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Yellowstone stars tie the knot in western-themed wedding

<p><em>Yellowstone</em> co-stars Hassie Harrison and Ryan Bingham have officially tied the knot! </p> <p>The actors who play lovers Walker and Laramie on the series, had an intimate Western-themed wedding at Harrison's family home in Dallas, Texas.</p> <p>Harrison shared the details of their nuptials in a Vogue interview on May 29. </p> <p>"I knew I wanted Western, but it had to be elegant Western, with tones of worn leather, delicate lace and a soft, blush colour palette," Harrison said.</p> <p>The couple wrote their own vows for the ceremony, which was officiated by the bride's close friend, Gabriel Hogan. </p> <p>"It was hard to hold back tears. My vows were not just promises to Ryan but also to his children," Harrison told <em>Vogue</em>.</p> <p>Bingham's three kids, who he shares ex-wife Anna Axste, were also in attendance serving as the flower girl and ring bearer, and walking the couple's dog down the aisle. </p> <p>"It was a particularly special moment for me, as I got to express to them just how much they mean to me and what an honour it has been to become a bonus mom to them."</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/C7jcEkQxu3U/?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/C7jcEkQxu3U/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Vogue (@voguemagazine)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The beautiful bride walked down the aisle in a gown with intricate lace detailing and beading, and later on changed into a shorter dress completed with leather boots and a cowboy hat. </p> <p>The groom donned a tuxedo which he complemented with custom-made cowboy boots and a cowboy hat. </p> <p>Harrison and Bingham met on the set of <em>Yellowstone</em> in 2020, when Harrison joined the show during its third season as ranch hand and barrel racer Laramie.</p> <p>Bingham at the time had a recurring role as ranch hand Walker and became a series regular in season four. </p> <p>Their wedding came as a surprise to fans as they never made news of their engagement public. </p> <p>They first went public with their relationship in April 2023, when they shared a photo of them kissing on Instagram. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

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"Shameful": Betting company slammed for 9-11 themed "Never Forget" promo

<p>DraftKings, a prominent sports betting company in the US, has found itself in hot water on social media this past Monday when it featured a parlay with a 9/11 theme on its mobile app – on the 22nd anniversary of the infamous terror attacks of September 11.</p> <p>Social media users were quick to share screenshots of the DraftKings app late on Sunday night, revealing a parlay named "Never Forget". This special parlay entailed wagering on the New York Mets, New York Yankees, and New York Jets to secure victories on Monday, marking the 22nd anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre.</p> <p>The parlay's description urged users to "Bet these New York teams to win tonight on 9/11," drawing sharp criticism from the online community. Many expressed their disapproval of DraftKings seemingly attempting to profit from the solemn occasion.</p> <p>The parlay remained accessible on the app throughout Sunday night and into Monday morning, further fuelling public discontent over the sports betting company's decision.</p> <p>However, DraftKings eventually removed the parlay on Monday and issued an official apology for its inclusion. Their statement read, "We sincerely apologise for the featured parlay that was shared briefly in commemoration of 9/11. We respect the significance of this day for our country and especially for the families of those who were directly affected."</p> <p>Bret Eagleson, who leads the 9/11 Justice organisation, an advocacy group representing families and first responders, strongly condemned DraftKings' offer as "tone-deaf".</p> <p>Eagleson, whose father, Bruce, tragically lost his life in the World Trade Centre attacks, emphasised to the Associate Press: "It is shameful to use the national tragedy of 9/11 to promote a business. We need accountability, justice, and closure, not self-interest and shameless promotion."</p> <p>DraftKings did not disclose how many individuals placed bets as a result of the 9/11-themed offer, leaving questions unanswered regarding the status of those wagers - whether they remain valid or if they have been cancelled.</p> <p><em>Images: Twitter (X)</em></p>

Legal

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The "happiest place on Earth" heading Down Under

<p>Australia could be getting its first Disneyland theme park, after one state capital claim they have the "perfect spot for it". </p> <p>Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp has thrown her support behind the idea of a Down Under Disney, while also pitching the perfect location. </p> <p>“As Australia’s capital city of fun, of course we should have a Disney theme park in Melbourne. We’ve even got the perfect spot for it – Fishermans Bend,” Ms Capp told the <em>Herald Sun</em>.</p> <p>“We saw with the Firefly Zipline just how much Melburnians love a thrilling ride. At Fishermans Bend, exhilarating roller-coasters could soar over the Yarra as part of a Disneyland, Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom."</p> <p>“Melbourne also offers visitors the best tourism experience available in Victoria, from world-class hotels, unbeatable retail offerings and some of the best food and drink in Australia."</p> <p>“I know a Disney theme park in our municipality would be a huge hit with residents — myself included — visitors, students and traders.”</p> <p>Another piece of land has been floated for the location, with a prime spot north of Geelong, 30 minutes from the CBD, seeming to be a more achievable spot for a theme park. </p> <p>A third site has also been proposed, with David Fox, the son of billionaire trucking magnate Lindsey Fox, confirming an entertainment precinct is already earmarked for the huge block of vacant land near Avalon Airport.</p> <p>“There’s an entertainment precinct that we’ve defined. I wouldn’t say (for a) Disneyland at this moment in time, but anything is possible,” Mr Fox said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Deck the halls with Carnival's Grinchmas in July cruises

