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"Lost everything": Retirees left homeless after houseboat destroyed

<p>Two grandparents from South Australia have lost everything after a tree fell on their houseboat during a wild storm. </p> <p>Pam, 77, and David, 82, moved into their two-bedroom houseboat on the Murray River when they first retired over 20 years ago, after finally living out their dream of living on the water. </p> <p>During a storm on February 13th, when their houseboat was moored about 700m from the Renmark boat ramp, their lives were changed forever when a tree fell through their roof. </p> <p>Their granddaughter Shenay Harris said it was a miracle the pair escaped with only minor injuries.</p> <p>“They’re both sitting in their armchairs next to each other. My nan was actually stuck. Her legs were pinned from all the rubble of the roof caving in, and my pop managed to be able to stand up and reach for the phone to call emergency services,” Harris told <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/south-australian-grandparents-lose-everything-after-tree-falls-on-houseboat-in-murray-river-during-storm--c-13615764" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>7News</em></a>.</p> <p>“Looking at the boat and where they were sitting and everything, we have no idea how they are still with us. It’s just absolutely amazing that they’re still here, and they’re OK.”</p> <p>Shenay said her grandparents were now feeling lost about their future, while also grieving the loss of their retirement home. </p> <p>“My pop, he’s absolutely shattered. He’s said to us ‘it’s all over now’ ... (we’re) trying to reassure him (that) ‘no, it’s just a new beginning’,” Harris said.</p> <p>“They’ve been on that boat for 23 years, so it’s been my whole childhood and life with them living on the boat."</p> <p>The houseboat was not insured at the time of the accident, leaving both of the retirees homeless, with no hope for a replacement boat or a payout to get them back on their feet. </p> <p>“They’ve literally just lost everything they’ve got, you know, no assets, nowhere to go, no money,” Shenay said.</p> <p>An <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/riverland-houseboat-tragedy-pamelas-joy?cdn-cache=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online fundraiser</a> has been set up to support the couple as they figure out the next stage of their life, so far raising $3,000.</p> <p>“They’re both pensioners, they’ve really got nothing to their name now, having lost the boat. So really just to get them back on their feet.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: GoFundMe / 7News</em></p>

Retirement Life

The most beloved grandparents in film

<p>Grandparents – they’re wise, loving and occasionally grumpy. They also make some of the best characters in films. So grab the popcorn, gather the grandkids and show them how amazing grandparents are!</p> <p><strong>Queen Clarisse Renaldi in <em>The Princess Diaries</em></strong></p> <p>Played by the graceful Julie Andrew, the ruler of the fictional country Genovia needs to teach her granddaughter and heir Mia (Anne Hathaway) how to be Queen. It’s the growing relationship – from heated arguments to acceptance and understanding – between the two that makes this movie. </p> <p><strong>Aurora Greenway in<em> Terms of Endearment</em></strong></p> <p>In possibly the best movie made about the mother-daughter relationship, Oscar-winning Shirley MacLaine plays the mother who puts years of hostility behind her to care for terminally ill daughter Emma (Debra Winger). However, it’s her role as a grandparent that brings her ultimate redemption becoming the guardian to her three grandchildren. Warning: tissues are a must in this film.</p> <p><strong>Grandma Annie in <em>The Proposal</em></strong></p> <p>Although she has no grandchildren, Betty White always plays the most hilarious nanas. Grandma Annie’s 90th birthday party is the big event where the romance between Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds finally comes to fruition. Even 60 years into her career, Betty White’s comical facial expressions will still make you laugh.</p> <p><strong>Grandpa Joe in <em>Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory</em></strong></p> <p>The bedridden grandfather decides to take his first steps into the outside world for his beloved grandson Charlie. The grandfather and grandson together experience a fantastical adventure of a life time, a trip to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.</p> <p><strong>The Grandfather in<em> The Princess Bride</em></strong></p> <p>The anonymous grandfather played by Peter Falk entertains his sick grandson (Fred Savage) with a good-old fashioned adventure story. Although reluctant at first, the grandson is soon just as caught up as we are about the tale of the masked man saving the beautiful princess.</p> <p><strong>Carl Fredricksen in <em>Up</em></strong></p> <p>Although not technically a grandfather, the animated story of a grumpy 78-year old man who forms an unlikely friendship with 8-year-old wilderness explorer Russell is a beautiful story of the generations’ comings together. Because of Russell, Carl learns to live again, something he never thought possible after the death of his wife many years ago.</p> <p><em>Images: Wolper Pictures</em></p>

Movies

Grandparents to the rescue in the face of soaring rents

<p>As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, taking rental and property prices up with it, younger generations are facing a whole new host of challenges when it comes to putting a roof over their heads. </p> <p>But for one woman from New South Wales’ Blue Mountains region, the answer lay closer than she ever could have anticipated. </p> <p>As 24-year-old Isis Pattison told ABC’s <em>Hack</em>, she had been looking for an affordable rental in her local area for months when she lost track of how many applications she’d submitted, and the entire ordeal had become “ridiculous” - until she’d taken her grandmother, Debbie, along with her. </p> <p>Debbie explained that her granddaughter had been looking at a yurt that “was round and connected by a little pathway. And they wanted $370 a week for it”, and that she had been shocked by the cost. </p> <p>Her solution? Offering Isis a place in her own home, so that she could “save that $370”.</p> <p>And Isis’ financial boost wasn’t the only benefit to come of the whole arrangement, with Debbie noting that she’d “been on my own now for nearly eight years. It’s been very lonely and expensive on my own.” </p> <p>She’d been hit hard by the cost of living crisis too, she revealed, admitting that she had been struggling to make ends meet between bills and essential home items, including everything from food to electricity and heating. At the worst of it all, the grandmother had even feared she may have to sell the home she’d been making for herself since 1981.</p> <p>But things had picked up for Debbie with the arrival of her new roommate, as while Isis wasn’t paying rent at her grandmother’s, she was helping out with the bills, paying half. </p> <p>“It's a big help,” Debbie said. “I'm grateful and happy that she's here. I think my standard of living is a little bit better. I've got the heating on now.”</p> <p>For Isis, who intended to return to university and undertake a nursing degree, her grandmother’s generosity meant more than just extra dollars in her savings account, too. </p> <p>“I think it really works for us as well, because we’ve always just had a good connection,” she shared. “We understand each other, which makes it a lot easier.”</p> <p>And they aren’t the only ones who’ve turned to multigenerational living to combat the crisis, with the University of New South Wales’ Edgar Liu revealing that “one in every five people” have returned home since the COVID pandemic swept the country. </p> <p>Unsurprisingly, the most common reasons behind the moves were the cost of living and related finance woes. As Liu explained, “that encompasses a whole range of things from sharing bills, or finding better value and sharing costs."</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Real Estate

Readers Respond: What was the best part about raising your children?

