This positive initiative is dedicated to supporting our incredible carers by campaigning for superannuation payments for carers.

Every week in Australia, 2.65 million people dedicate an average of 36 hours – and sometimes up to 104 hours – caring for a friend, relative or neighbour in need. Seven out of 10 unpaid carers are women*, who make significant emotional, career and financial sacrifices to care for their loved ones.

Keep reading for why the ‘Cost of Caring’ campaign matters and how you can get involved.

What is the ‘Cost of Caring’ about?

It’s time to shine a light on the heroes who often go unnoticed – our unpaid family carers. These are the amazing individuals who support the most vulnerable among us, from the elderly and disabled to those facing mental health challenges. They step in and provide essential care and support that many in our communities rely on.

But here’s the kicker: while they’re busy taking care of everyone else, these carers often face significant challenges themselves, as they sacrifice their income, future income potential and superannuation to look after someone they love.

The ‘Cost of Caring’ campaign is about addressing this issue and with your support we will be asking the Government to pay superannuation to all recognised unpaid carers** in Australia.

Annabel Reid, Carers Australia CEO, says that a campaign of this size and magnitude will be a huge boost to the long-standing call for superannuation to be paid on the Carers Payment.

“If these changes were implemented by the current Government, we would begin to see real-life benefits for a community in Australia providing at least $80 billion of care services for free to those who need it most,” Annabel says.

“Economically, people who provide unpaid care are likely to earn less than those who do not. It is time we did more for the cohort of carers who have had to give up employment opportunities to provide care and reduce their superannuation deficit.

“The critical and significant work that unpaid carers provide across the country is vital to supporting Australia’s strained health system, aged care system, disability support and mental health support and is often undertaken at great cost to a carer’s own general and financial wellbeing,” she adds.

Why should the ‘Cost of Caring’ matter to you?

Carers offer compassion and assistance, and their work is vital to the wellbeing of our communities. However, despite their crucial role, many carers struggle financially.

When a carer is looking after someone they love, their financial vulnerability increases as they sacrifice their own income, future income potential and superannuation.

As Jane Huxley, CEO of Are Media, beautifully puts it: “Our carers are the backbone of our community, offering unconditional support and love. It’s time we returned the favour and ensured they have the support they need to continue their incredible work.”

How you can help

One of the most impactful ways you can help right now is by signing the petition to guarantee superannuation for carers.

Your signature can help bring about the changes needed and together we can make a real difference in the lives of those who give so much to our communities.

*Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018

**The definition for carer (under the Australian Government Carer Recognition Act 2010) is someone who gives care and support to a relative or friend who: has a disability; has a medical condition (terminal or chronic illness); has a mental illness; or is frail because they are old (known as ‘frail and aged’)

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“It shocked a few people when he stepped up to chair the meeting at Today. But Karl loves Jasmine and his daughters so much that he would hate to see them grow up in a world where toxic work environments are still a part of everyday workplaces, especially for young women,” reveals a TV source of Karl’s decision, after the shock exit of Nine’s news and current affairs director Darren Wick.

“He has so much respect for Sarah [Abo] and his sister-in-law Sylvia [Jeffreys] and Brooke Boney, who he’s become really close buddies with.

STANDING UP FOR WOMEN

“His Nine family are just as important to him as his actual blood family. So he’s decided if he doesn’t stand up [for them] then who will? There were a few critics at Nine who wondered what his motivation was.

“But at the end of the day he’s made no secret of where he stands. He’d have seen it as an opportunity to show other male colleagues they really do have to do better.

“The old larrikin in Karl is still there, but these days, he knows he’s in a position of power. And he has to do what he can to make Nine and other places safe to work in for females.”

It’s just one of many “lightbulb” moments that the beloved 49-year-old TV star has been having of late.

“Karl has had a bit of a wake-up call re his health, knowing he’s not getting any younger and wants to approach  50 having made some huge lifestyle changes – he’s become a lot more introspective about what’s really important in life,” adds the insider.

“After losing his good mate Warnie [Shane Warne] a few years ago Karl is doing everything to try and shed a few kilos and take better care of himself. He loves his family and wants to be around for a long time – Jasmine is the epicentre of his world. And he knows he has to lift his game if he’s to survive the next 50 years!”

BUILDING A FOREVER HOME

As well as his health overhaul, Karl is in the middle of building wife Jasmine her dream home with the help of Pete Kennon from Studio Kennon.

“Jasmine is beside herself excited she’s finally getting her dream home. She’s always wanted the huge harbour view mansion Karl had with ex-wife Cass. And now plans are afoot and in the pipeline for it to come true since winning their battle with the local council, who’ve approved their designs.

“It’s set to be $4 million with the cost of building on the rise, but Karl wants Jasmine to get the home of her dreams!”

WILLOW’S POLO PLAYER BOYFRIEND

Karl can’t wait to spend time with his daughter Willow, 19 – who’s studying fashion in London – while he’s in Paris. He wants to meet her new polo-playing boyfriend!

“Willow has fallen for a wealthy Argentinian polo player who works in business banking and finance – his name is Genaro Abdala and if she’s smitten, he’s head over heels!” shares a source.

“They reportedly met in Aspen when Willow and her brothers Jackson and River holidayed with their father and Jasmine and Harper last Christmas. His family have a place in Spain, and he’s been treating her to lavish trips to Ibiza – she’s living the high life.”

KARL STEFANOVIC 2.0

Karl was once famously drunk on air after the Logies, but could he be putting away his beer glass for good? Plans were afoot for the notorious party-loving Queenslander to hold a 50th birthday party to end all parties while in Paris for the Olympic Games.

But a pesky scheduling issue has meant that Karl might end up flying home earlier than expected and be back in Australia for his birthday.

“He’s secretly relieved that the party might be cancelled. After blowing $50,000 on Jasmine’s 40th earlier this year, he’s thinking that a low-key lunch somewhere in Noosa might be easier on the bank balance, especially with his new house to pay for!”

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The 23-year-old and her partner Joseph Salerno are pregnant with their first child together.

On April 3rd, Sophie uploaded a post on Instagram announcing the beautiful news alongside some adorable photos of her and Joseph cradling her growing baby bump.

“The greatest gift of all coming in September! ,” she wrote in her caption.

Friends, family and supporters were quick to shower the mum-to-be with love and congratulations in the comment section.

“This is truly the most beautiful news ever! So happy for you both! Your little one will be surrounded by so much love ,” one person wrote.

“I don’t know you personally but the joy I felt reading this – I wanted to say the biggest and most heartfelt congratulations ,” another shared.

“Oh Sophie, you have been a part of our consciousness since you were little. I have followed your recovery from each tragedy along your journey. My wife and I were shocked by your life experiences but the resilience and strength shown by you and your family. You darling, are a superhero and now an inspirational mum. Congratulations we are all thrilled for you both.”

Recently, Sophie shared a 22-week update on her pregnancy journey, taking to Instagram to share some insights into how she’s been doing.

“My gosh, what a journey it has been until now. This little bundle is moving around so much and definitely keeping their mama awake at night!! To feel the movement inside is a feeling of pure love and joy. It is a feeling that I will forever treasure,” the mum-to-be wrote.

“This recent part of the journey has taught me how to slow down and nurture my body more than ever before. I am loving all that you have already changed in me, my little one. Less than half way until we meet ”.

Sophie and her partner Joseph have known each other since they were six years old, but didn’t start dating until after graduating school.

The pair took their relationship to the next level and became engaged on Valentine’s Day in 2023. 

“She has always been the strongest person I’ve ever known. I could tell from our first handshake, a very strong grip,” Joseph told The Australian Women’s Weekly. “Strong, confident and generous, those three words best describe Sophie. That’s what I see when I’m with her.”

Sophie echoed Joseph’s sentiments about her fiance saying, “Honestly, Joseph is the most open and accepting person I’ve ever met.”

“He just understands and jumps in when I need help. I never have to ask or explain. It’s an absolute honour to be marrying him.”

Sophie Delezio has had a difficult life, having undergone more than 100 operations since a car crashed into her Sydney daycare centre when she was a toddler.

But her strength and her smile have never wavered.

“She has had to be determined and strong all her life. After everything that she has endured in the past 15 years, her just being alive is a testament to how determined she really is,” Sophie’s father Ron told The Weekly.

Sophie and Joseph bought their first home together shortly before their engagement last year, and now the love-birds are taking the next step in their relationship and welcoming their own bundle of joy.

Congratulations to the parents-to-be!

The post Sophie Delezio gives update on her pregnancy journey with first child appeared first on Now To Love.

All eyes are on newsrooms across the country after rumours first surfaced weeks ago that Seven Sydney’s long-time 6pm anchor Mark Ferguson may well be axed to make way for the network’s winning weekend team, Michael Usher and Angela Cox – a report that has Peter Overton and his loving wife Jessica Rowe feeling concerned.

TIME FOR CHANGE

According to one newspaper report, Seven’s power-hitters have “warmed” to the idea of replacing Fergo with a double-header, with an industry insider revealing that the move has got Nine’s news veteran Pete wondering if he might be next to get the flick or forced to have a co-anchor.

“It makes sense to put in a reliable duo like Michael [Usher] and Ange [Cox] to go head-to-head with long-time ratings winner Pete [Overton] – look how quick Tom Steinfort and Alicia Loxley have proven in a matter of a few months that they’re a resounding success for Nine’s nightly Melbourne 6pm bulletin,” the insider shares exclusively with Woman’s Day.

Such is the extraordinary success of Tom and Alicia in Melbourne that industry pundits now believe it’s only a matter of time before Nine Sydney moves toward a double act too.

“Pete has been solo at that desk for 15 years and like a good wine, at 58 he just seems to get better with age – but big bosses always have one eye on what their competitors are doing. For now, management will be doing everything to assure Pete that he’s safe – but he’s right to be feeling worried,” explains the insider.

“There is the argument that if they win the ratings year after year with just one newsreader, then why change it, but Pete would be worried all the same,” says the insider.

CRISIS OF CONFIDENCE

“But knowing Pete, if this is how the industry is shifting, then he will adapt – if he wants to remain current, he’ll have to adjust and go with the flow.”

And behind the scenes, it’s Pete’s devoted wife Jess who will be talking him down from this crisis of confidence.

“Jess is always the ultimate wing-woman and has learned from her own highs and lows how to wade through these sorts of challenges. She and Pete have a special bond – if she needs propping up, he’s right at her side. And in this instance, she’d be telling him no matter what, he will always be her number one.

