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Outrage after grandma beaten at home by fake officers

The quiet neighbourhood of Girrawheen, Perth, has been rocked by a vicious assault perpetrated by three assailants disguised as police officers. The aftermath of this cowardly act has left an older couple traumatised and the community reeling with shock and outrage, with police releasing a graphic image of one of the victims in an attempt to help bring the perpetrators to justice. The victim of this brutal attack, 73-year-old Nannette, bore the brunt of the assailants' aggression, enduring a savage beating while her husband, Phillip, was bound and left traumatised inside their own home. The assailants, described as having olive complexions, fled the scene after ransacking the house and stealing jewellery of significant value. The image released by Western Australia Police, with Nannette's approval, was a stark portrayal of the brutality inflicted upon her. Police Commissioner Col Blanch condemned the attack in the strongest terms, expressing his disgust at the violence perpetrated against innocent civilians in their own home. “I saw the photo of the victim this morning, and it made me sick to my stomach,” Blanch said. “To have people at home suffer that type of attack is a disgrace.” Detective Inspector Gary Butler, visibly disturbed by the severity of the incident, highlighted the need for the community to come together to support the investigation and ensure that justice is served. "Violence of this nature is unacceptable, and it will not be tolerated," he said. The daughter of the victims also spoke out, shedding light on the harrowing ordeal her parents endured. She described her mother as a resilient individual who had recently battled cancer and was in the process of recovering. The attack has not only left physical scars but has also shattered their sense of security in their own home. “They tied my dad up, in their own home," she said. "So it’s not safe to come back.” Nannette, reportedly traumatised and in pain, requires medical treatment for her injuries. The psychological toll of such a traumatic experience is immeasurable, not only for the victims but also for their loved ones and the wider community. In the wake of this despicable act, Inspector Butler issued a plea for information, urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. "We will not stop until these offenders are apprehended and placed before the courts," he said. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Images: WA Police | Nine News

Caring

Police officer arrested amid search for missing men

A police officer has turned himself in over the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-officer-sought-in-connection-to-disappearance-of-two-men" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suspicious disappearance</a> of two men. Former Network Ten presenter 26-year-old Jesse Baird and his boyfriend 29-year-old Luke Davies were last seen on Monday, with police launching an extensive investigation into their disappearance. On Thursday, officers called for Constable Beau Lamarre to come forward as part of the investigation, believing he could hold valuable information. Now, on Friday morning, the celebrity blogger turned police officer presented at Bondi Police Station where he was arrested. The man was then taken to Waverley Police Station where he is assisting with inquiries, police said. During a press conference on Friday afternoon, a lead investigator confirmed the young officer has been charged with two counts of murder, while adding the families of the young men have been told the investigation is being treated as a homicide. Lamarre is an ex-partner of Baird and was a former celebrity blogger before joining NSW Police in 2020. Online the 28-year-old would often go by the pseudonym Beau London, creating accounts on social media and a celebrity blog page titled That's The Tea, where he posted selfies alongside celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Harry Styles and Taylor Swift. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">An investigation began into Baird and Davies' disappearance after number of their personal items, including a watch, clothes, credit cards and keys were found by a worker in Club Cronulla, with blood stains present on the items. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Police have also searched two homes during their investigation - one in Balmain and one in Paddington - with officers "immediately" establishing a crime scene at the Paddington home after finding blood spatters. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">According to officers, a “significant” amount of blood consistent with a fatality and signs of a struggle were discovered inside Mr Baird’s Paddington home on Thursday afternoon. <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">Image credits: 9News / Instagram

Legal

Police officer sought in connection to disappearance of two men

A NSW police officer is sought in connection to the suspicious disappearance of two men, who haven't been heard from since Monday. Former Studio 10 host Jesse Baird and his boyfriend Luke Davies were last seen four days ago, with police launching an investigation into their disappearance. A number of their personal items, including a watch, clothes, credit cards and keys were found by a worker in Club Cronulla, with blood stains present on the items. Police have also searched two homes during their investigation - one in Balmain and one in Paddington - with officers "immediately" establishing a crime scene at the Paddington home after finding blood spatters. According to officers, a “significant” amount of blood consistent with a fatality and signs of a struggle were discovered inside Mr Baird’s Paddington home on Thursday afternoon. More personal items belonging to the couple were recovered from a skip bin 20 kilometres from the home in question. Police have called for Constable Beau Lamarre to come forward as part of their investigation, who is the ex-boyfriend of one of the men. Friends of Baird have revealed he previously expressed concerns he was being stalked by another man. Police confirmed on Thursday they wanted to speak to Constable Lamarre in relation to the case and were desperately trying to reach him. "Following inquiries, detectives are looking at a line of inquiry that a third person may be able to assist with the investigation," NSW Police said, in a statement. "Police are currently trying to locate him." Police have not said that the officer was involved in the disappearance, only that they would like to speak to him, as no arrest warrant has been issued. Image credits: Instagram

