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Highly-decorated conservationist dies aged 72

<p>British conservationist and presenter of <em>Wildlife SOS </em>Simon Cowell has died aged 72, following a battle with cancer. </p> <p>His charity, the Wildlife Aid Foundation, confirmed the sad news in a statement posted on their official website, saying that he died on June 9. </p> <p>"It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Cowell MBE, conservationist, founder and CEO of the Wildlife Aid Foundation, and presenter of Wildlife SOS," the statement began.</p> <p>"Simon passed away on 9th June after a brave battle with cancer.</p> <p>"Simon was one of the UK's most respected conservationists and a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and environmental causes.</p> <p>"He dedicated his life to British wildlife and worked tirelessly to ensure countless injured and orphaned animals were given a second chance in the wild through rescue, clinical treatment, and rehabilitation," the statement continued. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wildlife Aid Foundation (@wildlifeaid)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>They also said that "Simon believed that every animal matters," before ending their statement with: "His loss will be greatly felt by his loved ones, 2-legged and 4-legged, alike."</p> <p>Cowell started his foundation back in 1987. In 2005 he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to wildlife. </p> <p>The <em>Wildlife SOS </em>star shared his terminal lung cancer diagnosis back in July 2022, and the cancer soon spread to his other organs. </p> <p>Cowell passed away peacefully surrounded by his partner Stana, his daughters Louisa and Gemma, and two pet dogs. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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How to decorate with indoor plants

<p>If you want to add colour and freshness to your home, why not bring the outdoors in with some strategically placed indoor plants. Not sure where to start? Follow our tips to make the task simple and stylish.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Buy the best pot you can afford</strong> – it really does add the wow factor when you see a plant inside in a fabulous pot. In the same way, a great plant will lose its pizzazz if it is housed in a dull or cheap looking pot.</li> <li><strong>Stay in fashion –</strong> always choose plants that won’t go out of fashion, even if you change your décor. Your local garden centre is a good source of information on the best plants for your climate.</li> <li><strong>Keep your options open</strong> – there’s actually no need to pot your plant into your new pot. Just sit the plant inside and cover the top with stones or coconut fibre. This means you can easily move it around if you find it’s not working in its current home.</li> <li><strong>Liven up your space –</strong> choose a plant that is an unusual colour or has an interesting leaf shape.          </li> <li><strong>Don’t go overboard –</strong> it’s best not to put too many plants in one area. Keep it simple.</li> <li><strong>If in doubt, throw it out</strong> – if your plant starts to look a bit tired or sick it’s best to remove it from the indoors and try to revive it outside. You can easily replace it with a new plant for inside – after all it’s still cheaper than a bunch of flowers.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/07/fragrant-plants-for-home/">5 plants that will keep your home smelling lovely</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/08/coat-hanger-hacks/">Genius things you didn’t know you could do with coat hangers</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="../lifestyle/at-home/2015/07/bathroom-storage-solutions/">7 creative storage solutions for your bathroom</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Super simple cake decorating ideas

<p>Whether you’re making a cake for a special occasion or simply want to create something extra fancy for a family dinner, you’d be surprised how easy it can be to decorate a cake into something fit for a cooking show. Whether it’s using a few store-bought meringues, slicing up some strawberries or using your favourite biscuits to make a balloon feature, you’ll never make a plain old cake again after reading our super simple cake decorating ideas.</p> <p><strong>Meringue on the mind</strong><br />For an effective alternative to piped-frosting rosettes or expensive store-bought edible roses, opt for some mini meringues from the supermarket. Use them around the edge of the cake for a simple yet stylish finish that packs a crunchy punch.</p> <p><strong>Up, up and away with cookies</strong><br />Whether you want to make biscuits of your own or buy your favourite biccies from the shop, once you’ve iced your cake arrange a cluster of biscuits nearer to one end of the cake and use liquorice shoestrings (or another thin long lolly of your choosing) to form the balloon strings coming from the biscuits. You may want to knot the strings for extra detail. Another tip you may want to use is, if your biscuits are on the plan side, cover them in different colour frostings and then decorate them with colours sprinkles.</p> <p><strong>Strawberry fields</strong><br />Sometimes things in your very own fridge make the perfect cake decorations. Strawberries not only taste delicious and fresh, their vibrant colour makes them an eye-catching decoration. Thinly slice one punnet of fresh strawberries. Starting from the outside perimeter, place a ring of strawberries around the cake, pointed facing out. Continue layering rings around the cake until you reach the centre.</p> <p><strong>Shaved Chocolate</strong><br />For all the chocoholics out there, this one’s for you. A decadent way to decorate a cake is with shavings of chocolate. If you’re worried you won’t be so good at making your own shavings, some stores do sell them. You can mix and match milk, white and dark chocolate and even throw in a few different flavours – think orange, mint or chilli chocolate. While there are many ways you can arrange the shavings, the circular, ring-type layering described above in strawberry fields works well.</p> <p><strong>Spotty dotty</strong><br />Polka dots are all the rage and white frosting dots on a cake that has been iced in a pale colour, will look extremely lovely. For neatly piped dots, you’ll want to use a pastry bag. Hold the pastry bag in both hands; keep the tip just above the cake's surface, at a slight angle. Gently squeeze out icing, release, and pull back. Frosting dots will also help to hide smudged edges or spotty icing. You can either use different size dots or big and small ones. But whatever you do, start with the large ones.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Princess of Wales shows off her tree-decorating skills

