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66-year-old woman reveals why she just gave birth to her 10th child

In a remarkable turn of events, 66-year-old Alexandra Hildebrandt gave birth to her 10th child, a healthy baby boy named Philipp, on March 19 at Charité Hospital in Berlin. The birth, carried out via cesarean section, saw Philipp weighing in at 7 pounds, 13 ounces. Hildebrandt, a well-known human rights activist and the director of Berlin’s Checkpoint Charlie Museum, insists that she conceived naturally, without the aid of fertility drugs, and faced no difficulties during the process. Baby Philipp joins an already large and diverse family, including siblings Svitlana (46), Artiom (36), Elisabeth (12), Maximilian (12), Alexandra (10), Leopold (8), Anna (7), Maria (4), and Katharina (2). Remarkably, eight of these children were born after Hildebrandt turned 53, all during her second marriage to former CDU politician Daniel Dormann. For Hildebrandt, having a big family is both fulfilling and fundamental. “A big family is not only something wonderful, but above all, it is important for raising children properly,” she told The Today Show. Despite her age, she has received only positive feedback from friends and family regarding her pregnancy and childbirth. Dr Wolfgang Henrich, Hildebrandt’s OB/GYN, described her pregnancy as “largely uncomplicated”. However, medical experts caution that pregnancies at such an advanced age come with significant risks. Dr Brian Levine, a fertility specialist based in New York City, notes that the biological likelihood of a woman conceiving naturally at 66 is extremely low. Additionally, the risks of hypertension, gestational diabetes, preterm labor and chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome rise significantly with age. Hildebrandt is not alone in making headlines for late-life motherhood. In 2023, 70-year-old Safina Namukwaya from Uganda gave birth to twins via in vitro fertilisation using donor eggs and her husband’s sperm. Despite concerns about her age, Namukwaya expressed joy at her newfound motherhood, saying that age should not be a barrier to having children. As for Hildebrandt, she credits her lifestyle for her ability to conceive and carry a child at her age. “I eat very healthily, swim regularly for an hour, walk for two hours,” she shared in an interview with Bild. She also noted that she has never smoked, consumed alcohol or used contraceptives. Images: The Today Show

Family & Pets

"No sympathy": 26-year-old roasted over massive tax bill complaint

It’s a classic tale of riches to tax brackets – OnlyFans creator Talia Batiste, 26, has found herself in the fiery depths of an Australian Tax Office reckoning, and the internet has wasted no time serving up a heaping plate of zero sympathy. Batiste, who revealed that she’s been hit with a tax bill totalling $71,008.45 (yes, she included the cents for maximum devastation), took to social media to lament her financial woes. “For everyone that likes to make sure I’m paying my tax. I’m going to go and cry myself to sleep now,” she wrote, presumably while clutching her silk pillow stuffed with $100 bills. The internet’s reaction? Less “thoughts and prayers”, more “play stupid games, win inevitable government-mandated financial responsibilities”. “Absolutely robbery,” one concerned citizen commented, clearly distressed by the idea of anyone having to contribute to society. “To pay that much tax, you earn a sh**load. No sympathy,” another user shot back, presumably while furiously entering their own lacklustre income into a tax return calculator. Some were more pragmatic, offering sage financial wisdom. “I hope you have a good accountant to get you those tax deductions,” someone advised, the unspoken message being: “There’s still hope, young one.” While many scoffed at the idea of crying over a salary that most people only see on TV shows where billionaires buy entire islands for sport, Batiste remained defiant. <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/cry-myself-to-sleep-26yearold-in-tears-over-giant-tax-bill/news-story/7adfcb10f0ea62a1749f4dc6c1b65934" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speaking to news.com.au</a>, she admitted that the bill “wasn’t too bad” compared to the tax nightmares of yesteryear. (Yes, it turns out paying taxes gets easier when you know they’re coming. Who knew?) Batiste revealed that an early accounting blunder had initially classified her as a sole trader rather than a business, making her tax situation about as pleasant as a surprise phone call from the ATO. “So when I make $400,000+ a year, it looks like that is my personal income rather than money going back into a business,” she explained, finally unlocking the ancient wisdom of self-employment taxation. Now, with proper financial advice in place, she says she takes a modest salary while the rest of her earnings go into business expenses – like, presumably, funding the tissue budget for her post-tax breakdowns. Despite her newfound tax strategy, Batiste insists that the process “never gets easier”. (Except for last year, when she owed a whopping $136k, making this year’s bill look like pocket change by comparison.) She also had some words about Australia’s taxation system: “Everybody pays too much tax.” Yes, much like death and bad reality TV spin-offs, taxation is inevitable. But Batiste isn’t letting it get her down – at least, not too much. Even though she says she’s “prepared” for these bills now, that doesn’t mean she enjoys sending her hard-earned money into the great abyss of government spending. “Hitting send on that ATO payment hurts every time,” she said. Meanwhile, taxpayers earning a fraction of her income simply sighed, checked their bank balances, and went back to their regularly scheduled programming: budgeting how to afford avocados and rent in the same month. Images: TikTok

