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“Yolkidding me”: Perfectly round egg goes viral online

<p>In what is perhaps one of the most eggs-traordinary discoveries in Australian grocery history, a perfectly round egg has been found laying in a Victorian supermarket.</p> <p>3AW Football host Jacqui Felgate shared the remarkable find to her Instagram followers, revealing she had been sent footage of the egg that was taken at a Woolworths in inner-city Melbourne.</p> <p>"From a follower: This is so random, but I thought I would share this eggcellent find," the post read.</p> <p>"In our egg carton we found a round egg.</p> <p>"After a quick google realised it was one in a billion, literally one in a billion eggs are round and the last one that was found sold for over $1400!”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtgX__fhbdH/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtgX__fhbdH/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by JACQUELINE FELGATE (@jacquifelgate)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Naturally, Instagram users flocked to the post, with a lot questioning how an egg could ever sell for four figures.</p> <p>"Yolkidding me," one wrote.</p> <p>"Folks buying eggs for $1400? That’s eggtortion. 😩," another said.</p> <p>However, many of the comments sympathised with the chicken who created the perfectly round — and relatively large — incredible egg.</p> <p>“All I could think was that poor chicken 🐔 😬,” one said.</p> <p>“The poor chicken that squeezed that one out 😮,” another added.</p> <p>One even questioned the sphere’s authenticity, commenting, “Is it really an egg 🥚??”</p> <p>Considering perfectly round eggs have earned finders big bucks in the past, it was no surprise that someone told Felgate her find was a thing of fortune.</p> <p>“It’s your lucky day get a ticket to the 60 mill tonight.” they said.</p> <p>Only time will tell if Felgate’s fortunate find will bring her prosperity or wind up scrambled, fried or poached.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

Food & Wine

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You’ll go ‘Round the Twist’ for these two properties

<p dir="ltr">Fans of the cult TV series <em>Round the Twist </em>rejoice! You could own one of two properties within spitting distance of the iconic lighthouse featured on the show.</p> <p dir="ltr">Two residential properties in the shadow of the Split Point lighthouse have hit the market, promising views of the lighthouse among plenty of other perks.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-67eae8b5-7fff-3f3c-cd3c-3d4297b76655"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The two vacant lots are on the “front row” of the coastline on the Great Ocean Road in the seaside town of Aireys Inlet, Victoria, with the listings explaining that they are the best remaining spots left in the hamlet.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/11/Round-The-Twist-_-S1E4-_-The-Cabbage-Patch-Fib-0-10-screenshot.png" alt="" width="600" height="480" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Split Point lighthouse put Aireys Inlet on the map thanks to its appearance on the cult kids comedy series ‘Round the Twist’. Image: YouTube</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/lot-a-reserve-road-aireys-inlet-vic-3231-2018071764?utm_source=nine.com.au&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lot A</a>, with a price guide of $3.5-$3.8 million, is a 3722-square-metre vacant lot that offers its new owners to opportunity to build a home with the “world famous lighthouse as your neighbour on one side and a breathtaking view along the breaking surf” on the other.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/lot-b-reserve-road-aireys-inlet-vic-3231-2018071760?utm_source=nine.com.au&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lot B</a>, which is under offer as of publication, has a price guide between $2.2-$2.4 million and is a slightly smaller block at 3237 square metres.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-da0d45a8-7fff-7b96-c491-ae7945148617"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">According to the listing, it is situated in between the lighthouse and the Great Otway National Park and located at the end of a long driveway.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/11/round-the-twist-houses.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Both properties are just a stone throw away from the iconic Split Point Lighthouse. Image: Great Ocean Properties</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Both lots are a short walk away from the village cafe, with the larger towns of Lorne and Anglesea a 20-minute and 15-minute drive away respectively.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-4ddc12a6-7fff-990c-44a2-99db8316a9be"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Split Point Lighthouse was built in 1891 and made Airey’s Inlet a major landmark after its exterior was used in the Paul Jennings TV series between 1990 and 2001.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXiLc4gvC4F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXiLc4gvC4F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Splitpoint Lighthouse Tours (@splitpoint_lighthouse_tours)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">While the interior of the lighthouse wasn’t used for filming the show, tourists can still enjoy a climb of the iconic lighthouse for a small fee.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-6e73315f-7fff-b6e9-af16-9cf289b6da2b"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @splitpoint_lighthouse_tours (Instagram)</em></p>

Real Estate

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Round of a-paws for "Doggy" Parton

<p>Dolly Parton has announced her latest business venture: Doggy Parton.</p> <p>The famed country music icon has created a line of dog apparel and accessories produced in partnership with SportPet Designs, which will launch right in time for Halloween.</p> <p>Sharing the news on Instagram, the superstar told fans the designs have a “Dolly flair” to them. <br />“Puppy Love was my very first record and six decades later, my love for pets is stronger than ever,” she told fans in the short clip.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ch7UnocgG53/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ch7UnocgG53/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Billy The Kid (@btkthefrenchie)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“This inspired me to start my own line of Doggy Parton apparel, accessories, toys and more with a little Dolly flair. Part of the proceeds will support Willa B Farms, a rescue where animals in need find never-ending love. Don't we all need that?'"</p> <p>The line will feature shirts, dresses, squeaky toys and even a blonde wig. Check out these pups looking as fashionable as can be.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Here’s what’s happening across Australia in June

