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"Game changer": Aussie women welcome new early-detection cancer test

<p>Australian women will soon have access to a revolutionary blood test designed to aid in the early detection of breast cancer. The innovative test, known as BREASTEST plus™, was developed by BCAL Diagnostics and is set to complement traditional breast cancer screening methods such as mammograms and ultrasounds.</p> <p>BCAL Diagnostics chair Jayne Shaw <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/public-health/australian-first-blood-test-to-help-early-detection-of-breast-cancer-comes-to-sydney-before-nationwide-rollout-c-18153750" target="_blank" rel="noopener">revealed to 7NEWS</a> that the development of the test had taken 15 years, describing it as a "game changer" for women worldwide.</p> <p>“The breast test is a game changer for all women everywhere because it’s a blood test to detect breast cancer alongside other diagnostic tools like ultrasound and a mammogram,” Shaw said.</p> <p>She pointed out that a similar blood test for prostate cancer, which has been available since 1989, has significantly improved clinical outcomes for men. “Early diagnosis for all cancers will lead to improved survivability rates, and it was only inevitable that a blood test would be developed to diagnose breast cancer earlier,” she added.</p> <p>One of the major advantages of the new blood test is its ability to detect breast cancer in women with high breast density. Around 40-50% of Australian women undergoing screening have high breast density, which can obscure abnormalities on mammograms and make diagnosis more difficult.</p> <p>With the ability to identify breast cancer markers, the blood test will provide a valuable additional tool for detecting cancers that might otherwise go unnoticed.</p> <p>Breast Cancer Network Australia director Vicki Durston welcomed the new test, especially for its potential to improve the reporting of high breast density cases, where cancers are often missed. “Breast Cancer Network Australia has long been calling for the uplift in the breast density statement nationally to see standardised reporting across the country,” Durston said.</p> <p>She also noted that while high breast density is just one of many risk factors, the new test represents an innovative step forward in improving early detection and treatment.</p> <p>Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian women, accounting for approximately 28% of all new cancer cases. In 2024 alone, around 21,194 people were diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia, including 20,973 women and 221 men. However, survival rates have improved dramatically, with Australia’s peak breast cancer body reporting that the five-year survival rate has risen from 78% in 1994 to 92% in 2020, with many people living long and healthy lives beyond this period.</p> <p>While the test currently comes at an out-of-pocket cost, there is hope that the Australian government will eventually provide subsidies under Medicare to make it more accessible. The first tests will be available at the <a href="https://www.sydneybreastclinic.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney Breast Clinic</a> starting Thursday, followed by a rollout in Melbourne, with plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year.</p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock / 7NEWS</em></p>

Body

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Ozempic shown to reduce alcohol intake in world-first trial

<p>A world-first study has shown that Ozempic can reduce drinking among those with alcohol-use disorder (AUD). </p> <p>A small clinical trial, published in <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789?utm_campaign=articlePDF%26utm_medium=articlePDFlink%26utm_source=articlePDF%26utm_content=jamapsychiatry.2024.4789">JAMA Psychiatry</a>, studied 48 people with signs of moderate alcohol-use disorder and found that those taking semaglutide – the generic name of Ozempic – for nine weeks saw significantly reductions in how much alcohol they drank, as well as cravings for alcohol, compared with people on a placebo.</p> <p>The findings underscore many real-world claims of those taking these medicines have already hinted at: Ozempic and similar drugs, already incredibly popular, could help reduce risks of over-consuming alcohol, if the results bear out in larger and longer trials.</p> <p>Christian Hendershot, director of clinical research at the University of Southern California Institute for Addiction Science and the lead author of the study, said, "We hoped to see a reduction in drinking and craving."</p> <p>"What I didn't expect was the magnitude of the effects looks fairly good … compared to other alcohol-use disorder medications."</p> <p>The drug works in both the gut and the brain, which may be the way they could help with alcohol-use disorder, said Lorenzo Leggio, a physician-scientist at the US National Institutes of Health who wasn't involved in this study.</p> <p>"More research is needed to understand the mechanism(s) of action of these medications in AUD," Leggio, who's published research on semaglutide's ability to reduce alcohol drinking in animals, wrote to <em><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/12/health/ozempic-alcohol-use-disorder-trial/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CNN</a></em>.</p> <p>"Nonetheless, the work done now suggests that mechanisms may include their effect in reducing alcohol craving and in reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol."</p> <p>Whether Ozempic and other similar drugs present a new way of treating AUD will depend on larger trials in patients more heavily afflicted by the disorder, experts said, and potentially whether research can yield a better understanding of how the medicines work to reduce drinking.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Body

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200 unexploded WWII bombs found underneath playground

<p>Almost 200 unexploded bombs dating back to World War II have been unearthed from beneath a children's playground in the north of England. </p> <p>The discovery was made in Scotts Play Park in Wooler, Northumberland, with 176 bombs recovered and fears that more could be discovered. </p> <p>The first of the devices, which still contain a charge, were found in January and was followed by much larger finds in the following weeks.</p> <p>It is believed the area was used as a Home Guard training ground during the war, and the explosives were buried at the end of Second World War in 1945.</p> <p>After two bombs were recovered by the British Army, the local parish council was then advised that a full survey of the area was required. </p> <p>“I never thought as a parish councillor I’d be dealing with bomb disposal,” Conservative councillor Mark Mather said, as reported by the <a title="www.bbc.com" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy0821yqr4wo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>BBC</em>.</a></p> <p>“It’s quite something to think the children have been playing on bombs and it’s been a really challenging situation.</p> <p>“We’ve only cleared about a third of all the park and we could still find another pit with more bombs in.”</p> <p>The bombs were first discovered in January after the parish council received a grant to build a fully inclusive playground to be added to the existing area.</p> <p>While digging foundations at the site on January 14th, the first bomb was found, with another 150 explosives being found in the following two days. </p> <p>Experts from the local Barracks confirmed the first device was a training bomb and the UK’s Ministry of Defence said a full site survey was needed.</p> <p>“They are called practice bombs so they’re not live,” Mather said.</p> <p>“But they do still carry a charge and were found with the fuse and contents intact so they could be hazardous."</p> <p>“The story we’re getting from locals is that Wooler was a centre for Home Guard training and officers came here from all over the country. After the war it looked like they just buried all the ordnance in one of the pits.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Wooler Parish Council</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Bakery offering free food if you beat the boss at a simple game

