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Heartbreaking update after young father critically injured in Bali scooter crash

Kevin Malligan, 24, who was critically injured in a horror scooter crash in Bali, has been declared brain dead by doctors and now his pregnant wife is left to decide when they will turn off his life support machine. The young Sydney father was holidaying in Bali just weeks before the birth of his second child, before disaster struck when the moped he was a passenger on “hit a bump” and he was flung off. The 24-year-old suffered a brain bleed and a fracture to his neck, and was put on life support at the BIMC Hospital in Nusa Dua. As he fought for his life, his heavily pregnant wife Leah Malligan raced to Bali to be by her husbands side along with Mr Malligan’s father and brother. The young father underwent emergency brain surgery before generous donors helped him secure a $150,000 medevac flight back to Australia on January 4. But despite doctors best efforts, his family confirmed on Wednesday that his injuries are irreversible and he's been declared clinically brain dead. “This is the most difficult time of any of our lives and we just can’t be grateful enough to have been able to get him home for everyone to see him before he leaves us," his wife told Daily Mail. She described her husband as a “great dad, husband and friend, with a generous and loving nature who will be missed by all.” “He was always up for a good laugh and would do anything to put a smile on someone’s face," she said. “There was nothing more valuable than seeing how excited he was when he got home to give his Ivy girl a great big cuddle. “They then would play constantly until it was dinner and bedtime. He loved her so much and she doesn’t love anyone else as much as she loved Kev.” The heartbreaking update was shared to the family’s <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kevin-malligan-accident" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page yesterday, with it already raising over $119,000. “Leah would like to thank everyone from the bottom of her heart who has donated, helped, sent messages to help her and the family at this time,” Mrs. Malligan’s mum Jodie French said. “She and the Malligan family now has the awful decision of when to turn off his life support.” “We are sending all our love and prayers for strength at this time to our daughter and Kevin’s family," she added before thanking everyone who has donated to their family. Images: 7NEWS

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“The heart of Hollywood” Treat Williams dead at 71

Richard Treat Williams, a Hollywood heavyweight with over 129 acting credits to his name, has passed away at the age of 71. The actor was involved in a tragic accident with a car while riding his motorbike in Dorset, Vermont. Treat was the only person who sustained injuries in the crash, and while a helicopter was called in to airlift him to hospital, he sadly passed away. As Dorset’s fire chief Jacob Gibble told People, investigators believed that the car’s driver had been turning and didn’t notice the motorbike. And Treat’s agent of 15 years, Barry McPherson, said the same while confirming the news to the publication. “He was killed this afternoon. He was making a left or a right [and] a car cut him off," McPherson said. "I'm just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented. "He was an actor's actor. Filmmakers loved him. He's been the heart of Hollywood since the late 1970s. He was really proud of his performance this year. He's been so happy with the work that I got him. He's had a balanced career." Treat’s family later issued a statement regarding his passing to Deadline, where they shared that “it is with great sadness that we report that our beloved Treat Williams has passed away tonight in Dorset, Vermont after a fatal motorcycle accident. “As you can imagine, we are shocked and greatly bereaved at this time. Treat was full of love for his family, for his life and for his craft, and was truly at the top of his game in all of it. It is all so shocking right now, but please know that Treat was dearly and deeply loved and respected by his family and everyone who knew him. “We are beyond devastated and ask that you respect our privacy as we deal with our grief. To all his fans, please know that Treat appreciated all of you and please continue to keep him in your hearts and prayers.” Treat is survived by his wife of 35 years, Pam Van Sant, and their two children, Gill and Ellie, as well as his significant Hollywood legacy. He was a star across both the screen and stage over the course of his impressive career, with over 50 years of experience behind him. From Prince of the City to A Streetcar Named Desire, Hair, Chicago Fire, Everwood, and Miss Congeniality 2, he’d dipped his toes in a wide variety of content. Treat won over fans and co-workers alike with his presence, and they felt the weight of his passing, taking to social media to share their grief, and to pay tribute to the late star. “We are heartbroken over the passing of beloved … star of Chesapeake Shores, The Christmas House and so much more,” the Hallmark Channel wrote. “We will forever cherish him in our hearts, and extend our condolences to Treat’s family, friends, and loved ones.” “Working with Treat Williams in Mamet’s Speed the Plow at Williamstown in ‘91 was the start of great friendship. Damn it, damn it. Treat, you were the best. Love you,” writer and director Justine Bateman shared. “Treat Williams was a passionate, adventurous, creative man. In a short period of time, he quickly befriended me & his adventurous spirit was infectious. We worked on just 1 film together but occasionally connected over the years. Kind and generous with advice and support. RIP,” actor Wendell Pierce said of Treat. And on behalf of many, actor Billy Baldwin noted down just a handful of the qualities he would remember his friend by, writing that “he truly and deeply cared about what’s going on here in America and around the world. Climate change, social justice, freedom, truth, tolerance… love. Beloved by his family, friends, fans, colleagues… his community. “A terrible loss. You will be missed.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> He had it all. Smart. Talented. Funny. Charming. Successful. Handsome. Compassionate. Heart of gold. And that name… Treat Williams. He truly and deeply cared about what’s going on here in America and around the world. Climate change, social justice, freedom, truth, tolerance…… <a href="https://t.co/7cKP4nETTz">pic.twitter.com/7cKP4nETTz</a> — Billy Baldwin (@BillyBaldwin) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillyBaldwin/status/1668458525335646208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2023</a></blockquote> Images: Getty