<p dir="ltr">Winter is almost here, bringing shorter days and chillier nights - but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do except sit inside.</p> <p dir="ltr">In fact, winter celebrations are happening across the country, with art installations taking over cities and performances of all sorts planned.</p> <p dir="ltr">From immersive art festivals and cabaret shows to desert racing and food festivals, here’s what’s happening across the country this month that you won't want to miss.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>23rd Sydney Biennale</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Though the <a href="https://www.biennaleofsydney.art/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Biennale</a> began in March, there’s plenty of events left to check out in June. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-70e3f5e9-7fff-c008-5a46-360ed4ff6dbd"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">This year’s edition of the international art festival is titled <em>rīvus</em>, meaning ‘stream’ in Latin, and features over 330 artworks responding to the theme of water ecology and relationships with the natural world.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/animal-orchestra.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Australian premiere of ‘The Great Animal Orchestra’ is open daily and one of the must-see installations at Sydney Biennale. Image: @biennalesydney (Instagram)</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Highlights of the 2022 program include:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Australian premiere of <em>The Great Animal Orchestra</em>, an immersive installation in Barangaroo that uses recordings of 15,000 species of animal recorded in the field in a call to action to preserve Earth’s wild places</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>He Toka Tū Moana | She’s a Rock</em>, a woven installation created by a collaboration of four Māori women called Mata Aho Collective, referencing the meeting place of fresh and salt water.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Art After Dark</em> - Every Wednesday night, the exhibition will stay open until late and be accompanied by a changing weekly program inspired by the festival’s works and theme.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Space In Between</em>, a series of self-guided mindful walks and exercises connecting the various Biennale venues that includes unexpected listening points.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">A posthumous presentation of Naziha Mestaoui’s <em>One Beat, One Tree</em> project, where audiences plant a virtual tree and watch it grow with their body movement (and a real tree will be planted for every virtual one).</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Photographic prints of environmental activist Lille Madden, and her grandfather, Gadigal Elder, Uncles Charles (Chicka) Madden on the grass at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, created by English duo Ackroyd & Harvey.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">To see the full list of events at Barangaroo, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art, Pier 2/3, and the National Art School, head <a href="https://www.biennaleofsydney.art/events/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Adelaide Cabaret Festival</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Curated by Aussie icon Tina Arena, AM, this year’s <a href="https://www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Adelaide Cabaret Festival</a> will feature 377 artists and musicians performing in 97 performances between June 10-25.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-afa8c78c-7fff-f1ce-3a4b-3afdf73b431e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The lineup will include variety shows, comedy, intimate performances, life drawing classes, and nostalgic concerts - including <em>Songs My Mother Told Me</em>, headlined by Tina Arena herself.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/cabaret.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Take a trip back in time or simply enjoy a few laughs at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Image: @adelaidecabaret (Instagram)</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Though most events are just for one night (or two), some will run for the duration of the festival, including: </p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Funhouse,</em> led by Paul McDermott, the show promises comedy, music and spectacle with a different lineup of special guests each weekend.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Cirque Bon Bon</em> runs from June 15-19 and includes acrobatics, contion, aerial shows, and more, hosted by comedian emcee Mario.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Pina Colada Room</em> runs from June 10-25 in both an Adelaide exclusive and world premiere. Described as a “decadent homage” to disco icons with a rotating roster of DJ’s and cabaret stars, it’s a chance to get down on the dancefloor and boogie the night away.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">For a full schedule of events during this year’s festival, head <a href="https://www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au/search/?t=events&a=-1%2C19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Dark Mofo</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://darkmofo.net.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dark Mofo</a>, Tasmania’s annual winter festival, returns for another season from June 8-22 with a program jam-packed with art, installations and performances.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-d7bf9aad-7fff-3c72-b949-a6d0e22706fa"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">During Week One, the festival’s full art program will be launched, Tasmania’s Mona gallery will be open late for three new exhibitions, and The Blue Rose Ball, Dark Mofo’s costume event, will be returning.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/dark-mofo.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Art and music will be at the forefront of the winter festivities at Dark Mofo. Image: Jarred Seng (Tourism Tasmania)</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Week Two will focus on music, with the world premiere of several shows from German musician Nils Frahm, titled <em>Music For Hobart</em>, being one of the major highlights.</p> <p dir="ltr">The festival is also welcoming the return of the City of Hobart Winter Fest, Night Mass: Transcendence, and the Nude Solstice Swim.</p> <p dir="ltr">For a full rundown of events happening at Dark Mofo, head <a href="https://darkmofo.net.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>RISING:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-d11ee726-7fff-9082-1a1c-3e358eb7cac9"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">A festival three years in the making, <a href="https://rising.melbourne/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RISING:</a> will take over Melbourne with 225 events for 12 nights, with public art installations, intimate theatre performances, dance, and music all on the cards.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/rising-the-return.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Jason Tamiru’s experience as a repatriation worker will be one of three stories weaved together in ‘The Return’. Image: Shortcut Creative</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Top picks from the festival lineup include:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Golden Square</em>, an installation that will transform a car park into three levels of art, performances and parades - with a rooftop bar as the icing on top.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>The Invisible Opera</em>, a public performance that will bring immersive sound design and live vocal performance - which relies on CCTV cameras and hidden microphones - to Federation Square, showing viewers the city in a brand new light.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><em>Maureen: Harbinger of Death</em>, a bohemian performance that sees writer and performer Jonny Hawkins take on the character of Maureen, a sharp-tongued doyenne inspired by a friend of his, in a celebration of the rich lives of older women.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">First Nations artists and performers will also play a vital part in the festival, with Yorta Yorta producer Jason Tamiru’s experiences as a repatriation worker among the three narratives presented in <em>The Return</em>, and trams featuring First Nations artists’ designs among the highlights.</p> <p dir="ltr">To find out more about RISING:, which kicks off on June 1, head <a href="https://rising.melbourne/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Tatts Finke Festival</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2e206cf2-7fff-d4cb-c491-487397544e4e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Fans of off-roading will be sure to enjoy the iconic <a href="https://www.finkedesertrace.com.au/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Finke Desert Race</a>, a two-day off-road, multi–terrain race across desert country held every year on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/desert-race.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Tatts Finke Festival will see racers of various stripes descend on Alice Springs this June. Image: Tourism Australia</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The race from Alice Springs to the community of Aputula (Finke) attracts top Australian and international racers, and is said to be one of the most difficult off-road races in the world.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kicking off from June 10-13, the race is open to bikes, cars, buggies and quads, with spectator tickets costing between $10 to $20 and available to book <a href="https://www.finkedesertrace.com.au/news/media-releases" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8c8926a8-7fff-1c86-1698-196f71e4b242"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Nick Buckley</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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"Round 1" goes to Novak as ugly scenes unfold on Melbourne streets

