Search

Placeholder Content Image

Billy Slater rocked by family tragedy

<p>Billy Slater has suffered a heartbreaking family tragedy, after his brother-in-law drowned while trying to save his nine-year-old daughter when she fell from their boat near Mackay, Queensland over the weekend. </p> <p>Ryan Craig - who was married to Slater's older sister Sheena - reportedly managed to keep his daughter afloat until a passing jet ski was able to pick her up. </p> <p>The father-of-four's body was found on Monday morning, with Slater and his family left devastated following the incident. </p> <p>Slater's former teammate, Cameron Smith, has opened up about the devastating phone call he had with the footy legend. </p> <p>"I found out Monday morning about this absolute tragedy. It happened Saturday afternoon up in the Mackay area where Billy's sister Sheena and her family live," <em>Smith told SEN's The Captain's Run with Cameron Smith and Denan Kemp.</em></p> <p>"They were just out on the water. They live very close to the dam where Ryan tragically passed away. And it's their regular place where they just go for family outings.</p> <p>"I rang Billy and spoke with him and he just said, 'Look, it's an absolutely tragic (set of) circumstances, given the situation'.</p> <p>"It's somewhere they spend a lot of time with the kids growing up. They've got four kids. They've got four little girls," he added. </p> <p>Smith then claimed that after Craig's daughter fell in the water, "a bit of weather blew up and and it blew the boat away from where they'd fallen," adding that the boat couldn't be started</p> <p>"It was a heroic effort, really, from Ryan to stay afloat as long as he did to save his daughter.</p> <p>"He eventually ran out of energy. Some jet skiers came along a little bit later and I don't know how - it's just a miracle - that the little girl was still afloat.</p> <p>"Ryan went under and subsequently passed away. Really tragic events and we send our condolences out to Sheena, who is Billy's sister and the wife of Ryan. Those four little girls that have lost their dad."</p> <p>Queensland Police have not yet released the full circumstances of what occurred, but Inspector Glenn Cameron said preliminary investigations have revealed "the actions of the man who is now deceased saved his young daughter’s life." </p> <p>Inspector Cameron reportedly said that Craig's daughter was taken to Mackay Base Hospital as a precaution, and whether they were wearing life jackets will be part of the investigation. </p> <p>A report will also be prepared for the coroner. </p> <p>"Our thoughts are with the family who've lost a loved one in these tragic circumstances," Cameron said.</p> <p>"We never want to see something like this happen."</p> <p><em>Images: Seven/ Facebook</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Teenage NRL player charged with gang murder

<p dir="ltr">A teenage NRL player has been charged with murder over the violent death of an underworld figure in July. </p> <p dir="ltr">Masei Tavui, a 19-year-old West Tigers player, was charged by Liverpool Police on Tuesday afternoon over the death of Dejan “Danny the Serb” Radulovic, who was killed while he was on parole. </p> <p dir="ltr">Police officers arrested the teenager in the early hours of the morning, before executing a search of his home in south-west Sydney. </p> <p dir="ltr">Tavui sat calmly talking to police in handcuffs before being taken away in a paddy wagon. </p> <p dir="ltr">They arrested the 19-year-old before they seized “clothing relevant to their investigation” that was uncovered during the search. </p> <p dir="ltr">“It will undergo further forensic examination,” NSW Police said. </p> <p dir="ltr">Radulovic was killed on July 29th after he was allegedly shot and stabbed in the Sydney suburb of Balmain following an altercation with two men.</p> <p dir="ltr">Officers arrived on the scene to find Mr Radulovic had sustained significant head and torso injuries, with police alleging his wounds were from being bashed and stabbed.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, where he later died. </p> <p dir="ltr">An autopsy of the 29-year-old discovered he had also suffered a gunshot wound. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Police have been told Danny Radulovic was injured during an altercation with two men before the pair allegedly fled the scene in a white Jeep,” a NSW Police spokesperson said in a statement.</p> <p dir="ltr">Masei Tavui was refused bail and will face court next week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: NSW Police</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Tina Turner fans in a frenzy over major announcement

<p>The late Tina Turner will be honoured at the upcoming NRL grand finals, 30 years on from her own iconic performance at the sporting event. </p> <p>Performers of the Tina Turner Musical will headline both the men's and women's grand final events, marking three decades since the late singer's iconic performance at the 1993 grand final. </p> <p>"Thirty years on, Tina Turner's 1993 performance remains one of the great grand final moments," NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.</p> <p>"This collaboration is a perfect way for rugby league to pay tribute to Tina and everything she did for our game, and it will be a special moment for fans amongst the outstanding entertainment on offer on grand final day."</p> <p>Tina Turner had a long history with the NRL, as she partnered with the New South Wales Rugby League to deliver a campaign to promote the sport, with her songs <em>What You Get Is What You See</em> and <em>The Best</em> being used in the promo shoot and becoming synonymous with the game.</p> <p>"She was so wonderful with the players," former league boss John Quayle told <a href="https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/news-2023-tina-turner-tribute-act-grand-final-day-entertainment/bc8b105c-c488-498a-b4d3-8eca763636b8" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Nine</em></a>. "She made everyone relax. She loved it too when we took the jumpers off the players, she was on the beach in bare feet, in a gym with weights and medicine balls."</p> <p>"She was just part of it. She didn't change. Every day it was a big hug on set. Talking to players as if they were entertainers. They all loved it."</p> <p>"It was iconic. What a wonderful legacy. That final scene where she was up on the harbour bridge. She was up there before any tours with no safety gear, she just loved to do it and that's how good she was."</p> <p>The NRL grand final will take place on Sunday October 1st at Sydney's Accor Stadium. </p> <p>Tina Turner <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/rare-photos-of-tina-turner-s-final-years" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passed away</a> in May 2023 at the age of 83 after a long battle with illness.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Music

