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Win a free Legacy Film and capture a life story that matters

<p>Have you ever wished you could freeze time – preserve a loved one’s stories, laughter and quiet reflections so they can be cherished for generations to come? Now you can.</p> <p>Danika Armytage, founder of <a href="https://www.bigstorieslittlefilms.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Big Stories Little Films</em></a>, recently appeared on <em>The Morning Show</em> to share her mission: helping Australians preserve their life stories on film. And now, she’s giving one lucky person the chance to win a professionally made legacy film – completely free. Take a look:</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z1DPvQFmZFg?si=8yIDGnbaKRA20n_D" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>A legacy film is a beautifully crafted short documentary film that captures a life story, family history, and the wisdom passed between generations – something to treasure forever.</p> <p>Nominations are open throughout April, with the winner to be announced in May.</p> <p>Valued at over $3,000, the film can feature the life story of an individual or a couple. So how will the winner be chosen?</p> <p>“The story doesn’t need to be defined by fame or accolades,” Danika says. “Maybe the person has led an extraordinary life, overcome big obstacles, or perhaps this film is simply something their family deeply wants to preserve. When choosing the winning nomination, it’s really about the story that matters to the people who love them.”</p> <p>While the giveaway is open to everyone, Danika adds that they’re especially mindful of those for whom the timing feels particularly important.</p> <p>“There are some stories that really can’t wait to be told,” she explains. “But truly, I encourage everyone to apply.”</p> <p>If you or someone you love has a story worth telling – and treasuring – head to <a href="https://www.bigstorieslittlefilms.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bigstorieslittlefilms.com.au</a> to submit a nomination. And if you <em>DO</em> win, be sure to contact us via <a href="mailto:contact@oversixty.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact@oversixty.com.au</a> so we can share it with the world!</p> <p><em>Images: Big Stories Little Films</em></p>

Movies

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"Yes, Burger Boy!": Australian Idol winner crowned for 2025

<p>What a night to remember! After two electrifying evenings packed with powerhouse performances and surprise guest appearances, <em>Australian Idol </em>has officially crowned its 2025 winner. In a grand finale brimming with excitement, finalists Iilysh Retallick, Gisella Colletti and Marshall Hamburger delivered unforgettable performances – but it was 19-year-old Marshall Hamburger who stole the show and captured the hearts of the nation.</p> <p>Marshall’s victory marks a sensational end to the show’s tenth season, earning him not only the coveted title of Australian Idol 2025 but also a life-changing prize package: $100,000 in cash and an exclusive recording deal with Hive Sound Studios.</p> <p>Overflowing with gratitude, Marshall beamed moments after his name was announced. “Thank you, Australia, thank you so much. You're gonna hear a lot of me in the future, I'll be out there,” he promised, as cheers erupted across the studio.</p> <p>Fans didn’t hold back their excitement, lighting up social media with praise for the newly crowned star. "I’m so happy congratulations Marshall," one fan wrote, while another cheered, "What a legend!" And in a playful nod to his surname, another delighted supporter exclaimed, "Yes, Burger Boy!"</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/DIJN6_MiD5_/?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/reel/DIJN6_MiD5_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Australian Idol (@australianidol)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Behind the scenes, Australian Idol host Scott Tweedie shared some fun insights into the suspenseful process of announcing the winner live on air, revealing the team’s clever methods to avoid any mishaps during such high-stakes moments.</p> <p>"We have it written down, so there’s no way that communication can be wrong," he explained. "On the card we've got in our hands, it has the winner's name – and we even use the 'thumb rule.' Your thumb has to be on the name you’re about to announce, so you cannot say the wrong name."</p> <p>Adding to the excitement, co-host Ricki-Lee, who has a deep-rooted history with <em>Idol</em>, typically takes centre stage for the final announcement. "Because of her DNA with Idol, I think she is the best at doing those really big announcements," Scott said, noting he’s always ready to back her up live on air.</p> <p>With a thrilling season now complete, all eyes are on Marshall Hamburger as he embarks on what promises to be an incredible musical journey. If his grand finale performance is any indication, Australia – and the world – will be hearing plenty from this rising star.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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I spy with my little eye: 3 unusual Australian plant ecosystems to spot on your next roadtrip

