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Former Home and Away star's joyful baby news

<p>Former <em>Home and Away</em> stars Rebecca Breeds and Luke Mitchell are expecting their first child together. </p> <p>The Australian actress and her co-star turned husband confirmed the happy news on Instagram. </p> <p>The 37-year-old actress made her little baby bump debut at the Adelaide Film Festival and shared a picture of herself on the red carpet looking stunning in a form-fitting pink dress. </p> <p>“VERY excited to share baby Mitchell and @kangarooislandmovie coming sooooooooon! Thanks @adlfilmfest for having us and everyone who came to support us🙏🤍,” she wrote on Instagram on Tuesday.</p> <p>The mum-to-be rested one of her hands on top of the baby bump as she proudly smiled for the cameras. </p> <p>The actress was at the festival for the premiere of her new film <em>Kangaroo Island</em> on the event's closing night. </p> <p>Her husband commented on the post with a series of heart-eyed emojis. </p> <p>Breeds' co-stars and fellow actors were quick to congratulate the couple in the comments. </p> <p>“Congratulations Bec and Luke! Very exciting news,”<em> Home and Away </em>star Lynne McGranger said.</p> <p>“Ahhhhh amazing you guys! This is the best news!” former <em>Home and Away </em>actress Jessica McNamee added. </p> <p>“Congrats!!!!!” <em>A Perfect Pairing </em>actor Adam Demos said.</p> <p>The couple first met on the set of <em>Home and Away</em> in 2009 and quickly became a fan-favourite off-screen relationship.</p> <p>Breeds played Ruby Buckton on the soap between 2008 and 2012, while Mitchell played Romeo Smith between 2009 and 2013.</p> <p>The couple tied the knot in January 2013 and went to live and work in the US for years before returning to Australia. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram/ Seven</em></p>

Relationships

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Another Channel 7 star quits in AFL shake-up

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

TV

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Luke Davies' mother breaks silence

<p>In the wake of unimaginable tragedy, the loss of Luke Davies and Jesse Baird has left a void in the lives of their loved ones and communities. As <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/shocking-new-claims-on-alleged-double-murder" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the details of their untimely passing</a> continue to unfold, the outpouring of support and compassion from near and far serves as a beacon of hope amidst profound sorrow.</p> <p>Sandra Davies, mother to Luke, has now spoken publicly for the first time to express her gratitude amidst the overwhelming grief that has enveloped her family. In a poignant message shared on the GoFundMe page dedicated to preserving her son's memory, Sandra's words resonate with the profound depth of a mother's love and the enduring spirit of community.</p> <p>"Wow an unbelievable $75000.00 donated to our beloved, and most beautiful, kindest soul Luke," Sandra wrote. "It is with a grateful heart we thank you all sincerely although these words just don’t seem enough for the overwhelming love and generosity both Luke and Jesse have received these past few weeks.</p> <p>"To all the family, friends and strangers for your generous gifts and words of support we appreciate all of your help during this very traumatic and difficult time and will continue to keep you updated as we start to prepare for Luke’s final farewell." </p> <p>The remarkable sum of $75,000 raised thus far stands as a testament to the indelible impact Luke and Jesse have had on countless lives, their radiant spirits touching hearts far and wide. Luke's unwavering kindness, Jesse's vibrant presence – their absence reverberates through the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know them.</p> <p>As Sandra extends her heartfelt appreciation to each and every individual who has offered solace and support, her words serve as a reminder of the healing power found in the embrace of community.</p> <p><em>Images: GoFundMe</em></p>

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AFL to tribute for Jesse Baird and Luke Davies

<p>The AFL will honour Jesse Baird and Luke Davies with a tribute to the couple before Thursday night's opening game of the season at the Sydney Cricket Ground. </p> <p>AFL CEO Andrew Dillon announced that players from Sydney Swans and Melbourne Demons, as well as the umpires will gather at 7.27pm and wear black armbands in a mark of respect for the allegedly murdered couple. </p> <p>"A tribute pre-game to both Jesse and Luke tomorrow night is a small way for us all to reflect and remember two young men during what is a very difficult time for their families and friends," Dillon said.</p> <p>"The AFL acknowledge and respect both families who are experiencing untold grief and so are particularly grateful for their support of the tribute."</p> <p>The tribute will honour the memory of Davies, who was a lifelong Swans supporter and Baird, who was an AFL goal umpire and "a popular and respected member of our AFL umpiring family". </p> <p>"Jesse developed many close friendships his umpiring career and time at the AFL," the statement read.</p> <p>"He was such a vibrant, fun-loving person, who was deeply committed to umpiring."</p> <p>Baird made his debut on the AFL umpiring list in March 2020 and was named the AFL's most promising goal umpire when he won the umpiring association's Brian Pratt Medallion two years in a row.</p> <p>When he moved to Sydney in 2023, he continued his AFL umpiring career, which spanned 62 matches including two finals. </p> <p>The couple were <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-arrested-amid-search-for-missing-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">allegedly murdered</a> by serving police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon in Baird’s Paddington home on February 19.</p> <p>Their <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/update-on-search-for-bodies-of-murdered-couple" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bodies </a>were discovered in a rural NSW property on February 27, over a week after they were allegedly killed. </p> <p>The senior constable has since been charged two counts of murder and remains behind bars after being denied bail. </p> <p>Following their tragic deaths, tributes have flowed in from the couple's friends, family and <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sarah-harris-leads-tributes-to-jesse-baird" target="_blank" rel="noopener">colleagues </a>across the country.</p> <p><em>Images: AFLUA/ Facebook</em></p>

