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"RIP Pop": Michael Clarke reveals further heartbreak

Former Aussie cricket captain Michael Clarke is mourning the loss of his “best mate”. Clarke revealed the extent of his heartache on social media after his grandfather Ray Fox passed away. In a touching post uploaded to Instagram, Clarke can be seen with one hand on the coffin as he walked away from the podium after delivering a eulogy at his grandfather’s funeral. “Never gets any easier,” Clarke wrote. “In losing my Grandfather, I lost a best mate. I feel blessed to be surrounded by so much love on an extremely tough day. “RIP Pop.” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqSAtDtJ9OZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqSAtDtJ9OZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Michael Clarke AO (@michaelclarkeofficial)</a> </div> </blockquote> Friends and family were quick to pass on their condolences and support during this tumultuous time for Clarke. “Sorry to hear that news, mate,” Channel 7’s Larry Emdur commented. “Wishing you and the family all the best.” Businesswoman Erina Peters wrote, “I’m so sorry Michael! He truly loved you so much. “I have so many funny memories with him over the years and he was never short of a cheeky comeback.” Clarke previously said his grandfather was his inspiration behind playing cricket and the hardest part of retiring from the sport was telling Ray. “Definitely telling my grandfather was perhaps the hardest part and he was very emotional,” he said in 2015. “Pop’s made it clear to me over the past 10 years that watching me play cricket is a big part of what keeps him going.” Image credit: Instagram

Caring

"Final act of cowardice" by Hannah Clarke’s ex-husband

Content warning: This article contains distressing content and descriptions of domestic violence. A coroner has recommended widespread changes to domestic violence training and support in Australia while delivering her findings on the deaths of Hannah Clarke and her children at the hands of her ex-husband. Deputy State Coroner Jane Bentley became emotional while delivering her findings, detailing the final moments of the young family during Rowan Baxter’s “final act of cowardice”. Clarke and her children, six-year-old Aaliyah, four-year-old Laianah, and three-year-old Trey, died after Baxter, her ex-husband, ambushed the family on their way to school in February, 2020. After dousing their car in petrol, neighbours watched on in horror as he set the vehicle alight. In Bentley’s findings, published on Wednesday, it was revealed that Clarke died from multi-organ failure as a result of the fire. Bentley said the three children died at 8.25am on February 19 from the effects of the fire, while Baxter died from a self-inflicted stab wound. "The children died almost immediately from the inhalation of fumes and burns," Bentley said. "Hannah had received full-thickness, non-survivable burns." Despite suffering severe injuries, Bentley said Clarke showed “astounding bravery” and was able to describe what Baxter had done to nearby witnesses. Her findings come three months after the long-awaited coronial inquest into the deaths began. During the inquest, the court was told of how Baxter displayed controlling and abusive behaviour towards Clarke, including controlled what she wore and who she could see, demanding sex every night, and berating her body image. The court was told that Baxter abducted Laianah on Boxing Day 2019, taking her to northern NSW before returning her several days later. In another incident, Baxter assaulted Clarke after she confronted him about why he had explicit photos of her in his car - which was evidence he hoped to use in court. Bentley said she found it unlikely that police, service providers or family could have stopped Baxter from carrying out his “murderous” plans, describing him as a “master of manipulation”. "After Hannah left him and he realised he could no longer control her, he began to rally support from friends he had not seen for years and professionals he considered could advance his cause,” Bentley said. She described him killing himself as a “final act of cowardice” since he was unable to live with the public denunciation and punishment he would be subject to. "The truth is Hannah, who knew him best, was initially in favour of him having contact with the children … but she perceived he was becoming more dangerous," Bentley said. "Her fears were genuine and realistic and ultimately confirmed in the worst way." The coroner said there were missed opportunities to keep Baxter accountable, including their response to his breaching of the domestic violence order. The court heard that training of police officers, particularly frontline officers, around domestic violence was insufficient, and that there was a “significant lack of counselling programmes and support” for perpetrators in Queensland. "However, in this case, I am satisfied that even had it been available, Baxter was not interested in engaging in such programmes unless it furthered his cause … [of] Hannah agreeing to his wishes," she said. Bentley made four recommendations, including that the Queensland government fund the police to provide "five-day face-to-face domestic violence training programme for all specialist domestic violence police officers", and mandatory face-to-face training for all police officers. "My final recommendation is that the Queensland government provide funding for men's behaviour change programmes both in prisons and in the community as a matter of urgency," Bentley said. "I offer my most sincere condolences to Mr and Mrs Clarke, other family members and friends and family of their children." Outside court, Hannah’s parents Sue and Lloyd Clarke said they were pleased with the findings. "We expected most of the results," Clarke told reporters. "We need to see everything that's been recommended implemented in every state." If you are in need of support or are a victim of domestic violence, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the national family violence counselling service on 1800 737 732. Image: Nine News