She knows he doesn’t deserve to be out of a job, or replaced by someone who has far less experience. He’s one of the most trusted news anchors in Australia so Nine would be crazy to let him go – he’s got another decade in him at least!”

Adding to their woes is the fact that Pete has been missing from screens lately due to a hip replacement. “It’s given Jess a wake-up call seeing her Pete, who is the family’s protector and tower of strength, all of a sudden so vulnerable – and now there’s this question over his job security.

“But whatever happens they’ll come through it all stronger than ever – that’s just the way they are.”

The post Nine’s Peter Overton is concerned about his future amidst rumours of job axings appeared first on Now To Love.

But Molly’s son will now grow up without her because, in the early hours of April 22, the 28-year-old was found dead inside her home in Forbes, NSW. Her ex-partner has been charged with her murder.

“I can’t put into words the effect Molly had on everyone’s life. She was a beautiful person. Her mum was her best friend, she was so close to her dad and her son was her world from the moment he was born,” Molly’s close friend Jacinda Acheson, 41, tells Woman’s Day.

MOLLY’S LAW

Only three weeks before Molly’s death, the same man was charged with stalking and rape. Despite police opposition, a registrar in Dubbo granted him bail and issued an apprehended violence order (AVO). The AVO banned the man from going within 100 metres of Molly’s home, the childcare centre where she worked or Forbes.

But the apprehended violence order apparently made no difference.

“Only three weeks before [she died], Molly had the courage to tell police what she’d been going through,” says Jacinda. “The police did everything they could to protect Molly, but the first time he fronted court in Dubbo, a female registrar allowed him bail.”

Two weeks later, the man fronted court again and was bailed again.

“If these perpetrators are given bail, they must be electronically monitored so police can see when they break the conditions of their AVO. If this had been in place for Molly, I think she’d still be here,” says Jacinda.

Molly’s family and friends are now calling for “Molly’s Law” – a system that ensures authorities and victims know the whereabouts of bailed perpetrators, facing domestic violence charges.

“How else can victims feel safe if they don’t know where these monsters are?” says Jacinda.

As the number of women killed by partners or ex-partners continues to rise, grieving families, friends and communities across Australia are saying enough is enough and taking to the streets to protest.

In the first four months of this year, 28 women were killed by violence, according to research by Counting Dead Women Australia, a national register that has verified and kept count since 2012. This is a sharp increase compared to the same time last year.

NSW Premier Chris Minns just proposed tougher bail laws for “serious” domestic violence offenders, with legislation expected to be introduced to parliament this week. Jacinda reacted to the news, saying, “It is too late for Molly and the 100s of victims before her. Announcing these changes is a great step towards change. Now they need to be implemented.”

The Australian government has announced $952.2 million will be spent over the next five years to establish the Leaving Violence Program. The program includes a $5000 package of cash, goods and services to help victim-survivors fleeing violent relationships.

Janet Jukes, CEO of Refuge Victoria, says the investment is welcome but more crisis accommodation is needed. The organisation is on the frontlines of women escaping some of the worst family violence.

In an average year, Refuge Victoria supports more than 600 women and children, but a lack of beds means about 70 per cent of women assessed as high-risk return to the homes they escape.

“The women who come to us need to hide from someone who is pursuing them – they need help, so they aren’t killed or harmed. It’s hugely concerning that we don’t have enough refuge beds,” says Janet.

As well as providing secure accommodation, the service helps women “clean” their phones and electronic devices, so they can’t be traced by a violent ex.

After decades in the field, Janet hopes the growing focus on the number of violent deaths will achieve change. “Society is outraged and that is a hopeful sign of change,” she says.

BROKEN SYSTEM

Dr Vincent Hurley passionately voiced his outrage when he appeared on the ABC’s Q+A. The criminologist, ex-NSW police officer and long-time advocate for stronger measures to end domestic violence, says toxic politics are costing lives.

He says the attitudes of police towards domestic violence have vastly improved since he was an officer in the early 1980s, but the legal system is letting down women and children.

“In the 1980s, if someone committed an armed hold-up, whether someone was physically injured or not, the offender had no presumption for bail. Why can’t we do that for men with a history of crimes of domestic violence?” he says.

“I’d like to see perpetrators unable to apply to have their bail reviewed for a week, so women have breathing space to get out of danger. If a perpetrator is then released, they should be referred to a service like the Salvos or Uniting Church so they can vent, cool down and get a reality check. The latest government funding is welcome, but it’s a drop in the ocean.”

Jacinda says a weak and broken justice system is letting down women like Molly.

“Molly won’t see her little boy’s weekend football games, his first try of the season, she won’t celebrate his birthdays and she won’t be there on his wedding day,” she says.

“When Molly was brave enough to ask for help, she was killed. Our bail laws and justice system have Molly’s blood on their hands. The system utterly failed her.”

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

The post Domestic violence death rates soar, leaving Australians reeling appeared first on Now To Love.

Since his recent TikTok debut, the ’90s Aussie TV favourite has won a legion of new young foodie fans. They love his crazy suspenders, walrus moustache and fun-loving chuckle, not to mention
his all-round kitchen skills.

“Hahahahahaha,” chortles the former Ten lifestyle star, astonished by his latter-day hunky status. “I reckon they need new glasses, these people. You know it’s been funny, a lot of them say I look exactly the same, that I haven’t aged a bit. God, my hair’s white these days! But I will take all the compliments, no problem.”

According to some online commentators, Huey is a suave “silver fox” whose “smooth one-liners make him a king” as he “continues to age like a fine wine”.

SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION

This isn’t exactly what the former Healthy, Wealthy And Wise presenter expected when his 22-year-old daughter Charlotte urged him to give video sharing platform TikTok a go. From his kitchen at home in Melbourne, they filmed a short introductory segment and hit send.

Within 48 hours, their first effort notched up more than 500,000 views and about 60,000 followers. Now Huey’s first three “warts and all” posts have received almost 1 million hits – probably even more by the time you read this!

“Bloody hell, I nearly fell off my bloody chair when Charlotte told me,” exclaims the Kiwi-born chef, restaurateur, author, TV personality and one-time folk singer.

“It’s been interesting, that’s the word I suppose you would use, but it’s been flattering. Very exciting and interesting and flattering. I really couldn’t believe it.”

Huey might be blown away by his new audience but he’s also equally astonished by how many past admirers have been in contact to welcome his return.

“We got all these emails that say, ‘We dodged out of school to watch you. We rushed home from school,’ and they had grown up with me… Some of them said they even took sickies to tune in!

“A lot of them reckon I taught them to cook at home – so I guess it’s my fault if they’re doing it badly!” he says with another giant guffaw that threatens to snap his fruit-patterned braces. “But it’s nice to know I haven’t been forgotten.”

One woman told him she thought he was dead. She was sure she’d attended his state funeral. “Fair go, I can’t imagine a Kiwi like me ever making a state funeral,” quips the ever-affable Huey. “It turned out to be Big Kev [McQuay], King of Cleaning, who died in 2005.”

Unlike some other plus-sized celebrities, the host of Huey’s TV Dinner, Huey’s Cooking Adventures and Huey’s Kitchen is very much alive and kicking. What’s the secret of his long-lived popularity?

“I remember Gavan Disney, the production guru from Healthy, Wealthy And Wise telling me, ‘Forget all the fancy sh*t. We want uncomplicated food that people can actually cook at home without over-the-top ingredients or great culinary skills.’

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

“And that’s the exact response we’re getting. I did a TikTok recipe for homemade mayo – how simple is that – and it got 400,000 hits. My mustard vinaigrette video is booming along quite happily too.

“I’m not knocking MasterChef, but it’s very rare to get a recipe on there that you rush into the kitchen to make it straight away. But my audience will knock up a simple soup or salad. That’s the stuff they want to know about, and that’s exactly what Charlotte told me. She’s done a great job.”

Huey fondly recalls some words of advice given to him by the late, great Bert Newton, when he was presenting Good Morning Australia’s cooking segments.

“You know you’re past your prime when someone comes up to you and says, ‘Didn’t you used to be Huey?’ That’s what Bert reckoned. Well, no one has done that to me as yet, thank God!”

The post A new generation of fans are fawning over famous TV chef Huey appeared first on Now To Love.

“I had a pretty good cry this morning,” he tells Woman’s Day, just two days after the Westfield Bondi Junction massacre that left six people dead, including his “beautiful” friend and running partner, Ashlee Good, 38.

Reidy, 44, was caught up in the attack after driving to Westfield to shop for a bunk bed for his two daughters and son, aged three to five years old, only to soon discover that a knifeman was on the loose.

And when he heard shots and saw bloodied bodies scattered on the floor of the shopping centre, this brave dad didn’t hesitate. “I could see a woman bleeding really badly and I thought I’ve just got to get down there and help,” says Reidy, who was safe, locked behind shuttered roller doors in Myer, before he insisted a security guard let him out so he could help the victims.

“When we heard the shots fired – bang, bang, bang – that’s when we knew how serious it was.”

BRAVE ACTIONS

Reidy first went to the aid of a woman near Lululemon, grabbing some clothing off shelves in Cotton On to help stem the bleeding, before helping two police officers who were trying to save the life of another woman. “I started doing CPR,” shares Reidy.

It was then that he noticed 
an abandoned pram near a woman who was also severely injured. He would later find out that the pram was left behind when his friend Ash and her nine-month-old daughter were rushed to hospital.

It was as he left the shopping centre, covered in blood and reeling from what he had witnessed, that Reidy found out the young mother and her little girl were both stabbed, with Ash later dying of her injuries.

He met Ash eight years ago through a mutual love of running when she signed up for the 440 Run Club, and he saw her just three weeks ago at a friend’s 30th birthday party.

“Ash was a beautiful soul, one of the nicest people you could ever meet, never had a bad word to say about anyone, just beautiful – it’s devastating,” Reidy says, revealing that the running group met two days after the attack to share their grief.

REMEMBERING HIS MATE

“I started to think about Ash… and everything that had happened in those 48 hours 
got the better of me and I had 
a good cry.”

There were four heroes who stood out to him that day, but none more so than Ash, who handed her baby to a stranger to help save her life.

“I think that’s an incredibly heroic act. I’ve got three kids, and for me to hand them to a stranger would be the hardest thing,” he says.

Reidy says Damien Guerot and his mate Silas Despreaux, who used bollards to stop the killer going up an escalator, were also extraordinarily brave. And he’s also in awe of “cool, calm and collected” Inspector Amy Scott, who shot and killed the knifeman. 