Placeholder Content Image

Andrew Johns quits radio over on-air family feud

<p dir="ltr">Andrew and Matthew Johns are familiar faces in the world of NRL, and while they may have achieved legendary - or ‘Immortal’, in Andrew’s case - status in their sport, their public feuds have become a significant contributor towards their wider fame over the years. </p> <p dir="ltr">As recently as May 2023, the Johns brothers had an on-air disagreement over the year’s State of Origin series, in which each of them backed an opposing team. </p> <p dir="ltr">Joey is a staunch supporter of the NSW Blues side - and was a former player for the squad, regarded by many as one of the game’s best - and took issue with his brother’s praise and admiration for the QLD Maroons, as well as Matthew’s support for the side’s coach, Billy Slater. </p> <p dir="ltr">Matthew ‘Matty’ Johns set things off when he noted that Queensland were coming prepared, and when Andrew asked if that meant New South Wales didn’t, Matty confirmed it. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Mate I’m sick of you rapping Queensland, that’s what I’m sick of,” Andrew then declared.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their spat continued from there, with Andrew going on to share that he “couldn’t give a s**t. I don’t even look at Queensland”. </p> <p dir="ltr">But he wasn’t done there, concluding his take when he told his brother, “you’re blowing smoke up their backsides, I couldn’t care about Queensland.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He [Matty] said they’re easy to admire - they’re the enemy,” he said, before informing their audience, and co-host Andrew Webster, that the two had grown up “hating” the Maroons together. </p> <p dir="ltr">And now, according to Fox Sports, Andrew ‘Joey’ Johns has reportedly stepped down from his position at SEN’s <em>Morning Glory with Matty Johns </em>for the rest of the year in the wake of the argument. </p> <p dir="ltr">Additionally, the head of SEN Craig Hutchison had reportedly tried to keep the peace between them by suggesting that he’d take the two out for a lunch to clear the air, once the 2023 State of Origin series had wrapped up. </p> <p dir="ltr">It has even been reported that Andrew and Matty haven’t spoken since the on-air incident, with Matthew revealing that Andrew was “off me” after making his own return to the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, Hutchison - who is also the host of Nine’s <em>Footy Classified</em> - had more to add on the matter, and the likelihood of mending the rift and getting Andrew back on air with them. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We love Joey and we love Matt,” he began. “They’ve been a fantastic part of SEN 1170 on Friday mornings.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We respect Joey’s wishes to concentrate on Origin at the moment. We understand he’s got a fair bit on his plate. And I probably underestimated how worked up he is.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We look forward to sitting down with him after Origin and welcoming him back with open arms. I’ll get them both together for a bite to eat and go from there.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

TV

Placeholder Content Image

Sam Burgess’ major life update

<p>Former South Sydney Rabbitohs star Sam Burgess is reportedly expecting his third child with girlfriend Lucy Graham. </p> <p>As a friend of the family informed <em>Confidential</em>, Lucy’s pregnancy has apparently progressed past the three-month mark, and the couple are said to be “extremely happy.” </p> <p>“Both Sam and Lucy are happy and healthy and excited about their future together,” a representative for Burgess added.</p> <p>The two only went public with their relationship five months prior to the announcement, though it is believed that they had been friends for roughly 20 years beforehand. Both hail from the United Kingdom, with Lucy reportedly having moved to Australia to start a family with Burgess.</p> <p>The 34-year-old is already a father of two - daughter Poppy and son William - with ex-wife Phoebe. The couple parted ways barely a month after William was born, and while they gave their relationship another try in 2019, they split for good before the year was up. </p> <p>In October 2020, allegations of domestic violence - as well as drug use - were made against him by his ex-wife, and he was stood down from his new position as assistant coach. Burgess denied the allegations, and he was cleared after a year-long investigation. </p> <p>And it was only two years later that his new relationship with Lucy made its public debut on the red carpet of friend Russell Crowe’s Poker Face premiere. At the time, Lucy was labelled by tabloids as a “mystery brunette”.</p> <p>They became ‘social media official’ in January 2023, when Burgess appeared in Lucy’s gallery of New Year’s pictures. Sam’s brother George, and his partner Joanna, were also in attendance at the event. </p> <p>Additionally, the pair have been spotted out and about enjoying a Red Hot Chili Peppers concert in Sydney. </p> <p>Despite their whirlwind romance, a source close to the former rugby league player opened up to <em>The Daily Mail</em>, explaining that Burgess is “mad” about his new partner. </p> <p>“It’s been a whirlwind but she is a fantastic woman. They get along so well. All of his friends are so happy to see how happy he makes her,” they said. </p> <p>“The Burgess are very family oriented and I think there was always a plan to start a family,” they added. “From what I hear, she is genuinely good for him. When they're together apparently they laugh all the time - she cracks him up. </p> <p>“He is likely going to coach South's … so this is a nice step for him.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

Placeholder Content Image

“Never be forgotten”: Uncle of NRL star drowns while saving swimmers

<p>The man who died, Talitiga Taupau, was trying to save the lives of two others caught in a dangerous rip with him.</p> <p>The father-of-six entered the rip at Cronulla’s Shelly Beach on Saturday afternoon. One swimmer made it back to the beach, while Talitiga and one other were pulled unconscious from the water. </p> <p>Talitiga died at the scene, while the second unconscious man was revived and taken to St George Hospital in a critical condition after allegedly being underwater for three minutes. The swimmer who returned to shore was reported to be in a stable condition and receiving further treatment. </p> <p>Talitiga’s death brings the state’s summer drowning toll to 14 (with the count commencing on December 1). </p> <p>The 44-year-old has been identified as the uncle of Brisbane Broncos player Martin “Marty” Taupau. </p> <p>“It's really sad that this has happened but he will never be forgotten for his actions," Marty told 9News of his uncle’s passing. Marty was reportedly driving to Brisbane with his family for training with his team when he heard the news. </p> <p>“There’s just so much happening,” he added, “so much to process.” </p> <p>Talitiga and the second man were pulled from the water by nearby lifeguards. Joel Wiseman, director of lifesaving for Surf Life Saving NSW, stressed the strain on volunteer lifesavers across the state in the wake of the recent drownings, including the tragedy at Shelly Beach on the weekend. </p> <p>“We are experiencing one of our busiest summers ever with huge rescue numbers,” Wiseman stated, “and our volunteers have put in a massive effort to try to keep people safe along the coast.</p> <p>"Despite the growing drowning toll, volunteers and lifeguards should be very proud of what they've achieved so far this summer. There are a combination of factors making this summer so deadly, including people taking risks, alcohol consumption, and crowded beaches which can lead beachgoers to seek out unfamiliar and unpatrolled locations.</p> <p>"Rip currents remain the number one coastal hazard and the 14 coastal drowning deaths this summer have all occurred at unpatrolled locations."</p> <p>An investigation is underway into the latest drowning, with Sutherland Shire police set to prepare a report for the coroner. </p> <p>Talitiga Taupau is being remembered as a hero for his actions, with tributes flowing for his family.</p> <p>Marty Taupau posted one such tribute to his Instagram, sharing 9News’ segment on his uncle’s story with the caption “Manuia lau malaga uncle“ (Have a good trip uncle) and the hashtag “hero”. </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/Cn_oTOwJwJ9/?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/reel/Cn_oTOwJwJ9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by 🧿 M A R T Y K A P O W 🧿 (@martykapow)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“Prayers and condolences to you and your family brother,” wrote Australian basketball star Dejan Vasiljevic. </p> <p>Fellow rugby league player Brad Takairangi commented, “much love my bro.” </p> <p>“So sorry for your loss @martykapow,” shared one supporter, echoing the sentiments of many who had come to the post to share their condolences for Marty and Talitiga’s loved ones, “sending sympathy and love to you and all your family.”</p> <p>As Marty told 9News, “I know I’ve got the right people and support networks around … I’ll be okay.” </p> <p><em>Images: 9News</em></p> <p> </p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

