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Neighbours star splits from billionaire husband

<p>Former <em>Neighbours</em> actress and pop star Holly Valance has reportedly split from her husband, billionaire property developer and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy, after 13 years of marriage.</p> <p>According to <em>The Sun</em>, the couple parted ways in recent weeks and are heading for divorce. Valance, 42, and Candy, 52, married in 2012 in a star-studded ceremony in California attended by 300 guests. They share two daughters.</p> <p>“This has been a very difficult period for both Nick and Holly, and they are keeping things private out of respect for their family,” a family friend told the newspaper. “The joint parenting of their two amazing daughters remains their top priority.”</p> <p>“They’ve had to juggle a demanding lifestyle. Between family, public life, and Nick’s intense work commitments, it’s been a tough balance,” the source added. “This is a family matter and they’re doing their best to handle things thoughtfully.”</p> <p>A spokesperson for Valance said there would be no official comment, adding: “The privacy of all parties involved is respectfully requested.”</p> <p>The couple are known for their political connections and involvement with Reform UK. In 2022, they visited former US President Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort, accompanied by party leader Nigel Farage.</p> <p>Valance first rose to fame playing Felicity ‘Flick’ Scully on <em>Neighbours</em> before launching a successful pop career, including her chart-topping debut single “Kiss Kiss” in 2002. She later appeared in a string of television and film roles and reached the semi-finals of <em>Strictly Come Dancing</em> in 2011.</p> <p>Candy is one half of the high-profile Candy brothers, renowned for developing luxury properties in London.</p> <p><em>Image: Woman's Weekly</em></p>

Relationships

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Beloved Neighbours star reveals his dying wishes

<p>Ian Smith has shared his final wishes after being told he has more time to live, despite battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer.</p> <p>Smith, 86, was diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma and given a terminal prognosis in 2024. However, in a recent interview on BBC Radio 5 Live, he revealed he had defied expectations and was still going strong.</p> <p>"I'm going to die soon, but I seem to be defying the odds, which is good. I'm not unhappy about that at all," Smith said.</p> <p>The veteran actor recalled the moment he received the unexpected news in December last year, jokingly expressing his gratitude: "The knowledge is saying, 'Ian, you are going to die in March.' I almost gave in, and then on Friday the 13th, I got this good news and, you know what? I just had to say, 'Well, thank you, someone.'"</p> <p>Rather than dwell on his diagnosis, Smith is determined to make the most of the time he has left. While he admits he is still unsure of how best to spend it, one thing on his bucket list is buying a new car – specifically, an electric one.</p> <p>"I'm now thinking of buying a new car. That's not what you do if you're going to die in March," he said with a laugh. "I'm determined to have an electric car before I die. And I was speaking to a salesman. I said, 'Now, what about the delivery? Can you get to me before I'm dead?' And he was so shocked! I said, 'Come on, let's have a giggle.'"</p> <p>Smith has had a long and celebrated career in television, most notably for his role as Harold Bishop on <em>Neighbours</em>. First joining the show in 1987, his character quickly became a fan favourite. Over the years, he made several departures and returns, with his most recent appearance in 2024 before stepping away due to ill health.</p> <p>Jason Herbison, Executive Producer of <em>Neighbours</em>, spoke highly of Smith’s contributions to the show, saying, "The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn't love him more than we do."</p> <p>Beyond <em>Neighbours</em>, Smith also appeared in the cult series <em>Prisoner</em> and worked extensively in theatre since the 1950s.</p> <p>Smith has faced significant personal challenges over the years. His wife, Gail, passed away in 2019 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a marriage that spanned over 50 years. Additionally, Smith discovered later in life that he had been adopted. He was 54 when his adoptive mother, Connie, revealed the truth shortly before her passing. Smith eventually reunited with his biological mother, Peg Kline, who had been a victim of sexual assault at age 14. They maintained a relationship until her death in 2005, also from cancer.</p> <p>"Dying does change how you live," he said in a previous interview with The Guardian. "I feel like I have become more forgiving, more understanding."</p> <p>Despite his illness, Smith remains grateful for the life he has led. "I know I have cancer because doctors keep telling me I have it. I may get very sick again one day. But I have lived the most privileged life."</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

Caring

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Neighbours axed ... again!

