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"Could not be happier": Channel 7 commentator's baby joy

<p>AFL great and Channel 7 commentator Dale Thomas and his wife Natasha have announced that they are expecting their first child together. </p> <p>The couple told family and friends over Christmas before announcing their baby joy to the public on Monday. </p> <p>“Tash and I could not be happier to be welcoming our baby into the world in August,” the former Carlton and Collingwood player said. </p> <p>“Last year started with the high of our wedding and ended with this fantastic news.</p> <p>“Telling loved ones over the Christmas period made for some wonderful memories and some brilliant reactions, and we will treasure this forever.</p> <p>“This next chapter has us both so excited.</p> <p>“As happy as we are to be sharing this great personal news, we also want to acknowledge and send big love and thoughts to those who are still waiting for their baby joy.</p> <p>“We appreciate how difficult and sensitive it can be.”</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/DGusT0yz1zr/?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/DGusT0yz1zr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Dale Thomas (@dthomas_39)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The couple also shared a video of the moment they found out they were expecting, and revealed the due date is in August on Instagram. </p> <p>"Baby Thomas, due August ❤️ We love you so, so much," they captioned the video. </p> <p>The comments were flooded with well-wishes from friends, with footy commentator Abbey Holmes writing: "YAY. Cats outta the bag!! So so so excited for you both. Bring it on xxxxxxxxxxxxxx." </p> <p>"OMFG this is the best news ever!!!! What a wonderful Monday surprise. Congratulations to the both you. Good job," added MasterChef's Khanh Ong.</p> <p>The happy news comes a year after they tied the knot in Dunkeld. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Best hotels in Australia revealed

<p>The <a href="https://www.forbestravelguide.com/award-winners" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 Forbes Travel Guide</a> has announced the winners of the Star Awards, with nine hotels and experiences in Australia being named in the list.</p> <p>Every property in the running for the awards is visited by highly trained inspectors who provide an evaluation based on up to 900 objective criteria.</p> <p>According to Forbes, the Star Rating system "emphasises service because your experience at a hotel, restaurant or spa goes beyond looks".</p> <p>Over 2000 hotels, experiences, restaurants and cruises were named on the global list, with nine Aussie winners featuring in the prestigious list. </p> <p>The only property in the country to receive a 5-star accommodation rating in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide was Crown Towers in Perth. </p> <p>Touted as "the pinnacle of Perth luxury", Forbes described the property as "Perth's most extravagant stay. Exuding understated glamour."</p> <p>In the spa category the Crown Spa Perth, which is tucked away in Crown Towers Perth, was awarded 4-stars for its "unbridled opulence".</p> <p>The Darling Sydney has once again received recognition in the Forbes Travel Guide for the ninth consecutive year, while The Darling's "world class" spa was also featured. </p> <p>Check out the list below.</p> <p>9. The Langham - Sydney</p> <p>8. Park Hyatt - Sydney</p> <p>7. Park Hyatt - Melbourne </p> <p>6. Capella - Sydney</p> <p>5. Como The Treasury - Perth</p> <p>4. The Darling Spa - Sydney</p> <p>3. The Darling - Sydney </p> <p>2. Crown Spa - Perth</p> <p>1. Crown Towers - Perth</p> <p><em>Image credits: Crown Hotels</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; font-family: 'Proxima Nova', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #333333;"> </p>

Domestic Travel

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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>

TV

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Nine star Liz Hayes calls it quits after 44 years

