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Dawn French hits back at "shameful" weight loss comments

Dawn French has hit back at hurtful comments about her drastic weight loss almost a decade ago, admitting she "never rejected" the size she was. In 2014, the British comedian and actress dropped over 45kg after undergoing a hysterectomy following a terrifying cancer scare. The dramatic weight loss came after French's surgeon said she would heal better from the procedure if she lost weight. At the time, dozens of articles were written about French's transformation, praising her weight loss. Now, the 65-year-old has taken umbrage with the comments, telling <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/id-never-felt-so-ugly-how-dawn-french-learnt-to-love-her-flaws-3z95kc823" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Times</a> how unfair it is that women are in the public eye are often “reduced” to descriptions of their appearance. “I have never rejected the bigger woman I have been. Lots of people do it and say, ‘Oh, you look so much better – now you look well.’ And I think, ‘F*** off! Don’t judge that other person who I loved,’” she said. “[British singer] Alison Moyet is a very good friend and so often she has been reduced to descriptions of her physicality.” “She’s this giant talent, why reduce her to that? I’m not taking any s*** from anyone about any of it,” she said. French went on to reflect on the early days of her career, which began in the late 1980s alongside Jennifer Saunders. Despite the success of their BBC show French and Saunders, they were often described by how they looked, something she says “never” happened to their male colleagues. “For many years Jennifer [Saunders] and I were always described by how we looked, especially me, because I was the bigger one.” “It was always about ‘running to fat’ or ‘plump’, and they never said that about any of the male comedians.” “I absolutely own whatever my size is and I will call myself whatever I want. But if I feel like the intent is to shame me, I will not have it,” French said. Image credits: Getty Images

Body

"This is terrible": Woman halts TV interview until her name is pronounced correctly

Former editor and commentator Dawn Neesom was put on blast by Shola Mos-Shogbamimu for mispronouncing her name on TV. The exchange happened on Channel 5’s Jeremy Vine show where Ms Neesom was presenting as a host. Dr Shola appeared on the panel to talk about stories and current issues. When the introductions began, there was an error which was quickly highlighted. Dawn said, “I am absolutely thrilled to be joined by lawyer Dr Shola” but then struggled to pronounce her surname and asked her, “How do I pronounce your name Shola?” The lawyer replied, “'Read it my darling, read it.” Dawn made another attempt but appeared to have mispronounced it again. Dr Shola, appearing amused, said, “This is terrible, especially from a presenter.” Dawn was then instructed by her to pronounce it phonetically, saying “Shola Mos Shog Bam Imu.” Dr Shola responded, “Do it again.” Dawn went on to say “Oh come on, I got the Shola right” but Dr Shola said, "Do it again and do it phonetically.” When she again mispronounced it, Dr Shola said “You just missed the B try again” Dawn, proceeded to put her hand on her face said, “'Shola, Shola welcome to the show!” Dr Shola then told her, “No you will say my name and read it phonetically,” Dawn attempted to say her name again, this time nearly correct and Dr Shola said, “It's Shogbamimu but well done.” The exchange was posted online and both parties tweeted about it. Dawn explained, “The most fun with the best panel this morning. That's what three hours sleep does for you.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> The most fun with the best panel this morning <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyVineOn5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeremyVineOn5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Extra?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Extra</a> 😂 That's what three hours sleep does for you🤪 Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/thecarolemalone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thecarolemalone</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SholaMos1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SholaMos1</a> for being such great sports & to all the excellent callers today 🙏 Back from more fun & games live tomorrow 9.15 sharp. The… <a href="https://t.co/dSVUvBrN3H">https://t.co/dSVUvBrN3H</a> — Dawn Neesom (@DawnNeesom) <a href="https://twitter.com/DawnNeesom/status/1656286485547737088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote> Dr Shola retweeted the video but added no comment. The lawyer, who recently wrote an anti-racism book called This Is Why I Resist, spoke about Meghan Markle’s decision to not attend the coronation. Speaking to GMD, she said, “I think Meghan's decision to say no to the most powerful family in Britain and to say no to the most talked about party in town is both admirable and inspiring. “What Meghan is doing is exercising the power of no that comes from a place of self-worth, growth, maturity and self preservation.” When asked if it was because Meghan “didn’t feel welcome” in the UK, she responded “I don't think that's the case here. "I think that any wife out there that has bad in-laws like Meghan has with the Royal Family can deduce that she has drawn a line in the sand. She is saying I will attend royal events, but on my own terms. “But what is more powerful is that Meghan is telling the whole world that I am rejecting any notion that because I married into the Royal Family I should be bait for toxicity, rage and abuse. “She is saying to society as a whole: you don't get to tell me who I should be as a woman, as a mother and as a wife." Image credit: Instagram

Streaming service giant pays woman 5 figures to watch content

If you think you spend too much time on Amazon Prime, think again as one lucky lady has snatched up her “dream” job with the streaming service. The woman, Alex Bain, 36, has been dubbed Prime Video’s “Buff”, and her job entails reviewing content for Amazon Prime, which came after the platform searched nationwide to fill the role of watching new content. Here’s the real kicker, the 36-year-old will be paid $40,000 for three months of viewing new content and sharing her opinions. She is not new to the scene of content review as she frequently posts to her Instagram, TikTok and Youtube reviewing various TV shows and movies. Upon seeing the advertisement from Amazon Prime, one of Bain’s friends encouraged her to apply. “Everything on it, it was like seeing a list of what would be my ideal job,” Ms Bain told NCA NewsWire. “I’m 36, so I want to do something I’m passionate about, so I decided to just go for it. “I got a phone call from Amazon saying I’d been short-listed, and I was like, ‘Oh my God!’” She said the time between applying for the role and being told she was successful went “so quickly”. Not long after, she received the news she was the lucky one chosen to fill the role. Image credit: Instagram