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779">Gregory Moore</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em></p> <p>When the growing gets tough, the tough trees and shrubs get growing.</p> <p>Australia’s environment is brutal. Its ancient, low-nutrient soils and generally low rainfall make it a hard place for plants to grow. Despite this, the continent is filled with wonderfully diverse plant ecosystems.</p> <p>If you don’t know what you’re looking for, it can be easy to miss these seemingly unremarkable species. So, here are three little-known Australian plant species and ecosystems to look out for during your next roadtrip.</p> <h2>1. Cycads and eucalypts</h2> <p>If you are driving a coastal route along southern New South Wales, keep an eye out for the stunning combination of burrawang cycads (<em>Macrozamia communis</em>) and spotted gum (<em>Corymbia maculata</em>). These species live in harmony along the <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/our-science/our-collections/plant-families/cycads#:%7E:text=Meet%20one%20of%20the%20world's%20most%20southern%20Cycads&amp;text=On%20the%20New%20South%20Wales,Spotted%20Gums%20(Corymbia%20maculata).">NSW coastline</a>, from Kempsey to Bega, and inland as far as Mudgee.</p> <p>If you’re on a road trip, now is the perfect time to talk to children about ancient moving continents, volcanoes and dinosaurs.</p> <p>Cycads are <a href="https://anpsa.org.au/APOL2009/feb09-s3.html">ancient gymnosperms</a> (cone-bearing plants) which evolved long before the Gondwanan supercontinent separated. These tough, hardy plants saw the dinosaurs come and go, and their relatives are found all around the world.</p> <p>These <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/our-science/our-collections/plant-families/cycads#:%7E:text=Not%20only%20is%20Macrozamia%20communis,inland%20as%20far%20as%20Mudgee.">cycads</a> form a striking understorey to the spotted gum. As their scientific name (<em>Macrozamia communis</em>) suggests, they form a dense community.</p> <p>Further north in Queensland, pineapple cycads (<em>Lepidozamia peroffskyana</em>), and Western Australia’s zamia palm (<em>Macrozamia riedlei</em>) are also worth spotting.</p> <p>Cycad seeds are poisonous, but First Nations Australians worked out a complex process to prepare them for <a href="https://www.apscience.org.au/apsf20036/">safe eating</a>. This involved dissolving the <a href="https://www.scienceflip.com.au/subjects/chemistry/equilibriumandacidreactions/learn10/">plant’s toxins</a> in running water, cooking, working and grinding the seeds into a powder.</p> <p>Spotted gums evolved long after dinosaurs went extinct. Early eucalypt fossils date from about 34 million years ago, while current species are often only a few million years old.</p> <p>Spotted gums are a great example of how plants that survive tough environments often also do well in difficult <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-humble-spotted-gum-is-a-world-class-urban-tree-heres-why-212540">urban situations</a>.</p> <p>Cycads are similarly found growing in poor soils and arid conditions. They have long, glossy leaves up to about 1.5 metres in length with lots of leaflets.</p> <p>There are both male and female plants. The female cone is an impressive, wide-domed structure that can be almost half a metre across. Its bright orange-red seeds are eaten by <a href="https://backyardbuddies.org.au/backyard-buddies/cycads/#:%7E:text=If%20you%20have%20a%20female,bats%20will%20feed%20on%20them.">foraging marsupials</a>, large birds and flying foxes.</p> <p>Spotted gums are tall, straight eucalyptus trees with dark green, glossy leaves. Old bark creates dark grey spots against their cream coloured trunk, giving them a mottled look.</p> <p>It is interesting to see ancient and modern species in such a close community relationship in cycad-spotted gum forests. Both are also well-adapted to the fires that frequent their habitat.</p> <h2>2. Ancient acacias</h2> <p>Travelling inland, the environment gets even tougher. Most large trees disappear and are replaced by woodlands dominated by <a href="https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/abares/forestsaustralia/publishingimages/forest%20profiles%202005/acacia_forests_2005.pdf">inland acacia</a> (wattle) species.</p> <p>These inland acacias are short but mighty, with deep, extensive root systems.</p> <p>Two of these species, <a href="http://theconversation.com/the-mighty-mulga-grows-deep-and-lives-long-118838">mulga</a> (<em>Acacia aneura</em>) and brigalow (<em>A. harpophylla</em>) are part of Australian folklore. A Banjo Paterson character <a href="https://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks/e00072.txt">says</a>: “You know how the brigalow grows […] saplings about as thick as a man’s arm”.</p> <p>Nutrients and water resources are limited, so mulga and brigalow trees are often evenly spaced across the landscape. This eerie symmetry makes it look like they were planted by humans.</p> <p>Many people are unaware that the twisted, stunted specimens they see are more than 250 years old and occupy vast tracts of the Australian landscape.</p> <p><a href="https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/biodiversity/threatened/action-plan/priority-plants/waddy-wood">Waddy-wood</a> (<em>Acacia peuce</em>) is a rare species of acacia, found in just three locations on the edge of the Simpson Desert. This tree has very strong wood, and was used by Indigenous Australians for making clubs (waddys) and tools for carrying fire.</p> <p>Inland acacias were widely used by Indigenous Australians for their wood, resins and medicinal properties. They have also been used as <a href="https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/671421/using-mulga-as-a-forage-supplement-for-livestock-in-droughts.pdf">fodder for livestock</a>, especially during drought.</p> <p>These <a href="https://era.dpi.qld.gov.au/id/eprint/13430/1/QJAS_6%5B2%5D_1949_pp87-139_everist.pdf">crucial species</a> provide important habitat for other plants and animals. But they are under threat.</p> <p>As old trees collapse and die, there are no young trees replacing them. This is because of drought and grazing, compounded by <a href="https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/environmental-risk-mitigation-plan-acacia.pdf">climate change</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/desertification">Desertification</a> – where fertile land is degraded until it essentially becomes desert – is becoming a huge problem due to the massive area dominated by acacias.</p> <h2>3. Boabs</h2> <p>If you’re driving across the Northern Territory and Western Australia, you might come across the <a href="https://theconversation.com/built-like-buildings-boab-trees-are-life-savers-with-a-chequered-past-118821">mighty boab</a> (<em>Adansonia gregoryii</em>).</p> <p>These close relatives of the African and Madagascan baobabs <a href="https://theconversation.com/baobab-trees-all-come-from-madagascar-new-study-reveals-that-their-seeds-and-seedlings-floated-to-mainland-africa-and-all-the-way-to-australia-231031">floated to Australia</a> as seeds or seedlings around 12 million years ago.</p> <p>These <a href="https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2019/07/how-did-the-iconic-boab-tree-get-to-australia/">deciduous trees</a> live in mostly dry environments that also experience strong monsoonal-type rains. Boabs trap and store water in their trunks, allowing them not only to survive but thrive.</p> <p>Their African and Madagascan baobab relatives are sometimes called <a href="https://www.oneearth.org/species-of-the-week-african-baobab-tree/">trees of life</a>, as they support many species.</p> <p>Australian boabs are similar. They offer habitat, roosting and nesting sites. Their flowers and fruits are food sources to many species of insects and birds.</p> <p>They were – and are – important trees in First Nations cultures. Carvings and symbols on their trunks can last for more than a century, much longer than on other trees. These are called <a href="https://www.snexplores.org/article/carvings-australia-boab-trees-lost-history-first-nation">dendroglyphs</a>.</p> <p>For example, <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-boab-trees-of-the-remote-tanami-desert-are-carved-with-centuries-of-indigenous-history-and-theyre-under-threat-191676">snake carvings</a> dated to more than 200 years old have been found on boab trees in Northern Australia’s Tanami Desert.</p> <p>While these special trees are usually found far from the beaten track, they can be spotted growing around Darwin and other remote towns. If you get the chance to see them, count yourself lucky.</p> <h2>Tough terrain, tough trees</h2> <p>Plant communities are remarkably resilient. They also display great creativity when evolving ways to survive tough environments.</p> <p>Make sure to keep an eye out as you’re exploring Australia and enjoy the fascinating plants our country has to offer.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><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/246129/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779"><em>Gregory Moore</em></a><em>, Senior Research Associate, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </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/i-spy-with-my-little-eye-3-unusual-australian-plant-ecosystems-to-spot-on-your-next-roadtrip-246129">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Domestic Travel