<p dir="ltr">You always hear parents ask “where did the time go?” when they look at their children growing up.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s just the same for grandparents as well as they watch their children and their grandchildren go about life. </p> <p dir="ltr">So we’ve decided to ask our OverSixty audience what the best part about raising children is.</p> <p dir="ltr">Check out some of your responses below. </p> <p dir="ltr">Trish George - The love and happiness they brought to our family was so special. Then we proudly watched them grow into the well mannered, respectful and wonderful adults that they are today. Very blessed indeed.</p> <p dir="ltr">Pam Milner - Watching them grow up to be fine, responsible and loving people, now with beautiful children of their own. Plus I got to have a lot of fun along the way, something denied me when I was a child.</p> <p dir="ltr">Margie Buckingham - Falling pregnant after years of trying, was the happiest time of my life. Teaching him how to be a loving, caring, responsible man that contributes his best at all times, it is still just a wonder to me.</p> <p dir="ltr">Denise Clare Dawson - Being lucky to share in the raising of the grandchildren.</p> <p dir="ltr">Linda Payne - The laughs we had which outweighed the naughtiness of kids.</p> <p dir="ltr">Anne Henderson - Their innocence…not having the worry and sadness of seeing them have to grapple with the trials of adult life later on…relationship heartbreak, job loss, not getting that job etc.</p> <p dir="ltr">Louise Headley Duncan - Watching them grow and develop into happy healthy adults.</p> <p dir="ltr">Zandra Burton-Scarlett - Having a wonderful man to do it with. George was the best dad to our boys. Even if he wasn’t the biological father, blood means nothing. We all love and miss you so much sweetheart. Kisses and cuddles have been sent to heaven.</p> <p dir="ltr">Maria Valsamakis - Feeding them and watching them grow strong and healthy, taking them to the beach, reading stories, birthday parties, Christmas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Patrick Campbell - Watching them turn into caring contributing members of society and wonderful parents as well.</p> <p dir="ltr">Share your favourite moment <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/pfbid0iNbcAr2Q7UdvFvRWnhLTsSx29FQEjmkBsmE7vSP35APtRtAzUd9ByN4vcWTNNoqwl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Retirement Life

The 10 “types” of grandparents

<p>In his book, <em>The Grandparent Guide: The Definitive Guide to Coping with the Challenges of Modern Grandparenting</em>, Dr. Arthur Kornhaber, a psychiatrist and founder of a non-profit organisation that promotes the importance of grandparenting identified 10 special roles grandparents play in the lives of grandchildren, all showing the profound impact grandparents can have on children’s lives. Which role, or roles, do you most identify with?</p> <p><strong>Ancestor –</strong> “You function as an ambassador to the past, a powerful figure in the present, and a role model for the future.”</p> <p><strong>Buddy –</strong> “You’re a pal, secret confidante, and at times, even a light-hearted conspirator.”</p> <p><strong>Hero –</strong> “The fact that you have lived in times and places so far removed from your grandchild’s everyday experiences imbues you with heroic qualities.”</p> <p><strong>Historian –</strong> “Sharing your own life experiences as well as those of your ancestors will give your grandchild a sense of continuity and belonging.”</p> <p><strong>Mentor –</strong> “You are a cheerleader firing her imagination, inspiring her dreams, nurturing her spirit, and encouraging her intellectual growth while giving her a sense of self-worth.”</p> <p><strong>Role model –</strong> “Your actions show your children and grandchildren how they should behave as grandparents of the future.”</p> <p><strong>Spiritual guide –</strong> “Acting as a spiritual guide involves teaching your grandchild to harvest such fruits of the spirit as love, tolerance, compassion, reverence, joy, peace, gentleness, faith, and kindness.”</p> <p><strong>Teacher –</strong> “As a grandparent, you have the right and the responsibility to run your own classroom about life, to develop your own curriculum, and to pass on your wisdom, knowledge, and life experience.”</p> <p><strong>Student –</strong> “Just as you teach and inspire your grandchild with your knowledge, she can teach and inspire you with her knowledge of contemporary times across generations and motivate you to jumpstart your capacity to grow and change.”</p> <p><strong>Wizard –</strong> “Activate your own wizardry and be your grandchild’s companion in the preternatural world of make-believe and illusion, of dreams and surprises. Fly together on the wings of fancy and enjoy the flight!”</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

Readers Respond: What is your favourite thing about being a grandparent?

<p dir="ltr">They say a mother’s love is different, as is a father’s love.</p> <p dir="ltr">But what about grandparents and their relationship with their grandchildren? Surely nothing compares. </p> <p dir="ltr">So we decided to ask you about the favourite thing about being grandparents and it sure made us miss ours. </p> <p dir="ltr">From a simple hug to just being in their presence - here are some of your most moving responses. </p> <p dir="ltr">JanWayne Richo - The same as being a parent, I love every single second of being with them!</p> <p dir="ltr">Lorraine Fox - Having the pleasure of their company.</p> <p dir="ltr">Pam Moss - I love every single moment I spend with my grandchildren. I love them to bits and love watching them grow into beautiful adults - love hugs and kisses and love the individuality of each one!!!</p> <p dir="ltr">Lorene Owers - Everything but especially when they give me a hug.</p> <p dir="ltr">Christine Scott - Their little arms around my neck for cuddles.</p> <p dir="ltr">Elizabeth Granter - Being a parent and grandparent is very special. Seeing them grow up into beautiful adults - love them to bits. </p> <p dir="ltr">Raymond Wagner - Filing their bellies with junk food and taking her home. </p> <p dir="ltr">Rick Dayes - Spending lots of time with them. They make me feel 20 years younger.</p> <p dir="ltr">Judy Garstone - Spending time and listening to their stories with them and getting big hugs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Elaine Costello - Being able to hand them back when they have entertained me to exhaustion and then looking forward to the next time.</p> <p dir="ltr">Heather Lawson Hillman - Everything but if I had to choose...it's seeing their face light up yelling grandma's here...as they run to see you.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sandra Bull - When you pull up outside their house and they are waiting screaming "nanny" "poppy".</p> <p dir="ltr">Judy Borwick - Love just being around them, listening, watching and being part of their lives. It's very special to me. </p> <p dir="ltr">Julie Auld - When we all get together. </p> <p dir="ltr">Share your cherished memories <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/pfbid0aq8wCPRwPKdkQ89SRBa2aLnsEFRrCjcmUKBbpDvKUetxM7FxSPwfbtDeoGtP3Xp1l" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Relationships

