Indholdsfortegnelse for Issue 18, 2024 i New Idea

While I believe mums, mother figures and other special women in our lives deserve constant adoration, Mother’s Day is always a special time of year. In this issue, we chat to first-time parent Taylah, who feared she’d never get to experience Mother’s Day – and then gave birth to quads! – on page 32. On page 30, entertainment writer Jodie catches up with Aussie TV presenter Laura Csortan, who gets candid on the hardships and joys of single motherhood. If you’re looking to spoil a special mum, nanna, aunt, sister or friend on May 12, flick to our food section, where our test kitchen has put together some gorgeous recipes to help you host high tea at home. To my own mum, happy Mother’s Day – I don’t know what…

There’s nothing but love between Barbra Streisand and Melissa McCarthy after an awkward Instagram fiasco saw the entertainer publicly asking the actress if she’d used the weight-loss drug Ozempic. It appears Barbra, 82, intended to privately message Melissa, 53, after she posted a photo of herself with director Adam Shankman. But instead, she replied in the publicly visible comments section! Seemingly confirming her mistake, Barbra said the next day, “[Melissa] looked fantastic! I just wanted to pay her a compliment. I forgot the world is reading!” Melissa laughed the whole thing off, saying, “The takeaway is Barbra Streisand knows I exist … I win the day.”…

Jennifer Aniston will be working around the clock when production starts on her remake of 9 to 5. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Jen will produce a reimagining of the 1980 film – which starred Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda – via her company Echo Films. Although Jen, 55, is yet to confirm if she’ll take on more than just a producer role, New Idea hears she has been inundated with requests from actresses who want to be part of the cast. “Everyone wants to be in this movie,” says an insider.” Although scant details have been released about the remake, our source adds Jen “wants to bring back Dolly, Lily and Jane if they’re available, even if it’s a cameo”.…

The woman who thinks she inspired Netflix’s latest global phenomenon, Baby Reindeer, could be taking legal action against the streaming giant. The seven-part series, which has been promoted as a “captivating true story”, was written by and stars Scottish actor Richard Gadd. He plays Donny Dunn, a barman and aspiring comedian who spent four years being plagued by a woman named Martha Scott (Jessica Gunning). While Richard’s own harrowing stalker experience compelled him to create the show, he said he went to great lengths to conceal Martha’s true identity. But after the show premiered in early April, fans became consumed with locating and exposing the real woman. Despite Richard insisting “I don’t think she would recognise herself ” and begging fans not to search, it didn’t take long for internet…

BELLA AND CONNOR IN FLORIDA WITH TOM… Nicole Kidman insists she will always have “unconditional love” for the two children she adopted with her first husband, Tom Cruise. Yet that wasn’t enough to convince daughter Isabella and son Connor to be by their mum’s side as she accepted one of cinema’s highest honours. In a star-studded Hollywood ceremony on April 28, Nicole became the 49th person, and first Australian, to receive the American Film Institute Life Achievement Award. Only in New Idea A beaming Nicole, 56, looked every inch the screen goddess as she posed with husband Keith Urban, also 56, and their daughters Sunday, 15, and Faith, 13. But behind the scenes, we’re told the actress was putting on a brave face to mask her devastation at Bella and…

Despite carrying a ‘can do’ attitude with her during her varied career as a model, TV presenter, writer and MC, nothing could have prepared Laura Csortan for single parenthood, and all the ups and downs it entails. “When I was pregnant and alone, I looked for manuals on how to do it solo and there’s nothing,” Laura, 47, tells New Idea. “But your values pass through the generations. I took what I learnt from my mum, who was a single mum too, on board. She taught me to be hardworking, genuine, and above all, loving to your child.” The love Laura has for her daughter Layla, seven, is evident on the set of our Mother’s Day photoshoot. As they bake together and make friendship bracelets, the pair are the definition…

Once violent criminals commit their horrendous offenses, it is hard to think of them as everyday people with partners, children, friends and colleagues. The man dubbed the ‘Salt Creek Monster’ was exactly that. Roman Heinze was known around his town as a twice-married, loving father of five. So when his daughter Kendehl discovered he had committed a horrific attack on two backpackers in 2016, she was devastated. Eight years on and Kendehl, 36, is still terrified of her dad – and of what may happen in the future. “I’m really scared Dad’s going to come after me when he gets out [of jail],” confesses Kendehl, who is speaking for the first time. “I’m scared to be in my own town [and] that something could happen to me.” On February 9,…

Outdoor prep and maintenance for cold weather Just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean we have to stop spending time outdoors. To help make the most of your backyard and deck, Rod Schiefelbein, Australian market manager at Trex, shares what’s currently trending in outdoor entertaining and how to get your space prepped for the winter ahead. 1 COSY UP Setting the scene and creating an inviting space will help you and any guests feel welcome despite the chilly weather. This can easily be achieved through decor and lighting. “One of the hottest trends this winter is the incorporation of warming features into outdoor spaces, such as scented candles, lanterns, outdoor fireplaces and lighting – which are perfect for the shorter days and cooler months,” says Rod. You can…

