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Nat Barr slammed for “out of touch” comments about the housing crisis

Nat Barr has been widely slammed online for her comments on the housing crisis, with many claiming she is “stirring the pot”. On Wednesday’s Sunrise show, Barr was just joined by two experts to discuss Labor’s Help To Buy Bill, which would allow Australians earning under $90,000 to buy a home with just a 2 per cent deposit. While discussing the legislation, Barr said she’s worried her two sons — aged 19 and 22 — won’t be able to purchase a home after finance spokesperson Jane Hume claimed “Australians have already rejected this policy right around the country”. “I’m in the lucky position that I got to buy mine when they were cheaper years ago but I don’t know how my kids are going to buy one,” Barr said. Barr, who has hosted Sunrise since 2020, has never spoken publicly about her salary, but it has long been speculated that she earns more than $1 million per year. Viewers were quick to slam her comments on Facebook, claiming Barr will “set her kids up”. “She is the last person who should speak. she’s wealthy and will set her kids up,” one person commented, while another added, “So many young people are buying houses every day without the help of mum and dad. Nat’s just stirring the pot.” Another commenter added, “She makes enough money to buy a house for each of her sons. They’ll be just fine. Check your privilege, Nat.” Image credits: Instagram / Sunrise

"People are losing faith": Nat Barr takes aim at Albanese government

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended his record on economic management as the Labor party's primary vote continues to slip in the polls against Peter Dutton ahead of next year's election. This week's Newspoll shows that Labor's primary vote has slumped to 31 per cent, the lowest it has been since the 2022 election, while the Coalition remains steady at 38 per cent. On Thursday, Sunrise host Nat Barr told the Prime Minister that while on her way to the studio she had spoken to a Labor-voting taxi driver who said he was "losing faith" in Albanese's leadership, as things were "too expensive". “This is your biggest problem, people like this cabby are losing faith. How do you respond to that?” Barr asked Albanese. Albanese defended his choices by pointing out that ABS figures released on Wednesday showed annual inflation rates at 2.7 per cent in August, down from 3.5 per cent in July, and the lowest it has been since August 2021. “Cost-of-living pressures are real, but that’s why we have engaged with responsible economic management in order to bring inflation down whilst we have been delivering cost-of-living relief,” he said. “Yesterday’s figures show the headline inflation is down from 3.5 to 2.7 (per cent), it is a good outcome. “There’s more work to be done, but we’ve done that whilst we have delivered a tax cut for that cabby who would have got nothing under the previous scheme.” Albanese added that energy bill relief, cheaper childcare, and fee-free TAFE places were also making a difference to cost-of-living pressures. However, Barr hit back and said that the cost-of-living measures such as the energy rebate were “artificial” as the rebate would end. “The RBA has said, this does not mean that inflation is under control. The power rebate is going to end and that’s keeping it at one level at the moment, that’s why they look at underlying inflation — they take out volatile stuff,” Barr said. “So, what do you say about inflation still being at this level?” she asked. “What I say is if you exclude volatile, the figures released yesterday, which are known as month-by-month, but they’re year-to-year … that figure is down from 3.7 down to 3 (per cent). That’s a remarkable drop,” Albanese responded. “The Reserve Bank Australia’s target band is 2 to 3 (per cent). Every single one of the figures yesterday that were released, whether it was headline, excluding volatile, mean, all of them saw significant drops in inflation. “Inflation is half what we inherited and one-third of where it peaked …That is in part because of the back-to-back budget surpluses that we have delivered that in part is, yes, energy bill relief, but also what we’ve done in cheaper childcare, fee-free TAFE, the deliberate policy design to help people whilst putting that downward pressure on inflation,” he said. Image: Sunrise

