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Aussie dad fuming over “disgusting” Father’s Day gift

An Australian dad has been left fuming over a “disgusting” gift his six-year-old made for him at school for Father’s Day. Trent Howard from Perth was horrified when his young daughter handed him a paper activity dice that she made during class, featuring multiple ideas for dads when they’re having a bad day. “Frog for the times when you need to jump to it,” one side reads, while the others suggest Trent eat a Sherbie for when he’s lost all his “fizz” and a banana “for the days when you have ‘gone round the bend’”. However, he said it was the last option that left him “disgusted”, as it reads, “Bullet — take when all else fails.” The concerned father told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/perth-dad-furious-after-daughter-given-disgusting-fathers-day-gift-from-teacher/c5e7f47f-fa77-477f-86af-b02aa314ec26#:~:text=A%20Perth%20dad%20has%20been%20left%20furious%20after,%22a%20bullet%20%5Bto%5D%20take%20when%20all%20else%20fails%22.">9News</a> that the gift is very worrying for his young daughter as it “promotes suicide”. “If you’ve had enough, shoot yourself, what else does it say? I have a weird sense of humour, that’s not part of any sense of humour to anybody,” he said. Trent and his wife, who “have suicide in [their] families”, complained to their daughter’s school over the tone deaf project, which has since apologised to all parents and promised to never recreate the activity. “They wanted to be funny, that was my interpretation of what the teacher had said to me. It wasn’t funny,” Trent’s wife Renea said. Mr Howard said the gift highlighted a flippant attitude towards suicide and mental health issues, as he said, “It’s not cool, it needs to stop.” The Department of Education told 9News the Father’s Day gift “showed a serious lack in judgement”. Image credits: 9News

Family & Pets

Fans fume as classic film undergoes censorship treatment

Film fanatics are in outrage after discovering an unannounced edit in William Friedkin’s 1971 classic movie, The French Connection. The scene causing the trouble comes just 10 minutes into the drama, when two characters - Gene Hackman’s ‘Popeye’ Doyle and Roy Scheider’s Buddy ‘Cloudy’ Russo - are having a conversation, and one of them uses a racial slur. The sequence was removed, and the new edited version cuts to the latest in the conversation, omitting the part with the slur. Disney has been the subject of blame for the move - as the company took over Fox in 2019 and subsequently the rights to the film - with fans accusing them of censoring the scene in the United States, while in the United Kingdom and Canada, the unedited version of the film is still available for streaming on Disney+. Most took to social media to share their complaints, with the majority in agreement that Disney had missed the mark, and The Film Magazine’s Joseph Wade even calling it “corporate vandalism”. “In cases such as this, ‘Censor’ takes the place of ‘Vandalise’,” he tweeted. “They have vandalised a piece of art.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Disney Censor 'The French Connection' (1971) In cases such as this, "Censor" takes the place of "Vandalise". They have vandalised a piece of art. This is corporate vandalism no matter how said corporation spins the language. <a href="https://t.co/yxl1o2RsMU">pic.twitter.com/yxl1o2RsMU</a> — Joseph Wade (@JoeTFM) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeTFM/status/1666327940072722434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote> “At the risk of being like ‘nooo, my precious n-word,’ the uncensored FRENCH CONNECTION should be the only one in circulation, whether on TV or in theatres,” one user said. “I don't think it's a stretch to say that Friedkin knew exactly what having his detective protagonist use it said about him.” One user went on to share a clip of Hackman discussing the scene - and slur - in question, in which the actor claimed he “protested somewhat”, before sharing his belief that it was part of “who the guy is”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Gene Hackman speaking in 2012 about the controversial line from French Connection. <a href="https://t.co/l45DBP9DvD">pic.twitter.com/l45DBP9DvD</a> — oneilla (@oneilla828) <a href="https://twitter.com/oneilla828/status/1666439477403811840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote> “The censorship of The French Connection is shameful if true,” another agreed. “Thank God,” a frustrated - and sarcastic - fan added, “now I can finally show my 6 year old child The French Connection without any worries”. One Twitter user wrote of how “it speaks badly for film preservation that even a Best Picture winner isn't immune from the clutches of Disney”, and how they’d prefer to watch the film “the way it was intended to be watched, thank you very much.” Images: Twentieth Century Fox

Movies

Today Show host fuming after featuring in Meghan Markle’s podcast without permission

Allison Langdon has been left fuming after her voice during a Today Show segment was used on Meghan Markle’s podcast. The Duchess of Sussex has released a few episodes of Archetypes in which she discusses various topics and her experiences since marrying Prince Harry. In the latest episode The Stigma of the Singleton, Meghan played part of an old interview she had with fellow actor Mindy Kaling where she spoke about the sexism reporting she endured when she and Prince Harry started dating. “When I started dating my husband, and we became engaged, everyone was just like, ‘Oh my god, you’re so lucky, he chose you,” the Duchess of Sussex is heard saying before it cuts to Ally’s comment. “The happy couple has enchanted the world with their real-life fairytale,” Ally said. “And at a certain point, after you hear it a million times over, you’re like, ‘Well I chose him too!’” a fed up Meghan says. <iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fiwakeupwithtoday%2Fvideos%2F806123573905958%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> She then goes on to say that she is grateful to have Prince Harry by her side who was counteracting the comments. “They’ve got it all wrong. I’m the lucky one because you chose me,” she claims Prince Harry said. “But it is gendered and it’s archetyped and stereotyped that you’re so lucky, and it just feeds into this idea that you’re waiting for someone to tell you that you’re good enough, as opposed to knowing that you’re good enough on your own.” When Ally found out that she was featured in the new episode she said she was listening to it with “steam out of my ears”. “What part of that was saying, Harry (chose you)... oh, my gosh,” a furious Ally told co-host Karl Stefanovic. “Whatever side of the fence Ally is on in this story, she gets smashed by Meghan,” Karl responds. “All I know is that I had a lot of mates who liked Meghan for a long time and none of them do anymore,” Ally finished, explaining that the episode made her head “explode”. The Duchess of Sussex has caused quite a stir with her podcast Archetypes and is being called out by several big names around the world. Image: Facebook/Spotify

