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"Alive and well": Fans confused over Dr Harry Cooper death announcement

<p>Dr Harry Cooper and Channel Seven have been forced to clarify that the famous TV vet is alive and kicking after his Wikipedia page stated he had died. </p> <p>According to Cooper's Wiki page, the TV personality died at the age of 80 on November 16th 2024.</p> <p>However, Ben Fordham and his 2GB team have confirmed that this is not the case. </p> <p>"[Dr. Harry] has had a bit of a shock this week, courtesy of something that appeared online," explained Fordham on his popular radio show.</p> <p>"This week we were contacted by a listener, they alerted us to the fact that according to Google and Wikipedia, Dr. Harry Cooper was no longer with us!"</p> <p>Fordham explained that he had done his own investigations of the claims and observed the Wikipedia page in question, which read that "Dr. Harry Cooper OAM, more commonly known as Dr. Harry, an Australian vet and TV personality best known for his media appearances, born February 20, 1943, died November 16, 2024."</p> <p>The unofficial death notice prompted several listeners to reach out to the team at 2GB, asking if they'd heard any news about Dr. Harry's alleged death.</p> <p>"A fan of Dr. Harry Cooper got in touch w us a couple of days ago and said, 'Did you know that Dr. Harry had died?," shared Fordham.</p> <p>"And we all looked at each other and said, 'No?'</p> <p>"And then we got another message, 'Can you confirm that Dr. Harry has passed away?' Again, we were looking online, and he was in New Idea at the start of the year celebrating his 80th birthday."</p> <p>"And the most recent story about Dr. Harry was from September, when he visited a camel farm."</p> <p>In order to confirm once and for all, Fordham reached out to the Seven Network, who provided a statement revealing the good news that, "Harry is alive and well."</p> <p>"After tipping off Seven, the reference to his death has been removed from Wikipedia," Fordham added. "So, its another reminder – you can't believe everything you read."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Allison Voight/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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"Absolute disappointment": Home and Away fans slam season finale

<p>Fans of <em>Home and Away</em> have been left outraged after the finale of the 2024 season, with many claiming it was "boring and predictable".</p> <p>Viewers of the long-running Aussie soap were disappointed by the feature-length episode that  promised "bloodshed" and "deadly consequences" and while it ended with two lives hanging in the balance.</p> <p>The show is set to return on January 13th and pick up where it left off, leading to the resolution that will see fans waiting almost two months for answers.</p> <p>After Thursday night's finale, hundreds of fans flocked to social media to share their annoyance over all the drama being crammed into the last 10 minutes of the episode, despite its 90-minute runtime. </p> <p>"Found the last episode so boring and predictable," one fan said. "How many more coppers are going to end up in jail?"</p> <p>"I have to say, that was ridiculously s**t for a season finale," another complained. "The best bit was the last 15 seconds."</p> <p>"That was the worst ending," someone else said, with another agreeing. "What an absolute disappointment for this year's final episode. Love Home and Away, but this was by far the worst final episode of the season ever."</p> <p>"I was so disappointed with the ending," another fan said. "I expected it to be more drama/suspense but it was quite boring in my opinion. Now an almost 2 month wait for the show to return."</p> <p>While many were disappointed, others were excited to see how the dramatic storyline is set to be resolved in the new year. </p> <p>"I'm so excited for the new season," one fan said. "What am l going to do without this lol it’s pretty sad when you so look forward to it at 7pm," another lamented. "I can't believe I've got to wait till next year, it's already killing me," someone else agreed.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Home and Away </em></p> <p> </p>

TV

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Dwayne Johnson's emotional moment with cancer-stricken fan

<p>A heartfelt moment between Hollywood actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and a fan battling stage 4 cancer has gone viral. </p> <p>While on a trip to Target in New Jersey, Johnson met a woman who shared candidly that she was facing stage 4 pancreatic cancer. </p> <p>Johnson greeted her warmly in the shop, “Good to see you, how are you feeling?”</p> <p>With a smile, the woman replied: “Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Can’t do anything about it.”</p> <p>Johnson then offered to take a photo with her, to which she responded, “I would love to.”</p> <p>As they posed together, the woman proudly declared, “I’m a warrior,” prompting Johnson to affirm, “You are a warrior,” before the woman joked that they looked alike since they both had no hair.</p> <p>Before he parted, she told Johnson: “We gotta keep fighting, fight fight fight.”</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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCTEM7ixvm1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCTEM7ixvm1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Dwayne Johnson (@therock)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The Rock then posted a video of the sweet moment to his Instagram, reflecting on the moment with the caption, "As frenzied, and chaotic as all this was - it hit me here just how unpredictable, yet beautiful life truly is."</p> <p>The video quickly racked up hundreds of thousands of likes, with many commenting words of support for the fan. </p> <p>"The Rock is the most humble guy ever," one person wrote, while another added, "You made that woman's day!"</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

