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Woman's hilarious baby name idea sparks divided response

When it comes to choosing a name for your child, people pull inspiration from many different places. For a lot of families, people use the names of grandparents or traditional family names to carry on to the next generation, while others may choose to use more modern and unique names to break the mould. But now, one Aussie baby name consultant has sparked a flood of hilarious responses as she asked a question about how to select a name based on the place you met your child's other parent. While the expert Michelle Casey may have been implying names such as cities or countries, others were quick to share their own hilarious interpretation. Among the standout suggestions were "Rehab", "Delusion", "Gas Station", and "Church Parking Lot", before people then offered up the names of dating apps such as "Tinder" or "Bumble". All hope wasn't lost, however, as a few couples shared their heartwarming stories of where the unusual concept actually worked out. "We did just that," one person commented, "Our two year old is named Olive. We met working at Olive Garden as teenagers." While someone else shared their daughter Julia was named after her parents meeting place, "Saint Julian's in Malta". Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Mum's list of chores for babysitter divides internet

An American mum and schoolteacher has divided social media after she shared a list of chores that her 17-year-old babysitter could do for extra cash. Katrina Ivan hired a former student, who is now a senior in high school, to babysit her two-year-old son. The busy mum, who had been struggling to maintain her home, left an optional list of chores the babysitter could do for some extra cash. “You are more than welcome to hang out and watch TV but if you want to earn some extra cash these are up for grabs,” the note read. She claimed that her son was already asleep when the babysitter arrived at 7:30pm and she would be looking after him until 11:30pm. The babysitter was being paid $115.45 for the four hours of work. The extra chores included organising the kitchen island, which would earn the student $15, as would cleaning the windows and mirrors in the house and sweeping and mopping the kitchen floor. Cleaning out the fridge would earn the her $23, while vacuuming the couch would earn her $4. A few other optional chores included re-organising the toys, organising the kitchen island, and re-organising the silverware, which were all chores that would earn the student $15. The babysitter earned an extra $92 for the chores she chose, and a few social media users have said that this was a great idea. “I wish they did this when I was a babysitter. Would have loved the opportunity to earn extra," one wrote. “This is a great idea!! Sometimes it’s boring to just to sit and watch TV, this makes time go by quicker and sometimes it’s things I would do to help," another said. “I think since it’s optional or not you can give whatever amounts. It’s still the babysitters choice whether to do it or not,” a third added. However a few others weren't as impressed. “Those are 1990 prices,” one social media user wrote. “$23 for the fridge that’s wild," another added. “I think if you mention it ahead of time ‘oh I left a chore list if you’re interested in any of them it’s extra cash for you!’ Because if I just arrived to this note I might be a little uncomfortable,” a third said. Images: TikTok

Family & Pets

Genius Christmas hack divides viewers

Christmas, a time when the kitchen becomes a battlefield and culinary warriors seek ingenious hacks to conquer the chaos! Thankfully, Janelle from @thedailynelly on Instagram, armed with the wisdom of her grandma, has unveiled a potato-cleaning strategy that has shaken the very foundations of traditional holiday prep. Enter "Grandma's best Thanksgiving secret" – a cryptic title that foreshadows a culinary revelation of epic proportions. And yes, we know it's for Thanksgiving – but we are just going to give some thanks and use it for Christmas prep anyway. Janelle took to Instagram to showcase her revolutionary potato-cleaning hack for her followers and – spoiler alert – it involves a dishwasher, and things are about to get wild. As Janelle stacks unwashed potatoes into the dishwasher, she confidently claims that this unorthodox method saves her both time and effort. The video unfolds like a suspenseful thriller, with the person behind the camera questioning her every move. "This is the best way to do it. It saves you so much time," Janelle declares with the conviction of someone who has cracked the Da Vinci Code of holiday cooking. In a daring move, she populates not only the top rack with filthy potatoes but also the lower shelf, even utilising the cutlery holder – because who needs spoons when you can have spuds? Janelle defends her potato-loading strategy, pointing out that traditional methods in a bowl are impractical when faced with three bags of potatoes. Practicality, meet pandemonium. Janelle also points out – a little redundantly, but to be honest you never really know the caliber of person watching Instagram videos – that it's crucial not to use any dishwashing tablets or soap in this peculiar cleaning ritual, because, you know, that would be weird. We wouldn't want our spuds to taste like lavender-scented detergent, now would we? The climax arrives when the four-minute rinse cycle is over – a pivotal moment in this culinary odyssey. Janelle gleefully showcases the now pristine potatoes, claiming victory over the tedious hand-washing process. "They're clean, you didn't have to hand wash them. I'm telling you – it saves time on Christmas when you're hosting a tonne of people," she declares triumphantly. However, the internet, ever the skeptic, has of course reacted with horror and disbelief. Some commenters expressed their disgust, labelling the dishwasher technique as "gross" and "nasty". <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/reel/Cz7Af8oulYb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cz7Af8oulYb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Daily Nelly (@thedailynelly)</a> </div> </blockquote> Concerns about dishwasher residue and the efficiency of the method compared to traditional hand washing also echo through the comments. The naysayers argue that the time spent stacking potatoes in the dishwasher outweighs the alleged time saved. In the end, @thedailynelly's dishwasher potato video has become something of a cautionary tale, a reminder that not all culinary shortcuts are created equal. But here at OverSixty we are firmly on Team Janelle. At least she is out there giving it a go, listening to her grandma, and sharing her wisdom with the world. Images: Instagram / @thedailynelly

