Innehållsförteckning för Issue 18, 2021 från New Idea

Last week I stepped out of my editor’s chair and into the photo studio for a very special Kmart fashion shoot, alongside my family. Spoiler alert – we all had an absolute ball! I’ve been involved with plenty of photo shoots over the years while working in magazines, but I have to say that working with my own kids was definitely, er, interesting… But overall, it was such a fun experience. I also now completely understand the old saying about never working with kids or animals! Head to our fashion spread to see the final shots.…

She is no stranger to a controversial opinion, but Olivia Newton-John’s only child, Chloe Lattanzi, is said to be “seriously worrying” her closest friends and family due to her contentious and peculiar posts on social media. Last week, Chloe, 35, raised eyebrows after confessing to seeing UFOs as a child, while on a farm in Australia. She then insisted she doesn’t care if people think she is “crazy”. And while that may be the case, sources close to the singer reveal her loved ones, including her famous mother, are worried her beliefs could see her caught up in cult-like groups. “Chloe is freaking friends and family out with her views, which she’s trying to play off as ‘new age’, but in reality it’s all downright cultish,” says a source of…

There’s nothing more motivating than rivalry, and sources say that actor Sam Worthington is hoping that Avatar 2 will put him back on the map... and hopefully steal some thunder from fellow Aussie actor Chris Hemsworth! Sam, 44, saw his career stall after starring in the original Avatar movie in 2009, while Chris, 37, shot to global stardom with 2011’s Thor, “and it’s been a case of sour grapes ever since”, explains the source. Even though Sam is busy shooting back-to-back Avatar sequels in Sydney, he’s still eyeing Chris – who’s filming Thor: Love and Thunder – with envy. “It’s the biggest movie to ever shoot in Australia, and it’s seriously tough for Sam to hear about how Chris, Matt Damon and his pal Christian Bale are having such a…

For the usually stiff-upper-lipped Prince of Wales, trailing tearfully behind his father’s casket as it made its final journey through Windsor was the most publicly vulnerable moment of his life. And unfortunately for the heir, the loneliness has continued to echo as his nearest and dearest have not been there in his time of need. Following recent reports that the 72-year-old fled to his Welsh cottage two days after the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral, New Idea can reveal the prince is now suffering another low point – this time with his marriage to Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. According to insiders, the prince is feeling “dumped” as the couple – who marked 16 years of marriage on the day Prince Philip died – are said to be leading “completely separate lives”,…

When it was revealed Prince Harry met with his estranged father and brother for two hours following Prince Philip’s solemn funeral on April 17, royal insiders were all ears for the result. New Idea’s sources say that while talks were “at first cordial”, once they got to the core of each other’s perceived wrongs, things turned tense. “William had some very choice words to say about Harry’s Oprah interview, which he will never not see as a huge betrayal,” explains a royal source. “Harry has such a chip on his shoulder, there was no backing down from either one of them – and certainly no real apology was made. Charles was already in an emotional state after burying his father and couldn’t bring himself to confront Harry about any of…

Before eternal bachelor Hugh Grant settled down with a wife and kids, there was a woman he always rued as “the one who got away” – his favourite co-star, Sarah Jessica Parker. So it’s probably with a bittersweet tinge that he’s preparing to accept what we’re told is a seven-figure offer to join the cast of the eagerly awaited Sex and the City revival, And Just Like That. According to sources close to the troubled production, which has already seen Kim Cattrall drop out and Chris Noth refuse to commit to the script, SJP wanted a “major, major” male lead to come on board. “In her mind, there’s no-one funnier, more handsome or more perfect for a rom-com than her dear friend, Hugh Grant,” dishes a source. “She jokes that…

When Catriona signed on to Getaway, she was only offered a short-term six-week contract – and it has now wound up being almost 30 years! “I’m as grateful for this role now as I was when I did the screen test,” says Catriona. The TV host says this experience, along with her father’s words of wisdom, have taught her to always keep an open mind when it comes to TV opportunities that come her way – and that includes offers to appear on reality shows. “My dad passed on the attitude of ‘Why not?’, so I’m open to it all,” says Catriona. And there’s one reality show that has come knocking on Catriona’s door several times over the years. “I will admit, I get asked almost every year to do…