<p dir="ltr">The Princess of Wales has given fans another glimpse into her Christmas spirit ahead of the holiday season.</p> <p dir="ltr">A few hours before her second annual <em>Royal Carols: Together at Christmas</em> concert, the Princess shared a video of herself decorating a tree.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Final touches before the #TogetherAtChristmas' Carol Service tomorrow," the caption read.</p> <p dir="ltr">The video shows a cheerful Kate dressed in a white turtle neck as she decorates a festive fir at Westminster Abbey.</p> <p dir="ltr">Fans commented on the video, wishing the Royal Family a Merry Christmas.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Prince and Princess,” someone wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Season greetings your RH Catherine Princess of Wales,” another commented.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Final touches ahead of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherAtChristmas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherAtChristmas</a> Carol Service tomorrow 🎄 <a href="https://t.co/mixjI8d5TD">pic.twitter.com/mixjI8d5TD</a></p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1603129389927071749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“What a beautiful video. I’m so excited,” someone else wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">The concert was a family affair with the support of Prince William, King Charles and the Queen Consort.</p> <p dir="ltr">The concert also celebrated the life of Queen Elizabeth II, who died on September 8.</p> <p dir="ltr">There were several choir performances of Christmas classics, including readings by the Prince of Wales and an introduction from The Princess of Wales.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Royal Carols: Together at Christmas </em>is set to air on ITV on Christmas Eve.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Twitter</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Multi-coloured plants are suddenly a home decor ‘must-have’. Here’s how to keep them alive

<p>Fads and fashion have always influenced the plants we keep. And so it is with variegated plants, which have become <a href="https://thatplantylife.com/affordable-and-gorgeous-variegated-houseplants/">very popular</a>with indoor plant enthusiasts these days.</p> <p>Variegated plants possess multiple colours – typically on their leaves, but in some cases on stems, flowers and fruit. Their patterns include stripes, dots, edges and patches. They’re usually green with either white or yellow, but can also feature red, pink, silver and other colours.</p> <p>Variegated plants can divide opinion. I recall a great aunt telling me many years ago of her great fondness for the variegated Aspidistra elatior growing her garden. But I’ve also heard gardeners and garden designers dismiss variegated foliage because it didn’t fit with their design or colour themes.</p> <p>Now, it seems indoor variegated plants are considered a “<a href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/variegated-plant-care-tips-36878935">must-have</a>” home decor accessory. But before you rush out and buy one, make sure you know how to keep it happy.</p> <h2>Understanding variegated plants</h2> <p>Most plant species are entirely green but occasionally a variegated individual arises. Some catch the eye of a dedicated plant collector or nursery worker and become a popular variety.</p> <p>Plant variegation can occur for several reasons.</p> <p>In some plants, such as the flowers of tulips, it’s due to a <a href="https://www.britannica.com/story/tulip-mania-how-a-plant-virus-fueled-a-speculative-frenzy">viral infection</a>. The resulting streaks of different colours may be cursed or valued depending on the aesthetic effect.</p> <p>Others plants, such as those in the genus <a href="https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Stories/2019/Coleus-back-in-the-name-game">coleus</a>, are naturally patterned. Groups of cells produce different colour combinations, causing leaves to grow with attractive markings.</p> <p>Plant variegations can also arise from genetic mutation.</p> <p>When growing variegated plants, it’s important to understand how the various colours affect the way it functions.</p> <p>The green part of plants contains chlorophyll, a pigment essential for photosynthesis. (Photosynthesis, of course, is the process by which the leaves convert sunlight into oxygen and carbohydrate that provides energy for plants to grow.) </p> <p>In variegated plants, white parts of leaves do not contain chlorophyll and so do not photosynthesise. </p> <p>Yellow parts of leaves can help send energy to the chlorophyll, but can’t perform photosynthesis on their own. The same goes for some red, orange and pink patches of tissue.</p> <p>But all cells in the leaf – green or not – use the plant’s energy. That means variegated plants are less efficient energy producers than their all-green counterparts, which causes them to grow more slowly.</p> <p>Some plants have mutated into <a href="https://www.chicagobotanic.org/blog/how_to/science_activity_albino_plants">albinos</a> containing no chlorophyll. These normally die within a few days or weeks of germination.</p> <h2>Caring for your plant indoors</h2> <p>It’s no coincidence many popular indoor plants – such as coleus, philodendrons, monsteras, dracaenas and calatheas – are variegated. Because they’re usually far less vigorous than all-green versions of the species, they won’t be pushing against the ceiling within weeks. </p> <p>The decorative colour and pattern of a variegated indoor plant is an added bonus.</p> <p>Variegated plants can take longer than others to reach a size considered appropriate for sale at a nursery, so may be comparatively more expensive. But there are ways to protect your variegated investment.</p> <p>First, watch out for “reversion”. This can occur when a variegated plant sends up an all-green shoot. The shoot will grow fast compared to the variegated parts and can eventually take over, causing the whole plant to revert to green. </p> <p>To avoid this, vigilantly remove any green shoots before they get big.</p> <p>You don’t want variegated plants quickly outgrowing their space, but remember they’re low on chlorophyll and so need good light.</p> <p>And like any indoor plant, ensure its leaves are kept free of fine dust and you don’t give it too much, or too little, water.</p> <h2>Variegated plants in the garden</h2> <p>The popularity of indoor variegated plants will almost certainly lead to greater use outdoors.</p> <p>Their slow-growing nature means outdoor variegated plants are usually much less likely to be “weedy” and spread where they’re not wanted. </p> <p>This can be an advantage if you’ve avoided planting a species because it will take over the garden. The variegated versions of <a href="https://www.plantmark.com.au/pittosporum-eugenioides-variegata">pittosporum</a>, ficus and <a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/57250/nerium-oleander-variegatum-(v)/details">nerium oleander</a>, for example, are far less intent on global domination than their all-green counterparts.</p> <p>When planting a variegated plant outdoors, watch that it doesn’t become shaded by other quicker-growing plants. Many variegated plants already struggle to photosynthesise sufficiently. A bit of extra shade can damage or even kill them.</p> <p>So ensure they get enough light – and every so often give them a hand by trimming back nearby plants.</p> <h2>Growing with flying colours</h2> <p>Variegated plants are having their moment in the sun. But their interesting biology is always in fashion!</p> <p>These plants can brighten up your indoor space and provide attractive colour and pattern in the garden.</p> <p>By learning about how variegated plants function and considering their special requirements, you can enjoy them for years to come.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/multi-coloured-plants-are-suddenly-a-home-decor-must-have-heres-how-to-keep-them-alive-181163" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>