Money & Banking

Shock after baseball champion's 14-year-old son dies while on family holiday

The baseball world is grieving alongside former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner and his family after the tragic and unexpected passing of his 14-year-old son, Miller. Miller Gardner died in his sleep on Friday, March 21, while on holiday with his family. According to a statement released by Brett and his wife, Jessica, through the Yankees organisation, Miller had fallen ill during the trip along with several relatives. The family did not disclose further details about the nature of the illness or their location at the time. “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point,” the grieving parents shared. “Miller was a beloved son and brother, and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile.” Brett and Jessica, who also share an older son, Hunter, requested privacy as they mourn and seek healing. They described Miller as a vibrant and adventurous young boy who had a passion for football, baseball, golf, hunting and fishing. “He lived life to the fullest every single day,” they wrote, adding their gratitude to those who have offered condolences and support. They also extended their thoughts to other families who have suffered similar losses, saying, “We share their grief.” The Yankees, where Brett Gardner spent his entire 14-season Major League Baseball career, also released a heartfelt statement. They described Miller as having “a spark in his eyes, an outgoing and feisty personality, and a warm and loving nature.” “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss,” the team shared on social media. “It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organisation for more than 17 years – so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Statement from Brett and Jessica Gardner: With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. We have so many… <a href="https://t.co/lBCBVmKGUe">pic.twitter.com/lBCBVmKGUe</a> — New York Yankees (@Yankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees/status/1903854341737386272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote> Brett Gardner, now 41, was a key part of the Yankees’ 2009 World Series-winning team and became a fan favourite for his grit and dedication to the game. Messages of love and prayers continue to pour in, a testament to the impact Miller had on those who knew him and to the deep respect held for Brett and his family. Images: X (formerly Twitter)

Caring

Tragic cause of death of 6-year-old Airlie Montgomery revealed

The tragic cause of death of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery, who went missing on Sunday afternoon, has been revealed, with authorities believing she likely died from "misadventure" after a desperate search ended in heartbreak. Airlie, who was autistic and non-verbal, was found in the Shoalhaven River at the base of a nature reserve near The Grotto, a popular cliff-top hiking trail on the New South Wales south coast in North Nowra. She had wandered away from her family home earlier that afternoon, prompting an urgent search effort that concluded when her body was discovered just after 6pm. NSW Police have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding Airlie’s death, and it is being treated as an unfortunate accident. Her tragic loss has left the local community devastated, with Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White describing Nowra as a “town in mourning”. “Words cannot describe how horrible this is,” Mayor White told The Daily Telegraph. “It’s an absolute tragedy.” Neighbours and community members, many of whom participated in the frantic search for Airlie, are struggling to come to terms with the heartbreaking outcome. Cathy, a neighbour of the grieving family and the last person to see Airlie alive, recalled her as a joyful child who often played near her parents’ home. “She was a lovely little thing, non-verbal, but a happy girl always smiling and blowing kisses when she saw you,” Cathy shared with Daily Mail Australia. “Except yesterday she was crying, no one knows why… and then I didn’t see her. She must have gone over the edge above The Grotto.” Airlie’s father, Corey Montgomery, visited North Nowra Public School on Monday to collect his daughter’s belongings, leaving with a bunch of pink flowers in her memory. Her mother, Katie Amess, was too distraught to speak, receiving support from neighbours in the wake of the tragedy. The NSW Department of Education expressed its condolences in a statement, saying it was “deeply saddened” by Airlie’s death. “Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected,” the statement read. “We are providing support to students and staff and will continue to do so for as long as it is needed.” Authorities have confirmed that a report will be prepared for the coroner to determine the exact circumstances of Airlie’s death. As the community mourns, tributes continue to flow for the young girl whose life was tragically cut short. Images: NSW Police