NRL player James Tedesco ties the knot

<p>James Tedesco and his fiancée Maria Glinellis have tied the knot in a lavish garden wedding in the Hunter Valley.</p> <p>The pair exchanged their vows at the Redleaf Wollombi over the weekend, surrounded by their loved ones.</p> <p>The beautiful bride wore a modern corset dress with a stunning embroidered lace bodice and a bejewelled pair of heels, which she later swapped for sneakers.</p> <p>James took on a more classic look with a black suit and crisp white button-up.</p> <p>The couple shared sweet photos on their Instagram moments after they said their vows, with the caption: "MR &amp; MRS TEDESCO 🤍 07.01.23".</p> <p>Fans, friends, and family showed their support in the comments.</p> <p> </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/CnOV7qdr1L2/?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/CnOV7qdr1L2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @maria.tedesco_</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p>"Congratulations to you both!" the official Sydney Rooster's Instagram page commented.</p> <p>"Awww congrats guys," wrote another.</p> <p>"The best day!!! Love you guys," a friend wrote.</p> <p>Guests have also shared footage of the couple, clearly head over heels for each other, with photos of them affectionately kissing and holding hands.</p> <p>The newlyweds were also spotted holding hands while they did their first dance to Sam Smith and Disclosure's "Latch".</p> <p>Take a look at the stunning and intimate footage of the wedding.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram, 7 News</em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

Placeholder Content Image

Paul Green farewelled

<p dir="ltr">NRL legend Paul Green has been farewelled in an emotional service in Queensland following his devastating death. </p> <p dir="ltr">The legendary coach and former player was just 49 when he was found dead at his home in Brisbane on August 11. </p> <p dir="ltr">More than 700 people attended the service at Kougari Oval, the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls’ home ground, including rugby league greats Allan Langer, Andrew Gee, Shane Webcke, Ben Ikin and Jason Taumalolo.</p> <p dir="ltr">John Lang, Steve Renouf, Wendell Sailor, Lote Tuqiri, Todd Payten, Neil Henry, Brad Thorn, Kevin Walters, Brad Fittler, Trent Robinson and Bryan Fletcher were also in attendance. </p> <p dir="ltr">Paul Green’s wife Amanda delivered a heartfelt speech speaking of when the pair met and their love for one another. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Paul and I met at the Mad Cow in Townsville, an establishment of many relationships,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The day Paul proposed he said to me you better strapped yourself because it’s going to be one hell of a ride, and that it was.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We had the deepest love and he made me feel deeply loved … we’ve always been a team.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As heartbroken as I am today, I’ve loved every moment with Paul. I loved you yesterday, I love you today and I will love you tomorrow.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Paul Green’s wife Amanda has delivered the most moving tribute to her late husband as family and friends remember the legendary player and coach. </p> <p>Pictures from the service: <a href="https://t.co/bBOWY77XFj">https://t.co/bBOWY77XFj</a> <a href="https://t.co/dTDjE93KJ5">pic.twitter.com/dTDjE93KJ5</a></p> <p>— Courier Mail Sport (@cmail_sport) <a href="https://twitter.com/cmail_sport/status/1564426956770201601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Their daughter Emerson then got up and delivered a heart-warming speech saying she will cherish their memories forever.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He always knew what to say and when to say it. He would always tell you it doesn’t matter what people think of you,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He knew how to bust a move and liked to think he had an amazing voice. If there was music on, I could always count on Dad dragging me onto a dancefloor.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He taught me to be the best version of myself. I will cherish our memories forever and will continue to do you proud. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I was always your little angel, but now you are mine.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Jed also said a few words, thanking his dad for being the “best dad ever”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Thanks for being the best dad ever. You were so silly sometimes and that you made the best dad,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I am going to miss you so much.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Paul’s family announced a few weeks after his death that they <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/paul-green-s-brain-donated-to-science" target="_blank" rel="noopener">donated his brain to science</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Australian Sports Brain Bank said Paul’s brain will help aid research into concussion-related condition chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) - a common injury amongst NRL players due to the nature of the game. </p> <p dir="ltr">"In memory of our beloved Paul, we ask that you support the pioneering work of the Australian Sports Brain Bank,” their post read.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Paul was known for always looking out for others. We are proud that part of his legacy will be looking out for the brain health of all others involved in the game that he loved.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Amanda, Emerson and Jed."</p> <p dir="ltr">Paul had an incredible NRL career, playing 162 first grade matches between 1994-2004 and winning the prestigious Rothmans Medal in 1995 as the game's best and fairest.</p> <p dir="ltr">He played for several different clubs including Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and the Brisbane Broncos.</p> <p dir="ltr">Green eventually swapped his playing boots to coaching ones as he took on the North Queensland Cowboys from 2014-2020.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>If you are experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide, you can call Lifeline 131 114 or beyondblue 1300 224 636 or visit lifeline.org.au or beyondblue.org.au.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Twitter</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Paul Green’s brain donated to science

