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Aussie grandma and former Greens candidate jailed in Japan claims she was scammed

<p>Donna Nelson, a 57-year-old Perth grandmother, has found herself entangled in a nightmarish situation in a Japanese prison, accused of a crime she vehemently denies.</p> <p>Nelson, an Aboriginal health advocate and former Greens candidate, has been incarcerated for nearly a year without a trial date set, facing allegations of attempting to smuggle two kilograms of meth into Japan. However, her plight is not as straightforward as it may seem, and her family and legal team are tirelessly fighting to clear her name.</p> <p>The ordeal began on January 4, when Nelson was arrested at Narita Airport in Tokyo. Authorities claimed to have discovered drugs concealed within a false compartment in her luggage. According to the prosecution, a customs officer suspected her of acting suspiciously. But the narrative has taken a complex turn as Nelson's defence team unveiled a shocking revelation: she alleges she was deceived and manipulated by a Nigerian scammer who had groomed her for two years.</p> <p>Since her arrest, Nelson has been confined to Chibu prison, located an hour outside Tokyo. Her living conditions are appalling; she spends 23 hours a day isolated in her cell, showers are allowed only every three days, and communication with other inmates and visitors is strictly prohibited. This form of treatment is a reflection of Japan's infamous "hostage justice" strategy, aimed at coercing confessions from detainees.</p> <p>The only individuals granted access to Nelson are her lawyers, Australian embassy representatives, and a pastor. Legal representatives have identified a significant issue with translation throughout the case, and it could very well hinge on an inaccurate translation by the customs officer at the time of her arrest.</p> <p>Rie Nishida from Shinjuku International Law Firm, one of Nelson's lawyers, explained, "The main evidence from the prosecution is mainly a customs officer who said she acted suspiciously. There's a lot of mistranslation that's also the difficulty in this case."</p> <p>This mistranslation issue is not trivial; it extends to the messages exchanged between Nelson and the man she believed she had a romantic connection with, who ultimately turned out to be a scammer.</p> <p>Matthew Owens, another member of the legal team and a translator for the case, noted, "Some of them were completely wrongly translated, so we had to re-translate those messages and submit them back to the prosecutor."</p> <p>Nelson remains steadfast in her conviction that she is innocent of the accusations against her. Her lawyer,  Owens, relayed her message, saying, "Donna wants to say that she is going to be able to prove her innocence, she's 100 per cent confident of that, and she wants everyone in Australia and the world to know she is innocent."</p> <p>If found guilty, Nelson could face a harrowing 20-year sentence in a Japanese prison, a terrifying prospect for both her and her family. Her five daughters and grandchildren are distraught, but they are not giving up the fight to prove her innocence. They believe they have evidence to substantiate the claim that she was scammed and unjustly accused.</p> <p><em>Image: Australian Greens</em></p>

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Nelson Mandela's granddaughter dies at just 43

<p>Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, has died of cancer at the age of 43. She passed away on the evening of Monday, September 25th, surrounded by friends and family.</p> <p>Mandela had been battling cancer for several years. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32, but went into remission. However, the cancer returned last year and had metastasised to her liver and lungs.</p> <p>Despite her illness, Mandela remained active in her community and continued to advocate for cancer prevention and awareness. She was also a vocal advocate for road safety after her 13-year-old daughter, Zenani, was killed in a car crash in 2010.</p> <p>In an interview with Kaya FM in April, Mandela said: "I'm learning to be okay with my eventuality."</p> <p>“The Nelson Mandela Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela, tragically last night,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation said in a statement. “We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba and a friend of the Foundation.”</p> <p>Zoleka's frank disclosures about her illness and her strength in the face of adversity earned her a devoted following on social media.</p> <p>"Utterly tragic loss of a human being in her grandfather's footsteps. A decent, honest human being in a dishonest, hypocritical world," one person on X, formerly Twitter, said.</p> <p>"You were one of the bravest people I know and you inspired many people on your life's journey of hope," another person wrote on Instagram below the Mandela family's announcement.</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/Cxo-ZxXNgXL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxo-ZxXNgXL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Zoleka Zobuhle Mandela (@zolekamandela)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Mandela was only 10 years old when her grandfather was released from prison in 1990 after 27 years in detention. She had only ever known him as an incarcerated man, so when he was released she was just excited he was coming home.</p> <p>Mr Mandela died in 2013 at the age of 95.</p> <p>Zoleka Mandela will be remembered as a courageous advocate for cancer prevention and awareness, as well as a loving mother and grandmother. She is survived by her husband, Thierry Murekatete, and their two children.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Nelson Mandela's granddaughter accuses Sussexes of "stealing" famous quotes