“She’s a real hero. I just did first aid, which is what I’m trained to do,” he says.

Reidy, who had to return to the scene on Monday afternoon to pick up his car, says the ordeal has reminded him of just how precious life is.

“Just cherish life, don’t take life for granted. It showed that in the blink of an eye, someone can do something extremely stupid or malicious, and life can be gone. Value it and cherish it.”

The post Hero Andrew Reid: The Bondi Rescue star put his life on the line appeared first on Now To Love.

Speaking exclusively to Woman’s Day, top TV insiders insist Nine “will stop at nothing” to replace Brooke, 36, with someone who can help beat rivals Sunrise – and it might even include a good old-fashioned poach!

Sources divulge that bosses at Nine have their eyes on Sunrise golden girl Katie Brown, who at 32 has already proven she is destined to become a TV superstar.

“Nine don’t like to take no for an answer and have had Katie on their radar for months,” the source divulges. “They’ve been waiting to pounce when the time was right, so when Brooke pulled the pin last week, the word was that everyone agrees – it’s time to strike on Katie”.

TODAY IN TURMOIL

While Brooke proved to be popular with her team, sources maintain that “it’s safe to say she divided the Today audience”.

In 2019, it was announced she would replace veteran entertainment guru Richard Wilkins after decades of being on the show, a move many believe didn’t help Today in their battle against Seven’s slick-looking Sunrise.

“There was also the shock decision to have Brooke take on an additional role as the coveted news presenter, leaving Alex Cullen after years in the chair suddenly relegated over to the sports desk,” confides the insider. “It’s no secret Alex wasn’t happy at the time, but he copped it on the chin.”

But with many tipping Katie as the short odds-on favourite to take on the dual role, interestingly, it’s been the growing shortlist of who doesn’t want the job that has everyone talking behind the scenes – most notably Today host Karl Stefanovic’s sister-in-law Sylvia Jeffreys!

“As much as co-host Sarah [Abo] would love her back, Sylvia has made it clear she doesn’t want the grief of 3am starts now that she and husband Peter have a young family – and she loves hosting alongside David Campbell on Today Extra.

“This used to be the holy grail of TV roles, but it’s all changed, which could have something to do with why Brooke was looking elsewhere for new opportunities to expand her horizons.

“There’s a bit of a feeling now that Nine can only beat Sunrise by trying to poach their biggest talents,” says the insider, who admits that while Sunrise favourite Edwina Bartholomew would be a firm favourite to defect, “everyone knows she’s embedded at Seven”.

“Katie will be good at keeping Karl under control, especially with her knockabout humour. She doesn’t mind having a good old laugh at herself – and right now that’s something that is very much needed at Today!”

The post Nine is said to be swooping in fast to nab a much-loved breakfast TV star appeared first on Now To Love.

For 64 years, the Adelaide Fringe Festival has spotlighted tens of thousands of talented dancers, singers, comedians, artists, and more; from already-established industry icons to emerging talent – many of whom get their start on the Adelaide Fringe Festival stages.

But with so many shows and experiences to choose from, it can be hard to decide how to spend your time. Especially if you are visiting Adelaide for the occasion and don’t have the time to spare.

Below, we’ve listed our must-attend events at the Adelaide Fringe Festival for 2024, scroll on for more…

Star Dreaming: Full Dome Experience

Learn about the beginnings of time and space and the life cycle of stars through the eyes of two children in Star Dreaming in its premiere at the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

From the arid heartland of Western Australia to the remote site of the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope to taking a trip back in time to the ancient land of the Yamaji people, discover how much the scientific world and the ancient world have in common in this immersive, and thought-provoking experience the whole family is sure to enjoy.

Tickets are between $8 and $12.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Maho Magic Bar

In this interactive drinking experience, you’ll be treated to a night of mischief, amazement, cocktails, and laughter straight from the streets of Tokyo.

With fresh tricksters, fresh tricks, and even fresher cocktails as you indulge in a drink or two, you’ll be treated to a magical experience as an all-new crew of Japanese magicians and illusionists descend upon your table and quite literally blow your mind!

Tickets are between $62 and $82.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Limbo – The Return

Prepare yourself to be thrilled in this circus spectacle of other worldly proportions.

Wowing audiences across the globe with a jaw-dropping mix of cabaret, circus, acrobatics heart-pounding live music, LIMBO – The Return is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat in its highly anticipated return down under.

Tickets are between $60 and $85.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Sleep’s Hill Tunnel

In an Australian premiere, visitors will be treated to an exclusive look inside Adelaide’s Sleep’s Hill Tunnel which has been transformed from old railway tracks to an immersive art experience that features light and projection work, as well as unique time-lapse footage from renowned creative minds.

Tickets are between $18 and $25. This activity contains flashing lights which may not be suitable for people with photosensitive epilepsy or sensory sensitivities.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Lloyd Langford – Blunt

You’ve seen Welsh comedian Lloyd Langford grace Aussie screens through his hilarious appearances on the likes of Have You Been Paying Attention? Thank God You’re Here, Spicks & Specks and Would I Lie to You? And now the 40-year-old is stepping out at the Adelaide Fringe Festival with his brand new show Blunt.

Expect the unexpected, but know from the moment you sit down you’ll be in the firing line because Lloyd is far more comfortable in his own skin, and a bit more critical about everyone elses.

Tickets are between $29 to $39.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Hans: Disco Spektakulär

Hans really needs no introduction!

After taking his award-winning cabaret show Disco Spektakulär across the globe, he’s finally returned to Australia for a string of performances as part of the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

Whether you are in the mood for some dancing, some singing, or just some hearty laughs, Hans will get the party started in no time, with plenty of glitter to help spread the good-time disco spirits.

Tickets are between $48 and $85.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Natural Wonders

In this extraordinary immersive experience held at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, you’ll be taken on a journey through a series of projected and immersive artworks. Bringing together art, light, and music for all to enjoy, this unique activity takes place under the stars and brings to life diverse natural ecosystems in a carefully curated, and wholly innovative way.

Tickets are between $18 and $35. This event is not fully accessible due to route length and terrain.

For more information and to purchase your tickets click here.

Broken at MOD

If you are looking for an activity that’s slower in pace, we recommend heading along to Broken, an interactive exhibition at Australia’s leading future-focused museum MOD.

Get a feel for the future and the many alternate stories that may unfold if the chips fall a certain way.

Intrigued? Drop in and work out ways to improve the biggest issues society is facing, with the overarching message that being ‘broken’ is not inevitable, unavoidable, or permanent and things can change for the better if you only have hope and a little vision.

This exhibition is free to attend.

For more information click here.

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The mother-of-three was last seen leaving her property on Eureka Street for a run in the Canadian State Forest just after 7am on February 4.

At the time of going to press, Samantha, 51, had not been found.

COMMUNITY SEARCH

In what has been dubbed the largest community response ever in the Ballarat region, hundreds of residents joined emergency crews to help look for Samantha.

Local Priscilla Grech spent last week searching with friends around a lookout. “I’m a mother-of-three too, and I just want to find her safe and sound and for her to be able to return to her family,” Priscilla tells Woman’s Day.

“I had a few other ladies with me. We split into groups of two and searched different tracks. It was very rough terrain – full of mine shafts – and the tracks led off everywhere.”

She explained how Samantha’s disappearance had affected everyone.

“It’s shaken our community, but it is great to see so many people who are out searching. I still have hope.”

Some residents initially voiced fears that Samantha may have fallen into one of the many hidden mine shafts in the area.

However, local cyclist Danny Brizzi disputes this. “If you’re a local, you always stick to the trails,” he told Woman’s Day. “The chances Sam accidentally fell down a shaft are extremely remote.

“Many of the dangerous ones that are near the walking paths have been professionally covered up. Most of the others are
mostly filled with dirt and aren’t dangerous.”

Danny, who covered more than 65 kilometres of trails, roads and paths last week while searching for the missing mum, explained he got on his bike as soon as Samantha was reported missing.

“[Samantha] is a part of our school community. I was focused on finding her,” he says.

On the afternoon of February 7, police established a crime scene just 500 metres from the avid runner’s home after discovering “items of interest” in nearby bushland.

SHOCKED FAMILY

Detectives were spotted looking closely at a plastic tree guard in the shrub before cordoning off the area.

Samantha’s husband Michael Murphy reportedly looked shell-shocked while speaking to police at the scene, before he was
turned away.

The panel beater, who co-owns a smash repair business with his wife, previously told the media that he was “not too bad under the circumstances” and remained hopeful that she’d be found safely.

“It’s just up in the air, we don’t know,” he said. “It’s just a whole time thing at the end of the day,” referring to the
ongoing search.

Police later said they’d ruled out the items being in relation to Samantha’s disappearance.

The search continued late into last week, with more than 100 officers from various units, including the dog squad, mounted branch and air wing, alongside SES, CFA and Parks Victoria personnel involved.

Samantha’s daughter hit out against “malicious” speculation on social media about her mother’s disappearance. “You have no idea what you are talking about,” she wrote on Facebook. “Be quiet and think before you post.”

Police have found that Samantha’s phone pinged from a telecommunications tower, and said they were still working to discover if it remained on.

“Phones can run out of battery but that forms part of the investigation,” Acting Inspector Lisa MacDougall said. “We’re going to look into all the possibilities.”

BELOVED FRIEND

A much-loved member of her community, Samantha is believed to have been involved with the Ballarat Centre of Music & the Arts for more than 20 years. Two of her children were also enrolled in the school.

Samantha’s family are “upset and concerned” while the police described her disappearance as being very out of character.

Anyone needing support can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Anyone with more information can contact Ballarat East police on (03) 5336 6000.

The post Search for missing mum: Locals speak out appeared first on Now To Love.

With all the ups and downs of the last 12 months in the rear-view mirror, countless Australians are planning to let loose and party as we ring in the new year on December 31.

Rooftop parties, beachside festivities and so much more are on the cards for New Year’s Eve – but will the weather cooperate with all our big plans?

While weather predictions aren’t always accurate, we’ve done some research to figure out exactly what the weather is supposed to be doing in each of Australia’s capital cities on New Year’s Eve.

Sydney

Plan for a cloudy start to 2024 in Sydney, where AccuWeather is predicting New Year’s Eve will be breezy and cloudy and will flow into a slightly rainy January 1.

Temperatures will be on the cooler side across the two days, with highs of 24 degrees and lows of 19 degrees.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Sydney.

Brisbane

What is summer in Brisbane without a few storms? AccuWeather is currently predicting it’ll be cloudy with a storms in the afternoon on New Year’s Eve and January 1, so pack an umbrella.

