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Cricket icon dies just days after receiving King's Birthday award

<p>The cricket world is in mourning following the death of David “Syd” Lawrence, the pioneering fast bowler who became the first British-born Black cricketer to play for the national side. Lawrence, 61, passed away after a brave battle with motor neurone disease, a diagnosis he received just last year.</p> <p>The former Gloucestershire star, remembered as much for his generosity and spirit as for his fearsome pace, was recently awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. It was recognition that filled him with pride in his final months. “It is not something I ever thought would sit after my name,” he said just last week. “I am absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I am gone.”</p> <p>Lawrence’s family confirmed his passing in a statement filled with love and sorrow. “’Syd’ was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed,” they said.</p> <p>Tributes have poured in from across the cricketing world. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) described Lawrence as a “trailblazer” and a man who made an “indelible mark” on the sport. ECB chair Richard Thompson reflected on his extraordinary legacy: “David ‘Syd’ Lawrence was a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character, and compassion. His impact on the game extended far beyond the boundary ropes... Even in the face of his illness, David showed extraordinary strength and dignity, continuing to uplift others with his resilience and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who love cricket. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community at this time.”</p> <p>Lawrence’s international career, which promised so much, was cruelly cut short by a devastating knee injury during England’s 1992 tour of New Zealand. He played five Tests but left an unforgettable impression, not least for his fiery pace and unrelenting passion.</p> <p>His beloved Gloucestershire Cricket Club, where he played 280 matches over 16 years and later served as president, expressed their devastation. “Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to learn of the passing of former player and Club President, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE, aged 61. Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket would like to send their best wishes to David’s family during this terribly sad time.”</p> <p>Before England’s clash with India at Headingley, the cricketing world paused to remember Lawrence, with stars including Ben Stokes joining in a minute’s applause – a small gesture to honour a giant of the game whose courage, charisma and kindness touched so many.</p> <p>Lawrence’s loss leaves a hole in the heart of English cricket – a reminder of a player who not only broke barriers but inspired generations.</p> <p><em>Images: England and Wales Cricket Board / X (formerly Twitter)</em></p>

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"Her light touched millions": TV chef found dead at home

<p>Beloved chef and television personality Anne Burrell has died at the age of 55, leaving fans, colleagues and loved ones heartbroken.</p> <p>The Food Network star was found unconscious at her Brooklyn home on Tuesday morning, local time, and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services, according to the New York Police Department. The cause of her death has not yet been determined, with authorities confirming that an investigation is ongoing.</p> <p>Burrell’s family shared a moving statement, remembering her as a “beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend”.</p> <p>“Her smile lit up every room she entered,” the statement read. “Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit and boundless love remain eternal.”</p> <p>The Food Network also paid tribute to the culinary icon, describing Burrell as “a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.”</p> <p>“Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss,” the network’s statement continued.</p> <p>Burrell’s sudden passing came just days after she shared a cheerful selfie on Instagram, appearing happy and healthy. Known for her signature spiky blonde hair and vibrant personality, Burrell built a career that inspired home cooks and professionals alike.</p> <p>She married Stuart Claxton in 2021, becoming stepmother to his son, Javier. The couple wed in Burrell’s hometown of Cazenovia, New York, in a ceremony filled with joy and personal touches that reflected her zest for life.</p> <p>A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Burrell honed her craft in Italy before returning to the US, where she worked in renowned kitchens and later taught at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her television break came as a sous chef on <em>Iron Chef America</em> in 2005, followed by her own show, <em>Secrets of a Restaurant Chef</em>, which ran for eight seasons. She also became a familiar face on <em>Worst Cooks in America, Chopped, Chef Wanted</em>, and other Food Network programs.</p> <p>Only months before her death, Burrell welcomed viewers into her colourful Brooklyn loft, a space she described with characteristic humour and charm. “Everything here is a little crooked, and I think that suits me just well,” she said at the time. “I think I’m a little crooked, so I feel right at home here.”</p> <p>Anne Burrell’s sudden loss leaves a void in the culinary world, but her influence – and the joy she found in sharing her passion for food – will not be forgotten.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Bruce Willis' daughter reveals sad new health update

<p>Hollywood icon Bruce Willis’s family has shared a poignant and devastating update about the beloved actor’s health on social media.</p> <p>Willis, 70, known to millions as the wisecracking hero of <em>Die Hard</em> and <em>Pulp Fiction</em>, has been waging a quiet, painful battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) for several years. Now, his family reveals, the star has heartbreakingly lost the ability to speak.</p> <p>His eldest daughter, Rumer Willis, 36, expressed her sorrow and longing in a deeply emotional tribute posted on Instagram.</p> <p>“Today is hard,” she wrote on Father's Day. “I feel a deep ache in my chest to talk to you and tell you everything I’m doing and what’s going on in my life. To hug you and ask you about life and your stories and struggles and successes. I wish I asked you more questions while you could still tell me about it all.”</p> <p>Despite her heartbreak, Rumer shared that she is trying to focus on gratitude. “I can still hold you and hug you and kiss your cheek and rub your head. I can tell you stories. I will be grateful for every moment I have with you. I love you so much dad. Happy Father’s Day.”</p> <p>Rumer also extended support to others facing similar grief: “Sending love to all those who are in the boat with me or have lost their fathers, to the single mums who are the dads too.”</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/DK7qQadSgi5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DK7qQadSgi5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rumer Glenn Willis (@rumerwillis)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Willis’s battle with FTD has been well documented by his family, including ex-wife Demi Moore, 62, and his wife of 16 years, Emma Heming Willis, 46. Together with his children – Rumer, Scout, 33, Tallulah, 31, Mabel, 12, and Evelyn, 10 – they have united to share his journey, raising awareness about a little-understood disease.</p> <p>Frontotemporal dementia affects parts of the brain responsible for personality, behaviour and language. Unlike Alzheimer’s, which primarily impacts memory, FTD robs its victims of speech and social functioning – devastating symptoms for someone once celebrated for his charisma and quick wit.</p> <p>Emma Heming Willis previously reflected on how Bruce’s stutter as a child masked the early signs of his condition. “When he began to experience difficulties with language, it seemed like it was just a part of his stutter,” she told <em>Town and Country</em> magazine. “Never in a million years would I think it would be a form of dementia for someone so young.”</p> <p>The family has called for greater awareness and research into FTD, describing it as a “cruel disease” and urging the public to focus attention on finding treatments.</p> <p>“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others,” the family said. “If he could today, he would want to bring global attention to this disease and help connect those who are also dealing with its devastating effects.”</p> <p><em>Image: Rumer Willis / Instagram</em></p>

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“We are righting the wrongs”: Excavation begins to unearth nearly 800 lost children