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Qantas unveils tribute to Luke Davies

<p>Qantas has unveiled how they will be honouring their slain colleague Luke Davies at the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. </p> <p>The bodies of Luke Davies and his boyfriend Jesse Baird were found buried in the NSW Southern Tablelands earlier this week, as police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon has been charged with two counts of murder over their deaths. </p> <p>Now, on the eve of the Mardi Gras parade that takes over Sydney's Oxford Street every year, Qantas has shared how they will honour Davies' life on the Flying Kangaroo float. </p> <p>Davies' name will be front and centre of the float, while Mardi Gras organiser Brandon Bear said this year’s festival would be a time for both celebration and mourning.</p> <p>“Mardi Gras is a multiplicity of things and we come together not just to celebrate, but also to spark conversation to make change and this year, there’ll be an element of us coming together to mourn,” he told <em>ABC News</em>. </p> <p>“We’re certainly working with the community (to recognise the couple) and we know our partners are working to use their parade float to talk to the lives and the memory of those young men.”</p> <p>The conversation around the death of Baird and Davies just before Mardi Gras has sparked a lot of debate, with Mardi Gras reaching an agreement with NSW Police saying they would be allowed to march in the parade, as long as they are not in uniform. </p> <p>A silent vigil is set to be held on Friday evening in the Sydney suburb of Darlinghurst to honour the lives of Luke and Jesse, with the public invited by their families to join them in mourning.</p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 25px; padding: 0px; line-height: 24px;"><em>Image credits: Facebook / Qantas </em></p>

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New CCTV footage released of accused double murderer

<p>Chilling CCTV footage of Beau Lamarre-Condon has emerged in the moments before and after he allegedly killed Jesse Baird and Luke Davies.</p> <p>The video, obtained by <em>9News,</em> allegedly shows the senior constable entering and leaving a sports shop and buying surfboard bags on two separate occasions. </p> <p>Baird and Davies' <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/update-on-search-for-bodies-of-murdered-couple" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bodies were found</a> near Bungonia on Tuesday, where police allege that surfboard bags were used to transport the bodies.</p> <p>In the CCTV footage, the senior constable walked into a Miranda sports store with a friend, two days before the alleged double murder, and then walked out with a surfboard bag. </p> <p>In a second clip, about three hours after the alleged murder, Lamarre-Condon was filmed walking into the same store by himself and walking out with another surf bag. </p> <p>Another video showed a man in a black cap arriving in a black SUV on the morning the couple were allegedly killed, and got out of his vehicle parked just 25m from Baird’s home. </p> <p>The man then drives off at 9am - around 50 minutes before the pair were allegedly killed. </p> <p>Lamarre-Condon allegedly returned to he house the next day in a rented van reportedly used to move the bodies. </p> <p>The CCTV footage emerge just one day after police alleged that the senior constable used his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/shocking-new-claims-on-alleged-double-murder" target="_blank" rel="noopener">police-issued gun at the couple</a>, and then replaced the bullets with ones stolen from a firing range. </p> <p>Lamarre-Condon handed himself into police last Friday and was later charged with two counts of murder.</p> <p>He is currently at Silverwater prison and is next due to face court on April 23.</p> <p><em>Images: 9NEWS</em></p>

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Shocking new claims on alleged double murder