Legal

"Absolute original": The Office star dies aged 50

The Office star Ewen MacIntosh has passed away at the age of 50. The comedian shot to fame for his portrayal of oddball character Keith Bishop in the UK version of the sitcom, starring alongside Ricky Gervais. Tributes have flooded in for the star, led by his co-star Gervais. He wrote, “Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP.” Stephen Merchant, who co-wrote The Office with Gervais, said he was “so very sad” to hear of the death of MacIntosh, who he described as a “lovely and uniquely funny man”. “I fondly recall we asked him to improvise an out-of-office message, and he was so hilarious we started writing more and more dialogue for him,” Merchant said in an Instagram tribute. “He soon stole every scene he was in. A total one-off. A tragic loss.” Ewen’s management team announced his passing, writing, “With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen MacIntosh." “His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home." “There will be a private cremation for family & close friends soon & a celebratory memorial later in the year.” His pal Ed Scott wrote, “I am completely devastated by the loss of my very good friend Ewen MacIntosh. “He may have had a famous face known by millions as Keith from The Office but the person inside is what I will most remember.” Away from the popular sitcom, Ewen struggled to get roles and went bankrupt in 2016. MacIntosh teamed up with Gervais once more for a small role in After Life, and also had minor roles in Little Britain and Miranda. He also opened up on his health battles, revealing in 2022 he had been admitted to hospital, saying it was a "Bad times for me I’m afraid chums," while urging his fans to "Stay strong out there.” Image credits: BBC

Caring

Disgraced police officer Roger Rogerson dies

Disgraced police officer and convicted murderer Roger Rogerson has passed away at the age of 83. The crooked ex-cop suffered a brain aneurysm in his cell at Long Bay prison in Sydney, where he was serving a life sentence for the murder of a 20-year-old, and died just days after. He was receiving end-of-life care at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick and died at 11pm on Sunday. Rogerson began his career in the police force at the age of 18 in 1959, and was known as one of the most decorated officers in New South Wales, before links to organised crime and corruption were uncovered. After rising through the ranks of the force and winning 12 commendation awards, he was found responsible for the 1981 fatal shooting of drug dealer Warren Lanfranchi, but was found to have been acting in the line of duty. However, Lanfranchi's girlfriend, Sallie-Anne Huckstepp, afterwards claimed Rogerson deliberately killed him over a drug dispute. Rogerson was also charged with the attempted killing of undercover officer Michael Drury in 1984, who turned down a bribe in exchange for evidence tampering in a heroin trafficking trial. Rogerson was acquitted of the charges in 1989, but he had been dismissed from the police service by then for depositing $110,000 in bank accounts under a false name. He was then jailed for four years for perverting the course of justice over that matter, and was jailed for another 12 months in 2005 for lying to the Police Integrity Commission. In 2014, Rogerson, and his fellow former detective Glen McNamara, were arrested over the execution murder of 20-year-old student Jamie Gao. Both disgraced officers were both found guilty in 2016 over the killing and handed life sentences, with Rogerson's final appeal over that conviction failing last year. Image credits: Nine - Under Investigation

News

Positive news for injured WA police officer in Croatia

A fundraiser set up for a WA police officer who was injured in an<a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/police-officer-in-critical-condition-after-terrifying-cliff-fall" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> unfortunate cliff fall </a>reached its $500,000 target. Ella Cutler was left fighting for her life after falling off a cliff top while on vacation in Croatia, and her loved ones set up a GoFundMe to help pay for her medical bills and bring her home via air ambulance. Now, Ella is out of the ICU with horrific injuries to her body, including her head and spine. Her friends and family members have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support from strangers who donated, and said that Ella still has a "long road" to recovery, with many surgeries to go. "There's been people that have donated, which is just so heartwarming to see Ella's story has really touched them," friend and fellow police officer Constable Dani Morrison said. "They've never met her and they still donated." Ella will undergo another surgery next week before she can fly home to Perth. Ella, and a 34-year-old Australian man were both injured after they fell 10 metres from a cliff near Fort Lovrijenac, in the Dubrovnik suburb of Piles on August 26. Her family have asked for donations after revealing that Ella's travel insurance denied her claim. As of today, the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-us-bring-ella-home#xd_co_f=NDIzY2U3YjUtNTQ2Yi00MjhjLWEwNTMtNGNhZTMyZmNiMzc0~" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> has raised $517,125. Image: WA Police

