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Aussie music icon passes away aged 86

Australian music legend Frank Ifield, best known for his beloved country music performances and unique yodelling style, passed away peacefully on Saturday night at the age of 86. His friend and renowned music journalist Glenn A Baker confirmed the news, describing Ifield as a "remarkable man" whose contributions to music left an indelible mark. "There is so much to be said about this remarkable man, who had four number ones in Britain, three of them before the Beatles (who he had briefly support him in concert)," wrote Baker on Facebook. Ifield's career was marked by major international success, particularly in the UK where he scored four number one hits. Among his most celebrated tracks was the classic single "I Remember You", which gained widespread fame from its performance in the movie The Fleet’s In. The song is often speculated to have been inspired by writer Johnny Mercer's affair with Judy Garland. Ifield's influence extended beyond his chart-topping hits. He was inducted into the Australian Roll of Renown in 2003 and the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007. In recognition of his substantial contributions to the arts, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2009. Ifield's musical journey began at a young age. His parents gifted him a ukulele for his 11th birthday, and after performing in class, he realised music was his true calling. By the age of 19, Ifield had already released 44 records and was the top recording artist in Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania. In 1959, Ifield took his talents abroad, moving to London where he quickly established himself as a household name. His unique singing style, which blended yodelling with an enthralling falsetto, set him apart and made him a standout act. This was highlighted by his notable performance in the 1962 Eurovision Song Contest, where he finished second in that year’s heat. Ifield's talents were not confined to music alone. He found success in film and television as well. In 1965, he starred in the feature film Up Jumped A Swagman. He also led two television specials, The Frank Ifield Show (1964) and Frank Ifield Sings (1965), and made appearances on numerous popular programmes including In Melbourne Tonight, Top Of The Pops, Celebrity Squares, and Spicks & Specks. Ifield's influence on the music industry extended to helping launch the careers of other artists. Notably, he is credited with playing a part in The Beatles' rise to fame, as the iconic band once opened for him before becoming global superstars. Ifield's legacy is one of innovation and success, both in Australia and internationally. His remarkable career and unique contributions to music will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. As the world mourns the loss of this extraordinary artist, his music and legacy continue to inspire and resonate with fans old and new. Images: IMDB

Music

Husband arrested over murder of beloved Nonna

Frank Dimasi, 91 has been charged over the murder of his wife, Maria, 85, who was found dead inside the couple's home over the weekend. Maria was found with multiple stab wounds inside the couple's home in Findon, Adelaide, at around 11:20pm on Saturday. Frank was arrested at the scene and charged over the murder of his wife of over 50 years on Monday. He is currently under police guard at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, having suffered from self-inflicted and non-life threatening wounds, according to SA police. He is also reported to suffer from a "neurological disability". Maria was a beloved member of the Italian community in Adelaide. She was regarded as the "neighbourhood matriarch” and was well-known because of her love for cooking, including making meals for the vulnerable. She was heavily involved with the family's taxpayer-funded meal service, Nonna’s Cucina, that even Health Minister Mark Butler recognised her hard work and described her as "extremely generous". “Maria lit up the kitchen at Nonna’s Cucina,” he said. “She was always extremely generous and made sure no one ever left her company hungry. “Maria gave so much to her community and will be greatly missed by her loved ones and everyone who had the pleasure to meet her.” South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas also paid tribute to the beloved great-grandmother and described the murder as "tragic". “On a personal level, Maria Dimasi was a very significant contributor to our state, particularly in the western suburbs’ Italian community,” said the premier. “Nonna’s Cucina, which will be very well-known to a lot of South Australians, did amazing work delivering meals to people that are vulnerable, particularly the elderly. "This is a good person who has lost their life in tragic circumstances.” The premier is currently facing increasing pressure to authorise a Royal Commission into domestic violence in the state, after five women have allegedly been killed at the hands of a partner since November 16, according to The Advertiser. The publication also reported that this is "the worst DV toll in Australia's history". In their first public statement issued through the police late Monday, the couple's family paid tribute to Maria, who they described as “loving mother to her four children, her 10 grandchildren and a great grandmother to 13”. “Maria had a caring nature and shared love and happiness to those around her,” they said in the statement obtained by The Advertiser. “Maria was the centre of our family, bringing us together to care for and support each other. Family was everything to Maria, and she was everything to her family. “Maria has warmed the hearts of many and we would like to extend our gratitude for the support the community has provided as we come to terms with our loss.” They added: “The support truly shows that Maria was loved by many and has made a positive impact to the community. “We will always remember Maria for her warmth, caring nature, compassion and her beautiful smile.” They also thanked Nonna’s Cucina for allowing her to spread joy with the community and said that they will come together as a family in the coming days to celebrate Maria's life. “We thank Nonna’s Cucina for supporting Maria to share her joy with the community. “The past few days have been difficult for our family as we process the grief of losing our beautiful mother and Nonna.” Images: Facebook/ Nine News.