Food & Wine

"Suck it up": Tourist's parking mistake divides Aussies

A puzzled tourist's question about a $116 parking fine he received at a beach in Noosa, Queensland has divided Aussies, with many telling him to cough up the cash. The motorist shared a photo of his white SUV sitting between two other parked cars under a tree, but what he missed was the faint yellow line behind the nature strip. Confused, he took to a local Facebook group to ask why he was slapped with a fine for “stopping in a no stopping zone” in late October as he believed that he “parked off the road in one of the car parks they offer for free”. “Can I still be charged if I’m parked not impeding traffic or even on the road?” the driver asked. “Is there any way I can go back to them and contest this? I don’t remember seeing any signs that said no stopping near the island.” Residents of the popular tourist town were quick to criticise the driver. “Really. There are yellow lines and parked in a garden bed. It’s not a car park,” one wrote. “You’re lucky you only got non stopping zone ticket. Just because you park in car park doesn’t mean you can park anywhere in there," another added. “You are in a garden … suck it up,” a third commented. While many pointed out that where he had parked “is not a car space," one commenter explained that “yellow line means no parking all over Australia” and the council is “well within their rights”. The driver didn't take the criticism to heart, and quipped :“So due to the faint yellow line that means you can’t park there? Gotta love Noosa, good to know that the $116 will go towards repainting the line — not. "So is there anything I can do or just pay it?” While many criticised his poor judgement, a few others sympathised with the tourist, saying that they also copped a fine in the same spot. “I've gotten the same fine for parking a scooter there too. Not much you can do. There are signs and a yellow line…” one wrote. “It’s a s**t rule but they’ve been getting people like this for years,” another added. A third added that he could contest the fine “as the yellow line is not very well maintained”. While a few others commented that in general there aren't enough car parks to accommodate the number of visitors. "It’s not even full school holidays for all schools yet and yesterday was shocking to find a car park.” According to the local council, it is illegal for a driver to park their car on a nature strip, footpath or in a parkland anywhere in the shire. Images: Facebook

Legal

"This is insane": Woman's intense hotel safety routine divides audiences

A woman has gone viral for the elaborate routine she undergoes every time she checks into a new hotel room. Victoria posted a TikTok of her intense seven-step routine that she undertakes when staying in a hotel, with the video quickly racking up over 14 million views. In the now-viral clip, Victoria starts off by putting the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the doorknob and locking it from the inside. Then, she blocks the peephole with a tissue, jams a washcloth into the deadbolt to "close the gap" and rolls up a bath towel behind the handle to stop anyone opening the door. She also positioned an ironing board against the door to stop it from being able to open, and then used a clothes hanger to clip everything together. After going through the seven step routine, Victoria's comment section was flooded with messages as the video prompted a mixed response. "By the time I do all that, it's morning again," one user wrote, while another simply said, "This is insane." While many of the comments were quick to judge how extensive the safety routine is, others shared their own different security preferences. "I take two portable locks, and a mini camera that links to my phone for when I'm out," one said. However, one person pointed out that Victoria's set-up was a bit of a hazard, saying, "And now imagine trying to get out of that in the dark in a fire in the middle of the night." Another said they had "never stayed in hotels where I felt so unsafe," adding, "Is it an American thing? I am genuinely curious." Image credits: TikTok

Travel Trouble

Woman divides internet after cancelling her brother's wedding

A woman has divided the internet after admitting to cancelling her brother's wedding without telling him, after consistently being treated poorly by her future sister-in-law. The 27-year-old shared that the "extreme" moment came after countless mean comments, wedding planning gone wrong and a selection of financial problems. Writing on Reddit's "Am I The A**hole?" thread, the woman wanted advice on if she was in the wrong. The woman explained that her brother, 30, and his fiancée Ella, 28, had been together three years but the two women were never particularly close. "Honestly, we never got along but I always tried to put up a peaceful front because my brother seemed blissfully happy with her," the poster explained on the online forum. "Ella was mean to me a lot ... She would make comments about my weight, my makeup, and especially my dog. She hated animals and hated that I would bring my lab, Toast, to my parents or my brothers house." After her brother popped the question, she was shocked when Ella asked her to be her Maid of Honour, given their turbulent relationship. Despite this, she agreed to the role, thinking it was the "sisterly" thing to do. "What I failed to realise when I accepted the role was that to her [Maid Of Honour] meant planning the entire wedding. Like I was booking venues, florists, jazz band, everything," the woman wrote. "Even worse she expected me to put my MY credit card down for all of it... Every time I asked Ella about it, she would say that it would all be paid back by her parents before the wedding." It wasn't until three weeks before the wedding that the relationship between the two women took a turn for the worst. "I asked if she had received the updated receipt of everything owed when she exploded," she said. "She called me a whole line of terrible names but the one that stuck out was her saying 'What do you need the money for anyway? Your sick dog is dead now'." "My beautiful Toasty died about a month before this after he fought the bravest battle with cancer. He was my soul dog and I was devastated." Ella's hurtful comments went a step too far, leading the woman to "immediately called the vendors and cancelled any deposit under my card. Every. Single. One." "After almost 20 calls, all that was left of her wedding was the dress and the flower arch." The woman told her brother what she had done, and said she would no longer be attending their wedding if it still went ahead after her revenge plan. She then ignored calls from her future sister-in-law, forcing her to deal with all the wedding fallout. Most people took to the comments in support of the woman's "revenge", saying she would have been saddled with footing the bill. "MOH duties do NOT include planning the whole wedding and they certainly do NOT put down all the deposits and pay for the wedding," one person wrote. "If you ask me, it sounds 100% like they were going to stiff you for the wedding. I don't believe for a minute her parents were paying for it." Another wrote, "You didn't cancel the wedding. You extricated yourself from an abusive and exploitative situation. They're still free to marry, on their own thin dime." While most people supported the woman's actions, there were a handful of comments that believed the woman had gone too far with her revenge, but also agreed her sister-in-law treated her very poorly. After the original post went viral, the poster shared an update that she is now speaking to her brother again and that the couple didn't make it down the aisle. They are currently on a "break" with Ella no longer in possession of an engagement ring. Image credits: Shutterstock