Caring

Tragic end in search for missing six-year-old

A desperate search for a missing six-year-old girl in southern New South Wales ended in tragedy on Sunday after authorities discovered a body in bushland. Airlie Montgomery was reported missing in North Nowra at around 2:15 pm, prompting an urgent police appeal for public assistance. Given her young age and medical conditions, authorities expressed grave concerns for her welfare. The little girl was last seen wearing a hot pink jumpsuit and no shoes, and police launched an extensive search operation to locate her. However, later that afternoon, a body was found in nearby bushland. While formal identification is yet to be completed, police believe the body belongs to the missing child. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death is now underway. NSW Police confirmed that a report will be prepared for the coroner as part of the ongoing inquiry. More details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues. Images: NSW Police

Caring

Devastated mum warns of flu dangers after losing 11-week-old son

A heartbroken mother is pleading with Australians to get vaccinated against the flu this season after losing her 11-week-old son to the virus. Samantha Miller, 37, from Bathurst, NSW, was in the hospital battling her own illness when she received a devastating phone call – her infant son had also fallen ill. By the time he reached the hospital, it was too late. “I came down quite ill, so I ended up in hospital, and then we got a phone call saying he’d been brought into hospital not breathing, and we found out that he’d passed away,” Ms Miller told <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/mothers-harrowing-warning-as-11-weekold-son-dies/news-story/9a453f35136ec6ec0085e10392fd5163" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au.</a> It has been 13 years since her son’s tragic death, but the pain remains fresh. Now, she is using her heartbreaking experience to encourage others to get vaccinated against the flu. “It took a little while to get some autopsy results, but it came back with bronchial pneumonia caused by H1N1 swine flu,” Ms Miller said, describing the loss as an unimaginable shock. Her son had been seen by a paediatrician the day before his death and had shown no serious signs of illness beyond a runny nose. A photo from the night before, showing the baby peacefully asleep on his grandfather’s chest, still haunts her. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my entire life. I would not wish it on anybody … it’s been 13 years and it hurts as if it was yesterday,” she said. Determined to prevent other families from suffering the same heartbreak, Ms Miller is now an advocate for flu vaccinations. “I know what it’s like to lose a child to influenza, and vaccination can help prevent other families from going through what we have been through for the past 13 years,” she said. She believes that there is a lack of education about the importance of vaccinations and the dangers of influenza, leading to misinformation and vaccine hesitancy. “Why are some people pushing for anti-vaccination when the numbers are there? They need to look at the data and get a vaccination. I mean, it’s easy enough … take ten minutes out of your life to get the vaccination,” she urged. Ms Miller also highlighted the strain that preventable illnesses place on the already overwhelmed healthcare system. “Anyone who ends up in hospital is putting a strain on the health services that are already under strain,” she said. With flu season approaching, her message is clear: vaccination saves lives. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can help prevent other families from experiencing the same devastating loss. Images: Courtesy of Samantha Miller

Caring

Family breaks silence after five-year-old son fatally hit by car

The devastated family of five-year-old boy Alby Thompson have remembered him for his "laughter and love". The young boy died after being struck by a four-wheel-drive in Broome, Western Australia about 5.20pm last Thursday. The five-year-old was rushed to Broome Regional Hospital where he later died. His family have issued a statement to the ABC on Wednesday and thanked the community for their “outpouring of love". “It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of our beloved son, Alby, who tragically lost his life in a road accident,” the statement began. “His laughter and love filled our hearts and home. “We kindly request privacy during this period of mourning as we come to terms with this devastating loss. “We thank the community for their outpouring of love and support during this heart-wrenching time.” The 34-year-old driver of the Landcruiser is assisting police with inquiries, and no charges have been laid. Image: 7News