Fortunately the temperatures are expected to hit close to 30 degrees on NYE and 28 degrees on NYD, so at least you’ll be warm in your party outfit.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Brisbane.

Melbourne

AccuWeather is predicting a reasonably pleasant New Year’s Eve for Melbourne, with temperatures hitting 21 degrees on the last day of 20232, along with sunshine and a little cloud.

Though rain isn’t on the cards, there will be a cloudy New Year’s Day but the thermostat will reach 24 degrees.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Melbourne.

Adelaide

Expect a relatively warm start to 2024 in Adelaide, where the temperatures will spike to 25 and 27 degrees on New Year’s Eve and January 1, respectively.

As for the sun, AccuWeather says it will be out in force on both days so make the most of the clear conditions.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Adelaide.

Canberra

Canberra will see the clouds roll in on New Year’s Eve, and they’re expected to stick around on January 1.

AccuWeather currently predicts highs of 21 degrees and lows of between 13-15 degrees on both days, so keep a jacket handy.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Canberra.

Hobart

It’s going to be a cooler start to 2024 in Hobart, where AccuWeather is predicting a top temperature of 24 degrees on New Year’s Eve and 21 degrees on New Year’s Day.

Expect cloud cover on both days and lows of 11 and 13 degrees, respectively.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Hobart.

Perth

It’ll be warm and sunny in Perth for New Year’s Eve, and that’ll continue into the new year.

AccuWeather predicts a high of 29 degrees on the big night, which will also continue on the first day of 2022.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Perth.

Darwin

Scorching is the only way we can describe AccuWeather’s current predictions for New Year’s Eve in Darwin, where it’s expected to get even hotter on January 1.

Expect a little cloud cover, but temperatures will hit a high of 35 degrees on the big night and then 36 degrees on New Years’ Day.

Check the latest weather predictions for New Year’s Eve in Darwin.

The post New Year’s Eve is approaching, but what will the weather be like on the big night and which cities will be doused in rain? appeared first on Now To Love.

We’ve planned just about everything we can for the big day – December 25 – but the one thing that’s still up in the air is the weather.

Recent years have treated us to everything from rainy, grey Christmases, to sweltering heatwaves or sticky, humid scorchers.

With that in mind, it can be hard to anticipate exactly what the weather will look like on December 25, which in turn makes it hard to plan your Christmas Day outfit!

While weather predictions aren’t always accurate, we’ve done some research to figure out exactly what the weather is supposed to be doing in each of Australia’s capital cities on Christmas Day.

Sydney

It’s looking like a mostly cloudy Christmas Day is in store for Sydney, according to AccuWeather’s forecasts.

Expect highs of 27 degrees on the day, with lows of just 22 degrees in the evening, so you could get away with wearing a cheeky Christmas sweater – just make sure it’s a light knit.

So far there’s a 22% chance of thunderstorms and a 75% chance of rain in the day, so make sure you have a back-up plan if you were supposed to be spending the day outside.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Sydney.

Brisbane

AccuWeather is predicting sun and some clouds for Brisbane, and the weather will be a warmer than Syd with highs of 33 degrees.

Lows of 24 degrees mean you won’t get too chilly on the day, so opt for a light dress that can withstand the humidity with a jacket or cardigan for the cooler moments.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Brisbane.

Melbourne

It’ll be a lot cooler in Melbourne, with highs of 23 degrees and cloudy, windy and rainy conditions.

AccuWeather has predicted a 55% chance of rain so make sure to look closer to the date.

With lows of 15 degrees, you might want to pack a jacket for the night time.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Melbourne.

Adelaide

It’s going to be a relatively cool Christmas Day in Adelaide, and AccuWeather says there will be some cloud cover on the big day, along with sun.

We’re expecting highs of 21 degrees and lows of 16 degrees, so make sure you accessorise with a jumper or jacket for when the temperatures drop.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Adelaide.

Canberra

It’s going to be a very neutral Christmas in Canberra, where temperatures are set to max out at 22 degrees with intervals of clouds and sunshine.

AccuWeather predicts lows of 13 degrees, and make sure to bring an umbrella with a 59% chance of rain on December 25.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Canberra.

Hobart

December 25 in Hobart will be typically chilly, with a mix of cloudy and sunny moments throughout the day.

The highest temperature expected right now is just 18 degrees and the lowest is 12 degrees according to AccuWeather, so crack out the Christmas jumpers and make the most of it.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Hobart.

Perth

Perth is being treated to the classic hot Christmas Day so many Aussies know and love, with highs of 33 degrees and a little cloud cover.

Lows will be 20 degrees, so perhaps bring a light jacket or linen shirt for the rest of the festivities during the night.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Perth.

Darwin

You can almost always count on Darwin to deliver a hot Christmas Day, and AccuWeather is predicting just that for this year.

Unfortunately, the high temperatures of 34 degrees will be accompanied by some serious cloud cover, and a thunderstorm or two.

Check the latest weather predictions for Christmas Day in Darwin.

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What is National Reconciliation Week?

National Reconciliation Week (Saturday 27th May to 3rd June) is a significant event in Australia that holds profound meaning for the nation as a whole. It is a time to reflect, acknowledge, and commemorate the shared histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme is ‘Be a Voice for Generations’.

What is the purpose of National Reconciliation Week?

At its core, National Reconciliation Week aims to promote reconciliation by addressing the historical injustices and disparities faced by Indigenous Australians. It is an opportunity to recognize, honour and learn about the traditional custodians of this land, their rich cultural heritage, and the ongoing contribution they make to the nation’s identity and progress.

What to do for National Reconciliation Week?

Sydney- Screening of Luku Ngara: The Law of the Land

This awarded, independent, Indigenous-funded documentary is a must-see this National Reconciliation Week, as it looks at the life and work of Yolngu elder Rev Dr Djiniyini Gondarra.

Thursday, 1st May, 7pm-10pm

Chauvel Cinema, 249 Oxford Street, Paddington

Melbourne- The Voice to Parliament with Reverend Glenn Loughrey

Wiradjuri man, artist, writer, Anglican priest, First Nations leader and chair of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council Uncle Glenn Loughrey will talk in-depth and answer questions about The Voice to Parliament.

Thursday, 1st June, 7pm

St Philips Anglican Church, 80 Catherine Avenue, Mount Waverley

Canberra- Hear Their Stories. Amplify Their Voice.

Experience the power of storytelling through a guided artwork tour of Reconciliation Place, hosted by Maiawali woman and storyteller, Roslyn Hull.

Wednesday 31st May, 1pm-2pm

Reconciliation Place, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes

Brisbane- Brisbane City Walking Tour: Past and Present

Take a walking tour of Brisbane City that uncovers the history and culture of the river city.

Friday, 2nd June, 10:30am-12pm

Tickets from $20

Museum of Brisbane (MoB), Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide Street, Brisbane

Watch: Kevin Rudd’s Sorry Speech. Article continues below video.

Adelaide- Kaurna Language and History: Who are Kaurna?

Kaurna, Narungga and Wirangu man Jack Buckskin has dedicated himself to learning and sharing the Kaurna language and culture and, in this session, will take participants through who Kaurna are, Kaurna Lands, the History of the Name, Observers and who documented Kaurna Language, the important people in the documentation and the revitalization of the Kaurna.

Friday, 2nd June, 11am-12pm

Marion Cultural Centre, 287 Diagonal Road, Oaklands Park

Hobart- Hobart National Reconciliation Week Breakfast

Throughout the week, Reconciliation Tasmania is hosting a series of breakfast events and the main speaker will be renowned journalist, five-time gold logie award winner, Kamilaroi man and reconciliation champion Ray Martin.

Thursday, 1st June, 7am-9am

MyState Bank Arena, 601 Brooker Highway, Glenorchy

Perth- Noongar Language facilitated by Sharon Gregory

Whadjuk Noongar woman Sharon Gregory will be teaching an introduction to Noongar Language with a focus on meaning and pronunciation.

Thursday, 1st June, 5:30pm-6:30pm

City of Vincent Library, 99 Loftus Street, Leederville

Darwin- VarietyNT Trivia Night

Start studying for VarietyNT Trivia Night! All funds raised will go to the Variety NT and the night aims to both educate and entertain.

Thursday, 1st June, from 6pm

From $20

Darwin Trailer Boat Club, 8 Atkins Drive, Fannie Bay

Head to the Reconciliation Australia website to see the full list of events.

The post National Reconciliation Week: 8 important events, talks and workshops to attend appeared first on Now To Love.

According to the Australian government, somewhere between 1 in 3 and 1 in 10 indigenous Australian children were forcibly removed from their families between 1910 and as late as 1970.

The ironies and hipocrisies of the Child Removal Policy are vast and wide. As early as 1789 white settlers had forcibly taken over land belonging to indigenous peoples. Massacres and revenge killings were commonplace.

By 1910 so many aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people had been killed, the British Parliament declared the indigenous peoples to be in danger of being wiped out. So they came up with a solution.

The solution was to remove the children from their ‘endangered’ homes and place them in missionaries and institutions. Many biracial children were placed with white foster families in order to train them to be ‘white’.

According to the Bringing Them Home Report, ‘at least 100,000 children’ were removed from their families and communities during this time. “A common practice was simply to remove the child forcibly, often in the absence of the parent but sometimes even by taking the child from the mother’s arms,” says the report.

It’s not difficult to see why a national apology was required.

The Bringing Them Home Report

In May 1997, the Bringing Them Home report was tabled in Parliament, and as a result, National Sorry Day has been recognised since 26 May 1998.

The report also recommended that the Prime Minister (John Howard) make a public apology to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Stolen Generations. Howard decided against it.

It wasn’t until 13 February 2008 that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd issued a full apology in his Sorry Speech.

“We apologise for the laws and policies of successive parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians,” Kevin Rudd, the former Prime Minister of Australia said.

“We apologise especially for the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, their communities and their country. For the pain, suffering and hurt of these stolen generations, their descendants and for their families left behind, we say sorry.”

Some words from the Stolen Children

A 10-year-old indigenous girl was removed from her mother in Western Australia in 1935.

She says: “I was at the post office with my Mum and Auntie [and cousin]. They put us in the police ute and said they were taking us to Broome. They put the mums in there as well. But when we’d gone [about ten miles] they stopped, and threw the mothers out of the car.”

“We jumped on our mothers’ backs, crying, trying not to be left behind. But the policemen pulled us off and threw us back in the car. They pushed the mothers away and drove off, while our mothers were chasing the car, running and crying after us.”