<p>Shocking new claims about senior constable Beau Lamarre-Condon, who <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-arrested-amid-search-for-missing-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was accused of murdering</a> Sydney couple Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, have been made by police.</p> <p>The accusations were revealed by Ben Fordham on <em>2GB radio</em> on Thursday.</p> <p>Fordham revealed that police allege Constable Lamarre-Condon fired three shots at the Sydney couple from his police-issued gun.  </p> <p>The number of shots was reportedly confirmed by one of Baird’s neighbours, whose CCTV security cameras recording the sound of three shots being fired just after 9.30am on Monday, February 19 in Paddington. </p> <p>The neighbour reportedly reviewed their security cameras a few days after the alleged murders, when news of the couple's disappearance hit the media. </p> <p>Fordham added that police will further allege Constable Lamarre-Condon used bullets stolen from a firing range a fortnight before the killing to refill his gun, to not raise suspicious from his superiors when the gun was returned. </p> <p>Police have alleged that the  gun was taken from Miranda police station on Friday night and was stored Balmain police station the night after the alleged murders. </p> <p>The gun was then allegedly returned Miranda police station on Tuesday, fully loaded as if no shots were fired. </p> <p>Police Commissioner Karen Webb told <em>ABC’s 7.30 </em>on Wednesday night that officers could store a weapon overnight at a police station or inside an approved safe at home, but would need to gain permission to do so from their superiors. </p> <p>She did not comment on the claims surrounding  Constable Lamarre-Condon’s gun storage, as it would form a part of the investigation. </p> <p><em>Images: news.com.au</em></p>

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Luke Davies' final act of kindness for nervous flyer

<p>The colleagues of slain Qantas flight attendant Luke Davies have shared the 29-year-old's final act of kindness for an elderly couple travelling overseas. </p> <p>In one of the last flights before his untimely death, Davies was on a flight from Sydney to Singapore as an elderly woman boarded the plane with her dying husband who was dealing with dementia. </p> <p>The senior couple were travelling to Switzerland so the man could pay one final visit to his son before succumbing to his illness. </p> <p>The caring flight attendant spent the entire eight-and-a-half hour journey, including his break, with the man and his wife as they flew first-class. </p> <p>"The wife had told him [her husband] had severe dementia, and she was really saddened by it because she kept saying he was the most beautiful husband and kindest man, and she was losing him to this cruel disease," Qantas colleague Brooke Walters told the <em><a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/luke-davies-act-of-kindness-on-one-of-his-last-flights-20240227-p5f84n.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">Sydney Morning Herald</a></em>.</p> <p>"She was getting exhausted because every 30 seconds he was losing his memory, like a goldfish, and Luke took it upon himself to care for them constantly."</p> <p>Walters shared how her friend and colleague went above and beyond to care for the elderly man, recalling how he tucked the man into his bed, reassured him amid his confusion and consoled his wife, who was at times upset. </p> <p>"Luke had been told they booked the flight a year and a half ago, but the husband had deteriorated in the last three months really badly, so it was going to be their last trip to see their son, and Luke wanted it to be as comfortable as possible," she said.</p> <p>Ms Walters added that Mr Davies had a love of travelling and was a joy to be around.</p> <p>Luke and his partner Jesse Davies' <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/update-on-search-for-bodies-of-murdered-couple" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bodies were found</a> in southern New South Wales on Tuesday, after Constable Beaumont Lamarre-Condon turned himself in over the disappearance of the two men, and has since been <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-arrested-amid-search-for-missing-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">charged</a> with two counts of murder. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

International Travel

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Vigil held as families visit site where Jesse Baird and Luke Davies' bodies found

<p>In the wake of the devastating loss of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, allegedly murdered in a shocking incident that has reverberated more than 150km apart, communities are coming together to mourn, support and seek solace.</p> <p>The heart-wrenching discovery of the couple's bodies in the serene landscapes of the Southern Tablelands near Goulburn has sent shockwaves through both urban and rural areas. </p> <p>As news of the tragic discovery spread, family members embarked on a solemn journey south to the Bungonia property where <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/update-on-search-for-bodies-of-murdered-couple" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Baird and Davies were found</a>. Their pilgrimage was met with an outpouring of sympathy and solidarity from friends and community members alike. Meanwhile, in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, a sombre vigil took place, with dozens gathering at the Bronte Surf Life Saving Club to honour the memories of the beloved couple.</p> <p>The scene at the vigil was poignant yet comforting, with friends embracing one another against the backdrop of crashing waves and flickering candlelight. A portrait of Davies served as a focal point, surrounded by tokens of affection and remembrance.</p> <p>Meanwhile, in the NSW countryside, law enforcement officials worked diligently to unravel the mysteries surrounding the tragic deaths. The sight of police tape being lowered to allow family members to pass through symbolised both closure and the beginning of a long journey toward healing.</p> <p>For the NSW Police Force, the case hit particularly close to home. Deputy Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald spoke candidly about the profound impact of the alleged crime, emphasising the shock and horror felt within the law enforcement community.</p> <p>"It has hurt us because it was one of our own," Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald remarked. "It was an officer who used a police weapon. It's captured the world's attention, not just Australia's. It's horrendous and horrific."</p> <p>Indeed, the tragedy has sparked a broader conversation about the prevalence of violence and the need for greater support for victims and their families. As communities grapple with grief and loss, there is a renewed commitment to standing together in solidarity and offering support to those in need.</p> <p>While the discovery of Baird and Davies' bodies brings a heartbreaking confirmation of their deaths, it also serves as a catalyst for healing and closure. In the days and weeks ahead, friends, family and communities will continue to come together to honour their memories and seek justice for the lives lost too soon.</p> <p><em>Images: 9News</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Update on search for bodies of murdered couple