Legal

"We cannot judge": Nat Barr's frank question on war crimes for Army veteran

Sunrise host Natalie Barr surprised viewers when she confronted a war veteran after he referred senior Australian Defence Force leaders to the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes committed in Afghanistan. Glenn Kolomeitz, a military lawyer and army veteran, signed the referral alongside Senator Jacqui Lambie. The referral to The Hague had the criminal court examine the country’s high commanders “through the lens of command responsibility”. Kolomeitz and Lambie claimed senior commanders have avoided investigation over alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. “I've got to ask you. This is a question I get asked every time we discuss this general issue,” she said. “We trained these people to kill, and we trained them to operate in a war setting. None of us as civilians have any idea what that's like and we cannot judge them for when they go over there to war. What do you say to that?” Kolomeitz insisted that defence force personnel, regardless of rank, must be investigated if they’ve committed or covered up a criminal act. “I worked with these guys on a couple of rotations, and quite frankly, they are amazing advocates for our country, but if they've done the wrong thing, they must be properly investigated, and they must be vigorously prosecuted. That's the reality,” he said. “You can't ignore the commanders. You vigorously investigate and prosecute those who have done the wrong thing, including those with command responsibility.” The TV presenter then asked if an investigation was necessary for the chief of the defence force, Angus Campbell. Kolomeitz replied, “Every joint task force 633 commanders in that job during the period of the enquiry.” The army veteran drafted the letter that would be sent to the International Criminal Court. “If Australia does nothing about it, the ICC can potentially assume jurisdiction over the higher command and excise the higher command investigation from the ongoing investigation of junior soldiers,” he said. The 2020 Brereton report found “credible” evidence that 25 current or former Australian SAS soldiers unlawfully killed 39 Afghan civilians and prisoners between 2005 and 2016. The report strongly recommended administrative action be taken against ADF personnel where there is credible evidence of misconduct, but not enough for a criminal conviction. It ruled that senior commanders were not criminally to blame for the alleged crimes. Senator Lambie noted leadership had not been held to account for their actions. “The government is no doubt hoping this will all just go away,” she told the Senate. “They're hoping Australians will forget that when alleged war crimes in Afghanistan were investigated, our senior commanders got a free pass while our diggers were thrown under the bus. "Well, we don't forget. I won't forget. Lest we forget. “There is a culture of cover-up at the highest levels of the Australian Defence Force. It is the ultimate boys' club.” Image credit: Instagram/LinkedIn

“I didn’t have a voice”: Natt Barr's frank question for Candice Warner

Candice Warner has spoken candidly of her experience following her 2007 bathroom ‘scandal’ with rugby’s Sonny Bill Williams, revealing the real reason she kept her silence for so long. It was during an interview on Sunrise with host Natalie Barr, where Candice was promoting her memoir Running Strong, that she faced another round of questioning over the 16-year-old incident. And it was one question in particular, from Natalie, that prompted the floodgates to open. “Did you think about coming out straight away and talking more about it?” Natalie asked. “This was 16 years ago,” Candice responded. “16 years ago, we lived in a society where we didn’t have the voice, women didn’t have the voice that we do now. I didn’t have the opportunity. “Back then, I was forced to apologise for - I was single - for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Nowadays that just wouldn’t happen. “I didn’t have a voice back then, now I do, and our society has changed. “It still has a long way to go, but I feel like as a woman, I now have the confidence to be able to tell my side of the story and be heard.” The former ironwoman - who now dedicates her time to her family and her career with Triple M radio and Fox Sports - went on to explain that the reason she hasn’t previously opened up was because of her three daughters with husband David Warner. “In part it was for my three daughters,” she told Natalie, “who in time will be able to read the book, and I wanted them to get a better understanding of my story without any interference or judgement from outside.” Candice has offered a similar explanation in the past, after confronting abuse at the cricket in 2022. “A long time ago, when I was young, I got myself in a compromising position, which I regret,” she said during her appearance on SAS Australia. “It had a huge impact on my family. Huge. It was just a personal situation. Too many drinks. “Living with that and having to explain to my kids in the future is going to be very difficult. Especially when you’ve got three girls. “I remember sitting on the side of the street and not being able to take it anymore. “Yes, I’d made a mistake. But is that really worth, every single day, the media trying to drag me down? I don’t think so. “It’s not something I am proud of but it’s something I can never take back.” Images: Getty