<p><em><strong>WARNING: Distressing content</strong></em></p> <p>A tranquil, walled patch of grass in a quiet Irish housing estate is about to expose one of Ireland’s darkest secrets. The site, in the town of Tuam, 220km west of Dublin, is the final resting place for significant quantities of human remains – the victims of a brutal chapter in the nation’s history known as the “mother and baby” home scandal.</p> <p>From 1925 to 1961, Tuam’s mother and baby home, run by the Bon Secours nuns, housed women who became pregnant outside of marriage – and their children, many of whom died in disturbing numbers. The institution was demolished in 1972, but the land lay largely untouched. That will change next month, as excavation teams begin the delicate task of recovering the bodies buried in what is believed to be a disused septic tank.</p> <p>“There are so many babies, children just discarded here,” said Catherine Corless, the local historian whose painstaking research uncovered the mass grave and sparked national reckoning. In 2014, Corless, now 71, produced evidence showing that 796 children, from newborns to age nine, died at the Tuam home. “There are no burial records for the children, no cemetery, no statue, no cross – absolutely nothing,” she said.</p> <p>Despite early investigations and the identification of human remains in underground chambers in 2016 and 2017, it took until 2022 for Ireland’s parliament to pass legislation allowing excavation of the Tuam site. For Corless, it has been a long and painful campaign. “It’s been a fierce battle – when I started this, nobody wanted to listen. At last, we are righting the wrongs,” she said. “I was just begging: take the babies out of this sewage system and give them the decent Christian burial that they were denied.”</p> <p>The mother and baby homes were institutions where unmarried pregnant women were sent, isolated from society and often separated from their babies through forced adoption. A state inquiry revealed that between 1922 and 1998, around 56,000 women and 57,000 children passed through 18 such homes across Ireland. More than 9,000 children died.</p> <p>Anna Corrigan, 70, is among those seeking answers. She only learned in her 50s that her late mother had given birth in Tuam to two boys – John and William – whose fates remain unclear. “They prevaricate, they obfuscate, they make it difficult for people to get to the truth,” Corrigan said. “There are dirty little secrets in Ireland that have to be kept hidden.”</p> <p>For Corrigan and others, the coming excavation is a bittersweet step forward. A specialist team, appointed last year, will search for remains, conduct DNA testing and arrange dignified reburials. “I never thought I’d see the day that we’d get over so many hurdles – push them to finally excavate what I call the ‘pit,’ not a grave,” Corrigan said. “I’m glad it’s starting, but if we can even find and identify a certain amount, it’s not going to give us all closure.”</p> <p>As excavation crews prepare to break the ground that has kept these stories hidden for so long, Ireland faces a fresh confrontation with a painful past – and the opportunity, at last, to honour lives lost in silence.</p> <p><em>Images: Aeon.com</em></p>

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Veteran police officer shot dead during rural call-out

<p>A veteran police officer with 25 years of dedicated service has been shot and killed while attending a property in North Motton, in Tasmania’s northwest.</p> <p>The 57-year-old constable was critically injured and died at the scene after allegedly being fired upon by a resident of a rural property on Allison Road around 11am on Monday. The officer had been executing a court-issued warrant to repossess the property when the shooting occurred.</p> <p>A second officer at the scene returned fire, subduing and arresting the alleged offender, who was not seriously injured. The man remains in custody and is yet to be formally charged.</p> <p>Tasmania Police Commissioner Donna Adams described the incident as “absolutely devastating” and said the officer’s family, colleagues and the broader community are reeling from the loss.</p> <p>“He was a respected and committed officer who has served the community with dedication for 25 years, and his loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,” Commissioner Adams said.</p> <p>“My heart goes out to his wife and family today. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.”</p> <p>Out of respect for the officer’s loved ones, his name was not initially released as some family members had not been notified, however the deceased has now been formally identified as Constable Keith Anthony Smith.</p> <p>Commissioner Donna Adams said the officer had a "distinguished career" with Tasmania Police and was highly regarded by his colleagues. Smith joined the Tasmanian police force in September 2000, graduated from the academy in May 2001, received the Commissioner's Medal in 2011, the National Police Service Medal in 2016, and received his 20-year clasp for service in 2021.</p> <p>Premier Jeremy Rockliff expressed his sorrow, stating: “To everyone who had the honour of knowing this officer, especially his family and his colleagues, the love of an entire state is with you today. You will have every possible support made available, as we come to grips with this heartbreaking tragedy.”</p> <p>Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also paid tribute, calling it “a tragic day for Tasmania and for our nation”.</p> <p>“The loss of a police officer in the line of duty is a solemn reminder of the risks our police face to keep us safe,” she said. “We owe a debt to our police who willingly go towards danger to keep us safe. We can never forget their service and sacrifice.”</p> <p>A crime scene has been established at the property, and Allison Road remains closed between Walkers Road, Preston Road and Saltmarshs Road as investigations continue. Police have assured the community there is no ongoing threat but have urged residents to avoid the area.</p> <p>Commissioner Adams said the incident would be thoroughly investigated, and Tasmania Police would review all aspects of the response.</p> <p>“Wellbeing support is being provided to all officers and individuals affected by the incident,” she said. “The emotional impact is profound.”</p> <p>Tasmania Police has appealed for anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward.</p> <p>Further details about the officer’s career and funeral arrangements are expected to be shared in the coming days.</p> <p><em>Images: Tasmania Police / 7News</em></p>

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"A very difficult, haunted life": Tributes flow for one of the world's most revered artists

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Brian Wilson, co-founder of the Beach Boys and the troubled genius behind some of the most beloved music in rock history, has died aged 82.</span></p> <p>His family announced the news in a statement published on Wilson’s website early Thursday (Australian time), saying they were “at a loss for words” and that they “realise that we are sharing our grief with the world.” No cause of death was disclosed.</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/DKxHMogupsf/?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/DKxHMogupsf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Brian Wilson (@brianwilsonlive)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Wilson had been living under a conservatorship since early 2024, following the death of his wife Melinda. Diagnosed with dementia and no longer able to care for himself, the man who once conjured up sounds as warm and perfect as a California summer spent his final months in silence and seclusion.</p> <p>Born in June 1942, Wilson was the visionary architect of the Beach Boys’ signature sound – angelic harmonies, symphonic arrangements and an aching sense of longing beneath the surface of sun-drenched lyrics. From Surfin’ USA and California Girls to the transcendent God Only Knows and Good Vibrations, his work helped define an era – and inspired generations of artists.</p> <p>Wilson formed the band in 1961 with his brothers Dennis and Carl, cousin Mike Love and school friend Al Jardine. Together, they captured the youthful exuberance of California with 36 Top 40 hits. Yet the joy in the music stood in stark contrast to the pain in Wilson’s life.</p> <p>Abused by his father and haunted by mental illness, Wilson suffered his first breakdown in 1966 and soon retreated from live performances. He famously poured his creative energy into the landmark Pet Sounds, a record that initially puzzled US audiences but would go on to become one of the most revered albums of all time.</p> <p>“It was a symphonic reflection on the loss of innocence,” Wilson said later – a summation of the emotional depth and fragility that marked much of his life’s work.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heard the sad news about Brian today and thought about all the years I’ve been listening to him and admiring his genius. Rest in peace dear Brian.</p> <p>— Bob Dylan (@bobdylan) <a href="https://twitter.com/bobdylan/status/1932915106733584527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>Yet even as Wilson shaped the sound of modern music, his inner world was crumbling. He battled schizoaffective disorder, heard voices, fell into drug addiction, and became a recluse – at one point, lying in bed for weeks at a time, rarely bathing, growing obese and isolating himself from even those closest to him.</p> <p>His struggle for stability led him into the care of controversial therapist Eugene Landy, whose extreme methods – including locking the refrigerator and controlling all aspects of Wilson’s life – would later be deemed exploitative. Landy was eventually removed from Wilson’s life following a court case brought by his family.</p> <p>Despite brief comebacks, Wilson’s later career never reached the heights of his early brilliance. He appeared frail and tentative in performances, a shadow of the radiant spirit who once made the world dance.</p> <p>He last toured in 2022.</p> <p>Wilson was portrayed in the 2014 biopic <em>Love & Mercy</em>, a poignant film that brought renewed appreciation for the depth of his suffering and the greatness of his art.</p> <p>In a 2007 interview, Wilson offered a quiet summation of his legacy: “I’ve lived a very, very difficult, haunted life.”</p> <p>And yet, through all the darkness, he gave the world songs that shimmered with light.</p> <p>Brian Wilson is survived by his daughters Carnie and Wendy – who found pop success in the 1990s with Wilson Phillips – and five children he shared with Melinda, whom he met when she sold him a car.</p> <p>The music he made continues to echo across generations. His voice may be gone, but his vibrations – good, bad and transcendent – will never fade.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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The surprising power of photography in ageing well