<p>Nelson Mandela's granddaughter has torn into Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, accusing them of “stealing" the statesman's words and using his name to “make millions”.</p> <p>Ndileka Mandela, 57, slammed the Sussexes over the Netflix documentary Live To Lead, where the couple use footage of Mandela leaving prison in 1990.</p> <p>Harry says in the trailer for their latest film, part of their $100million (£83million) deal with the streaming giant: “This was inspired by Nelson Mandela”.</p> <p>Ndileka said she was angry that the couple appear to compare their own battles in the Royal Family with her grandfather's long walk to freedom, calling it “upsetting and tedious”.</p> <p>She said: “That's chalk and cheese, there is no comparison. I know the Nelson Mandela Foundation has supported the initiative but people have stolen grandfather's quotes for years and have used his legacy because they know his name sells – Harry and Meghan are no different from them”.</p> <p>She added in an interview with The Australian: “I admire Harry for having the confidence to break away from an institution as iconic as the Royal Family. Grandad rebelled against an arranged marriage to find his own path in life.</p> <p>“But it comes at a price, you have to then fund your own life, I've made peace with people using granddad's name but it's still deeply upsetting and tedious every time it happens”.</p> <p>In the trailer for Live To Lead, co-produced by the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Harry quotes Mandela and says: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we’ve lived”.</p> <p>Meghan then appears on screen and finishes the quote: “It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”.</p> <p>The couple were both executive producers, according to the credits, and introduce each of the episodes, talking over the opening credits.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Willie Nelson’s former Tennessee home hits the market

<p dir="ltr">The former home of country music legend Willie Nelson has been listed for sale, and the folklore surrounding it is just as interesting as the home itself.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to property records, the 150-acre property and its pastures, woods, trails, and cabin have been owned by just two people, including the <em>Georgia On My Mind</em> singer.</p> <p dir="ltr">“From what we can find from tax records, there have only been two owners. One is the current seller and different members of that family. And the other is Willie Nelson,” Ross Welch, one of the two Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty agents representing the property, said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This was one of the properties that the IRS seized when Willie was not paying taxes.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Before the IRS seized the home in the early 1990s, Nelson lived there from the early 1960s.</p> <p dir="ltr">After settling his tax debt in 1993, the property was returned to the family that had owned it, who then sold it on to the current owners.</p> <p dir="ltr">“From what we have been told and what we’ve seen on tax records, it was seized by the IRS and then the IRS went back to the family that had previously owned it and asked if they wanted to buy it back for pennies on the dollar,” Matt Lawson, the second agent representing the home, explained.</p> <p dir="ltr">Prior to its complicated ownership, Nelson built the property’s rustic log cabin, which features lime and mortar from the property in the shower and fireplace.</p> <p dir="ltr">In 1970, another home on the property caught fire while the singer wasn’t inside, sparking the story in which he rushed home to rescue his beloved guitar Trigger and a pound of marijuana, per <em><a href="https://tasteofcountry.com/willie-nelson-nashville-house-cabin-estate-for-sale-pictures/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Taste of Country</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The events described in Nelson’s hit <em>Shotgun Willie</em> also reportedly took place while he lived at the home and earned him the nickname, though Lawson hasn’t found concrete evidence to confirm the stories.</p> <p dir="ltr">“One of the biggest stories that I wish I had concrete proof of is that this is the place where he got the nickname ‘Shotgun Willie,’” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There’s a ton of just wild stories about him out there.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The sprawling property has been listed for $2.5 million ($AUD 3.9 million).</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c1a37b8e-7fff-97f7-ca7c-427777b5e5e8"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @willienelsonofficial (Instagram) / Realtor.com</em></p>

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Nelson Mandela's grandson weighs in on Meghan Markle's comment

