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One last chance for grandma on the brink of deportation

Mary Ellis, 74, who has lived in Australia for the last 40 years and is facing deportation, has made a last-ditch bid to stay Down Under. The grandmother recently appeared on <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/grandma-faces-deportation-after-40-years-in-australia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair</a> and begged the Department of Home Affairs to let her stay in the country. At the time, she refuted the Home Affairs' claim that she had misrepresented her continuous residence in the country, after they alleged that she left Australia three times under an alias between 1983 and 1986, and that her late husband Martin Ellis was actually called Trevor Warren. The crucial qualification for an absorbed citizenship is that she would only be eligible if she was in Australia from April 2, 1984, and had not left the country since. The grandmother claimed that she arrived in Australia in December 1981, and hasn't left since, saying that she had also paid taxes in Australia, held a Medicare card, pension card and an Australian driver's licence. She was also nominated for the NSW Volunteer of the Year award last year, for her charitable acts. The DailyMail reports that there are no "compassionate grounds" on which the Immigration Minister could intervene in her bid to attain an absorbed citizenship. However, under the Migration Act, the minister could decide to intervene in Ellis' case if he thinks "it is in the public interest." Now, Ellis and her migration agent Schneider have requested in writing for the minister to intervene. Requests for Federal Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to intervene must address specific grounds in doing so, and state why her staying would be in the public interest. Images: Instagram/ Nine

Legal

Rebecca Loos claims Beckham is "playing the victim" over affair scandal

Rebecca Loos, the woman at the centre of the alleged <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/woman-at-the-centre-of-alleged-beckham-affair-breaks-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">affair scandal</a> with iconic football legend David Beckham, has recently shared her thoughts on the new Beckham docuseries, which was released on Netflix. Loos, now 47 and residing in Norway with her husband and two children, expressed her concerns regarding the way the affair was handled in the docuseries, which was produced in collaboration with Beckham's production company. In the early 2000s, Loos gained notoriety for her claims of a romantic involvement with David Beckham during his time as a football superstar. In the docuseries, the Beckhams primarily discussed the media frenzy that ensued following Loos' revelations in 2003, but skirted around the specifics of the affair itself. It was during that tumultuous period that Loos had declared her connection with the football player while working as his personal assistant, even suggesting that the Beckhams had been dealing with marital issues before her involvement came to light. At the time, the celebrity couple vehemently denied any wrongdoing and even considered legal action against Loos. Victoria Beckham, 49, revealed in the docuseries, "It was the most unhappy I have ever been in my entire life," while David Beckham, 48, tearfully stated, "Victoria is everything to me. To see her hurt was incredibly difficult… what we had was worth fighting for." Loos, however, took issue with David's statement. In a <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-12657157/rebecca-loos-affair-david-beckham-netflix.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">candid interview with the Daily Mail</a>, she expressed her frustration: "The [worst] bit for me is that he says he didn't like seeing his wife suffer. That bothered me. Because he's the one that's caused the suffering. He can say whatever he likes, of course, and I understand he has an image to preserve, but he is portraying himself as the victim and he's making me look like a liar, like I've made up these stories. He is indirectly suggesting that I'm the one who has made Victoria suffer." Loos also argued that the docuseries had thrust the affair back into the spotlight, an issue that many had forgotten about since the news first broke 20 years ago, thereby further impacting her reputation. She emphasised, "Yes, the stories were horrible, but they're true. He talks in the documentary about this ultimately being his private life, shutting it down. I think it's one thing to keep your private life to yourself. It's another thing to mislead the public." She suggested that David could have chosen to acknowledge that it was not one of his proudest moments or characterised it as a challenging period and moved on from the subject. However, she felt that he continued to phrase his statements in a way that indirectly shifted the blame onto her. "If you don't want to take responsibility for things because of your family and your children, that's absolutely fine," Loos commented, "But he specifically made it look like… my fault, that he had nothing to do with this." Loos, after the 2003 allegations, embarked on a path as a media personality, participating in various English and Dutch TV shows. In 2008, while filming the Dutch TV show 71 Graden Noord, she crossed paths with her future husband, Norwegian doctor Sven Christjar Skaiaa. After becoming pregnant, the couple decided to relocate to Norway in 2009. Today, she works as a yoga teacher and a massage therapist in Norway while raising her two sons and only occasionally making media appearances. Images: Instagram

