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Chrissy Amphlett dead at 53

Australian rock legend Chrissy Amphlett has passed away at age 53 after a long battle with cancer.
Chrissy Amphlett

Australian rock legend Chrissy Amphlett has passed away at age 53 after a long battle with cancer.

The former Divinyls front woman died surrounded by family at her New York home which she shared with husband and former band mate Charley Drayton.

The singer was regarded as the ultimate rock chick, breaking through Australia’s music scene with tracks like “Boys In Town” and topping the Australian charts and gaining international success with “I Touch Myself” in 1991.

Along with her band mates, Amphlett was inducted into the ARIA hall of fame in 2007.

Chrissy Amphlett

In 2010 she revealed she had breast cancer, describing diagnosis to The Age as “shit and unfair”.

She had also been living with multiple sclerosis for ten years.

In a post on her Facebook page in March last year, Chrissy described her last 18 months as “a real challenge”, but she continued performing for her dedicated fans until it became too much for the suffering star.

“I have not stopped singing throughout all this in my dreams and to be once again performing and doing what I love to do,” she wrote.

Amphlett’s cousin, 1960s pop icon “Little Pattie” Thompson, released a statement on behalf of the family.

“Our beloved Chrissy peacefully made her transition this morning.

“Christine Joy Amphlett succumbed to the effects of breast cancer and multiple sclerosis, diseases she vigorously fought with exceptional bravery and dignity.

“Her life was a passion and creatisity; she always lived it to the fullest.

“With her force of character and vocal strength she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women.”

Our thoughts are with the family of this remarkable Australian woman.

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Is it ever okay to write about your child’s poo on Facebook?

Is it ever okay to write about your child's poo on Facebook?

Millions of parents are choosing to share their child’s most humiliating moments on social media. Zoe Arnold asks where we should draw the line.

I was doing some research online (okay, reading random items I’ve googled) and I stumbled across a gem of a blog called There’s no place like Mommy.

I was reading it in the first place because the author had made some comments about day care that I was interested in. But then I stumbled across this passage:

Wow. A whole blog entry about her son pooing.

Now, don’t get me wrong: as a parent of young children, I know how tough potty training is, and how exciting every milestone is. But is it right for mothers to be sharing this online?

Why? Because little Aiden will be 18 soon. And then 21, and 25. A grown man, who will have his potty-training exploits in black and white — forever.

It got me thinking: have we become a world of over-sharers?

Facebook, Instagram, twitter, Pinterest … they are all tools to share ourselves with others online. They’re great: interesting, informative and addictive.

But when does sharing turn into over-sharing?

Personally, I love reading about other kids online. The internet is awesome: you can find information about anything, even Aiden’s bowel movements.

But some people think there are things we should keep to ourselves.

This past week has seen the publication of STFU Parents: The Jaw-Dropping, Self-Indulgent, and Occasionally Rage-Inducing World of Parent Overshare, a book based on a blog of the same name by a New Yorker called Blair Koenig.

Ms Koenig is funny. She posts other people’s Facebook posts on her blog when she deems they’ve “overshared” about their children’s lives, and she mocks them in the process. It makes for funny reading, but is it fair?

I don’t think anyone who uses social media isn’t guilty of over-sharing. On my Instagram account, I largely post photos of my children. I keep my settings on private, and if no one wants to see my daily life, I couldn’t give a damn if they stop following.

We share because we can. Social media is what connects us 2013. It allows the isolation and, frankly, frequent boredom of parenthood to be shared and experienced with others.

No, I don’t really care about the turd sizes of children the whole world over. But, if my best friend’s kid pooped in the bath, I’d expect her to share it with me. So I can laugh with her, and commiserate at how bloody disgusting parenting can be at times.

Yes, it’s a beautiful thing to be part of a little person’s life as they grow up; but sometimes literally your entire day is spent changing their dirty nappies while your infant screams at you. Oh, and if you’re a breastfeeding mother of a newborn, you’ll probably be lactating all over the place while trying to change said dirty nappies.

It ain’t glamorous.

So mums get on Facebook and share. They share about their kids’ bowel motions. They share about how many times their baby screamed last night. They feel a little bit better about their all-consuming day, and maybe a friend shares a similar story back.

And besides, no one on Facebook wants to read about how smart your kid is.

Reading about them pooing in the bath is much funnier.

Your say: Do you share your life online? Do your kids feature a lot? Where do you draw the line?

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Why vaccines should be celebrated, not damned

Why vaccines should be celebrated, not damned

An Australian scientist has led a vaccine breakthrough that is being lauded worldwide but largely ignored in local media. Zoe Arnold asks why we’re letting anti-vaccination lobbyists stop us from celebrating a major medical milestone.

There’s some big news in the medical community this week. Gardasil: the vaccine that prevents human papillomavirus (HPV), better known as genital warts, is working.