<p>Veteran journalist and news reporter Liz Hayes is bidding farewell to Channel Nine after an incredible 44-year run, leaving fans and colleagues alike in shock.</p> <p>The iconic reporter, known for her work on shows like <em>60 Minutes</em> and <em>Today</em>, announced she'll be "pursuing new opportunities" outside the network in 2025.</p> <p>Hayes, who's been a fixture on Aussie TV screens for decades, joined Nine way back in 1981 with nothing but "a notebook and a typewriter". She quickly made her mark, working her way up from a reporter on <em>9News</em> to co-hosting <em>Today</em> with Steve Liebmann for a solid decade. But it was her role as a correspondent on <em>60 Minutes</em> that really cemented her status as a journalism legend.</p> <p>Throughout her career, Hayes has covered everything from US presidential elections to natural disasters across the globe. She's sat down with prime ministers, Hollywood A-listers, music legends and world-class athletes. But it wasn't just the glitz and glamour that defined her work. Hayes had a knack for shining a light on everyday people caught up in extraordinary situations.</p> <p>In recent years, Hayes fronted <em>Under Investigation with Liz Hayes</em>, a show that dug into unsolved crimes and complex social issues. Her work on the program even snagged her the 2024 Media Diversity Australia Award for her efforts.</p> <p>Reflecting on her time at Nine, Hayes said, "When I arrived at Nine I had little more than a notebook and a typewriter, but like my new and far more experienced colleagues, I carried with me an enormous passion for telling stories. I was blessed. I had found my tribe."</p> <p>But Hayes isn't calling it quits on storytelling quite yet. She's made it clear that she'll "continue to tell" good stories, hinting at exciting new ventures on the horizon. While she's leaving her full-time gig at Nine, the network has said she'll still be part of the family, popping up for special stories and events.</p> <p>Nine's Director of TV, Michael Healy, sang Hayes' praises in a statement. “Liz Hayes is an Australian television legend and has dedicated most of her career to Nine," Healy said. "She will leave an undeniable legacy.</p> <p>“Her many accomplishments speak volumes about the type of journalist she is – tenacious, a truth seeker, and above all, a storyteller. I’d like to recognise Liz for the impact she has had on Australian journalism and thank her for all she has done for Nine over the past 44 years.</p> <p>“We know Liz’s next chapter will be just as successful as her last, and she has our full support.”</p> <p>As for that next chapter, Liz is keeping her cards close to her chest. But with a book on Australian astronomer Trevor Barry in the works and a promise of more stories to come, it's clear she's not ready to hang up her microphone just yet.</p> <p>"This is not goodbye," Hayes assured her fans. "This is the beginning of what I see as a great, new, exciting chapter in my life. I hope you'll come along for the ride."</p> <p><em>Images: Nine \ Instagram</em></p>

TV

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Nine reporter stood down over controversial $50k gift

<p><em>Today</em> show presenter Alex Cullen has been stood down after accepting a huge cash prize from <em>The Block</em> billionaire Adrian Portelli. </p> <p>Portelli, known for his attention-grabbing <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/the-block-billionaire-s-generous-christmas-stunt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">antics</a>, recently announced that he was sick of his nickname "Lambo guy", which had stuck after turned up to a 2022 auction of <em>The Block</em> in a yellow Lamborghini. </p> <p>The billionaire put a call out to the media saying that he would give $50,000 to the first journalist or presenter to publicly call him by his new preferred nickname "McLaren Man." </p> <p>Cullen dropped the nickname on-air during a <em>Today</em> show cross from the Australian Open on Friday morning, even sharing footage of the moment on his Instagram account afterwards, tagging Portelli in the post.</p> <p>“We have a winner! Well played sir,” Portelli wrote in an Instagram story, sharing a screenshot of a bank transfer. </p> <p>Cullen's employer, Channel Nine, said that the presenter had agreed to step down on Saturday while the network looked into the payment. </p> <p>“Nine is taking this matter extremely seriously,” a Nine spokesperson told <em>news.com.au</em>. </p> <p>“Appropriate action has been promptly taken, including arranging for the funds to be returned.</p> <p>“While we review the circumstances in which this occurred, Alex has agreed to stand down.”</p> <p>Accepting cash, gifts or benefits to undermine journalistic independence, and inappropriately using a journalistic position for personal gain, are both breaches to the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) Journalist Code of Ethics.</p> <p>It was created by journalists in 1944 to promote basic values for the Australian media industry.</p> <p>As news of the controversy spread, Portelli took to Instagram to speak out against journalists who still refer to him as "Lambo guy". </p> <p>“I wanted to show the media that I do have a large platform as well, and I’m not afraid to use it. Maybe be a bit more respectful, and I’ll respect you guys as well,” he said in a video posted on Saturday night.</p> <p><em>Image: Nine/ Instagram</em></p>