<p>Well, here we go again.</p> <p>Beloved Aussie soap <em>Neighbours</em> is being axed – again – after production company Fremantle failed to strike a new deal with Amazon. The show, which has already cheated death once, will stop production this summer, with its final-ever (no, really, we mean it this time) episode airing at the end of the year, according to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/tv/33479098/neighbours-axed-again-amazon-two-years/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Sun</em></a>.</p> <p>This comes just two years after Amazon swooped in to rescue the show from the TV graveyard following its initial cancellation. In a move that delighted fans and brought a few nostalgic tears to the eyes of those who grew up watching Ramsay Street’s endless drama, Amazon announced in late 2022 that <em>Neighbours</em> would return in a multi-year deal.</p> <p>For those who remember the <em>first</em> final episode (which, in hindsight, now seems like a premature farewell party), it was an emotional send-off, featuring the triumphant return of some of Australia’s biggest stars, including Margot Robbie, Kylie Minogue and Guy Pearce. The soap, which first hit screens in 1985, appeared to be signing off for good.</p> <p>But then – plot twist! Just a few months later, Amazon decided <em>Neighbours</em> wasn’t dead after all and revived it with a refreshed production, bringing Ramsay Street back to life in 2023. Fans rejoiced. Nostalgia surged. And once more, the fictional Melbourne suburb found itself caught up in affairs, family feuds and, presumably, an alarming number of dramatic misunderstandings.</p> <p>However, the drama behind the scenes has proven just as turbulent as on-screen. Last year, Amazon pulled the plug on Freevee – the service that was airing <em>Neighbours</em> worldwide – and merged it into Prime Video. And now, after two years of streaming, it seems the show has once again reached the end of the road. (Or should that be cul-de-sac?)</p> <p>So, is this really the final farewell? Or will <em>Neighbours</em> pull off another miraculous resurrection down the line? Given its track record, we wouldn’t bet against it. After all, soap operas are famous for unexpected comebacks – and Ramsay Street has already proven it’s got more lives than Harold Bishop.</p> <p>For now, though, fans might want to start emotionally preparing themselves for another round of tearful goodbyes, at least until someone else decides to give <em>Neighbours</em> yet another fresh start.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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"Dying does change how you live": Beloved Neighbours star opens up about cancer battle

<p>Veteran <em>Neighbours</em> star Ian Smith, best known for his role as Harold Bishop on the popular long-running show, has shared insights into his ongoing battle with cancer, revealing that despite the challenges, he feels "good".</p> <p>Smith, 86, was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/non-fixable-neighbours-icon-reveals-terminal-diagnosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer</a> in 2024, leading to his departure from the beloved soap opera. In a candid interview with <em>The Guardian</em>, he recently reflected on his journey, saying, "I thought I would be stronger, but I am as weak as any human. Dying does change how you live." He added that his illness has made him "more forgiving, more understanding".</p> <p>The actor began chemotherapy and immunotherapy as part of his treatment, which has proved effective despite his terminal diagnosis. Initially, doctors predicted he wouldn’t survive past March 2024, but his successful response to treatment has extended his life expectancy to Christmas 2026.</p> <p>"I know I have cancer because doctors keep telling me I have it," he said. "I may get very sick again one day. But I have lived the most privileged life."</p> <p>Smith first appeared as Harold Bishop in <em>Neighbours</em> in 1987, introduced as the former love interest of Madge Mitchell, played by Anne Charleston. His character became a fan favourite, with Smith making multiple returns to the show over the decades. He initially played Harold from 1987 to 1991 before returning from 1996 to 2009. He later made guest appearances in 2011, 2015, 2022, and most recently in 2024 before stepping away due to his illness.</p> <p>Upon Smith’s most recent departure, <em>Neighbours</em> Executive Producer Jason Herbison paid tribute to his contribution to the show. "The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn't love him more than we do," Herbison told the <em>Herald Sun</em>.</p> <p>A spokesperson for Network 10 also expressed admiration for the actor, stating, "We are deeply saddened to hear of Ian Smith's cancer diagnosis. He is a cherished member of the <em>Neighbours</em> family."</p> <p>Beyond<em> Neighbours</em>, Smith appeared in the cult TV series <em>Prisoner</em> and worked extensively in theatre since the 1950s. His personal life has been marked by both joy and sorrow. His wife, Gail, passed away in 2019 after her own battle with cancer, after the couple had been married for more than 50 years.</p> <p>Smith also faced personal revelations later in life. At 54, he discovered he had been adopted after his mother, Connie, disclosed the truth before her passing. He later found his biological mother, Peg Kline, who revealed she had conceived him at 14 following a sexual assault. The two maintained a relationship until her death in 2005, also from cancer. Smith shared his adoption story on ABC’s <em>Australian Story</em>.</p> <p>Despite his health struggles, Smith remains positive and reflective, cherishing the life he has led. His impact on Australian TV has certainly solidified his place as one of the industry’s most beloved figures.</p> <p><em>Image: <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Network 10</span></em></p>

Caring

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Neighbours star announces second pregnancy