<p>Nelson Mandela's grandson has slammed recent comments from Meghan Markle, after she shared an anecdote about South Africans comparing her marriage to Mandela's release from prison.</p> <p>In an <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/meghan-markle-gets-candid-in-groundbreaking-interview" target="_blank" rel="noopener">explosive interview</a>, the Duchess of Sussex recalled a conversation from 2019 with a South African member of The Lion King production, who allegedly said to her, "I just need you to know: When you married into this family, we rejoiced in the streets the same we did when Mandela was freed from prison."</p> <p>Now, Zwelivelile 'Mandla' Mandela has spoken out about her claims that are reminiscent of the 1990 release of the legendary anti-apartheid campaigner after 27 years in jail, telling the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11159869/EXCLUSIVE-Nelson-Mandelas-grandson-slams-Meghan-Markle.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>, "It can never be compared to the celebration of someone's wedding."</p> <p>He said, "Madiba's celebration was based on overcoming 350 years of colonialism with 60 years of a brutal apartheid regime in South Africa. So It cannot be equated to as the same."</p> <p>Referring to Meghan, he said, "Every day there are people who want to be Nelson Mandela, either comparing themselves with him or wanting to emulate him."</p> <p>"But before people can regard themselves as Nelson Mandelas, they should be looking into the work that he did and be able to be champions and advocates of the work that he himself championed."</p> <p>Zwelivelile's grandfather served 27 years in prison before being released and re-uniting opponents and going on to lead his country. </p> <p>He said when the people of South Africa expressed their joy at his grandfather's release and danced in the streets, it was for a far more important and serious reason than her marriage "to a white prince".</p> <p>The African National Congress MP added, "We are still bearing scars of the past. But they (Mr Mandela's celebrations) were a product of the majority of our people being brought out onto the streets to exercise the right of voting for the first time."</p> <p>"He spoke for oppressed minorities, children and women and protracting the most vulnerable people in our society."</p> <p>"He always spoke about oppressed nations around the globe and yet people are silent on those issues."</p> <p>"But this is what we like to see (from) people when they regard themselves as being a “Nelson Mandela'."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Australia’s top breakfast TV hosts attack Meghan Markle

<p dir="ltr">Australia’s top breakfast TV show hosts have attacked Meghan Markle for comparing herself to Nelson Mandela. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Duchess of Sussex got <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/meghan-markle-gets-candid-in-groundbreaking-interview" target="_blank" rel="noopener">candid in a tell-all interview</a> with <a href="https://www.thecut.com/article/meghan-markle-profile-interview.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Cut</a> where she spoke about the Royal Family’s “red flags”, the difficulty of moving to California, losing her father and trying to "forgive" her in-laws. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Suits actor was told by a cast member of the Lion King that South Africans “danced in the street” when she married Prince Harry - just like when “Mandela was freed from prison”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Today Show</em> hosts Karl Stefanovic and Ally Langdon, along with Sunrise co-host Natalie Barr have slammed Meghan Markle for her “tone deaf” interview.  </p> <p dir="ltr">“It's hard to see how that would sit with [the Royal Family], especially the Mandela references,” Karl said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“That one, I feel, is tone-deaf,” Ally responded. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I think [Meghan is] probably a little misunderstood, don't you reckon?” Karl then asked.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Oh, you're changing your tune, are you, Karl?” Ally asked her co-host.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Yeah, I think it's time to support her, especially after the Mandela comments. Anyone who compares themselves to Mandela, I think, is fair enough,” Karl responded.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Even if it was said... to share that... Anyway, they're living their ‘quiet life’, as they wished,” Ally ended. </p> <p dir="ltr">On <em>Sunrise</em>, Nat Barr called the Duchess a “tosser” for her comments in the interview saying she “couldn't even stomach getting through the whole article”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I think in Australia we'd say she's just full of it. She's a tosser. She's a total tosser! That's how we would describe her. I just can't... the way she speaks,” Nat said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I think she has a very different narrative, perhaps, in the U.S. to what is being accepted in the UK,” Edwina Bartholomew responded. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Or just everywhere in the world!' Barr said. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Seven/Nine</em></p>

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Veteran Sunrise reporter names and shames difficult celebrities