It’s working really, really well.

This is big news, and a big cross against anyone who continues to argue against the benefits of immunisation.

Gardasil was developed by a bunch of scientists internationally, including Australian Professor Ian Frazer.

Since 2007, all young women in Australia have been offered a free course of the vaccine, to fully immunise against HPV, which is a leading cause of cervical cancer.

And the stats look good — really good.

Since the free vaccines have been offered, the number of cases of genital warts diagnosed in women under 21 has plummeted by 92.6 per cent, and in women aged 21-30 by 72.6 per cent.

The statistics speak for themselves.

But in case you’re still dubious: the statistics for women over 30 drive home the point. These women weren’t eligible for the free vaccine, and as a result, their incidences of HPV have remained about the same.

Last time I wrote about vaccinations debate was heated from the anti-vaxxers lobby, many of whom still claim that vaccination should be a personal choice, not forced upon us by those in positions of power.

I disagree.

Living in a vaccinated community means my kids and I, not to mention our family and friends, have the best chance of avoiding serious illness.

These statistics are being widely reported and celebrated internationally. Not so in Australia, where the mainstream press seems to be ignoring the news.

This is clever science people, and that our country played a part in the development of such a significant vaccine is something to celebrate.

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Prince Harry: Missing the London Marathon was never an option

Prince Harry presented medals to the winners of the London Marathon

Prince Harry presented medals to the winners of the London Marathon

Security concerns brought on by shocking scenes from last week’s Boston marathon didn’t stop 37,000 eager runners taking part in the London Marathon at the weekend, nor did it deter Prince Harry from carrying out his role in the event.

Ahead of the race where he would present medals to the winners, Harry praised the defiant British spirit that saw the famous marathon go ahead.

In a moving scene before the race started, runners bowed their heads in silence bearing black ribbons pinned to their vests in honour of those killed and injured in the Boston bombings last week.

Heightened security around the race saw a police presence 40 per cent greater than the previous years, but the prince said despite safety threats, it was “never an option” for him not to attend.

“It’s fantastic, it’s typically British,” he said of the enormous crowds that gathered to run and watch the iconic race.

“People have been saying they haven’t seen crowds like this for eight years.

“The way Boston has dealt with it is remarkable and the great thing about the marathon is that no matter what colour, religion or nationality you are, everyone comes together to run and raise money for amazing causes. You can never take that away from people.”

Paralympic champion Kurt Fearnley was one of thousands of Australian competitors in Sunday’s marathon.

The silver medal winner outsprinted the competition winning the marathon’s wheelchair race less than a week after finishing fifth in the now-disastrous Boston Marathon, escaping the two bombs that exploded near the finish line after he had finished.

Fearnley also dedicated his London run to the tragedy, tweeting before the race “Boston ur always in our thoughts”.

The race, largely devoted to acknowledging the Boston bombings, also helped raise money for many charities.

Prince Harry, who is patron to several charities said the marathon was important to him and his royal relatives for that reason.

“For us we’re very lucky, we get a huge amount of places given to us by the marathon for all of our charities, my sister-in-law and William as well,” he told media at the marathon.

“We’re immensely grateful to them so I will continue to show my support where I can.”

Prince Harry will also take part in a charity trek to the South Pole with a number of injured servicemen and women later this year.

“Walking with the Wounded is something that I’ve been involved with for some time now,” he said.

“It’s an amazing opportunity. It’s going to be a fantastic race and a wonderful cause to raise awareness for all these remarkable people around the world that are having to continue their lies with injuries, whether they be mental or physical.”

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Rolf Harris denies sex offence claims

Rolf Harris denies sex offence claims

Rolf Harris has been named by UK newspaperThe Sun as the Australian entertainer arrested in the UK last month on suspicion of sex offences.

The veteran showman, who was arrested on March 28 and interviewed under caution by London police, was later released without charge. He has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

Following his arrest, Scotland Yard released a statement saying: “An 82-year-old man from Berkshire was arrested by officers on Operation Yewtree, on suspicion of sexual offences.”

“He has been bailed to a date in May pending further enquiries.”

Police have refused to give any details of the allegations, which are currently under investigation.

Harris’ agents and lawyers have not commented publicly on his arrest.

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Clever photos free boy trapped in his own body

Luka is photographed "skateboarding" despite his body getting weaker by the day.

This is Luka, a 12-year-old boy who is trapped in his own body. His muscular dystrophy means he gets weaker every day, and can now only move his fingers, which allow him to operate his wheelchair.

Unlike other boys his age, Luka can’t run, swim or skateboard but with the help of Slovenian photographer Matej Peljhan, he has been able to do all these things and more, in pictures at least.

“He is well aware of his fate but he doesn’t give in, either,” Peljhan wrote on his website. “He wants neither pity nor empathy but wants to stay positive and focused on the things in his life he can (still) do.”