Aussies fuming as Albo takes a break just 11 weeks into the job

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is under fire for taking a break from his job JUST 11 weeks in. After winning the election with soaring figures on May 21, Mr Albanese announced on August 5 that he will be taking a break with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles covering for him. Mr Albanese jetsetted across the country with his girlfriend Jodie Haydon to Perth and spent Sunday night at the world-renowned Sydney Cove Oyster Bar. The restaurant’s Facebook page shared a photo of the Prime Minister with the workers announcing that they had the pleasure of hosting him. “Last night we had the pleasure of having the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon joining us for a romantic dinner on the outside deck,” the caption read. “Much to our surprise they knew about our story and the move from Circular Quay to Broome. “At the end of their dinner he politely offered us a chance for a quick photo and we couldn’t resist.” <iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fscoysterbar%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02GjLPwSMeDccnEFXjisev1ZeLwksMUGxon91QbLKjtyC26DGRvJeikBtsuGrr7vX9l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="821" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Then on Monday, Mr Albanese was spotted at the Art Above exhibition as they spoke to local artists. He also gave a speech about how important art is for different communities. Several photos show him and Jodie intrigued in conversation with the organisers of the event who also shared an announcement online. “Well… it’s not every day you get to yarn to the PM about your art, women’s footy and your story of how it all began,” the caption read. “@albomp and Jodie Hayden were perfectly humble, curious and kind - and so generous with their time to engage with all of our KAN artists at the Art Above the 26th exhibition while on holiday here. “The PM gave an impromptu speech about the significant role art plays in communities - including the importance of art about women’s footy. “And yes! It is important. This is a huge moment in our history that deserves to be duly noted for the benefits to our communities of people coming together.” It seems that Mr Albanese’s break was not taken lightly by Aussies as the cost of living soars, with grocery prices and gas prices peaking. Many took to social media to call out the Prime Minister for abandoning Australians so early into his new job. “A break from what? Lousy good for nothing imposter,” one wrote. “I remember when he hit back at criticism over his globetrotting overseas travel insisting he hasn’t ‘had a day off in a very long period of time’. He’s just getting in early so as to avoid criticism. He really should learn to read the mood,” another commented. “You have got to be joking. 32% primary vote, higher electricity prices, higher food prices and higher interest rates equates to a job well done so it’s time to have a break. Really?” someone else wrote. “Needs a holiday after all his overseas holidays he’s just been on,” another comment read. Others however said Mr Albanese deserved the break while they shut down any comparison with former prime minister Scott Morrison. “He’s done more in a month than Morrison did in three years,” one pointed out. “Good - he's earned it. He's done more in 9 weeks than the LNP did in 9 years. He has a competent team. Hope he enjoys his break,” another commented. “Great news. Thank you for sharing that! He has worked tirelessly since the election was called, including while having and recovering from Covid-19. Labor is a strong team of competent ministers, we’re in great hands,” someone else wrote. Images: Facebook

News

ALDI shoppers left fuming

An alert on ALDI’s self-serve checkouts prompting shoppers to only pay by card has left customers fuming. A photo shared to popular Facebook page, Aldi Fans Australia, shows the supermarket’s self-serve screen with the words “Card payment only” on it. The self-serve checkouts were installed in nine stores across New South Wales in June 2021 - but that’s not what’s got customers annoyed. Customers said they would not be shopping at ALDI if they did not accept cash options. “No cash, no buy - so bye bye. Cash only here,” one customer said. “I pay for everything with cash. Cash is king,” another wrote. “I'd rather use a human being, thanks, and keep someone in a job,'' one woman said. “I used to get paid to do that job, now they want me to do it for free,” someone else commented. “I would prefer cash any day, at least I know where it is,” another added. On the other hand, shoppers commended the introduction of the self-serve checkouts which will help them complete their trip quicker. “Now we can go at our own pace,” one commented. “This makes me super happy. Love self-serve,” another added. “'I never have cash, I have almost forgotten it's a thing, doesn't everyone just use their phone to pay for stuff now?” someone else wrote. Images: Facebook/Shutterstock

Food & Wine

Qantas passengers left fuming on hold

Customers have been left fuming after being kept on hold for 8.5 hours with Qantas. Despite borders being open for a while now, flyers are still confused about what is needed with travelling such as masks, vaccinations and isolating. Katrina was one of those confused passengers who said she is embarrassed at having to wait on hold for an excruciating 8.5 hours with Qantas. “I took the call to a meeting, I took the call to an eatery,” Katrina told 2GB. “It was a two-hour meeting and we had the music playing in the background the whole time.” Others took to Twitter to share their horror hold-time stories, saying it is unacceptable to wait that long. “I was on hold for 6hrs 46mins and the customer service agent cut me off. This is easily the worst customer service I’ve experienced - all while trying to fix an error Qantas has made on a booking!! So unacceptable,” someone wrote. “@Qantas total of 6 hours on hold across 2 calls with no answer. Almost $750 taken from my account with no flight to show for it, $300 locked up in your "Qantas pass". Still unresolved. Australia's worst airline for sure,” another commented. “Three HOURS on hold @Qantas what world are we living in?” someone asked. “Hey @qantas I’ve made four phone calls over the past week and been on hold for over 10 hours in total and I’m still waiting to hear back from you,” another comment read. Qantas chief customer officer Stephanie Tully apologised to customers and said they are looking to fix the issue. “I want to sincerely apologise to our customers, the wait times are not acceptable at all and it is our top priority to fix this,” Ms Tully said. Images: Twitter

