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Melbourne teen poisoned in Laos farewelled

<p>Melbourne teenager Holly Morton-Bowles has been farewelled in an emotional funeral service. </p> <p>Grieving friends and family gathered at Beaumaris Secondary College on Monday to honour the 19-year-old, who died alongside her friend after being poisoned in Laos. </p> <p>Holly and Bianca Jones were among six people who drank methanol-laced cocktails in the town of Vang Vieng in Laos in November while on a gap year holiday. </p> <p>Beaumaris Secondary College Acting Principal Peter Bartlett read a statement on behalf of Morton-Bowles' parents Shaun and Samantha, and brother James.</p> <p>"We would like to thank the people of Australia, Canada and the rest of the world for the outpouring of love, support, and compassion during this extremely difficult time," Bartlett said.</p> <p>"Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort for our family."</p> <p>"Today is a profoundly significant day for our family as we come together to celebrate Holly's life and spirit. Holly was loved and adored by so many people, and today is a reflection on her life, however she will remain forever in our hearts."</p> <p>"We would like to thank all those that have helped in the preparation of today. We kindly ask that our family be given the space to grieve privately on this deeply emotional day."</p> <p>"This is the most difficult time of our lives, and we thank you for respecting our privacy."</p> <p>The families of both Morton-Bowles and Jones have asked people to donate to the girls' GoFundMe in lieu of flowers.</p> <p>Bianca Jones was farewelled on Friday at Mentone Girl's Grammar, in Mentone, the same school she had graduated from last year, with principal Natalie Charles reading out a statement from the Jones family, thanking the public for their "outpouring of love, support and compassion".</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine</em></p>

Caring

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Gordon Ramsay's daughter announces engagement to Olympian

<p>Gordon Ramsay's daughter, Holly, has announced her engagement to  British Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty. </p> <p>The 24-year-old took to Instagram on Thursday to announce the happy news, showing off her sparkly ring with a photo of the pair on holiday. </p> <p>"I am marrying my best friend," the fashion designer said.</p> <p>"I truly cannot put into words how I am feeling right now. I still remember how big my smile was the morning I got home from my first date with you.</p> <p>"Thank you for letting the little girl inside of me feel loved, seen and happier than ever. I love you &amp; I cannot wait to be your wife."</p> <p>She also mentioned how excited she was to be a step-mum to Peaty's son George from his previous relationship with Welsh artist Eirianedd Munro. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_z0LCrIlmx/?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_z0LCrIlmx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by HollyAnna Ramsay (@hollyramsayy)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"I promise to always be there with you and George, I'm so greatful (sic) to be in his life and I cannot wait for more," she wrote.</p> <p>"Everything is better with you. Everything has been better since you. Here's to forever. "</p> <p>Peaty also paid tribute to his bride-to-be with a separate Instagram post announcing their engagement. </p> <p>"Seeing you show the love you give to the most important person in my life, George, even from day one, there was never a question about you becoming my wife one day," he said.</p> <p>"I'm looking forward to our life together and the many challenges we'll face."</p> <p>He also gave a shoutout to Gordon and his wife Tana for welcoming him into their family with such generosity. </p> <p>Holly is the celebrity chef's second daughter out of his six kids, and has a twin brother, Jack. </p> <p>The proud dad shared his congratulations online with a sweet image of him and his daughter. </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_0AeaQxI0e/?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_0AeaQxI0e/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Gordon Ramsay (@gordongram)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"Congratulations to this gorgeous girl @hollyramsayy….so happy for you and @adam_peaty," he said.</p> <p>"Hols, watching you become the woman you are today with your kindness and your love is absolutely infectious…Adam is a very lucky man! Welcome to the family."</p> <p>He ended his caption in true Gordon Ramsay style with: "One down, two to go," alongside a laughing emoji. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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Holly Willoughby delivers shock news days after kidnap plot