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AFL fans demand apology over "heartless" joke at Brownlow awards

<p>AFL fans are demanding an apology over a "heartless" joke at the Brownlow medal awards on Monday night. </p> <p>During the three-hour ceremony, host Rebecca Madden struck up a conversation with Collingwood forward Jamie Elliott after he had missed out on winning AFL Mark of the Year to teammate Bobby Hill, and the $50,000 that comes with it.</p> <p>While receiving the award on stage Hill joked that he would use the winnings to fly him and Elliott to Vegas the next morning to celebrate. </p> <p>Maddern spoke with Elliott in some lighthearted banter before ending their short chat by saying, “Jamie, thank you. It was a lovely chat. Have a lovely time in Vegas. I wish you all the best. And come home alive.”</p> <p>Elliot didn't react to the comment, while social media lit up with angry commentary about Maddern's "joke". </p> <p>Former Magpies and Power player John McCarthy died aged 22 on an end-of-season trip to Vegas in 2012, falling from a rooftop at the Flamingo Hotel on the Strip.</p> <p>It was a death that rocked the AFL to its core and is still remembered by both clubs each season.</p> <p>While many people were quick to point out that Maddern was just making a fleeting comment about the debaucherous city, others demanded an apology from Channel Seven.</p> <p>“Rebecca Maddern needs to apologise to John McCarthy’s family and Jamie Elliott for her insensitive comments about coming back from Vegas alive,” one wrote. “The most disgusting and heartless thing I’ve heard a ‘presenter’ say.”</p> <p>“Did Rebecca Maddern just make a joke about an AFL player to “come back alive” from Vegas on a post season trip? How f**king poor taste. Expecting a full apology before the coverage is over,” added another. </p> <p>Others jumped to Maddern's defence, with one person writing, “Rebecca Maddern’s come back alive from Vegas joke is just standard banter from where I sit. People are wanting to see things that clearly weren’t intended, and trying to instigate controversy.”</p> <p>“She’s obviously not aware of JMac and the circumstances surrounding his death. It was still not a funny thing to say. I think she’ll be feeling awful.”</p> <p>Later in the evening, Carlton captain Patrick Cripps made history by taking home his second Brownlow medal with a record-breaking 45 votes. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Channel Seven </em></p>

TV

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Boomer ‘cara-fan’ influencers are on the rise

<p>In September 2023, Arthur Chapman, aka Chappys Travels and his wife Alison, decided to pack up and embark on a full time road tripping adventure documenting their travels on social media after a nudge and a bit of education from their children.</p> <p>Prior to their travels, Arthur spent time with his children who taught him how to use the two social media platforms and set him up for success to create a visual diary to document their travels and be able to look back on in the future.</p> <p>“My kids got me on to TikTok and YouTube to learn the ways of social media, I’ve always been someone who likes to keep up with the times so thought why not just give it a go."</p> <p>“I’m very outgoing and thought it was a great idea to document our travels not only to share a visual diary with my kids, grandkids and friends but it also gives us the opportunity to share with likeminded people who can also follow along."</p> <p>“Alison wanted me to take the plunge so that we can look back on all the places we’ve been and are yet to visit, plus we get to show people the beautiful backyard we live in and that they have the opportunity to visit these amazing places too.” Arthur adds.</p> <p>Arthur has posted hundreds of TikTok and YouTube videos, documenting his travels, sharing helpful tips, providing a realistic lens on what to expect from each location and of course an insight into the caravanning lifestyle.</p> <p>“I love creating and editing videos, I’m hooked on it! I enjoy sharing a variety of content whether it be the reality of what to expect when arriving in towns, for example what the streets look like and the facilities on offer, not just the picturesque views."</p> <p>After just under a year of posting, Arthur has created an online community with an engaged audience commenting and following along.</p> <p>“We are quite excited as comments have started to come through asking us questions on the caravanning lifestyle, ranging from advice on towing, caravans and the locations we have visited."</p> <p>"We never imagined we would be using social media at our age or that I would become a content creator or influencer, but it has given us the opportunity to meet likeminded people and to encourage others to get out there and live the dream."</p> <p>To any Boomers out there considering jumping on the bandwagon, Arthur comments, “Life is too short to not visit your bucket list destinations, and just give social media a go, you might get hooked on sharing your journey too."</p> <p>If you're looking to start your caravanning journey just in time for summer, make sure you don't miss the 2024 Let’s Go Brisbane Caravan and Outdoor Sale returning to the Brisbane RNA Showgrounds for four epic days from Thursday October 31st to Sunday November 3rd.</p> <p>Ticket prices, times and transport options are available <a href="https://www.caravanqld.com.au/show/lets-go-brisbane-caravan-outdoor-sale/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Supplied</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Fans react to band's history-making reunion