<p dir="ltr">After struggling with dwindling customer numbers during the pandemic, a small bakery in Melbourne has come up with a unique way to drum up more business. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Pie Place in Coburg, north of Melbourne, is offering a free pie to any customer who can defeat the owner, Justin Talbot, in a simple game of Rock, Paper, Scissors.</p> <p dir="ltr">Justin admitted to <em><a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/today/free-pies-melbourne-baker-unique-offer-for-customers-who-beat-him-at-rock-paper-scissors/483a1355-d491-4b77-a1b0-50b0c72fe503">Today</a></em> that while the idea is unconventional, he said that when free food is involved, “you can’t go wrong”. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I was at home having a few beers and I thought, how can I drum up more business?" he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"So I thought, why not have a bit of fun with my customers? We've been here for 40 years this month. I've been here for 10 years and I love being here, I love interacting with my customers, having a yarn with them, having a joke with them - it's pretty much my favourite part of work.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"Rock Paper Scissors is something out of the ordinary, everyone knows how to play, it's fun and if you win, you get a free pie."</p> <p dir="ltr">The initiative has gone down a treat with locals, with many claiming the shop has the “best pies” and are willing to risk their hand for a freebie. </p> <p dir="ltr">As Justin’s game gets more and more popular, he said he is willing to fork out whatever it costs to give out the free pies in order to connect with the community. </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1TKgHxU0m8E?si=Rs9-G3TCQhQako8o" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Today </em></p>

Food & Wine

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Guy Pearce's secret split with Game of Thrones star

<p>Aussie actor Guy Pearce and Carice van Houten, the mother of his son, have split.</p> <p>The <em>Game of Thrones </em>actress took to Instagram to confirm their split, and that the pair have remained close as they co-parent. </p> <p>“I don’t usually engage in discussions about my personal life, but because of a number of conclusions in the media last week regarding my relationship with Guy, I wanted to make something clear,” she shared on her Instagram story alongside a photo of the pair. </p> <p>“He and I are great friends and love each other very much, but we haven’t been a ‘couple’ for years.</p> <p>“I am, however, very proud to say we are in a wonderful partnership raising the true love of our lives - our beautiful son. And his hamster. The end.”</p> <p>Rumours of their split first began last month, when Pearce revealed during an interview that his first wife Kate Mestitz was the "greatest love of my life" but now that love is for his son.</p> <p>"My ex-wife, Kate, was the greatest love of my life, but I’ve moved on from her now and the greatest love of my life is my child, Monte," he told <em>The Guardian</em>. </p> <p>Pearce and van Houten first started dating in 2015, just months after the actor split from his ex-wife Mestitz. </p> <p>A year later, Pearce and van Houten went on to have a child together named Monte. </p> <p><em>Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

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Top 10 must-do activities around the world in 2025

<p>Global travel brand <em>Time Out</em> has revealed their annual list of the best activities around the world. </p> <p>From a canoe trip in Australia to wildlife encounters in Singapore, here are the top 10 must-do activities and experiences around the world. </p> <p><strong>10. Take a micro cruise through the Arctic. </strong></p> <p>This year, Micro-cruise specialist Secret Atlas will be taking 12 passengers at a time through the Arctic, for a more "intimate, once-in-a-lifetime, eco-conscious trip". </p> <p>The cruise will take guests on a wildlife-spotting journey through Svalbard's lesser-known northern reaches, while the other cruise will sail past the icebergs in Northeast Greenland, including a visit to one of the most remote towns on earth. </p> <p>These trips, however, aren't cheap with prices starting at £15,500 (around AUD $30,500) for two weeks.</p> <p><strong>9. Explore the cross-border towns of Gorizia, Italy, and Nova Gorica, Slovenia</strong></p> <p>These three towns make up 2025's European Capital of Culture, with over 400 events to be held throughout the year, including a piano performance on a 200m-high bridge, as well as a food and wine event called Tastes Without Borders.</p> <p><strong>8. Go on a wildlife-spotting adventure in Singapore's new Rainforest Park </strong></p> <p>The Mandai Wildlife Reserve is opening its fifth zoological park, Rainforest Wild Asia, this year, with 10 different zones, as well as 29 different species of animals, perfect for a family outing. </p> <p><strong>7. Discover Vietnam by a vintage steam train</strong></p> <p>Time Out explained that two of the "beautifully restored vintage trains" date all the way back to the 60s, and will take passengers between "the central city of Da Nang and the former royal capital of Hue."</p> <p><strong>6. Visit the Musée Granet celebrating the father of post-impressionism</strong></p> <p>Aix-en-Provence in France is celebrating the life of post-impressionist painter Paul Cezanne in his hometown, with the exhibition displaying almost 100 of Cèzanne’s works, as well as tours around the artist’s childhood home, former estate and art studio. </p> <p><strong>5. Visit the long-awaited Harlem's Studio Museum, New York</strong></p> <p>The Studio Museum in Harlem, New York, was first opened 56 years ago, with an archive of almost 9,000 pieces from all kinds of creators. It was closed for construction almost seven years ago and will finally re-open in autumn. </p> <p><strong>4. Fly directly to Greenland </strong></p> <p>The grand opening of their brand-new international airport will make this stunning location <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">more accessible</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> for travellers wanting to view the Northern Lights and all of the territory's natural wonders. </span></p> <p><strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">3. Visit the world's first museum telling stories of migration though art</span></strong></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The Fenix museum in </span>Katendrecht, Rotterdam will open on May 16 and is the first museum telling stories of migration through art. </p> <p><strong>2. Walk, ride or cycle along Murray River, Australia</strong></p> <p>"The Murray River is the crowning jewel of Australia’s Echuca region," said <em>Time Out’s</em> Saffron Swire. </p> <p>With the opening of a new multisport adventure trail this year, cyclists, hikers and paddlers alike will get to enjoy the river in a new way. </p> <p><strong>1. Join a once-every-quarter-century spiritual celebration in Rome, Italy</strong></p> <p>Italy's capital will celebrate its spiritual Jubilee this year, a Catholic festivity that's held every 25 years, with Italy expert Rebecca Ann Hughes recommending the Seven Churches Pilgrimage, "which began in the 16th century and involves a 25km walk through the city and countryside between the major basilicas." </p> <p>Check out the full list <a href="http://www.timeout.com/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

