Search

Niece of AFL legend learns of his passing live on air

<p>Beloved football icon Barrie Robran has died, with the devastating news prompting an emotional departure from radio presenter Jade Robran, who left her program mid-show following the family tragedy.</p> <p>Her co-host Tom broke the heartbreaking news live on air.</p> <p>“Jade unfortunately has had to go home, there has been some unexpected and very tragic news, there’s been a death in her family,” he told listeners. “Hope you’re OK, Jade, if you’re driving home listening right now. Jade, we love you, we hope you’re OK with the rest of the family. Hopefully she’ll be back tomorrow. That’s very, very sad news.”</p> <p>Tom continued hosting the show solo, while tributes began pouring in for Barrie Robran, widely regarded as one of South Australia’s greatest-ever athletes.</p> <p>While the cause of his death has not yet been made public, the outpouring of grief reflects the immense legacy he leaves behind.</p> <p>Robran, who hailed from Whyalla, made history as the first footballer honoured with a statue at the redeveloped Adelaide Oval. He played for North Adelaide between 1967 and 1980, and served as a playing-coach during his final three seasons.</p> <p>Over the course of his stellar career, Robran won three Magarey Medals – the highest individual honour in the SANFL – as well as two SANFL premierships and seven club best and fairest awards. He also represented South Australia 17 times, captaining the side in 1974.</p> <p>In recognition of his contribution to the sport, Robran was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996 and elevated to Legend status just five years later.</p> <p>He stands alongside Sir Donald Bradman and Bart Cummings in the South Australian Sports Hall of Fame – a measure of his towering influence across generations.</p> <p>As the sporting world and wider South Australian community mourn his loss, thoughts remain with Jade Robran and her family during this incredibly difficult time.</p> <p><em>Images: North Adelaide Football Club</em></p>

Family & Pets

Kyle Sandilands mocked after huge on-air meltdown

<p>Kyle Sandilands has come under fire after delivering an explosive and expletive-laden rant live on air, storming off The Kyle & Jackie O Show in protest over censorship – only to return to the mic a day later.</p> <p>The outburst was sparked when segments of the popular radio program, broadcast in Sydney and Melbourne, were censored during a discussion about former <em>Beauty and the Geek</em> star Tamika Chesser, who is alleged to have murdered and decapitated her boyfriend.</p> <p>Returning to air the following day, Sandilands launched into a tirade over what he described as overly strict rules for broadcasters discussing criminal matters.</p> <p>“OK, so the show got dumped in the middle of a planned discussion that I had already discussed with the legal team,” he said. “Why was that dumped, when I was using all the correct lingo?”</p> <p>Sandilands was told that the call to censor the broadcast came from show director Bruno Bouchet. His response escalated quickly: “Some laws are just so dumb and stupid, and I’m not playing ball.”</p> <p>“Until this show runs the way I intend it to be run, I will not be back on the air at all, in any way, shape or form,” he continued. “I do what I want to do and if you don’t like it, tough s***.”</p> <p>The veteran shock jock even went so far as to suggest he would “go on a hunt” for the show’s director “with dogs and a baseball bat”.</p> <p>Bouchet’s intervention was later backed up by Sandilands’ manager, who admitted to pulling the show to avoid contempt of court. “Yeah for the contempt of court stuff. I just don’t want you guys going to jail,” he explained.</p> <p>Sandilands responded with more profanities: “I’d rather be r***d in jail than be puppeteered by losers. That’s the show ripped up. Judges can shove it in their a***, ACMA can shove it in their a***, and so can the management of the radio station.”</p> <p>He then signed off with a dramatic farewell: “Enjoy the rest of the week, guys. Arrivederci from me.”</p> <p>However, despite declaring he’d be off the air until at least Monday, Sandilands was back on the show Thursday morning.</p> <p>Listeners wasted no time criticising the presenter’s dramatic walkout, calling it a textbook tantrum.</p> <p>“Ooop we’ve had a proper white entitled man public tantrum. Imagine being his wife!” one social media user wrote.</p> <p>“Big man throwing a tantrum, how embarrassing!” said another, while a third added: “Wow, men are so emotional.”</p> <p>As of now, neither the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) nor the radio network has commented publicly on the matter.</p> <p><em>Images: KIIS FM</em></p>

Music

Eight dead as hot-air balloon erupts in flames

<p>At least eight people have died after a hot-air balloon carrying 21 passengers caught fire mid-flight over southern Brazil, in what authorities have described as a tragic accident.</p> <p>The incident occurred early Sunday near the coastal town of Praia Grande in Santa Catarina state. Santa Catarina governor Jorginho Mello confirmed the toll in a statement on X, writing: “Eight fatalities and 13 survivors.”</p> <p>Dramatic footage captured by bystanders and aired on Brazilian television showed the balloon engulfed in flames, swinging violently before the passenger basket broke off and plummeted to the ground in flames. The weather was reported to be clear at the time of the disaster.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nqz8c6VS-Jo?si=cMv3w7kUfME2vRs9" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>According to local fire officials, 13 people – including the pilot – miraculously survived and were taken to hospitals. Our Lady of Fatima hospital said five survivors were treated there; three remained in stable condition with minor injuries while two had already been discharged. Details on the other survivors were not immediately available.</p> <p>An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the fire. The pilot told local media that the blaze may have started with a blowtorch used in the basket. “I don’t know if it stayed lit or if it reignited on its own, but it was the torch that started it all,” he told Jornal Razao.</p> <p>The pilot said he attempted an emergency landing as soon as the fire broke out and urged passengers to jump once they were close to the ground. “Once it was close to the ground, [the pilot] told the passengers to jump from the basket. But some of them couldn’t do it and the fire grew,” Tiago Luiz Lemos, a police official in Praia Grande, told reporters.</p> <p>Fire department official Zevir Cipriano Junior said four victims died from burns and four others died from injuries sustained in the fall.</p> <p>In a video statement, Governor Mello said: “We are in mourning. It’s a tragedy that happened. We will check the developments, what happened, and why it happened.”</p> <p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also expressed condolences and offered federal support for the rescue and recovery efforts.</p> <p>Praia Grande, known for its scenic coastline, is a popular hotspot for hot-air ballooning. This is Brazil’s second fatal ballooning accident in under a week; just days earlier, a woman was killed during a flight in Sao Paulo state.</p> <p>Authorities say investigations will focus on safety protocols and equipment standards in the ballooning industry.</p> <p><em>Images: NBC / Youtube</em></p>