<p>On his last appearance on <em>Sunrise</em>, veteran entertainment reporter Nelson Aspen has named and shamed the most difficult celebrities to interview. </p> <p>After almost 20 years on the morning show, Nelson is moving on, but decided to drop some celebrity bombshells before he officially bid farewell. </p> <p>When asked to reveal the "duds" of his many celebrity interviews, Aspen offered up a surprising Hollywood star: Vin Diesel.</p> <p>“He is a marvellous interviewer, we just have a great rapport once we talk together, but he has a problem with inconsiderate lateness,” he said of the <em>Fast &amp; Furious</em> actor.</p> <p>“The first time was seven hours late, I sat around. Then I think it was four hours, and then two hours. We work in live TV guys, you can’t be late. You can be three hours early, you can’t be three seconds late. That’s just my pet peeve.”</p> <p>Aspen also named and shamed Kevin Spacey as a less than desirable celebrity interviewee.</p> <p>Nelson, who is based in New York, interviewed Spacey when he played Lex Luthor in the 2006 film <em>Superman Returns</em>.</p> <p>Aspen said he shaved his head before the interview to look like Lex Luthor, because he was “such a Superman freak” and Spacey made him feel stupid for doing it.</p> <p>“He made me feel embarrassed. That was not one of my happier moments,” Aspen said.</p> <p>Nelson also reflected on his favourite celebrities to interview over his time on <em>Sunrise</em>, as he discusses tea parties and singalongs with Julie Andrews and spoke highly of Australia’s own Hugh Jackman.</p> <p>On July 1st, Aspen <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/veteran-sunrise-reporter-signs-off-for-good" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced</a> that he would be leaving <em>Sunrise</em> to focus on his new interiors book, <em>Your Home Is Your Castle</em>.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Sunrise</em></p>

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Veteran Sunrise reporter signs off for good

<p dir="ltr">Veteran <em>Sunrise</em> entertainment reporter Nelson Aspen has announced that he will be leaving the breakfast show. </p> <p dir="ltr">The reporter surprised viewers with the news on July 1, confirming that he has two weeks left delivering entertainment stories.</p> <p dir="ltr">“After 19 and a half years with Sunrise, I am giving you my two-week notice,” the 58-year-old told Natalie Barr and Michael Usher.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You’ll have me here for two more weeks.”</p> <p dir="ltr">This means Aspen’s last day will be on July 15 confirming that he will be working on finishing his book, <em>Your Home Is Your Castle</em>. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Sunrise anniversary, <a href="https://twitter.com/NelsonAspen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NelsonAspen</a>! 👏🏻 We just had to take a look back at your first appearance on the show, FIFTEEN years ago! <a href="https://t.co/Kzg0JB7PWY">pic.twitter.com/Kzg0JB7PWY</a></p> <p>— Sunrise (@sunriseon7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sunriseon7/status/966767936290504704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2018</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“I’m going to show you how to either make your new home or bloom where you’re already planted,” he explained.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Then I’ll be going on a book tour and a new concert Q&amp;A show, so I’m looking forward to that.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Barr wished Aspen the best but said it’s still too early to bid him farewell. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Nelson, it has been a wonderful ride and we will miss you,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But this is not goodbye, because we’ve got two weeks to say that!”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Sunrise</em></p>

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How to get a better night’s sleep