Family & Pets

Supermodel Kristy Hinze Clark makes super profit on Florida mansion

Kristy Hinze Clark and her husband, American tech titan Jim Clark, have just sold their sprawling Florida home for a record-breaking sum. The couple’s 16-acre home in Palm Beach is expected to sell for more than $US 175 million ($NZD 279 million) in an off-market deal, according to <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-billionaire-bought-a-florida-home-for-94-2-million-last-year-now-hes-selling-it-for-around-175-million-11655323328" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Wall Street Journal</a>, in a deal far exceeding Florida’s current sales record of $US 130 million. Hinz Clark and her billionaire husband are set to make around $US 81 million ($NZD 129 million) from the sale, which was a “spur of the moment purchase” 15 months ago. According to <a href="https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/2000-S-Ocean-Blvd_Lantana_FL_33462_M57433-88058" target="_blank" rel="noopener">property records</a>, the oceanfront home was bought by the couple on March 8, 2021, for $US 94,173,300 ($NZD 150,418,303), when they thought they were going to live in Florida most of the time. Mr Clark told the Wall Street Journal that, although they fell in love with the aesthetics and other features the home offered, they decided to stay in New York and enrol their two daughters there. “In the end, we sort of thought, ‘How much will we come down here?’” he recalled. “I knew there was someone who wanted it and I beat them to it so I thought, ‘Let’s see if they want it again’.” Boasting a total of 30 bedrooms spread across the 12-bedroom main home, two four-bedroom beachside cottages, the seven-bedroom Mango House, and a guest or staff house comprised of four studios. Other luxe features include a swimming pool, tennis court, golfing area, half-basketball court, fitness centre, and a spa, as well as access to a dock and pier on Lake Worth. The home itself has 360-degree views and is surrounded by 1200 feet of beach facing the Atlantic, and 1300 feet of frontage on the lake. According to the listing from its 2021 sale, the home is also within a “singular microclimate” created by the Gulf Stream, meaning it is treated to “refreshing breezes and warmer waters, even when cooler weather prevails in Miami”. “These unique conditions allowed for the creation of extensive botanical gardens that showcase neqarly 1,500 tropical species that replicate a ‘walk through the Caribbean’,” the listing reads. “Look, it’s a phenomenal property,” Mr Clark said. “You can’t find anything like that in Florida.” Images: Getty Images, Realtor