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Novak Djokovic has claimed victory in “Round 1” of his legal battle with the Australian government over his cancelled visa.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However the tennis champion may still be forced to leave the country, with Australia’s Immigration Minister still considering whether to cancel his visa for a second time.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">His hearing through the Federal Court of Australia - which he viewed via a live stream while at his lawyers’ offices - ended with the overturning of the government’s decision to cancel Djokovic’s visa on health grounds, ending his five days in detention.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Judge Anthony Kelly said it was “unreasonable” to cancel Djokovic’s visa and ordered that the World No.1 be released from immigration detention within 30 minutes of the verdict.</span></p> <p><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.foxsports.com.au/tennis/australian-open/novak-djokovic-australian-open-2022-court-hearing-live-verdict-updates-latest-deported-covid-vaccination-australia/news-story/229a81a296bfe1e20feefcc5c6cfda15" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Djokovic will be allowed to stay</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in Australia and have his passport returned to him, despite the federal government’s strict requirements on foreign arrivals for the past two years.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Australian taxpayers will also foot the cost of Djhokovic’s legal team.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Serbian tennis star posted a photo on social media following the verdict, showing him standing with his entourage on Rod Laver Arena after finishing his first training session.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened,I want to stay and try to compete <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> <br />I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. 👇 <a href="https://t.co/iJVbMfQ037">pic.twitter.com/iJVbMfQ037</a></p> — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1480529173789696001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete (at the) Australian Open,” he wrote.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I remain focused on that.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Djokovic’s family also spoke to the media in Serbia after he shared his update, thanking fans for their support and praising the judge for his verdict.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">From Djokovic's brother Djordje <a href="https://t.co/q7T4CvdEYi">https://t.co/q7T4CvdEYi</a></p> — Christopher Clarey 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 🇪🇸 (@christophclarey) <a href="https://twitter.com/christophclarey/status/1480458045167521792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The whole process was not about tennis or the Australian Open, it was about justice for what was done to him,” his younger brother, Djordje Djokovic, told media.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Novak is only fighting for the liberty of choice.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We are grateful for [the] justice system for Australia.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Djokovic’s father - who led protests in the Serbian capital of Belgrade after his son was detained - said his son’s human rights had been taken away, while his mother Dijana said he was subjected to “torture”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This is his biggest win in his career, it is bigger than any grand slam,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“He has done nothing wrong, he hasn’t broken any of their laws.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“He has been subject to torture, to harassment.”</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/PGzegChaRo">pic.twitter.com/PGzegChaRo</a></p> — Laura Jayes (@ljayes) <a href="https://twitter.com/ljayes/status/1480456839770750979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After the verdict, Djokovic’s fans congregated outside his lawyers’ office and chanted “Free Nole”, believing he was being detained once again due to a heavy police presence and false reports of his arrest.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Djokovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Djokovic</a> supporters have arrived at his location amid reports that he may be imminently re-detained <a href="https://t.co/JCMPdSLETW">pic.twitter.com/JCMPdSLETW</a></p> — Michael Miller (@MikeMillerDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeMillerDC/status/1480465888994213891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chaotic scenes soon broke out, including clashes between fans and police, while fans mobbed a black Audi attempting to make its way through the crowd.</span></p> <p><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-11/novak-djokovic-breaks-silence-family-attacks-aus-government/100748736" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Officers used pepper spray</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to disperse the crowd as fans began banging on the windows and one man jumped onto it.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It was later discovered that Djokovic was not in the vehicle, with police confirming he had already left the building.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Djokovic was treated “the same as everyone else”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 34-year-old was detained after touching down at Victoria’s Tullamarine Airport last week, where his visa was revoked.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to the court’s finding, read out in the online hearing, Djokovic was interviewed overnight and told he had until 8.30am to reply to the proposed cancellation of his visa.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead, a border agent cancelled it at 7.42am.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a transcript from the airport interview, Djokovic expressed his confusion about why he wasn’t being allowed to enter the country.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I just really don’t understand what is the reason you don’t allow me to enter the country,” he told the border control agent, according to the transcript.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, lawyer Christopher Tran - representing the federal government - told Judge Kelly that, despite Djokovic’s victory, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke may still decide to use his “personal power of cancellation” to order his removal from the country. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By doing so, Djokovic would be banned from coming into Australia for three years.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: @djokernole (Instagram)</span></em></p>

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Close call for Ash Barty

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ash Barty has managed to pull through to the third round at Wimbledon, overcoming nine double-faults and a bad line call on match point to win 6-4, 6-3 against Anna Blinkova.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Barty’s forehand was called out on her second match point, only for a replay to show it had clipped the line instead. With the point replayed, Barty was able to clinch her win when Blinkova hit a shot long.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But the tennis legend struggled for the win, having to overcome an uncharacteristically unreliable serve. Though she committed nine double-faults, including three in the first game, and was broken three times, she was able to hit 33 winners compared to Blinkova’s 12.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“There were a few things that didn’t feel quite right today,” Barty said in her post-match press conference.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“But I felt when my back was against the wall I was able to bring the good stuff, it just wasn’t quite there all the time,” she explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It was not my best serving day. But that happens. I was just out of rhythm a little bit. A few technical things weren’t quite feeling spot on. You have those days where you feel like you’re eight-foot tall and can’t miss the box and other days like today you feel like you’re three-foot-nothing and just getting over the net is a battle.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s certainly nothing that will concern me. We will just go back to our routines like we usually would and try and find a way in the next match.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tennis star Todd Woodbridge had plenty to say about Barty’s performance, calling it “sloppy” and suggesting she was “nervous”. He said her form was “all over the place” and that she had “work to do” ahead of her next match against </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kateřina Siniaková.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m a bit perplexed of the inconsistency here from Barty,” Woodbridge said in commentary on </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nine</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Her timing is not there. She looks rushed.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If Barty can secure two more wins, she will become a Wimbledon quarter finalist for the first time in her career.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Ash Barty / Instagram</span></em></p>

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Dead body found in pond at Prince William and Kate Middleton’s west London home