<p>Former <em>Neighbours</em> star Bonnie Anderson is pregnant!</p> <p>The singer and actress, 30, announced in she's expecting her second child with husband Sam Morrison. They already have a son named Bobby together. </p> <p>"Bobby's going to be a big brother," the star announced on Instagram with a video of her baby bump as the family enjoy their time together at the beach. </p> <p>"We are beyond grateful for the new adventure."</p> <p>She added: "I dressed the bump in @dissh and couldn't be more obsessed with this outfit."</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/DFuH8BbySBF/?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/DFuH8BbySBF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bonnie Anderson (@bonnieandersonmusic)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The star showed off her baby bump in a white crop top and skirt from the brand, as she thanked followers for their support and well wishes over her pregnancy reveal. </p> <p>"Thank you all for the beautiful and kind messages following our announcement. I feel so blessed to be expecting our second child," she wrote.</p> <p>"As much as I want to shout this to the rooftops with excitement, I am also mindful of everyone's journey to parenthood. 🤍So much love to everybody!"</p> <p>Her celebrity friends also shared their support, with Sam Frost writing: Stunning. Congratulations beauty <3."</p> <p>"Congratulations <3," Sophie Monk added.</p> <p>Anderson rose to fame on <em>Australia's Got Talent </em>at the age of 12.</p> <p>The singer and Morrison tied the knot in a stunning ceremony in November 2023.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Neighbours star announces seventh pregnancy at 45

<p><em>Neighbours</em> star Madeleine West has announced she is expecting her seventh child attending age of 45. </p> <p>The former actress, podcaster and author shared the happy news on Instagram with a pic of her growing baby bump and a lengthy caption. </p> <p>"Whoops! Thought it was perimenopause. I thought WRONG," she jokingly commenced the post. "It's not too much Christmas pudding either. And I couldn't be happier."</p> <p>"Not too sure about the title 'Geriatric mum' but here we are, and I'm winding back a little to grow this little surprise package I've dubbed #007 (Baby number 7, couldn't help myself)."</p> <p>West continued her post by asking for tips and tricks from "older parents" as they enter the next stage of parenthood. </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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEx8ar8TnLo/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;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/DEx8ar8TnLo/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Madeleine West Actor (@msmadswest)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"I don't have much more to say right now, but I've noticed I don't hear much about older parents. 😂 l know you must be out there. Just seems we are invisible," she wrote.</p> <p>"So if you're expecting later than expected, and tackling early parenthood in your 40s or 50s, I'd LOVE hear your stories."</p> <p>"I'd love any tips you care to share. Like how the heck do you get all the baby paraphernalia together again after you've given it all away???? There's a terrifying new world of contraptions out there and I don't know where to start!! HELP!!!"</p> <p>West already has six children – Phoenix, Hendrix, Xanthe, Xascha, Xalia and Margaux – with her ex-partner celebrity chef Shannon Bennett.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p> <div class="" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <div id="adspot-mobile-mobile-3-above" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"></div> </div> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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"Non-fixable": Neighbours icon reveals terminal diagnosis

<p>Veteran actor Ian Smith, beloved for his role as Harold Bishop on the long-running soap <em>Neighbours</em>, has filmed his final scenes, marking an emotional farewell to the show and his career.</p> <p>At 85, Smith revealed his decision to step away from acting follows a terminal diagnosis of pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.</p> <p>“It isn’t just my last day in <em>Neighbours</em>, it’s my last day of work,” Smith <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/aussie-tv-icon-ian-smith-shares-tragic-health-update/news-story/3edbe4d153e7f322b08258ec86360bba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told 10 News First reporter Angela Bishop</a>. “I found out a few months back that I have cancer, that I have a very aggressive, non-fixable cancer, and they expect me to die.”</p> <p>Smith, who has undergone three rounds of treatment, including immunotherapy, expressed his determination to maintain his quality of life for as long as possible. “I’ve really put my hand up just to be a guinea pig, I think, plus the fact I don’t want to die. I want to stay alive with quality as long as I can,” he said. “I wake up every morning hoping there’s no pain because I know that’s the beginning of the bad part.”</p> <p>Smith, a staple of Ramsay Street since 1987, was honoured by cast and crew on his final day of filming. The emotional farewell included heartfelt speeches, tears and hugs, reflecting the profound impact Smith has had on the<em> Neighbours</em> family.</p> <p>“There were real tears,” Smith shared. “In fact, one young fella worried me a bit. I had to follow up and make sure he was alright the next day. It knocked me out a bit honestly.”</p> <p>Smith’s final storyline features the return of Anne Charleston, who famously played Harold’s wife, Madge. Charleston will reprise a new role in the upcoming episodes. Executive Producer Jason Herbison praised Smith’s contributions, saying, “The way the residents of Ramsay Street feel about Harold is how we all feel about Ian – we couldn’t love him more than we do.</p> <p>“Despite the challenges he was facing with his health, he wanted to give Harold a proper send-off. It was a very emotional moment on set as we paid tribute to him and the incredible contribution he has made to the show.”</p> <p>Smith’s personal life has been marked by loss, having endured the passing of his wife, Gail, of five decades, and several family members to cancer. His own health battles have included prostate cancer and a stroke, yet he has remained a resilient and cherished figure in Australian television.</p> <p>Network 10 expressed their sorrow over his diagnosis and immense gratitude for his contributions. “Ian has brought joy, laughter and inspiration to audiences all around the world for decades,” a spokesperson said. “Along with the cast and crew and all his fans from around the world, we will support Ian in any way we can during this difficult time.”</p> <p>Smith’s final scenes on Neighbours will air in April 2025, bringing a 30-year chapter of television history to a close.</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