Sunrise star announces cancer diagnosis live on air

In a heartfelt and emotional moment, Sunrise star Edwina Bartholomew, 41, revealed on live television that she has been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia. The popular news presenter made the announcement during an 8am segment on Seven’s breakfast program on Friday, telling viewers she is determined to stay positive despite the shock diagnosis. Bartholomew, who has been a familiar face on Australian television for years, took a moment at the end of the bulletin to share her personal news. “I have been diagnosed with cancer," she said. "That’s a shock to say and hard to say. It is a really good kind. It is called chronic myeloid leukaemia. It can be treated with a daily tablet. If I can take care of myself I will be completely fine,” she said, her voice breaking as she fought back tears. The news presenter revealed that she first received the diagnosis in July but chose to go public now for two main reasons. Firstly, she wanted to share the moment with her audience, who have followed her through many of life’s major milestones. “Many of you have been in similar situations or much, much worse and come out the other side stronger... and more resilient. That’s exactly what I plan to do,” she said. Secondly, Bartholomew explained that she hoped her story would encourage others to prioritise their health, especially after turning 40. She shared that she had undergone a series of routine tests earlier in the year after a series of health checks, including a skin check inspired by her colleague <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/nat-barr-shares-scary-cancer-diagnosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nat Barr’s skin cancer scare</a>. “One of those tests came back with levels out of whack,” Bartholomew said, explaining how her cancer was detected. Despite the emotional moment, Bartholomew confirmed to viewers that her prognosis is positive. “I’m feeling very positive and lucky,” she said, adding that her treatment plan involves a daily medication that allows her to manage the condition effectively. Her announcement was followed by a supportive group hug from her fellow Sunrise team members. Bartholomew’s revelation comes just months after her co-star Nat Barr <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/nat-barr-shares-scary-cancer-diagnosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">opened up about her own battle with skin cancer</a>. Barr had undergone treatment earlier this year after discovering a small cancerous spot on her nose. Fortunately, Barr caught it early and required minimal treatment. In addition to her TV career, Bartholomew is a dedicated mother of two children, Molly, 4, and Thomas, 2, whom she shares with her husband, Neil Varcoe. The couple has been deeply involved in a passion project, renovating a historic hotel, The Victoria 1846, in Carcoar, NSW, with plans to open it as a boutique hotel in 2025. Their project has been a labour of love, with Varcoe leaving his job last year to focus on the hotel restoration full-time, leading the couple to live separately during the week. Bartholomew has also shared insights into her husband’s battle with chronic fatigue syndrome, which had taken a toll on their lives in recent years. Despite the challenges, Bartholomew has remained optimistic, continuing her professional and personal commitments, including signing on as an ambassador for Witchery’s White Shirt Campaign, which raises funds for ovarian cancer research. Images: Sunrise

Caring

News reader turned firefighter dies at just 46

BBC presenter turned firefighter Beccy Barr has passed away at the age of 46 after a battle with cancer. Barr's family confirmed the sad news on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Beccy passed away peacefully this morning”. “She spent her last few days at @SJHospice who provided the most dignified and compassionate care to Beccy and her whole family. Donations to the hospice can be made in Beccy’s memory.” After 20 years at the British public broadcaster, Barr shocked her loyal viewers announcing she would be leaving her media career behind to follow in her father's footsteps by becoming a firefighter. In February 2022, she updated her fans on social media, explaining she had received distinction marks in all her training assessments for the Lancashire Fire and Rescue team. Then in December 2023, Barr revealed that she was diagnosed with “incurable cancer”, writing to her followers at the time, “Two lessons I’ve learned from this distinctly sub-optimal experience: 1) Life is wild. 2) People have an utterly astounding and boundless capacity for love, care and friendship.” BBC presenter Roger Johnson was one of many who paid tribute to his former colleague, saying, “Beccy was courageous in so many ways.” “In the way she faced her illness, of course, but she also had the courage to walk away from a successful TV career to retrain as a firefighter." “She wanted to make a difference and she excelled at that, too.” Image credits: BBC / X (Twitter)

Caring

Nat Barr shares scary cancer diagnosis

Sunrise co-host Nat Barr has shared a recent personal health scare that underscores the importance of regular skin checks. Barr disclosed that doctors diagnosed her with skin cancer after a persistent “pimple” on her nose prompted her to seek medical advice. On Tuesday's Sunrise program, Barr detailed her experience, explaining how a seemingly innocuous blemish led to an unexpected and concerning diagnosis. “I’ve had this pimple on my nose, it’s been about three weeks. It keeps going up, down, up, down, won’t go away,” Barr shared. This irregularity convinced her to consult a dermatologist, who used advanced AI technology along with a Spectrascope to examine the lesion. The specialist diagnosed the 3mm lesion as cancerous, with Barr receiving a score of 7.4 on the test, where any score above seven is indicative of cancer. “That was so tiny, it was just a tiny little red thing,” Barr said, showing just how easily such a small detail could be overlooked. The dermatologist’s use of AI to analyse photos of Barr’s entire body further highlighted the cutting-edge methods now available in skin cancer detection. This technology can compare images over time to identify changes more accurately than the human eye, providing a powerful tool in early diagnosis and treatment. Following the diagnosis, Barr was prescribed an anti-cancer cream to treat the lesion and also underwent red light therapy, a treatment that selectively targets and kills cancer cells. Reflecting on her experience, Barr expressed how this health scare made her more aware of the importance of regular skin checks. “It’s just a good reminder for everyone," she urged, "remember to get your skin checked regularly." Despite the scare, Barr reassured her fans about her health. “The outlook for my health is fine,” she confirmed, noting that her next appointment is scheduled for Friday. In the meantime, she mentioned that the lesion is currently concealed with make-up. “I do the same process this Friday, and then it gets all crusty, and then it will be fine,” she added. Skin cancer, often underestimated, can start as something as small as a persistent pimple or a red spot. Early detection and treatment are vital, and advancements in technology now offer more precise and early diagnoses, potentially saving lives. Images: Sunrise