<p>Holly Willoughby has made a surprising announcement, just days after a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/plot-to-kidnap-tv-star-foiled" target="_blank" rel="noopener">disturbing incident involving a kidnapping plot</a> came to light.</p> <p>The popular UK TV personality and mother of three has taken to social media to share her decision to step down from her role as the host of <em>This Morning</em>, a position she has held for 14 years. She cited her family as the primary reason for this significant career move.</p> <p>In a heartfelt letter to her fans, she expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in the show over the years, acknowledging the difficulty of saying goodbye. She extended her appreciation to the production team and guests who have been part of the program, and she reserved special thanks for the loyal viewers who have been with her every day.</p> <p>Willoughby reflected on the legacy of <em>This Morning</em> and the words of former hosts Richard and Judy, who believed that the show belonged to the viewers. She expressed her honour at being a part of its history and noted that there are more chapters to come. However, she felt that the time had come for her to make this decision for the sake of herself and her family.</p> <p>In her own words, "I will miss you all so much."</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/CyOWaP2tr3Q/?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/CyOWaP2tr3Q/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Holly Willoughby (@hollywilloughby)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>This announcement follows a recent incident in which the 42-year-old was placed under police protection in her London home due to the discovery of a kidnapping plot aimed at her. Essex Police later arrested a 36-year-old man in connection with the investigation.</p> <p>It has been a rough year for the popular daytime TV host, who previously enjoyed immense popularity in the UK.</p> <p>Notably, Holly Willoughby made headlines when she issued a statement on-air, publicly supporting her co-host, Phillip Schofield, amidst reports of an inappropriate relationship with a younger male colleague. Schofield eventually resigned amid <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/it-s-the-court-of-public-opinion-sarah-ferguson-condemns-phillip-schofield-backlash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">intense public pressure</a> after admitting to lying about the relationship. Willoughby explained that she too had been deceived by her co-host and would not have supported him had she known the truth.</p> <p>Schofield and Willoughby had co-hosted the show together since 2009 and had interviewed notable figures, including royalty. Their on-screen chemistry led to prime-time hosting opportunities such as <em>Dancing on Ice</em>.</p> <p>While Holly Willoughby has not revealed her future plans, numerous celebrity fans and colleagues swiftly offered their support and best wishes in the comments section of her post. These messages conveyed sadness at her departure and the recognition of her iconic status in the world of television.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty / ITV</em></p>

TV

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Plot to kidnap TV star foiled

<p>Authorities have thwarted a suspected plot to abduct well-known British television presenter, Holly Willoughby. The 42-year-old host of <em>This Morning</em> was pulled from her hosting duties mid-show and was placed under police protection at her residence.</p> <p>This development followed the arrest of a 36-year-old man, apprehended by law enforcement who had allegedly uncovered "sinister messages" containing threats to kidnap and inflict serious harm upon the mother of three, as reported by <em>The Sun</em>.</p> <p>The suspect, who is not acquainted with the television star, has since been formally charged. In the meantime, a marked police vehicle remained stationed outside the individual's ground-floor apartment, where he resides alone. One neighbour from Harlow, Essex, UK, recounted witnessing the man being escorted out of his flat in handcuffs around 9 o'clock the previous night, with a police presence continuing throughout the day, including a forensic investigation van.</p> <p>The precise means by which the police became aware of the alleged plot remain unclear, but it is understood that digital devices and a mobile phone were confiscated.</p> <p>As detectives persist in their inquiry, a round-the-clock police detail has been stationed outside Holly's London home, where she resides with her husband and children. An insider disclosed, "Investigations are continuing, but police are treating this as a credible conspiracy to kidnap Holly. There were apparently some sinister and threatening messages found on electronic devices threatening to seriously harm her."</p> <p>The police promptly notified the production team of <em>This Morning</em> about the alleged plot early the following day. Holly was informed shortly before she was scheduled to go on air, and she was described as feeling "shocked and distraught." Consequently, it was decided that she would withdraw from hosting the show. Alison Hammond was called in as a last-minute substitute alongside Josie Gibson, who had co-hosted the previous day's episode with Holly. Viewers were puzzled by the sudden change, with Josie only mentioning the situation in passing by introducing Alison.</p> <p>Social media buzzed with fans expressing their concern and curiosity about Holly's absence. She had originally planned to celebrate her TV producer husband Daniel Baldwin's 49th birthday with their children, Harry, 14, Belle, 12, and eight-year-old Chester.</p> <p>This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a turbulent year for the television personality, who has been a fixture on "This Morning" since 2009. In September of the previous year, both Holly and her then-co-host, Phillip Schofield, faced allegations of queue-jumping during their visit to pay respects to the late Queen. Holly later clarified that she had been there in her capacity as an accredited broadcaster for a filming assignment and emphasized that they would never bypass a queue intentionally.</p> <p>In May, Schofield, aged 61, resigned after admitting to an affair with a younger colleague and confessing to having lied about it when confronted by Holly. She subsequently expressed feeling "shaken and let down." Nonetheless, Holly drew some criticism for beginning the show by inquiring to the camera, "Are you OK?"</p> <p>ITV initiated an examination into <em>This Morning</em> amid accusations of a "toxic culture," sparking backlash from viewers. Just last month, Holly did not secure a National Television Award for the first time in 12 years.</p> <p>A spokesperson for Essex Police confirmed, "A 36-year-old man from Harlow has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to kidnap as part of an ongoing investigation. The arrest was made on Wednesday 4 October. He is currently in custody. Inquiries continue."</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Legal

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Camilla's unexpected coronation guest