Sam Armytage's frank admission about getting older

Sam Armytage has made a refreshingly honest declaration about the harsh realities of ageing. In her column for Stellar Magazine, the Farmer Wants a Wife host said she is no longer worrying about the small things that used to bother her. “It turns out that as you get older, you don’t actually figure anything out,” she wrote in her November column. “You just don’t have the energy to care any more.” While she admitted it's not about giving up, she explained why she has felt more freedom since ditching the worries of passing fads and fashions of youth. “There are few things that have brought me more pleasure recently than hearing that the skinny jeans fad is kaput,” she joked, before noting that she’d now started adding retinol into her skincare routine. She added that she had reached the point of constantly turning down the volume in the car - or wanting someone else to turn it down in the bar or restaurant. “And a dose of the COVID Delta virus seems to have somehow affected the shape of my feet; I simply can’t wear high heels all day anymore,” she added. But rather than letting these things get her down, Armytage, 46, said she has felt the liberation of getting older. Not having the energy to care about “figuring stuff out” wasn’t keeping her awake at night - it was more likely the uncomfy pillow or crick in the neck that was responsible for that problem. “I must say I’m finding wide-leg jeans, flat shoes and the salads and greens on my dining table at home - complete with background music at normal levels - all very joyful,” she wrote. After posting her latest column to Instagram, she received an outpouring of praise from her followers for "keeping it real". “Sounds like you’re really in tune with everything,” one follower observed. “You’re happy and content. It’s the little things in life that you notice change when you feel that contentment.” Image credits: Instagram

Caring

Waleed Aly goes head-to-head with mayor calling for IS brides’ citizenships to be revoked

Waleed Aly has gone head-to-head with a mayor from western Sydney who slammed the government’s decision to resettle the repatriated brides and their children in the area. The Project co-host was speaking to disappointed Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone, who questioned why western Sydney was the “dumping ground” for the women and their children. Mr Carbone explained that members of the community have gotten in touch with him expressing deep concerns over the decision, particularly those who escaped Syria from the terrorist IS group. “I don't think he [the prime minister] has taken into account the tens of thousands of refugees that fled their home, had their homes burnt back in Syria, have lost their loved ones, have watched a lot of their families be beheaded and burnt, and have come and resettled in Western Sydney,” Mr Carbone began. He argued that Syrians who helped the Australian army fight IS terrorists were more “Australian citizens than anyone else” before he was cut off by Waleed. “Legally they're not, Australian citizens are a different category. We have obligations to Australian citizens that we don't have to refugees,” he pointed out. Mr Carbone did not accept the excuse, saying the IS brides committed treason under the “Commonwealth criminal code section 80” and should have their citizenships revoked. “Treason is when you leave your country and you aide and abet, doesn't matter if you're baking a cake or scones and assisting ISIS, you're committing treason,” he said. “Under that act, you can have your citizenship revoked.” Waleed then pointed out that the brides would have to be convicted first to have their citizenship revoked and “that hasn’t happened”. “You're talking a lot about kids here, in fact mostly about kids. Would you leave kids in camps overseas when they are Australian citizens?” he asked. Mr Carbone did not hesitate when he continued addressing the people’s concerns as to why Western Sydney was the dumping ground. “Why is it Western Sydney? Why is it Western Sydney when we have tens of thousands of people that fled ISIS?” he said. “Australia is a big country, they [ISIS families] don't necessarily have to be in Western Sydney.” His comments come just a day after Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun, and Campbelltown Mayor George Greiss made the same accusation about their area being the dumping ground. Australia repatriated four women and their 13 children after being stuck in al-Hol and al-Roj camps in the northeastern Syria region since 2019. It is expected more women and children will follow in the next few weeks. Images: The Project

The Aussie company revolutionising how we stay fresh

While applying deodorant is part of our daily hygiene routine, some aerosols and roll-ons have been known to irritate the skin with long-term use. On top of the elements of sensitivity, the long list of chemicals in these products can actually be counterproductive to stopping or limiting perspiration. Luckily, there are now all-natural deodorants on the market that help to nourish the skin without causing irritation, while still keeping you clean, fresh and dry throughout the day. Australian-made and owned brand FRANK + BARE is the first Aussie company to create AHA deodorants. AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, are 100% natural ingredients that work together as a skin performance product, while also being incredibly effective as a natural deodorant. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb04skDtU53/?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/Cb04skDtU53/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by 🌿Clean Green Skincare Deo ♻️ (@frankandbare_)</a> </div> </blockquote> The 5 AHA’s included in the FRANK + BARE range, namely glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid, work to exfoliate the armpit and improve skin tone, while assisting with ingrown hairs and hyperpigmentation. The result is a gentle deodorant that provides effective odour control as well as smoother, brighter and clearer skin. Housed inside recyclable zero-waste packaging, the seven natural deodorants in the revolutionary range have a smooth and creamy consistency, which make them easy to apply, while also being perfectly pH balanced and actively preventing odour-causing bacteria from developing while improving axilla health. The range includes scents of Magnolia + Black Pepper, Oakmoss + Myrrh, Coconut + Lime, Ylang Ylang + Grapefruit, Spearmint, Frangipani and a Fragrance Free product. So if you’re looking for a more natural alternative to your deodorants, look no further than FRANK + BARE for a more simple and sustainable option to add to your hygiene routine. You can try out the entire FRANK + BARE range on their official website <a href="https://frankandbare.com.au/">here</a>. Image credits: Getty Images

Beauty & Style

How many of these facts did you know about Titanic?