<p><strong>By Over60 and Aspen Australia</strong></p> <p>Falling asleep should be a simple and straightforward part of the day. Our bodies are designed to rest at night thanks to a range of biological factors, including melatonin, a naturally produced hormone which lets our bodies know when it’s time for sleep. Produced in the brain, melatonin is released in the bloodstream every night in response to darkness. Its production and release are regulated by the 24-hour day-night cycle – known as the circadian rhythm or body clock – which prepares the body for sleep and regulates healthy sleep-wake cycles.</p> <p>As we age, melatonin production tends to decline, leading to many people finding it more difficult to get a good night’s sleep.</p> <div id="firstFloatAd"> <div data-fuse="21861530567" data-fuse-code="fuse-slot-21861530567-1" data-fuse-slot="71161633/DIRP_readersdigest/article_mrec_1"> <div id="fuse-slot-21861530567-1" class="fuse-slot" data-google-query-id="CIWc9u7BwfMCFQ3faAodlOkPpg"> <div id="google_ads_iframe_71161633/DIRP_readersdigest/article_mrec_1_0__container__">Here are some reasons why you may not be getting a good night’s sleep and feel tired in the morning … and solutions that may help.</div> <div> <p><strong>1. Age factor</strong></p> <p>As we age, our natural supply of melatonin tends to deplete. When your body doesn’t make enough melatonin, it can lead to restless, light or poor-quality sleep. And anyone who’s tossed and turned all night will tell you, this can leave you feeling unrefreshed the next morning. A decline in natural melatonin release and a poor night’s sleep can also make us want to nap more during the day which can further interfere with the sleep-wake cycle.</p> <p><strong>2. Blue light</strong></p> <p>In the hours leading up to bedtime, aim to reduce your exposure to blue light, to let your brain know that it is night-time, and time to start thinking about sleep. Blue light, the light emitted from your LED devices, such as your computer, phone, tablet or TV, can interfere with the brain’s production of melatonin. The best way to reduce poor slumber caused by blue light is to stop using devices that emit blue light one-two hours before bedtime, and to stay at least two metres away from your television screen.</p> <p><strong>3. Bedtime snacks</strong></p> <p>In addition to turning lights down low and turning off blue light devices an hour before bedtime, avoiding alcohol and caffeine is also recommended. If you want a snack before bed, munch on foods rich in melatonin, such as oranges, walnuts, almonds, pineapple and bananas<sup>1</sup>.</p> <p><strong>4. Ramping up your melatonin</strong></p> <p>For a better night’s sleep, try boosting your body’s natural melatonin by getting exposure to sunlight in the morning. This can be as simple as taking a regular 30-minute walk before breakfast or finding a sunny spot next to a window to read.</p> <p><strong>5. Melatonin supplements</strong></p> <p>If all else fails, a melatonin tablet might be the answer.</p> <p>Until recently, melatonin could only be obtained in Australia with a prescription. To get around this, many people sourced their supplements online from overseas companies – some of which don’t have the same regulatory excellence as we enjoy locally – making it difficult to check whether the products are safe, of a high quality, or can achieve what they are promoted to do.</p> <p>Fortunately, people aged 55 years or older who suffer from poor quality sleep can now buy Circadin®, prolonged-release melatonin tablets, from their local pharmacist without a prescription.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 246.1038961038961px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844731/circadin.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e4c80a2cdede4c4abee8c7f62b26884e" /></p> <p>By gradually releasing melatonin in the body over an eight- to ten-hour period,<sup>3</sup><span> </span>Circadin® mimics the body’s natural release of melatonin to induce a restful, restorative sleep, as well as improve morning alertness.<sup>4</sup></p> <p>This over-the-counter brand is for short-term treatment of people aged 55 and over suffering from poor sleep quality, and can only be supplied by pharmacists. Each tablet contains 2mg of melatonin, and is sold in packs of 30. If you’re not getting a refreshing night’s sleep, ask your pharmacist if Circadin® is right for you.</p> <p>For more information visit<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.circadin.com.au/" target="_blank">www.circadin.com.au</a>.</p> <p><em>1. Meng, Xiao et al. “Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin.” Nutrients vol. 9,4 367. 7 Apr. 2017, doi:10.3390/nu9040367.<br />2. Mead M. N. (2008). Benefits of sunlight: a bright spot for human health. Environmental health perspectives, 116(4), A160–A167.<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.116-a160" target="_blank">https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.116-a160</a>.<br />3. European Medicines Agency (EMEA). Assessment report for Circadin. Procedure No EMEA/H/C/695. 2007.<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/scientific-discussion/circadin-epar-scientific-discussion_en.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/scientific-discussion/circadin-epar-scientific-discussion_en.pdf</a><span> </span>[Accessed 26 August 2021].<br />4. Wade A G, et al. Curr Med Res Opin 2007; 23(10): 2597-2605.  </em></p> <p><em><strong>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aspenpharma.com.au/" target="_blank">Aspen Australia</a>.</strong></em></p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

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Willie Nelson announces new family-centric album