<p>As the royal family prepares for the highly-anticipated coronation of King Charles, an unexpected guest has been revealed to be attending. </p> <p>Camilla's ex-husband, Andrew Parker Bowles, will be present for the coronation in Westminster Abbey in May, as he remains “joined at the hip” with his ex-wife.</p> <p>Andrew and Camilla were married for 22 years before they divorced in 1995. </p> <p>Andrew went on to marry Rosemary Pitman the following year, who died from breast cancer in 2010, while Camilla married the then-Prince of Wales in 2005. </p> <p>Ever since their divorce, the couple have remained close. </p> <p>A friend of Parker Bowles told <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/camillas-naughty-ex-andrew-parker-bowles-is-coming-to-the-coronation-blwlqc9dv" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Sunday Times</em></a>, “He arranges so much for her. They have lunch together the whole time. He’s right in there. He was always, and still is, Camilla’s co-conspirator.”</p> <p>One of Camilla’s Queen Companions, the Marchioness of Lansdowne said everyone “loves Andrew” and that he’s a “real charmer but he’s always terribly misbehaving”.</p> <p>She added, “Through adversity they’ve kept a really good family ethic. It helps with their children and grandchildren.”</p> <p>Parker Bowles was unfaithful to Camilla during their marriage, and their friends describe the retired army officer as “a bit of a rogue” and “very naughty”.</p> <p>He remains close, however, with several members of the royal family, including Princess Anne with whom he had a brief romance.</p> <p>Parker Bowles has attended both of Charles’ weddings, including to Princess Diana in July 1981 when he accompanied the then-Prince and Princess of Wales’s carriages on horseback after the ceremony.</p> <p>Parker Bowles was also present at Charles and Camilla’s wedding in 2005, attending the ceremony with Pitman.</p> <p>Camilla and Andrew have two children together, Tom Parker Bowles, who is King Charles' godson, and Laura Lopes, who have given the former couple five grandchildren. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Relationships

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No Pokies, no problems: The bowling club that never looked back

<p dir="ltr">Petersham Bowling Club was heading towards poverty, when the board’s decision to remove all of their pokies in 2007 changed their business for the better.</p> <p dir="ltr">Club president George Catsi said that the shift from pokies, a staple of many NSW bowling clubs, to live entertainment and other events has generated them more profit than the slots ever did, with a 700 per cent increase in turnover.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I came at it from a position of, this is a valuable space that’s here, the club owns the land. They could have developed it,” he told <em>news.com.au</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So I suppose we came in on a platform of engagement, and we were feeling that the club wasn’t engaging with its community.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Over the last calendar week alone, the club has hosted trivia, life drawing, poetry, two music gigs, Pinot and Picasso, a community radio show, and Sunday bowls.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You’ve got to create a place that people go. This place is such a great vibe, and it’s got such interesting things going. People will fight for that,” Catsi said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is what clubs should be – they should be hubs. My problem with a lot of other clubs is that they forgot that.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Catsi said that they took over the bowling club because it was struggling, and recognised that the pokies weren’t “saving them” or a “guaranteed lifeline”, as they still needed to get people through to the club.</p> <p dir="ltr">He also said that clubs relying on the slot machines for income are “doomed” because they are not open to welcoming and accommodating to the wider communities.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Is it lazy income now? Yes, it is. Absolutely. Because it’s just embedded as part of your income stream, and you don’t want to let go of it,” Catsi said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s also governments … they’re also addicted to the gambling money.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Pokies are going to be one of the major issues for the upcoming NSW election on March 25.</p> <p dir="ltr">Both parties have vowed to make considerable changes, but neither are going to remove the slots completely.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Camilla’s ex-husband carries out official duty on her behalf

<p dir="ltr">Queen Consort Camilla's ex-husband, whom she shares two kids with, has carried out an official duty on her behalf.</p> <p dir="ltr">Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles formally represented the Queen Consort at his cousin John Bowes-Lyon’s funeral at the London Oratory.</p> <p dir="ltr">This is the first official duty he has performed on behalf of his ex-wife and it is believed that it won’t be the last time the 82-year-old former Army officer would represent the Queen Consort.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Andrew is happy to do anything he is asked. He still enjoys a warm relationship with Camilla,” a source told Daily Mail. </p> <p dir="ltr">Camilla and Andrew married in 1973 before they separated in the 1980s and divorced in 1995.</p> <p dir="ltr">They share two children, Tom and Laura. </p> <p dir="ltr">Earlier this year, the Queen Consort spoke candidly about cooking for her children despite not being a great in the kitchen. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I always cooked for the children growing up, and they were good eaters, but I was never the most adventurous of cooks,” she said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I was sent on a cooking course in Sussex when I was young but, really, I learnt from my mother. I’ve never followed a recipe in my life...</p> <p dir="ltr">“I could fill a book with all my cooking disasters. I’m not a natural baker, to say the least. </p> <p dir="ltr">“As for baked potatoes… many a poor, incinerated specimen has been found in the bottom of the Aga, put in, then forgotten about.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Camilla married King Charles III in 2005 following a whirlwind romance and affairs dating back to when Charles was married to Diana. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Family & Pets