<p>Roll out the mince pies! Carnival Cruise Line announces it will offer five ‘Grinchmas in July’ themed sailings onboard Carnival Splendor to its existing roster of fun-filled cruises.</p> <p>As part of Carnival’s ongoing Dr. Seuss partnership, the Grinch-themed cruises will bring the very best of ‘Christmas in July’ traditions to sea, allowing Australian guests to experience the fun of a wintry ‘Christmas’.</p> <p>The new additions come as part of Carnival’s ‘<a title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seuss at Sea</a>’ offerings, including its Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, Seussapalooza and Seuss Storytime.</p> <p>Grinchmas in July will see Carnival Splendor transformed into a magical winter wonderland, its giant Christmas tree adorned with glittering lights and baubles galore; there’ll even be winter ‘snow’ on board.</p> <p>Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the full holiday spirit by enjoying a delicious array of festive food and beverage offerings, including Christmas-themed beverages and specialty dining options, ensuring a very merry time.</p> <p>The festive fun comes on top of the full array of 45+ activities guests have come to know and love on a Carnival Cruise.</p> <p>The Grinch himself will join the festivities with special appearances and a screening of <em>How the Grinch Stole Christmas</em> at the Dive-In Movies. The fun doesn’t stop there, as guests can party like a Who from Who-ville, to a ‘Jingle Bell Jam’ soundtrack, as well as Christmas carolling, festive games, trivia and arts and crafts. There’s even an ugly Christmas sweater night and festive outfit competition for the fashionistas of the family.</p> <p>VP of Carnival Cruise Line, Kara Glamore comments, “Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but why should we limit the fun to December? With three within the winter school holidays, there’s no better way to spend time with the family during the school break”.</p> <p>Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney starting from 30th June 2023. The full list of sailings include:</p> <ul> <li>Friday 30th June: 9-night sailing to the South Pacific visiting three amazing ports including Noumea, Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Sunday 9th July: 4-night sailing including a trip to the picturesque Moreton Island, one of Australia's best kept secrets</li> <li>Thursday 13th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler where guests can soak in the very best of Sydney’s famous landmarks whilst getting a taste of the fun on board</li> <li>Sunday 16th July: 12-night South Pacific tour with just under two weeks sailing around the stunning South Pacific. Enjoy the sunshine in Noumea, whilst stopping off at other stunning locations such as Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Friday 28th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler</li> </ul> <p>Fares for Carnival Cruise Line’s Grinchmas in July sailings start from $414* per person twin share interior.  For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit <a style="color: #007c89;" title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: #0000ff;">https://www.carnival.com.au/</span></a></p> <p><em>Image credits: Carnival Cruises </em></p>

Cruising

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Why the 2023 Met Gala theme is already facing controversy

<p dir="ltr">The theme for the 2023 Met Gala has been released, and is already causing controversy both online and within the fashion community. </p> <p dir="ltr">The annual fashion event will coincide with the Met's exhibition titled Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty, which will feature 150 pieces of clothing alongside Lagerfeld’s original sketches. </p> <p dir="ltr">If you’re unfamiliar with Karl Lagerfeld, he has a long history in the fashion industry, culminating in being the creative director of Chanel, Fendi, and his own label.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite his hefty influence on fashion, Karl has regularly been the subject of many controversies, which have prompted a wave of backlash over his glorification in the form of the Met Gala theme subject. </p> <p dir="ltr">In particular, his anti-fat language surrounding women's bodies has been called "cruel", as he even explicitly said, "no one wants to see round women" when the magazine Brigitte announced that it would use "ordinary, realistic" women over models in 2009.</p> <p dir="ltr">Other controversial comments include calling Adele "a little too fat," Heidi Klum "too heavy," saying Pippa Middleton "should only show her back," and adding that Coco Chanel wasn't a feminist because she "was never ugly enough for that."</p> <p dir="ltr">The designer also has a murky history with sexual assault, as he defended stylist Karl Templer after he was accused of sexual assault and said, "If you don't want your pants pulled about, don't become a model! Join a nunnery, there'll always be a place for you in the convent." </p> <p dir="ltr">He also previously said he was "fed up" with the Me Too movement, and sent flowers to accused rapist Dominique Strauss-Kahn.</p> <p dir="ltr">Lagerfeld also has a long history of racism, as he called Muslims the "worst enemies" of Jewish people in 2017 while criticising the acceptance of refugees in France, in comments that were reexamined after his death in 2019. </p> <p dir="ltr">When the theme of the 2023 Met Gala was announced to be centred around Lagerfeld, many critics took to online spaces to express their anger and disappointment.</p> <p dir="ltr">Actor and activist Jameela Jamil led the charge, saying, "This man...was indeed, supremely talented, but used his platform in such a distinctly hateful way, mostly toward women, so repeatedly and up until the last years of his life, showing no remorse, offering no atonement, no apology, no help to groups he attacked. There was no explanation for his cruel outbursts."</p> <p dir="ltr">"Why is THIS who we celebrate when there are so many AMAZING designers out who aren't bigoted white men?" </p> <p dir="ltr">"We didn't fight all this s*** just to throw it all away because some white guy made some pretty clothes for people's skinny [favourites]...come on now."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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"This is the big one": Mars-themed coin rockets up in value