A Victorian man was adopted into a white family at just 3 months, his account of that time is this: “I’ve got everything that could be reasonably expected: a good home environment, education, stuff like that, but that’s all material stuff. It’s all the non-material stuff that I didn’t have – the lineage.”

It’s like you’re the first human being at times. You know, you’ve just come out of nowhere; there you are. In terms of having a direction in life, how do you know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve come from?”

Charles Passi Dauareb Tribesman from the Mer Island group in the Torres Straits: “National Sorry Day is important to us as an organisation, but also to us as Australia’s First Peoples because we use it to remember and recognise our Stolen Generations.”

“Most Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people I know have been affected either directly or indirectly by this terrible part of our history since European colonisation.”

Cause and Effect

A 3-year study conducted in Melbourne states some of the differences between children who were taken versus those who were raised by their families.

Those removed were:

• Three times more likely to say they had no-one to call on in a crisis

• Three times as likely to report having been in jail

• Twice as key to report current use of illicit substances

The continuing need to say ‘Sorry’

As white Australians it’s easy to forget, ignore or just not think about what it must be like to be an indigenous Australian. We can so easily put it to the back of our minds and carry on with our day. But the same can’t be said for the children of families that were affected by the Child Removal policy, or, any indigenous peoples for that matter.

The effects of the Stolen Generation still live in the hearts and minds of every indigenous Australian. National Sorry Day is there to remind us all that black lives matter, too.

The suffering and stress that occurred cannot be underestimated and it’s the job of each of us to find a compassionate way to honour the trauma that the indigenous peoples now hold in their cultural story.

“If people have been traumatised and are still suffering from the effects of that trauma, they are re-traumatised every time something reminds them of the trauma, even people who have made some degree of recovery. And that is the case in any situation where there is a post- traumatic stress disorder. Things that remind people of the trauma will bring back memories of the trauma and severe distress (Dr Jane McKendrick, Victorian Aboriginal Mental Health Network, evidence 310).

The post Why National Sorry Day is so important appeared first on Now To Love.

It’s given a global platform to some of our greatest talents, including Guy Sebastian (in 2015) and Dami Im (2016), who showed the world that even though we’re just a bit outside Europe, we deserve to be competing with the best.

And now, as the five-day event gets underway again, there’s a new group of Aussies stepping up to represent us. And this time, the world is in for something different.

“I know synth-metal isn’t the most Australian genre of music, but if you think about it, it kind of is,” Danny Estrin, lead singer and keytar player in the genre-bending band Voyager, who have been selected to represent us at Eurovision 2023, says.

“We take our music seriously, but ourselves not so much, and I think that’s a distinctly Australian quality.”

The five-piece progressive pop metal band originally from Perth will perform their song “Promise” in the competition, alongside acts from 37 countries. They’re competing in Liverpool, England, after last year’s winners Ukraine were unable to host the event due to security concerns caused by the 2022 Russian invasion.

German-born Danny (his family migrated to Australia in 1992), says it’s an incredible honour, but also a lot of fun.

“It’s just mind-boggling that, after so many years of doing the rounds, recording seven albums and touring, we finally get to be on pretty much the biggest stage on Earth as part of the biggest show on Earth,” he says.

And Danny knows that Eurovision will give him his biggest audience yet, with the global TV audience in 2023 tipped to top last year’s total of 161 million viewers.

“When I’m up there singing to the camera, I’ll try not to think that millions and millions of people are watching,” Danny says with a laugh.

“But really, it’s what we’re used to doing. And if we can condense all the energy we usually put into a performance into three minutes and give it everything we’ve got, I think we’ll have a good time, entertain people – and, hopefully, do Australia proud.”

The post Meet the stars of Voyager: The band confirmed to represent Australia at Eurovision appeared first on Now To Love.

With 12 hours of fun and entertainment every day, it’s easy to find your happy place.

The Royal Easter show will be taking place from the 6th April 2023 to the 17th April 2023.

Easter Weekend is obviously the biggest weekend for the annual show, so what MUST you do while there?

The Australian Women’s Weekly Picnic and Café

A space to step outside of the hustle and bustle of the Sydney Royal Easter Show for a moment of whimsical, rustic relaxation, The Weekly’s Picnic and Café will sell a signature baked item plus a selection of savoury treats, tea, coffee and cold drinks.

Save when you book Early Bird Tickets before 11:59pm, 5 April 2023. To find out more visit www.eastershow.com.au

The post The Weekly is excited to be back at the Sydney Royal Easter Show appeared first on Now To Love.

“It said I could make $200 a day,” Margie, 64, tells Woman’s Day.

“I wanted to add to my savings, and help my three kids and my sister out, so I clicked on it.”

That was the beginning of the end and the link drew Margie into a complex scam.

“I had a broker who called at 4pm every day. It was during COVID [lockdowns] and I was lonely and trusted him. He became a friend,” Margie, from NSW, says.

Over four months she invested $250,000 with him, using up all her savings and took out a new $100,000 mortgage.

“The biggest regret I have is borrowing from friends and family. I was told I had to invest more to get my money out and I was desperate,” she says.

In February 2022, when Margie finally accepted it was all a scam, she fell apart.

“I had nothing left and I felt like such a loser. I still do. My kids were so proud of me and now I’ve lost that. I have to work full-time again now and I’m back to living hand-to-mouth.”

Margie’s experience is something private investigator Ken Gamble sees every day.

“I’ve been investigating scams for the last 10 years but since COVID it’s exploded,” Ken, who heads up IFW, a company that investigates fraud and cybercrimes, tells Woman’s Day.

“I got a call today from someone who’s lost $1 million and that’s not unusual.”

From January to September 2022, Aussies lost almost half a billion dollars to scammers.

The ones that extract the most pose as investment opportunities and target victims via social media.

“The scammers have so much money behind them they’re making Hollywood-style videos with professional actors to set up the scam and their websites are so sophisticated and well-built you can’t believe it’s not real,” says Ken.

Victims start investing small amounts but when clever software shows their money is growing, they’re convinced to part with everything they own.

By the time they realise it’s a scam, it’s too late and there’s nothing even the police can do.

“The Australian Federal Police will not investigate investment fraud against individuals or originating in other countries,” Ken explains.

This is where he steps in.

With teams all over the world, he works to identify where the scam is coming from and then moves in to raid the call centre, arrest the culprits and seize their assets.

“We have received tens of millions of dollars back this way,” says Ken. “Often the criminals will try to negotiate and pay their victims back if they drop the charges and sometimes this is the quickest way to get their money back.”

Ken is now working with Margie in the hope of retrieving some of her money but even if he does, she says the experience has changed her forever. Now she just wants to warn and help others in a similar position.

“I constantly doubt myself,” she says. “I don’t know how the people working these scams can live with themselves.”

“Hi Mum,” the text read. “This is my number, you can save this one and delete that one.”

It was August 23, 2022, and Brisbane mother-of-two Jen Irishu assumed the message was from her 42-year old son. “When I asked what happened to his old phone he said he’d broken it and lost all his files. He was having a stressful day,” Jen, who is in her 60s, tells Woman’s Day.

When he mentioned he urgently needed help to pay two bills, Jen’s motherly instinct kicked in and she offered to help.

“It all sounded quite normal and my husband Chris and I sat at the computer and paid the first bill, $3250. I emailed the receipt to my son straight away.”

When her real son phoned back and asked what the receipt was all about, Jen instantly realised she’d been scammed.

“I felt so stupid. I’m usually pretty switched on.I texted the scammer back telling him what a scumbag he was,” says Jen.

The money had gone though, and despite it being a relatively small amount, Jen says she wanted to speak out about it.

“Someone has to be brave enough to,” she says. “People have contacted me saying they’ve lost up to $100,000 with this scam. It’s happening all the time and I want people to know about it so it stops.”

The post Meet the man helping Aussies how to spot a scam! appeared first on Now To Love.

Featuring some of the country’s best performers – and of course Santa – it’s a night where everyone comes together to celebrate the season.

And this year, the 40th anniversary of the event and with crowds back to normal after years of Covid restrictions, Carols presenters Natalie Barr and David Koch are looking forward to a good old-fashioned singalong once more.

”Kochie and I can’t wait, and I think Australia can’t wait too,” says Nat, 54, who will present the big night alongside her Sunrise co-host David Koch.

”Last year we needed Carols to brighten up our year after Covid, this year we’re all back to normal, but everyone I talk to says they’ve been shocked at the frantic pace of life.

”I think we all need a break and Carols will signal that it’s really Christmas and we can join with our families and friends and relax, reflect and be thankful.”

”I’m absolutely busting for it,” Kochie, 66, adds.

”’I’ve spent the last 2 years in isolation on Christmas Day, so we are set for a massive family get together.

”’The Perth side of the family are back home, as is my youngest daughter from London with her new German husband and his parents, who have never been to Australia before so there’s literally no room at the Koch Inn this Christmas … and we love it.”

Joining the pair this year will be performers including Todd McKenney, Rhonda Burchmore, The Wiggles, Mark Vincent, Lachie Gill, Paulini and more, with special guest via satellite, Grammy-winning singer Andrea Bocelli performing a duet with his daughter Virginia.

And there will, Nat promises, be some other surprises on the night.

”I can’t tell you what they are because then they wouldn’t be surprises,” Nat says.

”But I just think the whole night is beautiful (with) gorgeous gowns, incredible singing, some of Australia’s most powerful voices combined with an amazing orchestra and choir.

”I really do love being part of it and I know Australia will love what we’ve got planned for this year.”

And will we finally get to Nat and Kochie sing?

Nat’s not keen, but Kochie thinks it might be time.

”I belt out Holy City when Mark Vincent is singing it and I reckon I’ve nailed it after so many years,” he jokes.

”I reckon I sound pretty good, Nat disagrees, so I think it’s time for Australia to decide.”

Carols in the Domain airs on Saturday December 17th on Channel Seven.

The post David Koch reveals plans to SING at Carols in the Domain appeared first on Now To Love.

Taking to Instagram, the proud mum shared a black and white photo of her eldest son, Elijah, to mark his twelfth birthday.

”Twelve,” she wrote. ”I am just so proud of you and the wonderful person you are shaping to be. Happy Birthday Lije.”

Alex and Elijah were inundated with messages of support for the latter’s special day.

”Excuse me?! I feel like he became a young man over night!”, one fan wrote. ”Happy birthday Elijah. And happy 12 years of motherhood to you!”

