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Hamish Blake shares major health scare

<p dir="ltr">Hamish Blake has shared the details of a drastic health that resulted in surgery and a series of stitches on his face. </p> <p dir="ltr">The TV presenter took to Instagram to share the news with his followers, revealing that he had to have a skin cancer cut from his forehead. </p> <p dir="ltr">While he was quick to make a joke about the procedure, calling it a “mini-facelift”, he followed up with a serious message for his followers.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sharing a close-up photo of the stitches in his forehead, he wrote: “Got a mini facelift! I love it!”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m doing the other side in a few weeks. #love #tinylift #bitbybit.”</p> <p dir="ltr">But in the second photo, he wrote, “OK not really ... This is my reminder to anyone who needs it (ie: everyone) to get your skin checked every six months.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He added, “By the way, everything is totally fine, but glad she got caught very early).”</p> <p dir="ltr">After a particularly harsh summer, Hamish Blake joins a long line of celebs who have battled skin cancers, while reminding Aussies to keep on top of their routine skin checks. </p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/hugh-jackman-s-health-scare" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hugh Jackman</a> had two biopsies after doctors became concerned that he may have skin cancers on his nose.</p> <p dir="ltr">While the tests came back clear, the Hollywood legend issued a warning to his followers, saying if his scare “reminds even one person to put on sunscreen with a high SPF, then I’m happy.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Journalist and news presenter <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/deb-knight-urges-influencers-to-stop-glorifying-tanning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Deb Knight</a> also issued a recent warning about “glorifying tanning” after sharing the results of her annual skin check up. </p> <p dir="ltr">Knight shared a series of photos showing the sun damage on her skin, writing, "Got off pretty lightly from my annual skin check. Just a few barnacles zapped but nothing serious this time round.” </p> <p dir="ltr">"Timely reminder to get your skin checked and protect it from the sun in the first place," she added, before tagging two melanoma treatment specialists and the Melanoma Institute Australia. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Update on Hamish and Zoe Foster Blake's terrifying break-in

<p>Hamish and Zoe Foster Blake have revealed details of the terrifying break-in at their rental home in Woollahra, while the couple and their two children, Rudy and Sonny, slept. </p> <p>The thief, identified as Daniel Booth, broke into the couple's  four-bedroom home in December 2021 and stole the keys to their Land Rover and Zoe's bag which contained the keys to her Tesla, $1000 in cash, and her designer wallet. </p> <p>Booth was arrested hours later, with the help of a tracking device installed in the stolen Land Rover, and faced  Sydney Downing Centre District Court on Tuesday. </p> <p>He pleaded guilty to a raft of charges related to a crime spree which occurred at the time, including a few other stolen vehicles and bags. </p> <p>Booth also admitted to groping a female Corrective Services officer while in custody before telling her: "Sorry miss."</p> <p>In 2018, Booth was serving a jail sentence for robbery with a serious weapon, and was released on parole in late 2021 before committing his Sydney-wide crime spree only weeks later, before getting arrested again after stealing from the Blakes. </p> <p>Crown prosecutor Maeve Curry revealed that the thief has been complaining of "paranoia and delusional thoughts" over the past 18 months, so the sentencing judge would have to balance "the community's interest in protection and also in punishment being imposed' against the difficulty of 'his personal circumstances'."</p> <p>Judge Donna Woodburne will sentence Booth in February 2024.</p> <p>He will remain behind bars until he returns to court. </p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Legal

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Stepson of billionaire trapped on sub called out for gross behaviour

<p>The stepson of the billionaire trapped onboard the OceanGate Titanic submersible has been called out online for attending a rock concert while his step-father remains missing in the Atlantic Ocean. </p> <p>Brian Szasz is the stepson of billionaire Hamish Harding, who is trapped on the missing vessel along with four others, days after the group left on an expedition to the wreckage of the Titanic. </p> <p>While rescue efforts continue to locate the group, Szasz has caused a stir online after being spotted with a beaming smile attending a Blink-182. </p> <p>Among those furious and confused by Szasz's actions was rapper Cardi B, who slammed the man on Instagram to her 167 million followers. </p> <p>"One of the billionaires that's missing underwater from that submarine s–t …Their stepson is at a concert, right?" Cardi B starts.</p> <p>The rapper noted that she felt that attending a concert, and post about it online amid the search and rescue of a loved one felt tone deaf.</p> <p>"People is like, um, 'What is he supposed to do? Be sad at the house? Is he supposed to go look for him himself?' Yes," she said.</p> <p>"Isn't it sad that you a whole f—ing billionaire and nobody gives a f–k about you?" the rapper asks. "That's crazy. I'd rather be broke. I'd rather be broke and poor, but knowing that I'm loved."</p> <p>Szasz fired back at the rapper, telling her to "show some class for once in your life", while he responded to the media storm after he claimed his family "would've wanted him to go" to the concert. </p> <p>"Yes, I went to @Blink182 last night. What am I supposed to do, sit at home and watch the news? Not sorry this band has helped me through hard times since 1998."</p> <p>Just hours after the online backlash over attending the concert, Szasz was once again being slammed online for flirting with an OnlyFans model on Twitter.</p> <p>Szasz retweeted an image of Only Fans it-girl Brea flashing her backside in a G-string with the caption, “can i sit on u” on the social media site, with Szasz responding, “Yes please!”</p> <p>The post came just minutes after he asked followers to “please keep my family in your prayers.”</p> <p>One commenter wrote of the unusual behaviour, “Lmao quote tweeting a thirst trap while your stepdad is lost at sea is wild business”, as another slammed, “Unreal to be tweeting this [right now.]”</p> <p>Another user added, “This guy loves blink-182 and having ladies sit on his face and he’s not afraid to let the world know.”</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 16px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 28px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em>Image credits: Facebook / Action Aviation</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Project host Hamish MacDonald ties the knot