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>Older adults are often faced with lifestyle changes that can disrupt their sense of place and purpose. It may be the loss of a partner, downsizing their home, or moving to residential aged care. And these changes can come with loss of identity, uncertainty, disconnect and isolation.</p> <p>But what if I told you a simple camera could help alleviate some of these pains? I’ve been working with older adults for the past decade, using photography as a way of connecting with place, and the results have been transformational.</p> <h2>The value of creative ageing</h2> <p><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1288760/full">Research has shown</a> arts engagement can significantly enhance the mental wellbeing and overall health of older adults.</p> <p>Australia has responded by developing <a href="https://www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/engage-nsw-arts-and-culture/resource-hub/creative-ageing">Creative Ageing Frameworks</a> and the <a href="https://www.arts.qld.gov.au/images/documents/artsqld/Research/National-Arts-and-Health-Framework-May-2014.pdf">National Arts Health Framework</a>, which position creative activity as valuable components of productive and healthy ageing.</p> <p>But while creative ageing programs are expanding, there are still many barriers to participation, including cost, accessibility, participants’ self-doubt, and a lack of skilled facilitators.</p> <p>This highlights a need for more inclusive approaches that use familiar tools – and that’s where photography comes in. Photography is a multi-sensory embodied practice. It allows us to be mindful, slow down, and look for beauty in everyday life. It can also prompt us to see the world differently.</p> <p>Recent research by my colleagues and I documents how taking photographs can increase older adults’ <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/ajag.70040">connection to place, creativity and overall wellbeing</a>.</p> <p>Specifically, we explored the impact of photography as not so much a structured “art activity”, but as a practice of connecting to place and other people through group photo walks.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/866929737" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>Over the past 18 months we’ve been working with several groups of older adults who live in aged care and community settings. We found that framing the world through a lens can powerfully transform a photographer’s relationship to the environment, and their sense of agency within it.</p> <p>This practice of intentional “seeing” creates opportunities for discovery in even the most familiar surroundings.</p> <p>As one aged care resident, Kathleen, put it:</p> <blockquote> <p>It’s given me a new sense of enjoyment and purpose and changed how I look at both life and seeing places in here that I’ve never seen before.</p> </blockquote> <h2>Easy, meaningful and social</h2> <p>So what makes photography particularly suited to older adults? Our research highlights some key factors.</p> <p><strong>It’s accessible and familiar</strong></p> <p>Photography has become one of the most democratic of creative pursuits. Most people carry a camera via their phone or tablet and know how to operate it. Older adults <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-digital-divide-small-social-programs-can-help-get-seniors-online-99082">are no exception</a>.</p> <p>This familiarity removes common barriers, such as the need to learn a new skill, and instead builds on existing knowledge. This makes photography an ideal creative expression; it requires no special training or equipment, and there is little room for doubt one’s capability.</p> <p><strong>It’s meaningful</strong></p> <p>Unlike many other creative activities offered to pass time, photography constitutes a meaningful activity for older adults. According to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32022414/">research</a>, “meaningful” activities for older adults are those that are enjoyable, engaging, suited to individual skills, related to personal goals, and <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/1472586X.2021.1963828">connected to identity</a>.</p> <p>Photography can be exploratory, fun, and deeply personal. The outcomes can be <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ajag.70040">shared with others</a>, discussed, displayed and privately revisited, allowing connection to one’s self and the surrounding world.</p> <p><strong>Seeing the familiar differently</strong></p> <p>Photography honours a photographer’s life experience and perspectives. Each photograph becomes both a creative expression, and validation, of their unique viewpoint – and allows them to see the world through new eyes.</p> <p>During group <a href="https://www.collaborativephotography.com/projects/photowalks">photo walk</a> sessions held for my research, participants expressed delight in sharing the same experience of visiting a familiar place, while capturing their own distinct vision of it.</p> <p>When we returned to discuss the sessions, the group formed collective narratives, with each person adding their own unique contribution. Photography offers social and community connection while celebrating individual creativity and perspective.</p> <p>The different versions of Russell Anderson’s “iDIDIT!” sculpture on a walk on the Sunshine Coast.</p> <p><strong>Being outside in the world</strong></p> <p>While photography can be done anywhere, most people will head outside when exploring with a camera. This was particularly important for people living in aged care, who often didn’t venture out into the gardens.</p> <p>One participant, Margaret, was relearning how to walk after a stroke, and enjoyed our creative walks together.</p> <figure class="align-right zoomable"></figure> <p>She grew more confident with each walk, her purpose being to see parts of the residential aged care facility that she’d never accessed and photographed before. Going outside with a camera allowed her to connect to her new home.</p> <h2>Putting it into practice</h2> <p>The beautiful thing about photography is that anyone can do it, and there is no right or wrong. You can simply start by slowing down and looking for interesting shadows, textures, or details.</p> <p>For those working with older adults, photography is an adaptable, low-cost activity that works across various settings and abilities. You can do it indoors, from a wheelchair, sitting on a wheelie walker, or while getting some exercise.</p> <p>Photo walks, in particular, are a great way for photographers to share experiences and connect. <!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><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;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/257344/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tricia-king-1025874">Tricia King</a>, Senior Lecturer in Photography, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-the-sunshine-coast-1068">University of the Sunshine Coast</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-surprising-power-of-photography-in-ageing-well-257344">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Pexels / Kampus Production</em></p> </div>

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Iconic singer reveals sad diagnosis