Olivia Newton-John's daughter's emotional memorial tribute

Olivia Newton-John’s daughter Chloe Lattanzi has delivered an emotional speech at her mother’s memorial service, saying she “feels like a little girl”. Almost six months after her death at the age of 73, Newtown-John was remembered at a star-studded service at Hamer Hall in Melbourne. She passed away on August 8, 2022, after battling breast cancer for three decades. Newtown-John’s husband John Easterline spoke at the beginning of the service followed by his daughter’s emotional tribute. “My heart is broken in two. The other half is with my Mumma,” Lattanzi said with tears. “I know she is holding it for me until we meet again. I stand here before you so desperately wanting to feel strong and confident and speak eloquently. But the truth is, I feel like a little girl lost without her mother. “She was my safe space, my guide, my biggest fan and the Earth beneath my feet.” Lattanzi also said she knew her mother was “standing beside her” and could hear her voice telling her not to be afraid. The grieving daughter mentioned her and her mother had the same “cackle,” and revealed although her mother would never tell a dirty joke, she would “laugh the hardest at them”. “I loved making her tea and then making it five times again until I got it right. I loved our snuggles. I would crawl into bed with her late at night even until I was 20 years old. I loved the way that she smelled,” Lattanzi said. “I loved writing music and singing with her and how she would always notice if I was slightly off-key. “She cherished her friends and her family and she was so grateful to her fans and she loved you all so dearly. She would want us all to laugh and reminisce together, enjoy and celebrate her life.” Aussie singer and actress Delta Goodrem broke down at Newtown-John’s memorial service as she was giving a speech about how the late actress was so special to her. “It’s beautiful to see everybody,” Goodrem said as she was interviewed at Hamer Hall in Melbourne, ahead of a moving performance. “It’s beautiful,” Goodrem continued, flooded with emotion. “Sorry.” “I’m so happy to see everybody coming together on a day to celebrate someone who touched all of our lives,” she said when asked why she was so emotional. “I think that’s really what it is.” In a video shown at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall, Dolly Parton said, "The world lost one of its greatest talents when Olivia left us.” Nicole Kidman also paid tribute, saying that Newton-John was "just a light in the world" and that growing up, she "wanted to be Olivia Newton-John.” Some of the other celebrities and friends who paid tribute to Newtown-John during the service included Hugh Jackman, Keith Urban, Mariah Carey, RuPaul, Pink and Sir Elton John. Image credit: Getty

Family & Pets

Loyal service dog's emotional final flight

A service dog has been honoured on her final flight after being diagnosed with an untreatable cancer. German Shepherd Kaya was trained to support veterans suffering post-traumatic stress disorder and was in the care of handler Cole Lyle. After years of loyal service to Cole, Kaya was diagnosed with terminal cancer and recently boarded a South West Airlines flight in the US to live out her final days at home by Cole's side. Kaya received the very best treatment on the flight, and was honoured by the pilot and her fellow passengers in a heart-warming moment that has since gone viral online. "We have a special guest on today's flight," the pilot said. "Kays is a German Shepherd service dog who has been with her handler, Cole, since 2014. She was specifically trained to help veterans cope with mental health issues." "Since the integration of the PAWS act, it is federal law that allows us to unify service dogs with Veterans with post-traumatic stress which was signed into law in 2021," continued the pilot. <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 617px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7197534710090812715&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40southwestair%2Fvideo%2F7197534710090812715&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2Fea43bd3c48f54df8b328f42f35d8665a_1675806650%3Fx-expires%3D1676246400%26x-signature%3Drrq5YNMF5lC2JmunRKdaFD4SFQ4%253D&key=5b465a7e134d4f09b4e6901220de11f0&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> "Sadly, Kaya was recently diagnosed with an untreatable cancer so we have the solemn honour of taking her on what will be her last flight as she goes home to rest where she was born and first met Cole." The pilot then encouraged the passengers to "show her some love", as cheering and applauding erupted for Kaya. The tear-jerking moment was captured and posted to TikTok by the airline, with the video racking up over 18 million views. The video was shared along with the caption:"We were honoured to fly our loyal friend and hero, Kaya, home to rest after a lifetime of hard work. Throughout her career, Kaya flew with us over 250 times to help establish the PAWS Act which united Veterans with service dogs." "We are so grateful to be a part of her legacy, and we thank her and her owner, Cole, for their many years of service." The comments were flooded with praise for the canine, with one person writing, "Bawling my eyes out. God bless you Kaya". Another wrote, "I'm literally in a puddle we Stan kaya she's so beautiful and perfect we love you sweet girl." "We don't deserve dogs," another simply said. It was later revealed in the comments of the video the Kaya had passed away at home by Cole's side. Image credits: TikTok

Family & Pets

“People are going to die”: Over 1000 uncared for after council aged care services end