Woman at the centre of alleged Beckham affair breaks silence

Rebecca Loos has decided to speak out amidst the wave of criticism she's facing in light of her <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/david-and-victoria-beckham-open-up-about-alleged-affair" target="_blank" rel="noopener">alleged affair with David Beckham</a>. The former model, now 46, is pushing back against the 'disturbing' remarks being made about her on social media, which have resurfaced following the release of the Netflix series about Beckham. On October 6, a fan expressed their support for Loos amid the renewed attention and online harassment she's enduring. They voiced their disgust at some of the comments they had seen, stating, "Some of the comments on here are disgusting!!!" They went on to offer words of encouragement, saying, "Stay strong. You have a beautiful life with your gorgeous family, which, unlike others, doesn't have to involve Netflix!!!" Loos responded to this supportive message on Instagram, expressing her gratitude and resilience, stating, "Thank you 🙏🏼 am taking in the nasty comments with as much humour as I can," and ending her comment with a heartfelt red heart emoji. <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/Cx2cV7zMX2U/?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/Cx2cV7zMX2U/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by REBECCA LOOS (@rebeccaloosofficial)</a> </div> </blockquote> Numerous other users also came forward to support Loos on her most recent Instagram post, where she was pictured practicing yoga with the reflective caption: "Letting go and finding strength in the mountains of life." One individual commented, "I have always admired your strength Rebecca! Keep being strong!" while another person hoped she was doing well and encouraged her not to let the negativity of others affect her soul. Another fan commented on the renewed criticism and social media attacks on a woman they don't even know, urging people to "do better." Back in 2004, Loos was accused of having an affair with Manchester United star David Beckham while she was working as his personal assistant. At the time, Beckham had been married to Spice Girls singer Victoria Beckham since 1999, and the allegations became a significant media sensation. On October 4, Netflix released the documentary series Beckham, which delves into the football player's career and marriage, including addressing the rumours of his infidelity in the early 2000s. Both David and Victoria Beckham discuss the impact of tabloid rumors on their marriage during the series. Victoria, in an individual interview for the series, admitted, "It was the most unhappy I have ever been in my entire life," and she shared how challenging it was, especially because they felt pitted against each other. David also acknowledged the difficulty of that period, emphasising Victoria's importance in his life and how hard it was to see her hurt but doubling down on their determination to overcome it together. Images: Instagram

Legal

David and Victoria Beckham open up about alleged affair

David and Victoria Beckham have chosen to open up about the "unhappiest" period of their lives, in their highly-anticipated Netflix documentary. The power couple candidly spoke about David's alleged affair in 2003, where he was accused of cheating with his former personal assistant Rebecca Loos after they were spotted leaving a night club in Spain. The rumours spread just after David was transferred from the Manchester United club to Real Madrid . David called the claims “ludicrous” at the time, and now his wife Victoria has also shared her heartache during that time, describing it as the "unhappiest in her life". Ahead of the release of the four-part documentary series, director Fisher Stevens revealed how "unpleasant" it was for him to ask the couple such personal questions. "It wasn't pleasant, but we got into it," he said. "For me, I approached it as, "How did your marriage stay together?" and you'll see how he responds," he added. Producer John Battsek also told The Sunday Times that the couple "signed up” to a nothing off-limits contract, and were happy to discuss tougher subjects. “There was no, “You will not ask that or do that,’" he said "Fisher and I thought that might be the case, but we were clear from the start that we would only do this if we could go in any direction we wanted. And we did," he added. Aside from the alleged affair, the couple also opened up about their first date and are clearly still smitten with each other. “The fact I went to the games really was to - some might say I stalked him, I would say see him," she joked about their first meeting at a charity football match in 1997. She also added that she was immediately attracted to the football star when she spotted him chatting with his parents before the game. “When I saw him in the footballers’ lounge, all the other footballers were at the bar, and he was standing and talking to his parents, and I’m very close to my family, and I loved that side to him.” David's recollection of their first meeting was a bit more simple: “I just fancied her”. The couple have been married since 1999 and have four kids together - sons Brooklyn, 24, Romeo, 21, Cruz, 18, and a daughter Harper, 12. Image: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Relationships

"I will die sorry": Phillip Schofield breaks his silence on his career-ending affair

Former This Morning host Phillip Schofield has broken his silence over his affair with a colleague 30 years his junior in an interview with The Sun. And while the disgraced British television star shared that he had been left feeling “utterly broken and ashamed” over the whole ordeal, he stressed that any rumours of grooming were not true. “I did not,” he told the publication, after a week of the social media rumour mill running riot. “I did not [groom him].” “I know the photos of us circulating on Twitter look shocking, but I’m not a groomer,” Phillip insisted. He noted that “there are accusations of all sorts of things”, but claimed that had never been an abuse of power, as “we’d become mates … but of course I understand that there will be a massive judgement, but bearing in mind, I have never exercised that anywhere else.” According to Phillip, the two remain friends. And although the ex-show runner had been 30 years younger than him at the time of their affair, he added that the relationship had only begun after the man was 20 years old, when “something just happened between us that changed everything.” “I assume somebody, somewhere, assumed something was going on, correctly” he shared, “and didn't say anything. “At the time I did not think about it possibly ruining my career. I really probably only thought about it when I saw the rumour mill, and saw it growing. “Then I saw the link with the drama school photo [from] all those years before, and thought, ‘this looks shocking’.” However, as Phillip said, he hadn’t lied in order to protect his own career, but instead because the other man in the affair hadn’t wanted “his name in public. He wanted his own life.” Phillip explained that “the lies grew bigger and bigger and bigger”, and that it was starting to have a deep effect on both of them. “It got to the stage where it was out of control,” he said, “and for whatever cost, it had to stop. “I have massive guilt, and regret. I’ve made a mistake, I’ve had an affair at work.” “I think my greatest apology must go to him,” Phillip revealed. “It has brought the greatest misery into his totally innocent life, his totally innocent family, his totally innocent friends. “It has brought the greatest grief to them.” He added that the pair hadn’t spoken since the story broke - and that he also no longer speaks to his former friend and co-host Holly Willoughby - but that when things began to spiral out of control, he’d “paid for his lawyers to independently work on his behalf. “I am deeply sorry and I apologise to him because I should have known better. I should have acted the way I have always acted. I should not have done it. “I’m sorry. And I will forever be sorry. I will die sorry. I am so deeply mortified.” Images: Getty