<p>Morten Harket, the iconic voice behind A-ha’s global smash "Take on Me", has revealed he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease – a progressive condition that may bring an end to his singing career.</p> <p>The 65-year-old Norwegian singer shared the news in a moving interview published on the band’s official website, explaining that although treatment has eased some of the condition’s physical toll, it has also affected his voice – the very heart of his artistry.</p> <p>“I don’t feel like singing, and for me that’s a sign,” Harket said candidly. “As things stand now, that’s out of the question.”</p> <p>For the past year, Harket has undergone deep brain stimulation, a complex treatment involving two surgeries to implant electrodes on both sides of his brain. The procedure delivers electrical impulses that help control tremors and muscle stiffness, but in Harket’s case, has also dulled his soaring vocal range.</p> <p>Despite the gravity of the diagnosis, Harket said he feels at peace with it. He credits his 94-year-old father for encouraging him to “use whatever works” in coping with the challenges of the degenerative disorder.</p> <p>“There’s so much to weigh up,” he said. “It’s a difficult balancing act between taking the medication and managing its side effects.”</p> <p>A-ha last toured in 2020 and played what may be their final show together in 2022 at the Hollywood Bowl. Harket said he has continued to work on new music but is unsure whether the songs will ever be finished.</p> <p>Still, in classic form, he offered fans words of hope rather than despair.</p> <p>“Don’t worry about me,” he said. “Spend your energy addressing real problems… and know that I am being taken care of.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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"Three months to live": Channel 10 star shares emotional battle with incurable cancer

<p>Channel 10 presenter Barry Du Bois has opened up in a raw and heartbreaking letter about his ongoing battle with cancer, revealing the devastating moment he was told he had just months to live.</p> <p>In a deeply personal essay for <a href="https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/channel-10-star-barry-du-bois-reveals-harrowing-moment-he-was-given-three-months-to-live/news-story/20a2e0a910358c1861d2c4d23c8cd617" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Gold Coast Bulletin</a>, the father of two recalled the chilling day a doctor delivered a prognosis that shattered his world: “I had three months to live.”</p> <p>“I was sitting in a cold, unfamiliar consult room at the hospital, my wife’s hand holding mine … then a doctor who had known me for only a few hours looked me in the eye and told me I had three months to live,” Du Bois wrote.</p> <p>Du Bois was first diagnosed in 2010 with solitary plasmacytoma, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. While he survived that initial battle, the disease returned in 2017 – this time as multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer that attacks the immune system and bone marrow.</p> <p>Since then, the 63-year-old <em>Living Room</em> star has fought on, defying the odds with remarkable strength and grace. But as he revealed in the letter, his path has been anything but easy.</p> <p>His strength, he said, was forged through years of pain: breaking his back in a 14-metre fall, a gruelling and heartbreaking IVF journey with his wife Leonie that ended in miscarriage, and her own cervical cancer diagnosis just weeks later.</p> <p>“When I got my diagnosis – incurable cancer, three months to live – I didn’t fall apart,” he wrote. “I knew that from leaning into the previous adversities of life I had the resilience to give the fight of my life.”</p> <p>Still, Du Bois admitted there was a time he came perilously close to giving up. After Leonie’s miscarriage and illness, the darkness nearly swallowed him. “I avoided conversation and started a continual negative conversation with myself that took me into the darkness … depression is a lonely state and I refused to share my pain. I saw it as a weakness.”</p> <p>In the end, it was his family that pulled him back and helped him find purpose again. Since then, Du Bois has become a powerful voice for others fighting chronic illness and mental health struggles, using his platform to share candid updates on life, treatment and the importance of hope.</p> <p>“I was overwhelmed with fear, uncertainty and the unknown,” he said of that early diagnosis. “But through it all, I realised something that I feel is why I am here today: It wasn’t going to be cancer that defined me but the way I choose to approach it.”</p> <p>From his early TV days on <em>The Renovators</em> in 2011 to his long-running role on <em>The Living Room</em> alongside Amanda Keller, Miguel Maestre and Dr Chris Brown, Du Bois has become a familiar and much-loved face on Australian screens. But behind the smiles and strength lies a story of extraordinary pain and courage.</p> <p>His fight continues. And so too does his mission: to live fully, love deeply, and face each day not with fear, but with determination.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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World's oldest practicing doctor shares his secrets to a long life

<p>While most people slow down with age, Dr Howard Tucker has spent more than a century proving that passion and purpose are the best medicine.</p> <p>At 102 years old, the American neurologist has lived a life so extraordinary it earned him a Guinness World Record as the oldest practicing doctor – an honour he received just before turning 99. Though he officially hung up his white coat at 100, Tucker remains as active and engaged as ever.</p> <p>Today, he lectures future physicians at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and consults on medico-legal cases – work made possible by a law degree he earned at 67. His message? Retirement is not a requirement.</p> <p>“Retirement, I think, is the enemy of longevity,” Dr Tucker recently told Al Roker on NBC’s <em>Today</em>. “You have to have some purpose in life and get up in the morning and know what you’re about.”</p> <p>Even after the hospital where he worked shut its doors in 2022, ending his medical practice at 100, Tucker hasn’t ruled out returning to clinical work. “If it wasn’t for the closure, I’d absolutely still be seeing patients,” he told <em>People</em>. “Nobody wants me at my age – but I’ll keep trying.”</p> <p>His enthusiasm for life has captured the public imagination, especially through <em>What’s Next</em>, a documentary about his life produced by his grandson. The film has gone viral on TikTok, turning the centenarian into an unexpected social media sensation.</p> <p>Dr Tucker credits his longevity not just to good genes – his parents lived to 84 and 96 – but to lifestyle choices. “Heredity and family history of longevity is a healthy start,” he wrote in his Guinness World Record submission. “However, it must be supported by moderation of nutrition, alcohol and happiness.”</p> <p>His daily routine reflects that philosophy. He snowshoes in the winter, walks on the treadmill for at least four kilometres a day, and eats a mostly clean diet – fruit and cereal in the morning, fish and vegetables at night. Lunch is often skipped to maintain mental clarity. Dessert, however, is a staple – typically fruit or ice-cream, enjoyed with his wife of over 70 years.</p> <p>And while he rarely drinks, he allows himself the occasional martini. One thing he’s always avoided: cigarettes.</p> <p>Dr Tucker also says its important to keep the brain stimulated. “If they retire from their work, they should at least do something as a hobby,” he told <em>Today</em>. “You need a stimulus for the brain daily.”</p> <p>Science backs him up. Research shows that ongoing learning, social connection, and a sense of purpose contribute to mental acuity and longevity. Tucker’s life is a blueprint for all three. He remains close to his four children and 10 grandchildren and is an avid sports fan.</p> <p>Despite a fall in his late 80s that ended his skiing days with a broken neck, Tucker hasn’t let injury slow him down. Instead, he’s adapted, always finding new ways to stay active.</p> <p>With his 103rd birthday on the horizon in July, Dr Tucker says he isn’t concerned about the end. “I never think of death,” he said. “To be alive is to know that you’re going to die because life is a fatal disease. And so I live it.”</p> <p>For a man who’s devoted his life to healing others, Dr Howard Tucker’s greatest lesson might be how to truly live.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Tributes pour in for M*A*S*H icon Loretta Swit

