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Royals issue heartfelt statement after Bondi attack

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a heartfelt message to the victims and survivors of the deadly <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stabbing attack</a> at Westfield Bondi Junction on Saturday. William and Kate took to Instagram to share the statement, after six people were killed and 12 others injured following the violent attack. "We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Sydney earlier today," the royals wrote on Saturday. "Our thoughts are with all those affected, including the loved ones of those lost and the heroic emergency responders who risked their own lives to save others." Tributes have also poured in for the other victims, who were tragically killed in the attack. Dawn Singleton, 25, was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/i-am-so-heartbroken-tributes-flow-for-bride-to-be-stabbing-victim" target="_blank" rel="noopener">planning her wedding </a>at the time of the stabbing, and was shopping for make-up before she was tragically killed by Joel Cauchi. “Dawn, I should be writing your wedding speech, but instead I sit here sobbing,” her friend Jade O’Connor wrote on Facebook. “This year you were meant to get married to the love of your life — I’m so heartbroken and (I) can’t believe this reality.” Ashlee Good, 38, died protecting her baby girl from Cauchi, after passing her injured 9-month-old to bystanders. Her family have said that they were "reeling from the terrible loss of Ashlee, a beautiful mother, daughter, sister, partner, friend, all-round outstanding human and so much more". Faraz Tahir, 30, a security guard working at the shopping centre, reportedly started his first day shift at the centre on the day that he was murdered. “It’s very tragic news — this is something which you don’t expect at all,” his friend Adnan Qadir told Sunrise. “It is hard for me to fathom he was with me 72 hours before the tragedy and then we lost him in such circumstances.” “He was a great guy — he keeps other people’s interests ahead of his own. “Had a lot of ambition for his future ... Just settling into his new country. “He was looking forward to a stable career, to make a family up here. It is just sad how it all ended up," Qadir said. Images: Getty/ Instagram

Caring

“I hate him for what he did to my mummy”: Tragic statement from daughter of slain 23-year-old

Queenslander Gabrielle "Gabbie" Marshall, 23, moved to Tasmania to build a new life and hoped to be reunited with her daughter in the future. Her killer, Colin William Drake, 37, lived on the same street just 230m away, and would later on stab her in a frenzied attack while she slept on the floor of her friend’s house in the coastal town of Ulverstone. Although Drake had no clear motive for the attack on June 14, 2021, he had been arrested and appeared in the Supreme Court of Tasmania on Wednesday after pleading guilty to murder. The Crown prosecutor Linda Mason SC, said that Gabbie suffered 17 stab wounds to her neck, arms and hands, in a desperate act to defend herself. In heartbreaking turn of events, Gabbie's parents Heidi and Rick Marshall paid tribute to their young daughter in court. “I saw two men approaching (our house) in suits. I knew they were detectives,” Heidi recalled the moment she found out about her daughter's death. “I instantly knew something had happened to Gabrielle and my heart just broke.” Heidi said that Gabbie felt the safest in Tasmania, after getting out of a bad relationship and would call her parents every night to tell them she loved them. “Before her death she was the happiest she had ever been,” Gabbie's dad said. “Just like that she was gone,” Heidi said. “You never think anything like this would happen to your family.” Gabbie's daughter, who was six at the time, was playing on the deck when the detectives arrived and overheard the conversation. She "still sleeps with one of Gabbie’s jumpers,” Heidi said. Gabbie's daughter, who continues to live with her grandparents, has written a heart-wrenching statement which was also read in court. “When I hug my mummy’s jumper at night I get to talk to her,” the statement read. “(She) won’t be there to see me finish school. I hate him very much for what he did to my mummy.” The court was told that Drake, who is set to be sentenced in December, has a mild intellectual disability and a low IQ, sitting at the bottom 0.4 per cent of the population. The Crown prosecutor said that there were several possible motives including sexual jealousy, desire, or that he entered the house to steal something. She added that this is due to the sexualised comments he had made about women he saw while walking with his carer a few weeks prior. He had no connection with Gabbie or her friend. Defence lawyer Greg Barns SC said Drake had indicated to his legal advisers that he had remorse, and maintained that he went to the house to get cigarettes. Images: 7News