<p><em>The Project</em> host Hamish MacDonald has married his longtime partner, Jacob Fitzroy, with his co-hosts sharing snaps of the wedding online.</p> <p>Pictures of the special day were posted on <em>The Project’s</em> Twitter account as MacDonald deactivated his social media accounts in 2020.</p> <p>The three shots saw the TV host donning a traditional Scottish kilt, while Fitzroy dazzled in a classic black tux and white bow tie.</p> <p>In one image, the pair were shown in an outdoor setting surrounded by friends being showered with confetti.</p> <p>Another snap shows the newlyweds smiling sweetly at each other.</p> <p>In a video posted on Twitter, co-host Georgie Tunny announced the news, saying, “There has been a wedding in <em>The Project</em> family this weekend; our very own Hamish MacDonald and his longtime partner Jacob.</p> <p>“Here are some cheeky little snaps – don’t they both look stupidly handsome and so gorgeous. And we are so thrilled for them. They could not look more in love.”</p> <p>She went on to say that she would “start crying”.</p> <p>“They are so beyond beautiful.”</p> <p>Sarah Harris added, “I love the kilt,” while Michael Hing joked, “Didn’t get an invite for some reason, don’t know why.”</p> <p>The others were quick to note he was working.</p> <p>Tunny said, “I just hope that they had the most magical day.”</p> <p>MacDonald made his first red carpet appearance with Fitzroy in June 2019 when they attended the GQ Gentlemen’s Ball in Melbourne, where the TV host was serving as moderator.</p> <p>“I’m always proud to stand beside my best friend and favourite human,” he captioned an image of him and Fitzroy kissing in a photo booth.</p> <p>“And while I hope that one day soon it won’t be newsworthy to hold the hand of the person you love, for now, we’d both like to say thank you for the overwhelming messages of love and support.”</p> <p>The lead-up to the nuptials wasn't all smooth sailing with the police called to a party at MacDonald’s Sydney home in March 2023 following complaints from neighbours after festivities allegedly continues for six hours.</p> <p>The party was reportedly held to celebrate the upcoming wedding.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Twitter</em></p>

Relationships

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"Our Berty boy has died": Zoe and Hamish mourn the passing of beloved cat

<p dir="ltr">Zoe and Hamish Blake are mourning the death of their beloved cat just days after their <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/inside-hamish-and-zoe-foster-blake-s-insane-10th-wedding-anniversary-party" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10th wedding anniversary</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The skincare mogul shared the devastating news to Instagram with a series of photos with their pet cat, Meowbert.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our Berty boy has died. In his sleep, on his favourite chair. How fortunate we were to share his life, to have his company, his affection, his energy and presence with us every day,” her caption began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Sixteen years of exquisite companionship, affection, sweet little paw pads and the specific and lovely knowledge that the smallest heartbeat in our family was always nearby.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Zoe then revealed that she and Meowbert fell in love with Hamish at the same time, making his passing more difficult.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Oh, I will miss him deeply! He sat on my desk as I wrote, he moved around from apartment to apartment with me in my twenties,” she continued.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmIs04tPrIV/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmIs04tPrIV/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by ZOË FOSTER BLAKE (@zotheysay)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“He fell in love with Hamish at the same time I did, he permitted our babies to pat and tug and chase him, he allowed me to cuddle his soft, arthritis-riddled body every morning...There was no finer feline, no cuter face, no better friend.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Vale Meowbert.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Several of the couple’s friends and followers offered their condolences following Meowbert’s death.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m so sorry to hear this news, what a lovely companion,” one wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Oh Zoe.I’m so sorry. What a wonderful friend he was to you. I’m so glad I met him !! He had the BEST life. Sending big love,” another commented.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Oh Zo, I’m so sorry. What a beautiful Berry boy he was. Sending love!” someone else wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Inside Hamish and Zoe Foster Blake's insane 10th wedding anniversary party

<p dir="ltr">Hamish and Zoe Foster Blake have celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary in style.</p> <p dir="ltr">The power couple threw a Swinging Sixties-inspired party with the theme “1964 wedding” at their stunning $9 million mansion in Sydney.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a guest list of high profile celebrities including comedian Andy Lee and radio host Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, the party sure was a banger.</p> <p dir="ltr">The loved up couple dressed up as newlyweds with Hamish donning a light blue suit with a cigar and Zoe in a mini sleeveless wedding dress.</p> <p dir="ltr">It seems like no expenses were spared either with the party featuring a tiered wedding cake, as well as authentic table settings, glassware and décor.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hamish took to Instagram to share a glimpse of the fun party, joking that he and Zoe got married in 1964.</p> <p dir="ltr">“58 years ago in 1964 my trillion carat wife @zotheysay and I tied the knot but I swear to god babe, it only feels like 10. xx 😘 (PS heckava night),” his caption read.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our 10-year wedding anniversary party. The theme was ‘1964 Wedding’ for no other reason than it seemed very fun, and we love Mad Men. (Also, each other! Very much!),” Zoe’s caption read.</p> <p dir="ltr">She included another post revealing who was there: “Our party theme of ‘1964 Wedding’ left it wide open: we had six brides and grooms, two priests, wedding singers, numerous bridesmaids, and several drunk uncles. And a lot of fake cigarettes.”</p> <p dir="ltr">All their posts were inundated with congratulations from friends and fans.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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Julie Goodwin puts colleague in his place