<p dir="auto">A set of unusual 2017 Australian coins has leapt in value and is now fetching upwards of $6,000 online – thanks in part to one very special element of the set, and of course to the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II.</p> <p>The remarkable 10-piece Planetary Collection set, which was released to the public in 2017, shows each of the planets of our Solar System, and also includes Pluto and the Sun.</p> <p>Inside the intergalactic set, the 10 coins range from one cent to $5 and were originally sold for just $170 to savvy collectors - but it's one coin in particular that has rocketed the set's overall price: the Mars $2 coin.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/09/big-marscoin.jpg" alt="" width="426" height="227" /></p> <p>Accounting for at least half of the set's overall $6000 value, Australian coin expert Joel Kandiah says that's why <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/why-the-value-of-these-coins-has-shot-through-the-roof" target="_blank" rel="noopener">demand for this coin has shot through the roof </a>and has been growing since 2020, when collectors were hunting for every single different version.</p> <p>However, the Mars $2 coin within the new set is the one that people are most eager to get their hands on.</p> <p>“People started buying up the entire sets because it's still relatively affordable. And that started pushing demand up for that coin specifically in a short space of time,” the social media personality said.</p> <p>Halfway through last year the sets were selling between $1,800 to $2,000.</p> <p>The 2012 Red Poppy and 2013 Purple coronation $2 coins are also spiking in value.</p> <p>The demand for the $2 coins has shot up even more after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.</p> <p>However, if you're hoping to discover one behind your couch cushions, you might be disappointed, as these box set coins were never intended to be used in general circulation. But if you DO know someone who made that wise $170 investment back in 2017, now is the time to tell them what they are sitting on!</p> <p><em>Image: Wynyardcoins.com.au</em></p>

Money & Banking

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M*A*S*H, 50 years on: the anti-war sitcom was a product of its time, yet its themes are timeless