Caring

Details of Erin Patterson's police statement around fatal mushroom meal revealed

The woman who prepared a mushroom meal that is believed to have caused the deaths of three individuals has finally disclosed her full account of the events that transpired. According to a written statement submitted to Victoria Police on Friday August 11 – and exclusively <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-14/mushroom-poisoning-leongatha-erin-patterson-police-statement/102725876" target="_blank" rel="noopener">obtained by the ABC</a> – Erin Patterson has provided a comprehensive narrative of the incidents leading up to and following the fatal meal. "I am now wanting to clear up the record because I have become extremely stressed and overwhelmed by the deaths of my loved ones," Ms Patterson said in her statement. "I am hoping this statement might help in some way. I believe if people understood the background more, they would not be so quick to rush to judgement. I am now devastated to think that these mushrooms may have contributed to the illness suffered by my loved ones. I really want to repeat that I had absolutely no reason to hurt these people whom I loved." The tragic incident occurred in Leongatha, a town southeast of Melbourne, where Ms. Patterson's mother and father-in-law, Don and Gail Patterson, as well as Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, lost their lives after consuming lunch at Ms. Patterson's residence on July 29. Heather's husband, Ian Wilkinson, was left in critical condition. The circumstances surrounding the incident have led to speculation within the South Gippsland community, with heightened curiosity as police have been tight-lipped about their ongoing investigation. Authorities have mentioned that the victims displayed symptoms consistent with the consumption of death cap mushrooms. Although Ms. Patterson was initially treated as a suspect, investigators have maintained an open-minded approach to the case. In her statement, Ms. Patterson expressed regret for following the advice to give a "no comment" interview to the police in the immediate aftermath of the deaths. She admitted that she now wishes she had answered some questions, given the nightmare that has unfolded since. The police interview left Ms. Patterson feeling terrified and anxious. She recounted that on the day of the incident, she prepared a beef wellington meal for herself and her elderly guests. Contrary to earlier reports, Ms. Patterson clarified that her children had actually gone to the movies before lunch and were not present during the meal. According to her statement, she served the meal and allowed her guests to select their own plates. She then had a serving of beef wellington herself. The mushrooms used in the dish were a mixture of button mushrooms from a major supermarket chain and dried mushrooms purchased months earlier from an Asian grocery store in Melbourne. Ms. Patterson disclosed that her children consumed the leftovers the next evening. Notably, they do not like mushrooms, so she had removed the mushrooms from their portions. She revealed that she had also suffered from severe stomach pains and diarrhoea after the lunch, leading her to be hospitalised as well. She was administered a liver protective drug via a saline drip and was transferred to Monash Medical Centre in Melbourne. As her guests fell ill, the Department of Health contacted Ms. Patterson to inquire about the possible cause of the adverse reactions. She provided samples of the leftover meal for examination by hospital toxicologists. She also mentioned sharing information about where she purchased the mushrooms but was unable to pinpoint the specific shop in Melbourne. Addressing media reports about the seizure of a food dehydrator at a local tip, Ms. Patterson admitted that she had initially lied to investigators about disposing of the dehydrator. She stated that she panicked due to concerns about her children's custody and discarded it. In her statement, she acknowledged caring for her estranged husband, Simon Patterson, after he suffered a severe stomach illness unrelated to the current incident. She reluctantly nursed him after his hospital discharge and informed him that she did not wish to reconcile. She clarified that Simon had initially intended to attend the fatal lunch but had informed her of his absence prior to the event. Ms. Patterson expressed deep affection and respect for her parents-in-law and highlighted their positive influence on her children. She offered her willingness to assist the police further, including the possibility of a re-interview. The police investigation into the deaths remains ongoing, and Ms. Patterson has indicated her readiness to cooperate. Images: Facebook / A Current Affair

Legal

Family horrified by police statement on tasering of Clare Nowland

The family of 95-year-old Clare Nowland, who tragically passed away after being tasered at an aged care home in regional NSW, have been shown distressing new details of the incident that were revealed in a police officer's court briefing. Senior Constable Kristian White, who served in the NSW Police Force for 12 years, was charged in connection with the tasering incident that resulted in the injury of Nowland at the Yallambee Lodge aged care home in Cooma in May. He has been suspended from duty since the incident and faces charges of recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault. According to the police statement of facts, White allegedly made the statement, "See you are going to get tasered," to Nowland after activating a warning arc, which demonstrated the electrical arc produced by the device. He purportedly then followed this with the words, "Clare stop." At the time, Nowland was holding a knife and was positioned approximately two metres away from another officer. White then allegedly uttered, "Stop just... na bugger it," before deploying the taser. As a result, Nowland, still clutching her walking frame, fell backwards and hit her head forcefully on the wooden floor. Upon being taken to Cooma Hospital, it was discovered that Nowland had suffered an inoperable brain bleed, which ultimately led to her passing. The standard operating procedures of the NSW Police explicitly state that the taser should not be used against elderly or disabled individuals unless there are extraordinary circumstances. Following a bail hearing at the Supreme Court, the family of Nowland received a copy of the police facts sheet, which was subsequently released to the public. They have requested privacy and space as they process the provided information, as expressed by their solicitor, Sam Tierney, who described the facts alleged against White as "extremely confronting and shocking". As part of the conditions set during Tuesday's bail hearing, White is required to maintain good behaviour, attend court as directed, and refrain from contacting Nowland's family or prosecution witnesses, except through legal representation. These conditions were not contested by White or his legal team. No plea has been entered for any of the charges against White, and the case is scheduled to be heard again at Cooma Local Court on September 6. Images: NSW Police

Caring

Damning first draft of Clare Nowland statement found

New documents have brought forth allegations that the NSW police force removed key elements in their initial statement regarding the death of 95-year-old Clare Nowland. <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/clare-nowland-dies-officer-charged">The mother-of-eight passed away</a> in Cooma Hospital on May 24, one week after <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/furious-response-to-95-yr-old-woman-tasered-by-police">she was tasered by a police officer</a> at her Yallambee Lodge aged care facility. Nowland had reportedly been approaching law enforcement with her walking frame and a steak knife when she was tasered, before she fell backwards and fractured her skull. In the wake of the incident, Police Commissioner Karen Webb reportedly approved a 71-word press release - one that made no mention of the knife, the taser, or even Nowland’s movements. “A critical incident investigation has been launched after an elderly woman sustained injuries during an interaction with police at an aged care facility in the state’s south today,” it read. “The 95-year-old woman was taken to Cooma District Hospital, where her condition is being monitored. A critical incident team will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. That investigation will be subject to independent review. “No further details are available at this time.” However, ‘new’ documents - obtained by the Australian Associated Press under Freedom of Information laws - have revealed that there was another draft, 100 words longer than the released statement, that mentions those key aspects of the case. According to the Sydney Morning Herald - who obtained the internal emails regarding the statement - that draft had been sent to NSW Police Executive Director of Public Affairs Elizabeth Deegan for review, but had been cut by more than half mere hours later, leading the SMH to run with the headline "<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/top-nsw-cops-covered-up-tasering-of-clare-nowland-20230621-p5di67.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Top NSW cops covered up Tasering of Clare Nowland</a>". The original 171-word document made mention of the reports that a Yallambee Lodge resident had a knife, and noted that two officers had arrived to find a woman “still armed … in a small room”. “Police and paramedics attempted to speak to the woman; however, all instructions were ignored,” it continued. “When she stood up and moved towards officers, a taser was deployed by a constable.” It explained that the woman had received treatment from paramedics at the scene, leaving room for information on her condition. It even mentioned that the officer who had deployed the taser was under review. Commissioner Webb defended the decision to edit their original draft while speaking to 2GB’s Ben Fordham, denying that the police force had hidden anything when she told him that “early in the investigation it was necessary for us to make sure that the family were aware of what the circumstances were. “Mrs Nowland has a large family and we didn’t want that family to hear on the radio on TV what had happened to their mum, and so we had to be a bit sensitive to that, and when we were able to talk about it we did.” She added that it was “a very sensitive matter”, and that it was an “unusual” circumstance with everyone seeking answers, but that “it’s appropriate we think about and respect that family, and certainly they deserve that. “It was important that the family were informed of the situation in a factual manner before we went public on it - I think that’s very necessary and I’m sure that family appreciates that now.” Images: 9News / Nine