Readers respond: What advice did your grandparents give to you that you remember best?

<p dir="ltr">We asked our readers to think back to a time their grandparents gave them some of the best advice they still remember today. </p> <p dir="ltr">From looking for the good in everyone, tucking in your singlet, and never trusting your fart.</p> <p dir="ltr">Here are some of your answers.</p> <p dir="ltr">Peter Laing - My Gran had a saying: The wise old owl sat in the oak. The more he listened the less he spoke. The less he spoke the more he heard. We should all be like that wise old bird.</p> <p dir="ltr">Gail Keeb - My dad's mum always said "Spend less than you make!".</p> <p dir="ltr">Elsie Miller - If a job is worth doing, it is worth doing well.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kerri Anderson - My grandmother gave me two important pieces of advice on aging - never walk past a toilet and never trust a fart!</p> <p dir="ltr">Laraine Fields - My Nana told me that there was some good in everyone and to look for that.</p> <p dir="ltr">Janice Grove - If you cannot say anything nice, say nothing.</p> <p dir="ltr">Susan Buckett - Always wear clean underwear when you go out, in case you have an accident.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tracey Burns Kitchingham - Some things are better left unsaid…My grandmother was a very wise woman.</p> <p dir="ltr">Pam Leonard - Always leave a place better than the way you found it. No good being so heavenly good that you’re no earthly use.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kylie Jane McCauley - Always keep a little cash aside for a rainy day. You never know when a storm might blow in.</p> <p dir="ltr">Peter Hulthen - Respect your elders. Help the less fortunate.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sue Casey - Life is too long to be unhappy.</p> <p dir="ltr">To leave a memory of your own, or to check out more of the inspiring responses head <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/3348051982091731" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Retirement Life

The real reason you’re not a grandparent yet

<p dir="ltr">How many times have you asked your child when they’re going to make you a grandparent? </p> <p dir="ltr">Too many times to count.</p> <p dir="ltr">But you may soon have an answer as to why you’re not a grandparent yet thanks to relationship expert Louanne Ward.</p> <p dir="ltr">The dating expert has shared the top six mistakes men and women are making that are keeping them single. </p> <p dir="ltr">The mistakes include:</p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You expect a partner to be everything you ever wanted</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">When you expect something from your partner and it’s something you’ve always wanted it can almost always lead to disappointment. </p> <ol start="2"> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You see personality differences as negatives</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">“It is important to have differences and similarities,” Louanna explained.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdVXIueJqza/?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/CdVXIueJqza/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Matchmaker | dating expert (@louanneward)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <ol start="3"> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You compare the person to past experiences or future dreams</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">“You are comparing the person to past experience you have had and the future experience you want to have, so you aren't actually present in the relationship,” she said.</p> <ol start="4"> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You are afraid of “settling” if they don't tick every box</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">Louanna explained that people would feel they are settling for a person if they don’t meet each of their criteria.</p> <ol start="5"> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You leave at the first time of trouble, not willing to work through it.</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">“You leave at the first sign of trouble rather than working through conflict or challenges,” Louanna explained.</p> <ol start="6"> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You don't give people a chance, and make snap judgements.</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr">“You make a snap decision and judgement without scratching the surface,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">So what do you think?</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Relationships

Readers respond: What are some things your grandkids aren’t allowed to do?

<p dir="ltr">Having the grandkids come round to visit can be such a joy and the perfect way to create some sweet memories with them. </p> <p dir="ltr">As much as it’s a chance to spoil them, there are some things grandkids can’t get away with.</p> <p dir="ltr">From trampolining off the furniture to improper manners, when we asked our readers what they wouldn’t allow their grandkids to do, this is what you had to say.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shena Wood</strong> - All my grandkids are so good when they come. Only one real rule and that is we eat at the table.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shirley Gaye Howearth</strong> - Nothing, they are allowed to do whatever pleases them.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jill Edwards</strong> - No tech while eating! This is for all meals, (whether) at the table or on the couch.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Joy Scott</strong> - Sit at table to eat and little ones wipe hands before leaving. Saves a lot of work.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Dalena Lee</strong> - Jump on the couch. I tell them that when they see me jump on the couch, then they can.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jan Bradley</strong> - Table manners, respect, no jumping or climbing on furniture! Aside from that I don’t have any rules, just love spending time with them.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Helen Vella</strong> - My kids weren’t allowed to do anything, my grandkids can do whatever they want.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jennifer Slack-Smith</strong> - I say ‘Whatever happens at Nanny’s stays at Nanny’s.’</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Heather Cassey</strong> - Torment the cat, disrespect me, or anything that will hurt them. Other than that they pretty much have me twisted around their little fingers.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Douglas Jones</strong> - I always send my grandchildren home with a tube of glitter.</p> <p dir="ltr">To read what else you said, head <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/3315334072030189" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d7830072-7fff-1194-1c28-11449432a806"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

