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BUMPER HOLIDAY ISSUE! January 6, 2020, AUST $4.80/NZ $4.70 Inc. GST

AS IDE & PSYCHIC PREDICTIONS

BONUS MOVIE & BOOK SPECIAL

I T V W ROCKS THE PALACE!

CAMILLA VS ANNE

TERRI & RUSSELL

EXPOSED THE TRUTH AT LAST

ZIN_NI_0120

53-YEAR BABY SECRET

OUR GOLDEN GLOBES ANNOUNCEMENT!

BRAND NEW MAGAZINE

On sale now at Woolworths, Coles, Newsagents and www.subscribetoday.com.au

CONTENTS

Kick back with our entertainment special.

22 Celebrity predictions! What’s in store for Grant, Chezzi and Kate.

ON THE CO VER

8 CAMILLA VS PRINCESS ANNE: THE TRUTH AT LAST 10 HARRY, MEGHAN & OPRAH 12 RUSSELL & TERRI’S BIG ANNOUNCEMENT 14 GEORGE & AMAL’S NEWS

Stars show off their hot bikini bodies.

Download the New Idea app to enjoy the magazine on your tablet or smartphone.

48 Great ways with fresh berries.

A E D I W E N N THIS WEEK I

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eaking news! Never miss any br page and Like our Facebook ram and Twitter follow us on Instag ine, or head to @newideamagaz idea.com.au. our website, new

TAYLOR SWIFT and IDRIS ELBA made memories together at theÂ world premiere of Cats in New York City.

JENNIFER LOPEZ was pink perfection as she showed off her famous curves on the way to the gym in Miami. The singer revealed that she gave up sugar and carbs in a 10-day challenge for her role in Hustlers.

Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ROD STEWART proved that he still has all the dance moves during a performance in London. 4

OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN and JOHN TRAVOLTA dressed as their characters from Grease, Sandy and Danny, for a meet-and-greet singalong in Florida, over 40 years after the movie was first released.

Bec and Lleyton packed on the PDA on the sidelines as they watched their 11-yearold son Cruz play tennis.

S ’ N O T Y E L L BEC &

PDA

or years she watched from the sidelines as her husband played world class tennis at tournaments around the world. Now their son, Cruz, is making his mark on the sport, Bec looks very happy to have Lleyton keeping her company on the viewing stand. After14 years of marriage the couple proved they still enjoy a little PDA as they snuggled up at Melbourne Park’s tennis court while watching Cruz play. The 11-year-old looks set to follow in his dad’s footsteps and become a professional tennisplayer having taken part in the recent under-12s Australian Championships.

AMAL’S OBSESSION WITH MEGHAN

Amal is quite fond of royal pal Meghan. 6

Amal Clooney has developed an obsession with Meghan Markle, with reports the lawyer A-lister is extremely close with the duchess. Amal, George Clooney’s wife, has reportedly struggled with making female friends in the past and never bonded with George’s friend Brad Pitt’s ex-wife Angelina Jolie. According to Radar Online, TURN TO PAGE Amal is “obsessed” 14 FOR MORE with Meghan’s ON GEORGE royalty. AND AMAL’S “She does MARRIAGE.

everything she can to spend time with her and keep in touch with her,” a source said. George and Amal were guests at Meghan and Harry’s starstudded royal wedding in 2018, and the famous couple also lent a private jet to the duchess to use for her baby shower in New York City. “She wants to be friends with her more than anyone else because of the royalty and fame connection,” the source added. The pair also allegedly have secret lunches and play dates with their kids when Amal visits London.

Charlize and Jackson, who is transitioning to a girl.

CHARLIZE THERON

‘THE TRUTH ABOUT MY DAUGHTER’ Charlize Theron has spoken openly about her daughter Jackson’s transition journey. The 44-year-old actress has admitted in the past to raising her first child, now aged 8, as a girl, after she told Charlize at age 3, she was ”not a boy”. While on a press circuit for her new film Bombshell, the South African beauty said it is all

Kylie’s boyfriend Paul Solomons is reportedly ready to propose.

“pretty new” for her family, and admits it is important to acknowledge her daughter’s transgender identity. “I feel like as her mother, for me, it was important to let the world know that I would appreciate it if they would use the right pronouns for her,” Charlize told Pride Source. “It became harder for us the

older she got that people were still writing about her in the wrong pronouns, and also I was still talking about her in the press using the wrong pronoun.” Charlize adopted Jackson in 2012 and also has a daughter, August, adopted in 2015. The Oscar-winning actress has been candid about her experience with adoption in interviews. Speaking with Elle last year, Charlize said: “Adoption is a very personal thing – I know people whom I love dearly who don’t feel that they could raise another child as their own. I respect that. “But for me – and I can’t be the only person out there – I never saw a difference in raising an adopted child versus my own biological child.”

KYLIE’S SECRET PROPOSAL! She’s had her fair share of rocky relationships over the years, but it looks like Kylie Minogue is finally getting her happily ever after with boyfriend Paul Solomons. A source tells New Idea the singer’s boyfriend of two years is on the brink of proposing. “Paul has splashed out on an emerald Cartier ring,” says the insider. “He’ll pop the question

Kylie is smitten with her soon-tobe fiancé: “I’ve found my man.”

in Australia as they prepare to spend the holiday with her family in Melbourne.” Paul chose that particular gem as it’s Kylie’s birthstone and has even roped in his future sister-inlaw Dannii to help stage the surprise. The GQ creative director and Kylie met in February 2018 and by April, The Sun newspaper reported they were growing close. Just a year earlier, a heartbroken Kylie had split from her fiancé Joshua Sasse after reports emerged that he was cheating on her. Kylie and Paul confirmed their relationship when the London-based singer shared a photo of them locked in an embrace in NYC. On their red-carpet debut two months later, Kylie told reporters, “I’ve found my man”. She added: “It’s going great, it’s fabulous. Just when you think ‘will it ever happen?’ it came and surprised me.”

BEHIND HER NONONSENSE IMAGE, PRINCESS ANNE HAS A HIDDEN PAST

CAMILL A’S FURY

ANNE E SHOCK SECR R

correspondent claims. “Andrew he’s one of the most was widely said to be Anne’s popular and hardestfirst love and responsible for her working members losing her virginity. At the time of the royal family, but until now little he was an extremely attractive and confident man who was has been known about Princess Anne’s private life. very experienced sexually and The latest season of the hit had a lot of girlfriends.” series The Crown has revealed Royal writer Penny Junor’s 2017 biography on Camilla lifted shocking revelations about the princess, including that the lid on her relationship with Andrew. In it, Penny revealed as a young woman she had a relationship with her future that Andrew had been continuously unfaithful to sister-in-law Camilla’s now ex-husband, Andrew Parker Camilla since they first began their on-off relationship in 1966, Bowles. And questions are now being asked about what else has been e is y concealed about Anne. y Erin D hert Indeed, royal e Crow . expert Phil Dampier suggests there’s more to the royal’s first love affair than was originally thought. “I think Anne did love him and still does, but she was too young and he was not going to be faithful,” the UK

writing that while “Andrew was hugely fond of her and she was nominally his girlfriend … he couldn’t resist other women”. One of Andrew’s most public relationships, which occurred while he was on a break from Camilla, was with Anne. But while their feelings – at least on Anne’s part – were reportedly strong, there was no question they would be able to marry, due to his religion. “Andrew loved Anne’s feisty nature and of course she was a very attractive women when she was younger,” explains Dampier. “Anne fell for him and the relationship was very passionate, but he was a Catholic and so not suitable as a potential husband. Also, he was never going to be faithful and so the affair fizzled out.” Surprisingly, Anne and Camilla’s relationship involvement – in what has been described as a love square between them, Andrew and Prince Charles – hasn’t affected

their current relationship. “Anne and Camilla don’t see that much of each other but when they do they are both cordial to each other. They are both very pragmatic and after all these years I don’t think they are jealous of each other, but obviously they go back a long way,” says Phil. Both women are on good terms with Andrew too. “You still see Anne and Andrew together every year at Royal Ascot as he escorts her to the parade ground to look at the runners and riders. It’s almost as if nothing has changed in 45 years,” he adds. Anne was herself subject to rumours of extramarital affairs in the 1980s when married to Mark Phillips. She was linked to her personal bodyguard, Sergeant Peter Cross of the Royal Protection Squad – who, after being relieved of his duties, later sold his story to a UK newspaper. There were even rumours that Peter was actually

Anne, pictured here in 1973, remains on cordial terms with Camilla (below), despite Camilla’s ex-husband Andrew Parker Bowles rumoured to be the love of the princess’ life. The chemistry between the pair (below left) continues to this day.

E’S RET

Anne and Mark’s daughter Zara’s biological father, after he made claims about speaking to the princess just hours after she gave birth. Anne’s relationship with Timothy Laurence was revealed after letters between them were stolen. She and Mark then announced their separation, and eight months after their divorce, Anne married Timothy in December 1992. Months later, though, came surprise claims that have been rarely mentioned since: that Anne was pregnant with her third child. In March 1993, UK newspapers speculated that the princess and Timothy were expecting a baby, with The People newspaper devoting five pages to the claims.

Despite her history with Andrew, Anne married Mark Phillips in 1973 and the pair had two children, Peter and Zara, before divorcing in 1992.

While Anne and Timothy never had this much-speculated baby, Buckingham Palace’s refusal to confirm or deny the pregnancy at the time only fanned the rumour mill. The formal response was that such matters were private and, according to a New York Times report, “It is usually left to the individual members of the royal family to decide whether to divulge them.”

Meghan and Harry are working closely with the talk-show queen.

HOW LEGENDARY TV PERSONALITY OPRAH WILL BE HELPING THE SUSSEXES IN 2020

HARRY & MEGHAN N

SECRET WEA A

t’s been a busy year for Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, full of ups and downs. But now a source reveals to New Idea that the Sussexes are determined to make 2020 their year. While visiting America, the royal couple have been plotting to turn

their image around and are ready to do whatever it takes! While Harry and Meghan appear to have lived by their own rules from the start, the source claims the couple are hatching a plan so different it could move them even further away from the royal family. The source says the Sussexes

have been bonding with Oprah during their extended break from official duty and are planning to enlist the help of America’s talk-show queen to bring their big plans to life! Alongside their baby son, Archie, the power trio have been brainstorming strategies for the year ahead at Oprah’s sprawling $130 million compound in Montecito, California. An insider says, “Meghan and Harry are extremely cautious about who they trust, let alone who gets to help them shape their plans as a private couple as well as royals. “But Oprah is like family to both of them, and she’s been an absolute inspiration from

the very beginning. Not only has she been key in helping them figure out their vision from a business and charity standpoint, she’s also been acting as a image consultant. “Thanks to her advice and guidance, they’ve found ways to embrace new challenges plus cope with negativity and craft a new look that they’re confident will see them more empowered and relatable moving into 2020. “This trip has really helped them recharge their batteries and they’re feeling stronger and more ambitious than ever. Hanging out with Oprah is a breath of fresh air as well as a rest that’s been long overdue!” Oprah, 65, who was a star

Oprah and the Sussexes have a shared passion for supporting charity initiatives.

N’S

APON guest at the royal wedding, joined forces with the couple earlier this year to launch an upcoming TV series promoting mental health awareness. The documentary – scheduled to be streamed via Apple in 2020 – will feature people’s case studies from around the world, bringing attention to those who silently suffer from depression. Our source adds: “This charity initiative was a great reason for them to meet up at Oprah’s place and discuss where they’re at with everything. They’re still figuring out the logistics, such as the countries they’ll each be traveling to and who else to bring on board.

“But during this trip they found time for plenty of other fun stuff, too, like meeting some of Oprah’s friends and enjoying dinner parties as well as long hikes around her beautiful estate. “This new venture will

side of the street clean. “She reminded them how far they’ve come and how much more they can accomplish in the future. But in order to do that, she told them to stay strong and not back down in the face of any criticism whatsoever.”

“OPRAH’S MAIN MESSAGE WAS TO TELL THEM TO BE CONFIDENT” [allow] them to spend a lot more time together during 2020, and Oprah will help them wherever she can. “Her main message was to tell them to be confident and stay true to their principles, in other words [to] keep their

Oprah has made no secret of being deeply concerned at the criticism that’s been aimed at the royal couple. Defending her friend back in April, Oprah said: “I think [Meghan’s] being portrayed unfairly and I feel that if people

really knew her, they would know that she is not only everything that we perceive for her – being graceful and dynamic and holding that position – but she just has a wonderful, warm, giving, loving heart. I see all the crazy press around her and it’s really unfair.” Meghan and Oprah also have a host of other projects in mind in the months ahead, besides their charity endeavour. “They love the idea of them co-interviewing each other on a one-off TV show, plus writing self-help books together,” spills the source. Could Oprah be the secret weapon Harry and Meghan need to win over the public? 11

Close friends Terri and Russell have always supported each other.

T WILL THE WILDLIFE WARRIOR MAKE AN APPEARANCE TO SUPPORT THE STAR?

TERRI & RUSSELL

hey’ve supported each other in life and career, but now rumours are rife that Terri Irwin and Russell Crowe could make a special appearance together at the upcoming Golden Globes. Terri’s most recent public declaration of support towards her close friend came earlier this month when it was announced that he was nominated for an award at the prestigious event,

GLOBES REUNION!

held at the beginning of January. She tweeted: “Incredibly impressed with @russellcrowe’s ability to tell such a challenging story. This is a well deserved Golden Globe nomination. Well done.” The actor is up for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for TV for his portrayal of the Fox News boss Roger Ailes in The Loudest Voice. It’s Russell’s first Golden Globe nomination since his 2006 performance in Cinderella Man. Russell and Terri have always supported each other professionally and personally over the years. When her husband Steve died in 2006, Russell, who was a close friend of the Crocodile Hunter, rushed to Terri’s side to support her. Two years ago, Terri explained the importance of her relationship with Russell. “After Steve passed, you find out who your true friends are. And Russell has been very loyal as a great friend,” she said. Around the same time, Russell paid tribute to the Australia Zoo owner, saying, “Terri is one of the greatest women I’ve ever met in my life.” He added, “You know, I do love Terri Irwin, I love her kids and I love how she’s kept the memory of Steve alive, and respected the work that the two of them had begun and she’s an absolute champion.” Despite it being reported that they’ve had an on-off relationship over the years, publicly both have denied any romantic involvement. Even so, Russell has remained a steady fixture in the family’s life and one of their most vocal

supporters, frequently taking to social media to repost their announcements and lend his support to their projects. He also has a close personal relationship with Terri’s two children. Earlier this month he gave a shout-out to Robert, retweeting an animal portrait the keen photographer had posted on social media and calling it “stunning”. In July, Russell gifted Bindi a $25,000 Rolex watch for her 21st birthday, with the Daily Mail reporting the actor believed her dad “would have wanted her to have” the significant gift. It’s apparent Steve is still very much in the forefront of Terri’s thoughts. When Robert celebrated his 16th birthday in December, his mum shared a picture of Steve cradling his then-baby son and captioned it, “Your dad would be so proud of you. He has loved you since the moment you were born”. In 2018 Terri explained how she hadn’t got over her husband’s death, admitting, “It’s just really hard not having Steve. I’m lonely for Steve, if that makes sense”. But with Terri reportedly planning on attending events around the annual G’Day LA in January, it’s possible her family may encourage her to arrive a bit earlier to support Russell on the Globes red carpet. And while Russell and Terri are just close friends, previously, a source told New Idea how Terri’s children are hopeful their mum will consider having a relationship soon. “Bindi and Robert have both encouraged her to open herself up to finding her own happy ending, which has made her feel more at ease with the thought of marrying again knowing how much her two children want to see her find love again too,” revealed the insider.

JEN VS NICOLE

THE BATTLE OVER REESE

With both actresses up for a Golden Globe, Jen and Nicole aren’t only competing for an award, but also for Reese’s attention.

It promises to be one of the most glamorous Globes ever, but it could also be the most scandalous! Sources tell New Idea tensions are already said to be mounting between actresses Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Aniston, who are apparently locked in a tug-of-friendship battle over their mutual buddy and co-star Reese Witherspoon. “Nicole and Jen used to be good pals but lately they’ve been competing over who gets to hang out with Reese,” conﬁdes a source. “It’s become super awkward, but they haven’t had to deal with it publicly until now. They’re all pretty ﬁery and used to getting their way, so you can expect the claws to come out big time when they’re all in the same room.” Making matters worse could be that both are duelling it out for the coveted Golden Globe Best Actress in a Drama Series award, with Nicole hoping to be rewarded for her role in Big Little Lies and Jen for Morning Wars. With Reese also up for the same

award, this could add to the tension. As Reese co-stars with both her friends in each project, she’s feeling conﬂicted. “She just wishes they could all get along and stop being so competitive and childish,” adds the insider. “In one ear she’s got Jen telling her to sit at her table and at the same time Nicole’s trying to put her foot down and call the shots.” There could also be friction between Jennifer and star Charlize Theron, who’s tipped to win big for her role in Bombshell. “They don’t like each other at all so there won’t be any love lost between either of them,” claims the insider. “It doesn’t help that Charlize was linked to Brad [Pitt] earlier this year.” 13

INSIDE GEORGE & AMAL’S

BIZARRE MARRIAGE THEY’RE MAKING IT WORK BY LAYING DOWN GROUND RULES

espite having five years of marriage under their belts, George and Amal Clooney have been plagued by divorce rumours in the past year. But even with the obvious pressures of their high-powered careers, the pair have kept an united front. Now an exclusive insider tells New Idea the $750 million

and figured out a list of rules that would make them both feel more comfortable and less pressured to live a life that didn’t suit them,” explains the source. “They have come to appreciate that they’re two very different people, but instead of fighting or trying to impose their will on each other, they’ve found a way to back off in some areas and compromise in others.”

“DIVORCE ISN’T AN OPTION TO EITHER OF THEM, SO THEY HAD TO FIND A WAY TO MAKE THIS WORK” Hollywood super-couple have managed to bolster their relationship by coming up with an agreement they are both said to be following. “Divorce isn’t an option to either of them, so they had to find a way to make this work. Earlier this year, they sat down

There had been reports that the duo have been living increasingly separate lives as they co-raise their twins Ella and Alexander, 2, while pursuing their highly successful careers. While George has frequently been on location filming projects and promoting new releases and George and Amal with their twins.

his business ventures, Amal has split her time between New York and London, as well as spending a lot of time travelling in her role as Special Envoy for Media Freedom to the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Reports claim that amid the pressure of work demands, the pair have been clashing over their differing lifestyles. While Amal was increasingly tired of her husband’s love of partying, George allegedly felt trapped and suffocated. Things supposedly reached fever pitch as Amal stayed put with the twins in New York City, where she practises as a human rights lawyer and also lectures at Columbia University. Meanwhile George spent the bulk of his time in Europe, shuttling between their home in Lake Como, Italy, while working on a new film in London. In January 2019, Radar Online reported George and Amal had been arguing over their different lifestyles, quoting an insider who said, “She’s all business, he’s all play”. But nearly a year on, their marriage has continued, reportedly as a result of them agreeing to compromise. “George promised he’d rein in his partying, especially when they’re in the same city, and Amal has given assurances to stop micromanaging and let him let his hair down every now and then. “They’ll still show up together to the occasional premiere, but George has agreed to slow down on the

glitzy events, which Amal was starting to find fairly tedious,” said the insider. Always interested in politics, George is now making even more of an effort to spend more time understanding Amal’s human rights work. “He’s taking a much bigger interest, which means reading up on politics and law so they have more to discuss when they are together,” says the insider. Earlier this year, George hinted at the pressures their family had been under, in particular as a result of Amal’s human rights work, which has meant stepping up their security measures. “We have plenty of issues ‒ real, proper security issues ‒ that we have to deal with on a fairly daily basis. “We don’t really want our kids to be targets, so we have to pay attention to that,” George told The Hollywood Reporter in May. Now, the couple are reportedly balancing their public and private lives more easily. “They still have

had their ups and downs and aren’t perfect by any means, but George and Amal are at peace with each other and have figured out an arrangement that works for both of them,” shares an exclusive insider. “That means spending much less time together and learning to live weeks and months apart at a time, depending on their work schedules.”

Right: The couple were last pictured together in October. They have both been busy due to their gruelling schedules.

BIKINI BO O THE STARS FLAUNT THEIR AMAZING FIGURES AT THE BEACH!

NADIA BARTEL WAG and mum-of-two Nadia won’t let a break-up get in the way of her fitness goals.

JESSICA MARAIS Jess is returning on Back to the Rafters in great shape!

All photos except Elle, Ada and Jessica: instagram.com

CHEZZI DENYER Grant Denyer’s wife proudly showed off her floral one-piece while relaxing on a boat.

SONIA KRUGER Sonia, 54, proves some women just get better with age! ELLE MACPHERSON Elle was known as ‘The Body’ in her modelling days for good reason.

ODIES

RICKI-LEE COULTER The singer revealed her envious curves in this black one-piece.

SOPHIE MONK All those days at the beach on Love Island have paid off for Sophie.

ADA NICODEMOU Ada says she feels better than ever in her own skin in her 40s − and we believe her!

JULES ROBINSON The MAFS star dropped 8kg for her wedding and showed off the results on her honeymoon.

SAM FROST Home and Away darling Sam Frost is healthy and happy in her yellow bikini − and she knows laughter is the best medicine too!

NA E A B D E R D L I M & ARNOLD GER G E N E Z R A W H SC

Th rel The relationship lationship between Arnold Schwarzenegger and his housekeeper of 20 years, Mildred Patricia ‘Patty’ Baena, was revealed in 2011. According to reports, Arnie’s wife, Maria Shriver confronted the woman, asking if Arnie was her son Joseph’s biological father. Mildred and the former California governor confirmed the relationship. It was later revealed Arnie had only learnt he was Joseph’s father a few years before and that he’d taken financial responsibility for the boy. Today Mildred lives in the Bakersfield, California, home Arnold bought her and in 2017. Joseph is now 22 and describes himself as an athlete and actor. He has a close relationship with his father.