<p>MASH, stylised as M*A*S*H, is the story of a rag-tag bunch of medical misfits of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital thrown together against the horrors of the Korean war in the 1950s. The series endured for 11 seasons, from September 1972 to the final episode in 1983.</p> <p>Originally it was centred on two army surgeons, the wisecracking but empathetic Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce, played by Alan Alda, and the deadpan “Trapper” John McIntyre, played by Wayne Rogers.</p> <p>The show had an ensemble cast and different episodes would often focus on one of the featured characters.</p> <p>There was the meek Corporal “Radar” O'Reilly, cross-dressing Corporal Klinger, the easy-going Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake and pious Father Mulcahy. The antagonists, conniving Major Frank Burns and Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, were foils for Hawkeye and Trapper but occasionally were central characters in some episodes too.</p> <div data-id="17"> </div> <p>Based on the 1970 movie, itself based on a novel, MASH was designed as a “black comedy” set during the Korean War.</p> <p>It was really a thinly veiled critique of the war in Vietnam raging at the time.</p> <p>The creators of the show knew they wouldn’t get away with making a Vietnam war comedy. Uncensored news broadcasts showing the viciousness of Vietnam were transmitted straight to the American public who were, by now, growing jaded of the increasingly brutal war.</p> <p>Setting the series 20 years earlier allowed the creators to mask their criticisms behind a historical perspective – but most viewers realised the true context.</p> <h2>An anti-war sitcom</h2> <p>What started as a criticism of the Vietnam war soon evolved into one for all wars.</p> <p>In many episodes, audiences would be reminded of the horrors of lives lost in the fighting on the line, and the angst and trauma faced by those behind the line.</p> <p>It didn’t matter which war this was, MASH was saying all wars are the same, full of shattered lives.</p> <p>Cloaking this message in comedy was the way the creators were able to make it palatable to a wide audience.</p> <p>The early seasons have a distinctive sitcom feel to them, mostly as a result of the series co-creators, Larry Gelbart and Gene Reynolds, who were from a comedy background.</p> <p>When both creatives left by the end of season five the show took a more dramatic turn.</p> <p>In particular, Alda became more involved in the writing and took it into a more dramatic direction, toning down the comedic elements. This was also reflected in the change of many of the secondary characters.</p> <p>The philandering, practical joker Trapper was replaced by the moral and professional BJ Hunnicutt, the snivelling Frank Burns by the pretentious Charles Winchester, the laconic Henry Blake with the officious Sherman Potter, and the complete absence of Radar after season eight. The voice of the series took on a noticeably Hawkeye focus.</p> <p>As the Vietnam war ended in 1975, the tone of the show also changed. It became less political and focused more on the dilemmas of the individual characters. The laugh track was toned down. But this did not make the show any less popular.</p> <p>Audiences responded strongly to the anarchic anti-authoritarianism of Hawkeye and Trapper/BJ.</p> <p>Almost all the characters are anti-war, reflecting the growing antagonism the American public was feeling towards the Vietnam war and war fatigue in general, post-Vietnam.</p> <p>Even Frank and Hot Lips, the most patriotic characters, sometimes questioned if the war was worth all the suffering and death. And the series reminded people the humour used was not meant to disrespect those fighting but as a coping mechanism of the trauma by those involved.</p> <h2>A timeless classic</h2> <p>That’s not to say there aren’t issues with the show when looked at with modern sensibilities.</p> <p>Contemporary audiences would find problems with some of the representations of characters and issues addressed in the series. Corporal Klinger would today be seen as contentious. His penchant for dressing in women’s clothes was not because he was trans or interested in drag, but because he was trying to get a “Section 8”, or mental health, discharge.</p> <p>Many of the female characters were also relegated to little more than two-dimensional romantic interests or background characters.</p> <p>The only woman who starred with a significant recurring role was “Hot Lips” Houlihan but, as the nickname implies, she was often the butt of sexualised humour.</p> <p>This has not stopped the show maintaining its popularity in the continual re-runs it gets on cable and streaming services.</p> <p>MASH was a product of its time, yet its themes on the absurdity of war are universal. It became more than a TV show: a shared cathartic experience for war-weary audiences.</p> <p>At its heart is the eclectic mix of dysfunctional characters who use humour to laugh in the face of adversity. This is what makes MASH a timeless classic.</p> <p><strong>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/m-a-s-h-50-years-on-the-anti-war-sitcom-was-a-product-of-its-time-yet-its-themes-are-timeless-190422" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.</strong></p> <p><em>Image: YouTube</em></p>

TV

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‘Gone Girl’ fans can get their fix on killer-themed cruise

<p dir="ltr">For fans of the author Gillian Flynn, the mind behind the thrilling novel <em>Gone Girl</em>, this cruise is for you.</p> <p dir="ltr">Flynn’s award-winning book, about a woman faking her own murder to frame her husband, earned actors Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike a string of accolades for their roles in the blockbuster adaptation. </p> <p dir="ltr">For those who can’t get enough of her stories, which include <em>Sharp Objects</em> and <em>Dark Places</em>, Flynn will be joining passengers on an eight-day cruise down the Danube River.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I am very excited about this,” Flynn told <em>Today Extra</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Along the way I will be telling some stories and doing readings and answering questions about writing, anything about writing in general.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m always up to talk about books.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Flynn marked the ten-year anniversary of <em>Gone Girl</em>’s release in May, sharing with fans what a sequel could look like.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Today is the ten-year anniversary of <em>Gone Girl</em>. What am I thinking about?” she wrote on Instagram.</p> <p dir="ltr">“In <em>Gone Girl</em> chronology, Nick and Amy’s child would be close to 16 years old now. I keep wondering what a teenager raised by Amazing Amy would be like… and I’m chilled… in a good way.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Along with spending time with the acclaimed author, passengers on the cruise will be able to take part in various activities and day trips, as the cruise makes stops in Budapest, Visegrad, Vienna, Krems and Grein.</p> <p dir="ltr">The cruise, set to depart on September 15, will set passengers back $4,238 each and includes seven servings of breakfast and dinner, and six lunches.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is one of Avalon Waterways’ series of Storyteller cruises, with upcoming trips featuring comical novelist <a href="https://www.avalonwaterways.com/river-cruise/storybook-scenery-sarcasm-satire/WZA-T2/?season=2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christopher Moore</a> and musical group <a href="https://www.avalonwaterways.com/river-cruise/active-discovery-on-the-rhine-with-sister-hazel-northbound/WWA-T2/?season=2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sister Hazel</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">To find out more about the killer cruise, head <a href="https://www.avalonwaterways.com.au/europe-river-cruises/active-discovery-on-the-danube-gillian-flynn-WBLT?season=2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-bdbcb0c5-7fff-e497-15b2-c99a2b499fc1"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @thegillianflynn (Instagram)</em></p>

