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Life-support of 16-year-old turned off after deadly snake bite

Beau Horan, 16, was in the backyard of his family home in Gladstone, Queensland on Monday afternoon when an eastern brown snake bit him on the leg. The teenager wasn't aware that he had been bitten, and it was only when he collapsed that his family knew something was seriously wrong. "By the time they found him collapsed, they called an ambulance and it was only then they realised he'd been bitten by a snake," family friend Shaun Connolly told Yahoo News. Beau was rushed to a nearby hospital before he was medically airlifted to Brisbane where he was put on a life-support machine. "I'm going off what his mum has told me... she's distraught as you can imagine," Connolly said. "We don't know too much what the circumstances were, but we think he wasn't aware he had been bitten," Shaun said. Brown snakes are extremely venomous and responsible 41 per cent of snake bites in the country. While fatalities remain relatively low, with two deaths reported on average each year, the potency of their venom is incredibly strong, containing severe neurotoxins that result in progressive paralysis and heart failure. The family has since had to make the heartbreaking decision of turning off Beau's life support machine, with his mum, Bek Eddy, and two sisters having to cover the unexpected medical and funeral costs. Connolly has set up a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-tradgic-loss-of-16-year-old-beau-horan?cdn-cache=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page to help alleviate some of the pressure for the family during these uncertain times. "It's just so sad," Shaun said. Beau's family have described him as a "vibrant, compassionate [and] a loving young man" who had a "bright future ahead of him", and they have been left with "indescribable emptiness" following his death. Image: GoFundMe

Caring

Dr Chris Brown's new show revealed

Beloved TV personality Dr Chris Brown is returning to Aussie screens with a brand new show. Following his departure from Network Ten last year, the TV vet has joined Seven and now his latest project with the broadcaster has been revealed. Brown is set to join some other well-known Aussies including Mick Molloy, Amanda Keller, Kate Ritchie and Matt Preston, who will be his untrained and unqualified veterinary assistants on the show Once In A Lifetime. In the upcoming show the beloved vet will embark on global wildlife journeys with the other entertainers, as they help iconic animals while navigating unpredictable situations. From saving endangered species to facing wild dangers, the stars will be at the forefront to experience the best of what nature has to offer. Brown is already a big hit for Seven, after the success of his show Dream Home last year. He left Network Ten in February 2023, after a 15-year career at the network. His departure was a blow for Ten, as the popular TV presenter hosted multiple programs over the years. It is understood that he is on a two-year contract with Seven, which is believed to be worth more than $1 million a year. Some of the other upcoming series that will be making a return to air on Seven next year include: Farmer Wants A Wife, Australian Idol, My Kitchen Rules, The Voice, Dancing With The Stars and The 1% Club. Images: news.com.au

Amanda Keller breaks down over simple question about her husband

Amanda Keller couldn't hold back her tears during a recent episode of ABC's heartwarming new series, The Assembly, where high-profile figures are interviewed by a classroom of journalists-in-training, who are all autistic and can ask whatever they want. One student, Savannah, asked her the simple question: “Do you love your husband?” The Jonesy and Amanda radio host teared up as she told the student her question was "beautiful", before opening up about her husband, Harley Oliver. “I think I’m going to cry, because my husband is going through some stuff at the moment,” Keller told her. “My husband has Parkinson’s disease, and we've been married 34 years, and life is changing around us. “He’s so good with it, in a way that I’m not, actually. We’re learning to find ourselves in the midst of changing circumstances, and part of me thinks – it’s easy for me to say, he’s the one going through it – but part of me thinks it’s a real privilege to be with someone long enough that you go through these changes with them.” She wrapped up her answer saying: “So yes, I love him very much, even though we’ve got some stuff going on.” Another student, Evie, then asked her what prompted the pair to go public with Oliver's diagnosis and she admitted that she'd had to think "long and hard” about sharing the news for a few reasons. “One is that I work on breakfast radio, and a big part of that is sharing your life – and even though it wasn’t my story to tell, it affected me too, and our lives,” she told the class. “ … Another reason I wanted to was that I wanted to open the window into why people look at us strangely when we’re out," she continued. “I wanted to free us up by saying, ‘Here's what’s going on.’ I think that’s why I did it.” However she admitted that opening up about their personal struggle has been "hard" at times but she is "glad" she did it. Keller first revealed the heartbreaking news about her husband's Parkinson's diagnosis in an episode of her Double A Chattery podcast last October. As the interview session wrapped up, she told the students that it had been a high point of her career. “What a life highlight this has been,” she told the class. “Thank you, I’ve loved it.” Images: ABC/Instagram