DIVINE BROWN & HUGH GRANT

Hugh Grant’s romantic lead reputation took a big hit in June 1995 when he was arrested alongside sex worker Divine Brown for what police called ‘lewd conduct’ in a public place. He later apologised for what he called a moment of insanity when he paid the now 50-year-old $60 for oral sex in his car, just off Sunset Strip. While the British actor was fined, and his girlfriend Liz Hurley remained with him for another five years, Divine was sentenced to 180 days in prison. But having scooped a six-figure sum for selling her story to a UK newspaper, she also appeared on a number of TV shows, several commercials and adult films. Divine later revealed the arrest helped her make more than $1 million, got her out of prostitution, helped her buy a house and put her daughters through school. She now lives in Atlanta, goes by the name Stella Thompson and works in music production.

TIGER WOODS & RACHEL UCHITEL Former TV producer turned VIP nightclub hostess Rachel Uchitel was named one of Tiger Wood’s mistresses when news of his sex addiction broke in 2009. Initially she denied their affair and later revealed she was unable to talk about their relationship amid claims she’d reached a multimillion dollar settlement with the golfer. The following year she was linked to Angel star David Boreanaz as it was revealed they’d had an affair while his wife was pregnant with their second child. While appearing on Celebrity

CELE E MIS S

WHERE E

GORDON RAMSAY & SARAH SYMONDS

In 2008, amid the publication of her guide book to being a mistress, Sarah Symonds claimed she’d been in an on-off relationship with TV chef Gordon Ramsay for seven years. Sarah detailed how they had hooked up and had phone sex on multiple occasions over the years. The chef issued a swift denial but never pursued legal action and is still with his wife, Tana. Sarah says she’s no longer interested in having affairs with married men. “I wasted years being a mistress but I’ve ﬁnally emerged as a much stronger person,” she

& S O O L A C C E REB M A H K C E B D I DAV

Rehab, Rachel talked about the aftermath of losing her ﬁancé Andy O’Grady, who died in the 2001 September 11 attacks on New York. Now a TV correspondent, in 2012 Rachel had a daughter, Wyatt, and last year admitted, “I’ve developed a very thick skin. It’s hard to throw me off of anything because I’ve juggled a lot in my life.”

Rebecca Loos alleged ll d she h h had d a four-month long affair with the star footballer in 2003 while working as his personal assistant in Madrid. Photos of the pair looking intimate at a nightclub circulated while UK newspaper News of the World reported the pair had exchanged ﬂirty texts. Soon after, Rebecca conﬁrmed the reports during a TV interview, while David issued a strong denial and threatened legal action. In the aftermath,

EBRITY STRESSES

E ARE THEY NOW?

b d a media d career, Rebecca pursued appearing in men’s magazines and on a number of reality TV shows. These days, the now 42-yearold is a yoga teacher living in a small town in the Norwegian mountains with her doctor husband and children. “Now I spend my time practising yoga, running, biking and hiking and foraging for wild food for my two young sons. Life is very different,” she admits.

DAISY WRIGHT & JUDE LAW

Nanny Daisy Wright hit the headlines in 2005 when she sold a kiss-and-tell to the UK tabloids about her relationship with her boss, actor Jude Law, while he was engaged to Sienna Miller. “It was amazing,” she said. “Jude was a masterful lover who made my whole body tingle.” Jude quickly issued a public apology expressing his regret. Sienna and Jude split the following year. Today Daisy, 45, is married with two children. In 2014 she started high-end nanny agency Silentnight.

LATEST ON LORI

Unlike Felicity Huffman, Lori Loughlin pleaded not guilty to the college admissions scandal and currently faces up to 40 years in prison. Much to her mother’s discontent, daughter Olivia Jade recently returned to social media to wash her hands of the scandal. “Obviously I’ve been gone for a really long time and as much as I wish I could talk about all this, it’s really hard for me to say this just because I know that it’s something that needs to be addressed …” she said in a YouTube clip. “It’s just unfortunately – which is also why I didn’t know exactly when I should come back to YouTube – the reason for that is just because I’m legally not

Lori’s daughter Olivia Jade spoke out about the scandal on her YouTube channel, which reportedly caused tension in the family.

allowed to speak on anything going on right now.” “Lori was very clear in telling Olivia to remain quiet and not do anything controversial,” a source told Us Weekly. “Olivia’s YouTube video was a big betrayal,” the insider added. “And cracks in the family are starting to show.” Meanwhile, Lori has been gearing up for her big court appearance. “Lori has been meeting with her lawyers for days at a time,” the source added. “It’s her full-time job and she is very involved with her defence. When not at her lawyer’s office, Lori is emailing and texting with the team.” “Her lawyer plays the prosecutor, grilling her,” said the source adding that her sessions are “gruelling”.

FELICITY HUFFMA

NEW C

ince her sentence of 250 community hours for the college admissions scandal, Felicity Huffman has turned over a new leaf and submerged herself in charity work, particularly for incarcerated women. One such charity is A New Way of Life, founded by former inmate Susan Burton who has been impressed with the actress’ commitment to the cause. “Felicity is a such a downto-earth, genuine, caring person [and] she’s been very helpful and supportive to the women here,” Burton told People. “She has connected with them in a real way and you can feel it. I think that is because they know she’s experienced in a small way what they have

gone through being incarcerated.” Felicity has been very hands-on with the inmates, helping them get ready for a gala in December. “Felicity has been helping the women pick out dresses for the gala [and] she’ll be helping us set up the event,” says Burton. “She’s been cooking for the women, cleaning the homes, shopping and answering the phone. We love having her here.” A source told ET that “conditions at the prison were very difficult” and that there were no real programs or initiatives to help the incarcerated women who were there. “Felicity felt like the women in that facility were being discarded and left behind; they

Felicity spent time behind bars after her involvement in the college admissions scandal and now wants to help women who’ve been incarcerated.

Y AN’S A

CHAPTER C were forgotten,” the source said. “She loved the women there and bonded with them. When she left she felt guilty leaving them behind. “She would like for her next community service work to be helping women who were recently incarcerated and need help re-entering society,” the source says. “This work will be a longterm commitment for her [and] well beyond her community service hours. “Currently, she’s working as a tutor at The Teen Project, which rescues girls who are trafficked on the streets. She’s been doing that for two years well before this case happened,” the source adds. “She’s been tutoring those girls two times a week for two

years and this has been an amazing experience for her and her daughter. Felicity is not your average Hollywood actress.”

AFTER SERVING HER PRISON TERM, WHAT’S NEXT FOR FELICITY?

service hours and making a positive impact on my community. I also plan to continue making contributions

“MY HOPE NOW IS THAT MY FAMILY AND MY FRIENDS FORGIVE ME FOR MY ACTIONS” In May, Felicity pleaded guilty to paying Rick Singer $15,000 to have a proctor change her daughter Sophia’s SAT answers, after she took the test. She was then sentenced to 14 days in prison, 250 hours community service and fined over $43,000. After sentencing, Felicity released a statement: “My goal now is to serve the sentence that the court has given me. I look forward to doing my community

The actress was pictured in her prison jumpsuit out in the yard.

wherever I can, well after those service hours are completed,” read the statement. “I can promise you that in the months and years to come that I will try and live a more honest life, serve as a better role model for my daughters and family and continue to contribute my time and energies wherever I am needed. My hope now is that my family, my friends and my community will forgive me for my actions.” 21

History has a way g itself and I sense we re see g a strong similarity with this royal couple to the former King of England Edward VIII, who abdicated to marry his divorced American lover, Wallis Simpson. Meghan also hails from the United States and is divorced. I sense Harry, too, will opt out of his royal career to keep his family intact, and will live abroad as the rift with William continues to divide the siblings.

KATE AND WILLS I see Wills being bestowed in the future with the title of Prince of Wales, which is given by the monarch to their oldest son, the heir to the throne. I see Kate dropping out of some of her royal duties with health issues. Fatigue and weight loss is very noticeable on her slender stature. Charlotte inherits a love of horses from her greatgrandmother the Queen and Princess Anne. Photos will surface of her riding in the palace grounds.

The love bug strikes Jennifer big time! I see the biggest smile on her face – she is glowing again. I hear ‘private affair hidden behind the cameras’, then played out in the public eye when she is confident it is lasting. Wedding bells will put social media into a spin, but it will be a slow-burner; engagement followed by a private ceremony, perhaps on an island or retreat. I sense the person is much into fitness and private industry, not associated with Hollywood.

BEATRICE AND EDOARDO

This is a very rocky relationship. I hear ‘tainted love’. Scandals and secrets with security issues will come to light. I see two children, then a crack in the relationship and divorce. I am shown a ‘7’ … this may indicate a time frame of their connection; it’s definitely not a union that has longevity. There are strong similarities between Beatrice and her aunt Princess Anne in their marital journeys.

Big deals, big contracts, big opportunities are opening up for Karl in 2020. His name will be in the media world once more, this time with a very positive spin as he focuses on his journalistic abilities and hard-core interviewing style. Gone is the playfulness of the former breakfast host − now we are in serious territory. I see him being nominated for a Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism. Jasmine remains behind the scenes, with very little seen of her publicly as she carves her own unique style in a successful business.

PSYCHIC GEORGINA WALKER REVEALS WHAT THE NEW YEAR WILL BRING FOR THE STARS

DELTA GOODREM I see Champagne and celebrations ahead for our diva. Buying real estate overseas will see one of our favourites having a chateau, farm or acreage in wine country, somewhere like France or Portugal, where she’ll be loved-up and keeping her romantic life under wraps. I do see a ring being offered − like an engagement ring − but there is a hesitancy to accept the proposal. Rumours will circulate around this romantic union. I sense it will not result in marriage.

THE QUEEN AND PRINCE PHILIP

I see the flag over Buckingham Palace flying at half mast. I see the Queen in mourning clothes and sense the death of a significant royal. The Queen continues to revamp the agenda of the royals, making it more simplified and youthful. Charles will be stepping into her shoes, with the view that time is now approaching for a takeover to secure the continuing success of the monarchy. 23

KATE RITCHIE We all love our Kate. I sense she is looking for a new challenge that excites and demands her interest and attention. I see her hosting a type of documentary that focuses on family and holidays. I see her in the Daintree in Queensland talking about ancient history, Aboriginal culture and what gets the heart excited with adrenaline sports and activities. The interest will spark an opportunity to travel overseas and do similar one-offs.

e Charles crowned. Camilla’s tiara has a pink tinge to it. It will be unexpected and cause much controversy as Queen Elizabeth declares change and reform to former protocols. The monarchy will be taking a modern twist, coming out of the dark days into a monarchy that meets the people’s needs. These reforms herald a time of great change. Parliament will be consulted and there will be opposition to the Queen’s desire for reform.

ANDREW AND FERGIE Soul connections bind this couple for eternity − magnetically attracted to each other, they play out karmic debts through their relationship and family ties − the keepers of secrets and indiscretions bind them. Andrew is not free of the Epstein scandal that will see his name splashed across the tabloid press once again in 2020. The palace will go into overdrive trying to silence the prince’s critics, however they will not be able to stop the gossip machine that sees the matter heightened with legal proceedings that unfold behind closed doors.

This couple give me goosebumps. I hear ‘enduring love’ – they are super-glued in their commitment and love for each other. I also hear ‘It’s a girl’, suggesting a baby in 2020, but there will be some speculation and concerns around the timing and the clashing of wedding plans for her sister Beatrice. I get a flash of Duchess Kate and her morning sickness and pregnancy, which may indicate Eugenie could suffer a similar fate. Fergie will be gloating in the attention with another wedding and baby so close together.

A bri roubled waters is ahead uple. Amal’s career takes an even more influential course, seeing her increasingly involved with outside influences needing her skills, and less time with George and the twins. George will be spotted out and about without her, causing speculation of a rift between the couple that leads to a climax of separation. There is a deep karmic connection between this pair and I sense they will always remain close friends.

ANGELINA AND BRAD

‘Smitten as a kitten’ is our celebrity vet, as a new romance unfolds at such a quick pace it will have the media in a spin, as this is something we have not previously seen in his dating life. Don’t be surprised to see in 2021 that Chris is no longer an eligible bachelor, I hear the song, ‘She wears my ring to show the world that she belongs to me. She wears my ring to show the world she’s mine eternally’. A US deal will see him making a huge dent in the international arena, similar to how Aussie chef Curtis Stone launched his overseas career.

Much like Mother Teresa, Angelina continues her justice advocacy for the under-privileged. Her children remain close to her side but not so with her ex Brad Pitt. There is tension between the parents and speculation about another court drama as Brad seeks more input into their children’s lives. Angelina sees a resurgence in her popularity and once again reigns supreme in Hollywood. Sadness seems to plague Brad. I hear ‘lone wolf’, as if he is in a void regarding his personal and family life. We could see him drowning his sorrows with alcohol once again. But a resurgence of his talent behind the camera will see an Oscar nomination in 2023.

GRANT AND CHEZZI

I hear ‘silence il iis golden’ ld ((previously i l Grant won the Gold Logie) as this lovable character may become somewhat reclusive in 2020. It’s time out to restore the mind, body and spirit. Expect to see him resurfacing around the middle of the year, refreshed and larger than life with a new format or show under his wing.

Exclusive Extracts!

SUMMER S

ummer is the perfect time to get lost in the pages of a great read. New Idea has tasters from three terrific un-put-downable new books that are perfect for a holiday escape and guaranteed to keep you enthralled until the very last word.

R READS RELAX WITH A BOOK DURING THE HOLIDAYS

THE DILEMMA The million-copy best-selling author of Behind Closed Doors returns with another gripping psychological suspense read about family secrets and an impossible choice. It’s Livia’s 40th birthday and she’s throwing a huge party to make up for the wedding she never had. But as the countdown to the special event begins, it appears both husband and wife are keeping huge secrets from each other. Livia It’s the cooling bathwater that wakes me. Disorientated, I sit up quickly, sploshing suds up the sides, wondering how long I’ve been asleep. I release the plug and the drain gurgles, a too-loud sound in a silent house. A shiver pricks my skin as I towel myself dry. A memory tugs at my brain. It was a sound that woke me, the roar of a motorbike in the street outside. I pause, the towel stretched over my back. It couldn’t have been Adam, could it? He wouldn’t have gone off on his bike, not at this time of night. Wrapping the towel around me, I hurry to the bedroom and look out of the window. The guilty beating of my heart slows when I see, behind the marquee, a yellow glow coming from his shed. He’s there, he hasn’t gone to settle scores. Part of me wants to go down and check he’s alright but something, a sixth sense perhaps, tells me not to, that he’ll come to me when he’s ready. For a moment I feel afraid, as if I’m staring into an abyss. But it’s just the dark and the deserted garden that’s making me feel that way. Turning from the window, I lie down on the bed. I’ll give him another ten minutes and if he’s not back by then, I’ll go and find him. Adam I race along deserted streets, scattering a scavenging cat, cutting a corner too tight, shattering the night’s deathly silence with the roar of my bike. Ahead of me, the slip road to the M4 looms. I open the

throttle and take it fast, screaming onto the motorway, slicing in front of a crawling car. My bike shifts under me as I push faster. The drag of the wind on my face is intoxicating and I have to fight an overwhelming urge to let go of the handlebars and freefall to my death. Is it terrible that Livia and Josh aren’t enough to make me want to live? Guilt adds itself to the torment of the last fourteen hours and a roar of white-hot anger adds to the noise of the bike as I race down the motorway, bent on destruction. Then, in the mirror, through the water streaming from my eyes, I see a car hammering down the motorway behind me, its blue light flashing, and my roar of grief becomes one of frustration. I take the bike to one hundred mph, knowing that if it comes to it I can push it faster, because nothing is going to stop me now. But the police car quickly closes the distance between us, moving swiftly into the outside lane and as it levels with me, my peripheral vision catches an officer gesticulating wildly from the passenger seat. I add more speed but the car sweeps past and moves into my lane, blocking my bike. I’m about to open the throttle and overtake him, taking my bike to its maximum, but something stops me and he slowly reduces his speed, bringing me in. I’m not sure why I let him. Maybe it’s because I don’t want Livia to have even more pieces to pick up. Or maybe it was Marnie’s voice pleading, “Don’t,

Dad, don’t!” I swear I could feel her arms tightening around my waist for a moment, her head pressed against the back of my neck. My limbs are trembling as I bring the bike to a stop behind the police car and cut the engine. Two officers get out, one male, one female. The male strides towards me. “Have you got a death wish or something?” he yells, slamming his cap onto his head. The second officer – the driver – approaches. “Sir, step away from the bike,” she barks. “Sir, did you hear me? Step away from the bike.” I try to unfurl my hands from the handlebars, unstick my legs from the bike. But I seem to be welded to her. “Sir, if you don’t comply, I’m going to have to arrest you.” “We’re going to have to arrest him anyway,” the first officer says. He takes a step towards me and the sight of handcuffs dangling from his belt shocks me into speech. I flip up my helmet. “Wait!” There must be something in my voice, or maybe they read something in my face, because both police officers pause. “Go on.” “It’s about Marnie.” “Marnie?” “Yes.” “Who’s Marnie?” “My daughter.” I swallow painfully. “Marnie’s my daughter.” They exchange a glance. “Where is your daughter, sir?” The Dilemma by B.A. Paris (HQ Fiction), out Dec. 30, RRP $29.99. 27

IN THE CLEARING Inspired by Anne HamiltonByrne’s notorious cult, The Family, this novel is full of dark and gripping twists and turns. Freya is an overly protective mum who is doing her best to keep her son safe and live a normal life. Meanwhile, Amy has only ever known life in a community known as the Clearing but her world view is about to be challenged when a new recruit arrives and appears desperate to return home. From the author of last year’s bestseller Call Me Evie, this is an edited extract from the chilling and atmospheric tale. 28

Amy I feel so warm and happy. We have her. As we near the Great Hall, where the kitchen and our classroom are, I see my brothers and sisters and the other minders burst from the building and rush towards us. Everyone knows the precious cargo we are carrying and their palms bang on the windows as we pass. My chest fills with pride. The enthusiasm of the others is infectious. Susan honks the horn, waving to the children outside and then we are heading around The Great Tree, then beyond the Burrow, where we sleep and bathe, making our way to the Shed at the south-east corner of the property. We pass the child through the

door of the van and into the waiting hands as though delivering a baby. Her small body seems to float into the Shed. We lay her down on the stained cotton cloth covering the bench. Adam had rigged a square in the sheet-metal roof on a pulley so when my brother Anton – the only child older than me – turns the wheel near the door a perfect diamond of light falls through the ceiling and across the girl. We circle her, to be close, to look at her. “That’s enough,” Adrienne says. “We need to get to work.” I know that soon the child will wake and when she does she will be hungry and thirsty. I know we have chores to do, but it is so hard to walk away.

THE LOST SUMMERS OF DRIFTWOOD Bruised from the aftermath of a failed relationship and still heartbroken over the death of her sister the year before, Phoebe retreats to her family’s holiday cottage in coastal NSW. As she tries to unlock secrets from the past and reconcile the reasons for Karin’s death, she crosses paths with a former love and begins to reassess her life.

I know that when we liberate a child from the world outside, the minders become tense and agitated. Susan was chewing her nails today and now, as I’m peeling potatoes, looking out the kitchen window, I watch Tamsin in the yard with the young girls. She is near the vegetable garden, squatting down and pointing at something in the earth. The children stand and watch. The peeler catches on my knuckle and a pearl of blood seeps from the flap of skin, distracting me momentarily. When I look back up I see Tamsin rise and strike one of the younger girls. It’s so sudden, like a cat’s paw. The girl clutches her cheek as Tamsin stands over her. Tamsin slaps the child once more, then shoves her to the ground. The other children remain completely still.

I know the heat of those slaps. I turn my gaze towards the Shed. Adam is there with our newest sister, Asha. Anton is in there, too, and Adrienne. How different will Asha’s life be here with us in the Clearing? I think about the road she was walking along to her old house. If it was so bad there, why would she keep walking back? But I chase the thought out of my head. That is a deviant thought, something evil. It is my duty to confess thoughts like this, to be purged, or they might burn me up inside. We only have room for the Truth. Deviant thoughts will bring about the apocalypse for our little world. In The Clearing by J. P. Pomare (Hachette Australia), out Dec. 31, RRP $32.99.

Phoebe opened her car door but didn’t get out. The night was thick with the smell of high summer. Her sister’s home was Lit with fairy lights, strung from the white-painted eaves and woven through the fragrant frangipani trees. From the elegant Federation architecture to the white Audi in the drive and the handsome investment banker husband, Camilla had it all. Phoebe shoved her heels onto her feet and located her handbag in the nest of empty water bottles on the passenger seat. She examined her face in the visor mirror, reapplied her lipstick, and stepped out of the car. She pressed the doorbell and felt her stomach tighten. The music that had been playing inside stopped abruptly and Phoebe felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise. Something was off. She wasn’t sure what, but something didn’t seem quite right. For a start, her niece and nephew were usually the first to the door, tumbling down the hall towards her, breathless and sweet. “Phee Phee,” Camilla swung open the door. She was wearing the equivalent of a white ball gown but had somehow managed to make this look completely fine for a family dinner. Phoebe ran her damp palms down the flimsy fabric of her dress and kissed her sister’s perfumed cheek. “Where’s that handsome fiancé got to? Run off already?” Camilla laughed and Phoebe fought against the lump in her throat to speak. It was now or never. She squared her shoulders. “Camilla, it’s off.” “What is?” “Nathaniel and me. It’s over.” She grasped Phoebe’s arm. “What? No!” She lowered her voice. “No.”