Caring

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Neighbours star under investigation after alleged Nazi salute

<p>Former <em>Neighbours</em> star Damien Richardson is under investigation by police after allegedly performing a Nazi salute at an event in September. </p> <p>Richardson, who played Gary Canning in seven seasons of <em>Neighbours</em>, was recorded performing the gesture during a speech at an event run by the National Workers Alliance (NWA), who bills itself as a nationalist organisation dedicated to the "preservation of Western Culture and Identity".</p> <div> </div> <p>In an excerpt of his speech, which was aired as part of an <em>ABC 7.30</em> investigation into the rise of the far-right movement in Australia, the actor is heard stating, "There is a war on men".</p> <p>"I thought it was a war on Western tradition, Western values… and actually it's an anti-white-male-agenda," the actor said at the event.</p> <p>He is then seen appearing to perform a Nazi salute and mockingly asking if he would be locked up for it, saying, “Am I allowed to do that? Am I allowed to do that, or am I going to be fined now? Am I going to go to jail for five years?” </p> <p>“Oh, Richardson did the salute. I mean, really. I mean this is absurd. This is insane. It’s crazy. It’s so crazy you can’t believe it’s even happening.”</p> <p>In October 2023, laws came into effect making it an offence to perform a Nazi salute in public or in public view.</p> <p>A person who commits an <a href="https://www.vic.gov.au/fact-sheet-nazi-symbol-prohibition" target="_blank" rel="noopener">offence</a> could face fines of $23,000, 12 months in prison, or both. </p> <p>Victoria Police has confirmed it is investigating the incident, saying in a statement, “Police are investigating vision which shows a person performing a Nazi salute, believed to be in Victoria."</p> <p>“The circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be established and an investigation is ongoing.”</p> <p>While Richardson's actions were applauded by neo-Nazi organisation National Socialist Network (NSN), both Richardson and the organiser of the NWA said they are not neo-Nazis. </p> <p>"There has been a lot of misinformation spoken about the event, Damien, the National Workers Alliance and myself," Matt Trihey told the <em>ABC</em>.</p> <p>"Neither Damien or I have ever been members of Nazi organisations and we have no connection with the NSN. I am a free speech advocate and have no control over who purchases online tickets to my events."</p> <p><em>Image credits: ABC</em></p>

Legal

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Heroic kindergarten teacher identified after horror crash

<p>A heroic kindergarten teacher who died saving preschoolers from an out-of-control water tanker that crashed through the school's playground has been identified. </p> <p>Mother-of-two Eleanor Bryant worked with children with special needs at the Macedon Ranges Montessori Pre-School in Riddells Creek in Melbourne’s northwest.</p> <p>Bryant tragically died at the scene after the crash, while a three-year-old boy was injured and was taken to the Royal Children’s Hospital with a serious upper-body injury following the incident, Ambulance Victoria said.</p> <p>The driver of the truck, 68, is thought to have had a medical episode and was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a stable condition, but police are still investigating the incident.</p> <p><em>Sunrise</em> reporter Teegan Dolling paid tribute to Bryant on Tuesday morning, saying, “She is the mum herself of two really young children. She’s been remembered this morning as a very happy speech pathologist, and mum who loved it here at the Macedon Ranges Montessori Pre-School."</p> <p>“What she did yesterday police are saying was heroic. She was working here at the school looking after a three-year-old boy. It was around 2.30pm when the water truck came hurtling down the road, smashed through the play equipment and it was playtime.</p> <p>“The preschoolers were out on the playground. She’s selflessly put herself in harm’s way … saving the life of the three-year-old.</p> <p>“Sadly, she died at the scene. A little boy was rushed to hospital. He’s got injuries to his upper body. As to why this has happened, the police are still investigating.</p> <p>“The scene is cleared here this morning. They believe the 68-year-old truck driver may have had a medical episode.”</p> <p>McKenzie Water owner Alan McKenzie confirmed that the truck belonged to his company and the driver was understood to have suffered a medical episode, adding that they were "devastated" by the crash and sending their "deepest sympathies" to those affected. </p> <p>Detective Senior Sergeant Christian Von Tunk said initial investigations led them to believe the truck lost control on a bridge about 120m from the kindergarten.</p> <p>“It appears there’s some contact with that bridge — we can see some debris,” he said. “There are also some signs on the left-hand side of the road that appear to have been struck as well."</p> <p>“It’s a tragic set of circumstances which actually could have been a lot worse. This is one of those close calls and I don’t know how only one person has died today.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Seven</em></p>

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Neighbour's "petty" act against "obnoxious" driver