Travel Trouble

CCTV released after at least 290 die in Air India plane crash

<p>At least 290 people have died after an Air India flight bound for London crashed into a residential area shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.</p> <p>The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 to London’s Gatwick Airport, was carrying 242 people when it went down moments after takeoff, plummeting into the doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College and Hospital. The crash ignited a massive fire that engulfed part of the building and nearby residences, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.</p> <p>Emergency responders raced to the scene, where they found the fuselage partially embedded in the hospital structure and surrounding trees scorched. Dozens of victims, including passengers, hospital residents and local civilians, were transported to nearby medical centres, though authorities have warned the death toll is likely to rise.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nrFTKHnH00Q?si=d6L3VN0CZlEAvuwy" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>Among the victims were several minors and at least three medical students. Between 50 and 60 more students were admitted to local hospitals, with two to three currently in intensive care, the Federation of All India Medical Association said.</p> <p>Miraculously, at least one person survived the crash. British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, reportedly seated in 11A, was pulled from the wreckage and is receiving treatment. Speaking from his hospital bed, Ramesh told <em>The Hindustan Times</em>, “Thirty seconds after takeoff, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed. It all happened so quickly.”</p> <p>Flight operations at the Ahmedabad airport were temporarily suspended following the disaster but have since resumed on a limited basis.</p> <p>Air India confirmed the passenger manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals and one Canadian. A reception centre has been established at Gatwick Airport to assist families and provide updates.</p> <p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, saying the country had been “stunned and saddened” by the tragedy, which he described as “heartbreaking beyond words”. Air India chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran called it a “tragic accident”, assuring the public that the airline was doing “everything in our power” to support emergency crews and affected families.</p> <p>In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the scenes were “devastating” and confirmed he is receiving ongoing updates. Foreign Secretary David Lammy told the House of Commons that crisis teams have been activated in both London and Delhi to assist British nationals.</p> <p>King Charles III released a statement saying he and Queen Camilla were “desperately shocked” by the crash, offering their thoughts to victims and praising the “heroic efforts” of emergency responders.</p> <p>The disaster marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its introduction in 2011. Boeing, which has more than 1,175 Dreamliners in service worldwide, said it is working closely with Air India and expressed condolences to all affected.</p> <p>As investigations begin into the cause of the crash, India and the international aviation community are left grappling with one of the deadliest air disasters in recent history.</p> <p><em>Images: CCTV / YouTube</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Amanda Keller breaks down in deeply moving on-air moment

<p>In an emotional and deeply moving on-air moment, beloved broadcaster Amanda Keller broke down in tears while marking her 35th wedding anniversary with husband Harley Oliver – a celebration tinged with sadness as the couple continues to navigate his battle with Parkinson’s disease.</p> <p>Speaking candidly on JAM Nation with Jonesy & Amanda, Keller reflected on the gravity of the milestone and the shifting realities of a marriage tested by illness and time. </p> <p>“I don’t want to get emotional,” she began, her voice trembling. “It’s my wedding anniversary today. And in the old days, Harley and I would have been going out to dinner tonight. But he’s not well enough to do that.”</p> <p>Keller, who has long been a staple of Australian radio and television, spoke of the moment so many couples take for granted: saying vows filled with promise, unaware of the storms that may lie ahead.</p> <p>“When you stand there on your wedding day and you say forever, what does that even mean?” she asked aloud. “You don’t even know.”</p> <p>Oliver was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017, but the couple kept the news private until Keller spoke publicly about his condition in 2023 on her Double A Chattery podcast. She recounted the subtle early signs – his dragging leg, trembling hands – and the devastating confirmation of what they feared most: a degenerative neurological disorder with no cure.</p> <p>“In sickness and in health. And yet that’s where we are. And no concept of what that means until you’re living it,” Keller said. “I kind of fluctuate between taking great pride in the fight that we are alongside each other, and the strength that it takes to get up every day and still fight it and still live it.”</p> <p>“You don’t get to cherry pick life,” Keller continued. “If you’re living life, the sands shift beneath your feet. But we’re still in it together. And I’m grateful for that.”</p> <p>Despite her gratitude, Keller didn’t hide the hardship, admitting she sometimes has the “absolute sh*ts” with their reality. “It’s hard,” she said plainly.</p> <p>Still, there was a glimmer of joy. The couple’s sons would be joining them for dinner – a different kind of celebration, quieter but no less full of love. “We’ve lived a rich and wonderful life together, and we still do,” Keller admitted. “But it’s not the same as the old days.</p> <p>"Anyway, happy anniversary, Harley.”</p> <p>Keller closed with a reflection on the unpredictability of life and love – and the unbreakable bond forged through years of shared struggle and strength. “We all think that we’ll get to 90 and die in our sleep,” she said. “But people face stuff every day. That’s the meat of life. That’s the meat of a long-term relationship. So, I’m grateful to have that.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