International Travel

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The most turbulent flights in the world revealed

<p dir="ltr">While many travellers have experienced a bumpy ride while on a plane, there are some routes that are rougher than others. </p> <p dir="ltr">Thanks to <a href="https://turbli.com/historical-data/most-turbulent-flight-routes-of-2024/">Turbli research</a>, the most turbulent flight routes in the world for 2025 have been announced for worried flyers to avoid when booking their holidays. </p> <p dir="ltr">All destinations are situated in just two continents and four countries, and all involve flying over high altitudes.</p> <p dir="ltr">Turbulence is measured in Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR), which describes turbulence levels without regard to aircraft characteristics, meaning the same levels of turbulence may be experienced differently depending on the size and build of the aircraft.</p> <p dir="ltr">Dramatic changes in land altitude, particularly mountain ranges, create eddies, or swirls of disrupted airflow all create turbulence. </p> <p dir="ltr">With 0-20 on the EDR scale is considered light turbulence, these flight paths measure double digits in their levels of severity. </p> <p dir="ltr">Most of these destinations are located in South America, so if you’re particularly adverse to a bumpy flight, maybe take these stats into account before booking your next holiday. </p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the list of the 10 most turbulent flights in the world below. </p> <p dir="ltr">10. San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina) to Santiago (Chile). 18.475 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">9. Chengdu (China) to Xining (China). 18.482 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">8. Kathmandu (Nepal) to Paro (Bhutan). 18.563 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">7. Santa Cruz (Bolivia) to Santiago (Chile). 18.598 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">6. Chengdu (China) to Lhasa (China). 18.644 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">5. Kathmandu to Lhasa. 18.817 average EDR. </p> <p dir="ltr">4. Mendoza (Argentina) to San Carlos de Bariloche. 19.252 average EDR. </p> <p dir="ltr">3. Mendoza to Salta (Argentina). 19.825 average EDR.</p> <p dir="ltr">2. Córdoba to Santiago. 20.214 average EDR</p> <p dir="ltr">1. Mendoza to Santiago. 24.684 average EDR.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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World's safest airline for 2025 revealed

<p>The world's safest airline has been revealed, with two major carriers from Down Under nabbing the top two spots in the prestigious AirlineRatings.com rankings. </p> <p>Air New Zealand has been rated the safest airline in the world, with Qantas coming in a close second and only 1.50 points separating the two carriers. </p> <p>Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways and Emirates came equal third, while Virgin Australia came in fourth and Etihad Airways in fifth. </p> <p>“It was extremely close again between Air New Zealand and Qantas for first place with only 1.50 points separating the two airlines,” AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen said.</p> <p>“While both airlines uphold the highest safety standards and pilot training, Air New Zealand continue to have a younger fleet than Qantas which separates the two.”</p> <p>AirlineRatings.com is the world's only safety and product rating website, and Air NZ also won the title last year and in 2022, with Qantas nabbing the top spot in 2023. </p> <p>The watchdog monitors 385 airlines and takes into account serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment and fleet age.</p> <p>They also shared the rankings for the safest low-cost airlines, with Cathay Pacific-owned Hong Kong Express claiming the top spot and Qantas-owned Jetstar coming in second. </p> <p>“Everyone at Qantas and Jetstar is incredibly proud of our commitment to safety, which will always be our number one priority. The whole aviation industry is focused on ensuring flying remains the safest way to travel through continual learning and improvement,”  A Qantas Group spokesperson told <em>news.com.au</em>. </p> <p>While Air NZ CEO Greg Foran said: “I’m very proud of our entire Air New Zealand whānau for consistently and diligently putting safety at the forefront of everything we do." </p> <p>“Operational integrity is at the heart of our business. We have a strong culture of safety that puts our team and passengers first. I’m proud of how this culture has been fostered over many years and how it underpins every aspect of the airline’s everyday operations.”</p> <p><strong>The Top 25 World's Safest Full-Service Airlines for 2025: </strong></p> <ol> <li>Air New Zealand</li> <li>Qantas</li> <li>Cathay Pacific; Qatar Airways; Emirates</li> <li>Virgin Australia</li> <li>Etihad Airways</li> <li>ANA</li> <li>EVA Air</li> <li>Korean Air</li> <li>Alaska Airlines</li> <li>Turkish Airlines (THY)</li> <li>TAP Portugal</li> <li>Hawaiian Airlines</li> <li>American Airlines</li> <li>SAS</li> <li>British Airways</li> <li>Iberia</li> <li>Finnair</li> <li>Lufthansa/Swiss</li> <li>JAL</li> <li>Air Canada</li> <li>Delta Airlines</li> <li>Vietnam Airlines</li> <li>United Airlines</li> </ol> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Travel Tips

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Bunnings announce game-changing venture

