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Radio host at the centre of fatal royal prank sues network

<p>More than a decade after a prank call to a London hospital triggered international outrage and tragedy, Australian radio presenter Michael Christian is suing Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), claiming the broadcaster failed to protect and support him in the aftermath.</p> <p>Christian was co-hosting 2Day FM’s breakfast show alongside Mel Greig in December 2012 when the pair placed an on-air prank call to King Edward VII Hospital, where the then-Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, was being treated for severe morning sickness.</p> <p>Christian, who had only been on the job for two days, claims in a newly filed federal court lawsuit that he and Greig were instructed by the show's production team to impersonate King Charles and Queen Elizabeth II to extract medical information.</p> <p>The call was answered by nurse Jacintha Saldanha, who transferred the hoax call through to the Duchess’ attending nurse. Days later, Saldanha was found dead, having taken her own life. In a note left behind, she blamed the radio stunt and the hospital’s handling of the situation for her death.</p> <p>The incident sparked a global media storm, intense public criticism and death threats directed at the hosts. Christian’s lawsuit alleges that SCA did little to shield them from the backlash.</p> <p>According to the court documents, Christian was assured by the company that if any broadcast content crossed a line, SCA would “step in”.</p> <p>His legal team claims that promise was broken: “The radio presenters were left by SCA as the convenient fall guys and scapegoats for SCA management decisions and non-compliance”.</p> <p>Christian also alleges the prank violated the Australian Communication and Media Authority code of practice. The documents state that the reason for the long delay in taking legal action was SCA’s promise to restore Christian’s reputation and help rebuild his career – a promise he claims was never fulfilled.</p> <p>His lawyers argue that the broadcaster failed to provide “meaningful health support”, initiate a public relations campaign to repair his public image, or offer career advancement or financial recognition for his continued loyalty.</p> <p>The situation escalated earlier this year when Christian was made redundant by the company in February. He contends the redundancy was not genuine, stating, “SCA still requires (his) former role to be performed”.</p> <p>Now, Christian is seeking financial compensation, damages, and penalties for what he describes as SCA’s negligence and breach of duty.</p> <p>Southern Cross Austereo has not yet filed a defence but issued a brief public statement: “As the matter is currently before the courts, and out of respect for the legal process and the privacy of those involved, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this time.”</p> <p>A court date is yet to be set.</p> <p><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Legal

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"Bring back The Project!": Viewers divided over new Channel 10 show

<p>Just weeks after Channel 10 confirmed the shock axing of <em>The Project</em>, its replacement show <em>10 News+</em> made its prime-time debut – and reactions have been anything but quiet.</p> <p>The new current affairs program, hosted by seasoned journalists Amelia Brace and Denham Hitchcock, launched Monday night with bold promises and a serious tone, setting itself apart from its long-running predecessor.</p> <p>“Firstly, we’re not here to tell you what to think. We’re not here to scare or depress you,” Hitchcock told viewers in the show’s opening minutes. “We will give you facts, information you can trust, the truth,” Brace added, outlining the show’s mission for “digging deeper with investigations and original reporting you won’t see anywhere else”.</p> <p>Despite landing a world-exclusive with convicted drug smuggler Debbie Voulgaris – speaking from a prison cell in Taiwan – and featuring an interview with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the show failed to win over many of <em>The Project</em>’s former fans.</p> <p>“Seriously Channel 10!” one viewer wrote on social media. “There’s enough depressing news already out there and now you’ve brought it to us at 6pm! Bring back The Project.”</p> <p>Another slammed the show as “A Current Affair, yawn!” while one frustrated viewer branded it “a SNOOZE FEST of a show with NO SOUL”, accusing the network of underestimating its audience.</p> <p>“Cut and paste of Channel 9’s A Current Affair. Not interested. Already changed channel,” another viewer declared.</p> <p>The comparisons to <em>A Current Affair</em> – and the shift in tone from <em>The Project</em>’s lighter, panel-style format – were a recurring theme in the online backlash.</p> <p>“Genuine feedback and not at all a criticism of the hosts,” one person commented, “but this show is so vastly different from The Project and more like A Current Affair. It’s not unique... Was it just a cost-cutting measure all along?”</p> <p>Others went even further, suggesting the show might not last the year. “Give it a month,” one viewer said. Another quipped, “Are the hosts AI-generated?”</p> <p>Still, <em>10 News+</em> wasn’t without its defenders. Some viewers praised the show’s content and approach.</p> <p>“Loving @10NewsPlus – strong launch story. Is this the new Schapelle Corby story we all need to know about?” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter). “10 News should be very proud.”</p> <p>“I liked 10 News+. It was very interesting and I liked the interview with the astronaut,” another added.</p> <p>For now, Channel 10 is betting on its revamped format to reinvigorate its 6pm slot. Whether audiences warm to the serious tone – or keep demanding the return of <em>The Project</em> – remains to be seen.</p> <p><em>Images: Network 10</em></p>

TV

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Karl's Origin bet sees NRL star run nude across Bondi Beach