<p><span>The deceased body of an unidentified woman has been pulled out of a lake in front of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s home at Kensington Palace in west London.</span><br /><br /><span>The corpse was found in Round Pond which is only a short walk from the Palace gates.</span><br /><br /><span>Metropolitan Police were called just after 7 am local time on Saturday, August 29.</span><br /><br /><span>The woman was announced dead at the scene and while police say the death is not being treated as suspicious, they have confirmed that investigations are still “ongoing”.</span><br /><br /><span>A post-mortem examination will take place.</span><br /><br /><span>The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their three young children, reside inside the Palace.</span><br /><br /><span>However the family were reportedly visiting the Queen at Balmoral in Scotland on the day the horrifying discovery was made.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837749/round-po-nd-royals-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d62a9a486233425dbbb523364672070f" /><br /><br /><span>Newlyweds Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank also live on the grounds of Kensington Palace in a cottage.</span><br /><br /><span>However, it is not known if the couple were present when the body was found.</span><br /><br /><span>Initially, authorities thought the body belonged to poet laureate Sir John Betjeman’s grandaughter Endellion Lycett Green.</span><br /><br /><span>She had been missing for a week but reportedly was later found alive.</span><br /><br /><span>Her brother John Lycett Green wrote: “My sister Endellion is alive, safe and well.</span><br /><br /><span>“Thank you all for the support and love you showed for Delli and her family.</span><br /><br /><span>“Sorry to all of you that, like us, were grieving for the wonder that is Delli. We were told a body was found and was her.</span><br /><br /><span>“It was not, and Delli was found last night.</span><br /><br /><span>“RIP the soul that was found in Kensington Round Pond on Saturday morning.”</span><br /><br /><span>Kensington Gardens, which includes the Palace and the Round Pond, is said to remain open to the public while police investigations continue.</span></p>

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"Most significant support since the war": Round 2 of government relief

<p>The Federal Parliament has rushed through $84 billion in financial support for workers, students and businesses affected by the coronavirus outbreak, before wrapping up for a five-month-long break.</p> <p>Very few MPs and Senators came to Canberra for a single day to vote on legislation for the Government’s two rounds of stimulus measures.</p> <p>The bills were passed late Monday night without objection in both the House of Representatives and the Senate after some amendments were made.</p> <p>“The measures that have been passed by the Parliament today represent the most significant support for the Australian economy and community since the war,” said Treasurer Josh Frydenberg.</p> <p>“There is much to do for this country in the weeks and months ahead, but working together, we can support the Australian community at their moment of need.”</p> <p>Labor frontbencher Tony Burke said the Parliament’s co-operation “has been a good example today of the Parliament at its best, working at a time when the nation is facing some of its worst”.</p> <p>The Government says that 236,000 students will benefit, as the legislation supports both the first coronavirus economic stimulus package, worth $17.6 billion, and the $66 billion in direct financial support announced in the second package on the weekend.</p> <p>The Coalition now has the power to make changes to stimulus payments, including raters, means testing, eligibility and residency requirements.</p> <p>And they will use it to give the $550 coronavirus supplement to students receiving Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy payments.</p> <p>The first direct payments will be made on April 27, with Labor wanting it reach people’s wallets sooner.</p> <p>“There is a lack of urgency in this support,” said Labor’s Home Affairs spokeswoman Kristina Keneally.</p> <p>“We are concerned that payments to households, including pensioners, will arrive too late. And we are deeply concerned that cashflow assistance to businesses will arrive too late.”</p> <p>“For sole traders and the self-employed, this support is just not enough.”</p> <p>Parliament is now not due to sit again until August 11, with the May budget postponed and other parliamentary sitting days cancelled.</p>

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Love the second time round

<p>The heart wants what it wants, wrote Emily Dickinson in 1862. And it seems the hermit-like poet is still right a century and a half later: the heart wants what it wants even when it’s older and creakier and a bit battle-scarred to boot.</p> <p>Challenges to love the second time around could be numerous. The jaded singletons in your social set may be genuinely aghast over your hot-to-trot new romance. Your ex may be quietly heartbroken (or exultant). And your kids might say you’re bonkers (but probably from a terror that you’ll get married again and, in a fit of lust and folly, redistribute their inheritance).</p> <p>But outspoken kids and battle-scarred hearts aside, there are LOTS of great things about falling in love the second time around.</p> <p>Firstly, there’s probably a high chance that a hairy divorce has brought you here. Statistics show the over 50s are serving each other papers like nobody’s business (and while it IS nobody’s business, there’s something to be said for not living out the final 30-40 years of your life in a crappy marriage). Even so, the Big D has a way of upending your existence and identity for a while so the fact you’ve found new love after this cataclysmic life event is cause for the popping of at least a few champagne corks.</p> <p>Secondly, you’re older and wiser and probably a curious mixture of caution and wild abandon. Life has thrown you some curve balls and half a century-plus of wisdom means you can still be incredibly prudent about what you do, how fast you move, where you live… while also deciding a trip across the Nullarbor in a rickety old campervan with your new paramour for company is the best idea ever. Love the second time around is all about that. Ridiculous fun, with a side dish of caution. (No trip across the Nullarbor would be possible without your expensive satellite phone, after all.)</p> <p>Thirdly, the whole kids thing. There is no whole kids thing! You can actually have a love affair that, going forward, is all about the two of you. Travel and dinners and sleep-ins and me-me-me-me time.</p> <p>Of course, the exception to the rule may be any existing adult kids you have and their irritating failure to launch, but look on the bright side: with a new lover you’ll hopefully have access to two houses and somewhere to escape to if necessary. (If you’re both plagued by kids who refuse to leave home, suggest the young’uns all bunk in together at one house while you love birds take the other one.)</p> <p>Fourth, you’re old enough and ugly enough to have the whole ‘who am I and what makes me happy’ questions sussed, which imbues any love affair with a delicious simplicity.</p> <p>Your answers to said questions may boil down to your hatred of structured travel where everyone wears name tags and matching khakis; the knowledge that small talk bores you silly and the fact that your gammy knee dictates sex must take place in a comfy bed rather than in the shower / on a hardwood floor / kitchen table / back of the car.</p> <p>The great news is, you’re not afraid to speak up about these things for fear of being labelled a bore. You are who you are, you couldn’t give a rats’ what anyone thinks, and it’s amazingly peaceful not having to pretend.</p> <p>Your new love will have to accept you – warts, gammy knee and all. (He or she no doubt has a similar list of non-negotiables and lumps and bumps requiring unconditional acceptance.)</p> <p>Yep, love the second time around has a lot going for it. It may be a little creakier, but it’s also probably a little simpler and a totally different kind of fun.</p> <p>So if you’re in (or on) the market for it, ignore the naysayers and let it happen. You never know – it could end up being the best 30-40 years of your whole damn life.</p> <p><em>Written by Rachel Smith. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/lifestyle/in-praise-of/in-praise-of-love-the-second-time-around.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Caring