<p>Everyone is well-acquainted with multiple trips to Bunnings for forgotten items, but now the retail giant's new venture with Uber could make life just a little easier before Christmas. </p> <p>The retail giant is teaming up with the rideshare and courier service to equip over 100 regional and metropolitan stores with same day parcel delivery.</p> <p>So shoppers looking for a last minute Christmas gift can get same day parcel delivery for orders placed by 2pm right up until December 23rd. The packages will be delivered by 7pm that day. </p> <p>With Australia Post Christmas delivery cut-offs set to take effect from December 20, the retail giants same-day delivery service with Uber makes it much easier for shoppers over the holiday season. </p> <p>The service will operate via the Bunnings website, at a flat fee of $15 for any purchases.</p> <p>The only condition is that for some regional outlets, the same-day delivery guarantee is subject to geographical limits, a radius of 15 kilometres from any store.</p> <p>“We’re committed to offering our customers the best experience, widest range and lowest prices, and same day parcel delivery across regional Australia is another way we can improve this offering”, Bunnings Chief Operating Officer, Ryan Baker said. </p> <p>“This builds on our current same day parcel delivery offering across metro Australia, bringing more convenience to our regional customers, and hopefully helping to ease some of the stress this time of year can bring.”</p> <p>Baker also emphasised that this service would not replace the in-store experience Aussies love.</p> <p>“Some customers value coming into the store to browse, talk to the team and enjoy the Bunnings experience such as a coffee in the cafe or the sausage sizzle hosted by a local community group. But for others, the convenience of delivery is preferred,” he said.</p> <p><em>Image: haireena / Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Home & Garden

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How to turn your gift-giving crisis into a Christmas miracle

<p>Christmas is coming, and with it, the annual <em>What do I get everyone?!</em> panic. Every year it’s the same: endless debates about whether Dad really needs another tie, your sister’s mysterious aversion to gift cards, and the horrifying memory of that one time you gave your neighbour a single fruitcake. Let’s be honest – nobody wants a single fruitcake. This year, skip the stress and let <a href="http://www.hamperworld.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hamper World</a> turn your gift-giving crisis into a Christmas miracle.</p> <p>Hamper World has been the secret Santa we all need for over 25 years, crafting stunning gift hampers packed with the best Australian-made goodies. We’re talking premium wines, gourmet snacks, fancy chocolates and artisanal treats that taste like they were made by elves with Michelin stars. It’s the kind of stuff that makes people’s eyes light up before they’ve even finished unwrapping it.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/12/IMG_0313_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="831" /></p> <p>The beauty of these hampers is that they don’t just scream <em>thoughtful gift</em>. They also whisper, <em>I didn’t just pick this up on the way here</em>. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, co-workers or that one random person who showed up for Christmas lunch (we all have one), there’s a hamper that’ll fit the bill – and make you look like a gifting genius in the process.</p> <p>Now, here’s the kicker: these hampers aren’t just packed with amazing stuff; they’re also doing some serious good. Every item is sourced from Australian producers, so your Christmas cheer is supporting local farmers, chocolatiers and small businesses. It’s basically like giving two gifts in one: one to your loved one, and one to Australia’s economy. Take that, Santa.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/12/21737A_1280_3.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>And don’t get us started on delivery. You know that classic Christmas movie moment where the hero races through the snow (or, in our case, the scorching summer heat), trying to deliver the perfect gift? You don’t need that drama. Hamper World ships all over Australia, making sure your gift arrives looking as festive and fabulous as it did when it left. Whether it’s bound for a city penthouse or a bush retreat, your hamper will get there on time and looking sharp.</p> <p>But the real magic is in the presentation. Hamper World wraps these beauties up like they belong on the cover of a gourmet magazine. No need for awkward DIY attempts at gift wrapping that end with you covered in tape and regret. Just order, sit back and bask in the glory of being the best gift-giver in the history of your family.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/12/IMG_0321_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="831" /></p> <p>Christmas hampers are also a great solution for those tricky situations. Got a boss who already has everything? Boom, corporate hamper. Want to thank your neighbours for putting up with your late-night karaoke sessions? Sweet treats hamper, done. And don’t forget to treat yourself – after all, nothing says Merry Christmas to me like a hamper full of wine and cheese.</p> <p>So, this Christmas, skip the socks, the scented candles and the questionable DIY projects. Head over to <a href="http://www.hamperworld.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.hamperworld.com.au</a> or call 1800 566 433 and let Hamper World handle the heavy lifting.</p> <p>Because the only thing better than giving the perfect gift is doing it without breaking a sweat – and maybe even snagging a 10% gift card if you order early. Now that’s the holiday spirit.</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Hamper World</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Eight-year-old cancer survivor pushed down stairs at NFL game