News

“What a legend”: Groom exposes new wife’s affair during wedding speech

A groom has exposed his new wife after finding out she had been having an affair with his best man during a speech at their wedding. The scorned groom handed out intimate photos and explicit videos of his wife and the best man together before announcing he would be “leaving now”, dropping the microphone and then walking off with his family, who had been pre-warned. On The Unfiltered Bride podcast, wedding planners Georgina and Beth spoke about the shocking story. Georgina said although his family knew, he wanted to go ahead with the wedding so that the bride would have to pay for all the food. They posted a snippet of their podcast on TikTok, which quickly went viral. Georgina said on the podcast, “I've got another story to tell you. I can't tell you who told me because I'm not really allowed to tell the story, but f**k it I'm going to tell the story anyway. So there was a wedding and they did the wedding, bride and groom got married, lovely ceremony, drinks reception, sat down for wedding breakfast, had their food, speeches after food.” “Father of the bride does his thing, groom stands up and says, ‘Just before I properly get started, there's some envelopes coming round now. If you could all open them up. Yeah those are pictures of the bride f*****g the best man so I'll be leaving now.’ Dropped the microphone and him and all his family knew about it and left because they wanted the bride to have to pay for the food.” Beth then asked, ”So the bride paid for everything?” To which Georgina replied, “The bride's family paid for everything.” The video sparked numerous reactions. “My mouth actually dropped. OMG!!!” one person said. “I don’t blame him at all!! I’d do the same 😂😂” another added. “But WHY did he still marry her?” a third asked. “I admire the patience of the groom and family to get through the whole thing without slipping up once. 😅” another added. Image credit: Shutterstock

Relationships

King Charles cuts ties with TV host over affair revelations

King Charles has cut all ties with UK television host Phillip Schofield, after he lied about having an affair. Schofield has been dumped from his hosting gig at This Morning, which he has been the face of for 21 years, after he admitted he had an affair with a much younger man who worked at the ITV network. The 61-year-old resigned from the network after lying about the “consensual on-off relationship", admitting in a statement that the affair was "unwise" but stressed it was "not illegal". He added that he was "deeply sorry" for having lied to his wife and to ITV about his relationship with the man reportedly 30 years his junior and who he first met as a teenager. “Contrary to speculation, whilst I met the man when he was a teenager and was asked to help him to get into television, it was only after he started to work on the show that it became more than just a friendship,” he said in his recent statement. In light of the affair, Schofield has been dropped by The Prince's Trust, after being an ambassador for several years. A spokesperson from the King's charity told <a title="The Telegraph" href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/05/30/phillip-schofield-dropped-princes-trust-this-morning-affair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Telegraph</a> UK that it was mutually agreed it was "no longer appropriate to work together". "In light of Phillip's recent admissions, we have agreed with him that it is no longer appropriate to work together," a Prince's Trust spokesperson said. All references to Schofield have been removed from the charity's website and also his own page. It previously read, "Outside of work, Phillip is an ambassador for the charity The Prince's Trust, dedicating time to further the work of supporting vulnerable young people in the UK". The Prince's Trust was created in 1976 by then-Prince Charles to help young disadvantaged people in the UK, with the hugely successful charity helping more than one million young people by providing them with business grants, education and training. Following the bombshell revelation of Schofield's affair, ITV said it had investigated the allegations of his affair "several times" from early 2020, but said it didn't find any evidence. It's been a trying time for the ex-presenter with his brother Timothy recently being jailed for 12 years over child sex offences. Image credits: Getty Images

News

Does Australia need new laws to combat right-wing extremism?