As Rosie Ayliffe put pen to paper to write about her treasured daughter Mia, a trove of emotions came bubbling to the surface. Heartbreak, anger and the trauma of her girl’s tragic death would be too much for many to carry. But the strong mum persisted, sharing in her new book, Far from Home: A True Story of Death, Loss and a Mother’s Courage, how Mia, 21, was killed at the hand of her roommate during a working holiday at a sugarcane farm in rural Queensland. Now, Rosie, from Wirksworth, England, hopes that the cautionary tale will spark a change in law over the treatment of backpackers working in agriculture. “Writing the book was traumatic. I cried for quite a lot of it, and destroyed a keyboard in the process,”…

APRIL 28 9.47AM Bryant left his Hobart home for Port Arthur. 11.45AM Arrived at the Seascape Guest House. MIDDAY Shot and killed David and Noelene Martin. 1.10PM Drove into the Port Arthur Historic Site, parked his car and ate lunch at the Broad Arrow Cafe, before he unleashed the shooting spree. 2PM Bryant arrived back at Seascape with hostage Glenn Pears in tow. OVERNIGHT Police surrounded the property and a night-time siege ensued. APRIL 29, EARLY MORNING  Bryant set fire to Seascape and ran from the burning building with his clothes on fire. MAY 10 Prime Minister John Howard announced The Nationwide Agreement on Firearms, implementing tighter control of firearms across Australia. NOVEMBER 19 Bryant pled guilty to all charges. NOVEMBER 22 Bryant was given 35 life sentences for each…

Since the announcement of the new movie about the Port Arthur massacre, the project has been mired in controversy, with many claiming it shouldn’t be made. The film, titled Nitram – Martin spelt backwards – will explore the events leading up to the massacre.US actor Caleb Landry Jones stars as the killer – Bryant will not be named – alongside Australian actors Judy Davis and Anthony LaPaglia. Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said he felt “highly uncomfortable” about the film, while Justin Woolley, a survivor, said the film was “tasteless”. Justin was 12 when he visited the Broad Arrow Cafe, minutes before Bryant, and had to flee with his family. “We do not need a study of the motivations of the perpetrator,” Justin stated on Twitter. Nitram will be out…

Fudgy Chocolate Meringue Cake Serves 10, Prep and Cook: 1 hour, 15 mins 200g block dark cooking chocolate, chopped 150g unsalted butter, chopped 1 cup caster sugar 3 eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup plain flour 2 tblsps cocoa powder ½ cup Milk Choc Bits Vanilla ice-cream, to serve MERINGUE 3 egg whites, at room temperature ¾ cup caster sugar ½ cup Dark Choc Melts, melted, cooled slightly 1 Invert the base of a 22.5cm springform pan (base measures 21cm). Grease and line base and side with baking paper, extending paper 5cm above the pan edge. 2 Combine dark cooking chocolate and butter in a large heatproof bowl. Sit bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until melted. 3 Remove bowl from pan. Stir sugar into warm mixture. Cool for…

Frequently used in South-East Asian cooking, lemongrass adds a punchy lemon flavour. To prepare, trim the base of the stem then peel away and discard any really dry, tough, outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice crossways from the base towards the pale-coloured, tender part of the stems. The slices can then be finely chopped and added to stir-fries, curries or salad dressings. The outer green leaves can be quite tough, but are flavoursome. Cut into large pieces and add to soups and curries as they cook, then remove before serving. The leaves are also good for making lemongrass tea by soaking them in boiling water for about 3 to 5 minutes.…

STOCK UP ON SALMON People deficient in omega-3 fatty acids  may be more likely to have low moods and depression. Oily fish, like salmon, is rich in omega-3, so eating it on the reg will keep your brain healthy and happy. SHUCK THOSE OYSTERS Thought to be an aphrodisiac, oysters are also high in zinc, which is crucial for energy production. They also contain a protein that’s high in amino acid tyrosine, which your brain uses to produce  the chemicals to boost mental function and lift spirits. EAT YOUR SPINACH Depression has been linked to deficiencies in B vitamins, since serotonin  production can suffer when B levels are low. Top them up with leafy greens, like spinach. Or, if salads get boring make a green smoothie!…