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Rounding the cape

<p><em>Justine Tyerman heads to Cape Irozaki, the southernmost point of the Izu Peninsula, Japan, where she is told of happy events ahead.<br /></em><br />“Skiing field,” the sign pointing to the sand dune read.</p> <p>“Great! I’ll have a go at that,” I thought, clambering up the 70m-high, 100m-wide sand slope above a rocky cove.</p> <p>Created by wind action, the steep dune near the tiny beach town of Toji, is a popular spot for sand skiing and sledding.</p> <p>But not only was it incredibly difficult to climb to the top, it was impossible to glide down without short fat skis or a board of some kind. Great exercise for the leg muscles though!</p> <p>The Toji sand slope was our first stop on day four of the Izu Geo Trail with Walk Japan, as we drove south along the coast towards the tip of the peninsula, passing sandy and rocky beaches, lush green bush, precipitous cliffs and many tunnels. The further south we went, the less the traffic on the roads. In fact most days we encountered no other people on our hikes. It may be close and accessible from Tokyo but the Izu Peninsula feels like a remote wilderness.</p> <p>At Toji beach, the rock formations on the headlands were wonderful examples of ancient submarine lava flows.</p> <p>A short distance away, down a steep set of steps, we came to the Ryugu Sea Cave, a phenomenon shaped by wave erosion. At the rear of the cave, the roof had collapsed creating an opening to the sky 50m in diameter. The cave entrance is still intact, a great place for photos.</p> <p>We hiked in the sunshine along a gentle trail with spectacular views of the cobalt blue Pacific Ocean and craggy coastline. We also passed through the Tsubaki Park Camellia Garden where 1050 trees have been planted.</p> <p>A side track took us to Cape Tarai, a headland with a stunning panorama of the many offshore islands including Mikomotojima which has a lighthouse perched on the top.</p> <p>In the distance, we could see Cape Irozaki, the southernmost point of the peninsula.</p> <p>Far below, fishermen were casting lines into the swirling waves.</p> <p>At the end of our morning hike, we met up with a lovely lady named Mieko Takesawa on the beach at Yumigahama. A local surfer, she was the provider of our delicious organic lunch boxes full of salads, homemade bread and dips. Sitting by her beautiful pristine white beach, I devoured every morsel.</p> <p>A little shop with live fresh lobster, abalone and other shellfish in huge tanks took my interest. The owner was selling dried and frozen fish and presumably live creatures too.</p> <p>Back on the coach, we continued our journey southwards through tiny picturesque villages, coves enclosed by dramatic volcanic headlands with rocky islets, and green hillsides. My eyes never tired of the coastal scenery and volcanic landscapes, largely untouched by tourism.</p> <p>Our afternoon hike took us to Cape Irozaki and the site of a shrine built precariously into the cliff face high above the ocean. It’s one of Japan’s Top 100 sightseeing sites but our group of 12 were the only ones seeing the wondrous sights that day.</p> <p>A pathway along a narrow ridge takes hikers out to a rock on the point with a rope around it to signify that it’s sacred.</p> <p>I was hypnotised by the action of the waves swirling into narrow fissures in the rock and smashing into the cliffs sending curtains of spray high into the air, creating small rainbows in the sky. The headlands in the distance were jagged like a child’s scribble, and disintegrated into fragments as they thrust into the sea.</p> <p>Before leaving the shrine, I tossed a small coin into a box and took a slip of paper that told my fortune. Yohei translated the Japanese characters saying there were happy prospects ahead. Turns out it was right! I’m about to become a grandmother for the first time.</p> <p>The nearby Irozaki lighthouse, originally built in 1871, was replaced in 1933 after being destroyed in a storm. Today it plays an important role in the safety of ships and fishing vessels.<br /><br /><strong><u>Remote and untouched</u></strong></p> <p>Rounding the tip of the peninsula, we left the east coast behind and began our journey up the west coast. Under clear skies, the seascape with black rocks against a shimmering aqua sea was breathtaking, and even more remote and untouched than the east coast. The road hugged the coast and around each corner, there were ‘wows’ from everyone.</p> <p>Small fishing villages sheltered in deep coves, some with tall walls for tsunami protection. Volcanic islands rose perpendicularly from the sea. Where there was flat land, every inch was cultivated in market gardens. The hillsides were like crumpled paper, screwed up and tossed aside.</p> <p>As we neared Matsuzaki, our destination for the night, beautiful white sculptures appeared on the side of the road. We stopped to examine and photograph one of them, a female figure sitting on a harp-shaped plinth. With the backdrop of the west coast stretching far into the hazy distance, and the late afternoon sun low in the clear sky, she was a striking sight.</p> <p>Matsuzaki, known for its historic Edo period buildings with distinctive lattice work of black tiles and white plaster, is regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful villages. It may be well off the beaten tourist track but its charms have been recognised by movie makers who have used the town as a setting for films and television dramas.</p> <p>During the Edo period, the town was a hub for stones used in the construction of Edo Castle. Many of the original merchant buildings are open to visit either free or for a small fee.</p> <p>Our ryokan for the night, Shinshima Inn, is run by a husband and wife team, Emi and Hayato Sano, in a graceful historic house. My lovely simple room overlooked a river.</p> <p>After our onsen bath, I changed into the pretty green yukata that was pressed and folded in my room. Emi put the finishing touches to the ladies’ yukatas tying stiff, wide sashes into kimono bows at the back.</p> <p>It was a glorious warm evening so we dined outside, excited at the prospect of a Japanese-style barbecue cooked by chef Hayato. What a feast — fish, beef, sausages and vegetables all cooked over hot coals, followed by a fresh fruit dessert.</p> <p>After dinner, Hayato proudly showed us the original part of the house which is 140 years old. He took us up a steep set of stairs to a veritable museum of artwork and gorgeous ceremonial kimonos. There were also two sumptuous kimonos on display downstairs in the lobby along with a five-storey model of a traditional Japanese dwelling.</p> <p>Breakfast, set in a series of intimate alcoves, was buffet-style with options of toast, cereal and yoghurt, the first taste of Western food in a week. I hadn’t missed it but reverted to habit alarmingly fast.</p> <p>Day five was the longest hike of the Izu Geo Trail, around 12km with a steep climb or two, so I needed plenty of fuel for the day ahead. And it was time for the TBs (tramping boots) to have an outing . . .<br /><em>— To be continued</em></p> <p><strong>Factbox</strong>:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://walkjapan.com/tour/izu-geo-trail">The Izu Geo Trail </a>is a 7-day, 6-night guided tour starting in Tokyo and finishing in Mishima. The trail explores the Izu Peninsula in the Shizuoka Prefecture, one of the most unique geological areas on Earth. The mountainous peninsula with deeply indented coasts, white sand beaches and a climate akin to a sub-tropical island, is located 150km south west of Tokyo on the Pacific Coast of the island of Honshu, Japan.</li> <li>An easy-to-moderate-paced hiking tour with an average walking distance of 6-12km each day, mostly on uneven forest and mountain tracks including some steep climbs and descents. </li> <li>Walk Japan pioneered off-the-beaten-track walking tours in Japan in 1992 with the Nakasendo Way tour. Since then, the company has created 29 guided, self-guided and speciality tours introducing the geography, people, cuisine, customs, culture and history of the real Japan that often remain inaccessible for visitors to the country.</li> <li>Walk Japan has been widely recognised, including selection by National Geographic as one of the 200 Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth.</li> </ul> <p><em>Justine Tyerman was a guest of <a href="https://walkjapan.com/">Walk Japan</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Read Part <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/international-travel/living-like-a-local-in-japan/" target="_blank">One</a>, <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/international-travel/a-mistical-day-in-the-highlands" target="_blank">Two</a> and <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/international-travel/rainy-day-in-izu-japan" target="_blank">Three</a> of Justine Tyerman’s Japan visit.  </em></p>