More than 1000 elderly residents on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula have been left without care after the local council stopped providing care services and made more than 110 staff redundant. In July, private aged care service providers took over the care of more than 3500 residents who had previously been cared for by the council, with 2063 people transferred to Mecwacare and 1554 to Bolton Clarke, per <a href="https://www.watoday.com.au/national/victoria/nobody-s-checked-i-m-alive-more-than-1000-stranded-as-council-retreats-from-aged-care-20220808-p5b81l.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WA Today</a>. Aimee Bonfield, a spokeswoman for Bolton Clarke, said “essential services” were being provided for 300 residents, with services starting or scheduled for another 200. “All remaining clients have been contacted and we remain in touch on a regular basis to update on progress and to address any immediate needs,” she said. “Bolton Clarke has a strong track record of understanding local needs and supporting wellbeing and independence for older people on the Mornington Peninsula.” But, at least 1000 residents have been left without care, including Barbara Rimington, who has a fused back from spinal surgery and has undergone surgery for lung cancer and was receiving assistance with cleaning from the council. Since Bolton Clarke took over on July 1, the 77-year-old said she hasn’t received any care and is “one of the luckier ones” because she is still relatively independent. “The council said they are monitoring,” she said. “Pig’s arse they are. Nobody has contacted me to see if I am still alive.” Rimington said she was worried for others who needed help with shopping, since there are limited delivery options available on the peninsula. “Are any of these people eating?” she said. “People are going to die. Some people are totally isolated. It’s an indictment on the whole of society.” 89-year-old Michael Nolan said he and his wife, 85, were left in the lurch by Mecawacare and haven’t received care for more than a month. The council used to provide assistance to Nolan once a fortnight, helping with cleaning and tasks around the home, such as checking smoke alarms, changing light bulbs, and changing bed sheets. “[Mecwacare] has been on the job since July 1 and nothing is happening,” he said. “We have to try and do the cleaning ourselves and we tackle it a little bit at a time, but it takes us days and days to do because I can’t bend down, otherwise I fall over. “Mecwacare has had months and months to prepare for this. “It is typical of the former federal government, they want to give everything over to private enterprise.” Anthony Marsh, the mayor of Mornington Peninsula, said the council decided to “transition” away from using its own staff to prepare for the federal government’s open-market system, and that the council had no say in the providers that would replace them. “The peninsula had no provider other than council delivering these services and we needed to ensure our residents had choice and the advantage of a competitive market environment,” he said. “We did not get a say in the appointment of new providers; that was done by the federal government.” Marsh said the council was assured by both providers and the government that essential services would continue from July 1, and that an offer to keep some staff on “to help with the transition” was turned down. “The welfare of our older residents is a major priority for council, and we will continue to advocate to the federal government to make sure older people receive the support they need to remain independent and involved in the community,” he said. A government spokesman said the government was “continually reviewing” the transition and selection process for councils that chose to exit the Commonwealth home support program and was aware of the situation on Mornington Peninsula. “The department is aware of the transition of clients from Mornington Peninsula Shire council to Mecwacare and Bolton Clarke and is actively working with My Aged Care and the providers on outstanding transition issues,” he said. Image: Getty Images

Legal

The downside of digital transformation: why organisations must allow for those who can’t or won’t move online

We hear the phrase “digital transformation” a lot these days. It’s often used to describe the process of replacing functions and services that were once done face-to-face by human beings with online interactions that are faster, more convenient and <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/%7E/media/mckinsey/industries/public%20and%20social%20sector/our%20insights/transforming%20government%20through%20digitization/digital-by-default-a-guide-to-transforming-government-final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“empower” the user</a>. But does digital transformation really deliver on those promises? Or does the seemingly relentless digitalisation of life actually reinforce existing social divides and inequities? Take banking, for example. Where customers once made transactions with tellers at local branches, now they’re encouraged to do it all online. As branches close it leaves many, <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/123302983/asb-set-to-close-another-23-branches-as-customers-move-online" target="_blank" rel="noopener">especially older people</a>, struggling with what was once an easy, everyday task. Or consider the now common call centre experience involving an electronic voice, menu options, <a href="https://theconversation.com/sorry-i-dont-understand-that-the-trouble-with-chatbots-and-how-to-use-them-better-171665" target="_blank" rel="noopener">chatbots</a> and a “user journey” aimed at pushing customers online. As organisations and government agencies in Aotearoa New Zealand and elsewhere grapple with the call to become more “digital”, we have been examining the consequences for those who find the process difficult or marginalising. Since 2021 we’ve been working with the <a href="https://www.cab.org.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Citizens Advice Bureau</a> (CAB) and talking with public and private sector organisations that use digital channels to deliver services. Our findings suggest there is much still to be done to find the right balance between the digital and non-digital. The ‘problematic’ non-user The dominant view now suggests the pursuit of a digitally enabled society will allow everyone to lead a “frictionless” life. As the government’s own policy document, <a href="https://www.digital.govt.nz/dmsdocument/193%7Etowards-a-digital-strategy-for-aotearoa/html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Towards a Digital Strategy for Aotearoa</a>, states: <blockquote> Digital tools and services can enable us to learn new skills, transact with ease, and to receive health and well-being support at a time that suits us and without the need to travel from our homes. </blockquote> Of course, we’re already experiencing this new world. Many public and private services increasingly are available digitally <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/public-leaders-network/2014/jan/07/new-zealand-uk-digital-revolution" target="_blank" rel="noopener">by default</a>. Non-digital alternatives are becoming restricted or even disappearing. There are two underlying assumptions to the view that everyone can or should interact digitally. First, it implies that those who can’t access digital services (or prefer non-digital options) are problematic or deficient in some way – and that this can be overcome simply through greater provision of technology, training or “nudging” non-users to get on board. Second, it assumes digital inclusion – through increasing the provision of digital services – will automatically increase social inclusion. Neither assumption is necessarily true. ‘Digital enforcement’ The CAB (which has mainly face-to-face branches throughout New Zealand) has documented a significant increase in the number of people who struggle to access government services because the digital channel was the default or only option. The bureau argues that <a href="https://inclusioncampaign.cab.org.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">access to public services is a human right</a> and, by implication, the move to digital public services that aren’t universally accessible deprives some people of that right. In earlier research, we refer to this form of deprivation as “<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/isj.12306" target="_blank" rel="noopener">digital enforcement</a>” – defined as a process of dispossession that reduces choices for individuals. Through our current research we find the reality of a digitally enabled society is, in fact, far from perfect and frictionless. Our preliminary findings point to the need to better understand the outcomes of digital transformation at a more nuanced, individual level. Reasons vary as to why a significant number of people find accessing and navigating online services difficult. And it’s often an intersection of multiple causes related to finance, education, culture, language, trust or well-being. Even when given access to digital technology and skills, the complexity of many online requirements and the chaotic life situations some people experience limit their ability to engage with digital services in a productive and meaningful way. The human factor The resulting sense of disenfranchisement and loss of control is regrettable, but it isn’t inevitable. Some organisations are now looking for alternatives to a single-minded focus on transferring services online. They’re not completely removing call centre or client support staff, but instead using digital technology to improve <a href="https://deloitte.wsj.com/articles/at-contact-energy-digital-powers-human-centric-cx-01643821371" target="_blank" rel="noopener">human-centred service delivery</a>. Other organisations are considering partnerships with intermediaries who can work with individuals who find engaging with digital services difficult. The Ministry of Health, for example, is supporting a community-based Māori health and social services provider to establish a <a href="https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/digital-health/digital-enablement/digital-enablement-stories/digital-health-hub-supports-taranaki-whanau-access-services-closer-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">digital health hub</a> to improve local access to health care. Our research is continuing, but we can already see evidence – from the CAB itself and other large organisations – of the benefits of moving away from an uncritical focus on digital transformation. By doing so, the goal is to move beyond a divide between those who are digitally included and excluded, and instead to encourage social inclusion in the digital age. That way, organisations can still move forward technologically – but not at the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jun/23/the-guardian-view-on-digital-exclusion-online-must-not-be-the-only-option">expense of the humans</a> they serve.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/186905/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/angsana-a-techatassanasoontorn-1292067" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angsana A. Techatassanasoontorn</a>, Associate Professor of Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/antonio-diaz-andrade-1361842" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Antonio Diaz Andrade</a>, Professor of Business Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/bill-doolin-1361879" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Doolin</a>, Professor of Technology and Organisation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/harminder-singh-1361833" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harminder Singh</a>, Associate Professor of Business Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-downside-of-digital-transformation-why-organisations-must-allow-for-those-who-cant-or-wont-move-online-186905" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