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The country music legend is releasing a new studio album, </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Willie Nelson Family</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, with contributions from said family.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nelson’s sister Bobbie, his daughters Amy and Paula, and his sons Lukas and Micah are all expected to make an appearance on the album.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Paul English, long-time drummer and a close friend to Nelson, will also feature after passing away early last year aged 87.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Excited to announce The <a href="https://twitter.com/WillieNelson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WillieNelson</a> Family record is coming out on November 19! The whole family came together for this and we can’t wait for you to hear it. Pre-order and listen to our new version of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FamilyBible?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FamilyBible</a> now: <a href="https://t.co/jYVKpuCImI">https://t.co/jYVKpuCImI</a> <a href="https://t.co/aSwyXdUwEU">pic.twitter.com/aSwyXdUwEU</a></p> — Lukas Nelson &amp; Promise Of The Real (@lukasnelson) <a href="https://twitter.com/lukasnelson/status/1441092641777541129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The album itself will contain Nelson’s own stylings of George Harrison’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">All Things Must Pass</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Kris Kristofferson’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why Me</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and A.P. Carter’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Keep it on the Sunnyside</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The new album isn’t the first time Nelson’s family has shown off their musical talents, as son Lukas has been building a career just like his dad’s.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lukas was recently brought on to the film </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Star Is Born</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> as an “authenticity consultant” by Bradley Cooper, who took inspiration for his character’s look and sound from Nelson.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lukas also came away from the movie with soundtrack credits and screen time, making an appearance alongside his band Promise of the Real as Cooper’s backing group.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">So proud of this band, working on the set of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AStarIsBorn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AStarIsBorn</a> <a href="https://t.co/6GxI9o5Yya">pic.twitter.com/6GxI9o5Yya</a></p> — Lukas Nelson &amp; POTR (@POTR) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTR/status/863446561094750208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2017</a></blockquote> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Willie Nelson Family</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is Nelson’s second album released this year, following his second volume of Frank Sinatra’s covers, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">That’s Life</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which was released in February.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nelson has also had an eventful year outside of music, after celebrating his 88th birthday over a four-day online event in April, hosted by daughter Paula, her siblings, and Nelson’s sister Bobbie.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Annie Nelson, wife of iconic Texas Musician Willie Nelson was out providing COVID19 vaccinations at Kelly Reeves Stadium Monday morning.Annie volunteered after she &amp; Willie got their second shot-was deputize by family hospital systems to work the vaccination line <a href="https://twitter.com/fox7austin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fox7austin</a> <a href="https://t.co/LMIm5ngHgF">pic.twitter.com/LMIm5ngHgF</a></p> — rudy koski (@KoskionFOX7) <a href="https://twitter.com/KoskionFOX7/status/1366444493919162371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earlier in March, Nelson’s wife Annie was spotted administering COVID-19 vaccinations as a volunteer.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nelson’s latest album is due to be released on November 19.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Music

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Nelson Mandela’s final photos

<p>Nelson Mandela, the legendary leader who helped to end apartheid in South Africa and later became the country’s first black president, had largely withdrawn from public life by 2011. But he agreed to one last photoshoot: A portrait-sitting for photographer Adrian Steirn’s “21 Icons” project, a multimedia series highlighting those who played a role in shaping modern South Africa.</p> <p>Steirn, one of South Africa’s leading photographers, captured Mandela at his boyhood home in the village of Qunu, located in the nation’s Eastern Cape Province. The photoshoot would become one of Mandela’s last.</p> <p>Mandela’s portrait in the 21 Icons project took careful consideration. “We had to come up with a concept that was both viable and meaningful,” Steirn told <em>Reader’s Digest</em>.</p> <p>The final result was a photograph titled “A Reflection of Dignity,” which captured Mandela’s “majestic aura and humble spirit simultaneously,” HuffPost.com wrote. “The concept of the mirror allowed him to step out of the portrait and ‘reflect’ on South Africa today and the part he played in that process,” according to Steirn.</p> <p>A South African himself, Steirn says that his deep admiration for Mandela inspired him to create the “21 Icons” project. Shaking the leader’s hand for the first time “was amazing,” he says.</p> <p>“You hear so much about this man, living in a country that is based around his narrative.” But Mandela – or Madiba, as he was affectionately nicknamed by South Africans – quickly put Steirn and his crew at ease.</p> <p>“He was the kind of guy that made you feel like the important one. That was his gift,” Steirn says.</p> <p>Mandela and Steirn shared a laugh together during a brief pause in the photoshoot. “At the end of the day, one of the great lessons for me was you can’t idolise anyone,” Steirn says. “We are all human.”</p> <p>In 2013, Adrian’s stunning photo of Mandela with the mirror was purchased by a private art collector for $200,000 – the highest price ever paid for a local portrait. Part of the proceeds were donated to the construction of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Johannesburg, which opened its doors in 2017.</p> <p>Damon Hyland, a member of Steirn’s crew for the “21 Icons” project, arranged the lighting for the photoshoot. The photos were not enhanced in any way, according to Steirn, allowing the room’s natural light to illuminate the shot.</p> <p>The portrait-sitting was one of the last before Mandela’s death, and the power of the moment made the crew emotional at times.</p> <p>“In those moments, it becomes very clear that no matter what colour we are or what gender we are… it doesn’t matter what we achieve in life. We’re all mortal,” Steirn says.</p> <p>Steirn, Hyland, and Meme Selaelo Kgagara positioned Mandela’s mirror for the shot. Though Steirn and his crew were nervous before the photoshoot, he says that Mandela’s good-natured and kind personality soon calmed their jitters. “There was a humbleness around Mandela, there was a humour about Mandela that set him apart,” according to Steirn. “He was a very real man.”</p> <p>Steirn photographed Mandela for the last time in 2013 – two days before the leader was admitted to the hospital with a lung infection.</p> <p>Mandela was watching the National Geographic channel, Steirn recalls. “He gave so much to this country; he represented unity to South Africa. Knowing we would lose him was an impactful, intense moment,” Steirn says.</p> <p>“In my own way, it was goodbye.”</p> <p>A few months later, Mandela passed away in his home.</p> <p><strong>IMAGES:</strong> Courtesy Adrian Steirn</p> <p><em>Written by Brooke Nelson. This article first appeared on <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/culture/see-the-last-photos-ever-taken-of-nelson-mandela" target="_blank">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a rel="noopener" href="http://readersdigest.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank">here’s our best subscription offer</a>.</em></p>