READER Q&A Q Do you see romance in my stars? JUDY, SYDNEY NSW. A Yes, I do. But first, you may need to step outside of your comfort zone. As you start to shake up your routine, your dating pool will expand. Fitness could merge with romance through winter, so why not join a sporting club or look into local gyms? Q My son has just dropped out of university, in his second year. He had been studying to be a primary school teacher. He wants to start working in landscaping with a friend, but I’m worried about his choices. What can you see? SAL, MELBOURNE, VIC. A With his Taurus sun and Aries Mars, physical work looks quite suitable for your son. He needs to be active, so an…

For four seasons, fans have loyally tuned in to swoon over Rodger Corser playing handsome Dr Hugh Knight in Doctor Doctor. But, the actor refuses to take any credit for the Logie-nominated show’s success. “It’s our characters, and the mix of humour and heart that keep people coming back – all wrapped up in our beautiful rural locations,” he says. Chatting to New Idea, Rodger dishes on what’s coming in Season 5 – and why he refuses to accept his heart-throb status! What can Doctor Doctor fans expect from this season? It’s really about the fight for Whyhope. After drought, fire, a pandemic and perhaps a little local council corruption, our town is on the brink of extinction and all our characters must play their part if the community is…

After spending millions trying to get their son help, including therapy and rehab for substance abuse, sources say Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson are “fed up” with continuing reports and fresh allegations regarding their troubled son Chet. The news comes after bombshell court papers filed recently in Texas allege that Chet threatened his ex-girlfriend Kiana Parker, and was also physically and emotionally abusive to her. Kiana claims much of this alleged behaviour occurred in front of her 9-year-old twins, and is seeking $1.3 million from the civil case. However, Chet’s lawyer, Marty Singer, told The Daily Beast in a statement that: “[Kiana’s] claims are completely false.” Insiders tell New Idea Chet “assumes” his famous parents – who together are worth around $510 million – “will help pay for any court…

FRANCES McDORMAND Nearly four decades after making her silver-screen debut in 1984’s Blood Simple (also the first movie made by her legendary filmmaker husband, Joel Coen), Frances is eyeing off her third Best Actress statue – this time for Nomadland. The acclaimed star, who previously won for Fargo and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, recently said that being part of director Chloé Zhao’s critically acclaimed flick left her “bursting with pride”. SACHA BARON COHEN The comedian has Da Ali G Show to thank for putting him on the map — and making him a double Oscar nominee! Not only is Borat Subsequent Moviefilm nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay, but Sacha is also up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Trial of the Chicago 7. “I’m incredibly humbled…

After stepping out in Sydney last week, Australian Idol alum Ricki-Lee Coulter has fans convinced she could soon be expecting! Onlookers who spotted the star insist to New Idea the ‘Raining Diamonds’ singer was “glowing” while walking with her manager husband, Richard Harrison. At one stage, the 35-year-old even appeared to cradle her mid-section, before happily interacting with her partner – who she’s been married to for more than five years. News of a little one would certainly be a surprise for the songstress, who has previously confessed to not wanting children of her own. In a 2019 interview with Stellar, Ricki-Lee confirmed this, saying: “It’s a completely personal decision. For me it’s simply, I don’t want kids.” If she has had a change of heart, Ricki-Lee has already had…

There’s said to be one person behind Jett Kenny’s inclusion on the upcoming season of SAS: Australia – his mother, Lisa Curry. According to insiders, the Ironman, 27, was put forward by his supportive mum who is said to be secretly working on becoming the show’s very first intruder! “Lisa wanted to be in the main line-up as the mum and son combo, but she wasn’t unveiled as part of the main cast,” an industry insider explains, who insists the former Olympic swimmer has a plan. “She’s pushing to enter as an intruder – it’s the first time anything like that has been done on SAS,” says the source, noting that it would be “absolute TV gold”. Interestingly the source says Lisa, who turns 59 in May, now has her…

