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Why Barnaby Joyce’s TV diagnosis of insomnia plus sleep apnoea is such a big deal

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alexander-sweetman-1331085">Alexander Sweetman</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a> The <a href="https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-how-does-david-littleproud-handle-the-latest-barnaby-joyce-embarrassment-223289">health</a> of Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce is in the news again, this time with a diagnosis of a sleep disorder made <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/media-and-marketing/barnaby-joyce-to-be-diagnosed-with-a-sleep-disorder-on-live-tv-20240223-p5f79q">while filming</a> a TV documentary. Joyce’s diagnosis of insomnia plus sleep apnoea arose while filming <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/whats-on/article/australias-sleep-revolution-with-dr-michael-mosley/nuyko305b">Australia’s Sleep Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley</a> in 2023. SBS has confirmed episode three, in which my Flinders University colleagues reveal his sleep disorder, is set to air on March 20. I was not involved in the program and have no knowledge of Joyce’s <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/weekend-australian-magazine/australias-sleep-crisis-has-flinders-university-cracked-the-code-to-a-better-nights-sleep/news-story/d3b82617af33fff82487da2534722733">ongoing health care</a>. But I was part of the research team that in 2017 <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2016.04.004">coined the term COMISA</a> (co-morbid insomnia and sleep apnoea), the official name of Joyce’s on-screen diagnosis. Since then, I’ve led research into this <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2019.01.004">common</a> sleep disorder. Here’s why it’s so important to diagnose and treat it. <h2>What was Joyce’s diagnosis?</h2> People can be diagnosed separately with <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/insomnia-2">insomnia</a> or <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/obstructive-sleep-apnoea">sleep apnoea</a>. Insomnia includes frequent difficulties falling asleep at the start of the night or difficulties staying asleep during the night. These can result in daytime fatigue, reduced energy, concentration difficulties and poor mood. Over time, insomnia can start to impact your <a href="https://theconversation.com/insomnia-and-mental-disorders-are-linked-but-exactly-how-is-still-a-mystery-212106">mental health</a> and quality of life. Sleep apnoea (specifically, obstructive sleep apnoea) is when people experience repeated interruptions or pauses in breathing while they sleep. This reduces oxygen levels during sleep, and you can wake up multiple times at night. People with sleep apnoea may be aware of loud snoring, gasping for air when they wake up, or feeling exhausted the next morning. However, not all people have these symptoms, and sleep apnoea can go undiagnosed for years. But in Joyce’s case, both insomnia and sleep apnoea occur at the same time. We’ve known this could happen since <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.181.4102.856">the 1970s</a>, with <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0022-006X.67.3.405">evidence growing</a> over <a href="https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.120.6.1923">subsequent decades</a>. Since then, sleep researchers and clinicians around the world have learned more about how <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2019.01.004">common</a> this is, its <a href="https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.01958-2021">consequences</a> and how best to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13847">treat it</a>. <h2>How do you know if you have it?</h2> Many people <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2005.08.008">seek help</a> for their sleep problems because of fatigue, exhaustion, physical symptoms, or poor mood during the day. If you think you have insomnia, a GP or sleep specialist can talk to you about your sleep pattern, and might ask you to complete <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/assessment-questionnaires">brief questionnaires</a> about your sleep and daytime symptoms. You might also be asked to fill in a “sleep diary” for one to two weeks. These will allow a trained clinician to see if you have insomnia. If you or your GP think you may have (or are at risk of having) sleep apnoea, you may be referred for a sleep study. This normally involves sleeping overnight in a sleep clinic where your sleep patterns and breathing are monitored. Alternatively, you might be set up with a recording device to monitor your sleep at home. A trained medical professional, such as a sleep and respiratory physician, will often make the diagnosis. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2021.101519">Up to 50%</a> of people with sleep apnoea report symptoms of insomnia. About <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2021.101519">30–40%</a> of people with insomnia also have sleep apnoea. <h2>What are the consequences?</h2> Insomnia and sleep apnoea (individually) are associated with reduced <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-short-history-of-insomnia-and-how-we-became-obsessed-with-sleep-211729">sleep quality</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/insomnia-and-mental-disorders-are-linked-but-exactly-how-is-still-a-mystery-212106">mental health</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/health-check-heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-sleep-apnoea-26402">physical health</a>. Importantly, people with both at the same also tend to <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci9120371">experience</a> worse sleep, daytime function, mental health, physical health and quality of life, compared with people with no sleep disorder. For instance, we know having both conditions comes with an <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13563">increased risk</a> of diseases of the heart. <a href="https://doi.org/10.2147/NSS.S379252">In</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.01958-2021">three</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleepe.2022.100043">studies</a>, we found people with both insomnia and sleep apnoea have about a 50–70% higher risk of dying early from any cause, compared with people with neither sleep condition. People with insomnia alone and sleep apnoea alone did not have an increased risk of dying early. However, there are effective treatments to reduce these health consequences. <h2>How is it treated?</h2> In general, it is best for people to access evidence-based treatments for both disorders. These treatments vary according to the patient and the severity of their condition. For instance, wearing a <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/cpap-continuous-positive-airway-pressure">CPAP mask</a> while sleeping improves breathing during sleep and reduces many of the daytime consequences of obstructive sleep apnoea. However, other effective treatments may be recommended based on each person’s symptoms, such as weight management, avoiding sleeping on your back, <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/oral-appliances-to-treat-snoring-and-obstructive-sleep-apnoea-osa">oral devices</a> (which look a bit like a mouthguard), or surgery. The <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-get-some-sleep-which-treatments-actually-work-212964">most effective</a> treatment for insomnia is cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, also known as <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/cbti">CBTi</a>. About four to eight sessions often lead to improvements in sleep, daytime function and mental health that are maintained for many <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/16506073.2021.2009019">years</a>. This can be delivered by trained therapists such as psychologists, nurses or GPs, as well as via <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/cbti/referral-to-digital-cbti-programs">online</a> programs. Last year, we drew together evidence from more than 1,000 people with both conditions. We found CBTi is an <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13847">effective treatment</a> for insomnia in people with treated and untreated sleep apnoea. <h2>New treatments and approaches</h2> <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frsle.2024.1355468/abstract">We</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06753-4">other teams</a> internationally are developing and testing new ways of delivering CBTi. Several groups are testing devices, which <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002%2Flio2.761">stimulate</a> the tongue muscles during sleep, to treat sleep apnoea in people with both disorders. And we’re still working out the best order for patients to access treatments, and the best combination of treatments. <h2>The power of TV</h2> Joyce’s public diagnosis of both insomnia and sleep apnoea will no doubt raise awareness of what we suspect is an underdiagnosed condition. Based on how common insomnia and sleep apnoea are in Australia, we estimate Joyce is one of about <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2021.03.023">5–10%</a> of Australian adults to have both at the same time. The Conversation contacted Joyce’s spokesperson for comment but did not hear back before deadline.<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/224616/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alexander-sweetman-1331085">Alexander Sweetman</a>, Research Fellow, College of Medicine and Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a> Image credits: Getty Images 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/why-barnaby-joyces-tv-diagnosis-of-insomnia-plus-sleep-apnoea-is-such-a-big-deal-224616">original article</a>.