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Fireworks, motorbikes and opera: Carmen on Cockatoo Island review

Even if you haven’t seen Carmen, you’re sure to recognise its standout tunes that have cemented themselves into pop culture - and you won’t want to miss its current showing on Sydney’s Cockatoo Island. A first for the historical island, Carmen has been transported both out of its traditional theatre environment and its 18th-century Spanish setting, being reimagined with a gritty, modern aesthetic that matches Cockatoo Island’s former ship-building warehouses and preserved industrial heritage. While leaning on a ‘rock ‘n’ roll’ theme, the vibe from both the setting - think scaffolding and piles of barrels and destroyed cars - and costuming - think modern military gear, denim, fishnets, leopard print and elements of Y2K fashion - is more reminiscent of punk, dystopia, and Mad Max, with a trio of stunt motorbike riders and fireworks as icing on the cake. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/12/carmen-review1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Y2K, punk, and modern military styles collide in this adaptation of Carmen to create a dystopian feel that’s disconnected from a particular time or place. Image: Prudence Upton (Supplied) Taking Carmen out of a Spanish cultural context gives the production a more timeless feel too, with additional imagery projected behind the cast during key scenes pushing the audience to interpret Carmen and Don José’s increasingly toxic relationship with a modern lens - particularly regarding themes of violence against women and coercive control. In a time where these issues are being talked about more openly, this shift in perspective couldn’t be any more relevant, even if it does come across in a heavy-handed way in some moments. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/12/carmen-review2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> In a world post-#MeToo and amid growing awareness of how issues such as coercive control victimise women, Opera Australia’s production draws attention to the negative elements of Carmen and Don José’s relationship. Image: Prudence Upton (Supplied) While many aspects of how Carmen is presented have been changed for this adaptation, the music has stayed true to the original - with one difference coming from the nature of presenting an opera outdoors. With the talented orchestra, led by conductor Tahu Matheson, located some distance away from the main stage in an adjacent building, the music is projected using speakers. Despite the challenging situation, which saw the conductor and singers rely on screens to see each other, the performance is just as flawless as if the orchestra were in a pit beneath the stage of a concert hall. When combined with the minimalist scenery and miked singers, it gives the production the sense of being less like an opera and more like a musical, with the grunge aesthetic making it seem particularly similar to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. But this didn’t take away from the performance, with the talents of Carmen Topicu and Roberto Aronica (who share the roles with Sian Sharp and Diego Torre) as Carmen and Don José and their captivating chemistry shining through. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/12/carmen-review3.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Bullfighter Escamillo has been transformed into a leather-clad rockstar mobbed by an adoring crowd against a backdrop of wrecked cars. Image: Prudence Upton (Supplied) The reimagining of the bullfighter Escamillo (played by Daniel Sumegi and Alexander Sefton) as a rockstar with elements of Elvis - including an iridescent black cape - is refreshing and helps to convey his celebrity status to a modern audience and the contrast between him and the more humble corporal Don José. Micaёla also serves as a contrasting character, with her costuming of pastels and a more conservative, housewife-esque outfit highlighting her as the innocent village girl against Carmen’s bold and more revealing outfits, as well as her strength, independence and rebellious nature. With a cast already considered large for an opera, Opera Australia’s production has seen this number grow even more as the roles of Carmen, Don José, Escamillo, Micaёla and Frasquita are shared, with singers performing on alternate nights. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/12/carmen1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Carmen’s costuming helps to convey the contrasting nature of its key characters, such as between childhood sweetheart Micaёla (right) and fiercely independent Carmen (left). Images: Prudence Upton (Supplied) Other updates to the opera, such as motorbikes taking on the roles of bulls at the bullfight and the use of street dance choreography throughout, are employed to create the feeling of timelessness and modernity, along with the meta nature of the set design and story, including the use of a Carmen poster as a curtain for Carmen to walk through. All in all, Carmen on Cockatoo Island is a refreshing take on a well-known opera that is sure to be enjoyed by regulars and first-timers alike, while its modern messaging will be sure to spark important conversations among those who see it. Carmen on Cockatoo Island will be performing Tuesday through Sunday nights from November 25 until December 18, with tickets available <a href="https://opera.org.au/productions/carmen-on-cockatoo-island" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Prudence Upton (Supplied)