She’s the spitting image of her father, Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark, and she bears a striking resemblance to her mother, Princess Mary, too – but whoever she takes after, it’s clear Princess Isabella of Denmark is growing up to be a gorgeous young woman. The royals released new photos to celebrate her 14th birthday last week. Isabella, who was snapped by her mum, appeared happy to be out in the sunshine. The family will also soon celebrate Prince Christian’s confirmation on May 15.…

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had hoped to spend their 10th wedding anniversary enjoying peace, quiet and each other’s company after their most stressful year yet. After all they’ve endured, from public attacks slung by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on global television, through to burying William’s beloved grandfather recently, they were due for a break. Short-tempered William is said to be feeling “anxious” after his first encounter with his estranged brother, Prince Harry, following Prince Philip’s funeral, where Kate earned praise around the world for delicately orchestrating the public peace talk. But the couple’s relief was short-lived – and instead of spending this week reminiscing over their historic Westminster Abbey wedding on April 29, 2011, they were dealing with fresh attacks from Kate’s “jealous” sister-in-law, Meghan Markle.…

They’ve been serving up true love since July 21, 2005, where they married in a lavish ceremony at the Sydney Opera House. And today, nearly 16 years on, Bec and Lleyton Hewitt are as close and supportive of each other’s careers as ever. If Bec’s incredible moves on last week’s Dancing with the Stars: All Stars finale weren’t enough to prove it, it’s clear now that it’s the busy mum’s turn to shine on her own, after trading in the spotlight to support Lleyton’s tennis career. “It was never a choice – a decision – that I made [to quit acting],” Bec revealed recently. “It just naturally happened because, obviously, I wanted to be there with the kids. I don’t want to miss anything. “For me, being on the road…

John Corbett prompted confusion last week, claiming he’d be back as Carrie’s former fiancé, Aidan, in the Sex and the City reboot – but it seems no-one told SJP! “I’m going to do the show,” John said, adding that he thinks he “might be in quite a few” of the 10 episodes. HBO has yet to confirm his casting and SJP quickly aired her surprise at his statement, popping up in the Instagram comments on a post celebrating the so-called news. “I’m not saying one way or another whether our beloved Mr Corbett’s interview deals in fact or fiction,” she says, “but the response is amazing to read.”…

Her high-profile divorce from rapper Kanye West has had the whole world talking, but it seems Kim Kardashian still has plenty to smile about – namely her blossoming friendship with handsome David Beckham! Kim, 40, was in high spirits as she attended the glitzy Goodtime Hotel grand opening in Miami, Florida on April 16, alongside the soccer icon and a host of other A-list guests. Sources tell New Idea that Kim and David’s “overly warm” greeting raised many eyebrows and left his wife, Victoria Beckham, “infuriated”. “That kiss Kim planted on him definitely lingered – a few people commented on how flirty it seemed,” the source dishes. Posh is said to have quickly broken up the interlude by inserting herself in between the pair, and insiders insist it was obvious…

For four years, Australians were obsessed with the unfolding romance of AAMI’s safe driver, Rhonda, and her Balinese lover, Ketut – played by actors Mandy McElhinney and Kadek Mahardika. Now, almost 10 years since the first ad hit our screens, Melbourne-based Kadek, 37, reveals to New Idea that he never expected the campaign to become as popular as it did. “[At the time] I just thought it was a bit of fun, to sit down with Mandy on the set and make something together,” he says. Yet, the ads took on a life of their own, even reaching cult status in Australia’s favourite holiday spot, Bali, where ‘Kiss Me Ketut’ T-shirts were seen on every street corner. And, nearly every Australian could be heard quoting the ad’s famous lines, including:…

April 28, 1996, is a date Australia will never forget – on this chilly Sunday afternoon, terror was unleashed in Port Arthur, Tasmania. The horrific tale of the Port Arthur massacre remains so raw that even now, on the 25th anniversary of the tragedy, details about what was then the world’s worst killing spree by a lone gunman are beyond distressing. Martin Bryant, armed with three deadly guns and over 400 rounds of ammunition, killed 35 people and injured 23 others in Port Arthur’s Broad Arrow Cafe, across the historic site and in a range of nearby locations. He left scars for a lifetime on those who survived, for the people who lost loved ones and for the frontline workers who witnessed the results of his evil rampage. Mike Bingham…