Body

"Eventful walk home": Barnaby Joyce explains why he was found collapsed on footpath

Barnaby Joyce, the Nationals frontbencher, has recently found himself at the centre of public attention after a video surfaced showing him lying on a footpath in Canberra, seemingly in an inebriated state. In a statement to Seven's Sunrise on Monday morning, Joyce attributed the incident to mixing alcohol with prescription medication. “It was a very eventful walk home, wasn’t it,” he said to host Nat Barr. "I’m on a prescription drug, and they say certain things may happen to you if you drink, and they were absolutely 100 per cent right. They did.” Barr then replied: “So you mixed alcohol with prescription medication, did you, and this is what happened?” “That’s exactly what I said, yep,” Joyce responded. In the video footage captured on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, initially obtained by The Daily Mail, Joyce can be seen lying on his back, mumbling into his phone, prompting concerns from passersby. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged Joyce to provide a credible explanation. “People will certainly make their own judgements on that," Albanese told the ABC. "People will see that footage, they will look for an explanation that has some credibility and they’ll look for leadership from the leader of the Liberal Party and the leader of the National Party about this.” Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed concern for Joyce's wellbeing, calling for an explanation while refraining from personal attacks. The incident has prompted discussions within political circles, with Nationals leader David Littleproud stating that Joyce would receive the necessary support. However, Joyce's decision to skip a party meeting where the incident was to be discussed indicates ongoing uncertainty surrounding the situation. Images: Sunrise / Seven

News

Tiny chihuahua saves 90-year-old woman with heroic act

In the world of unlikely heroes, step aside Batman, move over Superman, because Minnie the Chihuahua cross is here to steal the spotlight. This petite pooch from Kingston, in the South Australia's southeast, has recently been showered with praise for her unexpected, life-saving antics. Picture this: Minnie, a little dog with a heart as big as her bark, not particularly keen on hugs, found herself in a situation that required more than just a wag of her tail. On that fateful Friday, December 1, Minnie noticed that her 90-year-old owner, Joyce Gibbs, was in a bit of a pickle – struggling to catch a breath. Now, most dogs might just tilt their heads in confusion (you can picture it) or fetch a chew toy, but not Minnie. Untrained in any form of medical assistance, Minnie decided to take matters into her own paws. Whether by sheer luck or by innate instinct, the canine prodigy leaped onto Joyce’s lap and – brace yourselves – pressed the medical alert device hanging around her neck. Yes, you heard that right; she hit the SOS button, sending out a message that would make any emergency service scramble into action. Lyn Gibbs, Joyce’s daughter, expressed her astonishment, “Minnie never jumps up in that chair when mum is in it..." she <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/chihuahua-praised-for-saving-90-year-old-south-australian-owner-struggling-to-breathe-c-12821344" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told 7News</a>. "Minnie knew she needed help, so she jumped up, trying to help her.” A stroke of genius? An incredibly lucky accident? Either way, Minnie became the the hero of the moment, saving the day like a furry little Avenger. As Joyce found herself in the hospital grappling with Rhinovirus, Minnie continued to be her unwavering companion. Doctors predicted a three-week recovery period, but after only four days, Joyce was back home, thanks to the vigilant care of her four-legged saviour. Lyn couldn’t help but gush about Minnie’s dedication, “Minnie’s been so good from the day I got her... she’s the best dog... she doesn’t leave her side.” Move over Florence Nightingale; we’ve got Minnie, the dedicated dog nurse, taking care of business. This heartwarming tale isn’t just about Minnie’s heroics; it’s a reminder of the importance of those pesky but life-saving medical alert devices. As Lyn says: “The medical alert is just so important for old people... a lot of them won’t wear them. They put them on the cupboard or on the table, but you really need them at all times, especially in the shower.” So, take heed: wear your devices and maybe, just maybe, you'll have a four-legged hero by your side, ready to leap into action when you least expect it. In a world where a Chihuahua can be the difference between a close call and catastrophe, we salute you, Minnie, for proving that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Images: 7News

Caring

Love conquers critics as Vikki Campion hits back at "unkind" comments on wedding to Barnaby Joyce

