Table of contents for Issue 46, 2025 in New Idea

If, like me, you’re paralysed with indecision when it comes to choosing loved ones’ Christmas pressies, fear not! How about giving the gift that lasts all year, by subscribing to New Idea? Not only will you save up to 22 per cent off the cover price, but you’ll go into the draw for your chance to win a whopping $50,000 cash! Already a subscriber? You’ll go into the draw if you renew too. See page 18 for all the details. Don’t miss our exclusive chat with The Golden Bachelor runner-up, Janette, following the finale Sunday night (page 12). In her very honest interview, Janette shares what was going through her head as Bear broke it off with her on camera and what she texted Sunny afterwards. With five weeks to…

A frail-looking Paul Hogan has jetted back into Australia, ready to spend the upcoming holiday season Down Under. The 86-year-old star was wheeled onto a Qantas flight from Los Angeles, and also used a wheelchair when he arrived in Sydney on November 12. The funnyman made light of his health predicament, telling a photographer he had “a bad knee” and that he was “too old to be rollerskating!” Hoges has previously admitted that he originally injured his knee while skateboarding which exacerbated his arthritis. How unlucky!…

For the grief-stricken families of Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, no justice will ever be enough to bring back their beloved girls. But answers on who was responsible for their deaths will go a small way in helping them move forward. The Melbourne teens were killed in a mass methanol poisoning in Laos in November 2024. Twelve months on, Holly and Bianca’s parents are demanding action amid claims of a police cover-up. It is not clear whether anyone has been charged over their deaths. “No family should ever have to go through this. To date, no individual or organisation has been held accountable,” Mark and Michelle Jones told The Daily Telegraph. “[Bianca’s] killers remain free, facing no consequences. With little to no information coming from the Laotian authorities to the…

All work and no play makes Robert Irwin a rising star at serious risk of burnout. While he is usually cool, calm and collected in front of the cameras, recent sightings of Robert seeming agitated and out of sorts on his way into Dancing with the Stars rehearsals has sparked fears he is pushing himself too hard. In fact, New Idea can reveal the Wildlife Warrior turned dance-floor king will be skipping his birthday celebrations at Australia Zoo next month, as he is due in South Africa to begin pre-production on the 2026 pre-recorded season of I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here! with his co-host, Julia Morris. “The enormous pressure on Robert right now is multifaceted,” explains our source. “He wants to keep everyone happy.” Robert has…

She’s been cast out of society, but New Idea can reveal Sarah Ferguson is already planning her comeback, despite no longer being the Duchess of York. “She’s set on becoming a female empowerment speaker,” our source says. But if Fergie, 66, was counting on the support of her daughters, princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, as she pursues her goal, she couldn’t have been more wrong. In fact, friends say the sisters have made a pact to “stage an intervention if they have to”, to stop their mum’s new career plans. “There’s no chance Bea and Eugenie are going to let Fergie do this,” our source explains. “They know there is no chance it can succeed.” Last week, Beatrice, 37, and Eugenie, 35, were spotted sharing an emotional hug in the Mayfair…

Pierce Brosnan is re-affirming the bond he shares with his son, Christopher, after recently ending their 20-year estrangement. The pair shared a meal in London on November 5. It was the first time they’d been seen together in public in decades, after Pierce, 72, reluctantly cut off his son over his drug addiction. But now that Christopher, 52, is 18 months into his sobriety journey, contact with his loved ones has been re-established. “Pierce is so proud of Chris,” a source tells New Idea. “It’s a huge milestone that he never thought would happen. They have had their ups and downs, but he always loved Chris.” In a 2005 interview, Pierce opened up about why he’d taken the ‘tough love’ approach with Chris. “It’s painful, but I had to say…

Chicken and Chorizo Couscous SERVES 4 PREP & COOK 30 MINS ■ 500g chicken breast fillets, thinly sliced ■ 2 tbsp olive oil ■ 1½ cups chicken stock ■ 250g packet pearl couscous ■ 1 chorizo, halved lengthways, thinly sliced ■ 1 onion, halved, thinly sliced ■ 2 cloves garlic, crushed ■ 1 red capsicum, cut into thin strips ■ 200g green beans, trimmed, chopped ■ 1 tsp smoked paprika ■ 2 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh oregano, plus extra leaves to serve 1 Toss chicken with half the oil in a bowl. 2 Bring stock to the boil in a medium saucepan. Add couscous. Reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 10 mins or until stock is absorbed and couscous is tender. Remove from heat. 3 Meanwhile, heat a large, deep frying…

GET READY FOR Christmas 5 WEEKS TO GO! Salmon Cream Cheese Log SERVES 8-10 PREP 20 MINS ■ 415g can red salmon, drained and flaked ■ 250g block cream cheese, chopped ■ 4 green onions, finely chopped ■ 1 tbsp lemon juice ■ 3 tsp Tabasco sauce ■ 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce ■ ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley ■ ¼ cup oven roasted almonds, finely chopped ■ Crackers or mini toasts, to serve 1 Place salmon, cream cheese, onions, juice, sauces and 1 tbsp of the parsley in a large bowl. Mix well to combine. 2 Spoon mixture onto a sheet of baking paper into a log shape about 5cm in diameter. Roll up in paper. Refrigerate for 6 hours, or overnight until firm. 3 Unwrap log. Roll in combined…