Caring

Nat Barr quizzes Jim Chalmers over one major budget flaw

Nat Barr has quizzed treasurer Jim Chalmers over one major flaw in the federal budget. On Tuesday night, Chalmers <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/biggest-winners-and-losers-of-the-2024-25-federal-budget" target="_blank" rel="noopener">handed down</a> his third federal budget that prioritised cost-of-living relief, with one major initiative saving Aussies big on their next energy bills. All Australian families will get $300 off their annual electricity bill, while small businesses will also get a $325 rebate for their bills. Chalmers joined Nat Barr on Sunrise on Wednesday morning to discuss the initiative further, as the host pointed out one major flaw in the government's plan. “If you’re earning a million dollars, why do you need a $300 power rebate?” Barr asked. But Chalmers said wealthier Australians weren’t the focus of the rebate, as everyday Aussies struggling with the rising cost of living were sure to benefit. “It is primarily for people doing it tough — you know, millions and millions of Australians are under cost-of-living pressure,” he said. “We’re trying to help. So more help is on the way for millions of people under the pump. Whether it is a tax cut for every taxpayer or energy bill relief for every household.” Barr asked Chalmers if people earning $1 million were “under pressure”, but the treasurer said offering specifically targeted assistance was logistically impossible. “Once you go beyond (pensioners), you have to design a whole new system because the energy retailers that we use to provide this help, they don’t have income information for people,” he said. “We deliver this relief via energy bills, via the retailers. There’s not a system that allows you to slice and dice that beyond providing it either to people on pensions and payments.” Barr's comments were echoed online, with many slamming the logistics of the rebate on social media. "I'm sure Gina Rinehart is stoked she's getting $300 back on her energy bills," one person commented. Another added, "If this stupid government gives me $300 off my energy bills it goes straight to charity. Join me if you can afford it." A third wrote, "Feel like there should be an exemption in the $300 energy rebate for anyone who has ever slept under a doona with the aircon on." Image credits: Sunrise

Money & Banking

Nat Barr breaks down as more details revealed on co-star’s tragic passing

Nat Barr has broken down in tears while paying tribute to Nathan Templeton after his sudden passing. The body of Templeton, a 44-year-old father of two and regular Sunrise reporter, was found on Monday evening after he suffered a medical incident while walking his dog in Geelong. The Sunrise panel confirmed the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sunrise-reporter-found-dead-at-age-44" target="_blank" rel="noopener">death</a> of their friend and co-host on Thursday morning, playing a montage of Templeton's time on the program, including him reporting from football games, flood zones, Covid labs and at swimming competitions. Barr's voice over could be heard saying, "Thank you, Tempo, for brightening our lives. We are so fortunate to have known you and worked alongside you. You will be missed." Following the montage, Barr cried as she paid tribute to the father-of-two and thanked him for "brightening everyone's lives". "We know you had more stories to tell them (our viewers). We are sorry you can't tell them. Our hearts go out to our family, your two little boys, Kate, and everyone who knew you inside this building and across the Seven Network," she said. "But also so many of you who have written in and just said that you felt like you knew him because of how he... How he conducted himself on-air." The on-air tribute comes after Templeton's family broke their silence on Nathan's tragic passing, issuing a statement saying the "adoring father and wonderful friend" will be sorely missed. "Our hearts are broken for an adoring father and a wonderful friend, who'll be missed by many," the statement read. In the wake of his untimely death, it has been revealed that Templeton had recently dialled back his time on screen to deal with personal issues. Image credits: Sunrise / Instagram

Caring

"Eventful walk home": Barnaby Joyce explains why he was found collapsed on footpath

Barnaby Joyce, the Nationals frontbencher, has recently found himself at the centre of public attention after a video surfaced showing him lying on a footpath in Canberra, seemingly in an inebriated state. In a statement to Seven's Sunrise on Monday morning, Joyce attributed the incident to mixing alcohol with prescription medication. “It was a very eventful walk home, wasn’t it,” he said to host Nat Barr. "I’m on a prescription drug, and they say certain things may happen to you if you drink, and they were absolutely 100 per cent right. They did.” Barr then replied: “So you mixed alcohol with prescription medication, did you, and this is what happened?” “That’s exactly what I said, yep,” Joyce responded. In the video footage captured on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, initially obtained by The Daily Mail, Joyce can be seen lying on his back, mumbling into his phone, prompting concerns from passersby. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged Joyce to provide a credible explanation. “People will certainly make their own judgements on that," Albanese told the ABC. "People will see that footage, they will look for an explanation that has some credibility and they’ll look for leadership from the leader of the Liberal Party and the leader of the National Party about this.” Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed concern for Joyce's wellbeing, calling for an explanation while refraining from personal attacks. The incident has prompted discussions within political circles, with Nationals leader David Littleproud stating that Joyce would receive the necessary support. However, Joyce's decision to skip a party meeting where the incident was to be discussed indicates ongoing uncertainty surrounding the situation. Images: Sunrise / Seven