<p dir="ltr">Julie Goodwin appeared as a host on <em>The Sunday Project</em> and was quick to have the audience in stitches.</p> <p dir="ltr">The beloved <em>MasterChef Australia</em> star was introduced by co-host Hamish MacDonald who expressed his disappointment that she didn’t cook something for the team. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Please put your hands together for the one and only, MasterChef's Julie Goodwin,” Hamish said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It's great to see you, but I'm not happy that you didn't bring snacks.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Julie was quick and witty in her response: “If we're going to be colleagues, get used to that!”</p> <p dir="ltr">The rest of the panel and the audience laughed before Hamish responded sarcastically saying Julie is “so much nicer in real life”. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheProjectTV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheProjectTV</a> is coming live from the traditional lands of the Gadigal People. We begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we gather today, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. <a href="https://t.co/pIvth3zTAN">pic.twitter.com/pIvth3zTAN</a></p> <p>— The Project (@theprojecttv) <a href="https://twitter.com/theprojecttv/status/1548586383752810499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Following the finale of <em>MasterChef Fans &amp; Favourites</em>, Julie had managed to make it to the top five before she was eliminated for presenting a burnt sticky date pudding to the judges. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 51-year-old accepted the decision and was asked by guest host Mitch Tambo what she has “against sweets”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It's just not my jam, so to speak. I'm a savoury kind of a cook. So you know, I do desserts when I need to... it's just not my forte,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I would have preferred any one of the other courses but you get what you're given on MasterChef. You've got to run with it.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Julie recently opened up about her fear of rejoining the series after winning the first ever season of MasterChef.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was pretty scary because there was a feeling there that everything's on the line. I won the show 13 years ago and built a career out of that," she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"To put myself back into that situation, that competition, I felt like I may be risking all of that.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Channel 10</em></p>

TV

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Patti Newton's heartwarming Logies moment

<p dir="ltr">Patti Newton took to the Logies stage to a standing ovation, before introducing and presenting the newly renamed ‘Bert Newton award for the Most Popular Presenter.</p> <p dir="ltr">Standing in front of an early photo of herself with her late husband, Patti spoke about her grief and how she knew Bert would always be with her.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I actually didn't think I was going to be able to do this tonight, because it is still very raw and I will never get over him not being here," she told the audience.</p> <p dir="ltr">"But I know he is with me. And here... he is inside me,” she added, going on to explain the ‘Bert’ necklace she was spotted wearing on the red carpet earlier that night.</p> <p dir="ltr">"My daughter had this Bert [necklace] made for me, so I will be wearing this forever around my neck,” Patti said</p> <p dir="ltr">“I will know who I am and when I cannot remember anymore, I will say who's that? It will be Bert."</p> <p dir="ltr">Patti reflected on her late husband’s “bravery”, the great experiences he had throughout his TV career, and one of the things he really loved.</p> <p dir="ltr">"He really did live his dream," she said, "but the one thing he really loved was this show, the Logies. This was his baby."</p> <p dir="ltr">She added that Bert had another “love”: his daughter Lauren, son Matthew, and six grandchildren.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I have been his partner for 57 years, it is a long time,” she said, prompting an eruption of applause she quickly responded to.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Thank you, but I don't need applause because I have loved every minute of those 57 years.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Patti then introduced the award named in Bert’s honour.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I've been so blessed that he chose me, and I think that's why we're so pleased that the award for the most popular presenter is going to be known as the 'Bert Newton Award for the Most Popular Presenter'," she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I was only thinking today, if I could just ask him how he feels about this particular award being named in his honour, and I'm absolutely certain that he would say, 'What? Not the gold, then?" she joked.</p> <p dir="ltr">To end her speech, Patti said: "He never wanted to be forgotten, so I hope he never is."</p> <p dir="ltr">She then presented the award to Hamish Blake for presenting Nine’s <em>Lego Masters</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">On receiving the award, Blake said the fact that Bert “loved what he did” was something that struck him, and spoke of the late presenter’s generosity and kindness.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There will never be another Bert,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">See the full list of 2022 Logie winners below.</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Newsreader</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Drama Series)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Richard Roxburgh, <em>Fires</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Actor)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Anna Torv, <em>The Newsreader</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Actress)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Project</em> – Brittany Higgins Interview, Network 10 (Most Outstanding News Coverage or Public Affairs Report)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Incarceration Nation</em>, NITV (Most Outstanding Factual or Documentary Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Heather Mitchell, <em>Love Me</em>, BINGE and FOXTEL (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Supporting Actress)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Colin Friels, <em>Wakefield</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Supporting Actor)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Fires</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Outstanding Miniseries or Telemovie)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Gogglebox Australia</em>, FOXTEL (Most Popular Entertainment Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Bluey</em>, ABC (Most Outstanding Children’s Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Guy Pearce, <em>Jack Irish</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Popular Actor)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Tony Armstrong, <em>News Breakfast</em>, ABC (Graham Kennedy Award For Most Popular New Talent)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Project,</em> Network 10 (Most Popular Panel or Current Affairs Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Kitty Flanagan, <em>Fisk</em>, ABC (TV WEEK Silver Logie – Most Popular Actress)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Hamish Blake, <em>Lego Masters Australia</em>, 9Network (Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!</em>, Network 10 (Most Outstanding Reality Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Jacki Weaver, <em>Yellowstone</em>, Stan (TV Week Silver Logie – Most Popular Australian Actor Or Actress In An International Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Have You Been Paying Attention?</em>, Network 10 (Most Popular Comedy Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Olympic and Paralympics Games Tokyo 2020, Seven Network (Most Outstanding Sports Coverage)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>MasterChef Australia</em>, Network 10 (Most Popular Reality Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Travel Guides</em>, 9Network (Most Popular Lifestyle Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Home And Away</em>, Seven Network (Most Popular Drama Program)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Lego Masters Australia</em>, 9Network (Most Outstanding Entertainment or Comedy Program)</p> </li> </ul> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-82e4cc58-7fff-198e-a3c4-e0a10cb4125e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Nine</em></p>

TV

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Surprise favourite heading into Logies weekend