<p>The search for the bodies of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, a Sydney couple tragically slain in an alleged double murder, continues to unfold, as human remains have now reportedly been found near the Bungonia property that was originally searched by police on Monday.</p> <p>NSW Police had been tirelessly scouring a property in Grays Point and the vast nearby Royal National Park, a locale now inexorably linked to the grim events of February 19.</p> <p>At the centre of the drama stands Beaumont Lamarre-Condon, the 28-year-old former NSW police officer who now finds himself behind bars, charged with the murder of Jesse Baird, a 26-year-old former Ten reporter, and his partner Luke Davies, aged 29. The alleged timeline of events paints a picture of horror, with the couple believed to have met their demise sometime between midnight and 5pm on Monday.</p> <p>The Grays Point property that was under intense scrutiny is Lamarre-Condon’s family home<span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">. As investigators dig deeper into the case, attention was also been drawn to a Bungonia property in the Southern Tablelands, where Lamarre-Condon and an acquaintance embarked on a cryptic journey just days after the alleged murders. Police shifted their search efforts from </span>Bungonia to the Grays Point property on Tuesday morning in hopes of discovering the missing bodies, until officers announced on Tuesday afternoon that human remains had been discovered near the original search site in Bungonia.</p> <p>In a public address to the media on Tuesday afternoon, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said, <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"We believe we have located two bodies at that location. </span>The families have been informed. And crime scene detectives have just arrived on scene at that location now."</p> <p>Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty also revealed that Homicide Squad detectives went to Silverwater prison to speak with Lamarre-Condon at about 11am on Tuesday, and that "as a result of that, he provided assistance to the investigation and [was] able to provide a location of where Luke and Jesse were."</p> <p>Police then went to a second location at Bungonia, about 20 minutes from the original search location, and found the bodies. "There were two surf bags that have been found. And some debris and other items of interest of significance."</p> <p>Doherty also said police phoned the families immediately after the bodies were found. "It's probably mixed emotions for them. You can understand how they may have felt. But at least they have an answer and they want to travel down to the Goulburn area, and we'll provide as much support as we can and accommodate them."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram / NSW Police</em></p>

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Beloved Star Trek and Marvel star passes away at age 49

<p>The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a talented actor and beloved individual, Kenneth Mitchell, who passed away at the age of 49 after bravely battling ALS for five years.</p> <p>Mitchell, recognised for his roles in notable productions such as <em>Star Trek: Discovery</em> and <em>Captain Marvel</em>, leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the screen.</p> <p>In a heartfelt statement shared through X and Instagram, Mitchell's family announced his passing, remembering him as a cherished father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend.</p> <p>“With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend,” his family wrote. “Ken was widely known as an actor in many films and television shows. He’s portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero’s dad, and four unique Star Trekkers.</p> <p>“For five and a half years Ken faced a series of awful challenges from ALS. And in truest Ken fashion, he managed to rise above each one with grace and commitment to living a full and joyous life in each moment.</p> <p>“He lived by the principles that each day is a gift and that we never walk alone. His life is a shining example of how full one can be when you live with love, compassion, humour, inclusion, and community.” </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/C3wkUg9tOmj/?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/C3wkUg9tOmj/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kenneth Mitchell (@mr_kenneth_mitchell)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Mitchell's journey with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, began in 2018 when he received the diagnosis. Despite the challenges it presented, he faced his condition with courage and resilience. By 2019, Mitchell had transitioned to using a wheelchair, and in 2020, he chose to share his health struggles publicly, shedding light on the realities of living with ALS.</p> <p>In an interview he gave during that time, Mitchell expressed the profound impact of his diagnosis on both himself and his wife, emphasising the strength they found in facing adversity together. He spoke of the initial shock and uncertainty surrounding his condition, highlighting the process of grieving and adjusting to a new reality marked by unknown challenges.</p> <p>For fans of <em>Star Trek</em>, Mitchell's portrayal of Klingon characters Kol, Kol-Sha, Tenavik, and Aurellio in <em>Star Trek: Discovery</em> resonated deeply, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor. Additionally, his voice acting contributions to <em>Star Trek: Lower Decks</em> further solidified his place within the cherished franchise.</p> <p>The outpouring of tributes from the Star Trek community, as well as from his colleagues and fans worldwide, speaks volumes about Mitchell's impact both on and off the screen. A statement from StarTrek.com conveys condolences to Mitchell's family, friends, and loved ones, underscoring the profound loss felt by all who were touched by his work.</p> <p>Mitchell is survived by his wife Susan May Pratt and their two children, and has requested any gifts be directed towards ALS research or in support of his children.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Sarah Harris leads tributes to Jesse Baird