Art

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A special moment: Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan’s emotional meeting

<p><span>The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have both shared an emotional experience on the last day of their African Royal Tour.</span></p> <p><span>The couple had the privilege to meet with Graça Machel, Nelson Mandela's widow in Johannesburg, a figure the Royal Family are familiar with.</span></p> <p><span>The special meeting was followed by a meaningful speech by Prince Harry in Tembisa where he spoke about how the African continent “embraced” him after he lost his mother, Princess Diana.</span></p> <p><span>The Duke, 35, greeted the 73-year-old humanitarian with a kiss on each cheek and his face lit up as they spoke animatedly.</span></p> <p><span>This isn’t the first time he has met with Machel, as he met with her in London earlier this year - however it was the first time his wife, 37, had the opportunity to embrace Nelson Mandela’s widow.</span></p> <p><span>"It's wonderful meeting you," Mrs Machel told the Duchess, before adding: "I'm sure we're going to be working together in the future.</span></p> <p><span>“I can feel the vibe."</span></p> <p><span>They definitely did share a special connection as they spoke closely and walked hand in hand inside.</span></p> <p><span>The pair share similar beliefs and hopes for underprivileged families, and like the Duchess of Sussex, Mrs Machel has been an advocate for women's and children's rights.</span></p> <p><span>The Mozambique-born humanitarian was even appointed as an honourary Dame in Britain in 1997 for her incredible work throughout her life.</span></p> <p><span>Mrs Machel was married to Nelson Mandela from 1998 until his death in 2013.</span></p> <p><span>Prince Harry last visited the Nelson Mandela Foundation during a trip to South Africa in 2015.</span></p> <p><span>While inside, the three chatted away about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s trip and Mrs Manchel brought up his late mother, Princess Di.</span></p> <p><span>"So nice to see you in Angola," she said. "The Princess of Wales and all the steps she has taken… It was wonderful."</span></p> <p><span>Duchess Meghan was donned in a blush pink dress royal fans have seen her wear in the past.</span></p> <p><span>The Mac-style frock was created by House of Nonie and hugged her curves while adding a glow to her skin.</span></p> <p><span>The Duchess previously wore to the Nelson Mandela Centenary Exhibition at London's Southbank Centre's Queen Elizabeth Hall in July 2018.</span></p> <p><span>The same day, the couple attended a closing garden party in honour of the royal duo which celebrated South Africa’s and the UK’s business relationship.</span></p> <p><span>In a heartfelt speech, the Duchess summed up her and her husband’s 10-day Africa trip.</span></p> <p><span>"From the moment we arrived we were greeted by the rhythm and energy of the Mbokodo girls in Nyanga - and I knew that this trip was going to be something incredibly special,” she said.</span></p> <p><span>"So, just begin by saying thank you to all of the people we've met - on behalf of both of us, and of course Archie - we are so grateful. This trip has meant so much to us as a family, but also to me personally.”</span></p> <p><span>The royal also added: "Over the past 10 days our family has had emotional moments, we've poignant moments, we've had spiritual moments; we've met inspirational leaders in every walk of life, and we've been treated to incredible food, music, and dancing, but above all, we have been able to meet the people that are the rocks behind the sort of work that really means a so much to us.</span></p> <p><span>"So whether for Harry, Archie and me in South Africa, or for my husband as he was travelling Botswana, Angola and Malawi, please know that you have all given us so much inspiration, so much hope - and above all, you have given us joy."</span></p> <p><span>Scroll through the gallery above to see photographs of the Duke and Duchess’s beautiful meeting with Graça Machel, Nelson Mandela's widow.</span></p>

International Travel

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Meghan turns heads with edgy outfit in latest royal outing