<p dir="ltr">With the Logies just around the corner, debates about who could take home the Gold Logie are heating up, with gambling platforms even weighing in on who it could be.</p> <p dir="ltr">Radio star Hamish Blake has been dubbed a “shoo-in” for the award, but Sportsbet claims Channel 7’s Sonia Kruger could be tipped to nab the award instead, per <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/awards/logies/sportsbet-betting-odds-hint-sonia-kruger-is-hot-on-hamish-blakes-tail-for-gold-logie/news-story/06132b23f0f63ab0760c5d5ab77b766d" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though Blake is still the frontrunner, with betting at $1.80, it’s come as a drop from $1.40 over the past few weeks. Meanwhile, Kruger has gone from $6 to $4, making her the second favourite.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following close behind is <em>MasterChef</em>’s Melissa Leong at $5.50, with <em>Home and Away </em>star Ray Meagher sitting at $10 and <em>I’m a Celeb</em>’s Julie Morris on $11.</p> <p dir="ltr">A victory for Kruger has been a long time coming, with her 20-year career being recognised with a nomination for Most Popular Personality.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking to <em><a href="https://tvtonight.com.au/2022/06/2022-gold-logie-nominee-sonia-kruger.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TV Tonight</a></em> earlier in the week, the 56-year-old said it was “high time” a women nabbed the award, noting that most of the male nominees already have a Gold Logie to their name.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And it’s not a popularity contest but I did host every show on Channel 7 last year and deserve it more than everyone else,” she joked. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sportsbet’s Sean Ormerod echoed the sentiment.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Sonia would be a deserved winner if she takes home the Gold,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There isn’t much she hasn’t appeared on, <em>Big Brother</em>, <em>Holey Moley</em>, <em>Dancing With The Stars</em>, to name a few, and there’s no doubt her popularity with the voting public.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The 62nd TV Week Logie Awards is set to air on Channel Nine this Sunday at 7pm, with live voting for the Gold Logie open from now until the red carpet telecast.</p> <p dir="ltr">To vote for your favourite from the short-list of nominees, head <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/awards/oscars/the-will-smith-slap-has-no-place-at-the-oscars-but-absolutely-belongs-at-the-logies/news-story/91b43d68880147bb09c11961703acbb5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-527adac2-7fff-0406-f3a1-fba2c5f87230"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

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Hamish and Zoe Foster Blake snap up stunning natural retreat

<p dir="ltr"><em>Lego Masters Australia</em> host Hamish Blake and author Zoe Foster Blake have jumped on the celebrity bandwagon heading south of Sydney after spending more than $4 million on a scenic home.</p> <p dir="ltr">The celebrity couple are <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/inside-hamish-and-zoe-blakes-43m-new-house-on-the-nsw-south-coast/?rsf=syn:news:nca:news:spa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the latest</a> to buy into the south coast, following on from recent purchases made by Deborah Hutton and Gerry Harvey in the area.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their new six-bedroom, five-bathroom home in Jamberoo - about an hour and a half south of Sydney - was last sold in 1996 for $566,000, but has undergone extensive renovations since.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-jamberoo-137476998" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listing</a>, the home is nestled in “some of the most stunning scenery in Australia”, offering “breathtaking views of verdant valleys and hills to a sparkling seascape beyond”.</p> <p dir="ltr">It also has views of the Pacific Ocean and Lake Illawarra from the outdoor balcony that wraps around the entire house and looks over a croquet lawn.</p> <p dir="ltr">Spread out across just one level, the home’s interiors include an open plan dining room and gourmet kitchen, a lounge room with a stone fireplace, and bedrooms housed within two separate wings that also come with their own en-suites.</p> <p dir="ltr">Outside, the 7.47-acre property also includes an orchard with lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit trees, a herb and vegetable garden, and a double-car garage set up as a teenagers retreat complete with a billiard table and separate sitting area.</p> <p dir="ltr">The home is another large addition to the couple’s real estate portfolio which comes just a year after they dropped a whopping $8.925 million on a home in Vaucluse.</p> <p dir="ltr">The home was sold to the couple by Ray White’s Michelle Lay.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-449b1fd9-7fff-6ad5-9a92-da9790c64205"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @zotheysay (Instagram), Realestate.com.au</em></p>

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Tempers flare on The Project over mandatory vaccinations

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tuesday night’s episode of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Project</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saw two hosts clash over mandatory vaccinations.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A disagreement between Kate Langbroek and Hamish McDonald played out on live television following a news segment about mandatory jabs for employees in some workplaces.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Langbroek shared that the pair had disagreed on the issue in an earlier off-air briefing.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“You weren’t calling me a gentleman at that point,” MacDonald said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Nearly everyone was (pro) mandatory vaccine, but I’m not mandatory vaccine for work,” Langbroek explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m not anti-vax,” she admitted, “but I’m very uncomfortable prescribing mandatorily to people what they have to put in their bodies to work or participate in - I’m just not.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She argued that her aversion may be due to her upbringing as a Jehovah’s Witness.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“They had the concept of disfellowshipping, which I find so repugnant. I hate the thought that people will be disfellowshipped from their lives because they have hesitation or doubts about the vaccination,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, MacDonald countered that her doubts could be impacting others.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“So as an employer, you’re responsible not just to Kate, who might be cautious, you’re responsible to all your employees, right?” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If you let Kate continue to come into work, you can transmit it to us and then we can transmit it to our families. If you want to visit…”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“That’s when your vaccine has to do its work, mate!” Langbroek interrupted. “And my vaccine.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“But the vaccine doesn’t prevent you from contracting the virus or transmitting it, it just reduces the likelihood that you will end up in hospital or that you will die,” MacDonald explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The reality is, if someone comes to our workplace, gives it to me, I can take it to a residential aged care facility, where my father might be, and then spread it through there. I don’t want to do that,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“People bringing Covid into the workplace is not safe.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though Langbroek agreed with his point, she pressed that it shouldn’t be mandatory to get the jab.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If you had the right to go into your workplace and feel protected, does someone else also not have the right to decide what they put in their body?”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The fiery conversation came to an end with Langbroek pointing out that she has had one dose of the vaccine and one of her children was vaccinated earlier that day.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: The Project / Channel 10</span></em></p>