<p>Mia DeCamilla, an eight-year-old 49ers fan and cancer survivor was beyond excited to attend her first ever NFL game on Sunday. </p> <p>DeCamilla inherited her love for the team from her father, saying: “Me and my dad, [when I’m] in the hospital, we’ll watch football together, and then when I come home sometimes for breaks, I will sit down and just relax and watch football all day. That’s what I like and how I made my team.”</p> <p>The young girl - who battled and beat liver cancer twice - attended the event at the Highmark Stadium in New York Decked in 49ers red and a hand-drawn sign that read “I beat cancer! My first NFL game!” </p> <p>What should've been a night to remember turned into a nightmare situation when DeCamilla was shoved out of her seat and down the stairs by an allegedly drunk Bills fan, following the team's win. </p> <p>Her father, Mike DeCamilla told local news outlet <em>WIVB </em>that he saw the fan making his approach and heard him saying “‘I’m going to push through all these Niner fans'." </p> <p>“He actually bumped me and my son a little bit and then got past me and pushed her. [She] almost slid off the stairs…</p> <p>“He had to be six foot, and she is less than 100 pounds … I know that there’s competitiveness and whatnot, but there’s a point where it’s a family event.”</p> <p>While DeCamilla was not physically hurt, her family said they decided to leave the game after the incident. </p> <p>Her mother posted the incident on social media, and it has since gained traction, with many outraged over the adult fan's behaviour. </p> <p>“Mia DeCamilla beat cancer and wanted to go to her first football game and it ended poorly," one fan wrote. "Great game to go to, but what horrible fans.”</p> <p>“This cancer survivor got pushed down the stairs at a the bills game last night. I’m furious," another added. </p> <p>Buffalo fans have since rallied to show the family support, with many of them donating to a GoFundMe that was organised to ease the burden of DeCamilla's treatments, with the fund reaching over $20,000. </p> <p>Retired NFL cult hero Antonio Brown also commented on the situation, writing on X: “Is it true this little girl got thrown down the stairs at the Bills game? Someone get me in contact with Mia’s family please. I want to get her some gear.”</p> <p>The team’s official supporters group, Bills Mafia, also rallied behind the family, writing on X: “So sorry to hear about Mia’s experience at the game yesterday.</p> <p>“We all know one bad apple can ruin the bunch. Let’s show Mia that her experience yesterday is NOT what #BillsMafia is about.”</p> <p>Despite everything that happened, DeCamilla didn't let the incident ruin her night. </p> <p>“My favourite part was getting to see Brock Purdy,” the young 49ers fan told local radio station <em>WHAM.</em></p> <p>“He’s my favourite player and I have his jersey, too.”</p> <p><em>Images: X/ Facebook</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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Australia passes world-first social media ban for children under-16

<p>Children under-16 will be banned from using social media from the end of next year, after the world-first legislation passed the parliament on Thursday. </p> <p>The law means that anyone under the age of 16 will be blocked from using platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook among others, and will make the platforms liable with fines of up to $50 million for failing to prevent these children from holding social media accounts. </p> <p>The Senate passed the bill 34 votes to 19 last Thursday, with The House of Representatives approving the legislation by 102 votes to 13 on Wednesday.</p> <p>The platforms will have one year to work out how to implement the ban before penalties are enforced, however the laws have received mixed reviews from tech companies and mental health experts alike. </p> <p>Meta Platforms, which owns Facebook and Instagram, said the legislation had been “rushed.”</p> <p>Digital Industry Group Inc., an advocate for the platforms in Australia, also questioned how it would work and the impact it would have on children. </p> <p>“The social media ban legislation has been released and passed within a week and, as a result, no one can confidently explain how it will work in practice – the community and platforms are in the dark about what exactly is required of them,” DIGI managing director Sunita Bose said.</p> <p>The platforms cannot force people to provide government-issued identity documents, including the Digital ID, to assess their age. </p> <p>“This policy will hurt vulnerable young people the most, especially in regional communities and especially the LGBTQI community, by cutting them off,” Greens senator David Shoebridge said. </p> <p>Mental health experts agreed that the social media ban could dangerously isolate children who used social media to find support. </p> <p>Christopher Stone, executive director of Suicide Prevention Australia, added the legislation failed to consider positive aspects of social media in supporting young people's mental health. </p> <p>“The government is running blindfolded into a brick wall by rushing this legislation. Young Australians deserve evidence-based policies, not decisions made in haste,” Stone said in a statement.</p> <p>Online safety campaigner Sonya Ryan, whose 15-year-old daughter Carly was murdered by a 50-year-old pedophile who pretended to be a teenager online, described the Senate vote as a “monumental moment in protecting our children from horrendous harms online," in an email to the AP. </p> <p>Wayne Holdsworth, a father whose son took his own life following a sextortion scam, also approved the decision to introduce the age restriction. </p> <p>Meta Platforms has responded to the new laws saying: “Naturally, we respect the laws decided by the Australian Parliament."</p> <p>“However, we are concerned about the process which rushed the legislation through while failing to properly consider the evidence, what industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people.”</p> <p><em>Image: </em><em>BigTunaOnline / Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Technology

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World's oldest man passes away aged 112

<p>The world's oldest man has passed away aged 112. </p> <p>John Alfred Tinniswood held the title of world's oldest man for nine months and marked his 112th birthday during his reign, which sadly came to an end on Monday when he passed away in a care home northwest England near Liverpool. </p> <p>His family confirmed his death in a statement, saying that the centenarian spent his final day "surrounded by music and love".</p> <p>Tinniswood, who was born on 26 August 1912, the same year the Titanic sank, became the UK’s oldest man in 2020. </p> <p>In April 2024, he was recognised as the world's oldest man by the Guinness Book of Records.</p> <p>Tinniswood, who worked as an accountant for Shell and BP before retiring in 1972, attributed his longevity to "pure luck".</p> <p>"You either live long or you live short, and you can't do much about it," the great-grandfather told the Guinness World Records in April.</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/DC1Lp79NvYI/?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/DC1Lp79NvYI/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Guinness World Records (@guinnessworldrecords)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>He also said that moderation was key to a healthy life. He never smoked, rarely drank and followed no special diet, apart from his ritual of having fish and chips every Friday. </p> <p>"If you drink too much or you eat too much or you walk too much — if you do too much of anything — you're going to suffer eventually," Tinniswood said.</p> <p>His family also said the great-grandfather had an "active retirement", volunteering as a church elder in Blundellsands United Reform Church where he also gave sermons.</p> <p>They have paid tribute to him, saying: "We would like to thank the many people in the UK and across the world who sent well wishes to John on his recent birthdays.</p> <p>"He really appreciated these birthday greetings and other messages of support."</p> <p>"John always liked to say thank you. So on his behalf , [we] thank all those who cared for him over the years, including his carers at the Hollies care home, his GPs, district nurses, occupational therapist and other NHS staff."</p> <p>Tinniswood lived through two world wars and served in the British Army Pay Corps in World War II.</p> <p>He is survived by his daughter Susan, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. </p> <p>The world's oldest living woman, and oldest living person, is Japan's Tomiko Itooka, who is currently 116.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram/ Guinness World Records</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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"You made me enjoy the game": Federer's emotional retirement letter to Nadal