Caring

"Absolutely cooked": Old Sydney home sold for over $4.1 million

A one-storey red brick home in Lane Cove, Sydney has sold for a whopping $4,165,000 at an auction on Saturday. The home, which boasts two bathrooms, a backyard, four bedrooms and a “traditional kitchen” has sold for more than $600,000 over reserve, despite being built between the 1920s-1950s and needing renovation. The home was snapped up by a British family after a fierce bidding war with six other registered buyers. “The people who purchased it were the opening bid. (The bidders) were actively bidding into the high threes, and two of them pushed it above the four mark,” said Sam Lloyd from McGrath Estate Agents. “As far as we know, they will definitely do some work to it to make it their family home.” Lloyd added that there was was “plenty of interest” in the 695 sqm property, with its prime location near the suburb's retail and restaurant precinct. The selling agent said that both himself and the owner were “surprised” by the high price of the property – which had a reserve of $3.5 million. “It was definitely above our expectations” he said. According to Domain, the median house price for a four bedroom home in Lane Cove is $3.505 million. Many expressed their outrage over the "crazy" price online, with freelancer chief executive Matt Barrie saying: “Sydney house prices rapidly approaching $5m. Absolutely cooked." “$4 million for the house, plus another $2-3 million to demolish and rebuild. The reality of living in Australia where even the top one per cent income earners face significant costs for home ownership,” another added. “Our economy is out of control, what a ridiculous price for an average house,” a third wrote. “That’s some crazy pricing! I hear Adelaide is lovely this time of year …” a fourth commented. Image: Domain

Money & Banking

Grieving parents blame hospital over two-year-old's death

Two grieving parents are calling for an independent investigation into a Sydney hospital after the death of their two-year-old son. Elouise and Danny Massa took their son Joe to the emergency department at Northern Beaches Hospital on the morning of September 14th after he had spent the night vomiting. The toddler had hypovolemia, a condition that occurs when the body loses too much fluid, and later tragically died. Joe's parents claim the hospital failed their son "at every level" and he would still be alive if he had received the proper care. In a statement provided to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/grieving-parents-demand-urgent-investigation-into-sydney-hospital-after-death-of-twoyearold-son/a0de6011-adf3-49d2-8206-73ed21331c30" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>, the parents said Joe's heart rate was at 183 beats per minute when they arrived at the emergency department, yet he was misclassified as a low priority, category three patient, instead of red zone, category two. The parents went on to allege that the Northern Beaches hospital missed critical warning signs, including when Joe lost consciousness, and his mother's requests for an IV drip were denied. "I can't tell you what it's like to hold your son in your arms … to be told to sit in your chair while your child is agitated, going in and out of consciousness, lips are turning blue," Mrs Massa told 2GB on Thursday morning. "To be told to wait and have your baby literally dying in your arms is unfathomable and should not be happening at any hospital." For almost three hours, Joe was not hooked up to monitoring equipment while sitting in an emergency department chair. A serious adverse event review conducted by the hospital after Joe's death identified multiple failures, with the report claiming there was a "delay and failure to recognise deterioration" in Joe's condition. Healthscope, which operates the hospital, said in a statement: "Northern Beaches Hospital offers its deepest condolences to the Massa family for the loss of their son, Joe. We recognise Joe's death has caused unimaginable heartache and grief for the family." "We have met with the family to apologise and hear directly about their tragic experience and to discuss the findings of the Serious Adverse Event Review." "We will continue to support the family in any way that we can as we implement the improvements identified in the review, including improvements around triaging processes and internal escalation processes." <div>Joe's mother said no parents should have to go through the pain their family has endured since Joe's untimely death. "Joe was the most beautiful boy, loved by his sister and brother," she said. "He loved dinosaurs. He had the most infectious smile. He was just two months off turning two years old. He was, and is still, the light of our world. The system at Northern Beaches Hospital, the emergency department, entirely failed us at every possible level." Image credits: 9News </div>

Legal

Century-old Anzac memorial damaged

A century-old Anzac memorial has been damaged in northern New South Wales, prompting a police appeal for information from the public. Police were told on Thursday that the marble statue, depicting a soldier, in Walgett Memorial Park, had suffered some damage. Authorities found the statue's arm had been damaged and the marble rifle missing. It's believed the statue was damaged between Monday February 10th and Thursday February 13th. The memorial statue was originally imported to the regional town from France in 1922. Anybody with dashcam footage, CCTV, or information on the vandalism, is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Image credits: Facebook