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

<p>Channel 7 sports presenter Abbey Gelmi and former Richmond star Kane Lambert are celebrating the birth of their second child, a baby boy.</p> <p>The couple took to Instagram to announce their joyful news, with a set of black-and-white photos. </p> <p>“My boys 🌏🤍,” Gelmi wrote in the caption. </p> <p>One of the photos showed her fiance holding the two children, and the second was of her holding her newborn baby boy. </p> <p>“Oliver Herb Lambert arrived 17.11.24,” Gelmi continued.</p> <p>“Everyone happy, healthy and very much in love.”</p> <p>Fellow Aussie stars were quick to congratulate the couple, with <em>Better Homes and Gardens </em>host Joh Griggs saying: “Welcome to the Two boys Club Abbey. Those lucky men in your life…❤️❤️❤️.”</p> <p>Seven AFL presenter Abbey Holmes added:  “Omg !!! Just beautiful!! Congratulations guys, rapt for you xx.”</p> <p>Brit Selwood, wife of Geelong great Joel, commented: “Aww congratulations gorgeous!!! Two beautiful boys, just the best ❤️❤️.”</p> <p>While Australian model and influencer Bec Judd wrote a simple, “Congrats darling x.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCieSDcTOdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCieSDcTOdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Abbey Gelmi (@abbeygelmi)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Lambert and Gelmi already share a son together, Louis, who was born in March 2023. </p> <p>In May this year, Gelmi revealed that her pregnancy with her second son was difficult, as she battled a “debilitating” case of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a condition that causes intractable vomiting during pregnancy leading to weight loss. </p> <p>At the time, she had been absent from duties with Seven and iHeart Radio, and explained why she had been absent. </p> <p>“I’ve been in hospital three days a week for most of the first trimester, unable to keep anything down or leave bed with relentless nausea. I’d get dizzy when I stood, couldn’t care for (first-born) Louis and my mental health took a dive," she shared. </p> <p>She then shared a few resources for women who may experience the same condition,  "in the hope that those who endure it know they’re not alone." </p> <p>“Work have been so accommodating, I can’t thank Seven and iHeart enough for the grace and time to recover.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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"Lots of NDAs": Channel Nine could face class action

<p>Channel Nine could face a class action over <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/damning-report-exposes-toxic-workplace-culture-at-channel-nine" target="_blank" rel="noopener">allegations of bullying</a>, sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct, according to one of Australia's leading employment lawyers Josh Bornstein. </p> <p>Bornstein told<em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/media/channel-nine-could-face-class-action-over-allegations-of-bullying-sexual-harassment-and-inappropriate-conduct/news-story/7e7f5979007ae16ae81621e48e48acab" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> news.com.au</a></em> that a class action might be an option for men and women who were the victims of a "hostile workplace". </p> <p>“There is a provision of the Sex Discrimination Act that is relatively recent and was introduced as a result of the Respect At Work changes,” he said.</p> <p>“It is a new provision that says that it’s a breach of the Act for an employer to maintain a workplace that is hostile for women.</p> <p>“So in light of the report, which indicates widespread bullying, sexism, punishment, sexual harassment, and favouritism of male reporters over female reporters getting access to stories, there is at least the basis on which to start considering whether a class action could be brought.”</p> <p>Bornstein is the principal lawyer at Maurice Blackburn, a law firm that has won more than  $4.3 billion in settlements for clients since their inception in 1998. </p> <p>“If the report is right, it’s systemic, which means many women have been impacted, and they’ve been subjected to an environment that’s hostile to them because of their gender, and if they’ve been harmed by that, a class action could give them some form of redress," he added. </p> <p>However, one of the complications would be the nondisclosure agreements some of the women may have signed before leaving the companies. </p> <p>“I’m aware there’s lots of NDA, particularly at Nine, and lots of releases as well.</p> <p>“A class action just requires a sufficiently large enough group of affected people who come together to lodge a case that says, ‘This is the sort of workplace environment we’ve been subjected to’.</p> <p>“They have to show that they’ve been subjected to the sorts of behaviours that are dealt with in the report and that or that adverse conduct was based on their gender, and then if they were able to show that the law had been breached, then compensation would be based on individual harm.”</p> <p>He added that in his opinion, while it might be better "for women to band together to pursue a collective case" it may be a bit more difficult as "there’s a fear that if you take on commercial networks, that’s the end of your career," which he said is a "well founded" fear. </p> <p><em>Image: FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock.com</em></p>