<p>Sarah Harris has shared an emotional tribute to her former <em>Studio 10</em> colleague Jesse Baird, just days after he and his partner were killed. </p> <p>Jesse, 26, and his boyfriend Luke Davies, 29, are believed to have been <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-arrested-amid-search-for-missing-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">killed</a> by Jesse's ex-boyfriend, NSW police officer Constable Beau Lamarre, as investigators continue their frantic search for the bodies of the two men. </p> <p>On Sunday night's episode of <em>The Project</em>, Harris shared a teary tribute to Jesse, while sending her love to Luke's family and telling viewers it had been a “really hard week” for a lot of staff at the network.</p> <p>“It is hard to talk about Jesse in the past tense because he was more than just a colleague, he was our friend … a little brother,” she told viewers through tears.</p> <p>She described Baird as an “absolute star” who was “quick on his feet whether it was water skiing or feeding a croc” live on air.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3w2wS3vk4p/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3w2wS3vk4p/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Project (@theprojecttv)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“One of those kids who had a big smile, big talent and even bigger heart,” she said.</p> <p>She said Baird had a brand new job lined up after <em>Studio 10</em> fell through and had described Davies, whom he had been dating since January, to his friends as “the one”.</p> <p>“Jesse’s family needs to know he spoke about them often and with so much love.”</p> <p>Harris concluded by saying, “We are all so sorry.”</p> <p>Sarah's tribute comes after Baird's family broke their silence on the tragedy, with Jesse's cousin Austin sharing a moving tribute on social media. </p> <p>Austin posted a photo with Jesse to Instagram, sharing that the two men had been best friends their whole lives. </p> <p>“Most of my favourite memories in life were me, Luke, Brendan and you riding motorbikes, skiing, boating and camping,” he said.</p> <p>“I’ll never forget our chats, all the times we would hang out on the weekends and go away with family and friends. I told you things I’d never tell anyone. I trusted you, I’ve laughed and cried in front of you!”</p> <p>Austin said he was beyond devastated about Jesse’s death and called him a “one a million” person.</p> <p>“You cared about everyone and left such an impact on every person you met!” he said in the post.</p> <p>“I’ll love and remember you forever mate. It is an honour to be your cousin. Till we meet again.”</p> <p>Police officers are continuing to investigate the deaths of the two men, after their clothes and personal items were found in a skip bin near Baird's home in Paddington, where police established a crime scene after finding blood. </p> <p>Constable Beau Lamarre turned himself in on Friday afternoon, and has since been charged with two counts of murder. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

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Police officer arrested amid search for missing men

<p>A police officer has turned himself in over the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-sought-in-connection-to-disappearance-of-two-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suspicious disappearance</a> of two men. </p> <p>Former Network Ten presenter 26-year-old Jesse Baird and his boyfriend 29-year-old Luke Davies were last seen on Monday, with police launching an extensive investigation into their disappearance. </p> <p>On Thursday, officers called for Constable Beau Lamarre to come forward as part of the investigation, believing he could hold valuable information. </p> <p>Now, on Friday morning, the celebrity blogger turned police officer presented at Bondi Police Station where he was arrested. </p> <p>The man was then taken to Waverley Police Station where he is assisting with inquiries, police said.</p> <p>During a press conference on Friday afternoon, a lead investigator confirmed the young officer has been charged with two counts of murder, while adding the families of the young men have been told the investigation is being treated as a homicide. </p> <p>Lamarre is an ex-partner of Baird and was a former celebrity blogger before joining NSW Police in 2020.</p> <p><span style="font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Arial, sans-serif;">Online the 28-year-old would often go by the pseudonym Beau London, creating accounts on social media and a celebrity blog page titled That's The Tea, where he posted selfies alongside celebrities such as </span><span style="font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Harry Styles and Taylor Swift.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">An investigation began into Baird and Davies' disappearance after number of their personal items, including a watch, clothes, credit cards and keys were found by a worker in Club Cronulla, with blood stains present on the items. </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Police have also searched two homes during their investigation - one in Balmain and one in Paddington - with officers "immediately" establishing a crime scene at the Paddington home after finding blood spatters. </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">According to officers, a “significant” amount of blood consistent with a fatality and signs of a struggle were discovered inside Mr Baird’s Paddington home on Thursday afternoon. </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><em>Image credits: 9News / Instagram </em></p>

Legal

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"What a life I’ve had": Author announces own death after years of battling dementia