<p>The television world is mourning the loss of Loretta Swit, the acclaimed actress best known for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on the groundbreaking series <em>M*A*S*H</em>, who passed away on May 30 at the age of 87.</p> <p>Swit was found in her New York City apartment at approximately 10am Friday by her housekeeper, her publicist Harlan Boll confirmed. While her official cause of death has not yet been released, authorities believe she died of natural causes.</p> <p>Known for her wit, warmth, and deep humanity both on- and off-screen, Swit was one of the few original cast members to remain with <em>M*A*S*H</em> for its entire 11-season run. Her portrayal of the initially one-dimensional “Hot Lips” Houlihan evolved into one of the most complex, heartfelt characters on television, earning her ten consecutive Emmy nominations and two wins, in 1980 and 1982.</p> <p>“More than acting her part, she created it,” wrote her longtime co-star Alan Alda, 89, on X. “She worked hard in showing the writing staff how they could turn the character from a one-joke sexist stereotype into a real person – with real feelings and ambitions.”</p> <p>Alda, who played the beloved Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce alongside Swit, added, “We celebrated the day the script came out listing her character, not as Hot Lips, but as Margaret. Loretta made the most of her time here.”</p> <p>Jamie Farr, 90, who portrayed Corporal Maxwell Q. Klinger, paid tribute to his “adopted sister”, remembering a bond that began the day they met. “From the first time I met her, on what was supposed to be a one-day appearance on <em>M*A*S*H</em>, we embraced each other. That became a lifetime friendship. I can't begin to express how much she will be missed.”</p> <p>Mike Farrell, 86, who joined the series in its fourth season as B.J. Hunnicutt, simply posted a black-and-white photo of Swit to Instagram with the caption: “Loretta … 1937–2025 🖤.”</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/DKSijk2MeIj/?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/DKSijk2MeIj/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mike Farrell (@mike_farrell_official)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Swit’s presence within the <em>MASH*</em> family remained strong long after the show ended in 1983. In a 2017 interview with Fox News, she reflected, “We see each other quite frequently. Every time we lose a comrade, it’s a body blow. These aren't casual acquaintances from years ago. This is my family.”</p> <p>Off-screen, Swit was a passionate animal rights advocate and longtime vegan, having adopted the lifestyle in 1981. Lisa Lange of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals praised her activism, calling her “a major champion for all animals”. Lange added, “The world has lost a kind soul and animals a true friend.”</p> <p>Swit’s contributions to entertainment were recognised in 1989 when she received a gold star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. But to millions of fans, she will always be remembered for her fierce talent, her drive to elevate female characters on screen, and her unwavering kindness.</p> <p>As tributes pour in from co-stars, fans and admirers, it is clear that Loretta Swit leaves behind a legacy of compassion, authenticity, and brilliance – both as an artist and a human being. She is survived by the countless lives she touched through her work, her advocacy and her friendship.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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"Have some decency": Appalling reaction to Magda's health news

<p>Australian comedian and national treasure Magda Szubanski has revealed her battle with a rare and aggressive blood cancer – only to be met with a wave of online vitriol and conspiracy theories, drawing widespread condemnation for the lack of compassion.</p> <p>On Thursday, the 64-year-old star <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/magda-szubanski-shares-devastating-health-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced she had been diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma</a>, a rare form of stage-4 blood cancer. The diagnosis came unexpectedly during a routine breast screening, prompting Szubanski to begin the “Nordic protocol”, which she described as “one of the best treatments available”.</p> <p>In a candid Instagram video, the <em>Kath & Kim</em> actress addressed her followers with honesty and humour. “Hello, my lovelies. The head is shaved in anticipation of it all falling out in a couple of weeks,” she said. “It’s pretty confronting… But new treatments keep coming down the pipeline all the time.”</p> <p>Despite the seriousness of her condition, Szubanski reassured fans that she was in good hands, supported by her loved ones and an exceptional medical team. “To be honest, I’ve been feeling pretty ratsh*t for ages. So I asked for extra bloods and – voila!”</p> <p>However, the warmth of her message was quickly overshadowed by a torrent of cruel remarks and baseless conspiracy theories on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Some users linked her cancer diagnosis to her vocal support for COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic, reviving the discredited “turbo cancer” myth – a fringe theory suggesting COVID vaccines cause rapid-onset cancers.</p> <p>“Very sad to hear another experimental vaccine pusher has been diagnosed with something horrible,” one user tweeted. Others echoed similar sentiments, with one post reading, “Zero sympathy,” and another claiming, “It’s good to see that karma still works.”</p> <p>Szubanski was a prominent proponent of vaccination during the pandemic, even donning her beloved character Sharon Strzelecki in a government campaign to encourage Victorians to get the jab. That effort, once celebrated, is now being weaponised by some online as supposed justification for her illness.</p> <p>The backlash sparked swift condemnation from more compassionate voices on the platform. “As if cancer didn’t exist before Covid and vaccinations. You guys are seriously cooked,” wrote one user. Another added, “Classless of you to post this. Why drop to the level?”</p> <p>Many others pointed out the lack of basic human decency in mocking someone for a life-threatening diagnosis. “The posts here are highly disrespectful… Have some decency. BTW, these things can happen to anyone.”</p> <p>Szubanski’s diagnosis has drawn an outpouring of support from fans, friends, and fellow celebrities who praised her courage and vulnerability in going public. As she begins treatment, the beloved entertainer remains focused on her recovery and grateful for the support surrounding her.</p> <p>“I’ll be lying very low while my immune system takes a hammering,” she said. “For now, just know I’m in good hands, good spirits – but I reserve my human right to be a cranky old moll.”</p> <p><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

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Magda Szubanski shares devastating health news

<p>Beloved actor and comedian Magda Szubanski has revealed she is facing a deeply personal and harrowing health battle, after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.</p> <p>The 64-year-old star, best known for her iconic roles in <em>Kath & Kim</em>, <em>Babe</em>, and <em>Ride Like a Girl</em>, shared the devastating news in an emotional message posted to social media on Wednesday.</p> <p>"Hello, my lovelies," she began, her trademark warmth shining through despite the gravity of her words. "The head is shaved in anticipation of it all falling out in a couple of weeks."</p> <p>Szubanski went on to reveal that she has been diagnosed with a “very rare, very aggressive lymphoma”, which she described as “one of the nasty ones unfortunately”.</p> <p>The news has rocked fans across the country, many of whom have followed Szubanski's decades-long career and have embraced her not only as a performer, but as a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.</p> <p>Despite the confronting nature of her diagnosis, Szubanski offered a glimpse of her enduring spirit. “It’s pretty confronting. It is a full-on one,” she said. “But new treatments keep coming down the pipeline all the time … I’ve just got to (laughs). What do you? What are you gonna do?”</p> <p>In the post, she expressed gratitude for the people around her, noting, “The good thing is I’m surrounded by beautiful friends and family and an incredible medical support team. Honestly, we have the best in the world here in Australia.”</p> <p>She also asked fans and well-wishers to keep their distance physically due to her compromised immune system: “Please keep a distance though because I will be very immunocompromised. So as I can’t hug no more.”</p> <p>The actor indicated that more information will be shared in an official statement soon.</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/DKOM_tZSuO2/?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/DKOM_tZSuO2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Magda Szubanski (@magda_szubanski)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Szubanski has long been open about her private struggles. In her acclaimed 2014 memoir <em>Reckoning</em>, she candidly wrote about her complex relationship with food, identity, and her sexuality. Her public coming out in 2012 was a landmark moment, one she later described as among the most frightening experiences of her life.</p> <p>Messages of love and support have flooded social media, with fans, fellow actors and public figures rallying around one of Australia’s most cherished cultural voices.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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"Haven’t got long to live": Beloved Harry Potter star's sad health update