At the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH2IUKaWXKw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Press Club</a>, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil flagged that Labor would propose <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/08/clare-oneill-warns-counter-terror-laws-may-need-to-change-to-better-handle-rightwing-extremism" target="_blank" rel="noopener">changes to Australia’s counter-terrorism laws</a>. She cited an increase in diverse threats beyond religious fundamentalism, a trend towards lone-actor, low-sophistication attacks, and more <a href="https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/asio-chief-flags-alarming-increase-in-children-lured-to-extremism/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">younger people being radicalised</a>. Specifically, she referred to the threat of right-wing extremism, which in 2021 was <a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7269257/ideologically-motivated-terror-now-taking-up-half-of-asio-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">approaching 50% of ASIO’s caseload</a>. She did not suggest the laws will be “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/08/clare-oneill-warns-counter-terror-laws-may-need-to-change-to-better-handle-rightwing-extremism" target="_blank" rel="noopener">overhauled</a>”. However, O'Neil hinted that changes to criminal law could target specific ways that extreme right-wing groups organise themselves compared to groups such as al-Qaeda or Islamic State. Since the September 11 terrorist attacks, Australia has enacted at least 96 counter-terrorism laws, amounting to <a href="https://law.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/4287735/02-Hardy-and-Williams-34.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more than 5,500 pages of legislation</a>. So do we need any more laws, or changes to existing laws, to combat right-wing terrorism? <h2>Australia’s counter-terrorism laws</h2> Australia has the <a href="https://theconversation.com/before-9-11-australia-had-no-counter-terrorism-laws-now-we-have-92-but-are-we-safer-166273" target="_blank" rel="noopener">largest collection of counter-terrorism laws</a> in the world. This reflects a strong belief in legality: that powers and offences should be written into the statute books and not be left to arbitrary executive power. But it also shows how readily Australian governments have responded to evolving threats with ever-increasing powers. Our counter-terrorism laws contain countless criminal offences and powers of surveillance, interrogation and detention. As an example, a <a href="https://theconversation.com/control-orders-for-kids-wont-make-us-any-safer-49074" target="_blank" rel="noopener">control order</a> can require a child as young as 14 to obey a curfew and wear an electronic monitoring bracelet to protect the public from a terrorist act or prevent support for terrorism. Most of the offences and powers rely on a broad statutory definition of terrorism. A “terrorist act” means harmful conduct or a threat that aims to: (1) advance a political, religious or ideological cause; and (2) intimidate a government or section of the public. Importantly, this definition is ideologically neutral – as are all the laws. They do not mention Islamist or right-wing terrorism. The laws apply equally to these and other terror threats, no matter the ideology. A white supremacist who prepares or commits a terrorist act faces life imprisonment in the same way as a religious fundamentalist. <h2>What changes might be made?</h2> We won’t know the details of Labor’s proposed changes until next year. The government might ask parliament to tweak the definition of a “terrorist organisation” in Division 102 of the federal <a href="http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/cca1995115/sch1.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Criminal Code</a>. A terrorist organisation is one that is directly or indirectly preparing a terrorist act (or that advocates a terrorist act). Various offences stem from this definition. It is a crime, for example, to recruit for a terrorist organisation or be a member of one. The Australian government maintains a <a href="https://www.nationalsecurity.gov.au/what-australia-is-doing/terrorist-organisations/listed-terrorist-organisations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">list of proscribed (banned) terrorist organisations</a>. Of the 29 currently listed, only three adhere to far-right ideology. This reflects a longer history of Islamist terrorism, though Australia has also <a href="https://www.themandarin.com.au/176216-australia-catching-up-with-proscription-of-far-right-groups/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lagged our closest allies</a> in banning right-wing extremist groups. Some features of these groups can make banning them difficult. Their membership structures, ideological demands and support for violence can be less clear compared to groups like al-Qaeda and Islamic State, which have committed and encouraged terrorist acts all around the world. Right-wing extremist groups <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/jan/05/far-right-and-anti-racism-groups-face-off-in-melbourne-flashpoint" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hold divisive rallies</a>, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/the-far-right-are-capable-recruiters-and-have-found-fertile-ground-thanks-to-covid-20210921-p58tn7.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exploit protests</a>, spread racist sentiment and encourage hatred against minorities – but most of these acts do not constitute terrorism. Expanding the definition of a terrorist organisation could capture right-wing extremist groups that are dangerous to society but do not obviously engage in or support terrorist acts. Another possibility is that Labor could seek to ban Nazi and other hate symbols that such groups commonly use. New legislation in Victoria, which comes into force at the end of this month, makes it an <a href="https://content.legislation.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-06/591323bs1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">offence</a> punishable by 12 months’ imprisonment to publicly display the Nazi swastika (Hakenkreuz). The state offence will not apply to the <a href="https://www.adl.org/resources/hate-symbols/search" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hundreds of hate symbols used by right-wing extremists</a>, but it sends an important message that neo-Nazi ideology holds no place in Australian society. It provides a legal mechanism to counter threats of right-wing extremism in a way that the federal counter-terrorism laws currently do not. <h2>Are changes needed?</h2> Australia’s counter-terrorism laws are already extensive and apply to all types of terrorism, so no obvious strategic gaps need to be filled. If a criminal offence or power is needed to combat terrorism, Australia already has it and more. Minor changes to Division 102 could target specific features of right-wing extremism compared to Islamist terrorism. Federal laws could supplement emerging state laws by outlawing hateful symbols used by right-wing extremists and other terrorist groups. However, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-28/banned-neo-nazi-groups-set-sights-on-australia/100030072" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more right-wing groups</a> could be proscribed under the laws as they currently stand. Decisive action to ban internationally recognised right-wing extremist groups, combined with a national inquiry into hate crime law and its <a href="https://tacklinghate.org/blogs/new-research-defining-and-identifying-hate-motives-bias-indicators-for-the-australian-context/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reporting</a>, would send a strong message. Australia’s extensive counter-terrorism laws need not be further expanded. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/does-australia-need-new-laws-to-combat-right-wing-extremism-196219" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Twitter

Legal

"It's daunting": A Current Affair and Today show hosts finally confirmed

After several weeks of rumours and speculation, the new host of A Current Affair has finally been announced. In September, Tracy Grimshaw announced she would be <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/tracy-grimshaw-s-huge-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leaving the show</a> after 17 long years in the hosting chair, with her last day at the program recapping her <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/tracy-grimshaw-s-most-memorable-hosting-moments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most memorable moments</a>. Now, it has been confirmed that the prestigious hosting spot will be filled by Ally Langdon. After appearing on the Today Show alongside co-host Karl Stefanovic since January 2020, Langdon admits the new role is "daunting", but is excited for the challenge. She said, "It is such an incredible honour to be joining the A Current Affair team. A show I love, respect and have been watching since I was in school and Jana Wendt was host." "I won't lie – it's daunting to be stepping into the role that Tracy has so brilliantly navigated for the past 17 years, with such warmth and compassion. I hope to bring my own warmth and compassion to the show as we continue to tell great stories that matter to our amazing viewers." A Current Affair was created and originally hosted by Langdon's late father-in-law Mike Willesee and she will be its sixth host. Nine's Director of News and Current Affairs, Darren Wick, said, "Ally is a natural fit to lead A Current Affair into a new era. She was raised in the country and has a deep commitment to family, friends and community." "She's passionate, curious and razor sharp – loyal to her colleagues, dedicated to her craft and determined to fight for her viewers. We're very excited to see what Ally will bring to ACA in 2023 and for many, many years beyond." Ally is set to start hosting ACA in 2023. Leaving a chair empty at the Today Show with her departure, Langdon will be replaced by 60 Minutes reporter Sarah Abo. "I am thrilled to be joining the wonderful and hard-working team at Today, who manage to inform the nation every morning while also having a lot of fun," said Abo. "I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside some of the country's finest journalists at 60 Minutes and travel the nation and world bringing stories to Australian audiences. It is an absolute privilege to meet so many inspirational people and help tell their stories. I can't wait to put everything I've learned from those amazing experiences into my new role at Today. "The 3am alarm will be an adjustment, but I'm looking forward to keeping Karl on his toes. I know Ally will make a success of the move to ACA and I can't wait to watch her in the chair." Image credits: Nine