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"We let you down": Karl Stefanovic speaks out on Nine report

<p>Karl Stefanovic has spoken out about the report into toxic workplace culture at the Nine Network, calling out the “perpetrators” of bad behaviour.</p> <p>On Thursday, a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/damning-report-exposes-toxic-workplace-culture-at-channel-nine" target="_blank" rel="noopener">report</a> conducted by independent investigators revealed that Nine has “has a systemic issue with abuse of power and authority; bullying, discrimination and harassment; and sexual harassment”, with several employees sharing their own horror stories of working for the network. </p> <p>During Friday's episode of the <em>Today Show</em>, Karl took a moment to discuss the findings of the report, saying "many people are hurting" over the shocking allegations. </p> <p>Echoing the concerns of Nine stars including Deb Knight and Dimity Clancey who raised concerns at a meeting on Thursday, the Today show host said he understood concerns that the report didn’t “name names.”</p> <p>“They feel like what was the point of speaking out if perpetrators are not called out? I asked the same question yesterday and it’s my understanding several investigations are now underway and we have to be patient for the process of all that,’’ he said.</p> <p>“It’s essential and it’s critical. I want to say it’s not about us, but there are good men who do work here at Nine who find what happened absolutely intolerable, who struggle to understand how we didn’t know more and do something, how it grieved you." </p> <p>“I feel like we have all in a way, let you down. I love my work colleagues here. Women I have the honour to present with women on the floor of this great show."</p> <p>“Women behind the scenes who make us all better. I’m grateful women are this company and they are the way forward. They will show the way. We just have to listen and act.”</p> <p>"I genuinely, genuinely feel for the women who have given testimony, I can't imagine how hard that was and the courage that it took," Karl said.</p> <div> <div id="adspot-mobile-mobile-3-above"></div> </div> <p>"It's going to be up to all of us now to do better, to say enough - this stops now."</p> <p><em>Image credits: The Today Show</em></p>

TV

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Damning report exposes toxic workplace culture at Channel Nine