Caring

Police officer in critical condition after terrifying cliff fall

A WA police officer is fighting for her life after she was severely injured in a 10m fall from a clifftop in Pile, Croatia. Ella Cutler, 25, sustained life threatening injuries including multiple fractures to her skull, spine, 12 ribs and several limbs, puncturing both her lungs, leaving her in critical condition overseas. She is currently receiving around-the-clock care in a Dubrovnik hospital, and her family is desperate to bring the "much loved" police officer home. "We can only imagine how scared she would be if she knew the full extent of her injuries, and we cannot even begin to convey how frightened we are for her, and how important it is for her to come home," her brother Joshua Cutler wrote in a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-us-bring-ella-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page created for Ella. "She has too much living left to do, too many people to help, and too much love to give for this to be how this chapter ends. "She has a long hard road ahead of her, and she will need all the help she can get," he added. Although her loved ones have flown to be by her side, her travel insurance claims have reportedly been knocked back, and her medical bills are increasing by the day. The family hopes to raise $500,000 to cover hospital bills and an air ambulance to bring the “devoted public servant” home. “She will require many more months of care, multiple surgeries and months of physical rehabilitation before she is able to impact the world as she once did,” Josh said. "She can't do this alone, and neither can we," he added. They also thanked the doctors for their hard work, and explained that they hope to provide better facilities for Ella by moving her to a bigger hospital where she can receive specialised care, which is vital for further recovery. "They know the best thing for her is to be home where she can feel the full impact of the love from her family, friends, and community." Images: 7News

Caring

Ex-Finnish Prime Minister’s rebrand after divorce and leaving office

The former Finnish Prime Minister is living her best life after filing for divorce and leaving her position in office. Sanna Marin, the youngest ever female world leader, has kicked off her single girl summer by attending a three-day music festival in Helsinki, leaning into her love of partying. The 37-year-old shared photos from her summer adventures on Instagram, flaunting her relaxed politics-free new life. “This summer I’ve had a proper summer vacation for the first time in a while,” Marin wrote on Instagram while sharing snaps of her fun-filled days. “It has included, among other things, being busy with [5-year-old daughter] Emma, sports, friends, good food, and unforgettable trips.” Most of her followers applauded the change in her lifestyle, and were happy she was taking some quality time for herself. “You look AMAZING. Thank you for showing the world that you can fill the chair as a president and dress as you like at the same time,” influencer Dr. Caecilie Johansen commented. “Pretty sure we would’ve achieved world peace already if most world leaders were as chill as Sanna,” wrote one. Another agreed, “A politician having fun and looking really cool. This gives a really good example to young people and you give Finland great PR.” Marin’s drastic lifestyle change comes after she officially left her post as Finland’s prime minister three weeks earlier, when the National Coalition Party’s Petteri Orpo took office. As well as being out of a job in politics, Marin is also going through divorce proceedings with her ex-husband of three years and partner for 19 years Markus Raikkonen. The pair announced their separation in May, and said they would still remain best friends and happy co-parents to their daughter Emma despite jointly filing for the separation. Image credits: Instagram / Getty Images

Beauty & Style

Officer charged with fatal tasering causes chaos in court

A magistrate has expressed his "absolute disgust" after the NSW police officer charged with the fatal tasering of a 95-year-old failed to show up in person for court. Kristian White, 33, appeared via audiovisual link in Cooma Local Court on Wednesday after being charged with discharging his weapon at Clare Nowland, a dementia patient at an aged care facility in Cooma, who fell backwards from the tasering and sustained fatal injuries. As the virtual court began, Magistrate Roger Clisdell blasted the crown prosecutor’s decision to allow the suspended police officer to appear via a video link. “Who runs this court, Ms Stuart? You or me?” he asked crown prosecutor Sally Stuart in a raised voice. He said he felt “absolute disgust” that the decision had blindsided him, which meant that “dumbo here sitting on the bench just has to suck it up.” The magistrate went on to note that the court had employed several extra security personnel “at great expense” in anticipation of the highly publicised appearance, given the media storm surrounding Ms Nowland's death. There was no reason given as to why Mr White didn't show up for court in person, given he is currently living in the community under no restrictions. In a confusing move, Ms Stuart asked the court to impose a condition which would compel him to appear in court in future. Mr Clisdell blasted the hypocritical application, asking, “You excused him today, so why should I put him at your beck and call, not mine?” Ms Stuart eventually conceded that police should have imposed bail conditions on Mr White when he was charged with the serious offences. “It is probably something that should have been considered at the time but that decision was made by police,” she said. Mr White’s lawyer Warwick Anderson opposed the request for his client to be placed on bail, telling the court it had no “meaningful efficacy”. Despite the magistrate's previous outrage, he agreed and branded the crown application an attempt to placate anyone who might be “upset” about the officer’s lack of restrictions. He declined to impose bail on the 33-year-old and said he would be excused from attending court on the next occasion. Mr White maintained a blank face as he listened to the Magistrate’s tirade from an undisclosed location. The matter will return to court in September and it will be managed by the DPP. Image credits: Nine News / Facebook <div class="media image" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; width: 705.202209px; margin-bottom: 24px; max-width: 100%;"> </div>