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90s RnB immortalised in the Super Bowl halftime show

<p dir="ltr">In an epic salute to 90s hip-hop and RnB music, a selection of industry legends took to the stage at the Super Bowl half time show in California on Sunday. </p><p dir="ltr">Leading the charge was LA’s finest Dr Dre, who promised big surprises during the set that he reportedly dropped almost $10 million on. </p><p dir="ltr">The stage was a replica of a Californian neighbourhood, with the performances taking place on the roofs and in different rooms of the enormous set that sat in centre field.</p><p dir="ltr">As the show began, Dr Dre opened with this 1995 smash hit <em>California Love</em>, which earned a roar from the native West Coast crowd. </p><p dir="ltr">Joining Dre on stage was his lifelong protege and collaborator Snoop Dogg, before rapper 50 Cent made a surprise appearance with his 2003 anthem <em>In Da Club</em>. </p><p dir="ltr">The next artist to hit the stage was Mary J. Blige, as she belted out her 2001 hit <em>Family Affair</em>, before launching into her hit track <em>No More Drama</em>.</p><p dir="ltr">Following Mary J. Blige was a newer rapper on the scene Kendrick Lamar, who shot to fame in the early 2010s after being inspired by his idols on the stage.</p><p dir="ltr">Lamar popped out of a cardboard box for his performance while being surrounded by dancers who donned “Dre Day” sashes for their epic choreographed dance routine. </p><p dir="ltr">Last to the stage was rap legend Eminem, who launched into his 2002 epic song <em>Lose Yourself</em>, making the crowd go wild over this motivational anthem.</p><p dir="ltr">As the performers joined together for a final moment on the stage, the 15 minute performance ended with a standing ovation from the 80,000-strong crowd of the SoFi stadium. </p><p dir="ltr">The 2022 show was the first year the epic NFL event has fully embraced a hip-hop act for the half time entertainment. </p><p dir="ltr">"We're gonna open more doors for hip hop artists in the future and making sure that the NFL understands this is what it should have been a long time ago," Dr. Dre said at a press conference before the show.</p><p dir="ltr">"We're gonna show exactly how professional we can be, how dope we can be on stage and how exciting we are going to be to the fans."</p><p dir="ltr">Check out the performance <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdsUKphmB3Y" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p><p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-0310ebbe-7fff-fcbb-6595-bd320d47f248">Image credits: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Music

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Prince Charles and Camilla to embark on first royal tour since 2019

<p dir="ltr">The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall are preparing to head off on their first royal tour in almost two years, Clarence House has announced.</p> <p dir="ltr">Charles and Camilla will visit Jordan and Egypt from November 16 to 19 as representatives of the Queen and the British government. It is the first royal tour to take place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (as opposed to brief visits).</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple will visit holy sites and attend interfaith events aimed at promoting tolerance between different religions. Climate change and the importance of girls’ education will also be highlighted during the visit, which will take place after the COP26 summit in Glasgow next week, and which the couple will also be attending. Queen Elizabeth, Prince William and Kate will also be attending the historic climate summit.</p> <p dir="ltr">While visiting Jordan and Egypt, Prince Charles will take part in conversations about the value of religious freedom and respect for other people’s beliefs, subjects of particular importance in countries that are home to holy sites for Muslims, Christians, Jews, and other religions. Charles has previously warned against the dangers of religious persecution and extremism, including to Christian communities in the Middle East.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jordan’s role in taking in so many refugees, including Palestinians and Syrians, in a region that has faced much conflict will be recognised, and Camilla will see work in Jordan that is being done by Queen Rania to keep girls in school and protect vulnerable children and mothers. In addition to visits to historic sites such as the city of Alexandria, there will be a focus on the importance of teaching crafts skills necessary to maintain and preserve such sites.</p> <p dir="ltr">The tour will also include a showcase of the monuments built for a far more ancient royal dynasty, with a reception overlooking the Pyramids of Giza.</p> <p dir="ltr">Charles last visited Jordan in 2015, and Camilla in 2013. The couple last visited Egypt in 2006.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Jacob King-WPA Pool/Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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5 breakfast myths that you didn’t know about your cereal bowl

