p> <p>The man behind the groundbreaking initiative was none other than Aussie’s own Nick Kyrgios, who was completely overcome with emotion after the total figure of $4,826,014 was revealed to him on court.</p> <p>The crowd in Melbourne was thrilled as he went head-to-head with Roger Federer in a one-set finale that was the highlight on the night.</p> <p>“I just got goosebumps when you said that number,” said Kyrgios.</p> <p>“It’s been an emotional couple of weeks. I just wanted to send a message, I just had to do it so I wrote the Tweet.</p> <p>“The whole Aussie team got behind it and I woke up the next day and it exploded, it was so emotional.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr">"It's been an emotional couple of weeks," says <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a> <br /><br />To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/a3qgsExZQj">https://t.co/a3qgsExZQj</a> <a href="https://t.co/RKvhFLyscU">pic.twitter.com/RKvhFLyscU</a></p> — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217393053138288640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“Back home at Canberra I couldn’t even go outside (due to the smoke), it was hard and I’m just so happy that we had Roger, Rafa, Novak – some of the greats – to get behind this.”</p> <p>The one-off special event saw some of the biggest names in tennis taking part, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams, who donated their time to encourage support for charities helping deal with the bushfire crisis.</p> <p>The night was enjoyed by many, as the atmosphere was lighthearted with 12 players competing in a series of jovial matches and challenges to help raise money for the natural disaster.</p> <p>Spanish favourite Nadal also made a major announcement, revealing that he and Federer had donated a cumulative $250,000 from their own pockets after chatting earlier in the day.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr">"Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a><br /><br />To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB">https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ocdiw8D0if">pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if</a></p> — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217378578188447745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“Talking with Roger a couple of hours ago we decided to give $250,000 Australian dollars to the bushfire relief together,” he said.</p> <p>“Hopefully that can keep inspiring people to support this terrible disaster that we were going through and helps to recover all the things that we need (sic).”</p> <p>Later in the night, a Victorian firefighter had her dreams come true after she was given the chance to play with Nadal himself for an epic doubles match.</p> <p>Deb, a member of the Stuart Mill fire brigade, revealed on air that for the last few weeks she has been involved in battling fires in the crisis gripping the country.</p> <p>She admitted that it had been a very difficult time, as she witnessed neighbourhoods and wildlife being destroyed due to the fires.</p> <p>"We're there trying to make all the farmers feel safe while they go about their business."</p>

Money & Banking

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New generation of hotels are a cut above the rest