<p>Nothing kicks off the weekend quite like your morning coffee, a cheeky croissant, and a surprise unblurred penis on national television. That’s exactly what <em>Today</em> show fans copped around 6am this morning when Channel 9’s breakfast crew decided, apparently, that broadcast standards were merely a suggestion.</p> <p>Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo were front and centre for the chaos, as sports reporter Danika Mason crossed live from Bondi Beach. Mason was joined by retired NRL star Aaron Woods – who, thanks to a State of Origin bet gone sideways, had only his dignity to keep him warm (spoiler: it didn’t).</p> <p>Woods had promised to streak if NSW lost Game 2. Queensland, being Queensland, delivered the goods in Perth on Wednesday night, so Woods kept his word, stripped down, and bolted starkers into the surf. The <em>Today </em>team howled with laughter as he made his break for the briny deep – so far, so PG.</p> <p>But then Woods did what no one expected. In what can only be described as a truly bold move, he turned to face the camera. Editors had roughly zero seconds to react. Viewers had roughly zero seconds to look away. And the <em>Today</em> show had roughly zero seconds before the complaints line started ringing off the hook.</p> <p>“No! Don’t show it!” shrieked Abo, as newsreader Jayne Azzopardi presumably contemplated her next career move. Meanwhile, Woods grinned like a man who knew exactly what he'd done.</p> <p>Danika Mason, ever the professional, summed up the moment with the sort of innuendo that will no doubt earn her a spot at next year’s Logies: “The smallest sporting event I’ve seen.”</p> <p>The man of the hour eventually reappeared on screen – mercifully clothed – declaring, “I’m feeling good, it was good fun. It was a long run, it was like ‘when is this water going to get closer?’” A sentiment shared by viewers who were wondering when their corneas might recover.</p> <p>It turns out Woods' bare-all sprint wasn’t just eyebrow-raising, but technically illegal. NSW Premier Chris Minns had warned him beforehand, but Woods seemed blissfully unaware that public nudity is frowned upon – even at Bondi. “But at the beach!” he protested, in what’s sure to become the rallying cry of accidental exhibitionists everywhere.</p> <p>Minns, showing off his dry wit, suggested Woods try his luck at one of Sydney’s many legal nude beaches next time. “It’s been illegal forever,” he deadpanned on radio. Woods could now be staring down a fine, though fans are hoping common sense (and perhaps a sense of humour) prevails.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Woods’ mate Beau Ryan said the footy star was “genuinely shocked” by the revelation. “You can’t be nude in public,” Ryan told him. Woods: “But at the beach!” Ryan: “Still public, mate.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLGNU0tToP9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLGNU0tToP9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by thetodayshow (@thetodayshow)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>To add another layer to the inter-state banter, Minns himself has a State of Origin bet with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli – the loser must star in the other state’s advertising campaign. So at least if Woods ends up in court, he can rest easy knowing that somewhere out there, a Premier might soon be forced to smile awkwardly in a “beautiful one day, perfect the next” ad.</p> <p>In the meantime, <em>Today</em> producers are probably googling “delay button for live TV” and breakfast viewers are recovering from seeing a little more than they bargained for with their Weet-Bix.</p> <p><em>Images: Today show</em></p>

TV

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Today show reporter shares happy news

<p>Congratulations are pouring in for Today reporter Izabella Staskowski, who has announced she is expecting her first child with fiancé Drew Jones.</p> <p>The couple shared the heartwarming news on Instagram, posting a glowing photo of themselves standing on a Queensland beach at sunrise. In the picture, Jones lovingly cradles Staskowski’s baby bump while the two beam with excitement.</p> <p>“We can’t wait to meet you,” the caption read – a simple but joyful message that has already sparked an outpouring of love and excitement from friends, family and fans alike.</p> <p>"Congratulations! How beautiful," wrote Channel Nine Traffic Reporter Marina Ivanovic, while Channel 7 reporter Tyra Stowers added, "I can't wait either. So gorg, love you both."</p> <p>Channel Nine’s Zac Bailey also joined in with the well wishes, commenting: "Congrats guys! So stoked for you both."</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/DKq5EmRzx2F/?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/DKq5EmRzx2F/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Iza Staskowski (@izastaskowski)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>This latest chapter in the couple’s love story comes just six months after their dreamy engagement. In December last year, Jones popped the question by the water at sunset, accompanied by their beloved dogs, Dennis and Raymond.</p> <p>"06.12.24 🤍," they captioned a carousel of pictures capturing the romantic moment. One photo shows Staskowski hugging her now-fiancé with a sparkling oval-cut solitaire diamond ring on her finger. Another shows Jones on one knee as the couple gazes into each other’s eyes.</p> <p>Their love story has been unfolding publicly and joyfully. Just months before their engagement, the couple celebrated another major milestone – buying their first home together. “We bought Dennis & Raymond a home,” they joked in an Instagram post from July, featuring happy snaps of the pair holding up their new keys. Sitting on the floor of their new living room with pizza boxes and champagne, the couple looked ready to take on the next stage of life.</p> <p>Now, with a baby on the way, that next stage has truly arrived – and it seems the growing family couldn’t be happier.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Catch of the day: bride hauls in shark at her wedding!

