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Oldest member of royal family dies just before 101st birthday

<p>Countess Marianne Bernadotte, the beloved and longest-living member of the Swedish and Danish royal family, has died at the age of 100. Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in European royal and cultural life.</p> <p>According to her daughter, who spoke to Swedish news agency TT, the countess passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her closest relatives at a nursing home in Gärdet, Stockholm. "It was calm and peaceful," she said. "She was over 100 years old, with only two months to her 101st birthday."</p> <p>Born Marianne Lindberg, she carved out a name for herself long before becoming royalty. As a talented actress with the Royal Dramatic Theatre, she was known for her compelling performances and collaborations with renowned artists of her time.</p> <p>She first married Gabriel Tchang, son of a Chinese ambassador, in 1947. The couple had three children – Robert Gabriel, Richard Antoine and Marie Gabrielle. Tragically, both sons passed away before her: Richard at just two years old and Robert in 2012.</p> <p>In 1961, she wed Count Sigvard Bernadotte, the second son of King Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden, becoming the aunt by marriage to the current King Carl XVI Gustaf. She was also the great-aunt of King Frederik X of Denmark through her ties to Queen Margrethe II. She was widowed in 2002.</p> <p>Countess Bernadotte was deeply committed to philanthropic work. After losing her son Richard to complications that led to blindness, she and her husband founded the Sigvard and Marianne Bernadotte Research Foundation for Paediatric Eye Care. Her advocacy extended to dyslexia awareness, inspired by her brother and other royal family members who faced the condition.</p> <p>She had a deep appreciation for the arts and fashion. Recognised as one of the ten best-dressed women in the world, her enduring relationship with the Balmain fashion house and other haute couture designers became a hallmark of her public image. In 2017, a special exhibition honouring her fashion legacy was opened by her grandniece, Crown Princess Victoria.</p> <p>Her passing is mourned not only by her family but by a nation that admired her elegance, strength and unwavering dedication to causes close to her heart. She is survived by her daughter Marie Gabrielle, several grandchildren and a great-grandson.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

"It's simple": Sussan Ley reveals stance on Welcome to Country

<p>Newly elected Liberal leader <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/sussan-ley-elected-first-female-leader-of-the-liberal-party" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sussan Ley </a>has called on her party to modernise and reconnect with contemporary Australian values following one of its worst electoral defeats in history.</p> <p>In her first press conference since defeating Angus Taylor for the leadership, Ms Ley pledged a fresh approach to politics, saying the Liberal Party must "respect, reflect, and represent modern Australia".</p> <p>“We have to meet the people where they are. And that’s what I am committed to doing and what I am determined to do,” she said. “I want to do things differently, and we have to have a fresh approach.”</p> <p>Ley described her election to the party’s top job as an “enormous privilege”, adding: “I am humbled. I am honoured. And I am up for the job.”</p> <p>The leadership transition follows a bruising election campaign that saw the Liberals suffer significant losses, prompting calls for renewal and deeper engagement with a changing electorate.</p> <p>Cultural recognition also emerged as a flashpoint during the campaign’s final days, with controversy over audience reactions to Welcome to Country ceremonies. Addressing the issue head-on, Ms Ley called for authenticity in cultural acknowledgements.</p> <p>“With respect to Welcome to Country, it’s simple: if it’s meaningful, if it matters, if it resonates, then it’s in the right place,” she said. “If it is done in a way that is ticking a box on a Teams meeting then I don’t think it is relevant. It actually diminishes the value of what it is.”</p> <p>On the issue of national symbols, Ms Ley said she frequently stands in front of the Indigenous flag but would prefer to see Australians united under a single banner.</p> <p>“We should unite under the one Australian flag, that is my firm view,” she stated.</p> <p>Ms Ley now faces the challenge of steering a divided and diminished Liberal Party toward renewal, with pressure mounting to appeal to a broader, more diverse Australia. Her leadership marks a potential turning point for the party as it seeks to rebuild and redefine its identity in opposition.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Legal

Sussan Ley elected first female leader of the Liberal Party

<p>Sussan Ley has been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party, defeating shadow treasurer Angus Taylor in a tightly contested party room vote, 29 to 25. In doing so, she becomes Australia’s first female opposition leader and the most senior woman in the party’s 80-year history.</p> <p>The leadership spill followed the Liberal Party’s devastating loss in the federal election on May 3, which saw then-leader Peter Dutton lose his seat in a historic defeat. The party convened at Parliament House on Tuesday morning to determine a new leadership team and chart a path forward.</p> <p>Ley, 63, has been a Liberal MP since 2001 and most recently served as deputy leader under Dutton. A former environment and health minister, she represents the regional New South Wales seat of Farrer. Her election marks the first time since the 1990s that a regionally based politician has led the federal opposition.</p> <p>Chief opposition whip Melissa Price announced the result just after 10:15am. Ted O’Brien, a Queensland MP and former energy spokesman, was elected deputy leader with 38 votes, defeating Phil Thompson, who received 16. Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who had been expected to stand as Taylor’s deputy, withdrew from the contest following Taylor’s leadership loss.</p> <p>Born in Kano, Nigeria, Ley has a diverse background, having worked as a wool and beef farmer, tax office executive, and pilot. A mother of three and grandmother of six, she has long been seen as a resilient figure in Liberal ranks. Her academic journey includes a bachelor’s degree in economics from La Trobe University and master’s degrees in tax and accounting.</p> <p>Ley's career in politics has spanned the leaderships of Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull, and Scott Morrison. She resigned from cabinet in 2017 over an expenses controversy, but returned to hold industry and small business portfolios from 2022.</p> <p>In the wake of the party’s election defeat, Ley has called for a reset in direction and tone. Speaking last Friday, she acknowledged the loss as a wake-up call.</p> <p>“We suffered a significant election defeat and since then, I have been having many conversations with my colleagues, members of the community, members of the party, and everyday Australians. I have listened,” she said on Sunrise. “We got it wrong. We need to do things differently, going forward, and we do need a fresh approach.”</p> <p>Ley now faces the task of rebuilding the Liberal Party’s credibility and unity from the opposition benches, as it seeks to reconnect with voters and prepare for the next federal contest.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Legal