<p>Music fans around the world have rejoiced as legendary rock band Oasis announced their highly-anticipated reunion tour. </p> <p>The band, known for their 1990s hits <em>Wonderwall</em> and <em>Champagne Supernova</em>, disbanded in 2009 after founding members and brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher had a falling out. </p> <p>Since then, fans have been begging the musicians to abandon their solo side projects and reunite the band, who were responsible for many number one hits in the late 90s and early 2000s. </p> <p>On Tuesday, those prayers were answered as the band announced they would be reuniting for 14 shows around the UK and Ireland next year.</p> <p>The band will be playing in Cardiff in Wales, Scotland's capital of Edinburgh, and Dublin in Ireland, while also playing four shows at London's Wembley Stadium as well as four shows in their hometown of Manchester. </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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_KgvakNTN7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_KgvakNTN7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Oasis (@oasis)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“This is it, this is happening,” they confirmed, much to the delight of fans. "The stars have aligned. The great wait is over."</p> <p>The announcement of the tour sent music fans into overdrive, with their tour announcement post on Instagram raking up almost 2 million likes in under 24 hours. </p> <p>Fans, music critics and celebrities were quick to comment on the news, while many media outlets assessed that tickets for the concerts were certain to be some of the most sought after tickets in live music history.</p> <p>While many fans shared their excitement, a lot of social media was quickly awash with people suggesting the tour could be at risk considering Noel and Liam’s tumultuous relationship. </p> <p>“Surely anyone who buys an Oasis ticket for any night apart from the opening night is taking a bit of a risk,” remarked one, with a second adding: “Even opening night is a risk!”</p> <p>“Assume the gig isn’t happening until it starts, and even then keep your fingers crossed,” teased another.</p> <p>The Gallagher brothers have been embroiled in a fiery sibling rivalry ever since their rise to global fame in the 90s, with their falling out coming to a head the night before a concert in Paris in 2009, when Noel announcing he was quitting the band for good.</p> <p>“It is with some sadness and great relief … I quit Oasis tonight,” he said in a statement at the time.</p> <p>“People will write and say what they like, but I simply could not go on working with Liam a day longer.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram/JM Enternational/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Music

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Distraught wife of cricket legend reveals cause of death

<p>The grieving wife of late cricket legend Graham Thorpe has spoken out after her husband's untimely <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/tragic-news-cricket-legend-dies-at-just-55" target="_blank" rel="noopener">death</a>, revealing that he tragically took his own life. </p> <p>After an illustrious cricket career in the UK, Thorpe died on August 5th at just 55 years old, leaving behind his wife and four children. </p> <p>Thorpe had previously been hospitalised in May 2022 following a suicide attempt, but made a full recovery. </p> <p>His wife Amanda has spoken out about her husband's mental illness, sharing how he had been suffering for many years. </p> <p>“Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better,” Amanda told <em>The Times</em>.</p> <p>“He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him.”</p> <p>She added: “We are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life.”</p> <p>Amanda said Graham had suffered from major depression and anxiety “for a couple of years”, explaining, “Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe."</p> <p>“We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work."</p> <p>“Graham was renowned as someone who was very mentally strong on the field and he was in good physical health. But mental illness is a real disease and can affect anyone.”</p> <p>Following his sudden death, the England and Wales Cricket Board released a statement that said, “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away."</p> <p>“There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death."</p> <p>“More than one of England’s finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world."</p> <p><em><strong>Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lifeline.org.au</a></strong></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Colorsport/Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