<p>Most brides on their big day are content with a nice bouquet, a slice of cake and a husband who hasn’t locked his knees and fainted at the altar. But Miccala Toms of Darwin had slightly more ambitious ideas – and they involved beer, fishing and a decent-sized aquatic predator.</p> <p>After saying “I do” to her now-husband Brodie, the couple did what any sensible Territorians would do in the sweltering heat: they swung by the Dundee Tavern for a couple of cold ones and some casual wedding photos. You know – veil, vows and VB.</p> <p>But while some brides might be focused on getting the perfect shot with golden sunlight and maybe a well-behaved Labradoodle, Miccala spotted a local teen fishing off the rocks and thought, “Now <em>that’s </em>a vibe.”</p> <p>“It was a hot day,” Miccala explained on the <em>Today </em>show. “So we thought we’d have a few drinks and take some photos at the front.” The vibe was clearly: bridal glam meets bush telly.</p> <p>The helpful teen handed over his fishing rod – probably assuming she’d hook a little barra or, at worst, a mildly confused crab. But Darwin had other plans.</p> <p>Cue dramatic <em>Jaws</em> music.</p> <p>What Miccala thought would be a cute “bride-with-fish” moment turned into a full-on marine wrestling match when something large, scaly and very toothy yanked on the line.</p> <p>“It was a shark and I’m like, ‘Oh my god, it’s a shark!’” she recalled, possibly while her wedding photographer simultaneously reconsidered their life choices.</p> <p>In true Northern Territory fashion, this bride did not flinch. In fact, she dug in her heels (or possibly bare feet, unclear), while Brodie jumped in to help haul in the unexpected guest star of their wedding album.</p> <p>And because true love is built on mutual support, Brodie did what any man witnessing his wife dragging a shark in her wedding dress would do: picked the beast up by the tail so they could pose together, glowing with wedded bliss and mild concern for their fingers.</p> <p>The shark, possibly the only one more confused than the couple, was photographed before being safely released back into the water, no doubt with a wild story to tell its shark mates. </p> <p>As for Brodie? He knows he’s punched above his weight. “To be honest, I wouldn’t be here without her, that’s for damn sure,” he said. “She’s given me three lovely children and made me the happiest I’ve ever been, so can’t let it go now.”</p> <p>And why would he? When you marry a woman who’ll fish in full bridal gear and take a spill while catching a shark with a beer buzz and a grin... well, you know you’ve found The One.</p> <p>Moral of the story? In Darwin, love is real, the beer is cold and the brides are tougher than the wildlife.</p> <p><em>Images: The Today show</em></p>

Relationships

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"Dumb and Dumber": Karl levels brutal accusation

<p>Treasurer Jim Chalmers has dismissed accusations that Australia’s major political parties are recklessly splurging on big-ticket promises to win votes, defending Labor’s fiscal strategy during a heated exchange with <em>Today </em>host Karl Stefanovic.</p> <p>Stefanovic didn’t hold back on Monday morning, opening the interview with a blunt comparison, saying watching the major parties was like "watching <em>Dumb and Dumber</em>, you guys recklessly buying our votes".</p> <p>Chalmers swiftly pushed back, insisting there is "a really important difference" between responsible budgeting and empty spending.</p> <p>“What we've shown as a Labor government is we’ve been able to maintain a focus on the cost of living,” Chalmers said.</p> <p>“At the same time, we’ve got the budget in much better nick, and that’s meant that we could make room for the sorts of commitments that we have been making in a really responsible way."</p> <p>Chalmers pointed to the government’s fiscal achievements, highlighting a significantly stronger budget position. “The budget’s more than $200 billion stronger than when we came to office. We’ve got the Liberal debt down,” he said. “We’ve delivered those two surpluses, and that’s meant we’ve been able to help with the cost of living. Ongoing tax relief, helping with medicines and energy, bill rebates and the like.”</p> <p>The debate comes as both Labor and the Coalition unveil costly housing policies, which economists warn could further inflate housing prices by injecting more money into an already overheated market.</p> <p>Chalmers criticised the Coalition’s approach, claiming it lacks lasting impact. “What Peter Dutton did yesterday was to borrow and burn another $10 billion and still provide no ongoing cost of living help for people who are doing it tough," he argued.</p> <p>“And then he’ll claw that back with permanently higher income taxes, lower wages and secret cuts to pay for his nuclear reactors.”</p> <p>As the election campaign heats up, both sides are under increasing scrutiny over their spending pledges and their real impact on Australians facing mounting cost-of-living pressures.</p> <p><em>Images: Today show</em></p>

TV

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Aussie TV star wins $9.2m on game show – the largest in history