Domestic Travel

Police officer called a hypocrite for defect on car

A police officer who pulled over a man riding a defective motorbike has been called a hypocrite for having a smooth tyre. Theo Glibo was stopped by the police officer at a service station in Largs Bay, Adelaide for having an illegal blue light on his motorbike. The 24-year-old then spotted the officer’s front tyre which was “bald” and questioned why he was being ticketed while the car should also be unroadworthy. “I’m copping a defect and this cop has a bald tyre and he’s not even gonna defect his own car,” Theo said in his video. “I’m not going to put a sticker on it for something that’s going to be dealt with tomorrow,” the officer responded. “Why not? That’s what you’re doing with mine, you’re a hypocrite,” Theo continued. ”If this was anybody else’s tyre, you’d defect it. Where’s the wear bar on that?” The officer agreed that Theo was right and that he would deal with his tyre when his shift ended. “You’re absolutely right, so I will defect that when I get back to my office,” the officer said. Theo’s video went viral to the point that South Australia Police had to release a statement to address the incident. “South Australia Police are aware of the social media post relating to an interaction between a SAPOL employee and a member of the public where the police vehicle was identified to have a bald tyre,” the statement read. “SAPOL have taken steps to address this matter.” Images: TikTok

Travel Trouble

Bunnings motorbike parking job condemned

A motorbike driver has been slammed on social media for parking on a yellow hatched area in a Bunnings carpark. In a post shared in the Australian Disability Parking Wall of Shame Facebook group, one man shared how he had busted a motorcyclist parking in a section between two disabled parking spots. The photograph showed that the bike had parked on a hatched area with yellow lines and a pole in the carpark of the Bunnings in the Geelong region, in Victoria. “He explained to me that motor bikes can park anywhere, even on foot paths. Besides there is no sign saying NO BIKE PARKING,” the man said. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838828/bunnings-motorbike-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d2d10d2fe92e4a2d8ac9be912ef08fda" /> “I tried to explain to him how ignorant he was, but it fell on deaf ears.” A dozen of comments blasted the motorcyclist’s decision to park in the space that had been reserved for disabled people so they can enter and exit their car safely. “The motorbike can’t park wherever they want,” one person wrote. “They just think they own the roads and the rules and they don’t have common sense.” “Motorbike riders seem to think the laws don’t apply to them. I’ve seen this happen so many times at shopping centres, and security don’t seem to care either,” another added. Others hoped that the motorcyclist would be taught a lesson, saying: “I’m not one to advocate vandalism, but it’d be karma if the wind (!) blew it over.” Others however felt the treatment of the motorcyclist was unfair, pointing out that rules for where they can park are not always clear. “My daughter recently obtained her learners licence. In no part anywhere in the written test is any mention of the hatched area being linked with the (disabled carpark) beside it,” one person commented. “And if they took up a whole parking space for a bike people would still whine,” another said. Others argued however that it is still unethical to park somewhere even if they legally are allowed to. “I ride a motorcycle. I don’t give a flying f**k what the law says! I would never park on a cross hatched area impeding disability ingress and egress. It’s not just whether or not you CAN park there, it’s also about whether or not you SHOULD!!!!” one person said. Another joked: “No rule stating I can’t park my car on top of his bike, I mean there is no signage for it!” <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-rules/a-to-z-of-road-rules/motorcycles#:~:text=In%20Victoria%2C%20you%20can%20park,transport%20users%20or%20parked%20cars." target="_blank">Vic Road’s </a>website states that motorcycles can be parked on footpaths, but cannot block access to parked cars or pedestrians.

Legal

ACT Senior Australian of the Year tragically perishes in crash

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> Disability advocate Sue Salthouse, the ACT's 2020 Senior Australian of the Year has passed away in a motorcycle accident. She was riding her wheelchair-accessible motorcycle when it was involved in an accident with a car. Salthouse was well-known in the Canberra community, as a long time advocate for people, particularly women, with disabilities. She was co-chair of the ACT Disability Expert Panel advising on the National Disability Insurance Scheme and influenced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. "Arriving by surprise in the disability sector means that you're on a very steep learning curve to understand what it is that affects the lives and mentality of people with disabilities," Ms Salthouse told Nikki Henningham in an interview at the National Library of Australia in 2011. "The practicalities of 'having a place at the table' are difficult to confront for someone who needs two hours in the morning to get up. "Success in promoting the issues is one thing, another measure is seeing more women with disabilities in the workforce and more woman outside the ages of 40-60 involved in advocacy organisations." A spokesperson from the National Australia Day Council said that they were "saddened" at the news of Salthouse's death. "Sue was such a vibrant woman who lived life to the full and seized every opportunity. She was a huge force for change and for good in the disability sector," they said. "We will always remember Sue's beaming smile and great enthusiasm. "Our hearts go out to Sue's family and friends." Chief executive of the Disability Leadership Group Christina Ryan gave a statement, as she worked with Salthouse for 25 years. "She was a passionate part of our community, she was really a big part of the disability sisterhood," she said. "We were all working together, it wasn't about any of us individually it was a collective effort. "She was one of the most outstanding mentors of young talent right up until today." Photo credits: <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-21/canberra-sue-salthouse-dies-in-motorcycle-accident/12475816" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink">ABC News</a> </div> </div> </div>