<p>Veteran actress Miriam Margolyes, best known to many as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter franchise, has spoken movingly about her deteriorating health and approaching mortality, revealing she likely has only a few years left to live.</p> <p>In a recent interview with <em>The Times</em>, the 84-year-old star discussed her decision to step away from the big screen, admitting that her body is no longer strong enough to perform the roles she once loved.</p> <p>“When you know that you haven’t got long to live – and I’m probably going to die within the next five or six years, if not before – I’m loathe to leave behind performing,” she said. “It’s such a joy. I yearn to play roles that don’t confine me to wheelchairs, but I’m just not strong enough.”</p> <p>Margolyes has been increasingly open about her health challenges in recent years. In 2023, during an appearance on the Table Manners podcast, she revealed she had undergone heart surgery, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/aussie-harry-potter-star-undergoes-heart-surgery" target="_blank" rel="noopener">receiving a cow’s aortic</a> valve to replace her own. “I don’t know how common it is. I’d never heard of that operation,” she said. “But it saves you from having open-heart surgery, which would be infinitely more invasive.”</p> <p>She later told <em>British Vogue</em> that her perspective on death had changed with age. “When you’re young, you never think about death. You just think about your next f**k, basically,” she joked. “I think about death a lot. You can’t help but be aware that the amount of time ahead is less than the time before you.”</p> <p>Despite the seriousness of her condition, Margolyes maintains her trademark wit and philosophical outlook. “I’m still ducking and diving. I’m still open to new experiences. I’m just very conscious that there is no light at the end of the tunnel.”</p> <p>In 2024, Margolyes publicly disclosed she is living with spinal stenosis, a painful and debilitating condition that has severely impacted her mobility. “I’m registered disabled. I use all kinds of assistance,” she shared with <em>Closer Magazine</em>. “I’ve got two sticks and a walker and they’re such a bore, but I’ve just got a mobility scooter, which is a lot of fun.”</p> <p>The <em>Age of Innocence</em> actress also acknowledged her financial worries, saying her biggest fear is outliving her resources. Yet, through it all, she remains strong, funny and honest – qualities that have endeared her to fans for decades.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Chilling new details emerge after Qld mother's alleged murder

<p>The Queensland mother who has been charged with the alleged murder of her three-year-old daughter posted a series of disturbing and emotional messages to social media just days earlier that hinted at inner turmoil and a spiritual battle.</p> <p>Lauren Flanigan, 32, was <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/qld-mother-charged-with-murder-of-toddler-daughter" target="_blank" rel="noopener">taken into custody on Monday night</a> after police were called to a property in Moore Park Beach, near Bundaberg. Flanigan was present at the scene and arrested shortly after. A knife, believed by authorities to be the murder weapon, was found and seized. She was formally charged with murder on Tuesday.</p> <p>In the days leading up to the incident, Flanigan’s social media presence had taken on a concerning tone. Through a series of emotionally charged posts, she spoke of trauma, spirituality and defiance against "the system".</p> <p>In her final post, published just a day before her daughter's death, Flanigan wrote:</p> <p>“REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE. Not what the system told you. Not what your trauma whispered. Not the lies of fear. You are ROYALTY. You are CHOSEN. You are HOLY. You are a WARRIOR OF LIGHT.”</p> <p>She continued: “Train like it’s war – because it is. Discipline is deliverance. Refine your algorithm. Refine your soul. God is calling His army out of hiding. This is kingdom rising… No more delays. No more compromise. Tag your generals. It’s time to RISE.”</p> <p>Another post reflected on her role as a mother and her desire for a more meaningful life:</p> <p>“Time to watch my babies grow. Time to breathe. Time to live. Time to love,” she wrote. “I have given my life to serve. I have a beautiful little family who remind me of love daily.”</p> <p>Flanigan, who was known to be an active member of Bundaberg’s Alive Church, often shared religious and inspirational messages online. She frequently posted photos of her children, once calling them her “divine babies”, and reflected on spiritual metaphors during walks on the beach.</p> <p>One lengthy post, accompanied by a video of waves washing over seashells, read: “As I walked along the beach today… I began to notice the shells scattered along the shoreline. Each one completely unique… Some cracked. Some whole… And then I realised… We are like these shells.”</p> <p>The alleged murder has shocked the quiet regional community and sparked widespread sorrow and disbelief. Neighbours and community members are grappling with the tragedy, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Sophia’s death.</p> <p>Flanigan remains in custody and is expected to appear in court later this week. Police have confirmed that mental health will be a key focus of their ongoing inquiries.</p> <p><em><strong>Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).</strong></em></p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / Instagram</em></p>

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Amanda Keller breaks down in deeply moving on-air moment

<p>In an emotional and deeply moving on-air moment, beloved broadcaster Amanda Keller broke down in tears while marking her 35th wedding anniversary with husband Harley Oliver – a celebration tinged with sadness as the couple continues to navigate his battle with Parkinson’s disease.</p> <p>Speaking candidly on JAM Nation with Jonesy & Amanda, Keller reflected on the gravity of the milestone and the shifting realities of a marriage tested by illness and time. </p> <p>“I don’t want to get emotional,” she began, her voice trembling. “It’s my wedding anniversary today. And in the old days, Harley and I would have been going out to dinner tonight. But he’s not well enough to do that.”</p> <p>Keller, who has long been a staple of Australian radio and television, spoke of the moment so many couples take for granted: saying vows filled with promise, unaware of the storms that may lie ahead.</p> <p>“When you stand there on your wedding day and you say forever, what does that even mean?” she asked aloud. “You don’t even know.”</p> <p>Oliver was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017, but the couple kept the news private until Keller spoke publicly about his condition in 2023 on her Double A Chattery podcast. She recounted the subtle early signs – his dragging leg, trembling hands – and the devastating confirmation of what they feared most: a degenerative neurological disorder with no cure.</p> <p>“In sickness and in health. And yet that’s where we are. And no concept of what that means until you’re living it,” Keller said. “I kind of fluctuate between taking great pride in the fight that we are alongside each other, and the strength that it takes to get up every day and still fight it and still live it.”</p> <p>“You don’t get to cherry pick life,” Keller continued. “If you’re living life, the sands shift beneath your feet. But we’re still in it together. And I’m grateful for that.”</p> <p>Despite her gratitude, Keller didn’t hide the hardship, admitting she sometimes has the “absolute sh*ts” with their reality. “It’s hard,” she said plainly.</p> <p>Still, there was a glimmer of joy. The couple’s sons would be joining them for dinner – a different kind of celebration, quieter but no less full of love. “We’ve lived a rich and wonderful life together, and we still do,” Keller admitted. “But it’s not the same as the old days.</p> <p>"Anyway, happy anniversary, Harley.”</p> <p>Keller closed with a reflection on the unpredictability of life and love – and the unbreakable bond forged through years of shared struggle and strength. “We all think that we’ll get to 90 and die in our sleep,” she said. “But people face stuff every day. That’s the meat of life. That’s the meat of a long-term relationship. So, I’m grateful to have that.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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TGA approves new drug for Alzheimer’s