Real Estate

Chilling footage emerges in Hannah Clarke case

Content warning: This article mentions domestic violence. Bodycam footage of a distraught Hannah Clarke speaking to police after her “psycho” husband abducted one of their children has been shown during the coronial inquest into her and her children’s deaths. The inquest is examining the 2020 deaths of Ms Clarke and her three children - Aaliyah, Laianah, and Trey - and her estranged husband Rowan Baxter, who set the family alight in a car on a suburban street, as reported by <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/qld/the-devastating-moment-hannah-clarke-was-told-by-police-theres-not-a-great-deal-we-can-do-c-6243136" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a>. In the footage, Ms Clarke spoke to officers when her husband drove off with one of their three children after the family met at a Brisbane park on Boxing Day in 2019. Ms Clarke said she and Mr Baxter had been separated for a few weeks but that she feared getting a domestic violence order against him, fearing it would worsen the situation. She said she refused to let Mr Baxter have the kids overnight out of fear he wouldn’t return them to her, and that Mr Baxter then put four-year-old Laianah in a car and drove off. “Now he’s telling me he won’t give her back … because I’ve said to him you need to wait till we can get this sorted, you’re not having them stay with you because you won’t return them,” Ms Clarke told police. “The other two are absolutely beside themselves.She’s (Laianah’s) balling her eyes out. “(He’s) just a psycho, (saying) that he’s taking her and that’s it. “He’s just called me now and said you either bring the other two back or I keep her. “They were in my care. “I was doing good by letting them see him.” She also explained why didn’t take out a legal order against him, despite having spoken to police about him previously. “The only reason I didn’t was because I was scared it would antagonise the situation more,” she said. Tragically, one of the officers told her there was nothing they could do. “Without any orders in place, there’s not a great deal we can do in relation to the custody of the children,” the officer said in the video. “Being the biological father, he does have a right to the child. We can’t just go and take the child.” Ms Clarke then asked, “Even though he’s taken her away from me when they were in my care?” “Yeah, unfortunately, because he is the biological father of the child, we can’t just go and seize the child and give her back to you,” the officer explained. Ms Clarke said the situation was “messed up” and detailed some of Mr Baxter’s treatment of her. “There’s been a lot of domestic violence. Not physical, but emotional. Controlling me et cetera. So it just got too much, I just couldn’t do it anymore,” she said. “So I took the kids and we left.” Mr Baxter took Laianah for two days before she was returned to Ms Clarke due to police intervention. A police protection notice was placed against Mr Baxter three days later, starting the process for Ms Clarke to get a permanent domestic violence order against him. He then breached a temporary order on January 31 when he grabbed Ms Clarke’s wrist during an altercation at her parents’ home while dropping off their son. On Tuesday, the inquest also heard from members of the Queensland Police and the Queensland Police Union, who appeared before Queensland Coroners Court. The footage is available to view <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/qld/the-devastating-moment-hannah-clarke-was-told-by-police-theres-not-a-great-deal-we-can-do-c-6243136" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: 7News

Family & Pets

New details emerge in tragic deaths of Hannah Clarke and her children

Content warning: This article contains distressing details relating to an act of domestic violence which may disturb some readers. New details surrounding the murder of Hannah Clarke and her children have emerged during an pre-inquest hearing investigating whether their deaths could have been prevented. Hannah Clarke and her three children - Aaliyah, six; Laianah, four; and Trey, three - were doused in petrol and burned alive by estranged husband Rowan Baxter in Brisbane in early 2020. “The purpose of this inquest is not to identify the deceased, the cause nor the place of their deaths, or even the perpetrator who took their lives,” Jacoba Brasch QC, the counsel assisting the coroner, <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/dec/07/hannah-clarke-inquest-in-brisbane-to-examine-the-warning-signs-which-were-missed" target="_blank">told the court</a> on Tuesday. “The evidence on these matters is abundant and, tragically, painfully clear. This inquest must look backwards, at the warning signs which were missed or, it identified, whether appropriate actions were taken at the time to address those risks.” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846188/hannah-clarke1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/eb5109f56fcc4adb95cd52039956ea49" /> Hannah Clarke with her children Aaliyah, Laianah and Trey. Image: @smallsteps4hannah (Instagram) The court heard that just before 8.30 am on February 19, Clarke left her parents’ home with her children and was intercepted by Baxter, when he climbed into the passenger’s seat armed with a knife and a can of petrol. “Hannah screamed at Baxter to get out of the car. Her screams were desperate and fearful - we know this because a worried neighbour recorded them,” Brasch said. Baxter then ordered Clarke to drive while he poured petrol over her and through the cabin of the car. After driving for just 200 metres, she pulled into a driveway where a man was washing his car and begged him to call the police. Then the car exploded. “The explosion was so loud, it rattled windows across the street and some thought they heard a gas explosion,” the hearing was told. Though Clarke was able to free herself from the car, she was completely engulfed in flames. Her injuries were so severe they couldn’t be treated, and she died from them later that afternoon. Baxter was also badly burnt, but able to grab his knife from the burning car and impale himself, puncturing his heart and killing himself. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846189/hannah-clarke2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/7bb9301ee0ee463eb6a6240151bc0992" /> Hannah Clarke with her children Aaliyah, Laianah and Trey. Image: @smallsteps4hannah (Instagram) The court heard that just before 8.30 am on February 19, Clarke left her parents’ home with her children and was intercepted by Baxter, when he climbed into the passenger’s seat armed with a knife and a can of petrol. “Hannah screamed at Baxter to get out of the car. Her screams were desperate and fearful - we know this because a worried neighbour recorded them,” Brasch <a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/news/qld/shocking-details-of-murder-of-hannah-clarke-and-her-children-revealed-ahead-of-qld-coronial-inquest-c-4847260" target="_blank">said</a>. Baxter then ordered Clarke to drive while he poured petrol over her and through the cabin of the car. After driving for just 200 metres, she pulled into a driveway where a man was washing his car and begged him to call the police. Then the car exploded. “The explosion was so loud, it rattled windows across the street and some thought they heard a gas explosion,” the hearing was told. Though Clarke was able to free herself from the car, she was completely engulfed in flames. Her injuries were so severe they couldn’t be treated, and she died from them later that afternoon. Baxter was also badly burnt, but able to grab his knife from the burning car and impale himself, puncturing his heart and killing himself. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846190/hannah-clarke3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/58407a7cdf0d4b708e6be8ec09dfe87b" /> Hannah Clarke’s parents, Sue and Lloyd, at her funeral. Image: 7News Brasch described the murders of Clarke and her children as acts of “unimaginable cruelty”, but said the hearings were needed to determine if their lives could have been saved. Speaking outside court, Clarke’s parents, Lloyd and Sue Clarke, said they hoped the hearings would bring some kind of closure. “It will be good to have it finally over and hopefully it will fill in a few missing pieces for us,” Sue Clarke said. “If we can save just one more life through things that are found out, that would be great.” If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, call 000. Image: Jono Searle (Getty Images) / @smallsteps4hannah (Instagram)