<p><em><strong>Betsy Goldberg writes for <a href="http://blog.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Virtuoso Luxury Traveller</span></a>, the blog of a <a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">global luxury travel network</span></a>, and she enjoys nothing more than taking a holiday.</strong></em></p> <p>Do you love discovering the world’s hottest new hotels? If so, you’re not alone. Being among the first to visit a brand-new property is one of the biggest trends in the hotel industry today.</p> <p>These seven new hotels around the globe have all opened in the previous year. Discover what makes these hottest new hotels so unique. After you do, you’ll want to add them to your wish list.</p> <p><strong>1. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel</strong></p> <p>The Cape’s setting alone would make it one of the globe’s hottest new hotels. Every room and vantage point in the Los Cabos beachfront resort overlooks the eye-catching El Arco and Bahía San Lucas horizon.</p> <p>The contemporary design evokes a retro Southern California-meets-Baja mood. All of the 161 rooms have balconies to view the Pacific. Bathrooms feature state-of-the-art rain showers and freestanding copper-leafed tubs. Select suites also offer private plunge pools and butler service.</p> <p>Two pools seemingly spring from the rock formations by the secluded beach. For a little relaxation, the spa, Currents, offers ocean-view cabanas for outdoor treatments.</p> <p>Food and drink options abound. Enjoy modern Mexican cuisine at the two restaurants. Four bars, including Cabo’s only rooftop lounge, offer plenty of cocktail choices.</p> <p>Our tip: Try the delectable octopus tacos at the Ledge restaurant or the swim-up pool bar.</p> <p><strong>2. COMO The Treasury</strong></p> <p>COMO The Treasury is a cosmopolitan 48-room hotel in Perth’s newly revitalized business district. The property is housed in three state government buildings dating from the mid-1800s. It blends history with modern elegance. Design elements such as original high ceilings, cornicing and balconies have been preserved in the spacious guest rooms. Modern touches such as large windows, custom-made beds and freestanding bathtubs also enhance the guest experience.</p> <p>World-renowned COMO Shambhala wellness therapies are available at the Urban Escape. The spa blends Eastern traditions with cutting-edge progress in holistic healthcare.</p> <p>Our tip: Dine with a view at the rooftop Wildflower restaurant. Besides vistas across the Swan River, you’ll also enjoy contemporary cuisine with local produce.</p> <p><strong>3. Faena Hotel Miami Beach</strong></p> <p>The stunning beachfront hotel invokes nostalgia for Miami Beach’s ‘50s heyday. Film director-producer Baz Luhrmann and costume designer Catherine Martin collaborated on the colorful design.</p> <p>The property offers 169 rooms, two restaurants by celebrated chefs, lush grounds and a Children’s Club. Guests will also enjoy unusual features at the art-focused hotel. Those include a dedicated butler for every floor, a private screening room, a theater with live performances and supper club.</p> <p>Don’t miss the Tierra Santa Spa. It offers ancient South American healing techniques and native ingredients, a wet spa, double-height hammam and private oceanfront spa suites.</p> <p>Our tip: The hotel features Miami’s widest and most pristine beachfront. For the ultimate in service, head for the 100,000-square-foot Beach &amp; Cabana Club.</p> <p><strong>4. Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech</strong></p> <p>With the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech lies nestled in olive groves and gardens scented with jasmine and over 100,000 roses. But this calming oasis is only 10 minutes from the city’s famous Medina.</p> <p>The 54 luxurious villas and 9 spacious suites all feature private pools. The spa draws inspiration from its Moroccan location and the brand’s Oriental heritage. It offers a range of holistic therapies, two luxurious hammams and a walled garden for post-treatment relaxation.</p> <p>Our tip: Enjoy the resort’s many recreational opportunities. Those include indoor and outdoor pools, jogging trail, bike rentals, yoga studio, state-of-the-art fitness center and direct access to two premier golf clubs.</p> <p><strong>5. Mandarin Oriental, Milan</strong></p> <p>Located in the city’s financial and fashion districts, the hotel is next to the world-famous La Scala opera house. It’s a short walk to Milan attractions such as the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The intimate property occupies four elegant 18th-century buildings. Some of the 72 rooms feature oversized private terraces.</p> <p>The hotel’s southern Italian restaurant, Seta, was awarded a Michelin star just four months after opening. The Mandarin Bar bistro offers a relaxed atmosphere and has quickly become an “it” spot. Both feature alfresco courtyard dining. The holistic spa houses a Thai massage room and spacious VIP suite.</p> <p>Our tip: Ask the concierge to arrange a personal shopper. Take home pieces by Milan’s emerging designers before they arrive in your country.</p> <p><strong>6. The New York EDITION</strong></p> <p>Located in the heart of the city’s Flatiron District, the hotel is housed in a 1909 building. Today it’s an icon of the city’s celebrated skyline. Its 41-story clock tower offers unbelievable 360-degree vistas.</p> <p>Inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an elite club in the 1920s. A spiral staircase and 30-foot-long fireplace are dramatic touches. Sculptural ceilings, large windows and sensual throws enhance the 273 guestrooms, including 62 suites.</p> <p>Our tip: Sip a creative cocktail with a punny name at the Gold Bar. Maybe a Dill or No Dill – gin, dill and cucumber? Or Give Peas a Chance, with gin, chartreuse and salted pea cordial? The gorgeous horseshoe bar is crafted of 24-karat gold leaf.</p> <p><strong>7. The Temple House</strong></p> <p>In the heart of Chengdu, The Temple House blends heritage with modern design. The property is part of a project to conserve the traditional courtyards next to the 1,000-year-old Daci Temple.</p> <p>Guests enter the 100-room hotel through a century-old courtyard building. Its brickwork, wood carvings, ceilings and floors, step stones, roofs and eaves have been beautifully restored.</p> <p>There’s plenty to experience at the property. The TEAHOUSE features light, healthy cuisine. The casual Temple Café offers Western and Eastern specialties. Tivano creates elegant Italian dishes. The speakeasy-style Jing Bar features live DJs. The Mi Xun Spa offers treatments in private individual pods.</p> <p>Our tip: Families visiting Chengdu’s giant panda sanctuary will love the complimentary in-room refreshment bars and the kids’ afternoon tea.</p> <p>Have you been to any of these incredible hotels?</p> <p><em>First appeared on <a href="http://blog.virtuoso.com/destinations/get-know-7-globes-hottest-new-hotels/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Virtuoso Luxury Traveller</span></strong></a>.</em></p> <p><em><a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Click here</span></strong></a> to visit its website for more information.</em></p>