News

Brisbane officer captured punching and tasering motorist

Footage of a brutal altercation between a police officer and a motorist has surfaced online following a catastrophic three-car crash. The Queensland Police officer is captured on video punching the motorist through the window of his car in Strathpine in Brisbane’s north. Police allege the “highly agitated” man was drinking from a wine bottle and was under the influence when the officer arrived on the scene. “After the officer attempted to take the bottle away several times, it was allegedly thrown towards him,” a Queensland Police spokesperson said. “After giving numerous directions for the man to remain in the car, it will be alleged he continued to attempt to leave the vehicle by kicking the door into the officer, who used physical force to contain the man in the vehicle.” The heated exchange occurred around 1:45pm on June 22 after a collision at the intersection of Gympie and Samsonvale roads. The officer is seen in the video approaching the passenger side of a white car where the motorist tries to leave the vehicle through the open window. The officer is then seen grabbing at an object the motorist is holding, which police allege was a wine bottle, before allegedly hitting him multiple times. The video shows the man retreat inside the car before making another attempt to exit through the window, where he is then struck again. The motorist falls back again before trying to exit for a third time, blocked once again by the officer. Police allege the man continued to try and leave the car and “after several verbal warnings, a taser was deployed”. “Additional officers arrived on scene and another officer was allegedly spat on by the man,” the spokesperson said. The man has since been taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital while in custody to treat minor wounds. The scene was not short of witnesses, with several firefighters seen approaching the officer. “He needs to stop,” the woman filming the clip is heard saying. “Stop hitting him!” Senior police have reviewed body cam footage of the altercation as investigations continue. Image credit: 9News

Legal

The Australian remake of The Office has the potential to be great - if the writers remember how unique our humour is