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Little-known road markings implemented to made roads safer

<p>Aussie drivers could see a nationwide roll out of new road markings in an effort to improve road safety. </p> <p>While authorities continue to try to curb the number of people dying and being seriously injured on roads, many motorists have grown frustrated with state governments over the constant threat of hefty fines and the loss of demerit points. </p> <p>Authorities are now looking at alternative approaches to help reach the ambitious goal of achieving zero deaths and serious injuries by 2050, without further over-saturating roads with camera detectors. </p> <p>One new initiative, which is currently being trialed in Adelaide, is the introduction of new road markings  intended to quickly grab the attention of drivers and alert them to a change up ahead without the threat of a fine or loss of demerit points.</p> <p>Known as 'dragon's teeth', the three-dimensional road markings are meant to "increase driver attention and create a sense of warning," leading road safety scientist at the University of Adelaide Mario Mongiardini told <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/drivers-warned-as-little-known-road-markings-could-be-rolled-out-across-australia-003513352.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Yahoo News</em></a>.</p> <p>If successful, the markings could be seen across the country, because they can be implemented "cheaply and quickly" by state authorities.</p> <p>The road markings, which are made of thermoplastic, are easy for councils and road authorities to implement and are designed to be durable and offer friction and grip for cyclists and motorcyclists.</p> <p>Mongiardini said inspiration for the markings came from Singapore, where they have adopted similar tactics. </p> <p>"They noticed drivers started to become much more compliant," Mario explained. "So that is one source of inspiration."</p> <p>Adelaide is not the only place they exist in Australia, with RAA Senior Traffic Engineer Matt Vertudaches, explaining "similar markings, without the 3D effect are used at school zones in other states such as NSW, where they indicate to drivers that there is an elevated risk and lower speeds may be more appropriate."</p> <p>Dr Chris Stokes, another researcher at the University of Adelaide, warned that the markings must be part of a multifaceted approach to road safety, with this specific road treatment thought to only work effectively if they're used sparingly.</p> <p>"You can't expect to have them around every corner, if that happens, people will quickly lose trust in the system," he explained. "They are not to be used where the environment speaks for itself."</p> <p>The markings are supposed to be used as a "complimentary" tactic, to work in tandem with reduced speed limits and changing the texture of roads too.</p> <p>"Hopefully if it's successful you may see them in some areas of Australia," Mongiardini said, but "don’t expect to see them all over the road, only where they are needed."</p> <p><em>Image credits: RAA</em></p>

Legal

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Little Prince Louis snaps special photo of Princess Kate