<p>A Sydney resident has detailed her "petty" move against her neighbour after becoming fed up with his "obnoxious" parking.</p> <p>Venting about her neighbour online, the Manly resident claimed the man's "over loud, oversized vehicle permanently sticks out from his property, partially blocking footpath". </p> <p>While he was parked in his own driveway, blocking the footpath is illegal and can attract a $283 fine, sometimes more in other council areas across the country. </p> <p>"This noise-polluting monstrosity should be banned, or at least parked on the street (preferably not ours)," she said, attaching a picture of a large ute with its tray sticking out on the footpath. </p> <p>In an attempt to put an end to the "grubby" behaviour, the resident said she reported her neighbour to the Northern Beaches council. </p> <p>The council website states: "residents must not park in or across a driveway (even your own)," to ensure pedestrian safety and access.</p> <p>"Ensure your car is within the front boundary of the property or parked safely in the street."</p> <p>The council told <em>Yahoo News Australia</em> that after the incident was reported via Snap, Snap, Solve, the driver was fined.</p> <p>Officers have reportedly been proactively patrolling the area since, and found no repeated instances. </p> <p>However, the woman was shocked to see  see the driver's "pride and joy still there" in the driveway. </p> <p>"Today I received an email from council saying the matter has been resolved. Do council not care or is this an insufficient crime for any action to be taken?" she asked other residents on Facebook. </p> <p>Her post has divided residents, while most people agreed with her, others told her to mind her business. </p> <p>"I’m surprised he doesn’t get booked as he is blocking the footpath for prams and wheelchairs," one person said.</p> <p>"That’s kind of dangerous. Plus disabled or kids on bikes could slam into it," another added. </p> <p>"Car park is sh*te but it doesn’t seem like it’s affecting you. Take a deep breath and stop working yourself up over things that really don’t matter," someone else argued. </p> <p>"You sound like one of those neighbours that sticks their noses into other people's business," another added. </p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock/ Facebook</em></p>

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Devastated wife reveals croc attack victim's heroic final act

<p>The grieving wife of the 40-year-old doctor who was killed by a crocodile in Far North Queensland has spoken out about her husband's heroic actions in the moments before his tragic death. </p> <p>David Hogbin, a general practitioner from Newcastle, was holidaying near Cooktown with his wife Jane and their three young sons when he was attacked by a crocodile. </p> <p>The family of five were walking along an established path on a riverbank when it is believed part of the bank gave way, causing Hogbin to fall into the river below.</p> <p>“Jane, who was nearby but not walking with Dave at the time, heard the splash and slid down to desperately try to pull him out,” family friend Alex Ward wrote on <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-dave-hogbins-family-after-tragic-crocodile-attack" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline">GoFundMe</a>.</p> <p>“Due to the steepness and slipperiness of the bank, Jane was able to grab his arm but began slipping into the river herself.”</p> <p>Jane said her husband was "doing everything right" during the frantic incident, reflecting on his selflessness in his final moments. </p> <p>“He saved me — his last act was to not pull me in with him,” she told <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/queensland/news/dads-selfless-final-act-before-fatal-crocodile-attack-in-queensland/news-story/72a7140759ca5f22bb263ad1b0a390eb" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline">news.com.au</a></em>.</p> <p>Hogbin let go of his wife’s arm during the attack, which meant she was able to find safety on the riverbank as he was taken by the crocodile.</p> <p>“I’m glad I’m still here, because it could have been a million-fold worse for everyone involved, not just the boys,” Jane said.</p> <p>“I have a lot of comfort in knowing there’s nothing that I’m frustrated or angry about — he was just walking around a corner on a well-worn path.”</p> <p>Ward said it was a “small consolation” Hogbin’s three young sons did not directly see him being taken by the crocodile.</p> <p>Jane is now focused on helping her kids get through the tragedy while being determined to keep memories of their father alive.</p> <p>“I want them to know how dedicated he was as a father — he always jokingly offered to be a stay-at-home dad and never work again, because they were his number one priority,” she said.</p> <p>“David touched so many people’s lives that everyone deserves to know who he was and how it all ended for him."</p> <p>“I want to put a face to this tragedy — someone didn’t just get killed by a crocodile, we have lost a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend and doctor.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: GoFundMe</em></p>

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"Wasn’t my choice": Star spills on Neighbours exit