Technology

Daniel Johns ordered to complete community service over drunk driving incident

Daniel Johns has narrowly avoided jail time with a 10-month intensive corrections order to be served in the community over a high-range drink-driving car crash. The former Silverchair frontman has also been disqualified from driving for seven months and ordered to fit an alcohol-reading interlock device to his car for 24 months when he gets his driver's licence back. In March this year, Johns was charged with high-range drink driving after a head-on crash at North Arm Cove, north of Newcastle. When tested, he returned a blood alcohol reading three times the legal limit. The police report states that Johns was heading north when his SUV crossed onto the wrong side of the Pacific Highway and collided with a light commercial truck travelling in the opposite direction. Both vehicles ended up on a nearby nature strip, with the 51-year-old driver of the van and his 55-year-old female passenger being treated at the scene by paramedics. Johns entered rehabilitation of his own will for four weeks after the crash and the court was told he had not touched alcohol since. In his sentencing submission, defence lawyer Bryan Wrench said his client suffered from complex mental health issues from his time as a child musical star. "He was a very successful musician. He was 14 when that came to him in an unwanted fashion and that came with attacks and vitriol," Mr Wrench said. "He is a recluse, his house is his only safe place." These defence submissions are what helped Johns avoid time behind bars, as Magistrate Ian Cheetham said Johns was best served to continue with psychiatric treatment in the community. "There is no doubt a custodial sentence will not achieve an appropriate result for him or the community," Magistrate Cheetham said. Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Loved ones remember newlywed bride who died on her honeymoon in moving funeral service

Family and friends have gathered to commemorate the “kind-hearted spirit” and “unconditional love” of the newlywed bride who tragically died in a golf buggy accident on her honeymoon in an emotional funeral service Marina Morgan, 29, had only been married to husband Robbie Morgan for 10 days when she died in a freak accident on the couples honeymoon in Hamilton Island. At 9 am on Saturday the 2nd of July, hundreds of friends and family filled St Mary & St Merkorious Coptic Orthodox Church in Rhodes – the same place Marina and Robbie were married. A funeral notice posted to the church’s Facebook page in Arabic and English referred to her as the “bride of heaven”. Several men, including her husband, carried her coffin into the building and onto the altar, where a photo of Marina on her wedding day was placed on top of the casket. After prayers filled the church, friends and family shared their memories of Marina’s life. Marina’s brother, Mark Hanna, described his sister as a “sweet, young, independent woman who was loved by everyone.” “She was beautiful inside and out, loved to laugh, and always had a positive outlook on life.” In his emotional eulogy, Mr Hanna described the strong bond he shared with his sister. “I've lost someone who I shared so many things … we always shared with each other our hidden fears, and now it feels as though I’ve lost a part of myself, leaving a wound that stretches from the middle of my ribcage to the bottom of my gut,” he said. “It’s very difficult to accept that our gorgeous Marina is no longer here with us. “I will do my best to not let this scar be the death of me,” he promised as he broke down in tears. “Mum, dad, husband Robbie, me, your extended families, cousins, uncles, aunts, friends and everyone who knew you will never forget you.” While Mr Morgan did not stand to speak during the funeral, he briefly spoke to media after. “I can’t explain the sadness in my heart, my wife was loved by so many,” Mr Morgan said told reporters after the funeral. Cousin Miriam remembered her “partner in crime” who lived her life “fearlessly” and vowed to do the same. In a bespoke poem, Miriam also described how Marina fulfilled her life’s goal of getting married, filling her family with pride. “We never thought that day would be your last,” she recited. “To marry her soulmate Robbie and to be a bride, while always filling her family with so much love and so much pride While Mr Morgan did not get up to speak, the priest told the church how he had recalled the couple’s last few days together. “Please see this as a celebration. She is in a better place now alongside God and his angels.” Mrs Morgan’s casket was carried outside and placed into the back of a hearse, before it was driven to Rookwood Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest. Images: Facebook