Caring

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“Tragic news”: Cricket legend dies at just 55

<p>England cricket great Graham Thorpe has passed away aged just 55. </p> <p>The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed the news on Monday, with no immediate cause of death announced. </p> <p>He was regarded as one of the best batters of his generation, with a career that spanned 100 Test matches. </p> <p>“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,”  a statement from the ECB said.</p> <p>"There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham's deaths.</p> <p>"More than one of England's finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.</p> <p>"His skill was unquestioned, and his abilities and achievements across a 13-year international career brought so much happiness to his teammates and England and Surrey CCC supporters alike.</p> <p>"Later, as a coach, he guided the best England men's talent to some incredible victories across all formats of the game. The cricket world is in mourning today.</p> <p>"Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time.</p> <p>"We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport."</p> <p>Thorpe made his international debut in 1993 and scored a century on his first Ashes appearance, becoming the first England player to do so in 20 years.</p> <p>He played 82 one-day international games for England and amassed over 6700 runs in the Test arena, including 16 centuries. </p> <p>After retiring from playing duties in 2005, Thorpe transitioned into coaching and spent time as a batting coach for the national side between 2010 and 2022.</p> <p>He was set to take over the head coaching role with Afghanistan before falling ill.</p> <p>Tributes have poured in from Thorpe's fellow teammates and former coaches. </p> <p>“RIP Thorpey. Thanks for all the advice throughout my career, you were a great player and a brilliant teammate. You have gone far too young but you leave as an England cricket legend ... Thoughts with all who knew Thorpey and to all the family xxx,” Michael Vaughan, who captained Thorpe towards the end of his Test career, wrote on social media. </p> <p>Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann paid tribute by tweeting three tear emojis.</p> <p>“Heartbreaking to see Thorpey has passed away. He was one of my heroes growing up and I was fortunate to work with him. My thoughts go out to all of his friends and family during this tough time,” wrote current England opener Ben Duckett. </p> <p>“This is desperately tragic news. Aged just 55," Channel 7 commentator Alison Mitchell said. </p> <p><em>Image: Colorsport/ Shutterstock editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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"Leave it to the judges!": Dancing With The Stars fans rage against double elimination

<p><em>Dancing With The Stars</em> fans have unleashed on the show after two fan favourite contestants were sent home in one dramatic episode. </p> <p>Just weeks ahead of the semi-finals, Nova Peris and Julie Goodwin were sent home, but fans are disappointed to see Julie go after her improvement over the weeks on the show.</p> <p>Julie impressed the judges with her Foxtrot, scoring 27 points for the dance, while Nova scored just 19 points. </p> <p>There was no final dance-off at the end of the episode, so both contestants were sent home. </p> <p> While they were two of the lowest-scoring dances of the night, Ben Cousins was also at the bottom of the leaderboard with 21 points for his Viennese Waltz.</p> <p>Fans of the show were quick to flock to social media to complain about the double elimination, stating Ben should have gone home instead of Julie.</p> <p>"Why do they keep saving Ben, seriously?" one person asked. "Ben Cousins shouldn’t have been on in the first place. Why is he still there???" another questioned.</p> <p>"PLEASE..... STOP the audience voting!!!! Leave it to the judges!!!" another fan said, with people agreeing. "100% agree! People keep voting for footy players and well-known actors. Should be mostly about their dancing ability," someone else commented.</p> <p>"One thing is for sure... it won't be determined by how good or bad the dancers are. It's just a popularity contest when it comes to the vote," someone else complained.</p> <p>"It is so wrong getting the audience to vote. All the dancers have family there," another person pointed out.</p> <p>"Julie should have stayed," another fan said. "I am so sad to see you go, you should not have gone. You were simply amazing!" another fan wrote, tagging Julie in the comments.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Seven </em></p>

TV

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"Get over yourself": Sports fans call out Aussie Olympian's "privileged" rant