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/philippa-burne-158735">Philippa Burne</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Twenty-two years after the original UK television series The Office was released, and 18 years after the highly successful US remake (2005-2013), Australia is getting its own version of The Office. This will be the 14th remake of the concept by Ricky Gervais, which has included adaptations in Chile, France, Finland, India, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Germany and other countries. It’s an interesting move by Prime Video when there are already two highly rewatched English language versions available – highlighting the ongoing relevance of the workplace comedy. It also speaks to the relative safety of remaking a known series concept rather than an original, in a time of expensive television production. Starting from an idea that has already proven hugely popular with audiences worldwide can seem to minimise the financial risk of making a new TV show – if it’s done right. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/532534/original/file-20230619-24-2hzcfa.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /></a><figcaption>Comedian and actor Felicity Ward will star in The Office Australia, which will start on Amazon Prime in 2024. Prime</figcaption></figure> <h2>A history of remakes</h2> There has been a long history of remakes on television. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0805669/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_q_Ugly%2520Betty">Ugly Betty</a> (as it is known in the US version) is one of the most recognised. Originally a Colombian telenovela, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0233127/">Yo Soy Betty, la Fea</a> (1999-2001), the concept has been remade in other languages around 20 times to date. Other versions include Na Daj Se, Nina (Croatia, 2007-2008) and Lotte (The Netherlands, 2006-2007), both of which I worked on adapting from the Colombian original. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1zP7Uiiiqhc?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Australian television concepts from the 1970s and 1980s travelled remarkably well. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081935/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Sons and Daughters</a> has versions in Germany (Verboten Liebe, 1995-2015) and Croatia, (Zabranjena Ljubav, 2004-2008). The Australian classic <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077064/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3_tt_8_nm_0_q_Prisoner">Prisoner</a> became the highly popular Hinter Gittern (1997-2007) in Germany. And long-running soap opera <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088580/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_7_nm_1_q_neighbours">Neighbours</a> has been the basis of shows in Poland, Sweden and Slovakia. A common factor in all of these is the internationally successful Grundy Television and creator Reg Watson. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-IGHPsaYDMw?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> What Grundy Television realised and honed was that to give an international remake the best chance of success, writers and producers need to be willing to pull a series back to its foundational concept – such as twins separated at birth meet and fall in love, a women’s prison, neighbours becoming good friends – and then to build culturally informed stories and characters from that. Localising is not just changing a few small details, it requires driving characters and stories from <a href="https://theconversation.com/bluey-was-edited-for-american-viewers-but-global-audiences-deserve-to-see-all-of-us-188982">deep within a local culture</a> and storytelling tradition. It requires a deep commitment to developing a show as if it was a new idea, even if it is based on an existing series. Audiences are savvy and want nuance, history, politics, issues. Recently, many international dramas have formed the basis for successful US shows, such as Israel’s Prisoners of War (2010-2012) becoming Homeland (Showtime, 2011-2020), and the Danish/Swedish Noir series The Bridge (2011-2018) spawning The Bridge (US/Mexico), as well as The Tunnel (UK/France), The Bridge (Russia/Estonia), The Bridge (Malaysia/Singapore), Der Pass (Germany/Austria) and Gefyra (Greece/Turkey). These shows incorporated a deep socio-political angle within the familiar thriller or crime genre, giving audiences a new depth and breadth to the stories. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y9Nln23PaOc?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>Mistakes and flops</h2> Less successful have been US attempts to remake Australian comedies such as <a href="https://theconversation.com/noice-different-unusual-watching-kath-and-kim-as-a-locked-down-historian-166261">Kath & Kim</a> (2008-2009) and dramas such as The Slap (2015). Perhaps their Australian contexts, social mores and comedy did not translate – or were not translated well. Reviewers said of the American Kath and Kim that the humour was unfunny, the characters unlikeable and unrelatable. Variety’s Brian Lowry said, “If this was a major hit in Australia,” he said, “then <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/us-take-on-kath-and-kim-fails-to-amuse-tv-critics-20080928-ge7exo.html">something has been seriously lost in translation</a>.” <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DE-FepzzYQA?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Ironically, one of the greatest mistakes screenwriters make is sticking too closely to the original. No matter how popular it was, how good the writing is, how funny the jokes are, translating scripts very rarely works due to cultural differences in humour, socio-economic circumstances and workplace politics. The Dutch version of the Yo Soy Betty, la Fea began shooting Dutch translations of Colombian scripts: the production shut down one week in as it became clear that none of the circumstances, relationships, tone, rhythm or humour made sense in a Dutch context. That’s when I was brought in to work with the Dutch writers to completely redevelop the show for the local context. (I brought television storytelling experience and relied on the Dutch writers for character specifics, local stories, cultural specificities, etc.) <h2>An Office in Australia?</h2> The Office Australia might seem a simple prospect, given there have been two preceding series in English. Plus, culturally, Australia has been well-informed of and by the UK and US. What could possibly go wrong? Humour and social mores will have changed: the world is a very different place in 2023 compared to 2001. Many of David Brent’s 2001 exploits and jokes would see him quickly fired by any 2023 risk-averse company no matter how apathetic and downtrodden his staff might be. Also when The Office came out, mockumentary felt fresh to television, now we’ve had Parks and Recreation, Modern Family, and our own The Games and Utopia. Plus, of course, we’ve had reality TV shows where things quickly spiral beyond any inappropriate awkwardness The Office ever came up with – think about Vanderpump Rules or Selling Sunset. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KbA_5cATgAU?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Australia is different to the UK and the US, in the way we live, work, joke, date and play. Australian comedy has a different rhythm, pace and flavour to that of anywhere else. One of the most important things a good adaptation understands is that specificity is key. For instance, the character Gareth/Dwight is less likely to be territorial army or army reserve and more Steve Irwin; an office party probably involves backyard cricket not bowling alleys. This provides a great opportunity to add a fresh edge to familiar characters, plus a cultural specificity intriguing to international audiences. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8GxqvnQyaxs?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> For example, the US adaptation Ugly Betty brought in the story of Betty’s family’s immigration issues, highlighting a relatable problem for many immigrant Americans and deepening the difference in class, power and privilege between Betty and the other characters in her workplace. The Office Australia is making one major change from the UK and US versions: the office boss is a woman, Hannah Howard (played by Felicity Ward). This is a potentially brilliant, timely change, which will differentiate it as a series. But beware the scriptwriter who thinks you can simply swap a gender and keep all the traits, insecurities, worries, jokes and dynamics the same. There’s the potential for wonderfully rich, new comedy material – if the writers and producers are willing to pull The Office apart, go back to its key concept, characters, themes and its story engine – and then rebuild it, for a new time, place and gender. The Office Australia launches in 2024 into 240 countries and territories. It will be interesting to see if they understand us. And whether we understand ourselves well enough to make a compelling new version of this popular show.<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/207614/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/philippa-burne-158735">Philippa Burne</a>, Lecturer, BFA Screenwriting, Victorian College of the Arts, University of Melbourne, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Image credits: Netflix 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-australian-remake-of-the-office-has-the-potential-to-be-great-if-the-writers-remember-how-unique-our-humour-is-207614">original article</a>.