<p dir="ltr">Paul Green’s brain has been donated to the Australian Sports Brain Bank to help with science. </p> <p dir="ltr">The legendary coach and former player Paul Green was just 49 when he <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/rugby-league-icon-dead-at-49" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was found dead</a> at his home in Brisbane on August 11. </p> <p dir="ltr">It is confirmed that the father-of-two died from suicide. </p> <p dir="ltr">His family has now confirmed that his brain will be donated to the <a href="https://www.mycause.com.au/page/290298/in-memory-of-paul-green" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Australian Sports Brain Bank</a> to help aid research into concussion-related condition chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) - a common injury amongst NRL players due to the nature of the game. </p> <p dir="ltr">"In memory of our beloved Paul, we ask that you support the pioneering work of the Australian Sports Brain Bank,” their post read.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Paul was known for always looking out for others. We are proud that part of his legacy will be looking out for the brain health of all others involved in the game that he loved.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Amanda, Emerson and Jed."</p> <p dir="ltr">They are hoping to raise $150,000 to help with the research. </p> <p dir="ltr">Michael Buckland, the director of the Australian Sports Brain Bank, thanked Green’s family for their donation.</p> <p dir="ltr">"This is an incredibly generous donation and will be an invaluable part of our research into the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts in sport and elsewhere," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We at the Australian Sports Brain Bank are blown away by the fact that in their time of grief, Amanda and the rest of the family thought of how they could help others."</p> <p dir="ltr">Green had an incredible NRL career, playing 162 first grade matches between 1994-2004 and winning the prestigious Rothmans Medal in 1995 as the game's best and fairest.</p> <p dir="ltr">He played for several different clubs including Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and the Brisbane Broncos.</p> <p dir="ltr">Green eventually swapped his playing boots to coaching ones as he took on the North Queensland Cowboys from 2014-2020.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you would like to donate to the research, click <a href="https://www.mycause.com.au/page/290298/in-memory-of-paul-green" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>If you are experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide, you can call Lifeline 131 114 or beyondblue 1300 224 636 or visit <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/">lifeline.org.au</a> or <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/">beyondblue.org.au</a>.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Australian Sports Brain Bank</em></p>

Body

Placeholder Content Image

NRL great's cause of death sparks emotional pleas

<p dir="ltr">Content warning: This article includes mentions of suicide.</p> <p dir="ltr">TV personality and mental health advocate Gus Worland has issued an emotional plea to Australians to ask for help when they need it in the wake of the sudden death of Paul Green.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 49-year-old NRL coach was found dead on Thursday, with the cause of death later revealed to be suicide.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police were called to Green’s family home in Brisbane after he was found unresponsive in the garage.</p> <p dir="ltr">A police spokeswoman told the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nrl/article-11101165/How-Paul-Green-died-Police-speak-cause-death.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia </a></em>that Green was declared dead by paramedics at the scene, saying that the circumstances surrounding his death are not suspicious.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-546df288-7fff-8ded-3e29-af01266a0d4a"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Worland - the founder of the Gotcha4Life charity - spoke to Nine’s NRL broadcast in the wake of Green’s death, sharing a message for the nation.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Important words from <a href="https://twitter.com/GusWorland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GusWorland</a> on a very sad day. Please talk to someone. I’m always here for my Twitter friends, as I know you all are for me. ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/IWtz3uySuL">https://t.co/IWtz3uySuL</a></p> <p>— Gavin Flanagan (@gavflano) <a href="https://twitter.com/gavflano/status/1557687402696962048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Seven Australian men that wake up this morning won't wake up tomorrow morning, two women, and we have people attempting suicide at such a rapid rate," Worland said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was so sad to hear about Greeny, and I think this is a line in the sand as a sport and as a nation to say enough is enough.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Let's stop talking about it, let's stop talking about awareness, let's put some action into place.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It's all about manning up and speaking up now, not manning up and shutting up, which is what we've been told all our lives to do.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Put your hand up if you need some help and support. That's the bravest thing you can do, ask for help when you need it.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Why are we so good in this country at helping people, but not at asking for help? That's what we need to change."</p> <p dir="ltr">Nine News presenter Peter Overton echoed Worland’s message during the 6pm bulletin on Thursday, calling for Aussies to speak up about their mental health.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If you are struggling with your mental health, please talk to someone,” he began. “Ask, ‘Are you OK?’</p> <p dir="ltr">“Take a friend for a coffee, a walk; confide in your GP.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Share your feelings with your family.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Just talk to someone. You might be surprised how many people you know have the same struggles.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You are not alone.</p> <p dir="ltr">“One of the best places you can call is Lifeline. They are there to listen, they are there to help.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Green’s passing comes 11 months after he was sacked as the head coach of the Maroons, having been in the role, which he described as “every Queenslander’s dream”, for just a year.</p> <p dir="ltr">As the coach for the North Queensland Cowboys, Green took the team to their first ever premiership in 2015 and stayed in charge until the end of 2020, when he was replaced by Todd Payten.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following his departure from the Maroons, Green had been in talks with Wayne Bennett about making a return to NRL and joining the Dolphins, who enter the competition next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Laurence Lancini, a former chairman of the Cowboys, told the <em><a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/paul-green-death-cowboys-pay-tribute-and-reveal-devastating-detail-of-his-passing/news-story/5e687ee90f3a5e183f618fcd8e407337" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Courier Mail</a></em> that Green seemed fine when they spoke just three days before his death and said they should catch up for a beer soon.</p> <p dir="ltr">But, he said “the last few years had been tough” for Green.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Greeny mentioned he was keen to coach again and had some options and I asked Greeny if he really wanted to go back into it again,” Lancini said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I said to Paul, the last club you coached, you took the Cowboys to the premiership and you took us to two grand finals. Just leave coaching behind and do something else.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But Greeny still had that real drive. He wanted to coach again.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Greeny has come from a position where he coached a club to a premiership and a second grand final. He has coached State of Origin. He has coached at the highest levels and I think Greeny was a bit lost and confused about where his life needed to be without coaching.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The thing about Greeny is he was a high achiever and high achievers always want to be achieving something.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The last few years have been a bit tough on him because he hasn’t been coaching in the NRL.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I said to Greeny, just take your time and the right opportunity will come along.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><em>If you are experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide, you can call Lifeline 131 114 or beyondblue 1300 224 636 or visit <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lifeline.org.au</a> or <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">beyondblue.org.au</a>.</em></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a0c9ea61-7fff-c0cd-9a01-02b26c8a1452"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Rugby League icon dead at 49