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>This week, Australia’s <a href="https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg/420194">Therapeutic Goods Administration</a> (TGA) approved a drug called donanemab for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.</p> <p>Donanemab has previously been approved in a number of other countries, including <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/fda-approves-treatment-adults-alzheimers-disease">the United States</a>.</p> <p>So what is donanemab, and who will be able to access it in Australia?</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">A drug that is given once a month to slow the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease has been approved by the TGA, but will only be available for a select few who can afford it privately. <a href="https://t.co/sJqR3IKhAB">https://t.co/sJqR3IKhAB</a></p> <p>— ABC News (@abcnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/abcnews/status/1925378845135274425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <h2>How does donanemab work?</h2> <p>There are more than 100 different causes <a href="https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/types-of-dementia/">of dementia</a>, but Alzheimer’s disease alone accounts for about 70% of these, making it <a href="https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/types-of-dementia/alzheimers-disease/">the most common form</a> of dementia.</p> <p>The disease is believed to be caused by the accumulation in the brain of two abnormal proteins, amyloid and tau. The first is thought to be particularly important, and the “<a href="https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-drug-donanemab-has-been-hailed-as-a-turning-point-for-treatment-but-what-does-it-mean-for-people-with-the-disease-209970">amyloid hypothesis</a>” – which suggests amyloid is the key cause of Alzheimer’s disease – has driven research for many years.</p> <p>Donanemab is a “monoclonal antibody” treatment. Antibodies are proteins the immune system produces that bind to harmful foreign “invaders” in the body, or targets. A monoclonal antibody has one specific target. In the case of donanemab it’s the amyloid protein. Donanemab binds to amyloid protein deposits (plaques) in the brain and allows our bodies to remove them.</p> <p>Donanemab is given monthly, via intravenous infusion.</p> <h2>What does the evidence say?</h2> <p>Australia’s approval of donanemab comes as a result of a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10352931/">clinical trial</a> involving 1,736 people published in 2023.</p> <p>This trial showed donanemab resulted in a significant slowing of disease progression in a group of patients who had either early Alzheimer’s disease, or mild cognitive impairment with signs of Alzheimer’s pathology. Before entering the trial, all patients had the presence of amyloid protein detected via <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/pet-scan">PET scanning</a>.</p> <p>Participants were randomised, and half received donanemab, while the other half received a placebo, over 18 months.</p> <p>For those who received the active drug, their Alzheimer’s disease progressed 35% more slowly over 18 months compared to those who were given the placebo. The researchers ascertained this using the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4806404/">Integrated Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale</a>, which measures cognition and function.</p> <p>Those who received donanemab also demonstrated large reductions in the levels of amyloid in the brain (as measured by PET scans). The majority, by the end of the trial, were considered to be below the threshold that would normally indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s disease.</p> <p>These results certainly seem to vindicate the amyloid hypothesis, which had been <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33049114/">called into question</a> by the results of multiple <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/eli-lillys-alzheimers-drug-trial-fails-to-achieve-goals-1479902563">failed previous studies</a>. They represent a major advance in our understanding of the disease.</p> <p>That said, patients in the study did not <em>improve</em> in terms of cognition or function. They continued to decline, albeit at a significantly slower rate than those who were not treated.</p> <p>The actual clinical significance has been <a href="https://academic.oup.com/braincomms/article/6/6/fcae435/7915707">a topic of debate</a>. Some experts have questioned whether the meaningfulness of this result to the patient is worth the potential risks.</p> <h2>Is the drug safe?</h2> <p>Some 24% of trial participants receiving the drug experienced brain swelling. The rates rose to 40.6% in those possessing two copies of a gene called ApoE4.</p> <p>Although three-quarters of people who developed brain swelling experienced no symptoms from this, there were three deaths in the treatment group during the study related to donanemab, likely a result of brain swelling.</p> <p>These risks <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2274580725000949">require regular monitoring</a> with MRI scans while the drug is being given.</p> <p>Some 26.8% of those who received donanemab also experienced small bleeds into the brain (microhaemorrhages) compared to 12.5% of those taking the placebo.</p> <h2>Cost is a barrier</h2> <p>Reports indicate donanemab could cost anywhere between <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-22/alzheimers-drug-donanemab-tga-approval-dementia/105319856">A$40,000 and $80,000</a> each year in Australia. This puts it beyond the reach of many who might benefit from it.</p> <p>Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of donanemab, has made an application for the drug to be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, with a decision pending perhaps within <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-22/alzheimers-drug-donanemab-tga-approval-dementia/105319856">a couple of months</a>. While this would make the drug substantially more affordable for patients, it will represent a large cost to taxpayers.</p> <p>The cost of the drug is in addition to costs associated with the monitoring required to ensure its safety and efficacy (such as doctor visits, MRIs and PET scans).</p> <h2>Who will be able to access it?</h2> <p>This drug is only of benefit for people with early Alzheimer’s-type dementia, so not everybody with Alzheimer’s disease will get access to it.</p> <p>Almost 80% of people who were screened to participate <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10352931/">in the trial</a> were found unsuitable to proceed.</p> <p>The terms of the <a href="https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/servlet/xmlmillr6?dbid=ebs/PublicHTML/pdfStore.nsf&amp;docid=420194&amp;agid=%28PrintDetailsPublic%29&amp;actionid=1">TGA approval</a> specify potential patients will first need to be found to have specific levels of amyloid protein in their brains. This would be ascertained either by PET scanning or by lumbar puncture sampling of spinal fluid.</p> <p>Also, patients with two copies of the ApoE4 gene have been ruled unsuitable to receive the drug. The TGA has judged the risk/benefit profile for this group to be unfavourable. This genetic profile accounts for only 2% of the general population, but <a href="https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-defines-major-genetic-form-alzheimer-s-disease">15% of people with Alzheimer’s disease</a>.</p> <h2>Improving diagnosis and tempering expectations</h2> <p>It’s estimated more than <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus/contents/population-health-impacts-of-dementia/prevalence-of-dementia">400,000 Australians</a> have dementia. But only <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dementia/ndap-indicators-dashboard/contents/action-4/measure-4-5-time-from-symptom-onset-to-diagnosis">13% of people</a> with dementia currently receive a diagnosis within a year of developing symptoms.</p> <p>Given those with very early disease stand to benefit most from this treatment, we need to expand our dementia diagnostic services significantly.</p> <p>Finally, expectations need to be tempered about what this drug can reasonably achieve. It’s important to be mindful this is not a cure.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><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;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/257321/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/steve-macfarlane-4722">Steve Macfarlane</a>, Head of Clinical Services, Dementia Support Australia, &amp; Associate Professor of Psychiatry, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-tga-has-approved-donanemab-for-alzheimers-disease-how-does-this-drug-work-and-who-will-be-able-to-access-it-257321">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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Brave boxer dies at 25 just two weeks after getting married