News

"Million Dollar Bogan" rode across Victoria, NSW and Qld borders to buy tyres

A self-proclaimed "Million Dollar Bogan" tested the limited of Queensland's border restrictions and managed to cross the state lines on "compassionate grounds". What Victorian real estate agent Daniel Hayes got instead was a new tyre for his motorbike and a tattoo. He boasted about his visit to Queensland on YouTube, saying that had he not been able to get to the state, he would "probably end up getting arrested". The video is believed to have been filmed about three weeks ago, which was prior to Queensland Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk banning all Victorians from entering her state due to the spike in coronavirus infections. The video shows Hayes being greeted by Queensland Police at the border, where he explains that he got a compassionate permit online. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d8QoaPgPk3M"></iframe></div> Initially, the officer said that he would have to quarantine for 14 days as he'd come from Victoria, but after Hayes insisted he would be out of Queensland today, the officer changed his mind. “Alright, I will let you through, but technically you shouldn’t … because you might be full of the lurgy," he said. His promise to leave the state immediately ended up being a lie, as he spent the night in the state, met up with a fan and travelled to Surfers Paradise to get a tattoo. “I had a great time. It was wonderful to get out before we got locked down again,” he told <a rel="noopener" href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/coronavirus-melbourne-real-estate-agent-crosses-queensland-border-uploads-video-bragging-on-youtube/e30f209c-d295-40cf-ab2f-0a48550a4303" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink">A Current Affair</a>, adding he had no regrets over making the trip. “I don’t feel like I broke the law. I felt that I was honest with him and he let me through. “I don’t know if I’ve done anything wrong. I gave him my excuse. I showed him the paperwork, which I filled out. I had a letter from Gasoline Alley, and I crossed the border, and he let me through.” Queensland Police told ACA that they were aware of the video and were "conducting inquiries in relation to the matter". The state's Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski reminded Victorians that they shouldn't be travelling to Queensland. “It’s a very costly exercise … If you’re coming out of Victoria and you’ve been there in the last 14 days, do not come to Queensland unless you are a Queensland resident returning,” he said. Photo credit: Million Dollar Bogan

Travel Trouble

Prince William: The dangerous hobby he just can’t kick

When you think of Prince William you probably think of a lot of things, mostly involving chinos, but it turns out the second in line to the throne has a dangerous hobby that he just can’t kick – and reports suggest it’s driving Kate absolutely mad. The 35-year-old has reportedly long harboured a love for motorbikes and in a visit to UK bike manufacturer Triumph, his royal highness threw caution to the wind. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Motorbike fan Prince William cant resist taking Triumph for a spin despite Kate saying… <a href="https://t.co/sZEdZtN7CO">https://t.co/sZEdZtN7CO</a> <a href="https://t.co/720K8m4yGr">pic.twitter.com/720K8m4yGr</a> — Zesty Europe News (@zesty_europe) <a href="https://twitter.com/zesty_europe/status/966080444562276358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote> The Duke of Cambridge swapped the epaulettes for a leather riding suit as he gave the latest 1200cc Triumph Tiger a spin, putting it through its paces before walking the assembly line to meet technicians and apprentices on-site. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> And to top off today's Royal updates... prince William on a motorbike 😅this legit isn't photoshopped <a href="https://t.co/9h69nGESJk">pic.twitter.com/9h69nGESJk</a> — Laura Stoddart (@Laura_stod) <a href="https://twitter.com/Laura_stod/status/966104623135240192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote> Prince William’s need for speed has been well documented, and he used to own a £20,000 ($A35,500) Ducati motorbike, which can go from 0-60mph in 2.5 seconds. During a visit to Dundee in 2015, Kate told a local: “He's still riding it. It always fills me with horror when he goes out on it‎. I'm terrified. Hopefully, I'm going to keep George off it.” While the pictures might suggest otherwise, Prince William has reportedly told World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea that he’s going to put his dangerous hobby on the “back-burner”. After receiving an MBE last year, Rea revealed: “I know he’s a bit of a motorcycle fan himself. “We talked about his bikes and the fact that he has put it on the back-burner a little bit because of his children now.” What are your thoughts? Should Prince William kick the habit? Or is he well within his rights to indulge his need for speed? Let us know in the comments.