Caring

Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford jokes he's "punching above his weight"

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> Clarke Gayford has joked that he is "punching above his weight" in his relationship with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Gayford hosts fishing program Fish of the Day and shared some insight into his relationship with Ardern. He answered a question about how their relationship began on Australian radio station Nova 96.9. "I thought you were about to accuse me of punching [above my weight], and, well, you would be right!" he joked. Gayford explained to hosts Fitzy and Wippa that he met his now-fiancee through official channels. "This is slightly embarrassing, I had a constituency issue and I emailed my local MP and I got some really good advice," he laughed. The pair briefly met for the first time at an awards show in 2012, with Gayford reaching out to Ardern to discuss his concerns over a proposed bill. The pair's relationship became more high-profile in August 2017 as Ardern became the leader of New Zealand's Labour Party. Just seven weeks later, she was elected to the office of Prime Minister. <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/CDGQlyUMOkS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/CDGQlyUMOkS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Clarke Gayford (@clarkegayford)</a> </div> </blockquote> Gayford remembers that moment vividly. "As I was about to go down underwater I turned my phone off, like 'I don't want to know about this'," he told Nova's Fitzy and Wippa. "When I came back up the guy on the boat said, 'Yeah, mate, you might want to call back home. Your missus has had a promotion'." Gayford was diving in Queensland and was filming the new Discovery Channel documentary Shark Lockdown when Ardern was made Prime Minister. The pair are now engaged after having their first child, daughter Neve Te Aroha in June 2018. </div> </div> </div>

Relationships

Jacinda Ardern makes rare public appearance with daughter Neve

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her daughter have made a rare appearance together as they stepped onto sacred Treaty Grounds in Waitanga ahead of New Zealand’s national day. The Prime Minister took her 18-month-old daughter Neve and partner Clarke Gayford along as they visited the ceremonial site in the Bay of Islands. Every year on February 6, dignitaries and officials gather at Waitangi to mark Waitangi Day. The day is culturally significant as it commemorates the first signing of New Zealand’s founding document. In the past, there has been tensions between some Maori and former party leaders despite the day being one of official remembrance. Treaty Negotiations Minister Andrew Little gave a speech entirely in Maori (te reo), which was warmly received by Ardern. “We’d discussed the fact he would be giving (the speech) as part of Labour’s response. I still didn’t quite expect that. We were all incredibly moved,” Ardern said. The national holiday was first declared back in 1974 and marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6, 1840 by Maori chiefs and the British Crown. Scroll through the gallery to see the trio on New Zealand’s national day.