News

Nat Barr cowers during fiery interview with WWE guests

Nat Barr and Matt Doran have been forced to intervene when a heated interview with two WWE stars turned sour. The Sunrise hosts welcomed Australian wrestler Grayson Waller and his rival American wrestler LA Knight onto the show for chat, but things quickly devolved. The pair soon began trash talking each other, with a visibly shaken Barr admitting, “I'm getting a bit scared here – I'm glad I'm sitting on this side of the couch.” The interview then went completely off the rails when Matt Doran asked the WWE champions to demonstrate their wrestling abilities live on the show. When the pair refused to demonstrate on each other, Natalie suggested that they instead demonstrate using a Sunrise floor manager. <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/C2I7CeFCfWn/?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/C2I7CeFCfWn/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sunrise (@sunriseon7)</a> </div> </blockquote> The male staffer then confidently strutted onto set and jokingly prepared to face off with Waller, who quickly became frustrated that the man and the Sunrise hosts weren't taking it seriously. “I don't think you understand, because if I go over there we're gonna have the police here, because I'm not gonna give you some fake punch,” Waller ranted at the man, standing up from his seat. “I'm gonna punch you straight in the jaw. The disrespect that you give me when you act like this isn't real. Don't act tough. You guys disrespect us, are you kidding me?” he continued. Natalie was visibly shocked by the outburst, nervously telling Waller. “I'm not disrespecting you.” Meanwhile, Matt diffused the situation, doing his best umpire impersonation before escorting the floor manager off set. The hosts quickly wrapped up the interview moments later, with the tense interview later being shared on social media. The video was flooded with comments of confusion, as one person wrote, “The guy needs to lighten up, learn to have a laugh!” Image credits: Sunrise

Nat Barr and Shirvo announce new hosting gig

Sunrise hosts Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington have announced their new TV hosting gig. The breakfast hosts are moving to prime time, as they prepare to welcome in the Christmas period with the annual Carols in the Domain. Nat and Shirvo will be hosting the festive celebration, which will be broadcast nationally on Channel Seven on Saturday 23rd December from 7:30pm. Barr hosted the event last year, but was joined by Shirvo's predecessor David Koch. In a statement about hosting the Christmas event, Shirvo said he'd watched Carols in the Domain "with my family since I was a boy, so to now be on stage hosting for the first time is quite surreal." He said that music plays an important role in his family Christmas, saying, “My sister, in the last few years and off the back of Covid where you weren’t allowed to sing or do anything together, decided that for the last couple of Christmases we all now have to do karaoke." “It’s not strictly carols, it could quite literally be anything, and we tend to do that after lunch, when everyone’s had a couple of glasses of champagne, and feeling disinhibited — that’s when the karaoke microphone comes out!” Shirvo added that he has attended the annual concert before, and is excited about the on-stage possibilities this year. “I have been to Carols in the past, but never up on stage. So, who knows — anything could happen,” he said. “I could be dressed up, I could be dressed down. I could be doing a singalong — at the end of the day, more than anything, Nat and I are just traffic cops, so we’ll just be throwing to the people that really matter — the performers and the performances.” "It's pure joy and that's why Australians have loved it for so many years. I can't wait," added Barr. Among the onstage talent on show this year are The Wiggles, Dami Im, Lucy Durack, Casey Donovan, Silvia Colloca, and many more. Image credits: Instagram <p class="mol-para-with-font" style="font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; min-height: 0px; letter-spacing: -0.16px; font-family: graphik, Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial;">

Nat Barr overwhelmed by Police Commissioner's heartbreaking letter to his fallen son