Five reasons to take your grandkids to the Sydney Royal Easter Show

<p dir="ltr">With rides, showbags, animals, and a host of entertaining events, the Sydney Royal Easter Show has plenty on offer that the whole family can enjoy - and there’s even more in store this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you’re still deciding whether to take the grandkids along this year, the Show’s celebrations of its 200th anniversary might be enough to convince you.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though there are plenty of reasons to take the grandkids to the Show in any given year, here are five reasons you should consider visiting this year.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Join in celebrating the Show’s past and present</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The street parades are a beloved part of the Easter Show, and this year’s Bicentenary Street Parade is just as special (if not more).</p> <p dir="ltr">The parade, held three times a day everyday, will feature floats devoted to past fads in fashion and entertainment, as well as </p> <p dir="ltr">Other <em>must-see events</em> include:</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2d8e28f6-7fff-b0e1-82e8-8397f8c506b4"></span></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">A Tribute to Our Spectacular Past - the nightly show in the main arena, which promises to take you on a trip from the Show’s origins with horse-drawn carriages to the daring stunts of today’s motorcyclists and precision drivers, rounded out with the classic fireworks display.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Car Parade - cars from some of Australia’s top collectors will be driven around the grounds at 5pm, with a different car club every day. If you miss the parade, you can also catch the cars on display from 8am til 5pm.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Heritage Pavilion - filled with snapshots and stories from the last 200 years, you can see the history of fashion, shopping, and other marvels on display every day.</p> </li> </ul> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcNdEUNPaLp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcNdEUNPaLp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wentworth Point 😷 💉💉💉 (@parramattariver)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Daily shows from aeronauts on balloon bikes, the circus-inspired Cyclopod, the humorous penny-farthing duo The Gagliardies, and travelling medicine show called Gandini’s Medical Marvels are perfect from audiences young and old and perfect additions to your itinerary.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Enjoy the thrills and spills of the Kids’ Carnival</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The Easter Show isn’t complete without the rides, and kids (including kids at heart) will find the Kids’ Carnival is the best place to find some fun.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c2d99357-7fff-d20f-3c69-d793e011cb6c"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">From the intricately-detailed carousel to the sky-high super slide, the rides operate daily from 9.30am until late.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcP9ptirRHo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcP9ptirRHo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Nicole Jandik (@babymustravel)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Kids Street, designed for younger kids, is home to the iconic Tea Cups, Merry Go Round, Mini Chairs, and Mini Bumper Cars, as well as carnival games and spots to refuel with hot food and coffee.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a first for the Show, tickets will no longer look like the traditional paper coupons and will instead take the form of a Carnival Fun Pass: a digital pass that you load with credits before you visit or top-up at specially marked kiosks in the carnival areas.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Give the kids a taste of some of Australia’s best arts, crafts, and produce</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Along with all the fun rides, carnival food, and jam-packed showbags, the Show can be a perfect place to learn something new about agriculture or take in some of the country’s best arts and crafts.</p> <p dir="ltr">From paintings and flower arranging to novelty cakes and fashion, you’re sure to find something that piques your (or the kids’) interest. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em><strong>Must-see events</strong></em> include the district exhibit displays, a hallmark of the Show that see produce turned into massive, artful displays, and the Bee-Zeebo, where you’ll learn all about how honey goes from the hive to the jar.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Meet the animals and see who’s Best in Show</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-36436adb-7fff-f38b-0405-29a9960480de"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Who doesn’t love getting up close to cats, dogs, cows, horses and other animals? Since the Show is organised by the Royal Agricultural Society, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that farm animals are a major part of what the Show has on offer. It also means that there’s plenty of cuteness to go around.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca3wIfmvoYF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca3wIfmvoYF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MONDE Photo Credited Images. (@credit_mondephoto)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2040bd21-7fff-0e3d-9be6-335419feff2d"><em><strong>Must-see events</strong></em> include the daily competitions to crown the best in breed and show, and no matter which day you go, you can see goats, dogs, horses, cattle, sheep, chickens and even adorable puppies strut their stuff for the judges.</span></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcP75edPdWZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcP75edPdWZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mark (@dunn.photography.au)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The grandkids are also sure to enjoy the 10 Shake Farmyard Nursery, where they can meet, pat and even feed any of the 500 animals there, which can be rounded out with the nightly rodeo that pits international cowboys against Australia’s finest.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Spoil the grandkids with goodies they can take home</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7f6f3a05-7fff-2ba1-2fbc-23ebaf7c9fc7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Last, but definitely not least, is the classic showbag. With 392 varieties available this year, from Bertie Beetle to Bluey-themed, there’s heaps of choice.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca4QC2cvPId/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca4QC2cvPId/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MONDE Photo Credited Images. (@credit_mondephoto)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Bargain bags include the aforementioned Bertie Beetle range, priced between $3-$18.</p> <p dir="ltr">The fun-filled bags aren’t just for kids, either, with the Australian Women’s Weekly bag ($20), the RAS AG bag ($25), Licorice Lovers ($10), Metallica ($26), Darrell Lea ($25) and themed bags for a host of sports teams among the many popular choices.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sydney Royal Easter Show runs until Tuesday, April 19, with the main gates opening from 8.30am until 9pm every night.</p> <p dir="ltr">Plus, the final day of the Show is Kids’ Day, meaning that entry for kids is just $12 (or free for kids under three).</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-4974a222-7fff-653f-92a7-42a1552e41fc"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @sydneyroyal_eastershow (Instagram)</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Grandma's hilarious ranking system goes viral

<p>Many suspect their grandma may have favourites, but one family knows for sure where they stand thanks to their grandmother’s brutally honest "leaderboard".</p> <p>US comedian Dan LaMorte posted on TikTok explaining the unique feature in his grandmother's house, where at any time family members can look to see how beloved they are in their matriarch's eyes – and heart.</p> <p>"At my grandma’s house she has a board of the ten grandchildren's faces on magnets, and she ranks us from one to ten. I'm eight," he says proudly before cutting the video off.</p> <p>The comedian's TikTok followers found the system hilariously honest.</p> <p>"I would kill for this kind of transparency in my relationships," said one commenter. "I would have told her that she my #2 grandma," added another.</p> <p>"My grandma used to rank us too. She would regularly tell us of our rankings. She's been gone for 4 years, but I talk about her a lot in therapy," said one commenter.</p> <p>"That was the basis behind this. She used to do verbal rankings so we made her a board to do it visually," revealed LaMorte.</p> <p>In a separate video, the comedian displays the rankings again three months on, explaining some of the reasoning behind the shifts in order.</p> <p>He reveals that the number one favourite grandchild lives next door so she moves her ranking herself and is therefore invalid, while number two is a dentist and number three is a doctor.</p> <p>He also adds that he moved up two places, now at sixth place out of the ten grandchildren.</p> <p>"The key is to coast and wait for the others to mess up. The long game," one commenter suggested.</p> <p>"My great-grandmother's favorite grandchild is my childhood dog, whose portrait takes center stage in her home," said another.</p> <p><em>Image: TikTok</em></p>

Family & Pets

Readers respond: What do you remember about your grandparents?