<p>Kate Middleton has shared a sweet photo taken by her son, Prince Louis, to mark World Cancer Day. </p> <p>The Princess of Wales is seen with her arms outstretched standing in the middle of a woodland area in Windsor, in the middle of winter, as she stands atop a fallen tree. </p> <p>The caption, written by Catherine and signed 'C', reads: "Don't forget to nurture all that which lies beyond the disease".</p> <p>A second photo, taken by the princess, shows dark foliage lit-up by the sun with the same message, and was tagged #WorldCancerDay.</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/DFndiRbNSeB/?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/DFndiRbNSeB/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Kate was diagnosed with cancer after abdominal surgery in January 2024 and is making a gradual return to public duties following chemotherapy treatment, which ended in September.</p> <p>In January, the princess announced she was in remission as carried out her first <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/kate-middleton-shares-major-health-update" target="_blank" rel="noopener">solo engagement</a> of the year at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, where she was treated for cancer.</p> <p>The Princess of Wales spend over an hour at the dedicated cancer treatment facility, engaging in emotional conversations with patients who were facing cancer battles of their own. </p> <p>Catherine later posted a photo of her interacting with a patient and discussing the outing to the hospital, while thanking staff for their support during her treatment. </p> <p>"I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well during the past year," the post read. </p> <p>"My heartfelt thanks goes to all those who have quietly walked alongside William and me as we have navigated everything. We couldn't have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional."</p> <p>"It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focused on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal."</p> <p>She concluded the post by sharing her wishes for 2025, adding, "I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram / Shutterstock</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 16px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 18px; line-height: 28px; font-family: 'Proxima Nova', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue'; 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; caret-color: #333333; color: #333333;"> </p>

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Aussie drivers warned over little-known "speed fine trap"

<p>Road authorities are warning drivers of a "speed fine trap" in the lead-up to school's return. </p> <p>In NSW, four back-to-back pupil free days will take place from February 1 until February 5, as teachers and staff prep for the new school year, with students set to return on the 6th. </p> <p>While there will be no kids on campus, school zones will be in operation on those days, with speed limits being enforced. </p> <p>"Pupil-free days continue to be a major speed trap for motorists," NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury said. </p> <p>Last year, 2,184 fines for speeding were issued to drivers in just two days prior to term one. </p> <p>An average of 1,092 fines were issued between January 30 and 31 in 2024, which was almost double the daily average for February (598). </p> <p>Khoury added that motorists are at risk of being fined at almost twice the rate during pupil-free days, as most drivers are "oblivious" to the rule. </p> <p>"It is extremely frustrating when drivers who normally abide by the 40 km/h speed limit in school zones are fined on pupil-free days because they were oblivious to the fact that the speed limits applied despite their children not being at school," he said. </p> <p>"The overwhelming majority of drivers go to great lengths to do the right thing around school zones and school zone speed limits have overwhelming public support — we just don’t want people inadvertently breaking the law and getting fined."</p> <p>He added: "Please be extra alert tomorrow as you drive through school zones as speed limits will apply." </p> <p>The number of pupil free days will increase from six days in 2024 to eight days in 2025. This includes the four pupil-free days on January 31 and February 3, 4 and 5.</p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

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Wayne Carey welcomes a new baby boy at 53

<p>Wayne Carey has welcomed a new baby at the age of 53. </p> <p>The AFL legend and his partner Jessica Paulke, 33, have welcomed a baby boy, with the <em>Herald Sun</em> confirming the happy news. </p> <p>The couple, who dated for a number of years and already share five-year-old son Carter, announced they were expecting a new addition to their family back in August.</p> <p>"We are both incredibly ecstatic, as is Carter who is looking forward to having a sibling in January," Wayne told the Herald Sun at the time.</p> <p>"Mum is healthy and happy," the former footballer added of his model partner.</p> <p>Wayne and Jessica were first spotted together at the Australian Open in 2018, and welcomed son Carter just one year later. </p> <p>The couple split for a brief period in 2023, when Wayne went public with a new relationship. </p> <p>In August, Wayne and Jessica reunited and soon after came the pregnancy announcement of their new baby. </p> <p>The news of Carey's new baby comes after he was plagued with more scandals in 2024, after he made headlines at the end of the year for being excluded from a promotional video for his former North Melbourne team. </p> <p>It seems his controversial career, both on and off the field, led to him being left out from the video, with Carey responding to the snub by saying he won't "live with toxic shame".</p> <p>Carey also said the infamous incident where he was alleged to have glassed his then partner Neilson was incorrect and “ludicrous”.</p> <p>Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook</p>

Family & Pets

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Family cops $2k fine for little known offence

<p>A family in Sydney have been repeatedly fined for parking their car in their own driveway. </p> <p>Jane Mansfield, who lives in Sydney's south-west with her family of six, started copping fines for her parked car six months ago. </p> <div> <article> <div id="outbrain_widget_1" data-src="//9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/sydney-family-cops-repeated-fines-for-parking-car-in-their-own-driveway/58653db4-cd4f-41be-9f29-0d0d2a678394" data-widget-id="AR_1" data-external-id="63f8b8e389687ebfeb24eb9bf5179b0b" data-ob-mark="true" data-browser="safari" data-os="macintel" data-dynload="" data-idx="1"> <p>"All up we're due to pay about $2,000 on a finance plan at the moment," she told <em>A Current Affair</em>.</p> <p>Both Jane and her husband each received one fine for parking slightly over the curb in their driveway, with both of them accepting the fine and putting them on a payment plan. </p> <p>"Then we tried to do the right thing by pulling the car onto the driveway further, and got another fine," Mansfield said.</p> <p>"Well, apparently, you need to go past the letterbox, and even being slightly out ... is not allowed. So I'm thinking, where am I meant to put my car?"</p> <p>According to the fine, the offence was for stopping on or across a driveway - which is her own.</p> <p>Each fine they have received is worth $320 and Mansfield claimed she is now running out of patience and money trying to keep up with the ridiculous fines. </p> <p>"Four children, rent's gone up, electricity, everything's gone up bill wise, so $2,000 to us is a huge amount," Mansfield said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair </em></p> </div> </article> </div>

