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Simon Dorante-Day calls for "four-way paternity test" to prove royal lineage

<p>Simon Dorante-Day has called for a "four-way paternity test" to prove his royal lineage, while also casting doubt on if Prince William and Prince Harry are actually sons of the monarch. </p> <p>The Queensland man, who has been claiming to be the secret son of King Charles and Queen Camilla since 2005, has called for an official DNA test to prove his claims in a lengthy Facebook post. </p> <p>Dorante-Day's post highlights a photo comparison of himself, King Charles and William and Harry as evidence supporting his demand for answers from the royal family. </p> <p>“This comparison of William, Myself, Charles, and Harry demonstrates something very clearly, there is no consistency. The fact that the left side of my face identically matches Charles whilst neither William nor Harry’s does, raises the obvious question, just who are Charles’s real sons?”</p> <p>"This is why my wife, Dr. Elvianna, and I believe a 4-way Paternity test is the only way to resolve this issue once and for all. The truth of the game that has been played by the Monarchy, the Government, and the Establishment for 58 years needs to be exposed."</p> <p>"It's not just what happened to me as a child, and what I remember from growing up in England, but it’s also what’s happened since to myself, my wife, and my children in Australia that supports our argument. These covert and illegitimate activities that are targeted towards us constantly are an attempt to stop us on this journey, nothing more. They will not succeed. They will only strengthen our argument and provides us with evidence to demonstrate what has occurred, in a court room, to judges."</p> <p>"My question to all of you is how will you truly react when you hear the truth of what has occurred? Would you still want them on the throne?"</p> <p>Dorante-Day was born in Portsmouth in the UK in 1966, and was adopted at just eight months old. According to his claims, his adoptive mother, who worked for Queen Elizabeth II confessed on her death bed that he was the son of Charles and Camilla.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Simon Baker charged with drink driving offences

<p><em>The Mentalist</em> star Simon Baker has been charged with two drink driving related offences. </p> <p>The 55-year-old is set to appear in Mullumbimby Local court next month in northern NSW, and he was charged with  “attempt to drive while under influence of alcohol – first offence” and “drive vehicle under influence of alcohol – first offence”.</p> <p>He was granted bail with no conditions. </p> <p>The Hollywood actor has been nominated for a TV Week Logie Award on Sunday night for his leading role in the Netflix adaptation  of Australian author Trent Dalton's <em>Boy Swallows Universe. </em></p> <p>The hit Netflix series has been nominated for 11 awards - the most of any other actor or show. </p> <p>The actor earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Famefor his portrayal of Patrick Jane in <em>The Mentalist </em>between 2008 and 2015. </p> <p>He has also won multiple AACTA awards and been nominated for Emmy and Golden Globe awards. </p> <p>Baker's career began in Aussie soaps like <em>E Street, A Country Practice</em> and <em>Home and Away. </em></p> <p>He has also featured in movies including<em> LA Confidential, The Devil Wears Prada</em>, and earlier in his career featured in the original <em>Heartbreak High</em>.</p> <p>The actor split with his wife Rebecca Rigg in 2021 following 23 years of marriage, and the pair have three children and own a property together in Nashua, near Byron Bay. </p> <p><em>Images: Jean Cummings/THA/ Shutterstock editorial</em></p>

Legal

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Mysterious leg pain that’s quietly killing older Australians

<p>Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) has long been overshadowed by its more widely recognised counterparts, such as heart attacks and strokes. Often referred to as the “poor cousin” or “Cinderella” of cardiovascular diseases, PAD affects one in five older Australians, yet it remains largely under-diagnosed and misunderstood. However, a wave of optimism is sweeping through the medical community with the launch of <a href="https://www.hri.org.au/our-research/centreforpad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Centre for Peripheral Artery Disease</a>, an Australian-first facility dedicated to pioneering research and improving patient outcomes.</p> <p>Spearheaded by the Heart Research Institute, the Centre for Peripheral Artery Disease, marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by PAD. The centre aims to fill critical gaps in our understanding of the disease, which is responsible for a limb amputation in Australia every two hours. This initiative promises to enhance diagnosis, transform patient care, and raise awareness about PAD.</p> <p>Associate Professor Mary Kavurma, the Centre Lead, is at the forefront of this ground-breaking effort. “We’re supercharging research into PAD because there are still many unknowns about the disease’s biology that could unlock new methods for early detection and better management,” she explains. This research is particularly urgent given the prevalence of PAD among women and First Nations Australians, groups that remain disproportionately affected by this condition.</p> <p>The centre’s mission is to develop a simple blood test for early diagnosis and explore novel therapies that could reduce the need for limb amputations and significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Unlike current treatments that primarily focus on symptom management, this new approach seeks to prevent the disease from progressing.</p> <p>One of the most inspiring aspects of the centre is its commitment to involving patients and their families in the research process. At the inaugural consumer meeting, nearly 20 patients and their carers shared their personal experiences with PAD. </p> <p>Take the story of Simon Josephson, a renowned advertising guru – who famously designed the Solo logo. PAD almost cost him his life after taking more than five years to diagnose.</p> <p>He woke up one morning with a sore leg, thinking he’d overdone it exercising but the 73-year-old – who was otherwise healthy and active – unknowingly had Peripheral Artery Disease, caused by a build-up of plaque in his arteries causing them to narrow and stiffen.</p> <p>It wasn’t until a trip to the hospital emergency department years later that doctors would discover his aorta had expanded to more than twice the usual size and was at risk of rupturing. He immediately underwent open heart surgery and has faced a lengthy recovery.</p> <p>The launch of <a href="https://www.hri.org.au/our-research/centreforpad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Centre for Peripheral Artery Disease</a> heralds a new era of hope and progress in the fight against PAD. Through world-leading research, community engagement, and a commitment to patient-centred care, the CPAD is poised to make a profound impact on the lives of many Australians. As Assoc Prof Kavurma aptly put it, “By understanding more about this debilitating condition, we are paving the way for better health outcomes and a brighter future for all those affected by PAD.”</p> <p><em>Images: CPAD</em></p>