Home & Garden

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Parents horrified at Halloween decorations

<p dir="ltr">Parents in a Sydney suburb have questioned a family’s Halloween decorations resembling <em>The Handmaid’s Tale</em> in quite a disturbing way. </p> <p dir="ltr">Images shared to Facebook show a fake body in the show’s iconic red dress and white bonnet, while a male character is dressed in blue.</p> <p dir="ltr">Both bodies were seen hanging by their necks on the porch, in reference to the show in which people were killed when they disobeyed the rules. </p> <p dir="ltr">There was also fake blood smeared on the outside of the house reading, “Nolite te bastardes carborundorum” which translates to, “Don’t let the b******* grind you down”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Social media users were divided at the decorations with many pointing out that it is inappropriate for children to see. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Imagine children seeing this walking past,” one comment read.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not good; totally inappropriate,” another wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“That’s horrible! Kids will be scared,” someone else commented. </p> <p dir="ltr">Others however defended the decorations saying it is the spirit of Halloween and people are encouraged to go all out with costumes. </p> <p dir="ltr">“OMG it’s Halloween, get over it, some of y’all need to lighten up,” someone wrote. </p> <p dir="ltr">“While we’re on the topic – how freckin good is Handmaid’s this season,” another fan wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Handmaid’s Tale</em> is an American dystopian television series based on the 1985 novel of the same name by Canadian author Margaret Atwood. </p> <p dir="ltr">It tells the story of June, played by Elisabeth Moss, who is forced into sexual slavery struggles to survive in a totalitarian, fundamentalist society in what used to be the United States. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

Real Estate

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How to decorate your home on a budget

<p>Small decorating projects can freshen up your home, change your interior considerably and be inexpensive. Try one or two of these budget-friendly fixes for an instant update!</p> <ul> <li>Rearrange all of your paintings and other art to different walls or rooms.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Update lampshades with more contemporary shapes or fresh white shades also make a space look shiny and new.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Paint is one of the first go-tos when updating interiors but instead of repainting a whole room; why not just paint one wall in a statement colour. Some paint stores sell mixed paint for much less than custom-mixed paint because the colour was off or it was returned to the store. So ask about this next time you visit the paint shop.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>For an unexpected twist try painting the insides of bookshelves or your ceiling in an opposite colour.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Updating your window dressings will instantly pep up any room. IKEA have reams of readymade draperies you can hem to the right size.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>A gallery wall of family photos in matching, or contrasting, frames that are arranged in a collage on a stairwell or hallway wall make a great focal point in any home.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Regularly look on GumTree and eBay for finds. It’s amazing what shows up for a bargain or even free. Be sure to check regularly, as good things go fast.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Some carpet stores often have offcuts of high-end carpet at low prices that could make a great area rug. The store may bind the edges for you, or you can do it yourself with carpet binding tape and some tidy hand sewing.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Remember it’s the little details that make a big impact. Beautiful coasters, interesting desk frames, a small but exquisite crystal vase filled with fresh flowers.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>For an instant freshener for even the most dingy bathroom, replace your bathroom shower curtain and curtain hooks.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Hang a couple of vintage plates or smaller framed pictures artfully inside, or leave the framed space as-is, for an artful and simple focal point that shows you have considered the little details. Antique and charity stores are great places to look.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Take a walk in the great outdoors and you’d be surprise what you might find in the park, woods or beach. Pick up interesting seasonal accents for your home. A tray filled with pinecones or a bowl of colourful pebbles will make eye-catching home decor accessories. </li> <li>First impression last! Why not consider sprucing up your entrance by painting your front door a happy colour. Pair it with a new lighting fixture, mailbox and house numbers – and voila, home swe</li> </ul>