Nat Barr broke down live on Sunrise after hearing the heartbreaking letter from grieving police commissioner Grant Stevens, who lost his son just days ago in an <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/police-commissioner-s-son-killed-during-schoolies-week" target="_blank" rel="noopener">alleged hit and run</a> during schoolies. Charlie Stevens, 18, died on Saturday night surrounded by friends and family in Goolwa, 90km southeast of Adelaide, just a day after he celebrated finishing high school. Charlie's parents penned a letter to their youngest son, with the purpose of introducing South Australians to the 101st life lost on the state’s roads this year. On Tuesday morning, Matt Shirvington read an excerpt of the letter, and both hosts were equally emotional, with Shirvington's voice breaking at one point. “I am writing this sitting in a bedroom with dirty clothes on the floor, an unmade bed, six drinking glasses lined up on the bedside table, an empty KFC box next to the glasses, wardrobe doors left open and a row of skateboards leaning on the wall – it is a mess and it’s perfect. This is where 101 lived,” the letter read. “101 is Charles Stevens – Charlie, Charlie Boy, Chas, Links, Steve. You lived life and gave so much to so many. You were a force of nature and we will never forget your beautiful cheeky, disarming smile. “Son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, friends, workmate, teammate. So much more than just a number on a tragic tally.” His heartbroken parents described him as a "Cheeky, intense and funny" boy, who was loveable from the moment he could talk. "He was as frustrating as hell, but he was also the kid who would look after others, befriend the lonely, and help those who were struggling,” they added. “Intensity shone through as 101 committed to each new passion — Lego, BBL, scooters, footy, cricket, basketball, surfing, downhilling, Fortnight and his skateboard — it was all or nothing and it was always all.” His parents also shared stories about their son's passion for his work as an apprentice carpenter. “ … On a good day, we would be lucky to see 101 for half an hour between him getting home from work and heading out with his mates, but it was enough," they wrote. After sharing the emotional tribute, Nat Barr was choking back tears and had to cut to an ad break. The letter comes after the 18-year-old driver accused of being behind the wheel during the alleged hit-and-run was granted bail. On Monday, three witnesses stated in court that the driver performed a U-turn and hit Charlie, who was waiting for the Schoolies shuttle bus to take him and his friends to Victor Harbor from Goolwa Beach. It is alleged that the 18-year-old was speeding and travelling on the wrong side of the road before hitting Charlie. Another witness from inside the car said that a group of young men were on the west side of the road, partially on the footpath, and that there was a single male on the other side. She told the court that the male on the east side ran across the road and into the incoming car. The driver allegedly drove a short distance before calling his mum and asking her if he should turn himself in or call the police, before he was arrested. He was granted bail, with the condition that he forfeits his passport, live with his mum, and set aside $15,000 as a guarantee. Images: SA Police/ Channel 7

Caring

"I have never seen that": Nat Barr and Shirvo floored by Jamie Oliver's sneaky chicken hack

Celebrity chef and all-round roast chicken wizard Jamie Oliver unleashed a culinary revelation on Sunrise hosts Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington recently, rendering them momentarily dumbfounded by his quirky approach to chicken cookery. The Naked Chef himself, a spry 48 years young, graced the Sunrise breakfast program with his presence to unveil his unique chicken-cooking hack. Sporting an apron that read "I'm not a regular chef, I'm a cool chef," Jamie embarked on a culinary adventure like no other. To achieve chicken nirvana, Jamie began by marinating the poultry and potatoes in an enchanting blend of lemon, herbs and honey (presumably sprinkled with a touch of fairy dust) before revealing the move that floored the two hosts. In a move that would make Houdini jealous, Jamie wedged those marinated chicken legs into an oven rack, like a magic trick gone deliciously wrong. With the poise of a culinary acrobat, he lowered the rack into a preheated oven, allowing the chicken pieces to dangle over the potatoes below, like a suspenseful scene in a blockbuster movie. Apparently, the technique is used so that the excess marinade would gracefully drip into the tray, creating an explosion of flavour that would make fireworks blush with envy. In Jamie's own words, "This is giving you the best, most juicy chicken and (it’s) crispy." Mind. Blown. And where did Jamie find inspiration for this chicken wizardry? Why, in his travels around the Mediterranean, where rotisseries are as common as sunscreen at the beach. Truly, Jamie Oliver has taken "thinking outside the box" to a whole new level. Nat Barr and Shirvo appeared utterly mesmerised by Jamie's culinary sorcery. Shirvington exclaimed, "Mind blown," while Barr added, "Wow, I have never seen that!" If they'd had hats, they would've tipped them in reverence. In fact, the Sunrise hosts, joined by Mark Beretta, gave Jamie a standing ovation at the end of his demonstration – before revealing that Jamie is set to make a triumphant return to the Sydney Opera House in November for one night only, where he will grace the stage for an evening of deep conversations about his career, inspirations, life, love, and what keeps him motivated. In Jamie's own words: "Every time I visit Australia, it feels like a big old hug – it’s a real home away from home for me, and I'm so excited to be back this year for this event." So, prepare your questions about good food, good times, and perhaps even chicken-chandelier cooking, and get ready to laugh until your ribs ache. Jamie Oliver is back to steal the culinary spotlight, one chicken leg at a time. Images: Sunrise