”What a handsome young man he is growing to be. Happy birthday Elijah,” another added.

”Happy birthday! Wow! I’ve been following you for years and jeez he’s gron up fast,” a third penned.

Fans were first introduced to Alex on Richie Strahan’s 2016 season of The Bachelor, winning the final rose. You remember – that – chocolate bath, right?

The pair then dated for less than a year before calling it quits.

Throughout the season, the single mum gushed about her then five year old son Elijah and said that Richie would meet him when the time was right.

Yet, their first meeting ended up being quite spontaneous, as Alex previously told OK!

”I said to Lij, ‘I’ve got a surprise in my room,’ and he asked, ‘what is it?’ I said, ‘It’s asleep,’ and then he went in there….” she told the publication.

Richie then added: ”I flew in quite late and woke up to the little guy with this big grin on his face. I wake up to, ‘Richie!’ and I go, ‘Lij, what’s going on buddy? He jumped in, have me a hug, and then we just chilled in there for a bit.”

Since her split from Richie, Alex has welcomed a second child, Maxwell, with current partner Carson Jory. The pair are also currently expecting another child soon.

WATCH NOW: Alex Nation announces her third pregnancy. Article continues after video.

Alex revealed she was expecting her third child in October 2022, sharing a montage of family moments with Carson, Elijah and Maxwell.

In May this year, Alex explained that she and Carson had made the ”difficult” decision to elope after being forced to cancel her wedding plans in Croatia.

”With so many other things going on and having projects underway that need a lot of our attention, the timing just wasn’t right for us to tie the knot this year,” she said.

This article originally appeared in WHO.

The post Bachelor fans can’t believe what Alex Nation’s first son looks like now appeared first on Now To Love.

And whilst we are certainly not disappointed to hear that Ramsay Street will be returning to our screens, the shock return of the hit show has raised more questions, many without answers.

Production of the show is set to commence in early 2023 with a world premiere slated for the second half of the year. The show will also resume airing locally and internationally.

So far, only Stefan Dennis, Jackie Woodburne, Alan Fletcher, and Ryan Moloney have been confirmed to return to Ramsay Street.

Outside of the ”big four”, other cast members were left in the lurch about the show revival, many taking to social media to sprout their confusion as to why they were left in the dark.

However, Executive Producer Jason Herbison recently told Digital Spy that he hopes there will be ”many familiar faces,” whilst confirming that some of the young cast members have already moved on to other things.

So how did things wrap up on Neighbours?

Scott (Jason Donovan) and Charlene (Kylie Minogue) returned to the screens, appearing 30 years on from Kylie’s character moving to Brisbane a year after her on-screen wedding. Given Kylie’s superstardom, it’s unlikely that we will see a repeat return of these two.

Former Ramsay Street local Joel Samuels (Daniel MacPherson) also came back for the finale, surprising his best mate Toadie (Ryan Moloney) days before Toadie gets married to Melanie Pearson (Lucinda Cowden).

Speaking of their big day, Toadie knows that Amy Greenwood (Jacinta Stapleton) has feelings for him, but goes ahead with his marriage to Melanie….will this come back as a new storyline?

Mike Young (Guy Pearce) also returned to Ramsay Street, reuniting with his childhood sweetheart, Jane Harris in what was 30 years in the making. After the news broke that the show was coming back, Guy shared his thoughts on Mike and Jane not ending up together ”forever” after all.

”I’ve just inadvertently committed myself to another four years,” Guy joked on The Project when he was reminded of where Mike’s story ended after he moved in with Jane and his daughter Sam.

”For 37 years I’ve been hanging out for some real closure.”

WATCH NOW: Guy Pearce addresses his return to Neighbours. Article continues after the video.

Roxy Willis (Zima Anderson), and Kyle Canning, (Chris Milligan), also said a final goodbye to Ramsay Street during the finale.

The much-loved couple decided to set up a new life together in Darwin, after finding out that they were expecting a baby, despite having a negative pregnancy test.

Kyle was determined to stay in Erinsborough but after the life-altering news, his mind was changed and he is now dead set on starting anew in a new area. Given how they said goodbye, we think there’s a fair chance this goodbye was for good.

Karl (Alan Fletcher) and Susan (Jackie Woodburne) had a tumultuous final season on the show as their marriage went through the ringer before they finally found their way back together, sharing a number of touching love lines to each other to reaffirm their relationship – a reminder that they are ”endgame” and would be together for decades to come after the show said its final goodbye. Given the show is coming back to life (much like their marriage), perhaps we will see more challenges arise for this golden couple?

We will update this page with new information as it becomes available.

The post Everything you need to know about the Neighbours reboot! appeared first on Now To Love.

Nine announced the replacement via Instagram, saying: “For over two decades, she’s been one of television’s most trusted voices with a world of experience. Fearless and razor sharp.

“In 2023, A Current Affair welcomes Ally Langdon. A new era.”

However, Ally was reportedly hesitant to sign the new contract according to The Daily Telegraph and stalled negotiations after discovering she would receive a “hefty six-figure pay cut.”

It is believed that Ally’s salary while on the Today show was $1 million to work 17.5 hours per week. But now insiders claim Ally’s new position at A Current Affair see’s the coveted host recieving $250,000 per year for 2 hours of weekly on-air time from Monday to Thursday,

The former ACA host Tracy Grimshaw was allegedly on an annual salary of $750,000 but The Daily Telegraph maintained that Ally “secured a better deal” than Tracey.

“Ally has built her career on trust, empathy and a commitment to journalistic excellence. She will start on air on Monday January 30, 2023.”

Responses were mixed, with some excited to see Ally take over the iconic role, and others sceptical.

Langdon’s show jump opens up questions about her replacement on The Today Show opposite Karl Stefanovic, as ratings continue to slump for the national breakfast show which has fallen behind Sunrise for the last three years.

WATCH NOW: Sylvia Jeffreys talks A Current Affair and working with Tracey Grimshaw. Article continues after video.

Popular reporter and former US correspondent Amelia Adams, who also notably took up a role with 60 Minutes, installed alongside Stefanonic on Today.

Longtime fill-in Sarah Abo is also reportedly in the mix.

Regardless of what happens, whoever takes up the Today baton would be the ninth woman to serve as co-host alongside Stefanoic in the 17 seasons the breakfast show has been on air.

For ACA, it will be the first new host since Grimshaw stepped in full-time for award winning broadcaster Ray Martin in 2006.

Speaking with Kyle Sandilands, who noted it was ”disappointing that Tracy was hanging up her journalist kitten heels”, Tracy spoke about her resignation, saying: ”I’m tired, I need a rest, I’ve been going hard for a long time.”

”Every person who has been speculated about is an exemplary person and the person the network [Channel 9] for this position is perfect.”

The post Allison Langdon receives significant salary cut in transition to A Current Affair role appeared first on Now To Love.

The TV personality opened up on her mixed feelings towards the Channel 10 show airing its final episode with fellow cast members, Miguel Maestre, Barry Du Bois and Chris Brown on her breakfast radio program Jonesy & Amanda on WSFM 101.7.

Channel 10 golden boy Chris Brown shared her sentiment: ”We’ve always done it for two reasons, one is the people in the street who stop us to talk about the show, we adore those people who have been supporters of The Living Room but also, we do it because for us, it’s not a TV gig, it’s a Friday night catch up with your best friends.”

Whilst the show hasn’t been officially axed, it also hasn’t been renewed.

Earlier this year, Keller shared on her radio show that she would ”hope and pray and assume” that the show would return to the air in 2024.

”Well, I’ve said I’ve got a big announcement. It’s about The Living Room. It’s going to be rested next year, she told co-host Brendan ”Jonesy” Jones.

”It feels that it’s time to take a breath. We’ve been on air for 11 years, 30 [episodes] a year is a lot to produce. So we’re going to take a breath…and take next year off.”

When pressed on the issue, Keller elaborated: ”It’s a network decision. They want the show to continue, as do we.

‘So, we are working on tweaking it, taking a breath…I’m desperate to come back so we will.”

Speaking on the season finale (and potentially last episode ever), Keller said the episode would be a celebration of the last 11 years, becoming audibly emotional on air, admitting ”all four of us [her co-hosts], went the blub,” during the segment.

Barry also opened up about how much he would treasure his timing on the program.

”Every significant moment in our lives, the four of lives for just over a decade, the four of us have been involved with, from the birth of our children to sicknesses, to our kids going to university.”

Keller admitted that the decision to “take a break” was not one that she nor her co-hosts were comfortable with, but she was thankful to avid watchers who have supported the long-running program.

“People love The Living Room, and I love that they do. I’ve never worked on a show that’s had more comments on the street from people about how much they love it,” she said.

“It’s been brilliant, and it will be again.”

The post The Living Room cast break their silence on the show’s shock axing appeared first on Now To Love.

But did it deliver?

With nostalgia at an all-time high, the foxy morons of Fountain Lakes attracted 786,00 viewers for the first part of the special, ‘Our Effluent Life’ and 774,000 for the second part, ‘20 Preposterous Years’.

For many fans who have been eagerly anticipating a sticky date with Australia’s most beloved horn bags since the special was first announced mid-2022, they were left disappointed.

Why you ask?

Well, after being promised ”freshly minted scenes”, the special only included 10 minutes of new footage. On top of that, most of the ”never seen footage”, was bloopers, old clips and DVD extra material.

Despite getting the nation’s knickers in a twist however, the show did deliver the perfect goodbye.

In the wise words of Kim, ”it’s ovah, O-V-A-H!”.

So what are Kath, Kim and the gang up to now?

Unfortunately, ”Chateau Kath” was demolished in real life earlier this year, so the new footage was filmed in front of a green screen.

Kim (Gina Riley) to no surprise is still mooching off mum at home, whilst Kath (Jane Turner) is getting ready to sell the house, move into a warehouse and start her career as an artist. By artist, we mean painting her hunk-a-spunk hubby Kel (Glenn Robbins) in the nude.

Trude and Prue are then mentioned as the buyers of the property, as Kath shares their plans to knock the property down in a very meta turn of events.

Despite being on the brink of homelessness, Kim has a plan that is every bit as Kim as can be.

Boasting about how she plans to ”catfish” someone out of their life savings, Kim gets to work. And soon, she has a victim hook line and sinker….and it’s SHARON!

WATCH NOW: Kath and Kim perform Lady Bump at the 2004 Logies. Article continues after video.