Home & Garden

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Decorating with colour

<p>Many of us find that we have a love/hate relationship when it comes to colour and our homes. What colour do I choose? Can I mix and match? Do I make a statement or opt for something subtle? If you have asked yourself any of these questions, you’re not alone.</p> <p>Loved by interior enthusiasts for its ability to instantly transform a room, there’s always the tricky business of knowing how to style it and, more importantly, when enough’s enough. The truth is even the most timid decorators amongst us can benefit from a little splash of something vibrant. Take the challenge to step out of the shade of neutrals and into the transformative light of colour. Here are some tips on how to approach decorating with some of the colours currently trending in the world of interiors.</p> <p><strong>Vibrant blues<br /></strong>The captivating tones of crystal blue waters makes for vibrant addition to any room no matter if you opt for a couple of decor items or go big with a blue couch or blue walls. Teamed with golden accents and a few classic staples, the hue really pops.</p> <p><strong>Earthy yellows</strong><br />Colours of the earthy variety are a great way to ensure your home imparts a welcoming and cosy vibe. Crisp white or pale grey accents, dark woods and coordinating golden tones mix well with eathy yellows and make for a sophisticated look which is irresistibly inviting.</p> <p><strong>Pretty pinks</strong><br />Forget everything you think about pink. It is not a colour on suited to the rooms of young girls. Styled with a carefully chosen palette and barely-there silhouettes, hues in this colour teamed with stylish homeware can create quite an opulent feel to a room.</p> <p><strong>Elegant navy</strong><br />An eternally sophisticated colour, navy instantly adds a feeling of elegance to any interior. Fun patterned cushions and statement-making proportions can be matched with classic touches for twist on timeless style.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Home & Garden

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"Just not fair": Australia's most-decorated Olympian's trans stance

<p dir="ltr">Olympic star Emma McKeon has taken a stance against transgender athletes competing in women’s sport.</p> <p dir="ltr">The five-time gold medallist said “it’s just not fair” to be competing against transgender athletes during a seminar at Griffith University.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her comments came as Prime Minister Scott Morrison backs Liberal candidate for Warringah Katherine Deves, who caused an uproar by declaring trans teenagers are “surgically mutilated” and that the rainbow Pride flag “triggers” her.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I personally wouldn't want to be racing against someone who is biologically a male, so that's a concern," McKeon said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It's not a new thing, but it's new in that sport, swimming, are going to have to deal with it."</p> <p dir="ltr">McKeon believes it won’t “come to the point” where she is competing against a transgender opponent.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I don't think I'm going to have to race against a trans swimmer, I don't think it's going to come to that point,” she continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But now that it's a growing thing, the sport has to think about how to handle it and how to deal with it, because you do want to be inclusive, but you don't want to have females racing against swimmers who are biologically male because it's just not fair.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Laurel Hubbard from New Zealand competed in women’s weightlifting at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics which sparked a debate on the fairness of the competition.</p> <p dir="ltr">New Zealand's Laurel Hubbard sparked debate when she competed in women's weightlifting at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.</p> <p dir="ltr">Australia’s Hannah Mouncey, a former men’s national handball player wanted to compete in AFLW and was rejected with the AFL being taken to court.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

News

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How to decorate the perfect guest bedroom

<p dir="ltr">When renovating your home, or just updating your style in your key living areas, it's easy to overlook a spare bedroom that doesn’t get much use. </p> <p dir="ltr">Instead of just using it for functionality with a basic bed or desk for guests to use, see a spare bedroom as an opportunity to step out of your styling comfort zone and try some new looks. </p> <p dir="ltr">Think of the task as a challenge to create a warm and welcoming space that could be enjoyed by anyone. </p> <p dir="ltr">Following these handy tips will ensure a restful space for anyone visiting your home. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Maximise on space</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When planning the layout of your guest bedroom, capitalising on the space you have is key. </p> <p dir="ltr">A double or queen bed with a fold out single or sofa couch can be a good balance in a bedroom that isn’t as big as a master suite. </p> <p dir="ltr">If you have a nook in your guest room, consider a single bed or desk, or other furniture that can serve more than one purpose to make the space comfortable and functional. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Create a cosy environment </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The bed is truly the pièce de résistance of any bedroom, so don’t skimp on the quality. </p> <p dir="ltr">Picking a comfortable and supportive mattress is the first thing that should be considered, before deciding on a timeless colour scheme and adding all the comfy trimmings such as throw rugs and cushions. </p> <p dir="ltr">You want your guests to feel like your heart and soul has been injected into making their temporary home as comfortable as possible. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Think about storage</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While the main priority of a spare bedroom is to make it comfortable for guests, think about how you can maximise storage while it's not being occupied. </p> <p dir="ltr">Think underbed storage or a chic and stylish chest of drawers that can double as decoration. </p> <p dir="ltr">When the spare room is being used, having somewhere for guests to unpack their belongings can go a long way. </p> <p dir="ltr">Instead of expecting your visitors to live out of a suitcase, they would appreciate an empty section of a wardrobe or an unused bench top to store their belongings. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Bedside tables and lighting are a must</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When decorating your spare room, a bedside table and a lamp are must-haves. </p> <p dir="ltr">This seemingly simple addition will make all the difference to your guests, with functionality in mind while also adding to the style of the room. </p> <p dir="ltr">Think about adding practical trinkets to a bedside table as well, such as candles, notepad and pen or a tray for jewellery.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Add easy-to-forget essentials</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">It's not uncommon for travellers to arrive at their destination and realise they have forgotten essentials such as toothpaste, body wash or hair products. </p> <p dir="ltr">Adding these products to a spare bedroom will take the hassle out of forgetting these important essentials, while also adding another element of thoughtfulness for your guests.</p> <p dir="ltr">Consider adding travel-sized products for guests to take with them if they choose, as these are much easier to replace for the next guest – for such a small gesture they leave amazing impression. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Home & Garden

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The do’s and don’ts of Christmas tree decorating