Legal

Ambulance report contradicts Daniel Andrews’ car crash statement

A newly discovered ambulance report has contradicted Daniel Andrews’ statement about a 2013 car accident on the Mornington Peninsula that almost killed a teenager. The Victorian premier was being driven by his wife Catherine in their family Ford Territory when it collided with a bike being ridden by 15-year-old Ryan Meuleman. The incident occurred near the Melbourne Rd and Ridley St intersection in Blairgowrie around 1:30pm on January 7, 2013. Meuleman suffered a punctured lung, broken ribs, internal bleeding and was left with just 10 per cent of his spleen. He was in The Royal Children’s Hospital for 11 days. Mrs Andrews wasn’t breathalysed following the accident, and the teen wasn’t given a chance to give a statement to police. Mr Andrews and his wife have held up their claims that Mueleman was at fault as the premier told reporters in 2017 that the teen was “moving at speed” when he “absolutely T-boned the car”. However, a document obtained by the Herald Sun, put together by Ambulance Victoria paramedics who were present at the scene, challenges the couple’s claims that they came to a “complete stop” and “turned right from a stationary position” moments before the collision. The “Patient Care Report” reads, 15YO on bike. Struck on L side by car travelling 40 to 60kmh … PT onto bonnet, then onto windscreen which cracked on impact … thrown onto roadway.” The document has only now been uncovered as Mr Mueleman, now 25, has escalated legal action. Speaking to the Herald Sun, barrister Daryl Dealehr said, “The serious injuries to the left side of Ryan’s body and the observations made by the ambulance officers who attended the crash are completely inconsistent with the claims to police made by Mr Andrews and his wife that their vehicle was travelling at a low speed,” “The evidence appears completely at odds with what Daniel and Catherine Andrews have been claiming since the collision.” The outlet reported in late 2022, before the November state election, that Meuleman had contacted lawyers to re-examine the accident and the circumstances surrounding the investigation and legal settlement that followed. The ambulance report was not in the files that were originally handed over by law firm Slater & Gordon. According to the Herald Sun, The Meuelemans are seeking pre-trial discovery against the law firm and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) in an attempt to uncover any further “missing” documents. After the accident, Mueleman was paid $80,000 by the TAC, though his family have raised “concerns” over the proceedings. The teen’s parents insist they never engaged Slater & Gordon, a Labor-aligned law firm, to represent their son while the firm refuses to reveal what led to its involvement. “I hadn’t seen this report until a week ago,” Mueleman told the Herald Sun. “The lawyers never showed it to me. They just told me to agree to the deal and kind of, you know, shut up. I was 15 years old, mate. I was a kid. Seriously, I was 15. I am pretty blown away to be honest. I just wish I had it to show everyone 10 years ago. It would have changed everything. People would have known that they hit me, not the other way around.” In 2017, the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission examined the police response to the crash, including failing to use a breathalyser after the crash. Mr Andrews and his wife were not formally interviewed until nearly a month after the incident. In November 2017, uncovered police photographs obtained by the saw the extent of damage to the vehicle. In his signed statement on February 2013, the Premier said, “We had turned right from a stationary position into Ridley St. Moments after we turned, a cyclist collided heavily with the side of our vehicle … the cyclist was travelling at speed and hit our car at a perfect right angle very heavily. I want to make it clear — the cyclist hit our vehicle.” In the statement, Mrs Andrews said, “I turned from Melbourne Rd after coming to a complete stop … just after we turned into Ridley St our car was struck heavily on the front driver’s side by a cyclist who it seems was attempting to cross Ridley St at speed from the bike path.” In a press conference in November, shortly after Mr Mueleman's new claims were revealed, Mr Andrew rejected several questions from reporters. “I’ve got nothing further to say,” he said. A spokesperson for the Premier said that the matter had been "dealt with" by Tourism Minister Steve Dimopoulos at a press conference that morning. “This is over a decade old,” Mr Dimopoulos told reporters. “The most appropriate authorities have investigated this thoroughly and have made no adverse findings. Beyond that, the Premier himself has answered questions on this almost as many times as he’s answered questions on Covid. This has been thoroughly examined and I really don’t have any more to say.” Image credit: Getty

News

"Chris is at rock bottom": Chris Smith releases statement after Christmas party furore