Caring

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Michael Jackson's staggering debt revealed

<p>Michael Jackson was reportedly drowning in massive debt at the time of his death in 2009. </p> <p>According to newly released court documents, the late King of Pop owed more than $500 million ($747.05 million AUD) to more than 65 creditors just before he passed.</p> <p>Jackson had “more than half a dozen lawsuits pending worldwide” and more than “65 creditors’ claims were filed in the estate spawning additional lawsuits, of which several resulted in litigation,” the documents state. </p> <p>According to the documents, that were filed in a Los Angeles court on June 21st, the executors of Jackson's will were able to “renegotiate and restructure financing arrangements,” including a lucrative deal with Sony over rights he had to music publishing for several artists, at “substantially reduced interest rates” to avoid further losses and rectify the debts.</p> <p>The $750 million ($1.120 billion AUD) agreement allowed Sony to acquire Sony/ATV, which held the rights to almost 3 million famous songs from artists including John Lennon and Paul McCartney, David Bowie and Taylor Swift.</p> <p>Despite settling the major agreement with the record label, the Jackson estate still reportedly owes a significant amount of money as “there remain challenging business, tax and legal issues that the executers and their counsel continue to deal with.”</p> <p>The filing reportedly also notes a pending final decision on a victory in a 2021 court battle with the IRS.</p> <p>Jackson’s three children, Prince, 27, Paris, 26, and Bigi Jackson, 22 — who are the beneficiaries of his estate — have been blocked from receiving money from their trust until the IRS dispute has been settled.</p> <p>A spokesperson for the estate clarified, “The estate has a very cooperative relationship with Michael’s children and whenever they need anything, the estate works with them to ensure that they are very well taken care of, just as Michael would have wanted.”</p> <p>The <em>Los Angeles Times</em> previously reported that Michael accrued so much debt largely in part because of his excessive spending habits, which were aired during his 2003 interview with Martin Bashir that laid bare his extravagant spending. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Mousse/ABACA/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Money & Banking

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Teen athlete's tragic death just weeks before Paris Games

<p>A young Olympic hopeful has tragically died just weeks out from making his debut at the Paris Games. </p> <p>Jackson James Rice, 18, was found dead after a diving accident in Faleloa, Tonga on Saturday from a “suspected shallow water blackout”.</p> <p>The teenager had been set to become the first caucasian to represent Tonga at an Olympic Games, having qualified for the new kite-foiling event.</p> <p>He had been free diving from a boat when the tragedy unfolded. </p> <p>His body was found beneath the boat and despite several resuscitation attempts, he could not be revived. </p> <p>Rice's heartbroken father confirmed the news of the teenager's death to the Matangi Tonga newspaper, as tributes flowed for the young athlete.</p> <p>Rice’s sister Lily paid an emotional tribute to her brother on social media on Sunday, as she wrote on Facebook, “I was blessed with the most amazing brother in the whole world and it pains me to say that he’s passed away."</p> <p>“He was an amazing kitefoiler and he would have made it to the Olympics and come out with a big shiny medal … he made so many amazing friends all over the world.”</p> <p>Other friends paid tribute to the teenager on social media, with one writing, “I can’t begin to put into words what I’m feeling right now. I still cannot believe it, when I woke up to this news I thought you were playing around. You’re the most amazing friend anyone could ask for and anyone who has spent time with you would agree.”</p> <p>Rice was originally born in the US but moved to Tonga at a young age with his British-born parents. </p> <p>He grew up in Haʻapai, where his parents run a tourist lodge, and always viewed himself as Tongan.</p> <p>The talented athlete qualified for what had been due to be his first Olympic Games last December, after placing eighth at a Sail Sydney event.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

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Highly-decorated conservationist dies aged 72

<p>British conservationist and presenter of <em>Wildlife SOS </em>Simon Cowell has died aged 72, following a battle with cancer. </p> <p>His charity, the Wildlife Aid Foundation, confirmed the sad news in a statement posted on their official website, saying that he died on June 9. </p> <p>"It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Cowell MBE, conservationist, founder and CEO of the Wildlife Aid Foundation, and presenter of Wildlife SOS," the statement began.</p> <p>"Simon passed away on 9th June after a brave battle with cancer.</p> <p>"Simon was one of the UK's most respected conservationists and a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and environmental causes.</p> <p>"He dedicated his life to British wildlife and worked tirelessly to ensure countless injured and orphaned animals were given a second chance in the wild through rescue, clinical treatment, and rehabilitation," the statement continued. </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/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wildlife Aid Foundation (@wildlifeaid)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>They also said that "Simon believed that every animal matters," before ending their statement with: "His loss will be greatly felt by his loved ones, 2-legged and 4-legged, alike."</p> <p>Cowell started his foundation back in 1987. In 2005 he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to wildlife. </p> <p>The <em>Wildlife SOS </em>star shared his terminal lung cancer diagnosis back in July 2022, and the cancer soon spread to his other organs. </p> <p>Cowell passed away peacefully surrounded by his partner Stana, his daughters Louisa and Gemma, and two pet dogs. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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Paul Simon reveals sad health update