<p>In an electrifying moment that will surely go down in television history, Australian reality TV star David Genat has claimed a jaw-dropping AUD$9.2 million prize on US television, securing the largest single cash payout ever seen on American TV.</p> <p>The 44-year-old, widely recognised by Aussie audiences from <em>Survivor Australia</em>, <em>Celebrity Apprentice</em>, <em>Rush</em> and <em>Getaway</em>, delivered a masterclass in risk-taking and intuition in NBC’s <em>Deal or No Deal Island</em>.</p> <p>Genat, dubbed the “Survivor golden god” after his 2020 <em>Survivor Australia: All Stars</em> victory, knew he had the upper hand early in the final showdown. But the real twist came when the show’s notorious banker was revealed as none other than Chrissy Teigen.</p> <p>Faced with 26 cases – one containing the life-changing sum of AUD$12.2 million – Genat navigated a nail-biting elimination round, fuelled by his father’s memory and a razor-sharp strategy. Rejecting a staggering seven offers, including multiple million-dollar deals, he played with nerves of steel until just two cases remained.</p> <p>Then came the final offer: a mind-blowing $US5.8 million ($AUD9.2 million). With tension at an all-time high, Genat made the call – he took the deal.</p> <p>It was a decision that paid off in monumental fashion. When his chosen case was opened, it contained just $75. Had he gambled one step further, he would have walked away with next to nothing. Instead, he etched his name into television history with the record-breaking win.</p> <p>“It was surreal,” Genat later shared with <em>USA Today</em>. <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">“The offer came in at US$5.8 million and I started thinking about it, and that is just so much money. I was having a spiritual experience, man. I just knew where that money was. I knew which cases to open. I was looking for signs from my father, who passed away a couple of years ago. I felt his presence there, and he was just guiding me on what cases to open.”</span></p> <p>That deep connection gave him the clarity to seize the moment and walk away with a life-altering fortune. “My frequency is on another level,” he added. “I fully feel like I’m floating.”</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">With his newfound millions, Genat already has a few indulgences in mind, including a new motorcycle, a luxury watch and some sleek new cars for his four kids.</span></p> <p>But the adventure might not stop here. Rumours are swirling that Genat could be gearing up for another reality TV showdown on the upcoming <em>Survivor: Australia vs. the World</em>, set to air later this year.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Disgusting": Radio host slammed over women's sports comments

<p>Triple M host Marty Sheargold has been slammed online for comments he made on-air about the Matildas and women's sport, with many calling him "disgusting" and "a f**king joke". </p> <p>When the Triple M program and podcast, <em>The Marty Sheargold Show</em>, began discussing the Matildas performance in the annual SheBelieves Cup along in the US along with Japan, Colombia and the host nation.</p> <p>During their discussion of the competition, Sheargold used the opportunity to rip into the world of women's sport, leaving the radio station flooded with complaints. </p> <p>The conversation between Sheargold and co-hosts Troy Ellis and Will Ralson began with Ralston mentioning the tournament to date, as he said, “In football or soccer it’s been a nightmare tournament for the Matildas over the last three or four days over in the US,” referencing the Tillies' defeat to Japan. </p> <p>Sheargold immediately jumped in with the following rant, including downplaying the Matildas’ semi-final appearance at the 2023 FIFA World Cup on home soil.</p> <p>“There’s something wrong with the Matildas,” Sheargold began. “They had that wonderful tournament out here where we all fell in love with them, even though they didn’t make the quarters."</p> <p>“You know what they remind me of? Year 10 girls,” Sheargold continued, as laughter rang out in the background.</p> <p>“All the infighting and all the friendship issues, ‘the coach hates me and I hate bloody training and Michelle’s being a b***h’. Now I’m sorry to undermine the whole sport, but that’s what I think of it so you can stick it up your arse.”</p> <p>Ralston then tried to continue with the sports news bulletin, stating: “So we’re playing in the SheBelieves Cup.”</p> <p>Sheargold jumped in, screaming “Oh, she believes in what? It better be men” as more laughter rang out in the studio. </p> <p>“We’re 12 months out from Australia hosting the Women’s Asian Cup, so hopefully we have a better runway to improve before that comes around,” Ralston said as he tried to continue the sports report. </p> <p>Sheargold responded: “Oh god. The Asian Cup. I’d rather hammer a nail through the head of my penis than watch that,” as a sound affect and more laughs were heard, before he added, “Got any men’s sport?”</p> <p>Ralston replied: “Yeah I do, baseball, the New York Yankees have dropped their 49-year ban on beards, on facial hair,” as Sheargold was quick to comment, “Now this is a good story.”</p> <p>The sexist exchange came to light after Olympic hockey player Ambrosia Malone posted part of the on-air clip on TikTok with the caption: “I honestly don’t know what is wrong with the world."</p> <p>“I heard this on the radio yesterday in prime time (5.30pm) on the way to training and all I could think about was the young girls sitting in the car with their parents, maybe on the way to or from their own training sessions hearing this."</p> <p>“I’m sure many of them would have been hurt and confused … I was in disbelief. This is apparently acceptable on mainstream afternoon radio??? HOW??”</p> <p>Many were quick to share their outrage in the comments section, with one person writing, “Is this a f**king joke?!? I feel like I’m living in a simulation. That cannot be a real recording.”</p> <p>Another added, “Disgusting. Can’t believe they think this is OK to air,” while someone else simply called Sheargold an "awful human."</p> <p>In response to the backlash, an SCA spokesperson said, “Marty Sheargold’s comments regarding the Matildas - made during Triple M Drive on Monday, 24 February - do not align with Triple M's views and values, and Triple M remains steadfast in its strong support of all women's and men's sports. We are sorry for any offence caused.”</p> <p>Marty Sheargold also responded to the controversy, saying in a statement, "Any comedy, including mine, can miss the mark sometimes, and I can see why people may have taken offence to my comments regarding the Matildas. I sincerely apologise.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Triple M / Getty Images </em></p>