Travel Insurance

There’s something terrifying about this motorbike

Just outside of Paris, drivers on the A4 motorway spotted something very, very strange – a riderless motorbike driving in a perfectly straight line. Onlookers quickly jumped to the type of conclusion you only come to when you’re scared out of your wits – a ghost. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lo_9KYFONUA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> “On the video, we can clearly see the two-wheeled […] without a biker,” the man filming said. “A ghost.” However, the reality mightn’t be quite so outlandish. According to <a href="http://www.leparisien.fr/insolite/video-le-mystere-de-la-moto-qui-roule-toute-seule-sur-l-a4-pres-de-paris-09-06-2017-7034859.php" target="_blank">Le Parisien</a>, the video was taken just moments after the bike had been involved in a collision, which knocked its 20-something-year-old driver off the vehicle and onto the road. Jean-Pierre Goy, a stunt motorcyclist who has appeared in James Bond movies, revealed to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/3780633/mystery-of-ghost-motorbike-that-freaked-out-motorists-as-it-drove-along-motorway-with-no-rider/" target="_blank">The Sun</a> that it’s not uncommon for bikes to run for over 600m (especially in cruise control) without a rider. “The pilot may have fallen, and in view of the motorcycle, with a very low centre of gravity, it was possible to continue its journey,” he explained. “I’ve seen motorcycles ride like this even longer, especially with the cruise control blocked.”

Insurance

At 69 I rode a motorbike across America

Intrepid seniors David and Lona Brown had the full Easy Rider experience at 69 and 70, motor biking around the United States. Here’s their incredible story. <img width="226" height="163" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25444/dave-lona-2004-small-grd-canyon_226x163.jpg" alt="Dave Lona 2004 Small Grd Canyon" style="float: left;"/>Our first trip was a ride to Milan and the French Riviera on 200cc motorcycle in 1958. When we got married in 1961 Australia was the furthest we could get for 10 quid. We came to Newcastle NSW and have never wanted to leave. I’ve been in real estate since 1969 and Lona has worked with me at the office, as well as raising our free children. We never lost our lust for travel, taking the kids to England for six months in 1978. In 1990 we did Europe in a 17 foot camper following Italia 90. It wall really started in 2003, when I retired from 30 years in real estate. We had joined a friend with 44 foot catamaran in Chicago for a trip south through the American river systems to finish in Mobile on the Gulf of Mexico. I envisaged a cross country motorcycle ride. Lona was a bit miffed at that idea and thought she would enjoy Wal-Mart and its shoe department much more if we bought a motor home and were not so restricted luggage wise! So by a stroke of good luck mates of ours in Ulysses happened to have some very good friends in Austin Texas which solved lots of problems for us. We finished up in 2004 with a 30 foot motor home, a trailer with a 650GS BMW on the back. Five months and 29 States later I still wanted the bike trip. For 2009 I finally convinced her that a trip across the States on a bike would not be such a bad idea. Having met a Californian Ulyssian in 2006 and admired his new Honda Goldwing at his home in Camarillo, near Thousand Oaks I emailed him to be on the lookout for perhaps an ST1100 to make such a trip. He came straight back to me with an offer to buy his ‘06 Wing. <img width="512" height="371" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25445/goldwing-in-la-015_11a-copy-copy_512x371.jpg" alt="Goldwing In LA 015_11A Copy - Copy" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> That was Feb/March this year 2009, Mark in Camarillo agreed to store the bike until we got there in July, pick us up from the airport, and billet us for a few days until we got sorted out. We flew from Sydney and Mark was there to pick us up and drive us the 50 miles north to his home. A nice three days there, buying Lona a new helmet, some super lightweight bike boots and gloves and we were ready for the road. Another Ulysses acquaintance we know lives half the year near Bakersfield California and the other half between Newcastle and Brisbane and I had promised to visit her for a couple of days. So we left Mark and Karla very appreciative of their hospitality, which by the way is typical of most Americans we have met, they are across the board very welcoming people. We set off north to Ventura and then north/east to Bakersfield and Springville at the base of the western side of the Sierra Nevada mountains. After a couple of days with Kate, including a memorable night with a dozen or so of her friends at the Springville Inn with a backdrop of good food and live music reflecting the local country style, we set off eastward again. Over the Sierra Nevada’s we continued on into Death Valley with temperatures rising. The co-pilot was feeding me bottles of water over my shoulder, until our first stop for fuel and more water at Panamint Springs. Burning up we were committed to reach our planned destination at Stovepipe Wells where we collapsed into an air conditioned motel room having checked the thermometer over the General Store door which was reading 120°F in the shade. 