Relationships

Country music star's "racist" song divides audience

A popular country music star has been forced to defend his new song and accompanying music video, after many condemned the track for being racist. Jason Aldean's song, titled Try That in a Small Town, soared to number one on the country music charts in the US, before been pulled by Country Music Television after claims it promoted gun violence, vigilantism and lynching: a form of execution frequently committed against African-Americans. The singer, who is known for his conservative views, defended the song, saying it was about, “the feeling of community that I had growing up in where we took care of our neighbours, regardless of difference of background or beliefs”. He also slammed the furore against the song, saying saying the accusations against the track that it is “pro lynching” are “not only meritless but dangerous”. Singer Sheryl Crow called out Aldean posting on Twitter, “There’s nothing small town or American about promoting violence,” and called the song “lame” for its controversial themes. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> .<a href="https://twitter.com/Jason_Aldean?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jason_Aldean</a> I’m from a small town. Even people in small towns are sick of violence.There’s nothing small-town or American about promoting violence. You should know that better than anyone having survived a mass shooting. This is not American or small town-like. It’s just lame <a href="https://t.co/cuOtUO9xjr">https://t.co/cuOtUO9xjr</a> — Sheryl Crow (@SherylCrow) <a href="https://twitter.com/SherylCrow/status/1681485292425867264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote> The music video for the song prompted a new wave of backlash, as it was filmed outside the Maury County Courthouse in Columbia, Tennessee, which is a site that African American man was lynched. A writer for entertainment industry magazine <a title="variety.com" href="https://variety.com/2023/music/opinion/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-worst-country-song-video-column-1235673177/">Variety</a> said it was “the most contemptible country song of the decade” which traded on the “implicit moral superiority of having a limited number of neighbours”. “For Aldean, it’s about how tiny burgs are under the imminent threat of attack from lawless urban marauders who will have to be kept at bay by any means necessary – meaning, pretty explicitly, vigilantism,” wrote its music critic Chris William. He went on to say the video was “dangerous” because it “conflates the act of protesting with violent crime”. In the wake of the criticism, Aldean hit back on his social media accounts, saying people had gone "too far" with their interpretation of the song. He wrote on Twitter, “There is not a single lyric in the song that references race or points to it – and there isn’t a single clip that isn’t real news footage – and while I can try and respect others to have their own interpretation of a song with music – this one goes too far.” “My political views have never been something I’ve hidden from. And I know that a lot of us in this country don’t agree on how we get back to a sense of normalcy, where we go at least a day without a headline that keeps us up at night, but the desire for it to – that’s what the song is about.” Image credits: Getty Images

Music

Restaurant's "brutal" note divides customers

A restaurant has come under fire for their "brutal" note to difficult patrons, encouraging "privileged" customers who wish to "customise or modify" their menu, to stay home instead. A sign posted to the restaurant's front door urged customers with allergies to eat elsewhere as staff simply cannot "provide the service they require". While some applauded the restaurant's no-nonsense stance, others were shocked by the "rude and disgusting" message. "No means no. Are you one of the small group of people who have been living and entitled and privileged life?" The sign reads. "Maybe your mother has taken the onions out of your salad, put the dressing on the side, or substitute your vegetables. Here, however, all meals are served precisely the way we prepare them. We do not offer custom meals." "Remember, we are not your mother and we are definitely not genies that will make your every wish come true." Chef Jozef and restaurant owner Nathalie listed alternative choices for the "privileged" few including hiring a private chef, cooking for themselves "precisely the way you like", trying another establishment or accept their hospitality as it is offered. "We have been cooking for almost 50 years. We have many kind, friendly people, acquaintances and families that have been coming for many decades," they wrote. "So look around, it is a pleasure to see their happy smiles and provide them with our best food possible." The message also called out those with allergies and food sensitivities, encouraging them to take their business elsewhere. "It is simply not possible to guarantee each product used in this kitchen. Furthermore, we do not have the qualifications to provide you with the service you require," they said. The strongly worded sign caught the attention of many online, with some praising the restauranteurs as "honest" and "brilliant". "Amen, the public is not always right. And actually most of the time they're not. This establishment is well within their right to post this," one person commented. "You know from the very start how things are. It's one restaurant. If you don't like it, there are so many others you can go to instead... No need to have a sook. Just go elsewhere. Some of us would enjoy a restaurant like this," a second pointed out. Despite some support for the restaurant's honesty, others were taken aback with lots of people criticising the hard-line stance for being "snarky" and "rude". One disgruntled person commented, "If you are not able or willing to provide what your guests need or even give service, it might seem better to be honest but this message is rude and disgusting. Don't seek employment in service roles and then complain." Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook

Food & Wine

Bride-to-be defends the proposal that divided the internet

When Erica Murphy posted her engagement announcement to social media, she could never have anticipated the response she’d find online, or the wave of vocal criticism over her fiance’s ‘simpler’ approach to the whole affair. Erica had been preparing for a day at work when then-boyfriend Monta Homes proposed - through an all-important question scrawled on a torn sheet of lined paper. The handwritten question had been left on the bathroom counter, alongside a dazzling ring and a lit candle, for Erica to find. She, of course, said yes, and immediately took to social media to share the couples’ happy news. “So it’s been an amazing year with my guy,” she wrote on Twitter. “This morning before I left for work he left this in the bathroom for me to find. I said YES!” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> So it’s been an amazing year with my guy. This morning before I left for work he left this in the bathroom for me to find. I said YES! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FutureMrsHomes?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FutureMrsHomes</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yf5EijKrFz">pic.twitter.com/Yf5EijKrFz</a> — Erica Murphy (@EricaMurphyTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricaMurphyTV/status/1652839933063692288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote> Many rushed to offer their congratulations, gushing over the love between the two, and Erica’s obvious excitement. However, there were hundreds of critics who stopped by too, all too eager to offer their take on what they considered to be an “underwhelming” proposal from Monta. “Umm…a note? Torn out like that?” one user replied. “Congratulations that's thrilling I don't think anybody's going to accuse your man of being romantic though LOL,” said one, who seemed to be on the fence about it all. “A text message basically as a marriage proposal? Not for me,” shared another. Thankfully, there were those who were more than happy to rise to Monta’s defence, noting that proposals are - at the end of the day - all about the thought and the love behind them, not the spectacle. “That needs to be framed and hung on a wall. Simplicity can be romantic!” one user wrote. “I think this is awesome! There is no wrong way to propose. Humans know they’re human. It’s about the soul and the love! Congratulations!” another said. “Sweet. Sincere. Genuine. Simple. Old Fashion. I love it. I would cherish that paper and have it framed! Congratulations! I wish you and The Mr. the very best!” one said. And as one more put it, “I think this is brilliant and different and truly believe this relationship will last longer than any grand proposal”. The negative take was disappointing for Erica, who admitted to Today that the attention was “one thing when you see someone else go viral and, you know, clicking and laughing and all that kind of stuff. But it's a totally different feeling when it's you”. She took the time to “set the record straight” though, sharing that Monta’s approach had not simply been an after-thought, but instead a very touching gesture that had meant a lot to her. "I had a really rough day the day before,” Erica, who is a journalist, shared. “I've never seen so many Confederate flags in my life. I was just, like, really exhausted. "He had flown in the night before, and he was laying there with his boxers looking so comfortable, and I've just been in the battlefield. "I was just so irritated. It was a carryover irritation from before.” Monta told the publication that he had known Erica would be heading into the bathroom after him that morning, and had opted for his handwritten approach as "this is the type of person I am. I wanted to catch her when she least expected it. "I know other people wanted me to get the blimp with 'the world is yours' and all that other stuff. But that's just, I mean, I could have done that. But I like this better.” And it seems that Erica agreed, with the happy bride-to-be informing Today - and critics all over - that “it was very sweet. I mean, this morning, for instance, I woke up because I still have this piece of paper that everyone's talking so badly about. “I woke up, he's back in Detroit, and I looked at this piece of paper, and I just smiled and said, 'Monta, you're so adorable', because I think it was really heartfelt.” Images: Twitter

Relationships

Influencer divides internet with Steve Irwin stingray costume

An Aussie influencer has issued an apology after posting a video of her dressed up as the stingray that killed Steve Irwin for an Australian-themed costume party. Sophia Begg, 19, divided the internet with her choice of costume, and has since deleted her TikTok that pictured her in the outfit she was wearing for “an Aussie dress-up party in a duo costume”. “They’re going as Steve Irwin and I’m going as a stingray,” she noted in the comment section, after one viewer wrote, “Steve Erwin (sic) could never.” The late and beloved "Crocodile Hunter" was killed on September 4, 2006, when he was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb at Queensland’s Batt Reef. After saying that she loved Irwin and “would never want to offend his family/loved ones”, Begg apologised in a short text video on TikTok. “Hi guys, I just wanted to jump on here to clear up some things,” she wrote. “I love Steve Irwin and would never want to cause disrespect to his family or legacy. He is an iconic aussie and no offence was meant by my costume. “I have thought about and reflected on my costume, and I will not be wearing it, and apologise wholeheartedly to anyone who was offended by it, that was definitely not my intention. “I apologise sincerely.” Followers were divided about whether the 19-year-old’s costume was “fine and funny” or “disrespectful and offensive” to Irwin’s family. “Oh lighten up. It’s been 20 years,” one commented. “Not the people getting offended over a stingray,” a second added. Another TikTok user said, “I think it’s funny and I loved Steve Irwin. Life’s too short to take seriously.” “I feel like Steve would have laughed at this,” someone else added. People in the comments noted that it would’ve been far less “disrespectful” had she “dressed as a crocodile”. Her post sparked more debate after appearing on an influencer watchdog account @influencer.updates.au, “Disrespectful. She could have gone as a crocodile. This is just in poor taste,” one woman said. “There’s dark humour and then there’s mocking how an Aussie icon died, leaving his wife and kids behind.” “I’d just ask myself one question. Would I wear this in front of [Irwin’s kids] Bindi and Robert? No. That’s a huge no,” one person added. One follower pointed out it was unlikely that Begg had “any ill intent… she should have chosen another costume”. “I think it’s just in really bad taste. I think Steve Irwin would have been a bit before her time but for a lot of us ‘older’ Australians, he was an absolute icon and I think it would be upsetting for his wife and children.” Image credit: TikTok