Poor Sharon (Magda Szubanski) gets ”catfished, gaslit and ghosted,” making Kim and Brett (Peter Rowsthorn) ”stanky rich” in the process. They end up buying Kath’s home to keep it in the family, leaving poor Sharon broke, and still rather unlucky in love.

In a positive for Sharon though, she is now the captain of her netball team. But in true Sharon fashion, she is facing a new ailment, this time a mask rash that has gone septic. Poor darl.

And in a special guest appearance, Kylie Minogue (who played grown up Epponnee Rae Craig) joins on screen mum and grandmum on the backyard swing, dishing the dirt on where Epponnee is today (spoiler: she’s moved to a two bedroom unit).

WATCH NOW: Prue and Trude at the 2012 Logie Awards. Article continues after video.

What old footage did we get to see?

Perhaps the most delightful part of the special was footage of the late Shane Warne, who played Sharon’s beau Wayne the Shane impersonator.

Archived footage showed the cricketing great demonstrating tricks like ”the flipper” before giving the fool-hardy cast some tips on their own techniques.

In the footage, Gina Riley shares with Warnie how special it was for him to join them onset.

”This is a dream come true,” Gina says, looking at Warne.

”For you, I mean, getting to sit with us two foxy ladies.”

Daughter, Brooke, took to her TikTok, writing that it was a ”beautiful tribute” to her dad.

”It was so nice to hear him laughing and all of you laughing with him, thankyou”.

A montage of various appearances on tv shows throughout the years was also revived, as audiences were treated to interview footage with the likes of Bert Newton, Rove McManus and more.

Former Prime Minister Julia Gillard was also on hand to offer commentary alongside Professor Michelle Arror, comedian Celia Pacquola, drag queen Art Simone, reality TV star Angie Kent and a number of other well known Australians.

And so, as we farewell this noice, different and downright unusual bunch for the final time we invite you to toast to our favourite hornbags with a glass of Tia Maria or Cardonnay in hand.

The post It’s noice, different and unusual: Kath & Kims’ final hurrah! appeared first on Now To Love.

However, the NSW government has announced that, in light of the Queen’s death, the name of the Queen’s Birthday public holiday will be changed.

Moving forward, the public holiday will be called the King’s Birthday in honour of King Charles III, who is now the head of the British monarchy.

The date of the public holiday will not change though; it will still take place each year on the second Monday of June.

Despite the public holiday annually taking place in June, Queen Elizabeth’s birthday was not in that month. It was April 21.

The reason NSW celebrated in June instead of April is because in the UK, official celebrations for the Queen’s birthday were traditionally held in June because over there, the weather is usually nicer in that month; and NSW just followed suit.

King Charles’ birthday is not in June either; it’s November 14. But it’s likely the UK will hold official celebrations for his birthday in June as well because again, the weather in June is much nicer than the weather the UK experiences in November.

WATCH NOW: The Royals appear on the balcony at the queen’s birthday parade. Article continues after video.

Damien Tudehope, the Employee Relations Minister, said in a statement, ”Most people have only known this public holiday as the Queen’s Birthday holiday for every year of the late Queen Elizabeth’s 70 year reign.”

”It is with a touch of sadness that we must move to change the name, but it is an important recognition of the new monarch, King Charles III, that the public holiday will continue and be henceforth named the King’s Birthday public holiday.”

Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA) have confirmed that the public holiday name will change to the King’s Birthday in their respective states too.

In 2023, the King’s Birthday public holiday will take place in NSW, VIC and WA on Monday, June 12.

This article original appeared in New Idea.

The post The Queen’s Birthday public holiday set to change in NSW appeared first on Now To Love.

Throughout the 10-week trial that came to a close on Tuesday, Dawson pleaded not guilty to the murder of his wife and mother of his two daughters after she disappeared from their Bayview home on Sydney’s northern beaches in 1982.

However, Justice Ian Harrison has today found him guilty in a lengthy hearing which lasted more than five hours, after accepting the Crown prosecution’s argument he killed his wife and disposed of her body so he could run off and start a new life with his student and his family’s babysitter, JC.

The judge stated that it was likely Dawson had murdered Lynette in January 1982, just weeks after he had attempted to flee to Queensland with JC.

Justice Harrison added Dawson had told lies to create “an impression that was inconsistent with him having anything to do with the disappearance of his wife”.

“I’m fortified in my ultimate conclusion in this trial by the lies Mr Dawson told following Lynette Dawson’s disappearance that context is only explicable demonstrating a guilty conscience referable to the death of Lynette Dawson,” Justice Harrison said.

Despite witnesses claiming that they had spotted Lynette over the years, the judge agreed with the prosecution that the sightings were either unreliable or cases of mistaken identity.

Lynette Dawson, the mother of two who vanished from Sydney’s Northern Beaches in January 1982, was the subject of a popular podcast, The Teacher’s Pet, helmed by reporter Hedley Thomas. The podcast had been removed amid the court proceedings.

Dawson, who played for the Newtown Jets rugby league team, was adamant she ran away – despite Lynette having never been found or contacting her daughters, family, or friends since her disappearance.

When Dawson was first arrested in December 2018, officers said he was “a bit taken aback”.

His legal team had been working on an application for a permanent stay of proceedings to stop a trial going ahead.

The application cited that extensive pre-trial publicity, including a podcast, would make a trial “irredeemably unfair”.

WATCH: Chris Dawson is found guilty of Lynette Dawson’s murder. Article continues after video

It also said the passage of time between Lynette’s alleged murder in January 1982 and his trial also rendered any trial necessarily unfair.

However, the Supreme Court judge ordered Dawson should stand trial and that decision was upheld earlier this month by the Court of Criminal Appeal.

“The court agreed with the primary judge that the prejudice to Mr Dawson caused by the pre-trial publicity and delay in this case is very serious,” the summary read.

“However, it also held that such prejudice to Mr Dawson is able to be remedied or sufficiently ameliorated by careful directions, which the judge at the trial will give to the jury.”

Chief Justice Bathurst said while fairness is a consideration, they also had to consider the community’s interest in bringing those charged with serious offences to trial.

Chris Dawson will be sentenced at a later date, and it is likely he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.

This article originally appeared on our sister site, New Idea.

The post Chris Dawson has been found guilty of murdering wife Lynette over 40 years ago appeared first on Now To Love.

While we’re not sure anyone would voluntarily relive the past few years, a new book titled Plagued by journalists Simon Benson and Geoff Chambers is doing just that, specifically with regards to Morrison’s Prime Ministership – and they have revealed some bombshells in the process.

In particular, many Australians were left reeling when they read that Morrison was secretly sworn in as a minister of five extra portfolios during his term as Prime Minister.

And when we say secretly – we mean secretly.

It wasn’t just the Australian public that was kept in the dark, most of the ministers themselves were unaware that they had been demoted to ‘co-minister’.

So what exactly does this mean? Why did Morrison want to be sworn into extra portfolios in the first place? Who actually knew about this? And, perhaps most importantly, why should we care?

What were the portfolios that Morrison was secretly sworn into?

The then-PM was sworn in to five portfolios within the years of 2020 and 2021. They included:

• Department of Health on 14 March 2020

• Department of Finance on 30 March 2020

• Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources on 15 April 2021

• Department of Home Affairs on 6 May 2021

• Department of Treasury on 6 May 2021

Did the existing ministers know about this?

You mean, were the ministers aware that they were secretly being micro-managed? Nope, most of them weren’t.

While Health Minister Greg Hunt was made aware that he now shared his role with Morrison, the other ministers were reportedly left in the dark about the new arrangement.

Finance Minister Mathias Cormann had no idea, nor did Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews, and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg was also unaware.

Meanwhile, Resources Minister Keith Pitt was reportedly advised of Morrison’s new position around 2021 when the PM intervened in a project relating to that department – more on that later.

How did the ministers react once they found out?

Not well, for the most part.

Karen Andrews in particular was scathing in her comments of the former PM, insisting he should step down.

“I am going to ask him to resign and leave Parliament,” she told news.com.au.

“I have nothing to say to him.

“This is totally unacceptable, for a Prime Minister to behave in this manner undermines everything that a federal government constitutionally should stand for.”

What did Morrison have to say about it all?

Well, after news of Morrison’s secret infiltration into the health, finance and resources ministries came to light, he told 2GB’s Ben Fordham that he didn’t “recall” being sworn into any more portfolios.

Not three hours later it was revealed that he was also sworn into the treasury and home affairs portfolios.

The Liberal party member defended his decision in a press conference, saying it was “necessary” in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that he will not be resigning.

“These were extraordinary times in which I had the great honour and privilege to serve as Prime Minister,” he said.

“No Prime Minister has faced the same combination of circumstances, be it the pandemic or indeed the drought, the global recession and the Australian recession caused by the pandemic and the many other natural disasters that befell the country over that period of time.

“I sought those powers but I was only going use them in an emergency,” he continued.

“There was a clear expectation established in the public’s mind, certainly in the media’s mind, and absolutely certainly in the mind of the Opposition, as I would walk into Question Time every day, that I, as prime minister, was responsible pretty much for every single thing that was going on, every drop of rain, every strain of the virus, everything that occurred over that period of time.”

Morrison insisted that the reason he didn’t disclose his new roles to the public was that he feared the appointments would be “misinterpreted and misunderstood” which “would have caused unnecessary angst”.

“I did what I thought was necessary in the national interests to ensure the government continued to perform well.”

The politician also apologised “for any offence” to his colleagues.

“I led an outstanding team who did an excellent job and provided me great service and loyalty as ministers.”

Did anyone else know about this?

Yep, the man who swore Morrison into the portfolios definitely knew about it – i.e. Governor-General David Hurley.

He has since defended the role he played, saying he had “no reason” to believe that the PM had not told his colleagues about the decision.

“The Governor-General acted on the advice of the government of the day, consistent with the principle of responsible government (in which Ministers are responsible to the parliament, and through them to the Australian people, for the advice that they provide to the Governor-General),” a spokesperson for the Governor-General said.

“In relation to questions around secrecy: any questions around secrecy after the Governor-General had acted on the advice of the government of the day are a matter for the previous government.

“It is not the responsibility of the Governor-General to advise the broader Ministry or parliament (or public) of administrative changes of this nature. The Governor-General had no reason to believe that appointments would not be communicated.”

WATCH: Scott Morrison defends his appointment to multiple portfolios. Article continues after video

Is this…. illegal?

It turns out, no. Despite it being very unprecedented (we thought we’d finally escaped that word), there’s no law against swearing a PM into other portfolios.

However, it has prompted the government to seek legal advice going forward.