No matter when they were released, it’s always exciting to find fun facts about movies. Now OverSixty has taken a close look at the 1997 film Titanic starring Hollywood stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. Titanic, a romance and adventure movie, focuses on the sinking of the RMS Titanic, as told by Rose DeWitt Bukater. The film begins with men trying to locate a stunning blue diamond, known as the Heart of the Ocean, that sank with the Titanic. The crew uncovered a safe and inside found random papers and a nude drawing of a woman, Rose, wearing the necklace. Their discovery was aired on TV which prompted Rose to contact the crew and reveal she is in fact still alive and she is the woman in the drawing. From there, she is flown in and retells her story on board the Titanic. Below are a few interesting facts about the film, just in time for you to message your friends for a rewatch. After finding out that she had to be naked in front of Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet decided to break the ice and flashed him the first time they met. The scenes from 1912 during the film have a length of two hours and forty minutes - the exact time it took the Titanic to sink. When the ship collided with the iceberg, it took 37 seconds before sinking, which is the same length as the scene in the movie. The scene at the Grand Staircase where water crashed into the room had to be done in one shot because all the furniture was going to be destroyed making it impossible for a second shot. Jack drawing Rose naked is an iconic scene. But did you know Leonardo DiCaprio did not actually sketch it? It was in fact director James Cameron’s hands used and a mirror had to be used to show it as if he were right-handed like Jack. Dedicated to their roles, both Kate and Leonardo learned the polka dance for the crazy party in third class. Image: YouTube

Movies

Warnie's frank divorce confession on live TV

Cricket legend Shane Warne has opened up about his divorce from ex-wife Simone Callahan in 2005. After being married for a decade, the pair split in what Warnie described as the "lowest time in his life". He made the admission during a rain delay from the Ashes commentary box on Sunday, discussing how he was going through the pressure of his marriage breakdown during his own Ashes series. “Getting divorced was a difficult time in my life and for my children — and it was my fault,’’ Warne said on Fox Cricket. “So I have to live with that for the rest of my life so it wasn’t easy." “A week before the Ashes series to do that, and then have to drag myself off the canvas and get out there and play in 2005, play against a quality England side … to have the Barmy Army for six hours a day, not just 10 minutes, singing songs, singing ‘where’s your missus gone?'" “I’m sitting there worrying about my children that I was hoping I was going to spend three months of the Ashes series with, but because of my own doing they had to turn around and find a flight so I was pretty devastated with that." “That was the lowest point in my life and then I had to go out and play an Ashes series so that was really tough.” Shane also went on to describe how much of an impact the paparazzi and fame have impacted both his and his children's lives. “Some people think I court that. The other day I was sitting on my balcony and I get papped with my shirt off … I said are you serious, I’ve got my big fat guts out on the balcony.” Despite the downsides of fame, Warnie still claims he is grateful for everything his fans have given him. He said, “I’ve been very, very lucky in my life. I’m very grateful for the life I’ve had." Image credits: Getty Images

Relationships

Inside Frank Sinatra's most-filmed mansion

Frank Sinatra’s seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom home has been put on the market for a whopping $USD 21.5 million ($AUD 29.4 million). Fans of Mad Men, Californication, Dreamgirls or Ali are sure to recognise the residence, which has been used as a backdrop for countless films and tv shows over the years. Widely known as the Frank Sinatra Byrdview Estate, the singer called the 758-square-metre mansion home during the 1950s and 60s. The home sits on 13.7 acres in Chatsworth, California, and overlooks the 1,325-acre Chatsworth Reservoir nature reserve. Inside, the home has undergone a $USD 1 million renovation and boasts light wood accents set against white walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open-plan design. Along with a formal dining room and living room with a full bar, the house also features a deluxe ensuite that overlooks the backyard, a formal sitting room, and a piano room where Sinatra reportedly spent most of his time. Outside, the home has a patio and a 15-metre swimming pool that includes its own wet bar. The property also features a guest house where Marilyn Monroe reportedly stayed, which has its own backyard and pool, as well as a gym and massage room in a separate building. Image credits: Boss Hunting

Real Estate

How Frank Sinatra was caught singing 20 years after his death

Fans were confused in 2020 when seemingly footage of Frank Sinatra went viral of him singing about hot tubs. The iconic singer died in 1998, so many were wondering how old audio clips of him surfaced, but the audios were actually new. However, they weren’t Frank Sinatra singing at all. The song, titled Hot Tub Christmas, was the product of a new technology known as a “deepfake” that mimicked Sinatra’s iconic voice. The video came from a San Francisco tech company who used their AI system, known as Jukebox, to generate new songs and vocals that almost sound exactly like real artists. So, what is a deepfake? Deepfakes are realistic video or audio of events that never actually took place and are generated by artificial intelligence. These videos have been used to trick online users into thinking their favourite celebrities said things they never actually did. The tech has been used to create fake videos of Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, which set off alarm bells in national security circles. Deepfakes can also be used to manipulate images, where people’s faces have been added into random events and videos. Audio deepfakes, like this unusual track of Frank Sinatra’s have received less attention in the media so far. One audio deepfake that has garnered a lot of criticism is a recreation of the voice of late chef Anthony Bourdain for use in his upcoming documentary. How are deepfakes made? These audios are created by artificial intelligence ingesting and examining 1.2 million songs, their corresponding lyrics and information, such as artist names, genres and years of release. Using this data, AI can create new music samples from scratch and make them seem like they came from the original artist. While some celebrities who have been spoofed in deepfakes have expressed their discomfort and irritation in the new tech, one singer named Holly Herndon believes they are here to stay She said, "Vocal deepfakes are here to stay. A balance needs to be found between protecting artists and encouraging people to experiment with a new and exciting technology." Image credit: Getty Images