Legal

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"You ain't seen nothing yet": Radio star's inspiring message after shock axing

<p>In a move that has left loyal listeners reeling, Triple M has officially called time on The Night Shift and its beloved host, Luke Bona. The veteran broadcaster aired his final show in the early hours of Friday morning, marking the end of an era for overnight radio in Australia.</p> <p>For fans, the abrupt end came as a shock, with the first signs of trouble emerging on Wednesday evening when a cryptic Facebook post appeared on The Night Shift's official page.</p> <p>"No show this evening, so please don't freak out if you hear just music playing," Bona and producer Thomas Denham wrote, sparking speculation about the show's future.</p> <p>By the next day, the fears of the show's dedicated audience were confirmed – Bona and Denham announced that The Night Shift would be going off the air for good, wrapping up with one final broadcast from midnight to 5am on Friday.</p> <p>"It's with a heavy heart that we share The Night Shift will be coming to a close this week, but management have graciously given us the chance for one last hurrah," the duo wrote in a follow-up Facebook post. "For the last time from midnight 'til sparrow's fart across seventy-something transmitters, we will do our best to entertain and keep you company."</p> <p>Bona, who helmed the program for nearly nine years, built a reputation as a top-tier interviewer, securing big-name guests – including breakfast TV star Samantha Armytage – to chat with as they made their way to early morning gigs. His ability to connect with listeners, especially those working overnight shifts, made The Night Shift a staple of late-night radio.</p> <p>The program, which aired across more than 70 Southern Cross Austereo and independent stations, also received industry recognition. In 2019, it was nominated for four Australian Commercial Radio Awards, including Best Talk Presenter and Best Current Affairs Presenter for Bona, Best Show Producer – Talk/Current Affairs, and the prestigious Brian White Award for Radio Journalism.</p> <p>The cancellation of The Night Shift comes amid a wave of programming cuts at Triple M. The network recently axed The Rush Hour with Gus Worland, Jude Bolton and Aaron Woods, as well as Mark Geyer and Mick Molloy’s breakfast show. Additionally, Dead Set Legends, hosted by Candice Warner, Richard Freedman and Brendan Annakin, was also dropped from the schedule.</p> <p>As Bona signed off for the final time, he left fans with a final message of: "Tonight we say goodbye to The Night Shift, but baby you ain't seen nothing yet. Let's give 'em something to talk about."</p> <p><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

Music

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Today reporter shares joyous news after heartwarming home birth

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Popular <em>Today</em> Entertainment Reporter </span>Renée Bargh has shared an exciting life update: she's welcomed her second child!</p> <p>Bargh and her partner Andrew Lange announced the news in a heartwarming Instagram post recently that they have lovingly welcomed a little girl named Soléil James.</p> <p>"Our beautiful sunshine girl joined us earthside a week early in the most magical birth," <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Bargh told her 106,000 followers</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">. "Born peacefully at home in the water, surrounded by love."</span></p> <p>The journalist shared several black-and-white photos, including one of her holding her newborn daughter after giving birth. She also posted an adorable picture of her nearly two-year-old son, Tide, with his sister.</p> <p>Bargh also expressed her deep gratitude to her midwife and doula: <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"Forever grateful for our incredible midwife @janineatibirth for creating the most peaceful and safe environment for this to take place and giving us the healing experience we dreamed of," she wrote. "Thank you to our doula @thehealingshed for your tender love, calming presence and support." </span></p> <p>The post was flooded with congratulatory messages from friends and fans. Model Megan Gale commented, "She is precious ♥️ Congratulations beautiful Mama xx."</p> <p>Journalist Lisa Wilkinson added, "These are the magical moments. Congrats Renée, and enjoy every second xx."</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/DF_HWckzF_Z/?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/DF_HWckzF_Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Renée- Claire Bargh (@reneebargh)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Bargh and Lange welcomed their first child, son Tide, in March 2023.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Radio host reveals "ridiculous" amount he was offered for I'm a Celeb

<p>Beau Ryan has revealed the "ridiculous" amount of money he was offered to appear on <em>I'm a Celebrity... Get Me out of Here!</em></p> <p>The radio presenter and former NRL player has appeared on a plethora of reality TV programs since retiring from NRL in 2014, including <em>Dancing with the Stars</em>, <em>Top Gear Australia</em>, <em>Gladiators</em> and <em>The Amazing Race.</em></p> <p>While speaking with <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/radio/beau-ryan-offered-ridiculous-amount-for-tv-show/news-story/9726320fdc4af29266cb5ca462c8ce59" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a> </em>to promote his new radio gig on Triple M, the 39-year-old opened up about his showbiz career and revealed he actually turned down his most lucrative offer.</p> <p>“I got asked to do the first six (seasons) of <em>I’m a Celeb</em>,” Ryan said. “The money for the second season, it was more than I’ve ever seen.”</p> <p>Ryan admitted that the offer, which was worth more than $500,000, came at a time when Network 10 was keen to attract big names for the relatively unknown show in its early seasons.</p> <p>“The money was big … because everyone didn’t know how the show was going to pan out,” he said. “Back then it was a lot more money and it was a ridiculous amount.”</p> <p>He revealed that he turned down the offer because he was contracted to work with Nine at the time, and it wasn't until 2022 that he jumped ship to Network Ten that he agreed to appear on the show for far less money.</p> <p>“I said (to Ten), ‘do you still have that offer from 2015 or 16?’ and they said, ‘no, we don’t,’” he laughed.</p> <p>Ryan was in the jungle for two weeks, quitting the show with just a few days to go because he was “mentally cooked and physically drained”.</p> <p>Beau also candidly shared that he’s rejected a number of other TV offers over the years, including <em>Celebrity Apprentice</em>,<em> The Masked Singer</em> and <em>SAS Australia</em>.</p> <p>“My kids love <em>The Masked Singer</em> … and were filthy when I said no to that,” Ryan laughed. “(But) I couldn’t do it because of timing and because I can’t sing.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Ten / Instagram </em></p>