News

Kyle “confirms” new host of A Current Affair

Kyle Sandilands could not hold his tongue any longer and has revealed that Ally Langdon will be replacing Tracey Grimshaw as host of A Current Affair. The radio shock jock was speaking to Grimshaw on his show just two days before she leaves the show after 17 years as the face of the news program. He told Grimshaw that he had a conversation with Today Show co-host Karl Stefanovic who all but confirmed that Langdon will be replacing Grimshaw. “I feel like I know, because I've been speaking to [Karl] Stefanovic,” he said. “Well, let me just tell everyone it is Ally. I don't mean to bust Channel Nine's bubble.” Sandilands claims that Stefanovic didn’t ask him to keep quiet about it and that he thought it was okay to share the news. “Maybe that was a personal chat? I don't know... But he didn't ask me not to say anything.” Grimshaw however remained coy about who will be replacing her in the top chair but said everything could be out as early as next week. “I can't possibly give you a hint, but you'll know very soon,” she said. “I wouldn't be surprised if you know next week.” The news comes a week after Sandilands grilled Langdon about her new position about a noticeable disappearance from the breakfast show. “Are you doing A Current Affair or not?” Sandilands asked. “Well, I'm going to do the Today show, I'm going to do A Current Affair, I'm going to coach the Wallabies and I reckon Dan Andrews might offer me a ministry,” she responded. This did not stop Sandilands who told Langdon to answer the question. “Let's stop the speculation. Are you doing A Current Affair? Just tell us!” Langdon remained tightlipped and would not budge. Watch this space. Images: Facebook

A Current Affair reveal shortlist for host replacement

Bosses at the Nine Network are just weeks away from announcing the new host of A Current Affair, with two powerhouse women battling it out for the top spot. After Tracy Grimshaw <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/tracy-grimshaw-s-huge-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">made the announcement</a> in September that she would be leaving the show after 17 years in the hosting chair, a flood of predictions for her replacement rolled in online. Now, the Sunday Telegraph has reported that the network is trying to choose between 60 Minutes reporter Sarah Abo and 2GB radio host and former Today host Deborah Knight for the coveted role. It had previously been reported that Georgie Gardner, Leila McKinnon, Carrie Bickmore, Sarah Harris, Stan Grant and Melissa Doyle were being considered to replace Grimshaw, with Allison Langdon also expressing interest in the role. Grimshaw, 62, shared the news of her departure in an emotional speech at the end of her show last month. “Normally right about now we’d be telling you what to expect tomorrow night but lately I’ve personally been thinking longer term, and I have some news that I wanted you to hear from me before you hear it from anyone else,” Grimshaw told viewers in early September. “I’ve decided to finish up with A Current Affair this year." I've basically been a shift worker for 26 years, driving to work before dawn for nine years on the Today Show, and the past 17 years driving home after dark here on A Current Affair and it's time for less of that daily obligation." Image credits: Nine

Readers Respond: In light of Tracy Grimshaw's announcement, who would you like to see in the big chair at A Current Affair?

Earlier this week, Tracy Grimshaw announced she will <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/tracy-grimshaw-s-huge-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">no longer be presenting A Current Affair</a> to enjoy a much needed break. Grimshaw has been the face of the show for a whopping 17 years and shocked audiences when she announced she is stepping down at the end of the year and going on an extended break. Now, whoever replaces her has BIG shoes to fill and we wanted to ask our readers who they would want to see in the ACA chair next. Check out some of your responses below. ShaRoss Coles - Melissa Doyle. Wendy Mulholland - Good luck Tracy, enjoy the next stage of your life. I think you did a great job. Definitely not Lisa Wilkinson as a replacement! Jo Soper - Debra Knight, Silvia Jeffries or Layla McKinnon. All these women would be great. Janet Payne - All the best Tracy! Deb Knight would be great. John Wells - Don’t care as long as it’s not Lisa Wilkinson. Jenny Taylor - Debra Knight does a good job on the weekend ACA. Max Margie Mallard - DEB. KNIGHT. The only one. Bruce Croker - The wonderful GEORGIE [Gardner]. Kim Anderson - Sylvia Jeffries!! John Smith - A male please. Love Tracy but time for a bloke. Share your suggestions <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/pfbid0z4Bkvdx2r37tSVe6SNzJgNt3h188S8kasAngXVDvAFBSLDZAEsJsEvS3arpF2m1El" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Shutterstock