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the festive season quickly approaching, more of us are putting up the Christmas tree and stringing up lights.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, making your Christmas tree truly shine isn’t as easy as you might think, and there are some common </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.bhg.com.au/christmas-tree-decorating-mistakes" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">do’s and don’ts</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to follow when hanging baubles and lights on your tree this year.</span></p> <p><strong>Don’t: Use too much tinsel</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As fun as it is to cover everything in tinsel of various colours, it can have a tendency to overwhelm whatever it’s draped over.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead, treat tinsel like a garnish and use it sparingly to have the best effect.</span></p> <p><strong>Do: Pick a colour theme</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For a more sophisticated-looking tree, choose a colour theme for your ornaments, tinsel and lights. Picking a pair of colours, such as white and gold, or silver with either red, green, blue or even purple, can help take your tree decorating to the next level.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_uH5nlQuS/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_uH5nlQuS/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by J O R G E Z A P A T A (@jorgezapataev)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>Don’t: Use too few baubles</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To dress your trees to the nines, make sure you layer baubles on the inner and outer branches. This will help your decorating look more layered and intentional.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to buying baubles, opting for glass, fabric or timber rather than plastic can also add that air of sophistication. If you do go for plastic decorations, opt for those with a nice finish.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_2CyMB8Da/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_2CyMB8Da/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Thenailbarbrisbane (@thenailbarbrisbane)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>Do: Match your lights to your tree </strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With Christmas lights now coming in every colour imaginable, it’s easy to choose colours that don’t stand out from your tree. </span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_ZytKrTtE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_ZytKrTtE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by @caringtoshareyourfeed (@caringtoshareyourfeed)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To help them shine through, try white lights if your tree is white, or a warm light for green trees</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Home & Garden

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The $2 pool noodle hack everyone’s trying this Christmas

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the festive holiday quickly approaching, you can fight the urge to splurge on Christmas decorations by trying your hand at this ridiculously cheap table centrepiece.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All you need is a pool noodle - costing $2 from Kmart - as well as a hot glue gun and some Christmas baubles.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When one woman shared the hack on Facebook, her post received almost 3000 likes and sparked a flood of recreations.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845956/pool-noodle-xmas.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/918725e646524f32822e0d3f13a30bc4" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Image: Angelica Marotta Vine (Facebook)</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“First time hack pretty pleased with the result!” she captioned the photo of her table runner, which was mostly sourced from Kmart, Big W and Target.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The DIY decoration has been frequently appearing in Facebook groups including </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1188470091287226" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kmart Inspired Homes</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/330596703984165" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kmart Home Decor &amp; Hacks Australia</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> with some classy results.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:201.171875px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845958/259786511_4483985271669638_4094311627553942329_n.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/73ac2e2e37db4fd2abe8d6da0ed7fbc4" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Heather Kyler (Facebook)</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To make it, </span><a href="https://www.bhg.com.au/pool-noodle-christmas-wreath-hack?category=diy"><span style="font-weight: 400;">follow</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> these five steps:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Step 1. To keep the pool noodle straight, feed a thin metal rod through the centre of it.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Step 2. Start attaching baubles with the hot glue gun and work your way along the noodle.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:333.3333333333333px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845957/pool-noodle-xmas2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/71372b34fa114037a5d50c9edfa4f35e" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Angelica Marotta Vine (Facebook)</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Step 3. Once the baubles are attached, fill in any gaps with flowers, branches and other Christmas decorations. To get extra coverage, pull apart a Christmas wreath and fill the gaps on the noodle with the leaves.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Step 5. Once decorated, spray the piece with fake snow.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Haydn Fellows (Facebook)</span></em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Kmart urgently recalls popular Christmas item

<p>Kmart has recalled a popular Christmas decoration after biosecurity fears mean it could pose a risk to native flora and fauna in Australia and New Zealand.</p> <p>The major retailer has pulled its Half Wicker Wreath with Berries from online stores as well as in-store after the biosecurity risk.</p> <p>The product has foliage and berries and has been available in Kmart from September 26th to December 7th and there are fears that there are unwanted organisms in the wreath.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839175/kmar-theor.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e7029968cb8547439810fd601af43e04" /></p> <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Shoppers have been told to return it to stores "immediately" for a full refund.</p> <p>“The treatment given to this product has been determined to have been ineffective and it may contain unwanted organisms that could affect plants native to the country,” the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.recalls.govt.nz/recalls/32cm-half-wicker-wreath-with-berries/" target="_blank">Product Recalls<span> </span></a>website said.</p> <p>“The product could potentially pose a risk to native flora.</p> <p>“Customers should cease using their product immediately and return the product to any Kmart store for a full refund.”</p> <p><em>Photo credits:<span> </span></em><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/christmas/kmart-recalls-popular-15-christmas-item-amid-biosecurity-risk/news-story/1d72e0f971c2677d3f224254089f01d6" target="_blank">news.com.au</a></em></p> </div> </div> </div>

Home & Garden

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DIY gorgeous hanging decoration for less than $50