Relationships

Dr Chris Brown to reunite with Amanda Keller on new show

Dr Chris Brown and Amanda Keller will be reunited on screen for the first time in two years. Keller confirmed on her WSFM breakfast show that she will reunite with Brown for his new series Once in a Lifetime, and will be travelling across the globe to film the show. “It’s a show called Once in a Lifetime, and Chris Brown is hosting this," she told listeners on Tuesday morning. “And this is a show I know that he’s wanted to do for years … I do know which country I’m going to, but I’m not allowed to say. It’s in Africa. “It’s Chris’s show. He and I are hanging out, and I’m going to be having experiences. “My nature is to over-research things and there’s nothing I can do. I can’t do that. So it’s a TV show where I can go into it floating, I can get on a plane and not have to be anxious about having to prepare something. “It’s a real gift for me, so I’m excited. But I have arranged for people to come in and play with you while I’m away.” Once in a Lifetime will air on Channel 7, and was announced last year. It is an animal adventure series starring Brown, where he will be "pushed to his limits in the pursuit of the ultimate animal encounter," according to a Channel 7 spokesperson. “But he will not be travelling to the furthest corners of the globe alone. In the most delicious twist, Chris will be taking the country’s most intriguing and entertaining personalities along … as his veterinary assistant," they added. This is the first time the duo are reuniting on screen after working on The Living Room together for a decade before it was axed in 2022. Images: Ten

Dr Chris Brown's hilarious dig at Channel 10

The new season of Dancing With The Stars premiered on Sunday night with Chris Brown presenting alongside longtime host Sonia Kruger for the very first time. The former Bondi Vet star left Channel 10 to join Seven a year ago, and while things reportedly ended amicably between them, he couldn't help but take a dig at his former employer on Dancing With The Stars. At the beginning of the episode, Sonia explained that all contestants were safe and “no one’s going home tonight”. Chris feigned relief that he was also "safe" and couldn't be fired on the first night of his new gig, to which Sonia quipped that only the dancers could be voted off and that she and Chris were "as safe as anyone can be in entertainment”. “Shout out to Channel 10,” he quickly remarked, eliciting laughter from the audience. The comment could be in reference to Channel 10 axing a handful of shows over the past few months, leaving several high-profile TV personalities out of work. Yahoo Lifestyle reported that the reboot of Gladiators had been cancelled after one season, and the network confirmed in May that both The Bachelor and The Masked Singer won't be returning this year. In another part of DWTS, Chris also joked abut how his previous role on Channel 10’s The Living Room made him “rivals” with Better Homes and Gardens presenter Adam Dovile. “Now Adam, we do need to address the elephant in the room,” he said. “We were TV rivals for many, many years in the cutthroat vicious world of Friday night lifestyle television. “It’s hard to even look you in the eye, the fury is so deep. But I can’t stay angry at you, look at that smile!” Images: Channel 10

Dr Chris Brown recalls "dramatic" personal renovation disaster

Dream Home host Dr Chris Brown has revealed his own renovation fail on the latest episode of the show. The vet turned TV star has taken on a new role where he guides six teams of aspiring renovators through the joys — and pitfalls — of house remodelling in the new Channel 7 reality show. Speaking to 7NEWS, the star recalled the terrifying moment his home nearly fell in on itself when he was trying to build a garage. “On my first renovation, I decided I needed a garage underneath my house,” he said, adding that he had council approval for the renovation. “With a couple of tradies, we went about digging out the garage underneath the house, in the sand. “We just kept on digging, digging, digging, until a rather large sound indicated the house was about to fall into the hole! “So that’s about as dramatic as it as it gets. “To have your house sort of falling in on itself, that was a pretty big learning curve.” He said that the problem was solved "very quickly" with a lot of underpinning and structural support. “A lot of those steel support posts that you can sort of wind up and down, they went in, and thankfully the house didn’t fold in half,” he said, laughing at the situation. He added that unexpected situations like this are what make renovation shows so appealing as "there’s so much natural drama, you don’t have to fake anything." “Choices have to be made, and it’s either the right way or the wrong way, and you only really discover that as you go along," he added. “Sometimes it’s too late to turn back once you realise you’ve made a terrible mistake.” Chris added that his role on the show is almost as a"coach" to the pairs, supporting them through the renovation challenges, and helping them get to the finish line. “What these couples are going through, and just how much they put on the line to get these renovations done, is quite inspiring and quite uplifting and but also thoroughly entertaining,” he said. Image: Seven

