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“Loving grandfather” ousted as serial rapist

A local Bondi grandfather has been ousted by police as a serial rapist - one of the worst in New South Wales. Following a long 40 years of investigations and using new technology for DNA as well as a shocking 12 crime scenes, Keith “Maggo” Simms has been identified as a serial rapist. Dubbed “The Beast of Bondi”, Simms is believed to have raped and terrorised more than 30 women in Sydney's eastern suburbs from 1986 to 2001. He died earlier this year on February 20 at the age of 66. When Simms was ready to attack a woman, he would wear a balaclava and approach them with a knife, putting a hand across their mouth and threatening to kill them. It was only in 2016, when police received a weak DNA match to a relative of Simms, that they were eventually able to tie the crimes back to him. Unfortunately for his victims, Simms died before police were able to question him and get them some form of justice. His family also had no idea and referred to him as a “loving family man”, and when his wife found out she was shocked. “His family had no idea at all … we met with his wife and she was absolutely shocked,” Detective Sergeant Shelley Johns, from Strike Force Doreen said, The Daily Telegraph reported. Sex Crimes squad boss Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty said that despite his death, it gives his victims a peace of mind knowing he’s not out there anymore. “It was important for the victim survivors and that is why we persevered. We wanted to let them know we were not just guessing it was him. It also meant we are not still looking for someone that is still out there,” she said. “So those women who are walking down the street and are still wondering: Is that him? They now know that person is deceased.” Images: The Daily Telegraph

Legal

Why this polite note asking owner to move car has divided the internet

There’s been no shortage of residents taking the administration of the parking laws into their own hands by leaving notes on other people’s cars in recent times, but we think the one featured in today’s story might just take the cake. When a driver parked his car in front of a Bondi house which blocked a million dollar-view he was stunned where on returning he received a hand-written, politely worded note. <img width="500" height="485" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7815697/note-hero_500x485.jpg" alt="Note -hero"/> Image credit: Facebook “Dear owner of the car,” it reads. “Would you kindly park your car a bit forward or backward, because you are obstructing my view. From the owner of Unit 10 D. Martin. Thank you.” Kurtis, who owns the vehicle, stated his car, “'was legally parked... on Notts Avenue.” Martin’s letter has been quite divisive on social media, with some users saying it’s a little much, while others praise the polite nature of his request. “It's very polite', says one Facebook user. “And to be fair, Martin has no doubt paid an absolute bomb for that view.” What are your thoughts? Do you think the note writer is within his rights?

Insurance

Bondi Rescue star opens up about the moment that sent him to a “dark place”

Bondi Rescue star Dean “Deano” Gladstone has saved countless lives during his 18-year career as a lifeguard on Australia’s most famous beach, but he too knows exactly what it’s like to stare into the face of death. In 2006, Deano was the target of a coward punch that left him with lasting trauma. “I was sitting at the football watching the game and someone ran up and king hit me,” he told <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/bondi-rescues-dean-gladstone-reveals-he-spiralled-into-a-dark-place-after-he-was-king-hit/news-story/b5ced9ba41a7c273dfcefa05c88305b2" target="_blank">Confidential</a>. “I had some spinal damage and the whiplash which caused problems. I had my four front teeth knocked out, it was awful.” More than the excruciating physical pain, Deano’s immune system was shattered and he also developed food allergies as a result of the assault. “That sent me into a bit of a dark place,” he confessed. “I had to claw my way back to health with lots of home cooking, goodness and vegies and meditation and yoga and being kind to myself." In addition to his lifeguard duties, Deano has since become a qualified yoga teacher, holistic health coach and has developed mindfulness and wellbeing programs with the help of a clinical psychologist. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BLZVoNihb1m/" target="_blank">A post shared by Dean Gladstone (@deanogladstone)</a> on Oct 10, 2016 at 1:31pm PDT </div> </blockquote> “I have to accept that life took me on this journey and led me on a different path that I wouldn’t have gone on and the people I’ve met since have been incredible.” As for his high-stress, fast-paced job? He wouldn’t swap it for anything. “The guys brought someone back to life on Tuesday,” he said. “If you could bottle that feeling and sell it, it would just be gold.” Image: Dean Gladstone/Instagram.