How to get started investing later in life

<p>For some people – particularly women – investing may not have been an option until now, constrained by a lack of income while raising children or low incomes leaving nothing to invest once the bills were paid.</p> <p>Others find a new-found need to invest later in life, such as after a separation, inability to work through illness or injury, or the sudden death of their partner.</p> <p>No matter your reason for exploring investing later in life, the following pointers will get you on your way to building financial independence and a comfortable retirement.</p> <p><strong>Update your strategy</strong></p> <p>When was the last time you updated your spending and investment plan (or household budget)? It may have been before the kids left home, your mortgage was paid off, or you began transitioning into part-time retirement. </p> <p>If so, your living costs have changed significantly – work expenses, home energy consumption, groceries etc. Furthermore, your goals, healthcare and lifestyle needs may also have changed.</p> <p>Update your strategy to align with your current goals, values, income and spending habits. Only then will you understand how much you can afford to invest and where to direct those funds.</p> <p><strong>Right-size your superannuation</strong></p> <p>In your later years, super is likely to be front of mind. Ensure this investment works its hardest for you by scrutinising its:</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Structure: retail or industry fund? SMSF? Each has its own costs and benefits to contemplate.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Investments: reexamine the types of assets held, level of diversification and risk weighting.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Insurances: do you have adequate life, permanent disability and income protection cover? </p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Take advantage of superannuation strategies you may not be aware of</p> <p><strong>Unlock home equity</strong></p> <p>The biggest source of money you likely have at this stage of life is equity in your home. </p> <p>This can be used to invest with minimal impact on your everyday finances. In fact, unused equity is effectively dead money (until you sell the property).</p> <p>I always urge caution on reverse mortgages. In theory, they seem like a great way of unlocking equity without saddling you with regular repayments. However, they typically:</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>accumulate more debt.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>have higher interest rates than standard mortgages.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>only grant access to a portion of your equity.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>can restrict your options to downsize later.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>could leave you with no remaining equity when you sell the property or nothing to leave to your benefactors when you pass away.</p> <p><strong>Consider downsizing</strong></p> <p>An alternative to refinancing is downsizing from the family home. </p> <p>As well as unlocking money for investing, you benefit from lower upkeep costs (and cleaning!) on a smaller property and can make a lifestyle change at the same time (moving nearer to family, away from bustling cities, or into supported care if required).</p> <p>Additionally, you may be able to use part of the sale proceeds (up to $300,000) to turbocharge your super with a one-off <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/how-to-save-more-in-your-super/downsizer-super-contributions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">downsizer contribution</a>.</p> <p><strong>Examine pension impacts</strong></p> <p>Investing can impact your ability to claim the age pension when you retire, and how much you receive. </p> <p>This often comes to bite people who unlock equity in their home to invest, without realising that doing so means the money suddenly counts towards the pension means test.</p> <p>Before doing anything, methodically weigh up which will leave you financially better off – claiming a full or part pension, or self-funding your retirement through investments.</p> <p><strong>Minimise tax</strong></p> <p>Hefty tax bills can easily wipe out any investment returns, making tax a crucial factor in your decision-making.</p> <p>Potential tax considerations to factor into your strategy include:</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Determining the most tax-effective ownership structure (e.g. do you invest in your or partner’s name? Through your super? Through a trust or company?</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Incorporating stamp duty into purchase costs.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ensuring there is enough profit from the sale of an investment to cover Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and income tax liabilities before deciding to sell.</p> <p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Timing a sale to fall within the optimal financial year (e.g. in a year where your taxable income is lower or when relevant tax changes come into effect).</p> <p><strong>Invest in knowledge</strong></p> <p>Later in life, you have fewer working years remaining to recover any losses. Given the far-reaching implications of investing, I highly recommend first speaking to a financial adviser. Many times the fees are paid for in initial tax savings. </p> <p>They can help you maximise your returns, minimise your tax, ensure you don’t inadvertently leave yourself worse off and give you peace of mind.</p> <p>After all, the whole point of investing is to make money. And, without current professional advice, you simply don’t know what you don’t know!</p> <p><em>Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of the new book, Money For Life: How to build financial security from firm foundations (Major Street Publishing $32.99). Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who hold a master’s degree in the field. Proceeds from book sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women and children. Find out more at <a href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a></em></p> <p><em>Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature only and does not constitute personal financial or product advice. Any opinions or views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of people, institutions or organisations the owner may be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated. Helen Baker is an authorised representative of BPW Partners Pty Ltd AFSL 548754.</em></p> <p> </p>

Retirement Income

Dave Hughes finally confronts Kyle Sandilands in on-air ambush

<p>On Thursday morning, Australian radio’s greatest long-running feud got the surprise intervention nobody saw coming – except maybe Jackie O, who orchestrated the whole thing like a puppet master with a microphone.</p> <p>Jackie O shocked her KIIS FM co-host Kyle Sandilands by bringing in a “mystery guest”, a title that in this case translates to “someone Kyle would rather not speak to before breakfast”. That guest? None other than Australian comedian Dave Hughes, with whom Sandilands has been beefing since approximately the invention of sliced bread (or, more accurately, 2007).</p> <p>“I had a bit of apprehension,” Jackie admitted, as if unleashing an old nemesis on her co-host was a last-minute decision rather than a premeditated ratings bonanza. And fair enough – over the years, Sandilands and Hughesy have clashed at awards shows, on social media and even <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/dave-hughes-ruthless-stab-at-kyle-sandilands" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in a recent interview</a> where Hughesy announced to the world that he had "no empathy" for Sandilands.</p> <p>But the most shocking revelation of the day wasn’t the feud itself – it was the fact that one of their biggest online spats was started by none other than Jackie O herself. When she mentioned the duo’s "2009 Twitter feud", Sandilands – who has never had a Twitter account – looked baffled. Turns out, Jackie had taken it upon herself to create a fake Kyle Sandilands Twitter profile to fire back at Hughesy.</p> <p>Yes, in an era before blue checkmarks and widespread catfishing awareness, Jackie O was out there roleplaying as Kyle, getting into digital fisticuffs with Australia’s favourite nasal-voiced comedian. Hughesy, for his part, was shocked to discover that all these years later, he had been arguing with a radio host’s alter ego and not the real deal.</p> <p>Their Twitter war, largely fought over who had better TV and radio ratings (a battle in which there are no winners, only casualties), was quickly eclipsed by yet another awkward moment from the past: Sandilands once saying on TV that he “wanted to murder” Hughesy. A comment so extreme that even Kyle himself had no recollection of making it – though, to be fair, it’s probably not the first nor the last time Kyle has forgotten saying something controversial on air.</p> <p>“Look, I know you could afford to have me killed – and I could afford to have you killed – but we’re not going to do that,” Hughesy quipped, proving that humour can, in fact, be the best conflict resolution tool.</p> <p>With the beef officially squashed (or at least put on simmer), Hughesy bid farewell, but not before dropping yet another unexpected bombshell. When Sandilands asked if he still kept in touch with their <em>Masked Singer</em> co-star Lindsay Lohan, Hughesy recalled a moment so bizarre it might just be the greatest mystery in Aussie celebrity history.</p> <p>“The funniest moment of my life was driving along in the country on a Sunday and getting a call from Lindsay – she said ‘I want to go on your radio show right now, because Dannii Minogue’s trying to ruin my life.’ It was a Sunday!” Hughes revealed.</p> <p>And just like that, we were gifted another unexpected celebrity feud: Lindsay Lohan vs. Dannii Minogue – a battle that, unlike Kyle and Hughesy’s, had been lurking in the shadows all this time. What exactly did Dannii do to warrant Lohan’s dramatic distress call? Did she steal her spotlight? Refuse to share a hair straightener? These are the questions that will now keep Australia up at night.</p> <p>But for today, at least, we can rest easy knowing that Kyle and Hughesy have finally found common ground. And that common ground is mutual confusion over Jackie O’s decade-old social media catfishing escapades.</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