Money & Banking

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Journalists rumoured to replace Alex Cullen on Today

<p>Two female Channel Nine journalists are rumoured to be the front runners for Alex Cullen's sports presenter role on the <em>Today </em>show, after he was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/we-ll-miss-him-terribly-alex-cullen-steps-down-from-today" target="_blank" rel="noopener">axed for accepting a $50,000 gift</a> from billionaire Adrian Portelli. </p> <p>Insiders have told the <em>Daily Mail </em>that Roz Kelly and Danika Mason are the top contenders for the role, alongside Sarah Abo and Karl Stefanovic. </p> <p>They also claim that Kelly is "the obvious first choice" with her current role as the sports presenter on Friday and Saturday evenings, but she might not be too keen on taking the role. </p> <p>"She's polished and the viewers already know her and love her. But she's got two young sons and her husband has to travel to India a lot for work," the source told the <em>Daily Mail. </em></p> <p>"Right now, her life is really finely balanced and in a good place so she might not be too keen to take on all the pressures and demands of live television five days a week." </p> <p>"Danika is also equally amazing and is the other really strong contender that everyone is talking about at the moment," the source continued. </p> <p>Another source suggested that Mason was actually the top pick for the position, as she already has a loyal NRL fan base. </p> <p>"Danika would have to be the top pick - she's an absolute live wire, which is what you need at breakfast, and is a hard-worker who throws herself into every challenge with everything she's got," they said. </p> <p>"While nothing has been decided as yet, she's definitely in strong consideration." </p> <p><em>Image: Nine/ Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

TV

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Nova radio star speaks out on "shameful" paparazzi photos

<p><em>Nova </em>radio host Kate Ritchie has issued a public statement on Monday morning announcing that she will be taking a break from the<em> Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie </em>program to focus on her mental health. </p> <p>The announcement comes days after the<em> Daily Mail </em>published invasive paparazzi photos that showed Ritchie appearing distressed while answering a phone call in a park. </p> <p>In a statement released to Instagram, Ritchie slammed the paparazzi for their "relentless stalking".</p> <p>“The images of me taken last week show that I wasn’t OK on that day. My struggle is not helped by the relentless stalking of the paparazzi, in fact they are making it much worse,” she wrote.</p> <p>“Due to their constant harassment, they significantly add pressure and make my recovery that much more difficult.”</p> <p>"To those profiting from invading my privacy, a simple question - would you treat your sister, mother or daughter the same, if they had similar challenges?” she continued. </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/DFltgAPSlyj/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFltgAPSlyj/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kate Ritchie (@kateritchieofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>She admitted that her mental health issues were “deeply personal” and had “proven to be a bigger challenge than I imagined". </p> <p>Ritchie did not disclose how long her break from the show will be, but thanked listeners for their support. </p> <p>The<em> Daily Mail </em>received backlash for their story about Ritchie with paparazzi photos and video showing her crying while on the phone. </p> <p>The publication posted the video on to their social media, with many slamming the footage for intruding on her privacy. </p> <p>“The Daily Mail’s video of Kate Ritchie is f**ked. You don’t post that,” one person wrote. </p> <p>“What a horrible intrusion on her privacy when she is obviously going through a tough time. Have a heart and back off,” another commented. </p> <p>“She is clearly going through something and struggling. Instead of calling authorities or asking her if she needed help or was OK, they recorded her. horrible,” another person wrote.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Cruel scam targets radio star's elderly mum