<p>Aussie sports fans have seemingly turned on swimming champion Ariarne Titmus after she called out the standard of living in the Olympic village. </p> <p>Titmus, who took home the gold medal in the 400m freestyle, labelled the conditions for athletes in Paris "ridiculous".</p> <p>"Living in the Olympic village makes it hard to perform," the 23-year-old said in an interview on Sunday.</p> <p>"It's definitely not made for high performance, so it's about who can really keep it together in the mind."</p> <p>Some sports fans haven't received her comments well, with many taking to social media to accuse the athlete of whinging. </p> <p>"Give me a break, why is it always the Aussies that make excuses?" one person fumed.</p> <p> </p> <p>Another posted, "Get over yourself, remember how privileged you are to be there ... to complain is really petty."</p> <p>Others argued that all the athletes in Paris are "in the same boat" so there is no point in complaining.</p> <p>"Our athletes are becoming a bunch of spoiled whining Australian representatives. If you don't like your situation just leave go home and find a job!" one person said.</p> <p>Another wrote, "I'm not very impressed if the competitors think that blaming their accommodation for their performance ... get over yourselves, and remember how privileged you are to have the chance to be there."</p> <p>Australian Swimming head coach Rohan Taylor has also spoken about the conditions of the Olympic village, but said being adaptable is crucial for competitors in France to succeed.</p> <p>"The Olympics has always been a challenge," he said. "Every Olympics I've been a part of, every Olympic Games that you see, is a test of athletes' ability to come here, compete and perform when it matters."</p> <p>"It's about how you manage yourself and whatever environments are presented, whatever the beds are, whatever the food is, everybody deals with it."</p> <p>"The Olympics has always been this way and that's the way it is. And that's the beauty of it."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Panoramic/SIPA/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Richard Simmons' final message for fans

<p>Former staff of the late fitness guru Richard Simmons have shared what would be his last message to fans. </p> <p>The legendary fitness instructor <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/jane-fonda-s-heartfelt-tribute-to-richard-simmons" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passed away</a> just one day after celebrating his 76th birthday. </p> <p>In a message posted to Simmons' X (formerly Twitter) account from "Richard's staff," it was stated that Simmons often planned his social media posts ahead of time.</p> <p>"Richard worked very hard on his posts for you," the message from Simmons' staff began.</p> <p>"He had many ideas and would work ahead… going back to each one making changes until he had it just like he wanted before posting," the message continued.</p> <p>"As you know, on the weekends, he would just share a photo with a caption. He always chose his photos and wrote his captions for the upcoming weekend by Friday."</p> <p>"So we have the post Richard planned to share with you last Sunday. We thought you'd want to see it."</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here is the post Richard had planned for you for Sunday July 14, 2024. 3/3</p> <p>“Let me fly you to the moon so we can gaze among the stars. <br />Love,<br />Richard” <a href="https://t.co/aatT3LkrsT">pic.twitter.com/aatT3LkrsT</a></p> <p>— Richard Simmons (@TheWeightSaint) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeightSaint/status/1814768145137279282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p>According to his staff, the message that Simmons intended to share with his followers on July 14th 2024, just one day after his death, read: "Let me fly you to the moon so we can gaze among the stars. Love, Richard."</p> <p>According to <a title="People" href="https://people.com/richard-simmons-staff-share-a-final-post-and-last-photo-before-death-8681177" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>People</em>, </a>Simmons was buried on July 19th in Los Angeles. </p> <p>"Our beloved Dicky was laid to rest this morning surrounded by only family and closest friends," Simmons' brother Lenny Simmons told the outlet in a statement via Simmons' longtime publicist Tom Estey.</p> <p>"We pray for your continued love and support during this very difficult time."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Peter Foley/EPA/Shutterstock </em></p>

Caring

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Jimmy Barnes warns fans about fake accounts

<p>Jimmy Barnes has issued a "fake account alert" to his fans.</p> <p>The Aussie singer took to Instagram to warn his followers that there have been an increase in the number of people online pretending to be him or claiming to have direct access to him. </p> <p>"There have been an increasing number of fake profiles appearing in the comments of my socials media posts, claiming to either be me, have direct access to me, sell tickets to shows, and even going as far as posing as a fan trying to connect with other fans," he wrote. </p> <p>"These accounts also send friend or follow requests, which then progresses to more false claims, often requesting large or small sums of money," the<em> Cold Chisel</em> star added. </p> <p>He then urged his followers to take action against these fake profiles. </p> <p>"Please block and report any profile and or comment that makes these claims, as it would never be myself or any of my team. Look after each other," he 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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C84CmW9yKBs/?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/C84CmW9yKBs/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jimmy Barnes (@jimmybarnesofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>He then shared screenshots of all the social media accounts posing as him, and a montage of all the messages they send to fans. </p> <p>One of the scammers wrote: "Hello thank you for your like and comments on my official page and for being a fan, it's great to know I have such a devoted fan. Much love, click on this page to send me a message." </p> <p>Many of the scammers had similar messages, asking fans to message them, click on a link or add them on social media. </p> <p>This is not the first time scammers have tried using the singer's name to con devoted fans. </p> <p>In 2022, Barnes slammed scammers pretending to be him and using a fake "farewell" ad on social media, which was nothing more than a cryptocurrency scam, according to <em>The Daily Telegraph</em>. </p> <p>Speaking through his manager, John Watson, Barnes said at the time that he was angry about the "illegal and misleading ads" that have allowed "scammers to prosper". </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Legal