Legal

91-year-old chases brazen burglar in daylight robbery

A 91-year-old great-grandmother from Brisbane was left shaken and distressed after confronting a brazen burglar who broke into her home in broad daylight, stealing valuable possessions and sentimental items nearly one year to the date of her husband’s passing. Joanna “Jopie” de Loryn, who lives in Holland Park West, had been in her garden on Wednesday when she returned inside to find a man in her lounge room holding her handbag. “I saw him (holding the handbag) and I grabbed it,” de Loryn said. The intruder fled, still clutching onto de Loryn's purse, while the determined grandmother, undeterred by fear, chased after him as he escaped through the front door. “I was yelling at him as he ran off,” she recalled. “I felt mad, I said ‘you bastard’.” Upon returning, shaken, to her bedroom, she discovered that the thief had also taken her jewellery, her watch and her late husband’s old wallet. “My engagement ring ... necklaces my children had given me," <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/elderly-woman-walks-in-on-man-stealing-engagement-ring-on-one-year-anniversary-of-husbands-death--c-17709523" target="_blank" rel="noopener">she told 7News</a>. "They were all of sentimental value,” she said. De Loryn, who lost her husband Bart almost a year ago, spoke of the deep emotional impact of the theft. “Sixty-five years we were married, he was terrific. He was sick the last couple of months (of his life) and I took care of him ... I miss him.” Neighbour Catherine Armes, a young mother, was in her kitchen when she heard de Loryn’s cries and saw the thief fleeing from the property. “I heard Jopie screaming out, and I saw a man running down her back staircase and I just screamed out at him,” Armes told reporters. “Jopie is a pillar of this community, there are people coming and going all the time, but this noise was just different, and I knew straight away that something was not right.” Armes’ father, who resides in a granny flat on the property, attempted to chase down the burglar but lost him shortly after. “(Jopie) was very, very shaken up, you don’t want to see an elderly person in that state because of someone who was so low to target them, it was terrible,” Armes said. “Shame on them, shame on them for doing it to anyone, but for them to do that to an elderly person who can’t defend themselves, I hope you have your tail between your legs, because (you are) scum.” Despite the loss of valuable jewellery and her husband’s keepsake wallet, de Loryn said the most devastating item taken was a note given to her by her son. “In my wallet was a little card that Mark bought for me," she explained. "It said, ‘I’ll stay with you until you go’, it was so nice and that’s what I’d like to have back." After a restless night, de Loryn admitted she is still feeling unsettled by the incident. “It’s not a nice feeling, to have a stranger coming in and taking all your stuff and walking out ... and I don’t know how long he was in my bedroom. I still feel a bit shaky.” Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the robbery to contact police. Images: CCTV / 7 News

Legal

“What is wrong with people?”: Baggage claims photo reignites age-old debate

A single photo of an airport’s baggage claim area has kicked off a heated debate about travel etiquette. A frustrated traveller snapped the image of a crowded luggage carousel at Melbourne Airport and posted it to Reddit, reigniting the age-old debate about one of people’s most annoying habits when going on holiday. "I returned to Melbourne last night on an international full flight, and the lack of self-awareness from some people was astounding," the post read, accompanied by the photo of a crowded baggage claim carousel. "Despite the clear signs instructing passengers to stay behind the yellow line at baggage collection, many ignored them, standing right in front of it," she continued. "As someone who is on the shorter side, I already struggle to see over a 6ft grown man. After taking this photo, two more people stood directly in front of me.” "At that point, I firmly said in a loud voice, 'Stand behind the yellow line; it's there for a reason'. Thankfully, they moved." "Seriously, what is wrong with people? There's plenty of space around – why stand right in front of me? Rude AF!" The post quickly received hundreds of comments, with plenty of people equally baffled by the act and wondering why the selfish act takes over so many people in airports. "Those two are probably the first to stand up and get their carry-on bags out of the overhead compartments as soon as the wheels touch down," one person commented. "You really triggered them with this one. Imagine asking people to be considerate," another said. But others didn't see an issue at all, with one person writing, "I just say 'excuse me' and reach between people to grab my bag. Most people get out of your way." Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Father and four-year-old son killed in Australia Day crash identified

A father who was killed alongside his four-year-old son in a horror car crash on Brisbane's bayside has been identified as Chris Vrbesic. Emergency services were called to Ransome just before 9am on Australia Day, after a blue Holden Commodore collided with a red Mitsubishi Lancer on Rickertt Road at an intersection. Vrbesic, 37, was pronounced dead at the scene and his son was taken to Queensland Children's Hospital, where he died. The driver of the Mitsubishi, a 29-year-old Birkdale man, suffered minor injuries and was helped by bystanders before he was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital for treatment. Vrbesic, from Manly West, has been remembered by his friends and loved ones as a "family man" with a "big heart". A friend who stopped by the crash site told The Courier Mail: “I think you’re going to find this will be one of those tragedies … thousands of people it is going to affect.” "He helped so many people, he had such a big f***ing heart." The father-of-three was a project manager at Innate Developments - a company that specialises in residential and commercial construction. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie shared their condolences for the family, saying: "Any life lost on Queensland roads is one too many and we must do anything we can to ensure safety on our roads." "If it's under police investigation obviously police must investigate the circumstances of what happened but there are communities hurting and families hurting." Police are investigating whether speed was a factor in the collision. Image: LinkedIn