Travel Trouble

"I'm so angry": Man fumes after threatened with fine for sleeping in his van

A Queensland man has taken to social media to share his fury at the local council after he was issued a move-on directive while sleeping in his van.Mark Pemberton shared his story on the Facebook page Van Life Australia, recounting how council workers shone a torch into the window of his van which was parked on a suburban street.“I’m so angry,” he wrote.“Last night (Tuesday) I parked in a very quiet spot at around 8pm. (Gold Coast) 10.50pm, council came around and knock (sic) on the door.“They were very nice, but told me it was a $680 fine for sleeping in the street in a van and I had to move.”He then questioned why he had been approached while countless other people who were sleeping rough in Surfers Paradise were left alone by Gold Coast Council workers.“Now the thing is, I live in a unit in Surfers Paradise. I was in the van for various reasons,” he continued.<img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/53992333-10492397-His_Facebook_post_on_the_page_Van_Life_generated_plenty_of_discu-m-1_1644461096527.jpg" alt="" width="634" height="476" />Image: Daily Mail Australia“I see the homeless drunk, swearing, begging and sleeping in the street on a daily basis in the middle of Surfers.“I also see a guy who I won’t name, but is semi-famous and walks around in a bikini, sleeps in the street cuddling a teddy.”Mr Pemberton questioned why the council thought it was acceptable to let that individual walk around in public in front of kids, when he wasn’t allowed to sleep “down a dark street in a registered vehicle”.“This is ridiculous. This is not about an individual, this is about the stupidity of the Council,” he concluded.Though his post generated plenty of discussion, it has since been deleted by page administrators.The former business executive who once earned a $200,000 salary is now unemployed, with the pandemic and other personal circumstances seeing him “lose everything”.“My van is registered and roadworthy and was also legally parked on a street in Paradise Point,” he told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10492397/How-fined-sleeping-car-Australia.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a>.He recalled being almost asleep when two council workers shone a torch into his van. “I explained my situation and I will say they were sympathetic, but I was told I had to move on elsewhere,” he told the publication.“I understand they are doing their job, but surely the council could focus on other issues at hand?”<img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/217397376_1146034059251748_5444362758567874310_n.jpg" alt="" width="652" height="960" />Mark Pemberton was inspired to take up living the van life after his travels through Europe. Image: Herc the Merc (Facebook)Mr Pemberton said the council should focus on addressing issues such as “homelessness and mental health”, rather than “people minding their own business in a registered van”.Having lived out of a van during his previous travels through Europe, Mr Pemberton is convinced it is the lifestyle for him.“After my personal dramas, van life was great for mental health,” he said.“I understand it isn’t for everyone, but in my eyes it is a great opportunity to see the world differently.”Image: Mark J Pemberton (Facebook)

Legal

Barty fumes as match suspended

Barty was well on her way to victory against Vera Zvonareva with some sizzling tennis in the first set which she won 6-1. But in the second set, the match was briefly suspended after the controversial electronic line-calling system crashed on Arthur Ashe Stadium, the centre court at the Flushing Meadows venue in New York. The 25-year-old spoke to the umpire after the annoying delay was announced and was heard on court microphones asking if human line judges could be brought onto court to replace the electronic system. Her request was denied as a result of the tournament not using any line judges this year. Barty was left shaking her head as she sat down waiting for a resumption of play. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Play has been suspended on Arthur Ashe due to an issue with the electronic line-calling system. Ash Barty is shaking her head & asking if they can bring out, you know, the humans that used to do it? The answer, unsurprisingly, is no. <a href="https://t.co/RvCBxMMlXA">pic.twitter.com/RvCBxMMlXA</a> — The Tennis Podcast (@TennisPodcast) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisPodcast/status/1432782740886331397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2021</a></blockquote> In the end she was only forced to wait a few minutes and quickly broke her opponent’s serve minutes later. However, the match took several more dramatic turns from there with Barty failing to serve the match out before it headed to a tiebreak. Barty prevailed 9-7 in the breaker, but had to defend set points in a very nervous few minutes at the end. More relaxed after the match Later, when Barty was interviewed on the court after her match, she seemed much more relaxed and talked about her recent winning streak. “It has certainly been really enjoyable right from the start,” she said. Barty will now play 18-year-old Clara Tauson in the second round. The world No. 1 is chasing back-to-back grand slam titles after her historic win at Wimbledon. She is in fine form after also winning a WTA title two weeks ago at Cincinnati. Image: Getty Images