Music

Aussie Olympian air-lifted to Greece after horror crash

<p>Australian Winter Olympian Belle Brockhoff is recovering in a Greek hospital following a serious crash at a Snowboard Cross World Cup event in Eastern Europe. The 32-year-old world champion sustained a significant injury during her final race of the program on Saturday, crashing at high speed and landing on her coccyx.</p> <p>Brockhoff was immediately airlifted to a hospital in Tbilisi, Georgia, where scans revealed a fracture in her L1 vertebrae. While she was cleared of neurological damage, the severity of her injury required an emergency evacuation to Athens for surgery.</p> <p>Her partner, Georgia, quickly boarded a flight to be by her side, while an Olympic Winter Institute of Australia (OWIA) medical staffer has been assisting her throughout the ordeal. Brockhoff is expected to remain in hospital for up to two weeks before being cleared to return home to Australia.</p> <p>OWIA chief Geoff Lipshut assured that Brockhoff is receiving the best medical care possible. "Currently, our medical team is working with emergency service personnel and the hospital in Greece to ensure that Belle receives the best care possible," Lipshut said. "We will reassess options together with Belle following surgery over the next 48 hours."</p> <p>Despite the setback, Brockhoff remains in good spirits. Lipshut expressed relief that her partner could join her in Greece to provide additional support.</p> <p>The injury comes as another blow to Brockhoff, who recently recovered from what her surgeon described as "the worst" broken wrist he had ever seen. With just 11 months remaining until the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, her latest setback could not have come at a worse time.</p> <p>Brockhoff has a history of pushing through injuries in pursuit of Olympic success. She competed at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics with her knee heavily taped and braced after undergoing ACL removal surgery. More recently, she sought redemption after a heartbreaking fourth-place finish in the women’s snowboard cross final at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Frustrated by her near-miss, she bluntly described her result as “the loser” and expressed disappointment at missing the podium.</p> <p>Her Beijing campaign ended dramatically when she crashed out of the mixed team event, lying motionless on the course before being stretchered off by medics. Now, she faces yet another uphill battle in her journey back to competition.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

Sunrise crew robbed live on air while reporting on crime wave

<p>A Seven News reporter and his camera crew were shocked to discover that they had been robbed live on air while covering a live segment from Adelaide's Rundle Mall on rising crime rates in the area.</p> <p>Journalist Hayden Nelson was reporting for <em>Sunrise</em> earlier this week when an unidentified man casually greeted the crew before stealthily making off with one of their lights in broad daylight. The theft went unnoticed until after the live broadcast had ended.</p> <p>“After the cross, he’s gone to check on the light – the stand was still there but the light itself has vanished,” Nelson later told 7News.</p> <p>Nelson and his team were baffled by the incident, particularly as they had briefly seen the man but did not suspect anything at the time. Nelson explained that, due to the nature of live broadcasting, his focus had been elsewhere. “When you’re about to go live, you’ve got an earpiece in with your director talking to you, and the sound of the presenters, you’ve got lights blaring at you,” he said, adding that the stolen equipment would be of little use to the thief.</p> <p>“To operate it they would need a broadcast-quality battery that you can only get in the industry, and it also requires a unique charger.”</p> <p>South Australian police have since released an image of a man who they believe may be able to assist with their investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.</p> <p>The incident has raised concerns over security in the area, particularly as it occurred in broad daylight and during a live television broadcast.</p> <p><em>Images: Sunrise | SA Police</em></p>

Legal

Nine pulls reality TV series off the air over "staging" claims

<p>Channel Nine's real estate reality show <em>Find My Beach House</em> has been pulled off air after producers were caught out "staging" scenes for the cameras.</p> <p>The show hosted by <em>The Block's </em>Shelley Craft, focuses on couples hunting to buy their "dream home".</p> <p>However, according to Media Watch, one couple featured on the show already owned the property that was showcased on a recent episode. </p> <p>According to the Media Watch report, couple Toneya and Lochie had owned the luxury pad for eight years.</p> <p>"In fact, days after the show was broadcast, Toneya and Lochie put the house on the market – asking price $3.8 to $4.15 million. Can’t buy advertising like that," Media Watch host Linton Besser said.</p> <p>Media Watch also claimed that another property featured on the show was owned by "home seeker" Kirsty, who had it listed on Airbnb for $4,000 a week. </p> <p>The show was pulled from 9Now after Media Watch made their enquiries </p> <p>In a statement shared with viewers of Media Watch, the producers admitted "reversed engineered the house-hunting process". </p> <p>"Abode Entertainment produces Find My Beach House, which is licensed to Channel 9,' the statement began. </p> <p>"The show is designed as light entertainment, offering viewers engaging tours of stunning homes. </p> <p>"At its core, the series follows a couple’s journey, adding a compelling narrative that keeps audiences invested," they continued. </p> <p>"To enhance storytelling and ensure a satisfying viewing experience, we sometimes reverse-engineer the house-hunting process." </p> <p>"Each episode is based on real property searches and purchases. In some cases, aspects of the home-buying journey have been reconstructed for storytelling purposes. </p> <p>"This means the buyers have already purchased their home before filming, and we then showcase additional properties to capture their reactions and insights authentically.</p> <p>"Moving forward we are making the change to include a disclaimer on each episode."</p> <p><em>Image: Nine</em></p>

Kyle Sandilands reveals major health diagnosis live on air

<p>Kyle Sandilands has shared his shocking health diagnosis live on air, telling his listeners he is due to undergo emergency brain surgery. </p> <p>The radio shock jock shared the news on Monday morning, saying he would be stepping back from the KIIS FM hosting role to look after his health and recover from the major operation. </p> <p>“On Friday, I was told by my medical team, which sounds like I’m already very sick - to have a medical team - that I have a brain aneurysm and it requires immediate attention, brain surgery,” Sandilands told listeners.</p> <p>“If you just tuned in to us after all these years, lap it up. And if you’re in Melbourne ... you’re coming to the party too late. You may get your wish. I may be dead.”</p> <p>After being away on Friday, Sandilands shared that he received his diagnosis after a difficult period of difficult headaches. </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/DFlTXUwo5w6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFlTXUwo5w6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kyle and Jackie O (@kyleandjackieo)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"It's not a blockage. It's like, imagine your blood vessel is the garden hose, and the garden hose is weak and it blisters out like a big bubble, you know, like a puncture in it. (It's) like a bike tyre with a big bubble - that bubble's the aneurysm, so it's not blocked," he explained.</p> <p>"It's expanded and if it bursts, (I will become) either a vegetable, in the wheelchair, or dead instantly"</p> <p>Sandilands expects to take eight weeks off from his hit show, <em>The Kyle and Jackie O Show,</em> to recover. </p> <p>“My wife, every time I look at her, her eyes well up with tears. She is already counting down the days.”</p> <p>“The facts are a life of cocaine abuse and partying are not the way to go,” he said.</p> <p>Sandilands then used his condition as a warning to others, saying, "If anyone is having persistent headaches or any of those recurring issues, get a brain scan. It could save your life."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