<p><em>Neighbours</em> star Ryan Moloney has revealed the truth about his surprise exit from the soap opera after almost 30 years on the show. </p> <p>The actor made the announcement that he would be leaving the show, and his character Toadfish, in a video posted to <em>Neighbours'</em> Instagram account in late June. </p> <p>In a recent interview with Australian soap opera website <em>Back to the Bay</em>, he finally opened up about leaving Toadfish behind after all these years. </p> <p>“Well, it actually wasn’t my choice. It was their choice,” he told the outlet.</p> <p>“So, yeah, I’ve been wanting to leave for quite a long time, but <em>Neighbours</em> is one of those jobs that you work with awesome people. You get paid really well. And if you had a mate who had one of these jobs, you’d be saying, ‘oh, mate, what are you doing? You’ve got to stay there. See it out for as long as you can.’”</p> <p>The actor said that he felt pressure to “suck it up and stay” despite wanting to move on - so in the end, he was “quite grateful that they actually made that decision for me because I don’t think that I could ever say no to a contract.”</p> <p>“And that’s kind of not the way you want to be doing Neighbours. You don’t want to have that kind of level of resentment in there. So I was very grateful for it,” he said.</p> <p>Moloney made his debut on <em>Neighbours</em> as a teen in 1995, and stayed with the show until it was axed in 2022.  He was then a  returning cast member when the show was rebooted a year later.</p> <p><em>Image: Network 10</em></p>

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Beloved Neighbours star passes away

<p>Janet Andrewartha, best known for her role as Lyn Scully on <em>Neighbours </em>has passed away aged 72. </p> <p>Social media accounts for the show confirmed her death on Sunday night. </p> <p>"Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha," they said in the statement. </p> <p>"Janet will be fondly remembered. Our thoughts are with Janet’s family and loved ones at this time." </p> <p>Andrewartha started her career as a music teacher before rising to prominence in the early 198-s after starring in Aussie TV and theatre productions. </p> <p>Tributes have poured in from former cast members, with fellow actress Jackie Woodburne, who plays Susan Kennedy on <em>Neighbours</em>, describing her as "one of the finest actors of her generation", saying that she will miss Andrewartha "every day". </p> <p>"She was an extraordinary woman," said. </p> <p>“Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.”</p> <p>Stefan Dennis, known for playing Paul Robinson on <em>Neighbours</em>, shared a similar sentiment. </p> <p>“So very upset to lose the lovely Janet. As Jackie said, she truly was an exceptional actress who was a pleasure work with and to be around. We will all miss you dear girl,” he wrote on the social media post. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street’s Lyn Scully, Janet will be fondly remembered. Our thoughts are with Janet’s family and loved ones at this time. <a href="https://t.co/tBWlE8iTZ5">pic.twitter.com/tBWlE8iTZ5</a></p> <p>— Neighbours (@neighbours) <a href="https://twitter.com/neighbours/status/1817444180072780019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p>Lucinda Cowden, who plays Melanie Pearson on the show, said: “I remember when I first saw her on Prisoner... she lit up the screen, and continued to grace us with her exceptional talent in so many interesting and unique characters. Vale Janet."</p> <p>“So very sad to hear this news, such a memorable actress who performed her role effortlessly,” Candice Leask, who plays Wendy Rodwell said. </p> <p>Former <em>Neighbours</em> casting director Jan Russ also shared his devastation. </p> <p>“I had cast Janet in the role of Reb Kean in Prisoner having been a fan of her work and confident she would take in that role and make it her own,” he began on social media. </p> <p>“(I) also cast her as Lyn Scully in Neighbours where once again she excelled in her role. Of course her theatre successes were also superb and many theatre goers will remember her work at the MTC," he continued. </p> <p>“It was devastating to hear this news (of her passing). She was such a vibrant, serene person and she will be greatly missed in the industry.</p> <p>“RIP dearest Janet. Forever in our hearts and great memories.”</p> <p>Andrewartha reportedly died peacefully surrounded by family in Melbourne on Friday, according to <em>The Herald Sun</em>. </p> <p><em>Image: X</em></p>

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Neighbour's "selfish" parking act sparks outrage

<p>A resident in Leichhardt, Sydney, has taken matters into their own hands and decided to deal with the lack of parking by using orange traffic cones to reserve a space for themselves. </p> <p>But frustrated neighbours were not pleased with this act, as parking on the the busy street is already difficult to find. </p> <p>"It's been ongoing for months and doesn't look renovation-related," they wrote on social media. </p> <p>It is understood that there are no parking restrictions on the street, meaning that residents can park there for as long as they like, if they're lucky enough to find a spot. </p> <p>Social media users were quick to share their thoughts, with many suggesting to just move the "witches hats."</p> <p>Others slammed the resident's parking act as "outrageous" and called him out for his "rude" and "selfish" behaviour. </p> <p>"I've noticed that for months and wondered why people have been so observant of them," one person wrote. </p> <p>"I guess if you're self-entitled and can get away with it," another added. </p> <p>"Remove them when they aren't there, someone will park there," a third wrote. </p> <p>While there were a few others who supported the act, and said that residents were entitled to reserve a parking spot, the Inner West Council has debunked it. </p> <p>They said that reserving street parking using objects like traffic cones or other items and then leaving these objects unattended is prohibited. </p> <p>"Unfortunately, this type of thing does happen in our local government area," a spokesperson told <em>Yahoo</em>.  </p> <p>The council has also urged anyone who sees someone using their belongings to obstruct public use of amenities to report it, with fines ranging from $330 to $660. </p> <p><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