News

"Absolute disgrace": Sam Newman fumes at Eddie McGuire's exit

Controversial media personality Sam Newman has claimed the way Eddie McGuire has been treated is an "absolute disgrace" after the Collingwood president handed in his resignation on Tuesday afternoon. McGuire faced copious amounts of criticism after his response to a damning report that accused Collingwood of fostering "systemic racism", which ultimately forced him to step down immediately rather than at the end of the season as planned. The 56-year-old was on the verge of tears as he fronted a press conference to announce his resignation. “I tried my best and I don’t always get it right, but I don’t stop trying,” McGuire said. “Today, effective immediately, I step down from the presidency of the Collingwood Football Club. “From the moment I became the president of the Collingwood Football Club on my 34th birthday back in 1998, my sole motivation was to heal, unite, inspire and drive a new social conscience, not just into this club, but sport and the community in general and build an organisation that would be a place for opportunity for all people.” Newman was a longtime panellist on The AFL Footy Show alongside McGuire and the former Geelong ruckman delivered a scathing response to his comrade’s departure. “It is an absolute disgrace what is happening to Eddie McGuire,” Newman told FIVEaa Adelaide on Tuesday. “Eddie McGuire is a great person, a great member of our community here in Melbourne, and in fact, he’s a great Australian. “He might have erred like everyone might have erred, but he’s tried his heart out to rectify what has gone on at that club. “It is completely unfair what they’re doing to him, and they should be ashamed of themselves. “Why would you single him out? He has tried his hardest. He has set up Indigenous foundations at that club. “This has nothing to do with racism … he is being condemned absolutely unfairly by all and sundry, because they think it’s a great, politically-correct, point-scoring opportunity. “They’re invested in chaos and division.” McGuire and veteran AFL reporter Caroline Wilson have endured a love-hate relationship over the years, but the journalist believed the Collingwood boss "hubris" contributed to his downfall. “There were so many things over the past week or so that just went from bad to worse for him,” <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.3aw.com.au/caroline-wilson-responds-to-eddie-mcguires-shock-departure/" target="_blank">Wilson told 3AW on Tuesday</a>. “Even today, unfortunately, there were just a few signs of the hubris that brought him down in the end. “Everything we say is underlined by the fact we know that he did so much good and that the club, in many ways, is in such a better position ... than when Eddie found it. “He came to Collingwood so determined to unite all the factions and you couldn’t say, last week, that’s what he’d done. “You’d have to say last week they were a club savagely divided. “I think that it’s sad that it’s ended like this for him. “From people I’ve been talking to today, the one thing they were all united on, in the end, was that he had to go and they couldn’t possibly get past this until he did go.”

Legal

Passengers are fuming after being left on tarmac in “boiling plane” for four hours

Qantas passengers are demanding compensation after their flight was diverted to a military base after a mechanical failure and were left on the tarmac for four hours. Flight QF171 left Melbourne at 9 am and was bound for Wellington, New Zealand, but the mechanical issue meant its intended landing at 2:35 pm was aborted. The plane was diverted to the Ohakea air base, which is 150kms north of the New Zealand capital, but passengers were unable to disembark due to no customs officials available. Passengers were unable to leave the plane until 7pm. "Sitting on the tarmac in the sun, getting extremely hot in the plane. Many passengers visibly distressed," one man wrote about his experience. Those on board complained that the plane was too hot, and they went without food after 11 am New Zealand time, which was when breakfast was served on the plane. Passenger Tracy Johnson spoke to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/travel-troubles/117478058/passengers-stuck-on-qantas-flight-diverted-to-ohakea-air-base" target="_blank">Stuff NZ</a> and said that she felt ill by the time they disembarked and that she couldn’t understand why passengers weren’t allowed to wait in a room at the air base. "An elderly lady hugged me when we got off, she thought she was going to faint ... we all did," she said. "We need compensation." Passenger Ryan Newington from Melbourne said that people were “visibly distressed” on the flight. "The cabin staff have been very kind and considerate which is helping, but lots of people [are] understandably frustrated." New Zealand customs has since apologised for the delay. "We needed to divert staff from the Napier office to attend, so obviously there's a timelapse before they can get there physically," said Terry Brown, group manager board of operations with New Zealand Customs. "We did look to pre-clear the passenger process, we have pretty advanced information systems around the passengers that are on board the aircraft so were able to do that," he told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/travel/2019/11/qantas-flight-from-melbourne-to-wellington-lands-at-rnzaf-base-in-ohakea.html" target="_blank">Newshub</a>. Qantas has apologised as well. "We apologise to our customers for the disruption but safety will always be our first priority."

Travel Trouble

Queen “fuming” over David Cameron's tell-all memoir

The former British Prime Minister David Cameron has landed himself in hot water with the monarchy over his admission about his relationship with the Queen in his new memoir. The politicians For The Record was published on Thursday, causing a stir as it is the first time the former PM has spoken about the 2016 Brexit referendum and its aftermath. The lengthy autobiography, spanning over 703 pages, has dished out a number of juicy details from his six years in office - from the internal workings of the Conservative Party to the rise of ISIS. However, what left the Queen “displeased” in Mr Cameron’s work was his comments about the 93-year-old Monarch. In a BBC interview which accompanied publication, Mr Cameron said he sought the sovereign’s guidance and help ahead of the 2014 Scottish independence vote. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7830978/david-cameron-queen-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/6fde0c8726684ab6a241a887ded780e8" /> Queen Elizabeth greeting David Cameron, 2010. He said he’d asked the Queen whether she could “raise an eyebrow” about what leaving the UK might mean for the Scots. According to Mr Cameron, the discussion with the Queen’s officials was not “anything that would be in any way improper … but just a raising of the eyebrow even … a quarter of an inch.” A royal source stated conversations between Queen Elizabeth and the PM being made public would “serve no one’s interests”. “It makes it very hard for the relationship to thrive,” the palace source said. This wasn’t the only detail to slip about the private affairs between the 93-year-old and the former PM. Mr Cameron wrote details about holidaying at the Queen’s “summer haven,” <a rel="noopener" href="/travel/travel-trouble/a-full-royal-household-how-is-balmoral-castle-handling-all-their-guests" target="_blank">Balmoral Castl</a>e - a place where she would drive at “breakneck speed” across the countryside. His book also said Prince Philip would host barbecues and flip burgers, before cleaning up himself. “Literally, the Queen of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth Realms topping up your drinks, clearing up your plates and washing up,” he wrote. The politician revealed the key preparations for the famous “audience” the Queen has held with every Prime Minister since Winston Churchill. “One: always check the BBC headlines, in case you’ve missed something (I usually turned up just after the 6 o’clock news, and in any event, she is phenomenally well-informed). “Two: always check what’s going on in the horseracing world. A quick call to Tom Goff, my racing expert friend, would bring me up to speed on whether one of the Queen’s horses had won that week, or another had recently had a foal. Her knowledge of the turf is prodigious. “During a separate conversation, the week after my father died, the Queen said how sorry she was, and asked if his horse was running at Windsor that evening. It was. I had absolutely no idea about it, and was completely lost for words.” Mr Cameron added Her Majesty was “better informed than most politicians” and wrote he would always leave with a “spring in his step”. The former country’s leader admitted in an interview with John Humphry, some of his comments about the monarch - particularly the one where he said the Queen “purred down the line” to him after informing her Scotland had voted no to independence - was a “terrible mistake”.