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"My boys": Channel 7 presenter's baby joy

<p>Channel 7 sports presenter Abbey Gelmi and former Richmond star Kane Lambert are celebrating the birth of their second child, a baby boy.</p> <p>The couple took to Instagram to announce their joyful news, with a set of black-and-white photos. </p> <p>“My boys 🌏🤍,” Gelmi wrote in the caption. </p> <p>One of the photos showed her fiance holding the two children, and the second was of her holding her newborn baby boy. </p> <p>“Oliver Herb Lambert arrived 17.11.24,” Gelmi continued.</p> <p>“Everyone happy, healthy and very much in love.”</p> <p>Fellow Aussie stars were quick to congratulate the couple, with <em>Better Homes and Gardens </em>host Joh Griggs saying: “Welcome to the Two boys Club Abbey. Those lucky men in your life…❤️❤️❤️.”</p> <p>Seven AFL presenter Abbey Holmes added:  “Omg !!! Just beautiful!! Congratulations guys, rapt for you xx.”</p> <p>Brit Selwood, wife of Geelong great Joel, commented: “Aww congratulations gorgeous!!! Two beautiful boys, just the best ❤️❤️.”</p> <p>While Australian model and influencer Bec Judd wrote a simple, “Congrats darling x.”</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/DCieSDcTOdN/?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/DCieSDcTOdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Abbey Gelmi (@abbeygelmi)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Lambert and Gelmi already share a son together, Louis, who was born in March 2023. </p> <p>In May this year, Gelmi revealed that her pregnancy with her second son was difficult, as she battled a “debilitating” case of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a condition that causes intractable vomiting during pregnancy leading to weight loss. </p> <p>At the time, she had been absent from duties with Seven and iHeart Radio, and explained why she had been absent. </p> <p>“I’ve been in hospital three days a week for most of the first trimester, unable to keep anything down or leave bed with relentless nausea. I’d get dizzy when I stood, couldn’t care for (first-born) Louis and my mental health took a dive," she shared. </p> <p>She then shared a few resources for women who may experience the same condition,  "in the hope that those who endure it know they’re not alone." </p> <p>“Work have been so accommodating, I can’t thank Seven and iHeart enough for the grace and time to recover.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Driver fined $544 for little known road act

<p>A Mercedes driver has copped a massive fine after illegally transporting a ladder in the back of his car. </p> <p>The motorist thought he snagged a bargain on Gumtree, buying a ladder from someone who lived only a few streets away. </p> <p>But when he went to take the ladder home after placing it in the backseat of his car, the ladder was protruding almost one metre out the window. </p> <p>Highway Patrol officers in Sydney's west stopped the driver who said, "I picked it up from someone on Gumtree, I’m just going down the road".</p> <p>He was $544 and lost three demerit points by the roadside, with the short distance of travel between his purchase location and destination meaning nothing to police due to the dangerous nature of the act.</p> <p>The driver claims he "didn't know" it was an offence to drive with a protruding load, despite every state and territory handed an on-the-spot fine if any items stick out of a moving vehicle.</p> <p>"Due to the danger posed to other road users as well as the driver himself, he was issued with an infringement," NSW Police said, explaining that the driver was able to disassemble the ladder and store it "more suitably" in the car before taking off again.</p> <p>In NSW, the fine for driving with a protruding load will set a motorist back $349. Across the country, fines fall between $200 to $400 for drivers of light vehicles, however, those in heavy vehicles can pay thousands.</p> <p>Protruding loads can alter the weight distribution of a car and make it unstable and unsafe to drive, reducing a driver's control, while also posing a risk of hitting others on the road, pedestrians or cyclists.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Legal

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Coldplay pause concert to help young boy in distress

<p>Coldplay's frontman Chris Martin has paused their concert in Sydney to help a young fan in distress.</p> <p>At Sydney's Accor stadium, Martin spotted a young boy in the crowd who was being crushed behind a wall of pushing fans.</p> <p>A video of the moment was shared on TikTok, showing the singer checking in on the kid before giving him the best seat in the house.</p> <p>"You can sit right here, OK? You don't have to be squeezed," Martin told the boy during Wednesday night's show, pointing to a spot over the crowd control barriers.</p> <p>Martin then turned to the security team if they could "get some headphones for him" before turning his attention back to the boy, as he explained, "Then you don't have to be squished by all these adults is all."</p> <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: currentcolor !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; border-style: none; vertical-align: baseline; width: 600px; max-width: 100%; outline: currentcolor !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7434149552611020040&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40rubygxpim%2Fvideo%2F7434149552611020040%3Flang%3Den&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-sg.tiktokcdn.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-alisg-p-0037%2Fok6scDVKIAojceAI4DZEVneANEAjAAFROrEg6f%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1731196800%26x-signature%3DOcK0QZUELKCqtkgmIvPpGukhRCc%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>"You sit right there my little brother, OK. Better? Now let's get you ... do you want some coke or something? The drink, I mean," he said to laughs from the crowd.</p> <p>"We'll take care of you man."</p> <p>Once the boy was safely in position, Martin carried on with the show. </p> <p>The video quickly went viral, with many commenting that Martin's care for the young fan was a "class act", with many praising his "wonderful" actions. </p> <p><em>Image credits: TikTok/Sonia Moskowitz Gordon/ZUMA/Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