<p dir="ltr">The NRL world is in mourning following the death of legendary coach and former player Paul Green at the age of 49. </p> <p dir="ltr">The premiership-winning coach had reportedly not complained about any illness and was found dead at his home in Brisbane on Thursday. </p> <p dir="ltr">A post-mortem will be carried out to determine his cause of death.  </p> <p dir="ltr">Former Melbourne Storm and Maroons hooker Cameron Smith, who was coached by Green in the earlier days said he was “heartbroken” upon hearing the news.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A very sad part of the day,” he said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s certainly rocked myself…and everyone in the rugby league world.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s a sad day for everyone involved in the rugby league family and community. We send our best wishes and condolences out to the entire Green family.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was fortunate enough, he was my kicking and catching coach when I was coming through at the Broncos and he was also my coach when I was at Wynnum.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I had a small amount to do with him but in the time I did, it was actually really interesting the year I was at Wynnum I ended up signing with another club to leave but we had a really tough start to the season. Greeny managed to turn the Wynnum Seagulls around and we won the premiership that year.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He’s a fighter. It’s a very sad day to see Greeny go like that.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Green had an incredible NRL career, playing 162 first grade matches between 1994-2004 and winning the prestigious Rothmans Medal in 1995 as the game's best and fairest.</p> <p dir="ltr">He played for several different clubs including Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and the Brisbane Broncos.</p> <p dir="ltr">Green eventually swapped his playing boots to coaching ones as he took on the North Queensland Cowboys from 2014-2020.</p> <p dir="ltr">He helped the Cowboys finally win their first ever premiership in 2015. </p> <p dir="ltr">Green last coached Queensland’s State of Origin side in 2021 and was due for a comeback into coaching in 2023 with the new NRL team, Dolphins. </p> <p dir="ltr">Green is survived by wife Amanda and children Emerson and Jed.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

How Hugh Jackman became entangled in the Sea Eagles pride jersey saga

<p>In the wake of the Manly Sea Eagles pride jersey saga that saw several players boycott a charity NRL match, it has been revealed that Hugh Jackman knew about the "controversial" design weeks ago. </p> <p>On Tuesday, Manly coach Des Hasler revealed that seven NRL players decided to boycott this week's game due to the appearance of a one-off pride rainbow on their jerseys, with players citing religious and cultural beliefs.</p> <p>The Gotcha4Life Cup match between the Manly Sea Eagles and the Sydney Roosters is designed to raise money to fight mental illness, with over $200,000 expected to be raised. </p> <p>Hugh Jackman had agreed to promote the game as the Hollywood actor, who like Gotcha4Life founder and childhood mate Gus Worland is a diehard Sea Eagles supporter.</p> <p>Jackman received a replica Manly jersey in the post a few weeks ago, proudly pointing at the not-for-profit foundation’s logo for a photo.</p> <p>Jackman also signed the jersey, which will be auctioned this week.</p> <p>A photo of Jackman with the jersey was plastered on the front page of The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday morning, with Jackman hoping to spin the negative press of the boycott into an opportunity to highlight the good of the charity. </p> <p>“I woke up this morning and saw that front page and thought, ‘Aw, he hates it when he’s on the front page’,” Gus Worland told news.com.au on Wednesday.</p> <p>“But he goes, ‘Mate, it’s awesome. Let’s turn it around. Let’s talk about Gotcha4Life. Let’s see how much good we can do with the money that’s been donated'."</p> <p>“That’s him to a tee.”</p> <p>The pride jersey saga has regrettably shifted focus away from the Gotcha4Life Cup, as Gus Worland, with the help of former Manly player Ian Roberts, the first openly gay NRL footballer, will put aside a portion of funds raised to assist LGBTI communities.</p> <p>The saga began on Tuesday when Manly Sea Eagles players Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolutau Koula and Toafofoa Sipley were willing to sabotage their team's chance at securing a spot in the NRL finals over something as frivolous as a rainbow stripe. </p> <p>Criticism of the players has been rife online, with many pointing out that supporting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community should be spoken about more in the Australian sporting community.</p> <p>You can donate to Gotcha4Life <a href="https://www.gotcha4life.org/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Benji Marshall's stunning revelations

<p dir="ltr">Benji Marshall did not leave one dry eye in the house – nor for anyone looking on at home – in the latest episode of <em>Celebrity Apprentice</em> as he opened up about his troubled past.</p> <p dir="ltr">When the former NRL player was required to pitch a TV series idea as part of the <em>Celebrity Apprentice</em> challenge, Benji became very emotional when putting forward his idea for a documentary about his life.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ve never, ever talked about this publicly,” Benji told the on-screen TV executives.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ve never talked about this because it means so much to me.</p> <p dir="ltr">“No one knows the real me… because I don’t even know the real me, there’s half of me I haven’t found out about.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I don’t know my dad, I don’t know my culture, I don’t know my nationality.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He teared up saying that he wanted someone to help save him after suffering through a traumatic childhood.</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/CfBoLdepBNb/?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/CfBoLdepBNb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Benji Marshall (@benji6marshall)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Growing up in a small town of NZ, my mum was very young, she had me at 15,” he continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I have this vivid memory of a seven-year-old boy, holding a butter knife, scared, sitting back in a dark corner, so no one could come from behind me to get me.</p> <p dir="ltr">“All I wanted was for someone to save me, someone to tuck me in, someone to save me, all I wanted was a dad.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He recalled the teasing he endured during school when kids would say “you don’t know your dad” which left him in tears.</p> <p dir="ltr">Wanting to find out who his father was, Benji got the courage to finally ask his mum but it was the look on her face that made him never ask again.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When I asked my mum who my dad was... I’ll never forget the look on her face, the look of fear, worry… it actually made me scared," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I never ever asked her again. I still don’t know until this day.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Benji then completed his pitch with a traditional haka dance and walked off, as he waited to hear whether or not he won the competition.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the boardroom, the judges debated and agreed on the winner.</p> <p dir="ltr">Benji won the $20,000 prize for his charity Souths Care, which supports disadvantaged, marginalised and Indigenous youth and families.</p> <p dir="ltr">He then bent over and cried when he realised he was heading off to the grand final, being congratulated by Lord Sugar’s adviser Janine Allis.</p> <p dir="ltr">The New Zealander also took to Instagram to thank fans for their support throughout his time on the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I can’t believe it. I’m Through to the GF on @celebrityapprentice I am super proud to be able to stand on the stage and share my story and pitch to everyone,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I shared things I have never spoken about before and I am proud to share my emotions and true feelings publicly.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Vulnerability is a strength. The feedback has been overwhelming. I appreciate everyone.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