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Neighbours fan favourite leaving Ramsay Street after 30 years

<p>After 30 years on Ramsay Street, a fan favourite actor is saying goodbye to <em>Neighbours</em>. </p> <p>Ryan Moloney, known for his longstanding role as Jarrod ‘Toadfish’ Rebecchi, announced that he would be leaving the show in an announcement video posted to the <em>Neighbours</em> Instagram page. </p> <p>The 44-year-old actor introduced himself as “formerly Jarrod ‘Toadfish’ Rebecchi" before clarifying, "That’s right, I did say formerly, because after 30 years playing Toadie, I will be leaving Ramsay Street.”</p> <p>“I can’t tell you what is happening to the character – maybe I could be the next Jim Robinson. Or maybe I’ll be the next Harold Bishop and just keep popping back over the 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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8tUG1GScZq/?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/C8tUG1GScZq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Neighbours (@neighbours)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Moloney hinted at his career change saying he wanted to spend more time behind the camera and start working as a director. </p> <p>As part of his new career move, he shared that he’d just finished on his first <em>Neighbours</em> episode as a director.</p> <p>“Thank you all so much for all the love that you have shown me and Toadie over the years. For three decades, in fact. I’m going to miss you, I’m going to miss him, and I’m going to miss Erinsborough. But whatever you do, make sure you do not miss what is going to happen on Ramsay Street,” he said. </p> <p>The sudden news sent fans into a tizzy, with many sharing emotional reactions to the news as they prepared to farewell a character who has been with them since the 90s. </p> <p>“Omg What?! Toadie is iconic. Won’t be the same. Hopefully he comes back to Erinsborough for a visit,” wrote one viewer.</p> <p>“This is so sad! I hope he keeps ‘popping back’ to the street rather than die. I am going to miss toadie,” said another.</p> <p>Moloney made his <em>Neighbours</em> debut in 1995 as a teenager and stayed with the show until it was axed in 2022.</p> <p>He was then one of the returning cast members when the show was rebooted a year later.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Andy Barnes / FameFlynet.uk.com/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p> <p> </p>

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"Welcome home, Harold": Iconic Neighbours actor returns to Ramsay Street

<p>More than 15 years after his departure, Harold Bishop is returning to Ramsay Street. </p> <p>Ian Smith's character has long been a fan favourite on <em>Neighbours</em>, after originally starring on the soap between 1987 and 1991, before he returned in 1996 until his departure in 2009. </p> <p>Since then, Harold has made multiple guest appearances, including in the 2022 finale.</p> <p>When Amazon picked up the Aussie show, Smith rejoined the cast for a short time but quickly left after a health scare.</p> <p>But now, Harold is making another comeback. </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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5fVoAlvJEJ/?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/C5fVoAlvJEJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Neighbours (@neighbours)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The official <em>Neighbours</em> Instagram shared the exciting news of his return, writing, “After 15 years of living away, the legendary Harold Bishop is returning to Erinsborough."</p> <p>“We are thrilled to welcome Ian Smith back to the show and the opening titles, where he belongs.”</p> <p>Fan were quick to flood the comment section with excitable messages, rejoicing in the fact that a fan favourite character was returning. </p> <p>“The best news. The show misses an elder character like Harold,” one person wrote.</p> <p>Another commented, “Absolutely amazing news to wake up too. Welcome home, Harold.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / YouTube </em></p>

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Heroic great-grandma saves two-year-old from collapsed ceiling

<p>In a heart-stopping moment of bravery and maternal instinct, 88-year-old Nicky Panagiotidis shielded her great-grandson, two-year-old Harvey, from a collapsing ceiling in their Melbourne home.</p> <p>The incident occurred at Panagiotidis' residence in Ascot Vale, where she was caring for Harvey late in the afternoon.</p> <p>According to Harvey's mother, Nicole Brown, the terrifying ordeal unfolded suddenly. As the ceiling began to crack, Panagiotidis swiftly reacted, rolling over off the couch to cover young Harvey with her own body. Brown, overwhelmed with gratitude and admiration for her grandmother's quick thinking, remarked, "I just know that motherly instinct that she has went through her to be a hero - she is actually a hero for him," <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/ascot-vale-great-grandmother-saves-grandson-from-ceiling-collapse/9f2bd38f-5254-4f53-981b-e3fb4b9c1bd9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">she told 9News</a>.</p> <p>In a moment of urgency, Panagiotidis managed to contact her daughter, Julie Polimos, informing her of the dire situation: "The ceiling is on top of me and we can't move." Emergency services promptly arrived at the scene, discovering the pair with thankfully minimal injuries.</p> <p>Despite the trauma of the event, Panagiotidis displayed remarkable resilience. Despite suffering bruising on her back and shoulders, she managed to walk to the ambulance and was later discharged from the hospital.</p> <p>Speaking of her mother's strength, Polimos highlighted Panagiotidis' dedication to traditional values, noting her commitment to home-cooked Greek Mediterranean meals over takeaways. "She doesn't buy takeaways, she always cooks home meals... Greek Mediterranean meals," Polimos proudly stated.</p> <p>The family attributes the ceiling collapse to a water leak, which they had noticed a week prior, observing cracks and sagging in the structure. However, amidst the unfortunate circumstances, they are immensely grateful for the fortunate outcome and the selfless actions of Panagiotidis, which will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to the extraordinary love shared within the family.</p> <p><em>Images: 9News</em></p>