<p>A damning culture investigation has revealed a history of systemic bullying and harassment within the Channel Nine workplace. </p> <p>The <a href="https://www.nineforbrands.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Intersection-Nine-Entertainment-2024-Report-FA.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">report</a>, which was conducted by independent investigators, revealed their findings on Thursday, sharing the extent of the disturbing behaviour going on inside the network's offices.</p> <p>As stated in the report, Nine has “has a systemic issue with abuse of power and authority; bullying, discrimination and harassment; and sexual harassment”, with several employees sharing their own horror stories of working for the network. </p> <p>Dozens of female workers came forward with allegations of sexual assault, with one employee saying, “When I was in (location), (employee) tried to groom me. He also touched me on the bum at the Christmas party and at other times he would rub my legs under the table."</p> <p>“I saw him do it to other women.”</p> <p>Another staff member was warned not to let a senior male employee “touch (her) boobs”, adding, “His comments about my body were constant.”</p> <p>“He made me feel like I was just a piece of meat to be ogled at, and that he was the credible one just because he was the older man. Over time, this eroded my confidence. It just chipped away at it.”</p> <p>Other employees said the culture at Nine “destroyed (them) as a human being”, left them “broken” and a “shell” or gave them “debilitating” anxiety.</p> <p>“I was broken,” one former employee said. “I left the newsroom after a year. By the time I left my soul was gone.”</p> <p>If anyone complained about the toxic culture and inappropriate behaviour, they were allegedly sent to what was known as “punishment island”.</p> <p>“I have only been at the company a short time, but in my opinion there is a concerning culture among senior older men of sexual(ly) inappropriate jokes. There is sexual intimidation against young women and I find this completely unacceptable. I will always call them out,” another said.</p> <p>Others said talking about getting bullied at Nine had become commonplace, with one employee saying, “We used to talk about being bullied, harassed or publicly humiliated like you’d talk about the weather. Now when I look back it horrifies me how normalised it had become."</p> <p>Nine’s new chair Catherine West released a statement on Thursday after the report finding, saying, “We are deeply sorry ... I unreservedly apologise.”</p> <p>“Today is an incredibly difficult day for Nine as we confront these findings and reflect on serious cultural issues as an organisation."</p> <p>“The behaviour outlined in the report is unacceptable. Abuse of power, bullying, sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct is not OK. This behaviour has no place at Nine.”</p> <p>The report concluded with 22 recommendations to address the negative culture, including training, accountability and another external review in three years.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <div class="hide-print ad-no-notice css-svlwa0-StyledAdUnitWrapper ezkyf1c0" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #292a33; color: #292a33; font-family: HeyWow, Montserrat, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"> </div>

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Channel 7 star hospitalised over heart issue

<p>Former Brisbane Lions AFLW star Kate McCarthy’s celebrations following the Brisbane Lions men’s AFL grand final victory were cut short after she was hospitalised due to an ongoing heart condition.</p> <p>McCarthy, 31, who played 42 games in the AFLW for the Brisbane Lions, St Kilda and Hawthorn across seven seasons before retiring, has been an active presence in the world of AFL even after stepping off the field. She currently serves as a commentator for Triple M and Channel 7, having provided coverage for Channel 7 during the AFL grand final weekend. McCarthy also co-hosts panel shows <em>Armchair Experts</em> and <em>Talking W</em>.</p> <p>Over the weekend, McCarthy celebrated the Lions’ dominant 60-point grand final win over the Sydney Swans and their AFLW team’s two-point victory over the Adelaide Crows, which pushed the women’s team to second place on the ladder.</p> <p>However, McCarthy took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday to reveal she had been hospitalised due to a heart-related issue, sharing a light-hearted post about the situation: “When the @brisbanelions & @lionsaflw double over the weekend sends you into ventricular tachycardia."</p> <p>Ventricular tachycardia is a condition where the heart beats faster than 100 beats per minute, causing a rapid and irregular rhythm. This can become life-threatening if left untreated, especially for individuals with underlying heart conditions.</p> <p>McCarthy’s heart issues are particularly dangerous due to her reliance on a pacemaker, which was implanted after she suffered from seizures as a child. At the age of five, McCarthy was diagnosed with an intermittent third-degree heart block, a condition where the electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm fail to fire properly. After several seizures during her childhood, including a severe episode when she was 12, she underwent emergency surgery to install the pacemaker.</p> <p>Despite these health challenges, McCarthy’s sporting career has been nothing short of remarkable. She represented Queensland in cricket and touch footy and played for Australia in the latter before making her AFLW debut for the Lions in 2017. Her AFLW career highlights include being named an All-Australian and the Lions’ leading goal kicker in their inaugural season.</p> <p>McCarthy’s heart condition appears to be under control, with her pacemaker functioning as intended. While her health scare has been concerning, she reassured her followers that she is on the mend, humorously comparing her pacemaker’s performance to that of the Sydney Swans on grand final day.</p> <p>"On the mend now," McCarthy wrote, "but Monday night review shows pacemaker performing like the Swans on the big stage.”</p> <p><em>Images: Twitter (X)</em></p>