“I know. I’m reeling.” Phoebe rubbed her temples. “I mean, it was all so sudden and I thought of calling you but I just thought it would be better … in person. I don’t know.” “What? I mean, how?” “He just didn’t …” “Propose?” “Yeah. Said he just couldn’t.” “Where is he now?” “I have no idea. We went our separate ways at the airport the night before last. I think I’m still in shock.” She gave a hollowsounding laugh. Camilla’s face seemed to take on a crimson brighter than her lips. “Oh, I’m so sorry, hon. You see …” She leaned in close and Phoebe caught a hint of vanilla and coconut. Her sister always smelled like a Caribbean holiday. “I’ve kind of … organised something.” Phoebe’s hand shot to her mouth. “No! You haven’t.” Camilla’s lips lifted into a hopeful smile. “A surprise thing? For our … engagement. Oh my God. The whole family? Everyone?” Camilla nodded, and Phoebe felt sick. She eyed the front door and thought about running. “Oh my God. I can’t.” Camilla patted her arm and lowered her voice to a whisper. “They’re all waiting right there in the dark, ready to shout ‘surprise’.” The Lost Summers of Driftwood by Vanessa McCausland (HarperCollins Australia), out now, RRP $29.99. 29

FILMS NOT TO EMMA For those who can recall Gwyneth Paltrow’s portrayal of Emma in the 1996 adaptation of Jane Austin’s classic novel, this new take is set to be just as frivolous and fun. Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) is the queen bee in her social circle and fancies herself a matchmaker in her community. However, in this

BOMBSHELL Talk about girl power! Bombshell sees powerhouse actresses Nicole Kidman, Charlize Theron and Margot Robbie team up in this account of the events that led to the fall of Fox News chairman Roger Ailes, after more than 20 women accused him of sexual harassment. While Margot’s character is 30

fictional, Nicole plays Gretchen Carlson and Charlize transforms into Megyn Kelly, two news anchors who were among the accusers. Given the subject matter and serious Oscar buzz, this explosive movie is one of the must-see films of the year. Out Jan. 16

delicious satire of social classes, Emma will make misguided matches and romantic mistakes in an effort to find her friends, and ultimately herself, love. With an all-star cast including Bill Nighy (The Boat That Rocked) and Josh O’Connor (The Crown), this fun-filled comedy-drama is not to be missed. Out Feb. 13

LITTLE WOMEN What better way to start the new year than to revisit this heart-warming classic based on the 1868 book of the same name by Louisa May Alcott. The film revolves around the lives of the four March sisters − Jo (Saoirse Ronan), Meg (Emma Watson), Amy (Florence Pugh) and Beth (Eliza Scanlen) − who are being raised by their mother while their father is fighting in the Civil War. Like all young

girls, they must navigate social expectations, budding romances, and their relationships with one another, all while trying to find their place in the world. This is certainly not the first time this story has been made for the big screen but Greta Gerwig’s adaptation is a delightful and touching retelling of the classic tale we have all come to know and love. Out Jan. 1

GET THE POPCORN READY BECAUSE THESE ARE THE HOTTEST FLICKS SET TO HIT THE BIG SCREEN IN THE NEW YEAR

O MISS BIRDS OF PREY

Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) was always the best thing about the 2016 box office dud Suicide Squad. So it makes sense she now has her own movie. Harley must protect a young girl named Cassandra Cain (Ella Jay Basco), who is wanted by the crime lord Roman Sionis, known as Black Mask (Ewan McGregor). Out Feb. 6

IN 2020

MULAN This Disney classic is the latest title to have a live action remake and is set to be a full-scale martial arts epic. Like the animation, Mulan (Liu Yifei) disguises herself as a male warrior to take the place of her ailing father, Hua Zhou, in battle. However, there will be a few changes from the original 1998 film, one of which will see Mulan face off with a witch. Out Mar. 26

NO TIME TO DIE

Daniel Craig returns for his final outing as 007 in the 27th James Bond film – the 25th made by Eon Productions. Set five years after the capture of Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Christoph Waltz), Bond has left active service, retiring to Jamaica, but he’s coaxed back to search for a missing scientist. Rami Malek plays nasty Bond villain Safin. Out Apr. 8

TOP GUN: MAVERICK

Thirty-four years on and Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (Tom Cruise) still feels the need, the need for speed! Having served in the navy for 30 years, Maverick risks becoming obsolete as new recruits come through Top Gun every year. Val Kilmer is set to reprise his role, and newcomers include Miles Teller and Ed Harris. Out Jun. 25 31

OUTLANDER SEASON 5 Fans can rejoice – the droughtlander is finally over! After nearly a year-long wait, Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan) and Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe) are set to steam up our screen again for the fifth season of the historical drama. Now settled in the colonies of America, we last saw w Claire and Jamie at Riverrun with Roger (Richard Rankin), theeir daughter Brianna (Sophie Skelton) and her newborn baby. But if this season is anything like be the others, it won’t b ong. without drama for lo Indeed, Claire and Jamie’s decision to stay will in the New World w alter their lives forevver as they face the violent and dangerous Revolutionary War. “Claire and Jamiee are forced to ask themselves just how far they are willing to go to and protect their home, a praying there will be no reason to light the ‘fiery cross’, an ancient Scottish call to arms,” the producers reveal. Out Feb. 17 on Foxtel

THE TO WA A YOU WON’T NEED TO LEAVE THE HOUSE TO BE ENTERTAINED WITH THESE HIT SHOWS COMING TO OUR TV IN 2020

KILLING EVE SEASON 3

Let’s talk about the relationship between hit woman Villanelle (Jodie Comer) and MI6 agent Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) in this sexy spy thriller. Complicated would be an understatement. In the brutal Season 2 ﬁnale, Villanelle shot Eve and left her for dead after Eve refused to run away with her. This was after Eve killed someone else with an axe. What can we expect this time? More blood and more deaths, we presume. We can hardly wait. Coming to ABC

WESTWORLD SEASON 3

This sci-ﬁ western, which features very human-like robots known as hosts, leaves you with more questions than answers. At the end of Season 2, Dolores (Evan Rachel Wood), Bernard (Jeffrey Wright) and Charlotte (Tessa Thompson) made it out to the ‘real’ world. But will they be captured? Also, how long has William, AKA The Man in Black (Ed Harris), been inside the game? And what’s happened to Maeve (Thandie Newton), who appeared to have been shot? Coming to Fox Showcase

E BEST SHOWS ATCH IN THE NEW YEAR THE BOLD TYPE SEASON 4

Savvy and trendy gal pals, Jane (Katie Stevens), Sutton (Meghann Fahy) and Kat (Aisha Dee), are back to navigate the ups and downs of their love lives, friendships, and jobs. Hailed as Sex and the City for a new generation, the latest season will have you laughing and crying along with the characters in your living room. Out Jan. 24 on Stan

FARMER WANTS A WIFE

The hit dating show is back and ready to help lonely farmers everywhere ﬁnd the woman of their dreams. Joining them is returning host, Natalie Gruzlewski, who is thrilled to be back on board. “I’ve seen ﬁrst-hand how this process can change lives and I can’t wait to get back into it,” she said. Coming soon to Seven

DOCTOR WHO SEASON 12

The Doctor – played once again by Jodie Whittaker − is set to come face to face with some of her old foes, including the Cybermen and Judoon, but she won’t be alone, as several of her travelling pals from last season return to help. But where in time and space will the Tardis take them this season? Tune in to ﬁnd out. Out Thu., 7.30pm on ABC

HALIFAX: RETRIBUTION Rebecca Gibney last played forensic psychiatrist Jane Halifax in 2002. Now, 18 years, later she’s reprising the role for Nine’s anticipated new series. Now a university professor, Jane is lured back into the ﬁeld to help catch a serial sniper taking aim at Melbourne residents. The cast also includes Anthony LaPaglia, Jacqueline McKenzie and Rick Donald. Coming soon to Nine 33

Amanda and journalist Greg Mayfield, who co-wrote the book, WHIT, and covered Geoff’s death.

Former police officer Geoff Whitford in uniform. He died in 1981.

ALMOST FOUR DECADES AFTER HER FATHER’S SUICIDE, AMANDA SCHULTZ IS ON A MISSION TO REVEAL WHAT REALLY HAPPENED TO THE FORMER POLICE OFFICER

or 37 years, the suicide of her father had been a source of sadness and embarrassment for Amanda Schultz. The sudden death of police inspector Geoff Whitford on a lonely beach in 1981 had remained a great mystery within her family In January of last year, however, Amanda set out on a mission to learn all she could about the father who had died

to his car on October 22, 1981 in Pebbly Beach near Myponga on the South Australian coast. His death was the result of a bullet through his temple. He had been due in court earlier that day as a police witness. Amanda’s recent investigations revealed the kind of character her dad was. “By all accounts, he was a larrikin, loyal, diligent and honest – a bloke’s bloke,” she says.

“HE WAS A LARRIKIN, LOYAL, DILIGENT AND HONEST” when she was just 9 years of age. “I wanted to finally hear all the tales that had never been a part of my life, and also to confront his death,” Amanda, now 47, says. Geoff ’s body was found close 34

However, her findings have also put a cloud of doubt over the official verdict of Geoff ’s death. Her tale is told in the new book WHIT, co-written with journalist Greg Mayfield. It was

THE M KNEW T

a chance discussion with Greg, who in 1981 covered the case of Geoff ’s death for a newspaper, that made Amanda decide to go looking for the reasons why her father killed himself, leaving behind a wife Pam, and three daughters – Amanda and her sisters Julie and Kerry. As a result, Amanda, a former police officer herself, is now convinced his death is not a clear-cut case. WHIT explores the events leading up to Geoff ’s death, as told through the eyes of his friends and colleagues who lived in Mount Barker, north of Adelaide. At the time, Geoff was working within a secretive organised crime task force, and there had been claims of corruption within the SA police

force. While Geoff is believed not to have been implicated, Amanda thinks he might have found himself as the man who knew too much. “There are too many inconsistencies of what happened that day, and the more I looked into it, too much of it didn’t add up,” Amanda says. “The investigation has opened up many conversations. What’s been really interesting is I’ve had people admit to me, ‘I

L-LIFE

Geoff with daughters Amanda and Kerry. Below: The Whitford family.

MAN WHO TOO MUCH didn’t think that was right back at the time’. I’ve also had others tell me to leave this alone. I do believe he knew certain things.” No inquest was ever held into Geoff ’s death, so earlier this year Amanda asked the SA State Coroner to release the police report. The request was rejected on the grounds that it contained ‘unsubstantiated allegations’ and ‘sensitive information about individuals some of whom are still alive’.

Amanda has since approached Federal Labor Senator for SA Penny Wong about having the contentious file released. “I was so shocked we would get nothing,” she says. “Having been a cop, I have handled many death reports so I knew what to expect. But I have no report of my own father’s death, and we have a right to know what was at the scene. “Did he give up willingly, was foul play involved, did he suffer some kind of breakdown or was it was suicide? That’s what we want to find out.” These days, Amanda is married and lives in Kalinda with her young family. She left the police force and now works within the financial sector. In recent years, she has also become

actively involved in the Stamp Out Suicide support mission, which she reveals changed her outlook on her father’s death. “I grew up not talking about what happened to my dad, as I was embarrassed,” she says. “I was proud of him for the man he was, but some days I would hate him for leaving us.” Time, however, is running out on uncovering the truth, with many of the key players from that time now either at a senior age or having died. Amanda says most of all, she wants her mother Pam to finally know what really happened to Geoff. “Mum has lived her whole life without any answers,” Amanda says. “She is now 75 and I always felt she got a raw deal. She saw no police report, there was no

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14

inquest and she didn’t get a viewing of his body before the funeral. Instead, she got shut down and told not to talk about. In that way, I have become my mother’s voice.” By John Burfitt • WHIT is self-published and is available through mayschultzmedia. com. RRP $29.99.

REAL-LIFE

ADDICTED TO O

PLASTIC C SURGERY Y THIS AUSSIE WOMAN HAS NO REGRETS ABOUT SPENDING $100,000 TRANSFORMING HER LOOKS

Ashleigh has had everything done from rhinoplasty to a butt lift.

Ashleigh, pictured before surgery, says she won’t ever stop.

any women curse the sight of a new wrinkle. But when cosmetic surgery addict Ashleigh Candela finds a fine line on her face, cue a major meltdown. “A wrinkle on my face would literally drive me insane. I can’t handle any movement in my forehead. I can’t stand one bit of my face out of place. It needs to be perfect,” she tells New Idea in an exclusive interview. The 34-year-old has lost count of the number of procedures she’s had over the last 14 years, but estimates she’s spent more than $100,000. “I’ve had eight actual going

C Y The 34-year-old says she doesn’t regret transforming her body.

Ashleigh has spent $100,000 perfecting her face and body with surgery.

to sleep procedures. But the rest, I wouldn’t be able to count. I probably have 10 a month; I have something done every week. I’ve spent $100,000 over the years.” It started with a boob job when Ashleigh was 20. Since then, the senior manager from Sydney has had lip, cheek and under-eye fillers, rhinoplasty, upper eyelid reduction, a Brazilian butt lift, liposuction, porcelain veneers, a fat transfer to widen her hips, throat lifts, eyebrow feathering, body sculpting, fat cavitation, teeth whitening and Botox. “It just makes you feel beautiful. Once I started I couldn’t stop. Like Cher, you’ve always got to reinvent yourself.

You can’t just stay the same person, there’s always a new trend. It’s very addictive. I’ll never give it up,” she says. Ashleigh describes the feeling of having cosmetic surgery as “intoxicating”. “The thrill of waking up on the morning of surgery, going to the hospital, it’s exciting. And because of social media, it’s exciting to show your followers and talk to your followers about it. You get a thrill from that as well. I can’t wait until I’m old enough to have a proper facelift.” Ashleigh says she actively studies herself looking for imperfections. “One hundred per cent. If I get tired and I see bags under my eyes, it drives me

insane. If I can see my skin not looking good. I literally go mental, I can’t handle it.” Single, Ashleigh says her last relationship ended because her partner couldn’t stand the stares as they walked down the street or went shopping. But she has no plans to stop. “I would probably redo everything again so it’s better. I would redo my nose because I want the bridge changed a bit. “I want to do my breasts again because I do want them bigger. I want them double, a G or H cup. I wouldn’t do lipo again because there’s nowhere else to lipo on my body.” Ashleigh says her most extreme surgery was her eyelid reduction. “To go to sleep and someone’s cutting away your eyelids … it was probably the scariest. Because it’s on your face smack bang, if they stuff that up you’re wrecked for life,” she says. However, it was also her favourite. “It literally regains your youth. Hooded eyelids make you look a lot older than what you are. The surgery makes you look so much nicer.” Ashleigh says although she never felt ugly, she always planned to have cosmetic surgery after experiencing violence in her childhood. A broken nose and cheek, along with smashed teeth, left her with permanent damage to her face. “I had a lot of issues,” she says. “So things needed to be fixed.”

Ashleigh says she works 60 hours a week in a senior management role to fund her addiction. She posts about her transformation on her Instagram account, @the_cosmetic_diary_. “I do a lot of treatments now so I can show my followers and if they want to do it, they can do it. I have so many girls that message me,” Ashleigh says. “If somebody wants the right advice, wants to get good doctors, and wants to listen to my experience I’m happy to share that. “But I would never be like: ‘OK, well you’re ugly so you may as well get this done’.” Being so open about her plastic surgery and cosmetic procedure journey has exposed Ashleigh to cruel taunts. But she refuses to let bullying get to her. “They say things like: ‘Your lips are too big, you look too fake, disgusting.’ But before I did my teeth or my nose, people would still be like: ‘Oh, go fix your teeth, go do your nose.’ Then you go and do this and they’re like: ‘It’s too much.’ So you can’t win. “Trolls make me hysterical because to waste energy hating on someone they don’t even know, it shows so much about their character, not mine. “I don’t really care what other people’s opinions are. I’m not hurting anybody. If it upsets you, don’t look at me. I don’t care.” By Keeley Henderson 37

crime

special

Donna witnessed her father Stanley stab her mother Alison to death in 1973.

I SAW MY DONNA-LEIGH IS USING HER TRAUMATIC PAST TO HELP OTHERS OVERCOME THEIR OWN ADVERSITY

t the tender age of 7, Donna-Leigh Perfect witnessed something no child – or adult – ever should. “I woke to my mum’s piercing screams. My father was yelling and swearing. I remember stepping into the hallway and seeing my father chasing my mum down the staircase with a knife,” Donna exclusively tells New Idea. “Mum reached the sliding door and I remember him

FATHER KIL

driving the knife deep into her back. She opened the door and stumbled out along the side path of the house. Then she collapsed to the ground.” Though 46 years have passed since the terrible day her father, Stanley Robert Perfect, killed her mother, Alison Doreen Perfect in 1973, the memory is still raw for this 53-year-old mum of two. “I was hysterical. I remember screaming and crying. My siblings and I were taken to a cousin’s house. I was sitting in the lounge room and I remember hearing on the radio that a woman had been murdered in Avondale. I was thinking, ‘That’s my mother. Is this real? Is this a nightmare? Am I going to wake

from this?’ ” Donna says. “It was so surreal. I was 7 years old. I wasn’t supposed to see or hear my mum take her last breath.” Stanley Perfect was convicted of the manslaughter of Alison in Auckland Supreme Court. A jury acquitted him of murder on the grounds of provocation when they learnt he’d caught his wife having an affair. Donna-Leigh spent the next five years in foster care – often separated from her three siblings – flitting between 13 different homes. “Making friends was extremely difficult. There was no kind of counselling or anything like that,” she says. Donna recalls many incidents of bullying and abuse in the

following years. One violent alcoholic who was supposed to be looking after her whipped her with his belt until she bled when she was just 8 years old. Another cruel guardian told Donna she didn’t deserve nice things because no-one cared about her. Already vulnerable, Donna was crushed. “I felt abandoned. I felt like nobody wanted me, nobody loved me. I just wished for a normal life,” she says. Stanley served just four years in prison and was released when Donna was 12 years old. When authorities gave her the choice of staying in foster care or returning to live with her dad, she chose to go back home to be reunited with her siblings.

“No matter how dysfunctional it was, it was a family,” she explains. For the next five years Donna walked on eggshells. She never dared bring up her mother for fear of what her father – who slept with a knife next to his bed – might do. “I didn’t feel safe because I knew what he was capable of. I’d witnessed it.” Stanley died when Donna was 17. “I felt sad for the loss of a father I wished I could have had. I was also relieved I had peace.” Finally free, the young woman vowed to make something of herself. Although she’d already dropped out of school, Donna had inherited an interest in fashion from her mum and

after taking evening classes, she got an apprenticeship in clothing and textiles. “I was so determined,” Donna recalls. “I threw myself into study and won the apprentice of the year award.” It was a life-changing moment for Donna. “Those results were a big, big deal for me. I started to believe in myself and I got some self-confidence and self-esteem that I’d never really had. That was very empowering.” Another pivotal moment in Donna’s recovery came in her early 20s. Finding herself in a dark place after a relationship breakdown, she picked up the phone and called Lifeline. As well as over-the-phone

support, she worked through her childhood trauma with a counsellor in person. “It was a two-year process. I did some hypnotherapy as well, some cognitive behavioural therapy, tapping, and all sorts of stuff. I went down this road of really investing in myself and in my own mental health,” she says. The help she received was so life changing that Donna undertook six months of training so she could become a Lifeline volunteer counsellor herself. “Being on the phones for two years, serving and giving back, that was very rewarding for me.” After moving to the Gold Coast from her native New Zealand, Donna met her nowhusband Michael Bennett, 57.

“He was just completely blown away by how together I was, and how normal I was, despite having such a traumatic upbringing,” Donna says. It was then Donna had an epiphany. If she could use her experiences to help others, her mother’s death wouldn’t be completely in vain. Today Donna is a soughtafter public speaker and author. “It’s my mission to inspire self-belief, build resilience and empower people to believe in themselves. I tell people ‘overcoming adversity is my university’,” she smiles. By Keeley Henderson • To find out more about Donna, go to: donna-leighperfect.com

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14.

LL MY MOTHER

THE CA A N NO-ON TO SOL L The change rooms at Fairy Meadow Beach, where Cheryl was allegedly taken. Cheryl Grimmer was 3 years old when she went missing from Fairy Meadow Beach on January 12, 1970.

umbers play a significant role in the heartbreaking tale of Cheryl Grimmer, the little girl abducted from a NSW beach in 1970 and never seen again. Three was her age when she was snatched from Wollongong’s Fairy Meadow Beach on January 12, 1970, leaving behind her shattered family who never knew what happened to her. Ninety is the number of seconds Cheryl was left alone in the surf club ladies changing room as her three young brothers waited for her after a morning on the beach. 40

Fifty is the number of years it has been since that fateful day, with next week marking the half-century anniversary since Cheryl was killed. Most tragically, however, is the number 45. That’s how many years a detailed confession to her abduction and murder sat buried in a police file, with the suspect never facing trial. The confession of a then-17year-old was taken in 1971 yet kept secret from the Grimmer family. In all the years brothers Ricki, Stephen and Paul, along with their now-deceased parents Carole and Vince, waited desperately for any news about the missing girl, the confession outlining the gruesome details

of the abduction and murder languished in a police file. At the time the police did not believe the suspect and dismissed his account of taking Cheryl, choking her to death and dumping her body in bushland. Her body has never been found, and the accused man walked free. “I have blamed myself my

Vince died in 2004, and in 2013 in the weeks before Carole died, she insisted her sons must keep searching for their missing sister. “Our family has endured a life sentence wondering what happened to Cheryl,” Ricki says. “Even in her final days, Mum was holding on, hoping for some news.” A breakthrough finally came

“I HAVE BLAMED MYSELF MY WHOLE LIFE FOR CHERYL BEING TAKEN” whole life for Cheryl being taken,” Ricki, 57, admits. As a 7-year-old, he was waiting outside the ladies’ changing room as Cheryl refused to come out. When Ricki went to get his mother, Carole, to go into the shed to collect Cheryl, the little girl was allegedly nabbed.

in 2016, when Detectives Frank Sanvitale and Damian Loone reopened the case. The old files included the original confession detailing where the girl was snatched from, how she was taken, what she was wearing through to descriptions of ow she was murdered and

ASE NE WANTS LVE 50 YEARS SINCE THE ABDUCTION OF TODDLER CHERYL GRIMMER THE ACCUSED KILLER REMAINS FREE E

A note written by an unnamed man who allegedly confessed to abducting Cheryl.

Right: Carole and her sons. Below: Brothers Ricki, Paul and Stephen Grimmer.

where her body was dumped. Frank and Damian were certain the files contained the evidence they needed for a conviction. The suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was eventually charged with Cheryl’s murder in 2017 and held on remand. In February 2019, however, the charges were dropped against the man, now aged 65. Supreme Court Justice Robert Allan Hulme ruled the original confession was inadmissible because when it was taken, the accused did not have a parent or guardian present. This was

d despite there being no leegal statute in 1971 requiring an adult to be ppresent, and the recent law was applied retrospectively. NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman later concluded the case had run out of avenues to pursue. “Any appeal will fail,” he said. Frank Sanvitale told 60 Minutes last year, “There was nothing wrong with that confession. We have a murderer walking the streets – we got the right man.” A 2011 inquest into the case ruled Cheryl had died ‘due to an undetermined n cause’. Sanvitale has written

to the NSW coroner, pleading for a second inquest, utilising all the rediscovered evidence. Ricki says the family just want their sister’s life to finally be granted justice with a day in court.