Cruising

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Inside the house where you can swing from room to room

<p>Dubbed ‘Disney World for adults’ by the selling agent, the owners of this interesting resort style home have dropped the price by AUD $946,400 (USD$700,000) in hopes someone will finally buy the property after a long 18 months on the market.</p> <p>Real estate agent Colleen Henninger of City Center Realty recently re-listed the unusual family home on real estate site Zillow, where it gained huge interest thanks to its design.</p> <p>It’s a fusion between African safari, American wild west, Tarzan's lair and a ride at a Disney resort.</p> <p>For AUD $1.6 million (USD $1.2 million ), the home could be all yours. The outside of this two-storey home features timber and rock walls, while inside you will find massive exposed timber beams, corrugated iron walls and wrought iron walkways connecting the rooms, which are separated by a massive internal void.</p> <p>A life-sized carved timber elephant is on display in the downstairs living room, while a statue of a pirate guards the upstairs area.</p> <p>There is also an elevated stage complete with drum kit and ropes to swing from end to end if you’re feeling like something different.</p> <p>The three-bedroom, three bathroom home in the Los Angeles suburb of Lakewood, California, first hit the market in October 2020, with an asking price of USD $1.9 million (AUD $2.57 million). However, after failing to sell and a brief stint as a rental on Airbnb where it was leasing for USD $730 per night, the owners have decided to drop the asking price.</p> <p>Henninger, who is a friend of the owners, says there had been a great deal of interest in the home, but the majority of those who inspected the property just wanted to look and had no intention of buying.</p> <p>"It's a great house. It's like Disney World," she said. "It was built with fun in mind.</p> <p>It's a unique home and it's going to need a unique buyer. You go in and you either love it or hate it. It needs someone who wants to entertain guests and have fun."</p> <p>Of course if you do get bored, the home is within driving distance to Disneyland Resort, Anaheim which is a short 20 kilometres away.</p> <p><em>Images: Domain</em></p>

Real Estate

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Teenager dies after being flung from ride

<p dir="ltr">The last words said by a 14-year-old boy who died before falling from a drop tower amusement park ride have been revealed.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tyre Sampson was enjoying a night out with his family and friends at ICON Park in Orlando, Florida on Thursday when he decided to ride the Orlando Free Fall. </p> <p dir="ltr">Described as the world’s tallest freestanding drop tower at 131 metres, the ride spins around the tower when it’s reached the top before dropping at 120km/h.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tyre hopped onto the ride with his two friends who sat next to him, but he felt something was wrong.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When the ride took off, that’s when he was feeling uncomfortable. He was like ‘this thing is moving,’ you know what I’m saying. And he was like ‘what’s going on?’” Tyre’s father Yarnell Sampson told <a href="https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/father-of-14-year-old-killed-on-the-free-fall-drop-ride-wants-answers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WOFL-TV</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tyre began to freak out and asked his friends to deliver a heartbreaking message to his parents.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And he was explaining to his friends, next to him, ‘I don’t know man, if I don’t make it down safely, can you please tell my mamma and daddy that I love them.</p> <p dir="ltr">“For him to say something like that, he must have felt something.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Horrific footage of the incident was shared to social media, showing a body being flung off the ride just before the ride stopped its descent. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Sampson said most of the rides rejected his son because of his height and weight, however the Free Fall staff said they could take him.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tyre stood at almost 2m tall and weighed 154kg, which made his father question why his son was allowed on the ride.</p> <p dir="ltr">"This one particular ride said, ‘We can take you, come on! Get on!’ No one else allowed him to get on the ride, so I’m wondering what happened between now and then that made them say, 'Come on, get this ride’. </p> <p dir="ltr">"This should never happen to anyone else's child ever again, and if I have anything to do with this, it will not happen ever again."</p> <p dir="ltr">Emergency calls made when Tyre fell out of the ride were released describing the horrific situation.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The thing (Orlando Free Fall) went down to drop and, like, when they got closer to the bottom, when it hit the break, the guy fell right out of the seat,” one caller told 911, <a href="https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/03/25/hes-not-breathing-calls-to-911-released-after-teens-deadly-fall-from-orlando-drop-tower/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Orlando</a> reported.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He’s not responsive. It looks like his arms are broken and his legs,” another called said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He’s face down, there’s blood everywhere. He’s not breathing. I’ve checked his pulse, there’s no pulse.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Investigations into how Tyre died are continuing with ICON Park releasing a statement offering their condolences to the family.</p> <p dir="ltr">"A tragedy occurred last night at the Orlando FreeFall and our hearts are heavy with sadness.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The owner of the attraction is fully cooperating with authorities and ICON Park is doing everything we can to assist.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The Orlando FreeFall will be closed pending a full investigation. Other businesses at ICON Park are scheduled to be open during their normal business hours."</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><em>OverSixty has chosen not to share the video due to its graphic nature and out of respect to the family. </em></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Five themed cruisers for 2022 and beyond