<p>We asked our readers what they remember most about their grandparents, and the responses were heartwarming. </p><p>From holiday visits and distinctive smells, to gifts and special activities, here are some of your favourite memories with your grandparents. </p><p><strong>Dawn Dominick</strong> - My grandma on shopping day at the Vic market.. she would always buy me a toffee apple as a treat. </p><p><strong>Isabel Edwards</strong> - I was lucky to live in a home with my great grandmother & my grandparents at the same time that was when families would look after each other.</p><p><strong>Vicki Wooden</strong> - My Nana was warm, soft, smelt of lily of the valley powder, liked to sing old songs, could knit or crochet anything, she gave the best hugs and she made a dessert called apple snow and I loved it and her more than anything else.</p><p><strong>Allan Riches</strong> - That beautiful smell of my lovely Nana, her laughing, and smiles and cuddles, oh and her apple pies.</p><p><strong>Shirley Williams Knevitt</strong> - Only knew one grandparent and remember she would bring balfours fruit buns each visit.</p><p><strong>Margaret Inglis</strong> - Only knew my mother's mother. She lived quite a distance from us, so didn't see her often. Saying that she would stay for a few days and would always be crocheting doilies and place mats. Still have some.</p><p>Also, we would do an errand for mum after school and Nana would always slip in a couple of pennies for an ice cream.</p><p><strong>Jackie Jakeways</strong> - My Nan and grandad helped bring up my brother and me as we lived in there house loved them both dearly. I will always remember my pretty dresses and my nans beautiful long auburn hair and brushing it.</p><p><strong>Joy Meyer</strong> - My Nan was a wonderful caring woman. On her 100th birthday she said we shouldn't be making a fuss over her... we should be sending the queen get well cards cos she just came out of hospital. That's the lovely type of person Nan was.</p><p><strong>Lynette Smede</strong> - My maternal grandmother lived with us and made the best mushroom and niche tarts.</p><p><strong>Lynne Clarke Carter</strong> - My pop was still riding his bicycle at age 90, and other granddad showing us how to pan for gold at the creek in Ballarat.</p><p><strong>Pam Thomas</strong> - How brave my granddad was to go and return from World War 1. He was a gentle beautiful man who never got over the hell of war. And my wonderful nana who supported him at every step.</p><p><strong>Karen Algie</strong> - I had lots of school holidays with my grandparents and loved every minute, they are the best memories I have from my childhood.</p><p><strong>Linda Barclay</strong> - My paternal grandmother, was tough as nuts. She used to stitch up her own injuries! She was good for a laugh some times though.</p><p><strong>Diane Wilson</strong> - Only met my grandma on mums side and she passes when l was 12 but she showed me how to crochet. </p><p><strong>Donna Knight</strong> - I always use to get behind my nana when lights and thunder hit thinking that she would protect me.</p><p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

Readers respond: What is your favourite thing about being a grandparent?

<p>We asked our readers what their favourite thing is about being a grandparent, and the responses were overwhelming. </p><p>To seeing their families grow up, to having someone fun to learn from, here is what you said. </p><p><strong>Patricia Eaton</strong> - Seeing that look of wonder meant on her gorgeous little face when I sing old nursery rhymes or songs to her and she joins in.</p><p><strong>Raymond Wagner</strong> - Filing their bellies with junk food and taking her home.</p><p><strong>Joan Greenwood</strong> - Everything but especially the hugs and cuddles.</p><p><strong>Rick Dayes</strong> - Spending lots of time with them they make me feel 20 years younger.</p><p><strong>Jude Lowe</strong> - Remembering their parents at the same age!</p><p><strong>Janette Scott</strong> - The excitement to see them again, watching them grow and their funny ways!</p><p><strong>Maureen Norton</strong> - Love having the grandkids,the cuddles,the innocent remarks making me laugh.</p><p><strong>Lorraine Fox</strong> - Having the pleasure of their company.</p><p><strong>Karen Spencer</strong> - Working at my grandsons School, seeing him and my great nephew there.</p><p><strong>Christa Caldecott</strong> - Listening to their stories of what they’ve been learning and doing. Some are hilarious from our 4 year old great grandson.</p><p><strong>Elaine Costello</strong> - Being able to hand them back when they have entertained me to exhaustion and then looking forward to the next time.</p><p><strong>Margaret Stroud</strong> - The overwhelming love that you feel the little faces light up and call your name and watching them grow.</p><p><strong>Sandra Bull</strong> - When you pull up out side their house and they are waiting screaming "nanny" and "poppy".</p><p><strong>Margaret Dorries</strong> - When the families all get together.</p><p><strong>Sandra McGregor</strong> - Being able to enjoy these little people without having to raise them. We’ve done the raising of their parents and now we just get to do all the fun stuff with them! Love my 10 Grandies to bits!</p><p><strong>Lois Tysver Fox</strong> - Having my Grands here for some one-on-one time. And seeing how much they've grown and changed in such a short time. I get my three grands every other Saturday, and I'm loving this.</p><p><strong>Kate Forno</strong> - Having the privilege of watching them grow and mature and spending as much time as possible with them because it always leaves me feeling like I’m floating on air.</p><p><strong>Jenny Whales</strong> - Their innocence and awe.. to see the world through their eyes, accepting and unconditional love, and their beautiful smiling faces.</p><p><strong>Michael Woodhouse</strong> - Handing them back at the end of the day.</p><p><strong>Nola Schmidt</strong> - Everything, but especially when they tell me they love me.</p><p><strong>Joy Derham</strong> - Hugs and then being able to hand them back when they have entertained me to exhaustion and then looking forward to the next time.</p><p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