International Travel

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"Mad and dangerous": Greta Thunberg cops another round from Jeremy Clarkson

<p>Jeremy Clarkson has made his feelings known about teenage climate change activist Greta Thunberg again as he now believes she is “dangerous”.</p> <p>He was speaking to Seven’s<span> </span>Sunrise<span> </span>Europe bureau chief Hugh Whitfeld to promote his TV series<span> </span>The Grand Tour<span> </span>when he made the claims.</p> <p>Initially, Clarkson spoke about the impacts of global warming in Southeast Asia and how it had changed his view.</p> <p>“I don’t think I have ever actually seen the effect of global warming. When you see those houses on stilts in the show … and the water is miles away, that is a remarkable thing,” he said, according to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/current-affairs/jeremy-clarkson-lashes-out-at-dangerous-greta-thunberg-once-more/news-story/f933f9d235e01981965499b5e5727ac2" target="_blank">news.com.au</a>.</em></p> <p>“And I know there will be a load of kids go, ‘Ha, you see. There you are’. Fine. Now go to school, learn science and do something about it.”</p> <p>However, his views on Thunberg have not changed.</p> <p>“She is mad and dangerous, and she is causing young children sleepless nights,” Clarkson said.</p> <p>“I think she needs to go back to school and shut up.”</p> <p>This isn’t the first time he has lashed out at Thunberg, as he said that she was a “spoilt brat” after her passionate speech at the United Nations.</p> <p>“We gave you mobile phones and laptops and the internet. We created the social media you use every day and we run the banks that pay for it all,” Clarkson said in a column for<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10022396/greta-thunberg-meltdown-wont-help-world/" target="_blank">The Sun</a>.</em></p> <p>“So how dare you stand there and lecture us, you spoilt brat.”</p>

Travel Trouble

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Hong Kong riots: Teenage protester shot with live round as violence escalates

<p>A Hong Kong police officer shot a teenage protester at close range as authorities and pro-democracy activists came head-to-head in a fierce clash on Tuesday.</p> <p>Previously, officers have been known to fire warning shots in the air on multiple occasions during months of conflict in Hong Kong, but this was the first time a protester is known to have been shot.</p> <p>The officer in question fired the single pistol shot as protesters surrounded him with the bullet hitting an 18-year-old on the left side of his shoulder said police spokeswoman Yolanda Yu.</p> <p>Police Commissioner Stephen Lo said the bullet hit the 18-year-old on the left side of his chest and defended the officer’s actions as “reasonable and lawful”.</p> <p>Authority at Hong Kong’s hospital said the young boy was one of two people in critical condition after riots continued around the city, with a total of 51 people injured.</p> <p>The violence challenging Chinese rule came just as the Communist Party celebrated its 70th year in power.</p> <p>According to Ms Yu, the victim was shot after repeatedly ignoring police despite their warnings.</p> <p>“The police officers’ lives were under serious threat,” she said. “To save his own life and his colleagues’ lives, he fired a live shot at the assailant.”</p> <p>The movement has quickly turned into an anti-China campaign as activists demand for direct elections for the city’s leaders and police accountability.</p>

Travel Trouble

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Handy year-round tips for dry skin and chapped lips

<p>Refusing to scratch problem skin irritated by eczema, psoriasis and a multitude of other factors is a medical must-do – and much easier said than done.</p> <p>For the instant relief it gives some skin issues, holding back from scratching is difficult, and extremely problematic when dealing with irritated, itchy and uncomfortable children and adults alike.</p> <p>Medicated treatments, creams and salves free from SLS, petrochemicals, sulphates, parabens and fragrances are a necessary solution to removing the uncomfortable side effect of skin irritation to let the skin heal.</p> <p>According to the Australasian society of clinical immunology and allergy, eczema can be effectively treated and managed, but no cures are currently available.</p> <p>The ASCIA says the “scratch and itch” cycle can be most distressing and having eczema means that when the skin barrier is damaged, moisture evaporates and this makes the skin more susceptible to allergens and irritants.</p> <p>This irritation can trigger the skin to release certain chemicals that make the skin itchy. If you scratch, more chemicals are released and the skin feels even itchier. But there are solutions that can help.</p> <p>Dry and chapped lips are also associated with cheilitis, an inflammatory lip condition that can be caused as a side effect of certain medications or extreme sun exposure.</p> <p>Therefore, caring for our lips all year round is extremely important. There are three simple rules to live by:</p> <ol> <li>Keep yourself well hydrated</li> <li>Avoid licking your lips</li> <li>Keep a good lip balm on you at all times.</li> </ol> <p><em>This article first appeared in </em><a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/handy-year-round-tips-dry-skin-and-chapped-lips"><em>Reader’s Digest</em></a><em>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, </em><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRA93V"><em>here’s our best subscription offer.</em></a></p> <p><img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" /></p>