Gina Rinehart urges Liberal Party to embrace Trumpism after crushing defeat

<p>Mining billionaire and Australia’s richest person, Gina Rinehart, has urged the Liberal Party to adopt policies inspired by Donald Trump in the wake of the Coalition's heavy federal election loss over the weekend.</p> <p>In a statement <a href="https://www.ginarinehart.com.au/comment-from-mrs-gina-rinehart-ao-regarding-the-election-results/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">published on her personal website</a>, Rinehart blamed the defeat on left-leaning media outlets and what she described as the party's failure to adopt bold, pro-business, Trump-style reforms.</p> <p>“The left media did a very successful effort, frightening many in the Liberal Party from anything Trump and away from any Trump-like policies,” Rinehart wrote.</p> <p>“This has been especially obvious this year, with the Liberals instead becoming known as the 'me too' party. Trump-style ‘make Australia great’ policies via cutting government tape, government bureaucracy and wastage, and hence being able to cut taxes, [were] too scarce in Australia this year.”</p> <p>Rinehart, whose net worth is estimated at $46.5 billion, has long supported the Liberal Party and has personally backed senior figures including former opposition leader Peter Dutton, notably providing him with flights on her private jet. She is also a vocal Trump supporter, having attended his election night party at Mar-a-Lago last year.</p> <p>Under Dutton’s leadership, the Coalition campaigned on cutting tens of thousands of public service jobs and named Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price as the shadow spokesperson for government efficiency – moves widely seen as echoing Trump-era governance tactics.</p> <p>Despite Rinehart’s praise, Trump himself distanced from Dutton this week, telling reporters he had "no idea" who the former Liberal leader was, while describing re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as "very good" and "very, very nice".</p> <p>Rinehart’s position contrasts sharply with that of many within the political mainstream who argue that aligning with Trump-like policies alienates centrist voters. During election night coverage, Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie acknowledged that the "Trump factor" may have influenced voter sentiment and contributed to the Coalition’s defeat.</p> <p>Former senior Liberals have also weighed in. Simon Birmingham, former Senate leader and finance minister, argued the party must reclaim its centrist identity. “The broadchurch model of a party that successfully melds liberal and conservative thinking is clearly broken,” Birmingham said. “The Liberal Party is not seen as remotely liberal and the brand of conservatism projected is clearly perceived as too harsh and out of touch.”</p> <p>Still, Rinehart remains unmoved in her call for a sharp ideological pivot to the right. “No doubt the left media will now try to claim that the Liberal loss was because the Liberal Party followed Trump and became too right! The two simply don't add up,” she said. “It’s important to not throw away truth and analysing skills, and instead learn from the loss and rebuild.”</p> <p>Rinehart also took aim at what she sees as a lack of economic understanding among Australians, stating that “too many Aussies seem very short on understanding that new investment is needed to create revenue and living standards”.</p> <p>Despite her disappointment with the election outcome, Rinehart concluded her statement with a conciliatory note, wishing Albanese well as he begins his second term.</p> <p>“Australians have overwhelmingly voted in a returning ... PM and government, we must wish him well, with carefully considered policies,” she wrote.</p> <p><em>Image: ginarinehart.com.au</em></p>

Legal

Sir David Attenborough marks 99th birthday with special appeal

<p>As he nears his 99th birthday, Sir David Attenborough – the beloved voice of the natural world for generations – has delivered perhaps his most emotional and urgent message yet: time is running out, not just for him, but for the planet.</p> <p>In a new documentary titled <em>Ocean: With David Attenborough</em>, set to release in cinemas on May 8 – the very day he turns 99 – the legendary broadcaster confronts the fragility of Earth’s ecosystems with stirring honesty. It is a deeply personal reflection on a lifetime of observing the planet’s wonders and wounds.</p> <p>“Now, as I approach the end of my life,” he says, “we know the opposite is true,” referring to the misguided idea that the sea was once a wilderness to be conquered. “The key to saving the planet is not on land, but at sea.”</p> <p>These words don’t come from a man resigned to despair, but from one who has spent nearly a century in awe of the world’s resilience. And yet, Attenborough doesn’t shy away from the pain of witnessing environmental decline. “The planet is in such poor health,” he admits, “that I would find it hard not to lose hope – were it not for the ocean.”</p> <p>It is here, in the depths of Earth’s oceans, that Attenborough finds not only scientific promise but emotional solace. “If we save the sea, we save our world,” he declares with conviction. “After a lifetime of filming our planet, I’m sure nothing is more important.”</p> <p>The documentary, as sweeping as it is intimate, takes viewers across oceans in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Oceania, exploring coral reefs, mangroves, coastal communities, marine sanctuaries and more. It highlights bold efforts by scientists and communities working to reverse the damage caused by humanity’s relentless exploitation – efforts that offer not only solutions but hope.</p> <p>With characteristic reverence and poetic clarity, Attenborough traces the sea’s central role in sustaining life on Earth. The film does more than educate – it pleads for connection, for urgency, for action.</p> <p>From <em>Zoo Quest</em> in the 1950s to <em>Life on Earth</em>, <em>The Blue Planet</em>, <em>Planet Earth</em> and <em>Dynasties</em>, Sir David’s work has been a chronicle of the natural world’s magnificence and its mounting distress. But never before has his message felt so personal – or so final. It's a legacy project: not just a film, but a farewell letter from a man who has given his life to showing us the beauty of this planet.</p>