Caring

"Cheeky and playful": Five-year-old remembered after being killed by parking meter

Tributes have poured in for a five-year-old boy who was tragically crushed by a parking meter at a museum in Western Australia. Paramedics were called following reports the five-year-old, known as Sammy, had been critically injured by the disused parking meter outside the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, about 170km south of Perth, on January 15th. Sammy was airlifted to Perth Children’s Hospital where he later died from his injuries. In a statement, Sammy’s family thanked everyone for their support following the death of the young boy who “brought so much joy”. “We are so grateful for the support that we have received from family, friends and the general public,” the family said. “We would also like to acknowledge the support from the staff at the museum, first responders and the care given to Sammy at the BRH and PCH, which was so loving and respectful." “Sammy impacted everyone he met. He was wise beyond his years and brought so much joy with his cheeky, playful nature.” More than $21,000 has been raised by the community for the boy’s family as they come to terms with the tragedy. The GoFundMe campaign was set up to help with ongoing expenses “during this difficult time”. “This tragedy has deeply impacted those who know and love this family, as well as the hospital staff, colleagues, friends, and community members who have been involved,” the GoFundMe campaign said. “No family should have to face such heartbreak while also worrying about financial burdens. Let’s come together as a community and show this family they are not alone." A spokesman for WorkSafe WA previously told media the boy had been hit by a disused parking meter in a courtyard at the Bunbury Museum, not the parking area. City of Bunbury chief executive Alan Ferris told the ABC the city would work closely with authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident, as an investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Image credits: Nine

Caring

"29-year-old child": Footy great slams Nick Kyrgios

AFL Premiership winner Kane Cornes has slammed Nick Kyrgios after the tennis superstar has been making headlines for his Australian Open exit. There have been plenty of stories about the tennis player's fitness and his future in the sport, and Cornes, who is now one of the most outspoken members of the sporting media has had enough of the Kyrgios drama. “I just feel we talk about this guy too much,” Cornes began on SEN 1116 radio. “I understand why, but he’s absolutely dominated the headlines in the last two-to-three weeks in the lead-up to the Australian Open. “That’s not unusual, that happens, and we’re not going to hear the last of him. “I feel like his role in the game will be significant whether he’s playing or not because he is box office. “And despite him being our most disappointing Australian athlete ever, he will still have a role to play because people are interested in him.” “This is a guy who sits there and criticises everyone else,” Cornes continued. “He sits on his high horse and criticises everyone, be that ball kids, line judges, other opponents. “Look at the class which Roger Federer or other players with a similar level of talent as Nick carried themselves. “He’s a child. He’s a 29-year-old child. The way that he carries himself, the ambassador that he’s been, put all that in the mix, I think no one has disappointed more. “No one has been spoken about more with less results than this guy over a long period of time. “Yet still, here we are, and I get it and it’s a credit to him that people are interested in him, that we’re still talking about him.” Kyrgios has hit back at the comments on X, saying that Cornes' criticism was unfounded. "Gotta love comments from an athlete who didn't play a global sport," he posted. Social media users were quick to share their own opinions on disappointing athletes in response to Cornes' comments, with one person writing: “He’s not even the most disappointing tennis player. Tomic has him well covered.” Another sports fan said: “Cmon guys... Nick is Nick but that Raygun could not even be defined as an athlete so she leads the list of ‘international disgraces’ and its daylight to second, whoever that may be.” However others backed Kyrgios, with one writing: “Nick has played in an era where there are 3 absolute legends of the game who have dominated and he’s beaten all 3 something no one else has managed to do!! Wake up you clowns comparing Nick to Raygun, Ben Simmons, Tomic, Jarryd Hayne etc absolute disgrace you guys are!” Image: Channel 7/ Rachel Bach/Shutterstock Editorial