Travel Trouble

Fans fuming after MasterChef Australia crowns youngest ever winner

MasterChef’s grand finale aired on Tuesday night where the top three contestants battled it out for the top prize. After Larissa Takchi, Simon Toohey and Tessa Boersma took part in an intense service challenge, it was Larissa that ultimately came out on top with her pavlova receiving a perfect score from the judges. At just 22 years old, she is the youngest ever winner in the show’s history. She was awarded a brand new Holden Equinox, a monthly column in Delicious magazine and a quarter of a million dollars. Feeling overwhelmed, the young cook said: “Thank you so much. Honestly, I can’t believe it. I am so surprised that I even made it this far in the competition. “And to say that I’ve actually won is just so weird to even say out loud. I’ve got you three to thank for it,” she told the judges. “Honestly, you’ve seen me, how I’ve grown since I first came to the competition. You guys are like my three dads. You’ve kind of brought me up in this way!” Her mother, who was standing beside her, was also visibly proud, saying: “I can’t believe what she’s achieved. She’s just young and just starting out and she just taught herself everything, really. She’s just got this drive in her and she has places to go.” Coming in at second place was Tessa Boersma, who was awarded $30,000, and was gracious in defeat, saying: “I’ve learnt so much being in this competition about myself and what I’m capable of, and it’s changed me completely for the better.” She added, “And Larissa, she’s so incredible and completely deserves to win." But not everyone was happy with the outcome, with viewers taking to Twitter to express their fury at the so-called favouritism shown by the judges. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en-gb"> the judges have been pushing the “youngest contestant” agenda for a while... looking back i should of known <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> — carly (@marleyisdardy) <a href="https://twitter.com/marleyisdardy/status/1153664008022396928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23 July 2019</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en-gb"> Rock hard sorbet, collapsed meringues... Judges: 10/10 🙄 Not sure anyone is surprised but hey, maybe one year they’ll start doing blind tastings in the finale. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> — Ben Carney (@bencarnz) <a href="https://twitter.com/bencarnz/status/1153671643622830080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23 July 2019</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en-gb"> 10/10 for a dessert with cracked meringue and rock hard sorbet. Melting it would have made it syrupy. Larissa was always going to win. Judges loved her and the fact she would be the youngest winner was good for them. She was very lucky the past few weeks. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> — Kaz (@kazza_1961) <a href="https://twitter.com/kazza_1961/status/1153646338220814336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23 July 2019</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en-gb"> So Larissa serves up bone marrow and Coles brand Laurent sourdough an hour late and gets 9/10. Seems legit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/masterchefau?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#masterchefau</a> — Alexandra Stockdale (@alexpaige_co) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexpaige_co/status/1153616804041744384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23 July 2019</a></blockquote> “The judges have been pushing the ‘youngest contestant’ agenda for a while … looking back I should of known,” tweeted one viewer. “Rock hard sorbet, collapsed meringues … judges: 10/10. Not sure anyone is surprised but hey, maybe one year they’ll start doing blind tastings in the finale,” wrote another. “10/10 for a dessert with cracked meringue and rock hard sorbet. Melting it would have made it syrupy. Larissa was always going to win. Judges loved her and the fact she would be the youngest winner was good for them. She was very lucky the past few weeks,” said another viewer. “So Larissa serves up bone marrow and Coles brand Laurent sourdough an hour late and gets 9/10. Seems legit,” a user tweeted in regards to the winner's entrée, which was served late due to her having trouble in the kitchen. This season of MasterChef Australia is the last for judges Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and George Calombaris, who announced yesterday afternoon that they will not be returning next year. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0QPbQfhnPe/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0QPbQfhnPe/" target="_blank">To all of our fans ‘thank you’ To the team that makes MasterChef ‘thank you’ and to all of the contestants that we know and love, we are all part of a very exclusive club and what a journey what an experience. To explain: ‘It was time to move on, have more free time to explore our own creativity’ It was never about the money and never will be about the money. We couldn’t agree on the term of the new contract for 2020 and season 12. Something we felt very strongly about. The opportunity to work with Matt and George has been a blessing and something I cherish. Working together will continue to be the most important thing for us.....the three musketeers.......🤗 @mattscravat @gcalombaris @masterchefau #masterchefau #foodies #foodiesofinstagram #homecooks #homecooking #masterchef</a> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/garymehigan/" target="_blank"> Gary Mehigan</a> (@garymehigan) on Jul 23, 2019 at 2:11am PDT </div> </blockquote> The three chefs took to Instagram late last night to post their individual statements, confirming that they were “unable to agree to all terms of the new contract” with Mehigan denying that money was the reason why. "Thank you so very much for supporting @masterchefau over the last 11 years," Preston wrote on Instagram, captioning a photo of himself, Mehigan and Calombaris. "We have loved every single moment. It is however with a heavy heart that I can confirm that Season 11 was our last. We were really keen to continue but we were unable to agree to all terms for the new contract." He wished "the new judges all the best with the show that we love so much," and said he would not be making any further comment.