Travel Tips

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Daredevil ice-skates above frozen underwater prison

<p>Once a compound of violence and hardship, an old Soviet jail in Estonia is now seen in beautiful and serene light, in stunning footage released by daredevil travellers.</p> <p>Alari Teede and Meelis Vosu shared a breathtaking video of them ice-skating over an abandoned prison submerged in a frozen lake in northern Estonia.</p> <p>The video, shot on December 30, shows him gliding across the ice rink among dilapidated buildings.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34394/ice-skating-in-text_498x245.jpg" alt="Ice -skating -in -text"/></p> <p>"The water/ice was so clean that you could see everything underneath your feet," he said. "As well parts of [the] old prison, [there were] fishes and landscape underwater."</p> <p>The ice "was about 3-7cm thin and water [was] pretty deep so if you go there better have some safety gear with you", he added.</p> <p>In its yesteryear, Rummu prison housed inmates who were forced to work in a nearby quarry.</p> <p>The jail has long since been abandoned and flooded, and attracts daredevils from around the world for a spot of summer diving or winter skating.</p> <p>Have you ever had an adventurous travel experience?</p> <p><em>First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>. Image credit: Newsflare/<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/">Stuff.co.nz</a></span></strong></em></p>

International Travel

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Australian dollar finally back above 77 US cents

<p>If you’ve been putting off a trip to the USA due to the Australian dollar’s poor performance, it might finally be time to book those flights – we’re back above 77 US cents at last (77.08, to be exact).</p> <p>The Aussie dollar has been given a big boost after the Government auctioned off a record $1.1 billion of 11-year bonds, not to mention a high level of demand for the 2.75 per cent coupon.</p> <p>In fact, Chief Economist of Deutsche Bank, Adam Boyton, told <a href="http://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/australian-economy/australian-dollar-could-hit-80-us-cents-deutsche-bank-chief-economist-claims/news-story/f352f6854823233a7403710729d524a3" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">News Corp</span></strong></a> he believes we may be on our way to hitting the 80 cent mark for the first time since May 2015. “Instead of being driven by a weaker domestic economy lowering imports, the current narrowing in the current account deficit is being driven by a surge in exports,” he said. “It also prompts the question of whether or not an export driven narrowing in the current account can tell us something about the likely direction of the AUD? Interestingly, it appears that it can.”</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/finance/money-banking/2017/02/australias-biggest-bank-accused-of-ripping-off-thousands-of-workers/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Australia’s biggest bank accused of ripping off thousands of workers</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/finance/money-banking/2017/02/you-could-be-eligible-for-hundreds-of-dollars-interest-free/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>You could be eligible for hundreds of dollars interest-free</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/finance/money-banking/2017/02/how-to-find-out-which-is-the-best-credit-card-for-you/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>How to find out which is the best credit card for you</strong></em></span></a></p>

Money & Banking

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The hair-raising moment airplane flies inches above beachgoers

<p>This is the hair-raising, heart-racing, sweaty palm-inducing moment a plane flies inches above beachgoers at a packed beach.</p> <p>The footage was filmed by a traveller as the airplane prepared to land on what has been dubbed the “scariest” runways in the world on the Caribbean island of St Maarten.</p> <p>Maho Beach is located right next to Princess Juliana airport, the second-busiest airport in the eastern Caribbean. The runway is less than half the length of the runways found at other international airports.</p> <p>The beach has become famous for its plane-spotting location and is inundated with adventure seekers who want to experience a jet flying close overhead. However, it’s not exactly a safe endeavour with plenty of signs warning tourist that the jet blast from arriving and departing planes can cause serious injury or even death.</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/01/12-daggiest-tourist-photo-poses">12 daggiest tourist photo poses</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2015/12/how-to-stretch-your-travel-budget/">6 simple steps to make your travel budget go further</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/01/rodent-spotted-on-air-india/"><em>Rodent spotted on board forces plane to turn around</em></a></strong></span></p>

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Woman's surprise for long-distance partner goes above and beyond