Retirement Life

Woolies shopper shocked by 15-year-old grocery receipt

A Woolworths shopper has been left stunned after unearthing a 15-year-old grocery receipt and comparing what the same order would cost today. Amy Coulston took to TikTok after finding her mum's grocery receipt from January 14th 2010 and decided to do a comparison to 2025 supermarket prices. "It's been 15 years since this shopping trip and I wanted to see the difference in price from then and now," she said. "I added in as much as I possibly could (but) there's brands on here that just don't exist anymore." The overall price for 30 items, which included chicken pies, salami, cereal and a DVD of the Pixar animated film Up, came to $127.26 in 2010. She looked for all the same items, or close comparisons, on the Woolworths website and the January 2025 bill came to $170.45. <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/DEopeK3yGWq/?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/DEopeK3yGWq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Amy │ Aussie Side Hustles 📲 (@amycoul.money)</a> </div> </blockquote> "That's an increase of 35 per cent," Ms Coulston said. While many people took to her comment section to say the price comparison wasn't as significant as they thought it would be, others took another factor into consideration. "A 35 per cent (increase) over (that) period isn't actually that bad. It's the fact that the product is shrinking as the price goes up," they wrote. While Ms Coulston did not claim that all, or even most, of the products had shrunk in size over time, she did mention one popular treat in particular. "There's definitely a lot of discrepancies on here when it comes to things getting smaller, so for example, the Turkish Delights were 55 grams and now they're 50 grams," she said. One commenter spoke for many, though, in pointing out a glaring detail in the most recent shop. "It doesn't seem like a big increase over that period of time. The majority of the increase was over the last two years!" they wrote. "Like cheese prices didn't gradually increase, they just jumped from 6 dollars to 10 dollars overnight." Image credits: Woolworths / TikTok

Money & Banking

19-year-old dies after battle with rare genetic condition

TikTok star Beandri Booysen has died at the age of 19, her mother confirmed in a heartbreaking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19b59a3bfL/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tribute</a>. Booysen died following a battle with Progeria – a rare genetic condition that causes children to age prematurely. According to the Mayo Clinic, children battling the condition typically have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. In a tribute shared to Facebook, her mother said that Booysen was "one of South Africa's most beloved and inspiring young women" and said she "radiated hope and joy" despite her battle. "In Loving Memory of Beandri Booysen," the post began. "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beandri Booysen, one of South Africa's most beloved and inspiring young women." The 19-year-old had more than 278,000 followers on her original TikTok account, becoming a symbol of awareness for the rare genetic condition and inspiring people worldwide. "Beandri was not only known for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh but also as the last surviving individual in South Africa living with Progeria – a rare genetic condition that causes children to age prematurely. "Despite the challenges she faced, Beandri radiated hope and joy. She became a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs, using her unique spirit to inspire thousands of people worldwide." "The Booysen family kindly requests privacy during this profoundly difficult time as they mourn the loss of their beloved Beandri. Further details regarding the memorial service will be shared in due course," she added. Followers were quick to share their condolences to her heartbroken family, with one writing: "So sad. What an inspiration she was. Fly high with the angels sweet girl." "Rest in peace and without pain Beandri," another added. Images: Facebook

Caring

Police ramp-up desperate search for missing 8 year old

NSW Police have ramped up their search for missing eight-year-old Molly Noonan-Medley, who was reported missing seven weeks ago. The child was last seen in Woonona, south of Sydney, about 11am on October 31st. Police believe Molly is with an adult who is known to her. Officers attached to Wollongong Police District were notified on November 1st of Molly's disappearance and immediately commenced an investigation to locate the child, after attempts to contact the adult were unsuccessful. In a statement on Monday, NSW Police said they were re-appealing to the public for any information to help find the child, almost seven weeks after Molly was first reported missing. Molly is described as caucasian appearance, 120cm, thin build, blue eyes and blond/brown hair. The woman believed to be in company with Molly is known to frequent the Woonona, Wollongong and Huskisson areas, a NSW Police spokesperson said. Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to contact Wollongong Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Image credits: NSW Police

Caring

Midwife turns comedian at the grand old age of 62!