<p>At 82 years of age, the great Paul Simon – one half of the iconic duo Simon & Garfunkel – has admitted to facing a new health challenge that could prove devastating to millions of fans worldwide: hearing loss.</p> <p>In a recent revelation, he spoke candidly about how this health issue has affected his performances, yet also how he's adapted in oder to continue pursuing his passion for music.</p> <p>Simon's discussion about his hearing loss comes ahead of the premiere of a two-part docuseries, <em>In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon</em>, set to air on MGM+ starting March 17. It's a timely revelation, shedding light on the personal struggles behind the legendary musician's enduring career.</p> <p>During a panel discussion, Simon disclosed the impact of his hearing loss on his recent stage experiences. While he's regained some comfort in singing and playing instruments, he noted difficulties when certain instruments overshadow his own voice.</p> <p>"If there's a drum or an electric guitar," he revealed, "it's too loud and I can't hear my voice. But when I first lost the hearing, I couldn't get – it threw me off."</p> <p>It's a frustration that resonates deeply with any performer reliant on auditory cues for their craft.</p> <p>Simon's journey with hearing loss began suddenly, with the loss predominantly affecting his left ear. In a previous interview, he described the initial frustration and annoyance at the unexplained condition, hoping it would eventually resolve itself.</p> <p>"Nobody has an explanation, so everything became more difficult," he said in a <em>Times</em> interview in May 2023. "My reaction to that was frustration and annoyance; not quite anger yet, because I thought it would pass, it would repair itself."</p> <p>Despite the challenges, he's found solace and creative expression through his daily guitar playing, using it as both a creative outlet and a source of comfort during trying times.</p> <p>Reflecting on his musical journey alongside Art Garfunkel, Simon highlighted the enduring impact of their collaboration. From their humble beginnings as schoolmates in New York to becoming one of the best-selling music acts of the 1960s and 1970s, Simon & Garfunkel's legacy is undeniable. Their timeless hits, including "The Sound of Silence," "Mrs Robinson," and "Bridge Over Troubled Water," continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.</p> <p>Despite occasional tensions and artistic differences that led to their split in 1970, Simon & Garfunkel's partnership endured, marked by intermittent reunions for select performances. Their ability to transcend personal conflicts in the pursuit of their shared musical vision speaks volumes about their dedication to their craft and the enduring power of their bond.</p> <p>While Simon's journey may have taken an unexpected turn, his musical legacy continues to shine brightly, resonating with generations past, present and future.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Hearing

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"I want answers": Simon Dorante-Day's cunning plan to prove royal connections

<p>The Queensland man claiming to be the son of King Charles and Queen Camilla has shared his new plan to prove once and for all that he has royal family connections. </p> <p>Simon Dorante-Day has long claimed through his 30 years of research, he discovered that he is the illegitimate son of the monarch, and has attempted to prove his theory through various means. </p> <p>Now, his new plan to get his hands on royal DNA to unequivocally prove his family heritage involves another member of the royal family. </p> <p>Speaking with <a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/aussie-man-claiming-to-be-charles-son-drops-new-prince-harry-dna-bombshell-c-13488374" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>7News</em></a>, the 57-year-old said he and his wife have been told by a “trusted source” that Prince Harry could be amenable to helping them gather proof.</p> <p>“We got advice from a really good, really trusted source that we should approach Harry and make a connection there and ask for DNA,” Elvianna said.</p> <p>Simon added, “I was really taken aback when he said that. But it’s definitely something I’m going to do. I’ve long been a supporter of Harry and Meghan, I think it’s disgraceful the way they’ve been treated by the royal family."</p> <p>“The way they are treated on social media too, it’s just one big ‘Punch-Meghan-and-Harry-a-thon’, seriously. It’s really starting to annoy me."</p> <p>He said he is planning to "make contact with him and explore this as an opportunity," pointing out that the royal family's treatment of Harry could make him more willing to help.</p> <p>"At the end of the day, I feel like he just might be as keen as I am to expose what Charles and Camilla and the powers that be have done to me. The injustice."</p> <p>“It’s worth me pointing out that Charles and Camilla, Buckingham Palace, the entire royal family - not one of them has ever said my claims are not true. They’ve never denied what I believe, told me I’m wrong."</p> <p>Simon said “the wheels are in motion” in terms of making contact with Prince Harry, and that he’s hopeful of a positive outcome.</p> <p>“I want answers,” he said. “And I feel Prince Harry is the man to help me find them.”</p> <p>“And I think their silence speaks volumes.”</p> <p>Simon said “the wheels are in motion” in terms of making contact with Prince Harry, and that he’s hopeful of a positive outcome.</p> <p>“I want answers,” he said. “And I feel Prince Harry is the man to help me find them.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook / Getty Images </em></p>