Caring

Why are political parties allowed to send spam texts? And how can we make them stop?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>Another election, another wave of unsolicited political texts. Over this campaign, our digital mailboxes have been stuffed with a slew of political appeals and promises, many from the new party Trumpet of Patriots (backed by Clive Palmer, a <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-01-11/clive-palmer-united-australia-party-unsolicited-text-messages/10709106">veteran</a> of the mass text campaign).</p> <p>The practice isn’t new, and it’s totally legal under current laws. It’s also non-partisan. Campaigns of all stripes have partaken. Behold, the Liberal Party’s <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/liberal-party-defends-sending-text-messages-to-voters-on-asylum-seeker-boat-intercepts/mmqwk5508">last-minute SMS</a> to voters about asylum seekers before the 2022 federal election, or Labor’s controversial “<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/federal-election-2016-shorten-confirms-labor-sent-mediscare-text-20160705-gpzasl.html">Mediscare</a>” text before the 2016 poll. Despite multiple cycles of criticism, these tactics remain a persistent feature of Australian election campaigns.</p> <p>A recent proposal to update decades-old rules could help change things – if a government would put it into practice.</p> <h2>What does the law say about political spam?</h2> <p>Several laws regulate spam and data collection in Australia.</p> <p>First, there is the Spam Act. This legislation requires that organisations obtain our consent before sending us marketing emails, SMSs and instant messages. The unsubscribe links you see at the bottom of spam emails? Those are mandated by the Spam Act.</p> <p>Second, the Do Not Call Register (DNCR) Act. This Act establishes a “do not call” register, managed by the <a href="https://www.acma.gov.au/say-no-to-telemarketers">Australian Communications and Media Authority</a> (ACMA), which individuals can join to opt out of telemarketing calls.</p> <p>Finally, there is the Privacy Act, which governs how organisations collect, use and disclose our personal information. Among other things, the Privacy Act requires that organisations tell us when and why they are collecting our personal information, and the purposes for which they intend to use it. It restricts organisations from re-purposing personal information collected for a particular purpose, unless an exception applies.</p> <p>This trio of laws was designed to offer relief from unsolicited, unwanted direct marketing. It does not, however, stop the deluge of political spam at election time due to broad political exemptions sewn into the legislation decades ago.</p> <p>The Spam Act and DNCR Act apply to marketing for goods and services but not election policies and promises, while the Privacy Act contains a <a href="https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/journals/UNSWLawJl/2021/21.html#fn13">carve-out</a> for political parties, representatives and their contractors.</p> <p>The upshot is that their campaigns are free to spam and target voters at will. Their only obligation is to disclose who authorised the message.</p> <h2>How do political campaigns get our information?</h2> <p>Secrecy about the nature and extent of campaign data operations, enabled by the exemptions, makes it difficult to pinpoint precisely where a campaign might have obtained your data from.</p> <p>There are, however, a number of ways political campaigns can acquire our information.</p> <p>One source is the electoral roll (though not for phone numbers, as the Australian Electoral Commission <a href="https://x.com/AusElectoralCom/status/1434752533294194692">often points out</a>). Incumbent candidates might build on this with information they obtain through contact with constituents which, thanks to the exemptions, they’re allowed to re-purpose for campaigning at election time.</p> <p>Another source is data brokers – firms which harvest, analyse and sell large quantities of data and profiles.</p> <p>We know the major parties have long maintained voter databases to support their targeting efforts, which have become <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-05-19/behind-liberal-labor-data-arms-race-this-election/101074696">increasingly sophisticated</a> over the years.</p> <p>Other outfits might take more haphazard approaches – former MP <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/united-australia-party-leader-craig-kelly-defends-spam-messages-20210829-p58mv7.html">Craig Kelly</a>, for example, claimed to use software to randomly generate numbers for his texting campaign in 2021.</p> <h2>What can be done?</h2> <p>Unwanted campaign texts are not only irritating to some. They can be misleading.</p> <p>This year, there have been <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-17/monique-ryan-polling-amelia-hamer-trust-fund-kooyong/105185290">reports</a> of “push polling” texts (pseudo surveys meant to persuade rather than gauge voter options) in the marginal seat of Kooyong. The AEC has <a href="https://www.aec.gov.au/media/2025/03-31a.htm">warned</a> about misleading postal vote applications being issued by parties via SMS.</p> <figure class="align-right zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=738&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=738&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=738&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=927&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=927&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/664617/original/file-20250429-74-yothae.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=927&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Screenshot of a text message from Trumpet of Patriots." /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">This election campaign has seen a flood of texts from Trumpet of Patriots, among others.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">The Conversation</span>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p>Generative AI is hastening the ability to produce misleading content, cheaply and at scale, which can be quickly pushed out across an array of online social and instant messaging services.</p> <p>In short, annoying texts are just one visible symptom of a wider vulnerability created by the political exemptions.</p> <p>The basic argument for the political exemptions is to facilitate freedom of political communication, which is protected by the Constitution. As the High Court has said, that freedom is necessary to support informed electoral choice. It does not, however, guarantee speakers a <a href="http://www6.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/HCA/2019/11.html">captive audience</a>.</p> <p>In 2022, the Attorney-General’s Department <a href="https://www.ag.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-02/privacy-act-review-report_0.pdf">proposed</a> narrowing the political exemptions, as part of a suite of updates to the Privacy Act. Per the proposal, parties and representatives would need to be more transparent about their data operations, provide voters with an option to unsubscribe from targeted ads, refrain from targeting voters based on “sensitive information”, and handle data in a “fair and reasonable” manner.</p> <p>The changes would be an overdue but welcome step, recognising the <a href="https://bridges.monash.edu/articles/journal_contribution/Conceptualising_Voter_Privacy_in_the_Age_of_Data-Driven_Political_Campaigning/27330276?file=50073381">essential role</a> of voter privacy in a functioning democratic system.</p> <p>Unfortunately, the government has not committed to taking up the proposal.</p> <p>A bipartisan lack of support is likely the biggest obstacle, even as the gap created by the political exemptions widens, and its rationale becomes flimsier, with each election cycle.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/255413/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tegan-cohen-1331144">Tegan Cohen</a>, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Digital Media Research Centre, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-are-political-parties-allowed-to-send-spam-texts-and-how-can-we-make-them-stop-255413">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> </div>