“It’s important to our family to never give up the fight,” he says. “The police gave us hope after 45 years and now they are going to put this back on the shelf. It’s the case no-one wants to solve. Meanwhile, this man is hiding behind silence and retrospective laws.” By John Burfitt

THE WALK FOR CHERYL

A commemorative walk will be held at 10am on Sunday, January 12, to honour the 50th anniversary of Cheryl’s disappearance, commencing on the corner of Brokers and Balgownie roads in Balgownie, near where she is believed to have been killed. It will end at Fairy Meadow Beach, where a special plaque will be dedicated. “We have never had a grave where we can pay our respects, but now we will at least have this,” Ricki (pictured left) says. 41

NEW IDEA

FOOD

HOLID Y CA PING AVOURIT S

Vietnamese Pork and Noodle Lettuce Cups Serves 4, Prep and Cook: 20 mins

55g bundle vermicelli rice noodles 1 tblsp vegetable oil 500g lean pork mince 2 tsps garlic paste 150g sachet Sweet Chilli and Lemongrass Stir-Fry (See Tip) 300g bag shredded fresh carrot 5 green spring onions, thinly sliced 2 tblsps soy sauce 8 iceberg lettuce cups Lime wedges, to serve 1 Place noodles in a large heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water. Stir to separate strands. Stand for 1 minute. Drain. Cut into shorter lengths with kitchen scissors. 2 Heat oil in a large, non-stick wok or frying pan over a high heat. Add mince and garlic. Cook, stirring to break up mince, for about 8 minutes, or until changed in colour. 3 Add noodles and infusion paste from sachet. Cook, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes, until combined and fragrant. 4 Add carrot, onions, soy and ﬁnishing sauce from sachet. Cook, stirring for a further 2 minutes, or until combined and hot. 5 Spoon hot pork mixture into lettuce cups. Serve with lime wedges. 42

We used Maggi Sweet Chilli & Lemongrass Stir Fry consisting of an infusion paste and a finishing sauce. Or replace with ²⁄³ cup of your favourite stir-fry sauce, adding it with the noodles. Stir for 1 minute before adding carrot, onions and soy sauce.

With minimal cooking for a relaxed summertime break, these tasty dishes will hit the spot

Easy Boscaiola Pasta

Serves 4, Prep and Cook: 20 mins 375g spiral pasta (See Tip) 1 tblsp olive oil 200g packet diced bacon 2 tsps garlic paste 375g punnet sliced mushrooms 375ml can creamy evaporated milk 1 tblsp Dijon mustard 60g bag baby spinach Âź cup grated parmesan, plus extra, to serve 1 Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling, salted water until tender. Drain. Return to pan. Cover to keep warm. 2 Meanwhile, heat oil in a large,

deep, non-stick frying pan over a medium to high heat. Add bacon and garlic. Cook, stirring for about 2 minutes, or until golden. Add mushrooms. Cook, stirring for 3 to 5 minutes, until mushrooms are tender. 3 Stir in milk and mustard. Season with pepper. Bring to boil. Gently boil, stirring frequently for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until thickened. 4 Add spinach and parmesan. Stir until spinach is just wilted. Add pasta. Stir until combined and hot. 5 Serve sprinkled with extra parmesan.

Swap spiral pasta for another pasta shape such as penne or farfalle, if preferred. This dish is best made just before serving. If it becomes too thick on standing, stir in Â˝ cup hot water.

TURN OVER FOR MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES

One-Pan Chicken Nachos Serves 4, Prep and Cook: 40 mins

NEW FOOD IDEAS

1Â˝ x 175g packets tortilla chips 2Â˝ cups shredded barbecued chicken meat (375g) 420g can Mexican-style beans (See Tip) 200g jar medium taco sauce 2 cups grated Tasty cheese 2 tsps chipotle seasoning 250g punnet cherry tomatoes, quartered 4 green spring onions, thinly sliced Guacamole dip and sour cream, to serve

We used Heinz Fiery Mexican Style Beanz. A cast iron camp oven (Dutch oven) is also ideal for cooking this dish. Or, to cook the nachos on a barbecue, layer ingredients in a large aluminium foil tray, cover with foil and cook on a barbecue flat plate.

Photos: Joe Filshie. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kim Meredith. Recipe development: Jane Ash.

1 Layer half the chips and half the chicken over base of a lightly oiled, large, heavy-based frying pan (26cm base x 30cm top x 6cm deep). 2 Top with half the beans and half the taco sauce. Sprinkle with half the cheese and seasoning. 3 Repeat layering with remaining chips, chicken, beans, sauce, cheese and seasoning. Cover with lid, or tightly cover with greased foil. 4 Cook over a low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and mixture is hot. 5 Meanwhile, combine tomatoes and onions in a bowl. 6 Dollop guacamole over nachos. Top with tomato mixture. Serve with sour cream (optional).

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EATS

Turn breakfast into something spectacular this weekend

BREAKFASTS

Hot Chocolate and Banana Waffles Serves 4, Prep and Cook: 40 mins

2 cups plain flour 1 tblsp baking powder ½ cup caster sugar 2 eggs 1½ cups milk 1 tblsp vanilla extract 50g unsalted butter, melted Sliced bananas and ice-cream, to serve CHOCOLATE FUDGE SAUCE 300ml pure cream 46

¹⁄³ cup firmly packed brown sugar 2 tblsps golden syrup 150g dark chocolate, chopped 1 Sift ﬂour and baking powder into a large jug. Stir in sugar. Whisk eggs, milk and vanilla in a bowl until combined. Add to ﬂour mixture. Whisk until smooth. Whisk in butter. Stand for 5 minutes. 2 To make sauce, combine

cream, sugar and syrup in a small saucepan over a low heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Bring to boil. Gently boil, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Add chocolate. Stir until melted. 3 Heat a waffle maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Pour ¾-cup waffle mixture over the centre of the waffle plate.

We used an Anko waffle maker from Kmart. If you are using another brand, follow manufacturer’s instructions and if necessary adjust the quantity of waffle mixture and cooking time.

Close lid. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until golden. Transfer to a wire rack. Repeat to make six wafﬂes in total, placing on a rack in a single layer. 4 Pull wafﬂes apart into sections. Stack on serving plates with bananas and icecream. Drizzle with warm chocolate fudge sauce.

Apple Pie French Toast Serves 4, Prep and Cook: 30 mins 1 long crusty baguette (420g) 2 eggs ½ cup milk ½ cup pouring custard 2 tblsps caster sugar 1 tblsp cinnamon sugar 25g unsalted butter, chopped Extra cinnamon sugar, maple syrup and vanilla custard, to serve CARAMELISED APPLES 50g unsalted butter, chopped ¼ cup caster sugar 4 Pink Lady apples (650g), quartered, cored, thinly sliced 1 Cut baguette diagonally into 8 x 2½cm-thick slices. Reserve remaining bread for another use. 2 Whisk eggs, milk, custard, sugar and cinnamon sugar in a large jug until combined. 3 Pour into a large, shallow dish. Add half the bread slices. Stand for 2 minutes. Turn over. Stand for a further 2 minutes.

4 Meanwhile, heat half the butter in a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Transfer egg-coated bread to pan in a single layer. 5 Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden. Remove. Repeat with remaining butter, egg mixture and bread. 6 Meanwhile, make caramelised apples. Heat butter in a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Stir in sugar. Add apples. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until caramelised. 7 Serve stacks of French toast sprinkled with extra cinnamon sugar. Top with caramelised apples. Drizzle with syrup then custard.

TIP

NEW FOOD IDEAS

We left the skin on the apples as it helps to prevent them from breaking down during cooking. To make apples ahead, cool cooked apples then refrigerate, covered, overnight. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish for about 1½ to 2 minutes, or until warm.

TIP

Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes Serves 4 (Makes 12), Prep and Cook: 40 mins 1½ cups self-raising flour 1 tsp baking powder 2 tblsps caster sugar 1 cup buttermilk 2 eggs 25g unsalted butter, melted Extra melted unsalted butter, for greasing Maple syrup and strawberries halves, to serve CINNAMON SWIRL ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 100g unsalted butter, slightly softened 2 tsps ground cinnamon 1 Sift flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Stir in sugar. Whisk buttermilk and eggs in a large jug until smooth. Add to flour mixture. Whisk until smooth. Whisk in melted butter. Set aside for 10 minutes. 2 Meanwhile, make cinnamon swirl. Push sugar through a sieve into a medium bowl, to remove

any lumps. Add butter and cinnamon. Beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. Place in a medium snap-lock bag. Squeeze into one corner. Twist bag and snip 2mm off the tip. Set aside. 3 Grease a large, non-stick frying pan with extra melted butter. Place over a medium to low heat. Spoon about ¼ cup batter into pan. Repeat to make another two pancakes. 4 Cook for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles begin to appear on the surface. Pipe a tight cinnamon swirl on top of each pancake. Turn over. Cook for a further 2 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove. Cover lightly with foil to keep warm. 5 Wipe pan clean using absorbent kitchen paper. Repeat process to make 12 pancakes in total. 6 To serve, stack pancakes on plates. Drizzle with maple syrup. Serve with strawberries. 47

Photos: Joe Filshie. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kim Meredith. Recipe Development: Kerrie Worner.

Pancakes can be made up to one day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Before serving, reheat in the microwave until warm.

3 GREAT WAYS WITH...

FRESH BERRIES

Try using a straightsided glass to help press crumb mixture up side of pan. Any mixed berry jam can be used instead of the spread. Tart can be made up to two days ahead.

In season and bursting with flavour, make the most of summer berries with these delicious dishes

White Chocolate and Berry Cheesecake Tart Serves 10, Prep: 40 mins

250g packet Butternut Snap Cookies 1 tsp ground cinnamon 75g unsalted butter, melted ¹⁄³ cup wild blueberry spread 2 x 125g punnet blackberries 2 x 125g punnet blueberries Small fresh mint sprigs, to decorate FILLING 1½ x 180g blocks white cooking chocolate, chopped 48

2 x 250g packets cream cheese, at room temperature, chopped ¹⁄³ cup icing sugar mixture ½ cup thickened cream 1 Invert base of a 23cm round springform pan (base measures 22cm). Grease base and side of pan. 2 Process biscuits and cinnamon in a food processor until finely crushed. Add butter. Process until combined. Press evenly over base

and 3cm up the side of pan. Refrigerate. 3 To make filling, place chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Sit bowl over a pan of simmering water. Stir until almost melted. Remove bowl. Stir until smooth. Cool to room temperature. 4 Process cream cheese, sugar and cream in the clean bowl of food processor until smooth. With motor operating, add chocolate, processing until

combined. Pulse until thick. 5 Spread blueberry spread over biscuit base. Sprinkle over half of one punnet of each the blackberries and blueberries. Spoon over filling. Smooth over top. Cover loosely with foil. Refrigerate, overnight. 6 To serve, remove side of pan. Slide cheesecake onto a serving plate. Top with remaining berries and mint sprigs.

NEW FOOD IDEAS

Raspberry Lemonade Popsicles Makes 6, Prep and Cook: 15 mins 400ml raspberry-infused mineral water ¼ cup caster sugar 125g punnet raspberries ¼ cup lemon juice 1 Combine mineral water and sugar in a large jug. Stir until sugar is dissolved. 2 Mash half the raspberries with a fork in a small bowl.

Stir into mineral water mixture with juice. 3 Pour mixture into six x 80ml ice block moulds (¹⁄³-cup capacity). Place remaining whole raspberries into moulds (about 2 berries in each). Push down almost to the base, at different levels. Cover with lids. Freeze overnight.

TIP

You can use rosé wine instead of a sparkling moscato rosé or replace with lemonade, for a non-alcoholic option. Desserts can be made up to 1 day ahead.

Berrymisu Trifles Photos: Joe Filshie. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kim Meredith. Recipe development: Kerrie Worner.

Makes 6, Prep: 30 mins 250g fresh strawberries, hulled 125g punnet raspberries ¹⁄³ cup icing sugar mixture 1 cup thickened cream ¹⁄³ cup crème fraîche 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 18 sponge finger biscuits (savoiardi) (155g) ¾ cup sparkling moscato rosé 125g punnet blackberries 125g punnet blueberries To release popsicles from moulds, run moulds briefly under hot water. If ice block moulds don’t have lids with attached sticks, freeze popsicles until semi-frozen. Then insert wooden ice-cream sticks through the centre. Freeze until firm.

1 Process strawberries, raspberries and ¼ cup of the sugar in a food processor until pureed. 2 Beat cream, crème fraîche, vanilla and remaining 1 tblsp sugar in a small bowl with a hand-held electric mixer until soft peaks form. 3 One at a time, dip half the sponge finger biscuits in rosé.

Break in half. Place three pieces in the base of six glasses (300ml-capacity). 4 Spoon over half the berry puree (about 1½ tblsps in each glass). 5 Reserve 6 blackberries for decoration. Cut remaining blackberries in half, if large. 6 Sprinkle blackberries and half the blueberries evenly on top. Spoon over half the cream mixture. Repeat layering with remaining soaked sponge fingers, berry puree and cream mixture. 7. Cover loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 4 hours, or overnight. 8 Just before serving, top with remaining blueberries and reserved blackberries. 49

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NEW FOOD IDEAS

Rustic Cherry Galette

½ cup blanched almonds 1¼ cups plain flour ¼ cup self-raising flour 2 tblsps caster sugar 125g cold unsalted butter, chopped 1 egg, lightly beaten Icing sugar mixture and vanilla ice-cream, to serve FILLING 600g fresh cherries, pitted ¼ cup caster sugar 1 tblsp cornflour 1 tsp finely grated lemon rind 1 Spread almonds over an oven tray. Cook in a moderate oven (180C) for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove and cool. 2 To make pastry, process almonds in a food processor until finely chopped. Add flours, sugar and butter. Process to form coarse crumbs. With motor operating, add egg with 1 tblsp cold water to just bring ingredients together. Turn out dough. Shape into a disc. Cover. Refrigerate for 45 minutes. 3 To make filling, toss cherries with sugar, cornflour and rind in a large bowl. 4 Roll out pastry between two sheets of baking paper to form a 32cm round. Remove top sheet of paper. Transfer the paper with pastry round onto a large oven tray. 5 Mound filling in the centre of pastry, leaving a 7cm border. Carefully fold pastry edges up and over to partly cover filling, slightly pleating, to create an edge. 6 Cook in a moderate oven (180C) for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove. Stand on tray for 5 minutes. 7 Transfer galette to a serving plate. Dust with sifted icing sugar and serve with ice-cream.

Make the most of summer cherries with this delightful freeform tart. You won’t be disappointed!

Photos: Andre Martin. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kerrie Worner. Recipe development: Jane Ash.

Serves 8, Prep and Cook: 2 hours

Cherry pitters are available from specialty kitchen shops. Galette can be served warm or at room temperature. It can be made up to 4 hours ahead. 51

Photos: Andre Martin. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kerrie Worner. Recipe development: Jane Ash.

S K C A

Next time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re entertaining friends, or simply want a refreshing drink, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go past this winning combination

3-Ingredient Sparkling Raspberry Limoncello Serves 6, Prep: 5 mins 125g punnet raspberries 1 cup limoncello, chilled 750ml bottle prosecco or sparkling wine, chilled 1 Divide raspberries among six wine glasses. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, lightly crush. Add 2 tblsps limoncello to each glass. 2 Just before serving, top up with prosecco.

Limoncello is a lemonflavoured liqueur while the prosecco is an Italian-style sparkling wine, available from liquor outlets. If you prefer, you can decorate the glasses with lemon slices and extra raspberries.

N O N - S T I C K PA N C A K E S

Is your frying pan losing its non-stick coating, or is it one of those pans where all food seems to stick to it? If so, cut a round of baking paper to fit the base of the frying pan. Once the pan has heated, add the baking paper. Spoon on pancake mixture and cook on both sides as usual. 52

NEW FOOD IDEAS

Should I rinse a whole raw chicken before I cook it? BRYAN, VIA EMAIL.

You need to get those pesky cherry pits out of the cherry when you want to make something wonderful. If you don’t own a cherry pitter (they’re available from most kitchenware shops) here is another method. Simply place a cherry onto the top of a clean, small glass bottle. Holding it in place, use a chopstick to press ﬁrmly down on the top of cherry so that the pit falls directly into the bottle, leaving you with a pitted cherry!

‘Hangover Cure’ Brekkie Burger Makes 4, Prep and Cook: 10 mins

200g packet rindless streaky bacon rashers 4 eggs 4 brioche burger buns, halved Smoky barbecue sauce, to taste 4 cheddar cheese slices 1 Heat a lightly oiled, large frying pan over a medium to high heat. Add bacon. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, until golden and crisp. Drain on absorbent kitchen paper. 2 Transfer bacon to an ovenproof dish. Cover loosely with foil. Keep warm in a moderate oven (180C) while cooking eggs. 3 Heat same frying pan over a medium heat until hot. Crack eggs into pan, one at a time. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side, or until cooked to your liking. Season with salt and pepper. 4 Meanwhile, place halved rolls on an oven tray. Drizzle sauce over bases. Top with cheese. 5 Place in oven, alongside the bacon for 2 minutes, or until cheese is just melted. Remove. 6 Top with bacon then eggs. Drizzle with extra sauce. Replace tops. Serve.

Your go-to cure after a night of partying − this tasty combo will do the trick!

Brioche burger buns are available from major supermarkets, but any soft bread rolls can be used.

Photos: Joe Filshie. Styling: Carolyn Fienberg. Food preparation: Kim Meredith. Recipe development: Jane Ash.

No! You don’t need to wash raw poultry. Modern processing ensures that chicken meat carries as little bacteria on it as possible. In fact, rinsing may increase the risk of contamination on the sink and anywhere else the juices drip. Simply use absorbent kitchen paper to pat the chicken dry once it’s unwrapped, making sure it is cooked thoroughly, without a trace of pink ﬂesh or juices.

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Swimsuit, $29.95, TK Maxx. Kaftan, $99.95, Seafolly. Sunglasses, $29.95, TK Maxx. Earrings, $19.95, Holiday Trading. Hat, $79.95, Witchery. Heels, $180, Wittner.

y n n u S

E Z DA STAY STYLISH UNDER THE SUN IN BREEZY KAFTANS AND CHIC ACCESSORIES

Swimsuit, $69.95, Bonds. Kaftan, $109.95, Holiday Trading. Bag, $59.99, Ripcurl. Wedges, $159.95, Hush Puppies.

Kaftan, $129.95, Seafolly. Earrings, $19.95, Holiday Trading. Beach Towel, $39.95, Hammamas. Wedges, $180, Wittner.

TRY SHEER STYLES FOR A BREEZY, COOLER COVER UP

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PHOTOS: LAWRENCE FURZEY. STYLING: JACKIE SHAW. STYLING ASSISTANT: STEPHANIE DE NOBILE. HAIR AND MAKEUP: PAUL BEDGGOOD

Swimsuit, $29.95, TK Maxx. Kaftan, $209.95, Opera. Earrings, $59.95, Witchery. Sandals, $89.95, Emu Australia.

Kaftan, $129.95, Seafolly. Sunglasses, $79.95, Local Supply. Hat, $69.95, Witchery. Slides, $119.95, Hush Puppies.

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Inﬂight essentials

Kate Hudson

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Flight Mode Cloud Mister, $69, flightmode.com

This new release from Ryan Channing, the creator of Blaq skincare, is specifically designed for the jet-setter, with three products in the range to help your skin in flight mode.

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VAN N

NEW BEAUTY

KARLIE KLOSS

BEAUTY MUST-HAVES

No-one wants to ﬁll half a suitcase just with toiletries and makeup, so when packing, it’s important to think about products that multi-task. Try these suggestions below.

A cream blush will add a subtle hint of colour and gloss to cheeks and you can also use it on your lips. Luma Just A Touch Lip & Cheek Tint − $14.97, priceline.com.au

Waterproof mascara will keep you looking fresh all day, from the beach to cocktail hour. Natio Waterproof Mascara, $16.95, natio.com.au

A HOLIDAY EDIT FOR YOUR BEAUTY ESSENTIALS

TION

NITY

Keep freshly groomed brows in check and in place with a brow gel – it’s your clear serum wonder-wand to keep brows tamed. Mecca Max Brow Guru Clear Control Gel, $16, mecca.com. au

Coverage with added sun protection is essential. We love a BB cream to cover imperfections without masking your natural holiday glow. Mecca Max Off Duty BB Cream With SPF15, $20, mecca.com.au

For the days you just can’t be bothered to do your hair, this mini can will help to ﬁx a multitude of sins. Simply spritz through dry hair, brush through and get going! Batiste Dry Shampoo – Cherry, $9.95 for 200ml, batistehair.com.au

Holiday glow If you don’t have room to pack your entire skincare arsenal, keep your skin on track with a daily dose of collagen.

Nature’s Way Beauty Collagen Shot 50mL 10 Pack, $34.99, health365.com.au 59

NEW HEALTH

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN THE TEMPERATURE RISES

Your ultimate

guide

here’s a lot to love about summer but it’s also the season of heatwaves, stingers and sleepless nights – so it pays to have a game plan. “The heat can really zap your energy, and then you toss and turn in bed when it’s still 30 degrees at 10pm,” says GP Dr Michela Sorensen. “If you don’t have aircon put a large bowl of ice in front of a fan – it will blow the cool air from the melting ice around the room.”

HOW DO I DEAL WITH ITCHY HEAT RASH? “Wear light clothing made from breathable fabric like pure cotton and change your clothes when you do get hot and sweaty. Cool showers and gentle exfoliation of your skin can help with prevention. If heat rash is already troubling you, try antibacterial soaps as well as calamine lotion or mild cortisone creams,” says Dr Sorensen.