Family & Pets

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He's back! Charles and Camilla's secret "son" drops DNA bombshell

<p>The Australian man who has long claimed to be the secret child of King Charles and Queen Camilla has shared the details of a wild plot to extract his DNA. </p> <p>The 57-year-old man from Queensland revealed he was tracked down by an American woman, who claimed she was the illegitimate child of the late Prince Philip, and attempted to get a DNA sample from the man. </p> <p>Simon Dorante-Day has made headline around the world with his claims that he is the son of Charles and Camilla, which he says are the results of decades worth of research. </p> <p>“My grandmother, who had worked for the Queen, told me outright that I was Camilla and Charles’ son many times,” he said.</p> <p>Now, in an interview with <a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/aussie-man-who-claims-to-be-charles-and-camillas-son-drops-biggest-ever-dna-bombshell-c-12788618" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>7News</em></a>, Dorante-Day shared the story of how he was tracked down by the American woman, who knocked on his door in the early hours of the morning on December 2nd. </p> <p>The 57-year-old and his wife Elvianna were immediately skeptical of the woman, who said she used a private investigator to track him down. </p> <p>“This woman claimed that she was the secret illegitimate daughter of Prince Philip who lived in San Francisco,” Dorante-Day said.</p> <p>“She explained that she had travelled from the US after hiring an investigator to track me down in Queensland. The whole purpose of her visit was to ask me for a sample of my DNA."</p> <p>“She wanted to compare it to hers, to basically prove that we were both related to the royal family.”</p> <p>After humouring the woman and letting her share her evidence along with her elaborate story, Simon concluded that the whole thing was a scam, along with an illegal attempt to extract his DNA.</p> <p>“This woman had a lot of so-called proof to back up her claims, but the whole thing just seemed really fishy,” he said.</p> <p>He recalled how the woman shared her own adoption story, which resulted in her turning to the FBI for help, who allegedly handed her her original birth certificate, which listed Prince Philip as her father. </p> <p>“Of course my bulls*** meter is flying off the handle at this point. I know how hard it is to get any government authority to address these sorts of issues — I hardly think the Federal Bereau of Investigation would just offer up the fact that she was the daughter of the Queen’s late husband," Simon said. </p> <p>“It was all just wild.”</p> <p>The Queensland father and grandfather said it wasn’t long until the woman gave away her real reason for wanting his DNA: money.</p> <p>“She said that she’s already been given a large payout from the royal family after she proved she was the daughter of Prince Philip,” he said.</p> <p>“And she felt that if she was able to compare my DNA to her DNA, and prove we were both descendants of the royal family, then we could ask them for even more money."</p> <p>“Elvianna and I told her what we’ve said to everyone from day one — this isn’t about money for us, at all. This is about us finding out who my birth parents are and protecting my family. We have never wanted money.”</p> <p>After saying goodbye to the pair, Dorante-Day said he and his wife were left reeling.</p> <div> <p>“At the end of the day, this was an illegal attempt to procure my DNA,” he said. </p> <p>Despite the whole experience leaving Dorante-Day and his wife rattled, he said his stance on proving that he is Charles and Camilla's son has not changed. </p> <p>“It takes a lot of work, money and time to build a case like this, but I am confident I will get there,” he said.</p> <p>“I know Charles and Camilla are my parents and I’m ready to prove it.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Supplied</em></p> </div>

Family & Pets

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Jackson Warne speaks for the first time on the moment he found out about his father's death

<p>Jackson Warne has opened up for the first time about the life-changing moment he found out about his father's untimely death. </p> <p>Jackson was 22-years-old when his father, famous Aussie cricketer Shane Warne, passed away of a heart attack while holidaying in Thailand in March 2022. </p> <p>Now, for the first time, Jackson has recalled the moment he and his family found out abut the devastating news. </p> <p>Speaking with <em>SAS Australia</em> chief instructor Ant Middleton on the show's podcast ahead of the show's anticipated finale, Jackson spoke candidly about receiving the life-changing phone call. </p> <p>Middleton asked Jackson, who was a contestant on <em>SAS</em> three years ago, “Do you remember where you were when you got the news?” </p> <p>Jackson said, “Definitely, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to probably forget where I was or what I was doing. Because all you get is a phone call. And then when you hang up the phone call, your life that you’ve been living, your entire life, everything you ever knew sort of was like this, just gets whooshed, just completely flipped upside down."</p> <p>“You have all these thoughts, and you let the tears out, that you just sort of sit in silence. Like we, I was with my girlfriend, my sister, Brooke, and her partner, and then my mum. And we just got to call. Hung up the phone and we just sat in silence for hours."</p> <p>While going through the shock and devastation of finding out about his father's death, Jackson had a profound dream about his late dad, as he felt he was sending him a message. </p> <p>He began, "I can tell you about a dream that might sound bizarre, but it would have been maybe two weeks, or two-and-a-half weeks after dad passed, and I was driving my car. He was driving his car. And we used to sort not race, we used to just drive next to each other and, you know, race a little bit."</p> <p>“But he was always the better driver in the better car. So (he) always beat me all the time, all the time. And in this dream I had, I was driving my car, he was driving his car, we’re both looking each other left and right and driving and driving.</p> <p>“And then all of a sudden our cars sort of, they sort of merged, and I was in the driver’s seat of his car. And then I looked to my left, and he wasn’t there. And then I sort of woke up and I can really vividly remember that dream."</p> <p>“Everything about it, I can remember. And I sort of looked at that as he was sort of giving me the permission to be in charge. Now he’s like, ‘Jackson, I’m giving you the driver’s seat. You’re the one that’s, you know, going to be making the tough decisions. Now you’re the one that has to step up for the family. I’m not here anymore, you have to be (the one)‘."</p> <p>Jackson also shared the reason he is finally speaking out about his father, saying, “To keep someone’s memory alive, you have to keep talking about them."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Son of death cap mushroom victim reveals mother's last message