Love triumphed over adversity last weekend as Vikki Campion, former staffer and Saturday Telegraph columnist, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/barnaby-joyce-and-vikki-campion-tie-the-knot-in-bush-bash-wedding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">celebrated her wedding</a> to high-profile Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce at his family's property in Woolbrook, NSW. Despite the picturesque setting and the couple's genuine joy, the event faced criticism and name-calling, prompting Campion to address the detractors in a powerful statement. In her <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/opinion/vikki-campion-my-perfect-wedding-and-the-barnaby-joyce-that-i-know-and-love/news-story/5ed16bef0795a10e2e0859cc161f5cbf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Saturday Telegraph</a> column entitled "My perfect wedding and the Barnaby Joyce that I know and love", Campion dismissed the negative comments, saying, "In the country, they say one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Well, I found mine ... Call it trash all you like. It will always be perfect to us." She remained resilient in the face of harsh judgments, emphasising that the unkind remarks had no impact on her or her husband. Instead, she focused on the love they shared, the friends who supported them, and the unique lifestyle they embraced. Campion took the opportunity to highlight the real treasure of the event: the local community. In her exclusive op-ed, she expressed gratitude for the diverse group of people who came together to make the celebration unforgettable. The wedding, she explained, brought together individuals from different backgrounds and walks of life, transcending cultural, political and socioeconomic boundaries. The imagery of the event painted a vivid picture of a true "bush bash," complete with Akubras, ciggies, beer and rum. The celebration, described as a return to "country style," featured over 80 guests who arrived in 4WDs, reflecting the down-to-earth atmosphere that defined the day. The pink and ivory-themed wedding showcased Campion in a strapless cream tulle dress with a long train, complemented by gold earrings and heeled black cowboy boots. Despite the criticism, pictures captured the couple's genuine happiness as they mingled with guests, five years after their relationship first became public. The wedding also marked a reunion with Joyce's young sons, Thomas and Sebastian, aged four and five, while his four adult daughters were notably absent. The absence of Joyce's adult daughters <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/i-ve-moved-on-barnaby-joyce-s-former-wife-speaks-out-after-media-circus-wedding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stirred earlier controversies</a>, adding another layer to the media scrutiny surrounding the event. Despite the tumultuous journey that led to this moment – Joyce's resignation as deputy prime minister and Nationals leader following the exposure of their relationship – the couple's commitment to each other remained unshaken. The ceremony took place at a location with special meaning to Joyce, creating a touching and sentimental atmosphere. The wedding's inclusive nature, with guests from various backgrounds and perspectives, symbolised the couple's ability to transcend the public scrutiny that had surrounded them. Campion's response to critics showcased her resilience and determination to focus on the positives, celebrating the love that brought them together. As Vikki Campion and Barnaby Joyce embark on this new chapter of their lives, they do so with the unwavering belief that their wedding, labelled "trash" by some, will forever be perfect in their hearts. Love prevailed over judgment, and the couple's ability to rise above the criticism serves as a testament to the strength of their bond. Images: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister / Instagram

Relationships

"I've moved on": Barnaby Joyce's former wife speaks out after "media circus" wedding

Barnaby Joyce's <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/barnaby-joyce-and-vikki-campion-tie-the-knot-in-bush-bash-wedding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"bush-bash" wedding</a> to Vikki Campion has stirred up a whirlwind of emotions and media attention, prompting Natalie Abberfield, his first wife, to finally break her silence. Speaking to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/work/leaders/barnaby-joyces-first-wife-breaks-silence-on-his-bush-bash-wedding-to-vikki-campion/news-story/e4527b65acee73ac552246771e4d018e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>, Abberfield revealed that she has successfully moved on from the heartbreak of her 24-year marriage to the former Deputy Prime Minister coming to an end. Abberfield acknowledged that life has taken a positive turn for her and her family since the divorce, and that she is focused on herself and the well-being of her loved ones. “All I want to say is, I would just like to wish the happy couple all the best,’’ she told news.com.au. “I am just looking after me and no one else I suppose. That’s probably it. Yeah. I’ve got a really good group of friends. My family is great. The girls are great. Yeah. I’ve moved on now. Totally moved on. “I suppose that was one chapter of my book and now I am in a few new chapters of my book.” The absence of an invitation to the wedding for Natalie's daughter, Odette, added a layer of complexity to the family dynamics. Odette, a 20-year-old aspiring individual, criticised the media circus surrounding the event as "tacky". Despite the strained relationship, Natalie remains close to her adult daughters, who chose not to attend their father's wedding. Post-divorce, Natalie has found solace and empowerment in bodybuilding, a passion she adopted as a means to "escape" the chaos that followed the end of her marriage. Contrary to media speculations, she clarified that bodybuilding was not about achieving a "revenge body" but rather a journey towards rediscovering her identity beyond the roles of wife and mother. The Joyce family saga has not escaped the public eye, drawing comments from then-Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who described Joyce's behaviour as a "shocking error of judgment". The fallout from the affair has left Natalie and her daughters grappling with hurt and humiliation. Joyce's youngest daughter, Odette, confirmed that none of his four daughters attended the wedding, underlining the fractured relationships within the family. Odette's criticism extended to her father's decision to involve the media in the ceremony, deeming it both "tacky" and in "poor taste". Prior to the recent nuptials, in a surprising yet light-hearted twist, Barnaby's daughter Julia posted an Instagram video wearing a bridal dress while Natalie appeared to wear a veil. The caption, "Getting ready to crash my dad’s wedding I didn’t get invited to, in my mum’s wedding dress," hinted at a coping mechanism for the family, with Natalie explaining that it was all "for a laugh". Ultimately, in the face of public scrutiny and strained family relationships, Natalie Abberfield appears to have chosen a path of strength, focusing on her well-being, her passions and the positive aspects of her life. Images: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister / Instagram