<ol> <li>Meow meow | A cruise for cat lovers</li> </ol> <p>Cat-obsessed cruise goers, unfortunately, cannot bring their cats on this cruise. But what they can do is meet like-minded people to chat about and share photos of their favourite furry feline friends. Activities on this cat-themed cruise include trivia, a scavenger hunt and a cocktail party.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Date: </strong>27 October 2022</li> <li><strong>Destination:</strong> Mexico</li> <li><strong>Cruise Line: </strong>Carnival</li> <li><strong>Ship: </strong>Paradise</li> </ul> <p> You can learn more about this <a href="https://meowmeowcruise.com/">cruise here.</a></p> <ol start="2"> <li>Scrap booking cruise | For those who love to scrapbook </li> </ol> <p>Cruise and Crop is a cruise company offering scrapbooking cruises where guests can enjoy making scrapbooks together. But the fun doesn’t stop there! On certain cruises, you can also try your hand at card making, embroidery, knitting, jewellery making and other crafts.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Date: </strong>17 dates in 2022</li> <li><strong>Destination: </strong>Various</li> <li><strong>Cruise Line: </strong>Royal Caribbean</li> <li><strong>Ship: </strong>Various<strong> </strong></li> </ul> <p>Learn more about this <a href="https://www.cruiseandcrop.com/">cruise here.</a></p> <ol start="3"> <li>Knitting cruise | A cruise for those who love to knit</li> </ol> <p>Craft Cruises offers a range of cruises where craft lovers can get together to improve their knitting skills will classes and workshops. On-board knitting instructors will advise guests about any local yarn stores in the ports of call. As well as knitting, Craft Cruises also offers cruises themed around crocheting, needlepoint, hand spinning and beading.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Date: </strong>9 dates in 2022</li> <li><strong>Destination:</strong> Various</li> <li><strong>Cruise Line: </strong>Holland America Line</li> <li><strong>Ship: </strong>Various</li> </ul> <p>Learn more about this <a href="http://www.craftcruises.com/">cruise here</a>.</p> <ol start="4"> <li>The 80’s cruise | For those who want to relive a slice of the 80s</li> </ol> <p>The 80s Cruise is a non-stop all-inclusive concert with 20 bands including The Human League and Belinda Carlisle. Guests can enjoy parties on the pool deck and themed costume parties such as the ‘Decade of Decadence Prom’ and ‘Pop Icon Night’.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Date: </strong>5 March 2022</li> <li><strong>Destination:</strong>Caribbean</li> <li><strong>Cruise Line: </strong>Royal Caribbean</li> <li><strong>Ship: </strong>Mariner of the Seas</li> </ul> <p>Learn more about this <a href="https://www.the80scruise.com">cruise here.</a></p> <ol start="5"> <li>The country music cruise | For those who love country music </li> </ol> <p>Get your stetsons ready for The Country Music Cruise – a themed party at sea with nightly country music performances and the chance to meet the stars. Country music fans can enjoy seminars, autograph sessions, line dancing and country karaoke.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Date: </strong>22 January 2023</li> <li><strong>Destination:</strong>Caribbean</li> <li><strong>Cruise Line: </strong>Holland America Line</li> <li><strong>Ship: </strong>Nieuw Amsterdam</li> </ul> <p>Learn more about this <a href="https://countrymusiccruise.com/">cruise here.</a></p>

Cruising

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Two schools cancel their productions of Grease over its outdated themes

<p>Two high schools in Perth have cancelled their upcoming productions of the musical Grease, after students have called out the "outdated" themes of the story. </p> <p>Year 7 - 10 students from Scotch College and <span>Presbyterian Ladies‘ College in the Western Australia capital were due to perform their rendition of the iconic musical later this month, but decided against it. </span></p> <p><span>The young women involved in the production believed that the play was </span>inappropriate for modern times, saying the themes of the show were sexist, offensive and anti-feminist. </p> <p>The kids at Scotch College also agreed that a different production would be better suited to a modern audience, but a replacement musical has not yet been announced. </p> <p>PLC Principal Cate Begbie and Acting Scotch College Headmaster Mr Peter Burt issued a brief joint statement about the decision.</p> <p>“A number of PLC students raised concerns whether the musical was appropriate in modern times,” it read.</p> <p>“Scotch College listened respectfully to the girls’ concerns and both schools agreed a different musical would be better suited for their joint production in 2022.”</p> <p>The 1978 movie, based on the 1971 musical, tells the story of good girl Sandy Olsson and bad boy greaser Danny Zuko falling in love during a summer fling, and later finding out they go to the same high school. </p> <p>In recent times, the movie has been called out for <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/movies/things-were-different-olivia-newton-john-hits-back-at-grease-sexism-claims?fbclid=IwAR22YlGUQT52_5dJcre94iILKXkJP-HKzaXGRcQR2dST1DG5Xj1YaeZC4WE" target="_blank">its outdated themes</a>, as star Olivia Newton-John claimed critics need to take into account the times in which the film as made. </p> <p>"It's a movie," the 72-year-old told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theguardian.com.au" target="_blank">The Guardian</a>. "It's a story from the Fifties where things were different. Everyone forgets that, at the end, he changes for her, too. There's nothing deep in there about the #MeToo movement.</p> <p>"It's just a girl who loves a guy, and she thinks if she does that, he'll like her. And he thinks if he does that, she'll like him. I think that's pretty real. People do that for each other. It was a fun love story."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Movies