Legal

Prince Louis turns 7, loses teeth, gains fans

<p>The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new video of their youngest son, Prince Louis, in celebration of his 7th birthday – and fans were quick to notice one majestic omission!</p> <p>The young royal, known for upstaging grown adults with nothing but facial expressions and unfiltered energy, beamed into the camera with a grin so wide it could be measured in acres – revealing a spectacular dental vacancy.</p> <p>Yes, Prince Louis is now officially a member of the exclusive “Missing Front Teeth Club”, joining generations of British children, Jack-o'-lanterns and occasionally stressed-out rugby players.</p> <p>The video, taken behind the scenes of a photoshoot with photographer Josh Shinner, captures the birthday boy mid-adventure, clad in jeans, a jumper and brown boots – aka, "British Boy Chic". In a moment of cinematic glory, Louis approaches the camera like a pint-sized action hero, then flashes his now-iconic toothless grin.</p> <p>But it wasn’t just his smile that had viewers grinning: it was his voice.</p> <p>“I can jump down from there!” Louis proclaims, boldly sizing up a log that looked suspiciously like it had auditioned for a Bear Grylls special. He then executes the leap, presumably sticking the landing, though the palace has yet to confirm whether a royal stunt double was involved.</p> <p>This rare vocal cameo marks only the second time the public has heard Prince Louis speak. The first was in 2020, when he interrogated naturalist Sir David Attenborough with a hard-hitting question: “What animal do you like?” (Attenborough's answer: monkeys – though many suspect he now ranks Louis higher.)</p> <p>Royal fans rejoiced at the annual tradition of birthday content, with one commenting, “He’s growing up so fast — and shrinking his dental real estate just as quickly!”</p> <p>The official photo was released with the caption: “Wishing Prince Louis a very Happy 7th Birthday!” Though some believe it should have added, “...and a speedy return of those front teeth”.</p> <p>At press time, Buckingham insiders declined to comment on whether the Tooth Fairy was knighted in a private ceremony earlier this week.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">📽️🎞️ Seven today! <a href="https://t.co/n3lNIXesCR">pic.twitter.com/n3lNIXesCR</a></p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1915035767518232641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p><em>Images: X (Formerly Twitter) / Josh Sinner</em></p>

Family & Pets

Beckham's 50th birthday bashes have begun!

<p>David Beckham has kicked off his 50th birthday celebrations in grand style, hosting a star-studded black-tie affair at Miami's Cipriani Downtown. While his official birthday isn't actually until May 2, the football legend decided to start the festivities early, surrounded by family, friends and an incredible lineup of sports icons.</p> <p>The guest list read like a who's who of the sports world. Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets were in attendance, alongside NFL quarterback Tom Brady and NBA giant Shaquille O'Neal. Beckham hilariously noted his height difference in a photo with Brady and O'Neal, captioning it, "I’m so small". The legendary footballer certainly wasn’t short on love and admiration, as guests toasted to his remarkable career and journey to 50.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DH4Th2oSj9i/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DH4Th2oSj9i/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Family was at the heart of the celebration. Wife Victoria Beckham stunned in a white gown from her own fashion line, exuding effortless elegance, while their children - Romeo, Cruz, and Harper – added to the familial warmth. The trio were seen laughing and enjoying the festivities, with Harper reportedly impressing guests with her dance moves. Notably absent was their eldest son, Brooklyn, and his wife, Nicola Peltz, who were unable to attend due to prior commitments but sent heartfelt birthday wishes from afar.</p> <p>The evening was filled with laughter, music and heartfelt toasts. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails crafted especially for the occasion, including the "Golden Boot Martini" and "Becks' Spritz". The dance floor was buzzing with energy, thanks to sets from renowned DJs D-Nice and Stretch Armstrong, who kept the party alive well into the early hours.</p> <p>Beckham, ever the gentleman, took a moment to thank everyone who had gathered for the occasion. Taking to social media, he shared, "Such a special night in Miami. So lucky to have amazing friends and family to start the 50th celebrations with." Fans flooded his Instagram with congratulatory messages, with many marvelling at how the former England captain seems to defy ageing altogether.</p> <p>As Beckham embarks on this milestone year, his early birthday bash sets the tone for a fabulous 50th chapter. And with weeks left until his <em>actual</em> birthday, we can only wonder what other surprises the football icon has up his sleeve. Stay tuned!</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

Adorable new portraits mark Prince Julian's 4th birthday!