Caring

Andrew Symonds laid to rest in private service

Cricketing icon Andrew Symonds has been farewelled in a private funeral on Friday morning, ahead of a public service later that afternoon. Symonds’ wife and children were seen clutching his beloved Akubras as they gathered with friends, teammates and other family members of the cricketer at Riverway Stadium on the outskirts of Townsville, Queensland. The memorial comes <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/gone-too-soon-tributes-flow-for-andrew-symonds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">nearly a fortnight after Symonds veered off a remote road</a> and fatally crashed his car. His wife Laura and their children Billy and Chloe were among the first to arrive at 10am, just an hour before the service began, and were followed a short time later by Symonds’ best friend and former teammate Jimmy Maher. Other cricketing greats also attended the service, including Adam Gilchrist, Ian Healy, Ricky Ponting, Mark Waugh, Glenn McGrath and Micthell Johnson, as well as West Indies batsman Brian Lara and NRL player Darren Lockyer. A note sent to guests told them “no tie necessary”, reflecting Symonds’ casual personal style and his frequent appearances at semi-formal events in shorts and t-shirts. Some guests took the brief seriously, arriving in chinos and button-up shirts, while others wore three-piece suits. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Andrew Symonds will be publicly farewelled this afternoon in Townsville. Fans are welcomed to join the service online from 2:30pm AEST on <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketcomau</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/kayosports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kayosports</a> <a href="https://t.co/E4rR5Sae18">pic.twitter.com/E4rR5Sae18</a> — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1530015862995816448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2022</a></blockquote> In lieu of flowers, guests were encouraged to donate to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Nigel Fairbain was the first to speak at the service, welcoming attendees to celebrate Symonds’ life. “The gratitude his family extends to you all, with the acknowledgement to people who have travelled long distances. “Rejoice in the life he led. Celebrate it and learn from it. “Andrew’s life was a life well-lived, albeit cut short too early.” Symonds’ two children both spoke after, followed by his mother Barbara and sister Louise. A video tribute was also delivered by former teammate Matthew Hayden. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/05/andrew-symonds-service1.jpg" alt="" /> Photos of Andrew Symonds, cricket hats and his cricket bat surrounded his coffin. Image: Twitter After the service, Gilchrist told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10859363/Andrew-Symonds-funeral-Townville-Riverway-Stadium-Australia-cricket-greats-wife-Laura-farewell-Roy.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Mail Australia</a> that Maher delivered the best eulogy he’s ever heard. “He looked at the kids in the eyes and told them exactly what he thought Roy would want him to say,” Gilchrist told the publication. “The service was simply beautiful. I’ve not seen a congregation as moved as they were today - full of sadness, but also such beautiful memories of a guy who just gave so much of himself to so many people, unconditionally. “He was loyal, almost to a fault. Mischievous character, but he would do whatever it took to help others - in and off the field. “We’ve all spoken so much about Roy, and there’s barely been a mention of his cricketing exploits and he was one of the game's great exploits. Ricky Ponting said he’d pick him in any team in any format.” Following on from the morning’s service, a public service will be livestreamed on <a href="https://www.cricket.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cricket.com.au</a>, <a href="https://kayosports.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kayo Sports</a>, and <a href="https://www.foxsports.com.au/?_gl=1*qteu7l*_ga*YW1wLU50aDlQVWR6Yk41MU11RW5FRjdQRVE." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fox Cricket</a> from 2.30pm. Image: Getty Images

News

Bunnings forced to recall electric blower

Bunnings has recalled a popular gardening tool that poses a risk of electric shock and injury. Some models of Ozito's portable electric blower are being taken off the shelves due to a defect with the impeller that can break during use and rupture the casing, releasing sharp objects at high speed and showing live parts. "Bunnings is promoting the recall of a Ozito portable Electrical Blower, model number OZBL1800WA and is green in colour, which customers were first advised about in 2015," Adrian Pearce, Bunnings general manager of merchandise, said. "Bunnings supported our supplier Ozito with their initial voluntarily recall and since then the recall has been advertised many times including on radio, print, and emails to our customers, with the current advertising designed to address any outstanding purchases made between 2009 and 2015. "Bunnings takes the safety of its customers very seriously and we encourage any remaining owners of this model to return the product to their nearest Bunnings." People who have purchased the product have been asked to stop using the blower immediately. They are encouraged to return it to their nearest Bunnings store for a full refund. For further information, customers are urged to contact Bunnings' customer relations team on 1800 811 436. Image: Bunnings

News

Furore erupts after RSL member refuses to allow Indigenous flag at ANZAC service

A NSW woman had the police called on her after she attempted to drape an Indigenous flag honouring First Nations diggers at her local war memorial service in Lismore. Cindy Roberts tried to display her flag beneath the Australian flag before the service began, but a local RSL member allegedly stopped her twice and called the police, according to the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10753649/Anzac-Day-2022-fury-memorial-service-hit-row-Indigenous-flag.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>. The incident has sparked outrage among those in attendance and online, with former Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell describing it as a “huge overreaction”. “It wasn’t a huge protest in any way and was absolutely done respectfully,” she said. “It was embarrassing and awkward and it should have just been allowed to pass without the fuss from the RSL member.” Ms Roberts, whose daughter, grandparents and uncles have served in Australia’s armed forces, had taken part in the dawn service and the march to Lismore Memorial Baths for the ceremony. When she arrived, the only flag flying was the Australian flag, despite other venues displaying the Aboriginal, Australian, and Torres Strait Islander flags side by side. “I just wanted to remember my ancestors that had fought in every single war, including the frontier war,” she told Daily Mail Australia. “So I stood and I felt a spirit in my heart tell me to just lay the flag out. I didn’t put it on the flagpole, I just placed it on the ground underneath the Australian flag. “Then I was approached by a member from the RSL and asked to remove the flag. “I said, ‘But my grandfathers and my uncles and my ancestors fought in the wars of this country’. He said, ‘This is not the time or the place’.” “I thought, ‘Well, when is the time to bring unity?’” Ms Roberts said she then picked the flag up and went to the spot where the wreaths were laid, where she was confronted again. “Then (the RSL member) approached me again and told me to remove the flag again and with the police this time,” she continued. “When this happened, I cried. I broke down and everyone saw me but I still stood there in the crowd behind the children with the Aboriginal flag.” Ms Robert’s daughter Skye, who served as a ship technician in the Australian Navy for five years, was with her mother when the incident occurred. Celebrated Indigenous soldier Clarrie Combo, who fought for Australia in Egypt, Libya, Crete, Syria, Greece, Sri Lanka and New Guinea during WWII, was one of Ms Roberts’ great uncles. “Our people have been through so much and I’m tired of them not being acknowledged,” Ms Roberts said. “First Nations people who fought in these wars deserve more respect because they put their lives on the line.” Ms Dowell said she tried to reason with the RSL member and that she couldn’t understand why they were treating Ms Roberts. “I saw the reaction from a member of the RSL who was saying repeatedly, it’s not appropriate, it’s not appropriate,” she told the publication. “I didn’t quite know what was not appropriate. I thought it was very disappointing - and not one speaker in the whole ceremony even acknowledged country. “I thought that was poor. The situation could have easily have escalated if Cindy had chosen to do so but she didn’t and many there may not have even noticed. “I thought she was very respectful and hopefully we can all learn from this incident - and that it doesn’t happen again.” The incident caused intense debate in the town’s Facebook group, with many supporting Ms Roberts. “To the beautiful Indigenous woman advocating to raise the Indigenous flag today at the service following the march, I am beyond apologetic for the utter disrespect you were shown,” one local wrote. Others insisted that the Australian flag should cover everyone since soldiers all fought under it in wartime. “They fought under the Australian flag. We are all Australians,” one person said. Image: Daily Mail