TV

Placeholder Content Image

Tributes flow for Norm Provan

<p>The NRL community is in mourning after sporting legend Norm Provan died on Wednesday evening.</p> <p>The 88-year-old St George Dragons giant represented the club in 256 games between 1951 and 1965, and is widely regarded as one of the best football players of the 20th century.</p> <p>The second-rower featured in St George’s unprecedented 11-year reign as NSWRL premiers between 1956 and 1966.</p> <p>Norm set an Australian rugby league record by appearing in ten grand finals of the game.</p> <p>In 2015, Norm was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, and was named a Rugby League Immortal three years later.</p> <p>He is also famous for being immortalised on the Provan-Summons Trophy, which is awarded to the NRL premiers of each season.</p> <p>The iconic photograph of Provan alongside Arthur Summons was captured in the SCG mud after the 1963 grand final between the Dragons and the Magpies.</p> <p>Norm represented NSW in 19 games, as well as competing in 14 Tests for Australia.</p> <p>Social media is awash with a flood of tributes for the sporting legend from sports commentators, journalists and fellow rugby players.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">The warrior. The immortal. The legend. <br />Vale Norm Provan, I met Norm in 2003 on the Sunshine Coast &amp; you wouldn’t meet a truer gentleman. <br />I’ll never forget shaking your hand &amp; to this day, it’s the biggest hand I’ve ever shaken!! Will be missed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPNormProvan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPNormProvan</a> 🐉 <a href="https://t.co/nZMo0tbKus">pic.twitter.com/nZMo0tbKus</a></p> — Ashton Sims (@ashtonsims26) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashtonsims26/status/1448425147119984642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Heartbreaking day for rugby league. A gentle giant. Vale Norm “Sticks” Provan.</p> — David Riccio (@DaveRic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaveRic1/status/1448416458933825540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Never before, never again. Remembering the great man Norm Provan <a href="https://twitter.com/NRL_Dragons?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NRL_Dragons</a> <a href="https://t.co/gzrm5MHwzt">pic.twitter.com/gzrm5MHwzt</a></p> — Yvonne O’Keefe (@VonOKeefe) <a href="https://twitter.com/VonOKeefe/status/1448418718438936576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Even the QLD police have weighed in on the Origin I result

<p>Football fans were on the edge of their seats at the start of the first State of Origin game, but Maroon fans quickly became disheartened as the Blues ended up winning by 50-6.</p> <p>Blues fans were thrilled by the result, as it was the biggest winning margin for the Blues since the State of Origin began.</p> <p>However, even the QLD police force couldn't stop themselves from being bitter about the result of the match and posted it on their Facebook page.</p> <p>“QPS is investigating the disappearance of the Maroons winning edge, missing since 8.10 pm in Townsville,” the social media post read.</p> <p>“Concerns are held for the Maroons, as this behaviour is out of character.</p> <p>“Investigations indicate it was last seen in company with Kurt Capewell.</p> <p>“Please return it to QRL.”</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FQueenslandPolice%2Fposts%2F10159591751638254&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="243" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></p> <p>Queensland captain Daly Cherry-Evans felt the result of the match the hardest.</p> <p>“That hurts a fair bit, mate,” Queensland captain Daly Cherry-Evans said. “Just missed it, missed the jump. Had a good chat at half time then came back out and didn’t learn from our mistakes so we’ve got lot of improvement left in us and the Blues were good tonight.</p> <p>“Two games left, mate. We’ve got to shrug it off. We’ve got to.”</p> <p>He's not wrong. Despite the crushing victory of the Blues, the important number to focus on is 1-0, with the Blues ahead in the best-of-three series.</p> <p>Blues skipper James Tedesco said that the win was "pretty crazy".</p> <p>“We knew we had a great side we’ve got the best players in the game,” he added. “We knew if we worked together as to team we’d put in a good performance but 50 points is really pleasing.”</p> <p>Fox League's Michael Ennis said that the Queensland side wasn't playing the same game as the Blues.</p> <p>“I thought Queensland played a club style of footy rather than an Origin style of footy tonight,” Michael Ennis said. “I felt like NSW really adjusted their aggression into an Origin style of performance but I also felt that they got the important stuff right tonight. That's running hard, winning that battle through the middle, kicking long. They were patient but they didn’t have to be patient for long because Queensland fell apart.”</p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Russell Crowe "put through a wall" on crazy night out