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Neighbours fan favourite leaving Ramsay Street after 30 years

<p>After 30 years on Ramsay Street, a fan favourite actor is saying goodbye to <em>Neighbours</em>. </p> <p>Ryan Moloney, known for his longstanding role as Jarrod ‘Toadfish’ Rebecchi, announced that he would be leaving the show in an announcement video posted to the <em>Neighbours</em> Instagram page. </p> <p>The 44-year-old actor introduced himself as “formerly Jarrod ‘Toadfish’ Rebecchi" before clarifying, "That’s right, I did say formerly, because after 30 years playing Toadie, I will be leaving Ramsay Street.”</p> <p>“I can’t tell you what is happening to the character – maybe I could be the next Jim Robinson. Or maybe I’ll be the next Harold Bishop and just keep popping back over the years.”</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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8tUG1GScZq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8tUG1GScZq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Neighbours (@neighbours)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Moloney hinted at his career change saying he wanted to spend more time behind the camera and start working as a director. </p> <p>As part of his new career move, he shared that he’d just finished on his first <em>Neighbours</em> episode as a director.</p> <p>“Thank you all so much for all the love that you have shown me and Toadie over the years. For three decades, in fact. I’m going to miss you, I’m going to miss him, and I’m going to miss Erinsborough. But whatever you do, make sure you do not miss what is going to happen on Ramsay Street,” he said. </p> <p>The sudden news sent fans into a tizzy, with many sharing emotional reactions to the news as they prepared to farewell a character who has been with them since the 90s. </p> <p>“Omg What?! Toadie is iconic. Won’t be the same. Hopefully he comes back to Erinsborough for a visit,” wrote one viewer.</p> <p>“This is so sad! I hope he keeps ‘popping back’ to the street rather than die. I am going to miss toadie,” said another.</p> <p>Moloney made his <em>Neighbours</em> debut in 1995 as a teenager and stayed with the show until it was axed in 2022.</p> <p>He was then one of the returning cast members when the show was rebooted a year later.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Andy Barnes / FameFlynet.uk.com/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p> <p> </p>

TV

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"No fan of mine": Kyle Sandilands shocked on air by brutal John Blackman audio

<p>Kyle Sandilands was paying tribute to his “childhood hero” <em>Hey Hey it's Saturday </em>star John Blackman on-air Thursday morning, when he was interrupted by an audio of the late star trashing him in a recent interview. </p> <p>Speaking on the Kyle and Jackie O Show, the shock jock said he was upset when he learned of <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/australia-is-a-sadder-place-shock-as-john-blackman-s-death-confirmed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blackman's passing</a>, but before he was able to elaborate on how the radio star was his childhood hero, his manager Bruno Bouchet interjected and told him about Blackman's brutal review. </p> <p>In a May interview on the <em>You Cannot Be Serious</em> podcast, Blackman said: “Why are we giving these two publicity hungry, oxygen thieves, waste of oxygen. The man [Sandilands] is a no talent. He doesn’t have a voice for radio, by the way.”</p> <p>Footage of Sandilands listening to the audio for the first time was shared by <em>KIIS FM</em> on their Instagram stories, and both he and Henderson were shocked. </p> <p>“I’m very confused,” Sandilands said, before coming to the conclusion that  Blackman wasn’t a fan of him because he’s not as polished as “old school” media veterans.</p> <p>“What’s happened here is old school media, TV, radio, newspapers. They’re all fake,” he said.</p> <p>“They pretend everything’s wonderful. You never really know the real person." </p> <p>He then elaborated and said that he and Henderson try to keep it real with their listeners. </p> <p>“We don’t pretend it’s a wonderful day. Even though it’s p*ssing with rain and snowing or whatever. We don’t pretend. We say, ‘Oh, what a s**t day.’ We’re just a different breed.</p> <p>“Oh well, that’s one hero of mine that’s dead. No fan of mine.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Music

