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"A step too far": Grandparents barred from school event for bizarre reason

<p>A Melbourne school has come under fire for refusing to let a group of grandparents into the classroom for a special event because they did not have a Working With Children Check (WWCC). </p> <p>Furious grandparents have slammed St Joseph’s Primary School in Yarra Junction for taking it "a step too far" when they asked them to provide the WWCC after being invited to attend the “Inquiry Afternoon”. </p> <p>The event was held for year one and two students to speak about “technology and the world has changed over time”, according to <em>The Herald Sun.</em></p> <p>Grandparents were asked to provide a WWCC on the back of the invitation, which some of them missed. </p> <p>“The Working With Children Check isn’t set up for the one-off visit — it is a step too far,” founder of the National Grandparent Movement Ian Barnett told <em>Sunrise</em>. </p> <p>“I understand we’re living in a time when we want more checks and balances, but it is unrealistic to think that grandparents attending such a day would actually need to go and provide a Working With Children Check."</p> <p>The grandparents without a WWCC were forced to sit in the principal's office and do their show-and-tell via a video call. </p> <p>“I’m sure they had very good intentions — no one set out for this to happen,” <em>Herald Sun</em> education editor Susie O’Brien said. </p> <p>“But imagine turning up, arranging your entire week, your day to come to your grandchild’s event … and the child’s school refuses entry.”</p> <p>She added that although schools did have some discretion over such requirements, when a group of people are invited for a specific event, it is usually not required. </p> <p>Barnett also said that "for such visits you don’t need a Working With Children Check,” in most states. </p> <p>“I haven’t heard of this in NSW. I have to admit, I’m from NSW. So it is really going a bit extreme. Schools do have the right to decide who comes onsite. But it just seems it’s not required.</p> <p>“To actually drag the child out from the classroom to sit with nana or grandad, it’s a step too far and embarrassing, I think, for the school as well.”</p> <p>A spokesperson for the primary school acknowledged that although there was some confusion, the school had to comply with the child safe standards. </p> <p>“There was advance notice to all St Joseph’s families on this requirement, with 29 grandparents signing in on Friday with a working with children clearance," they told the Herald Sun. </p> <p>“We acknowledge the disappointing experience of the four grandparents who couldn’t attend the grandparents’ day and are attempting to call these families this morning.”</p> <p><em>Images: Sunrise/ The Herald Sun</em></p>

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Man restores mate's dream pub after tragic death

<p>Kevin "Stumpy" Darmody ran the Peninsula Hotel in the Cape York town of Laura, Cairns for over 20 years before he was tragically killed by a crocodile during a fishing trip. </p> <p>The 65-year-old went missing on the Kennedy River at Rinyirru National Park in April last year, with his body recovered a month later, after wildlife officers shot and killed a crocodile during their search, discovering his remains in its stomach.</p> <p>Now, Darmody's best friend Stuart Wiggins has picked up where he left off, and travelled all the way to Cairns from Canberra to restore his mate's pub. </p> <p>"I've been coming up for 20 years myself and watched all the hard work Kev's put in and I thought I didn't want to see that get wasted," he told the <em>ABC</em>. </p> <p>He got to work and trimmed the three-metre long weeds that covered the pub. </p> <p>"The weeds were like trees. We've worked from day to night and it's looking really good now."</p> <p>Wiggins recalled how his best mate first moved to Laura, Cairns 20 years ago after he came across the town on a 4WD trip across northern Australia.</p> <p>Now, in honour of his late friend, Wiggins has renamed the hotel "Stumpy's Bar". </p> <p>"I've got a nice big sign out the front of the pub to remember him," Wiggins said.</p> <p>He also reminisced their friendship and how the pair "got on like a house on fire", saying that he too had "fished off the same spot" where Darmody was taken "so many times". </p> <p>"He was always warning people going out there, 'don't get too close to the water. If you fall in you're not going to get out,' so what happened that day we'll never ever know", he said.</p> <p>Wiggins shared that Darmody was known to for his tough exterior, but was the type of person that would "give you the shirt off his back and do anything for you".</p> <p>"Even the week before he passed, he bought a plane ticket to sneak down to surprise me for my 60th birthday," he said.</p> <p>Prior to Darmody's death Wiggins was working a "cruisy job" at Parliament House in Canberra, before deciding to leave his family behind to re-enter the hospitality industry.</p> <p>"It was a massive move to leave my family behind but even my lady Tanya knew it was something I needed to do," Wiggins said.</p> <p>"I couldn't just sit at parliament thinking the place was going to go to rack and ruin."</p> <p><em>Images: ABC/ Stuart Wiggins</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Life behind bars for serial killer nurse