<p>Simon Patterson, the son of Don and Gail Patterson, who tragically fell victim to a mushroom-related incident in Victoria, has spoken emotionally at a public memorial in Korumburra. This marked Simon's first public address since the unfortunate incident.</p> <p>Don and Gail Patterson, along with Gail's sister, Heather Wilkinson, tragically passed away after consuming a mushroom-infused meal at Erin Patterson's residence in Leongatha, Victoria. </p> <p>At the Korumburra Recreation Centre, Simon emotionally shared, “Mum and dad were very much a team working at life together. The fact they died on consecutive days is fitting in some ways, as it reflects their togetherness as a couple that they always worked so hard to grow.”</p> <p>Simon also disclosed the remarkable resilience of his father, who, despite being in his 70s, managed to survive an emergency liver transplant after the toxic meal. Sadly, his overall health deteriorated rapidly thereafter. Simon recounted the final message his mother sent to their family group chat before her hospitalisation, expressing gratitude for the love they shared.</p> <p>“It was no fluke that mum’s final text message as she lay in Dandenong Hospital was: ‘Lots of love to you all’.</p> <p>"As Mum and Dad lay in comas in the hospital in their final days and each day, we were unsure if they would recover or not, it was comforting to know that when we said: ‘See you later,’ we knew it was true.</p> <p>“The only thing we didn’t know was when. In the meantime, we’ll miss them.” </p> <p>Simon acknowledged his parents' strong Christian faith and emphasised that they were open-minded believers who respected diverse perspectives. He reflected on their perspective on death as an inevitable part of life but not the ultimate end.</p> <p>In a gesture of gratitude, Simon thanked the medical staff at Austin and Dandenong hospitals for their care, particularly noting the compassionate act that allowed Gail to see Don one last time before his transfer to the ICU.</p> <p>Heather Wilkinson's situation remains critical, and her husband, Ian Wilkinson, a church pastor, is recovering in the hospital after consuming the same meal. Reverend Fran Grimes expressed support for Ian's recovery during the memorial service.</p> <p>Detectives are collaborating with the Department of Health to further investigate the incident.</p> <p><em>Images: 7 News / Twitter (X)</em></p>

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Simon Cowell opens up on secret health battle

<p>Renowned television personality and judge of <em>Britain's Got Talent</em>, Simon Cowell, has unveiled his personal journey battling mental health issues and his choice to finally seek treatment.</p> <p>Acknowledged for his acerbic demeanour, Simon Cowell has come forth to disclose a hidden confrontation with his mental well-being.</p> <p>The famous talent show judge conceded that he has grappled with depression throughout the years, though he once regarded it as an inherent aspect of his character – a challenge to be managed privately.</p> <p>While not professing medical expertise, Cowell, 63, shared during his conversation on the "Men In Mind" podcast with Tom Bryant that he has progressively come to realise his situation and embarked on self-directed endeavours to improve his mental health.</p> <p>The pandemic, as Cowell described, acted as a significant amplifier of his mental struggles. The outbreak of COVID-19, he revealed, served as a true catalyst for his introspection.</p> <p>"In the very, very, very early stages, some friends of mine got really ill and I'm talking about really ill," he said on the podcast. "So, I thought, 'God, if I catch this, maybe the same thing's going to happen to me, Eric and Lauren."</p> <p>Lauren, Cowell's partner of 14 years, and their son Eric, aged nine, joined him in navigating the lockdown, predominantly stationed in Los Angeles, USA. They conscientiously adhered to isolation measures and subjected themselves to regular testing.</p> <p>Cowell's apprehensions over his mental well-being were further compounded by the uncertainties surrounding the continuation of <em>Britain's Got Talent</em>. The lingering indecision about resuming filming for the show added an extra layer of strain to his internal battles.</p> <p>“When I see my friends, the first thing I talk about is how therapy has had this super positive effect on my life,” he now says. “I wish I had done this 10 or 20 years ago...it’s like a weight has lifted off my shoulders.” </p> <p><em>Images: Simon Cowell / Instagram</em></p>

Mind

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“I really thought it was the end”: Death cap mushroom survivor breaks silence