<p>Radio star Bianca Dye has revealed that her elderly mother was the target of a cruel scam. </p> <p>The <em> i98 </em>radio host told <em>9Honey</em> that her mother, Anne, was at home when she received a series of texts from someone pretending to be her. </p> <p>The first text Anne received claimed that Dye was using a friends phone, before "they sent something about me needing help with an urgent tax bill."</p> <p>At the time, Dye was in Wollongong in NSW hosting the breakfast shift, when her mother received  the <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"urgent tax bill"</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> text requesting $3,000. </span></p> <p>"When parents get older, they don't want to bother you. She didn't want to stress me out," she added, fighting back tears. </p> <p>"But by not contacting me the day it happened and waiting until the next day, she had worked herself up into tears. She didn't sleep a wink."</p> <p>"So she was sending text messages to some stranger."</p> <p>By the time Anne rang her daughter, she was trying to transfer the money, but got the credit card number confused. </p> <p>Fortunately, Dye had a friend check in on her mum, who was able to take Anne to her local branch for help. </p> <p>"They got it all sorted, changed her PIN, no money had been taken out," Dye said. </p> <p>While it was a close call for Dye many Australians, particularly the elderly, are common targets for scammers. </p> <p>Dye hopes to raise awareness of such scams and spoke with cyber security expert Damien Cantelo of Apollo Secure who shared a few safety tips. </p> <p>"Certainly [parents] should take the approach of 'trust no one, assume nothing', because if it's a text message or a call, [scammers] are getting more sophisticated so it's harder to detect," Cantelo said.</p> <p>"A really good tip is to set up a 'safe word'. So you and your family have a word, you just make up a random word.</p> <p>"And if ever there's anything a little bit fishy going on, you can say, 'Oh, hey Bianca, what's the safe word?' And then if you don't have it, then they know to hang up."</p> <p>Dye added that as scams get more intricate, it may be more difficult for older people, especially those who may suffer from memory loss, to detect the scams. </p> <p>"It's a terrifying future for the elderly unless someone tech savvy is living in the house with them," Dye added.</p> <p><em>Image: Bianca Dye/ 9Honey</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Sam Armytage's stunning return to breakfast TV

<p>Samantha Armytage has made a stunning return to breakfast television. </p> <p>The beloved journalist made her debut as co-host of the <em>Today</em> show on Monday morning alongside <em>Weekend Today</em> weather presenter Dan Anstey. </p> <p>The pair took over the reins from <em>Weekend Today</em> hosts David Campbell and Sylvia Jeffreys who were filling in for Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo. </p> <p>This is the first time Armytage has appeared on morning TV, since she last co-hosted Seven’s rival breakfast show <em>Sunrise </em>with David Koch from 2013 to 2021.</p> <p>“I’ve remembered where I am, on channel Nine. Isn’t it lovely to be on channel Nine?” she asked, addressing the elephant in the room, before saying, "Hi guys, good morning, it's nice to be here and nice to look at this new team."</p> <p>“Well, we met at Melbourne Cup, didn’t we? You were handsome as always,” she told co-host Anstey, who jokingly replied: "I can't remember that now." </p> <p>"You may have confused me with another Dan."</p> <p>Armytage, who started her TV career on Nine, was recently welcomed back as host of the new dating program, <em>The Golden Bachelor</em>, which will premiere next year. </p> <p>Her appearance on the breakfast TV show comes after a dramatic development in her personal life, following news of her<a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/the-reason-behind-sam-armytage-s-shock-split-from-husband" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> split from husband</a> Richard Lavender after four years together. </p> <p><em>Images: Today</em></p>

TV

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Ray Hadley chokes up during final radio show

<p>Ray Hadley has become emotional during his last show on-air, farewelling his loyal 2GB audience for the last time. </p> <p>Hadley was joined by fellow 2GB host Ben Fordham for his final show on Friday, with Fordham surprising Hadley with a tribute to his stellar career. </p> <p>The tribute spanned Hadley’s entire career, from top sporting moments, interviews with Keith Urban, to his children speaking with him on air.</p> <p>“Ray Hadley, this is your life,” Fordham said before it played.</p> <p>However, Hadley became emotional when a snippet of his mother’s voice was played during the segment.</p> <p>“Very emotional. I had heard my mother’s voice previously,” Hadley told listeners, choked up. “I wasn’t gonna get upset. You’ve done this to me you little bludger.”</p> <p>Earlier this week, Hadley spoke with <em><a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/latest/ray-hadley-retires-from-2gb-sydney-radio-interview-exclusive/354a86f1-eeac-49a2-bc04-a91f3f22ff13" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Honey</a></em> about his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/the-time-has-come-ray-hadley-announces-retirement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retirement</a>, reflecting on his 43-year career.</p> <p>Hadley admitted he worked brutal hours during his illustrious career, with his dedication leading to what became one of the most impressive runs in radio history in Australia.</p> <p>"I've fought hard for every position I've got and a couple were thrust upon me without fighting for them, but once I got them I realised that it was things I liked doing," he told <em>9Honey</em>.</p> <p>"So yeah, it's been an adventure."</p> <p>"Like every adventure, there's highs and lows. The lows are about as low as you can get, the highs are about as high as you can get, and hopefully most of the time is in the middle somewhere."</p> <p>Hadley said while he's "retiring from full-time radio work" he's "not retiring from life" and with his contract set to run with 2GB until 2026 he is considering his options.</p> <p>"That doesn't mean I won't do something else. What that is, I don't know, because I'm still contracted here. And I'm still committed to this station in many respects ... I've been here for 24 years."</p> <p>"So, you know, there's always a part of me that is willing this station and this network to do well," he said.</p> <p>For now, he's planning to take a three-month break "to clear my head."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 2GB</em></p>

Retirement Life

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Ray Hadley announces 2GB replacement