"No heart": Gran slammed for cruel Christmas act

<p><em>Image: Facebook </em></p> <p>It didn't take long for a group of Facebook commenters to proclaim an unnamed grandmother guilty of having absolutely “no heart” after she left her son’s stepchild off her Christmas list.</p> <p>The anonymous grandmother was outed by a friend of hers who saw a "heartbreaking" photo shared by the gran on social media.</p> <p>In the photo, four children can be clearly seen wearing adorable matching Christmas pyjamas – but of particular interest is the fact that a FIFTH child is visible siting on the end wearing something completely different, making them the obvious odd one out.</p> <p>The friend who shared the photo captioned it with the words: "Some people out there with no heart!"</p> <p>"A friend of mine is married. Mother-in-law bought matching PJ's for all kids EXCEPT the one that doesn't belong to her son. Is she wrong?" she asked on a local Facebook group page.</p> <p>Members of the Facebook group where the photo was shared were horrified by the image and did not attempt to hide their anger.</p> <p>One person commented that the grandmother was: "100 per cent wrong".</p> <p>"The woman should feel ashamed of herself for leaving an innocent child out."</p> <p>"This is horrible to the core," wrote another.</p> <p>A third added: "Wow what a horrible thing to do."</p> <p>Some commenters defended the grandma, calling it "her choice", while one pointed the finger at the mother for not preventing the cruel act in the first place.</p> <p>"The mum should have refused them," one person wrote. "To let this happen and then take a photo as well."</p> <p>Blended families are always complicated and no one knows the real story behind the image, but being excluded is never a good feeling, especially for a child at Christmas.</p>

Family & Pets

Should I take a gift? As borders open, how to prepare for reuniting with your grandkids

<p>As border restrictions lift, family reunions are being planned around Australia. This is an exciting but also uncertain time, particularly for grandparents who have been separated from grandchildren.</p> <p>Over the past months (and in some cases, years), grandchildren will have grown and changed. They may have new interests, routines and skills. You may even have the <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1474704919875948" target="_blank">transformative experience</a> of meeting a new grandchild for the very first time.</p> <p>With older grandchildren, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/grandparent-grandchildren-video-calls-are-vital-during-covid-19-here-are-simple-ways-to-improve-them-141534" target="_blank">digital technologies</a> may have kept you in contact and up-to-date. But with younger grandchildren, this is harder, and it may be time to rekindle relationships.</p> <p>We are researchers investigating the roles grandparents play and the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/21582041.2018.1433317" target="_blank">influence</a> this has on families and communities. So, how can grandparents make the most of this time?</p> <p><strong>The special role of grandparents</strong></p> <p>Due to increased lifespans, grandparents have more time and ability to invest in their grandchildren than <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0963721411403269" target="_blank">ever before</a> in human history.</p> <p>The grandparent-grandchild relationship can be a very special one. A grandparent’s involvement in a child’s life, whether through shared actives or a listening ear, is <a rel="noopener" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1099-0860.2009.00215.x" target="_blank">linked</a> to the child’s well-being.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/429276/original/file-20211029-23-1y65rbj.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents hug a baby." /> <em><span class="caption">Researchers are finding increasing evidence of the importance of grandparent-grandchild relationships.</span> Image: S<span class="attribution"><span class="source">hutterstock</span></span></em></p> <p>The benefits depend on your family situation, but can include improved psychological adjustment for <a rel="noopener" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1728-4457.2011.00379.x" target="_blank">grandchildren</a>, increased <a rel="noopener" href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S004727941700071X" target="_blank">workforce participation</a> for mothers, and a longer and happier life for <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090513816300721" target="_blank">grandparents</a>.</p> <p><strong>The importance of asking questions</strong></p> <p>When preparing to see your grandchildren again, our first suggestion is to ask your grandchild’s parents what they think is a good idea for your first catch-up. What does your grandchild enjoy doing at the moment? What is their daily routine? Is there anything to avoid?</p> <p>If you are meeting a grandchild for the very first time, bear in mind the parents have gone through huge changes since you last met. As with older children, ask the parents what will suit them in terms of visit type and time.</p> <p>Be <a rel="noopener" href="https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/grandparents/family-relationships/being-a-grandparent" target="_blank">open and honest</a> about what support you think you can provide, and be aware the parents needs may change (they may want more or less help than they anticipated).</p> <p>When it comes to discussing the changes a new baby has brought, grandparents are trying to juggle in their mind the thrill of participating in their grandchild’s life, without disrupting or overstepping parents’ boundaries. From our yet to be published research, we understand this is not a simple matter for many families, but starting the conversation is important in maintaining these valuable relationships.</p> <p><strong>Persistent, not pushy</strong></p> <p>Your grandchildren may be feeling shy when you first meet. So even though this may have been a longed-for reunion, you may need to tread carefully.</p> <p>This is perfectly normal and can be overwhelming for everyone. Just take your time, and let them get to know you again. Your first instinct will be to catch up on the thousands of lost hugs, but it may work better stay close by and let them come to you.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/428728/original/file-20211027-27-42qfit.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents playing with grandkids." /> <em><span class="caption">With young children, you don’t have to plan something fancy for your first catch-up. Image: S</span><span class="attribution"><span class="source">hutterstock</span></span></em></p> <p>The good news for grandparents is that several research projects have shown what grandchildren <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.hoepflinger.com/fhtop/Grandchildren.pdf" target="_blank">really want</a> is simply for grandparents to be “there when needed”.</p> <p>So just “being there” – interested and available – for your first visit is perfectly fine. This helps reduce expectations of what you feel you need to do.</p> <p><strong>Gifts</strong></p> <p>Your first inclination may be to bring something exciting to play with together. But on top of seeing each other again, rushing in with a new treat might be too much. You will need to read the room.</p> <p>Consider taking something small, or maybe you can keep something in the car and bring it out once everyone has warmed up.</p> <p><strong>Parallel play</strong></p> <p>Play is obviously central to children’s learning and experience. Early in life, however, this may mean playing alone, which may be confusing for some of us.</p> <p>A good way to work with this while rekindling your relationship is parallel play, particularly if a child is aged between two and five. Parallel play involves playing next to your grandchild and letting them come to you when they are ready.</p> <p>This is one way you might need to put the patience and persistence we discussed earlier into practice.</p> <p><strong>Let grandchildren lead (within reason)</strong></p> <p>In the same vein, don’t feel as though you need to take the lead when working out what to do with your grandchild, either. Or that your idea for reading a certain book or doing a particular puzzle is the one your grandchild will go with.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/428727/original/file-20211027-15-34v14w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Grandparents push a grandchild on a swing." /> <em><span class="caption">Seeing your grandchild again could be as simple as a walk to the park. Image: S</span><span class="attribution"><span class="source">hutterstock</span></span></em></p> <p>Often, seemingly simple activities like a walk to a park are the most rewarding. Here your grandchild has the opportunity to show you about their world and what they like to do on their terms. It is also a good way to see how your grandchild has grown and developed.</p> <p>We want to show our unconditional affection and love for our grandchildren, <a rel="noopener" href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0038026120916104" target="_blank">this feels natural</a>, and we know it can be so valuable.</p> <p>But in the the early stages of getting to know each other again, don’t put pressure on you or them. Being available, interested, curious and patient is enough.</p> <p><em>Rebecca Bullingham, a masters student in medical and health science at Edith Cowan University, contributed to this article.</em><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/169731/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-coall-408193" target="_blank">David Coall</a>, Senior Lecturer, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720" target="_blank">Edith Cowan University</a> and <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/shantha-karthigesu-1284704" target="_blank">Shantha Karthigesu</a>, Teaching and Research Scholar, <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720" target="_blank">Edith Cowan University</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/should-i-take-a-gift-as-borders-open-how-to-prepare-for-reuniting-with-your-grandkids-169731" target="_blank">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Relationships