Luka’s body gets weaker every day.

Luka uses a special device to paintstakingly create drawings.

Luka wanted to see himself “making mischief” in a photo.

Photographer Matej Peljhan decided to help his dreams come true.

Luka is incapable of most everyday activities.

Most muscular dystrophy sufferers die at a young age.

Luka is aware of his prognosis but wants to live his life positively.

Luka wants to be an inspiration to others with the disease.

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One year on: An open letter from Allison Baden-Clay’s family

The family of Allison Baden-Clay have marked the anniversary of her death with moving written tribute.
One year on: An open letter from Allison Baden-Clay's family

Priscilla and Geoff Dickie farewell their daughter Allison Baden-Clay at her funeral last year.

One year on, Allison’s parents Geoff and Priscilla Dickie along with other friends and family have penned an open letter, published in The Courier Mail, remembering Allison as the “wonderful woman” and “model mum” she was.

Here is the open letter from those who loved and knew Allison best:

In the past 12 months, Allison has been constantly in our thoughts.

Not for the circumstances and uncertain nature of her passing, but for the wonderful person she was. For the joy she brought to us all.

And for the lesson of selfless sacrifice she gave through the actions of her everyday life. Regardless of her own struggles and hurdles, Allison never stopped thinking of others first and foremost.

Allison, who was humble by nature, was extravagant only in her giving.

And she gave to all who came into her life, friends and thieves alike. She epitomised what it meant to be a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunty and friend.

After 12 months, Allison is missed more than ever, and she is most surely not forgotten.

We all have special personal memories of the wonderful woman she was.

She had done so much, yet had so much to live for and so much more to do.

This has been a very public journey for our family and we appreciate everyone’s love and support.

We, her family and friends, remain overwhelmed by the support from the broader community, and in particular from the Brookfield community who continue to offer love and support for her daughters. Allison too would be overwhelmed, and thankful for all your efforts.

We must live as Allison did with goals to help us strive for excellence, with love for one another; with respect, and to put the happiness of others above our own.

Life we have learnt is precious, and too short.

We often cry because her life has come to an end but we also smile because we were privileged to have her in our lives.

A high achiever, a model mum and unselfish soul, all of which were achieved under sometimes challenging circumstances, yet she rose above any adversity and endured many difficulties yet she still loved.

She has impacted each of our lives yet she had a far greater impact on the world because of her nature, character and kind soul.

She had done so much, yet had so much to live for and so much more to do.

This has been a very public journey for our family and we appreciate everyone’s love and support.

We, her family and friends, remain overwhelmed by the support from the broader community, and in particular from the Brookfield community who continue to offer love and support for her daughters. Allison too would be overwhelmed, and thankful for all your efforts.

We must live as Allison did with goals to help us strive for excellence, with love for one another; with respect, and to put the happiness of others above our own.

Life we have learnt is precious, and too short.

We often cry because her life has come to an end but we also smile because we were privileged to have her in our lives.

A high achiever, a model mum and unselfish soul, all of which were achieved under sometimes challenging circumstances, yet she rose above any adversity and endured many difficulties yet she still loved.

She has impacted each of our lives yet she had a far greater impact on the world because of her nature, character and kind soul.

A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others and Allison was loved so much.

A year on from her death and we celebrate her life, her love and her strength each and every day.

She will remain forever in our hearts.

From the Dickies and their extended families.

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A tale of tweet romance: Gen-Y dating scene shifts to social media

A tale of tweet romance: Gen-Y dating scene shifts to social media

Dean and Fiona met on Twitter. They've been together for 2.5 years and have been living together for one.

The evolution of online dating has seen it go from a desperate last resort, to an acceptable activity with some stigma attached, to just about the only option among Australian singles. But to Gen-Y, setting up an RSVP profile is no longer desperate or shameful, it’s just passe — Twitter is where it’s at.

The nation’s most popular dating site, RSVP, claims responsibility for one in ten Australian marriages, but digital dating is now becoming more competitive with more singles looking to social media to find love.

Aussie actress Teresa Palmer’s relationship with US actor/director Mark Webber is categorised as “oh-so-new-age” by the Daily Telegraph because the couples met on Twitter, but they’re not the only ones.

Sydney couple Fiona and Dean have been together for two and a half years, and have Twitter to thank for their romance.

“It was kind of love at first sight,” says Fiona, 27, who was introduced to her 26-year-old boyfriend by a ‘mutual acquaintance’ they’d each only met once.

“And we keep trying to work out if we would have met otherwise and I actually don’t think we have.”

After packing up her life and moving interstate, Fiona contacted Dean on Twitter to ask for bar recommendations.

Understandably, he was hesitant to get chatting with a girl he hardly knew, but three months of ‘Twitter flirting’ gave the now de facto couple time to get to know each other and eventually meeting each other after months of preliminary tweeting.