Real Estate

Amanda Keller's emotional family update

Amanda Keller has shared an emotional family update while live on-air on the Jonesy and Amanda show on Monday. The radio star has shared an update on how her husband's battle with Parkinson's disease has affected them, as they try to plan their son's 21st birthday party. “It was a hard week for me leading up to it because I wanted to put a slide show together to play throughout the night,” she told her co-host Jonesy. “And normally that is Harley’s domain. He has been the guy who will make the kid’s birthday invitations. He’s very creative. He will work on the computer to do this funky stuff. Normally, he would have done all of that. And with the way things are with Harley at the moment, he’s got Parkinson’s disease and things are just hard.” Keller, who has been married to her husband since 1989, revealed that he had been <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/amanda-keller-shares-heartbreaking-family-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">privately battling</a> with the disease for seven years, on October 2023. She then went on to share how the disease has affected her husband's ability to perform tasks that he was once good at. “So that kind of skill set isn’t with him anymore. He doesn’t have dementia or any of that stuff, but that stuff’s hard for him to do now. "And so I was going through a whole lot of photos on my phone and seeing photos of when he was well, and it was a very emotional week leading up to the 21st.” She then went on to confess that the situation had made her feel “lonely” and that her heart broke for her husband, who she thought couldn't attend the birthday party. “Leaving the house to go to Jack’s party, I thought, you know, it’s not right that Harley can’t come. Yeah, I really felt lonely thinking it’s our son’s 21st, but how hard it is for Harley and how much he would have loved to have been there,” she continued. But her husband surprised her, and managed to attend the event despite his ill health. “So there we are, having a great time. The speeches are about to start and my friend Kate said to me, There’s Harley. And I looked over. And I know what it cost him to be there. "He and our friend Pam and our driver friend Cole had conspired to get Harley there for the speeches. And it was so moving.” Keller, who was tearing up at this moment, proudly added: “And a lot of people were shocked because they hadn’t seen Harley for a while. But I know what it cost him to get there. And he said to me, how could I not be here?” Image: Jonesy and Amanda show/ news.com.au

Caring

Millions of eligible Aussies about to receive financial boost

Starting this Wednesday, millions of Australians relying on Centrelink benefits will see a welcome increase in their payments. With indexation kicking in, fortnightly boosts ranging from $14 to $30 will be allocated to eligible recipients, depending on their specific circumstances and the type of payment they receive. This adjustment will not only benefit current beneficiaries but also extend support to more individuals, with an additional 77,000 parents now qualifying for higher payment rates. The eligibility criteria for certain payments have been expanded, particularly for parents whose youngest child is under 14, a significant extension from the previous threshold of under eight. Income and assets limits tied to these payments will also experience an uptick in line with the indexation process, offering further relief to recipients. But how exactly will these increments manifest across different categories of payments? For single parents, the fortnightly payment will see a boost of $17.50, while partnered parents will witness an increase of $12.30 individually. Moreover, the income free area will rise to $1,345 for each person, an enhancement of $20 per fortnight. Jobseekers with children or those aged over 55 will receive an additional $14.40 fortnightly. Single JobSeeker recipients without children and individuals aged over 22 on ABSTUDY will enjoy a $13.50 increase per fortnight, with couples receiving an extra $12.30 each. Rent assistance, however, will see relatively modest increments, ranging from $2.27 to $3.40, depending on the recipient's family situation. For those on the age pension, disability support pension, and carer payment, the increase is more substantial, with singles receiving an extra $19.60 and couples combined receiving $29.40 each fortnight. This brings the maximum rate of the pension to $1116.30 for singles and $1682.80 for couples, including pension and energy supplements. Amanda Rishworth, the Social Services Minister, explains that indexation plays a crucial role in ensuring that welfare recipients can cope with inflation and the rising cost of living – and that addressing these pressures remains a top priority for the government. This increase in Centrelink payments comes at a critical time when many Australians are grappling with economic uncertainty due to various factors, including the ongoing pandemic. While these adjustments may seem modest to some, they can make a significant difference for those relying on welfare support to make ends meet. It's essential for eligible individuals to stay informed about these changes and ensure they receive the full benefits they're entitled to. For those who may be unsure about their eligibility or how to navigate the system, seeking assistance from Centrelink or relevant support services can provide valuable guidance. As the cost of living continues to evolve, initiatives like indexation serve as vital mechanisms for maintaining the welfare safety net and supporting vulnerable members of society. By keeping pace with economic realities, these adjustments strive to provide meaningful relief to those who need it most, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society for all Australians. Image: Getty