Canberra grandparents graduate from Rock School

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maria and Chris Adams have proved that you’re never too old to learn something new and pursue a new passion. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 76 and 78-year-old retired accountants from Canberra saw an opportunity for a unique experience with the Australian National University's Community Rock School, and asked themselves, “why not?”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"We were giggling as we filled out the application," Maria said to the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-28/canberra-music-school-teaching-instruments/100650008" target="_blank">ABC</a>. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"But then we got accepted and thought, 'oh my god, Grandad and Grandma are going to rock school!'"</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chris said he always wanted to be in a band when he was a kid, but neither he nor his wife’s parents could afford to send them to music lessons. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now, the pair can play the ukelele, guitar and sing.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"We like playing the songs that we remember, because it gives us the memories," Chris said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"It's something we can share with each other, and share with our eight grandkids," Maria added.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The free program is run by Micha Forman through the ANU School of Music, and is open to anyone over the age of 18. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"We'll have really young participants who are just out of high school, right up to people in their 70s and 80s," Micha said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Throughout the program, students learn how to play as a group, as well as develop their own individual skills. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Micha says the program draws in all kinds of people who have different relationships with music, and is a uniting force to get people involved in something creative.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"It can be a part of their life in a way that they want it to be, not in a way that someone else has told them it should be."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out Chris and Maria’s story below. </span></p> <p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T8JF6Zwv7MM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credits: Youtube - ABC News Australia</span></em></p>

Music

Fergie opens up on two monumental milestones

<p>Sarah Ferguson has opened up to <em>Sunrise</em> about two exciting milestones she has reached in her life.</p> <p>The Duchess of York has become a grandmother with the birth of <span>her and ex Prince Andrew’s first grandchild, all while planning the release of her debut novel. </span></p> <p><span>Fergie's youngest daughter, Princess Eugenie, recently made the duchess and Prince Andrew grandparents with the birth of her son named August. </span></p> <p><span><img style="width: 474.6192893401015px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7842944/princess-eugiene.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/85ad51845e8f4eebbe4bfa66f3a70d3d" /></span></p> <p><span><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></span></p> <p><span>She told the <em>Sunrise</em> hosts that after raising two daughters, having a baby boy in the family is a new and welcome challenge. </span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“I had two girls and now I’ve got to get into diggers, tractors, trains - and the Barbie dolls have got to go,” she said.</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“But, if he suddenly decides he wants Barbie dolls, Barbie dolls he gets!"</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">Fergie and Prince Andrew have co-parented their daughters since their split in 1991 after 5 years of marriage. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">She told Sunrise that she is still close with her ex-husband, putting the strength and confidence of her two children down to “good co-parenting.”</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“I think the best thing I teach my girls is that you just keep being with the integrity of goodness, kindness, of humour, of being brave enough,” she explained.</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><img style="width: 500px; height: 499.1525423728813px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7842943/fergie-book.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4f27f1555f9340548ca6f702ba189cad" /></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">Sarah also spoke of her new book, <em>Her Heart for a Compass</em>, which is the Duchess' debut novel after writing 38 children's books. </p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">Her novel <span>tells the story of a young noblewoman, Lady Margaret, who is expected to get married but instead chooses to follow her heart in Victorian England.</span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><span>She discussed her journey of self-refection during the writing process, </span>saying, <span>“A lot of my journeys are coming through the voice of Lady Margaret in this book - that is strong, rebellious, dealing with adversity.”</span></p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020"><em>Image credits: Getty Images/Instagram @sarahferguson15</em></p>