<p>Sweden is celebrating a special milestone as Prince Julian, the youngest son of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia, turns four years old! In honour of this joyous occasion, the Swedish Royal Family has released an adorable new portrait of the young prince, capturing hearts across the nation and beyond.</p> <p>Dressed in a charming knitted cardigan over a collared shirt, Prince Julian was photographed sitting gracefully in an armchair, exuding both innocence and poise. His parents proudly shared the heartwarming portrait on their official Instagram account, accompanied by a loving caption: "Today we celebrate our exuberant Julian who turns 4 years old🎉❤️."</p> <p>Born on March 26, 2021, at Danderyd Hospital, Prince Julian is the third child of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia. His arrival was met with great excitement from his parents and older brothers, Prince Alexander, now eight, and Prince Gabriel, seven. Upon his birth, Prince Carl Philip shared a heartfelt statement: "We are so happy and grateful to welcome our fourth son to the family. This day has been longed for by both us and his two older brothers. Now we look forward to getting to know our new family member."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHqErnaoCpd/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHqErnaoCpd/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Prinsparet (@prinsparet)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Prince Julian’s birthday comes during an exciting time for the Swedish royal family, as it follows the recent birth of his baby sister, Princess Ines. Born just weeks ago, Princess Ines is the first daughter of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia, completing their beautiful family of four children. The proud parents introduced their newest addition with a touching Instagram post, stating: "It turned out to be a perfect little quartet. Big and warm thanks for all the nice congratulations to our little Ines."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DF9_AL8ofsh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DF9_AL8ofsh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Prinsparet (@prinsparet)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>While Princess Ines is a member of the Swedish Royal Family, she does not hold a position within The Royal House. This follows King Carl XVI Gustaf’s 2019 decision to redefine the roles of his grandchildren, allowing them to retain their ducal titles while removing their "Royal Highness" status.</p> <p>As Sweden celebrates Prince Julian’s fourth birthday, royal fans are delighted by this sweet glimpse into the young prince’s life. Happy birthday, Prince Julian!</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

Bruce Willis' daughter shares touching message on his 70 birthday

<p>Bruce Willis, the beloved Hollywood icon known for his legendary roles in <em>Die Hard</em> and <em>Pulp Fiction</em>, is celebrating his 70th birthday! Despite his ongoing battle with frontotemporal dementia, Willis’s family remains steadfast in their love and support, ensuring that this milestone is filled with warmth and joy.</p> <p>His eldest daughter, Rumer Willis, took to Instagram ahead of the celebration, encouraging fans to send birthday wishes to her father. “He’s doing great, thank you for asking,” she shared during a Q&A session. “It is actually his 70th birthday tomorrow, so please wish my papa a big happy birthday.”</p> <p>The <em>House Bunny</em> actress has previously spoken about her father’s health, speaking on <em>Loose Women</em> earlier this year, when she expressed her gratitude for their strong familial ties. “Because my family, we’re all so close, I think what’s so beautiful is the way that we rally around each other. (It’s) so lovely because we really are a unit.”</p> <p>Willis’s wife, Emma Heming Willis, has also been open about the struggles their family has faced since his diagnosis. In a heartfelt interview, she revealed that Bruce’s stuttering – something he had battled since childhood – was initially dismissed as a minor speech impediment rather than a symptom of dementia.</p> <p>“Bruce has always had a stutter, but he has been good at covering it up,” Emma explained. “So, when he began to experience difficulties with language, it seemed like it was just a part of his stutter. Never in a million years would I think it would be a form of dementia for someone so young.”</p> <p>As fans around the world send their love and best wishes for <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Bruce’s 70th birthday</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">, one thing remains clear: Willis’ legacy extends far beyond the silver screen. </span></p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