<p>British nurse Lucy Letby has been handed a life sentence for the murder of seven infants and the attempted murder of six others in a neonatal ward located in Chester, England.</p> <p>Justice James Goss, adhering to the strictest punishment allowed by British law, issued a whole-life order, ensuring that 33-year-old Letby would spend the remainder of her life incarcerated, as capital punishment is not applicable in the UK.</p> <p>In a trial that spanned ten months, Letby was found guilty of killing five male and two female infants and causing harm to other newborns within the neonatal unit of the Countess of Chester Hospital between June 2015 and June 2016. This conviction ranks her among the most prolific child serial killers in the UK's history.</p> <p>Despite her absence from the sentencing proceedings, Justice Goss emphasised the calculated nature of Letby's actions, stating, "There was premeditation, calculation and cunning." He further highlighted the malevolence and absence of remorse in her demeanour, emphasising that no mitigating factors were present.</p> <p>Prosecutors detailed Letby's disturbing actions during her tenure in the neonatal unit. As the hospital witnessed an alarming increase in unexplained infant deaths and health deteriorations, Letby was consistently on duty during these incidents.</p> <p>Prosecutors painted her as a constant, ominous presence when these infants experienced collapses or fatalities, using tactics that were difficult to detect. She even deceived colleagues into believing these incidents were normal.</p> <p>The anguish and outrage from the victims' families were palpable during the sentencing, compounded by Letby's absence from the proceedings, which is permitted under British legal protocol.</p> <p>The mother of a girl identified as Child I said in a statement read in court:</p> <p>"I don’t think we will ever get over the fact that our daughter was tortured till she had no fight left in her and everything she went through over her short life was deliberately done by someone who was supposed to protect her and help her come home where she belonged."</p> <p>Because of Letby's absence at the sentencing, calls for legal reform quickly emerged, urging that prisoners should be compelled to attend their sentencings. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his government's intention to address this matter.</p> <p>Medical professionals raised concerns about Letby's behaviour as early as 2015, but their apprehensions were not heeded by management. Some argue that had these concerns been acted upon promptly, lives could have been saved. An independent inquiry will delve into the hospital's response to the alarming rise in deaths and the actions of the staff and management.</p> <p>In conclusion, British nurse Lucy Letby's life sentence for the murder of seven babies and the attempted murder of six others has sent shockwaves through the nation. Her calculated actions, lack of remorse, and absence from the sentencing have ignited discussions about legal reforms and the responsibility of institutions to heed early warning signs.</p> <p><em>Images: Cheshire Constabulary</em></p>

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Andrew O'Keefe back behind bars

<p>Andrew O'Keefe, the once-celebrated television personality, has found himself under fresh legal scrutiny after an alleged incident on Saturday evening in a residential unit located in the serene eastern districts of Sydney.</p> <p>O'Keefe is now slated for a prolonged stay behind bars, as a result of his arrest on charges of reportedly violating the terms of an apprehended violence order.</p> <p>The 51-year-old was apprehended at a residence in Sydney's eastern suburbs, with his subsequent hours spent within a police holding cell.</p> <p>Law enforcement intervened in response to a situation at an address on Longworth Avenue in Point Piper, an enclave within Sydney's eastern quarters, at approximately 11:45 pm on Saturday.</p> <p>Appearing via remote video link at Parramatta Local Court on Sunday, the former host of <em>Deal or No Deal</em> was formally charged with violating the terms of the restraining order.</p> <p>According to a statement from New South Wales police: "Officers attended a unit on Longworth Avenue, Point Piper, following reports that a 51-year-old man was at the unit in breach of an Apprehended Violence Order. The man was arrested and taken to Waverley Police Station where he was charged with one count of contravene restriction/prohibition in AVO (domestic)."</p> <p>Bail was denied, and he will remain in custody until his upcoming appearance at Downing Centre Local Court on August 30.</p> <p>O'Keefe's legal woes extend to multiple charges stemming from previous incidents, encompassing accusations of resisting arrest, drug possession, and domestic violence-related assault in connection to a purported event at Point Piper in September 2021.</p> <p>Charges related to an alleged occurrence in January 2022 at his Sydney CBD residence were dropped in February after the sole witness and alleged victim, the prosecution's key source, left the country.</p> <p>According to police, O'Keefe was accused of choking a 38-year-old woman and subsequently assaulting her within his Sydney CBD dwelling in January 2022.</p> <p>O'Keefe, who previously practiced law and is the son of former NSW Supreme Court justice Barry O'Keefe, maintained that his actions were grounded in self-defense.</p> <p>Earlier this year, police prosecutor Michael Cleaver withdrew charges of intentional choking without consent, common assault, and assault causing actual bodily harm.</p> <p>In June 2021, O'Keefe managed to evade a domestic violence conviction, as charges were resolved under the purview of the NSW Mental Health Act.</p> <p>In May 2022, he was conditionally released to attend a rehabilitation facility for a period of up to 12 months, aimed at addressing his struggles with cocaine, methamphetamine, and cannabis misuse.</p> <p>In April, O'Keefe encountered charges after purportedly operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs in Sydney's eastern suburbs, arising from a routine roadside test in Point Piper in January.</p> <p><em>Images: Seven News</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Kathleen Folbigg pardoned after 20 years behind bars