Family & Pets

Barnaby Joyce and Vikki Campion tie the knot in "bush bash" wedding

Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce and his partner, ex-staffer Vikki Campion, celebrated their union in an intimate "bush bash" wedding at Joyce's family estate in Woolbrook, near Walcha in northeast NSW. The event, described affectionately by a guest as a "bachelor and spinster ball", marked a significant moment in the couple's journey, which had faced public scrutiny in the past. The much-anticipated celebration, held five years after the revelation of their relationship, saw the couple donning Akubra hats, embracing the rustic charm of their country-style wedding. The ceremony, which prompted Joyce's resignation as deputy prime minister and Nationals leader, was a private affair, with the guest list exceeding 80 attendees. The pink and ivory-themed wedding unfolded with Campion radiantly adorned in a strapless cream tulle dress, featuring a long train. She paired the elegant ensemble with gold earrings and heeled black cowboy boots, epitomising the unique blend of sophistication and rural charm. The couple's two sons, Sebastian (5) and Thomas (4), played the role of page boys in matching chinos and navy waistcoats, adding a family touch to the heartwarming ceremony. The event took place at a location on Joyce's family property that held special significance for the couple, adding a personal touch to the nuptials. <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/CziVHv_S2_z/?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/CziVHv_S2_z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Daily Telegraph Sydney (@dailytelegraph)</a> </div> </blockquote> Following the ceremony, guests gathered at Woolbrook hall for a country-style feast and drinks, reminiscent of a traditional bachelor and spinster ball. The event embraced a return to "country style", with guests arriving in 4x4s and a relaxed dress code featuring flat shoes and broad-brimmed hats. Notable attendees included Nationals MP George Christensen, adding a touch of political prominence to the celebration. The festivities also featured high-profile guests, contributing to the event's unique blend of country charm and political influence. However, the guest list raised questions about the attendance of Joyce's four daughters from his previous marriage to Natalie Abberfield – Julia, Caroline, Odette and Bridgette. Julia Joyce had previously taken to Instagram, expressing her humorous intent to "crash" her father's wedding in her mother's vintage wedding dress. The involvement of Campion's father, Peter, in giving her away added a traditional touch to the ceremony, reinforcing the significance of family in the couple's journey. Joyce's proposal to Campion last year, following his separation from his wife of over 25 years, marked a turning point in their relationship. The bush bash wedding served as a symbolic celebration of their love, surrounded by the rustic beauty of the Woolbrook estate. As the newlyweds embark on this new chapter, their bush bash wedding will undoubtedly be remembered as a unique blend of country charm and personal significance. Images: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister / Instagram

Family & Pets

Wedding bells for Barnaby Joyce

In a whirlwind of controversy and headlines, the love story between former Australian Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and his political advisor Vikki Campion is about to take centre stage in the tranquil backdrop of rural Walcha. According to <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/barnabys-bush-bash-wedding-byo-ute-and-swag/news-story/3ab2a5c1ff4deb18efec6fbf8a94dcba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Mail</a>, the couple, whose relationship sparked a political firestorm, is all set to tie the knot in a "bush bash" themed wedding on November 12, right in the heart of New England's countryside. With a select group of friends and loyal National Party supporters on the guest list, the nuptials are scheduled to kick off at 11am, at a location that is being kept tightly under wraps but is rumoured to be one of the Joyce family properties at nearby Woolbrook. The couple has left no stone unturned in embracing the rustic charm of the Australian bush, and their guests have been given a taste of what's in store. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in their trusty utes or robust 4WD vehicles, roll out their swags, and get ready to party until the stars light up the outback sky. A guest who is eagerly anticipating what has been dubbed the "political wedding of the year" described the event as reminiscent of a B&S (bachelor and spinster) ball, saying, "It's very much Barnaby getting back to his country roots...we can't wait. The naysayers said they wouldn't get to this point, but this is two people in love, and we can't wait to celebrate." Further details about the exact wedding location will be shared with guests closer to the date, but they have been assured of an abundance of refreshments and entertainment well into the night. Many of the attendees are expected to embrace the full country experience, spending the night in their swags under the vast, starlit sky or in the back of their trusty utes. For those who prefer a more comfortable resting place, a bus will be on hand to shuttle them back to the nearby town, where they can find lodgings at the local country hotel. Adding to the sentimental charm of this country wedding are Joyce and Campion's two sons, Sebastian and Tom, who are expected to play a special role in the ceremony. The fact that the ceremony and reception are at the same location underscores the couple's desire to keep the event intimate and close-knit. It is understood that one of Barnaby Joyce's four daughters from his previous marriage to Natalie will also be in attendance, marking a significant step toward mending relationships that have been strained since the affair came to light. Barnaby Joyce's proposal to Vikki Campion over dinner in Coffs Harbour in January 2022 marked the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship, nearly four years after their affair was thrust into the public eye. The journey to this wedding day was not without its challenges. At the height of the affair's revelation, the then Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, criticised Joyce for a "shocking error of judgment" due to the affair and the pain it caused the women in his life. Consequently, Joyce stepped down from his role as Deputy Prime Minister and Nationals leader in the face of mounting pressure to resign. Natalie Joyce, Barnaby's former wife, was thrust into the spotlight when she claimed she had no knowledge of her husband's infidelity. Today, Barnaby Joyce serves as the Member for New England and holds the position of Shadow Minister for Veteran Affairs, representing the same region where his love story with Vikki Campion is set to culminate in a unique and charming "bush bash" wedding. As the couple exchanges their vows and dances under the stars of rural Australia, they bid farewell to the past, embracing a brighter and more united future, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the New England countryside. Image: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

Relationships

"His hero narrative has massively failed": Qantas staff's brutal response to Alan Joyce's early exit