20 miles along the road next morning was breakfast at the aptly named Furnace Creek! More stifling heat for the rest of the day as we made our way out of Death Valley stopping to admire the panorama from Dante’s View which is about 12 miles off the highway up an “interesting” switchback ride. Returning to a more normal landscape we made our way back to civilization arriving at Summer Bay Las Vegas Resort in the gambling capital of the world. Much to Madams disgust Bette Midler was away for July, the best show we saw was Aussies, Human Nature. Not being a gambler the ancillary expenses were minimal and the hand brake tells me she only lost about $20 on the “slots”. Moving on we travelled via Lake Mead and Hoover Dam to Kingman on old route 66, from there we took the old road through Peach Springs and into Seligman where we stayed at the DeLuxe motel, which was the epitome of non-deluxe, but it was air conditioned, and we had a great afternoon at the Black Cat Bar with some locals. Next day was a diversion to catch up with Papadavenrebel at Clarkdale. So south on 89 to Prescott and then north on 89A to Jerome, an old mining town of 15,000 people in the late 1800’s for the gold and copper, now about 500 inhabitants and picturesque hanging as it does on the side of a mountain. Down the mountain into Clarkdale and an hour or two with Dave and Rebecca before we headed up to Flagstaff via Sedona which is an ultra-touristy small town which we just drove slowly through. Back onto Interstate 40 from Flagstaff and a quick trip across to Winslow Arizona well known to Eagles fans that are familiar with the words to “Take it Easy”. Arrived in Austin on the 29th August to the usual Owens welcome and had great week with them as usual, a blaze of cards, meals out, a crazy poker night where they change the game after each hand. I took the grandchildren Hayley and Cody for a ride on the bike when Laura and Eric came over to celebrate Eric’s birthday. <img width="500" height="375" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25448/sdc10155-copy_500x375.jpg" alt="SDC10155 - Copy (2)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> All in all the Owens are wonderful hosts and we had a few laughs on the two Sundays with the pool, volleyball. From Austin we went a little north to take in famous civil war battle site at Vicksburg. The battlefield site was intriguing with the main interest an exhibit of the remains of the USS Cairo an iron clad river boat developed into an early version warship bristling with guns and driven by a stern paddle wheel. From there we just wanted to get to Florida. We had been advised to take the circuitous route around the Gulf coast and take in Fort Walton Beach and Destin Beach. Through some fault of my own, like not having studied the map enough I got confused and took 98 too early instead of staying on I-10 through Pensacola, all very easy when you know how. We were recommended to any one of half dozen restaurants cause her indoors had had enough of burger and fries and wanted a “proper meal”. We went to Staffs just down the road where Dave the barman made us welcome with a couple of beers and a bourbon and coke while we perused the menu. Lona had a fish we had never heard of, amberjack and I had grouper. We really enjoyed the whole thing except I think I overindulged a little and suffered a bit later. It dawned a little doubtful weather wise the next day and within 10 miles we had the wet jackets on, didn’t have any wet pants with us!! The light shower was enough to prevent any pictures of Destin Beach which was a shame as it was all it had been suggested it would be, a very pretty bay with white sand shores, and the high rise apartments to go with it. We pushed on to try to make Lake City and leave us one days ride to finish but torrential rain and high wind stopped us 30 miles short at a small town called Live Oak. Up until now the coolest morning we’d had was 74 F, with most days between 85-100 F Into Econolodge for the night where Shirl the receptionist got us and the bike under cover real quick and after a shower and the reverse cycle air con on heat for the evening everything was dry by morning. Last day, maybe? 350 miles to go. With a Supercentre Wal-Mart across the road I decided we needed some insurance, a pair of wet pants each. You know what? It worked, no rain. Blazing hot all day as we made our boring way down the spine of Florida on I-75, then on the Florida Turnpike, finally joining I-95 for the run into West Palm Beach. Our host cousin Gary was busy for the afternoon so we decided to indulge in a cold beer at the previously tried and tested Queen Mary English Pub. To our eternal disappointment it was closed awaiting new owners. Still 100 F. Wow, what an incredible adventure? Doesn’t this sound fantastic? Have you ever taken a similar trip, and if so how did you manage? Let us know in the comments. No matter where you’re travelling to, making sure you know how to access your cash while away – and in the most affordable way – is very important. Easy to use and with countless benefits, the Over60 Cash Passport allows you to securely access your cash in the same way you use an ATM or credit card. <a href="https://oversixty.cashpassport.com.au" target="_blank">To apply for a card today, click here.</a> Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/07/6-of-the-best-european-beaches-to-visit/">6 of the best European beaches to visit</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/domestic-travel/2016/07/the-story-behind-that-wanaka-tree/">The story behind that Wanaka Tree</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/07/7-best-beaches-on-australias-east-coast/">7 best beaches on Australia’s east coast</a>