Money & Banking

"I was angry": Julia Morris comes clean about Dr Chris Brown's departure

We are all well aware that Dr Chris Brown, beloved former co-host of the jungle rollercoaster known as I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, bid farewell to the show last year. Host Julia Morris, renowned for her vivacious wit and boundless charm, recently shed some light on her inner turmoil when her long-time partner in jungle antics decided to hop over to rival network Seven. The departure of Chris, after nine glorious seasons of quips and critters, left Julia in a state of bewilderment. "I was shocked," Morris <a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/julia-morris-admits-she-was-angry-when-chris-brown-quit-im-a-celebrity-004322904.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told Yahoo! News</a>. "I was angry, but I was also fine because it's what my friend needed to do. It was a super confusing time." Morris then faced the daunting prospect of finding a new partner-in-crime; enter Robert Irwin, the youthful wildlife enthusiast and heir to the Crocodile Hunter legacy. After a rigorous audition process involving around six Aussie personalities, Robert emerged as the chosen one. Julia described the moment as if the clouds parted, and a celestial spotlight shone down on young Irwin. "Everybody dissolved immediately and everybody knew it," Julia recounted. Now, the burning question on everyone's minds: Will Julia be just as flirtatious with the sprightly 20-year-old Irwin as she was with Chris? On that matter, Julia has remained coy: "I don't know how and why it's already working so beautifully." she teased. Julia also reassures us that she and Robert have already formed a bond akin to that of two koalas clinging to the same eucalyptus tree. "Now we have fun. I'm learning along the way from Robert, which is fantastic," she gushed. And thus, a new era dawns in the jungle, where critters roam, celebrities squirm and Julia Morris reigns supreme as the queen of quips and camaraderie. Image: Network 10

Dr Chris Brown recalls embarrassing moment on crowded train

Dr Chris Brown tends to attract attention wherever he goes with his 6'5 height and beautiful blond hair - but he got more than he wanted on his recent trip to Japan. Appearing on the morning radio show Triple M’s Mick and MG in the Morning Show, he recalled an embarrassing incident that he would rather forget. “It may not surprise you to learn that I do tend to stand out a little bit on the streets of Tokyo,” he began, to the amusement of radio host Mick Molloy. “Um, six foot five, blond hair, and on the subway especially. “But, I don’t know if you know, in Japan you can buy beers absolutely anywhere — vending machines on the streets, in the subway when you’re just queueing for a train, and so I got involved in this. “I bought a can of Asahi, nice Japanese beer, and was carrying it in my bag, just over my shoulder.” As he got into the crowded train and made his way, the TV vet shared that started to feel a “cold trickle” down his leg. “I realised very quickly that the beer I’d bought had exploded in my bag,” he said. “And I now have a rapidly growing wet patch across my groin, running from my bag to my groin and down my leg, and a highly suspicious amber fluid going across a crowded train carriage,” he continued, making everyone in the studio laugh. “If I couldn’t stand out any more, I found a way.” He added that nobody said a word because Japanese people are so polite, but he did say there was “endless gazing," because they thought he wet himself. “They’re connecting the dots from the trickle along the carriage back up my leg and up to my very wet body,” he added. “Oh wow, oh well I hope you were filming that,” Mick Molloy chuckled. “By the way, that’s how I leave the station every day, on a train, with a wet patch, talking to myself,” he quipped. “Well, I tell you what, if you want to clear some space, it’s a great way to do it, let me tell you,” the TV vet laughed. Images: Mick & MG in the morning

International Travel

Chris Brown's candid love life admission

Dr Chris Brown, who has stolen the hearts of many Aussies with his good looks, charm and love for animals has opened up about his love life. In a candid interview with Stellar, the TV personality revealed that he will keep his relationships private until he knows it's strong enough to withstand speculation and online commentary. “The challenge, really, is that it's hard enough to meet the right person, anyway,” he told the publication. He also opened up on what it's like to date in the public eye. “That extra layer of speculation and interest… once you're actually in a relationship it's easy, but it's meeting that person at the start that's really hard. You could potentially be on your first date and you get photographed. “And then there’s a search for who this person is, what her backstory is, and then all of a sudden, it becomes something that it may not be that stage.” The former I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! host added that it's easy to get into a “cycle”, which is “so bizarre it’s almost amusing”. In a previous interview with <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/lifestyle/stellar/dr-chris-brown-im-certainly-looking-for-the-one/news-story/1bade13d3b6cd4d8fa89ca2549ab573f" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stellar</a>, he also said that he was "certainly looking for the one" and that his younger self would be "horrified" if he knew that he is still unmarried and without kids. “But it's my doing. I’ve probably prioritised work more than I potentially should have over the past 10 years – to the detriment of my personal life,” he added. The beloved TV vet also said that he is looking for a serious relationship: "I don’t want to be this person with a history of short to medium-term relationships.” While Chris is known for keeping his love life private, he has had a few relationships in the past. In 2014 he was romantically linked to Bondi-based project manager Hannah Thomas and Home and Away actress Kassandra Clementi. In late 2016, he dated TV producer Kendall Bora, who he was with for two years. Bora has since tied the knot with Weekend Sunrise host Matt Doran. In 2018 he reportedly dated Liv Phyland for a year, before eventually calling it quits although they remain "really good friends" according to Women's Day. He was most recently linked to luxury magazine founder, Brooke Meredith, although they rarely made a public appearance together and reportedly split in late 2022. Images: Instagram