BE BEACH SAFE Follow these tips from Surf Lifesaving Australia operations manager Keiran Stone, for how to treat: BLUEBOTTLE JELLYFISH STINGS “Wash off any remaining tentacles or pick them off with your fingers. They can’t usually sting through the tough skin on your fingers! Immerse the sting in hot water and if the pain isn’t relieved or you can’t immerse, then apply cold packs of wrapped ice. Seek medical aid if the condition deteriorates.” HEATSTROKE “Heat stroke is when the body’s internal core temperature is above 40C. Signs can include: fatigue, headaches, rapid pulse, staggering, flushed hot skin and irrational or aggressive behaviour. It can be extremely dangerous so call 000 and cool the person down by any means possible – get in the shade, remove clothing, apply ice packs to the neck, groin and armpits, drink a sports (electrolyte drink) or water.”

SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT LYME DISEASE? “The concept of chronic Lyme disease is controversial and not widely accepted by medical practitioners,” says Dr Sorensen. “However there are several illnesses that can be spread by Australian ticks, so it is important to take prevention measures. Wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors in tick-prone areas, spray clothing and hats with an insect repellent that contains DEET. Always thoroughly check yourself, family members and pets for ticks when returning home.”

REDUCE YOUR SHARK ATTACK RISK Calling all paddleboarders, surfers and divers: Sharkbanz is a marine biologistdeveloped band you wear on your wrist or ankle which uses powerful magnets to create a shark deterrent that’s always on (no batteries or charging). When sharks approach, they detect the device’s strong electromagnetic field, which provides a sudden sensation, and are deterred away. $129.95, sharkbanz.com.au.

MY FEET GET SO SWEATY IN SUMMER! HELP “Correct footwear choice is really important – plastic or patent shoes increase perspiration so choose shoes with breathable lining such as canvas or leather to reduce sweating,” says Dr Sorensen. 61

HOUSEHOLD

CEO

Also known as:

Head Chef, Financial Controller, Conflict Resolution Guru and Chief Hug Giver

Running a household has its ups and downs so each week we bring you the latest tips and tricks to make your home life easy

DO THESE 5 THINGS NOW AND

I E

ann nn ng on on re r ng ea ear y ear sa dream many of us hold. But is it really possible? There are ways you can help secure your financial future, according to experts. Here are some ideas that may help us get well on the way.

LOOK AT DIVERSIFYING We all know that paying off your mortgage is a form of saving, and that we need to look at this before any extra expenditure, such as luxury holidays or excessive dining out. But if you have the mortgage under control, it pays to look at other investments too. According to financial adviser, entrepreneur and author, Melissa Browne (melissabrowne.com.au), there’s an old adage

EA A

at you u can an’t ’tt e ou our house, e so all ll you’re doing is paying off your home and not building other assets, then strangely, you could ultimately find yourself in financial stress later in life. “Instead, I’d be repaying my house as if interest rates were at 8 per cent and then once the loan was at a point where I could pay it off in under 15 years, I’d be looking to invest elsewhere as well,” says Melissa, who is an expert in helping people to understand that money isn’t good or evil but simply a tool we can use to help us design the life we love.

KEEP INVESTING IN YOUR OWN EDUCATION Investing needn’t be just money-based. Melissa believes investing in your own education especially in this ever-changing market is a vital and sometimes forgotten type of investment. “But I believe just as importantly, we should be developing multiple income streams away from our job so that if the worst was to happen, we’re not simply reliant on our wage,” she says. “This moves us away from being a wage slave and gives us more freedom.” LOSE THE CREDIT CARDS That piece of plastic in your purse is so tempting to pull out, but we always have to remember that if you need to use a

KICKSTART THE NEW YEAR BY TAKING STOCK OF YOUR FUTURE FINANCES

ARS EARLIER

Text by Andrea Black. This information is of a general nature only, the information published should not be relied upon as a substitute for personal financial advice.

a purchase in that moment, that means you can’t afford it. “I’m not a fan of credit cards,” says Melissa. “Research consistently tells us that we spend 10 per cent more when we use credit, so even if we’re paying our cards off in full each month, chances are we’re overspending.”

TOP UP YOUR SUPER Have you checked your superannuation balance lately? “Women particularly suffer from lower superannuation due to time out of work and lower paid work,” says Melissa. “I believe it’s incredibly important to top up your super where you can.” And these days it’s easier than you think. “The good news is there are now so many ways to do that, including Super Rewards and FairVine, who both offer the ability to round up your spending to your super account,” says Melissa. HAVE A BACKUP PLAN You’ve put your early retirement plan into action and set an approximate date. Remember there could be some hurdles along the way. One thing that you may not have considered is that you might not like the long unstructured days of

camaraderie of a work environment. Or the economy could go bad, taking some of your investments with it. While it’s great to have a plan, it’s also important to enjoy the present, making sure you give yourself a few rewards along the way.

S OC IA L C OM M E N TATOR & S TA R OF NEW IDEA ROYALS P OD CAS T

ANGEL A MOLLARD WHY BITE-SIZED GOALS ARE BEST The worst thing about this time of the year is that everyone is working out ways they can completely overhaul themselves. They want to lose weight. Or get fit. Or renovate the house. Or become better parents. But so often our goals are just too big, which is why we throw ourselves into a new regime only to drop it a month later. A few years ago I learned to ‘chunk’ my goals. This meant doing one or two small things to make a difference. When they were accomplished, I added a couple more. If you’re nervous about overhauling your finances, which I was when my circumstances changed a few years ago, it’s best to start small. Look at your spending in one area, for instance, how many cups of coffee you buy a day or how much you spend at the hairdresser. Workshop ways to cut your spending, make your coffee at home or choose a lower maintenance hairstyle. The key to staying motivated is not just making the change but keeping a record of what you are saving. It’s exciting to have agency over your own money rather than feel you’re a victim to it. Take this approach to building wealth. You don’t need to wait until you’ve saved an extra $5000 to salary-sacrifice into superannuation. Every $100 counts. Likewise, with your holiday fund. As the old adage goes: ‘Take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves.’ When it comes to buying items I ask myself whether it’s something I need or something I want. If it’s something I simply want and I still buy it anyway, I make sure it’s going to make me happy. Finally, look at yourself as your greatest resource. Could you do some work on the side for a friend? Small changes may only bring about small rewards but they set in motion shifts in behaviour which, added up, are transformational. 63

Inside the private sanctuaries of our favourite stars

NRL star Benji Marshall

TV presenter Gorgi Coghlan

AFL great Tom Hawkins

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ON SALE NOW!

HOUSEHOLD

CHECK OUT THESE TIPS CEO C FROM PRACTICAL PARENTING AND ENTERTAIN THE KIDS WITHOUT BREAKING YOUR WALLET

10 WAYS TO

KEEPS THE KIDS ENTERTAINED

...ON A BUDGET 1. TAKE A DAY ADVENTURE Jump on the train, bus of ferry and have a good old-fashioned explore of your local area.

2. GO FOR A BIKE RIDE This is a fun healthy way to spend time with your kids and get them off their iPads. Check out your local bike track or research mountain bike tracks if you are more adventurous. 3. BUILD A SANDCASTLE AT THE BEACH Kids of all ages love building sandcastles. Grab a couple of

4 PLANTS THAT ARE

NOT SAFE FOR PETS

buckets, a spade and some sunscreen for a fun day out.

bush. Not only is fruit picking fun, it’s also educational.

4. GO FOR A NATURE WALK Australia is blessed with stunning national parks. There are short easy walks to do if you have a young family, or longer and more challenging tracks if your children are more confident walkers.

6. FLY A KITE Kites are never out of style. Sure it can be challenging to get the kite up in the air, but once you do, it’s so much fun!

5. GO FRUIT PICKING Strawberries, peaches, cherries and more, nothing tastes as good as produce you have picked yourself straight from the tree or

Did you know that there are hundreds of plants that can be poisonous to pets? While some plants are mild-tomoderate in terms of toxicity they should still be kept well away from our furry friends. Here are some popular plants that you might like to reconsider bringing into your home and garden. Always remember, if you think your pet has ingested a toxic substance, take them to the vet immediately.

7. VISIT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY There are loads of fun activities kids can do on a library visit. Check out your local library for Lego challenges, gingerbread house making, games, craft and other activities.

LI LI E S

8. HAVE MUMMY AND ME MANICURES Spoil your daughter or son with a luxury manicure or pedicure at home. Invite over a few friends and make a day of it. 9. TRY GARDENING Why not build a mini terrarium with your kids? They can personalise it with fairies, dinosaurs, or whatever they like. 10. GET COOKING Cupcakes, banana bread, fruit kebabs … the list is endless and it’ss also a good way to get fussy it eaterrs to try new foods.

LA N TA NA

While lilies are beautiful to look at and often gifted as a bunch of flowers, they are highly toxic and potentially fatal to cats. Some types are also toxic to dogs. IVY

While we know devil’s ivy grows well indoors (even a black thumb can keep it alive!) they, as well as other popular types such as English ivy, have moderate toxicity to pets.

The ubiquitous lantana, a fast growing and colourful weed is an extremely toxic plant for cats and dogs. P HI LO D E N DRO N S

The philodendron family, which includes the popular Swiss cheese plant and the fiddleleaf philodendron, has a mild to moderate toxicity level for both cats and dogs. 65

HOUSEHOLD

CEO

HACKS AND HOT BUYS FOR AN ORGANISED HOUSEHOLD

For daily shopping tips and hacks, follow ‘I bought it at…’. Go to facebook.com/ iBoughtAU

ORGANISE IT! The Cleanstagram guide to Is your new year’s resolution to get your home in organised and ordered condition? To help make it a reality, we’ve enlisted the assistance of the top three Aussie #Cleanstagrams, as determined by the inaugural A-Z of Instagram report. Ashlee Durand (@AshleeJayInteriors), Kat Springer (@TheOrganisedHousewife) and Carmen Strong (@LittleStrongHome) share their top tips for a happy – and organised – new year.

need to. And remember, if something doesn’t stay organised, the system you put in place wasn’t the right system.” – Carmen #2 “Make sure every item in your house has a place and to prevent clutter build-up, do regular clean-outs of everything – including the linen, pantry, wardrobes and garage.” – Ashlee

Top 3 organisation rules #1 “Focus room by room or space by space. Then organise your items into categories, and break the categories into subcategories if you

#3 “Labels are a must! They make it easy to ﬁnd things and help everyone put items away in their correct place. They can be used to organise all kinds of spaces: pantries, bathrooms, laundries and even kids’ school items.” – Kat

@AshleeJayInteriors’ ti ffor tips managing toys

Mum of four Ashlee knows better than most how quickly kids’ toys can cause clutter. Her tried and tested advice? “Before birthdays and Christmas we have the kids choose which toys they would like to donate,” Ashlee says. “We also have toy storage containers in the shed and regularly rotate those with the toys inside,” Ashlee says. “They feel like it’s Christmas every time we swap the toys over!”

getting get tting g started d strategy

A top-to-toe home clean-out is a massive undertaking – so before you get overwhelmed, Kat has developed a strategy for tackling the job. STEP 1: Start with one area and ensure that the space is completed before moving on to the next space. STEP 2: Take everything out and start with a blank canvas – whether that be your pantry, linen cupboard, fridge or wardrobe. STEP 3: Have three areas set up – one for donating, one for rubbish and one for keeping. STEP 4: For kept items, make use of storage containers, boxes and labels, and then organise everything so that the space is functional.

@LittleStrongHome’s Carmen’ss pro p du uct che ch ckl kliistt

rganisation essentials

wiillll he h lp l get your household

Containers Baskets Tubs Drawers Labels

in tip-top shape

Target Kids’ Cat Storage Basket $20 target.com.au

Kmart Wire Basket $4 kmart.com.au

Target Small Round Rope & Natural Fibre Storage Basket $20 target.com.au Kmart Felt Storage Hamper $6.50 kmart.com.au Kmart 64 Pantry Food Labels $2 kmart.com.au

ClickClack @ Harris Scarfe Pantry Cube Set $38.47 harrisscarfe.com.au

Text by Sharon Hunt

creating a neat and tidy home

@TheOrganisedHousewife’s

National Gallery of Australia

13 December 2019– 13 April 2020

Book now nga.gov.au

Pablo Picasso L’Arlésienne (Lee Miller) 1937, Private international collection © Succession Picasso / Copyright Agency 2019

ADVENTURE PARK GEELONG, VIC

This summer, a massive tidal wave is headed for Victoria in the form of the new triple funnel Tsunami waterslide at Adventure Park Geelong. The water theme park has just opened the $4 million ride, one of only two triple funnel slides in Australia. The Tsunami stands at a staggering 7.5 storeys high and 172m in length and can take up to four guests per raft through three fast mega funnels of menacing water rapids. Expect colossal tidal waves and raging waters that twirl and suck riders down a series of high-speed rapids, snaking tunnels and whirlpool funnels. It’s an epic adrenaline rush for all. The Tsunami is the second stage of an $8 million investment into the everevolving water park, which is an hour’s drive from Melbourne. adventurepark.com.au.

SUMMER THRILLS Serious movie fans should head to Warner Bros Movie World this summer to view the WB Studio Showcase, which features more than 30 authentic costumes, in addition famous cars and props from the silver screen. You’ll view signature set pieces, props and costumes from The Great Gatsby, A Star Is Born, Mad Max, Wonder

Keen to see amazing feats of skill? Then head to Sea World’s newest multimillion-dollar ski show, Thunder Lake Stunt Show. The theme park has partnered with Australia’s leading stunt crew, Showtime FMX, to produce an awe-inspiring show that includes some of the best waterski, jetski and BMX performers in the country and

features world-class stunts, action and comedy. It’s like Westside Story on the lake. The Thunder Lake Stunt Show centres around the Sun State All Stars and the Bay City River Rats, with the two rival groups colliding in an epic showdown of extreme stunts and action. The Thunder Lake Stunt Show will run twice daily. seaworld.com.au.

Woman, Shazam! and Suicide Squad. Highlights include the Duesenberg car from The Great Gatsby, Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn costume from Suicide Squad, the thrones from Shazam! and casual and stage costumes worn by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in their recent hit, A Star Is Born. movieworld.com.au.

Words by Andrea Black

SEA WORLD, QLD

WARNER BROS MOVIE WORLD, QLD

NEW TRAVEL

DREAMWORLD, QLD Dreamworld on the Gold Coast recently announced a new $30 million roller-coaster. Expect plenty of thrills on the new coaster, which is being built by one of the world’s most reputable roller-coaster manufacturers, Mack Rides of Germany. The design is based on

the highly successful Mack Blue Fire Launch coaster, which operates in 14 locations around the world, including Europa Park, Disney Hollywood Studios and Cedar Fair Carowinds. And it regularly features as one of the best ranked coaster experiences in the world.

CARNIVAL SPLENDOR CRUISE SHIP

What can thrill seekers expect? The 1.2km ride includes multiple inversions, reaching speeds of 105km/h. It will also have the world’s ﬁrst separate spinning gondola attached to the rear of the roller-coaster train. dreamworld.com.au.

When the 3012-guest Carnival Splendor cruise ship sailed into Australian waters in December she showed off a brand-new slide named Green Lightning. The new slide, which is part of the Carnival Splendor’s green and gold WaterWorks, is a thunderous endeavour. Towering 50 metres above the waterline (that’s the height of the Sydney Harbour Bridge), those tackling Green Lightning will launch with an impressive 11.3-metre freefall drop as the capsule ﬂoor opens, followed by a slingshot curve, twisting and sliding riders into a giant green swirling bowl. If that’s not enough, there’s the 104-metrelong Twister Waterslide to try out, as well as MiniRacer slides for the little ones. The water theme park is just one of the fun family attractions on the ship – there are also two pools, two spas, a sports deck with mini golf, as well as a running track and sports courts. The ship is the length of three football ﬁelds and is 14 decks high. carnival.com.au. 69

Buyer’s Guide

Psychics and Lifestyle

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ext #

To advertise call 1800 620 745 Google

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Are you a puzzle pro Our selection of captivating crossword tricky trivia and shar sudoku will test your skills To win one of two prizes of $50 in our word search, ﬁnd everything on the list in the grid. One of the entries can’t be found. Write this on the entry coupon.

To wi $50, complete the puzzle and read the coloured squares to reveal a movie starring Hugh Jackman. Write this title on the coupon. Treelined street

Primate

MediDiscover, terranean Lubricants Chimney pipe locate island

Ornate, frilly collar

Catherine –, 6th & last wife of Henry VIII

Dispute Female settlement striped officer big cat

Sack, satchel

Irregular, quirky Homeric Trojan War epic

Comedy sketch show

M C G Z B G O O D F E L L A S

Pen tip

Suddenly moving forward

Newt

Simple tune, melody Rock floating in space

Admitted Native to wrong- American heroine doing

Let –, the Beatles’ last album (2,2)

Green vegetable Jazz vocal technique

Female parent

Representative Upper limbs

R E T N U H R E E D E H T B Y

T E E E T A I Q X B R P D D D

W T L T J T R S O M E Q E W E

R H F Y T V S C Z W K W D C M

Purposebased journeys

Discloses, uncovers

Yoko –, J Lennon’s widow

Punctual (2,4)

Coffee cups

Event location

– Patel, Finished, actor ended

Male parent

Spike of corn

Crocodile –, Paul Hogan film

Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square. Here are three puzzles, graded from easy on the left, to hard on the right.

Romantic flowers

7 6 1 3 8

9 3 6 1

9 8 1

5 7 4 3 8 1 5 8 3 6 1 6 4 5 7 6 3 8 4 2

G T K N R X K O A G O N N W O

I O O C V D F I H R A F T I G

N U F S F H I J E L E I P O N

1 9 6 2

7 3

7 4

8 5 9

G C I D J O U X Y B A N C H I

7 4 5 1 7 9 3 5 8

6 1 2 4

2 7

9 7

U A R P V B E N N T W O B S E

L B L V N T N K D G A D W W H

L L P F H A Q A D N Y Y X N T

X E D I C H F L E L W P X G A

R S S L Q P B P T K W P L M U

F O T E HD GA R 8 6

4 7

B H H K M X J Z A E R Y T Y K

RAGING BULL TAXI DRIVER THE DEER HUNTER THE IRISHMAN THE KING OF COMEDY THE UNTOUCHABLES

How many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters on the right? Each word must contain the centre letter and you must make one nine-letter word. No proper nouns.

Bottle or jar top

Secondhand

A N S I I C S P F Y G W A T F

Historical period Small hotel

Tropical fruit Free-form music session

– Dingo, TV presenter

Seethe with anger

R U V L A S E D Q D J H S K C

ANALYZE THIS CASINO GOODFELLAS JACKIE BROWN JOKER MEET THE PARENTS

Grow older That woman

G E T J Y H A O E S U M E T O

2 6

3 9

1 8

4 9 8

1 7

4 2

8 71

To win one of three prizes of UP $100, work out which number ABS! represents which letter. All letters of the alphabet appear at least once. Fill in the coloured boxes at the bottom to reveal our prize word. Write this answer on the entry coupon.

21 19

14 2

7 19

7 18

5 16

26 26

9 15

21 1

18 11

9 18

1 3 5 8 10 11 13 14 15 17 20 23 24 28 30 31 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 41 42 44 47 49 51 53 54 55 57 58 60 62 63 64 66 68 70 72 75 78 79 80 81 82 84 86 89 92 94 95 96 97 99 102 104 107 108 109 110

Napped, dozed (7) Matt –, actor pictured in box A (5) Complex musical composition (5) Member of an army (7) Unrefined mineral aggregate (3) Hair grown on the upper lip (9) – Pearce, actor (3) Astrological big cat (3) Makeshift vessel (4) Italian canal city (6) Central Australian monolith (5) Cabbage variety (4) Daring, spirited (9) Vessel’s steering attachment (6) Engaged for a job (5) Positive reply to a question (3) Doing word (4) Sticker (5) Atmosphere, personal glow (4) Mythical Himalayan hominid (4) Large NZ arthropod (4) Bury, place in a tomb (5) Flying mammals (4) Festive event with music (5) Cowardly colour (6) Biblical song (5) Particular skill or technique (5) Magic folk-song dragon (4) – Courtenay, author (5) Totally empty space (4) Recede, flow back (3) L in BBL and WBBL (6) At a distance (4) Jack-o-lantern vegetable (7) Which person? (3) Fashion accessory (7) Cute aquatic mammal (5) Power of speech (5) Han –, Star Wars hero (4) Larval form of an insect (4) Worker’s organisation (5) Charlie –, silent film comedian (7) City in Yorkshire (5) Majestic, stately (5) Smiley face or related icon (5) Expensive property in Monopoly (7) Sleeping garments (7) Omphalos (5) Jack in a suit of cards (5) Cut of beef (5) Out of the ordinary, weird (7) Warm and sticky, of weather (5) Vietnamese currency (4) TV alien from the planet Ork (4) Local government fees (5) Birds of peace (5) Expensive yellow spice (7) Aerated bath (3) Hamlet’s nation (7) Exploit, deed (4) National song (6) Rocks in a drink (3) Arm, leg or branch (4)

111 113 115 118 120 122 124 125 126 128 130 131 132 133 135 136 137 138 139 141 145 149 150 152 153 154 155 156 157

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 12 15 16 18 19 21 22 25 26 27 29 33 34 39 40 43

Mariah –, singer pictured in box B (5) Voting coalition (4) Bill –, computer tycoon (5) Soft French cap (5) June –, wife of Johnny Cash (6) Meanly frugal skinﬂint (5) Cycle of four seasons (4) Shade of purple (5) Oriental stretching and meditation technique (4) Good fortune (4) Excessive media promotion (4) Feudal lord (5) Fermented grape juice (4) Ice-cream container (3) Madagascan mammal (5) Himalayan guide (6) American crocodilian (9) Forearm bone (4) Tim –-, Australian men’s test cricket captain (5) Reply (6) Imperfection (4) Tattooist’s pigment (3) Uneven or unusual (3) Adorned (9) Big –, Play School bear (3) Performance venue (7) Eye-shield on a helmet (5) Magnetic compass point (5) Refrain from voting (7)

Fry with a loud hissing sound (6) Currency unit (6) System of government involving voting by the populace (9) Idea (6) Veriﬁable truth (4) – Thunberg, Swedish teenage climate activist (5) Chicken product (3) River crossed to reach the underworld in classical mythology (4) Fast, highly skilled shearer (6) Tertiary education facility (10) – mirror, driver’s aid (4-4) Opposible digit (5) Not aligned to a major production company (5) Ethan –, actor pictured in box C (5) – Lynn, country singer (7) Electronic navigation system (5) – X-Men, 1980s group fronted by Brian Mannix (7) Psychiatrist (coll.) (6) American prawn (6) Run away (4) Cut and gather crops (4) Father (3) Large bovine creature (7) Opening shot in tennis (5) Vivien –, Gone with the Wind star (5)

45 46 48 50 51 52 54 55 56 59 60 61 62 65 67 69 71 73 74 76 77 80 83 84 85 87 88 89 90 91 93 96 98 100 101 103 105 106 108 112 114 116 117 119 120 121 122 123 125 127 129 132 134 140 142 143 144 146 147 148 151

Thinly spread (6) Free-standing light (4) Food cooked on a skewer (5) In an illegal position in many sports codes, particularly football codes (7) Collide with (4) Forensic police TV series (1,1,1) Boredom, lethargy (5) System of deductive reasoning (5) Up to such a time (5) Thai canal (5) Small bird (4) Circular sporting ﬁeld (4) Dwelling (5) Lawn covering (5) Nocturnal bird (3) Mid-morning meal (6) Hit directly (6) Bottomless pit (5) – Menzel, voice of Elsa in Frozen (5) Cairo’s country (5) Carly –, You’re so Vain singer (5) Climb onto a horse (5) Burdened (5) – Jong-un, North Korean leader (3) Kitchen protective garment (5) Coastal body of water (7) Smooch (4) Carbonated soft drink (4) Large black bird (5) – salts, mineral compound (5) Code using dots and dashes (5) Charity lottery (6) Professional academic (7) Frivolous romantic attachment (5) Crown Princess of 104 across (4) Marina –, musical theatre star (5) – Peron, Evita (3) Leg joint (4) Downton –, TV series (5) – Crowe, actor (7) Waxy colouring stick (6) Uma –, actress pictured in box D (7) Neutered male cattle (6) –- Collette, actress (4) Shredded cabbage salad (8) Dining establishment (10) Dairy product (4) Cereal grain (3) Dame Nellie –, celebrated Australian soprano (5) Pink and grey parrot (5) Strategic board game (5) Virginia –, author (5) Measure of internet capacity (9) Hairstyle, long at the back, short at the front and sides (6) Rabbit colony (6) Track in Papua New Guinea, site of heavy ﬁghting in World War II (6) Religious lecture (6) South American mountains (5) Skeleton part (4) Mark of a wound (4) – Patel, actor (3)

P ABS

For a chance to win one of three prizes of $100, simply solve the crossword and work out the winning phrase using the coloured squares (4,5,4,4). Write this on the entry coupon. 1

14 16

15 17 20

37 41

40 43

42 47

53 54

60 63

65 68

100

94 95

97 102

101 104

106

105

103

107

109

108 110

111

118 122

114

113

112 120

119

124 128

127

117

125

129

130

132

131

116

121

123 126

115

133

134

135

136 137 140

139

138 141

145

148 151

143

146

147 150

142

149

152 153

OVER

154

155

IN PRIZE TO BE WO

156

157

144

Five friends enjoyed an afternoon of tenpin bowling. Can you work out what size shoe each bowler hired, what they ate during their game and what their score was?