A former Qantas pilot and several current staff members have recounted the moment they found out about now former-CEO Alan Joyce's early exit from the company. Joyce was planning to retire from his CEO role in November, but shocked the nation on <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/alan-joyce-announces-shock-early-departure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tuesday</a> when he decided he would be stepping back, effective immediately. His resignation comes after 22 years in the role, as Qantas continues to face mounting pressures over unprecedented customer dissatisfaction, and a looming glass action lawsuit over cancelled flights. Upon hearing the news, past and present Qantas employees erupted in celebration. Retired Qantas pilot captain Richard de Crespigny was on board a flight on Tuesday when the news broke mid-air that Joyce was gone, sparking extraordinary celebrations. "I was on a flight from Sydney to Melbourne this morning and when I landed the cabin crew were giving each other high-fives," de Crespigny told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/former-qantas-pilot-richard-de-crespigny-speaks-out-following-ceo-alan-joyce-resignation/18040563-db75-41c4-af7c-b5ed8af84bf6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair</a>. Another ground staff member said, "We're celebrating wildly, not just because he's leaving but because his hero narrative has massively failed." Mr de Crespigny, who worked for Qantas for 34 years warned the airline won't regain trust overnight just because Joyce has taken off. "It's built in teaspoons and destroyed in shovel loads," he said. "It takes incredible skill, determination and empathy to build it up; it's got to be protected." Mr de Crespigny went on to say the Qantas business restructure after the travel industry was decimated by the Covid pandemic was not good enough, and the upper management made some terrible decisions. During the pandemic, Mr Joyce locked out employees during an industrial dispute before hundreds of staff lost their jobs during the Covid-19 pandemic. "Some of them didn't come out of it well at all. They lost their jobs, they lost their houses, they lost their marriages," de Crespigny said. "The workers that held Qantas up … they really suffered greatly." "And it hasn't been a good vision to see the executive team, the CEO, continue to get bonuses at the expense of maybe baggage handlers and other people that have lost their jobs. This is not a good example of leadership." Image credits: A Current Affair

Travel Trouble

Alan Joyce announces shock early departure

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is stepping down from his position earlier than anticipated, following a period of mounting public and regulatory pressure on the national airline. After dedicating 22 years to Qantas, with a 15-year tenure as its chief executive, Joyce's last day in office was confirmed by Qantas in a statement to the ASX. The airline has been mired in a series of negative headlines for several months, including <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/alan-joyce-grilled-over-cancelled-flights-and-covid-credits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">allegations of selling tickets for nonexistent flights</a>, exorbitant airfares, high cancellation rates and issues related to <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/alan-joyce-grilled-over-cancelled-flights-and-covid-credits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flight credits</a>. Vanessa Hudson, the incoming leader designated to fill Joyce's shoes, will now take on the role of managing director and group chief executive, effective from Wednesday August 6. This unexpected announcement was made on Tuesday morning, with Mr. Joyce stating, "In the last few weeks, the focus on Qantas and events of the past make it clear to me that the company needs to move ahead with its renewal as a priority. "The best thing I can do under these circumstances is to bring forward my retirement and hand over to Vanessa and the new management team now, knowing they will do an excellent job. "There is a lot I am proud of over my 22 years at Qantas, including the past 15 years as CEO. There have been many ups and downs, and there is clearly much work still to be done, especially to make sure we always deliver for our customers. But I leave knowing that the company is fundamentally strong and has a bright future." Qantas Chairman Richard Goyder expressed gratitude to Joyce for his years of service and leadership but acknowledged that the transition is occurring during a challenging period for Qantas. Joyce's decision to step down came shortly after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission initiated legal action against the airline, accusing it of selling tickets for over 8,000 flights scheduled between May and July of the previous year, even after those flights had been cancelled. Image: Getty

Legal

Alan Joyce grilled over cancelled flights and Covid credits

Outgoing Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has faced a line of tough questioning after appearing in front of a Senate committee on Monday, who questioned his enormous salary in the face of the cost of living crisis. At the explosive public hearing of the select committee on the cost of living, which Joyce had to be summonsed to after repeatedly refusing to attend, the outgoing Qantas chief executive defended the record $2.47bn full-year profit he announced just days earlier. Senators were confused by the extraordinary profit, given Qantas has seen 12 months of soaring customer dissatisfaction and a looming class action lawsuit over the travel credits policy during the height of the pandemic, as well as facing accusations of anti-competitive behaviour, and historically high cancellation rates out of Sydney airport. Joyce defended the profits, saying Qantas had been caught up in a wave of “criticism of corporate profits” due to cost-of-living pressures. As well as the company's incredible profits, Joyce himself, who is walking away from the CEO role at the end of the year, is set to walk away with as much as $24 million in personal pay. Labor senator Tony Sheldon quizzed Joyce on if he feels "embarrassed" over his huge personal salary, given the airline’s soaring complaints and his decisions to restructure the airline to pay employees less. Joyce refused to answer the question, saying the senator was "making a whole series of points that are just incorrect.” Joyce was then grilled on the seemingly "strategic" cancellation of domestic flights, in which some senators, as well as airline competitors, had accused Qantas of booking in flights out of Sydney airport and then cancelling them last minute, to block other airlines from increasing their services. He again denied these claims, stating that Qantas’s cancellation rate on a national level (not out of Sydney specifically) were the lowest of the major carriers, and blamed the cancellations on “supply chain issues” and “air traffic control delays”. Finally, Joyce was confronted over his policy of not refunding travel credits that were issued when travellers' trips were cancelled during the height of the pandemic. In June, Qantas announced more than $500 million in Covid credits remained unclaimed and would expire by the end of the year. While refunds have been offered for some credits, not everyone was able to claim these, and a class action lawsuit is now claiming compensation for lost interest on the credits. At the Senate committee meeting, Jetstar chief executive, Steph Tully, said the number of unclaimed credits now lies at $370 million, however this figure did not reflect Jetstar or overseas customers’ credits. “Around $100m” in Jetstar credits remain unclaimed, on top of Qantas’s $370m, Tully said. Senator Sheldon then slammed Tully for "not being transparent” before asking “what’s stopping you from refunding the money”. Tully replied “lots of reasons”, citing codeshare flights and “half-taken trips”. Image credits: Getty Images