<p>Jailed in 2003 and considered at the time to be Australia’s most prolific female serial killer, Kathleen Folbigg has now been pardoned over the death of her four children and will be released without delay.</p> <p>Folbigg, 55, was convicted of killing her three children Patrick, Sarah and Laura, and was also found guilty of the manslaughter of her firstborn Caleb between 1989 to 1999.</p> <p>Her babies were aged between 19 days and 19 months.</p> <p>The historic convictions have not been quashed as that can only be done through the Court of Criminal Appeal.</p> <p>Folbigg has always maintained her innocence, insisting that her children had each died of natural causes, and as a result she has served 20 years of a minimum 25-year prison sentence.</p> <p>NSW Attorney General Michael Daley announced the pardon, saying Folbigg had endured “a terrible ordeal” and there was a possibility she could sue the government if the convictions were quashed, a legal step which goes beyond a pardon.</p> <p>"What is the difference between today and what has transpired in the past? New evidence has come to light," he said, referring to new scientific evidence submitted in an inquiry into the death of the babies.</p> <p>Former NSW Chief Justice Tom Bathurst KC is leading the inquiry and is now writing up a final report for the NSW governor.</p> <p>Daley said he had received a phone from Chief Justice Bathurst last week that "he had come to a firm view" about what the outcome of his report would be.</p> <p>Prosecutors argued Folbigg smothered her children during periods of frustration and insisted that some of her diary entries were admissions of guilt.</p> <p>New scientific evidence has now cast sufficient doubt on her guilt.</p> <p>Folbigg and her two daughters were found to carry a rare genetic variant, CALM2-G114R, which can cause cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death.</p> <p>According to cardiology and genetic experts, the genetic verity was a “reasonably possible cause” of Sarah and Laura’s death.</p> <p>The variant was not found in Caleb or Patrick.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

News

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The truth about cruise ship crew bars exposed

<p>Everyone who has been on a cruise ship has a favourite spot onboard, and for many, that place is the bar. </p> <p>Whether they’re in search of a refreshing lemonade or an extravagant cocktail concoction, there’s a lot to take in, with no few liners opting to deck their bars out in all the glitz and glamour they have to offer. </p> <p>Celebrity Cruises, for example, have recently collaborated with designer Nate Berkus for their new Sunset Bar, and two separate spaces reserved for the ship’s crew. </p> <p>For years avid cruise goers have wondered what goes on in these forbidden realms, and now, thanks to David Smiedt’s vast onboard experiences, curious souls can put their questions to rest - though the answers may not be quite as exciting, or things quite as dramatic, as they’d hoped. </p> <p>As he explained for <em>Escape</em>, it isn’t - under any circumstances - possible for passengers to hop back into the crew bars for a look around, and especially not for a drink. </p> <p>And contrary to popular belief, they aren’t particularly lavishly decorated, so there isn’t much to see back there anyway. Typically, David said, they are “furnished in stuff from the cruise boat deemed a bit too out of fashion for modern paying guests. </p> <p>“As a result, the aesthetic is a bit of a hodge podge with mismatched couches, chairs and - oftentimes - a video jukebox.”</p> <p>But rest assured, despite the lacklustre decor,  the crew make sure there’s room for a well-loved dance floor.</p> <p>And forget finding a four-course meal hidden away in there, as “unless you’ve made previous arrangements with the mess for a special occasion like a birthday, there ain’t a lot to eat.”</p> <p>Employees can secure themselves a drink though, at a “heavily subsidised” rate no less. </p> <p>“It would hardly be fair to begrudge your hard working crew a drink at the end of the day,” David pointed out. “It would be even more unfair to charge them the same as the passengers who make cruising the profitable venture it is.”</p> <p>And while things can be a little on the quiet side during the day, the crew find their own ways to entertain themselves - with a large portion of them turning to FIFA in their downtime. </p> <p>“The competition is intense and the skill level [is] off the charts,” David noted. “The matches are seriously some of the best entertainment on board.”</p> <p>It’s a whole new world - or ocean - at nighttime, however. As David explained, anyone who’s been out on the open ocean on the cruise of a lifetime will have “noticed that the crew tends to divide into two main categories”. </p> <p>“The first is those who have been on the sea for decades and are often sending money home for families,” he said. “They are often a bit older and fiercely disciplined about maintaining their budget. </p> <p>“The second are the freshly scrubbed young folk in their 20s who are living a life of adventure on the ocean. Not long out of home, they work and play hard. And so they should.”</p> <p>David assured that they have their fun - within reason and regulation - but that, at the end of the day, it’s still a crew-only affair. </p> <p>Or as David put it, “once again, sorry, you're not allowed.”</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Cruising

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Notorious paedophile back behind bars

<p dir="ltr">Notorious paedophile and schoolgirl killer Michael Anthony Guider is back behind bars after police allegedly found pornography and child abuse material on his mobile phone.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police were conducting a routine check at the 72-year-old’s Fairfield Heights home in Sydney’s southwest where they allegedly found a stash of porn and child abuse material on his phone.</p> <p dir="ltr">They also allege he “searched for images that depict children” and “accessed and viewed material classified as X18+” for seven months between February and September, which is in breach of his strict release conditions.</p> <p dir="ltr">Guider was arrested on September 29 for breaching conditions relating to his five-year extended supervision order.</p> <p dir="ltr">The paedophile was only released from jail three years ago after he was found guilty of kidnapping and killing Sydney schoolgirl Samantha Knight in 1986 and preying upon other children across two decades.</p> <p dir="ltr">Upon his release, Guider was under a strict extended supervision order, designed to monitor and track the movements of high-risk offenders in the community.</p> <p dir="ltr">As part of the order, Guider was also banned from purchasing, possessing, accessing, viewing or listening to any X-rated material.</p> <p dir="ltr">One of Guider’s survivors, Chantelle Daly, said it was “the best news I’ve had all year” when she heard that he was locked up again.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He’s back where he should be, he should never have gotten out and I’m not surprised to hear (these allegations),” Ms Daly told <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/killer-paedophile-michael-guider-arrested-after-search-of-his-fairfield-home/news-story/f4993e754afbaec40cecc03f2e1d61b1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m glad he wasn’t able to take it any further or hurt anyone else — because they always escalate. Leopards don’t change their spots.</p> <p dir="ltr">“They don’t get a big enough consequence, most don’t get jail time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s not surprising they go on to reoffend, they can’t help themselves and the repercussions aren’t bad enough. No second chances.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Nine News</em></p>