<p><em>Molecular nutritionist Dr Emma Beckett shares 5 breakfast myths that you didn’t know about your cereal bowl.</em></p> <p><strong>Myth #1: Traditional breakfast foods are bad for you</strong></p> <p><strong>Truth: </strong>Some foods high in carbohydrate, such as wholemeal bread and breakfast cereals contain dietary fibre, which helps us to feel fuller, therefore starting the day off right. </p> <p>Breakfast cereal is a simple and convenient way to start the day and it can often provide more nutrients such as Iron, B-vitamins and fibre, than non-cereal breakfast choices. What’s better, cereal pairs well with other nutrient dense breakfast foods such as Greek yogurt, and nuts, which are a source of protein. Protein is essential in the diet as it is the most filling macronutrient that can help reduce grazing habits throughout the day. </p> <p>Some cereals, like Kellogg’s iconic All Bran and Sultana Bran, are high in fibre and have a 4.5 or even the maximum 5 Health Star rating. Cereals like this have been a popular choice for almost 100 years.</p> <p><strong>Myth #2: Processed = bad? </strong></p> <p><strong>Truth: </strong>Most food needs to go through some sort of processing for it to even be edible and digestible – processing is a broad term that includes cooking, cutting and packaging.</p> <p>For many foods it is necessary to undergo some sort of processing in order to preserve the food and prevent wastage, and to make them tasty and practical. From a nutritional perspective, key nutrients like protein aren’t necessarily lost during processing, they can sometimes be retained or made easier to access through processing. Others like B vitamins and iron may be added back if they’re lost, in a process called enrichment. Staple foods, like breakfast cereals and breads are also often fortified with extra nutrients – these foods are chosen because they are affordable, accessible, shelf stable and popular. It is also important to consider to what degree the food item has been processed, with ultra-processed items to be consumed in moderation. </p> <p><strong>Myth #3: It’s expensive to have a healthy diet</strong></p> <p><strong>Truth: </strong>According to recently published Australian research based on modelling, it is possible to improve Aussie diets while spending less money on food, choosing low-cost nutritious foods improves diet quality and can reduce a family’s grocery bill by over 25 per cent.</p> <p>It can be a misconception that healthy food is far more expensive than unhealthy and takeaway options. There are actually lots of healthy options that are cheap to buy and aren’t going to spoil quickly. Wholemeal bread and breakfast cereals are good for the budget and last for a while. <span style="text-decoration: line-through;"> </span>When it comes to buying fruit and vegetables, canned and frozen options are just as healthy as the fresh ones, and you can buy them cheap and store or freeze ahead of time. If you do your research and shop around, healthy eating really doesn’t have to be as expensive as it might seem!</p> <p><strong>Myth #4: Breakfast cereal is too sugary and has no nutritional value</strong></p> <p><strong>Truth: </strong>Australian data has shown that cereal contributes less than 3 per cent of added sugar in the diet. Many cereals contain whole grains and fibre which many people are not getting enough of. They are full of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for health and wellbeing, and are the number one source of iron in the Aussie diet, especially in children. Cereal contains a range of sugar levels, there are some sweeter ones, but most are moderately sweetened and many sweetened with added fruits which contain natural sugars. </p> <p>For example, half of Kellogg’s 55 cereals contain 2 or less teaspoons of sugar per bowl. Updating formulations have meant that they have removed over 700 tonnes of sugar and 300 tonnes of salt from Aussie diets – that’s the equivalent to the weight of around seven blue whales! </p> <p><strong>Myth #5: If it isn’t wholegrain it doesn’t contain fibre</strong></p> <p><strong>Truth</strong>: Whilst whole grain foods contain fibre, not all fibre-containing foods contain the whole grain. Fibre is found in the outer part of the grain called the bran. The bran can be removed from the grain and used in foods. Foods made with bran may not always contain whole grain but they do contain plenty of fibre. </p> <p>Two out of three Aussies are not meeting their daily fibre targets. In fact, four out of five Aussies don’t eat enough fibre to protect themselves from chronic disease! An adequate intake of fibre is between 25 and 30 grams a day for most of us. That might sound hard, but getting your daily dose is actually easy if you eat high-fibre options including fibre rich breakfast cereals, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts.</p> <p>Did you know that different whole grains have different levels and types of fibres - for example whole grain brown rice and corn both have naturally less fibre compared to other whole grains such as whole grain wheat and oats, which have higher amounts of fibre. </p> <p>Just because a whole grain has less fibre doesn’t mean it’s not beneficial - it is! Whole grain is exactly as it sounds - it’s the entire whole grain kernel! Fibre is one component of the whole grain kernel and all components work together to bring health benefits. </p>

Body

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New Princess Charlotte photo evidence for Aussie "son" of Charles and Camilla