<p>The boxing world is in mourning following the heartbreaking news that Georgia O’Connor, a rising star and beloved figure in British sport, has passed away at just 25 after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.</p> <p>O’Connor, who once stood atop the podium with Commonwealth Youth gold in 2017 and later turned professional with a flawless 3-0 record, revealed her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. She had also been living with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, showing extraordinary strength both in and out of the ring.</p> <p>Despite being surrounded by support from fans and fellow fighters alike, the Durham-born athlete died earlier this week, leaving the sporting community reeling with grief.</p> <p>In her final post on Instagram, made just two weeks before her passing, Georgia shared a radiant photo of her wedding ring, announcing that she had married her partner Adriano. “The day I married the love of my life,” she wrote.</p> <p>In February, she penned a heartfelt tribute to her husband, calling him her “superhero” and “real-life prince”. Her words captured the depth of their bond during her illness: “From the moment I was diagnosed with cancer, Adriano didn’t hesitate. He quit his job without a second thought and made it his mission to fight this battle alongside me… I have never known love like this.”</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/DJjF1RCMnlo/?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/DJjF1RCMnlo/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Georgia Cardinali (@georgiaoconnor_1)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Tributes have since poured in from across the sporting world. Boxing promoter BOXXER, who represented O’Connor, said: “We are heartbroken by the passing of Georgia O’Connor. A true warrior inside and outside the ring, the boxing community has lost a talented, courageous and determined young woman far too soon.”</p> <p>Ben Shalom, BOXXER’s founder, added: “It’s hard to make sense of this. Georgia was an inspirational person and one I’ll never forget. My heart goes out to her parents and partner.”</p> <p>Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions shared their condolences, writing: “Everyone at Queensberry Promotions are deeply saddened… Rest in peace, Georgia.”</p> <p>England Boxing also paid tribute, highlighting her decorated amateur career: “A gifted boxer and beloved member of the amateur boxing community, she won medals at the Commonwealth Youth Games, Youth Worlds & European Championships.”</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/DFfnk84IZb5/?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/DFfnk84IZb5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Georgia Cardinali (@georgiaoconnor_1)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>O’Connor's talents were not confined to the ring. A three-time national taekwondo champion and undefeated kickboxer, she was also musically gifted, sharing videos of herself singing and playing guitar with fans online. YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul responded simply but powerfully: “F*** cancer. RIP Georgia.”</p> <p>Fellow boxer Joe Laws posted a photo with her, captioning it: “Fighter till the end. Rest easy bro.”</p> <p>Georgia O’Connor's life was short, but her impact was profound. In every arena she entered – whether in gloves or with a guitar – she brought strength, grace and authenticity.  She is survived by her husband Adriano, her family and countless fans who will never forget her spirit.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Patti Newton hospitalised

<p>Entertainment icon Patti Newton has revealed she is recovering in hospital following major surgery. The beloved 80-year-old star took to Instagram to share an update with fans, posting a heartwarming photo of herself in a hospital bed while embracing her grandson, Alby. In the caption, Newton confirmed she had undergone a full hip replacement.</p> <p>“Had a full hip replacement and feeling fine. Thank you to all at Epworth hospital and my wonderful surgeon,” she wrote. “I’ll be chasing Alby around again in no time.”</p> <p>The surgery comes just months after Newton was forced to temporarily step back from her role in <em>Grease: The Musical</em> due to health issues. In January, she announced on Instagram that she would be missing preview performances in Sydney after contracting Covid-19.</p> <p>“So sorry to be missing the previews for <em>Grease</em>,” she wrote at the time, alongside a photo of herself dressed as her character Miss Lynch. “Unfortunately Covid has hit me again. Looking forward to being back next week.”</p> <p>Newton also contracted Covid in December 2023, just as she was preparing to take the stage in the Melbourne season of the hit musical. Despite the setback, she remained optimistic, posting a message to fans on New Year’s Day.</p> <p>“Happy New Year, hope it’s a wonderful 2024. Covid has hit me but wishing the cast of Grease an amazing first show. See you back there soon,” she wrote, sharing a photo of her legs wrapped in a blanket.</p> <p>Newton’s positive attitude continues to inspire fans. As she recovers from surgery, many have taken to social media to send well wishes and messages of support.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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"People don't vanish": Police step up search for missing teen

<p>The search for 17-year-old Pheobe Bishop has entered its second week, as Queensland Police continue to investigate her suspicious disappearance from Bundaberg.</p> <p>Pheobe was last seen on May 15, when her housemates claimed they dropped her off at Bundaberg Regional Airport around 8:30am. She was due to fly to Western Australia via Brisbane to visit her boyfriend, but police have since confirmed that she never entered the airport terminal or boarded her flight.</p> <p>Detectives have declared two active crime scenes: the Gin Gin home where Pheobe lived with a couple, and a grey Hyundai ix35 believed to have transported her to the airport. Investigators are combing both locations for clues.</p> <p>“Police have reviewed CCTV from the airport, which indicates that she did not enter the terminal,” said Detective Acting Inspector Ryan Thompson during a press conference. “This is a suspicious disappearance, and we’re treating it very seriously.”</p> <p>While no arrests have been made, police are speaking with individuals who knew Pheobe and are appealing to the public for help.</p> <p>Authorities are specifically requesting dashcam or CCTV footage of the grey Hyundai ix35, Queensland registration 414EW3, in the vicinity of Airport Drive and Samuels Road in Bundaberg, as well as the Gin Gin area on the day Pheobe vanished.</p> <p>“You may have the small piece of information that leads us to finding Pheobe,” said Thompson. “People don’t vanish – someone knows something, and we’re urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.”</p> <p>Pheobe’s family has distributed more than 400 missing person flyers across Bundaberg and Gin Gin and have been conducting their own searches through local rivers and bushland.</p> <p>She is described as being approximately 180cm tall, with a pale complexion, long dyed red hair, and hazel eyes. She was last seen carrying luggage and wearing a green tank top and grey trackpants.</p> <p>Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online via the Queensland Police website.</p> <p><em>Images: Queensland Police</em></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

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