Relationships

Radio stars reveal their worst on-air moments

In celebration of 100 years of Australian radio, the who's-who of the Aussie airwaves have shared their most awkward interview moments. Ben Fordham, Amanda Keller and Fifi Box were among the radio presenters who recalled their worst on-air moments to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/radio/celebrity-interview-derailed-by-radio-stars-bulge/news-story/056c130ab09f85c3c9e14a0fdeb5587b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>, with the memorable moments ranging from mispronouncing a guest's name, to announcing the death of a celebrity who was very much still alive. 2GB's Ben Fordham revealed one of the more outrageous moments from his radio show, recalling when a caller asked him about classic Aussie TV show Simon Townsend's Wonder World. "I said, 'yeah, that was a great show. Sadly we lost Simon Townsend recently,' and then people started calling in saying, 'are you sure Simon Townsend is dead?'" he said. It turned out that Fordham had made an error, as it was actually Townsend's dog Woodrow who had died. He said, "When I came out of the ad-break I had to do a mop up job. It was pretty ugly." Amanda Keller from WSFM's Jonesy and Amanda shared a story about accidentally mispronouncing Weird Al Yankovic's name, despite her co-host trying to help her. "Jonesy (my co-host) kept telling me to pronounce his surname 'Yankovick', and I said, 'no, excuse me, it's pronounced 'Yankovich'." During the entire interview with the musician, Keller introduced the singer with her mispronunciation, and was eventually corrected by the singer when the time came for him to record a promo for the radio network. "It was humiliating," she said. Fifi Box recalled an experience back in 2013 when her then co-host Jules Lund blindfolded her and took her to a secret location for their show's 'Blackout Challenge.' "I was pregnant at the time, and basically found myself lying on a bed in a dark room being serenaded by the one and only David Hasselhoff!" she said. "The Hoff then decided it was funnier to take his pants off for an added extra surprise. Also, being heavily pregnant made the whole scenario a lot more awkward." Rounding out the awkwardness was KIIS FM's Will and Woody who had an uncomfortable interview with pop star Jennifer Lopez. "We overheard Jennifer Lopez screaming at her publicist about needing to do an interview with us. We were both dressed as Santa and had to go through the whole interview knowing that she really didn't want to be there," Will said. "Suffice to say that the interview wasn't one of our best." Image credits: Getty Images

Music

"That's cheap": Tim Minchin attacked by former senator over emotional moment

In the wake of tragedy, renowned Australian musician and comedian Tim Minchin faced an unexpected wave of criticism from former government minister Amanda Vanstone. Minchin, who recently <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/tim-minchin-s-tragic-mid-show-announcement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared the heartbreaking news</a> of his mother's death during a concert in Sydney, was accused by Vanstone of "cheapening" the experience by making it public. The public response to Vanstone's comments was swift and overwhelmingly negative. During last Friday night's concert, Minchin bared his soul to the audience, disclosing that his beloved mother, Ros, had been battling terminal blood cancer for three years. The emotionally charged performance included anecdotes about his mother's life, interspersed with songs he had composed in her honour. The devastating climax came when Minchin revealed that his mother had passed away just a day before, at the age of 74. In a late-night tweet following the performance, former Senator Amanda Vanstone criticised Minchin for sharing such a personal and private moment with the public. "Losing a parent is hard," Vanstone wrote. "Whatever age and however expected. But to me it’s a private grief. Making it public seems to cheapen it, make it marketable." The comments struck a nerve with many, igniting a firestorm of backlash on social media. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Losing a parent is hard. Whatever age and however expected. But to me it’s a private grief. Making it public seems to cheapen it, make it marketable : Tim Minchin stuns audience with sad announcement <a href="https://t.co/tSK3LhhvlX">https://t.co/tSK3LhhvlX</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/newscomauHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@newscomauHQ</a> — Amanda Vanstone (@amandavanstone) <a href="https://twitter.com/amandavanstone/status/1724032047511916677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2023</a></blockquote> Readers expressed their indignation at Vanstone's perceived lack of empathy, with many arguing that everyone processes grief differently and that Minchin's decision to share his pain was a personal choice. Some accused Vanstone of disrespecting Minchin's right to grieve in his own way, and others called for her to retract her statement. "Shut down your account you heartless crone - but then you've always been that. However, you've never been cheap - with our money," read one angry post. "It brings those who have lost their parent together to share their grief. As someone who lost their mum to cancer at a young age, this sharing is what gets me and many others through. You’re entitled to privacy. He’s entitled to share and not be labeled as opportunistic," read a second comment. "Imagine disrespecting someone’s right to grieve in a way of their choosing. That’s cheap," another said. Among the many voices condemning Vanstone's comments, an overwhelming outpouring of support for Tim Minchin also emerged. Fans commended the artist for his courage in continuing with the show despite the family tragedy. Many emphasised that sharing grief in a public space can be a source of solace and connection for those who have experienced similar losses. The consensus among Minchin's supporters was that his decision to proceed with the concert demonstrated strength and resilience. Minchin, undeterred by the controversy, has continued his nationwide tour, receiving rave reviews for his performances. On Instagram, he shared a glowing tribute from a concertgoer, underscoring the beauty of his show and its impact on the audience. The positive response to his performances served as a powerful rebuttal to those who criticised him for sharing his grief publicly. Images: Instagram / X