Legal

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Harry responds to reports of being barred from wearing military uniform

<p>Prince Harry has responded to claims that he has been barred from wearing a ceremonial military uniform at Queen Elizabeth's funeral. </p> <p>While the Duke of Sussex has been banned from donning the military outfit out of respect, scandal-prone Prince Andrew has been given an exception. </p> <p>While both Prince Harry and Prince Andrew served in the military, neither men are working royals. </p> <p>A Buckingham Palace edict stipulated that only working royals would be allowed to wear military uniforms at events to mark the Queen's death, making many wonder why Prince Andrew was granted an exception after his years of ongoing scandals. </p> <p>US TV network CNN today reported that the prince had issued a statement over the clothing controversy.</p> <p>"Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex will wear a morning suit throughout events honouring his grandmother," a spokesman for the Sussexes told CNN.</p> <p>"His decade of military service is not determined by the uniform he wears and we respectfully ask that focus remain on the life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II."</p> <p>It is likely to leave a bitter taste for ex-soldier Harry, who is proud of his decade in the forces, and who was saddened after being stripped of his honorary military roles including Captain General of the Royal Marines by the Queen after the Sussexes retreated overseas.</p> <p>Prince Andrew joined King Charles, Princess Anne and Prince Edward in a suit for the procession of the Queen's coffin through the streets of Edinburgh, in like with the edits of Buckingham Palace. </p> <p>But it has emerged that Andrew, who stepped down from public life after the furore over his friendship with paedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein, will be allowed to wear his uniform at Wednesday's vigil in Westminster.</p> <p>However, he is expected to wear a suit for the Queen's funeral on Monday. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

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Detailed look at Chris Dawson's first day behind bars

<p>After being found guilty of killing his wife, convicted murder Chris Dawson has spent his first night at Silverwater prison, located in NSW.</p> <p>Supreme Court Justice Ian Harrison declared the 74-year-old guilty of murdering his wife Lynette and disposing of her body in 1982, after a lengthy trial.</p> <p>Here is exactly how his first night in prison played out.</p> <p>Upon arrival at the Silverwater facility, he was body-scanned or strip-searched and his clothing was replaced with the prison kit. Each prisoner is issued with a razor, toothbrush, toothpaste and soap.</p> <p>Until Dawson receives a security classification number, he will remain at Silverwater, then he will be sent to a prison that matches that classification.</p> <p>Prisoners at Silverwater consume one hot meal a day, served at 3 pm in their cell. The inmates also receive rations doled out in either the morning or evening, including milk, cereal and seven slices of bread to go with the sachets of coffee and prison-issue tea bags.</p> <p>After 3pm, prisoners remain in their cell alone until the strict 7 am wake-up call.</p> <p>Following the guilty verdict, Dawson’s lawyer Greg Walsh said he would likely apply for his client to be released on bail on the basis that his client wasn’t well.</p> <p>“He’s been suffering from cognitive problems and also a lot of other physical problems,” he said, adding that Dawson had been diagnosed with dementia and had problems with his hips and knees.</p> <p>“Whether I proceed with that application, I don’t know, but the judge hasn’t set a sentencing date yet, so it may well be that I don’t proceed with that application at this stage.”</p> <p>Walsh claims Dawson was upset following the verdict and would likely appeal against his conviction, as he remains adamant of his absolute innocence.</p> <p><em>Image: 7News</em></p>

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New world-first tool the size of a choccie bar that could save your life