“If I hadn’t had that opportunity to kind of see into his personality, to realise he was a really great guy, I think I might have met him and brushed him off if we had just met out or something,” she says.

“It’s not like online dating where you’re setting out to impress someone. On Twitter you just see what they’re like and how they interact with other people. It’s a good insight into who they are.”

Relationships Australia counsellor Kylie Dunjey is seeing more and more couples who meet through social media, and says it’s almost becoming ‘the norm’.

Unlike traditional online dating, Ms Dunjey says social media gives people a chance to do “a bit more checking out” and get to know more about one another through the way they interact with friends on their pages.

“Meeting on Facebook is almost like meeting in a friend’s lounge room,” she says.

“There is usually a connection, a friend has introduced you, and it’s less controlled than say an online dating profile.”

Even so, Ms Dunjey says it’s important single’s realise their potential dates are still controlling their image.

“I think Twitter would be put in the same category of online ways of promoting self where we act as PR people for ourselves where we create an identity that we think it going to be our best look,” she says, and warns those looking for love in which ever corner of the internet to be mindful of the security risks.

When Fiona went to meet Dean at the store he was working at in Bondi almost three years ago, she made a friend come with her, and figured it was ok because he was at work so “he couldn’t murder me”, if he did turn out to be a freak.

Now that they’ve been living together for one year, the only problem they have with the unconventional way in which they met is the questions it raises from less tech-savvy friends.

“I think people always sound surprised. Some think it’s cute, but people who don’t use Twitter think it’s weird, but they think Twitter’s weird in general.”

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The drinking man’s diet: Crazy 60s weight loss tips

The drinking man's diet: Crazy 60s weight loss tips

The Drinking Man's Diet, a Metrecal ad and Calories Don't Count.

Just like today, weight loss regimes were big business in the 1960s. From downing all the booze you could drink to guzzling shots of oil before every meal, here are some of the craziest retro dieting tips.

All the alcohol you can drink:

One of the best-selling diet books of all time was the The Drinking Man’s Diet, which was self-published by cosmetics executive Robert Cameron in 1964 and sold 2.5 million copies in the first year. According to Cameron, slimmer could drink all the alcohol they wanted and still lose weight as long as they followed a low-carb diet. “Alcohol has calories but they’re not bad calories, they’re good calories,” he said.

Steak in a can:

One of the biggest diet crazes of all time was Metrecal, a liquid that was first developed as a baby formula before being rebranded as a meal replacement drink in 1959. Devotees were encouraged to drink four cans of the drink a day, adding up to just 900 calories. Metrecal became so popular it was even served in the White House lunch room, and popular restaurants offered the drink mixed with rum and nutmeg as part of low-cal lunch options.

Safflower oil shots:

Best-selling 60s dieting book Calories Don’t Count by Dr Herman Teller instructed slimmers to down shots of safflower oil before every meal. Teller promised that by sticking to low-carb, very-high-fat diet, followers could eat as many as 5000 calories a day and still lose weight. The book sold two million copies, despite the US Food and Drug Administration declaring its claims “false and misleading” in 1967.

Buttermilk, meat and boiled eggs:

Brooklyn GP Dr Irwin Maxwell Stillman publishing a whole book of eating plans titled The Doctor’s Quick Weight Loss Diet in 1967. One option was the buttermilk diet, which involved downing six glasses of buttermilk a day — and nothing else. A variation was the all-meat diet, which saw followers eating 225gm of meat three times a day. Stillman’s strictest eating plan was the semi-starvation diet which allowed people to eat one boiled egg, 250 of milk, 30gm of salad without dressing and eight glasses of water “for as long as you can take it”.

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Killer flu coming to Australia

Killer flu coming to Australia

A devastating killer influenza outbreak is heading to Australia where it will claim lives, doctors have warned.

The deadly H3N2 “super flu” wrought havoc in the US in December and January, killing 20 children and causing vaccine shortages across the country.

The virus is expected to arrive in Australia within weeks and Australian Medical Association President Dr Steve Hambleton says we should not underestimate its ferocity.

“It’s absolutely true (that it is a killer flu), and some of the people reading this might be the victims, I’m sorry to say. It will kill people,” he told theDaily Telegraph.

Dr Hambleton says the only way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated. He says everyone over the age of six months should be vaccinated, particularly pregnant women and the elderly.

“You need to get vaccinated because getting the vaccine is the very best way of protecting yourself,” he said.

“Children are super-spreaders of the flu. An adult might spread the flu for a week, little kids will spread the flu for three weeks and schoolchildren will spread the flu for two weeks. We’d absolutely recommend children be vaccinated.”

Influenza kills an average of 85 Australians each year, with a further 3000 elderly people dying from complications or secondary infections.

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