Dr Chris Brown’s Bondi Vet replacement revealed

It’s hard to imagine Bondi Vet without Dr Chris Brown, but the beloved series is about to get a big shake-up with not one, not two, but four new hosts. Dr Chris announced he was leaving the show earlier this year to focus on other TV commitments (The Living Room, The Project and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!), sparking an extensive, nationwide search – but it was never going to be easy to find someone to fill the Logie winner’s shoes. After thousands of applications and nominations, producers were so overwhelmed with the talent on offer, they couldn’t reach a decision. So, they settled on four new faces – Drs Alex Hynes, Danni Dusek, Lewis Hunt and Peter Ricci – who you can see in the gallery above. “Each of the four new Bondi Vets has a unique skill set and story to tell,” said WTFN director of content Steve Oemcke. “Their love of pets and animals shines through and there is a great chemistry between them. “Their work in front of the camera has been outstanding, and we know that fans will really get behind them as they take the show in an exciting new direction.” Despite its name and that iconic location, the new-look series (which will air next year) won’t actually be based in Bondi. Dr Alex works in Brisbane, Dr Danni works in Mentone, Victoria, Dr Lewis works in Sydney’s northern beaches and Dr Peter works at Perth Zoo. Tell us in the comments below, what do you think of the new recruits? Will you be tuning in?

Why dogs turn around in circles before lying down

Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown reveals the reason why dogs turn around in circles so much before they lie down. It seems like everyone has a pre-sleep routine. While the human version might include brushing your teeth or reading a book, the hairiest member of your family does something quite special. They spin around in circles before lying down. But have you ever wondered why? Well, it's taken until 2016 to find out. The 'bed circles' were previously thought to be an instinctive call-back to a time where dogs needed to search around their sleep spot for predators. But researchers now believe that it's got more to do with ensuring a smoother sleep. Basically, dogs are spinning as a way of making their bed more comfortable. Thousands of years of sleeping in long grass taught them that circling is the best way to make a smooth, flattened 'nest'. And while their lives have become a lot more luxurious of late, this behaviour still remains when they take a lie down in your lounge room. I guess now everyone can rest easy... Want to test the theory? Try putting a toy or ball UNDER their bed. Chances are when they climb in, they'll spin even more in an attempt to 'iron-out' the bump... For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/09/infographic-explains-cat-behaviour/">Infographic explains cat behaviour</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/09/15-pet-faces-too-cute-to-stay-mad-at/">15 pet faces too cute to stay mad at</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/08/why-you-shouldnt-kiss-your-dog/">Why you shouldn't kiss your dog</a>

Family & Pets

Why do pets stare at us while we’re in the bathroom?

Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown answers the question everyone seemingly wants answered – why do pets obsessively stare at us while we’re in the bathroom? No room fascinates felines more than your bathroom. If they get a sense you’re headed for the human litter box, they’ll beg, borrow and steal their way in. But once they make it, they just stop and stare at you; even when you’re in the shower. While some of us are captivated and confused, others are simply creeped out! Well, wait no more. Here’s your answer. Your toilet time is golden for two main reasons. The umm… ‘number one’…reason is that your bathroom break is basically the only 5 minutes where you’re not distracted by cooking, cleaning, the kids or the TV. Your cat seizes on the fact they have a captive audience because they know the chances of a pat of simply a chat are high. The… ahem… ’number two’ reason is that the experience appeals to their senses. Their inner tiger loves experiencing (and analysing) your scent on a deeper level, while the running water of your shower captivates them in the same way the trickle of water out of your kitchen tap lures them in for a drink. Do you get ‘bathroom eyes’ from your cat (or dog) when you’re in your private place? Share your stories with us in the comments below. For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/08/the-truth-about-pets-and-chocolate/">The truth about pets and chocolate</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/08/why-pets-give-you-the-side-eye/">Why pets give you the side eye</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/07/why-do-dogs-tilt-their-head/">Why do dogs tilt their head?</a>