Music

Hillsong founder will “set the record straight’ on new charges

Brian Houston, the founder of the Hillsong Church, has said he will fight to clear his name after he was charged with allegedly concealing information about child sex abuse committed by his father. “Police will allege in court the man knew information relating to the sexual abuse of a young male in the 1970s and failed to bring that to the attention of police,” a NSW Police spokesperson said. His father, Frank Houston, was a Pentecostal Christian pastor who faced multiple allegations of child sex abuse in the years leading up to his death in 2004. Frank Houston admitted to the abuse at the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sex Abuse, which occurred several decades ago in Australia and New Zealand. Before the abuse became public, Frank Houston was allowed to retire from the church. Brian Houston was charged following a two-year investigation. After police served his Sydney-based lawyers, Mr Houston, who received an exemption to leave Australia with his wife during the pandemic, released a statement concerning the allegations. “These charges have come as a shock to me,” he said. “I vehemently profess my innocence and will defend these charges, and I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight.” In a statement, Hillsong said it was “disappointed” that Mr Houston had been charged. “[We] ask that he be afforded the presumption of innocence and due process as his right. He has advised us that he will defend this and looks forward to clearing his name,” the church said in a statement. “Given that this matter is now before the court, neither Pastor Brian or Hillsong Church will be making further statements. “We thank all who are part of our church for their support and prayers at this time.” Mr Houston will be required to appear before a Sydney magistrate at Downing Centre Local Court on October 5.

News

Camilla Franks reveals the one phone call with A-list celeb that never aired on Celebrity Apprentice

Camilla Franks was the latest star to be kicked off of Celebrity Apprentice Australia. Stopping in on Thursday morning’s episode of Today, Franks revealed one moment during her final challenge that never did make it to air. The Australian designer was tasked along with her team to create the ultimate sleepover that catered to six children and their parents, at Madame Tussaud’s. Camilla and her co-star Martha Kalifatidis went head to head in the episode after she managed to blow the entire budget. Despite the tumultuous challenge, she had one win and secured a visit from Delta Goodrem. However, in the end it wasn't enough and she was fired by Lord Sugar. But during the chat with Karl Stefanovic and Ally Langdon, Camilla revealed a few key moments that never made it to air, including a call from an A-List celebrity. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841739/camilla-frnaks-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ac0b378861fb4cd0bb824a5561b613ef" /> Camilla revealed to Karl Stefanovic and Ally Langdon that a key few moments, including a call from an A-list celeb never made it to air. "They cut out Olivia Newton John doing a call in from LA. They cut out me returning to set with Luna [Camilla's daughter] after four hours of sleep and doing everything," she revealed. Camilla also explained why she appeared to be so fiery in the show at times. "It is a mixture of big personalities and sleep deprivation," she admitted. "I'm usually surrounded by a Formula 1 team, my CAMILLA army, and all of a sudden I have my backyard go-kart team that you're trying to sort of make magic happen and it's just so clunky." Camilla revealed she also had a lot going on in her personal life during filming. "Reality TV is not a normal space to be in," she explained. "You've got cameras in your face so I found that really uncomfortable. “Then I was going through rounds of IVF and still on my journey with breast cancer, and I was doing solo mumming while JP was away so it's a recipe for success am I right?" Camilla said her personal concerns didn’t outweigh her gratitude to Celebrity Apprentice Australia for giving her a platform to spread awareness about breast cancer. Camilla raised $20,000 for the National Breast Cancer foundation during her time on the show. Camilla also revealed that breast cancer changed her entire approach to life. "When your mortality is questioned and you've nearly lost your life from breast cancer,” she said. “I made sure because I was one of the lucky ones to survive. I made sure I wanted to honour every single woman we've lost along the way. All the women who are still fighting the fight and the ones that are about to embark on this hideous journey. "By 2030 I never want my little girl to ever go through what these women have gone through and we're trying to raise 100 million dollars in the next nine years for the research."