Chris Smith has apologised for his actions towards female colleagues at a work Christmas party, after <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/chris-smith-suspended-after-christmas-party-allegations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">allegations emerged</a> he acted inappropriately towards staff. The Sky News and 2GB host released a statement apologising for how he behaved, and revealed he has checked himself into a mental health facility. He blamed alcohol addiction and bipolar disorder for his actions: the same excuse the veteran broadcaster used when he was called out for inappropriate conduct at a 2GB Christmas party 13 years ago. Following the allegations of misconduct at this year's Sky News Christmas Party, Smith was suspended by Sky and 2GB, and his nutritionist wife Susie Burrell was seen walking out of their family home. In a statement released on Monday afternoon, Smith apologised for his behaviour and said the incidents at the party did not reflect his behaviour at work. "I am beyond gutted and devastated to know I have upset my colleagues after our Christmas party," Smith said. "I apologise profusely to the women I upset. That's not the man I am at work, ever, as they will all attest. They have been so supportive to me and do not deserve such drunken treatment." Smith blamed the incident on bipolar disorder and alcohol addiction, saying, "I have a recurring problem with alcohol... it sends me manic." "I am in a facility receiving professional help to deal conclusively with my abuse of alcohol and solve this once and for all, without qualification… it can and will be done," he said. "I am also terribly upset about humiliating myself with people I respect and admire. I have been blessed to call them close colleagues." "I pride myself on my professionalism and work ethic but I have dropped the ball and embarrassed many people including those I love most - my family. I am very sorry." Image credits: Instagram

News

Toni Collette forced to edit statement announcing divorce

Toni Collette has edited her statement announcing her divorce from husband David Galafassi after explosive images of him kissing another woman surfaced. The Aussie actress, 50, took to Instagram to confirm that she and husband Galafassi, 44, have broken up after photos emerged of him making out with another woman. However, just a few days later, Collette was forced to edit her statement to explain that she and Galafassi had been separated for a “substantial period”. Her new statement reads: “After a substantial period of separation, it is with grace and gratitude that we announce we are divorcing. “We’re united in our decision and part with continuing respect and care for each other. “Our kids are of paramount importance to us and we will continue to thrive as a family, albeit a different shape. <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/Cl3-GTgBYtF/?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/Cl3-GTgBYtF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by TONI COLLETTE (@toni_collette_official)</a> </div> </blockquote> “We’re thankful for the space and love you grant us as we evolve and move through this transition peacefully. “Big thanks.” Collette’s shock statement came less than 24 hours after the paparazzi images were published in the Daily Mail. The pair share two children together, aged 14 and 11, and split their time between Australia and the United States. They first met back in 2002 at the launch of Galafassi’s band Gelbison's debut album Metal Detector in Sydney. They ran into each other again a few days later and Collette said “he was the first person I saw when I walked in the door”. “He kissed me on the cheek and I just kind of melted. I planned to stay for ten minutes… I was there for 12 hours. It was a good day,” she said at the time. Images: Getty

Relationships

"Our extraordinary Queen": William's first statement as new Prince of Wales

Prince William has shared a statement following the death of Queen Elizabeth, reflecting on her special relationship with her great-grandchildren. The heir apparent released the emotional statement two days after the death of the monarch, honouring the Queen's life both professionally and personally. The king-to-be began the acknowledgement by saying "the world lost an extraordinary leader" with an "absolute" to commitment to the people she governed. The new Prince of Wales focused on his familial loss, and how the royal family are dealing with their grief. "On Thursday, the world lost an extraordinary leader, whose commitment to the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth was absolute. So much will be said in the days ahead about the meaning of her historic reign," the royal wrote. "I, however, have lost a grandmother. And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen's wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade." The Duke of Cornwall went on to honour the role Her Majesty played in his wife Catherine's life, and the lives of his three children, Prince Louis, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. "My wife has had twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives." The emotional tribute recalled how the Queen, or "Grannie" to William, remained a pillar for the duke throughout his key life experiences. "She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life. I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real." The 40-year-old prince ended his statement with a final emotional display of gratitude for the longest-serving monarch. "I thank her for the kindness she showed my family and me. And I thank her on behalf of my generation for providing an example of service and dignity in public life that was from a different age, but always relevant to us all. "My grandmother famously said that grief was the price we pay for love. All of the sadness we will feel in the coming weeks will be testament to the love we felt for our extraordinary Queen. "I will honour her memory by supporting my father, The King, in every way I can." Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

New evidence found as Madeleine McCann's parents release statement

The German prosecutor in charge of Madeleine McCann’s case has alluded to “new evidence” in relation to the young girl’s disappearance 15 years ago to the day. Christian Brueckner has been officially declared the first formal suspect in the case - years after Madeleine’s parents were also considered suspects but were cleared in 2008. In a televised interview, Prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters indicated there is new evidence linking Brueckner to Madeline’s murder but stopped short of revealing any more. “We are sure that he is the murderer of Madeleine McCann. We are sure that he killed Madeleine McCann,” he said. “The investigation is still going on and I think we found some new facts, some new evidence – not forensic evidence, but evidence.” The potential incriminating evidence comes 15 years to the day that Madeleine disappeared on May 3, 2007, with her parents Kate and Gerry McCann releasing a statement. “This year we mark 15 years since we last saw Madeleine. It feels no harder than any other but no easier either,” the statement read. “It’s a very long time. Many people talk about the need for closure. It’s always felt a strange term. “Regardless of outcome, Madeleine will always be our daughter and a truly horrific crime has been committed. These things will remain.” Brueckner, 45, is currently serving seven years for raping a 72-year-old woman, and is being probed over the 2004 rape of a second woman and sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl at Praia da Luz a month before Madeleine disappeared Image: Getty