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Cruising company launches its first literature-themed voyage

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A literature-themed cruise is being offered by Marella Cruises for book lovers to enjoy 16 days at sea. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The all-inclusive cruise across the Atlantic leaves from </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Montego Bay, Jamaica in April 2022, and sails over 16 days to the port of Dubrovnik in Croatia. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This tailor-made experience will allow guests to attend guest talks and interactive workshops with authors and entertainers to satisfy any book lover. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Guests will also be treated to the usual Marella Cruises experience, with all-inclusive food and drink spots, evening entertainment including game shows and quizzes and daytime activities like dance classes and yoga.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Managing Director of Marella Cruises, Chris Hackney, says he hopes the new themed cruise will be as successful as ones run in the past. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It offers something different for guests onboard on a cruise where there are not as many days ashore as some of our other itineraries,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Authors and entertainers joining the cruise include Sarah Cruddas, famous for her knowledge of Space exploration, Tony Strange, known for his comic entertainment and impressions, and crime novelist Barbara Nadel.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The panelists will all share stories and run a series of workshops to guests onboard at no extra cost. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After a difficult year from the pandemic, Marella Cruises will begin its Spanish sailings from September, before heading into Montego Bay where it will port for the winter before commencing the literary cruise. </span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credit: Shutterstock</span></em></p>

Cruising

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Take a virtual tour of New York’s brand new Legoland

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The first theme park to open in the Northeast United States in 40 years pays homage to a beloved toy.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Legoland New York opened its doors to the public last week, with seven different lands for kids and adults to explore.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The opening comes as a sign of relief for the state and industry that have both been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The pandemic took a devastating toll on New York, and as we make our comeback, the new Legoland New York Resort in Orange County is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity that this state has always been known for,” </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-full-opening-theme-park-legolandr-new-york-resort-orange-county" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Governor Andrew Cuomo said</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in a statement on Friday.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This is historic,” Cuomo said. “This is the first new theme park in the Northeast United States in 40 years.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The theme park features 50 rides stretched out across 520 acres.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Built in Goshen, a village in Orange County, the theme park is roughly 95 kilometres from Manhattan.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reservations are required and the park uses a cashless system for tickets, games, food and other services.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Images: legoland.newyork / Instagram</span></em></p>

International Travel

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ALDI brings back popular Christmas-themed Special Buy

<p>Many are looking for the light at the end of the tunnel to an interesting year, and for some, that involves getting excited about an ALDI Special Buy.</p> <p>The discount supermarket chain has made sure that it's selling the $99 pre-lit Christmas Tree that has consistently sold out in previous years.</p> <p>The tree is 2.13 metres tall and has lights already attached, making it a bargain.</p> <p><img id="__mcenew" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838483/aldi-hero.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/dc2ed5ec068f49bf99bc4ec31fc7d62c" /></p> <p>The tree is set to hit stores on November 4th, but eager shoppers are already warning others that it'll sell out quickly.</p> <p>“I bought one 3 years ago and it is so so good. Better than my $400 one from David Jones that I had previously!” one person wrote in the Aldi Fans Australia Facebook group.</p> <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Others praised the tree’s quick set-up.</p> <p>“I’ve had it for 3 years and love it,” one person wrote. “It’s just a couple of pieces that link together, then you fold down the branches. There are so many branches that it actually looks decent even if you can’t be bothered unfolding / fluffing up the smaller branches.”</p> <p>Some shoppers are a fan of the light's colour changes, as you can change it from white, to multi-coloured or a mixture of both.</p> <p><em>Photo credit: </em><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/home/aldi-special-buys-brings-back-popular-99-prelit-christmas-tree/news-story/558e9d6d70e1bba33d53bb3187eda42f" target="_blank" class="editor-rtflink">news.com.au</a></em></p> </div> </div> </div>