Melbourne nurse Lynne Beavis, who was visiting the historic site as a tourist on the day, was also the massacre’s first frontline responder. Lynne raced for cover when the shooting began. But upon realising there were people dying inside the Broad Arrow Cafe, she put her own life at risk and left her safe place to administer first aid to the victims, saving many people’s lives. But it was through her eyes in a harrowing TV interview only two days afterwards that Lynne offered a shocking insight into the horrors of that day. “Being a nurse, I’ve seen dead people … but what I saw in there, perhaps a solider would know what it was like. It was awful,” she told The 7.30 Report. While she has struggled ever since…

Coconut and Fruit French Toast with Maple Syrup Serves 6, Prep and Cook: 40 mins 4 eggs 270ml can coconut milk 6 slices thick-cut raisin bread 1 tsp ground cinnamon Maple syrup, fresh blueberries and vanilla ice-cream, to serve Toasted coconut flakes, to decorate 1 Grease and line two large oven trays with baking paper. 2 Whisk eggs and coconut milk in a large jug. Pour into a large, shallow dish. Cut bread slices diagonally in half. 3 In two batches, place bread into egg mixture. Stand for 2 minutes, then turn slices over and repeat until soaked. Remove bread, allowing excess egg mixture to drain away. 4 Place bread slices about 4cm apart on prepared trays. Sprinkle tops with cinnamon. 5 Cook in a moderate oven (180C), swapping trays…

FAMILY DATE NIGHT ADVENTURE WEEKEND MUM’S ‘ME TIME’ LAZY SUNDAY IN…

HOW TO BEHAVE AROUND GUIDE DOGS When you see a guide dog out in the community, it’s important that you don’t pat them while in harness (even if they are sitting or lying down), offer them food (it’s the ultimate distraction and can jeopardise the working assistance dog team), or intentionally distract them in any other way. It’s also important to keep your own dog on a leash if you are in the vicinity of a guide dog, and give them and the handler space to navigate around any obstacles. If you do have any questions or want to assist, make sure you talk to the handler first.…

Mirrors can draw more light into a room and energise a space, but they can also emphasise a room’s negative features. When positioned in a dingy corner, a mirror won’t improve the vibe – it will simply make the space darker and more depressing, while a home with too many mirrors can feel like a maze. On the other hand, if you have a room with a beautiful view or pretty aspect, a well-placed mirror can double the beauty and attract the good ‘chi’ inside. To promote wealth and abundance, hang a mirror near your dining room table or try reflecting artwork, flowers or indoor plants to make a room more interesting.…

As the latest addition to the Doctor Doctor cast, Chantelle Jamieson is ready to shake things up in the fictional town of Whyhope as new character, Sharna. Speaking to New Idea, the actress opens up about what it is like to film the medical drama and about her unusual audition for the role... The most exciting part of filming was… getting to work with actors I’ve admired for so long, especially the incredible female cast led by Tina Bursill and Nicole da Silva. The interesting thing about a medical drama is… the medical vernacular – it’s like learning a new language. Apparently, it’s English! One odd thing about auditioning for the role was… going through the entire process, including a chemistry read, with Rodger over zoom because of COVID. Working…

It’s official! Justin Bieber is set to join the highly anticipated Friends TV reunion. The ‘Baby’ singer was reported to be on his best behaviour when he secretly filmed a surprise cameo for the upcoming reunion recently. Despite being just 10 years old when the hit show wrapped, the pop superstar is a huge fan of the comedy series and was “totally starstruck” when he joined OG cast members Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer on the reunion’s LA set. But fans shouldn’t expect any heart-throb singing roles – reports say that for his cameo, Justin will be wearing Ross’ famous ‘Spudnik’ potato costume from Season 8’s ‘The One with the Halloween Party’ episode. “Justin was honoured to be involved and didn’t mind…