<p>Roger Federer has penned an emotional tribute to Rafael Nadal ahead of his retirement, reflecting on their stellar careers together. </p> <p>Nadal’s career officially came to an end when Spain was defeated 2-1 by the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarter-final in Malaga on Wednesday morning, with Nadal in tears as he stepped onto the court for the final time. </p> <p>Thousands of tributes poured in for Nadal as his retirement officially began, but Federer's tribute quickly went viral for his emotional words.</p> <p>“As you get ready to graduate from tennis, I’ve got a few things to share before I maybe get emotional,” Federer said. </p> <p>“Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me - a lot. More than I managed to beat you. You challenged me in ways no one else could. On clay, it felt like I was stepping into your backyard, and you made me work harder than I ever thought I could just to hold my ground."</p> <p>“You made me reimagine my game - even going so far as to change the size of my racquet head, hoping for any edge. I’m not a very superstitious person, but you took it to the next level. Your whole process. All those rituals."</p> <p>“Assembling your water bottles like toy soldiers in formation, fixing your hair, adjusting your underwear … All of it with the highest intensity. Secretly, I kind of loved the whole thing. Because it was so unique - it was so you."</p> <p>“And you know what, Rafa, you made me enjoy the game even more. OK, maybe not at first. After the 2004 Australian Open, I achieved the No. 1 ranking for the first time. I thought I was on top of the world. And I was - until two months later, when you walked on the court in Miami in your red sleeveless shirt, showing off those biceps, and you beat me convincingly."</p> <p>"All that buzz I’d been hearing about you - about this amazing young player from Mallorca, a generational talent, probably going to win a major someday - it wasn’t just hype."</p> <p>“We were both at the start of our journey and it’s one we ended up taking together. Twenty years later, Rafa, I have to say: What an incredible run you’ve had. Including 14 French Opens - historic! You made Spain proud … you made the whole tennis world proud."</p> <p>“And then there was London – the Laver Cup in 2022. My final match. It meant everything to me that you were there by my side – not as my rival but as my doubles partner."</p> <p>“Sharing the court with you that night, and sharing those tears, will forever be one of the most special moments of my career.”</p> <p>Federer signed off the 585-word tribute from “your fan Roger”.</p> <p><em>Image credits: ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Retirement Life

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World reacts as Donald Trump wins US election

<p>World leaders, celebrities and millions of Americans have shared their first reactions and messages of support - or messages of anger, upset and frustration - as Donald Trump claimed his victory in the US election. </p> <p>The Republican leader won both the electoral college vote and the popular vote, taking a hold of the majority of key swing states, as his victory just hours after the polls closed. </p> <p>The win will see Trump re-enter the White House in January as the 47th President, making him the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms in office. </p> <p>Reactions to the unprecedented win flooded online spaces, with world leaders sending their congratulations. </p> <p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the election of the US president marked an important moment for Australia and the Asia Pacific region, and vowed to work closely with the Trump administration.</p> <p>“Australia and America are old allies and we are true friends,” he said. “Our nations are bound by a history of shared sacrifice, a commitment to common values and — above all — enduring respect and affection between our peoples."</p> <p>“I look forward to talking with President Trump and working with him in the best interests of both our nations.”</p> <p>Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also extended his congratulations to the Republican leader on behalf of the federal Coalition, describing the US as an “overwhelming force for good”.</p> <p>Unsurprisingly, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was among the first to speak to Trump, writing on X, “Congratulations on history’s greatest comeback!”</p> <p>“Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America. This is a huge victory! In true friendship.”</p> <p>Elon Musk, petulant billionaire and owner of Twitter, also shared a series of memes on X, after he publicly endorsed Trump throughout his campaign. </p> <p>Among the posts is an image of Musk holding a bathroom sink photoshopped into the Oval Office with the caption "Let that sink in", a reference to how he marked his controversial takeover of X when it was still known as Twitter.</p> <p>Musk also shared a photo of a conversation he was having with Trump as votes were being counted.</p> <p>"The future is gonna be so [fire]," Musk said with American flag emojis.</p> <p>"The future is gonna be fantastic," he said in a follow up post with a photo of his recent SpaceX rocket test that Trump discussed at length, for some reason, in his declaration speech.</p> <p>Despite the messages of well wishes from world leaders, social media has been awash with messages of disbelief and anger since the victory was announced, with many American citizens anxious and scared about the next four years under Trump's controversial <a href="https://www.project2025.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Project 2025</a>, which will see mass deportations of immigrants, more tax cuts to the rich, harsher penalties for those seeking abortions or reproductive care, and unprecedented power in the hands of a President with authoritarian aspirations. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Brian Prahl/Shutterstock </em></p>

News

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Your Go-To guide to game-changing Christmas skincare