<p dir="ltr">Demand for a low-cost defibrillator has proven there is a market for AEDs in the home according to Australian MedTech start-up, Rapid Response Revival, which has commenced manufacturing its world-first miniaturised defibrillator, CellAED in Sydney. </p> <p dir="ltr">More than 25,000 pre-orders from Australia alone have been secured for CellAED, which addresses the problem that conventional AEDs (automated external defibrillators) are too expensive for most households. Similar in size to a block of chocolate, designed to be deployed in seconds and priced around the USD250 mark, CellAED is intended to address this significant barrier to reducing the sudden cardiac arrest death toll worldwide.</p> <p dir="ltr">AEDs exist to speed response to sudden cardiac arrest, which kills in minutes and is responsible for more than 6 million deaths worldwide every year.  Around 80 per cent of all sudden cardiac deaths occur in homes, where AEDs are unlikely to be found.</p> <p dir="ltr">CellAED is the result of more than AUD40 million in development funding over five years, with a further USD100 million being sought following the commencement of manufacturing and demonstration of demand its unique medical technology.  Off the back of securing regulatory approvals for CellAED in more than 70 countries, RRR commenced commercialisation through its own channels in late 2021, adding two authorised distributors in Australia and New Zealand earlier this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">“To put our 25,000-plus pre-orders into context, we have research showing there are approximately 18,000 active AEDs in Australia, total.  From a purely commercial perspective, we have created a volume product in a category that is used to low volume sales, relative to the estimated 1.5 million AED &amp; CPR training courses delivered annually in Australia,” said Rapid Response Revival Head of Investor Relations, Damian Shrubsole.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Many of our pre-orders are from people at home, buying one for the house, another for the car.  There is also strong demand from businesses that want to introduce affordable AEDs to their environments for the first time, or bolster their network of conventional AEDs already in place.</p> <p dir="ltr">“These pre-orders have proven the appetite for AEDs in the home.  Many of us are at risk of, or living with cardiovascular diseases that put us in danger of sudden cardiac arrest.  We have shown that there are many households aware of that risk, that want to be prepared for the worst,” Mr Shrubsole said.</p> <p dir="ltr">CellAED is currently being manufactured at RRR’s facility in south-west Sydney, much of which was designed from the ground up by RRR’s engineers to accommodate CellAED’s unique design.  While mass production is set to commence in partnership with a large-scale manufacturer in south-east Asia, RRR will also continue manufacturing in Sydney.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is an Australian invention, and future research and development will happen here.  Despite the challenges associated with manufacturing in Australia, we are expanding our Sydney production lines to retain control over our own R&amp;D, and ensure that any future innovation around how CellAED is built starts at home,” said Rapid Response Revival co-founder and CEO, Donovan Casey.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We created CellAED after my partner, Sarah narrowly survived her own sudden cardiac arrest.  Many of the people who have invested in this business also have lived experience – either through their families, or their professions as paramedics, cardiologists and other medical professionals.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Sudden cardiac arrest survival rates are less than one per cent globally because it kills quickly, and most people who witness a cardiac arrest don’t have the knowledge, skills or tools to respond in time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Sudden cardiac arrest victims need urgent, rapid defibrillation because every minute without defibrillation and CPR, reduces the chances of revival by 10 per cent.  By getting AEDs into homes, where they’re needed the most, we have an opportunity to save more lives from these terrible events,” Mr Casey added.</p> <p dir="ltr">CellAED is ground-breaking medical technology that emergency first responders, electrocardiologists, first aid trainers and others dedicated to saving lives from sudden cardiac arrest have been waiting for in Australia.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-98f8f92e-7fff-f711-a9ff-e269c2c8e083"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">For more information on CellAED® visit <a href="https://cellaed.io/">cellaed.io</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Caring

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Lisa’s lawyer’s hefty daily charge

<p dir="ltr">Lisa Wilkinson is being charged an eye-watering $11,000 a day for a high-profile lawyer following her speech at the Logies.</p> <p dir="ltr">Channel 10 has hired Australian Bar Association president Dr Matthew Collins QC for The Project host after her speech caused significant delays to the Brittany Higgins case, which was due to start this week.The case has now been postponed to October.</p> <p dir="ltr">Dr Collins is famous for winning high-profile cases - one of them being Rebel Wilson’s against Bauer Media, as well as YouTuber Jordan Shanks against former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lawyer says it’s possible that Wilkinson could be charged with contempt of court, and admitted she should have known better.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It's certainly possible that the authorities will be looking at the speech that she made to the Logies and assessing that speech against the standard which applies in this branch of the law,” he said on Sunrise.</p> <p dir="ltr">“That standard is, did anything that she do have a tendency to interfere with the administration of justice?</p> <p dir="ltr">“You would hope that whenever the media is contemplating running a story about a serious criminal trial which is about to begin, they would be attune to the potential risks.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The mainstream media understands the risk inhering with talking about cases which are about to go to trial, particularly serious high-profile cases.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Wilkinson was already slammed for her comments last week by Chief Justice Lucy McCallum after rescheduling the case.</p> <p dir="ltr">It comes as Channel 10 warns publications of their criticism of Wilkinson and are not ruling out legal action for any harm that is caused.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This reporting is now causing significant harm and we ask these organisations to cease this harassment to allow Lisa the best opportunity to give her evidence in court and to enable the trial to go ahead in a fair and timely manner,” a spokesperson for the network said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are closely monitoring all coverage of this issue and Lisa and Network 10 reserve their rights in respect of any future defamation claims.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Images: Nine/Seven</p>