News

Real estate agent divides internet with “sweet gesture” to hopeful homeowner

A real estate agent has divided the internet after sending a hopeful homeowner a scratchie ticket along with a rejection letter. The anonymous wannabe buyer shared a photo of the letter they received from their agent with the scratchie card alongside it on Reddit, explaining how they had missed out on their dream home. The letter begins in capital letters, reading “Really sorry you missed out”. “I wanted to personally thank you for your interest in my recent listing and say how sorry we are that you missed out.” “I know how keen you were to make it yours, and as much as we love our work, there are parts that are difficult.” “Telling someone the bad news that they have missed out on a property they are very keen on, is certainly the worst part of our role.” “I wish we had more properties like this one for those who have missed out on this home.” “I enclose a scratchie to try and soften the disappointment.” “The agent said they hoped the wannabe homeowner would win some cash so ‘next time you can extend your offer just that little bit more’.” The $1 scratch card gave the unsuccessful applicant the chance to win $100,000 in a game of Tic Tac Toad. The gesture prompted a mixed response from commenters, with most readers calling out the agent for being “condescending”. One comment read, “Might just be poorly worded, but this comes across very condescending and patronising. ‘Lol sorry you’re too poor. Maybe if you win some money we’ll be able to take it from you.’” Another pointed out the agent’s potential grovelling to the buyer, saying “Absolutely no real estate agent is sending anything like this to mere tenants.” Another frustrated renter wrote, “Great! Now if I could get a scratchie with every unsuccessful rental application, I wouldn’t need to rent.” A few commenters praised the real estate agent’s actions, believing they had good intentions by including the scratchie. One person wrote, “They didn’t have to give anything but still did. The wording could’ve been better but still, something for nothing.” One other person was shocked by the support for the agent in the comments of the post, putting it blatantly, “They said ‘so next time you can extend your offer just that little bit more’.” “Their intention is clear. They’re saying to offer more money. I genuinely am surprised by the comments on this post thinking this is a nice gesture and not blatant manipulation.” Image credits: Reddit

Real Estate

"Proud mum": Opinions divided after mum praises teen daughter for punching bully in the face

Bianca Austin, wife of former soccer star Charlie Austin has divided the internet after posting a tweet praising her daughter, Mallayla, for punching a bully in the face. Last week, she tweeted: “After weeks of being bullied by the same girl, numerous phone calls to the school and nothing changing, today when being called names my daughter finally punched the bully in the face. "Proud mum,” she wrote. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> After weeks of being bullied by the same girl, numerous phone calls to the school and nothing changing,today when being called names my daughter finally punched the bully in the face👏🏻👏🏻 proud mum👏🏻 — Bianca Austin (@BiancaAustin90) <a href="https://twitter.com/BiancaAustin90/status/1635307000992260097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2023</a></blockquote> The tweet, which now has over 2 million views and 17,000 likes, generated varying responses from those who sympathise to those who believe that hitting back is unacceptable. “Probably deserved!” commented one user. Bianca replied: “I told the school how proud of her I was for standing up for herself when they rang up to tell me Mallayla would be sanctioned for retaliating violently. No child should be able to make school hell for another child day in day out”. “We all have our breaking points and can only be pushed so far. Does she feel better now she’s stood up for herself?” commented another user. “No, but she's hoping the girl will leave her alone now. X,” Bianca tweeted in response. Bianca then posted a follow up tweet expressing her dissatisfaction with the school’s response. “2 days in-school exclusion for my daughter, whilst the other child has gone to class because she was 'only' verbally abusive🙃 No wonder bullying is never stopped in schools,” she wrote. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> 2 days in-school exclusion for my daughter, whilst the other child has gone to class because she was 'only' verbally abusive🙃 No wonder bullying is never stopped in schools... head high Mallayla🙏🏻 — Bianca Austin (@BiancaAustin90) <a href="https://twitter.com/BiancaAustin90/status/1635608089754841088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote> “I get that bullying is awful and harmful but when I said that your daughter’s actions would make things worse, you can now see where I was going,” one user wrote in response. “Bullying someone “back” by hitting is also bullying,” the user added. Bianca went straight to the point with her response and asked them what their resolution would be. “School couldn't stop it, it was wrecking her mental health and affecting her GCSE studies. What is the right course of action here?! “Also she didn't "bully" back. Bullying is repeated behaviour,” she wrote, defending her daughter’s actions. Bianca also tweeted that her daughter had no malicious intent and only did it because she wanted to “be left alone to quietly enjoy school”. Image: Twitter