A Current Affair reporter charged with assaulting woman

<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Roboto, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"> <div class="new-reply-component" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 8px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; position: relative; opacity: 1; pointer-events: all;"> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> Seb Costello, a 35-year-old reporter for the Nine Network's A Current Affair program, plans to contest assault charges that have been laid against him, following an alleged incident in February that took place in Richmond, Victoria. Costello faces two charges of unlawful assault and a spokeswoman for Victoria Police has confirmed in a statement: “It’s alleged the man was involved in an altercation with a 23-year-old man and 22-year-old woman in an unnamed laneway near Boyd Street about 9.30am”. “The Richmond man will be charged on summons with two counts of unlawful assault and will appear at the Neighbourhood Justice Centre in Collingwood. There were no injuries during the incident.” In a follow-up statement, Costello has said, “These matters are before the court and will be vigorously contested.” More recently, Costello had also made an official statement with Victoria Police regarding a clash with former AFL player manager Ricky Nixon, who appeared to elbow Costello in the face. This incident required Costello to seek medical attention. Image: Instagram </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

News

Why you need to get your passport sorted NOW

Aussies are facing another block in the road … or air … as minimum passport renewal times increase to three months. After two years of no travelling due to the pandemic, Aussies are taking every advantage they can to enjoy either a European summer or jet set overseas to see family. But it hasn't been smooth sailing at the Australian Passport Office thanks to the “unprecedented” demand for the necessary documentation. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trading (DFAT) has asked travellers to be patient and apply as early as possible to ensure they get their passport on time. On the DFAT website travellers are told it will take up to six weeks to get a passport. However, people have been waiting much longer, with some even paying the priority fee of $225 and still waiting longer than necessary. People took to Twitter to call out the DFAT for the delay in passports, with the office apologising for the delays. “I have been waiting for 8 weeks for my daughters’ passports, it’s ridiculous,” someone wrote. “Called @dfat Australian Passport Office at 7:59. Closed. Called back at 8:00. High call volumes and they can’t take the call. Been trying for 2 days. How to follow up on a passport that hasn’t come within the 6 week period?” someone asked. “@DFATVic @dfat I can’t believe the Australian Passport Office has taken over 2 months to renew my passport and hasn’t communicated with me in any way! I can’t get a hold of anyone and I am leaving the country in 3 weeks. This is ridiculous. Truly ridiculous,” another slammed. Image: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Tennis legend Pam Shriver opens up on "traumatic" affair

Tennis star Pam Shriver has shared an insight into the “inappropriate” and “traumatic” affair she had with her coach as a teen, hoping her story will prompt tennis organisations to address the “alarmingly common” issue. Shriver wrote about her experience in a column for the <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/04/20/pam-shriver-exclusive-inappropriate-relationship-50-year-old/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UK Telegraph</a>, revealing how the relationship she had with her Australian coach Don Candy was “inappropriate and damaging”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> This is not an easy story for me to tell, but it is time. You can listen to my story on the <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisPodcast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisPodcast</a> - <a href="https://t.co/81m3Ryfwr4">https://t.co/81m3Ryfwr4</a> You can read my story <a href="https://twitter.com/TelegraphSport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TelegraphSport</a> - <a href="https://t.co/ckvTF4SSQQ">https://t.co/ckvTF4SSQQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZRHJMxPTjg">pic.twitter.com/ZRHJMxPTjg</a> — Pam Shriver (@PHShriver) <a href="https://twitter.com/PHShriver/status/1516753194893778945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2022</a></blockquote> Candy, who passed away in 2020, began working with Shriver when she was just nine years old and coached her when she went through to the final of the US Open at 16. She said she told the 50-year-old she was falling in love with him when she was 17, with the pair going on to have an affair. “My main motivation is to let people know this still goes on - a lot,” she wrote. “I believe abusive coaching relationships are alarmingly common in sport as a whole. My particular experience, though, is in tennis, where I have witnessed dozens of instances in my four-and-a-bit decades as a player and commentator. “Every time I hear about a player who is dating their coach, or I see a male physio working on a female body in the gym, it sets my alarm bells ringing.” Shriver shared that she had “conflicted feelings” about Candy, and that though she wasn’t sexually abused, “there was emotional abuse”. “I felt so many horrendous emotions and I felt so alone. The worst would be my anger and jealousy when his wife came to tournaments,” the 22-time grand slam champion wrote. “It was horrible. I can’t even tell you how many nights I just sobbed in my room - and then had to go out and play a match the next day. “Yes, he and I became involved in a long and inappropriate affair. Yes, he was cheating on his wife. But there was a lot about him that was honest and authentic. And I loved him. Even so, he was the grown-up there. “He should have been the trustworthy adult. In a different world, he would have found a way to keep things professional. Only after therapy did I start to feel a little less responsible. Now, at last, I’ve come to realise that what happened is on him.” Shriver wrote the her ability to form normal relationships had been “stunted” by the affair, which had been a “traumatic experience” for her. “The after-effects lasted far beyond the time we spent together. Our affair shaped my whole experience of romantic life,” she wrote. Though she suggested some possible solutions to the issue, Shriver said she doesn’t have all the answers. “By the time they graduate to the main tennis tour, many patterns have already been set,” she wrote. “And then there’s the coaches. The best way to protect their charges is to put them through an education process before they arrive on tour. “The same goes for other credential-holders: physios, fitness trainers and so on. The point has to be made very clearly: these kinds of relationships are not appropriate, and there will be consequences for those who cross the line.” Image: Getty Images