<p dir="ltr">When it comes to Christmas presents, it’s hard to go wrong with skincare, makeup or anything in the general “self-care” space. </p> <p dir="ltr">This Christmas, <a href="https://gotoskincare.com/collections/holiday-2024">Go-To</a> (the revolutionary skincare brand founded by Zoe Foster-Blake) have released their most beautiful collection yet in collaboration with Alémais to deliver the very best in feeling good, for any budget. </p> <p dir="ltr">With 11 extremely limited gifts and sets to help you spread some serious cheer this season, you’ll find something for everyone, whether it’s for your daughter, granddaughter, neighbour, or that one friend that is always looking to level up their skincare routine. </p> <p dir="ltr">For the second year running, Go-To’s undeniably unique print and packaging is thanks to a local collaboration with Alémais, celebrating the very vibrant and zesty DNA of both brands.</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/DBsyJSnxTMY/?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/DBsyJSnxTMY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Go-To (@gotoskincare)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The gorgeous gift sets start at just $26 with Perfect Present, or for those looking more on the luxury side, the $300 must-have Facial In A Box has everything you need.</p> <p dir="ltr">You’ll also spot several never-before-seen items from Go-To, like, Bon Bons, a trio of tinted lip balms, and custom tarot cards.</p> <p dir="ltr">In addition to all the stunning skincare, Go-To have created gifts that live on as keepsakes, such as the signature silk pillowcase and matching silk eye mask.</p> <p dir="ltr">Or, if you can’t pick just one gift for that special someone, or you want to treat yourself and just can’t wait until December 25th, the 12 Days Of Go-To advent calendar is filled with so many merry items of merch paired with the effective, quality, clinically-proven skincare you know, love and need.</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/reel/DBrsRwlJRsG/?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/DBrsRwlJRsG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Go-To (@gotoskincare)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The Go-To treats are ones you can feel good about in more ways than one, as Go-To is donating $1 from all marked gifts and sets, to their 2024 charity partner, Orange Sky: a not-for-profit that provides complimentary laundry services and warm showers to people in the community who are experiencing homelessness and hardship.</p> <p dir="ltr">With this glorious fusion of colour, wonderfully wacky motifs, and giving to those in need in the spirit of Christmas, Go-To has a gift for everyone in their most coveted holiday collection to date.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Go-To Christmas range is available at <a href="https://www.mecca.com/en-au/go-to/">Mecca</a>, both in-store and online, and on the official <a href="https://gotoskincare.com/collections/holiday-2024">Go-To</a> website.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock / Instagram </em></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-bb2c25c8-7fff-6953-de80-1b3c24792a23"></span></p>

Beauty & Style

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Could a recent ruling change the game for scam victims? Here’s why the banks will be watching closely

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jeannie-marie-paterson-6367">Jeannie Marie Paterson</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nicola-howell-1160247">Nicola Howell</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p>In Australia, it’s scam victims who foot the bill for the overwhelming majority of the money lost to scams each year.</p> <p>A 2023 <a href="https://download.asic.gov.au/media/mbhoz0pc/rep761-published-20-april-2023.pdf">review</a> by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) found banks detected and stopped only a small proportion of scams. The total amount banks paid in compensation paled in comparison to total losses.</p> <p>So, it was a strong statement this week when it was revealed the Australian Financial Conduct Authority (AFCA) had <a href="https://my.afca.org.au/searchpublisheddecisions/kb-article/?id=f9f8941f-7379-ef11-ac20-000d3a6acbb4">ordered</a> a bank – HSBC – to compensate a customer who lost more than $47,000 through a sophisticated bank impersonation or “spoofing” scam.</p> <p>This decision was significant. An AFCA determination is binding on the relevant bank or other financial institution, which has <a href="https://www.afca.org.au/make-a-complaint#:%7E:text=Any%20determinations%20we%20make%20are,service%20is%20free%20to%20access">no direct right of appeal</a>. It could have implications for the way similar cases are treated in future.</p> <p>The ruling comes amid a broader push for sector-wide reforms to give banks more responsibility for <a href="https://www.fico.com/blogs/detection-prevention-tackling-scams-every-angle">detecting</a>, deterring and responding to scams, as opposed to simply telling customers to be “more careful”.</p> <p>Here’s what you should know about this landmark ruling, and what it might mean for consumers.</p> <h2>A highly sophisticated ‘spoofing’ scam</h2> <p>You might be familiar with “push payment” scams that trick the victim into paying money to a dummy account. These include the “<a href="https://www.acma.gov.au/articles/2024-01/scam-alert-re-emergence-hi-mum-scam">mum I’ve lost my phone</a>” scam and some <a href="https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/types-of-scams/online-dating-and-romance-scams">romance</a> scams.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/dragged-kicking-and-screaming-banking-giant-loses-battle-against-scam-victim-20241015-p5kide.html">recent case</a> concerned an equally noxious “bank impersonation” or “spoofing” scam. The complainant – referred to as “Mr T” – was tricked into giving the scammer access to his HSBC account, from which an unauthorised payment was made.</p> <p>The scammer sent Mr T a text message, purportedly asking him to investigate an attempted Amazon transaction.</p> <p>In an effort to respond to the (fake) unauthorised Amazon purchase, Mr T revealed security passcodes to the scammer, enabling them to transfer $47,178.54 from his account and disappear with it.</p> <p>The fact Mr T was dealing with scammers was far from obvious – scammers had information about him one might reasonably expect only a bank would know, such as his bank username.</p> <p>On top of this, the scam text message appeared in a thread of other legitimate text messages that had previously been sent by the real HSBC.</p> <h2>AFCA’s ruling</h2> <p>HSBC argued to AFCA that having to pay compensation should be ruled out under the <a href="https://download.asic.gov.au/media/lloeicwb/epayments-code-published-02-june-2022.pdf">ePayments Code</a>, a voluntary code of practice administered by ASIC.</p> <p>Under this code, a bank is not required to compensate a customer for an unauthorised payment if that customer has disclosed their passcode. The bank argued the complainant had voluntarily disclosed these codes to the scammer, meaning the bank didn’t need to pay.</p> <p>AFCA disagreed. It noted the very way the scam had worked was by creating a sense of urgency and crisis. AFCA considered that the complainant had been manipulated into disclosing the passcodes and had not acted voluntarily.</p> <p>AFCA awarded compensation covering the vast majority of the disputed transaction amount, lost interest charged to a home loan account, and $5,000 towards Mr T’s legal costs.</p> <p>It also ordered the bank to pay compensation of $1,000 for poor customer service in dealing with the matter, including communication delays.</p> <h2>Other cases may be more complex</h2> <p>In this case, the determination was relatively straightforward. It found Mr T had not voluntarily disclosed his account information, so was not excluded from being compensated under the ePayments Code.</p> <p>However, many payment scams fall outside the ePayments Code because they involve the customer directly sending money to the scammer (as opposed to the scammer accessing the customer’s account). That means there is no code to direct compensation.</p> <p>Still, AFCA’s jurisdiction is broader than merely applying a code. In considering compensation for scam losses, AFCA must consider what is “fair in all the circumstances”. This means taking into account:</p> <ul> <li>legal principles</li> <li>applicable industry codes</li> <li>good industry practice</li> <li>previous AFCA decisions.</li> </ul> <p>Relevant factors might well include whether the bank was proactive in responding to known scams, as well as the challenges for individual customers in identifying scams.</p> <h2>Broader reforms are on the way</h2> <p>At the heart of this determination by AFCA is a recognition that, increasingly, detecting sophisticated scams can be next to impossible for customers, which can mean they don’t act voluntarily in making payments to scammers.</p> <p>Similar reasoning has informed a range of recent reform initiatives that put more responsibility for detecting and responding to scams on the banks, rather than their customers.</p> <p>In 2023, Australia’s banking sector committed to a new “<a href="https://www.ausbanking.org.au/scam-safe-accord/">Scam-Safe Accord</a>”. This is a commitment to implement new measures to protect customers, including a confirmation of payee service, delays for new payments, and biometric identity checks for new accounts.</p> <p>Changes on the horizon could be more ambitious and significant.</p> <p>The proposed <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/consultation/c2024-573813">Scams Prevention Framework</a> legislation would require Australian banks, telcos and <a href="https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/accc-vs-big-tech-round-10-and-counting">digital platforms</a> to take reasonable steps to prevent, detect, report, disrupt and respond to scams.</p> <p>It would also include a compulsory external dispute resolution process, like AFCA’s, for consumers seeking compensation for when any of these institutions fail to comply.</p> <p>Addressing scams is not just an Australian issue. In the United Kingdom, newly introduced <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy94vz4zd7zo">rules</a> make paying and receiving banks responsible for compensating customers, for scam losses up to £85,000 (A$165,136), unless the customer is grossly negligent.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/241558/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jeannie-marie-paterson-6367">Jeannie Marie Paterson</a>, Professor of Law, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nicola-howell-1160247">Nicola Howell</a>, Senior lecturer, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/could-a-recent-ruling-change-the-game-for-scam-victims-heres-why-the-banks-will-be-watching-closely-241558">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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World’s longest treasure hunt ends as Golden Owl finally unearthed in France