Family & Pets

"Fiddle is good anywhere": Impromptu inflight concert divides opinion

A debate has erupted over what’s considered appropriate when flying - but this time, it has nothing to do with reclining seats or overhead bins. On a flight from Dublin to New York’s JFK airport - a trip typically just shy of eight hours long - a live and impromptu fiddle music session has taken place, a handful of days before St Patrick’s Day. In a clip that has taken Twitter by storm, a woman can be seen - and heard - playing a lively jig on the fiddle, with accompaniment from both a man on an accordion and one with a whistle. They are surrounded by their fellow passengers, many who appear to be lined up trying to leave the plane. “Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to JFK yesterday,” Adam Singer captioned the video. “I mean, I understand it's done from a good place, but also feel like you don't play music (or much worse, sing) in an enclosed space there's no escape from.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to JFK yesterday. I mean, I understand it's done from a good place, but also feel like you don't play music (or much worse, sing) in an enclosed space there's no escape from <a href="https://t.co/UlqmHAqj03">pic.twitter.com/UlqmHAqj03</a> — Adam Singer (@AdamSinger) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSinger/status/1634930242371592192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote> While many commented to say that it had been a bit of fun, and good music no less, the original poster - and swarms of others - didn’t have the patience to humour them. “Nah, that music was totally cool. And it looks like people were deplaning. Not like it was during the flight,” reasoned one. “My nightmare,” vented another. “Not because they're bad but, as you say, there's no escape. I'm not sure what it is about musicians that make them feel like they can just crank a tune out when no-one asked.” “This would be a nightmare for me,” came another agreement that was echoed from there in at least a dozen like-minded comments. “'Fiddle is good anywhere,” someone else argued. “But it may be my roots. This kind of music makes ya happy.” “So beautiful. That's what humanity is all about if you ask me,” one commenter said. Adam, who wasn’t about to budge on his hard fiddle stance, fired back “sure, just not on a plane!” When another suggested that it sounded like a good time to them, Adam responded with a gif reading “is it though?” and left it at that. “Depends on how long it lasts and how good they are,” mused one viewer. “If they're good, they get 5-7 minutes. If they're not, 90 seconds tops.” Meanwhile, one fan of the fun wrote that “this fulfils every fantasy I have about travelling to Ireland. I love it.” “I've been on thousands of flights and never had anything this awesome happen,” said another, “obviously I've never flown Aer Lingus.” “I love traditional Irish music, but I can understand how it might bother others,” someone allowed. The one thing most of them could agree on? They’d be okay with it, as long as “there’s free Guinness flowing.” Images: Twitter

Travel Trouble

Musician divides audiences over controversial Margaret Court slating

Phoebe Bridgers has been both praised and condemned for her brutal slating of Margaret Court. The American musician was performing to a sold out crowd in Melbourne's Margaret Court Arena, when she took aim at the venue's namesake. The 28-year-old Los Angeles native condemned the 80-year-old tennis champion-turned-Christian pastor, who has in recent years become a vocal opponent of same-sex marriage and transgender rights. Turning to the crowd during the concert on Wednesday , Bridgers declared: “So, Margaret Court. F*** that stupid***, dumb*** b****. F*** that stupid c***. Change your name!” She then encouraged the riled-up crowd to chant “F*** Margaret Court!” before continuing, “I think hate is undervalued. I think it’s like a f***ing weird, white supremacist idea that hate is bad, or something?" “You know what I mean? It’s like hate is like what moves things throughout history. I hate that stupid b****!" “Hate is like how you protect yourself. What, are you never supposed to be angry, ever?” Phoebe's full rant was posted to Twitter and can be viewed <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrystalChristi/status/1623323236800036864" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. The expletive-ridden tirade quickly went viral online, with Bridgers' fans and Court's critics hailing the move as "iconic". “It was the most beautiful moment of my life” one concertgoer raved, while another social media user posted: “Now I’m a fan!” as others called for the venue to be renamed Phoebe Bridgers Arena. While the reaction to the musician's protest was mostly supportive, a small group of Margaret Court sympathisers online slammed her on-stage chants. One person wrote, "Any clue why she’s saying f*** Margaret Court: a world famous tennis player who’s home was actually broken into this week?….. very vile." Image credits: Getty Images

Music

Opinions divided over fresh Dr Charlie Teo claims

Neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo has once again been on the receiving end of harsh claims from past patients in a brutal expose by 60 Minutes. The renowned brain surgeon has made headlines multiple times in the past for his achievements – such as when he flew from Perth to Sydney to perform a lifesaving operation on then 14-year-old Amelia “Milli” Lucas after she raised $170,000. However, Dr Teo has continued to face backlash, with some families who’ve dealt with the surgeon criticising him for the high price of his services. Channel Nine’s 60 Minutes program interviewed several of Dr Teo’s past patients, one of whom spoke about the "false hope" given to his family when dealing with the surgeon. Michelle Smith was only 19 when Dr Teo operated on her to remove a brain tumour that was causing her severe epileptic episodes. Ms Smith and her mother told the program that Dr Teo claimed that the removal of the tumour would be “easy” and after the operation “everything is great”. The program went on to state that Dr Teo soon told Ms Smith that she was able to stop taking her epilepsy medication but as the years went on she experienced worse seizures. “The seizures got worse…I lost my employment, I’d had a few jobs here and there,” Ms Smith said. “I had a seizure behind the wheel and hit two parked cars, writing off three cars.” <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/michelle24.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Later in 2014, Ms Smith had another scan for her brain, after which other doctors claimed that Dr Teo had operated on the wrong side. “The previous operation was done on the wrong side of the brain and that’s why the normal brain tissue was removed, it was nowhere near the tumour,” Ms Smith continued on the program. “To find out that he didn’t even touch it, I just felt violated in a way. I trusted him.” Dr Teo defended himself saying that he “never, ever” operated on the wrong side of the brain and that the approach he used was well documented to reduce the risk. “Ms Smith awoke in excellent neurological condition and was seizure free at her post-op visit,” he said. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> A decade after going under the knife of Dr Charlie Teo to remove a brain tumour, Michelle Smith made a horrific discovery; the neurosurgeon had actually operated on the wrong side of her brain. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/60Mins?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#60Mins</a> <a href="https://t.co/YnBCqhCDfz">pic.twitter.com/YnBCqhCDfz</a> — 60 Minutes Australia (@60Mins) <a href="https://twitter.com/60Mins/status/1584118918276608000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote> A colleague of Dr Teo's, Dr Michael Donnellan, backed up Teo's claim, telling the <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/neurosurgeon-charlie-teo-says-claims-have-been-a-slur-on-his-character/news-story/bcd505006874929187ca31d406421a00" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a> that "there is a big difference between a wrong side surgery, versus a contralateral approach — or approach from the opposite side — to a tumour that is close to the midline of the brain.... This is a well recognised and reasonable approach,” he said, adding he had seen Dr Teo choose that method multiple times with good results. This, however, did not stop Ms Smith from suing Dr Teo in 2019 for professional negligence. The case was settled out of court. Another of Dr Teo’s patients examined by the 60 Minutes program was Prasanta Barman’s young son Mikolaj who was diagnosed with a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) - a difficult brain tumour to treat. The family sought the help of Dr Teo who they say informed them that there was a “very high likelihood of (a) cure”. “If all goes as planned, the surgery should be curative, as we should be able to remove the entire thing. This means that prognosis would be excellent,” Dr Teo’s office said in an email in 2018. However, two other neurosurgeons informed Mr Barman that his son’s tumour was inoperable. This led Mr Barman to once again ask Dr Teo about his stance and his response remained unchanged and that he would operate. Mr Barman paid Dr Teo the $80,000 required for the operation and 30 minutes before the operation he said that he might not be able to remove the entire tumour. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/mikolaj.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> After surgery, young Mikolaj was bedridden and unable to walk, talk or eat on his own. He died less than a year later. “There was no hope. For a DIPG, there is no hope. So why give the false hope in the first place?” Mr Barman asked. Dr Teo has defended himself against these claims, explaining that there are some good and bad outcomes no matter the situation. “Once you start exploring and looking for advancements, you are going to get some bad outcomes, some terrible outcomes, which I have had,” he told <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/desperate-parents-heap-praise-on-lifesaving-neurosurgeon-charlie-teo/news-story/db2c86a0aae339a9f2a23b5dfa7cf530" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a>. “You are also going to have patients that do very well, that get more months or years on their lives and get to enjoy life.” Images: Facebook/60 Minutes