<p>Wendy Mitchell has died aged 68 after documenting her brave battle with dementia. </p> <p>The author from Walkington, East Yorkshire, became the best-selling writer after she was diagnosed with early onset vascular dementia and Alzheimer's in July 2014. </p> <p>She shared her philosophical outlook on living with the condition in her acclaimed 2018 memoir <em>Somebody I Used To Know </em>and in her 2022 book <em>What I Wish I Knew About Dementia</em>.</p> <p>In an <a href="https://whichmeamitoday.wordpress.com/2024/02/22/my-final-hug-in-a-mug/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">open letter</a> shared online, the author announced her death and revealed that she had refused to eat or drink towards the end of her battle. </p> <p>"If you’re reading this, it means this has probably been posted by my daughters as I’ve sadly died," she began. </p> <p>"Sorry to break the news to you this way, but if I hadn’t, my inbox would eventually have been full of emails asking if I’m OK, which would have been hard for my daughters to answer… </p> <p>"In the end I died simply by deciding not to eat or drink any more," she wrote. </p> <p>She added that the last cup of tea she had, her "final hug in a mug" was "the hardest thing to let go of". </p> <p>"Dementia is a cruel disease that plays tricks on your very existence. I’ve always been a glass half full person, trying to turn the negatives of life around and creating positives, because that’s how I cope." </p> <p>Mitchell said that the language used by doctors can "make or break" how someone copes with dementia, and instead of saying there's "nothing they can do" it is better to tell them they will have to "adapt to a new way of living". </p> <p>"Well I suppose dementia was the ultimate challenge. Yes, dementia is a bummer, but oh what a life I’ve had playing games with this adversary of mine to try and stay one step ahead," she wrote in her final blog post. </p> <p>She also said that she had always been resilient, which has helped her cope with whatever life throws in her way. </p> <p>Mitchell has been an advocate for assisted dying in the UK, and said that "the only legal choice we shouldn’t have in life is when to be born; for everything else, we, as humans, should have a choice; a choice of how we live and a choice of how we die." </p> <p>She added that the way she died was an active choice as she doesn't want "to be an inpatient in a hospital, or a resident in a Care Home," as "it’s just not the place I want to end my years."</p> <p>"My girls have always been the two most important people in my life. I didn’t take this decision lightly, without countless conversations. They were the hardest conversations I’ve ever had to put them through. </p> <p>"This was all MY CHOICE, my decision. So please respect my daughters' privacy, as they didn’t choose the life I chose, of standing up to and speaking out against dementia." </p> <p>She then thanked everyone for their support and left with a touching final message. </p> <p>"So, enjoy this knowing that dementia didn’t play the winning card – I did."</p> <p><em>Images: Daily Mail</em></p>

Caring

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"The time's right": Neil Mitchell signs off

<p>After 34 years on the air, 3AW radio veteran Neil Mitchell is signing off. </p> <p>Neil Mitchell has been a staple of Australian radio for decades, growing a reputation for being fair, decent, honest and sometimes "a bit grumpy".</p> <p><em>A Current Affair</em>'s Ally Langdon joined the 3AW veteran to reflect on a stellar career that earned him a legion of loyal listeners.</p> <p>"I've always wanted to be a journalist from about age 14," he told Langdon.</p> <p>"But not for a moment did I think that I would end up doing something such as I have, editing a newspaper and doing this."</p> <p>His passion as a radio presenter lies in the "real people" who call in each morning, saying, "You can go from a person laughing and telling you jokes and carrying on to great stories."</p> <p>"And then a couple of calls later there's somebody in tears that you need to help. It is real people."</p> <p>"I regularly shed tears on air ... And if we can make a difference, I shed tears again because we've had success."</p> <p>Over his decades on air, Mitchell clashed with many Aussie politicians, sharing how he took it upon himself to be a spokesperson for everyday Australians. </p> <p>"They've established a system where they don't have to be accountable," he said.</p> <p>"And [if] anybody attempts to make them accountable ... they resented it. Accountability is disappearing I'm afraid."</p> <p>While he is stepping back from his flagship show, he has assured listeners he isn't signing off forever. </p> <p>"I'll still be here. I'll be doing podcasts and all sorts of things. I'm really looking forward to it. It's going to be an interesting change."</p> <p>"I'm going to miss it, stepping away. But the time's right."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine </em></p>

Music

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Radio veteran steps down after 34 years on the air