Family & Pets

NZ PM Jacinda Ardern reveals how Clarke Gayford proposed to her

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has revealed more details about her surprise proposal from long-term partner Clarke Gayford, as well as explaining why she doesn’t wear her engagement ring on her left hand. Despite her best attempts, a coy Ardern wasn’t able to dodge reporters’ questions about her recent proposal in a post-cabinet press conference in Wellington. Naturally, she was reluctant to spill too many details. “There are some things I don't mind keeping for ourselves,” Ms Ardern told reporters. “This is a very public job and I'm quite happy to put quite a bit of ourselves out there. But there are some things I wouldn't mind keeping to ourselves.” However, Ardern was more than happy to confirm where the proposal happened. It took place with a beautiful backdrop at the top of Mokotahi Hill in Mahia, which is on North Island’s east coast. <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BhKwza3Fwta/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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/BhKwza3Fwta/" target="_blank">A post shared by Jason Lau (@meetjasonlau)</a> on Apr 4, 2018 at 5:11pm PDT </div> </blockquote> Ardern revealed who was on site when the proposal took place. “It was Clarke, myself, a member of the DPS (Diplomatic Protection Squad), a couple of locals from Mahia and a dog which tried to eat the chocolate that Clarke bought me at the same time, so it was very romantic,” she explained. She also admitted her partner didn’t get down on one knee, so the DPS member wasn’t aware of what was happening. "The DPS had no idea what had happened so that should be a giveaway," she said. As for why she doesn’t wear her new engagement ring on her left hand's ring finger? “I have not been trying to hide our news from anyone," Ardern explained. “It simply doesn't fit on the right finger, so that's why it's sitting in the middle.” Ardern, who welcomed her daughter Eliza, 10 months with Clarke in 2018, has also said she has “absolutely no idea” when she will walk down the aisle. "I was surprised by the question and as with probably many other couples we haven't made any plans at all," she said. She was quick to end personal questions at the conference, saying “I think we’re done? Good."

Relationships

She said "yes"! Jacinda Ardern's surprise engagement to partner Clarke Gayford

The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, and her long-time partner became engaged over Easter, her team have confirmed. According to Ardern’s press secretary, the PM and Clarke Gayford made the decision to spend the rest of their lives together over the Easter break. The mother-of-one had been spotted wearing the ring on her middle finger, according to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.ntnews.com.au/news/world/new-zealand-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-engaged/news-story/0fcbcf19f0e3600a2514de1671a0d250?nk=9f5aaf7e96e61f3876a76a00ed913a1c-1556858101" target="_blank">NT News</a>. The couple have a 10-month-old daughter together. Sitting down with the BBC earlier in the year, Ardern said that she wasn’t sure if she would put her partner through the “pain and torture” of having to kneel down on one knee to pop the question when asked if she would reverse the roles being a feminist. The 38-year-old met her fiancé in 2012 at an awards event. Only two months after Ardern was elected as Prime Minister, she was made to address the constant speculation on whether or not she and Gayford were engaged. “I thought I would upfront address the speculation in the gallery this afternoon over my Facebook Live and the issue of where my ring was placed during that Facebook live,” said Ardern. “I’m happy to confirm that I have eczema on my left hand, which causes me to rotate where I wear my beautiful onyx ring. So, no I am not engaged. “I do, however, suffer from a small skin condition, which is not very romantic. Glad to have cleared that up.” Ardern chose to wear her engagement ring on her middle finger on Monday when visiting a memorial at the Pike River Mine in Greymouth, New Zealand. The decision was made so not to take attention away from those that had been affected by the tragedy, which trapped and killed 29 men after an explosion in 2010.