<p>The Duchess of Sussex turned heads on Tuesday with an edgy ensemble as she stepped out with Prince Harry at an exhibition marking the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela.</p> <p>Wearing a blush sleeveless trench dress from up-and-coming Canadian label, NONIE, Meghan batted away criticism that her style had been muted ever since she became a royal with the edgy modern take of the classic trench.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" class=" lazyloaded" src="https://www.who.com.au/cdnstorage/cache/9/b/9/d/e/0/x9b9de0526ddace6cfd3ccdd50d59b0095c992eca.jpg.pagespeed.ic.KQcGlb3zeL.webp" alt="meghan markle trench dress" data-src="cdnstorage/cache/9/b/9/d/e/0/x9b9de0526ddace6cfd3ccdd50d59b0095c992eca.jpg.pagespeed.ic.KQcGlb3zeL.webp" /></p> <p>She and Prince Harry met special guests including Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Zamaswazi Dlamini-Mandela, a fashion designer and entrepreneur.</p> <p>The newlyweds paid tribute to the anti-apartheid icon at an exhibition dedicated to celebrating his incredible life. Mr Mandela met Princess Diana during a private visit to South Africa in 1997 just months before her tragic death.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" class=" lazyloaded" src="https://www.who.com.au/cdnstorage/cache/b/9/5/7/3/c/xb9573c6c9e3355a97b52f820522822f670d136fb.jpg.pagespeed.ic.iXpqJ9e5FC.webp" alt="meghan harry" data-src="cdnstorage/cache/b/9/5/7/3/c/xb9573c6c9e3355a97b52f820522822f670d136fb.jpg.pagespeed.ic.iXpqJ9e5FC.webp" /></p> <p>The exhibit commemorating the hundredth year of his birth depicts Mr Mandela’s career from activist to president through six themes — character, comrade, leader, prisoner, negotiator and statesman.</p> <p>It is the first time the exhibition has been shown in the UK after successful runs around the world.</p> <p>Former anti-apartheid campaigner Lord Peter Hain, who is chair of the Nelson Mandela Centenary Exhibition, welcomed the royal support.</p> <p> “The Mandela Centenary Exhibition at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, which is free to visitors from 17 July — 19 August, will depict the anti-apartheid freedom struggle and Mandela’s vision of a non-racial rainbow democracy based upon justice, equality and human rights,” he said.</p> <p>“We are delighted the duke and duchess will be supporting it.”</p>

Beauty & Style

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Port Nelson welcomes its biggest vessel

<p>The 188-metre Sirena arrived on Wednesday morning, bringing 688 passengers and 373 crew into Nelson for a one-day stopover.</p> <p>In terms of passenger numbers, the vessel is understood to be the biggest ever to berth in the city.</p> <p>The vessel's short visit marks a watershed few months for the city in its quest to become a high-end fixture for international travellers.</p> <p>The visitors' presence was evident throughout the city on Wednesday, with buses and guided walking tours showing the sights of the area, while cafes along Trafalgar St were filled with overseas guests sampling the region's hospitality.</p> <p>Others were spotted taking an interest in the property market outside several real estate offices.</p> <p>The Sirena's visit brings to an end a busy summer season, with four super yachts berthed in Nelson as well as the eight cruise ships.</p> <p>The port welcomed its biggest-ever cruise vessel, the 225m-long Europa 2 with 515 passengers, prior to Christmas, as well as the 43,188 ton "floating apartment" The World for an overnight berth.</p> <p>A large part of the recent increase in cruise ships stems from extensive behind the scenes efforts from local agencies to raise the region's profile as a cruise destination, targeting higher spending cruises.</p> <p>Nelson may soon welcome 20 cruise ships a year as work continues to increase the city's potential as a destination. </p> <p>Speaking in February, Port Nelson's general manager business development Eugene Beneke said that ​bringing high-end vessels to Nelson offered a niche stopover away from the "main highway" of cruise routes around the country.</p> <p>"We are, from a port perspective, limited in draught so we can't physically bring in the large P&amp;O-style vessels with 3000 passengers, so we like to limit ourselves to 1200 to 1500 passengers maximum.</p> <p>"Within that target cruise market there are quite a few out there that can address those numbers," Beneke said.</p> <p>Bookings for next season are already being locked in, including the 900-passenger Crystal Symphony on February 25, 2018. </p> <p>Further into the future, boutique cruise line Azamara Club Cruises has unveiled their NZ and Australian itineraries for 2019, which will include a maiden call to Nelson in late January.</p> <p><em>Written by Tim O’Connell. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></span></a>. </em></p>

Cruising

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