Relationships

Meet the Aussie student who fled the Ukraine Russian invasion

Conrad Siziba moved from Western Australia to Ukraine in September of 2019, where he was eager to begin his studies to pursue a career in medicine. The medical student never could have imagined he would survive the risks of Covid-19, only to be forced out of the country by the tragedy of war. Conrad was among the first arrivals into Perth on Thursday, when the long-awaited quarantine travel ban finally lifted, after the state’s hard border opened. The sweet embrace with his father Conrad Siziba Senior and mother Noma brought a close to a nail-biting journey home. His parents were all smiles as they welcomed their son back from Ukraine. The process home “wasn’t easy”, Mr Siziba said. “The last few days when he was just about to come out, it was challenging,” he said. “He was facing a huge threat,” Mrs Siziba said. “We’re excited he’s home.” The medical student dropped his studies to flee the university town Dnipro in Eastern Ukraine - a key region named as a target by Russia. The safety risk of the invasions meant he had to bypass Kyiv, instead making his way to Lviv. “He was meant to fly on Thursday but that’s when they closed the flights and then he couldn’t fly,” Mr Siziba said. Conrad joined the student exodus on packed trains through a rough Ukrainian winter. This journey of risk included a 30km walk on foot to Poland before he could make it back to home to Baldivis. His parents were on edge as they waited during the “challenging time”, Mr Siziba said. “Thank God for the foreign affairs department, they were really supportive,” he said. Conrad appeared unphased by his journey upon his arrival home, simply focusing on the fact that he was home safe. “We’re happy he’s home,” his father said, Mrs Siziba adding it’s “the best thing ever”. Image: 7News

Travel Trouble

Australia's hefty legal bill in Novak saga revealed

During a Senate hearing on Monday night, the cost of Australia's legal proceedings against tennis champ Novak Djokovic were revealed. The Department of Home Affairs reportedly had to pay an estimated $360,000 over the weeks long saga, but this is not the official final figure of money spent. This hefty sum doesn’t take into account the division of legal costs that were awarded in both court stoushes that took place.The Department of Home Affairs was ordered to pay the legal costs for the first Federal Court matter in which Novak first had his visa cancelled. But Djokovic was ordered to pay the costs in his subsequent failed bid to overturn Immigration Minister Alex Hawke’s decision to send the Serbian tennis champ packing for being unvaccinated.“Hopefully they’ll net out to zero,” Home Affairs secretary Michael Pezzullo said during the hearing.The department’s legal group manager Pip De Veau said that the fees had yet to be paid, but it was estimated to be $360,000, not taking into account these cost orders.“The combined estimate at this stage was in the vicinity of $360,000 without any awards going either way,” she said.“Costs were awarded against the department in the first proceedings, costs were awarded for the department in the second."“We’ll need to get the invoices and make the determination in consultation with Mr Djokovic’s lawyers as to how those two cost orders are sorted out.”Novak Djokovic was deported before the Australian Open, stopping him from competing. “I will respect the court’s ruling and I will co-operate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country,” Djokovic said at the time.“I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can now focus on the game and the tournament I love.”Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Grant Denyer’s big win over “false” affair story

TV presenter Grant Denyer has recently celebrated his win against tabloid magazine New Idea, after the publication was forced to publicly apologise for publishing a false story about him having an affair. In mid-October, New Idea published a story implying that Denyer was having an affair with his Dancing with the Stars partner Lily Cornish. Taking to Instagram on Monday, the Gold Logie winner shared two photos of the apology, which appeared on both <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.newidea.com.au/grant-denyer-chezzi-denyer-lily-cornish-apology" target="_blank">their website</a> and latest printed edition. <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXHTazzBfoa/?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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXHTazzBfoa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Grant Denyer (@grantdenyer)</a> </div> </blockquote> “As many of you have already read and raised with us, New Idea have printed today on the editor’s page an apology to Chezzi, Lily and myself for their most recent attack - The false, sensationalised, out of context and WRONG front cover,” he began in the caption. “And they have admitted (which very rarely ever happens) that the article was false. “They also have admitted that they regret publishing the article.” He <a rel="noopener" href="https://thenewdaily.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/2021/12/06/grant-denyer-wins-new-idea-battle/" target="_blank">also revealed</a> that he received a “confidential settlement” from the magazine almost two months after the “sensationalised” claims emerged. Denyer said that he had every intention of suing the publication, employing lawyers from Corrs Chambers Westgarth to argue his case, but a “suitable” settlement was reached outside of court. He noted that the settlement included, “most importantly, a public apology and an admission that the story and headline were false”. Though he said he, his wife Chezzi, and Cornish couldn’t remove the edition from circulation, “we hope this sets a serious precedent for the future”. “Thanks to each and every one of you who have sent us letters, emails and messages of support throughout this, and to all of those who passed on their distain (sic) to New Idea and boycotted the magazine, we thank you from the bottom of our heart,” he continued. “Without your support the 3 of us may not have been brave enough to take on this media giant.” New Idea released the apology earlier on Monday and conveyed its regret in publishing the story. “Are Media and New Idea acknowledge that Grant Denyer and Lily Cornish are not having an extramarital affair. They have never had an affair,” it said. “Are Media and New Idea regret publishing the article. “Are Media and New Idea wish to sincerely apologise to Grant Denyer, Chezzi Denyer and Lily Cornish for the hurt and embarrassment caused by this article.” <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV4nf66Jw2G/?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> <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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV4nf66Jw2G/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Grant Denyer (@grantdenyer)</a> </div> </blockquote> When the story first emerged, the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/grant-and-chezzi-denyer-slam-cheating-rumours" target="_blank">Denyers refuted its claims</a> that Grant was “caught out” with Cornish. “Lilz is like our adopted daughter,” Chezzi said at the time, adding that Cornish was a close friend of both her and Denyer. “We grew extremely close during her month long stay with us here in Bathurst. We absolutely adore her!” Image: Getty Images