<p>Ray Hadley has announced his replacement on 2GB's morning show, following his shock <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/the-time-has-come-ray-hadley-announces-retirement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retirement announcement</a> last month. </p> <p>Hadley told listeners live on-air that Mark Levy would be stepping up to the mic as early as next Monday. </p> <p>“That’s Mark Levy in the studio. He is my replacement as of next Monday, actually, he’s taking over,” Hadley told 2GB listeners on Tuesday morning. </p> <p>“So that’s wonderful news for the station and wonderful news for our listeners as well.”</p> <p>Hadley explained that he'd been receiving emails from listeners who wanted Levy to become his replacement, and his response at the time was: “I’ve written back … and said ‘It’s not my decision, it’s a decision for management, and it’s been taken, and I can only hardly endorse the decision they’ve made’.”</p> <p>Levy, who hosts 2GB’s Wide World of Sports has previously filled in for Hadley, and said he felt "extremely honoured" to be taking on the role. </p> <p>“As a young kid I grew up listening to the talkback kings and to be taking over a timeslot that’s been owned by a mentor and a friend for the last 20 years is something I am excited about and extremely honoured to do,” Levy said.</p> <p>“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and I can’t wait to speak to our loyal listeners every morning about the issues affecting them in what’s shaping up as an important election year.”</p> <p>The change comes after Hadley announced his retirement in November, with his last day tipped to be December 13. </p> <p>“It’s been a hell of a ride from a young bloke who wanted to call the races, but the time has come for someone else to do the job,” Hadley told listeners at the time. </p> <p><em>Image: 2GB</em></p>

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Pauline Hanson levels lawsuit at Lidia Thorpe and Today show

<p>Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, has initiated defamation proceedings against Senator Lidia Thorpe and Channel Nine’s <em>Today</em> show after being described as “a convicted racist” during a live television interview.</p> <p>Legal letters sent to both parties demand immediate apologies and retractions, claiming the statement is false and defamatory.</p> <p>Hanson’s legal team, represented by barrister Sue Chrysanthou and solicitor Anthony Jeffries, has labelled the situation “highly irresponsible” and warned of further legal action if the demands are not met.</p> <p>In the letter to Senator Thorpe, Hanson’s lawyers argue, “You alleged during that interview that Senator Hanson has been convicted of racism. That never occurred.” They insist no criminal conviction of that nature exists and called on Thorpe to issue a public correction.</p> <p>The dispute arises in the wake of a Federal Court ruling earlier this month, where Hanson was found to have racially vilified Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi. The ruling stemmed from a 2022 social media post in which Hanson told Senator Faruqi to “pack your bags and p*ss off back to Pakistan”. Justice Angus Stewart described the tweet as an “angry personal attack” that conveyed “a strong form of racism”.</p> <p>Hanson has appealed the court's decision, arguing that the statement did not target Faruqi’s race, religion or ethnicity and should not be classified as racist. Her legal team claims the tweet was directed solely at Senator Faruqi and was not reflective of broader discrimination. They further argue that the original judgment misinterpreted the context of the remarks.</p> <p>In the same <em>Today</em> show interview, Senator Thorpe also described Australia as “a very racist, divided country”. Thorpe has not yet publicly addressed Hanson’s legal warning.</p> <p>Hanson, whose supporters have donated nearly $700,000 to fund her legal efforts, appears ready for a protracted legal battle. Her legal filings challenge the broader interpretations of offensive speech and the legal thresholds for defamation and racial vilification.</p> <p><em>Images: Today Show</em></p>

Legal

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Susie O'Neill's replacement announced on popular morning show

<p>Popular comedian Nikki Osborne has been announced as the new co-host of Nova Brisbane’s 106.9 breakfast show, stepping in to fill the void left by Olympic swimming champion Susie O’Neill.</p> <p>Osborne will join longtime presenters Ash Bradnam and David “Luttsy” Lutteral from January 20, 2024, bringing her signature humour and vibrant personality to the much-loved morning program.</p> <p>“I have big flippers to fill, but I’m confident Brisbane will warm to my ways,” Osborne quipped. “Sure, I get in trouble a bit, but I’ve got two big brothers in Ash and Luttsy, and I have no doubt they’ll steer me even further off course!”</p> <p>Osborne, a seasoned performer in the Australian entertainment industry, is no stranger to the spotlight. She has made her mark in stand-up comedy and starred in TV shows such as <em>How To Stay Married</em> and <em>Kinne Tonight</em>. Reality TV fans may also recognise her from <em>I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here</em> in 2020 and <em>Dancing with the Stars</em> earlier this year.</p> <p>A Brisbane native and mother of two, Osborne expressed excitement about her new role. “I love Brisbane. I grew up here, and I look forward to having a good laugh with our listeners in this amazing city,” she said.</p> <p>Her appointment comes after O’Neill’s <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/heavy-heart-susie-o-neill-breaks-down-as-she-resigns-live-on-air" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tearful departure announcement</a> last month. O’Neill, who has been a staple of Nova’s breakfast lineup for over a decade, revealed that turning 50 had prompted her to embrace new personal and professional opportunities.</p> <p>“For a lot of the time, it has been more than just a job,” O’Neill shared emotionally. “When I’ve had really hard times, I’ve known that I can come in here, just be myself, and enjoy it.”</p> <p>Reflecting on her decision, O’Neill explained, “I feel like I want to get back to the grassroots of sport and involve myself more in the wider community.”</p> <p>Listeners can expect a fresh dynamic with Osborne at the mic, as she brings her comedic flair and Brisbane pride to the morning airwaves.</p> <p><em>Images: Nova</em></p>

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