Legal

Prince Charles makes rare statement on Ukraine conflict

<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; display: block;"> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> In a stunning break from protocol, Prince Charles – a senior member of the royal family, which traditionally remains neutral on such matters – has made a rare statement concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Russia's invasion of Ukraine is an attack on freedom and democracy,” said Queen Elizabeth II’s eldest son and heir. Prince Charles spoke out as he visited Southend-on-Sea, where in October last year local MP David Amess was stabbed to death as he met constituents at a weekly public meeting. He described Amess' death as "an attack on democracy … on open society, on freedom itself". "We are seeing those same values under attack today in Ukraine in the most unconscionable way," he said in a speech to mark Southend officially gaining city status. "In the stand we take here, we are in solidarity with all those who are resisting brutal aggression." Last weekend, Charles' eldest son Prince William and his wife Catherine sent a personal message of support to the people of Ukraine. In a tweet, they recalled meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife in October 2020, and hearing of their "hope and optimism" for the country. "Today we stand with the President and all of Ukraine's people as they bravely fight for that future," they added. *embed tweet Prince Harry and Meghan sent their own message from the United States last week. "We stand with the people of Ukraine," they wrote on the website of their charitable organisation Archewell, calling Russia's invasion a "breach of international and humanitarian law". Image: Getty </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Caring

Five key details in Prince Andrew’s statement after settlement

Content warning: This article mentions child abuse and sexual assault.After <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/prince-andrew-s-latest-claims-in-lawsuit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multiple attempts</a> to dismiss the case, Prince Andrew has announced that he has reached a settlement with the woman who accused him of sexually assaulting her.The royal <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/royals/five-bombshells-from-prince-andrews-statement-after-court-settlement/news-story/799f5025889e415519cef01530fb0467" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced the settlement</a> in a joint letter with Virgina Roberts Guiffre just weeks before he was due to appear in court and face top US lawyers.Andrew was preparing for a gruelling two-day deposition - where he was expected to be questioned about his personal life by Ms Guiffre’s lawyers at a “neutral” location - according to reports from The Sun.“Virginia Giuffre and Prince Andrew have reached an out-of-court settlement,” the document submitted to a New York Court reads.“The parties will file a stipulated dismissal upon Ms Giuffre’s receipt of the settlement (the sum of which is not being disclosed).”Through the joint statement, there are five key details to takeaway from the case.Regret of smearsThe statement said the prince “never intended to malign Ms Giuffre’s character”, in what seems to be an acknowledgement from the Prince’s legal team that they made a mistake in demanding to see Ms Giuffre’s mental health records.They claimed she “may suffer from false memories”, prompting accusations from Dr Charlotte Proudman, a barrister and academic specialising in violence against women, that the Prince was “gaslighting”They also said they wanted to examine any confidential notes taken during her counselling sessions and ask about prescriptions written for her by her doctor.It comes as a change of tune from last year, when a statement issued by his lawyers in October <a href="https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/a39093228/prince-andrew-reaches-financial-settlement-virginia-giuffre/">accused</a> Ms Giuffre of using the lawsuit “to achieve another payday at (Prince Andrew’s) expense and at the expense of those closest to him”.Acknowledging her as a victimThe statement also acknowledged that Ms Giuffre “suffered both as an established victim of abuse and as a result of unfair public attacks”.Though this is the first time he is believed to have recognised her as a victim of abuse at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein, he has not acknowledged claims he abused her.Associations with EpsteinAndrew’s lawyers noted his regret in associating with Epstein in the statement, and also comes as a U-turn on his position in November 2019.In a 2019 interview with Newsnight, he said he didn’t regret his friendship with the convicted paedophile because the connections and opportunities he gained through their friendship “were actually very useful”.“It is known that Jeffrey Epstein trafficked countless young girls over many years,” the statement continued.“Prince Andrew regrets his association with Epstein, and commends the bravery of Ms Giuffre and other survivors in standing up for themselves and others.”Unknown settlementThough there are <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/royals/prince-andrew-settles-sex-abuse-lawsuit-with-virginia-giuffre-roberts/news-story/138571ac7b06c28a048f2926b9e5a1cc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">speculations</a> that the final sum will total up to £14 million ($AUD 26.5 or $NZD 28.55 million), the statement says the figure will not be disclosed.“Prince Andrew intends to make a substantial donation to Ms Giuffre’s charity in support of victims’ rights,” the letter read.It is unknown whether Mrs Guiffre will personally receive any money from the settlement.Vows to “demonstrate regret”The statement claims that the prince “pledges to demonstrate his regret for his association with Epstein by supporting the fight against the evils of sex trafficking, and by supporting its victims”.It is still unknown what actions Andrew intends to take to combat sex trafficking, but it is likely his actions will be performed as a private citizen after he was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/royal-family-strips-prince-andrew-of-all-royal-patronages-and-military-titles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stripped of his royal titles</a> earlier this year. Image: Getty Images