Scott Morrison's frank confession over Daniel Andrews

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> Prime Minister Scott Morrison has addressed tensions in his relationship with Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, explaining that the pair "certainly disagree on some things". “We obviously come from different sides of the political fence,” Mr Morrison said in an interview with Paul Murray on Sky News on Thursday night. “Team Red and Team Blue as you often refer to it. But we both understand, I believe, each other’s responsibility. “There’s stuff we’ve got to get done and it’s our jobs to work together to make it happen. Whether one likes each other or not? Well, it helps. And I’ve got to say there’s been a great civility in how we’ve worked together. “We’ve never had a difficulty in working through some issues,” he said. He admitted that the pair disagree on some things, such as the Federal government's recent move to block deals between foreign and local or state governments. “We certainly disagree on some things, and this is one but you know, we’ll just get back at it tomorrow. “Whether it’s working together on health issues or the pandemic or anything like that or indeed other opportunities in mental health. One of the things he and I actually have spent a lot of time talking about is mental health and how there’s a Royal Commission on mental health in Victoria and we’ve got a lot of stuff we’d like to do there.” Mr Morrison said the pair had also talked a lot about skills training. “We have slightly different views about how that can be best done, but we both agree that getting more Australians skilled for jobs that will be there, with the skills that they need to do those jobs, and that businesses need.” “I tend to focus on the things you can agree on, that’s how you get on.” Morrison has urged politicians to work together to find solutions for the current coronavirus pandemic, saying that normal people "couldn't care less" about whether or not states or territories are behind decisions. “The states have responsibilities, federal governments have responsibilities and people frankly couldn’t care less,” the Prime Minister said. “Is it your job or is it their job? They couldn’t care less, and I get that, and when it’s not sorted out, people get really cranky. And I get that too. And they’ll direct that at me, they’ll direct that at Premiers. They’ll direct that at the local mayor. They’ll direct it at the dog on a bad afternoon on a Friday if they’re particularly cranky. “And I get that and I understand that. And that’s why it’s important to me and the other Premiers to as much as possible try and work together — because outside of the room no one cares if its my job or their job. They just want the thing fixed. “And when we take that attitude we do get a lot more done. But … people write to me, they say, why can’t you come in and do that? “At the end of the day there’s a huge problem in Victoria with the pandemic and we need to fix it and it’s gonna get fixed a lot quicker if people are working together, not arguing.” </div> </div> </div>

News

Scott Morrison gets frank about international travelling

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> Prime Minister Scott Morrison was surprisingly frank in a new interview with A Current Affair. He's also urged Australians to "look forward" despite ongoing coronavirus outbreaks in NSW and Victoria. "A year ago, we couldn't have contemplated any of this," he said. "That has been the swift change and terrible impact that has occurred." Despite Victoria's renewed lockdown, Morrison is remaining positive. "We are still doing very well, in seven states and territories. Victoria is obviously a different situation and we feel for everybody in Victoria," he said to A Current Affair host Tracy Grimshaw. "We've done it once. Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we can do it again." But, he said, "Australia doesn't win if Victoria doesn't win". However, he issued a grim warning for those Aussies who are eager to get overseas. “That will be very challenging,” Mr Morrison said of overseas travel. “Right now the opportunity for large-scale travel beyond our borders is not foreseeable.” <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CC-irUgJlyD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CC-irUgJlyD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">PM: That's where I need Australians' heads. I need them looking up. I need them looking forward. #9ACA</a> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/acurrentaffair9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> A Current Affair</a> (@acurrentaffair9) on Jul 23, 2020 at 1:04am PDT </div> </blockquote> His comments came just hours after Federal Treasurer Frydenberg hinted to a border reopening in January 2021. “From 1 January to 30 June 2021, it is assumed that the travel ban is lifted, but that a two-week quarantine period is required of arrivals to Australia,” the statement says. “This leads to the resumption of arrivals by temporary and permanent migrants, but at lower levels overall than normal,’’ the Treasury document states. Morrison was quick to explain that he couldn't put a date on wider international travel, but expected a bubble between Australia and New Zealand to be launched by the end of this year. “I would hope and expect that before the end of the year, New Zealand and Australia would be able to agree on a safe travel zone,” he said in the ACA interview. “Prime Minister Ardern and I were only talking about it last week and she remains as committed to that as I do. We are progressing that … and there are many Pacific nations equally that want to be able to be part of that. “Discussions that I had with the Japanese PM Shinzō Abe … they are keen to see safe travel (between nations) so we will adjust and we can adjust.” Photo credits: <a rel="noopener" href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/scott-morrison-tracy-grimshaw-interview-coronavirus-china-pandemic-lockdown-victoria-vaccine/4d77fadd-d76c-4aef-aee6-287e52255dc0?ocid=Social-ACA" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink">A Current Affair</a> </div> </div> </div>