Caring

“Arrogant selfish brat”: Ben Fordham calls out Prince Harry

Ben Fordham has dubbed Prince Harry an “arrogant, selfish brat” after he didn’t attend his late grandfather’s memorial at Westminster Abbey. “You know what? I’m gonna say this pretty bluntly about Prince Harry and his decision not to attend,” Fordham said on Ben Fordham Live with Adam Gilchrist during the UK Report. “I mean this is in respect for his grandfather and also he could have been there to support his grandmother,” he continued. “Prince Harry’s decision not to attend just goes to show what an arrogant, selfish brat Prince Harry is. I cannot believe it Adam.” Gilchrist went on to agree with Fordham, adding that Harry should remember that there would only be so many more chances for him to be there for his grandmother due to her ongoing health concerns. “For him not to pitch up as you say for his granddad and to not be there in support of his grandma, there aren’t going to be many more of these events Harry, in case nobody told you that,” Gilchrist said. The Queen was escorted to the abbey by Prince Andrew, a move which many - including Gilchrist - have criticised, considering he only recently settled the sexual assault case launched against by Virginia Roberts Giuffre. “The thing is it wasn’t a completely public event. If it had been, by and large, a state funeral or a state service, I don’t think Prince Andrew could have possibly turned up,” Gilchrist said. “But because it was a sort of semi-private thing, albeit with pictures beamed around the world, essentially a family event with others attending, then you can sort of get away with Prince Andrew being there. “Plus, he clearly is still one of the Queen’s favourites and whatever else he’s done in life, your mother always loves you.” Prince Harry has also attracted much criticism since announcing l said he wouldn’t attend the service for Prince Philip. The former royal said it was because he was told he wouldn’t be granted royal security protection, even if he paid for it. Richard Griffin, Prince Philip’s former protection officer, said Harry’s excuse for not attending was “pathetic”, as reported by <a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/royals/prince-philip-memorial-ben-fordham-takes-issue-with-prince-harry/2db86cd3-30de-40f9-9cd7-8cdd6ae5b252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Honey</a>. “All this nonsense about he couldn't’ get protection, as far as I’m concerned that was a pathetic excuse, he should have been there to honour his grandfather,” Griffin said. Griffin added that Harry could have been covered by the security details for his father Prince Charles or his brother Prince William, meaning he didn’t need one of his own. Images: Getty Images / 2GB

Family & Pets

Warnie's memorial service is today: What you need to know

Almost a month on from the sudden death of cricketer Shane Warne, the Spin King will be honoured with a celebration in the heart of Melbourne at the MCG, in front of fans and family alike. Those closest to Warne farewelled him at a private service earlier this month and those wishing to pay their respects can now watch or attend a state memorial service today. When and where is the service? The service will be at the MCG, home to some of Warne's greatest cricketing triumphs. The gates of the MCG are due to open at 5:30 pm for a 7 pm start, and the state memorial service is scheduled to run for about two hours. A stage will be set up on the grounds of the MCG and upwards of 40,000 people are expected to fill the stadium's stands. The service will feature performances, tributes and reflections recognising Warne's big personality and charisma as well as his enormous contributions to Australian sport. Who will be attending? A long and impressive list of high-profile people will take part in the service, but not everyone will appear in person. Some guests and performers will appear either via live video links or pre-recorded segments. Musical entertainment will be a huge part of the service. Performers are expected from those Warne counted among his friends including Elton John, Chris Martin, Robbie Williams and Ed Sheeran. Local acts will include Anthony Callea and musician Jon Stevens, slated to perform covers of "bangers" that were among Warne's favourites, including songs by INXS and Noiseworks. Kylie and Dannii Minogue will also be part of the proceedings, but it's unclear whether or not they will perform. The biggest names in cricket in Australia and overseas will take part, including Wasim Akram, Allan Border, Ian Botham, Sachin Tendulkar, Michael Clarke, Stephen Fleming, Merv Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Dimitri Mascarenhas, Glenn McGrath and Mark Taylor. AFL great Dermott Brereton and Aaron Hamill, a long-time close friend of Warne, will take part, as will actors Eric Bana, Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe. Other prominent people making appearances are golfer Greg Norman, surfer Kelly Slater and comedian Andy Lee. The people most important to Warne, his immediate family, will also speak as part of the evening's proceedings. His three children, Brooke, Jackson and Summer, his father Keith and brother Jason are due to appear on stage. Can I still get a ticket? More than 50,000 tickets have already been nabbed, but another 10,000 spots were released through the MCG website on Wednesday. Tickets to the event are free and in recognition of Warne's contributions to the game, his family requested that fans come along to the memorial dressed in their cricket gear. How can I watch it? Eddie McGuire, who will MC the event, said all free-to-air TV channels will be broadcasting the service, there will be radio channels airing it as well, and there will be multiple places to live stream the proceedings online. Coverage will begin on ABC News Channel and on iview from 6:30 pm AEDT, with the memorial broadcast live on ABC Local Radio (except SA and Perth metro) and ABC Sport Digital.