Clive Palmer outlines his MAGA party proposals

<p>Billionaire mining magnate Clive Palmer has urged Australian banks to cap interest rates at 3 per cent and called for the removal of Kevin Rudd as Australia’s ambassador to the United States. His proposals were part of a broader campaign to support the Trumpet for Patriots party in the upcoming federal election.</p> <p>Speaking at the National Press Club in Canberra, Mr Palmer revealed that the party, which he recently endorsed, had already attracted over 20,000 members, with thousands more joining daily since his announcement on February 19.</p> <p>Palmer, known for his deep pockets in politics, compared his substantial financial contributions to his passion for sports. Referring to his $100 million expenditure on a single Senate candidate, he described political spending as his version of a hobby.</p> <p>“At 70, I could join many Australians and play lawn bowls. I find this more exciting,” he said. “I’m devoted because I also have an investment in Australia. I’ve got four children. I think this is a good place, and it’s worth fighting for.”</p> <p>Mr Palmer outlined a two-pronged policy approach to promote home ownership: capping interest rates at 3 per cent and allowing buyers to utilise up to 30 per cent of their superannuation for home deposits. He argued that this would increase rental availability and lower costs for tenants.</p> <p>“That means Australians can live again, that means that our rentals will be available for people at a much lower price,” he said, citing Australia’s 120,000 homeless population as a national disgrace.</p> <p>Mr Palmer also took aim at Australia’s ambassador to the US, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, calling for his removal. “There are not too many ambassadors in Washington that have insulted the President of the United States. Kevin Rudd ranks alone in that,” Mr Palmer claimed.</p> <p>He stressed the need for a more effective representative in Washington, particularly during economic and geopolitical challenges. While he did not propose a specific replacement, he praised former ambassadors Kim Beazley and Joe Hockey for their diplomatic abilities.</p> <p>“I think somebody that can have a rapport. There are many prominent Australians that do that with the Trump administration already, or you get someone that’s neutral,” he said while eating Tim Tams.</p> <p>Trumpet for Patriots, under Palmer’s guidance, has outlined several key policies, including:</p> <p>– Mandating Australian superannuation funds to invest solely in domestic businesses.<br />– Banning transgender athletes from competing in sports.<br />– Imposing a 15 per cent licence fee on iron ore exports.</p> <p>The party plans to field candidates in all 150 House of Representatives seats and Senate contests but has not yet decided on preferencing major parties.</p> <p>Mr Palmer dismissed both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton as ineffective leaders, labelling them “whingers” who fail to present viable solutions.</p> <p>“They look at what’s wrong. They don’t look at how we solve the problem. They don’t provide solutions and leadership to solve the serious issues facing Australians every day of the week, whether it’s housing, whether it’s cost of living, a whole range of things,” he said.</p> <p>The party will be led by Suellen Wrightson, who will challenge Labor incumbent Dan Repacholi in the NSW Hunter region. With Palmer’s backing and financial influence, Trumpet for Patriots is set to make a high-profile entrance into the upcoming election campaign.</p> <p><em>Image: NineNews</em></p>

Legal

Princess Eugenie celebrates son's fourth birthday

<p>Princess Eugenie has celebrated her eldest son's fourth birthday. </p> <p>The 34-year-old royal who shares her oldest son with husband Jack Brooksbank, shared a series of photos of August, known as "Augie", holding a gold four balloon. </p> <p>"Happy birthday my darling Augie. 4 today. And what an amazing 4 years," she began in the caption. </p> <p>"You are so incredibly focused and inquisitive and full of adventure and speed. Can't wait for all our adventures...so many more to come. I love you my boy, my angel."</p> <p>Augie was pictured wearing a Top Gun style jacket and trainers, and in a few other photos he was seen with his younger brother, Ernest, playing together. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF23St3ixK-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF23St3ixK-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Princess Eugenie (@princesseugenie)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Eugenie chose the classic hit by Daryl Hall & John Oates<em>, You Make My Dreams (Come True)</em>, as a soundtrack to the post. </p> <p>In another snap, Princess Eugenie was pictured holding her son in her arms, with none of the pictures showing their faces. </p> <p>Royal fans were quick to wish the preschooler a happy birthday. </p> <p>"Such a wonderful message from his dearest Mumma ,We all send Augie a very special happy 4th Birthday," wrote one. </p> <p>"All the best and so much love for his birthday," commented another. </p> <p>"Happy birthday sweet boy xxxx," wrote a third. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

TV star shot in the face at husband's birthday party

<p>Actress Christy Carlson Romano has opened up about a terrifying accident that left her fearing for her life. In a candid video shared with her 735,000 Instagram followers, the former Disney star revealed that she was shot in the eye while participating in a clay pigeon shooting activity for her husband Brendan Rooney's birthday.</p> <p>Romano explained that an unidentified member of their party "unsafely fired in the wrong direction", resulting in her being struck in the face. Displaying her injuries on camera, she showcased a visibly bruised eye and disclosed that she sustained multiple hits, with one fragment landing only centimetres from her right eye.</p> <p>Recalling the ordeal, Romano shared that her husband immediately rushed her to the hospital. Medical professionals determined that a fragment was still lodged behind her eye, but said it was too risky for surgical removal at the time. She also pointed out another fragment embedded in her forehead.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF0dgT5uibG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF0dgT5uibG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Christy Carlson Romano (@thechristycarlsonromano)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Despite the severity of the incident, the actress reassured her fans that she could still see normally and was under medical supervision. "With everything that happened, all I can think about is how grateful I am to be alive," Romana wrote. "I love my daughters, husband, family, and friends so much. I saw my life flash before my eyes and I’m telling you, hug the people around you every chance you can. Life can change in an instant."</p> <p>Fans and fellow celebrities quickly flooded her post with messages of support, and hours later Romano took to her Instagram Story to express her gratitude, writing, "This has been scary and your positivity is meaningful to my healing."</p> <p>Romano, who rose to fame in the early 2000s with roles in Disney Channel’s <em>Kim Possible</em> and <em>Even Stevens</em> alongside Shia LaBeouf, has since transitioned into podcasting. She currently hosts "Vulnerable", a show where she discusses personal and industry-related topics.</p> <p>Married to producer Brendan Rooney since 2013, the couple shares two children together. As Romano continues to recover, fans remain hopeful for her swift and full healing.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Queen Mary releases new portrait for 53rd birthday