World's safest airline for 2025 revealed

<p>The world's safest airline has been revealed, with two major carriers from Down Under nabbing the top two spots in the prestigious AirlineRatings.com rankings. </p> <p>Air New Zealand has been rated the safest airline in the world, with Qantas coming in a close second and only 1.50 points separating the two carriers. </p> <p>Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways and Emirates came equal third, while Virgin Australia came in fourth and Etihad Airways in fifth. </p> <p>“It was extremely close again between Air New Zealand and Qantas for first place with only 1.50 points separating the two airlines,” AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen said.</p> <p>“While both airlines uphold the highest safety standards and pilot training, Air New Zealand continue to have a younger fleet than Qantas which separates the two.”</p> <p>AirlineRatings.com is the world's only safety and product rating website, and Air NZ also won the title last year and in 2022, with Qantas nabbing the top spot in 2023. </p> <p>The watchdog monitors 385 airlines and takes into account serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment and fleet age.</p> <p>They also shared the rankings for the safest low-cost airlines, with Cathay Pacific-owned Hong Kong Express claiming the top spot and Qantas-owned Jetstar coming in second. </p> <p>“Everyone at Qantas and Jetstar is incredibly proud of our commitment to safety, which will always be our number one priority. The whole aviation industry is focused on ensuring flying remains the safest way to travel through continual learning and improvement,” A Qantas Group spokesperson told <em>news.com.au</em>. </p> <p>While Air NZ CEO Greg Foran said: “I’m very proud of our entire Air New Zealand whānau for consistently and diligently putting safety at the forefront of everything we do." </p> <p>“Operational integrity is at the heart of our business. We have a strong culture of safety that puts our team and passengers first. I’m proud of how this culture has been fostered over many years and how it underpins every aspect of the airline’s everyday operations.”</p> <p><strong>The Top 25 World's Safest Full-Service Airlines for 2025: </strong></p> <ol> <li>Air New Zealand</li> <li>Qantas</li> <li>Cathay Pacific; Qatar Airways; Emirates</li> <li>Virgin Australia</li> <li>Etihad Airways</li> <li>ANA</li> <li>EVA Air</li> <li>Korean Air</li> <li>Alaska Airlines</li> <li>Turkish Airlines (THY)</li> <li>TAP Portugal</li> <li>Hawaiian Airlines</li> <li>American Airlines</li> <li>SAS</li> <li>British Airways</li> <li>Iberia</li> <li>Finnair</li> <li>Lufthansa/Swiss</li> <li>JAL</li> <li>Air Canada</li> <li>Delta Airlines</li> <li>Vietnam Airlines</li> <li>United Airlines</li> </ol> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Travel Tips

What’s the difference between gelato and ice cream? One contains more air

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/evangeline-mantzioris-153250">Evangeline Mantzioris</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a></em></p> <p>As the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time for ice cream or a gelato. Who am I kidding? It’s the perfect time year round.</p> <p>But what’s the difference between gelato and ice cream?</p> <p>Not everyone agrees. Some people say they’re made with <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/gelato-vs-ice-cream-8609179">different amounts of fat</a>. Others say it’s all about the <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/whats-the-difference-between-gelato-and-ice-cream-909197#:%7E:text=Gelato%20is%20churned%20at%20a,much%20as%2050%20percent%20air.">air content</a>.</p> <p>To add to the confusion, gelato is the Italian word for any type of ice cream. But in Australia, gelato refers to the frozen dessert of Italian origin.</p> <h2>How are they similar?</h2> <p>Ice cream and gelato are both sweet desserts served cold. They both contain varying amounts of cream, milk, sugar, flavours, and sometimes eggs.</p> <p>The fat component from the cream provides the richness, smoothness and body. Eggs are normally associated with gelato but can also be added to ice cream to enhance the richness.</p> <p>Most commercial ice creams and gelato also contain <a href="https://theconversation.com/are-emulsifiers-bad-not-enough-evidence-to-say-we-should-stop-eating-them-121325">emulsifiers</a>. These are food additives that act as a stabiliser by preventing liquids that normally don’t mix from separating. Emulsifiers <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41575-024-00893-5#Sec11">have been linked</a> to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11345991/">numerous gut symptoms</a>. However most of the evidence comes from laboratory and animal studies, and there is <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41575-024-00893-5/tables/2">limited robust evidence of this in humans</a>.</p> <p>Ice cream and gelato are both made by churning (whipping) the ingredients, leading to air bubbles forming. In fact, it’s the air bubbles that allow us to eat these desserts frozen. It gives them a palatable texture and mouthfeel by making the mixture softer and lighter. Imagine how hard it would be to eat a hard lump of frozen dessert.</p> <p>Many people assume both ice cream and gelato are good sources of calcium, presumably because they’re made from dairy products. But due to the low proportions of milk (it’s mostly cream, which contains less calcium), they both only provide about 65 milligrams of calcium per half cup. That’s <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/calcium">about 7%</a> of the daily calcium requirements for adults aged 19-50.</p> <p>They also both contain small amounts of protein – about 2-3 grams per half cup. That’s only about 5% of your <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/protein">daily protein requirements</a>.</p> <p>So ice cream and gelato are not a valuable source of calcium and protein, making them of low nutritional value. That’s why they’re regarded as “<a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/guidelines/australian-guide-healthy-eating">sometimes</a>” foods.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=455&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=455&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=455&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633714/original/file-20241121-15-36t0ln.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=572&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Gelato vs ice cream" /><figcaption><span class="attribution"><span class="source">The Conversation</span>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA</a></span></figcaption></figure> <h2>How are they different?</h2> <p><strong>It’s about the air</strong></p> <p>The <a href="https://www.google.com.au/books/edition/On_Food_and_Cooking/bKVCtH4AjwgC?hl=en&gbpv=1&pg=PA8&printsec=frontcover">speed</a> at which the mixture is churned can determine the amount of air it contains. This impacts the product’s thickness and smoothness.</p> <p>Ice cream is traditionally <a href="https://www.google.com.au/books/edition/On_Food_and_Cooking/bKVCtH4AjwgC?hl=en&gbpv=1&pg=PA8&printsec=frontcover">churned faster</a> <a href="https://eu.venchi.com/blog/italian-gelato-vs-icecream">than gelato</a>. This means more air is incorporated, making it feel fluffy and creamy compared to gelato, which tends to feels thicker and richer.</p> <p><strong>It’s about the ice</strong></p> <p>Churning at a slower speed, as you would typically for gelato, also <a href="https://www.google.com.au/books/edition/On_Food_and_Cooking/bKVCtH4AjwgC?hl=en&gbpv=1&pg=PA8&printsec=frontcover">increases the size of ice crystals</a>. Large ice crystals give a coarse icy texture, compared to a creamier texture from smaller ice crystals in ice cream.</p> <p><strong>How about the fat?</strong></p> <p>Although many websites say ice cream <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/gelato-vs-ice-cream-8609179">contains more fat</a> than gelato, this is a tricky one to tease out.</p> <p>In Australia, <a href="https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2015L00424/latest/text">food standards</a> say ice cream should contain at least 100g milk fat per kilogram (or 10% milk fat).</p> <p>So products with less fat need to be called something else – frozen dessert, iced confection, even gelato. So, in theory, a lower-fat product made the same way as ice cream could be called gelato. Non-dairy products made the same way as ice cream could also be called gelato.</p> <p>So how much milk fat does gelato need to contain? I can’t find any legal requirements in Australia or elsewhere. <a href="https://www.masterclass.com/articles/ice-cream-vs-gelato-vs-sherbet-vs-sorbet">Cooking websites</a> often refer to it having 4-9% milk fat. But depending on the recipe, it could be higher.</p> <p>Fat content also differs from flavour to flavour. For example, if you compare the nutritional content of half a cup of vanilla ice cream with half a cup of vanilla gelato, the ice cream has 2g more fat. Other flavours will give different results.</p> <p><strong>How about the sugar or kilojules?</strong></p> <p>If we just compare half a cup of vanilla ice cream with half a cup of vanilla gelato, the gelato has about 3g more sugar. Again, different flavours will give different results. The difference in kilojoules is very small – 15kJ per half cup.</p> <h2>Overall, which one’s healthier?</h2> <p>Effectively there is little difference nutritionally between ice cream and gelato.</p> <p>But brands and flavours vary considerably. They each use different amounts of cream, eggs and other ingredients. So kilojoule, fat and sugar content can vary considerably too.</p> <p>Should you still eat them? Yes, absolutely if you enjoy them. However, both are classified as sometimes foods due to their added sugar and low level of nutrients. And perhaps limit your serve size.<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/238988/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/evangeline-mantzioris-153250">Evangeline Mantzioris</a>, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</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/whats-the-difference-between-gelato-and-ice-cream-one-contains-more-air-238988">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Food & Wine