Caring

Darryl Somers jumps the gun with major Dr Chris Brown announcement

Darryl Somers, the man who made Dancing with the Stars a glittering extravaganza of dance and dazzling outfits, has decided to take centre stage once again. After months of speculation about Dr Chris Brown taking over the hosting reins, Somers took it upon himself to make a rogue announcement on his Facebook page that was about as expected as a cha-cha-cha in a tango. Rumours have been swirling for some time now about Channel Seven's big reveal, scheduled for their upfronts event, a time when media executives and TV buffs gather to find out what fresh television delights are in store. But Somers, always one to seize the spotlight, decided to drop the bombshell himself. "Hi All, Just want to confirm the speculation that I will not be hosting Dancing With The Stars in 2024. Seven let me know recently that they have signed Chris Brown to the network full-time, and amongst his commitments, he will be hosting DWTS," Somers wrote on Facebook. In a heartfelt message, Somers went on to share his gratitude for the 20-year journey he's had with Dancing with the Stars, dating back to 2004. He's completed ten series, with his last one being a "huge ratings success". And what better way to pass the torch than with a mirror ball, the symbol of dancefloor triumph, presented personally by Somers to Chris Brown. Somers also expressed his fondness for his co-host, Sonia Kruger, and the judges, Todd McKenney and Mark Wilson. It seems that while he will miss the sequins and glitter, he's "now unencumbered to pursue the projects [he] put on hold during Covid and shall have some exciting news on that score early next year." We can't wait to find out what Somers has hidden up his well-tailored sleeves. But let's not forget the man of the hour: Dr Chris Brown. Not only will he be grooving to the tunes of Dancing with the Stars, but he's also going to be hosting a brand new show titled Dream Home. It's not about dreaming of a dream home; it's about couples turning a run-down shack into a palace, all while winning some cold hard cash. If we know Brown, he's probably going to charm the participants into renovating their homes with just a smile and a stethoscope. Before all of this unfolded, there was speculation that Brown might take over for Kochie when he retired from Sunrise after 21 years – but of course that Big Chair went to Olympian Matt Shirvington. In the world of Australian television, the tango of hosting changes continues, with Somers' premature announcement adding an unexpected twist. It seems that even after 20 years of dancing with the stars, you can still surprise everyone with a perfectly timed leap and a graceful pirouette into the unknown. Images: Instagram

Amanda Keller breaks down during emotional win

In a heartwarming display of both resilience and talent, Amanda Keller, one-half of the iconic Jonesy and Amanda radio duo, took home the prestigious Best On Air Team (FM) award at the 34th Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs). The heartfelt triumph unfolded on Saturday night in Sydney, offering a poignant testament to the power of radio as a medium for empathy, connection and joy. Keller and her steadfast co-host of 18 years, Brendan Jones, clinched the FM radio industry's most esteemed accolade, an honour comparable to the Gold Logie at the TV awards. The Jonesy and Amanda show emerged victorious over formidable contenders, including KIIS FM's The Kyle and Jackie O Show and Nova's national drive show, Ricki-Lee, Tim and Joel. Keller's genuine and tearful acceptance of the award, as she stood on the grand stage in Sydney, marked an emotional highpoint in her illustrious career. "This was the most meaningful win of my career," Keller confessed, as her emotions swelled. It was a bittersweet moment for her, accentuated by the weight of recent hardships. Keller acknowledged that this week had been particularly challenging, with a barrage of disheartening news. However, she recognised the privilege of her role in "acknowledging the world's challenges every day and playing the delicate dance of uplifting people's spirits." Keller's gracious spirit extended to her co-host, Brendan Jones, whom she showered with accolades. "Jonesy has a life enthusiasm that lifts you, no matter what," she shared with <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/radio/acras-2023-amanda-keller-breaks-down-after-emotional-win/news-story/a8dafb119bf1cc71822224290b5f0927" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>. "There's a very sunny energy to him that's very attractive." Jonesy, in turn, reciprocated the praise, revealing the synergy that has sustained their partnership for nearly two decades. "Sometimes my brain is like a hive of bees," he admitted, "but Amanda will come in early in the morning and just say, 'let's do this.' And I'll go, 'OK.' She's always the nucleus of what we're doing every day, and I don't know how she does it." However, what made this ACRAs win particularly poignant was the backdrop of Keller's recent announcement. Just two weeks before the award ceremony, Keller publicly revealed for the first time that her husband, Harley, had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. In a heartfelt moment on her podcast, Double A Chattery, Keller disclosed that her partner of 34 years had received this life-altering diagnosis six years ago. <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/CyB2Q5lSkoh/?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/CyB2Q5lSkoh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Amanda Keller (@amandarosekeller)</a> </div> </blockquote> "This was something I've never spoken about," Keller said regarding her decision to share this deeply personal aspect of her life. When asked why she chose to speak out about it now, Keller articulated her desire for understanding and empathy. "I want to go to a restaurant and not have people think, 'what's going on with Harley?' I just want people to go, 'there it is, that's what's happening. He's a smart, funny, interesting man, but this is happening to him.' I just wanted him to be understood." In the midst of life's profound challenges and amidst the tumultuous waves of breaking news, Keller and Jones have demonstrated the remarkable power of radio to bring joy, comfort, and a sense of shared humanity to their listeners. Their ACRAs win serves as a touching reminder that the voices behind the microphone are not just entertainers; they are storytellers, companions and friends who uplift, console, and inspire us in our everyday lives. Images: Instagram