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Another Channel 7 star quits in AFL shake-up

<p>Just last month Kane Cornes confirmed his move from the Nine Network to Channel 7 for the 2025 season, with colleague and veteran journalist Caroline Wilson doing the same. </p> <p>Now it has emerged that Channel 7 and Triple M commentator Luke Darcy has reportedly decided to walk away from the media industry all together, in the latest AFL shake-up. </p> <p>Darcy, a former ruckman who played 226 games with the Western Bulldogs, joined the media industry in 2007. He was initially with Network Ten before he moved to Channel 7 in 2011 and has since filled a variety of hosting and commentary roles. </p> <p>He also had a long-running breakfast show on Triple M with Eddie McGuire before that ended in 2020.</p> <p>Darcy got attention for his interview during the 2013 Essendon peptide saga and his repetition of the phrase, “say that again”. </p> <p>Now, he is choosing to walk away from the media to focus on his family's varied business ventures, according to the <em>Herald Sun</em>. </p> <p>A few of their business interests include a wellness spa in Bali, pubs and venues in Victoria, as well as a podcast on leadership. </p> <p>The news comes following a series of controversies involving Darcy, who on April this  year, confronted Cornes during a live Triple M radio segment, labelling the former  Port Adelaide midfielder “more mean spirited and nasty to people than anyone in the history of our industry”.</p> <p>The two have since cleared the air, to some extent, with Cornes saying that just last week he had crossed paths with Darcy during a footy game, and Darcy happily passed him some milk for a cup of tea. </p> <p>Wilson was among those that defended Cornes and called Darcy out for being out of line.</p> <p>It is unclear whether the controversy had any impact on Darcy's decision to leave the industry. </p> <p>A few footy fans were having a field day with the news, with one writing on Reddit: “Thank f**k. Insufferable that guy." </p> <p>“Nice bloke probably. But he’s the only actual voice I can’t stand listening to,” added another.</p> <p>“To give some credit he does sound genuinely excited/passionate for the game in much of his commentary," one defended. </p> <p><em>Image: news.com.au</em></p>

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Another Channel Ten star jumps ship to rival network

<p>As Channel Ten continues to make difficult choices about their future as they struggle to stay afloat, one high profile host has jumped ship to a rival network. </p> <p>According to <em><a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/channel-ten-star-jumps-ship-to-nine-following-mass-axings-214525599.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo Lifestyle</a></em>, Rodger Corser, who was the host of the short-lived series <em>The Traitors Australia </em>on Ten, is set to host a new show on Nine titled <em>The Floor</em>, with Channel Nine allegedly swooping in to steal the actor and presenter "from underneath Network 10's noses".</p> <p>An industry insider told <em>Yahoo Lifestyle</em> that <em>The Traitors Australia</em> was being looked at again for another season, but Rodger's sudden move to Channel Nine has killed any hope that a third series would continue.</p> <p>As for Corser's new gig with Nine, <em>The Floor</em> is described as being a "game based around a floor grid of 81 squares, each of which is occupied by a contestant with expertise in a different trivia category. Pairs of contestants face each other in head-to-head trivia duels, with the winner taking over all territory controlled by the loser."</p> <p>After being made popular in the US with host Rob Lowe, the insider said Corser would be "perfect fit" to bring the show Down Under. </p> <p>"Nine didn't really want anyone else," they said. "<em>The Floor</em> is going to be massive and Nine are thrilled to have Rodger on contract."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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Network Seven claps back after Robert Ovadia's claims of "evil" conduct