<p>An enterprising Aussie woman has shared how she made a gorgeous wall decoration for under $50 using supplies from Bunnings and Spotlight.</p> <p>When she discovered that designs similar to the one she wanted to make retailed for upwards of $180, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDF8HloA2dk/">Keira Rumble</a>, owner of Krumbled Foods, decided to make have a go at making and hanging the decorations herself.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDF8HloA2dk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDF8HloA2dk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">So turns out I’ve become a DIY’er in 2020 and I’m not mad about it 🤣💁🏼‍♀️ After I built this bedhead, I decided that I needed something to hang above it. I kept on seeing similar wall hangings going for a cool $180+ each. These hangings cost me $9-11 each, they were so easy to make (check out my story highlights under DIY) and I did them while kicking back and watching Schitts Creek on Netflix. Better yet, all you need is 3 things, raffia + little 3m hooks both found at @bunnings and craft rings. Paid Partnership @bunnings #DIYJULY #diy #pinterest #raffiadiy #homedecor #homediydecor</a></p> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/krumble/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Keira Rumble</a> (@krumble) on Jul 25, 2020 at 10:01pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>She made a trio of circular wall hangings using only three materials that cost a total of $47.40 and shared the DIY process with her 404,000 Instagram followers.</p> <p>Rumble used Grunt Craft Raffia Rope, Command Medium Clear Adhesive Wall Hooks from Bunnings and bought three craft rings from Spotlight. </p> <p>Not only did she save money by making the decoration herself, she also enjoyed the creative design process.</p> <p>But while the craft project was simple to make, Keira said the method was repetitive and time consuming complete.</p> <p>'This makes it an easy project to multitask and do while watching television (I created mine whilst watching Schitts Creek on Netflix) or alternatively it's a great way to relax and unwind after a long day,' she wrote on Instagram.</p> <p><em><strong>How to make a wall decoration like Rumble’s:</strong></em></p> <p><strong>Materials:</strong></p> <p>4 x <a href="https://www.bunnings.com.au/grunt-100m-craft-raffia-rope_p4310756">Grunt 100m Craft Raffia Rope </a></p> <p>2 x <a href="https://www.bunnings.com.au/command-medium-clear-adhesive-wall-hooks-2-pack_p3950277">Command Medium Clear Adhesive Wall Hooks </a></p> <p>3 x craft rings from Spotlight</p> <p><strong> </strong><strong>Method: </strong></p> <p><strong>Step 1: </strong>Research to get your DIY inspiration on Pinterest and Bunnings.com.au</p> <p><strong>Step 2: </strong>Start by measuring out your desired length for the raffia and cut into equal lengths. For a more organic look, each length of raffia doesn't need to be exact</p> <p>Note to create a three-ring wall hanging like this, you'll need approximately four packets of 100m raffia rope</p> <p><strong>Step 3:</strong> Fold a piece of raffia in half and thread it through itself to attach to the ring. Continue repeating this until you've filled your ring. Remember to regularly bunch pieces of raffia you've threaded together tightly to create overlap - this will ensure your wall hanging is full and has enough volume</p> <p><strong>Step 4:</strong> To complete your wall hanging, trim the ends of the raffia (if required) to create a more even circular shape and hang on your chosen wall with a hook! </p> <p>She then stuck the adhesive wall hooks to the wall and placed the gorgeous decorations above her bed.</p> <p>The social media post swiftly received more than 12,000 'likes' from Keira's followers who were more than impressed with the result and some were inspired to make the design themselves. </p> <p><em>Images: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDF8HloA2dk/">Keira Rumble</a> / Instagram</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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How to cook the perfect Christmas roast

<p>One of the most loved Christmas traditions is the succulent roast we devour with family and friends over Christmas lunchtime or dinner. Below are some tips and tricks that will help ensure your roast ham, pork or turkey is the most tender and tasty roast you've made yet. </p> <p><strong>Ham</strong><br />Glazed ham is a Christmas classic and with these simple tips you’ll be on your way to ham heaven. You want to make sure you’re choosing the right sized ham – a 4kg ham for example will feed up to 10 people and allows a little extra for leftovers.<br /><br />To give the ham a decorative look, use a sharp knife to cut around the shank in a zig-zap pattern. Run a knife under the rind and gently pull it off. Use the knife to cut diamond squares into the ham.<br /><br />To glaze your ham, place it on a wire rack in a large baking dish. Brush the surface of the ham with your glaze of choice – options could include honey, mustard, apricot or orange jam. Bake for as long as the instructions on the package tell you too, and make sure to brush the ham at frequent intervals with glaze whilst cooking.</p> <p><strong>Pork</strong><br />It’s hard to resist a plate full of tender pork and crispy crackling at Christmas time – and the best thing is, making the perfect roast pork isn’t all that hard! Contrary to popular belief, pork doesn’t have to be cooked all the way through as overcooking it makes the meat dry and tough. Cooking it to slight blushing pink will ensure it remains succulent and juicy.</p> <p>As a general guide when roasting pork with rind, preheat your oven to 220c to crisp the rind (roughly 15-20 minutes) and then reduce the temperature to 180 to finish cooking the meat. The pork should be in the oven for 45 minutes per kilo. To get a crispy crackling, rub some oil and salt into the rind before cooking.<br /><br />Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven, cover it in foil and let it sit for 5-10 minutes – this ensures all the flavours and juices to settle which keeps the meat tender. Carve up the pork, serve and enjoy!</p> <p><strong>Turkey</strong><br />While everyone prepares their turkeys in different ways, if you’re thawing a frozen turkey make sure you always thaw it in the fridge and never on the bench. A full-size turkey can take up to three days to defrost properly so keep that in mind when it comes to preparing it. Turkey breast is very lean so it can potentially dry out during the long cooking process. Rub the outside of the turkey top and bottom with softened butter (use liberal amounts) and place it breast side down on a baking tray. The butter prevents the turkey (particularly the turkey breast).</p> <p>Some recipes say to cover the turkey with foil, or leave it uncovered. We recommend that you brush it with butter then place two large sheets of foil in a roasting pan then place your turkey in the centre and bring the foil up to form a loose tent. Make sure there is a pocket of air between the turkey and the foil. This ensures the turkey will cook in a moist environment and not dry out.</p> <p><em>Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/lifestyle/food-and-wine/how-to-cook-the-perfect-christmas-roast.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Retirement Life