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Heroic fan tackles deadly shooter at victory parade

<p>Three people have been taken into custody after a deadly shooting at a Super Bowl victory parade, where one person has died. </p> <p>At least 21 people have suffered injuries, nine of which being children, at the parade in Kansas City, following the Kansas Chiefs victory over the San Francisco 49ers.</p> <p>As one of the shooters opened fire in the crowd, one heroic football fan was captured on video tackling the gunman to the ground. </p> <p>The video also shows panicked crowds fleeing the sounds of the gunfire, as police ran towards the commotion.</p> <p>Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves confirmed in a second update to media that one person had died after 22 people had been shot.</p> <p>“We have three persons detained and under investigation,” she said.</p> <p>“We are working to determine if one of the three is the one that was in that video where fans assisted police.”</p> <p>She added that “right now we do not have a motive, but we are asking those who may potentially have any kind of information, a witness or video, to contact police”.</p> <p>At an earlier briefing, Ms Graves said she was “angry at what happened today”.</p> <p>Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said, “The celebration was marred by a shooting. This is absolutely a tragedy.” </p> <p>Witness Kade Collins, who attending the parade with his dad, described the ordeal to local news station Fox 4 KC.</p> <p>“We heard 10 to 12 gunshots, but we thought they were fireworks, so we didn’t really panic at first or get too worked up. But then everyone started screaming and took off running,” Mr Collins said.</p> <p>Mr Collins said his dad saw police tackle a suspect after the crowd saw the gunman. </p> <p>“When we were walking out, there was someone pointing and saying, ‘He’s right there, he’s right there’, and police ran to the guy the crowd was pointing at and tackled him and put him in handcuffs,” he said. “Everyone took off running and screaming.”</p> <p>The Kansas City Chiefs said in a statement that all players, coaches, staff and their families were “safe and accounted for”, while sharing their condolences for those who were impacted by the shooting. </p> <p>“We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today’s parade and rally,” the team said.</p> <p>"Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all of Kansas City ... We thank the local law enforcement officers and first responders who were on-scene to assist.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>

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Neighbours star’s cause of death revealed

<p>The entertainment industry continues to <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/gone-way-too-soon-neighbours-star-dead-at-48" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mourn the loss of Australian actor Troy Beckwith</a>, best known for his iconic roles in <em>Neighbours</em> and <em>Pugwall</em>.</p> <p>The news of his passing at the age of 48 has left his friends, family and fans devastated. Beckwith's career, marked by his mischievous charm and infectious laughter, will forever be remembered in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. Following widespread conjecture as the cause of Troy's death, one of the actor’s relatives, Shane Beckwith, finally addressed the rumours head on.</p> <p>“The family would like everyone to know that Troy fought a tough battle with cancer,” he said.</p> <p>Troy Beckwith's sister, Juanita Sanger (pictured), also took to social media to mourn her brother's passing. In a heartfelt post, she fondly recalled the joyous moments they shared growing up, highlighting Troy's free spirit and the countless stories that could fill a book. </p> <p>"I know Mum will be so happy to be reunited with her boy. Peace at last," she wrote, concluding the post with the poignant hashtag, "#cancersux".</p> <p>The news of Beckwith's death reverberated through social media, with friends and former co-stars sharing their grief. Selina Bonica, a friend and colleague, acknowledged the pain of losing Beckwith but expressed relief that he was now free from suffering. Kym Valentine, who worked with Beckwith on <em>Neighbours</em>, lamented the loss of a dear friend, saying that there would be no funeral, respecting Troy's wishes.</p> <p>Brett Blewitt, who played alongside Beckwith on <em>Neighbours</em>, remembered him as a "lovely person" with a deep sense of thoughtfulness and empathy. Lucinda Cowden, another <em>Neighbours</em> actress, conveyed her sadness with broken heart emojis. Ricky Fleming, Beckwith's co-star on the children's series <em>Pugwall</em>, shared a touching tribute, describing their adventures and the infectious joy Beckwith brought to those around him.</p> <p>Beckwith's acting career spanned several notable roles, including his portrayal of Michael Martin on <em>Neighbours</em> from 1991 to 1998, earning him recognition as one of the soap's most iconic villains, 'Sicko Micko'. He also made appearances in Blue Heelers and State Coroner. His talent extended to the realm of children's television, where he played Jeremy 'Bazza' Bazlington on Pugwall from 1989 to 1991.</p> <p><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

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