CELEBRATING Mother’s Day! Taylah Tudehope-Glachan once feared she may never experience a Mother’s Day. But this Sunday she gets to celebrate her first one – and her arms will be full cuddling the babies who made her dream a reality four times over! Taylah and her husband, Sean, defied enormous odds when they welcomed quadruplets Archie, Billy, Charlie and Daisy into the world via caesarean section on December 7 last year. The proud parents, from Buff Point, NSW, agree their lives have been a juggling act ever since. Every day they change more than 30 nappies and feed their bubs up to 28 bottles of freshly pumped breast milk. Still, Taylah, 28, wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s a bit like a petting zoo sometimes, trying to get them…

TIP Eclairs can be filled up to six hours ahead. Store in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge. TIP Filled biscuits can be made up to two days ahead. Store in an airtight container in a cool place. Refrigerate in hot weather. TIP Freeze-dried raspberries are available from some major supermarkets or health food stores. Sponge is best made and assembled on the day of serving. TIP Make slice up to four days ahead. Store in airtight container in fridge. Dip knife in warm water; dry on absorbent paper after cutting each slice.…

In the cutthroat world of Facebook Marketplace, only the savviest survive. For Luki Scully, founder of professional organisers Get Sorted, Marketplace is a handy tool to help her clients let go. “One of the hardest things is the notion that you’re throwing away something that cost a lot of money,” says Luki. “That becomes less scary when you know you’re going to recoup some of its cost – even if it’s only a fraction of what you originally paid.” Luki helps clients learn to list their loot. Here she shares her process, developed from years of experience watching what sells and what doesn’t. STEP 1: IS IT WORTH LISTING? As the adage goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Especially things like… (ORANGE) HOMEWARES: Pieces from the ’50s through…

Is Whistler worth visiting? After what felt like an exceptionally hot and humid Aussie summer, the cooler weather is a welcome relief. So whether you’re planning a winter getaway or dreaming of a snowy international escape for later this year, you’re bound to find some inspiration in Whistler, Canada. When the weather turns cold in Whistler come the end of the year, it transforms into a winter wonderland, enticing visitors with its worldclass ski resorts and stunning alpine scenery. Even if you’re not a fan of the winter months, Whistler’s village is home to cosy lodges, delicious dining options and a festive atmosphere, creating an unforgettable escape that’s sure to please everyone. GETTING THERE To get to Whistler from Australia, you’ll need to fly to Vancouver. From there, it’s a…

Q I work in a hospital but have been trying to get into an area working with newborn babies for years. Despite applying numerous times, I have not been successful. Should I stop pursuing this? – ANNA A I don’t think there is anything wrong with your nursing abilities. I feel it is more the hospital where you work that’s the issue. This part of the hospital is very cliquey and it isn’t what you know, but who you know. You would be perfect working with newborns, as you have the dedication and knowledge. I can see you undertaking a short course that will finally help you move into this area. There is another hospital close to where you live that may be a private hospital where you will be…

BUCKS FIZZ 1981 Brit band Bucks Fizz were catapulted to the top of the charts for most of the ’80s after cinching the win with their infectious tune ‘Making Your Mind Up’. “Our worlds changed overnight. It went from normal, everyday life to winning Eurovision and having no life at all,” band member Mike Nolan told The Guardian. “We were told where to go, what to do, what to say, what not to say. But we had a great laugh.” Some believe it was their unique dance routine that secured Bucks Fizz their win. The women wore tearaway skirts that were ripped off during the performance to reveal racy skater skirts underneath. ABBA 1974 Despite five decades passing since ABBA first burst onto our screens in a flurry of satin…

COOKING WILD FIGS AND FENNEL by Letitia Clark Chef Letitia Clark brings together simple Italian flavours and transports the reader to the Mediterranean through this selection of seasonal recipes. OUT NOW HISTORICAL FICTION THE RADIO HOUR by Victoria Purman Martha tries to rescue a radio serial from folding by secretly ghost-writing scripts that end up resonating with listeners. Will she keep her secret, or finally reveal everything?  OUT NOW ROMANCE YOU ARE HERE by David Nicholls Marnie is stuck in a rut and Michael’s wife has suddenly left him. When a mutual friend brings them together they enter into a new friendship, but is surviving the journey possible? OUT NOW MEMOIR BITS AND PIECES by Whoopi Goldberg In this powerful and deeplypersonal memoir, Whoopi details her struggles and reveals how…

Farmer Todd has only just arrived onto the show, but it already looks like he’s been struck by Cupid’s arrow. New Idea hears that 33-year-old Todd, from Baan Baa, NSW, is set to leave FWAW “extremely loved-up”, with a source saying a proposal could “fully be on the cards”. “Todd is a very happy camper right now,” the source dishes. “Marriage is something he definitely wants.” As for how Todd might pop the question, our insider says he’ll likely keep things “simple but romantic. He is a pretty traditional guy.” Along with getting hitched, having kids is something Todd says he wants in his life. New Idea spoke with Todd ahead of his first appearance on Farmer Wants A Wife, where he admitted he signed up for the show after…