Caring

No more brown leaves: sage advice from a gardening expert

We’ve all been there before. We’re watering our seemingly healthy houseplant when suddenly there it is: a tinge of brown on the plant’s leaf. Yikes. But what do brown tips on leaves mean for your plant, and what can you do to make them go away? Read on to find out. Lack of water or humidity If your plant is sporting crispy, dark, or brown tips on its leaves, it may mean you need to water more often. Check the soil moisture and slowly reduce the number of days in between watering. Watch your plants for signs of improvement. Lack of humidity could also be the cause. Tropical plants prefer higher humidity levels than we have in our homes. When we turn on the heat in winter, there’s even less moisture in the air. Group plants together so that as one loses moisture through its leaves, the neighbours benefit. Or place plants on saucers or trays filled with pebbles and water. Set a pot on the pebbles above the water. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant, where it is needed. Lack of nutrients A lack of key nutrients may be behind the brown tips on leaves of your plant. Burned-looking leaf tips, or old leaves with dark green or reddish-purplish colouring, may indicate a phosphorus deficiency. With a potassium deficiency, you may see yellow or brown along older leaf tips and edges, yellowing between veins, curling leaves, or spotting. For potted plants, add a slow-release type of fertiliser to the soil mix before planting. Every time you water, a little fertiliser is released, providing a steady flow of nutrients. But depending on the growing conditions and number of plants in the container, a midseason boost may be needed. Stay on top of your fertiliser applications by making notes on a calendar. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/gardening-tips/why-does-my-plant-have-brown-tips-on-the-leaves" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

Amanda Keller shares heartbreaking family news

Amanda Keller has spoken candidly about her family's difficult health battle, as she revealed her husband has been diagnosed with Parkinson's. The radio host announced that her husband, Harley, has been privately battling the life-altering disease for six years, as she opened up about the struggle for the first time. On Thursday’s episode of her new Double A Chattery podcast, the 61-year-old shared the first signs something with not quite right with her husband, who she has been married to since 1989. “I first noticed Harley’s footfall around the house changing, like he was dragging his leg, and his hands started to shake, and he said he’d just been whacked in the thumbs as a wicket keeper playing cricket, but I felt something was going on,” Keller told her podcast co-host, forensic psychologist Anita McGregor. “I know Harley so well, and how protective he is of his inner core, he was absolutely scared and in denial, and who would blame him.” After the initial symptoms began, Harley was given the diagnosis of Parkinson's, which shocked the family to the core. “When he came home [from the doctor], we both just sat there completely numb,” Keller remembered. “Two days later, I went with our eldest son Liam to an open day – he was in Year 11 – and I fought tears all day just looking at these people at the beginning of their journey, and I was so envious. “I had such a flashback to when that was me. And I thought, ‘Their journey is just starting.’ And something closed off for me." “I don’t necessarily feel that now, but this is how I felt in the early days.” Keller went on to say her initial reaction was to be “cross” with her husband, as she would attempt to correct his posture and speech. “All the things that it [Parkinson’s] does [to you], I thought, ‘why isn’t he fighting it?’ And of course I’ve come to see he can’t control this, and neither can I, and that’s been a big lesson for me. So I’ve become kinder, and sadder,” she said. “[I’ve changed] trying not to feel like I have to control it. Because it’ll kill me. And he doesn’t want that.” The radio host admitted she sometimes "hates herself" for being frustrated with her husband, while also mourning their life before his diagnosis. “I miss the ease of life. Of going to a restaurant, [but then] Harley’s back gets sore, and he’s quietly spoken so the noise overwhelms him. I miss the ease of travel. It changes us,” she said. “But we’re not alone in that. Life is this stuff, isn’t it? We talk a lot about long-term relationships, and how popular culture celebrates the beginning and the end." “But the meat of life, the joy of life, the sadness of life, the true human condition, lies in the middle.” Image credits: Instagram