<p>Queen Mary of Denmark has celebrated her 53rd birthday with the release of a new portrait.</p> <p>The Danish Royal Household shared the photo on Instagram with the caption: "Her Majesty the Queen has a birthday and is turning 53 today 🇩🇰 Because of the birthday, a new portrait of the Queen is published."</p> <p>The Australian-born royal looked stunning in the photo, wearing a simple white long-sleeve top and pink floral lace skirt. She wore her hair down and accessorised with two fold Cartier bracelets, a pair of drop earrings and her diamond and ruby wedding ring. </p> <p>The Cartier bracelets are believed to be gifts from her husband King Frederik in previous years.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFro8zYMAtm/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFro8zYMAtm/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by DET DANSKE KONGEHUS 🇩🇰 (@detdanskekongehus)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The picture was taken in the couple's home, Frederik VIII's Palace at Amalienborg, Copenhagen. </p> <p>Royal fans took to the comments to share their birthday wishes, with one person writing: "53?! Must be a mistake. She looks like someone in her 30s max. Eh congratulations on that Mary." </p> <p>Another commented: "As beautiful as ever! Have a wonderful day Queen Mary! From Melbourne, Australia!" </p> <p>A third wrote: "The most beautiful Queen!"</p> <p>"What a beautiful portrait!!! 🥰 big congratulations on your birthday to our beautiful and amazing Majesty, Queen Mary," a fourth added. </p> <p>"Happy birthday to her majesty the queen. I am proud that we have such a strong and beautiful queen," another person commented.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram/ Steen Evald via Danish Royal Household</em></p>

Beauty & Style

Friends charged hundreds to attend birthday party

<p dir="ltr">A woman has been left horrified after receiving an invitation to her friend’s birthday celebration that she would have to fork out hundreds of dollars to attend. </p> <p dir="ltr">In a post shared to Reddit, the stunned guest showed a picture of the invite - which was texted to the recipient's phone.</p> <p dir="ltr">It stated that the celebrations would take place on a Monday between 5:30pm and 7:30pm, writing that friends will be charged $499, while guests of friends will be $250.</p> <p dir="ltr">The invitee claimed that the party for the friend, who is a member of their local council, is being held at a pub. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I posted this after receiving the invitation, it's completely wrong but whatever. It's happening, now it's just shaking our heads and making a joke of the whole thing because of how ridiculous it is,” they wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hundreds of people took to the comments of the Reddit post to express their outrage over the invitation, with many hypothesising that the party is actually a fundraiser. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Yep. 100 percent political fundraiser. There is a separate real birthday party, even if it is just the spouse and kids,” one person declared.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Since the friend is a politician my guess is they're treating it like a fundraiser, but still. Jesus,” someone else added.</p> <p dir="ltr">Many shared their opinions on the extortionate party, with one person writing, “On a Monday afternoon? For $250 an hour? There are no people I’d ever pay that for.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Others added that the occasion sounds “more like a happy hour” than a party, with another person writing that they “wouldn’t even send a card”. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock / Reddit</em></p>

Relationships

Social media star Pesto the penguin celebrates first birthday

<p>Social media star Pesto the penguin, who has earned an army of online followers for his big and fluffy appearance, is turning one.</p> <p>The King Penguin, who calls the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium home, has celebrated his birthday with a slimmed down look, worlds away from the 23.5 kilogram big boy who went viral in 2024.</p> <p>"It's kind of crazy how fast this year has gone, it feels like only yesterday that he hatched out of his little egg," Sea Life Aquarium Melbourne's Catherine Bushell told <em>Today</em>.</p> <p>"He only weighed around 200 grams, then went up to 23.5 kilograms at his heaviest and now back down to around 16 kilograms."</p> <p>Pesto's special day will be celebrated on Friday, which also happens to be Sea Life Aquarium Melbourne's 25th anniversary.</p> <p>"It's going to be a pretty big day, lots of celebration going on both in and out of the exhibit. Pesto has got a jelly cake today and lots of fun enrichment for he and the rest of his colony to enjoy," she said.</p> <p>"There's also lots of fun for the people, our first 1000 guests today will all get a free cupcake, but the party's going on all weekend, we've got a DJ and all sorts of celebrations happening tomorrow as well, so it will certainly be a party fit for a king."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Family & Pets

Mum dies on daughter's birthday after common party trick turned deadly

<p>A mother has tragically died after inhaling helium from a balloon while setting up for hr daughter's first birthday party. </p> <p>Faith Waterman Batistich, from Te Puke in New Zealand, died in a matter of seconds after inhaling helium while setting up for the party with her family in 2022.</p> <p>Professor Timothy Schmidt, Head of the School of Chemistry at UNSW, told <em><a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/warning-after-mum-dies-at-daughters-birthday-from-common-party-trick-gone-instantly-051159229.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo News Australia</a></em> that any gas mixture that does not contain oxygen can be fatal if inhaled, and issued a strong warning about partaking in the party trick. </p> <p>"Helium is dangerous to inhale because it replaces the oxygen rich air in our lungs and rapidly leads to loss of oxygen from the body. This condition is known as hypoxia and can be fatal," he said. "Breathing pure nitrogen would be just as dangerous."</p> <p>Faith's family and friends were all laughing and taking turns inhaling the helium from the balloons, when one person suggested they breathe it in directly from the canister, Faith’s twin sister Eden Waterman told the New Zealand Herald.</p> <p>As the 20-year-old went to inhale, someone else turned up the flow on the canister.</p> <p>"It went too fast and kind of shot her in the back of the neck. Her last words were literally, 'Oh s***' and she dropped," Eden recalled.</p> <p>"I was just, like, in shock. I kind of just froze and it was like, 'what the f***, what am I seeing? Like, is this for real?' I thought she was putting it on at the start."</p> <p>She added that Faith "went blue" and was "gone instantly".</p> <p>Despite the efforts of the family and paramedics, Faith was unable to be revived.</p> <p>Professor Schmidt said helium is not considered a dangerous chemical, but it is likely most people are unaware of the risks when inhaling it.</p> <p>"It is used in diving tanks and in medicine. Helium is what we call a noble gas (or inert gas). It does not form chemical compounds or react chemically with the body," he said.</p> <p>"I had never heard of anyone dying from helium inhalation until now, so I would say that the dangers are definitely not well-known. I have done it… and never considered that I might replace all the O2 in my body with helium."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Caring