News

Jacinda Ardern receives heartwarming tribute: “We are so very proud”

Clark Gayford, the partner of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, has shared a heartwarming post in light of the new gun control measures announced by his other half. In the wake of the Christchurch shooting, Ms Ardern was swift to announce reforms on Thursday, including the immediate ban of military-style semi-automatic guns and rifles. Her partner Clark shared an adorable photo of the couple’s daughter tightly clutching her father’s finger. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> For her 9 month birthday today we received the gift of crawling. While her mum got her the gift of having a safer country to grow up in. <a href="https://t.co/FiCSTn0PM8">pic.twitter.com/FiCSTn0PM8</a> — Clarke Gayford (@NZClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZClarke/status/1108632466800009216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2019</a></blockquote> “For her 9-month birthday today we received the gift of crawling,” he wrote for the caption. “While her mum got her the gift of having a safer country to grow up in.” The stay-at-home dad has received a mass amount of praise from followers, commending the way the Prime Minister handled herself in the wake of the terrorist attack. The sharp and cutting message has garnered over 7,000 likes and a flurry of retweets. The rare image of the couple’s daughter, Neve Te Aroha Ardern Gayford, which was paired with an emotional and inspiring tribute to his politician partner – has received countless support. <img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7825099/jacinda-ardern-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d98415c1eed241dc93428d9d4e065e8e" /> “Please thank Neve for giving you the strength to give Jacinda the strength to give us all the strength to get through this together,” wrote one Twitter user. “We are so very proud of your mama little Neve,” wrote another. “I hope she is looking after herself too in all of this.” 42-year-old Gayford formerly told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/parenting/celebrity-families/clarke-gayford-tribute-neve-jacinda-adern-54764" target="_blank">Australian Women’s Weekly</a> why he put his own career, a documentary show, Fish of the Day on hold to look after baby Neve while his partner lead New Zealand. “We weighed it up and we decided that her job was possibly slightly more important,” he’d joked. “It was always on the cards to work out that way. I've always been completely supportive of Jacinda and I believe in what she's trying to achieve for New Zealand. “So, it was easy for me to make that call. There are plenty of males out there that do that.”

News

Meet Princess Beatrice’s new love

Princess Beatrice, 29, hasn’t been as lucky in love as her newly-engaged 27-year-old sister Eugenie, who just one month ago <a href="/news/news/2018/01/another-royal-wedding-on-the-way/" target="_blank">announced her engagement</a> to Jack Brooksbank. Beatrice's last relationship ended in heartbreak after her <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/1566555/princess-beatrice-breaks-up-with-boyfriend-of-10-years-dave-clark-after-marriage-ultimatum-backfires/" target="_blank">rumoured marriage ultimatum</a> to her boyfriend of 10 years, businessman Dave Clark, backfired. The young royal suffered yet another blow when, less than a year later, he announced his engagement to advertising executive Lynn Anderson. But after a couple of years of relationship struggles, it seems Beatrice might have finally found her prince. According to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/5679140/princess-beatrices-mystery-man-revealed-as-super-rich-ceo-james-williams-who-counts-robbie-williams-and-eva-longoria-as-pals/" target="_blank">The Sun</a>, she is currently dating the super-wealthy businessman James Williams, who counts Robbie Williams and Eva Longoria among his friends. <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: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 39.9537037037037% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BVnQWdiDF43/" target="_blank">A post shared by James Williams (@jamesgwilliams)</a> on Jun 21, 2017 at 12:28pm PDT </div> </blockquote> Fergie’s eldest daughter was spotted with Williams out for dinner at an Italian restaurant in Los Angeles, where he has lived for a few years after leaving his home in Surrey, UK. The former lawyer turned fitness guru recently launched a new business venture with boxer Floyd Mayweather, becoming CEO of Mayweather Boxing & Fitness. The duo hopes to open 500 gyms worldwide. <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: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/_X-_ODgT3o/" target="_blank">A post shared by James Williams (@jamesgwilliams)</a> on Dec 16, 2015 at 5:37pm PST </div> </blockquote> Williams’ Instagram profile reveals a high-flying lifestyle filled with yacht parties in Monaco, a collection of luxury cars (including a $180,000 Bentley) and trips to Mexico in a private jet. <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: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BPDYTdqAV2I/" target="_blank">A post shared by James Williams (@jamesgwilliams)</a> on Jan 9, 2017 at 9:57am PST </div> </blockquote> Tell us in the comments below, do you think Williams could be the one for Princess Beatrice?