Food & Wine

Aussies left fuming as My Health Record phone lines go into meltdown

Those hoping to opt out of the government’s My Health Record initiative have been left furious after having zero access to phone lines due to a technical meltdown. With the opt out deadline originally ending tomorrow, the Senate has come together to extend the due date until January 31, 2019 after many people missed the chance of removing their name from the scheme. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson proposed the idea to the Senate and it didn’t take long for the government to agree with her sentiments. The news is welcomed by Australian’s around the country who were unable to opt out this morning. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en-gb"> I've just tried calling the 1800 number and it doesn't even ring. — Jon (@Jon00073511) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jon00073511/status/1062479780900102144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">13 November 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"> <a href="https://twitter.com/MyHealthRec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MyHealthRec</a> This is a shambles. I can't opt out and the phone lines are crashing long before being able to speak to anyone. <a href="https://t.co/scWEnlhc4L">pic.twitter.com/scWEnlhc4L</a> — Daniel Bevan (@DanielCBevan) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielCBevan/status/1062467641569243136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">13 November 2018</a></blockquote> According to Adelaide resident, Ben, he and his wife had attempted to contact the phone line for days before the due date but had no luck. “My wife has been on hold for an hour and it has just dropped out,” he said to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/lastditch-push-to-delay-my-health-record-deadline/news-story/eba3f460b22b8b9795a85a5b0e9ee7dc">news.com.au</a>. “I’ve been on hold a couple times and it has dropped out, including this morning. I was on hold for 15-20 minutes before it dropped out.” Meanwhile, others claim that they received an automated message as soon as they called, saying “your call cannot be completed at this time” and asked those trying to get in touch to call back later. A spokesman from the Australian Digital Health Agency denied the reports saying that the system was not operating. “The opt out website and the My Health Record Help Line are both operational. We are experiencing high demand, which has slowed the system down, and some people have experienced difficulties opting out this morning. These issues have now been resolved,” he said. “The Agency anticipated higher call volumes and has increased the number of help line operators available to support callers. “A call back feature has been enabled allowing people to leave their details for a customer service representative to return their call and process their request to opt out. “If a person leaves their details for a call back, the help line will return the call over the coming days to opt the person out. No record will be created for individuals in this circumstance.” But despite these statements, Ben and one of his sons had first tried to opt out online through the website provided and were successful, but when it came to his wife and other son, they received an error message. “We’ve been trying for a couple of weeks (to get through on the phone line) but particularly in the last few days,” he said. “It’s obviously very frustrating.” And it wasn’t only Ben who was frustrated by the whole process, as many others have complained about the same thing, saying they’re having issues getting through to the phones. Sydneysider Anton Francis told news.com.au that he’s been calling the number provided at least seven times since 10:08am this morning, but still hasn’t been able to reach the other side. Another resident Elena experienced the same problems as she tried calling “quite a few times” and also attempted to get through on the website but it “just did not work”. “It is unbelievable how disorganised this process is,” she said. “The online system does not work and when you try to phone, it just hangs up on you. There is no automated message or any sort of system in place that can cope with demand. “I’m really against my records being on the system and I am unable to opt out. This is just ridiculous and makes me feel angry and helpless and not in control of my information.” Around 4 per cent of the population have already opted out of the controversial health system to date and it is expected that 17 million Australians will be automatically added when the deadline passes. If you wish to opt out, visit <a href="http://www.myhealthrecord.gov.au">www.myhealthrecord.gov.au</a>, or call 1800 723 471.