Money & Banking

Alan Joyce preparing to sell controversial $20 million mansion

Outgoing Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is saying goodbye to more than his long-time role at the airline as he prepares to sell his controversial harbourside mansion. The veteran airline boss purchased the gorgeous North Shore home for a staggering $19 million in May 2022. Soon after he was forced to launch a fierce defence of his excessive spending habits after Qantas announced a whopping $1.9 billion loss. The airline came under fire for poor customer service, extended wait times for flyers, and drama over lost bags and late flights, amid legal action over its move to lay off workers that lead to Joyce launching the defence of his own record as airline boss. He said he was tired of being forced to justify his professional and personal decisions. “Why is it relevant what I do in my private life? I’m not a public figure. People regard the CEO of Qantas as like a politician and it definitely shouldn’t be. It’s a business figure,’ Joyce told The Australian in 2022. “It’s been well reported over the years how much I get paid, so I do have the money because Qantas went to record profits and had a record share price.” According to reports, Joyce is set to sell his short-term blue chip pile in Mosman, overlooking Mosman Bay and move into a generous penthouse in The Rocks. It is understood that Joyce has undertaken some refurbishments on the Mosman home. That paired with the competitive market for prestige homes in Sydney means the home could sell for more than $20 million. The luxe home has been previously owned by former foreign exchange dealer Alison Ethell and her sister, Jane, since 1993 when it cost $1.25 million. Image credit: Getty / Realestate.com.au

Real Estate

Barnaby Joyce slams decision to bring ISIS brides and children back

Barnaby Joyce has warned that children who were taken to war torn countries under ISIS rule or were born under the regime pose a huge risk to Australia. The former Nationals leader said the men and women who travelled to join terrorist organisations made their own decisions. He said that Australia repatriating four women and their 13 children after being stuck in al-Hol and al-Roj camps in the north eastern Syria region since 2019 was a bad idea. “They chose to go and be part of a terrorist organisation that was murdering people, raping people, destroying the cultural heritage of countries, and the children that were born overseas are citizens of wherever they were born,’’ Mr Joyce said on Sunrise. The women however have disputed Mr Joyce’s claims with many of them claiming that they were forced to travel to Syria with their husbands, or were taken there as teenagers and children by their parents before marrying local men. Mr Joyce said the scheme will cost millions of dollars to keep an eye on the women and children to ensure no Aussies are put at risk. “As a former deputy chair of the National Security Committee, this will cost millions and millions of dollars to monitor them," he said. “We have one problem for one person who does not relinquish the vile views they have and meet up with other people and start to espouse their views at some stage of the future. “That is a massive risk to us and a massive problem. Because people chose to go there, it is totally different and I have real concerns about this, serious concerns about this, serious concerns about what happens.” Labor frontbencher Tanya Plibersek said it was unfair to paint the children of the women with the same brush. “(ISIS) were a disgusting organisation that did disgusting things, but ...a number of these women were taken as children to Syria,’’ she said. “They were children themselves when they were children themselves when they were taken and they have children now who are Australian citizens growing up in some of the most dangerous places on earth.” She said it should be reassuring that Australia’s security agencies went above and beyond to ensure their safety and will integrate them back into society. “I understand why people are concerned and it is absolutely vital that we continue to take the advice of our security agencies that these women stay in touch with people who are prepared to supervise them and in many cases, they will be for a long time, but we need to get these kids home safely and get the kids into normal schools, surrounded by family that love them, integrating into the Australian way of life. “That’s how we keep ourselves safe and that’s how we keep them safe.” Images: Getty/Facebook

News

Qantas reports huge loss but even bigger revenue

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has announced a whopping $1.9 billion loss for the 2022 Financial Year. Following almost two years of next to no flights due to the Covid pandemic, Mr Joyce explained that flights are “all full” as they push to get them out of storage. He however revealed that despite air travel resuming, his company has faced a devastating loss but quite an impressive revenue. “The Group had an underlying loss before tax of almost $1.9 billion, and a statutory loss before tax of just under $1.2 billion,” Mr Joyce said. “That brings our total losses since the start of the pandemic to more than $7 billion and takes lost revenue to more than $25 billion. “To put that in perspective, on a statutory basis, COVID cost us more money in the past three years than we made in the five years before that. “The fact we’ve been able to steer through this is remarkable. And now that we are through it, things are improving even faster than we expected.” Mr Joyce then noted the frustration felt by flyers due to delayed and cancelled flights, lost luggage, and labour shortage. He said that they are working toward improving customers’ experience as leisure flying soared to 125 per cent of pre-Covid levels and business travel to 90 per cent. “As many of you have probably experienced, strong travel demand has also brought some difficulties,” he continued. “We knew the recovery was coming and we were ready for the restart. What we weren’t ready for – after 18 months of COVID being suppressed – was such high levels of community transmission and the sick leave that followed. “The rebound in travel demand also coincided with a massive labour shortage. Of course, that shortage has been more acute in aviation because of how many people left the industry during two very uncertain years. “All of this resulted in well-publicised problems: long queues, delayed flights and misplaced bags. “It was incredibly tough for our people and deeply frustrating for our passengers. It simply wasn’t good enough, and for that, we have apologised.” Mr Joyce revealed that the company has hired more than 1,500 staff since April, with more new recruits to come in the next few months. “We’re reducing our domestic flying – in part – to give us more buffer. We are rostering more crew across fewer flights, which means we can better cover sick leave that is averaging almost 50 per cent above normal,” he continued. “We’re also investing more in technology, including an upgrade to our airport kiosks and bag drop facilities, as well as new scanners at boarding gates.” Image: Getty