International Travel

Frank surprise at dilapidated Sydney house on market for $3.6 million

A dilapidated house with missing floorboards and a collapsed ceiling has been marketed in Sydney for $3.6 million. Located in Darlinghurst’s Surrey Street on a 280sqm site, the five-bedroom property was described as “a true blank canvas”. The online listing from agent BresicWhitney read: “The sprawling residence is a rare chance to craft your dream home from a piece of Inner Sydney history.” The house was last sold in 1990, according to <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/112-surrey-street-darlinghurst-nsw-2010-2016260156">Domain</a>. The listing has been met with raised eyebrows, with one woman joking on Twitter that buyers should not expect to have “a floor AND a ceiling” amid the economic downturn. “It’s going to be beautiful after someone spends $1.5m rebuilding it,” one wrote. Another person wrote on Reddit: “It shocks me how many run down places in Sydney there are... All million dollar run downs, it’s crazy.” However, others pointed out that the land size and the location would be worth the price. “Five bedrooms with a courtyard and two-car garage in the middle of Darlinghurst. Yeah, $3.6m is about right,” one commented. “Yeah it’s bloody expensive. But what do you expect to pay in the centre of the biggest city just a few minutes’ walk from the CBD … People are paying that much for houses of that size in the ‘burbs.” Sydney ranks among the top three least affordable housing markets in the world alongside Hong Kong and Vancouver, according to <a href="http://demographia.com/dhi2019.pdf">the 15th Annual Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey</a>.

Real Estate

One doctor's frank COVID-19 post that's gone viral

A passionate doctor has made headlines around the globe after an emotional post regarding the mass panic of the coronavirus could create more damage than the disease itself. Doctor Abdu Sharkawy of the University of Toronto’s Division of Infectious Disease took to Facebook on March 6 to tell people he is not frightened of the virus, but rather the implications of mass panic. As a specialist in his field for more than 20 years, the medical expert explained that his profession has taken him across city hospitals in Toronto to the poorest towns of Africa where people are diagnosed with HIV-AIDS, Hepatitis, TB and SARS. He admitted there is not much he hasn’t been exposed to in his years of work. “And with notable exception of SARS, very little has left me feeling vulnerable, overwhelmed or downright scared,” he said in his post which has been shared nearly one million times. Dr Sharkawy also went on to admit that while he does worry about the “implications of a novel infectious agent” that continues to find new footholds in different soil — it’s more the world’s reaction that has got him worried The medical expert said what scares him the most about the disease is the “loss of reason and wave of fear that has induced the masses of society into a spellbinding spiral of panic” where people have begun to stockpile “obscene quantities of anything that could fill a bomb shelter adequately in a post-apocalyptic world”. “I am scared of the N95 masks that are stolen from hospitals and urgent care clinics where they are actually needed for front line healthcare providers and instead are being donned in airports, malls, and coffee lounges, perpetuating even more fear and suspicion of others. “I am scared that our hospitals will be overwhelmed with anyone who thinks they ‘probably don’t have it but may as well get checked out no matter what because you just never know …’” Dr Sharkawy's comments were referring to countries including the US, UK and Australia where stores have been left high and dry of the bare essential items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser. He warned people to expect the virus to continue to spread, but that it would “not likely do much harm” and advised against panic. “I am scared that travel restrictions will become so far reaching that weddings will be cancelled, graduations missed and family reunions will not materialise. And well, even that big party called the Olympic Games … that could be kyboshed too. Can you even imagine?” he said. The Toronto doctor also went to express his worry over the “epidemic fears” which might limit trade, harm partnerships in multiple sectors, business “and otherwise and ultimately culminate in a global recession”. However, his biggest fear is the message we are telling our children when faced with a threat. “Instead of reason, rationality, openmindedness and altruism, we are telling them to panic, be fearful, suspicious, reactionary and self-interested.” Dr Sharkawy said Covid-19 is nowhere near over, adding that it will be coming to a city, a hospital, a friend, even a family member near you at some point. “Expect it. Stop waiting to be surprised further. The fact is the virus itself will not likely do much harm when it arrives. But our own behaviours and ‘fight for yourself above all else’ attitude could prove disastrous,” he said. “I implore you all. Temper fear with reason, panic with patience and uncertainty with education.” The medical expert explained our society has an opportunity to learn a great deal about health hygiene and limiting the spread of innumerable transmissible diseases. “Let’s meet this challenge together in the best spirit of compassion for others, patience, and above all, an unfailing effort to seek truth, facts and knowledge as opposed to conjecture, speculation and catastrophising.” “Facts not fear. Clean hands. Open hearts. Our children will thank us for it.”