Beauty & Style

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6 best holiday destinations with year-round sunshine

<p>Looking for a fix of hot weather? A sunny getaway to a year-round summer destination could be your solution. Below are some of the best spots around the world where you can enjoy the warm glow of the sun on your skin, any time of the year.</p> <p><strong>1. Dubai</strong></p> <p>The United Arab Emirates gem is famous for many different reasons: the spotless beaches, fantastic architectural feats, dynamic cityscape, and the reliably warm weather. Sunbathe on the pristine sands of Jumeirah Beach by the iconic Burj Al Arab. You can also stroll through Dubai Creek for a taste of the city’s history or enjoy the sights of local traditional market at Old Souk.</p> <p><strong>2. Santa Barbara</strong></p> <p>As <span><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Travel-g33045-s208/Santa-Barbara:California:Weather.And.When.To.Go.html">TripAdvisor</a></span> says, there is no bad time to visit Santa Barbara. This peaceful Californian city has one of the most friendly, temperate climates in the US, staying between 18 and 25C throughout the year with low humidity and little rain. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed, easy-going trip. Enjoy the day out at Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens, take in the waterfront view at Stearns Wharf or tour the iconic Old Mission church.</p> <p><strong>3. Cairo </strong></p> <p>Impressive historical sites, vast sand dunes and bustling mega-city life. The Pyramids of Giza are always awaiting exploration, as is Khan Al Khalili street market and the numerous religious and archaeological buildings around the city. You can also travel to the Red Sea for a snorkelling or scuba diving session.</p> <p><strong>4. Mexico</strong></p> <p>The ancient meets the trendy here. Depending on the region and the time of the year, you could see the temperature hit 35C at its highest. Adventurous ones can surf and enjoy the nightlife in the rainforest coast of Sayulita, while those looking for a peaceful time may find what they seek in the colonial town of Merida – or get a glimpse of Mexico’s past at the Haciendas of the Yucatan, where grand country estates with rich history sit among dense forests.</p> <p><strong>5. Bali</strong></p> <p>A classic holiday choice for Aussies, Bali is reliably warm with an average of 26-28C year-round. Kuta and Seminyak are ideal places to surf, lounge under the sun and get rowdy, while Sanur is a more family-friendly option. You can also escape the crowds at Ubud, the island’s arts and culinary heartland, or go diving in Amed and Tulamben for an unparalleled underwater beauty.</p> <p><strong>6. Malta</strong></p> <p>The mild Mediterranean weather – peaking only to 31C in July and August – is complemented with gorgeous coastlines and crystal blue waters. Hop on a ferry for the best view of the picturesque Grand Harbour or go on the Buskett-SIggiewi Walk for a trek lined with heritage spots and native gardens. Don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine, which blends Sicilian and Middle Eastern flavours.</p> <p>Which destinations are you interested to visit? Let us know in the comments.</p>

International Travel

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The odd reason airplane windows are round

<p>Round windows are as synonymous with air travel as peanuts, turbulence and the in-flight safety demonstration. But have you ever wondered why they’re round?</p> <p>Well, there’s a good reason why this is the case. As a recent article in <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Travel + Leisure</span></strong></a> explains, early models of airplanes featured designs with square and rectangular windows, not dissimilar to what you’d expect to see in a home or automobile.</p> <p>In the 1950s, as the commercial jetliner started to rise to popularity and prominence, <a href="http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20140414-crashes-that-changed-plane-design/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">two tragic incidents</span></strong></a> would change the face of aviation design forever.</p> <p>The incidents, in which two planes fell apart mid-air, were examined strenuously by scientists and it was found that the cause was square windows. The sharp corners created natural weak spots, concentrating the stress that was further weakened by the pressure in the air, and at high altitudes this spelt absolute disaster.</p> <p>Curved windowpanes distribute this stress evenly, reducing the likelihood of cracks or breaks occurring. They’re also stronger and more resistant to deformations, allowing them to survive the extreme pressure differences on a flight.</p> <p>So there you have it. Did you realise why plane windows were round?</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong>                                                     </p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2017/01/passengers-should-be-weighed-for-flights-according-to-fellow-flyers/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Passengers should be weighed for flights, according to fellow flyers</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2017/01/snake-on-a-plane-grounds-emirates-flight/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Snake on a plane grounds Emirates flight</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2017/01/why-passengers-always-board-planes-from-the-left-side/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Why passengers always board planes from the left side</strong></em></span></a></p>

Travel Tips

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7 Australian holidays you can visit all year round