Legal

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REVIEW: Blossom Bar

<p dir="ltr">Feeling a little bored and want to break up the week? Looking for new places to add to your rotation? Look no further than Blossom Bar.</p> <p dir="ltr">Situated in Sydney’s Chippendale Spice Alley, Blossom Bar is a small cocktail hideaway, something you’d likely find walking through the back streets of Tokyo. The venue is intimate and alluring, with different Japanese inspired drinks on the menu that form part of the unique experience. </p> <p dir="ltr">On a Wednesday night, the team at Over60 decided to make it a date and see what Blossom Bar had to offer. </p> <p dir="ltr">Once seated (not too difficult on a Wednesday), we immediately ordered food and drink. The service was quick and the staff seemed to be super confident and efficient. </p> <p dir="ltr">The way the drinks were served and presented made the experience a stand-out and had everyone </p> <p dir="ltr">Starting off strong, the drinks of choice were:</p> <p dir="ltr">The ‘Yuzu Sparkler’ (Japanese gin, yuzu, yuzu bitters, prosecco), served with an actual sparkler, this cocktail looked too pretty to drink. It wasn’t overwhelmingly sweet and had quite a refreshing and citrusy taste to it. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Blossom Martini (Japanese rice gin, maraschino, house-made sakura vermouth). This drink was high on the sweetness scale and I wouldn’t recommend it to those who don’t have a sweet tooth. Best consumed slowly, this drink was like a little dessert. </p> <p dir="ltr">The ‘Bubblegun Martini’ (Hubba Bubba Vodka, hubba bubba syrup, sakura, pressed citrus, rosemary smoke bubble) was served with a bubblegum, forming a rosemary smoke bubble. </p> <p dir="ltr">The absolute crowd favourite was the ‘Disko Drink’ (Vodka, elderflower, house-made yuzu marmalade, lychee sherbet, prosecco), which ended up being the most impressive cocktail on the menu, served with a speaker and disco lights! The staff let us keep the speaker for the table and we ended up picking the tunes all night, and as a millennial would say “the vibes were immaculate”. For those of you who don’t understand, we had an incredible time!</p> <p dir="ltr">The food started rolling out at the perfect time, as we all picked classic sushi restaurant snacks. Think edamame, pork gyoza, chicken and avocado rolls and a grilled salmon nigiri share plate.</p> <p dir="ltr">The portions were small, which complimented the drinks nicely. Blossom bar is first and foremost a cocktail bar, with the emphasis on the relaxed and alluring atmosphere, next time around I will be sure to either start the evening here for a couple of drinks before dinner or eat prior to going, in order to explore a wider variety of their bespoke cocktails.</p> <p dir="ltr">Everything was extremely insta worthy and felt effortlessly glamorous. The prices reflected the quality of the food and drinks, while being on the slightly more expensive side but for a pleasant night out in Sydney it was worth every cent.</p> <p dir="ltr">Blossom Bar is the perfect hole-in-the-wall escape from the hustle and bustle of dining inside the CBD. Spice Alley is quite accessible being a 15-minute walk from Broadway Shopping Centre and a five-minute walk from Central Station.</p> <p dir="ltr">You can flick through a gallery of the team’s favourites below. </p>

Food & Wine

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Man's very own retro milk bar brings '50s shops back to life

<p>An Aussie man has impressed thousands with an incredible replica of an old school milk bar that he created in his home. </p> <p>Sharing his project to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/504232366322711/posts/5471834082895823/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old Shops Australia</a> Facebook page, Anthony Launer said he was inspired by his wonderful memories as a child to create his very own vintage store. </p> <p>Anthony built the store at his home in Thailand by bringing over the memorabilia from his native Australia, saying it "really feels like home now".</p> <p>"When you love the memories of the Old Shops so much as a child that you need to create one at home. A mix of wonderful memories all in the one room," the '50s-fan said. </p> <p>The retro room is decked out with vintage signs, advertisements, gas cans, photos, trinkets and even food and drinks. </p> <p>The nostalgic replica store shows how times have changed over the years with Milo being advertised as a 'tonic', cigarette signs a-plenty and displays for long-gone brands such as Bex medicines, Leed Lemonade, and Monkey Brand soap. </p> <p>Anthony's incredible collection awoke memories for many other group members, with the post racking up hundreds of comments. </p> <p>One woman said, "This is where i would sit for my morning coffee for sure, I love it."</p> <p>Another was so impressed they wanted to visit, asking Anthony, "What are your opening hours?!"</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Disgusting warning for fans of swim-up bar at holiday resorts

<p dir="ltr">A popular TikTok influencer has issued a "disgusting" warning for people who use the popular swim-up bars at holiday resorts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whitney, a Canadian woman who goes by @twofoodpiggies, shared a clip from a hotel in Cabo, Mexico which boasted a stunning pool bar.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whitney cautioned her followers to "avoid the pool with the swim-up bar" because of one vulgar reason – many people use it as their personal toilet.</p> <p dir="ltr">Vacation pro tip: Do not hang out in the pool where the swim-up bar is," she wrote in the now-viral clip.</p> <blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@twofoodpiggies/video/7088566993208593670" data-video-id="7088566993208593670"> <section><a title="@twofoodpiggies" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@twofoodpiggies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@twofoodpiggies</a> One girl didn’t understand why some people were leaving the pool to use the washroom 😳 <a title="riubajacalifornia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/riubajacalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#riubajacalifornia</a> <a title="swimupbar" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/swimupbar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#swimupbar</a> <a title="poolaccident" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/poolaccident" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#poolaccident</a> <a title="♬ оригинальный звук - 🤍" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/оригинальный-звук-7067549981984541441" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ оригинальный звук - 🤍</a></section> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">"There was literally intoxicated guests admitting that they were peeing in the pool here."</p> <p dir="ltr">She added in the caption: "One girl didn't understand why some people were leaving the pool to use the washroom."</p> <p dir="ltr">Some of Whitney's followers appeared to see no problem with peeing in a hotel pool, with a few people openly admitting to doing it themselves, while others shared horror stories from pools at other resorts.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Well we all do," one man wrote, as another added: "There's so much chlorine, you're fine."</p> <p dir="ltr">"The amount of people admitting peeing in a pool in this comment section disgusts me," an unimpressed man wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, some of Whitney's followers argued it was normal to pee in public pools. She went on to share that at night, the pool becomes a nightclub with people drinking and dancing in the water. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-cae2526b-7fff-f391-028d-0614e0008fba"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Would you take your chances in this resort pool? Let us know.</p>

Travel Tips

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Retreat with private lake and outdoor bar for sale