News

Inside Sinatra's $11.5 million Beverly Hills home

The Sinatra family mainstay in Beverly Hills has been listed for an eye-watering AUD $11.5 million. It belonged to music legend, Frank Sinatra’s first wife, Nancy Sinatra, who is also the mother of the iconic performer’s three children. Even though the couple departed ways in 1951, she remained an integral part of his life, throughout the myriad of affairs and three more wives throughout Frank’s life. The one-story home ranch, located Beverly Hills, was built in 1979 and while it isn’t the massive or flashy mansions celebrity fans aren’t used to, it has kept it’s elegant and regal warmth. Located in the hilly part of Beverly Hills at the end of a lengthy, private tree-lined drive, the home sits on a lot measuring over one acre. The home also offers serene canyon views and has many highlights including vaulted and coffered ceilings, beautiful french doors leading to a cosy courtyard. Among other unique features also has an incredible walk-in bae where it is stated: "where Hollywood and international celebrities have gathered to toast one another for decades." The master suite is a massive gem on its own and offers a double-sided fireplace, his-and-her baths, as well as soaring vaulted ceilings. Nancy Barbato Sinatra met Frank when she was just 17 and he was 19. The couple married in 1939, and it was a marriage that lasted for 12 years where she worked as a secretary and answered her husband’s endless fan mail. Frank’s movie career took off in the 1940s and as a result, the family moved to Southern California. It is in Los Angeles where Nancy stayed for the rest of her life. In July 2018, Nancy Barbato Sinatra passed away at age 101. Frank died in 1998, but the former couple had reportedly remained on good terms. Interestingly enough, when questioned why she never remarried, she asked a journalist incredulously, "After Sinatra?" Scroll through the gallery above to see the Beverly Hills home.

International Travel

Inside Barbara Sinatra's $11 million Los Angeles penthouse

Barbara Sinatra’s Los Angeles penthouse is hitting the market for US$8 million (AU$11.3 million). Located on the Wilshire Corridor in Westwood, the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.luxuryhomeslosangeles.com/idx/10560-wilshire-boulevard-los-angeles-ca-90024/15489222_spid/" target="_blank">apartment</a> was where the late socialite lived after the death of her husband, legendary singer Frank Sinatra. Before her death in 2017, Barbara used to entertain celebrity guests and friends such as Gregory Peck and Kirk Douglas, and invite them over for poker nights, according to Leonard Rabinowitz, listing agent of Hilton & Hyland and a friend of the Sinatras. The 520-square-metre property boasts four bedrooms, five terraces, an open floor plan and views of the mountains, ocean and city on all four sides. The living room features a wood-burning fireplace, along with a built-in bar and cocktail area, and a table that can be flipped over to become a poker table. A set of sliding glass doors connects the living room to the outdoor dining area with sceneries of surrounding mountains. The formal dining room has a private outdoor atrium and lounge area, while the kitchen is lined with black marble countertops. Before Frank died in 1998, he and Barbara split their time between their Beverly Hills estate and a Malibu beach house, Rabinowitz said. After the singer’s death, Barbara and her friends were robbed on a Beverly Hills street, prompting her to look for an apartment with additional security. She bought the 24-hour surveillance Westwood property in the early 2000s from Marilyn and Harry Lewis of the Hamburger Hamlet restaurant chain, according to public records. Scroll through the gallery above to see inside Barbara Sinatra’s lavish penthouse.

Music

Anne Frank's diary: "Dirty jokes” found hidden in pages

Researchers using digital technology have deciphered the writing on two pages of Anne Frank’s diary that she had pasted over with brown masking paper, discovering four naughty jokes and a candid explanation of sex, contraception and prostitution. “Anyone who reads the passages that have now been discovered will be unable to suppress a smile,” said Frank van Vree, director of the Netherlands Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies. “The ‘dirty’ jokes are classics among growing children. They make it clear that Anne, with all her gifts, was above all also an ordinary girl.” Anne, age 13 at the time, wrote the two pages on September 28, 1942, less than three months after she, her family and another Jewish family went into hiding from the Nazis in a secret annex behind a house in Amsterdam. They would live there for two years until they were discovered and ultimately deported to Auschwitz. <img width="465" height="310" src="http://www.abc.net.au/news/image/9766126-3x2-700x467.jpg" alt="Large screen showing hidden pages of Anne Frank's diary" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> In her diary, perhaps fearing prying eyes, Anne had covered some pages over with brown paper with an adhesive backing like a postage stamp. Their content has remained a mystery for decades – until now. The pages contained four jokes about sex which Anne described as “dirty” and an explanation of women’s sexual development, sex, contraception and prostitution. “They bring us even closer to the girl and the writer Anne Frank,” Ronald Leopold, executive director of the Anne Frank House museum, said Tuesday. Experts say the newly discovered pages reveal more about her development as a writer than it does about her interest in sex. In other parts of her diary, Anne explored issues around sexuality, her anatomy and her impending period. Those particular passages were censored by her father when the diary was first published in 1947 but became available in recent unabridged editions. In the passage on sex, Anne described how a young woman gets her period around age 14, saying that it is “a sign that she is ripe to have relations with a man but one doesn’t do that of course before one is married.” On prostitution, she wrote: “All men, if they are normal, go with women, women like that accost them on the street and then they go together. In Paris they have big houses for that. Papa has been there.” One of her jokes was this: “Do you know why the German Wehrmacht girls are in Holland? As mattresses for the soldiers.” Another joke: “A man had a very ugly wife and he didn’t want to have relations with her. One evening he came home and then he saw his friend in bed with his wife, then the man said: ‘He gets to and I have to!!!”’ The deciphering was done by researchers from the Anne Frank museum, the Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Huygens Institute of Netherlands History.

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