Legal

“No right to be here”: Angry tennis stars pile on as Novak issues new statement

Novak Djokovic continues to face harsh criticism from commentators, fans, and fellow tennis players as more details about his behaviour in the lead-up to his arrival in Australia emerge. The Serbian tennis star posted a statement on Instagram on Wednesday afternoon, in which he clarifies when he tested positive for COVID-19, and admits that he attended an in-person interview and photoshoot on December 18 while knowingly positive for the virus. He explained that he did this as he “didn’t want to let the journalist down”, but he made sure he “socially distanced and wore a mask” except for when his photo was being taken. He added that upon reflection, he realises this was an error of judgement. <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/CYnO7cDqbdj/?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/CYnO7cDqbdj/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Novak Djokovic (@djokernole)</a> </div> </blockquote> He also explained that his travel declaration was submitted by his team on his behalf, and his agent has sincerely apologised for the administrative error in ticking the box about his previous travel before arriving in Australia that saw him detained last week. Meanwhile, his fellow tennis players have voiced concerns about his actions, with former world number 1 Andy Murray suggesting there are “a few questions to be answered” and urging Djokovic to come clean. Murray had just won his first match in Australia in three years when he was asked about Djokovic, and he told reporters, “I mean, obviously, it‘s positive that he’s not in detention anymore. Obviously, he won in court, so that‘s a positive thing for him. Hopefully, (he) will be able to concentrate on the tennis now. “There are still a few questions that need to be answered around the isolation and stuff, which I‘m sure we’ll hear from him in the next few days, but I’m obviously here to try and play and win tournaments. “Like I said, it’s the first match that I have played here or won here in over three years, and this is where the situations like this are frustrating for players because I want to come off and talk about my tennis and what’s happening there, not talking about situations like that. So I‘m hoping that we can move on from it now. “He won in court, which is good. Looks like he’s going to be able to play and compete in the Australian Open, which we do want the best players there, but like I said, I think there is still a few questions to be answered. Until that happens, tough to give a definitive opinion on everything. But like I said, positive that he‘s out and practising.” Portuguese player Joao Sousa was critical of Djokovic’s attempt to skirt the rules. He told reporters, “I respect that he fights for what he believes and I can be empathetic with what he is going through in Australia, but it’s a bit selfish from him to arrive here as the only player unvaccinated. It’s tough for us players to accept that. “Many players — not my case — didn’t want to get vaccinated and were forced to do it to be able to play tournaments. He is finding a way around those rules.” Marton Fucsovics also criticised Djokovic, saying, “People’s health is paramount, and there are rules that were outlined months ago, namely that everyone should vaccinate themselves — and Djokovic didn’t. From this point of view, I don’t think he would have the right to be here.” Image: Michael Dodge/Getty Images

News

Police release William Tyrrell search statement

Image: NSW Police The search for William Tyrrell’s remains is set to end “in coming days”, according to police. Officers and volunteers have spent several weeks scouring locations in and around the town of Kendall, on the NSW Mid-North Coast, where the boy was last seen in 2014. The operation has been underway for four weeks and according to Detective Chief Superintendent Darren Bennett, the search was sparked by “new information”. There have been over 1,000 people of interest during the case which has kept police puzzled for years. William was last seen playing out the front of his foster grandmother’s home. In an update two weeks ago, Detective Chief Superintendent Bennett described this search as “painstaking”. He said officers were “happy with the progress” but that there was “no great milestone to report”. While several items have been removed from the search site for forensic analysis, the ABC understands that there is no groundbreaking information. Before the search began, police publicly confirmed for the first time they were looking for William's remains. Over the past four weeks, several forensic experts have attended a site, about 900 metres from the home formerly owned by William's late foster grandmother. It's been the main site for the most recent search efforts. A local creek, along with water tanks in the area have also been drained, while police scour those locations and a nearby dam. Police have also seized the foster grandmother's car from its new owner. It is being examined and a coronial inquest into William's death is ongoing. In a statement, a police spokesperson said Deputy State Coroner Harriet Grahame had been kept up to date with developments from the search. "Investigators would like to thank the NSW Rural Fire Service, Salvation Army and the local community for their hospitality and assistance," the spokesperson said. They said officers remained "committed to finding William Tyrrell".

News

Senator accused of "disgusting statement"

Greens Senator Lidia Thorpe has been accused of telling Liberal Senator Hollies Hughes “at least I keep my legs shut” during a debate in parliament. Senator Thorpe made the interjection during Question Time on Wednesday, while NDIS Minister Linda Reynolds was answering a question about International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Though parliamentary microphones failed to capture the comment, Amanda Stoker, a trained lawyer and Assistant Minister to the Attorney-General, said she had clearly heard what was interjected. “I can tell you what I heard with my own ears. She said, ‘At least I keep my legs shut’,” Senator Stoker told news.com.au. Liberal Senator Ben Small said he also heard the comment clearly and addressed it in parliament. “Senator Thorpe just made the most outrageous statement directed at Senator Hughes, which you probably didn’t hear,” he told parliament shortly before 7.30pm that night. “But in the scheme of disgusting statements made in this chamber that surely ranks at the top of them.” Senator Thorpe responded by retracting the comment. “I am happy to retract. I just got a view of something over there that disturbs me, but I’m happy to retract,” she said. Outside of parliament, Senator Small told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/national/politics/greens-senator-lidia-thorpe-accused-of-legs-shut-gibe-at-liberal-colleague/news-story/0c9d7e078ab0cd95a2b266b06953a4f0" target="_blank">news.com.au</a> that he had clearly heard Senator Thorpe’s remarks. “I did very clearly hear Senator Thorpe heckle ‘at least I keep my legs shut’,” he said. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846046/lydia-thorpe1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d793decc8cd84889a2a4257016282e74" /> Senator Thorpe brought up the recent deaths of two Indigenous women in custody during Wednesday's debate. Image: @senatorthorpe (Instagram) The heckle <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-02/greens-lidia-thorpe-apology-sexist-comment-hollie-hughes/100668108" target="_blank">appears to have come</a> after Senator Hughes heckled Senator Thorpe, saying she had “dismissed people with a disability” by redirecting the debate towards the recent deaths of two Indigenous women in custody. “Really classy,” Senator Hughes said. The latest incident comes a day after Liberal Senator David Van apologised for making an interjection while independent senator Jacqui Lambie spoke, after several senators described his interjection as a growl. He made an “unreserved apology” but denied he was making an animal noise. He did concede that he had interjected while Senator Lambie was speaking, which was not appropriate. “I was just interjecting with a gruff voice and I think with the mask and everything, in all the noise that was going on, it was that,” Senator Van said. “It was in no way an animal noise or meant to be disrespectful to (her) in any sort of gendered way.” Image: Getty Images