Queen makes emotional appearance at memorial service for Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth has made her first public appearance in over five months as she attended St. George's Chapel for a memorial service marking one year since Prince Philip's death. Her Majesty was joined by other members of the royal family and other dignitaries for the emotional service in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen looked lonely and solemn as she entered the church to pay her respects, as she sat alone to reflect on her life with her husband. Prince Philip, who was by his wife’s side for more than seven decades, passed away at their Windsor Castle home in April 2021, just two months shy of his 100th birthday. Due to strict coronavirus rules, only 30 people were able to be in attendance at the service, meaning the Queen said poignantly alone as her husband of 73 years was lowered into the Royal Vault of St George’s Chapel of the castle. Another memorial service was held at London's Westminster Abbey and was a much larger event, with royals Prince Charles and Camilla, and Prince William, Kate Middleton and their children all in attendance. The event also marked the first public appearance of Prince Andrew since settling his lawsuit over sexual assault allegations, as Andrew accompanied the Queen into the church. “A man of rare ability and distinction, rightly honoured and celebrated, he ever directed our attention away from himself,” David Hoyle, the Dean of Westminster, said of Philip. The Dean went on to say it was a "long life lived fully". Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Preparations begin for the Queen ahead of Philip’s memorial service

After her recent mobility issues, a huge operation is underway <a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/royals/queen-elizabeth-plans-to-make-monarch-comfortable-at-prince-philip-memorial-westminster-abbey/fea7f70c-1c00-47cb-8573-d9cbd674aa15" target="_blank" rel="noopener">to ensure</a> Queen Elizabeth II is as comfortable as possible ahead of her late husband’s memorial service. The service to commemorate Prince Philip one year after his death is due to take place at Westminster Abbey on March 29, but the Queen may be taking a different route than usual in and out of the Abbey. Buckingham Palace aides are said to be considering several options to allow the Queen to attend the mass without being seen walking with difficulty, including entering the Abbey via the Poet’s Corner or arriving by helicopter, per <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/18003126/queen-prince-philip-memorial-service-military-operation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sun</a>. The monarch was last seen at the Abbey in October 2021 for the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion, where she was spotted using a walking stick. Soon after that event, which saw her take her usual route into the Abbey, the Queen was forced to cancel a number of events on her doctors’ orders. According to the publication, staff have ruled out using a wheelchair, and are considering using privacy screens to shield the monarch from cameras as she walks. Another idea could see the Queen break with tradition and arrive before the other guests to take her seat early. “Everything is being looked at to make sure the Queen makes it to Philip’s service,” a source told The Sun. “But the most important thing is to make sure she is comfortable. “A 15-minute flight is better than an hour in the back of a car. Some days she can walk around easily. Other days she cannot. It varies day by day.” The Queen, who turns 96 next month, is hoping to lead the mourners at Prince Philip’s service. Other senior royals in attendance will include Prince Charles and Camilla, Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as European royals who were unable to attend the funeral and surviving members of the Duke of Edinburgh’s family from Germany. Image: Getty Images

Caring

Spotify teams up with Netflix for new music streaming service

A new partnership between Spotify and Netflix has created a streaming service to help TV and movie fans find original musical content. Netflix Hub is now available from the Spotify app, and is the centralised place for original soundtracks, playlists and podcasts for top TV shows and movies from Netflix. The service is currently offering musical content from hit shows such as Stranger Things, Narcos: Mexico, Squid Game, Bridgeton and many more Netflix original content. As well as soundtracks, podcasts such as Netflix Is A Daily Joke, 10/10 Would Recommend and You Can’t Make This Up are also available for listeners to enjoy. The service also includes original behind the scenes content from the making of certain Netflix shows, as well as character matching experiences and quizzes to engage with. The partnership has built on the existing relationship between Netflix and Spotify, as the two companies have long worked together to bring users the best multimedia experience. The overlap in the streaming services will see a boost in users who engage with Netflix’s original content, and those who have a passion for music. This partnership also further boosts Spotify as the main competitor in the music streaming service market, rivalling Apple Music. Spotify recently announced that they plan to roll out more exclusive content to the Netflix Hub in the months ahead. Netflix Hub is available to all Spotify users, both Free and Premium, by simply typing “Netflix” into the search bar on the Spotify app. Image credits: Spotify / Netflix

Music

90-year-old mechanic retires after 75 years at same company

A 90-year-old Vauxhall mechanic has finally hung up his tools after working for the same company for 75 years, saying continuing to work there helped keep him young. Bryan Webb was presented with a ceremonial spanner by colleagues at his farewell, where a plaque made in his honour was also unveiled. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845385/mechanic1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/b753b75e25a34e5689dfa5942d387d79" /> Bryan Webb (left) with local branch director Julian Bawdown (right) after his plaque was unveiled. Image: Vauxhall Mr Webb said he would miss working but looked forward to having a cup of tea and a sleep in the afternoons. “I always thought if you kept working it kept you young,” he told the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-59070753" target="_blank">BBC</a>. “If you work it keeps you going, it gets you up in the morning to get out.” Mr Webb started at the company in 1946 as a mechanical apprentice after walking into Hough & Whitmore garage in Gloucester. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845386/mechanic2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/641a77c432d845ed92362d65b684b26a" /> Bryan Webb (third from left) pictured shortly after starting work as a mechanical apprentice in 1946. Image: Vauxhall Since then he has gone on to hold several other roles, including a 34-year stint as a warranty administrator. “I was in workshop control and working with trucks and cars,” he said. “You had to wash engines off out in the cold and it was hard work in the early days but things change, cars change, and when you strip an engine now it’s clean rather than being full of muck. “The biggest change I’ve seen in my career is new technology coming in,” he <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.media.stellantis.com/uk-en/vauxhall/press/master-and-apprentice-vauxhall-stalwart-retires-after-clocking-up-75-years-of-service?utm_source=vauxhallsocial&utm_medium=SOC-CON&utm_campaign=OV_UK_28102021_vn_AlwaysOnCorsa-e_1GJOA5FESF_OnGoing_SOC-CON_A_TF&ddm1_psa_ovuk=HashedMail" target="_blank">added</a>. In 1970, Mr Webb was recognised for 25 years of service and was handed a commemorative watch, which he still wears today. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845387/mechanic3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/87a17fbefa114cf6a961a5628effa9e8" /> Mr Webb received a ceremonial spanner from his colleagues at his farewell party. Image: BBC He said that when he turned 65 he would stay on “for a couple of years, and it turned into 25”. Local branch director Julian Bawdon - who joined the company in 2008 - said he asked Mr Webb how much longer he would stay with the company. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vauxhall?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vauxhall</a> wishes one of its longest-serving staff members a happy retirement, ending a 75-year career with the company. Bryan Webb began work for <a href="https://twitter.com/vauxhall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vauxhall</a> in 1946, after walking into his local garage & by the age of 26, he was already workshop foreman. 👉<a href="https://t.co/e4zCDuiPGD">https://t.co/e4zCDuiPGD</a> <a href="https://t.co/JwjgKI5Zvr">pic.twitter.com/JwjgKI5Zvr</a> — Vauxhall PR (@VauxhallPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/VauxhallPR/status/1453714486959947783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2021</a></blockquote> “I said to him as long as he can still do the job he can carry on, and here we are today with 75 years service,” he said. “He’s bright as a button. Bryan’s a character and we’ll all miss having him around.” Image: Vauxhall