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">After more than three decades of mystery and intrigue, the world’s longest-running treasure hunt has come to a thrilling conclusion with the discovery of the elusive Golden Owl. Valued at approximately $240,000, the treasure had captivated the imaginations of thousands since it was first buried in France in the early 1990s.</span></p> <p>The hunt began with the publication of the now-famous book, <em>On the Trail of the Golden Owl</em>, written by communications expert Régis Hauser under the pseudonym “Max Valentin” and illustrated by artist Michel Becker. The 1993 book challenged readers to solve a series of intricate riddles and clues, which, when deciphered, would reveal the owl’s secret location.</p> <p>Despite years of painstaking attempts to crack the mystery, the Golden Owl remained hidden for decades, surviving even its creator. Hauser passed away in 2009, leaving the prize still buried. Michel Becker, who took over the management of the hunt, delivered the long-awaited news on October 3 via an online announcement that sparked a frenzy among treasure hunters: “A potential winning solution is currently being verified.”</p> <p>Two hours later, he confirmed: “Don’t go digging! We confirm that the Golden Owl countermark was unearthed last night.”</p> <p>The treasure hunt’s <a href="https://goldenowlhunt.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">official website was also updated with the announcement</a>, bringing an end to a search that has been both thrilling and, for some, overwhelming.</p> <p><strong>The obsession and madness behind the search</strong></p> <p>For over 30 years, the Golden Owl hunt transcended being just a hobby for many treasure hunters and became an all-consuming obsession. While some enjoyed it as a leisurely pursuit, others were driven to extreme lengths – financially, emotionally and mentally. The search for the owl has been linked to personal crises, including financial ruin and broken marriages. At least one individual reportedly ended up in an asylum due to their fixation on solving the hunt’s riddles.</p> <p>The toll wasn’t limited to individuals. Searchers caused considerable disruption across France, digging unauthorised holes in public and private lands. In one eastern French village, the local mayor was forced to plead with hunters to stop digging around its chapel, while in other cases, searchers brought power tools to banks and even considered destroying structures in the hopes of unearthing the treasure.</p> <p><strong>The Golden Owl’s elusive clues</strong></p> <p><em>On the Trail of the Golden Owl</em> contained a complex series of 11 riddles, each paired with a painting by Becker. The riddles, combined with maps, colours and hidden details, challenged readers to work out the owl’s hidden location.</p> <p>Before his death, Hauser revealed three crucial elements to solving the puzzle:</p> <p>The use of maps: Hunters needed to work with maps to narrow down the search area and use a specific map to pinpoint the final zone.</p> <p>A “mega trick”: This was the key to using the sequence of riddles to locate the final area where the owl was hidden.</p> <p>A final hidden riddle: Once in the final zone, hunters had to uncover one last riddle to lead them to the exact spot of the treasure.</p> <p><strong>Joyous celebration among treasure hunters</strong></p> <p>The treasure-hunting community was overjoyed when the news broke, with many expressing their disbelief and excitement. “Finally – liberated!” exclaimed one fan on the hunt’s Discord forum. Another added, “I didn’t think I’d live to see the day.”</p> <p>As of now, the exact location of the owl’s discovery and the identity of the finder remain undisclosed. However, Becker hinted at the complexity involved in concluding this monumental hunt. “Tons of emotions to manage for all those who are responsible for managing the end of this episode and complex logistics to put in place,” he said in a statement on October 6.</p> <p>For now, the Golden Owl, a treasure that has held a generation of sleuths in its grasp, has been unearthed. Yet, the fascination with its story will undoubtedly linger for years to come.</p> <p><em>Images/Illustrations: Michel Becker</em></p>

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