Food & Wine

Nat Barr debunks the "strange" rumour about her and Kochie

Nat Barr is no stranger to the rumour mill churning out outrageous accusations about her private life and relationships. One such rumour about her relationship with her former Sunrise co-host Kochie has prompted her to speak out and dispel the baseless claim. Chatting candidly with <a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/sunrises-nat-barr-addresses-strange-rumour-about-her-and-kochie-060124836.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo Lifestyle</a>, Nat laughed as she admitted she had seen a rumour that her and Kochie were more than just colleagues. She said, "That I was on with Kochie, we've all been on with Kochie according to the rumour mill!" She continued: "There's lots of weird rumours like that – that we all hate each other, there's lots of rumours that, you know, obviously we must all hate each other. I don't think people believe all that stuff, that whole clickbait thing." While Barr admits she has seen her fair share of strange rumours about herself online, she is not one to complain about them. "[There have been] a few strange ones, but I don't really like to complain about what's written about us, because we have great jobs," she said. "I feel really lucky to have got this job and to still be doing this job, and to be waking up every morning and doing something I love. And to be covering news stories and bringing it to the viewers." She added, "The viewers are the most important people in the room, the people sitting at home, watching and giving us their time every day. That's the most important thing. That's number one in our book." Image credits: Sunrise

Nat Barr reveals secret lotto win ahead of Powerball jackpot

Sunrise host Natalie Barr has revealed her secret lotto win ahead of the $100 million mega jackpot draw on Thursday. Over half of Aussie adults are expected to buy a ticket for a chance to take home the fifth biggest lotto jackpot - and Natt Barr and co-host Matt Shirvington did not want to miss out. While purchasing tickets for the draw live on-air, her co-host revealed the unbelievable win. “Nat has the auto-pick where it just repeats,” he said. “And she’s credited because she won like 900 bucks last time — wasn’t the 100 million.” Barr excitedly confirmed the win: “$930! A few weeks ago!” she said. The revelation comes just as news agencies across the country are expected to experience a ticket rush, as millions of Australians fight for their chance to win the life-changing jackpot. Many are expected to buy the tickets "last-minute" as the entries for the draw will close on Thursday at 7.30pm AEST. The last time someone won a major jackpot was a lucky father from Bankstown who took home $100 million dollars in June. Image: Sunrise

Money & Banking

Nat Barr’s emotional plea for young family

Sunrise host Natalie Barr has issued an emotional plea after one family’s heartbreaking situation moved her close to tears. Adelaide-based dad Taylor Hosking shared his moving story on Sunrise, revealing the devastating impact of the rental crisis on his young family, who may be forced to live on the streets after more than 50 unsuccessful rental applications. Hosking - who has four children and a fifth on the way - shared that his family were pushed to look for a new home after their rent was increased from $430 to $600 a week. “We’re like at that point now it’s like, what do we do?” Hosking told Barr. “It’s either we feed the kids or we pay our rent or we pay the rent and we, you know, we can’t even feed the kids.” He explained that the young family often gets judged “straight off the bat” for having “a bunch of kids”, and despite having good references, they’ve had no luck in finding a new home. Barr noted that it must be a “ very emotional time” for them and asked how he and his wife, Shay, were coping. Hosking opened up about his tragic loss, which almost moved Barr to tears. “It’s a very special day as well today because our son Orlando passed away on Father’s Day last year,” he said. “So if he was still here with us, he’d be one today. But we just go day by day and the kids are what keeps us strong and all together, mate.” The family had worn a “Team Orlando” shirt for the segment, which tugged on Barr’s heartstrings. “This is just the face of the cost of living crisis in this country,” she said, holding back tears. “We are here to help, we are going to do everything we can to help you and your family.” She then asked anyone who was willing to help the family to contact the Sunrise team. “We are so sorry you are in this predicament,” she added. Earlier in the segment, Hosking also told Barr that he had until October to find a new home for his family. “I don’t know, just pray and we hope we work with all the agencies and all the government and everything,” he said. “Hopefully something happens or someone can help us. “But I’ve been working with them, I’ve been going to my appointments, doing everything I can and to even be told like there’s no magic wand, there’s no house to give you, [and] the best they might be able to do is put us up in a motel or something. “And how do we have four kids, two adults and a newborn baby in a motel? It’s impossible.” Images: Seven

Caring

Nat Barr’s chilling William Tyrrell question

New TV footage has revealed that William Tyrrell's biological mother was concerned about her son’s treatment by his foster family years before the police began their investigation. His mum - who for legal reasons cannot be identified - was concerned about how her son was being looked after. “From the start, I always had concerns and I wrote letters back and forth to one of the carers,” she said in a 2018 interview with Seven. “Because I didn't really like the care that I thought he was being given. My son would come home with bruises, snotty noses, not dressed appropriately for the weather…” she added. This part of the interview was previously cut out of the final segment in 2018, but the never-before-seen footage was recently broadcasted on Seven’s Spotlight special on Sunday, reigniting people’s interest. The clip was shown despite a court suppression order which prevented Tyrrell’s mum from being named or pictured. On Monday, Sunrise host Nat Barr questioned former homicide cop Charlie Bezzina about the revelations from the clip. Bezzina commented that it was no surprise that Tyrrell’s biological mum was concerned for her child’s well-being. “That's to be expected from a biological mother to be a little bit bitter towards the foster mother - to have a child taken from you is quite dramatic,” Bezzina said. Last month police handed over a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/police-recommend-charges-against-william-tyrrell-s-foster-mother" target="_blank" rel="noopener">brief of evidence to prosecutors</a>, a move which could see Tyrrell’s foster mother - who also cannot be named for legal reasons - being charged in connection with his disappearance. Bezzina has slammed the police case against Tyrrell’s foster mother, which he deemed as “very weak” and believes to be based on circumstantial evidence. To which Barr responded with the chilling question: “So basically you're saying we have no idea who killed William and we're no closer to finding that out?” “Absolutely. And I think it's unfortunate that the current investigators have done the investigation through the media,” Benzzina admitted. Image: Sunrise on Seven