Radio presenter announces he was sacked live on air

<p>KIIS FM radio presenter Mitch Churi has revealed that he has been sacked, sharing the information live on air. </p> <p>Churi shared the sad news during the latest episode of <em>The Pick Up</em>, which he hosts with Brittany Hockley and Laura Byrne, revealing to his listeners why he won't be back next year.</p> <p>"So late last week, I was informed by the powers that be... They have identified my roles and roles that won't be returning in 2025," he explained.</p> <p>"So I just want to say that it wasn't my decision. It wasn't my call. I really wanted to stay on this show with the two of you. And I wanted to stay on the night show and I wanted to stay at ARN and KIIS. And that I love working in radio," he said.</p> <p>Churi continued,"You know, I started on The Kyle and Jackie O Show when I was 19 and I was their barista. I was a kid who dreamt to have a show like this. And now I've got more time to dream of more dreams."</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/DClRw2qR88Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DClRw2qR88Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by THE PICK UP (@thepickup)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Co host Laura Byrne confirmed the news, adding, "It's a decision that's been made that's out of our control. As you know, Britt and I, we have to continue on doing the show without you and we are utterly devastated."</p> <p>Brittany Hockley added, "You are not only our co-host, but also one of our best friends."</p> <p>Churi ended his announcement with a message to listeners, saying, "And I just want to end this by saying to the listeners who have listened to our show. When you first heard me, I was a kid. I was in the closet."</p> <p>"I was pimply. I was terrified. And I was so happy to be on air. And all those things still really are the same. I have loved every moment of it."</p> <p>ARN confirmed Chrui's departure in a statement which read: "As part of our review of network shows for 2025, Mitch Churi will be departing ARN, with his final day on KIIS being December 13. Mitch has been a cherished member of the ARN family, bringing his unique energy, humour, and talent to our network."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p> <p> </p>

Music

Tourism hotspot in Italy attracts attention for selling strange souvenir

<p dir="ltr">Italy’s picturesque region of Lake Como has started selling a unique souvenir, making many people raise their eyebrows. </p> <p dir="ltr">The north Italian tourist hotspot has long been known for being the backdrop of many Hollywood films, while also hosting countless celebrity weddings, with many famous faces owning houses in the region. </p> <p dir="ltr">For those travelling to the stunning Lake Como and wanting to purchase a souvenir to remind them of their travels, you can now forgo the classic keyring or magnet for a more unique souvenir item.</p> <p dir="ltr">Communications company ItalyComunica says it has bottled the very air of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como and is selling these cans for €9.90 ($16 AUD) apiece.</p> <p dir="ltr">Each can is said to contain 400 millilitres of “100% authentic air” collected from Lake Como, with the website stating buyers can “Open it whenever you need a moment of escape, tranquillity, or simply beauty.”</p> <p dir="ltr">In an attempt to capitalise on the ever-growing visitor numbers, marketing specialist Davide Abagnale originally created the e-commerce site to sell dedicated Lake Como posters, before delving into the world of the unique souvenirs. </p> <p dir="ltr">His latest initiative of selling canned air aims to “create a souvenir that could be easily transported in a suitcase for tourists” and “something original, fun and even provocative.” </p> <p dir="ltr">Abagnale told <em><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/04/travel/lake-como-air-cans-on-sale-intl-scli/index.html">CNN</a></em>, “It’s not a product, it’s a tangible memory that you carry in your heart,” adding that once tourists are home and have opened the can, they can repurpose it as a souvenir pen holder or plant holder. </p> <p dir="ltr">Not everyone was first onboard with the idea, as Como mayor Alessandro Rapinese said it wouldn’t be his first idea for tourists, and would prefer they take home other souvenirs, like the silk scarves the area is known for.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s a novel idea, but not for everyone,” he told <em>CNN</em>. “But as mayor of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, if someone wants to take some of their air home, that’s fine as long as they also take beautiful memories of this area.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: ItalyComunica/CNN/Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

Kyle Sandilands throws drink at Ben Fordham live on-air

<p>Kyle Sandilands and Ben Fordham have clashed during a live interview. </p> <p>The radio rivals joined John Laws' on his 2SM show on Wednesday, for one of Laws' final shows before he retires when things got heated. </p> <p>The trio had been chatting about various topics for 15 minutes when the conversation turned to the US election. </p> <p>After Sandilands gave his opinion on Trump's strong performance, Fordham sarcastically responded with: “Of all the experts on American politics, what an honour for John Laws to have Kyle Sandilands commenting on it this morning.”</p> <p>The comment sparked an immediate reaction from the KIIS FM host, who retaliated with: “I’ll throw this water in your face, b***h." </p> <p>"I don’t care who you think you are.”</p> <p>“Well go on, do it!” Fordham challenged him.</p> <p>The 2GB host pushed him over the edge when he said: “You talk tough to the paparazzi …” and was cut off when Sandilands threw a tall glass of water over his face and chest. </p> <p>“Oh my lord!” a shocked Fordham said.</p> <p>“There you go,” Sandilands told him. “Don’t push a Brisbane boy.”</p> <p>Laws seemed rather amused by the chaos, and as Fordham tried to dry himself off, he took another cheeky dig at Sandilands. </p> <p>“Kyle’s wet too, but that’s perspiration,” he said.</p> <p>The interview went on for another 15 minutes and towards the end of the chat Laws apologised to Fordham saying: “I’m sorry you’re wet." </p> <p>“I bet you’ve never said that before,” quipped Sandilands.</p> <p>To make matters worse for Fordham, the NSW premier, Chris Minns was waiting just outside the studio doors. </p> <p>“I’ve got all this water all over me, it looks like I’ve wet myself, and now I’m going to go outside and there are VIPs out there,” Fordham said.</p> <p>“Embarrassing.”</p> <p>On Thursday morning, the KIIS FM radio host reflected on the on-air clash, claiming that he was the one who invited Fordham to appear with him on Laws' radio show. </p> <p>“I shouldn’t have invited him, I’ll never invite him anywhere again,” he said.</p> <p>“He just carried on like a carnival person,” Sandilands continued. “He kept yelling and he kept interfering.”</p> <p>In response, Fordham reportedly told <em>news.com.au</em>, “Kyle knows he’s boring on his own. That’s why he roped me in to join him.”</p> <p><em>Images: 2SM/ news.com.au</em></p>