Caring

MasterChef fans fume at “bullying” treatment

MasterChef fans were left fuming after last night’s episode showed Bondi Icebergs’ Head Chef Monty Koludrovic rattle the show’s final four contestants – particularly fan favourite Sashi Cheliah. The final four were flown to Sydney to compete in a high-pressure service challenge at renowned Bondi Icebergs, where they had to cook one dish each for 30 diners. Ben Borsht, 31, from Queensland, had an advantage from winning a previous challenge and chose to play to his strengths and cook fish. Sashi, 39, from South Australia, got pasta, Jess Liemantara, 19, from Victoria got meat and Khanh Ong, 25, from Victoria, got dessert. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> It's a privilege to be cooking with <a href="https://twitter.com/MontyKoludrovic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@montykoludrovic</a> at the pass today 👌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ufurd29fHU">pic.twitter.com/Ufurd29fHU</a> — #MasterChefAU (@masterchefau) <a href="https://twitter.com/masterchefau/status/1022052647094939648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote> Sashi was first and decided to make a pumpkin ravioli with mushroom sauce and crispy pancetta. Confessing to the cameras pasta was not his strength, Sashi quickly began to struggle in his service challenge, fell behind and failed o make the deadline for service Sashi admitted: “I have really underestimated pasta-making. It’s a very long process.” With the reputation of his restaurant on the line, head chef Monty was breathing down Sashi’s neck, barking orders at him continually through his service. “Sashi, we need to see a plate done up,” he said. “Come on, Sashi. Let’s cook it, mate. Now I need to boil it and add all the other elements. OK, have you got your sauce?” A stressed out Sashi told him: “Not ready yet, but …” before Monty said: “Put this here. Where’s your sauce?” “Where’s your pancetta? Come on. This is real, mate. We’re plating one right now. Now is not the time to get wobbly, mate. Let’s go.” And when it came to service, things got even more tense. Ordering Sashi around, Monty said: “C’mon, mate, you’ve gotta do more than one thing at once in here. OK, waiters, service! Have you got anything to say to the waiters?” Sashi replied: “Ah, I haven’t poured the mushroom broth yet, so …” Monty said: “What about, ‘Sorry, I'm so late.’” Sashi said he will when Monty interjected: “C'mon, tell them.” Finally, Sashi said: “Service, please.” Monty repeated himself again, saying: “All you've gotta say is ‘Please tell them I'm sorry that I'm so late.’” He then told Sashi: “More broth. More broth. More broth. Uh … That's a sorry excuse for a spoon there, ah, Sashi.” Sasha said: “Service, please, and sorry for the delay.” “We're all sorry for the delay, aren't we?” again,” Monty added. When Sashi eventually finished his service, Monty finally praised him, saying: “Bravo, well done, you got there. You gave me a scare.” However, fans of the show took to Twitter to accuse Monty of “bullying”, believing Sashi was being treated unfairly, contrary to other episodes where judges and guest chefs had been more encouraging with the amateur cooks. They also felt Monty was being less than supportive of Sashi compared to the other cooks. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> I wouldn’t eat in that restaurant in a million years after watching this episode. There’s no need to treat people like Monty has treated Sashi. — Donna Hosie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧 (@donnahosie) <a href="https://twitter.com/donnahosie/status/1022064202259693568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <a href="https://twitter.com/masterchefau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@masterchefau</a> owes <a href="https://twitter.com/sashi_cheliah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sashi_cheliah</a> an apology. He should never have been spoken to like that and the challenge should have been stopped <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/disgraceful?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#disgraceful</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> — Becky Laurence (@beckykate85) <a href="https://twitter.com/beckykate85/status/1022069856584097792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Disheartening to watch how Sashi was treated tonight on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> In 10 years, I’ve never seen the show so out of touch. <a href="https://twitter.com/crispycrackling?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@crispycrackling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MattsCravat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MattsCravat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/masterchefau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@masterchefau</a> — Yvette Forrester (@yvetteforrester) <a href="https://twitter.com/yvetteforrester/status/1022077390023847936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> I really enjoy this show but tonight's episode left me disappointed. There was obvious bullying of Sashi by Monty, which no other contestant experienced. Demanding he apologise over and over again was over the top and unnecessary. — DisneyPrincess 🌈 (@OzGoofyPrincess) <a href="https://twitter.com/OzGoofyPrincess/status/1022080377895104512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote> But on Instagram, Monty’s fans backed him during the show. One person wrote: “Well done Monty. I’m lucky enough to know you well and to of seen you develop the careers of so many brilliant chefs. You're an excellent mentor and inspiration to so many … Congratulations on a great show tonight. Sashi even thanked you for the support on his feed which was nice to see.”

News

Queen “left fuming” over false rumours about Prince Philip

The Queen was left fuming and upset after false claims that Prince Philip had died swept the internet over the weekend. Rumours that the 97-year-old Duke of Edinburgh had passed away began trending on Twitter late on Friday and continued for much of the weekend. With Prince Philip remaining at Sandringham while the Queen holidays in Balmoral, sources said the Queen was left “absolutely fuming”, according to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/6835311/the-queen-prince-philip-false-death-rumours/">The Sun</a>. Buckingham Palace switchboard was flooded with calls from the concerned public, forcing Her Majesty to call her husband of 70 years to deal with the “fake news”. “They both agreed there was little they could do but they are very, very annoyed,” a royal insider said, according to The Sun. “It’s not nice to hear people the world over commenting on your health or death, even if you’re used to being in the public eye. It shows how the internet can get out of control. “The Queen is absolutely fuming over this and thinks it’s disgraceful.” She was alerted to the claims when staff started asking how her husband was. “If he was ill, she would be with him instead of starting her Scottish holiday,” the source said. “In fact not only is he not very ill, he is actually in fine form and is recovering well from his recent hip operation. “It has given him a new lease of life and he hopes to live to 100 just like the Queen Mum!” Buckingham Palace declined to comment.

Caring

Why My Kitchen Rules' fans are fuming after Sunday’s episode

Fans of Channel Seven’s My Kitchen Rules are fuming after last night’s much publicised return of the cooking show. As many viewers of Channel Seven will know, the station has been <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/food-wine/2018/04/manu-feildel-and-pete-evans-break-silence-about-booting-a-team-from-the-show/">heavily promoting an explosive episode of drama</a>, where judges Manu Feildel and Pete Evans are forced to kick a team out of the competition for “threatening” behaviour. But despite ad after ad during the Commonwealth Games about the scandal, MKR devotees were left scratching their heads after Sunday night’s show. The episode ended with no team’s being booted off and the fans are tired of the handling of the whole saga. They took to twitter to air their complaints, with many vowing not to tune in again. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Is tonight the night someone gets thrown out of the competition or is it still coming. Can never tell anymore with the misleading advertisements <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mkr?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mkr</a> — gemma rogers (@gemma92rogers) <a href="https://twitter.com/gemma92rogers/status/985443343642509312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MKR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MKR</a> is pulling the old A Current Affair bait & switch technique, coming up on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MKR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MKR</a> drama you won't believe (in two nights time) — Colonel Kickhead (@colonelkickhead) <a href="https://twitter.com/colonelkickhead/status/985446691242262529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MKR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MKR</a> is pretty much one lying ad after another — Verushka, an editor (@SydneyEditor1) <a href="https://twitter.com/SydneyEditor1/status/985444885867126784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> By the time we find out they'll be advertising Carols In The Domain <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MKR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/cLTlDqBK67">https://t.co/cLTlDqBK67</a> — Matt (@MisfitWanderer) <a href="https://twitter.com/MisfitWanderer/status/985462357152288769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote>