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“We lost a comedy giant today”: Norm Macdonald dead at 61

<p>The comedy world is in mourning after Norm Macdonald died of cancer on Tuesday at age 61. </p> <p>The Canadian stand-up comic and <em>Saturday Night Live</em> cast member <span>had been battling cancer in private </span>for nearly a decade, according to his lifelong friend Lori Jo Hoekstra who was with him when he dies. </p> <p>"He was most proud of his comedy", she said.</p> <p><span>"He never wanted the diagnosis to affect the way the audience or any of his loved ones saw him."</span></p> <p><span>"Norm was a pure comic. He once wrote that ‘a joke should catch someone by surprise, it should never pander.’ He certainly never pandered. Norm will be missed terribly.”</span></p> <p><span>Norm was known in the comedic circle for his signature deadpan delivery and dry style of humour that quickly made him an icon of the craft.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>Norm's impressions of </span>famous figures, such as TV star Burt Reynolds, became a teaching tool and huge inspiration for up and coming comics. </p> <p><span>“I essentially ripped off his delivery when I first started acting,” actor and fellow Canadian Seth Rogen tweeted. </span></p> <p><span>“I would stay up specifically to watch him on talk shows. He was the funniest guest of all time. We lost a comedy giant today. One of the all time greats.”</span></p> <p><span>Norm shot to fame when he was cast on <em>Saturday Night Live</em> in 1993 after performing in comedy circuits in Canada for several years. </span></p> <p><span>He performed on <em>SNL</em> until 1998, serving as a co-host of Weekend Update for three seasons.</span></p> <p><span>Norm then went on to star in his own ABC sitcom, <em>The Norm Show</em>, from 1999 until 2001, and also became a hilarious regular on a series of talk shows. </span></p> <p><span>In 2018, he hosted a Netflix talk show, <em>Norm Macdonald Has a Show</em>, that was inspired by his podcast and garnered an international audience. </span></p> <p><span>Hundred of comedians have shared their stories of Norm on Twitter in remembrance of the comedy giant and all he did for the world of show business. </span></p> <p><span>Actor Josh Gad wrote, "Absolutely gutted. One of the most underrated and hilarious SNL performers."</span></p> <p><span>Writer and director Edgar Wright also tweeted, saying, "Of the many addictive rabbit holes you can disappear down on the internet, the most pleasurable is ‘Norm MacDonald chat show appearances'."</span></p> <p><span>“Thanks for all the laughs Norm, very sorry to see you go.”</span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty Images</em></p>

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The Project reunion: Hamish comes home!

<p><span>Hamish Macdonald will return to <em>The Project</em> after 18 months as the host of <em>Q+A.</em></span><br /><br /><span>The 40-year-old revealed that he would be returning to Channel 10 just 48 hours after he announced his exit from the iconic ABC current affairs program on Monday.</span><br /><br /><span>Hamish joined <em>Q+A</em> in February last year following the departure of the founding presenter, Tony Jones, who spent 12 years there.</span><br /><br /><span>Hamish will reunite with Lisa Wilkinson as co-host of <em>The Sunday Project.</em></span></p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7842591/scott-morrison-3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/0a825038d88e48188b8c127941f58c76" /><br /><br /><span>"I am over the moon to be returning to 10 and thrilled about the opportunity to make great local and international content with this dynamic group of producers and presenters," Hamish said in a statement from Channel 10.</span><br /><br /><span>"It is also a total joy to be heading back to the desk with Lisa, Tommy [Little] and the people I love so much," he added.</span><br /><br /><span>Hamish previously worked for Network 10 between 2010 and 2013.</span><br /><br /><span>He rejoined in 2017 as a regular host of The Sunday Project.</span><br /><br /><span>In a statement about his leaving <em>Q+A</em> on Monday, he hinted at an “exciting new opportunity.”</span><br /><br /><span>He also indicated that he would be “working more” with the ABC “in the future”.</span></p>

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Hamish Macdonald's shock departure