Caring

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Sad end in search for young boy swept out to sea

<p>A body has been recovered in the search for a young boy swept out to sea in front of his family while on a fishing trip at The Entrance, NSW over the weekend.</p> <p>Laith Alaid, 11, was crossing a channel about 5pm on Sunday when he was caught in the outgoing tide. </p> <p>His father managed to save his other three sons aged, three, seven and nine, but he could not reach Laith in time.</p> <p>Bystanders looked after the three children while Laith's father tried to reach him. </p> <p>“(The father) came here by himself and with his four beautiful boys ... and he tried to save them all, he saved three and by the time he turned around (Laith) was gone ... in a split second,” family member Zeid Alhirz said. </p> <p>The family were visiting the Central Coast from Sydney and had been fishing when it is understood they took a shortcut across the channel between an estuary and the ocean. </p> <p>Relatives said they had visited and fished at the popular tourist spot for years and had crossed the channel at least three times before tragedy struck. </p> <p>An extensive multi-agency search was conducted and on Wednesday police were called back to The Entrance after a body was found in the water. </p> <p>“While the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of the missing boy,” NSW Police said.</p> <p>Inspector David Piddington said “lots of people try to move across that channel” but he advised against it.</p> <p>A report will be prepared for the coroner.</p> <p><em>Images: 7News</em></p>

Caring

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Boy's tragic death in school crash sparks incredible community response

<p>The 11-year-old boy who tragically died after a car <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/child-dies-after-car-crashes-through-school-gate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">crashed</a> through his school's gate has been identified, with a family friend sharing more details about the horrific accident. </p> <p>Jack Davey was sitting with friends when a car slammed through a fence and into a group of Year 5 students at Auburn South Primary School on Tuesday afternoon.</p> <p>He was critically injured and died on the way to hospital, while four other children were also injured. </p> <p>School mum and friend of the family Lucy Pristel told <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/incredible-response-after-boys-tragic-death-in-melbourne-school-crash-052951244.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Yahoo News</em></a> the shocking incident has "affected" the entire "close-knit" community.</p> <p>“I have no words, to be honest with you. They are the most beautiful family. They would do anything for anyone,” she said. </p> <p>Lucy's own 11-year-old son, who is also a student at the school and played basketball with Jack, witnessed the tragedy unfold before his eyes.</p> <p>"Unfortunately a lot of the kids saw what happened," she said. "It's affected everybody. The school has offered councillors to us all, so there's been a lot of support. We're a close-knit community." </p> <p>To help support the grieving family, Lucy, along with some of the other school mums, decided to launch a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-davey" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-i13n="cpos:5;pos:1" data-ylk="slk:GoFundMe;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" data-rapid_p="15" data-v9y="1">GoFundMe</a> to help "ease the burden" of funeral costs, adding, "We just wanted to make life as easy as possible." </p> <p>In a matter of hours, the fundraiser has exceeded its goal, and at the time of writing over $140,000 has bee donated by the community.</p> <p>Lucy recalled the moment she found out about the horror that unfolded at the school on Tuesday afternoon, saying she didn't realise the extent of what had happened at first. </p> <p>"I actually drove past the school after it happened and didn't think much of it," she admitted. "Then I started hearing about it."</p> <p>"I ran down to the school... you could see parents for at least 300, 400 metres and I saw everyone hugging. That's when I knew something happened at our school [and not one of the others close by]."</p> <p>Ever since then, "everyone has just bound together," she said sharing the "pure horror" felt by everyone.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Caring

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Cruise director shares little known ship facts

<p dir="ltr">A cruise director has revealed little known facts about cruise ships and their dedicated staff, while sharing tips for eager travellers.  </p> <p dir="ltr">Luigi Incarnato, cruise director for MSC, is often seen hosting events, introducing acts and getting involved with passengers onboard his cruises. </p> <p dir="ltr">He shared his top tips for passengers with <em><a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/cruising/cruise-ship-worker-msc-world-europa/cab3f458-35e0-4989-aa3e-ce0cec1eee6b">9Travel</a></em>, while also revealing some industry secrets. </p> <p dir="ltr">When asked what people may not have considered about the crew and vessel of a cruise ship, Luigi shared that even more work goes into pulling off a trip than one might think. </p> <p dir="ltr">He said, “Our crew onboard comes from more than 60-70 countries of the world, spread on all continents, leading to an exceptionally culturally diverse team, which we are very proud of.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Each one of our crew members is remarkably hard working and skilled in their trade. Our crew comes onboard for an average of six to seven months then goes home to rest for an average of two months and reembarks, possibly on a new ship.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“We also work on national holidays, on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Luigi added that there is one thing many people may not think to bring onboard, that is of vital importance. </p> <p dir="ltr">When asked what essential to pack, he said, “Their complete health issues history and a medicine list with any prescriptions that may be needed during the cruise.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“A suitable wardrobe for the theme nights, especially for the elegant and white dress code evenings, and sunscreen.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Cruising

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Aussie Olympian welcomes baby boy