Caring

A photo of a woman’s rude plane etiquette divides opinions

A passenger has been slammed by a fellow traveller for blocking their plane seats' TV screen during a flight. However, not everyone was on their side. The man explained that the woman in front had covered their screen with their coat while sitting in extra leg room seats. Sharing a picture on Reddit, he wrote: “I guess no entertainment for my wife on this flight.” A large black coat was put over the back of the seat, covering nearly all of his wife’s screen. Lots of people shared they were just as annoyed as him. Someone said, “Blows my mind how someone can do that, while realising they have a TV/touchscreen in front of them and not think about the TV that’s on the back of their own seat.” But not everyone agreed here and said the man should have just asked to move it. Someone commented: “I’m sure she put her jacket on the seat without really realising it would block the TV. All you have to do is kindly ask her to move it and she will.” One person explained how they had a similar situation except the passenger refused to move it - but then they received a free upgrade. Win win! Image: Reddit

Travel Tips

Aussies divided over "disrespectful" Scott Morrison booing

Australians have condemned the actions of those at Shane Warne's memorial who booed Scott Morrison when he arrived. When he sat at the emotionally-charged service on Wednesday night in Melbourne, the PM was greeted with a frosty reception from mourners. As host Eddie McGuire welcome the prime minister at the beginning of the memorial, the packed-out MCG erupted into boos. Social media users have been divided on the moment, with many asking whether it was appropriate to boo the PM during a service, with some slamming it as "disrespectful". "You had the privilege of being there but had no respect. Not the time or place. Shame on you!" one furious viewer commented. Another Facebook user wrote, "How disrespectful, regardless if you like or hate the man, this was not the bloody time or place!" A third person said, "No matter what, a memorial is not the time for this behaviour. Politics and people's opinion should not distract from a celebration of someone's life." "Damned if you do, damned if you don't. Either way he will get criticised. I thought it was about Warnie, not who was there. RIP Warnie," another wrote. The Prime Minister wore a black suit and tie for the sombre occasion, as he walked through the stadium to say goodbye to the iconic Australian for the final time. Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Trouble

“This is too serious to let go”: Name change furore divides family

A new mother has been left fuming after finding out that her husband changed their baby’s name without her permission. The woman took to Reddit to vent her frustration and explain how she and her husband had already agreed on a name. Prior to agreeing to the name, her in-laws pressured her to name their baby son after her husband’s late brother. “After waiting for five years, I finally got pregnant with my son,” she wrote in her post. “There was so much fuss about the name choice because my in-laws wanted to use my deceased brother-in-law’s name. “My husband sided with them and insisted we go with it, but [after] seeing their obsession with it, I refused.” After suffering complications during childbirth, the new mother had to extend her stay at the hospital while her husband dealt with the papers. It was only a few weeks later when they received the birth certificate, she found that her husband had deceived her and named their son after his late brother. “When we received the birth certificate, I discovered that he put brother-in-law’s name and not the one we picked. “I lost it and had a breakdown then I shut down completely,” she said. “I stopped talking to him after telling him that I won’t speak to him until he changes the name.” She said the husband didn’t care at the beginning and even told her “good riddance” but changed his tune when she completely shut him out. “Days went by, he’s now turned to full-on begging me to speak to him over and over. “He said he had to do this otherwise his family would shun him.” Her husband tried to convince her why it was a good idea to name their son after his late brother, even giving her a paper with a list of pros. “He handed me a paper with all the ‘pros’ of keeping this name, explaining that our son will be the ‘golden grandchild’ and my in-laws will favour him over the other grandchildren because of his name.” The mother was also promised money, inheritance, a car for her newborn son but she refused to accept the name. “I don’t want my son to be my brother-in-law's surrogate,” she said. “He offered me endless nicknames, a second middle name choice but I wasn’t having it. “Eventually, he broke down crying calling me stubborn and difficult, also called me selfish, robbing our son of a good life and good future provided by his grandparents and said I was driving him crazy with my silence. “But I feel like this is too serious to let go. I’m just doing it for my son.” Image: Shutterstock