<p dir="ltr">The man who survived the poisoning effects of eating a death cap mushroom has spoken out, after consuming the deadly ingredients in a dish of spaghetti bolognese prepared by his wife.</p> <p dir="ltr">The same toxic mushroom is now linked to a suspected poisoning in Victoria that has claimed the lives of three people. </p> <p dir="ltr">The shocking incident occurred in 1998, when Simon Claringbold was a robust and athletic 39-year-old, who had an active lifestyle and regularly ran marathons. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Claringbold told ABC’s <em>7.30</em> program that he picked the mushrooms in his backyard in Canberra earlier in the day, thinking they were field mushrooms, before discovering they were actually death caps. </p> <p dir="ltr">His wife then cooked them into a spaghetti bolognese, and just 18 hours after eating the contaminated meal, his health took a turn for the worst. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Claringbold was rushed to hospital after he became violently ill and started rapidly deteriorating, triggering an arduous battle for his life. </p> <p dir="ltr">The toxic mushrooms Mr Claringbold ingested are understood to be the same variety in the recent poisoning, however, Mr Claringbold’s survival from the ordeal is believed to be sheer luck.</p> <p dir="ltr">Medical experts have explained that death cap mushrooms can vary significantly in their toxicity, making it a game of chance for those who inadvertently ingest them. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Their toxin levels aren’t going to be consistent; it’s not like taking a pill out of a bottle,” Mr Claringbold emphasised to <em>7.30</em>, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the poison.</p> <p dir="ltr">After presenting to the hospital with intense vomiting and diarrhoea, Mr Claringbold gave the hospital a sample of the mushroom to healthcare professionals, who tested the toxin. </p> <p dir="ltr">His health continued to spiral as he encountered hallucinations, moments of blackout and major stress on his liver. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I was preparing for the end, I really thought it was the end. The lights were starting to go out,” he recounted.</p> <p dir="ltr">Remarkably, Mr Claringbold defied the odds, emerging from the ordeal after an 11-day hospitalisation.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Claringbold’s story has come in the wake of the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/new-details-emerge-in-fatal-mushroom-poisoning-incident">death of his parents</a>, Gail and Don Patterson, and Gail’s sister-in-law Heather Wilkinson, who died after ingesting the same variety of mushroom. </p> <p dir="ltr">Erin Patterson, the 48-year-old ex-wife of Simon Claringbold, allegedly prepared the meal, and had reportedly invited the family over for lunch to negotiate a reconciliation.</p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 18pt;"><em>Image credits: ABC - 7.30</em><span id="docs-internal-guid-e2f95f73-7fff-9efa-8aa8-e6222db6a2c9"></span></p>

Caring

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Oscar-winning politician Glenda Jackson passes away at 87

<p dir="ltr">Two-time Academy Award-winning performer-turned-politician Glenda Jackson has passed away at 87 years old. </p> <p dir="ltr">The news was confirmed by Jackson’s agent, Lionel Larner, who announced that she had died at home in London after a short illness. Larner also noted that Jackson had “recently completed filming <em>The Great Escaper </em>in which she co-starred with Michael Caine.”</p> <p dir="ltr">And 90-year-old Caine had only kind words to say of his co-star, sharing that she was “one of our greatest movie actresses. I shall miss her.” </p> <p dir="ltr">Jackson was born into a working-class family in northwest England, and laid the groundwork for her career in the arts when she won a spot at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her work as an actress was successful, with Jackson taking home her first Academy Award for Best Actress in 1971 and her second in 1974 - for<em> Women in Love</em> and<em> A Touch of Class</em> respectively.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jackson also held two Emmy Award wins, both for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in the series <em>Elizabeth R</em>. She wasn’t to be stopped there, either, with the star also taking home a Tony Award in 2018 for her performance in <em>Three Tall Women</em>. </p> <p dir="ltr">But after more than three decades in the arts, Jackson chose a different path for herself, branching into the world of politics, fuelled by her frustration for the working classes at the hands of then-British Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher between 1979 and 1990.</p> <p dir="ltr">And at 55 years old, in 1992, Jackson secured a seat in parliament. As she said at the time, “we must work for the poor, the homeless, the unemployed, the frail, the sick.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Jackson spent 23 years with the Labour Party, and even served as a minister for transport in Tony Blair’s first government in 1997. However, the two seemed to find themselves on opposing sides when it came to the 2003 invasion of Iraq, with Jackson admitting that the decisions made left her feeling “deeply, deeply ashamed.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The victims will be as they always are, women, children, the elderly.”</p> <p dir="ltr">After leaving politics in 2015, Jackson chose to return to performing, where she went on to enjoy some of the most acclaimed roles of her entire career.</p> <p dir="ltr">And for all of her passion and success, Jackson is remembered fondly by her loved ones - those who knew her beyond her work, and those who supported her for it - who flocked to social media to pay tribute. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Glenda Jackson was both the best actress of our generation and an incredibly principled passionate and eloquent advocate of social justice as an MP and as a government minister. I will remember her as a friend whom I admired greatly and what she achieved will never be forgotten,” former-prime minister for the United Kingdom, Gordon Brown, wrote. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Very sad to hear of the passing of Glenda Jackson. An acclaimed actress, a formidable politician and an inspirational woman to so many of us in the Labour Party,” British politician Angela Rayner said. “My thoughts are with her family, friends and many others who loved her.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Devastated to hear that my predecessor Glenda Jackson has died. A formidable politician, an amazing actress and a very supportive mentor to me. Hampstead and Kilburn will miss you Glenda,” friend and fellow politician Tulip Siddiq said. </p> <p dir="ltr">And, as her friends and fans the Muppets wrote, “here’s to Glenda Jackson, legendary actress and scourge of the Seven Seas! In her unforgettable episode of The Muppet Show, she and her merry band of plundering pirates turned our theatre into a ship and set out to sea. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We’ll always treasure the time we spent with you, Glenda.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here’s to Glenda Jackson, legendary actress and scourge of the Seven Seas! In her unforgettable episode of The Muppet Show, she and her merry band of plundering pirates turned our theater into a ship and set out to sea. We’ll always treasure the time we spent with you, Glenda. <a href="https://t.co/zQ8cPVc8Jk">pic.twitter.com/zQ8cPVc8Jk</a></p> <p>— The Muppets (@TheMuppets) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMuppets/status/1669398500243587092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