Clare Nowland dies, officer charged

Clare Nowland, the great-grandmother who was tasered by police at her Cooma aged care home, has passed away in hospital. The news was confirmed by NSW Police, who said the 95 year old had died “peacefully” with her family surrounding her. Clare was the devoted mother of eight children, grandmother to 24 grandchildren, and great-grandmother to 31, with four more due in 2023. “Our thoughts and condolences remain with those who were lucky enough to know, love, and be loved by Mrs Nowland during a life she led hallmarked by family, kindness and community," they said. Meanwhile, NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley offered condolences to Clare’s loved ones - and community - on behalf of the government. Clare had been in hospital for a week, receiving treatment and <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sad-update-on-95-year-old-tasered-in-aged-care-home">end of life care</a> following the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/furious-response-to-95-yr-old-woman-tasered-by-police">May 17 incident at Yallambee Lodge</a>, where police had been called out when Clare - who had dementia - had been holding a steak knife. She had been using a walking frame at the time, and “moving at a slow pace” according to police, when Senior Constable Kristian White tasered her. Clare then fell, hitting her head, and fracturing her skull. 33-year-old White was charged only hours before Clare’s passing, with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault. He was suspended from duty - controversially, on full pay - and is expected to face court on July 5. However, Webb previously noted that there was a chance the charges could be upgraded in the event that circumstances surrounding the incident changed. “In NSW, you’re innocent until proven guilty,” she added. “He is afforded the same as any other resident. "It is possible [the charges could be upgraded], it depends on what happens." Webb had also explained that she had not yet viewed the police body-cam footage from the day, but that she wanted to review it with a better idea of what had actually transpired. Pressure for Catley to watch it had been mounting as well, in time with growing concerns over public confidence in law enforcement. The police force drew criticism from all over for their response - with Webb defending officers in the wake of the story breaking nationally, and globally - though a critical incident investigation squad was set into motion by the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, with NSW Police assuring that “investigations into the critical incident will continue.” However, as Webb said, “this is one incident out of many many calls for service, over two million calls for service every year that we respond to for all sorts of things. "So I'm sure that the community can be reassured that New South Wales Police will carry on with the job that we always do." Images: 9News / Nine

News

Shocking footage exposes police officer attacking “defenceless” wheelchair user

Shocking CCTV footage has captured the moment a police officer strikes at a wheelchair user in Shepparton, North Victoria. Kevin Scott was at home celebrating his 36th birthday on February 28, when the officer arrived in response to a noise complaint. In the footage, Scott can be seen wheeling towards the police officer and appeared to lightly kick the officer in the leg. In response, the officer strikes him in the head and is later seen shoving Scott backwards. “I couldn’t do nothing,” Scott recalled. “I seen him shut his fist and I wheeled back. Next minute he just hit me straight in the mouth, in the jaw. When I pointed at my camera, that’s when he walked off,” he said. Speaking to 7News, Scott said that he was “defenceless” and that the attack was unprovoked. Kay Scott, his sister, has also spoken out on the incident and said that the attack was “shocking” and “disgusting”. “It would be different if my brother spat or tried to throw a punch or put up a fight with them but he never did,” she said. “He was in a wheelchair, defenceless. We need to be able to feel safe in our community, people need to be aware that this does happen,” she added. Scott struggles with his health due to drug and alcohol addiction. Victoria Police have confirmed that they are aware of the incident and have launched an investigation. “The male sergeant in the video has been identified and transferred to other duties while the investigation is carried out,” they said in a statement to 7News. Watch the entire footage <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/vic/cctv-footage-emerges-of-police-officer-striking-defenceless-wheelchair-user-in-shepparton-c-9987037" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Images: 7News

Legal

NSW Police officer who drowned is remembered

A NSW Police officer, who died on New Year's Day while heroically saving his 14-year-old son from a rip at Bogola Beach, near Narooma, has been remembered. Sergeant Peter Stone had been a member of NSW Police for 22 years. Most recently, he has worked on specialist rescue operations in Sydney's Blue Mountains. "Sergeant Stone was well-liked by all those who knew him, and we are not surprised by his selfless actions," NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said in a statement. "His death is a tragic loss to the NSW Police Force and my thoughts are with Peter's wife, family, friends and colleagues during this terribly sad time." Blue Mountains Police Area Commander Superintendent Don Faulds described Stone as an "exceptional man, a brilliant operator". "Peter had dedicated his professional life to helping the community and had a real passion for rescue operations, particularly here in the rugged mountain terrain," Faulds said. "He was always quick – if not first – to offer his help or assistance around the command and his colleagues considered him a mate. "As we mourn our mate, we acknowledge the loss of a husband, father and hero.” Lifesavers rushed to the beach in an inflatable rescue boat at 1:30 pm but despite giving CPR, Stone couldn't be saved. He'd been on extended leave from the force and was on holiday with his family when he rushed to the rescue of his son, who was caught in a "substantial" rip. "He was able to push his son out of the rip, he was then taken further out to sea in the rip," Acting Inspector Paul Hoyer said. On Tuesday, NSW Police launched an appeal in the sergeant's honour to raise money for his family. Image: NSW Police