At an age when many are settling into retirement, Sarah Stewart decided to rewrite the script of her life – literally and figuratively. After decades as a midwife, wife and mother, the 62-year-old has gone from delivering babies to delivering punchlines by taking to the stage as a stand-up comedian, proving that it’s never too late to pursue a dream. With a sharp wit and an abundance of life experience, she’s been blowing audiences away with her hilarious and heartfelt reflections on family, ageing and the absurdities of modern life. But her journey to comedy hasn’t been without its challenges. Juggling her blossoming career with personal trials – including her husband’s battle with cancer – Sarah has had to navigate the delicate balance between ambition and devotion. Through it all, she’s maintained a fierce determination to follow her passion and inspire others. We sat down with Sarah to discuss the triumphs and setbacks of chasing a dream later in life, and her upcoming plans to take her one-woman show, Midwife Crisis, to new heights: “When I hit 60 a couple of years ago, I had a sudden thought: ‘Gosh! Death is just around the corner!’ “Okay, that’s a bit dramatic, but as you get older, you start to reflect on all the things you have always wanted to do but never achieved and realise that now is the time to do it before it is too late. “In my case, I had always wanted to become an actress but with being a wife, mother and an on-call midwife, over the years I had lost touch with my artistic side. I know it sounds like a horrible cliché but when I turned 60 I realised now was the time for me to reconnect with my creative soul, follow my dreams and put me first in my life for a change. “In 2020 I thought I would explore the possibility of becoming a comedian. I completed a couple of comedy courses and took part in a few open mics in Canberra. I discovered I have an ability to make people laugh, especially when talking about the highs and lows of being a wife for 40 years, wrangling grown-up kids who refuse to leave home, dishing the goss on being a midwife, and reflecting on the ageing process and how I’m preparing for my funeral. “Only 20 percent of women are comedians, and very few are over the age of 60. Thus, I have found a performance niche and an audience of the over 60s, especially women, with whom my material really resonates. I regularly have people say what a positive role model I am ‘at my age’! My unspoken response is I’d rather be doing comedy than spending all my time baby-sitting snotty grandchildren! “Over the last couple of years, I’d been building to debut my solo show ‘Midwife Crisis’ at the Australian Festival of Arts in Townsville in October 2024. But in May 2024, my husband Mark was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer. “He went through a course of intensive chemotherapy and was scheduled for surgery in the middle of September. I didn’t know what to do; cancel my show straight away, or hang on while we waited to see the outcome of Mark’s surgery? “Obviously, my priority was to support my husband but at the same time I was gutted that I might miss this opportunity to achieve a goal that I had worked so hard for. “At the age of 62 these openings do not arise in the same way as they do for comedians in their 30s. To make matters ‘worse’, the two shows quickly sold out, so it looked like I had an instant success on my hands. “Mark had extensive but successful surgery on the 18th of September, and with the assistance of our son and Mark’s fabulous friends, I was able to go to Townsville and do my shows knowing Mark was being looked after at home. Our beautiful daughter who lives in Townsville did an amazing job of supporting me and resisting the temptation of rolling her eyes at how crazy her mother is. “Today, Mark has finished his last course of post-surgery chemotherapy and at the moment he is cancer-free. We don’t know what the future holds for us. That being said, another one of my favourite clichés is ‘onwards and upwards’. And so I am taking ‘Midwife Crisis’ to the Adelaide Fringe Festival in February 2024 and I am hoping I will be able to tick off another bucket list item, which is performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2026. “That’s as long as I don’t suddenly get snotty grandchildren to look after!!” Sarah is performing her Midwife Crisis show at the Adelaide Fringe Festival from Friday 21 – Sunday 23 February 2025, 2pm and 6pm. For more info and to book tickets, check out <a href="https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/midwife-crisis-af2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/midwife-crisis-af2025</a> Images: Supplied

Retirement Income

Couple accused of faking six-year-old child's cancer

South Australian couple has been arrested after allegedly faking their child’s cancer diagnosis. A man and woman, both aged 44, allegedly requested donations to fund ongoing medical treatments for their six-year-old child. They even allegedly shaved their child's head, eyebrows and placed them in a wheelchair with bandages to imitate the effects of cancer treatment, but their child was healthy. “Our investigation has confirmed the child is not seeking medical treatment,” Acting Assistant Commissioner John DeCandia said. “We believe this farce illness is causing significant and serious psychological harm to the child and their sibling.” The pair allegedly received around $60,000 in donations over a two-week period. The allegations were first reported to police on November 26, with the couple being arrested and charged with two counts of criminal neglect and deceiving another to benefit self on Friday, according to SA Police. Both of the couple's children have been removed from their custody and are now staying with a relative. The parents were refused bail and will appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on Friday. Anyone who may have donated money or has further information have also been asked to contact police. Image: Shutterstock

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