<p>Channel Seven has clapped back at claims from former <em>7News</em> presenter Robert Ovadia that they are engaging in "evil" conduct, claiming they have found more inappropriate emails from the veteran journalist. </p> <p>Robert Ovadia, who worked with Seven for 23 years, was fired in June and has taken the matter to court claiming he was unfairly dismissed, while also claiming the network is hellbent on destroying his reputation. </p> <p>However, the network has finally spoke out about the claims, saying they have recent complaints from more female staffers about inappropriate behaviour. </p> <p>“Mr Ovadia commenced Federal Court proceedings against Seven over his dismissal for serious misconduct following the sending of inappropriate emails to a 23-year-old news producer and other employees of Seven," a Seven spokesman said.</p> <p>“In doing so, Seven is discharging its obligations to prevent sexual harassment at work, including as more recently expanded under recent legislation. Mr Ovadia was trained about these new legislative obligations by Seven and failed to comply with them.”</p> <p>The statement from the network went on to suggest there are further revelations to come, as more women have come forward with allegations of inappropriate conduct.</p> <p>“At the first hearing of those proceedings on Thursday, 29 August 2024 about Orders for the filing of evidence and timetable steps, Justice Raper asked Seven whether any other conduct would be relied upon by Seven other than set out in the termination letter," the spokesman said.</p> <p>“In that context, Seven confirmed it has had complaints or allegations about Mr Ovadia from 13 other employees. Although Seven was not required to provide examples of the other conduct it intends to rely on at this stage, Seven has provided Mr Ovadia and his lawyers examples of some of the inappropriate emails by Mr Ovadia, which will be further detailed in Seven’s defence required to be filed on 12 September 2024."</p> <p>“Out of respect for their privacy, Seven has not chosen to make further even more inappropriate emails public at this stage. In response to this, Mr Ovadia has made outlandish complaints about Seven being an ‘evil company’ with a ‘propaganda unit’ that is setting out to destroy his reputation. Seven is confident its position on this matter will be upheld by the Courts."</p> <p>In response to the statement, Ovadia took to Instagram to take another swing at his former employer while also maintaining his innocence. </p> <p>“I can be crass, I can be blunt, I can be obnoxious, my humour is dark – 20 years surrounded by trauma and danger will do all of that to you – but I do NOT mistreat women,” Mr Ovadia said in a lengthy Instagram post.</p> <p>“I’ll expect more smear over the coming months as this evil company (in whose service I risked my life and safety many times) now seeks to destroy my reputation further,” Mr Ovadia said.</p> <p>“When this kicked off, the day Seven first leaked this story, my teenage daughter asked if people will think her dad is a rapist. At least <em>Four Corners</em>’ laboured hatchet job got one thing right – the Seven Network is diabolical.”</p> <p>The journalist went on to share screenshots of conversations he had with female staffers who shared their words of support for Ovadia, saying they believe the allegations are false. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

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"Fresh chapter": Channel 7 reveals new star line-up