<p dir="ltr">A massive mansion tucked away in the mountains with its own lake and outdoor bar has hit the market for the first time in 15 years.</p> <p dir="ltr">Cedar Lodge Retreat sits on top of Tamborine Mountain in Queensland and offers breathtaking views of Canungra Valley to the Great Dividing Range.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Every day you will feel like the last on earth to see the sun as it falls behind the ranges, displaying colours and visual tones which need to be seen to be believed,” the <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/tamborine-mountain-qld-4272-2017753766?utm_source=nine.com.au&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listing</a> reads.</p> <p dir="ltr">The huge property, which also offers another home on the land, can be accessed along a private road but is still remote and private.</p> <p dir="ltr">The main residence, which was built in 1974, boasts five huge bedrooms and four bathrooms and has been constantly renovated to “align with the estate’s timeless quality”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Master Suite on the top floor, includes a kingsize bedroom, parents retreat, luxury ensuite with dual shower heads, spa and large walk-in-robe.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lounge room has high ceilings and an open fireplace which is perfect for those cooler nights.</p> <p dir="ltr">There is also a tennis court, a large basement wine cellar and an entire top-floor primary suite.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Outlook Bar is also perfect to host a number of guests with the stunning views.</p> <p dir="ltr">Built only 12 years ago, the second residence includes an open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen experience.</p> <p dir="ltr">Perfect for guests staying the night or a few days, with the four bedroom and three bedroom amenities.</p> <p dir="ltr">The property is only minutes away from the local town centre, multiple wineries, cafes, breweries and distilleries.</p> <p dir="ltr">Cedar Lodge Retreat will go to auction with the real estate agent keeping mum about how much the property could fetch.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-47066484-7fff-67e2-3616-087d9feb883c"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Domain</em></p>

Real Estate

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Controversial reason man barred wife's bridesmaid

<p dir="ltr">A man has asked whether he’s in the right for asking his fiancée to ban her friend from their wedding because she works in the adult entertainment industry.</p> <p dir="ltr">The groom took to Reddit revealing that his future wife is very close friends with the adult industry star, who is well known and could possibly be asked for autographs at the wedding.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, he is questioning whether or not he is being reasonable to bar the friend from the wedding.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t disapprove of her at all, that’s her business. She’s great. But my family is staunchly religious,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So much so that my mom said that if the wedding was not held in a chapel she would not be attending. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I know it’s ridiculous but it’s my family. And it’s not just her, it’s that entire side with the exception of a few cousins and my siblings.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He insisted the problem with having her attend the wedding is because of how “recognisable she is” and even admitted to having seen some of her videos. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ll fully admit that prior to meeting her, I had watched a few of her videos just because of how viral they are,” he confessed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m sure other guys there will have seen her videos too, and if something gets mentioned or pointed out it could cause so much drama that I really don’t want to deal with on the wedding day. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I also don’t want attention to be taken off the woman I’m marrying.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple broached the subject and his fiancée said she would have her friend at the wedding regardless of what anyone thinks or says despite trying to compromise.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She told me that she is one of her closest friends and that she’s not moving her out of our wedding just to appease my mother,” the man continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I told her that I want our day to go off without a hitch and this is just mitigating risk. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I also said that I felt that she owed me one because she vetoed a groomsman of mine because he cheated on someone in the bridal party.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She felt it was unfair and now we’re at an impasse. She told me that the way I was behaving was gross and I was being an a**hole.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The Reddit community did not hold back questioning why the man was so worried about his religious family’s reaction when they shouldn't be watching such content.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And how, pray, is this deeply religious family going to recognise an adult film actress? Anyone who recognises her has no right to be outraged,” someone wrote. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Your family is deeply religious, but you were going to have a cheating groomsman? How does that work? This is about you being a prude,” another commented.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m dying to know how the ‘very religious’ mother would know who this person was,” another interjected.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Relationships

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"Those are the rules": Kelly Slater barred from Australia

<p>Surfing legend Kelly Slater has been told he will not be able to enter Australia without a Covid-19 vaccination. </p> <p>The 11-time world champion has previously refused to disclose his vaccination status and spoken out about his exasperation about making the jab mandatory, but assured fans he's not anti-vax. </p> <p>He has, however, publicly defended American podcast host Joe Rogan over dishing out dangerous health advice, and more recently blasted the Australian government over the decision to deport Novak Djokovic. </p> <p>After Novak's highly publicised deportation last week, Slater took to social media to say, <span>"maybe Stockholm Syndrome can now change its name to Melbourne/Australia syndrome", and "so much brainwashed hatred in people's hearts regardless of vax status".</span></p> <p><span>After receiving backlash over his views, the surfing champ deleted the posts. </span></p> <p><span>Despite his opinions, Slater now faces the same fate as Novak Djokovic, as he risks being barred from entering the country if he continues to refuse to disclose his vaccination status, unless he proves he is eligible for a legitimate exemption. </span><span></span></p> <p><span>Slater is planning to enter Australia for the upcoming World Surf League championship events, which will take place in Victoria in April, before another event in Western Australia. </span></p> <p>Federal Sports Minister Richard Colbeck said Slater "has no chance of getting into the country" if he is not vaccinated.</p> <p>"I reckon he knows the rules. It doesn't matter whether you're a surfer, or a tennis player, a tourist or anyone else, those are the rules. They apply to everyone," Colbeck said.</p> <p><span>"I don't like the chances of him competing in Victoria, and I'd hate to think of what the chances were of him competing in Western Australia."</span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Woman barred from visiting her dying mother