<p>A Queensland man who claims he is the secret love child of Prince Charles and Camilla has released a shocking series of new photographs comparing his family to members of the royal family.</p> <p>Simon Dorante-Day made global headlines since he went public with his claims that he says are a culmination of years of research.</p> <p>And now, the British-Australian man has featured Princess Charlotte, Prince Charles, Prince William, and other senior royals to further prove his claim.</p> <p>One comparison photograph has piqued interest for the “striking similarity” between Princess Charlotte and Dorante-Day’s daughter Meriam.</p> <p>Dorante-Day also released a photograph of his son Liam alongside Prince Charles and also Prince Andrew which surprised many with one observer saying there was “no denying this one”.</p> <p>Dorante-Day told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>7NEWS.com.au</em></a><span> </span>that he himself is surprised by the resemblance between his children a number of other royals.</p> <p>“The one of Liam and Prince Charles really got me,” he said.</p> <p>Dorante-Day went on to say: “I think it’s really hard to look at that one and not see the resemblance, it’s pretty compelling.</p> <p>“The one with Princess Charlotte and our Meriam is also a head-turner. We have always had people tell us how much she looks like Charlotte - even by people who don’t know about our background.</p> <p>“But to see it in black and white is pretty hard to refute.</p> <p>“We are always receiving these sorts of comparisons that supporters on my Facebook page and royal fans and watchers have put together.</p> <p>“They’re always fascinating and definitely gives people food for thought.”</p> <p>A number of curious people have commented on the similarity between the Dorante-Day’s and British royal family members.</p> <p>“There is no denying here,” one person said.</p> <p>Another wrote: “I must say the area above the top lip is typical Windsor on all the children including yourself Simon.”</p> <p>Said one more: “Wow. it’s amazing how much you and your children look like the royal family I wish you good luck and hope the truth comes out in the end.”</p>

Family & Pets

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Awful truth behind explosive Princess Diana interview

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>The BBC is investigating the tactics used to obtain an interview with the late Princess Diana where she uttered the tragic statement about her marriage to Prince Charles: "There were three of us in this marriage".</p> <p>The interview between journalist Martin Bashir and Diana aired in 1995 but 25 years on, new evidence suggests that the reporter may have used forged bank statements and other unethical methods to convince Diana to agree to the interview.</p> <p>The incident is now being properly investigated, but it's complicated as Bashir, 57, is now gravely ill with COVID-19.</p> <p>Over the weekend, the BBC apologised to Princess Diana's brother Charles Spencer after he brought forward the evidence.</p> <p>The network admitted that Bashir showed Spencer bank statements doctored by a staff graphic designer. Spencer had alleged that Bashir told his sister “fantastical stories to win her trust” and showed him fake bank records that reportedly helped land Bashir the interview.</p> <p>Charles said he found a letter sent to him by Bashir that brought up rumours of an affair between Charles and the family nanny.</p> <p>At the time, Diana was allegedly deeply worried she was being spied on and Bashir's "evidence" made her confident to do the interview.</p> <p>“There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded,” Diana said in the interview, referring to Charles’ affair with Camilla Parker Bowles.</p> <p>Weeks after Diana uttered that sentence, the royals began divorce proceedings.</p> <p>“Suggesting that mocked-up documents were genuine was wrong then and it’s wrong now; the BBC of today is happy to apologise for this. The BBC’s editorial processes are now even tougher and this would not happen today,” said a statement from a BBC spokesperson sent to the <em>New York Post</em>. “The BBC’s records say that the Princess of Wales said she hadn’t seen the mocked-up documents and they had played no part in her decision to take part in the interview.”</p> <p>The BBC is now investigating the interview.</p> <p>“The BBC has apologised. We are happy to repeat that apology. And while this was a quarter of a century ago, we absolutely will investigate – robustly and fairly – substantive new information,” a spokeswoman told Deadline. “We have asked Earl Spencer to share further information with the BBC.</p> <p>“Unfortunately, we are hampered at the moment by the simple fact that we are unable to discuss any of this with Martin Bashir, as he is seriously unwell. When he is well, we will of course hold an investigation into these new issues.”</p> </div> </div> </div>

Legal

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Toilet paper alternatives: What you should and shouldn’t flush down the bowl

<p>As shoppers continue to struggle in their search for toilet paper, more <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/jacqui-lambie-shares-her-plan-b-amid-toilet-paper-emergency">alternatives</a> have been suggested.</p> <p>However, the public has been warned some of these alternatives could block sewers and push excrements back onto the bathroom floor.</p> <p>SA Water’s Anna Jackson said the utility company was concerned by “advice” circulating on social media about the possible replacements people could use.</p> <p>“Paper towels, wet wipes, baby wipes, even tissues, are designed not to break down, are tough and strong, and therefore get caught in our sewer network and create blockages,” Jackson told the <em><a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-18/coronavirus-prompts-sa-water-plea-to-keep-sewers-unblocked/12066880">ABC</a></em>.</p> <p>“The unfortunate side effect of a blockage in a sewer network is that everything that was meant to go down the pipe comes back up.</p> <p>“We don’t want people to be dealing with things on their bathroom floor.”</p> <p>According to Michelle Ringland, head of marketing for commercial and domestic drain specialists Lanes for Drains, flushing nothing might be the best option.</p> <p>Ringland recommended using bidet bowls, ‘bum guns’ or shower heads. “After this is all over I can see a return to bidets,” she told <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-8127015/Revealed-use-hands-toilet-roll-amid-coronavirus-pandemic.html">FEMAIL</a></em>. “The more we can avoid putting it in the toilet, the better.”</p> <p>Other alternatives that involved flushing nothing included water scooping tools such as the Tabo from the Philippines or gayung from Indonesia.</p> <p>Jackson said only toilet paper, faeces and wee could be flushed down the toilet. “We need to make sure that if you are reaching for an alternative to use in the bathroom, that you are putting it in a bin in the bathroom, and that bin is emptied into the outdoor bin regularly.”</p>