As Channel Seven quietly prepares to launch Big Brother: VIP later this year – with network insiders telling New Idea the series will include a mix of celebrities and former “high-profile” Big Brother housemates – top TV insiders exclusively reveal that Channel Ten is moving fast to reproduce a rival celebrity spin-off of its own. According to the well-placed source, Ten has given the go-ahead for the return of Celebrity MasterChef. The surprise new season is said to be replacing MasterChef Junior, which returned in 2020 after a nine-year hiatus – to less than impressive ratings! “MasterChef Junior is out and Celebrity MasterChef is in!” quips the source, who reveals the success of shows like SAS: Australia and Dancing with the Stars: All Stars has TV executives scrambling to sign…

The upcoming season will see a new host of celebrities, including the likes of chef Manu Feildel, former tennis champ Mark Philippoussis, socialite Brynne Edelsten and Home and Away star Dan Ewing, put themselves to the test in a number of gruelling challenges. But, not joining the cast are exes Kyly and Michael Clarke, who were rumoured to have been originally approached. “They likely weren’t offered enough money, and coming off DWTS, Kyly would not have been up to it,” says an insider.…

Sadly, British actress Helen McCrory passed away, aged 52, on April 16 after a brave battle with cancer. Helen was renowned for her formidable portrayal of crime matriarch Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders and the wicked Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter films. In an emotional tribute, Helen’s husband and fellow actor, Damian Lewis, wrote that his late wife “was an even more brilliant person than she was an actress”. He also described the mother of their two children as “a meteor in our life”. “She’s shown no fear, no bitterness, no self-pity, only armed us with the courage to go on and insisted that no-one be sad, because she is happy,” he wrote following her shock passing.…

Psychic Georgina Walker tells New Idea that there are some big changes coming up in the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s future as they celebrate their anniversary! “Blessed with their 10th anniversary this week, we are going to see this favourite royal couple celebrate their milestone in a low-key way. The theme will be gratitude, love of family, unity and community – selflessness of service to all will be the underlying message of their anniversary celebrations. “Sensitivity will also be important as they tackle the impact of COVID-19 and the negative press of the past few months facing the royal family. “Kate will release some of her personal photos of their family life, pets and homely activities. This intimate, personal approach to ‘normality’ behind closed doors will be well received,…

As Brad Pitt’s messy divorce from Angelina Jolie drags through the courthouse, nearly five years after their split, shock new photographs have emerged of the Hollywood star being pushed in a wheelchair! The pictures show Brad, 57, attempting to leave a Beverly Hills medical building incognito, hiding himself under a hooded jumper, a face mask and a pair of sunglasses. Brad’s team claimed that he simply had a “dental procedure” done. However, sources tell New Idea they might have been trying to downplay a more serious health issue. “It’s over the top to be leaving in a wheelchair from having your wisdom teeth removed, and those closest to him are worried there’s more to the story,” an insider reveals. “Whatever is going on, it was clearly a very serious procedure…

For almost 30 years, travel show Getaway has enthralled viewers with its segments about exotic escapes, thrillseeking adventures and luxurious holidays. In the process, it’s turned the show’s two longest-running hosts Catriona Rowntree and David Reyne into household names – and made them the most envied people in the country! So why do Catriona, 49 and David, 61, think Getaway is such an enduring hit? “I suppose it’s a testament to the fact that Aussies just love to travel – whether it’s from their armchair or if they do it themselves,” says Catriona. “It works on a couple of levels,” adds David. “It’s just fascinating viewing because you get these great travel images, but also get what I call the ‘lifestyles of the rich and the famous’ effect, where people…

As Catherine Elizabeth Middleton prepared to wed Prince William in London’s Westminster Abbey, another bride with the same name was 600km away getting ready for her own fairytale wedding! On April 29, 2011, in the town of Hamilton in Scotland, Catherine Elizabeth Houghton married Steven Leonard. But although the two couples shared a wedding date, the events themselves were worlds apart. William and Kate were whisked away in a horse-drawn carriage to a lavish reception with the world’s media following. Meanwhile, Steven and Cat were taken to their party by a friend in a borrowed car. But glitz and glamour weren’t important to the pair, who are still happily married a decade on. “I can’t believe it’s been 10 years – it’s gone so quickly,” Cat tells New Idea. “Sometimes…