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Dean Jones’ daughter’s touching wedding tribute to her late father

<p>The daughter of late cricket legend Dean Jones has paid a special tribute to him on her wedding day. </p> <p>Phoebe Jones, one of the cricketer’s three children, tied the knot with partner Dario Gomez on the island paradise of Boracay in the Philippines last Wednesday.</p> <p>As a tribute to her late father, Phoebe had the number 324 embroidered at the end of her veil. </p> <p>Dean was a batter and the 324th person selected to play Test cricket for Australia. He was inducted to the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2019. </p> <p>“Feeling all the love after the week of our dreams,”  she captioned the photos posted to Instagram on Saturday.</p> <p>The wedding had a white theme and featured a stunning sand sculpture with the words “Dario &amp; Phoebe wedding, 24 April 2024."</p> <p>“The most beautiful week celebrating Mr &amp; Mrs Gomez, so many smiles, tears and everlasting memories,” h<span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">er sister and bridesmaid Augusta wrote in the comments. </span></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/C6Pe7peS8DD/?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/C6Pe7peS8DD/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Phoebe Jones (@phoebejones.xo)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Dean tragically passed away on September 24, 2020 aged just 59, after he suffered a stroke while travelling in India as part of his IPL commentary duties. </p> <p>The cricket legend was farewelled at a private family service at the MCG on October 7, 2020. </p> <p>“We have been deeply moved by the outpouring of love for Dean over the last week and can’t thank everyone enough for their support and for sharing their memories with us,” his wife Jane said at the time. </p> <p>“It has been an awful time to navigate as a family, but I could not have thought of a more fitting place to say goodbye to my husband.”</p> <p>He was also honoured  on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test against India in 2020. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Tragic update on young Aussie Taylor Swift fan

<p>Nine-year-old Scarlett Oliver travelled all the way to Sydney from Perth to see Taylor Swift live, and to her surprise, she was chosen to receive gifts and a hat from the pop star as part of the iconic performance of her hit single <em>22</em>. </p> <p>The two even shared a big hug and the sweet moment went viral on social media. </p> <p>Scarlett was living with an aggressive form of brain cancer known as high-grade glioma, and now, just weeks after meeting her favourite singer,  Scarlett’s father took to social media to share a devastating update.</p> <p>“My Angel, so strong, so brave, so beautiful," Paul announced his daughter's passing on Instagram. </p> <p>"Nothing will ever be the same again.</p> <p>"Don’t forget me and please find a way to let me know you are OK.</p> <p>"Goodnight baby, I love you – Dad."</p> <p>"It’s just not fair,” he concluded the post. </p> <p>Scarlett died just days away from her 10th birthday on May 7. </p> <p>Earlier this month, Scarlett's father shared that his “beautiful” daughter was not doing well and likely had “weeks rather than months” left.</p> <p>He shared that she had spent most of her school holidays in hospital due to complications with her feeding tube, vomiting and "extreme tiredness". </p> <p>“Last night after discharge from hospital she suffered a significant seizure and was rushed to hospital via ambulance,” he wrote. </p> <p>Tributes are flowing in from fellow Swifties who shared their condolences on Instagram. </p> <p>“You were bigger than the whole sky …” one fan wrote, quoting the lyrics to a Taylor Swift song.</p> <p>“We all grieve for you and with you. May she rest in peace, free of pain and illness,” wrote another.</p> <p>“She touched so many hearts,” added a third. </p> <p><em>Image: Getty/ Don Arnold</em></p>

Caring

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Michael Slater hit with 19 charges over alleged domestic violence