Did Morrison actually DO anything while holding extra ministerial power?

Despite saying that he wanted these extra roles as a safeguard during the struggles of the pandemic, it seems the former PM only exercised ministerial power once. And it had nothing to do with COVID-19.

In 2021, Morrison used his power as co-minister for resources to cancel a gas exploration project off the NSW coast, overruling minister Keith Pitt.

This decision came ahead of the election, with the PM reportedly worried he would lose votes from those who wanted climate change policy at the forefront of the political agenda.

Why do people care about this?

So, why should we care about all of this?

Basically, Australia operates under a Westminster system – which is based on the British model of responsible government.

At the heart of this system is the concept of the separation of powers between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. This separation creates a system of checks and balances; it is considered one of the cornerstones of fair government to ensure no one person has a monopoly on power, and that decisions are made fairly on behalf of the country.

By Morrison secretly being appointed as a minister for five extra portfolios, he was granted a lot of extra power that Australians – and even his colleagues – weren’t aware of, effectively undermining the concept of democracy and placing doubt in the way our government operates.

Current PM Anthony Albanese said more colourful words to this affect in his response to portfolio-gate, accusing Morrison of running a “shadow government” that was “unbecoming, cynical and just weird… contrary to the Westminster system”.

He also slammed Morrison’s press conference following the revelations, calling him “evasive, defensive, passive-aggressive and self-serving”, while deeming the Governor-General “complicit”.

What happens now?

Now, Albanese is seeking advice as to the legality of Morrison secretly swearing himself into these portfolios.

The post Here’s why Australia is enraged over Scott Morrison’s latest job scandal appeared first on Now To Love.

The cheers subsided momentary, that is until Albanese poignantly said: “I begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet. I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging. And on behalf of the Australian Labor Party, I commit to the Uluru Statement From The Heart in full.”

His words elicited more raucous applause, including a particularly enthusiastic shout of “I love you Albo!” from the crowd.

So just what is the Uluru Statement From The Heart, and why did it prompt such a reaction?

What is the Uluru Statement From The Heart?

The Uluru Statement From The Heart is a declaration signed by over 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Delegates in an attempt to create a better future via the proposal of two reforms – Voice and Makarrata.

Voice – Enshrining a First Nations Voice into the Australian constitution.

Makarrata – The coming together after a struggle to supervise a process of agreement/treaty-making between governments and First Nations people and the truth-telling of history.

How was the Uluru Statement established?

In 2017 at the National Constitutional Convention, over 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Delegates from all points of the Southern Sky gathered in Mutitjulu in the shadow of Uluru to sign the statement.

What does the Uluru Statement say?

The statement begins by acknowledging that “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tribes were the first sovereign Nations of the Australian continent and its adjacent islands”.

It goes on to outline this sovereignty as a “spiritual notion”, being “the ancestral tie between the land”.

The inextricable link between First Nations people and the land is the basis of their ownership or sovereignty, and this has “never been ceded or extinguished, and co-exists with the sovereignty of the Crown”.

“How could it be otherwise? That peoples possessed a land for sixty millennia and this sacred link disappears from world history in merely the last two hundred years,” the statement reads.

As such, the Uluru Statement proposes the two reforms in order to accurately reflect this ancient sovereignty as a “fuller expression of Australia’s nationhood”.

“We seek constitutional reforms to empower our people and take a rightful place in our own country,” it reads.

“We call for the establishment of a First Nations Voice enshrined in the Constitution.”

The statement defines the second reform, Makarrata, to mean “the coming together after a struggle”.

“It captures our aspirations for a fair and truthful relationship with the people of Australia and a better future for our children based on justice and self-determination.

“We seek a Makarrata Commission to supervise a process of agreement-making between governments and First Nations and truth-telling about our history.”

You can read the Uluru Statement From The Heart in its entirety right here.

What’s next for the government and championing First Nations people?

At the end of July, Albanese attended the Garma Festival of Traditional Cultures where he put forward a simple draft referendum question with regards to the Uluru Statement.

“Do you support an alteration to the Constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?” he said.

“A straightforward proposition. A simple principle. A question from the heart.”

The Labor leader also outlined three draft sentences to add to the constitution as a starting point for discussion. These were:

• There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

• The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice make representations to Parliament and the Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

• The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

“I believe there is room in Australian hearts, for the Statement from the Heart,” the PM said in a statement. “We are seeking a momentous change – but it is also a very simple one.

“It’s not a matter of special treatment or preferential power. It’s about consulting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples on the decisions that affect you. This is simple courtesy, it’s common decency.”

What’s more, the Australian Labor Party has committed to forming “genuine partnerships with First Nations people for better outcomes,” as per the ALP website.

Starting with their commitment to implementing the Uluru Statement in full, the Albanese government has also pledged to:

• Work towards Closing the Gap

• Abolish the punitive Community Development Program

• Reinvest justice funding to turn the tide on incarceration and deaths in custody

• Improve housing in remote Indigenous communities

• Invest in First Nations management of land and waters

• Strengthen First Nations economic and job opportunities

• Get rid of the privatised Cashless Debit Card

The post Voice, Treaty and Truth: What is the Uluru Statement From The Heart? appeared first on Now To Love.

After thanking Nathan for his support during the campaign, Anthony revealed to his supporters at Sydney’s Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club that his ex-wife was celebrating his win with him.

“Your mother is here tonight, Carmel. We are both so proud of the caring, wonderful, smart, young man you have become,” he said to his son.

Anthony and Carmel met in the late 1980s and tied the knot in 2000, welcoming their son Nathan a year later. In fact, they were quite the political power couple with Mr Albanese entering Federal Parliament in 1996, whilst Ms Tebbutt first entered the NSW upper house in 1998.

“My special thanks go to my partner and best friend, Carmel Tebbutt, for her constant support, advice and outstanding political judgement,” he said in his maiden speech as the Federal Member for Grayndler.

But in January 2019, the then-Labor MP announced that he and Carmel had broken up.

“I am deeply saddened that my relationship of over 30 years with Carmel Tebbutt has ended in separation,” he said in a short statement.

“We will continue to share parenting responsibilities of our 18-year-old son Nathan, who has successfully completed his HSC and has developed into an outstanding young man who we are both proud of.

“There are no third parties involved.”

Even after their split, Mr Albanese thanked his ex-wife at his first press conference as Labor leader.

“To my partner of 30 years, Carmel, I thank you for your love, your support and your advice over all of those years,’ he told reporters in Sydney back in 2019.

“Our relationship has changed, but I have nothing but best wishes for her future.”

Not only was Ms Tebbutt in attendance at Albo’s victory party but she was also spotted handing out flyers for one of his frontbenchers at a polling booth on Election Day.

What’s more, Albo revealed that she was looking after his beloved dog Toto whilst he was on the campaign trail.

“She’s been helping in very practical ways. We talk regularly about what Nathan’s doing, or the dog,” the Daily Mail reported him saying.

Ms Tebbutt has quite an impressive resume herself.

She started working for the NSW Government in 1999 as the Minister for Juvenile Justice and then served as Minister for Health, Minister for Education and Training, Minister for Community Services and Minister for Climate Change and the Environment.

The political powerhouse then moved up the ranks to become the first ever female deputy premier of NSW, serving under leaders Nathan Rees and Kristina Keneally between 2008 and 2011, before resigning from state politics at the 2015 NSW election.

She is currently the CEO at NSW Mental Health Co-ordinating Council.

Albo met his current partner Jodie Haydon at an event in Melbourne where he had been speaking.

When he’d asked whether there were any South Sydney rugby league supporters in the audience, the now Prime Minister told the Australian Women’s Weekly that “Jodie yelled out, ‘Up the Rabbitohs’.”

“We had what I thought would just be a drink at Young Henrys in Newtown, and we got on really well. That’s how it started,” he said.

“I’d reached a point in my life where I was enjoying being single,” Jodie explained.

The post Prime Minister Anthony Albanese still has a close bond with his ex wife Carmel Tebbutt appeared first on Now To Love.

NAIDOC week is fast approaching – a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and demand change in the systems that continue to oppress them.

This year, NAIDOC week celebrations will be held from Sunday July 3rd to Sunday July 10th. But it’s important that discussions don’t end there.

NAIDOC originally stood for ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee’. The purpose of the week is to herald the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

According to NAIDOC’s co-chair Shannon Dodson, “NAIDOC week actually started as a protest to Australia Day (Invasion Day). It started off as a day of mourning at first then turned into a day of celebration and then became a week”.

While last year’s theme was Heal country, this year’s theme is Get Up! Stand up! Show up! to help fight for active reform rather than empty words.

“We have a proud history of getting up, standing up, and showing up,” the official NAIDOC website reads.

“From the frontier wars and our earliest resistance fighters to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities fighting for change today—we continue to show up.

“Now is our time. We cannot afford to lose momentum for change.”

The statement explains that getting up, standing up and showing up for systemic change for mob, Elders, and communities can come in many different forms.

WATCH: Adam Briggs remixes white-washed Australian anthem. Article continues after video

“Whether it’s seeking proper environmental, cultural and heritage protections, Constitutional change, a comprehensive process of truth-telling, working towards treaties, or calling out racism—we must do it together.

“It must be a genuine commitment by all of us to Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! and support and secure institutional, structural, collaborative, and cooperative reforms.”

This year’s theme is also about celebrating the trailblazers who have “been the heroes and champions of change, of equal rights and even basic human rights”.

“We need to move beyond just acknowledgement, good intentions, empty words and promises, and hollow commitments. Enough is enough.

“The relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non Indigenous Australians needs to be based on justice, equity, and the proper recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights.

“Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! with us to amplify our voices and narrow the gap between aspiration and reality, good intent and outcome.”

For more information about how to get involved this NAIDOC week and beyond, visit the official website here.

The post Get Up! Stand up! Show Up! A look inside the 2022 NAIDOC week theme appeared first on Now To Love.

Hear from inspiring international and local talent as they discuss all things body love, sex, mental health, parenting, wellness, and inclusive beauty and fashion.

When: Saturday, October 8, 2022

Location: Paddington Town Hall, Sydney or

on-demand access from anywhere in Australia!

Speakers: Explore now!

Socials: Follow us bodfestaus!

Ticket price: $19.95 – $49.95

TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE

and include:

Goodie bags (valued up to $150), live talks, tutorials, entertainment, pop-ups from your favourite brands + more!

We look forward to seeing you there!

The post Welcome to BODfest! Australia’s most exciting mini-fest of self love appeared first on Now To Love.