News

Easter Long Weekend parking fail leaves drivers fuming

Thousands of Australians hit the road for the Easter Long Weekend, but as this photo of a busy New South Wales road proves, some motorists are more considerate than others. The image, which was posted on Facebook and has since become a viral sensation, shows a red car parked in a single lane on Lighthouse Drive, Byron Bay. <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgoldcoastbulletin%2Fposts%2F10155506268252358&width=500" width="500" height="503" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true"></iframe> “Cars are vacant in the middle of the road... selfish people,” the poster wrote. “How would an emergency vehicle get through if needed?” another wrote. What are your thoughts? Hero image credit: Facebook

Domestic Travel

Why this 60 Minutes interview has PM Jacinda Ardern fuming

60 Minutes by its very nature is <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/2018/02/robbie-williams-stuns-60-minutes-reporter-with-shocking-admission/" target="_blank">designed to cause a bit of controversy</a>, and last Sunday’s episode was no different after an interview with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden and veteran reporter Charles Wooley left the Kiwi leader fuming. The interview has opened a raft of controversy both here and across the pond, after Wooley’s interview with the 37-year-old was criticised as “creepy” and “sexist”. “I’ve met a lot of prime ministers in my time,” says Wooley, during the opening, “But none so young, not too many so smart, and never one so attractive.” Wooley’s comments continue to be eyebrow-raising as the interview progresses, with the 60 Minutes journo saying like the rest of NZ he is “smitten” with the PM, describing her as a leader “like no other”, who is “young, honest and pregnant”. <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F60Minutes9%2Fvideos%2F1536004706468839%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> “Admittedly, although somewhat smitten just like the rest of her country, I do know, that what’s really important in politics has to be what you leave behind,” Wooley says. “How did a nice person like you get into the sordid world of politics?” Wooley asked Ardern at one point. “Nice people go into politics,” replied Ardern, smiling. The questioning took an especially awkward line when Wooley asked about Arden’s pregnancy, making Arden and her partner Clarke Gayford, visibly uncomfortable. “One really important political question that I want to ask you,” Wooley said. “And that is, what exactly is the date that the baby’s due?” Arden said her baby was due on 17 June. Wooley replied: “It’s interesting how many people have been counting back to the conception... as it were.” Gayford laughed uncomfortably, responding, “Really?” <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F60Minutes9%2Fvideos%2F1537972866272023%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> Wooley continued: “Having produced six children it doesn’t amaze me that people can have children; why shouldn’t a child be conceived during an election campaign?” Ardern appeared to roll her eyes, responding: “The election was done. Not that we need to get into those details.” Wooley has been widely criticised for his archaic interview style, but he defended the piece in an interview with New Zealand radio station Newstalk ZB. “It’s a bit Orwellian, you know I think. You’ve got to be so careful now with newsspeak and thought crime and everything else. We suffer the same thing in Australia. It’s not a good time to be a journalist,” he said. “If you say somebody is attractive, my thesaurus defines it as 50 choices from good looking to gorgeous to likeable, there is so many different meanings.” What do you think? Did Wooley go too far with his questions?

Legal

Why this 60 Minutes interview has NZ PM Jacinda Ardern fuming

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Perth’s new cricket ground has punters fuming

Perth’s brand-new cricketing venue Optus Stadium is the pride of Western Australia, and while it opened to plenty of fanfare over the weekend there was one aspect of the cricket ground that left punters underwhelmed and unimpressed – the food. Spectators watching Australia take on England in the ODI’s on Sunday were left aghast at lunch when they ventured to the food vendors, only to see pies selling for $12 each. Optus Stadium clarified the pricing as a clerical error, with a regular beef pie normally retailing for $5.20, but this wasn’t food-related incident that upset attendees. People at the ODI also complained about huge queue lengths, as well as a selection of items on the Optus Stadium menu that were of questionable quality. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> This is what you get at Optus stadium for $12.50...fish burger..uurrgghh, you would need plenty of that over priced light beer to wash that down... <a href="https://t.co/Ft0oHdmIIe">pic.twitter.com/Ft0oHdmIIe</a> — ShannonRyan (@ShannonTRyan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShannonTRyan1/status/957525379371081728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote> But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Many of those who went to the event were quick to praise Optus Stadium for the facilities, even if there were some culinary hiccups. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://twitter.com/OptusStadium?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OptusStadium</a> bit of a joke everyone is watching the game and the line for the bar is horrendous! Every bar is packed. Imagine quarter time at the <a href="https://twitter.com/AFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AFL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WestCoastEagles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@westcoasteagles</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lift?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lift</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/JzTf04b1wa">pic.twitter.com/JzTf04b1wa</a> — afrankreview (@FTank) <a href="https://twitter.com/FTank/status/957471327157338113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote> Ahead of the first ever game at the new Optus Stadium today, Mitch Marsh takes us out to the middle and inside the rooms of this amazing venue <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/bHVHyueNwY">pic.twitter.com/bHVHyueNwY</a> — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/957431167917072391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote> What are your thoughts? Do you think people are making too much of these simple mistakes? Or is it up to the staff at Optus Stadium to lift their game?

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