Legal

"People took their own lives": Nat Barr fires up over Robodebt report

Sunrise host Natalie Barr has strongly condemned the Robodebt scheme as "unlawful" and accused it of victimising "500,000 people" in a passionate interview with Coalition frontbencher Bridget McKenzie. During the heated exchange, Barr vehemently refuted any suggestion that the situation had simply gone awry. “This was mathematically flawed," Barr said. "It was ruled unlawful. There were half a million victims. People took their own lives over this. Bridget, you must have some kind of view on what should happen?" “It’s pretty obvious that people did the wrong thing here.” Senator McKenzie acknowledged that politicians expected honest advice from public servants and admitted that something had clearly gone "wrong." “This was a comprehensive royal commission, we had from former prime ministers, senior public servants, and indeed, the broader public on this particular issue, and I think the findings are going to be very fulsome and give us, I hope, ways to ensure that this cannot happen again,’’ McKenzie said. Labor frontbencher Jason Clare add that he was thinking of the victims. “Nat, there is a report in the papers today about a mother named Jennifer Miller and her son Reese committed suicide a few years ago,’’ said Mr Clare. “He was being chased for an $18,000 debt that he did not owe. I’m thinking about her and I’m thinking about families like that today. “There were a number of people who committed suicide, others who try to take their own life, end up in hospital, they are still on medication today. They are the real-life human consequences of what happened here.” Earlier on Friday, Labor frontbencher Bill Shorten warned that the "wave of misery" caused by the Robodebt royal commission might result in referrals to the national anti-corruption commission. Senior ministers have already prepared to contest the report's findings, with the government approving taxpayer-funded legal assistance. The bombshell report on the Robodebt scandal is anticipated to include scathing criticisms of key figures in the Morrison Government and senior public servants. Additionally, a secret "sealed section" will cover potential "criminal and civil prosecutions." Royal commission officials have begun briefing departmental heads on adverse findings related to employees prior to the report's public release. Robodebts were debts incurred between July 2015 and November 2019 under the Income Compliance Program. These debts were calculated using averaged income information from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and were later deemed unlawful. In recent months, the Commonwealth has been informed of up to 16 "Notices of Potential Adverse Findings." These findings encompass the conduct of individuals involved in the program's development and implementation. They also pertain to data matching between the Department of Human Services and the Australian Tax Office during the Robodebt process, as well as the circumstances surrounding the Ombudsman's reports on the scheme in 2017 and 2019. The report will examine the prosecution briefs referred to the Commonwealth DPP by the Department of Human Services (DHS), as well as the arrangements of the in-house legal teams in DHS and the Department of Social Services (DSS). Furthermore, it will scrutinise the data and flaws underlying the budget assumptions that formed the basis of the Robodebt Scheme, as well as the debt recovery methods employed by the Department of Human Services. Image: Sunrise

Caring

"It was traumatic": Nat Barr's terrifying health scare

Natalie Barr has opened up about a terrifying health ordeal that left her wondering if she would ever walk again. The Sunrise host shared that she spent two months lying in a hospital bed when she was just 15, after being diagnosed with a terrifying illness. Speaking candidly to <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/natalie-barr-if-you-can-t-cope-with-scrutiny-then-you-shouldn-t-be-on-tv-20230616-p5dh70.html?collection=p5dkug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sunday Life</a>, the 55-year-old revealed she wasn't allowed to sit up for months. "I got really sick with a disease in my spine called osteomyelitis. The bug had eaten two of my verterbrae and they were crumbling," she said. "I'd had back pain and saw a physio who wrote to my doctor... but that night I ended up in hospital with an orthopaedic surgeon telling me: 'Lie down, or you'll never sit up again'." While having to lay flat for months on end, Nat was flown by the Royal Flying Doctor to a Perth hospital where they discovered the exact strain of the bug she had. Natalie was then "pumped with high-dose antibiotics" for the next couple of months before eventually recovering with no permanent damage. "It was traumatic. I didn't know if I'd be able to walk again," she admitted. "It was a really defining moment in my life because I was 15 and old enough to think, ‘I don’t know how I’m going to get out of this situation.’ ” The health scare was a major turning point in Natalie's life, as once she was fully recovered from the ordeal, she went on to intern at a local TV station in Western Australia where she cemented her dream of becoming a journalist. “I spent a week there and thought, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’ It’s the most exciting thing: people race around, yell and scream at each other, race to the deadline at the end of the day, then come back and do it all again tomorrow." Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