<p><span>NRL great Bryan Fletcher has opened up about his encounter with Russell Crowe that left the two scrapping on a boozy night out.</span><br /><br /><span>Featuring on Brett Finch’s '<em>Uncensored</em>' podcast, Fletcher revealed the wild night he had with his South Sydney teammates and Crowe in the mid-2000s.</span><br /><br /><span>Fletcher was the Rabbitohs captain in 2003 when he joined the club from the Roosters, however the team had suffered a nightmare season after winning only three games.</span><br /><br /><span>The 47-year-old said he'd never met Crowe before his move to South Sydney, but had heard a rumour that the Hollywood star had promised to take the 2002 team to the Playboy Mansion if they made the finals.</span><br /><br /><span>Fletcher says he was left with his mind in a scramble after Crowe contacted him near the middle of the 2003 season.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841241/rabbitohs-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/03710573c68e4e7699511d8951dec960" /><br /><br /><span>Fletcher however believed it was not actually Crowe on the other end of the line, and instead one of his teammates was pranking him.</span><br /><br /><span>“I said, ‘How’s Meg? Is she good in the cot?’” Fletcher told Finch, referring to Meg Ryan who Crowe was dating during that time.</span><br /><br /><span>“I said something more crude than that.</span><br /><br /><span>“Then there was awkward silence and he goes, ‘Fletch, it’s Russell. Russell Crowe’.</span><br /><br /><span>"And when he dropped his voice I knew straight away it was him and I’ve just gone, ‘F***, how do I get out of this?’”</span><br /><br /><span>It turns out Crowe had wanted the South Sydney players to bring a pair of nice clothes after their training in order to take them out.</span><br /><br /><span>“My imagination just starts going so by the time I get to Sutto (John Sutton) who’s the 17th bloke, I said, ‘Sutto, you’re not going to believe this bro, we are going to the Playboy Mansion’,” Fletcher said.</span><br /><br /><span>“Everyone is frothing, thinking they’re going to the Playboy Mansion.”</span><br /><br /><span>Sadly enough, the Rabbitohs didn’t go to LA, but instead arrived at a hotel in Woolloomooloo where cricket greats Shane Warne and Merv Hughes were waiting to kick them into gear with some inspirational words.</span><br /><br /><span>However the night took a turn around 9 pm when Crowe brought out some bottles of Absinthe.</span><br /><br /><span>“We went through 10 bottles. Ten bottles later and we’re going mad. It’s on. Blokes are cheering and carrying on,” Fletcher said.</span><br /><br /><span>He went on to say Crowe had challenged him to some footy.</span><br /><br /><span>“It was an odd time but I’m thinking, ‘You’ve got to humour Russ, he’s put this drink on for us’,” Fletcher said.</span><br /><br /><span>“So Russell comes running at me and I tackle him how I always have my whole career and I miss him. He runs behind me and dives down behind an imaginary set of posts.</span><br /><br /><span>“I said, ‘Good on you Russ’ and kept walking. I take two steps and I get pushed in the back. It’s Russ. He just stops in front of me and he goes, ‘You f***ing dog. You’re a f***ing cat. You’re a waste of money, you’re South Sydney’s worst ever captain’.</span><br /><br /><span>"He was right but he didn’t have to say it to my face.</span><br /><br /><span>“The boys have jerried to what’s going on … I got the s**ts and said, ‘Let’s just do this again’.</span><br /><br /><span>“He basically gets up and runs at me and I get under his ribs and drive him … and put him through a wall and the boys are just going, ‘What the f*** are you doing? Why are you doing this?’</span><br /><br /><span>“Russ pops up, just shakes his head and goes, ‘That’s what I want to see!’ That was his motivation, so we end up having a terrific night, getting on the p***.”</span><br /><br /><span>Crowe's motivational tactics seemed to do the job as the Rabbitohs would go on to thrash Melbourne Storm that weekend.</span><br /><br /><span>However their victory was short-lived.</span><br /><br /><span>“We beat them 42-10 and we did not win another game all year,” Fletcher admitted.</span></p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Israel Folau's NRL return hits a dead end

<p>The St George Illawarra Dragons have withdrawn their interest in signing controversial footballer Israel Folau after they faced heavy backlash.</p> <p>In a bombshell report, it was revealed that the Dragons had made a major move to recruit Folau back into the NRL.</p> <p>The Dragons had reportedly begun to move forward with their plans to recruit Folau, who would most likely play in the centres if a contract was ratified.</p> <p>The club unsurprisingly faced a wave of criticism, forcing the Dragons to quickly backtrack on their decision.</p> <p>“While the Dragons did enquire about signing Folau, the club can confirm that such discussions have now ceased,” the club confirmed in a statement.</p> <p>According to NewsCorp, the 31-year-old's return to the NRL has hit a brick wall, but he reportedly eager to explore other opportunities within the league.</p> <p>Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’landys has previously said Folau’s views on homosexuality were not welcome in the NRL.</p> <p>“The game is inclusive. Israel’s comments are not inclusive,” V’landys said in October 2019.</p> <p>“When I was a kid and kids used to get bashed up because they were different, I used to go and defend them. And a lot of them, it’s because their role models or their peers made them that way.</p> <p>“I have no tolerance for people that put other people’s lives (at risk) or (who commit) violence. It’s a big statement to make. With due respect to Israel, what he says, young kids listen to. He is a role model. They act on it. And when you’re a kid at school and you get bashed up because you’re different, I don’t think that’s a good thing.”</p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Karl Stefanovic slams Israel Folau's possible return as "appalling"

<p>The NRL has been urged to "take a stand" and ban Israel Folau for good, as rumours about his return continue to swirl.</p> <p>The Dragons are reportedly attempting to bring Folau back into the game on a two-year deal, with the club submitting an application to the NRL to allow the 31-year-old to play.</p> <p>Folau caused controversy in 2019 after voicing his discriminatory views on homosexuality, which saw him being stood down from the Wallabies.</p> <p>Karl Stefanovic said the return was "appalling" and urged the NRL to fight back.</p> <p>"I think it is an appalling decision by the NRL to allow him back into the code," Stefanovic said.</p> <p>"I think it's way out of line. Given what he said and the hurt he caused. To just somehow then say, 'you know what, it's OK because he doesn't have a platform for his beliefs'.</p> <p>"He has never apologised for his beliefs. He still believes in that. He still is a homophobe.</p> <p>"The NRL needs to take a stand on this stuff and they need to take it now... He is not changing his behaviour. He's not changing his views.</p> <p>"But let's let him play because he can't go on social media? That's an absolute cop out."</p> <p>If Folau returns, he may have some strict conditions, with the Dragons reportedly set to include social media clauses in his contract.</p> <p>Stefanovic's co-host Ally Langdon said this is not enough.</p> <p>"Just looking at his Instagram page this morning, that very offensive quote is still there," she said.</p> <p>"And perhaps he won't now post other offensive remarks such as this. But he still preaches at church...he still holds these beliefs.</p> <p>"It's been filmed and it's still being released. So by bringing him back into the league, I think you are still giving him a platform."</p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

CCTV shows Sam Burgess drinking beers before alleged altercation with father-in-law