Caring

Hilarious moment Dr Chris Brown got punked at the Logies

Dr Chris Brown revealed the moment he got punked by an imposter at last year’s Logies. The beloved celebrity vet told the hosts of Triple M’s Mick & MG in the Morning that the prank left him red-faced and wary of whether he’ll be allowed back onto the event’s red carpet this year, despite being the co-host. “I don’t think I’ll be allowed back onto the red carpet after last year’s Logies,” he said, and joked that he was shocked the incident didn’t get out into the public. Brown recalled that he had just arrived at the event and was minding his business when he started getting “strange looks” from a bunch of people. “So I’m on the red carpet and I’m getting a lot of sideways glances and not the kind you want,” he said. “Then about sort of half an hour into it I reckon about 20 people have given me strange looks … just looking disapprovingly in my direction.” The vet was confused as to why people were giving him strange looks until Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis approached him. “Costa comes up with his phone and goes, ‘Hey, look, we’re mates but I thought this was a little unnecessary’,” he said. “Someone had changed their phone name, which you can do, to Dr Chris Brown (Bondi Vet), and was air dropping topless photos of me, shots of me emerging from the surf, paparazzi photos, air dropping them to random people on the red carpet,” Brown laughed. To the amusement of the radio hosts, Brown added: “I, to this day, have no idea how many people received a topless photo from me, apparently, on the red carpet.” Brown is set to co-host this year’s Logies red carpet alongside Sonia Kruger on July 30. Image: News.com.au

Dr Chris Brown calls out Seven’s “stupid” Logies decision

Dr Chris Brown has jokingly called out Seven’s “stupid” decision to make him co-host of this year’s TV Week Logies red carpet. The Bondi Vet star is set to present at the red carpet alongside Sonia Kruger on July 30, but he is still unsure as to why he was chosen. “Can I just tell you, it is one of the more stupid decisions ever made by Channel 7 to put me on the Red Carpet,” he joked during his guest appearance on Triple M’s Mick & MG in the Morning on July 13. “I know nothing about fashion... and I am also colourblind,” he said, which made the radio hosts chuckle. Brown wondered how he would comment on the stars’ gowns given his condition. “The joy that I’m going to have in telling women that I love their green dress and (I’m) gonna be told it’s red... what could possibly go wrong?” he told the radio hosts. “The insulting nature of my commentary is going to be worth it.” Mick Molloy then joked that he was “going to make the carpet green” for extra laughs, to which Brown replied: “it might as well be, Micky”. Brown and Kruger will present the star-studded event and bring viewers straight into the action from the Logies red carpet at Sydney’s The Star on Sunday, July 30. This will be Brown’s first official role at Seven since he<a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/the-doctor-is-out-chris-brown-changes-the-script" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> left Network Ten</a> in February, where he had worked for the last 15 years. Image: News.com.au/ Triple M’s Mick & MG in the Morning

“Prime contender” for Dr Chris Brown’s replacement revealed

The “prime contender” for Dr Chris Brown’s replacement on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here has been revealed by Channel 10 insiders. The source told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12255915/Im-Celeb-AU-Household-set-replace-Dr-Chris-Brown.html">Daily Mail Australia</a> that Sam Pang is in the running to join Julia Morris as the co-host of the reality television show, following the celebrity vet’s shock departure. While Dr Chris has long been a fan favourite with his charismatic charm, one network spy said, “Pang could provide a fresh spin on the popular reality show with his comedic genius”, saying he is the “prime contender to fill the big boots left behind” by the dashing vet. Pang, best known for his witty retorts and deadpan humour on Have You Been Paying Attention?, seems ready to trade in the studio for the wild world of the jungle. “Our viewers love a good laugh and Sam's knack for making even the most serious situations hilarious is just what we need to bring a new dynamic to the show,” the source added. The news of Dr Chris’ replacement comes after Julia Morris told <a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/julia-morris-spills-on-new-im-a-celebrity-co-host-completely-different-012241033.html">Yahoo Lifestyle!</a> that the show will go in a “completely different way” following the departure of her co-host after they shared the screen for almost a decade. She also admitted she is testing her “chemistry” with potential candidates for the highly sought after role. “I'm going to have to leave everything of the past behind,” the 55-year-old told the publication. “Whoever comes in is going to want to build that together,” Julia went on. “So there's plenty of space for that person, we're just looking forward to finding out who that's going to be.” “Whoever that person is is going to have a huge effect on whether I'm working over the next few years, so I want it to work,” she said. Image credits: Instagram

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No more brown leaves: sage advice from a gardening expert

Amanda Keller shares heartbreaking family news

Hilarious moment Dr Chris Brown got punked at the Logies

Dr Chris Brown calls out Seven’s “stupid” Logies decision

“Prime contender” for Dr Chris Brown’s replacement revealed

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