News

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Shane Warne’s daughter shares never-before-seen photos

<p dir="ltr">Brooke Warne has shared a series of never-before-seen family photos to mark her brother, Jackson's, birthday.</p> <p dir="ltr">The eldest daughter of the cricket legend took to Instagram to share the adorable photos, which included various precious moments from their childhood.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Happy Birthday to my baby brother Jackson!!! love you,” she wrote in the caption.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Thank you for being the strongest human in the world.</p> <p dir="ltr">"You are the best brother and continue to make Dad so proud. Love you so much, Happy Birthday Jacko,” she added with a series of white heart emojis.</p> <p dir="ltr">In one photo, Shane was beaming as he held baby Jackson in his arms and Brooke, who was still a toddler in the photo, was laughing as she sat next to her father.</p> <p dir="ltr">In another photo, Shane had both of his kids on his lap as they pulled silly faces for the camera.</p> <p dir="ltr">Brooke also shared a throwback photo of the trio having dinner together, Shane’s smile still as bright as he posed in between his two kids.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jackson replied to the post in the comments and said: “Thank you Brooke!! Lots of love ❤️”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Many fans have also shared their birthday wishes in the comments.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Happy Birthday @jacksonwarne18 Thinking of you while your dad’s hand remains on your shoulder always, much love brother 🙏🏻” wrote one user.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Happy birthday to your amazing brother Jackson. Give him a big hug from me 🎂” commented another.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Beautiful Family ❤️🎈” commented a third.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Simon Baker’s stunning transformation

<p>For many, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Simon Baker is <em>The Mentalist </em>- a lead role that established him as one of American TV’s highest paid stars. </p> <p>For others, it’s Baker as the face of ANZ. </p> <p>Either way, it’s easy to put a face to the name, though even some of his most hardcore fans may be surprised by the actor’s latest transformation, stepping back from Hollywood to instead embrace his passions and focus on his “creative renaissance”. </p> <p>Simon’s latest project, <em>Limbo</em>, comes in the wake of his homegrown work with <em>High Ground</em>, <em>Blaze</em>, and adaptation of Tim Winton’s <em>Breath</em> - with some going so far as to call it Baker’s “career best”. </p> <p>In <em>Limbo</em>, an outback noir written and directed by award-winning Indigenous filmmaker Ivan Sen, Baker steps into the shoes of jaded police detective and former drug squad officer Travis Hurley.</p> <p>Hurley and his addictions are sent to a small community in the outback that’s surrounded by opal mines and filled with secrets - one of which is a two-decades old disappearance of an Indigenous woman that Hurley is there to investigate.</p> <p>And while some of this may feel familiar to Baker’s regular audiences, the film is a far cry from what they’ve perhaps come to expect from the likes of<em> The Mentalist</em>, and his role even more so, with one reviewer calling his performance “hypnotically sinister”. </p> <p>Sen - who took on the roles of cinematographer, composer, and editor as well - paints a black-and-white picture, and utilises known crime drama tropes without thrusting them into the faces of <em>Limbo</em>’s viewers.</p> <p>Audiences witness the film through Hurley’s perspective, learning of what the town’s community has endured through the eyes of an ‘outsider’. As Hurley learns more about the failures of investigative authorities in the town, so too do the audience, as well as the underlying messages on the value of Indigenous life.</p> <p>It’s not the first time Sen has explored this in his work, and combined with Baker’s ability to tell a story subtly, with quiet nuance and separation from stereotype, it appears a match made in movie heaven.</p> <p>As Sen told <em>The New Daily</em>, “he has got an amazing presence.</p> <p>“He can talk so well without actually having to open his mouth. I wanted to expand that within a cinematic context, so this was our chance.”</p> <p><em>Images: Bunya Productions, Warner Bros. Television</em></p>

Movies

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Queen Camilla's damning "proof" in Simon Dorante-Day's case