<p><span><em>Q+A</em> host Hamish Macdonald has announced he is leaving the <em>ABC</em> after 18 months in the job.</span><br /><br /><span>The TV journalist, 40, replaced veteran Tony Jones on the popular program in late 2019.</span><br /><br /><span>He left his coveted position as <em>The Sunday Project</em> host on Channel 10.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7842539/daily-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/72306f6f871b4a948248e6ed68140c7a" /></p> <p><em>Hamish on Q+A. Image: Supplied</em><br /><br /><span>While Macdonald has not detailed what is next for him after <em>ABC</em>, the star’s departure follows months after he revealed an extreme amount of online abuse.</span><br /><br /><span>In a chat with Stellar in January, Macdonald said his role on <em>Q+A</em> through 2020 saw him receive the most hate on social media he has ever encountered.</span><br /><br /><span>“If you’re someone who sits in the middle of those exchanges in your day job, you end up copping it from every direction. I’ve never had more abuse for the interviews I’ve conducted than I had last year,” he said.</span><br /><br /><span>“And the abuse has come from left-wing people who don’t like you asking difficult questions of Dan Andrews, and it’s come from people on the right who don’t like you asking difficult questions of the federal government. I’ve definitely learnt you can’t please everyone.”</span><br /><br /><span>In a public announcement, Macdonald said he is “enormously grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given to host <em>Q+A</em> and to work alongside wonderful, talented and passionate people.</span><br /><br /><span>“I am really proud of what we’ve achieved together during these extraordinary times.</span><br /><br /><span>“I’d also like to thank the incredible<em> Q+A</em> audience for all they contribute to this program each week. It is, after all, their show. Their questions and stories from all corners of Australia are inspiring, revealing and clever – and it has been a privilege to receive and read them.</span><br /><br /><span>“I’m really excited to be moving on to a new opportunity, and working more with the <em>ABC</em> in the future.”</span><br /><br /><span><em>ABC’s</em> director of news Gaven Morris said in a statement: “Everyone at the <em>ABC</em> thanks Hamish for the incredible job he has done.</span><br /><br /><span>“At one stage during the lockdown he was presenting a live panel discussion program that wasn’t allowed to have either an audience or panellists in the studio. His experience and versatility came to the fore.</span><br /><br /><span>“Hamish has long been a part of the <em>ABC</em> family and we look forward to continuing that relationship when opportunities arise.”</span><br /><br /><span>When the TV personality was appointed host of <em>Q+A</em> in November 2019, it was believed he’d continue to host <em>The Sunday Project.</em></span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7842544/daily.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/2f7ceff0e6564bf49e3f5e808f592354" /></p> <p><em>Hamish and Lisa Wilkinson on The Sunday Project. Image: Channel 10</em><br /><br /><span>However, reports quickly emerged that he was forced to step down entirely and would only appear on the program in an occasional capacity.</span><br /><br /><span>“We’re largely reliant on the goodwill of the <em>ABC</em> if he’s going to continue with <em>The Sunday Project</em>,” Ten’s executive director of news and current affairs Peter Meakin told <em>The Australian</em> at the time.</span><br /><br /><span>Macdonald has hosted a series of programs since his career began to take off in 2010, when he was appointed senior correspondent and fill-in presenter on <em>6:30 with George Negus.</em></span></p>

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Hamish Blake offloads home to mystery buyer for record price

<p><span>Hamish Blake and Zoe Foster Blake’s Richmond pad has sold for an eye-watering price, breaking a major record for the suburb.</span><br /><br /><span>The luxurious, modern three-bedroom home at 79a Rowena Parade, Richmond, went onThursday evening for $7.435m off a $5.9m-$6.3m price guide.</span><br /><br /><span>Jellis Craig Stonnington agent Carla Fetter said the new buyer is not to be named, but denied that they had AFL ties.</span><br /><br /><span>“It’s a really expensive one so I’m not in a position to say anything about the price … the buyer has asked us to be very discreet,” Ms Fetter said.</span><br /><br /><span>She said the home’s location and lavish fit-out were the major features that caught the eyes of potential buyers.</span><br /><br /><span>“It’s probably one of the best offerings in Richmond. It’s on Richmond Hill in a really prestigious area, but the house itself was spectacular.”</span><br /><br /><span>The celebrity power couple moved to Sydney at the start of 2020, buying a home in the posh Vaucluse area.</span></p>

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"What about justice?" Tempers flare on Q&A over Christian Porter debate

<p>A Liberal senator and a Labor MP clashed on<span> </span><em>ABC's Q&amp;A</em><span> </span>on Thursday night over a question around the historical rape allegation against Attorney-General Christian Porter.</p> <p>On Wednesday, Porter revealed himself as the minister at the centre of a rape claim involving a 16-year-old girl in Sydney in 1988.</p> <p>He has never been charged and police confirmed there was "insufficient evidence" to proceed with an investigation and labelled the matter "closed".</p> <p>The question was asked by an audience member and immediately caused tension on the panel.</p> <p>The question that was asked was whether the panel thought Prime Minister Scott Morrison should launch an independent inquiry into the allegations against Mr Porter.</p> <p>Queensland National Party Senator Susan McDonald threw her support behind Mr Porter, saying she felt “deeply” for the woman and her family but that the justice system must be adhered to.</p> <p>“We do have a system of justice in this country. We do have a police service that is well resourced and the most capable of understanding whether or not evidence needs to go to trial. And they have closed the matter,” Senator McDonald said.</p> <p>“I don’t think that this is an easy subject but we can’t have a situation where allegations equate to guilt. And I think that the minister has made a full statement and I think that we need to some justice in the law and the rules of the land, because otherwise, you know, do we back a kangaroo court and a court of public opinion?”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Should the Prime Minister launch an independent inquiry into the rape allegation against Christian Porter? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QandA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QandA</a> <a href="https://t.co/24SVvJVM14">pic.twitter.com/24SVvJVM14</a></p> — QandA (@QandA) <a href="https://twitter.com/QandA/status/1367413261134483457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2021</a></blockquote> <p>Western Australia Labor MP Anne Aly cut in, asking: "What about justice for the victim?"</p> <p>“We keep talking about justice for the accused. What about justice for the victim?” she said, to a round of cheering from the audience.</p> <p>“I am infuriated by this because I’m sick and tired of the lip service that we hear in parliament about hearing victims’ voice, about listening to women, about respect for women, and right now is a moment.”</p> <p>Aly also said it was time for the Prime Minister to show leadership and launch an independent inquiry.</p> <p>“What did he do? He came out and he said, ‘Well, I have asked him if he did it and he said no, and that’s enough for me.’ And then suddenly you’ve got all of these men invoking justice, justice, justice,” she said.</p> <p>“That inquiry will either exonerate Christian Porter and prove his innocence, as he is — as he is saying, that he is innocent, or it will prove otherwise. Either way, this is a serious, serious allegation. It needs to be treated seriously,” she said.</p>

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Radio star Hamish Blake lists glitzy Melbourne home