Travel Trouble

Barnaby Joyce shares sad family news

Barnaby Joyce’s dad James Joyce has died at the age of 98. The former deputy prime minister rushed from Canberra to be by his father’s side on Monday following awful news that his health had deteriorated. James, who lives with Barnaby and his wife and six kids at the family farm in Barnaby’s electorate of New England, then passed away on July 26 at 11.30pm. “Barnaby Joyce is mourning the loss of his father Jim Joyce, aged 98, who sadly passed away last night,” a spokesman said. “He appreciates the many kind wishes and thoughts being extended at his difficult time.” The late Mr Joyce was a World War II veteran and a livestock veterinarian. He was a huge supporter of his son’s political career but there were issues in 2018 when it was revealed that Barnaby had dual citizenship. Barnaby was contacted by the New Zealand High Commission and told he “could be a citizen of New Zealand by descent”. The High Court then ruled that Barnaby and four other senators were ineligible to sit in parliament due to the dual citizenship. This sparked a by-election in Barnaby’s electorate with him saying he had “no reason to believe that I was a citizen of any other country than Australia”. Image: Getty

News

Qantas chief Alan Joyce’s home egged by unknown vandals

A harbourside property belonging to Qantas boss Alan Joyce has been the target of egg and toilet-paper-wielding vandals. The property, purchased by Joyce and his partner Shane Lloyd for $19 million earlier this year, is believed to have been struck on Monday night, after splattered eggs and toilet paper were spotted littering the roof on Tuesday, per <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/incidents/vandals-toilet-paper-and-egg-qantas-boss-19m-harbourside-mansion/news-story/c67d2637924a3ee0c7723feb99a686a8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>. Police are yet to reveal any leads on the culprits. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/07/alan-joyce-vandals.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Alan Joyce’s home was seen covered in toilet paper and smashed eggs. Image: Nine News It comes as Qantas faces public backlash for its treatment of workers and the decline in the quality of its service since flights resumed. Unions have slammed the national airline’s approach to saving money during the pandemic, which saw the company pocket $855 million in jobkeeper payments while two thirds of its 30,000-person workforce were stood down, as well as the outsourcing of 1,683 ground crew jobs - a move deemed illegal by the Federal Court. “Qantas has led a years-long war on workers to control the decline in wages and conditions in aviation,” Transport Workers Union national secretary recently said of the company’s behaviour under Joyce’s leadership. Though cost-saving measures have impacted Joyce’s salary, which was revealed to be $24 million in 2018, he still brings in a hefty $2 million a year post-pandemic. The couple have relocated to the harbourside six-bedroom home from their apartment in The Rocks, neighbours say they have spent little time there since. Images: Nine News / Getty Images

Real Estate

Nat Barr loses it at Tanya Plibersek and Barnaby Joyce live on air

Natalie Barr has lost her patience with the federal election campaign, as she slammed Tanya Plibersek and Barnaby Joyce in a fiery Sunrise segment. In the on-air debate on Monday morning, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce asked Ms Plibersek on if Labor's policy to help first homebuyers, by buying a stake in their properties, applied to voters' taxable or gross income. Tanya was unable to answer the question directly, leading Joyce to erupt "Which one is it Tanya?!" and Barr to say she felt sorry for Australian voters. The two senior politicians were each grilled about their party's policies on helping first homebuyers, after the Coalition proposed a plan to allow Aussie families to withdraw up to $50,000 from their superannuation to buy their first property. Labor is proposing the Federal government would contribute up to 40 per cent of the purchase price of a first home. The plan would be only be accessible to voters on a taxable income of up to $90,000 per annum for singles, or $120,000 for couples, but the figures are unclear if they are gross or net payments. "Which one is it Tanya?! It's your policy," an exasperated Mr Joyce asked. "Can you explain your policy? It's the last week of the election!" "How do you not understand your own policy?" Barr piled onto Ms Plibersek, asking, "Can you answer the question?" Ms Plibersek eventually confirmed Labor's policy was based on taxable income, to which Mr Joyce implied she was told the figure by an off-camera staffer. Natalie Barr then wrapped up the segment before it could delve further into an on-air screaming match. "Can anyone feel sorry for the people of Australia this morning, trying to work out what on earth we are voting on this Saturday," Barr said. Ms Plibersek added "I feel embarrassed the deputy Prime Minister carries on like that, I really do." Barr fired back, "I feel sorry for us, because we've got to walk into those polling booths and we have to try and work out what on earth we're voting on!" Earlier in the segment, Tanya Plibersek slammed the Coalition's housing affordability scheme, citing why such measures had not worked in the past as housing prices would skyrocket. "There is a reason why John Howard, Peter Costello… and Malcolm Turnbull rejected this policy," Ms Plibersek said. "All the Liberals in the past have rejected it because you shouldn't have to choose between housing today and poverty in old age." "Scott Morrison and his government have been around for almost a decade. It's harder to buy a home, it's harder to rent and it's more expensive and there's more homelessness than ever." Image credits: Sunrise

Alan Joyce slammed for blaming travellers

Aussies travellers have slammed Qantas CEO Alan Joyce for saying they are to blame for crowded and lengthy waits at the airport. After two years of little to no flights due to the pandemic and staff being laid off, people are going on well-deserved holidays. During the pandemic, Qantas laid off almost 8,000 employees but Joyce was given a huge $1.6 billion in support from the government. So it’s understandable that Aussie travellers might be fuming somewhat in the wake of his comments, calling them “rusty” and not noting the fact that he had gotten rid of most of the staff. “Passengers are rusty in travelling,” he said. He then tried to relate to others by saying he forgot his passport the other day while travelling. “I left my passport in my hotel safe. One of my colleagues left her passport on a BA flight,” he said. “Another colleague last week thought that the gate number was her seat number and got them confused.” Sydney Airport has endured four days of crowds as people try to escape for the school and Easter holidays. Lines were seen snaking through the terminals and even outside the airport. On Monday, Joyce apologised for his comments and instead requested staff be patient. “I want to apologise to all of our passengers – on behalf of the airports who do the security, on behalf of the airlines having to deal with this, and ask our passengers for continued patience,” he told ABC News Breakfast. Large crowds are expected to continue through the Easter holidays up to ANZAC Day as people take advantage of the extra time off. Image: Getty