News

“It was a shock”: Affair between missing campers confirmed

The sister of Carol Clay - who went missing along with Russell Hill - has spoken out about the secret affair between the pair. She revealed that Ms Clay and Mr Hill had taken multiple trips together to remote campsites prior to the disappearance last year. Ms Clay’s sister Jill shared what she knew about the relationship during an interview with 60 Minutes over the weekend. “I knew that she was going camping, not just on that occasion, but on other occasions,” Jill <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/affair-between-missing-campers-confirmed-in-bombshell-interview/news-story/bd33d5e64fc93b511065db574982ce30" target="_blank">said</a>. “And I knew that she was having the relationships and that they were doing these trips. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845438/clay-russell4.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/358a4d311d4d42f29fea9709552fad2b" /> Ms Clay’s sister, Jill, calls on anyone with information to come forward. Image: 60 Minutes “They had to keep it secret, and in some ways, I feel that that’s why they went to such a remote place.” It appeared that the relationship occurred without Mr Hill’s wife, Robyn, having any knowledge of it until his disappearance was investigated. Mr Hill’s daughters were just as unaware of any relationship between them “It was a shock when the police mentioned something about, do we know a Carol? But that was the first we knew about it,” Colleen, one of Mr Hill’s daughters, told the program. “We didn’t know anything about him and Carol being together.” Sisters Colleen and Carol agreed that knowing their dad wasn’t alone when he disappeared was of some comfort, but that their mum was struggling with the news. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845439/clay-russell5.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4d8ded169b2c499da4b77eaac6ce9c46" /> Mr Hill’s daughters, Colleen (left) and Debbie (right). Image: 60 Minutes “It’s been really hard on mum. Not only losing her husband, but also all the talk about Carol, and so she’s got both, she’s lost her husband and she’s grieving the loss of her relationship,” Colleen said. “It’s been very hard for her to get through both.” Ms Clay’s sister said it was an “extremely difficult” topic to talk about, and that she felt “very sorry (for) Robyn”. “Because she found out two things at one time. One that Russell was missing and two, he was camping with someone else.” Mr Hill and Ms Clay were last seen on March 20, 2020, and police have conducted extensive searches since. Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper believes the bodies of Mr Hill, 74, and Ms Clay, 73, are still within Wonnangatta Valley. On Sunday, police released an image of a blue mid-late 1990s Nissan Patrol towing a trailer that they believe could be crucial in discovering what happened to the couple. Inspector Stamper <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/search-for-russell-hill-and-carol-clay-four-wheel-drive-and-trailer-could-be-the-key-in-the-search-for-missing-victorian-campers/de8db0a2-4ce8-43dd-9d26-48d779e6afa1" target="_blank">said</a> witness statements placed the vehicle in Wonnangatta Valley - and near the campsite - at the same time as Ms Clay and Mr Hill. Police are calling for the driver or any witnesses who may have seen the vehicle to come forward and speak with them. Image: Victoria Police

Relationships

Tracy Grimshaw reflects on her 16-year journey on A Current Affair

Every Monday for the last 16 years, Tracy Grimshaw has welcomed viewers to A Current Affair, which has fast become one of the most incisive public affairs shows in Australian television history. But despite all the accolades and criticism that comes with the job, the host says the first day back is similar to riding a bike - especially after a tumultuous year like 2020. "Last year it was a sprint every day and the year was a marathon," Grimshaw told 9Now. "I think particularly at the start of the pandemic, it was a really critical time for journalism. It was an important time for good journalism. "We had a very tense few months at the start when there was this hunger for information, and we didn't know much about how the virus would pan out. "But towards the end of the year we did a handful of shows where we didn't mention the virus at all. It becomes really organic." Grimshaw began presenting A Current Affair in 2006, replacing Ray Martin as anchor after nine years alongside Steve Liebmann, and later Karl Stefanovic, as the co-host of Today. With the pandemic changing the face of the world in 2020, newsrooms began to switch up their format. "As it started to take hold in March and April there was this massive thirst for information, and for credible information," says Grimshaw. "And that became our job, to try and feed that hunger. Knowledge is power and the more you know the more calm you can be, the less frightened you'll be." A Current Affair is widely known to champion the causes felt by the average Aussie, which is why they were suddenly expected to reveal what is fact and what is fiction when it came to information surrounding the virus. "I think for all of us, it wasn't just about myth busting, even though that is important. I think it all comes under the banner of reliable information. And what we saw last year was an explosion of unreliable information," Grimshaw says. "We had people pushing their own agendas, and it was part of our job to try and cut through what felt like an unwieldy amount of information that was coming in from around the world on the virus. "It was our job to make sure that the people we talked to knew their stuff. That every expert we called literally the best in their field." While much of the year was spent wading through the best – and mostly the worst – of the pandemic, there was still the magic that makes A Current Affair so riveting: from warring neighbours hosing down reporters to dodgy tradies, it was all there.

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