<p><span>Radio star Hamish Blake and his writer wife Zoe Foster Blake are reportedly selling their glitzy Melbourne home in the heart of Richmond.</span><br /><br /><span>Neighbours told reporters they spotted an expression of interest sign sitting on the lawn of their Rowena Parade home last week – just a month after the pair relocated to Sydney.</span><br /><br /><span>The Blake family have settled down in the ritzy area of Vaucluse, reportedly spending $8.952 million on their new home.</span><br /><br /><span>CoreLogic records show they bought the Richmond home for $4.25m in 2015, and have spent thousands of dollars on renovations.</span><br /><br /><span>The pair have added a pergola-patio space while raising their two children in the home.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7840064/hamish-blake-zoe-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d0a3d5046de4416d892f6a18577b7b8e" /></p> <p><em>Image: Instagram @HamishBlakeShotz</em><br /><br /><span>The space had a slot on <em>Grand Designs Australia</em> in 2013, but it is believed they have since updated its interiors.</span><br /><br /><span>Neil Architecture director David Neil was there to witness the original design of the home and returned to build a pergola for the Blake family.</span><br /><br /><span>“When people see it and talk to me, the things that stand out are the chicken run of all things, which is no longer there, and a lift that pops out to the rooftop,” Mr Neil said.</span><br /><br /><span>“Plus it is down a laneway and it was very ambitious. It was quite unique for its time.”</span><br /><br /><span>The polished, well-maintained home is a three-bedroom contemporary residence.</span><br /><br /><span>Not only does it feature new modern updates, but also a pool, a home theatre and stunning concrete floors.</span><br /><br /><span>Hamish confirmed his move to Sydney on Instagram with a heartfelt post, but hinted it may not be his forever city, writing: “Melbourne, you will always be home.”</span></p>

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The vital issue that brought Q+A's host and guest to tears

<p><em>Q&amp;A</em><span> </span>host Hamish Macdonald and Liberal MP were brought to tears on the program after discussing Australia's failing aged care system.</p> <p>Allen ended the show in tears after speaking about her father's battle with dementia.</p> <p>"He couldn't speak for the last year of his life, he couldn't walk, his only words that were left were 'thank you'," Ms Allen said through tears.</p> <p>"It's a terrible disease, so I think people [need to be] able to have the choice, and the control, and the laws in Victoria have been, I think, I have to say well handled and I think that we need to have this sort of conversation, particularly for dementia."</p> <p>Macdonald broke down in tears much later after asking an audience member and his daughter questions about aged-care homes.</p> <p>Audience member Timothy Granger and his daughter Prudence-Rose spoke about Timothy's battle with early-onset Alzheimer's as he was diagnosed at the age of 51.</p> <p>Timothy spoke about his fears about what the future holds for him.</p> <p>"How are you doing?" Macdonald asked.</p> <p>"Going well," Mr Granger responded before adding: "Sorry, I have a little bit of problem with speech, sorry, what was your question?</p> <p>"I wanted to know how you're doing," Macdonald said.</p> <p>"You're living at home with your beautiful wife, your wonderful daughter. How do you feel about the prospect of one day going into an aged care facility?"</p> <p>"I think what makes it scary is he's so much younger," she said.</p> <p>"He's going to be potentially going in there in his 60s or sooner, which we really want to avoid but if that occurs, how can he live his best life in these facilities that aren't really set up for him at his age?</p> <p>"There are more people getting diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's."</p> <p>Macdonald asked Timothy how he felt about discussing that with his family.</p> <p>"That's going to be difficult and probably it's going to be hard for them as well," Mr Granger said.</p> <p>"I'm scared. I think it's not something you think is going to happen so soon," Ms Granger added</p> <p>"We would like to be able to support him for as long as we can, the reality is we probably can't.</p> <p>"We also have financial concerns. We'd like to be able to put him in a facility that will support him and his needs but I don't know if he could afford that or if we would get in.</p> <p>"And I'm just witnessing that, especially tonight, listening to everything that everybody is saying and it's really scary."</p> <p>It was here that Macdonald started to cry.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Tim is 56 years old and was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s five years ago. Tim wants to know how he will be supported to live “his best life” in aged care? And Trevor wants to know if there is any hope for the future for him and 472,000 of his “dementia mates”? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QandA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QandA</a> <a href="https://t.co/0MJhIY0Tj3">pic.twitter.com/0MJhIY0Tj3</a></p> — QandA (@QandA) <a href="https://twitter.com/QandA/status/1364884709319217157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2021</a></blockquote> <p>"I've met Tim previously, so I was already somewhat familiar with the situation he is in," Macdonald told the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-26/dementia-patient-leaves-q+a-panel-on-aged-care-in-tears/13194334" target="_blank"><em>ABC</em></a>.</p> <p>"He has a beautiful warmth and a great sense of humour, I was really looking forward to catching up tonight.</p> <p>"In truth, we can spend hours talking about the statistics and the data and the sad history of aged care in Australia, but stories like Tim bring the realities home to us all.</p> <p>"When Tim speaks, you can imagine this was you, you can imagine this was your partner or your father. It is impossible not to be moved by Tim's story.</p> <p>"He's a father, a husband and a lovely human, faced with some extraordinarily difficult circumstances. I'm really pleased there's a space for Tim and people like him to have a voice in such an important national conversation around aged care."</p>

Retirement Life

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"Gobsmacked:" Deputy PM Michael McCormack taken to task on Q&A