International Travel

At 69 I rode a motorbike across America

Intrepid seniors David and Lona Brown had the full Easy Rider experience at 69 and 70, motor biking around the United States. Here’s their incredible story. <img width="226" height="163" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25444/dave-lona-2004-small-grd-canyon_226x163.jpg" alt="Dave Lona 2004 Small Grd Canyon" style="float: left;"/>Our first trip was a ride to Milan and the French Riviera on 200cc motorcycle in 1958. When we got married in 1961 Australia was the furthest we could get for 10 quid. We came to Newcastle NSW and have never wanted to leave. I’ve been in real estate since 1969 and Lona has worked with me at the office, as well as raising our free children. We never lost our lust for travel, taking the kids to England for six months in 1978. In 1990 we did Europe in a 17 foot camper following Italia 90. It wall really started in 2003, when I retired from 30 years in real estate. We had joined a friend with 44 foot catamaran in Chicago for a trip south through the American river systems to finish in Mobile on the Gulf of Mexico. I envisaged a cross country motorcycle ride. Lona was a bit miffed at that idea and thought she would enjoy Wal-Mart and its shoe department much more if we bought a motor home and were not so restricted luggage wise! So by a stroke of good luck mates of ours in Ulysses happened to have some very good friends in Austin Texas which solved lots of problems for us. We finished up in 2004 with a 30 foot motor home, a trailer with a 650GS BMW on the back. Five months and 29 States later I still wanted the bike trip. For 2009 I finally convinced her that a trip across the States on a bike would not be such a bad idea. Having met a Californian Ulyssian in 2006 and admired his new Honda Goldwing at his home in Camarillo, near Thousand Oaks I emailed him to be on the lookout for perhaps an ST1100 to make such a trip. He came straight back to me with an offer to buy his ‘06 Wing. <img width="512" height="371" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25445/goldwing-in-la-015_11a-copy-copy_512x371.jpg" alt="Goldwing In LA 015_11A Copy - Copy" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> That was Feb/March this year 2009, Mark in Camarillo agreed to store the bike until we got there in July, pick us up from the airport, and billet us for a few days until we got sorted out. We flew from Sydney and Mark was there to pick us up and drive us the 50 miles north to his home. A nice three days there, buying Lona a new helmet, some super lightweight bike boots and gloves and we were ready for the road. Another Ulysses acquaintance we know lives half the year near Bakersfield California and the other half between Newcastle and Brisbane and I had promised to visit her for a couple of days. So we left Mark and Karla very appreciative of their hospitality, which by the way is typical of most Americans we have met, they are across the board very welcoming people. We set off north to Ventura and then north/east to Bakersfield and Springville at the base of the western side of the Sierra Nevada mountains. After a couple of days with Kate, including a memorable night with a dozen or so of her friends at the Springville Inn with a backdrop of good food and live music reflecting the local country style, we set off eastward again. Over the Sierra Nevada’s we continued on into Death Valley with temperatures rising. The co-pilot was feeding me bottles of water over my shoulder, until our first stop for fuel and more water at Panamint Springs. Burning up we were committed to reach our planned destination at Stovepipe Wells where we collapsed into an air conditioned motel room having checked the thermometer over the General Store door which was reading 120°F in the shade. 20 miles along the road next morning was breakfast at the aptly named Furnace Creek! More stifling heat for the rest of the day as we made our way out of Death Valley stopping to admire the panorama from Dante’s View which is about 12 miles off the highway up an “interesting” switchback ride. Returning to a more normal landscape we made our way back to civilization arriving at Summer Bay Las Vegas Resort in the gambling capital of the world. Much to Madams disgust Bette Midler was away for July, the best show we saw was Aussies, Human Nature. Not being a gambler the ancillary expenses were minimal and the hand brake tells me she only lost about $20 on the “slots”. Moving on we travelled via Lake Mead and Hoover Dam to Kingman on old route 66, from there we took the old road through Peach Springs and into Seligman where we stayed at the DeLuxe motel, which was the epitome of non-deluxe, but it was air conditioned, and we had a great afternoon at the Black Cat Bar with some locals. Next day was a diversion to catch up with Papadavenrebel at Clarkdale. So south on 89 to Prescott and then north on 89A to Jerome, an old mining town of 15,000 people in the late 1800’s for the gold and copper, now about 500 inhabitants and picturesque hanging as it does on the side of a mountain. Down the mountain into Clarkdale and an hour or two with Dave and Rebecca before we headed up to Flagstaff via Sedona which is an ultra-touristy small town which we just drove slowly through. Back onto Interstate 40 from Flagstaff and a quick trip across to Winslow Arizona well known to Eagles fans that are familiar with the words to “Take it Easy”. Arrived in Austin on the 29th August to the usual Owens welcome and had great week with them as usual, a blaze of cards, meals out, a crazy poker night where they change the game after each hand. I took the grandchildren Hayley and Cody for a ride on the bike when Laura and Eric came over to celebrate Eric’s birthday. <img width="500" height="375" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/25448/sdc10155-copy_500x375.jpg" alt="SDC10155 - Copy (2)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> All in all the Owens are wonderful hosts and we had a few laughs on the two Sundays with the pool, volleyball. From Austin we went a little north to take in famous civil war battle site at Vicksburg. The battlefield site was intriguing with the main interest an exhibit of the remains of the USS Cairo an iron clad river boat developed into an early version warship bristling with guns and driven by a stern paddle wheel. From there we just wanted to get to Florida. We had been advised to take the circuitous route around the Gulf coast and take in Fort Walton Beach and Destin Beach. Through some fault of my own, like not having studied the map enough I got confused and took 98 too early instead of staying on I-10 through Pensacola, all very easy when you know how. We were recommended to any one of half dozen restaurants cause her indoors had had enough of burger and fries and wanted a “proper meal”. We went to Staffs just down the road where Dave the barman made us welcome with a couple of beers and a bourbon and coke while we perused the menu. Lona had a fish we had never heard of, amberjack and I had grouper. We really enjoyed the whole thing except I think I overindulged a little and suffered a bit later. It dawned a little doubtful weather wise the next day and within 10 miles we had the wet jackets on, didn’t have any wet pants with us!! The light shower was enough to prevent any pictures of Destin Beach which was a shame as it was all it had been suggested it would be, a very pretty bay with white sand shores, and the high rise apartments to go with it. We pushed on to try to make Lake City and leave us one days ride to finish but torrential rain and high wind stopped us 30 miles short at a small town called Live Oak. Up until now the coolest morning we’d had was 74 F, with most days between 85-100 F Into Econolodge for the night where Shirl the receptionist got us and the bike under cover real quick and after a shower and the reverse cycle air con on heat for the evening everything was dry by morning. Last day, maybe? 350 miles to go. With a Supercentre Wal-Mart across the road I decided we needed some insurance, a pair of wet pants each. You know what? It worked, no rain. Blazing hot all day as we made our boring way down the spine of Florida on I-75, then on the Florida Turnpike, finally joining I-95 for the run into West Palm Beach. Our host cousin Gary was busy for the afternoon so we decided to indulge in a cold beer at the previously tried and tested Queen Mary English Pub. To our eternal disappointment it was closed awaiting new owners. Still 100 F. Wow, what an incredible adventure? Doesn’t this sound fantastic? Have you ever taken a similar trip, and if so how did you manage? Let us know in the comments. No matter where you’re travelling to, making sure you know how to access your cash while away – and in the most affordable way – is very important. Easy to use and with countless benefits, the Over60 Cash Passport allows you to securely access your cash in the same way you use an ATM or credit card. <a href="https://oversixty.cashpassport.com.au" target="_blank">To apply for a card today, click here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/06/working-full-time-over-90/">Inspiring people who work full-time over 90</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/05/prince-george-enjoys-ride-on-police-motorbike/">Prince George enjoys ride on police motorbike</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/01/life-lessons-from-a-69-year-old/">6 life lessons from a 69-year-old</a>