<p>Radio veteran Neil Mitchell has announced he will be stepping back from hosting his 3AW Mornings show after 34 years on the air.</p> <p>Mitchell shared the news to his dedicated listeners on Friday morning in an emotional statement. </p> <p>“Apart from my family, radio has been my life and my love. I will miss enormously the energy, excitement, and occasional whack that the audience dishes out to me daily,” he said. </p> <p>“But it is time, after 34 years of 4am starts, peddling flat out is getting a little hard.”</p> <p>In his statement, Mitchell said he will stay on with 3AW and Nine in a new role, including hosting his successful new podcast, Neil Mitchell Asks Why. </p> <p>“I will still appear on 3AW as an analyst, will do a weekly podcast, and hope to continue writing and TV work as well,” he continued. </p> <p>“And, don’t celebrate yet Daniel Andrews, I am here until December. Thanks to all for the superb support over the years."</p> <p>In a follow-up statement, Mitchell assured listeners he will stay true to himself and his beliefs in his new roles. </p> <p>“I have been acutely conscious of that privilege of the microphone every day I have been on air for over 36 years,” he wrote. </p> <p>“It is a tough decision to step away from the daily program. It is the best job I have ever had. But I promise I will continue my philosophy and attitude through this new role. It is one I have crafted carefully with the approval of 3AW and Nine management because I want to continue to have an impact and continue to work for the audience as the media landscape changes.”</p> <p>Mitchell has been a key player at 3AW since beginning his radio career with the station in 1987, where he started working part-time on weekends and as a morning fill-in host for former broadcaster Derryn Hinch.</p> <p>From there, he got his big break hosting the Drive show before moving to the Mornings slot, where he has been ever since. </p> <p>Mitchell has won several awards during his time as a radio journalist, while also devoting his time to helping those less fortunate, and helping to raise over $10 million for charities and causes close to his heart. </p> <p>Tom Malone, Managing Director of Nine Radio, thanked Mitchell for his service in his career.</p> <p>“Thirty four years hosting Mornings on 3AW is a record that’s likely never to be beaten. Neil has been at the top of his game and the top of ratings for nearly all of that time. It’s an incredible run. We’d have loved him to stay on, but Neil is adamant it’s time.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: 3AW</em></p>

News

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Home and Away star’s heartwarming news

<p dir="ltr">Luke Jacobz and Raychel Stuart have announced that they are expecting their first child just one week after their stunning <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/finally-married-home-and-away-star-s-beautiful-outdoor-wedding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">outdoor wedding</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Luke, who is known for his role as Angelo Rosetta on <em>Home and Away</em>, took to Instagram to share the surprise announcement on Tuesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">“2023 has been quite the year!” he began the caption, with a picture of him proudly holding his pregnant wife’s belly on one side, and their dog licking her belly on the other.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Wedding in June and a baby in November! We already have so much love in our home and can’t wait to welcome our bundle of joy” he added.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m so in awe of my incredible wife! She’s doing such a great job!”</p> <p dir="ltr">After announcing the news, Luke appeared on The Morning Show and shared that he and Raychel have been trying to grow their family for a while.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Raychel and I are having a baby! We are so so excited, we’ve been trying for quite a while so the news happened after we planned the wedding,” he said in the interview.</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/CuiNtfbvV1J/?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/CuiNtfbvV1J/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Luke Jacobz (@lukejacobz)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“We said, ‘We’re not going to reschedule the wedding just because Raychel is pregnant,’ so anyway we’re thrilled.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He also added that the beautiful dress Raychel wore to their wedding was not her original choice, as the couple had to improvise with her growing baby bump.</p> <p dir="ltr">She had to get another dress for the wedding but she looked amazing,” he said and reiterated that they are expecting in November.</p> <p dir="ltr">Friends and fans took to the comments to congratulate the couple.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Such beautiful news. Congratulations,” wrote TV presenter Johanna Griggs.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So happy for you both! And love you shared the news with us too❤️” wrote Kylie Gillies.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Wonderful news mate! Congratulations 👏🏼” wrote Sam Mac.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Captured the lick of the belly at the perfect time! So happy for you both ❤️” wrote one fan.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So excited for you both!!! Big love from us” commented another.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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"Forever cherish the memories": Hunter Valley groom speaks

<p>Mitchell Gaffney, the groom who lost 10 friends in the Hunter Valley bus crash incident, has spoken out for the first time. </p> <p>The newlywed spoke at his friend Zachary Bray’s funeral in Sydney, three weeks after the devastating collision.</p> <p>The 29-year-old was remembered as a loveable larrikin and an adored brother and son, who had survived a battle with bowel cancer and was dedicated to raising awareness to the disease. </p> <p>Gaffney and Bray met playing football and became friends off the field.</p> <p>“Although you’ll never get the chance to put the jumper on again, you’ll always be there by our side,” Gaffney said.</p> <p>Bray was known as Labrador or Lab to his footy mates, with the affectionate nickname speaking to his gentle character. </p> <p>“They’re pretty smart dogs,” Gaffney said.</p> <p>“They’re extremely loveable but no matter what they do, they do it with that big goofy smile."</p> <p>“That was the first impression he made and it still holds true.”</p> <p>Gaffney said Bray was the ultimate team player, who “had the ability to make everyone feel included”.</p> <p>“We will forever cherish the memories that we are lucky enough to hold together.”</p> <p>Bray’s family and friends including his girlfriend Georgie Copeland, came together to honour Bray in the emotional ceremony. </p> <p>“My heart hurts,” Copeland said. “I can’t deny it.”</p> <p>“But I know that it hurts deeply because it was deeply real.”</p> <p>Bray’s mother Jacqui Varasdi also spoke at the funeral, and said being his mother was her “greatest achievement”.</p> <div> <p>“And to see you here, laying in this box, just doesn’t make any sense.”</p> <p>Many of the guests will gather again next week to honour the lives of Nadene and Kyah McBride, who were also killed in the Hunter Valley bus crash. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News</em></p> </div>