Relationships

Woman murdered by husband during murder mystery dinner cruise

39-year-old Kristy Manzanares was killed by her husband Kenneth Manzanares during a week-long cruise. Kristy was on a holiday with her husband of 17 years and their three daughters, when she was found murdered in her cabin on Tuesday night. A statement from her loved ones described her as “a devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend”. It said, “Kristy led by example with her giving heart and we are inspired by the legacy of kindness and optimism she has instilled in her children.” Her husband, Kenneth Manzanares, was arrested and charged with her murder. Authorities say that he killed his wife on board the Emerald Princess because she “wouldn’t stop laughing at him”. The ship’s security found Kristy in her cabin at 9 pm with a severe head wound and she was pronounced dead 20 minutes later. Ship staff have said that Kenneth had attempted to throw her body overboard. The cruise’s theme was murder mystery and staff initially believed the scene had been staged to fit in with the theme. At 9 pm on Tuesday night, the captain sent a message on the intercom ordering security to go to the ninth floor, where the couple were staying. Once security reached the couple’s cabin, they found a bloody scene and Kristy’s body. Kenneth Manzanares was charged on Thursday after being taken in to the custody of Alaskan authorities on Wednesday morning after the ship docked in Alaska. According to police, during questioning he said, “My life is over.” Cruise passengers who were on the same floor as the family explained that they saw a child sitting on an older woman’s lap sobbing. “I see this little girl sitting on – I assume – her grandma or somebody, sitting on her lap wrapped in a blanket. And she's just sobbing,” Brian Eckstorm told KTUU. “A man came walking out from the hallway where it happened and he had, like, a white tank top on, and some jeans.” “His jeans were completely covered in blood and he came out saying, 'It's not good, it's not good',” he added. Kristy worked as a real estate agent with Sotheby’s in St George, Utah. Her profile on the Summit Sotheby’s International realty site reads, “In her spare time, Kristy enjoys volunteering at local schools and is involved in the Jubilee of Trees as Tree Designer each year.” “She loves cheering on her daughters at soccer games, spending time with extended family and is currently learning how to play golf with her husband.” <img width="500" height="630" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/40288/ship1_500x630.jpg" alt="Ship1"/> Passengers were kept aboard the ship for eight hours after being diverted to Juneau because of the investigation. Travellers in rooms on the post side of decks 8, 9 and 10 were instructed to return to their cabins during the day so they could be interviewed by investigators. Other passengers were able to move around the ship during lockdown. No further schedule changes were expected for the cruise ship.

Cruising

Never-before-seen photos from the set of Gone with the Wind

Gone with the Wind became an instant classic when it was released in 1939, and today is believed to be the <a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/05/highest-earning-films-of-all-time/" target="_blank">highest-earning film</a> of all time, adjusting for inflation. Now, some rare behind-the-scenes photos have been unearthed of Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh and other members of the cast and crew on the set of the beloved movie to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the book’s release. Flip through the gallery above and tell us in the comments below, what’s your favourite classic film? Related links: <a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/07/what-10-stars-looked-like-when-they-were-young/">What 10 stars looked like when they were young</a> <a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/06/favourite-musical-films/">Our favourite musical films</a> <a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/05/highest-earning-films-of-all-time/">Highest-earning films of all time</a>