Family & Pets

Twins steal from grandparents and get to KEEP the money

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Two Scottish pensioners have been left devastated after their grandchildren stole their life savings from them and refused to pay them back.</p> <p>Crawford <span>Pirrie, </span>73m and wife Marlene, 75, were heartbroken when their grandchildren, twins Clair and Louise Smith stole $14,000 from them in 2018.</p> <p>The twins had been trusted with the elderly couple's debit card to run errands for them after their grandfather had a stroke, but instead, the twins cleaned out their grandparents.</p> <p>Crawford has said he's yet to get an apology from the twins and that he's "ashamed" to be related to them.</p> <p>The elderly couple tried to get their funds back via a compensation order but were denied by a judge who decided to give a three-month restriction of liberty order.</p> <p>This means that the twins were fitted with electronic tags for three months as well as being ordered to abide by 7 pm to 7 am curfew for the same period.</p> <p>“Not only have the twins refused to pay the money they stole from us but they haven’t even said sorry,” Mr Pirrie said.</p> <p>“They have been acting like they are the victims ever since the court hearing, insisting they haven’t done anything wrong.</p> <p>“They are creatures of the lowest form and we are ashamed to be related to them.”</p> <p>The twins confessed to their crimes, but have not given the money back to their grandparents. </p> <p>Mr Pirrie said that the bank had refused to pay them back as the grandparents gave the twins the debit card willingly.</p> <p><em>Photo credit: </em><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/news-life/twin-sisters-steal-grandparents-savings-and-dont-have-to-return-it/news-story/96eba7ac9cf8f3df0fde4a22b5400f95" target="_blank">news.com.au</a></em></p> </div> </div> </div>

News

Heartwarming moment 2GB listener receives joyous news on air

<p>A 2GB listener has received some exciting news live on air after her son couldn't reach her the conventional way.</p> <p>Listener Bradley called into Ben Fordham Live in the hopes that he could reach his mum.</p> <p>"I just got some really good news and I need to pass a message along to my mother, she won't answer her phone... if that's alright with you guys," he told Fordham.</p> <p>His interest piqued, the radio presenter asked what the news was.</p> <p>"My sister's just had a baby and we've been trying to call my mum for about half an hour, 45 minutes, and she won't answer," Bradley replied.</p> <p>"She's on her way to work and I'm trying to get the message across. Her name's Leanne Egan."</p> <p>Addressing his mother directly, Bradley added: "If you're listening, your daughter's just had a baby so we need you to get back here and get you to the hospital."</p> <p>"Awww, mate. The baby's arrived," Fordham, himself a father of three, responded.</p> <p>Bradley went on to explain that his mum was an avid listener, and was certain she would receive the good news after he called in.</p> <p>"Leanne Egan, you need to get home," he added.</p> <p>He told Fordham he was so excited at the new arrival he couldn't wait to let his mum know and pleaded with her to call in.</p> <p>Soon enough, Leanne rang in and her first words were, "Oh my God. Hello!"</p> <p>"Hey, finally!" her son replied.</p> <p>Leanne explained she didn't answer her phone because she was driving to work.</p> <p>It was a beautiful family moment between mother and son, and one Fordham was delighted to share with listeners.</p>

News

Grandparents' genius trick to "visit" family safely

<p>Thanksgiving is approaching in the USA, and with many opting not to travel to spend the holidays with their families due to COVID-19, the holiday will look slightly different this year.</p> <p>Missy and Billy Buchanan from Texas knew travelling wasn’t an option for them due to being in the high risk category.</p> <p>So they came up with the perfect idea to make sure their family didn’t miss their presence, by sending them life-sized cardboard cutouts.</p> <p>Between them, Missy and Billy have four grandchildren that range in age from three to 12, and still wanted to be present in the annual family dinner.</p> <p>"As COVID19 numbers continue to rise, we wanted to show that you can have fun and help keep everyone safe, too," Buchanan said on a<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10220993189732428&set=a.1183512640954" target="_blank">Facebook post.</a></p> <p>"I have so many friends who have been impacted by COVID19. For us, it's an act of love. And our kids and grandkids are having such fun with 'us'".</p> <p>The cut outs stand at six feet tall, and gave their kids a shock when they arrived in the mail.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmissy.buchanan.5%2Fposts%2F10220993219733178&show_text=true&width=552&height=702&appId" width="552" height="702" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></p> <p>And while some of the grandkids were a little terrified at first, they ended up thinking it was hilarious.</p> <p>"My daughter got hers first. She texted, 'Omg!' and called and said, 'This is the funniest thing we've ever seen,'" Buchanan told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/family/story/grandparents-send-cardboard-cutouts-grandkids-place-thanksgiving-74375764?cid=social_fb_abcn&fbclid=IwAR2MaBadeXyNx7RcuD5rYWI5aPny5gwWNyM8oMKgNE8TlqNAuF2JXJYpP-Q" target="_blank"><em>Good Morning America,</em></a><span> </span>adding they've been having fun putting them in different parts of the house.</p> <p>"The kids get to pass them as they go to bed every night and say goodnight to Ama and Poppi," the Buchanan's son Matthew told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.today.com/parents/grandparents-send-cardboard-cutouts-thanksgiving-2020-t200477" target="_blank"><em>TODAY.</em></a></p> <p>The Buchanan's said they hope their fun solution can show other families that you can still be safe and have fun celebrating, even from a distance.</p> <p>"Grandparents can lead the way on this," she said. "I think they're having more fun with the cut-outs than they would have had we been there in person!"</p>

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Heartwarming moment 2GB listener receives joyous news on air

Grandparents' genius trick to "visit" family safely

Our Partners

News

Shop

Catalogues

Newspaper

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Compare

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Information

Keep up to date

Search

"Lost everything": Retirees left homeless after houseboat destroyed

The most beloved grandparents in film

Grandparents to the rescue in the face of soaring rents

Readers Respond: What was the best part about raising your children?

The 10 “types” of grandparents

Readers Respond: What is your favourite thing about being a grandparent?

Readers respond: What advice did your grandparents give to you that you remember best?

The real reason you’re not a grandparent yet

Readers respond: What are some things your grandkids aren’t allowed to do?

Five reasons to take your grandkids to the Sydney Royal Easter Show

Grandma's hilarious ranking system goes viral

Readers respond: What do you remember about your grandparents?

Readers respond: What is your favourite thing about being a grandparent?

"No heart": Gran slammed for cruel Christmas act

Should I take a gift? As borders open, how to prepare for reuniting with your grandkids

Canberra grandparents graduate from Rock School

Fergie opens up on two monumental milestones

Twins steal from grandparents and get to KEEP the money

Heartwarming moment 2GB listener receives joyous news on air

Grandparents' genius trick to "visit" family safely

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