<p>Australian Olympic snowboarder Scotty James and his partner, singer Chloe Stroll, have welcomed their first child together.</p> <p>The couple shared a simple but powerful snap of the newborn, introducing their son to their fans online. </p> <p>"Leo Harry James," the caption simply reads, confirming their son's name.</p> <p>Thousands were quick to react to the couple's happy news, with plenty of friends, family and fans sharing their well wishes.</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/DA7oGnnCYge/?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/DA7oGnnCYge/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Scotty James (@scottyjames31)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"Congratulations you two," wrote James' fellow Olympic snowboarder Mark McMorris.</p> <p>Australian model and businesswoman Elle Macpherson even shared her excitement by commenting three red heart emojis.</p> <p>The couple announced they were expecting their first baby back in June, sharing a photo of Chloe's growing baby bump, and in August shared a video of their gender reveal celebrations, confirming they were welcoming a baby boy. </p> <p>James recently opened up on the excitement of becoming a father, telling <a href="https://celebrity.nine.com.au/latest/chloe-stroll-scotty-james-baby-snowboarder-f1-heiress-singer-welcome-son-leo/764a30f7-575e-4202-9744-f4197cac29a0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9honey Celebrity</a> that while it would be a little daunting becoming a first-time parent, he was more than ready.</p> <p>"I am very excited. I hope I'm going to be a fun dad," James, who is a four-time Olympian, said.</p> <p>He later added that "[parenting is] unknown and not something I'm familiar with, it's going to be a new challenge to embrace, I'm looking forward to it and it's going to be fun."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Family & Pets

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Abducted boy found after 73 years

<p>In a remarkable and heartwarming conclusion to a decades-long mystery, Luis Armando Albino, who was abducted 73 years ago, has been found alive and well, bringing joy and closure to a family that never gave up hope.</p> <p>Albino, who was born in Puerto Rico, was just six years old when he was abducted from Jefferson Square Park in West Oakland, California, in February 1951. On that fateful day, he had been playing with his brother Roger when he was lured away. His disappearance left his family devastated, and the case went cold for decades. His mother, who passed away in 2005, carried a newspaper clipping about her son’s kidnapping in her wallet until her death, refusing to give up on her belief that he was alive.</p> <p>This long-lost boy, now 79, was found after his niece, Alida Alequin, 63, took a DNA test in 2020. The results matched her with a man who turned out to be Albino, now living on the east coast of the US.</p> <p>Alequin, determined to find her uncle, sought the help of the FBI and the Department of Justice to track him down. A DNA sample confirmed his identity, finally solving the mystery that had haunted their family for over seven decades.</p> <p>Albino, a retired firefighter and Marine Corps veteran, had been raised by a couple who took him in as their son after his abduction. His niece said he had faint memories of being taken but had never been able to piece together the truth. Despite the astonishing discovery, Albino has chosen to keep a low profile and has declined to speak with the media.</p> <p>When Alequin shared the news of the discovery, the emotion was palpable. "She always had hope that he would come home," Alequin said of her grandmother. “She always felt he was alive. She took that with her to her grave.” The family had never stopped thinking about him. Pictures of Luis Armando hung in their home, and stories of his disappearance were passed down through the years, keeping his memory alive.</p> <p>Albino's reunion with his family was bittersweet. He reconnected with his brother Roger, but sadly, Roger passed away shortly afterward. Despite this, the family remains overjoyed to have found their beloved Luis after so many years of uncertainty. The missing persons report on Albino has since been removed from the California Department of Justice website, a poignant symbol of the long-awaited resolution to this case.</p> <p>For Alequin and the rest of the family, finding their lost relative after 73 years was nothing short of miraculous. "The outcome of this story is what we strive for," a police spokesperson said of the rare but incredible closure that comes from never giving up on hope.</p> <p><em>Images: <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Alida Alequin</span></em></p>

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"Just so tragic": Grandfather of slain boys speaks out

<p><em><strong>Warning: This article contains distressing content that readers may find upsetting. </strong></em></p> <p>The grandfather of the two young boys who were <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/mother-arrested-after-two-boys-found-dead-in-blue-mountains-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">found dead</a> in their home in the Blue Mountains has spoken out about his profound loss, while also sharing an update on his daughter's mental state while she remains in prison. </p> <p>Geoff Densmore is preparing to bury his grandsons Ben, 9 and Russell, 11, who were found dead in their mother’s Faulconbridge home on September 10th. </p> <p>Mr Densmore is also trying to support his daughter, Trish Smith, who has been charged over the alleged murder of her two children, as she remains under police guard. </p> <p>Ms Smith was rushed to hospital with self-inflicted injuries after the bodies of the two young brothers were discovered in their beds by their father, with both boys suffering fatal stab wounds. </p> <p>Mr Densmore told <em><a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/trish-smith-living-a-bad-nightmare-after-allegedly-killing-her-sons-at-their-blue-mountains-home/news-story/b8a91443d155a988155dd5e27410becb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The </a><a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/trish-smith-living-a-bad-nightmare-after-allegedly-killing-her-sons-at-their-blue-mountains-home/news-story/b8a91443d155a988155dd5e27410becb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Telegraph</a></em> that he is preparing to bury his grandsons, while trying to cope with the devastating loss. </p> <p>“The kids, they were special kids, so special,” Mr Densmore said. </p> <p>“I have to put them under the ground. I’ve got so much to do. So many people are affected by this, the government has got to do something about this.”</p> <p>He went on to clarify that both he and his wife had no idea about their daughter's mental health struggles until it was too late. </p> <p>“We really don’t know what happened. We had no idea she was unwell. Many prayers and private masses have been said for her,” he said.</p> <p>“You can’t imagine what it’s like. Imagine if it happened to your family."</p> <p>“Linda, she’s not good, she’s very religious. She’s praying. I think I might crack one day but I’m trying not to. I’m trying to be strong for everyone. I still can’t understand that Ben … Russell. They’re gone.”</p> <p>Mr Densmore said he was not angry with Ms Smith, instead saying: “There is only one word for it: tragic. It’s just so tragic.”</p> <p>The grandfather has not spoken to his daughter following her charges, however, he did say Ms Smith was in “a bad way”.</p> <p>“We are all dealing with this, the whole community. We have to bury two children, we’ve never been in this situation before. We’re not sure what to do.”</p> <p><strong><em>Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. </em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>SANE: 1800 187 263; saneforums.org</em></strong></p> <p><em>Image credits: Supplied / NSW Police</em></p>