News

Royals release extraordinary joint statement

Buckingham palace has released a rare statement to condemn the BBC's new documentary about the royal family, saying the claims the show made are "overblown and unfounded". The extraordinary joint statement from Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace and Clarence House was aired during the two-part series titled Princes and the Press, which details how Prince Harry and Prince William have been treated by the media. The royal family was reportedly furious when they were not given the chance to vet the documentary before it aired, and issued a blistering statement to the BBC ahead of the broadcast. "A free, responsible and open Press is of vital importance to a healthy democracy," the joint statement read. "However, too often overblown and unfounded claims from unnamed sources are presented as facts and it is disappointing when anyone, including the BBC, gives them credibility." The first episode of the series aired on Monday night and featured Omid Scobie, a journalist who co-authored Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's unofficial autobiography Finding Freedom. Scobie claimed that unfavourable stories about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has been vetted by members of the royal household, while journalist Dan Wootton said officials "behind the scenes" has reached out to press amid growing frustrations with Harry and Meghan's behaviour. "There were some people who felt [Meghan] needed to be put in her place," Scobie said during the documentary. "I think by leaking a negative story, that's punishment." The documentary also discussed rumours of "competitiveness" between members of the royal family, and aired reports of Meghan's alleged "bullying" while in the palace. Jenny Afia, a lawyer who had previously worked with Meghan, denied reports that the Duchess was "difficult" to work with. "Those stories were false. This narrative that no one can work with the Duchess of Sussex that she was too difficult, demanding a boss, and that everyone had to leave is just not true," she said. It has been reported that officials at the BBC refused to allow Buckingham Palace advance footage of the first episode of the documentary, in order to eliminate any chance of censorship. Image credits: Getty Images

Winners of The Block issue statement to Tanya

The winners of this season of The Block, Mitch and Mark, have issued a public statement about fellow contestant Tanya, urging fans to “give her a chance” in the wake of the revelation that she had been cheating all season. Mitch and Mark butted heads with Tanya and her husband Vito throughout the season, largely due to the latter’s cheating: Tanya was found to be in possession of a photo of the show’s production schedule, which she claimed all season long had been sent to her by an anonymous tradie who wanted to give her an advantage. Contestants Josh and Luke revealed the truth in Sunday’s finale, however: Tanya took the photo herself way back during the first week of filming, and had been lying about it all season. Tanya broke down in tears as she faced the rest of the cast after this bombshell had been dropped, and admitted she took the photo. “I don‘t think anybody is as embarrassed or as disappointed as me,” she said. “I am not a stupid woman but I did a stupid thing.” Mitch and Mark had labelled Tanya and Vito “liars” in spats throughout the season, but evidently in better spirits after their $750,000 win, they were in a more understanding mood and encouraged fans not to throw Tanya under the bus. Taking to Instagram on Monday, the couple wrote, “Tanya, the purple headed girl & the face of the big lie of The Block. She made a mistake. Have you ever made a mistake & tried to cover it up, it gained momentum and before you knew, there was no way out, you’d dug such a big hole you couldn’t see any way out – image doing this on the biggest show on Australian television… “This is what happened to Tanya, we know her, she’s good, but she stuffed up, we have too made mistakes, you all saw me (Mitch) with my inside head thoughts that I blurted out. If you’ve ever made errors in judgment in your life that has embarrassed you, please consider what Tanya has gone thru (sic) and is dealing with before you judge her, she deserves a chance – we know this is difficult and we’ve had time to talk with Tanya and support her to move forward, please join us and give Tanya a chance, we all deserve it.” <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWAap5SPpRf/?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/CWAap5SPpRf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Mitch and Mark (@mitchandmark)</a> </div> </blockquote> Block presenter Shelley Craft echoed the couple’s sentiments in a comment underneath the post, writing, “No truer words spoken boys. If the ones affected most are happy to (move) forward …. then that should be good enough for everyone!”

Will Dwyer finally issues statement about pregnancy scandal

Farmer Wants A Wife heart throb Will Dwyer has issued a public statement after contestant Hayley Love announced she was pregnant with his baby. Dwyer has said he is “sad” the issue has played out in public, but didn’t fail to question whether the child “is in fact” his. Love went public last week about her scandalous pregnancy earlier this month. She had been paired with Farmer Matt Trewin for the show, however claims that she secretly started a relationship with Dwyer after filming wrapped up. She went on to say their short, fiery relationship came to a halt after she revealed she was pregnant. Dwyer, 39, took to Instagram to say he wants “what’s best for Hayley” but also values “discretion” about their situation. Sharing a vintage photo of his own father, he wrote: “My family are my world, and my parents were the perfect role models. When the time comes, I will be the best Dad I can be. If this is in fact my child, I’ll be there whenever the child needs me. Even if as parents we can’t be a couple, our family will be filled with love for our child. “But one thing I learnt from my Father is that discretion is the better part of valour. I’m sad that this has played out in public. I want only the best for Hayley. I’ll say what needs to be said in private and let my deeds do the talking.” <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSEJwV-HB5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/CSEJwV-HB5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Will Dwyer (@farmerwillau)</a> </div> </blockquote> In her original statement to news.com.au, Love, 25, admitted why she had decided to come forward with her story. “I am speaking my truth before it gets misconstrued by the public and tabloids who don’t know the full story,” she said. “This is my story to tell.” <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/CRIHon6iHJq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/CRIHon6iHJq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Farmer Wants A Wife (@farmeraustralia)</a> </div> </blockquote> She went on to reveal that she was prepared to raise the baby by herself: “I’ve tried to keep things amicable with (Will), to be clear on what his involvement with our child will be,” she said. “At the end of the day I have decided to keep the baby because I have enough love for this child with or without a biological father. I will be enough for him or her.” In another statement, Love revealed she had been “absolutely terrified” to come forward. “I was absolutely terrified to come out with a statement as I am struggling with my mental health,” she wrote. “While the rumours were spreading I became a complete wreck. I removed myself from social media to recover from all the awful comments I was reading about myself and even other girls/farmers.” The Farmer Wants a Wife reunion episode is set to air next Wednesday, August 11 on Seven.