<p>A seemingly innocent comment made by Queen Camilla to the Archbishop of Canterbury about her relationship with King Charles has become new "proof" in Simon Dorante-Day's claims against the monarch. </p> <p>For several years, 57-year-old Simon from Queensland has claimed that he is the love child of King Charles and Queen Camilla. </p> <p>However, there have been several holes in his fact checking that have seen his claims been slammed. </p> <p>One major blindside in his story is the fact that he was born in 1966, and Charles and Camilla have famously dated their relationship back to when they were introduced by a friend in 1970.</p> <p>When Charles and Camilla first met, they were aged 21 and 22 respectively, and were not photographed publicly together until 1972.</p> <p>However, in a new documentary titled The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor, Dr George Carey, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, said their relationship could go back further than initially believed.</p> <p>Dr Carey was the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1991 to 2002, and gave his blessing for Charles and Camilla to marry. </p> <p>In the explosive documentary, Dr Carey says Camilla confirmed that her relationship with Charles went “back to when they were teenagers”.</p> <p>The former Archbishop said he met Camilla at his son’s flat in Peckham, London, to discuss the possibility of marrying Charles, who was then the Prince of Wales.</p> <p>He explained they had met at the obscure location to avoid attracting public attention.</p> <p>“She walked through the front door and we had coffee together… we had an animated conversation and we talked about her relationship with Charles, going way back to when they were teenagers,” Dr Carey said in the TV interview.</p> <p>“And after that I decided there was no way I could treat her as anything other than a really nice human being who is deeply in love with Charles.”</p> <p>Dr Carey later gave his blessing for the pair to marry.</p> <p>Dorante-Day has long claimed that his own personal research has shown that Charles and Camilla first became close in 1965.</p> <p>He believes that months later, in the lead-up to when he was born, Camilla disappeared from Britain’s social scene for at least nine months, while Charles was sent to Australia.</p> <p>“I have been unable to find any photos of Camilla from the last months of 1965 or the beginning of 1966, when she would’ve been heavily pregnant with me,” Dorante-Day said.</p> <p>Speaking to <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/queen-camilla-comment-to-archbishop-becomes-explosive-new-proof-in-aussie-simon-dorante-day-royal-love-child-case--c-10543212" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a></em>, Dorante-Day said the new interview with Dr Carey casts doubt over the public history of Charles and Camilla's early relationships days.</p> <p>“My adoptive grandmother said to me, she said to me quite clearly, that Charles and Camilla were your parents,” he said.</p> <p>“So when I looked back in the history of when they got together and if this was even possible, I didn’t just believe it. But I went off and I researched it."</p> <p>“When you go back and you look at the newspapers from the time and read the royal biographies, it was always stated that they first met in 1972 at a polo match in Windsor."</p> <p>“You know, sometimes the media got it wrong and said 1974 or things like that. But that story was always 1972 until I started doing this."</p> <p>“Then royal commentator Robert Jobson changed it to 1970 in a TV interview with me, pushed it back a few years."</p> <p>“People just keep changing the date. It’s interesting to me."</p> <p>“And now the Archbishop’s story, that Camilla said that they went back to when they were teenagers as well. Yeah. Come on."</p> <p>“It’s the first time someone has given a concrete account of when they met, where it wasn’t just reports and changing dates.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook</em></p>

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"Breakthrough moment": Charles and Camilla's "secret son" shares new pics

<p>Simon Dorante-Day, the Australian man who made headlines with his claim to be King Charles and Camilla’s son, has taken to social media to share a side-by-side comparison of himself and his would-be royal family. </p> <p>Simon initially posted a picture of himself at the age of 23 to celebrate his 57th birthday, with many in the comments telling him that he looked just like Prince William in the snap. </p> <p>A short while later, Simon posted the comparison of himself, Charles, and William, all appearing to be around the same age when their respective pictures were taken. </p> <p>As Simon told <em>7News.com.au</em>, “photo comparisons like this are so important to my case. It’s always a breakthrough moment.”</p> <p>It was more than enough proof for Simon’s supporters, with over a hundred comments soon piling onto the post, all celebrating the resemblance they found between the three.</p> <p>“As soon as I saw your post I couldn't believe how much you and William look alike,” one wrote. “I can't wait till the truth comes out and [you] take your rightful place."</p> <p>“Just remarkable,” said another. “Hopefully this is the year Charles acknowledges you and your dear brothers and their families know that you have always been out there in the world."</p> <p>“I actually thought it was an old photo of William!” confessed one. </p> <p>“When I saw your post earlier where you told us it was your birthday, I initially thought it was a photo of Prince William accompanying it!,” someone else agreed. </p> <p>“The resemblance speaks for itself,” came further belief in the father-of-nine’s claim. </p> <p><iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FPrinceSimonCharles%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02qKTcpY1aT4Wu7vVSLNCifvzTUXPanmgM9FJ3QTginoABumpKe75q6fGjtyuF1w4al&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="256" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>Meanwhile, one follower’s thoughts turned to Camilla, and what must be going through her mind if Simon was actually correct, writing that she “wonder[s] how Camilla feels every year on your real birthday because only she can know how it felt.” </p> <p>It’s a thought that Simon seems to have had as well, with the Australian confessing that while his birthday is “just another one” for him, he often considers what they might be thinking on the big day.</p> <p>“Especially Camilla,” he said, “not like she doesn’t know.” </p> <p>He went on to explain that despite this, it was “their loss” in having nothing to do with him, his wife, or their nine children. However, it isn’t enough to stop him from getting to the bottom of his family tree ‘mystery’, with Simon telling <em>7News</em> that he has every intention of getting answers from a DNA test. </p> <p>“Supporters and visitors to my Facebook pages are always sending me comparisons,” he noted. “But it’s important for people to know that my belief that Charles and Camilla are my parents isn’t based on photos.</p> <p>“I have a lot of research that backs up my claims, a lot of evidence. And I want people to remember that my case has spent a long time in the courts, trying to find a resolution, and my legal battles are still continuing.”</p> <p>And as he had admitted in the past, it was all about his desire to know who his real parents are. He believed it all stemmed from that search, and “the thought that it could be Charles and Camilla didn’t come into it until much later on - for years I was simply searching for my parents.</p> <p>“But then eventually, all the evidence just kept on coming back to Charles and Camilla.”</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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