Music

Freddy Krueger at 40 – the ultimate horror movie monster (and Halloween costume)

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/adam-daniel-301018">Adam Daniel</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a></em></p> <p>Movie monsters have captivated audiences since the days of early cinema. They evoke fascination and terror, allowing audiences to confront their fears from the safety of the movie theatre or living room.</p> <p>Arguably one of the most enduring and captivating of these monsters is Freddy Krueger, the villain of the <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087800/">A Nightmare on Elm Street</a> series who celebrates his 40th screen birthday this November.</p> <p>Memorably played by Robert Englund, Freddy quickly became a cultural icon of the 1980s and 1990s. Beyond his burned face and iconic bladed glove, Freddy’s dark humour and acidic personality set him apart from other silent, faceless killers of the era, such as Michael Myers in <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077651/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_6_nm_0_in_0_q_halloween">Halloween</a> or Jason Vorhees in <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080761/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Friday the 13th</a>.</p> <p>Written and directed by horror maven <a href="https://theconversation.com/wes-craven-the-scream-of-our-times-46915">Wes Craven</a>, 1984’s A Nightmare on Elm Street garnered positive reviews for its innovative concept: Freddy stalked and attacked his victims in their dreams, making him inescapable and allowing him to tap into their deepest fears. The series (seven films plus a 2010 remake and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0329101/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Freddy vs. Jason</a> spin offs) blended supernatural horror and surrealism with a dark and twisted sense of humour.</p> <h2>Scary … but funny</h2> <p>Humour was key to Freddy’s “popularity”. Both sinister and strangely charismatic, Freddy’s psychological torture of his adolescent victims often oscillated between terrifying and amusing.</p> <p>A famous kill scene from 1987’s <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093629/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors</a> demonstrates this paradox.</p> <p>Aspiring actress Jennifer drifts off to sleep while watching a talk show on TV. In her dream, the host of the talk show suddenly transforms into Freddy, who attacks his guest before the TV blinks out. When Jennifer timidly approaches the TV set, Freddy’s head and clawed hands emerge from the device, snatching her while delivering an iconic one-liner: “This is it, Jennifer – your big break in TV!”</p> <p>Freddy turns his victims’ fears or aspirations – their dreams – against them.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dCVh4lBfW-c?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption><span class="caption">‘Whatever you do, don’t fall asleep.’</span></figcaption></figure> <h2>Creating a monster</h2> <p>Craven has shared how the character of Krueger came to life in <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1510985/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy</a>, an oral history of the series.</p> <p>He described a childhood experience of seeing a strange mumbling man walking past his childhood home. The man stopped, he said, and looked directly at him “with a sick sense of malice”. This deeply unsettling experience helped shape Freddy’s menacing presence.</p> <p>The character’s creation also emerged from the filmmaker’s interest in <a href="https://www.iflscience.com/nightmare-on-elm-street-was-inspired-by-a-real-life-medical-mystery-60527">numerous reports of Southeast Asian refugees dying in their sleep</a> after experiencing vivid nightmares.</p> <p>In the film, Krueger’s origin story reveals him as a child murderer who was apprehended but released due to a technicality in his arrest. Seeking justice, the parents of his victims take matters into their own hands, and form a vigilante mob. They corner him in his boiler room and burn him alive. But Freddy’s spirit survives to haunt and kill the children of his executioners.</p> <h2>Cultural repression, expressed on film</h2> <p>Film critic and essayist <a href="https://www.cineaste.com/summer2019/robin-wood-on-horror-film-collected-essays-and-reviews#:%7E:text=Freudian%20theory%2C%20a%20crucial%20theoretical,the%20horror%20film%20perpetually%20enacts.">Robin Wood argued</a> horror films often bring to the surface elements society has repressed. These fears, desires, or cultural taboos are not openly acknowledged.</p> <p>But movie monsters act as manifestations of what society suppresses, such as sexuality, violence or deviant behaviour. American academic <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01956051.1995.9943696">Gary Heba</a> argues Freddy is:</p> <blockquote> <p>an example of America’s political unconscious violently unleashed upon itself, manifesting everything that is unspeakable and repressed in the master narrative (perversion, child abuse and murder, vigilantism, the breakdown of rationality, order, and the family, among others), but still always present in the collective unconscious of the dominant culture.</p> </blockquote> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UBrl4H0Uzng?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption><span class="caption">Actor Robert Englund calls Freddy Krueger ‘the gift that keeps on giving’.</span></figcaption></figure> <h2>The monster decades</h2> <p>The 1970s and 1980s marked a golden era for the creation of horror film nasties like Krueger, Myers, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072271/?ref_=fn_al_tt_3">The Texas Chainsaw Massacre</a>’s Leatherface and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094862/?ref_=fn_al_tt_19">killer doll Chucky</a>.</p> <p>Since then, the landscape of horror has shifted, with fewer singular monsters emerging. The diversification of horror sub-genres (zombie virus horror, anyone?), the rise of psychological horror (<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7784604/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_4_nm_2_in_0_q_heredi">Hereditary</a>), and an emphasis on human-driven terror (<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416315/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_1_tt_7_nm_0_in_0_q_wolf%2520creek">Wolf Creek</a>) or supernatural forces all contribute to this shift.</p> <p>While modern horror continues to thrive, few characters have achieved the same iconic status as Freddy – although some would argue Art the Clown from the recent <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4281724/">Terrifier</a> franchise and the reinvigorated Pennywise from <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1396484/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_1_tt_6_nm_1_in_0_q_it">IT</a> could join this exclusive group.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZuYoEtEI_go?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption><span class="caption">‘Five, six, grab your crucifix.’ A 2010 Nightmare on Elm St reboot failed to fire.</span></figcaption></figure> <h2>Happy Halloween!</h2> <p>Despite a <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1179056/">failed reboot in 2010</a>, the legacy of A Nightmare on Elm Street is strong, having influenced numerous filmmakers with its skilful mix of surrealism and slasher horror.</p> <p>However, it’s the orchestrator of the titular nightmares whose legacy is perhaps the strongest.</p> <p>With each Halloween, new fans choose Freddy for their costume. All it takes is a tattered striped sweater, a brown fedora hat, and a glove with sharp, finger-lengthening blades. Don’t forget makeup to re-create Krueger’s grisly facial burns. Sweet dreams!<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/240905/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/adam-daniel-301018"><em>Adam Daniel</em></a><em>, Associate Lecturer in Communications, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: New Line Cinema - IMDB</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/freddy-krueger-at-40-the-ultimate-horror-movie-monster-and-halloween-costume-240905">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Movies