Home & Garden

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Alleged love child of Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla launches legal bid

<p>A British-born man who was adopted and moved to Australia believes he is the love child of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.</p> <p>While it has been perhaps a great rumour believed by few and questioned by many, Simon Dorante-Day, 53, is taking his beliefs one step further by going to the country’s High Court to try and force Britain’s future King and his wife to take a DNA test.</p> <p>Simon says he is not deterred from his “40 year search” for truth, despite court clerks laughing when he first filed his papers and his legal claim being thrown out three times already.</p> <p>He believes that his parentage will have been discussed by the Queen, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry at this month's Sandringham summit where the terms of Harry and Meghan's 'Megxit' deal were thrashed out.</p> <p>In 2019, Simon caused upset when he claimed Princess Diana's death in Paris in August 1997 came after 'she was going to go public with it'. </p> <p>The 53-year-old claims his adoptive grandparents Winifred and Ernest worked for the Queen and Prince Philip as a cook and a gardener respectively and had told him “many times” that he was indeed “Charles and Camilla's child”. </p> <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Btt6-uXlNZr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Btt6-uXlNZr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Royal Life Europe 👑 (@royal_life_europe)</a> on Feb 10, 2019 at 2:10pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“I know it sounds unbelievable, but anything I say is checkable... I’m simply a man looking for my biological parents, and every road has led me back to Camilla and Charles,” he said.</p> <p>Mr Dorante was born in Gosport, Hampshire in April 1966 and was adopted when he was 18-months-old by Winifred and Ernest. </p> <p>If Simon’s odd allegations are actually true, it means he would have been conceived in 1965, when Charles and Camilla were just 17 and 18.</p> <p>He claims his “compelling” evidence is his Windsor-like cheekbones and teeth, as well as his “Camilla-style hair”.</p> <p>The Brit also says he has compelling evidence proving his claim but said online: “As things are all part of the court case at the moment I can't discuss much further.”’</p> <p>Simon now resiudes in Queensland and has spoken many times about his belief that he was adopted out by an 18-year-old Camilla Shand – a claim his adoptive grandparents also allegedly support.</p> <p>“My grandmother, who worked for the Queen, told me outright that I was Camilla and Charles' son many times,” he explained to <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.newidea.com.au/princes-charles-camilla-secret-son-exposed-paternity-case" target="_blank">New Idea</a>.</p> <p>His wife Elvianna said: “We believe that Camilla fell pregnant to Charles and that Camilla, with the help of her family and the royals, kept Simon until he was 18 months old.”</p> <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtgyXvvF6x5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtgyXvvF6x5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Royal Life Europe 👑 (@royal_life_europe)</a> on Feb 5, 2019 at 11:44am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The 53-year-old filed papers to the High Court just before Christmas, claiming his story is the “most explosive” thing to happen to the palace.  </p> <p>“It's definitely the most significant step I've taken so far – I've had to force a deadline, hold them to a date, because we need answers,” he said.  </p> <p>In the wake of Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan announcing they were stepping down from their senior royal positions, Mr Dorante-Day is adamant his case would have come up during crisis talks at Sandringham Estate. </p> <p>“While the whole world was thinking they were talking about Harry, we believe this legal battle would've also been on the agenda and discussed,” he said. </p> <p>Simon, who goes by “Prince Simon Charles” on social media, regularly posts updates on Facebook of his bid to be recognised by royal family members.</p>

Family & Pets

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Duchess Camilla transformed Prince Charles “for the better” royal expert claims

<p>A British royal biographer has revealed how Duchess Camilla has “snapped” her husband Prince Charles into a completely different person.</p> <p>Penny Junor, 70, described the royal couple who just recently celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary in April as having “a great sense of humor and fun”.</p> <p>She explained that while the Prince of Wales was once formerly considered as a “sullen type” whp was always “in waiting,” the Duchess of Cornwall changed her husband into a “confident” future king.</p> <p>Penny said to <em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.hellomagazine.com/" target="_blank">Hello magazine</a></em>: “I've seen a huge change in Charles over these past years. He used to be quite a morose character; he was very serious and didn't laugh a lot. </p> <p>“Camilla snapped him out of that and she has completely transformed him.</p> <p>“He is a much happier man and has so much more confidence these days. It's wonderful to see”. </p> <p>The couple first stepped out in public “officially” just before midnight on January 28 1999.</p> <p>They were photographed together in front of London’s Ritz Hotel as they left a 50th birthday party for Camilla’s sister, Annabel Elliot.</p> <p>The now-Duchess of Cornwall and the future king went on to marry in 2005, but in 1997, following the death of Charles’ ex-wife, Princess Diana, Camilla purposefully stayed away from the prying eyes of the public and media.</p> <p>The couple have indeed come a long way since their relationship kicked off with a highly controversial beginning.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery to see the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall throughout the years.</p>