Family & Pets

Signs something is wrong with your pet’s mental health

Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown reveals why your pet’s mental health is just as important as their medical health. While from the outside it appears they’re living the most carefree lives, looks can be deceiving. Some struggle to find fun in each day. So I thought we should have a look at some common quirks and see if they have a deeper meaning. Chasing their tail While this is often seen as a cute trait shown by exuberant and energetic pets, it may also be a sign of OCD (Obsessive compulsive disorder) Sleeping more They might be the masters of sleeping, but some pets can take it too far. If they’re not old, not unwell and showing a lack of interest in exercise then this may be a sign of depression. It’s commonly seen in pets that have either had a sudden change in their life (moved house) or lost a companion. Overgrooming It might appear like they’re taking their self-maintenance very seriously but when you’ve ruled out allergies or parasites then consider the licking of one spot may be caused by anxiety. Here’s how to help Obviously each condition requires its own kind of management. However, these tips may help. <ul> <li>Try to identify the source of that frustration. Are they lonely, confused or not feeling secure?</li> <li>Try not to go easy on them. Patting them when they’re anxious can sometimes send completely the wrong message and actually encourage the behaviour. </li> <li>Instead, keep their body and mind busy. Plenty of exercise, coupled with time occupying toys and games will help to prevent their mind from wandering.</li> </ul> For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/06/do-our-pets-dream/">Do our pets dream?</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/dr-chris-brown-secrets-to-dealing-with-allergies-to-pets/">The secret to dealing with pet allergies</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/reasons-your-dogs-health-is-as-important-as-your-own/">6 reasons your dog’s health is just as important as your own</a>

Family & Pets

Dr Chris Brown’s important health alert for pets

Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brownexplains how a common bug found in most gardens around the country could be posing a serious health risk to your pet. The recent wet weather has seen a sudden increase in a disease as serious as it is mysterious. And a tiny creature found in most backyards is to blame. Here’s how you can avoid it. While the sight of slugs and snails might disgust us, for dogs it’s a different story. Sometimes the temptation for a taste just becomes too much. And unfortunately this ‘slime-time’ can have serious consequences. That’s because a tiny worm (called rat lungworm) that’s living inside some snails and slugs can be transferred to dogs, causing serious signs including paralysis. It can even be fatal. So who's at risk? While any dog can be infected, those most at risk are: <ul> <li>Puppies</li> <li>‘Experimental’ eaters</li> <li>In backyards with snails/slugs… and rats. The worm comes from them originally.</li> </ul> How you can avoid it <ul> <li>Slugs and snails love making a meal out of pet food left lying around. It’s also a common way dogs mistakenly swallow them. So take bowls away between meals.</li> <li>Supervise outdoor excursions especially with puppies and after heavy rain.</li> <li>At this time of year, fallen leaves provide food and shelter to slugs and snails. Rake them up.</li> <li>Don’t use snail bait. It’s not just highly toxic, it’s also highly attractive to dogs. Instead, physically remove and slugs and snails where you can.</li> </ul> And in case you're wondering, cats don’t seem to be at risk of rat lungworm. Horses as well as native wildlife are susceptible though. For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/06/do-our-pets-dream/">Do our pets dream?</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/dr-chris-brown-secrets-to-dealing-with-allergies-to-pets/">The secret to dealing with pet allergies</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/reasons-your-dogs-health-is-as-important-as-your-own/">6 reasons your dog’s health is just as important as your own</a>

Family & Pets

Do our pets dream?

Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown, answers one of the most commonly questions he gets asked: Do our pets dream? The answer might surprise you… Scientists studied the brain activity of dogs as they fall asleep and made a remarkable discovery; their brain patterns are almost identical to ours. After reaching deep sleep, both pets and people enter something called REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. REM sleep is the stage where we dream. So yes, it is possible! So is the twitching dreaming? Own a pet and chances are you’ve seen and heard it all; everything from running, to barking and even whimpering. Basically, all the research says that this ‘rabbit chasing’ is actually a dream spilling over into real life. Just as it does with us, their brain normally paralyses their body so they don’t actually act out their dream. But importantly it’s not always 100 per cent successful. So when those actions spill over into real life, that’s when you see them running for rabbits! Tell us: Do you think your dog or cat has dreams? What do you think they dream about? For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/reasons-your-dogs-health-is-as-important-as-your-own/">6 reasons your dog’s health is just as important as your own</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/04/scientists-say-dogs-are-smarter-than-we-think/">Dogs are smarter than we give them credit for</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/04/why-cats-like-boxes/">Why do cats like boxes?</a>

Family & Pets

The secret to dealing with pet allergies

Australia's much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown, believes loving your furry friend shouldn’t be so sneezy. Here he shares his top tips to reduce your reaction so you can snuggle up to your pets allergy-free. Red eyes, sneezing and a runny nose are a big price to pay for a pat. And over a million Aussies do just that. Fact: Despite what you might think, allergies to pets isn't caused by their hair. Instead, members of the “Kleenex Club” are actually reacting to a protein in the saliva. And because pets groom themselves, this protein is spread all over their fur and then flakes off. Tips to reduce your reaction Ironically, having a pet may help by desensitising you to the allergy. Here are some other tips: <ul> <li>Wipe pets down with a moist sponge twice a day to remove that protein from their coat</li> <li>Bathe pets regularly</li> <li>Keep hair trimmed short to lessen how much allergen their coat can carry</li> <li>Use air filters to remove airborne allergens</li> <li>Wash your hands after patting pets</li> </ul> Tell us: Are you allergic to your pet? What tips have you found worked? Share your comments with us below. For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a> Related links: <a rel="noopener" href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/05/reasons-your-dogs-health-is-as-important-as-your-own/" target="_blank">6 reasons your dog’s health is just as important as your own</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/04/scientists-say-dogs-are-smarter-than-we-think/">Dogs are smarter than we give them credit for</a> <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/04/why-cats-like-boxes/">Why do cats like boxes?</a>

Family & Pets

Six-foot shark lands on surfer’s board in Bondi

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water! A pair of surfers have shared a terrifyingly close encounter with a six-foot shark on Bondi Beach. Dean Norburn, a real estate agent, was taking a moment to enjoy a morning dip with two of his friends when the shark launched itself out of the water, landing in the middle of his board. Mr Norburn told the Sydney Morning Herald, “There was a bit of a light rip so I was paddling in. As I was paddling in a little bit, I leant on my board on my hands on the rails. The next thing you know, something has brushed by me and has landed on my board. I was looking pretty closely at it from the angle I was at. It was probably about three to four inches (7-10 centimetres), maybe a bit more, from my face.” Bondi Rescue Lifeguards confirmed the incident on Facebook, but downplayed the size of the shark in a post on Facebook, saying, “We had a small shark (6 foot) jump on a local surfer's board this morning then swim off under another surfer. The man was not injured. Lifeguards spoke to both men and cleared the water afterwards. Will be a very memorable surf for both guys.” That being said, we wouldn’t really like to experience this kind of close encounter! Related links: <a href="/news/news/2015/12/spot-the-panda-in-this-picture/">Can you spot the Panda hidden in this picture?</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/16-vintage-sexist-christmas-ads/">16 vintage Christmas ads that will shock you</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/15-photos-to-brighten-your-day/">15 photos to brighten your day</a>

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“Loving grandfather” ousted as serial rapist

Why this polite note asking owner to move car has divided the internet

Bondi Rescue star opens up about the moment that sent him to a “dark place”

Dr Chris Brown’s Bondi Vet replacement revealed

Why dogs turn around in circles before lying down

Why do pets stare at us while we’re in the bathroom?

Signs something is wrong with your pet’s mental health

Dr Chris Brown’s important health alert for pets

Do our pets dream?

The secret to dealing with pet allergies

Six-foot shark lands on surfer’s board in Bondi