Movies

Gone with the Wind star Olivia de Havilland turns 100

The last surviving cast member of Gone with the Wind and one of the true pioneers of Hollywood’s Golden Age, Olivia de Havilland, has celebrated her 100th birthday. de Havilland became a centurion on Friday, July 1, and is considered a real forerunner among the acting community, famously winning a contentious legal battle with Warner Brothers that would eventually give actors more freedom of choice in their careers. She earned two best actress Academy Awards for To Each His Own (1946) and The Heiress (1949), but it’s her role as Melanie Wilkes in Gone with the Wind (1940) that we remember her most, where she starred alongside Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable.<img width="500" height="343" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/23676/olivia-in-text_500x343.jpg" alt="Olivia In Text" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> In this video above, she’s presented with the award for Best Actress by James Stewart at the 22nd Academy Awards in 1950. Didn’t she just look so gorgeous? Of the case that would be her legacy, de Havilland once said, “I was very proud of that decision, for it corrected a serious abuse of the contract system ... No one thought I would win, but I did.” We think she still looks gorgeous today. Congratulations Olivia on such a spectacular milestone. Please share any messages of congratulations, or your favourite moment from Gone with the Wind in the comment section below. We’d love to hear from you. Video credit: YouTube / Oscars Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2016/04/beliefs-that-invite-true-love/">5 beliefs that invite true love</a> <a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2016/05/common-reasons-why-people-stay-in-a-bad-marriage/">Common reasons why people stay in a bad marriage</a> <a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2016/05/gary-chapmans-five-love-languages/">5 ways giving love is the key to relationship success</a>

News

Supermodel Kirsty Hinze-Clarke becomes first female yacht owner to win Sydney to Hobart

Former supermodel Kristy Hinze-Clark has made history as the first female yacht owner to win the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in Australia. After two days, eight hours, 58 minutes and 30 seconds, her boat, Comanche, crossed the finishing line to the 71st Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race for 2015. Hinze-Clark, the co-founder and co-skipper of the American boat, steered the yacht to victory, where her husband Jim Clark was waiting for her at Constitution Dock. “I just got more wet then that I did the entire race,” she laughed, when showered with champagne on her arrival at the finish line. Skipper Ken Read praised Hinze-Clarke, saying, “First time out in the open ocean. She has been out in plenty of boats but has never done anything like this.” “And she was as tough as nails. There was no babysitting involved and [she] did some driving and she is one the grinders and everything else. She as very impressive. Although damaged the first night, Comanche was a favourite in the race after returning from repairs. Related links: <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/02/health-clues-from-eyes/" target="_self">5 health clues from your eyes</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/03/how-to-avoid-eyestrain-computer/" target="_self">How to avoid eye strain when using your computer or tablet</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/03/state-of-world-eyesight/" target="_self">Some interesting statistics on the state of the world’s eyesight</a>

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"RIP Pop": Michael Clarke reveals further heartbreak

"Final act of cowardice" by Hannah Clarke’s ex-husband

Supermodel Kristy Hinze Clark makes super profit on Florida mansion

Chilling footage emerges in Hannah Clarke case

New details emerge in tragic deaths of Hannah Clarke and her children

Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford jokes he's "punching above his weight"

Jacinda Ardern makes rare public appearance with daughter Neve

NZ PM Jacinda Ardern reveals how Clarke Gayford proposed to her

She said "yes"! Jacinda Ardern's surprise engagement to partner Clarke Gayford

Jacinda Ardern receives heartwarming tribute: “We are so very proud”

Meet Princess Beatrice’s new love

Woman murdered by husband during murder mystery dinner cruise

Never-before-seen photos from the set of Gone with the Wind

Gone with the Wind star Olivia de Havilland turns 100

Supermodel Kirsty Hinze-Clarke becomes first female yacht owner to win Sydney to Hobart

News

Shop

Catalogues

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Entertainment

Property

Information

Keep up to date

Search

"RIP Pop": Michael Clarke reveals further heartbreak

"Final act of cowardice" by Hannah Clarke’s ex-husband

Supermodel Kristy Hinze Clark makes super profit on Florida mansion

Chilling footage emerges in Hannah Clarke case

New details emerge in tragic deaths of Hannah Clarke and her children

Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford jokes he's "punching above his weight"

Jacinda Ardern makes rare public appearance with daughter Neve

NZ PM Jacinda Ardern reveals how Clarke Gayford proposed to her

She said "yes"! Jacinda Ardern's surprise engagement to partner Clarke Gayford

Jacinda Ardern receives heartwarming tribute: “We are so very proud”

Meet Princess Beatrice’s new love

Woman murdered by husband during murder mystery dinner cruise

Never-before-seen photos from the set of Gone with the Wind

Gone with the Wind star Olivia de Havilland turns 100

Supermodel Kirsty Hinze-Clarke becomes first female yacht owner to win Sydney to Hobart

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