For years, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were considered one of Hollywood’s most golden couples. The pair were huge stars and regular attendees at exclusive red-carpet events. But in recent times, their shine seems to have tarnished, especially after they wrote letters supporting their That ’70s Show co-star Danny Masterson, soon after he was convicted on rape charges in September 2023. “Their public support of Danny lead to criticism from some in Hollywood,” a source tells New Idea. Now, Mila, 40, and Ashton, 46, are said to be considering stepping away from Hollywood for a time, to focus on their young family. The pair met while filming That ’70s Show together in 1998 and are now parents to daughter Wyatt, nine, and son Dimitri, seven. “Leaving Hollywood is not an…

Isla Fisher looks to be getting the last laugh when it comes to her split from Sacha Baron Cohen. As her ex-husband’s career flounders, the Aussie star’s trajectory is soaring, especially now that she has scored a coveted part opposite George Clooney! Isla and George have started production on their new Netflix movie, Jay Kelly. The pair were photographed on-set in Hampshire, England, filming what appeared to be a flirtatious scene between their characters. Isla, 48, was seen jumping out of a car and running towards George, 63. She then greeted him with a hug and kiss before seductively twirling her hair. Along with Isla and George, Jay Kelly stars Patrick Wilson, Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, Billy Crudup and Riley Keough. One showbiz insider says it’s a huge coup for…

Fiery arguments, financial chaos and brazen affairs. Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner’s ill-fated union had it all. Now, a buzzy new biopic is set to lay everything out on the silver screen. Martin Scorsese is reportedly directing an upcoming movie about Frank’s life and his relationship with Golden Age screen siren Ava. Leonardo DiCaprio is being eyed up to play ‘Ol Blue Eyes’, while Jennifer Lawrence will portray the actress. With Leo and Jennifer previously working together in 2021’s Don’t Look Up, a source says that “pairing them up again should prove box-office gold. The Oscars won’t be able to resist this!” Frank and Ava’s dramatic love story is certainly fit for the big screen thanks to their notorious arguments and complex dynamic, even years after they divorced. Five years…

A thrifty bathroom makeover doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or quality. Simply focus on three main areas: DIY changes, accessorising and styling. DIY CHANGES Some changes you can do yourself include: ■ REGROUTING: This easy tweak involves scraping out about 1.5mm of the old grout and using a squidgy and sponge to regrout. This can make a huge difference to the look of your bathroom. ■ REPLACE YOUR TOILET SEAT: Explore options beyond the standard white, such as wooden finishes or even patterned designs, to add an unexpected touch of style. ■ REPLACING TAPWARE: Modernise your sink and bath with new tapware. Matte black or copper finishes can add a contemporary edge, while installing water-saving models will also help reduce your water bill. ■ RESURFACING TILES: Instead of…

HELPFUL HACKS FOR ORGANISING YOUR FINANCES Organising your finances can be daunting and tedious all at the same time. The paperwork can be vast, but there are some ways to make it easier. Try these hacks to reduce the tension this task can bring… FILING SYSTEM Gather all your financial paperwork and sort them into three trays or files, each marked with ‘pay’, ‘file’ or ‘shred’. PAY: These need to be paid in the near future, usually within three months. FILE: This will be your record of financial statements, long-term payments and accounts, tax returns, etc. SHRED: This pile should include bank statements or credit card bills older than three years that no longer need to be dealt with. SET A DATE Set aside a regular day to deal with…

Taurus APR 21 – MAY 21 Good things are heading your way, Taurus. A flattering offer or award could make all your hard work worthwhile, while a thoughtful gift could send you over the moon. Style-wise, the new lunar cycle could prompt an image overhaul: new cosmetics, clothes or even hairstyle. Lucky flowers: Pink roses Gemini MAY 22 – JUN 21 People might be seeking you out, but don’t get caught up in the drama – their feelings will change with the wind. With so much going on, your reflective side might benefit from some quiet, even if it’s while you stroll. Pay attention to any left-field ideas: they might be inspired. Lucky crystal: Amethyst Cancer JUN 22 – JUL 23 Let those talents shine! Under the magical new moon,…

If there is one thing that Engelbert Humperdinck loves as much as singing, it’s travelling the world. Fortunately, the British star gets to do both as he performs his “grand farewell tour”, The Last Waltz, around Australia. Here, the 88-year-old tells us about the series of shows, as well as what’s in store for him next... What can audiences expect from this tour? There’s a lot of material in the show that my Australian audience has never heard live before. I hope they enjoy it! How do you prepare for a performance? I get all cleaned up and then have something to eat. Then comes soundcheck. I have my own band, so I don’t have to take too much time in soundcheck, and I don’t have to rehearse. What about…