HOW TO SOLVE

Read the clues and place a tick in an intersecting box if you have any positive information and use a cross if you have any deﬁnite negative information. For example, you can work out that Charlie’s shoes were size 8, so we have placed a tick and some crosses in the grid to help you along. Using this method you should be able to ﬁll in the smaller grid.

E 1

R R

M Y

BOWLER

CHARLIE FIFI MARK TRUDY

BURGER

SNACK

9 11

DOUGHNUT HOT DOG NACHOS WINGS

BOWLER 1 Flowering shrub associated with the Roman goddess of love, Venus (M) 2 Hansel’s fairytale sister (G) 3 Monty –, comedy team which featured John Cleese and Eric Idle (P) 4 Think deeply on a subject (P) 5 – Hawn, actress and mother of Kate Hudson (G) 6 Al –, singer and actor who starred in the first ‘talking picture’ The Jazz Singer, in 1927 (J) 7 – Rudd, author of On Our Selection, featuring Dad and Dave (S) 8 Tim –, former Socceroos star and leading goal-scorer (C) 9 – Holt, Australian Prime Minister who disappeared while swimming at Victoria’s Cheviot Beach in 1967 (H) 10 South-east Asian island shared by Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei (B) 11 Lawrence of –, epic 1962 film with Peter O’Toole in the title role (A) 12 Harness fitted over a horse’s head (B)

120

117

CLUES 1 Charlie’s shoe size was 10% of his score 2 The bowler with the lowest score blamed it on their sticky nachos ﬁngers 3 The bowling alley didn’t have any size 14 shoes, so Clint had to squeeze his big feet into a size 11 pair 4 Mark didn’t eat chicken wings 5 The bowler in the smallest shoes recorded the highest score 6 The person who ate the burger scored 18 points more than the person who ate chicken wings 7 Fiﬁ ate a hot dog 8 The bowler in size 7 shoes scored 99 9 The bowler in size 10 shoes also scored less than 100

117

120 7

WINGS

NACHOS

HOT DOG

DOUGHNUT

BURGER

SCORE

SNACK

SCORE

L T

CLINT

Each of the clues below has a six-letter answer. Write the answer clockwise in the spaces around the appropriate clue number. Where the hexagons touch, the letters in the adjoining segments will be the same. We’ve answered one clue for you. The letters in brackets tell you the ﬁrst letter of the answer. The letters in the inner coloured hexagon will spell a hidden word.

SHOE SIZE

To win one of two prizes of $50, write the word in the coloured middle hexagon on the entry coupon.

SHOE SIZE

SNACK

SCORE

CLINT CHARLIE FIFI MARK TRUDY

The answers to all the clues below are four-letter words. Write each answer clockwise in the spaces around its numbered circle, starting from the box shown by the arrow.

CLUES 1 2 3 4 5 6

Narrow opening for coins Motorway or bridge fee Temporary period of calm Forgo food Departed William –, Swiss folk hero

7 Pet parasite 8 I – Fine, 1964 single by the Beatles 9 Happy –, 2006 animated ﬁlm about penguins

Here’s a perfect puzzle for all you code-cracker ﬁends. Just like our prize Code Cracker but with a larger grid. Each number in the crossword represents a different letter of the alphabet. We’ve given you three letters to help you on your way to cracking the code, so you’ll see that 8=R, 11=B, and 17=K. Use the Letter Checker box to keep track of the letters you’ve decoded. 26

19 11

13 20

8 26

9 25

15 8

LETTER CHECKER

26 13

7 12

1 11

26 16

W E P I Y P A R T M E I S A

O A R E P

C H O L X A X E

9 10 11 12 13

L T A A G M A

16 12

T H A O A S T

13 21

G N U E R D A T

C H E I E S

11 11

7 26

2 7

16 11

16 12

25 26

6 12

X A C

11 19

5 11

12 4

Replace the 14 pieces in the grid to form a symmetrical puzzle with completed words.

L O V

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

R N I T I C

A M E N I

T O O G A H

N E W C A E W N

K BATTLESHIP CRUISERS

Find the four submarines, three destroyers, two cruisers and one battleship in the grid! The number next to each row and column tells you how many of the squares in that row or column contain a vessel or part of a vessel. They may be lying vertically or horizontally, but no two vessels are ever in adjacent squares in any direction.

DESTROYERS SUBMARINES

Answer the clues, entering each letter into the appropriately numbered section of the ring. When the puzzle is complete, the letters will spell a phrase (7,8) reading clockwise from number 1.

0 2

1 Tidier, more orderly (11-14-3-8-10-1) 2 Golfer’s stroke (15-9-13-6-7) 3 Group of three performers (12-4-5-2)

0 1 6 0 1

CLUES

3 5

11 10

6 7

8 75

ANSWERS THIS WEEK Give your brain a workout! To check if you’re right, see solutions. 1

Dearth, Death, Doeth, Doth, Earth, Father, Forth, Fother, Froth, Frothed, Gather, Goatherd, Godfather, Goth, Haft, Hafted, Hard, Hare, Hared, Hart, Hate, Hated, Hater, Hatred, Head, Hear, Heard, Heart, Heat, Heft, Herd, Hero, Hoar, Hoard, Hoed, Hoer, Horde, Oath, Other, Rhea, Thread. 1 Slot, 2 Toll, 3 Lull, 4 Fast, 5 Left, 6 Tell, 7 Flea, 8 Feel, 9 Feet.

Across: 1 Bridget, 5 Secondary, 7 Cheese, 8 Arc, 10 Sever, 11 Tie, 12 Almost, 15 Ballerina, 16 Pirates Down: 1 Basic, 2 Increase, 3 Trap, 4 Shylock, 6 Nashville, 8 Arborist, 9 Stumble, 13 Trams, 14 Flop

8 9

SNACK

SCORE

BURGER

117

CHARLIE

DOUGHNUT

FIFI

HOT DOG

120

MARK

NACHOS

TRUDY

WINGS

O R B R A N A N R C S H W H E C I L T R A E S W A S A S C R H O B A T R

K A O C K B I U D G E E R I N K E R T A R E P T P E Z E R A B I B U U B B O T L L Y E A

W E P T I Y P A R E A L M E N I G X D A A C Y T O O T G A H A G N U E R D A T A

E R B M I U Z Z A V E R R D G E A L U G Z E E F I Q U L B R A T L E O R L Y

M E T A M O R P H O S I S

E C L A A R I A T Y E S A C I T E N C S E

H O X X E N I C L O V H E S E W A W N

Letter Checker

11 12

1 Ms Jones tried to rig debt recovery (7) 5 Help Andy score at high school level (9) 7 See Comrade Guevara process dairy product (6) 8 Car turned into curve leading to Joan’s birthplace (3) 10 Cut off verse composition (5) 11 Odd twine used to bind (3) 12 Nearly lost morning exercise (6) 15 Classical dancer upset in bare-all expose (9) 16 Caribbean buccaneers traipse around (7)

Famed for its mysterious statues, in which ocean is Easter Island situated? Which voyage was led by the ﬂagship HMS Sirius under the command of Captain John Hunter? What do the letters GI stand for in reference to the particular characteristics of some foods? Longines, Rolex and TAG Hauer are all luxury brands of what kind of accessory? Of what is somebody suffering from musophobia afraid?

1 Fundamental degree as written (5) 2 Where batter is safe to grow (8) 3 Catch moving part (4) 4 Toss security device to Venetian money-lender (7) 6 Vine shall twist around Tennessee music city (9) 8 Tree surgeon carved rib roast (8) 9 Trip over blues trademark (7) 13 Back smart streetcars (5) 14 First Foreign Legion ofﬁcers’ parade is a failure (4)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

1 Pacific, 2 The First Fleet, 3 Glycemic Index, 4 Wristwatch, 5 Mice.

Q P G T M J Z R C F B E L 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

X D O K V I U Y N H W S A

5 2 8 7 9 3 6 4 1

1 2 3 4 5

SHOE SIZE

CLINT

A B S I B A N L C U S E R R B R E E T A X D P Y R R O K R J E A C C O T E X

1 Neater, 2 Swing, 3 Trio Hidden phrase: Roaring Twenties

BOWLER

7 1 4 6 2 8 5 9 3

6 3 9 5 1 4 7 2 8

3 8 6 4 5 9 2 1 7

2 9 5 3 7 1 4 8 6

4 7 1 2 8 6 3 5 9

9 6 2 1 3 5 8 7 4

8 5 3 9 4 7 1 6 2

1 4 7 8 6 2 9 3 5

1 9 6 2 4 5 8 7 3

5 8 7 6 9 3 2 4 1

3 2 4 7 8 1 6 9 5

2 6 3 4 1 7 5 8 9

9 4 1 8 5 2 3 6 7

7 5 8 3 6 9 4 1 2

4 3 9 1 2 8 7 5 6

6 1 2 5 7 4 9 3 8

8 7 5 9 3 6 1 2 4

4 3 6 9 8 2 7 1 5

9 1 7 5 3 6 8 2 4

5 8 2 4 7 1 6 3 9

8 7 5 1 4 3 2 9 6

6 4 3 8 2 9 5 7 1

1 2 9 6 5 7 3 4 8

3 6 4 2 9 8 1 5 7

7 9 8 3 1 5 4 6 2

2 5 1 7 6 4 9 8 3

NEW IDEA PUZZLES 47-19 WINNERS’ LIST: $100 Supercross: B Adams, Avoca, Qld; D Buchanan, Hillarys WA; A Watts, Runaway Bay, Qld $50 Compact Stars: M Birkenhead Kedron, Qld; C Lang, Kincumber, NSW; T LeRoy, Redcliffe, Qld; J O'Hearn, Moorebank, NSW $50 Word Search: H Baker, Sefton Park, SA; R Mischendahl, Bowral, NSW $50 Hex Word: E Hall, Wellington Point, Qld; M Hart, Wembley, WA $100 Code Cracker: T Ejaz, Yagoona, NSW; C Redfern, Bundoora, Vic; R Thyer, Wembley, WA. CHEQUES SENT WITHIN SIX WEEKS OF BEING PUBLISHED. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Visit www.newidea.com.au for full Terms & Conditions. Competition opens 30/12/19 at 09:00AEDT and closes on 12/01/20 at 17:00AEDT. Winners are drawn at Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd 8 Central Avenue, Eveleigh, NSW 2015 on 24/01/20 from 08:30AEDT. Weekly total prize pool is $1,000 (weekly draws include 6 x $100; 8 x $50). Prizes will be sent within 6 to 8 weeks. Winners notified by mail and their names published in New Idea on sale 10/02/20. The Promoter is Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd, 8 Central Avenue, Eveleigh, NSW 2015 (ABN 16 097 410 896). Authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS/19/39992; ACT Permit No. TP 19/04652; SA Licence No. T19/1948. Pacific Magazines is collecting your personal information for the sole purpose of running this competition including identifying and notifying winners. If you are not a winner, your personal information will be destroyed. Pacific will handle your information in accordance with Seven West Medias Privacy Policy which is available on our website at sevenwestmedia.com.au/privacy-policies.

TO ENTER POST THE COUPON OR; ENTER ONLINE AT WWW.NEWIDEA.COM.AU/WIN PACIFIC MAGAZINES PTY LTD EMAIL: newidea@pacificmags.com.au Full Terms & Conditions available at www.newidea.com.au/terms-and-conditions/. Start Date: 30/12/19 at 09:00AEDT Close Date: 12/01/20 at 17:00AEDT Draw Date: 24/01/20 from 08:30AEDT. Weekly Total Prize Value: $1,000.00. Authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS/19/39992; ACT Permit No. TP 19/04652; SA Licence No. T19/1948.

MAIL: FILL IN THIS COUPON AND SEND TO: NEW IDEA PUZZLES 01, AUSTRALIA: PO BOX 71, EASTERN SUBURBS MC, NSW 2004 NEW ZEALAND: PRIVATE BAG 92039 VICTORIA STREET, WEST AUCKLAND 1142

Competition closes 12/01/20 at 5pm AEDT.

T O K R B R I A M I M O O N N R O B E R E L S E E T A G O K A L I S T E N I G I O N N F

B A N A L I

D Y L I N E U I S L R E A G E T G O A I R O N E O F E A R I H E R D N E K A G R A C H F L E D A L L O P A T M M O I R A N I A E E D L A D E N

S N

S L A G

K O C H

O D R

Winning title: Bombshell

10 11 12 13

I G W

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

P T M L C B Z X F A H E J

Winning word: Grapes

Winning answer: The Polar Express ACROSS: 1 Round, 4 Wreck, 6 Flock, 9 Western, 12 Muse, 13 Maria, 14 Dermatologist, 15 Waist, 16 Barn, 17 Eye, 18 Dover, 22 Pram, 24 Natal, 25 Uproar, 27 Snobs, 28 Edam, 29 Underwear, 33 Picnic, 35 Razor, 36 Yak, 37 Each, 39 Rotor, 40 Tuna, 41 Fred, 42 Knot, 43 Needs, 44 Menu, 46 Heels, 47 Spendthrift, 52 Head Start, 54 Proof, 56 Icarus, 57 Mess, 58 Poser, 60 Mel, 61 Roomy, 63 Usher, 64 Waldorf, 65 Zinc, 67 Camp, 69 Temporary, 73 Range, 74 Enemy, 75 Pad, 76 Nee, 77 Sonic, 78 Image, 80 Craftsmen, 83 Noah, 84 Gate, 87 Buffalo, 89 Cohen, 90 Perth, 92 Air, 93 Icing, 94 Wish, 96 Viking, 98 Stamp, 100 Incognito, 104 Ferris Wheel, 107 Fluff, 109 Type, 111 Aches, 112 Ivan, 114 Rock, 116 Verb, 117 Skier, 118 Tame, 119 Gym, 121 Dirge, 122 Wraith, 123 Egg whites, 124 Udon, 125 Emote, 127 Lesser, 131 Eager, 133 Half, 135 Nudge, 137 Kit, 139 Iraq, 140 Dress, 141 John Paul Young, 143 Rivet, 144 Hugh, 145 Minimum, 146 Miles, 147 Roast, 148 Peter. DOWN: 1 Remedy, 2 Noise, 3 Butane, 4 Wednesday, 5 Kramer, 6 Flop, 7 Odour, 8 Koi, 9 Watermelon, 10 Evict, 11 Nettle, 15 Wentworth, 19 Venezuela, 20 Roberts, 21 Pumpkin, 22 Preceded, 23 Munch, 26 Owner, 30 Art deco, 31 Branch, 32 Banana, 34 Arms, 38 Cash, 44 Matilda, 45 User, 48 Ems, 49 Toe, 50 Risque, 51 Flashdance, 53 Servo, 54 Parr, 55 Ohm, 59 Salem, 60 Mafia, 62 Orion, 64 Wuthering, 66 Crescendo, 68 Preset, 70 Oxygen, 71 Yodel, 72 Panic, 75 Paraphrase, 79 Altar, 81 Amber, 82 Miami, 85 Answer, 86 Imagine, 88 Fling, 89 Chop, 91 Eat, 95 Sos, 96 Vie, 97 Kilt, 99 Amusing, 101 Celery, 102 Inherited, 103 Oyster, 105 Idea, 106 Werewolf, 107 Fish, 108 Fireworks, 110 Yoghurt, 111 Abdomen, 113 Apricot Jam, 115 Class, 118 Teeth, 120 Moonlight, 126 Seldom, 128 Slayer, 129 Shaggy, 130 Heater, 132 Green, 134 Lapel, 136 Unite, 138 Runs, 142 Ham. Winning name: Anne Hathaway 1 Inhale, 2 Disney, 3 McLean, 4 Cruise, 5 Unique, 6 Mohair, 7 Tongue, 8 Castro, 9 Thorax, 10 Oxygen, 11 Flurry, 12 Audrey. Hidden word: Quiche

Published by Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd (ACN 097 410 896) of 8 Central Avenue, Eveleigh, NSW 2015, www.pacificmagazines.com.au. For competition entries, please use the address on entry forms. All content © 2020 Pacific Magazines Pty Ltd, all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Printed by Blue Star WEB, Unit 1/83 Derby St, Silverwater NSW 2128, under ISO14001 Environmental Certification. Distributed by Ovato Retail Distribution Australia. All prices and information are correct as at the time of printing. All material sent to New Idea (whether solicited or not) will not be returned. Unless otherwise agreed beforehand, all rights including copyright in such material are assigned to Pacific Magazines upon receipt and Pacific Magazines may use or sell the material in all media worldwide in perpetuity without further consent or payment. New Idea does not accept or assume responsibility for such material.