<p>Whether you believe in them or not, there’s no doubt that this woman has just pioneered a solution for long distance couples the world over.   </p> <p>Mikki Miller, who lives in Minnesota, and Tyson Noel, who lives in Kelowna, British Columbia, have been dating long-distance since May 2015. The couple last saw each other when Mikki visited Tyson over New Years. As anyone who has been in a long distance relationship knows, it’s the immediate time that follows their absence that is the hardest to get through.</p> <p>Knowing this, Mikki hatched a plan that was something quite spectacular. She left Tyson a special briefcase full of envelopes, hidden in his room.</p> <p> </p> <p><img width="499" height="365" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13737/text_499x365.jpg" alt="Text"/></p> <p> After three days of being separated, Mikki instructed Tyson to look under the side tale in his bedroom. Tyson said he was ‘overwhelmed’ by the gesture.</p> <p>"It really was a unique and extremely thoughtful way for her to show her love for me."</p> <p>The contents of each envelope are designed for a specific purpose-like when Tyson is feeling ‘nostalgic’</p> <p><img width="500" height="889" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13738/nos_500x889.jpg" alt="Nos"/></p> <p> Or lonely</p> <p><img width="500" height="889" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13739/lon_500x889.jpg" alt="Lon"/></p> <p> Or if he’s just having a bad day</p> <p><img width="500" height="889" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13740/bad_500x889.jpg" alt="Bad"/></p> <p>Tyson said he would like to keep the contents of the envelopes to himself</p> <p>"I have only opened a couple at this time as I'm trying hard to follow her instructions on opening them on days I need them," he said.</p> <p>"These days it's hard to find acts of romance and surprise like this in relationships," Tyson added. "I look forward to the life we build together."</p> <p>Tyson and Mikki first began talking seven years ago after connecting on the art site DeviantArt.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2015/12/word-that-makes-or-breaks-relationships/"></a></strong></span></em></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/relationships/2015/12/word-that-makes-or-breaks-relationships/">The word that makes or breaks relationships</a></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2015/12/word-that-makes-or-breaks-relationships/"></a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/relationships/2015/11/love-songs-playlist/%20Happiest%20type%20of%20marriage%20revealed">The classic love song playlist</a></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2015/12/word-that-makes-or-breaks-relationships/"></a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/relationships/2015/10/married-people-happiness-study/%20%20%20">Happiest type of marriage revealed</a></em></strong></p>

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UFO clouds form above Cape Town

<p>UFO-like cloud formations forming above Cape Town have left locals scratching their heads.</p> <p>Many have taken to social media to share this unnerving weather pattern.</p> <p>And while it may look like an alien invasion it’s actually a strange cloud formation.</p> <p>This eerie cloud formation is a phenomenon known as lenticular clouds, caused when high winds blow over rough terrain, such as mountains and valleys.</p> <p>Scroll down to see more images:</p> <p><img width="500" height="500" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10843/cloud-number-two_500x500.jpg" alt="Cloud Number Two"/></p> <p><em>Image credit: Twitter / <span class="Tweet-authorScreenName Identity-screenName p-nickname">Rory_OB1</span></em></p> <p><em><span class="Tweet-authorScreenName Identity-screenName p-nickname"><img width="499" height="405" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10844/cloud-number-three_499x405.jpg" alt="Cloud Number Three"/></span></em></p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram / joshua.oates</em></p> <p><img width="499" height="400" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10847/cloud-number-four_499x400.jpg" alt="Cloud Number Four"/></p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram / beanibop<span> </span></em></p> <p><em><span><img width="500" height="403" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10848/cloud-number-six_500x403.jpg" alt="Cloud Number Six"/></span></em></p> <p><em>Image credit: Twitter / <span class="Tweet-authorScreenName Identity-screenName p-nickname">DiBrown5</span></em></p> <p><em><span class="Tweet-authorScreenName Identity-screenName p-nickname"><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10849/cloud-number-one_500x334.jpg" alt="Cloud Number One"/></span></em></p> <p><em>Hero image credit: Instagram / instagram_sa</em></p>

International Travel

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In pictures: Australia’s blue salt fields from above

<p>We’re mesmerised by these stunning shots of Australia’s blue fields by photographer Simon Butterworth. From above, the surreal beauty of the fields look like the patterns of an abstract painting. The series, fittingly called “Blue Fields”, has been shortlisted for the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards.</p> <p><img width="572" height="381" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-3-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="571" height="857" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-2-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="571" height="380" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-3-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="570" height="855" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-4-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="568" height="378" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-51__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="565" height="847" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-6-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p><img width="568" height="378" src="http://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Blue-Fields-No-9-1__880.jpg"/></p> <p>Find more at his <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.simonbutterworthphotography.com" target="_blank">website Simon Butterworth Photography.</a></strong></span></p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/07/turtle-video-great-barrier-reef/">Take a turtle’s-eye journey through the Great Barrier Reef</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/07/two-raging-grannies-trailer/">We can’t wait to see this movie about “two raging grannies” challenging Wall Street</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/07/most-offensive-ad/">This is the most offensive ad on Australian TV this year</a></strong></em></span></p>

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