<p>When is a good time for a holiday in Australia? Any time! Here are seven Aussie holiday spots that will welcome you any day of the year.</p> <p><strong>1. Cairns</strong></p> <p>Cairns has a year-round outdoor lifestyle with the reef, rainforest and outback are all right on the doorstep. Summer is the wet season and can be rainy, though it’s generally restricted to downpours in the late afternoon followed by clear skies in the morning. Summer is great for diving on the reef as the water is warm, turtles are hatching and lots of fish are breeding. It’s an ideal beach destination for winter as the weather is warm and the oceans free of the nasty jellyfish that can be found during the summer months.</p> <p><strong>2. Perth</strong></p> <p>With more sunny days than any other Australian capital city, Perth will always give travellers a warm welcome. Summers can be oppressively hot, though the arrival of the Fremantle Doctor sea breeze right around 4pm always cools things down. There’s essentially an eight-month beach season in Perth, so bring your swimmers and surfboard between September and April. In winter, you can explore the city’s great museums and galleries, visit vineyards in the Swan Valley or take the ferry out to Rottnest Island.</p> <p><strong>3. Tasmania</strong></p> <p>The Apple Isle is an absolute delight any time of year. In summer, temperatures stay around the early 20s and it’s ideal for hiking, mountain climbing or sailing. There are lots of festivals in summer too, like Falls Festival, MONA FOMA or Taste of Tasmania. Autumn offers incredible colours of foliage and spring is bright with flowers (though can be little wet). And yes, it’s going to be (really) cold in Tasmania in winter, but that just gives you another excuse to make yourself comfortable in front of a roaring fire with a warming glass of pinot noir. Spend your days in museums, eating at great restaurants or playing in the snow.</p> <p><strong>4. Airlie Beach</strong></p> <p>Locals here say that winter lasts about two weeks a year, and even then it doesn’t get very cold. As the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a great base for year-round island hopping and is often actually better in the off season when you won’t find any school holiday crowds (and the prices are much lower). Travel towards the end of winter for whale watching as thousands of humpback whales make their way up the coast to calve in the warm waters around the Great Barrier Reef.</p> <p><strong>5. Darwin</strong></p> <p>It’s Australia’s forgotten capital, closer to Indonesia than Sydney. Yet Darwin is a great year round destination with vibrant nightlife, a thriving arts scene and some of the country’s most famous destinations (like Kakadu) a short distance away. Winter temperatures in Darwin are just about perfect, hovering around 30 degrees on average and almost never falling below 19. The dry season also means lower humidity, little rain and sunny skies. You can’t swim in the ocean at any time of year (thanks to the crocodiles) but the manmade lagoon on the waterfront is a nice spot for a cooling dip.</p> <p><strong>6. Noosa</strong></p> <p>There’s no denying that the unofficial capital of the Sunshine Coast is a great summer destination, with fantastic beaches and a cool surfie culture that will appeal to all ages. However, don’t be too quick to dismiss it as a year-round holiday spot. Noosa has enough good restaurants, interesting shops and art galleries to keep you entertained for at least a week, and further afield there are plenty of tourist attractions like Australia Zoo, the UnderWater World Aquarium, Fraser Island or the hinterland towns of Montville and Maleney.</p> <p><strong>7. Mt Buller</strong></p> <p>The name Mt Buller is synonymous with snow, so it’s a fantastic ski destination during the winter months. For the rest of the year, it’s the place for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. The temperature is mild and the air incredibly clean, so you’ll spend the whole time feeling fresh and invigorated. You can even take a scenic ride on the chairlift for a stunning overview of the (now empty) ski fields.</p> <p>Have you been to any of these incredible holiday spots? Are there any other locations you’d recommend for a year round holiday in Australia? Please let us know in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/where-are-the-worlds-busiest-airports/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Where are the world's busiest airports?</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-things-to-do-on-bruny-island/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 things to do on Bruny Island</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-reasons-to-drop-everything-and-travel/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 reasons to drop everything and travel</strong></em></span></a></p>

International Travel

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Lleyton Hewitt retires from tennis after 2nd round Australian Open loss

<p>It’s game, set, match as Lleyton Hewitt calls time on a legendary tennis career</p> <p>Lleyton Hewitt has retired from professional tennis after his second-round loss at the Australian Open in what is in many ways the end of an era.</p> <p>Hewitt ended his 20-year, 878-match professional tennis career in a gripping encounter with David Ferrer. The Spaniard won the match 6-2 6-4 6-4 in front of a packed house at Rod Laver Arena who were hoping do see the former world No.1 turn back the clock one last time and produce one of his legendary fightbacks.</p> <p>Battling a thigh strain throughout the match Hewitt took the game to the eighth-seeded Ferrer with his typical grit and determination, losing in two hours and 32 minutes.</p> <p>"I came out, I gave everything I had like always and left nothing in the locker room," Hewitt said. "That's something I can be proud of. My whole career I've given 100 percent. I love competing."</p> <p>Hewitt will turn his attention to his new role as Captain for Australia’s Davis Cup team.  </p> <p><em>Image credit: Twitter / ABC </em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/news/news/2016/01/find-cat-hiding-in-this-kitchen/"><strong>Can you find the cat hiding in this kitchen?</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/news/news/2016/01/man-leaves-wife-at-service-station/"><strong>Man accidentally leaves wife at service station, drives 100km before realising</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/01/25-worst-online-passwords-used-in-2015/">25 worst online passwords used in 2015</a></strong></em></span></p>

News

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Are round the world airfares worth it?

<p>Round the world airline (RTW) tickets can be useful and economical solutions to complicated or extensive travel, but it’s worthwhile doing your homework to ensure you get the best deal to suit your requirements.</p> <p>Each of the big three airline alliances (Star Alliance, Oneworld and Skyteam) offer various RTW or related ticket products. In addition, a few airlines have partnerships outside their own alliances (or in some cases with non-alliance airlines), which offer RTWs. And a number of specialty travel agencies have also put together RTW booking vehicles.</p> <p><strong>The basics –</strong> An RTW ticket requires you to travel eastbound or westbound around the world, crossing both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in the same direction. The alliances also sell more limited “circle” tickets in certain regions.</p> <p>RTWs offer multiple stopovers en route that are usually classified from a minimum of 24 hours up to several months and most RTWs are valid for up to a year. Generally you need to begin and end the trip in the same country, but not necessarily in the same city. Subject to the limitations of the tickets (and there are many rules) you generally can zigzag and backtrack within continents or regions, but not return to a particular region once you’ve left it.</p> <p>RTW and Circle tickets generally limit you to a maximum of 16 flights included in the ticket, which is primarily sold on tiers based on maximum kilometres that can be flown without moving up to the next price tier. Obviously the greater distance you fly, the higher the price.</p> <p><strong>Costs -</strong> An important consideration with RTW tickets is that the pricing is extremely variable, depending on where you begin (and therefore end) the trip as well as differences in classes and variations from one alliance to the next.</p> <p><strong>Changes and flexibility -</strong> RTW tickets must have all segments booked prior to issue; however all make provision for changes or alterations during the life of the ticket. Generally, date changes are free, provided the same airline is being used for the same city pair. Itinerary changes – adding or deleting stops, changing the route, etc. – require that the ticket be re-issued for a fee, and any taxes or fees that change because of the new route be added or subtracted.</p> <p><strong>Frequent flyers -</strong> RTW tickets earn frequent flyer miles/points according to the ground rules established by the frequent flyer scheme used.</p> <p><strong>Limitations -</strong> Some RTW trip segments can be undertaken more cheaply by using point-to-point tickets, which obviously offer greater flexibility than any other approach. However this needs to be considered within the overall context of the trip cost. Another issue is inflexibility and limited choice. You have to fly on airlines the ticket allows you to use, and fly where they fly. And because there are many city pairs where no non-stop flights exist, usually a high percentage of the 16 flights are spent in indirect routes between your preferred cities.</p> <p>For most travelers, however, RTW tickets can provide good to very good value, and a great way to explore the world.</p> <p> </p>

International Travel

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