"Heavy heart": Susie O'Neill breaks down as she resigns live on air

<p>Olympic swimmer turned radio host Susie O'Neill has broken down live on air as she announced her resignation from her role with the Brisbane Nova breakfast show.</p> <p>The 51-year-old tearfully told her co-hosts David 'Luttsy' Lutteral and Ashley Bradnam that she would be taking a step back from radio after 10 years with the network. </p> <p>"I do this with a heavy heart, the decision wasn't easy. It's hard for me to articulate exactly why I'm leaving," Susie began.</p> <p>"Turning 50 last year, I realised I'm at a whole new stage in my life. The next chapter will see me pursue other goals, both professionally and personally."</p> <p>Susie added that she was already contemplating what her next career moves would be, as she reassured listeners that she would stay on the air for another six weeks, with her final show being on November 28th.</p> <p>"I want to get back to the grassroots of sport and involve myself in the wider community. It's going to be an emotional final day, saying goodbye to everyone," she said.</p> <p>"Whatever this next chapter brings, my Nova family won't be far away."</p> <p>She went on to thank both of her co-hosts a she reflected on her time on the show, saying, "Thanks to Ash and Luttsy for bringing me into your world and life a bit over 10 years ago now, when I pretty much had nothing going on in my life to be honest."</p> <p>"I joked that it saved my life at the time. You were both so supportive of me. I was horrible at radio and I’d be upset and say, 'I can’t do it' and you would say, 'no, just keep going, just keep going'."</p> <p>Co-host Luttsy was quick to pay tribute to Susie, saying, "It's been an incredible adventure becoming great mates with you. Can't wait to see your next chapter."</p> <p>Before joining the world of radio in 2023 as a sports broadcaster, Susie rose to fame at the age of just 14, joining the Olympic team and going on to score 35 Australian titles and retiring after the 2000 Sydney Olympics. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Nova</em></p>

Music

The surprising unknown road rule that is costing drivers

<p dir="ltr">A woman has issued a warning to Aussie drivers after being threatened with a hefty fine for a common car decoration. </p> <p dir="ltr">Janelle McEvoy, a young woman from Perth, took to TikTok to recall the moment she learned that she could be facing a fine for having an air freshener hanging from her car’s rear view mirror. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I randomly got breath tested on the way to an event this morning and the police officer told me when I get home I need to remove this hanging from my car to avoid the $100 fine and the demerit point,” she said in her TikTok video, which has since had nearly 2 million views. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Doesn’t everyone have one of these hanging from their car? Where is it supposed to go?”</p> <p dir="ltr">Thousands of people flocked to the comments on the video to share their surprise over the obscure road rule, with one person writing, “The way my jaw dropped when you showed what it was cause I bought the exact same thing not too long ago.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Another added, “That’s crazy, I have like four air fresheners and two crystal chains hanging from my car.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The rule, which varies between states, can carry fines and possibly the loss of demerit points, if a police officer deems that the driver’s vision is obstructed from whatever is hanging from the mirror.</p> <p dir="ltr">In NSW, drivers without a clear view of the road can be fined $410 fine and have three demerit points issued.</p> <p dir="ltr">In other Aussie states, the fine for obstructed vision can range between $100 and $361. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Money & Banking

Joel Creasey announces exciting personal news on air

<p>Radio host Joel Creasey has shared the exciting news that he and his partner are now engaged after being together for seven years.</p> <p>Creasey announced the news on his Instagram, also sharing the news with his co-hosts of the <em>Ricki-Lee, Tim and Joel radio show</em> on Nova, recalling how his boyfriend, Jack Stratton-Smith, had surprised him with the proposal on their final night in Monopoli, southern Italy.</p> <p>“Well, you asked what happened on my trip to Italy … I did get engaged to the love of my life after seven and a half years,” Creasey told his co-hosts and listeners on Monday.</p> <p>“He finally popped the question! It was very last-minute, it was the day before we left, actually … It was just on a little rooftop and we had a couple of friends there, and I had no idea. I genuinely had no idea.”</p> <p>He added, “We had many a drink that night and it was very special.”</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/DAiEIlBBnRf/?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/DAiEIlBBnRf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Joel Creasey (@joelcreasey)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The engagement ring reportedly took a year and a half to make, and was inspired by Creasey's favourite musical Wicked.</p> <p>Creasey explained that the news of his engagement had surprised many people for an unexpected reason.</p> <p>He said, “We’ve been together for ages, a lot of people were like, ‘I thought you were already married!’”</p> <p>Joel and Jack started dating in 2017 after they met at an Adele concert.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Relationships

News

Shop

Catalogues

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Games

Information

Keep up to date

Search

Niece of AFL legend learns of his passing live on air

Kyle Sandilands mocked after huge on-air meltdown

Eight dead as hot-air balloon erupts in flames

CCTV released after at least 290 die in Air India plane crash

Amanda Keller breaks down in deeply moving on-air moment

How to get started investing later in life

Dave Hughes finally confronts Kyle Sandilands in on-air ambush

Aussie Olympian air-lifted to Greece after horror crash

Sunrise crew robbed live on air while reporting on crime wave

Nine pulls reality TV series off the air over "staging" claims

Kyle Sandilands reveals major health diagnosis live on air

World's safest airline for 2025 revealed

What’s the difference between gelato and ice cream? One contains more air

Radio presenter announces he was sacked live on air

Tourism hotspot in Italy attracts attention for selling strange souvenir

Kyle Sandilands throws drink at Ben Fordham live on-air

Freddy Krueger at 40 – the ultimate horror movie monster (and Halloween costume)

"Heavy heart": Susie O'Neill breaks down as she resigns live on air

The surprising unknown road rule that is costing drivers

Joel Creasey announces exciting personal news on air

Our Partners