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>New CCTV footage shows former NRL star Sam Burgess cheerfully posing with fans and knocking back four beers before an alleged highly-charged confrontation with his former father-in-law.</p> <p>Mitchell Hooke called Burgess "wild" and "crazy" and has accused him of threatening to hit him during a confrontation at his home last year.</p> <p>Burgess appeared in Moss Vale Local Court having pleaded not guilty to one count of intimidation and another charge of common assault relating to an alleged verbal spat on October 19th, 2019.</p> <p>Burgess also has an apprehended violence order against him from the family.</p> <p>He has since denied the allegations and made counter-claims against his former father-in-law with Burgess' lawyers arguing that Hooke had threatened to ruin Burgess' career and reputation.</p> <p>CCTV played to the court showed Mr Burgess drinking with patrons at the Royal Hotel at Bowral on the afternoon of the alleged incident.</p> <p>The alleged argument took place when Burgess was meant to have a two-hour visit at the home.</p> <p>Hooke's daughter Phoebe Burgess, who had recently split from Burgess, said she was not present during his visit and was meant to arrive after he left at 4 pm.</p> <p>However, a distressing phone call from her father prompted her to return to the property early, where Hooke explained that Burgess had unleashed a tirade of abuse during which he threatened to punch him.</p> <p>Phoebe then called the Moss Vale Police Station before making a triple-0 call.</p> <p>“Look I’m just a bit shaken up, I’m just going through, uh, my husband and I are going through a bit of a separation at the moment… He has threatened and abused my father,” she was heard saying in the phone call during which she became tearful on several occasions.</p> <p>She added: “It’s Sam Burgess, so it can’t be made public but I just need to report it cause he’s still in the area and he’s really angry.”</p> <p>She told the operator that no one had been harmed, saying: “I promise we’re all fine, I just know that, I’ve got lawyers for that exact reason.”</p> <p>She went on to claim that Mr Burgess had previously abused her in a similar fashion.</p> <p>“He’s done this to me too, he’s done this to me,” she said.</p> <p>Phoebe and her father made unrelated domestic violence and drug allegations in statements which were handed to police earlier in the year, which were denied by Burgess himself.</p> <p>The allegations were published in <em>The Australian</em> last month, and when asked why Phoebe went public, she said she didn't want to be a part of a "cover up'".</p> <p>“The Australian publication approached me about certain matters, rumours that had been circulating,” Ms Burgess told the court.</p> <p>“Instead of covering up, which is so typical of the system that I was part of, which I believe is toxic in the NRL, I decided to hand over the documents that I had prepared for my lawyers, prepared over time... I gave it to what I felt like was a trustworthy publication and not covering up and contributing to a system that I believe failed myself ... and failed Sam Burgess.”</p> <p>Mr Hooke told the court that Burgess had unleashed a verbal tirade against him, telling him: “F*** you, you’re a piece of s***, you’re just like your daughter, you’re a piece of s***” and “I’m going to hit you.”</p> <p>Mr Hooke said he was “terrified”, he “went cold” and never felt so scared in his life as Mr Burgess “towered” over him.</p> <p>“I was resigned to getting hit, I had absolutely no doubt,” Mr Hooke told the court.</p> <p>“His eyes were wild, they were crazy eyes, his face was red. I have never been threatened like that in my life.”</p> <p>The hearing will conclude in January.</p> </div> </div> </div>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Australia reacts to NRL State of Origin's "coward" decision

<p>The NRL has been heavily criticised by a number of commentators after they backflipped on plans to scrap the national anthem from its State of Origin Series.</p> <p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison even spoke up to ensure Advance Australia Fair would be played before this year’s matches between NSW and Queensland after furious backlash.</p> <p>However, despite the league changing its mind, they are still copping a lashing.</p> <p><em>Sky News</em> host Chris Smith said the NRL “took the coward’s way out” with its original move to ban the anthem, adding it was “one of the most pathetic decisions ever made by a sporting organisation”.</p> <p>“A group of Indigenous Origin players refused to sing the anthem last year as a protest against the white invasion of Australia,” he said.</p> <p>“So to avoid embarrassment, (NRL CEO Andrew) Abdo took the coward’s way out and banned the anthem altogether.</p> <p>“The Australian anthem will now be played as it always should be,” Smith added.</p> <p>“As for the stance taken by some indigenous players, the NRL holds an indigenous round each year, has a great history of giving skilled indigenous players opportunities they wouldn‘t normally receive, and the code’s charity work in Aboriginal communities is second to none.</p> <p>“Those players should be using their status to unite black and white and commemorate the code’s indigenous history, not divide young fans of the game and guilt the NRL into no longer celebrating this great country.”</p> <p><em>The Daily Telegraph’s</em> Paul Kent said that the NRL’s political posturing needs to come to an end.</p> <p>“Why the NRL continues to try to position itself in political matters is something the game has not explained,” Kent wrote.</p> <p>“Sporting codes should represent everybody and not decide who is wrong or right, or force those who love their game to have to get behind a political position they don’t support.</p> <p>“Nobody tells NRL fans whether they should vote Liberal or Labor, and the rest of politics should be the same.”</p> <p><em>2GB</em> radio host Jim Wilson said the correction was “common sense”.</p> <p>“It’s an event of national significance and it’s our national anthem,” he tweeted. “The public has spoken and I’m glad the NRL had a rethink … This year more than ever we need to be united.”</p> <p>However sports journalist Brad Walters said the backflip was “not representative of the public’s view”.</p> <p>“Advance Australia Fair is divisive and offensive,” he tweeted.</p> <p>“I feel uncomfortable whenever it is played because of the hurt it causes Indigenous Australians. I’ve felt strongly about this for a long time and will continue to try to educate others.”</p> <p><em>Sydney Morning Herald</em> columnist Peter FitzSimons had his own opinion and took aim at Morrison for saying it had never been more important to come together and sing the anthem as one after a year of “struggle and heartbreak”.</p> <p>“Yes, Prime Minister. After a very tough year of plague and pestilence, of lockdown and a languishing economy, having the league players sing the national anthem will make it all better,” he wrote.</p> <p>Peter van Onselen from The Project also took issue with the Prime Minister getting involved.</p> <p>“Personally I think the national anthem should be played at the State of Origin,” he tweeted.</p> <p>“But a PM calling to demand it gets played feels like throwing ones weight around.”</p> <p>NSW coach Brad Fittler didn’t seem to have an opinion on the situation, saying “I’m not good at politics, I try to stay out of it,“ he said.</p> <p>“If they play it, they play it. If they don’t, they don’t. We’re there for a game of footy.</p> <p>“I do think it‘s time, the landscape has changed a little bit, to maybe revise the words or have a look at it, where they ask everyone in Australia.”</p>

News

Our Partners

Over 60

© Copyright 2024 OverSixty.All Rights Reserved.