For all things astrological, visit my website: karenmoregold.com

MAR 21 – APR 20

TAURUS

APR 21 – MAY 21

GEMINI

MAY 22 – JUN 21

AUG 24 – SEP 23

Thinking deeply over new year will bring realisations and direction for 2020. You’ll set an ambitious career course, a financial objective that will turn your fortunes around and a personal milestone you’re determined to achieve. There will be a surprising turn of events to adjust to and make the most of. Singles, this may have romantic undertones. A new possession will add greatly to your happiness. LUCKY NUMBERS: 11, 14, 34

Unusual and uplifting company this new year will encourage you to explore new horizons in 2020. A growing interest, travel plans or new social scene will offer a different world of experience. Exploring new places will also bring a feast of discoveries! Financial paperwork will require attention to details. A revelation will answer a nagging question. There will also be an opportunity to clear up a misunderstanding. LUCKY NUMBERS: 16, 33, 36

CANCER

JUN 22 – JUL 23

LEO

JUL 24 – AUG 23

VIRGO

LIBRA

SEP 24 – OCT 23

SCORPIO

OCT 24 – NOV 22

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 – DEC 21

Subtle signals will guide you with a complex relationship or family situation this new year. One by one, your questions will be answered. Taking the reins with a special family event will mean that you are the driving and delegating force. Clear priorities will make decision-making easier. An unusual encounter will leave you with much to think about. A spontaneous purchase will come straight from the heart. LUCKY NUMBERS: 10, 21, 31

Bold domestic or family plans this new year will explore unusual possibilities. It will take research blended with intuition to find the best way forward. A relative will need special support and seeing the big picture with a challenging family issue will help you handle it well. A surprise financial gain or opportune good deal will help you get ahead. Some fun romantic vibes will add a fresh zest to your love-life. LUCKY NUMBERS: 6, 24, 26

CAPRICORN

DEC 22 – JAN 20

A fascinating, informative conversation this new year will spark exciting ideas. New ways to re-invent yourself, realise your potential or set up an exciting new personal chapter, will be a powerful call to action. An unusual encounter will be fun and also intriguing. Singles, this could fan a new attraction. A surprise gesture from someone who cares about you will touch your heart and a beautiful or thoughtful gift will also be meaningful. LUCKY NUMBERS: 1, 5, 8

Soul-searching this new year will help you define your role with a tough task or special family commitment. A challenging job opportunity or condition at work will stretch your resources, so this is a time to show what you can do! A health pursuit will ask more of you than you imagined and may change your whole approach to your lifestyle. An unusual but meaningful personal goal will fire your enthusiasm. LUCKY NUMBERS: 3, 23, 27

Tantalising romantic prospects may tempt you this new year – watch a tendency to be in love with love! An exciting personal or professional project for 2020 will rev up deep ambition. A change of scene will be fun yet meaningful. A new chapter will unfold with a relative too far away, a confidence from another will answer many questions and something beautiful for your home will be a real joy. LUCKY NUMBERS: 19, 39, 45

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 – FEB 19

The new year will bring a fresh take on a special long-term project or goal. Possibilities you haven’t seen before will emerge! A family commitment will be an exercise in patience. Something to let go from the past will be an emotional challenge, a difficult conversation will require all the tact you can muster. A rare get-together will be an emotional treat and an unusual new household item will add to your comfort. LUCKY NUMBERS: 12, 15, 22

Anticipation and exciting promise for 2020 will inspire your optimistic nature. You’ll dream big – a ground-breaking financial idea or undertaking may already be unfolding! Flashes of insight into a personal issue will answer questions and bring intuitive guidance. A longdistance relationship will turn a fun corner, a new social door will open and you’ll meet a charming person you’d like to get to know. LUCKY NUMBERS: 17,30,32 Singles, an engrossing common interest will fan the fires of a growing attraction or an old flame could suddenly burn brightly in the new year. Insightful communication will shed light on your relationship with someone dear meaning you will understand something that you haven’t before. An unusual outing will bring different experiences, extra expenses could put pressure on the budget. LUCKY NUMBERS: 6, 24, 26

It will take objectivity to weigh up the costs and options of personal or family purchases this new year. An ambitious financial vision for 2020 will launch a grand new venture or you’ll plan and budget to buy an expensive item. Something to celebrate will prove to be an emotional milestone, an unusual task will teach you as you go and a healing exchange with a friend or relative will put an upset behind you. LUCKY NUMBERS: 4, 25, 35

PISCES

FEB 20 – MAR 20

An inspiring encounter will fire your hopes and dreams for 2020. You may start to want different things and grand plans to bring these new desires to fruition will take shape! Fun outings and get-togethers will bring happy times aplenty, surprise news may hold an unusual lesson and an overdue catch up with someone dear will be a sentimental joy. Keep tabs on your spending or money could slip through your fingers! LUCKY NUMBERS: 2, 11, 29

HAPPINESS FOR LOVE Planning ahead and aiming

1 – AP

for ambitious mutual goals will set you on a loving journey with your partner; the more you share your thoughts and intentions, the you’ll understand each other. Prepare for some practical gi and-take though, there’ll be ti when you’re both under pres and need to make compromi This is the stuff that really strengthens relationships. Singles: Admiration could tur love; an exciting attraction could flare with someone whose talents, achievements or values spark your respect. HOME A domestic dream JAN. 6, may inspire you: a special or faster and tempted to 8, MAR. 30, B. FE place you’d like to live or push the envelope. APR. 3, LUCK/HAPPINESS A changes you’d like to APR. 29. friendship or work connection make to your home. that goes back a long way could The practicalities involved will have a new lease of life and this have to be resolved. FAMILY A family member will person will become important in often turn to you for advice: your life again. A lucky break will listening with your heart will give open the door to do or achieve valuable insights into their situation something you’ve wanted or or challenges. Relations with an worked towards for a long time. in-law may be hard work but This is your year for getting ahead. WHAT TO WATCH OUT positive efforts to improve FOR Choose your words carefully communication should bring when you speak your mind or stand rewarding results. CAREER Exciting career goals up for something you believe in will fire your determination; you’ll – there’ll be a fine line between spread your wings with challenging passion and being too forceful and endeavours that showcase your you’ll need to recognise this for skills, particularly your leadership successful communication. You’ll be ability, and raise your professional so goal-orientated this year it could profile. A promotion or new job turn into tunnel vision! Don’t forget will require adjustments, you may to take pleasure in everyday joys; also commute greater distances for it will help you find balance. With your work. You’ll be focused on fiery, pushy Mars in Aries in the success this year and you will do latter half of this year, be aware of yourself proud! the value of patience. It will make MONEY You’ll set specific drawn-out tasks, interaction with financial targets this year. You’ll others and any slow-moving issues be determined to do and achieve easier to handle. CHALLENGE Biting off too much big things! It will take discipline to chew professionally or financially and careful organisation to bring will push stress levels through the your plans to fruition but success roof. Know your limits. will be sweet! HEALTH A vigorous exercise MANTRA I embrace life and its program, sport or physical wonderful opportunities; I move challenge will test your resources. forward with enthusiasm, strength You’ll be eager to get fitter, stronger and confidence!

LOVE Romantic escapes or fun

getaways will refresh the energy in your relationship, create space for you to connect mentally and emotionally with your mate and make beautiful memories. Sin les: A fun flirtation or holiday nce could turn into thing more serious. ME It will take patience and money to fix occasional household breakages or tackle bigger domestic repairs; be prepared for some inconvenience but you’ll be pleased with the improvements. There may be a disruptive home situation or changes to your home routine to take in your stride too. FAMILY Relations with a distant relative will grow significantly. You’ll make an effort to see or connect with each other more frequently and you’ll also share more and confide in each other. An old family grievance could resurface later in the year though. You’ll have to handle it differently this time around if you want to move forward. CAREER You’ll throw yourself into a job that involves travel; alternatively, working harder to expand your career prospects will bring some exciting challenges. There may be a change of boss, duties or a changing job situation to adjust to – positive PR will be the best way forward. This is a year to keep your wits about you, it is rich with potential. MONEY An unusual financial undertaking or negotiating a contract will be a learning experience. You’ll discover options you didn’t know you had. HEALTH Your approach to health, diet or fitness goals this year may be patchy – sometimes you’ll be motivated, at other times you could lose momentum; consistency won’t be JAN. 1 easy but it will make a huge difference. It FEB. 29, MA . 10, MAY 3, will also be important SEP. 3. to build muscle strength.

Moderate exercise will have ongoing beneﬁts.

LUCK/HAPPINESS

Travelling to a place you’ve wanted to return to will light up 2020; alternatively, a sentimental journey to see someone you go back with a long way will be an emotional highlight. A closer, deeper connection in a long-distance relationship will blossom. A move or exploring intriguing places will widen your horizons; alternatively, an unusual endeavour will take you into a different world and bring a feast of fun learning experiences.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR A frustrating domestic or

family situation in the latter half of the year may be challenging but clear objective thinking will lead you through. A simmering difference with another may ﬁre up at times; there’ll be something you need to let go of so you can move on. Increasing responsibilities and demanding everyday conditions may stretch your resources; you’re an enduring person and will shine through! CHALLENGE Keep an open mind; it’s time to break through a personal barrier that’s held you back. MANTRA I am ready to learn and grow; new possibilities and experiences add wonderful dimensions to m life!

A PR

. 21

NEW DESTINY

WHAT DOES THE YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU? LOVE Reﬂective, introspective

periods when you ponder life, love and what’s really meaningful for you will give a more serious tone to this year and your relationship. Heart-to-hearts with your partner will raise tender unspoken questions and connect you more deeply emotionally. Major financial plans and issues to work out together will also be a growing focus. Singles: A passionate attract may have a few challenges; intensity of emotion could ca over-reactions on both sides. Kissing and making up may a lot of fun but learning about each other and growing together will be the keys to a lasting relationship. HOME Adding new technologies to your home will be an education; get set to explore intriguing new gadgetry. There’ll be a domestic arrangement you need to clarify or change; taking it one step at a time will smooth the way. A timely discovery will point the way with special plans for the future. FAMILY A new perspective on a past situation with a relative will explain so much; you’ll see where you need to change your approach and move forward. A closer involvement with an in-law will be an opportunity to build points of accord. Relations and complex plans with a distant relative may be hard work but they’ll get easier as they go along. CAREER A colleague or friend will be an inspiring role model; their influence will encourage you to take on unusual challenges and go the extra mile. Your actions will be an inspiration for others! Prepare for changeable hours; all you can do is go with the flow. MONEY A financial undertaking with someone close will have complex elements; there’ll be challenging questions to ask, unspoken issues to address and practical arrangements to sort out. Alternatively, a business partnership will hold lucrative potential. HEALTH You’ll spend more on

2–

For all things astrological, visit my website – karenmoregold.com LOVE A grand project with your

partner will be a lot of work but you’ll come from the heart every step of the way; alternatively, you will support your mate and their endeavours to a whole new level. Family issues and domestic mitments will be a strong ding influence. gles: This is a fortuitous r for finding your special son; a passionate energy fun and unusual points of on interest will launch a ful involvement – it will feel meant to be. O E Allocating funds for home improvements will take discipline but making your hopes and plans ong-term ene ts w serve you. a reality will be a joy. Sharing the New ideas and information will load with your partner and family challenge old habits; you’ll realise members will make things easier you need to change some of your than expected. FAMILY You’ll be much needed ways. You may also find the answer this year – being there for loved to a lingering question. LUCK/HAPPINESS A financial ones, helping them when they need score will bring a major change in comfort and counselling, soothing your circumstances. A special tensions, bridging differences and purchase will be meaningful, even cultivating connections between symbolic. Fun activities will bring relatives will absorb a huge amount friendly new people into your life; of your energies, emotionally and instant bonds physically. A special family event will form. may be expensive; it could be WHAT TO FEB. 25, all-consuming as well. WATCH OUT FEB. 29, MAR. 1, CAREER A surprise career FOR Accepting MAY 3, JUL. 10 opportunity could come through someone for who they an associate who thinks highly of are or coming to terms you. Challenging situations on the with an experience that’s been job will highlight your people skills challenging will lead the way and enable you to turn uneasy forward; it’s time to adjust your relations around. When the approach accordingly. Soulpressure is on, take the initiative, searching periods could bring a show your self-motivation and deep inner shift that redefines your enterprise, and go for it. These priorities in life. A friendship may times will be invitations to advance have strained patches; allowing it through the professional ranks. MONEY Making a change to to shift gear will ease periods when your financial set-up will be a big you feel out of step. CHALLENGE Avoid overstep this year but it’ll place you in stretching financially; you may not a better situation; you’ll manage be able to afford everything you your money differently from this want at once but a time-line could point. There may be times when achieve wonders. you give too generously to your MANTRA I love to look on the family or other loved ones though bright side; every day, in every and then have to tighten your belt. HEALTH You’ll learn a lot about way, life is getting better and better!

health, diet or ﬁtness matters from other people. LUCK/HAPPINESS A fortuitous encounter or introduction will set up a valuable new personal or professional association. Also, the adage ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ will ring true for you this year. When you need advice or assistance, you’ll be guided by someone who’s in the know or in a position to help you. A relationship that’s full of joy will be an emotional gift. Good fortune for someone LUCKIEST dear will be your DAYS: FEB. 25, happiness too.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR There’ll be

FEB. 29, MAR. 1, MAY 3, JUL. 10

a huge focus on relationships this year; your involvement and commitments with others could escalate dramatically. ‘Deep and meaningful’ exchanges with others will show you different points of view; there’ll be much to learn and understand. Changing desires will prompt you to question what you really want in life; emerging new priorities could attract you to a different path. CHALLENGE A rocky relationship could come to a crossroads. MANTRA I love life, I choose happiness and I ﬁnd joy and meaning in every day!

. JUN

2 2 – J UL . 2 3

OVE, LUCK & HAPPI LOVE You’ll ‘get real’ with

love this year by building on values and priorities you shar with your partner, addressin issues and dealing with differences in an open-minde practical way. Handled positively, all of this will mak your relationship deeper and stronger. There may also be change for your mate or a family member that influence your relationship or time you spend together. Singles: Defining what you really want in a relationship influence your choice of a new partner. Someone you currently work with and with whom you share a sense of purpose may hold an irresistible appeal. HOME A domestic project could turn into a huge undertaking! Big decisions and responsibilities will rest with you; bringing it all together will test your organising skills and attention to details will smooth the way. On a different tack, everyday domestic tasks will keep growing; some will prove more complicated and take longer than expected. DIY efforts will bring valuable learning experiences. FAMILY Increasing family commitments will ask you to show your love in actions. Awkward issues with a relative will tax your patience and understanding, and trying a new approach to an old problem with a family member will be insightful. CAREER 2020 is a year to put your best foot forward! Opportunities to tackle exciting challenges, climb the professional ladder and earn more will tempt you to take on more. Changes on the job could also put more onto your shoulders; alternatively, a second job may amp up the pressure. MONEY You’ll work harder for your money but your income should increase; a raise, bonuses, overtime, better paying job or extra strand of earnings will make 2020 a profitable year. Be clear about your money goals and practices; overlooking hidden costs or postponing matters you need to

. 2 4 – A U G.

sort out will set you back. HEALTH There’ll be a strong health focus this year; you’ll pour energy into and spend extra on a special diet, ﬁtness program or health pursuit, and support those around you with their health efforts. You could investigate new products for your skin and hair too. Learning more about the genetics of your family or old family remedies could be informative. LUCK/HAPPINESS Special professional achievements will do you proud! Acknowledgements from a colleague you admire will sweeten your success. Labours of love will return warm emotional rewards; helping someone dear in a way that only you can will be meaningful. Getaways will bring fun adventures.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR Challenging job situations or

uneasy relations with some colleagues will require you to step lightly. Knowing when to take charge or when to co-operate will be advantageous. A relationship that goes way back will shift into a new phase; handle this gently or you could grow apart. Avoid wishful thinking ﬁnancially; positive practicality will prevent you from going out on a limb with debt or ignoring issues needing attention. CHALLENGE Resetting boundaries in a changing relationship will be a delicate task. MANTRA The universe is on my side; it shows me the best way forward!

LOVE Building special

actor may ay feature chiropractor feature.

JAN. 8, Also, investigating a plans around your children, AUG. 25, SEP. 7, long-standing personal sharing a fun new interest, NOV. 2, NOV. practice or old problem will date nights and holidays, 11 plus encouraging each other be educational.

to fulﬁl your hopes and dreams, will blend meaningful issues of rt, togetherness, personal and joy in your nship. s A relationship with a partner will be a loving your life; the timing and c rcumstances, a shared vision and goals will hold the promise of ‘happy every after’. HOME You’ll pour love into making your home a warm and inviting place to be; relatives and friends will gather there, a fun or favourite person in particular could be a frequent visitor. You’ll enjoy adding decorative touches to create the ambience you desire.

LUCK/HAPPINESS There’ll

be more love in your life on different levels – someone new to love, loving moments and experiences with those nearest and dearest, and pouring your heart and soul into a project or cause you feel passionately about. Fun getaways and activities will refresh the spirit, you’ll also meet fun new people along the way. A creative or personal endeavour that fosters a skill you’re keen to develop will inspire you; the further you get into it, the higher you’ll aim.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR You’ll be more emotional this

year; sensitive issues will come to the fore. Your sense of duty could

“A SHARED VISION AND GOALS WILL HOLD THE PROMISE OF HAPPY EVER AFTER” FAMILY The blessing of a baby

or opportunity for a child will be a shared joy; alternatively, repairing your relationship with a child or adding a new dimension that expands your communication will take work and consistency but it’ll truly come from the heart. CAREER Fair rewards for your labours is a planetary theme this year and you’ll work harder with very special purposes in mind. You will fulfil a senior colleague’s faith in you, strengthen your professional standing, demonstrate your creativity or resourcefulness, embrace challenging learn-as-yougo tasks and adapt to the flow of change on the job with a practical, progressive flexibility. MONEY There’ll be times when you push hard to make the dollars stretch further and frustrating extra expenses and splurges could create patches of financial stress. Fun outings, spoiling loved ones, special treats and emotional purchases could also go through funds fast. HEALTH It’s time to look after your teeth and your back; visits to the dentist and

cloud the boundaries of a labour of love and push you to over-commit; avoid promising more than you handle. CHALLENGE How much will you do for love? Is there a love of someone, a goal or an interest you feel strongly about? Deﬁning this line will be an emotional challenge. MANTRA I focus on the joy in life and make the most of everyday!

G AU

. 24 – SEP. 23

NESS FOR 2020 LOVE The practical side of love

EP.

might occasionally detract from th romance but it’ll be consolidating; your mate and you will work together and help each other. You may not always share the same priorities or agree on the best way forward b your ability to see your partner’s side and communicate effectively build bridges of understanding. Singles: Love the secon around, or a slow-burning romance that gradually gathers momentum, will feel to your heart like you’re coming home; there’ll be a solid, secure base to build on. HOME Buying, selling, HEALTH Fluid retention may be renovating, a move or changing an issue to watch but there are flatmates will establish a new home plant-based solutions here, there situation; you’ll research big ideas, and everywhere! Choose your stretch the budget for expensive shoes carefully to avoid any domestic items that add to your problems with your feet; reflexology home comforts and invest may offer unusual ideas and a foot emotionally and generously to massage may be a big help. LUCK/HAPPINESS An interest create the home style or set up you that you’re committing more and desire. Visitors will beat a path to more time to will be a fascinating your door; a much loved guest voyage of discovery. Meeting could become an honorary member kindred spirits will be a joy; they’ll of the family; conversely, you could feel the same way about issues go somewhere so frequently, or a pursuit you really care this place will become a 8, about and there’ll also be home away from home. FEB. FAMILY You’ll make a FEB. 17, MAY 23, much you can learn from huge effort with family life them. A special family JUN. 20, JUL. this year and pour an event will light up this 30 abundance of energy, love year; something and money into supporting a family you’ve been hoping and waiting for member through a big change and/ could eventuate. WHAT TO WATCH OUT or welcoming a new family member FOR Family relationships will have into the circle. A relative will travel challenging patches. A relative or to see you or vice versa, and there’ll in-law may not be easy to get along be much greater involvement with a with, there’ll be family differences distant relative. CAREER An idealistic vision will to mediate and changing relations colour your goals for the future; with a relative or in-law will call for underpinning this with solid a new approach. Casual job foundations will require motivated, conditions and changeable hours sustained efforts. You’ll need to feel will require and give you much your way with unusual tasks and desired flexibility; it may be learning experiences; they’ll open challenging but it will work both your eyes to new possibilities. ways. Drawing on a skill that’s MONEY Your home or a property become a little rusty will remind you investment may be a financial of its value; it’s time to re-hone it. CHALLENGE Reconciling sink-hole but this asset will grow in conflicts of interest with someone value and in the long-term could close will stretch your prove a goldmine. Setting up communication skills to the limit. superannuation or a savings plan MANTRA I live by my inner light; for the future will also have I choose to be the best I can be! far-reaching benefits.

LOVE Meaningful communication

will be the key to nurturing and expanding your relationship but you will need to cultivate it; it’s your nature to be open and thcoming, but if you want eater mutual understanding, u’ll need to lead the way. mantic interludes will fan the ssion; an interest or cause you th ﬁnd engrossing will be a rning experience, and learning each other in situations where ’re at your best will increase the respect and trust for each other in your relationship. Singles: Separating fantasy from reality in your thoughts and expectations will help you to recognise and choose a partner

NEW DESTINY

with a sport; pushing too hard though could cause muscle strain or injury. Tension could spark muscle spasms, headaches or rashes; relaxing practices like spa treatments, massage, yoga and/or meditation will soothe the mind, body and spirit.

LUCK/HAPPINESS

A ground-breaking personal or career enterprise will be an engrossing challenge; applying all that you’ve learned in the past while learning all that you can as you go will be the recipe for success. Reconnecting with a place that has special links to

“THERE’LL BE MORE TO A FAMILY RESPONSIBILITY OR DOMESTIC UNDERTAKING THAN MEETS THE EYE” with whom you can genuinely share a lasting relationship and life. Someone who cares will be waiting in the wings. HOME It will take patience and persistence to achieve a long-term domestic goal but defining the different aspects of it will enable you to take it one step at a time. Stay flexible and open to innovative possibilities and you’ll be even happier with the final outcome! FAMILY A warmer emotional closeness will develop with a relative who’s a little too far away. CAREER A positive pitch career-wise will serve you: what you say and who you say it to will have a dynamic ripple effect. Enthusiasm will be contagious, ideas that blend practicality and enterprise will make an impressiv statement, and a willingness to learn new ways and come throu shining when the pressure is on will speak volumes for you. MONEY New money-making ideas and possibilities will unfold doing your homework will help you make advantageous decisio Organising a complex financial project or deals will take patient negotiating skills. HEALTH You’ll throw yourself into achieving a physical goal or improving your performance

the past will be a nostalgic treat. Developing a new skill will offer promising prospects for the future.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR There’ll be more to a family

responsibility or domestic undertaking than meets the eye. It’ll be a longer, tougher haul than you thought. You may clock up the kilometres this year, so pace yourself carefully. CHALLENGE A changing view of life will reset your inner compass. MANTRA I celebrate life! There are wonderful possibilities around every corner.

T. 24 – NOV.

OVE, LUCK & HAPPI LOVE Playfulness, romantic

adventures and fun, spontaneous loving will add a new zest to your relationship and create happy emotional togetherness. A spark that hasn’t been there for a while could reignite. Singles: A fun, common interest will be an absorbing point of connection with a charming new person; stimulating communication and shared JA . , enthusiasm will fan the ﬁres of JAN. 25, JUL. 22, NOV. 25, attraction. DEC. 8 HOME Your home will be your escape. You may have a special domestic or family aspiration – a situation you haven’t quite attained yet; you’ll edge closer to it this year. FAMILY Fun occasions when you hang out with your family and share easy relaxing times will build subtle, deeper connections. Something you both believe in will be a strong bonding inﬂuence with a family member. Reuniting intermittently with some relatives or in-laws will be a joy but also the time apart will give you space to

2 3 – DE

explore a new exercise or diet regimen with enthusiasm, you may also investigate New Age practices, take on board what resonates with you and let the rest go. Practices that help you unwind and sleep better could be helpful. LUCK/HAPPINESS Special new possessions will add to your happiness; a prize new possession will be a personal trophy! You’ll become more involved with a favourite pursuit, hobby, sport or creative endeavour you love; fun new contacts who speak the same

“REALITY CHECKS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WILL KEEP YOU GROUNDED AND CLEAR-HEADED” process any changes in your relationships or deal with issues that require greater understanding. CAREER There’ll be an unusual or unexpected career opening this year; unusual conditions will mean doing things differently, unusual challenges will push you to explore your talents and try yourself out in new roles or situations. MONEY A powerful ﬁnancial accent dominates this year; there could be a bold new venture, exciting opportunities, also complex paperwork and issues to work through and important unﬁnished business to settle. Prepare for some far-reaching decisions; large sums of money may be involved. HEALTH You’ll embrace the idea of a healthier you in 2020 and

language will fan your enthusiasm even more. An unusual place will grow on you.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR Keep a clear ﬁnancial

overview; when you know where you stand, you can manage your money astutely. Going back to a place you have an emotional connection to will be a walk down memory lane, yet in subtle thoughtprovoking ways, it’ll be different this time around. Reality checks throughout the year will keep you grounded and clear-headed. CHALLENGE Avoid overreaching ﬁnancially, hasty decisions may also prove expensive. MANTRA More and more love and joy enrich my life; how lucky I am!