International Travel

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Royal New Zealand tour for Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla begins

<p>Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla have been warmly welcomed to New Zealand for the first day of their official Royal tour with a traditional Māori greeting known as a “hongi”.</p> <p>The couple touched down in Auckland on Sunday before throwing themselves into a full day of engagements on Monday morning. </p> <p>They both attended the Queen’s Colour Ceremony at the Royal New Zealand Air Force Whenuapai Airbase, where they learnt about the traditional Māori welcome, which is known as Pōwhiri. </p> <p>It is a ritual that was experienced by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, not too long ago, when they arrived in Wellington, New Zealand for their tour in October. </p> <p>Following the ceremony, the Duke of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall did not let bad weather stop them from attending The Queen’s Colour, the highest honour a sovereign can bestow. </p> <p>During the 1953-54 royal tour of New Zealand, Queen Elizabeth II presented her Colour to the RNZAF. </p> <p>The presentation was made at the same air base on December 28, 1953. </p> <p>As the Colour is now worn, a replacement has been received and was formally presented to the Duke and Duchess. </p> <p>Earlier in the day, the royal couple had the opportunity to sample some of the area’s finest wine while visiting the Hunting Lodge - a site where the first Sauvignon Blanc grapes were grown in New Zealand. </p> <p>While doing this, they also learnt of the lodge’s “Paddock to Table” approach, which aims to produce as much food onsite as possible. </p> <p>The lodge also strives to source additional products purely from local businesses and resources. </p> <p>Farmer Richard Kidd, who provides lamb grown at Kaipara Farms, spoke to the Prince of Wales. </p> <p>"We spoke about the lamb and I thanked him for being an advocate of wool, which is down on price at the moment," Kidd said. </p> <p>"However, the price of lamb is doing very well."</p> <p>Prince Charles has spoken up about the importance of sustainability and waste reduction in the last decade, and on Monday got to visit Critical Design, a company using innovative technology to turn plastic waste into reusable materials that will manufacture other products.</p> <p>Tuesday is just as busy for the Prince and Duchess, who will be meeting Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her partner, Clark Gayford.</p> <p>The royal couple is in New Zealand for an eight-day tour, their first to the country since 2015.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scroll through the gallery to see the royal couple on Day 1 of their New Zealand tour. </span></p>

International Travel

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Duchess Camilla’s helicopter near “seconds from disaster”

<p>New reports have claimed a helicopter carrying the Duchess of Cornwall was just “seconds away from disaster” twice in the same year.</p> <p>The allegations have said Duchess Camilla was travelling in Sikorsky S76 from the Queen's Flight when the aircraft veered away to avoid mid-air collisions while flying with the 71-year-old.</p> <p>The royal was being flown from Sandringham to her home in Wiltshire when the alleged incident occurred.</p> <p>The second incident happened while the helicopter was getting ready to land 45 minutes after the first event and had to make yet another manoeuvre to avoid a glider.</p> <p>The pilot reportedly said he was fortunate enough to have spotted the glider from half a mile away as he had “been flying into the sun.”</p> <p>These alleged incidents have been reported in the UK Aiprox Board Reports and happened on July 25, 2018 after the Duchess visited the Sandringham Flower Show with her husband, Prince Charles.</p> <p>The Prince of Wales is believed to have been in Norfolk when the events reportedly took place and Duchess Camilla boarded the flight to Anmer Hall.</p> <p>The helicopter took flight at 1.11 pm and later an air traffic controller RAF Marham, Norfolk said the risk of collision had been “high.”</p> <p>The report by UK Aiprox Board found the DHC-6 pilot should have informed RAF Lakenheath, Suffolk of the two incidents on Duchess Camilla’s flights however he forgot due to it being his eight flight of the day.</p> <p>RAF Marham reportedly informed RAF Lakenheath to remind other aircraft to keep away from the Royal Flight.</p> <p>RAF Lakenheath made “numerous” attempts to contaxt the DHC-6 pilot, who failed to respond as he was “distracted by passengers in the back.”</p> <p>Buckingham Palace and Skydive Chatter declined to comment to the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7244703/Camillas-helicopter-swerve-avoid-collisions-TWICE-one-hour-flew-home.html" target="_blank">Daily Mail.</a></p>

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