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Royal family goes all out for Christmas at Windsor Castle

<p>The Royal Family don’t shy away from a chance to celebrate Christmas and have released their annual gallery of stunning holiday decorations at Windsor Castle.</p> <p>2019’s Christmas at the castle is truly a sight to behold, and one of the main features includes a 20-food Nordmann Fir, which is sourced from the nearby Windsor Great Park.</p> <p>The tree sits in St George’s Hall, filled with hundreds of ornaments and just a few metres down is a slightly smaller 15-foot fir which was placed in the Crimson Drawing Room.</p> <p>This year has a historical theme, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s births.</p> <p>In the castle’s Octagon Dining Room is a number of gifts the couple gave to each other for Christmas.</p> <p>Famously both Queen Victoria and her husband have a hand in a number of Christmas traditions we know and celebrate today.</p> <p>Thanks to her German heritage, the Queen’s mother brought yew trees for the holidays as gifts, however it was the couple who made having a decorated tree in your home a trend that would be followed hundreds of years later.</p> <p>In 1948, Prince Albert sent decorated trees to nearby schools and army barracks.</p> <p>It was a particular engraving, featuring the royal family gathered around a Christmas tree, that really made the trend take off.</p> <p> It seemed to be a holiday the royal family were infatuated by, according to Royal Collection curator Kathryn Jones.</p> <p>She told the<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/berkshire/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_9286000/9286971.stm" target="_blank">BBC</a> </em>that "Queen Victoria and Prince Albert brought the tree into Windsor Castle on Christmas Eve and they would decorate it themselves.</p> <p>"They would light the candles and put gingerbread on the tree and the children would be brought in."</p> <p>While the royal family might not celebrate Christmas at Windsor Castle in the year 2019 as Queen Elizabeth famously prefers to spend her holidays at Sandringham – this year’s décor shows visitors how Victoria and Albert used to live.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery to see this year’s Christmas decorations at Windsor Castle.</p>

Family & Pets

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Should you renovate or redecorate?

<p>We all get a little tired of our decor occasionally, but have you ever found yourself procrastinating about whether you should redecorate, or go the whole hog and renovate? Obviously renovating can involve serious costs and commitment, but redecorating can make a dramatic improvement without anywhere near the cost. Ultimately, you should think firstly about how the market will respond to your property when you come to sell. What will the next owner want?</p> <p><strong>Don’t overcapitalise</strong> <br />You’ve heard that before but very few people can differentiate between what they like and what the market values. The key here is to ask opinions, but not just of your friends and family. A real estate agent or building information centre can help give you a realistic view of how best to improve your home, without overcapitalising.</p> <p>If you live in a suburban property with an aging kitchen, bathroom and décor, and you’re not confident you could manage the process of renovating to achieve a modern style, you might be best placed to redecorate - with a view to preparing your home for sale to a renovator or developer, rather than attempt a renovation yourself.</p> <p>If you’ve noticed that local builders are demolishing homes like yours and replacing them with brand new ones, that’s probably a sign that there’s little value in renovating your kitchens and bathrooms. Your property may lack the street appeal that the market is now looking for, so you’d be risking overcapitalising by only addressing the interior.</p> <p>In circumstances like these, setting a budget for minor redecorating would be the better course of action. By re-painting some rooms, or even just a single wall in a room, you can brighten your home’s interior, improve its value, and give it a fresh lease on life - until the time comes to sell.</p> <p><strong>Consider your home’s long-term suitability</strong> <br />If you still love your home’s location and believe it will suit you for the long-term, then definitely consider renovating. Many kitchen companies provide a complete service, from design through to installation, and you might be surprised how creative they can be when it comes to planning better, more space efficient designs.</p> <p>Oftentimes, a modern kitchen can be installed without the need for structural alterations to your home, which improves functionality while adding value and appeal. Just remember, neutral colours and quality brand name appliances add the most value and desirability when selling.</p> <p>If you’re really lucky and your kitchen is already well designed, just replacing the doors, bench tops and appliances might be the most cost-effective solution. Likewise, with a well-designed bathroom, you may be able to refresh its appearance with new taps and fixtures, some strategic colour changes with towels and mats, and perhaps a new bench top.</p> <p><strong>Floorcoverings</strong> <br />Wooden floors are really popular these days so if your carpets are stained, smelly, getting threadbare, or you still have shag-pile, why not rip them up and polish the floors? Find an inconspicuous spot, like the corner of a room or inside a cupboard, and then pull up some carpet to see what lies beneath. Even ordinary pine flooring can achieve the extraordinary with some stain and a polish.</p> <p><strong>Ambient light</strong> <br />If a dark room or corridor is getting you down, investigate the broad range of clever skylight solutions now available. You’d be amazed how much natural light can be ducted to a room now, without the significant expense and building work that was once required.</p> <p>Modern LED lighting even makes it possible to cost-effectively light a challenging area without running up large power bills. A visit to a lighting centre will leave you buzzing with options you might not have thought even existed.</p> <p><strong>Don’t forget the big picture</strong> <br />In the end, the decision to redecorate or renovate should be made in the context of the longer-term suitability of your home and your financial circumstances. There’s no need to rush is so talk it over with friends and family, develop some ideas, and get some quotes. Then, ask a real estate agent for an appraisal and discuss your renovation or redecoration plans with them. Again, seek several opinions and you’ll receive a range of different thoughts and opinions. This will help you arrive at a fully informed decision.</p> <p><em>Written by Stewart Bunn. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/property/should-you-renovate-or-redecorate.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Caring