<p>Channel 7 has revealed yet another shake-up in its news presenter lineup, following months of significant reshuffles and the departures of several high-profile television personalities from the network.</p> <p>On Sunday, the network announced what it described as a "fresh chapter" for its 7News Sydney team, with veteran broadcasters Angela Cox and Mark Ferguson appointed as co-anchors for the flagship 6pm bulletin.</p> <p>Cox, who has served as a weekend news co-presenter for the past four years, temporarily filled in for Ferguson while he was on leave during the Olympics. This period of transition occurred amid a series of changes initiated by Seven's news and current affairs director, Anthony De Ceglie.</p> <p>The timing of Ferguson's leave had sparked speculation about his future at the network, particularly against the backdrop of reported cost-cutting measures due to a significant drop in ad revenue. However, the latest announcement puts those rumours to rest, affirming Ferguson's continued role at the helm of 7News Sydney.</p> <p>Cox, who has spent two decades with Channel 7, including a notable seven-year tenure as a foreign correspondent in the US, expressed her excitement about the new role. "Mark’s warmth, integrity and authority behind the news desk has rightfully earned him a loyal following," she said. "He’s also a great bloke, always professional, very funny and a great husband and family man.</p> <p>"The news landscape has changed so much. The way we consume news is radically different now than even 10 years ago and 7NEWS is evolving too."</p> <p>Cox is set to co-anchor her first bulletin with Ferguson on Sunday, September 8, following his return from filming a special series of news reports.</p> <p>Ferguson, who has been the face of the 7News Sydney bulletin for a decade, celebrated his 40th year in the media industry in February. His vast experience and reputation as one of Australia's most trusted news voices make him a key figure in this new co-anchor format.</p> <p>"This new co-anchor approach brings a new sense of dynamism, innovation, and flexibility to the hour-long program," said De Ceglie in a statement. "I am incredibly excited to see Mark and Angela work together."</p> <p>Sunday's announcement is the latest in a series of changes within Channel 7's newsrooms. In July, star Brisbane newsreader Sharyn Ghidella <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/apparently-my-time-is-up-veteran-channel-7-anchor-s-abrupt-departure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was unexpectedly axed</a> after nearly two decades with the network, a move she revealed on social media after being informed of her departure while at a hairdresser's appointment.</p> <p>August saw the departure of veteran sports presenter Shane Webcke from the news desk, though he will continue contributing NRL insights for the network. Additionally, senior journalist Steve Hart <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/channel-seven-loses-veteran-reporter-to-rival-network" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced his exit</a> from the Brisbane newsroom in an internal email to staff last month.</p> <p>In contrast to these exits, Channel 7 has also made strategic hires, including the recent addition of former ABC journalist Karina Carvalho as a 7News presenter in Melbourne.</p> <p>As Channel 7 continues to navigate these changes, the network's commitment to refreshing its news lineup is evident, with the Cox-Ferguson co-anchor team set to usher in this "fresh chapter" for 7News Sydney.</p> <p><em>Images: 7News</em></p>

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Another Channel Seven presenter announces shock resignation

<p>Veteran Channel Seven weather presenter Liz Cantor has announced her resignation on Wednesday after 17 years with the network. </p> <p>The TV host shared the shock news in a statement and revealed she has accepted a new position at Network Ten. </p> <p>"I was a seven, now I'm a ten. I feel honoured to be part of the return of local news to Queensland. I'm really excited to take weather out into our community," she said. </p> <p>She paid tribute to her former colleagues and shared her excitement at starting the new role alongside a gallery of photos from her time at Seven. </p> <p>"I just want to use this space to take a moment and jump in to say thank you to my 7News colleagues," she shared.</p> <p>"I cherish the friendships, experiences, lessons and growth I've experienced while running alongside you all, over the past 17 years.</p> <p>"You're the most incredible, hard working bunch of inspirational people. I count my lucky stars I got to share such an influential part of my life with you all."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_NSXdcTySW/?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/C_NSXdcTySW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by LIZ CANTOR (@lizcantor)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Cantor will start her new role on Monday. </p> <p>She joins Sharyn Ghidella, who was axed from Seven last month, but will soon join Network 10 to anchor the 5pm Queensland news bulletin. </p> <p>Her move to Network 10 will also bring the <em>10 News First </em>show back to the Brisbane studio after years of it being read from Sydney. </p> <p>In an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_OWPdxTOgF/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">update</a> shared on Wednesday morning, Cantor shared a photo alongside Ghidella in front of the Network 10 desk, sharing her excitement to be working with her again. </p> <p>"Also, @sharynghidella people know you as a calm, composed, intelligent news anchor - and you are all of these things - but I also know you as someone witty (YES!) and always encouraging and supportive of the people around you," she wrote. </p> <p>"I am beyond thrilled, to call you my colleague again. See you all Monday."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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