Arrabbiata Pasta Bake Serves 6, Prep and Cook: 1 hour, 20 mins 500g penne pasta 2 cups grated Perfect Italiano 4-Cheese Melt VEGETABLE SAUCE 1 tblsp olive oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, crushed 1 medium eggplant (350g), trimmed, chopped 2 medium zucchini (300g), trimmed, chopped 1 tsp dried chilli flakes 1 tsp dried oregano leaves 700g jar tomato passata sauce 2 x 400g cans cherry tomatoes in juice 2 tblsps drained baby capers 1 cup fresh basil leaves 1 Lightly grease a large rectangular ovenproof dish (14-cup capacity). 2 To make vegetable sauce, heat oil in a stockpot over a medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft. Add eggplant, zucchini, chilli and dried oregano. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. 3 Add passata,…

Make ‘n‘ Freeze Choc-Chip Cookies Makes 24, Prep and Cook: 1 hour 200g unsalted butter, chopped, at room temperature ½ cup caster sugar ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 2 eggs, at room temperature 1½ cups plain flour ¾ cup self-raising flour 200g milk cooking chocolate, chopped 1 Beat butter, sugars and vanilla in a small bowl of an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until combined. Transfer to a large bowl. 2 Add sifted flours. Stir until combined. Stir in chocolate. Roll heaped tablespoons into balls. Place about 1cm apart on a tray lined with baking paper. Freeze for 30 minutes, or until firm. Transfer to a snap-lock bag. Seal and freeze until ready to use. 3…

Whether your goal is to reduce packaging, try products that are made using ethically sourced ingredients and farming practices, or you’re just wanting a more mindful approach to beauty and respecting nature, we’ve rounded up some of the brands choosing to make a difference. SUSTAINABLE SKIN Clean beauty brands are growing, and most are turning their focus to ethical and renewable ingredients, as well as earth-friendly packaging. Cult skincare brand BYBI has been using bioplastics (derived from sugar cane), grass paper and glass in their packaging for years, making 97 per cent of their consumer products recyclable. Meanwhile, Caudalie’s new Vinoclean range contains 100 per cent recycled and recyclable plastic bottles, and 97 to 100 vegan ingredients. SIMPLE SWAP Biologi has recently partnered with TerraCycle, in an effort to…

It’s a sensory experience for one – the colours, smells, sounds, tastes and textures are all there for the kids to experience. They learn about things like  cause and effect, seeing how the plants react when it hasn’t rained for a while, and how plants respond to the sun coming up and going down. If you give kids a patch of their own, they develop an understanding of responsibility since the plant’s success (or failure!) comes down to them. We love gardening with the kids because it also teaches them patience – seeing their excitement as the first tomato emerges and encouraging them to wait until it’s ready is rewarding to watch, and an important life skill.…

ARIES MAR 21 – APR 20 You might be full of dreams and ideas, but tread carefully over the next few weeks or power struggles could erupt (it’s jealousy). On the home front, Mars is creating a flurry of activity, but with Venus in luxury-loving Taurus, only the best foods and homewares will do. If you’re on a budget, rein in that extravagant streak and curb online shopping! LUCKY CRYSTAL: TOURMALINE TAURUS APR 21 – MAY 21 Your profile is growing brighter by the day – not just at work, but after hours, too! Mars could propel you into a more public role, or onto the stage or sporting field. Some Bulls might even get roped into a coaching role as the weather cools down. For singles, these socially charged…

My beautiful granddaughter Evie, 2 years and 8 months old. JANETTE PIRCHMOSER, WANNIASSA, ACT. HAPPY WIVES, HAPPY LIFE I had to laugh when I overheard my two little nephews that were at the wedding, when one of them leaned over to the other and asked, “How many wives can a man have?” His young brother answered, “Sixteen... four better, four worse, four richer and four poorer.” I had a good laugh! MARY GUNAWAN, TWEED HEADS, NSW. Our Billy is better than a lawnmower, but he has also eaten our entire grapevine. MAVIS JANETZKI, TERANG, VIC. MUM KNOWS BEST As Giaan Rooney quickly discovered after the birth of her first child, there is no manual to motherhood. And while there are plenty of books offering all sorts of advice on mothering…