Caring

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“Finally Married”: Home and Away star’s beautiful outdoor wedding

<p dir="ltr">Luke Jacobz and Raychel Stuart have officially tied the knot in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Sydney's Centennial Park.</p> <p dir="ltr">The former <em>Home and Away </em>star and his American fiancée looked smitten as they said their vows under a canopy of trees in their intimate wedding surrounded by family and friends.</p> <p dir="ltr">Raychel was escorted down the aisle 40 minutes early by her new mother-in-law's partner, John.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was truly an unforgettable moment,” Raychel giddily told <em>New Idea</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The whole setting was just so magical,” she gushed.</p> <p dir="ltr">The newlyweds had both lost their fathers and Raychel’s brothers were unable to attend the event because they couldn’t travel from Los Angeles.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, the couple sweetly designated two spots on the table for their fathers, with their pictures propped up, as a way of celebrating the memorable event with them.</p> <p dir="ltr">When Luke first spotted his bride walking down the aisle he couldn’t help but burst into tears, and the beautiful moment has now been captured eternally in one of the photos.</p> <p dir="ltr">Raychel walked down the aisle in a stunning bodycon wedding dress with a thigh high slit that she jazzed up with her own arrangement of native blooms.</p> <p dir="ltr">She completed the look with a flowing veil and a pair of white strappy heels.</p> <p dir="ltr">Luke looked as dashing as he did when he played Angelo Rosetta in <em>Home and Away</em> but has matured into his features as he donned a custom suit with a bow tie.</p> <p dir="ltr">He clearly couldn’t hold back his excitement as he happily punched the air after saying “I do” and later on posted the happy news on his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CuRQJbvPyLy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So our day finally happened. 499 days apart, 3rd attempt and we are finally MARRIED.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I am so proud to be married to my best friend. We have been through so much and now we can enjoy the rest of our lives as Husband and Wife!” he added.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following their magical ceremony, the couple posed for photos with their brand new marriage certificate before heading to the reception.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their wedding comes after they were forced to delay their nuptials twice during the pandemic, but the lovebirds have finally managed to turn their “lifelong dream”, into reality.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram / Candid Chaser Photography</em></p>

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Former X-Factor star charged with murder of baby

<p dir="ltr">Mitchell David Callaway, a former <em>X-Factor </em>contestant who appeared alongside Johnny Ruffo in the show’s 2011 season, has been charged with murder for the death of a nine-month-old girl in 2018.</p> <p dir="ltr">Emergency services had been called out over reports of an unresponsive baby girl in the Central West, and despite the best efforts of medical professionals and transport to Coonabarabran Hospital, she passed away. </p> <p dir="ltr">Callaway was arrested on June 8 - five years after her death - at a house in Bowraville, New South Wales. That same day, the 37-year-old faced Macksville Local Court, and was refused bail with instruction to attend court again the following week. </p> <p dir="ltr">The arrest was the culmination of a five year investigation under Strike Force King, after police officials received new information and executed a crime scene warrant at another property - actions which eventually led them to Callaway’s door. </p> <p dir="ltr">And now, the young girl’s mother has spoken out on social media about his arrest, and the devastating loss of her baby. </p> <p dir="ltr">“After almost five years to the day, an arrest has finally been made,” she wrote. “All the years of pain, suffering and grief and following my mother’s intuition.</p> <p dir="ltr">She spoke of how there was still a “long road ahead” in getting justice for her daughter, with court proceedings still to occur, but that it was good to see “the beginning of justice” in the wake of her heartbreak.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She has been the reason I have continued to fight, live and have made it this far,” she added. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Not a day goes by that I do not miss you and wish you were here.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This doesn’t bring you back but it does bring you some peace and the justice you deserve. Forever my little girl. Mummy loves you, xx”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Additional online tributes - from the time of her passing - described her as a “precious daughter”, and someone who was also an “adored and loved great-granddaughter, granddaughter, niece, and cousin”.</p> <p dir="ltr">A funeral was held for the girl, where more heartfelt words were shared, and her loved ones came together in a flurry of bright colour to “celebrate the first birthday she never got to have.” </p> <p dir="ltr">“She was the definition of perfect,” an obituary for her declared. “She was the happiest, smiliest, cheekiest baby who melted the hearts of everyone that met her.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: NSW Police</em></p>

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