Family & Pets

Leunig cartoon divides the internet

Image: Instagram Cartoonist Michael Leunig has once again divided fans after posting an image comparing resistance to mandatory vaccination as being similar to the fight for democracy in Tiananmen Square. In an image posted to his Instagram account, Leunig drew a lone protester standing in front of a loaded syringe, mimicking the iconic “tank man” image of protest in China. An inset of the 1989 photo also appears in Leunig’s drawing. The cartoon divided fans on his Instagram page, with some applauding it as “brilliant’ and “spot on” while others describe it as “pretty bad taste” and a “disgusting comparison”. “Really? Comparing a vaccination to Tiananmen Square massacre? This undermines every other piece of art you have made that comments on humanity and social justice. Incredily disappointing,” one person wrote. Author Kerri Sackville posted: “Ugh. I used to idolise you”. Another user wrote: “Wow. This a disgusting take that mocks the bravery of the Tiananmen protesters. Absolutely ridiculous, illogical, immoral, and disgusting.” While another asked: “Do you really relate to this level of oppression over a single vaccine in a time of a pandemic? It’s not the same.” Another fan questioned the message the work would send. “I usually love your work and admire the way you question social/norms and assumptions. This piece however, feels pretty ill-considered during this critical time. Please think carefully about how you may influence others and your social impact as an artist. It maters,” they wrote. Lawyers weekly deputy editor Jermone Doraisamy tweeted the cartoon, describing it as “grotesquely offensive”. “To compare the plight of anti-vaxxers to that of a man whose fate remains unknown, 30 years on, is just appalling,” he wrote. However, others supported Leunig, who was declared a national living treasure in 1999. “Good on ya Leuing…. One of your best,” one fan said. “Bless you Leunig. We need more brave artists like you,” another posted. “So accurate and reassuring that I’m not alone with my perspective!!!!,” wrote another. “OMG…..love this one.” It’s not a first for Leunig, whose cartoons are often published in The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald newspapers, has caused controversy over his stance on mandatory vaccination. In 2015, the Melbourne cartoonist sparked outrage with a cartoon comparing the Victorian government to fascists, following a proposal to ban children who are not vaccinated from childcare centres. More recently, he caused controversy over a “condescending” image depicting an absent mum. The infamous Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing came after weeks of protests by students and workers demanding democratic change and the end of corruption. The stance ended abruptly after soldiers and tanks arrived on the 4th of June 1989. It is unclear how many lost their lives but its thought to be between several hundred to thousands of people. The communist party of China has since forbidden discussion of the Tiananmen Square protests and has taken extreme measures to block information related to it, including censoring internet posts.

News

“Who are the Dees?”: Author’s controversial AFL tweet divides social media

Australian author Jane Caro has divided Twitter for her take on sport’s place in Australian culture. The Melbourne Demons broke a 57-year bout of premiership losses after winning against the Western Bulldogs over the weekend, and fans and players were overjoyed with the long-awaited win. Caro wasn’t watching the game and shared her divisive views on Twitter. “Dear most Aussies, who are the Dees? What is the thing you all care so much about? Actually, no, please (PLEASE) don’t explain. This tweet is just for all those kids like I once was who could not give a toss & felt weird & had to pretend. It’s OK. One day you can just ignore it,” Caro wrote. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Dear most Aussies, who are the Dees? What is the thing you all care so much about? Actually, no, please (PLEASE) don’t explain. This tweet is just for all those kids like I once was who could not give a toss & felt weird & had to pretend. It’s ok. One day you can just ignore it. — Jane Caro (@JaneCaro) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaneCaro/status/1441707021846265862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2021</a></blockquote> The author and journalist continued to share her thoughts in response to comments agreeing and disagreeing with her. After one person wrote, “you do not know what you’re missing,” she replied: “No. Lovely way to live, frankly. Have you read all of Dickens and Austen and Gaskell? If not, you don’t either. Such is life.” In another reply, Caro shared: “I don’t like any sport. I don’t even watch the Olympics. I make no judgement as to which is good or bad. All equally incomprehensible to me.” She went on to say “it can make you feel isolated when you don’t feel what everyone else feels” and that “it’s an interesting ride being an Aussie who does not like sport. I feel your pain”. Her tweet received a large response from many with their own shared experiences, along with a significant number who opposed her views. Some argued her attitude was condescending to Australian sports fans, with sports journalist Matt Gottlieb describing her take as the “most sneeringly snobbish thing I’ve seen on social media for a while”. “I’m gonna turn up to the opera and loudly tell everyone that I don’t care about the opera because it’s important that the people who like opera know that I don’t care about opera,” he tweeted. Other journalists described Caro as a “wet blanket” and called her out for yucking “someone else’s yum”. In total, more than 1500 people “liked” Caro’s initial tweet. Image: Jane Caro, Getty Images

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Woman's hilarious baby name idea sparks divided response