Travel Trouble

Barnaby Joyce's fiancée shares the story of their scandalous relationship

Barnaby Joyce's fiancée has shared the tumultuous story of the pair's relationship, which hit turbulent times after their affair was make public. Vikki Campion, who is 18 years younger than the National's leader, feared she would have to give birth alone and "walk away" from judgemental friends when she was secretly pregnant to the now Deputy Prime Minister. In 2018, Vikki gave birth to their son Sebastian and their second son Thomas a year later. The very public affair between the MP and his staffer forced Barnaby to step down from his role in politics, only to be reinstated years later. Despite the couple's relationship beginning with a rocky start, the pair got engaged in Coffs Harbour last week, with Vikki comparing their relationship to a "great love throughout history". Vikki admitted that the early days of their relationship "wasn't perfect", but also insists that she doesn't regret the drama surrounding their infidelity. In a column for <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/opinion/vikki-campion-on-bended-knees-barnaby-asked-me-i-melted/news-story/10307fbe332d4a99bf9c3103ecfa763a" target="_blank">The Daily Telegraph</a>, Vikki said, "Even until the day he said in Parliament that I was his partner, I didn’t believe it to be accurate. He said he would be there in the labour ward and I didn’t believe that either." The mother-of-two went on to explain that during a whirlwind of "twisted mistakes" and "humiliation", she was forced to "walk away" from her friends before they got the chance to "exile" her. "You swap your job for harsh stares, paparazzi and paranoia, schoolyard rumours cooking up in Ultimo newsrooms, many without a yolk of truth and you stop answering the door," she said. "He has asked me a thousand times: 'Would you go through it all again?' And my answer has always been yes." In December 2017, Barnaby Joyce used the distraction fo the parliamentary debate on same sex marriage to confirm he was no longer with Natalie, his ex-wife of 24 years and mother to his four daughters. After photos emerged of a heavily pregnant Vikki, his then staff member, the pair were forced to confirm their relationship, sending Barnaby's political career into disarray. After spending several years forced to the backbench of Parliament, Barnaby was reinstated as the leader of the Nationals party in June 2021. Image credits: Getty Images

Relationships

Deputy PM tests positive for Covid, Premier and PM monitoring for symptoms

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has tested positive for Covid-19, while Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Premier Dominic Perrottet have been advised to monitor for symptoms. Barnaby Joyce tested positive for the virus after traveling to Washington DC for work relating to the government's plan for new regulations on social media. Speaking with ABC Radio New England, the Deputy PM said he chose to get tested after experiencing mild symptoms. "Look, obviously [I am] very frustrated I'm going to be locked up in a room by myself for 10 days, but that's part of the process," he said. "It's probably developing, I'm probably very much in the early stages — but I'm more worried about being in a room by myself to be honest." Barnaby's positive result comes just hours after Scott Morrison and Dominic Perrottet were told to monitor for Covid symptoms, after the Bathurst 1000 Supercar races were listed as an exposure site. The Prime Minister and NSW Premier were among thousands of people at Mount Panorama for the Great Race on Sunday, where there has been at least three positive cases. “I was informed early this afternoon that I’m not a close contact,” Mr Perrottet said on Wednesday. “But obviously, for those people who have been to Bathurst and have symptoms, they need to get tested. And, if there is advice from NSW Health, then they need to follow that advice.” The McPhillamy Park Campground, The Paddock Campground, Harris Park, Merchandise Alley, National Motor Racing Museum, and Inside Chase viewing area have all been listed as venues of concern. Barnaby Joyce, Scott Morrison and Dominic Perrottet are all fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Image credits: Getty Images

News

Morrison calls social media a ‘coward’s palace’ as Joyce denies family rumours

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce have both taken social media companies to task today, declaring that ‘enough is enough’ and that more needs to be done about ‘completely and utterly fictitious’ rumours posted on social media. In a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Morrison called social media a ‘coward’s palace’, saying, “People can go on there, not say who they are, destroy people's lives, and say the most foul and offensive things to people, and do so with impunity. “Now that's not a free country where that happens. That's not right. They should have to identify who they are. The companies, if they're not going to say who they are, well, they're not a platform any more, they're a publisher. They're a publisher.” He went on to talk about Australia’s role as a world leader in cracking down on social media companies, telling the media, “We intend to set the pace. We value our free society. And in a free society, you can't be a coward and attack people and expect not to be held accountable for it.” Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce spoke to ABC Radio about <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/politics/barnaby-joyce-shuts-down-rumours-of-an-affair-between-john-barilaro-and-his-daughter-bridgette/news-story/2c39bcdae7117862748fe5f6032b4ad8" target="_blank">rumours regarding his daughter that had been spreading online</a>. The rumours focused on his 23-year-old daughter, Bridgette, who has worked in former Deputy Premier John Barilaro’s office since February. Posts that had been made on social media suggested Barilaro’s recent retirement from politics was because of an inappropriate relationship with Bridgette Joyce. “It’s total and utter rubbish”, Joyce said on Thursday. He said that more needed to be done to force social media companies like Facebook and Twitter to stop people spreading such lies. “From my own personal experience of recent times, you have got to get to a point where you say enough is enough. “These platforms just say, ‘Oh well it’s too hard to control’. It’s not too hard for you to collect your billions of dollars from it and apparently it’s not too hard for you set up vessels to avoid tax in Australia.” Image: Rohan Thomson/Getty Images, Sam Mooy/Getty Images

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