Money & Banking

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Woolworths launches new Disney-themed collectables

<p>Parents and kids alike are going to be thrilled to know Woolworths is bringing back the wildly popular Ooshies collectables.</p> <p>The supermarket giant has partnered with Disney+ to keep kids entertained with their favourite Disney+ characters following the success of its Lion King Ooshies program last year.</p> <p>Shoppers will be able to get their hands on the adorable figurines which include characters such as Elsa, Woody, Captain Marvel and the Mandalorian, for every $30 they spend online or in store.</p> <p>The collection features nine Ooshies from each of the four Disney+ universes (Marvel, Star Wars, Disney and Pixar) with 36 to collect in total.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837391/1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/db41d501ec534297b49b1b14e4295116" /></p> <p>Because of the pandemic, people are currently spending more time at home which is why Woolworths chief marketing officer believes this is the perfect time for them to be entertained by their favourite Disney+ characters and programs.</p> <p>“We’re thrilled to offer a new level of excitement to customers with some of the most iconic characters in the Disney+ universe,” he said.</p> <p>“It’s been a difficult year as Australians navigate the challenges of the pandemic, so our goal by partnering with Disney once again is to bring more magic, surprise and delight to our customers.”</p> <p>Customers can drop their preloved Ooshies in store through TerraCycle, which will be turned into plastic pellets to help create products such as garden beds, decks and fences.</p> <p>Disney+ Ooshies will be available from August 26 in Woolworths supermarkets across Australia - excluding Victoria. </p> <p>“We know some customers in Victoria will be disappointed by the delayed roll out, but the safety and wellbeing of our customers, team members, and community remains our number one priority,” Mr Hicks said.</p> <p>“Once restrictions ease and we can safely roll out the program, we look forward to sharing the Disney magic with our Victorian customers.”</p>

Food & Wine

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ALDI-themed birthday party sets hearts racing!

<p>In honour of her youngest daughter’s supermarket obsessions, mother of five Meaghan Singleton decorated her child’s birthday party to the nines by ALDI-fying everything.</p> <p>Four-year-old Saylor’s birthday was truly one for the books, with Ms Singleton writing in a Facebook caption: "We brought Aldi to our house for our Aldi-obsessed Saylor and we didn't forget our quarters or bags!"</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWebbtriophotography%2Fposts%2F2707763852671085&amp;width=500" width="500" height="805" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></p> <p>From creating a cash-register-inspired fruit bar, “red hot” goodie bags and 25-cent cookies inspired by the $1 and $2 gold coins you have to inset into shopping carts before you push them around – Saylor’s mother went all out for the ALDI-themed celebrations.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWebbtriophotography%2Fphotos%2Fa.882407735206715%2F2707760539338083%2F%3Ftype%3D3&amp;width=500" width="500" height="336" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></p> <p>Meaghan took to the Facebook page ALDI Aisle of Shame Community to share the hilariously adorable photos from the event that she also posted to her page<span> </span><em>Webb Trio Photography.</em></p> <p>The sweet post has garnered thousands of likes and over hundreds of comments, with many complimenting the mother’s unconventional and creative decorating skills.</p> <p>For her party outfit, Saylor wore a dress fashioned out of an employee uniform polo shirt, complete with an embroidered logo.</p> <p>The special moment was solidified forever with a gorgeous photoshoot.</p>

Family & Pets

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Disney’s US theme parks are expanding their vegan menu

<p>For people with dietary restrictions, dining at the amusement park can be less than festive with limited variety and food options. But now Disney has made an effort to cater to vegetarians and vegans as it expanded its <span><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/disney-theme-parks-vegan/index.html">plant-based offerings</a></span> at all of the major restaurants within its US theme parks.</p> <p>Hundreds of plant-based options will be added to the menu at all of Disney’s major quick and table service restaurants, with a green leaf symbol to denote the vegan- and vegetarian-friendly meals.</p> <p>The new menu items will be rolled out in Florida’s Walt Disney World starting October, and in Anaheim’s Disneyland starting spring 2020. Visitors will find more than 400 plant-based dishes, including steamed Asian dumplings at Le Cellier, chili-spiced crispy fried tofu bowl at Animal Kingdom and cashew cheesecake at California Grill.</p> <p>The initiative to include vegan options on every menu is limited to the US. However, there are also animal-free options at international parks, such as caramel mix nuts banana cake at Shanghai Disney Resort and risotto-style spelt with mushrooms in Paris.</p> <p>Previously, herbivore visitors had to sort out their meals on their own. A blog titled <span><a href="https://vegandisneyworld.com/vegan-options/vegan-animal-kingdom/"><em>Vegan Disney World</em></a></span> listed all the vegan food options within the Disney Parks, ranging from pineapple Dole Whip to roasted vegetable bowl.</p>

International Travel

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