Nat Barr's real opinion on Matt Shirvington

Sunrise presenter Natalie Barr has shared her real thoughts on her new co-host Matt Shirvington. After almost a month since former co-host <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/kochie-s-emotional-farewell-on-sunrise" target="_blank" rel="noopener">David Koch’s departure</a>, all eyes have been on Barr and Shirvington, who have apparently known each other for years prior to hosting Sunrise together. “We live in the same area, so we’d see each other in the street and say hi because we both vaguely knew who the other was,” Barr told The Sydney Morning Herald. She revealed that years ago they would walk past each other on the street as they picked their children up from school, and had since been “in and out of each other’s lives and would see each other at events and always got along”. “He’s the type of guy who just fits in – a really nice, normal guy with a daggy-dad sense of humour,” she told the publication. Barr then went on to share how she deals with public scrutiny and revealed that she doesn’t feel any extra pressure from being the more experienced presenter. “I don’t mind a bit of scrutiny. I mean, I’m on TV. Some people will like the way I do things, some won’t,” she said. “If you can’t cope with that then I guess you shouldn’t be on TV.” Barr revealed that ever since she took the hosting job she made a pact with herself to not get into the comments, and so she has turned off all notifications on Twitter. “I turned the notifications off on Twitter years ago. People can DM me on Instagram but as soon as I get hate and abusive stuff, I block and delete,” she said. “You can’t stop people being nasty, that’s just what society is like,” she added. Barr said that she understands that as a public figure she can’t just take in the good comments about her. “You get personal scrutiny, horrible messages and critical articles written about you,” she said. “I think when you do a public job, it’s part and parcel. You can’t expect everyone to be writing glowing appraisals.” Despite the challenges, Barr remains optimistic about her career and the future of Sunrise. “I think we have developed a show with the same heart and soul that we started with 21 years ago and that can never change,” she said. “There will be tweaks, people will come and go, but it’s bigger than any one of us. And that makes me happy.” Image: Instagram

Nat Barr stuns retired navy expert with blunt Titan query

Sunrise host Natalie Barr has weighed in on the missing Titan submersible, posing a question that appeared to take an experienced - and retired - US Navy submarine commander by surprise. Barr was speaking to David Marquet about the vessel - which went missing in the North Atlantic with five passengers onboard and only 96 hours of life support - and its dangerous predicament. <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/search-underway-for-tourists-missing-on-titanic-submarine">Rescue teams have been racing</a> against the clock and fighting difficult search conditions in a bid to locate the Titan submersible after it went missing on a journey to explore the sunken wreckage of the Titanic. And while <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/encouraging-signs-in-search-for-missing-sub">reports of banging</a> from deep beneath the ocean’s surface have offered some a glimmer of hope - and others a sense of dread - the high-stakes situation has crews on edge, and left many wondering what had led to the decision to descend, for the Titan’s passengers and owners alike. Reports have begun to circulate that the Titan had been plagued with safety concerns prior to this trip, and during former dives, and Barr sought more information from Marquet on that matter. “We are still hearing all the things people are saying about why they should not have gone,” she said. “The passenger window was only certified to go half the depth that it went. “Should they be there in the first place?” The to-the-point question appeared to stun the ex-commander, who needed to take a moment before proceeding with his answer. “They are adults, and they made a decision. It’s hard to question the judgement,” he said, before going on to note that the CEO of OceanGate - the company responsible for the missing vessel - had been one of the five people onboard, “so obviously he believes in the equipment.” “Knowing what I know,” Marquet added, “what it takes to keep nuclear submarines running, you would not be finding me on that ship, but it’s easy after-the-fact to find criticism.” He then shared that while he did have an appreciation for people who chose to push “the envelope in terms of exploring and innovation”, that “sometimes they push a little too far”. The “still possible” search for the Titan continues, though the US Coast Guard have stated that it has less than 24 hours of available air remaining, and even if they are able to locate the submersible, massive challenges still lie ahead in retrieving it from the conditions so far below the surface. Images: Sunrise / Seven

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Nat Barr slammed for “out of touch” comments about the housing crisis

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Nat Barr’s emotional plea for young family

Nat Barr’s chilling William Tyrrell question

"People took their own lives": Nat Barr fires up over Robodebt report

"It was traumatic": Nat Barr's terrifying health scare

Nat Barr's real opinion on Matt Shirvington

Nat Barr stuns retired navy expert with blunt Titan query

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