<p><em>Image: Sunrise </em></p> <p>Western Australian health officials have cancelled an approved visit for a woman to say goodbye to her dying mother.</p> <p>Andrea McCourt had been granted an exemption to enter WA after flying in from Texas and was in hotel quarantine when the farewell was scrapped with just 34 minutes notice.</p> <p>Ms McCourt’s trip to visit her mother’s retirement village was cancelled at the last-minute due to COVID-19 concerns after a hotel quarantine guard tested positive for the virus.</p> <p>“I sincerely regret to inform you that following thoughtful consideration, the WA Health Incident Controller has this morning withdrawn support for today’s visit due to increasing concerns regarding the public health risk associated with your visitation request,” an email from health officials read</p> <p>“Accordingly, you will not be permitted to temporarily depart hotel quarantine today.”</p> <p>The emails admits officials know the decision would be “extremely disheartening” but was not made “lightly or without comprehension.”</p> <p>“Moreover, I apologise for the untimely notice, however due to the unpredictable and everchanging nature of COVID-19 pandemic and broader quarantine system it is not possible to foresee such events,”</p> <p>Andrea told 7NEWS that she feels like she has been “treated like a criminal” over the ordeal.</p> <p>“I haven’t even had the heart to call mum this morning and say sorry we can’t come and visit you, because we don’t want her to go downhill,” she said on Wednesday.</p>

Travel Trouble

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Bride's reason for barring brother-in-law from photos

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A woman has shared her shock online after her invitation to her sister’s wedding came with a shocking request.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Initially, the woman’s husband wasn’t invited to the ceremony at all. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But when it was confirmed that he could come, the woman’s sister requested he stay out of the family photos because he was in a wheelchair.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The woman took to Reddit to explain the situation, writing that her sister was getting married next month.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“My husband and I were both planning on going but when we got the invitation it was only for me,” she </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://honey.nine.com.au/latest/brides-request-to-cut-brother-in-law-out-of-wedding-photos/b8007193-258d-43f7-a761-eb0f32bfdf51" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">explained</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“When I called my sister and asked about it she said my husband was of course fine to come but she requested that he not be in any family photos.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“My husband is in a wheelchair. I’ve been married to him for 8 years. He has been in a wheelchair since he was 16 and my family has always ever known him to be in his chair,” the woman continued.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 422.9559748427673px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845662/reddit.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8d1fbb94bc0c4435b97b488fd0b3180a" /></span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Reddit</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to her, her husband wasn’t allowed in the photos because her sister was afraid he would take attention away from her due to his visible disability.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She justifies this by saying when people come over and see our family photo they always ask about him because he’s the only one that is in a wheelchair so he stands out,” she explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She says she wants to be the main focus in her photos.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The woman said she was “livid” at her sister’s request, telling her sister she was being a “selfish bridezilla”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I told her we wouldn’t be coming,” she wrote.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’ve been getting calls from parents and relatives telling me I need to apologise to my sister because now she’s upset.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She said she was angry that her family weren’t supporting her husband.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“My husband hates being a burden and he says he’s fine with not being in the photos. Which made me even angrier because now he feels bad about himself for something I feel is unwarranted,” she added.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When she asked whether she was in the wrong for fighting for her husband and not apologising, others responded with support for her decision.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The bride is the a--hole,” one person wrote, adding, “Some people are this shallow and self-centered”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s really difficult to believe that the family would take the bride’s side on such an obnoxious request and be upset with op [the original poster],” another said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“A missing family member stands out,” one person noted. “So the whole attention whore thing won’t work out the way she intended.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This makes me sad that people have had that experience of exclusion due to such things,” another shared.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This would absolutely be the hill I’d died on,” one person declared.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Family & Pets

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Man who lost his wife two weeks ago barred from visiting grave

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Sydney man has faced further grief after being stopped from visiting his wife’s grave due to COVID-19 restrictions.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After Andy Gusmardy lost his wife two weeks ago, he has been visiting her grave everyday since as he mourns her death.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, when he arrived at Rookwood Cemetery on Thursday, he was told the site was off-limits to everyone save staff and those attending funerals.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:281.53846153846155px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843100/f3fc2487012e07392a9bd3d7719efb71c682d901-16x9-x0y0w1420h799.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/eb87e534ff5d467aa5123be5611cd955" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: 7NEWS</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“To be told, ‘sorry mate, Rookwood’s closed’ … where’s my process of grieving?” he told </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">7NEWS</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> as he fought back tears.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m just so frustrated, angry.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“How can you get over losing your loved one?”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a statement, the cemetery admitted that some funerals have exceeded the 10-person attendance limit, prompting the decision to close the site to everyone except funeral attendees and staff “in accordance with advice from NSW police”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“NSW Police have also advised that visiting the grave of a loved one in the cemetery is not considered a reasonable excuse to leave home,” Rookwood Cemetery said in the statement.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Rookwood Cemetery operators are working closely with their Funeral Directors and key faith groups, such as the Lebanese Muslim Association, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and the Sydney Chevra Kadisha, to implement these new processes in a way that maintains safety and minimises impacts to internment services at Rookwood.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Security guards are now stationed at the cemetery’s entrances and police are known to patrol the area.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We appreciate the wider community’s continued assistance and support as we navigate this challenging time together,” cemetery administrator Lee Shearer said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though Gusmardy understands the need to restrict funeral attendees, he said it’s “crazy” for mourners to be turned away when visiting their loved ones.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“You’re going there, by yourself, to grieve,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The cemetery will review the current measures in four weeks.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: 7NEWS</span></em></p>

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