Maggie Beer celebrates 80th birthday

<p>Maggie Beer has celebrated her 80th birthday. </p> <p>The beloved celebrity chef's official Instagram account shared a video of her celebrating her milestone birthday with loved ones and the caption: “We would like to wish our wonderful Maggie a very happy 80th birthday today!</p> <p>"A true icon, and much loved by everyone. Thank you for always inspiring us and providing us with the most delicious recipes & products.</p> <p>"We love you Maggie."</p> <p>Fans across the nation were quick to send their birthday wishes to the celebrity chef, with many thanking her. </p> <p>“Many happy returns Maggie! Thank you for being a great source of joy for us all,” one wrote.</p> <p>“Bless you Maggie. Happy birthday and thank you for all that you have done, especially for Aged Care," another commented. </p> <p>“Have a great Birthday Maggie 80 wow have a fantastic day,” commented another.</p> <p>“Happiest of birthdays to Mrs Maggie Beer a national treasure and Australian icon thanks for all you do love your work !!”</p> <p>“Happy Birthday Maggie – you are unstoppable and we love you heaps.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE_DBEUq4cF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE_DBEUq4cF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Official Maggie Beer (@maggie_beer)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The birthday celebrations come after a rough year Beer, as she continues to recover following <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/maggie-beer-rushed-to-hospital" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a fall at her home</a> in 2024. </p> <p>At the time, her family shared on social media that while she had suffered a couple of injuries including "minor bone fractures", she was being taken care off by her doctors who "are confident she will make a full recovery". </p> <p>In a recent interview with <em>The Australian</em>, Beer revealed that she has "come such a long way" in her recovery journey, and learned a few valuable lessons. </p> <p>“I’ve come such a long way, considering I’ve been home from hospital for a month and when I first came home I’d be up for an hour and back to bed for an hour,” she told the publication at the time.</p> <p>“Yesterday, I was up all day without resting – that is a monumental step forward. Full recovery takes time and I’m not the most patient person in the world.</p> <p>“So I’m learning to be a different kind of person, accepting that things go slowly sometimes.”</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Sir Rod Stewart's sentimental post as he turns "80 years young"

<p>Sir Rod Stewart has celebrated his 80th birthday on Friday. </p> <p>The veteran rocker marked his milestone birthday by sharing a series of photos throughout his life and 60-year career, including being knighted by the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace. </p> <p>"Thank you all for the wonderful birthday wishes – 80 years young!" he wrote in the caption with an emoji of two champagne glasses. </p> <p>“What an incredible journey it’s been – from unforgettable moments on and off the stage to earning some truly special honours along the way.</p> <p>“But above all, my greatest joy has always been performing for you.</p> <p>“Cheers to the memories we’ve made and the ones still to come! #80YearsOfRod.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEpv23UJb3u/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEpv23UJb3u/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sir Rod Stewart (@sirrodstewart)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Among the photos, he also included images of him performing on stage in his younger years, attending his son's wedding and racing Sir Elton John on a football field, as well as a photo of him and wife Penny Lancaster when they were younger. </p> <p>His wife, who he married in 2007, shared her own special tribute to him, saying that she felt “so blessed” to share his 80th birthday with him and their children.</p> <p>“Building more memories to carry with us into the future and to be held close to our hearts forever, I love you xx”, she captioned the post, alongside a photo of Sir Rod while they were on holiday. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEoZPPiMmWg/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEoZPPiMmWg/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Penny Lancaster (@penny.lancaster)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The rocker's celebrity friends were also quick to send their birthday wishes, with Sir Elton John sharing a special tribute to his "great mate" on his stories with a series of images of them over the years and the caption: “Hope you have a brilliant day celebrating. Much love.”</p> <p>TV presenter Davina McCall commented: “Happy Birthday Rod! Thank you for all the joy and dancing!!! Hope you all have the best day.”</p> <p><em>The Rolling Stones </em>star Ronnie Wood shared a picture of the pair in their younger days with the caption: “Happy 80th birthday @sirrodstewart! My lifelong pal is having a big birthday today! Please join me in wishing him a wonderful day.”</p> <p>Drummer Kenney Jones also shared his birthday wishes and hoped that Sir Rod had “a great day”.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

Channel Nine exec dismissed after work Christmas party

<p>A Channel Nine news executive has been sacked after an alleged incident of inappropriate conduct at a work Christmas party. </p> <p>David Richardson, executive producer of the network’s newsroom in Darwin, was let go on Monday, just hours after the company received a formal complaint about his behaviour. </p> <p>The complaint relates to remarks allegedly made at a party on Friday evening, with Richardson reportedly being escorted from the Nine building in Darwin on Monday. </p> <p>Richardson, known broadly in the industry as “Sluggo”, climbed through the ranks of commercial television as a reporter before moving behind the scenes.</p> <p>His last role was as a producer on Nine’s Under Investigation with Liz Hayes before the show was axed in August. </p> <p>Richardson then went on to become the newsroom executive, in a role he held for just two months before being sacked. </p> <p>The decision to fire Richardson comes after a damning review of the company’s workplace culture exposed a history of inappropriate conduct. </p> <p>An external investigation released in October found Nine had a “systemic issue” with bullying, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, and the abuse of power and authority.</p> <p><em>Image credits: news.com.au</em></p>

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