Retirement Income

Customer shocked by exorbitant service fee

One customer was taken by surprise after dining at Salt Bae’s new London restaurant, when they were presented with the bill for $60,000 worth of food as well as a $9000 service fee. Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, recently opened a new restaurant in the ritzy London neighbourhood of Knightsbridge. Diners at the establishment can expect to spend a pretty penny, including $1500 for a tomahawk steak and $55 for fries, but one diner wasn’t expecting a 15% service fee when they were presented with the bill. In addition to the exxy food and drinks, including $18,000 wine, the bill came with a 15% service charge, working out to £4829.10 on top of the £32,194 bill. That’s a charge of about $8933 on top of a $59,327 meal. <img style="width: 434.5156889495225px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844861/https___prodstatic9net.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/47ad6063eed94bab9aaef210baf96b52" /> The customer shared a photo of the cheque on Snapchat with the caption, “That’s just taking the p*ss”, and the image quickly went viral online, with many wondering how any meal could be worth those kinds of prices. Many critics say Salt Bae is overstepping his markups, which include charging $33 for asparagus and $20 for Red Bull, while others believe the prices, including the service fee, are justified considering the quality of the food and the potential to see Salt Bae do his thing. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUTA32OsX6x/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUTA32OsX6x/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Nusr_et#Saltbae (@nusr_et)</a> </div> </blockquote> Gökçe originally went viral in 2017 with a video of him sprinkling salt onto a meal getting over 10 million views. He now has almost 40 million followers on Instagram, and his videos of him doing his thing in the kitchen regularly get over 5 million views. With the opening of his London restaurant, Gökçe now owns luxury steakhouses in Miami, New York, Boston, Dallas, and Beverly Hills in the United States; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; Ankara, Bodrum, Istanbul and Marmaris in Turkey; and Mykonos, Doha, London and Jeddah. Image: Laurent Koffel/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Food & Wine

New pop-up “Karen” restaurant delivers rude service on purpose

A unique pop-up dining experience is set to open in October, with a very different and potentially divise gimmick. Karen’s Diner will serve up American comfort dishes alongside terrible service and ‘Karen’ stereotypes. The diner’s catchphrase, "Great Burgers & Rude Service", has already started to create a buzz, as people anticipate their grand opening in Sydney this October. The restaurant is the latest project from the Sydney-based experiential hospitality company, who have previously been behind Wonderland Bar — a Mad Hatter-themed pop-up. The 1950s-style diner pokes fun at ‘cancel culture’ by flipping the golden rules of hospitality on its head. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844383/burgers.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c873ce11fa5b4295b174c7f61e365ccb" /> Image credit: bemorekaren.com The tongue-in-cheek concept was inspired by the rise in complaining ‘Karens’ in popular culture, a pejorative trope referring to an entitled and privileged white woman, often seen demanding to "speak to the manager". As part of the unique dining experience, staff are encouraged to be rude to patrons, while customers can have fun and go along for the ride. Despite the controversial service, the creators of the venue have assured customers that the food will be of an extremely high quality, with a menu of comfort classics including burgers, wings, shakes and cocktails on offer. Their menu items even feature Karen-themed names, with drink titles including 'The Music Is Too Loud’, ‘I’ve Been Waiting 10 Minutes for Some Service’, and ‘You’ve Just Lost My Business’. There will also be a number of vegan and vegetarian options available for those with dietary requirements. The hospitality group regularly works with actors, so their staff will definitely be brutal in their off-beat offences. Viral Ventures co-founder Aden Levin says the concepts are all designed to be fun and offer customers "something they have never experienced before". "Particularly after the last few months, we just want people to have fun and this is our approach to all our venues and pop-ups around Australia," he says. For more information or to book a table, visit <a href="https://www.bemorekaren.com/">bemorekaren.com</a> Image credits: Shutterstock / bemorekaren.com

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Bunnings forced to recall electric blower

Furore erupts after RSL member refuses to allow Indigenous flag at ANZAC service

“Arrogant selfish brat”: Ben Fordham calls out Prince Harry

Warnie's memorial service is today: What you need to know

Queen makes emotional appearance at memorial service for Prince Philip

Preparations begin for the Queen ahead of Philip’s memorial service

Spotify teams up with Netflix for new music streaming service

90-year-old mechanic retires after 75 years at same company

Customer shocked by exorbitant service fee

New pop-up “Karen” restaurant delivers rude service on purpose

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Bunnings forced to recall electric blower

Furore erupts after RSL member refuses to allow Indigenous flag at ANZAC service

“Arrogant selfish brat”: Ben Fordham calls out Prince Harry

Warnie's memorial service is today: What you need to know

Queen makes emotional appearance at memorial service for Prince Philip

Preparations begin for the Queen ahead of Philip’s memorial service

Spotify teams up with Netflix for new music streaming service

90-year-old mechanic retires after 75 years at same company

Customer shocked by exorbitant service fee

New pop-up “Karen” restaurant delivers rude service on purpose

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