<p>Michael Slater, a former Australian Test cricketer is being held in police custody after being charged with more than a dozen offences over alleged domestic violence. </p> <p>Slater, 54, had his case briefly heard in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Monday.</p> <p>It was reported by the <em>ABC </em>that he did not appear and no plea was entered.</p> <p>The charges include domestic violence offences of unlawful stalking or intimidation, breaking into a dwelling with intent at night, common assault, assault occasioning bodily harm and choking or suffocation.</p> <p>The 19 charges relate to offences allegedly committed on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast between December 5, 2023 and April 12 2024.</p> <p>Slater was also charged with breaching bail and and 10 counts of contravening a domestic violence order. </p> <p>He was then remanded in custody, with his case mentioned in the same court on Tuesday afternoon.</p> <p>During that second hearing, Slater <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">collapsed in court after failing in his bid for freedom over an alleged domestic violence incident. </span>Upon learning that his bid for bail had been refused, the former cricket great placed his head in his hands then collapsed while being led back to the cells by Corrective Services staff.</p> <p>Slater made his debut during the 1993 Ashes tour and played 74 tests for Australia. </p> <p>He amassed 5,312 runs and played 42 one-day internationals. </p> <p>Since retiring from cricket in 2004, he has had a successful TV commentary career. </p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Mick Fanning's baby joy

<p>Mick Fanning and his fiancee Breeana Randall have announced the birth of their daughter Lyla Skye Fanning. </p> <p>The Aussie surf legend took to Instagram on Tuesday to share the joyful news with a picture of their newborn bub and the simple caption: "Lyla Skye Fanning 4/4/24." </p> <p>Lyla has Arabic and Hebrew origins and means "night" or "dark beauty". </p> <p>The couple first announced they were expecting Lyla last December and share son Xander Dean, who was born in August 2020. </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/C5hVlXsyqV4/?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/C5hVlXsyqV4/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @breeanablue</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Friends and fans were quick to congratulate the couple in the comments. </p> <p>"Congratulations!!!! Omg she’s so precious," commented surfer Alana Blanchard, with three red heart emojis. </p> <p>"❤ Congratulations!!" added surfer Stephanie Wilson. </p> <p>"This is amazing! Welcome to the world 💛" wrote the offical <em>Wiggles</em> account. </p> <p>"Welcome beautiful Lyla Skye. You are perfect & so so loved. Also that birth date is magic," added one fan. </p> <p>"Welcome to the world beautiful little Lyla. You really lucked out on the family front. We adore you already 💛" added another. </p> <p>The happy news comes just two weeks after the two-time world champion's family was struck by the tragic death of Fanning's brother Edward.</p> <p>Edward died at the age of after contracting an infection while working as a surf guide in Madagascar. </p> <p>Fanning shared his devastation in an emotional tribute shared on social media at the time. </p> <p>"Ed, love you my brother," he began the post.</p> <p>"You taught me so much over the years about everything that life could deal up. The good and the bad you were my teacher. You introduced us all to surfing, the joy and freedom of riding a wave.</p> <p>"The meaning of going to the ends of the earth to find waves to following a passion in the belief that surfing could be that ultimate job. As the years went on you would fall in and out of the ocean but your pure talent would always shine through. To where you ended up in teaching kids the joy of riding a wave. With out you I’m not sure what the world would of made of me so Thank you.</p> <p>"Ed you had the biggest heart and were too loyal for your own good. Always sticking up for the underdog and caring for those who needed help. You gave everyone everything you had, and if you didn’t have it you’d still give it to them."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Bruce Springsteen helps a fan skip school for his concert

<p>Bruce Springsteen has helped a fan skip school to attend his concert. </p> <p>While performing in San Francisco on his world tour, The Boss paused his performance to sign an absentee note for a fan who had missed class to attend the show. </p> <p>The fan, who was at the front of the barricade, held up a sign that read: "Skipping school. Sign my note?"</p> <p>Another concertgoer then captured the moment the 74-year-old rocker signed the note to a round of applause and cheers from his band and the crowd.</p> <p><iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F794567008756785%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="476" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>"That is so awesome. Put tears in my eyes. A true hero," someone wrote in the comments on the Facebook video.</p> <p>"This is the best excuse note a teacher is ever going to see!!" another added.</p> <p>"So cool, Bruce is one of the true talent and a great man of many excuses," a third wrote.</p> <p>The adorable fan interaction comes just weeks after Springsteen returned to the stage for the first time in months after undergoing a lengthy health battle. </p> <p>Springsteen was forced to postpone his 2023 tour with the E Street Band after taking time off to recover from a peptic ulcer disease.</p> <p>Taking to the stage in Phoenix, Arizona, in the first show of the tour, he told the crowd mid-show, "Phoenix, first I want to apologise if there was any discomfort because we had to move the show last time...I hope we didn't inconvenience you too much."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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