Family & Pets

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"Welcome to the world": Sophie Delezio shares first photos with baby boy

<p>Sophie Delezio has announced the birth of her and fiancé Joseph Salerno’s first child on Friday. </p> <p>"Welcome to the world, Frankie," she announced on Instagram, with a blue heart emoji and a black and white photograph of her newborn son holding her finger. </p> <p>"Our hearts are so full."</p> <p>A few days later she thanked fans for their support and well wishes and shared a few snaps of her holding baby Frankie. </p> <p>“Thank you all for the kind words and well wishes!” she captioned another a  black-and-white photo of her snuggling with her newborn son.</p> <p>“We’re soaking in every moment with out little one and feeling like we’re on cloud nine.”</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/C_2PrNXzAhw/?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/C_2PrNXzAhw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sophie Delezio (@soph.delezio)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The new mum also offered a peek into Frankie's bedroom on her Instagram stories, with a wooden crib, animal atlas artwork and a personalised blanket. </p> <p>“I can’t believe he’s finally here, and this room is now being used!” she captioned the nursery photo.</p> <p>“It’s been such a wonderful journey watching it come together throughout my pregnancy."</p> <p>Delezio and Salerno, who live in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, started dating during covid in 2021. Salerno proposed two years later on Valentine's day. </p> <p>Delezio, who came to national attention after two horrific accidents as a child, announced that she was pregnant on her 23rd birthday. </p> <p>Her journey has since been closely followed by Australians, with one of her followers saying: “I’ve followed your story since you were a tiny little girl and this had made me so happy today! Congratulations! Enjoy every second!” </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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"Never been seen before": Fergie reveals new details from 9/11 near miss

<p>Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as Fergie, has taken to Instagram overnight to share new details of her 9/11 near miss. </p> <p>24 years on, the Duchess of York, who has previously revealed that she was meant to be in the World Trade Centre's North Tower when the plane struck the building, has shared more details of the day.</p> <p>Fergie recalled how her friend, billionaire businessman Howard Lutnick, gave her an office on the 101st floor of the World Trade Centre at the time, for her charity Chances for Children. </p> <p>The charity's logo had a mascot called Little Red, which was eventually made into a doll for a child named PJ who survived the 1995 Oklahoma City Bombings.</p> <p>On the day of the 9/11 attacks Fergie was due to attend a meeting in the office, but was running late because of an earlier engagement, so she was still on route to the building when the terrorists struck. </p> <p>"I was driving in the car and I was late for work... and Little Red was found in the rubble," she said in the video. </p> <p>Fergie opened a box to reveal her own Little Red doll that survived the attacks. While she has previously talked about the doll, this is the first time she revealed what it looked like. </p> <p>"A fireman picked her up, carried her out, like the fireman that picked up PJ all those years ago in the Oklahoma City Bombing," she continued. </p> <p>"And CNN filmed it and said, 'Look, a child's doll.' And Larry King said, 'That's no child's doll. That's Fergie's Little Red' and she stands for children's rights all over the world and she's a sign of hope for children.</p> <p>"What no one has ever seen before and I would like to share this with you is the actual doll that survived in 9/11.</p> <p>"So here, I have it at home. Normally I talk about Little Red and here is the actual doll that survived.</p> <p>"You can see the dust from the building — that's never been seen before.</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/C_xjdvMKSCn/?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/reel/C_xjdvMKSCn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sarah Ferguson (Fergie) (@sarahferguson15)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"And I hope Little Red will be talked about all over the world because she's just a very strong, stoic little person."</p> <p>She also shared that on the day, Little Red "sat on her desk overlooking Manhattan on that fateful day when the towers came down."</p> <p>"She came down through the rubble and landed fully intact," she wrote.</p> <p>"Little Red was carried out of the rubble in the fireman's hat exactly as PJ, a child burn victim, was carried years earlier in the Oklahoma City bombing, where the doll was first inspired to bring hope during difficult times and raise money for aid.</p> <p>"Little Red now sits in the 9/11 memorial museum and serves as a reminder of hope within the darkness. We will #neverforget," she continued before encouraging her followers to donate to the Cantor Relief Fund, to support families affected by disaster. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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