News

Slain police officers farewelled in emotional memorial service

Queensland police officers Constables Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold have been honoured for their service, after they were gunned down on a remote property last week. Thousands of people, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, paid tribute to the young officers in an emotional memorial service, which was telecast live across the nation. "Matthew and Rachel are side by side today. They're worthy of equal honours, they worked together, they served their community together, sadly they died together on the 12th of December," Police Chaplain Jeffrey Baills said. The officers were executed while responding to a missing persons check, but there was no mention of the men who inflicted the terror at the service. "Rachel and Matthew were just doing their job that day and the McCrow and Arnold families paid the ultimate sacrifice," Ballis said. "We have had a major attack on the police in Queensland, but… we will not be broken," Ballis said. Matthew Arnold, 26, was remembered by family friend Senior Sergeant Laura Harriss as a protector, leader and charmer. "Matt's smile and his charisma were his best tools and he used them relentlessly," Harriss said. Rachel McCrow, 29, had only been stationed in the town of Tara for six months when the shooting happened, as her best friends from the police academy spoke of the loveable larrikin who made friends with everyone. "Rach was so much more than the uniform she so proudly wore. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, a colleague and an amazing mum to her beloved four-legged (dog) Archibald," Senior Constable Melissa Gibson said. Archibald, Rachel's blue heeler dog, sat calmly in the front row for the service. Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll paid tribute to the duo's courage, bestowing on both officers the highest of honours: two national police service medals and two from Queensland. Image credits: A Current Affair

News

Mother's devastating tribute to fallen officer

Sue Arnold, the mother of one of the fallen police officers killed during the horror ambush in remote southeast QLD, has shared a brief but touching tribute online. Constable Rachel McCrow, 29, and Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, were fatally shot at a property in Wieambilla, three hours outside of Brisbane as they carried out a missing persons call. “Rest In Peace, my beautiful boy,” she wrote. The two officers were brutally murdered by the two brothers who stood over them and shot them again at close range, even as Constable McCrow pleaded for her life. Neighbour Alan Dare was also shot and killed in the attack, which sparked a massive manhunt for the offenders – Nathaniel and Gareth Train, and Gareth's wife Stacey. Two other brave police officers, Constable Keeley Brough and Constable Randall Kirk, both 28, narrowly survived the attack, with Constable Brough becoming trapped in burning bushland as the assailants tried to smoke her out. Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers told NCA NewsWire that a team of 16 special forces officers were shot at as they tried to retrieve the bodies and rescue Constable Brough. “What I do know, is that after (the ambush), as the 16 went to retrieve Matt and Rachel, that they were fired at continuously,” he said. “They put their lives on the line to try to retrieve their colleagues in the hope they would be able to render first aid and save their lives but sadly that didn’t happen. Mr Leavers said constables Arnold and McCrow were “executed in cold blood”. The pregnant wife of Constable Kirk has also <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/pregnant-wife-of-surviving-police-officer-opens-up" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared a touching update from hospital</a>, where her husband is recovering. Image: Supplied

Family & Pets

Pregnant wife of surviving police officer opens up

Constable Randall Kirk was one of four officers who attended a remote property in Queensland to conduct a welfare check, before they were ambushed and shot at by the residents. While Constable Kirk is now recovering in hospital, his colleagues, 29-year-old Constable Rachel McCrow and 26-year-old Constable Matthew Arnold, were murdered during the execution-style ambush. The gunmen, Gareth Train and his brother Nathaniel, a former Queensland school principal, were killed in a police firefight later that night. Constable Kirk was able to escape the terrifying scene despite being shot in the leg and showered in glass after the gunmen fired at his escaping vehicle. “I’m feeling fine, just a little sore,” Constable Kirk said to Warwick Stanthorpe Today on Tuesday. “My main thoughts are with the other police families at this awful time.” Constable Kirk’s wife Breanna said he had “minor surgery” in Toowoomba on Tuesday morning and was “doing well”. “When I first spoke to Randall at the Chinchilla Hospital (on Monday night), his first thoughts were for his colleagues,” she shared. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of Randall’s deceased colleagues.” Mrs Kirk, who is pregnant with the couple’s second child, said they were overwhelmed with support from the community and their policing family. “Randall and I are very grateful for the overwhelming support from the Chinchilla and Stanthorpe communities,” she said. “We have spoken to the Police Minister Mark Ryan (Tuesday) morning, and he has offered wonderful encouragement and support.” Image credits: Facebook