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Decorating tips that won't cause permanent damage

<p>When it comes to buying a new home, sometimes we just want to have the security of knowing our existing home has been sold, and that we know exactly what budget we’ll have to buy the next property.</p> <p>The upside in such a scenario is less stress but the downside is you almost certainly won’t have enough time to buy your next property before you have to move out of your current home. That means a period of renting or bunking down with family.</p> <p>If you plan to rent a house, but want the flexibility to make it feel like your home, then these handy decorating tips can help. They won't cause permanent marks or changes to the house and this will make your landlord very happy. The changes don't have to be intrusive; they can be subtle and make you feel at home until you find the next property.</p> <p><strong>The rug life</strong><br />Many landlords shy away from letting their tenants tear up the carpet or stain the floors. That’s understandable. There is often too much risk involved and it could end up costing them a lot of money to change for future tenants. Plus, some apartment buildings have by-laws preventing carpets being replaced with tiles or other harder surfaces.</p> <p>Instead, buying a rug can change the atmosphere of a room and it can do wonders for the design. Rugs can brighten a dark room, change the colour theme and provide great floor protection. It will make a huge difference to the room but not to the bank account, and of course it's not a permanent change.</p> <p><strong>Feature wall of art</strong><br />A feature wall is often associated with painting one wall a different colour from the others, but you can also make it a feature wall using art. Using wall-friendly adhesives you can attach shelves and hang decorations to liven up the space.</p> <p>Framed photos and pictures are a simple and inexpensive way to add a splash of colour to the room without painting it. You want to make the wall the first thing that people look at when they walk in the room, so it's time to get creative.</p> <p><strong>Pot plants<br /></strong>Some people shy away from going green in their house because they feel they need a green thumb, or that there’s just too much maintenance involved. However, potted or hanging plants indoors can be a lovely addition. Some of the top plants to keep inside are dumb canes, rubber plant, pin-stripe calathea and orchards. Door hooks are available that allow you to hang pots without mounting hooks, screws or nails.</p> <p>Having living plants inside the house can do wonders for your concentration as well. The Journal of Environmental Psychology conducted a study on how having plant life indoors can make you smarter. It found that plants can prevent fatigue, which in return helps with concentration.</p> <p>If you want to make your rented house into a lovely home, you just don't have to make permanent changes. However, if at all in doubt, make sure you consult your property manager before getting started.</p> <p>What quick fixes have you done to spruce up your home? </p> <p><em>Written by Stewart Bunn. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/property/decorating-tips-that-wont-cause-permanent-damage.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.</em></p>

Art

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Decorating hack: Have we been hanging Christmas lights the wrong way?

<p>It may be the most tedious part of decorating a Christmas tree, but stringing lights around the tree doesn’t have to be draining if done correctly.</p> <p>Most people are known to wrap the lights around the tree starting from the very top and working their way down to the bottom, but there may be a better way to string lights around a tree, and not only is it easier, it looks better too.</p> <p>Francesco Bilotto, a designer and home entertainment expert, has claimed for years that hanging Christmas lights vertically from the top to the bottom of the tree is a fool-proof method to get the most sparkling Christmas tree.</p> <p>Speaking to <em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/entertaining/holidays-celebrations/news/a7580/hang-christmas-lights-vertically/" target="_blank">House Beautiful</a></em>, Bilotto says that by hanging the lights vertically instead of horizontally, each bulb will be in plain view rather than getting hidden amongst the branches.</p> <p>“This way every tip of your tree, from branch to branch, will twinkle with delight,” he said.</p> <p>He also advised those at home to take the end of the light without the plug and putting it on top of the tree.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/S7OxAdrsy7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/S7OxAdrsy7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">Finally got our tree and decorated it 🎄 #treeontree #golddeers #redsparklyballs #verticallights #besttree #redandgold</a></p> <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 post shared by @<a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/yarilovee/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> yarilovee</a> on Dec 6, 2012 at 10:36pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>As you hang the lights vertically, weave them in and out of tree until the excess is hanging off the bottom, then with the lights that are left over, move it across a few inches then work your way back up to the top.</p> <p>Once the process is repeated, it should result in a tree that is sparkling all over.</p> <p>“Another added bonus is when you dismantle your tree and take off the lights, it’ll be easier and less messy to remove strands from the exterior of the tree – rather than fighting a stubborn almost dried branch,” he said.</p> <div style="position: relative; padding-bottom: calc(56.25% + 50px); height: 0;"><iframe style="position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%;" src="https://www.today.com/offsite/should-you-be-hanging-your-christmas-tree-lights-vertically-579347011617" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div> <p>And to put the technique to test, host of US breakfast show<span> </span><em>Today</em>, Savannah Guthrie, tried it out on air in 2015.</p> <p>Clearly impressed, Guthrie said: “I’ll say this – it’s a lot easier. Usually you’re walking in circles.”</p> <p>Will you be trying out this Christmas lights hack on your tree this year? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

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