<div class="body_text "> <p>ABC's Q&amp;A episode on Monday night quickly dissolved into chaos as the Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack brought up Melbourne's Black Lives Matter protests as a reason for a spike in coronavirus cases.</p> <p>The subject came out of nowhere for host Hamish Macdonald, who asked whether or not the rest of Australia could trust Victoria's contact tracing system.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Why isn’t there a system in place to ensure the people allowed to leave on compassionate grounds can return home again? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QandA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QandA</a> <a href="https://t.co/t1rAboArO4">pic.twitter.com/t1rAboArO4</a></p> — QandA (@QandA) <a href="https://twitter.com/QandA/status/1302936409301417984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“Well let’s wait and see. At the moment we haven’t been able to do that,” said Mr McCormack, who is the leader of the National Party.</p> <p>“The public health officials have to do that tracking and tracing. That is the key.”</p> <p>“That isn’t my question. Can we trust-” Macdonald interjected.</p> <p>“We haven’t been able to so far,” said McCormack.</p> <p>“We have had that outbreak because of the security guards, who did the wrong thing. We had that outbreak because of a family who gathered in too large a number. We had the outbreak in Victoria because of a protest rally.”</p> <p>Macdonald was quick to interject, saying “Sorry, what’s the evidence of the protest rally leading to the outbreak?”</p> <p>“Well there were three confirmed cases from one of those protest rallies," McCormack explained.</p> <p>“Are you saying that’s led to the outbreak?” Macdonald asked.</p> <p>“It didn’t help the situation,” said McCormack.</p> <p>It was at this point that Macdonald corrected the statement.</p> <p>“Sorry, you’re drawing a link that I’m not sure is substantiated in fact.”<br />McCormack didn't back down. </p> <p>“When the second wave occurred, they were the three reasons that were given. It was the security failure, it was the family that gathered in too large numbers-”</p> <p>“I’m not sure there is any actual evidence that the Black Lives Matter protest led to this outbreak,” Macdonald quickly interjected.</p> <p>The other guests on the panel watched on, including Dr Omar Khorshid, President of the Australian Medical Association.</p> <p>MacDonald called on Dr Khorshid to give his opinion.</p> <p>“With respect, Deputy Prime Minister, we do know what happened in Victoria. We know that the processes around hotel quarantine failed, the virus was able to get into some community groups,” Dr Khorshid said.</p> <p>“And then the contact tracing and the public health response was too slow. The lockdowns and restrictions were too slow.”</p> <p>“Omar, is there any evidence that the Black Lives Matter protest led to the outbreak?” Macdonald asked.</p> <p>“No. I’m certainly not aware of any evidence that the Black Lives Matter protest resulted in the outbreak in Victoria,” said Dr Khorshid.</p> <p>“But I would agree that congregating in large numbers at the moment does not make sense. But we shouldn’t be hiding from the real causes of the outbreak.”</p> <p>Labor’s Shadow Home Affairs Minister, Kristina Keneally was also on the panel and gave her opinion about what the Deputy Prime Minister had said.</p> <p>“I’m gobsmacked by what I heard from the Deputy Prime Minister,” she said.</p> <p>“Trying to assert that this second wave in Victoria is linked directly to the Black Lives Matter protest. I mean, that is an alternative fact, Trumpism, make up your own reality.”</p> </div>

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“Heartless”: Expert sparks fury by “advocating” for Australian deaths

<p><span>Economist Gigi Foster has come under fire for talking about "body counts" on Monday night’s episode of <em>Q&amp;A</em> and championing for Australia to replicate Sweden's relaxed response to the coronavirus pandemic.</span><br /><br /><span>When her University of New South Wales colleague Adjunct Professor Bill Bowtell, who is also a strategic health adviser, told the panel he felt the virus could be eliminated from Australia, Professor Foster called his opinion an "unrealistic vision".</span><br /><br /><span>She then used Sweden as an example by pointing out the Nordic nation chose not to impose lockdowns.</span><br /><br /><span>She also said that social distancing and working from home have been completely voluntary.</span><br /><br /><span>"I think that Australia can follow in the footsteps of many other countries in the world, some of which have not had lockdowns as strict as we have had here, such as again, Sweden — and look at the death tolls in those countries," Professor Foster said.</span><br /><br /><span><em>Q&amp;A</em> host Hamish Macdonald however would not let this fly and said: “Let me pull you up there. Sweden has had 5,697 deaths.</span><br /><br /><span>"Are you comfortable with advocating that for Australia?"</span><br /><br /><span>Professor Foster responded with: "I'm comfortable with saying let's be data driven in our policy choices and look at what's happened in other countries."</span><br /><br /><span>However Macdonald said the strategy Sweden has implemented holds no advantages, citing the country’s GDP (down 7 per cent) and unemployment rate (9 per cent).</span><br /><br /><span>"How can you point to Sweden and say there's the model?" he asked.</span><br /><br /><span>Professor Foster responded: "If you look at what's happening to those death counts around the world, in every country that has had a proper first wave, [they are] somewhere between 0.5 per cent and 0.1 per cent of the population.</span><br /><br /><span>"That translates in Australia to about 12,000 to 25,000 deaths for people who are predominantly elderly or immunocompromised.</span><br /><br /><span>"But it's a body count."</span><br /><br /><span>Macdonald said her comment was "heartless" and read out Victoria's daily coronavirus statistics.</span><br /><br /><span>"[In] Victoria today, there was six further deaths announced, there are 44 people in ICU, 245 people in hospital," he said</span><br /><br /><span>Professor Foster replied by saying it is “horrible” but when asked by the show’s host why she was “advocating for them to die,” she pointedly refused the suggestion.</span><br /><br /><span>"I'm not advocating for anybody to die, I am advocating for the least people to die as possible," Professor Foster said.</span><br /><br /><span>"What about everything else that kills people and makes them suffer?</span><br /><br /><span>"Have we even thought about the cost of mental stress and anguish, the unemployment effects?"</span><br /><br /><span>Professor Bowtell said the “Swedish example is a fiasco”.</span><br /><br /><span>"The idea of locking old people in aged care homes, not allowing them to be treated in hospitals — as became the norm in Sweden — is or should be abhorrent.</span><br /><br /><span>"You cannot segment out one sector of the population and ask them to undergo great misery, suffering, death in the interests — spurious interests — of saying all the rest of us will benefit.</span><br /><br /><span>"That's not how societies work."</span></p>

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