LOVE 2020 will bring a turning

they first appear; attention to details will be enlightening. HEALTH You’ll feel uplifted in spirit this year, which will encourage you to do more health-wise and take better care of yourself. You may even change your lifestyle in a way that you’ve been planning but postponing for a long time. LUCK/HAPPINESS Good fortune financially will place you in a different situation; you’ll have exciting new possibilities to consider. Fun holidays will be exhilarating; visiting a place that you have ancestral or current emotional ties to will fulfil a special dream. You’ll be in the right place at the right time for providential meetings and unique opportunities; good things and happy times will flow on from this.

point in your life and relationship: together you’ll set your course for exciting future goals, you’ll also grow individually as you pursue your own personal ambitions. Being strong for each other will be important for the emotional quality of your union. Singles: There’ll be something unusual or serendipitous about a new attraction; this person or romance may be very different from anything in the past, love could blossom at a most unexpected time or place, there’ll also be a lot of fun and spontaneity. HOME Your home-life will have extra busy patches this year; you’ll throw yourself into DIY projects to save money and tackle work you’re keen to have done. Some appliances may need replacing. Visitors could frequently descend WHAT TO WATCH OUT upon you and boost the lively FOR This is your year for atmosphere even more. FAMILY Vigorous bouts of family changing what isn’t working in your involvement will push the pace. A life and setting a course to do, have special family reunion will be a joy or achieve things you really want; and emotional. Family politics could the reins will be in your hands! become quite touchy; you’ll need to When you’re serious, you can be think twice before you speak and to especially so! In the first three whom, or you could put your foot in months of this year, a clear personal it. There’ll also be prickles of focus will be a guiding light. discord between family Practical new possessions members to soothe, family may become special 1, N. JA activities that require favourites in your home. , 24 B. FE 5, N. JA CHALLENGE You are energetic input and special , 29 B. FE changing; it’s time to make family projects that cost 3 AY M some important choices. a petty penny. CAREER Your star will MANTRA I tune into the shine brightly this year with signals of the universe; they guide job conditions or tasks that me to my highest good! highlight what you do best and fortuitous developments that offer exciting opportunities. Jupiter in Capricorn will bring lucky breaks; Saturn in Capricorn means working harder but fruitful, well-earned results and success will reward your efforts. MONEY A windfall will give you more money to pl with; plan carefully to mak most of this greater financi freedom. Property investm changes or improvements and spending on practical items that make life more comfortable will require careful budgeting. Legal papers or financial documents may be more complex than

NESS FOR 2020 LOVE You’ll look more deeply into

. 2 1 – FE B.

life and your relationship this year, questioning, planning, resolving issues of the past and looking forward to good times ahead. Cosy times with your partner will promote a warm togetherness and searching exchanges will spar thoughtful observations, refle and flashes of insight; you’ll understand something that yo haven’t before. SINGLES An old flame or slow-growing attraction could ignite; you know this person well but they may still surprise you. HOME Domestic improvements may be expensive but they’ll add to the value of your home or quality of sitting, and to take extra care of your home-life. Special household your knees and ankles especially acquisitions will also make home a when playing sport. Flexibility more comfortable and enjoyable exercises will also serve you well, place to be. Conversely, a change of otherwise you may feel a home or your home situation little stiff. will set up a new chapter. FAMILY Special family JAN. 25, LUCK/HAPPINESS tasks or expanding family FEB. 5, MAR. 15, There’ll be satisfaction in every step forward duties will ask a lot of MAY 23, towards a major financial or you, a relative could JUN. 10 property goal; strong follow need extra emotional and through will pay rewarding practical support. Complex family dividends. Travelling to a place issues may be taxing but taking you’ve always wanted to go will be a calm positive approach could an emotional treat. Reunions here, work wonders! CAREER You have a clear goal in there and everywhere will bring mind and you’re working towards it special people back into your life. WHAT TO WATCH OUT with discipline and staying power; keep sight of the big picture though, FOR A lesson you learned long ago will resonate strongly; its it will help you to make positive message will help you handle a far-reaching decisions when complex issue effectively. Unfinished intriguing possibilities tempt you to business will move slowly; you can’t detour, or other ways to achieve rush through it, progress will take your objectives emerge. MONEY Planning ahead and time and patience. An emotional allocating funds for specific sticking point, something that’s been purposes will call for a tighter grip difficult to get over, will be an on the purse strings and stringent exercise in forgiveness.

“AN OLD FLAME OR SLOW-GROWING ATTRACTION COULD IGNITE” budget management but achieving important goals, one after the other, will be exhilarating. A ﬁnancial boost that’s been a long time coming, or a transaction or undertaking that’s been in the pipeline for ages, could eventuate. HEALTH This is a year to watch your posture, even when you’re

CHALLENGE An old frustration

or insecurity resurfacing will be an opportunity to tackle it head on; being open and honest with yourself will set you free. MANTRA I learn from the past, look forward to a bright future and celebrate the present; thank you for every special moment.

LOVE You’ll share a feast of

NEW ESTINY

could beneﬁt from a fresh new approach or taking positive action with a matter you’ve been ignoring will give greater wellbeing. Also, emotions can drain your energies; the calmer you 27, are the more energy and 20, MAR. resilience you’ll have.

fun times with your partner this year – a special trip, fun outings and activities that leave you both laughing or smiling, and a warm happy closeness. A new level of friendship will emerge; thoughtful FEB. LUCK/HAPPINESS exchanges, supporting each 17, NOV. 14, A special wish will other and spending more DEC. 12 manifest – a fun trip time together will re-enforce will take you to a place that’s the emotional bonds between been on your bucket list for a while you. Befriending people you or something you’ve wanted for meet through your mate and a long time will eventuate. You’ll vice versa will add fresh dimensions gain a wealth of helpful contacts; to your social life. SINGLES An introduction from a new friendships will also grow. friend or relative may set up a new An old friendship will revitalise; romance, a holiday romance could you’ll be even closer than you take off or a fun activity that you were in the past. WHAT TO WATCH both enjoy will be the starting point OUT FOR for a new involvement. HOME A landscaping project A commitment that may be a slower process and much comes from the heart bigger task than you thought but will also require a huge determination and perseverance practical effort. There’ll be will win out. Repairs to your home, extra expenses but also replacing domestic items that have times when you overspend; seen better days, practical don’t let money slip through your purchases that make life easier and ﬁngers. The pull of the past will be experimenting with innovative new strong; keep your focus on the technology will all add to your present or you’ll miss the home comforts. meaningful joys and moments in FAMILY A relative or in-law will the everydayness. CHALLENGE Avoid worrying become more of a friend; you’ll seek out their company, counsel and ahead; answers to big questions will come when the time is right. support and they will seek out MANTRA Thank you for yours. A changing family situation this day and my wonderful or relationship will ask more of you blessings; I am grateful for all but it’ll be an opportunity to of life’s gifts. develop a new level of understanding between you. CAREER A stroke of good fortune will make you the right person in B . 2 0 – MA R the right place for an excitin opportunity; a supportive a will be worth their weight i gold and a friendship with a work colleague will shift your relationship onto a more personal level. MONEY Lucky deals will serve you this year; helpful contacts will guide you with big purchases, and a ﬁnanc gift or generous gestures fr another will make life easie Conversely, there could be extra large outlays on travel, costly items you dearly want, fun outings and happy times. HEALTH An old health condition

NENE KING

I’ve been speaking to women online and one of them has fallen for me. Now, I have never considered myself good-looking so I ﬁnd it uneasy when this woman says so. For years, I have had women saying they like me, only to ﬁnd out they’re pretending to impress their friends. I am troubled whether these women are sincere or once again simply pretending. ADAM, VIA EMAIL.

You need to have faith in your instincts. You may have had bad experiences in the past, but you should be pleased that one woman has fallen for you. It’s ﬂattering that she says you are good-looking. Why would she pretend to compliment you just to impress her friends? Give this woman a chance. In time, you may agree to meet. Face-to-face always helps reservations. Be cautious with your contacts but enjoy talking to interesting women and don’t judge them on past disappointments.

I’ve been with my partner for only three months and he wants to move in! Is our relationship moving too quickly? It concerns me that he’s already thinking of our future when we’re still only getting to know each other. Maybe I have commitment issues I’m not facing. I do like him a lot though, I just need time to sort out what I want. Do you think he’ll understand how I feel? ROCHELLE, VIA EMAIL. You take all the time you need to be certain that the relationship is right. Three months is not a long time. It’s encouraging that he wants to move in, but there is no hurry. He may be thinking of the future, but it sounds like you’re not ready. This doesn’t mean you have commitment issues, it simply means you don’t want to rush into something that would be such an important part of your life. Hopefully he will understand and accept how you feel, otherwise you might begin to question if he’s right for you. It’s important you and your partner are on the same wavelength. Whether it be relationship, work, family or just personal troubles, Nene King can tackle any question given to her. Send your life questions to nene@newidea.com.au.

YOUR SAY SEND US YOUR BEST STORIES AND PICTURES

My darling husband is a delicate soul. While being tall, slim and physically strong, he is often beset by sprains, strains, mysterious illnesses and man flu. Recently, while walking through the kitchen, he fell over and cried out in pain. “What’s wrong?” I asked. He responded feebly, “I think I’ve just torn my calf muscle on a piece of asparagus!” VERONICA HOPKINS, HAMPTON EAST, VIC.

This is 4-year-old Sophie, my young granddaughter. She looks so happy as her mum had taken her to Perth for a Wiggles concert. ANNE ROEHNER, BUSSELTON, WA.

One night, we were channelflicking in the lounge room and Seinfeld came on. The character of George (played by Jason Alexander) was on a date with a young woman. My 6-year-old son turned to me and said, “Why, on TV, is a badlooking man always with a good-looking lady?” I thought that was very observant of him! CARLA CARUSO, HAWTHORN, SA.

Your recent story on Judy Nunn and he r husband, Bruce, (N I Nov. 11) was amazingly similar to my husb and, Frank, and myself. We met at a party bein g both invited by a m utual friend. Frank was from WA, separated and raising two teenag e children. I was also separated. Frank proposed on Valent ine’s Day 1988, sending flowers with the following poem: “Violets are blue/ BEST OF And roses THE WEEK are red/ I love you/ Can we be wed?” We married on New Year ’s Eve 1988 and, after 31 years, we are still as happy as ever. Frank is now my full-time carer and never complains. I love him so much. He is my rock. BEVERLEIGH TAYLOR , COFFS HARBOUR, NSW.

WINS $100

, 5, l r u t f r h

Send us a funny story about your children and mere males, a letter about an interesting piece you’ve read in our mag or a pic of your child/pet. The best entry of the week wins $100. Post your original letters and photos (sorry, photos cannot be returned) to Children’s World/Mere Male/Letters/Pets, New Idea, GPO Box 7814, Sydney NSW 2001 or email childrensworld@newidea. com.au, meremale@newidea.com.au, letters@newidea.com.au or pets@newidea.com.au with your full name and home address.

THE

FILES

KARINA MACHADO

Karina Machado is a journalist, host of the Spirit Sisters podcast and the author of Spirit Sisters, Where Spirits Dwell and Love Never Dies, a non-ﬁction series exploring the extraordinary experiences of ordinary people. Now, on The Ghost Files podcast each week, Karina will introduce a guest who’ll share their personal encounter with the spirit world.

TRAVELS IN TIME

PET OF THE WEEK

Cedrick loves the afternoon sunshine. He’s very photogenic and loves to have his picture taken. SUE LUCAS, COLAC, VIC.

here is a novel I treasure called A Traveller in Time, by Alison Uttley. First published in 1939, it tells the story of a little girl called Penelope, who goes to stay at her aunt’s ancient farmhouse in the English countryside, where she ﬁnds herself mysteriously plunged into Elizabethan times. Interestingly, the novel is based on the author’s own experiences at a farmhouse she visited as a child, a place where, “I sat on the stone walls in the sunshine of other times,” as she writes in the foreword. These events are known as ‘time slips’, and I’ve been fascinated by them since I read about two friends who visited the Palace of Versailles in 1901, and somehow stumbled upon a scene from the past, Marie Antoinette and all. Have you heard about the Roman soldiers of York? In one of my favourite spooky tales, Harry Martindale, 18, was installing heating in the historic Treasurer’s House in 1953, when a trumpet blared. In strode a Roman soldier astride his horse, trailed by

around 20 exhausted foot soldiers, all visible only from the knees up. (It later emerged that they were following an underground Roman road). Harry fell off his ladder in shock as the troops ﬁled by. “Not one of the soldiers looked in my direction,” Harry recounted in an interview not long before his death in 2014, having never wavered from his astounding account of the moment he peered through a tear in the veil of time. Once asked if he believed in ghosts, Harry, who’s not the only one to have seen the soldiers, shrugged and said, “I only believe in what I saw.” As we farewell another year, these stories give us much to ponder. Have you ever had a time slip? I’d love to hear about it.

DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO SHARE ON THE GHOST FILES PODCAST? WE’D LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT IT. EMAIL KARINAMACHADO@OPTUSNET.COM.AU WITH A SUMMARY OF YOUR EXPERIENCE AND YOUR CONTACT DETAILS. 85

THE

THE AWARD-W WINNING SHOWBIZ COUPLE ON LOVE, MA ARRIAGE AND A LIFE FILLED GHTER WITH LAUG

Mike and Fiona starred together in the comedy festival play, Plus One.

Above: The couple met king on the while work play, Six Degrees D of Separation. Below: They married in 2003.

Left: Mike, Fiona, Finn and baby Abbie in 2008. Below: Fiona in SkitHouse.

S I R R A H A N O I F AND MIKE MCLEISH

Family fun! Fiona and Mike with daughters Finn (left) and Abbie.

WHA AT’S THE ONE THING G YOU ALW WAYS DISA GREE N? ON

Mike: How to hang up socks. I do it right and Fiona does it wrong! Fiona: It’s what actually constitutes d cleaning-up after you’ve a good cooked d.

FIONA AND MIKE

ife, it seems, truly can imitate art. Just ask husband and wife duo Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish, who met two decades ago when they found themselves playing romantic partners in the play Six Degrees of Separation. “But we didn’t have to kiss in the show,” says Mike, adding with a laugh: “And I was very annoyed by that!” Lack of public displays of affection aside, the pair – now creators and stars of the hit web series The Drop Off – quickly formed a close connection on stage and off. “Obviously, all of our scenes were together, so we got to know each other really well,” says Fiona, known for her roles in everything from hit TV drama Offspring to sketch comedy shows Comedy Inc.: The Late Shift and SkitHouse. “But we were each with other people at the time, so we just became very good friends.” Over the next 18 months, the acting gods continued to send a strong message to Fiona and Mike. “We kept getting cast as boyfriend and girlfriend in various shows, so eventually we took the hint and thought ‘OK. Someone is trying to tell us something!’,” says Fiona. Did the romance quickly become a serious one? “Yes. I think, because we had been friends for so long, we knew each other really well,” replies Fiona. “So when we did finally get together, we knew we were ‘the one’ for each other. It didn’t take long before we were living together, and we were engaged soon after that. Once you know, you just know.” Asked how the marriage proposal took place, Mike – who famously played Paul Keating in Keating! The Musical – reveals it was “in a very shaky manner!”. “It was pretty stockstandard,” he says. “I didn’t

do anything outlandishly over the moon. I took Fiona for as fancy a dinner as I could afford, and then we went for a walk along the St Kilda foreshore and I proposed to her on a ridge overlooking the ocean.” On February 1, 2003, the couple married in Melbourne’s beautiful Rippon Lea Gardens. “We had about 120 guests,” says Fiona. To which Mike deadpans: “And I had about four friends there!” Adds Mike: “Because we both work in showbiz, I think we production-managed the day to within an inch of its life – it was pretty well planned and it all came off really well. It was just one of those incredibly special days when you’re surrounded by everyone who is special to you.” Fiona and Mike, both now in their mid-40s, are parents to daughters Finn, 15, and Abbie, 11, with Bonnie the spoodle completing the family. Meanwhile, the quick-witted duo, who run Kiss & Go Productions, have “absolutely loved” working together on the hilarious and relatable schoolyard-from-a-parents’perspective web series, The Drop Off. The production also features musical theatre and The Wrong Girl star Christie Whelan Browne, along with Pia Miranda and Scott Edgar. “We’ve just finished writing a novel called The Drop Off that’s an adaptation of the series,” says Fiona. Life, it seems, is fuller than ever for the creative pair. “It’s very special that we get to work together,” says Fiona. “Obviously, the people who kept casting us as boyfriend and girlfriend all those years ago saw something that we didn’t. And then we very quickly did!” By Jackie Brygel • The Drop Off can be viewed at facebook.com/thedropoffshow and will be screened as a telemovie on Nine Network.

WHAT’S Fiona: Mike’s a brilliant YOUR cook, and I’m very PARTNER’S grateful for that, as I SECRET don’t love cooking as DOMESTIC much as I love SKILL? cleaning. Mike: The fact that you can hear Fiona from any part of the house. She has remarkable domestic communication skills!

WHICH REALITY TV SHOW WOULD YOUR PARTNER BE SURE TO WIN? Fiona: I could see Mike winning MasterChef.

H C T A W STAR J.Lo is hoping for award glory for her film Hustlers.

Mariah is trying everything to ruin J.Lo’s chances.

J.LO AND MARIAH’S

CATFIGHT EXPLODES Superstar singers Jennifer Lopez and Mariah Carey have reportedly had bad blood for years, but recently their feud has heated up. J.Lo is campaigning for gong glory this awards season for her role in Hustlers, but Mariah Carey and fellow singer,

BUZZ CUT THESE CELEBS DITCHED THEIR LOCKS FOR A NEW LOOK EVANGELINE LILLY

The actress took to Instagram to chop off her luscious brunette locks, however it’s not yet known if it was for a movie role or not. 88

Nicki Minaj are trying to ruin her chances. “Their beef goes way back and Jen’s old rivalries could come back to haunt her if she doesn’t start kissing up and building bridges with them somehow,” an insider reveals.

“Nicki and Mariah are both jealous of J.Lo and they believe she stopped them from getting roles in Hustlers. As a result, both have teamed up and they’re doing all they can to wreck J.Lo’s Oscar bid at every turn. “They’re putting the word out

PINK

that J.Lo’s overrated as an actress, has ‘blah’ appeal. “J.Lo’s friends are urging her to forget her pride and make a peace offering fast, because powerful women hating on each other makes everybody look bad.”

She is known for her edgy haircuts often featuring shaved sides, but the singer recently said goodbye to it all. “Letting Go,” she captioned the snap of her shaved ’do on Instagram.

HEARTACHE OVER SON

inger Michael Bublé has opened up about how he wa tol his career could be over if he took time off to look aft his son, after Noah, 6, was diagnosed with liver cance three years ago. hile the dad didn’t hesitate to put hi areer on hold, not ev ryone agreed with him. “ he I ent away and went through our family stuff wit ur son, I never knew if I was coming back,” h told The Sun. Then I had different promoter lling me, ‘Listen Mike. This might be over fo you. People forget quick. They do. You ste way and they move on to the next thing.’ ichael took a two-year break fro t e stage, returning in July 2018, aft oa had been cancer-free for 15 onths. ichae an his i , Luisan i , lso share son Elias and dau hter, id .

Michael Bublé took time off to care for his sick son, Noah.

CATE BLANCHETT

Aussie actress Cate ditched her hair for her role in the film Heaven but she’s admitted that she occasionally shaves her head in regular life too.

EASY TO USE

STARW Renowned drama queen Sir Elton John had a bit of a diva moment when he threw his handbag off his private jet upon arrival at Sydney Airport in December.

In 2005 the world thought Tom Cruise had lost the plot when he jumped on Oprah’s couch and later had a heated interview with Matt Lauer.

In 2011 Charlie Sheen had the oddest meltdown when he gave a series of bizarre interviews that he later blamed on “roid rage”.

BEST

CELEB S N W O D T L E M No-one can forget Britney Spears’ raging meltdown when she shaved her head and then took to an empty car with an umbrella in 2007.

Keira Maguire was caught sobbing and hyperventilating after eating a hot chilli on I’m a Celeb.

In 2005 Russell Crowe was arrested and charged with assault for throwing a telephone at an employee of the hotel where he was staying in New York.

L Pu aye re red G in ol d

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Finish: Layered in Pure Gold | Quality: Proof | Officially Licensed | Diameter: 38.6mm Limited Time Release Due to the extremely low quantity available, only the earliest responders will successfully secure this commemorative honouring the friendly fellow.

ome ninety years ago, a happy-go-lucky little guy with big round ears made motion picture history, appearing in Walt Disney’s groundbreaking 1928 Steamboat Willie. The first animated film to feature synchronised music and sound effects, it was an instant hit, and made its hero, Mickey Mouse, a timeless star. Now in honour of 90 years of the one-and-only Mickey Mouse, The Bradford Exchange Mint presents a tribute: The Disney Mickey Mouse Proof.

Fully layered in pure 24K Gold As befitting a subject of such importance, the commemorative is fully layered with pure 24-carat gold.

Applications will be processed on a strictly first-come, first-served basis and are limited to one per Australian household. Successful applicants also qualify to view the next issue in Disney Mickey Mouse Proof Collection for only $79.99 (plus $9.99 shipping & service) sent entirely without obligation on our 14-day home approval service. Struck to a high specification, only 2,000 complete collections will ever be minted. Applicants may cancel at any time and all purchases are covered by The Bradford Exchange 14-Day Money-Back Guarantee. SEND NO MONEY NOW – yours for just $29.99 + S&S The fastest way to own this historic tribute is to order online at www.bradford.com.au/disney or call on (02) 9841 3311. Alternatively complete and post the application form below. ©2020 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617

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