Caring

Father of slain cop killers speaks

The father of two brothers behind a deadly ambush that killed two police officers and a neighbour has spoken with police as new details emerge. Nathaniel and Gareth Train, aged 46 and 47 respectively died in a shoot out against police at Gareth's home in Queensland's Western Downs on Monday night. The bloody confrontation also claimed the lives of constables Matthew Arnold, 26, and Rachel McCrow, 29, and their 58-year-old neighbour Alan Dare. The offenders had opened fire on police after they watched them arrive on the property through security cameras. On Tuesday, the Train brothers’ father Ronald Train, a retired pastor and author, was tight-lipped over the devastating gunfight. “I am not going to share anything with you, you can speculate and make up as much as you want,” he told The Courier-Mail. “I have lost two children." “I have already had conversations with police.” It comes as new details have emerged about the Train brothers, as it has been discovered that Gareth regularly contributed to online forums rife with conspiracy theories and anti-authoritarian ideas. In one post, that appears to have been removed, Gareth said the Port Arthur massacre in 1996 had been an operation to “disarm the Australian population”. “Martin (Bryant) was the perfect patsy. The Australian government is guilty of mass murder, it’s not the first time and won’t be the last. Joint operation CIA, MI6, Mossad, ASIO and the Australian SASR,” he wrote in a post. In another post on alternative news site Cairns News, Gareth seemed to refer to the COVID vaccine as a “neurological bio-weapon”. “The majority of Australians are still deaf, dumb and blind having now injected themselves with a neurological bio-weapon which will soon be fully activated for total control and monitoring, if they don’t drop dead,” he wrote. He also wrote about police attending his property in the past. “I have directed law enforcement to leave my premises over the last 20yrs, having no reason or grounds and at times have also asked them to remove their hands from their weapons or pull their pistols and whistle Dixie,” he wrote in a post on Citizens Initiated Referendums, the <a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-qld/cop-killer-gareth-trains-bizarre-conspiracy-theories-posted-on-citizens-initiated-referendums/news-story/86f57e98cd42d5b592e9b8cc59dbff8f" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline">Courier Mail</a> reports. “Fortunately for me they have all been cowards. Our country is at a point where even cowards are now dangerous because they are unpredictable in groups, turn your back and you may find yourself out cold on the floor with law enforcement dancing on your head." Image credits: Facebook / 7News

News

Office worker sent home for “distracting” outfit

An office worker has claimed she was sent home from work for wearing a “distracting” dress. US woman Marie Dee wore a black figure-hugging dress with a high neckline to her office on a standard work day, but a human resources employee allegedly deemed her outfit inappropriate. The mother-of-two secretly filmed herself being confronted by the “HR girl” who dubbed her dress “way too revealing and distracting” for the office. “Guys it happened again, I’m getting sent home for my outfit,” Marie said in the viral TikTok video. “This is getting ridiculous.” The footage shows Marie walking over to the HR employee’s office to ask what was wrong with her outfit. “I’m sorry you still can’t wear that. It’s way too revealing and distracting,” the HR woman can be heard saying. Confused, Marie responded, “It’s distracting?” to which the HR staff member replied, “Very.” The video has been viewed more than 20 million times, with thousands of commenters jumping to Marie’s defence. “I’m an HR leader and I think your outfit is professional and polished,” one said. Another wrote, “You look very professional, I think the HR girl is a bit jealous that you are so beautiful.” One suggested, “I’m an HR manager and I would wear that myself!” Another added, “You look great and very professional... I don’t understand. There’s nothing wrong with that.” Another person said, “HR seems to be overstepping here. I don’t think anything is wrong here.” Image credits: TikTok

Beauty & Style

Woman arrested after sword attack on Jacinda Ardern’s office

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's electoral office in Auckland was damaged and staff evacuated after the front door was smashed and a sword was found lying nearby. Emergency services arrived at the office in Morningside shortly after 8 am on Thursday, with what appeared to be a samurai sword photographed on the ground outside. A neighbour, who wished to not be named, said he saw someone walking down the road towards the office and smashing the doors with an implement, as reported by <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300721972/woman-arrested-after-prime-minister-jacinda-arderns-auckland-electoral-office-damaged" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuff</a>. He said he saw the person throw something through the hole in the door, with smoke coming from the building shortly after. Stuff also reported receiving an email from someone claiming responsibility for the incident at 9.03am. “At 8.20 this morning I smashed a hole in her electoral office door and dropped the bomb in [sic],” the email said. The <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/woman-arrested-after-sword-attack-on-prime-minister-jacinda-arderns-electorate-office/B6RITWFWPLQKD7VGYPLKXB5ZEA/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a> reported receiving a call to their newsroom on Thursday morning from a woman who claimed she used an interlocking sword to smash the window ten times before shoving a smoke bomb in the office. She said she had long-standing grievances with the Prime Minister's office and government departments in relation to the "palming off" of health and living issues. The woman also claimed she warned staff before the incident. A journalist at the scene also reported seeing smoke and heard firefighters warning the owner of a nearby shop to not touch “the machete handle”. Four fire trucks attended the scene and plain-clothed police were seen placing the blade into an evidence bag. "No injuries have been reported and the building was unoccupied at the time," police said. "A scene examination will be conducted and inquiries remain ongoing." Prior to the attack, CCTV footage captured a person holding a long object and walking towards the office, before walking in the opposite direction a short while later without the object. Police have since arrested a 57-year-old woman and are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident. "The woman is currently assisting Police with our inquiries into the matter and we are not currently seeking anyone else," a police spokesperson said. Ms Ardern is currently in Antarctica for the 57th anniversary of Scott Base, and a spokesperson said the prime minister would not comment on the arrest as it is now a police matter. Image: Stuff

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