International Travel

Prince George enjoys ride on police motorbike

Prince George has got a taste of the life of a police officer – with a ride on an official Metropolitan Police motorbike! The two-year-old was spotted atop a bike outside Kensington Palace, while his mother the Duchess of Cambridge smiled on as she held Princess Charlotte in a pram. Surrounded by four officers, Prince George tried to grasp the handle bars, which his little arm could only just reach. The photo is reminiscent of similar occasion 29 years ago, when George’s father William enjoyed a ride on a police motorbike too. In November 1987, William and Harry were photographed give a royal salute on a police bike during a visit to the police force. <img width="530" height="372" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2016/05/24/17/34927CB600000578-3607164-29_years_ago_William_and_Harry_were_photographed_giving_a_royal_-a-26_1464107748360.jpg" alt="29 years ago William and Harry were photographed giving a royal salute from atop a police motorbike during a visit to the police force in November 1987" class="blkBorder img-share" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" id="i-732023b79f1b4e73"/> Last year, Kate revealed she doesn’t like when Prince William rides his motorbikes. “He's still riding [his motorbike]. It always fills me with horror when he goes out on it‎. I'm terrified. Hopefully, I'm going to keep George off it,” Kate said. It looks like the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree though! Scroll through the gallery above to see more pictures of George. Have you passed down a hobby to your children or grandchildren? Share your experience with us in the comments below. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/science-backed-ways-to-get-children-to-love-fruit-and-veg/">9 science-backed ways to get children to love fruit and veg</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/secret-to-mindful-children-banning-bedroom/">The secret to raising mindful children</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/04/important-things-to-let-little-children-do/">7 important things little children should be allowed to do</a>

News

Aussie stunt rider surfs waves ON a motorbike

Australian motorbike stunt rider and daredevil, Robbie Maddison, has done the unbelievable: he surfed some waves on an actual motorbike, and survived. In an incredible project that has been two years in the making, the 34-year-old rode his custom motorbike in huge surf off Teahupoo in Tahiti. Maddison’s bike was modified with small skis on the front wheel and a propeller on the back. “People said 'it's a pipe dream', 'it's never going to happen' and that's how a lot of people looked at this thing and that's the vibe I've got from a lot of people,” Maddison told Fairfax Media. And despite a few failed starts, the Kiama man showed the world what he was made of. "I don't think the photos or video show how physical it was," he told Surfer magazine. “You can't see that when the wave broke right behind me, I honestly thought that might be the end of my life.” Related links: <a href="/news/news/2015/08/5-flights-up-trailer/">You will love Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman’s new movie 5 Flights Up</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/07/princess-madeleine-family-pics/">Sweden’s Princess Madeleine reveals pics of her gorgeous little ones</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/07/baby-owl-sheriff/">Sheriff catches too-cute baby owl on video </a>

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At 69 I rode a motorbike across America

Prince George enjoys ride on police motorbike

Aussie stunt rider surfs waves ON a motorbike

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