Greta Thunberg's first vaccine comes with global statement

Swedish climate activist, Greta Thunberg, took to social media, tweeting: "Today I got my first COVID-19 vaccination dose. I am extremely grateful and privileged to be able to live in a part of the world where I can already get vaccinated." But then she went on to blast the more wealthy countries for taking more than their fair share of the vaccines. She wrote: "The vaccine distribution around the world is extremely unequal. The Swedish climate activist, 18, tweeted a photograph of herself wearing a fox-print face mask with a bandaid on her upper arm, using the hashtags '#VaccineEquity' and '#VaccineForAll'. Thunberg is one of a number of famous people, encouraging others to get the jab as soon as it's available to them. What she says about the distribution of the vaccines has been backed up by media such as the New York Times which reported recently: "84 percent of shots that have gone into arms worldwide have been administered in high- and upper-middle-income countries. Only 0.3 percent of doses have been administered in low-income countries.'' Other celebrities including David Beckham and Billie Eilish, have asked world leaders to share surplus COVID vaccines with poorer countries. Before the G7 summit in June, Unicef ambassadors warned in an open letter how important it would be to ensure the "fair and equitable" supplies of vaccines internationally or the world would continue to be at risk from future mutations of the virus.

Caring

"War is violent": Ben Roberts-Smith trial's explosive opening statements

The defamation lawsuit launched by Ben Roberts-Smith against Nine-owned newspapers, including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and The Canberra Times, has commenced with an explosive statement from the soldier’s lawyers. Bruce McClintock SC said the reports published in 2018, which contained allegations including involvement in the unlawful killing of Afghans and bullying of Special Air Services Regiment (SAS) colleagues, “destroyed” Mr Roberts-Smith’s reputation as an “exceptional solder” with “dishonest”, “corrosive” journalism. “This is a case about courage, devotion to duty, self sacrifice,” Mr McClintock told the court. “This is a case about how a man with a deservedly high reputation of courage, skill and decency in how he carried out his military duties had his reputation destroyed by a campaign of jealous people,” he told Justice Anthony Besanko. The court also heard of the decorated soldier’s high kill count during his time in Afghanistan. Mr Roberts-Smith alleges he was defamed by accusations that he “broke the moral and legal rules of military engagement” while deployed and is “therefore a criminal”. Mr McClintock spoke of Australia’s pride in its military, but that many were unwilling to confront the real, violent nature of war. “The people reporting on matters involving [Mr Roberts Smith] have forgotten [that war is violent] in their rush to tear him down,” he said. The court also heard Mr Roberts-Smith was a recipient of “puerile” behaviour from fellow soldiers after he was awarded the Victoria Cross in recognition for his bravery. Nine have claimed one witness, known as Person 1, was bullied by Mr Roberts-Smith. The media giant’s court documents claim Mr Roberts-Smith and the late Sergeant Matt Locke shot and killed a teenage boy. Mr McClintock countered that the boy was a “fighting age male” and a “spotter” for the enemy. Mr Roberts-Smith is expected to tell the court of an incident with another soldier, Person 10, who Roberts-Smith saw shooting towards a woman and child. When they returned to base, Mr Roberts-Smith confronted Person 10 and asked why he’d shot at unarmed civilians. Mr McClintock said when Person 10 “giggled” in response Mr Roberts-Smith punched him in the face. “He shouldn’t have done this but he was shocked by Person 10’s intention and the lack of understanding of the gravity of his actions,” he said. “The potential impact of killing an innocent woman and child, not just on the SAS and our country generally, but on Person 10 himself would have been a disaster.” The prosthetic Mr McClintock said the leg of an Afghan man Mr Roberts-Smith was alleged to have shot dead, was “souvenired” by another SAS officer - an enemy of Mr Roberts-Smith - who took it and mounted it back at the base. The leg was later used as a “novelty-drinking vessel”, with pictures of soldiers drinking from it having since emerged. "It might appear bad taste to drink from a souvenir prosthetic leg taken from a dead enemy," Mr McClintock told the court. "In the scheme of human wickedness, it does not, in my submission, rate terribly high. "And allowances should be made — my client will say something along these lines — for the necessity for men who've engaged in armed combat to decompress afterwards." Mr McClintock said his client did not drink from the leg. Mr McClintock’s opening address is expected to run for two to three days before Mr Roberts-Smith takes the stand as a witness. The trial will run for two months. Image: Getty Images

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Royals issue heartfelt statement after Bondi attack

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"War is violent": Ben Roberts-Smith trial's explosive opening statements

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Prince Charles makes rare statement on Ukraine conflict