It’s almost a year since Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster publicly confirmed they were an item. And last month they finally made their red carpet debut together at the LA premiere of Hugh’s new film Song Sung Blue. Now, New Idea can reveal, it looks like the couple have taken another significant step in their relationship. “They recently enjoyed a romantic mini break in Hawaii,” our source dishes. “Sutton was performing in a concert at the Hawaii Theatre in Honolulu and Hugh accompanied her on the trip. But they enjoyed some downtime together on the island around Sutton’s rehearsals and show – and friends think that Hugh squeezed in a lowkey proposal during the trip!” While Sutton, 50, is not yet sporting an engagement ring in public, friends of both…

Actresses Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney recently completed filming the third season of their angsty teen drama Euphoria – but according to the Daily Mail, their complicated on-screen relationship has now spilled over into real life. “The rift is caused by their starkly different political views,” stated the publication. Sydney, 28, has been publicly aligned with Donald Trump’s Republican party, and was recently criticised for her participation in a controversial jeans commercial. Zendaya, 29, is said to be “upset” by her co-star’s actions and is allegedly avoiding doing any press with her. “They were close once,” a source also tells New Idea. “But not any more.”…

When the Duchess of Sussex scored a coveted invite to Kris Jenner’s star-studded 70th birthday bash on November 8, she couldn’t have been more excited. Insiders tell New Idea that Meghan was “totally in her element” at the event, mingling with a who’s who of Hollywood stars. But her mood quickly changed the following day, as it turned into yet another PR disaster for both the duchess and her husband, the Duke of Sussex. Critics were quick to blast the pair for letting their hair down on the eve of Remembrance Sunday in Prince Harry’s native UK, which is traditionally an ultra-solemn occasion. NOW YOU SEE THEM… Published reports also confirmed that senior royals were distinctly unimpressed, branding their decision to fraternise with American reality stars and their assembled cronies…

Like so many others, Cindy Micallef used to shudder at the appalling news stories about youth crime in her area. She assumed it wasn’t an issue that would ever directly affect her. Until, heartbreakingly, it did. In February 2024, Cindy’s 70-year-old mother, Vyleen White, was stabbed as a gang of teens tried to steal her car. Last week, the main culprit, who legally cannot be named as he was 16 years old when the crime occurred, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for her murder. “The devastation caused to our family will take more than his sentencing to fix,” Cindy, 53, tells New Idea. The teenager, who is now nearly 18, plead guilty to Vyleen’s murder in July, along with several other charges. Cindy was in Brisbane’s Supreme Court,…

In the age of Spotify and music streaming services, it’s rare to hear an album played in full from start to finish. But from November 22, fans of old-school live music and rock legend Jimmy Barnes will get to enjoy a rare double treat when he plays his most iconic album in all its glory. In honour of For the Working Class Man turning 40, Barnesy is embarking on a national anniversary tour to celebrate what he calls, “a significant album in my life”. The 1985 record was Jimmy’s second solo offering in a long line of hits to come. But it remains his most career-defining thanks to one anthem that captured the spirit of his everyday Aussie audience – ‘Working Class Man’. Jonathan Cain from the band Journey, who…

It’s yet to be determined if music’s reigning pop princess, Sabrina Carpenter, will be placed on Santa’s naughty or nice list this festive season, with all the celebrity arrests she’s been making on her current world tour. But in the meantime, the pint-sized singer has already cemented her place at the top of another list – Mariah Carey’s personal blacklist. Indeed, sources tell New Idea that Mariah, 56, is determined to hold onto her crown as the queen of Christmas. However, this year she is facing stiff competition in the form of Sabrina – and it is stressing her out to no end! “This is hands down Mariah’s season. There are very few modern Christmas songs that even come close to the universal appeal of ‘All I Want for Christmas…

It’s hard to believe the eternally youthful Goldie Hawn is now an octogenarian! But the star isn’t planning on making a fuss for her 80th birthday on November 21. Instead, Goldie’s asked for a “chill, family gathering”, with her partner Kurt Russell, kids Oliver, Kate and Wyatt, stepson Boston, and her eight grandkids. Always an open book, Goldie has shared countless nuggets of wisdom about life, love, career and family – insights that have made her a source of inspiration for fans around the world. GOLDIE ON... AGEING IN HOLLYWOOD For much of her career, Goldie played sunny, ‘girl-next-door’ types befitting her name, so it would be easy to assume she might feel a little reluctant about getting older. Not a bit! “[It] is a fact of life,” Goldie once…

GET READY FOR Christmas 5 WEEKS TO GO! Peachy Guava Crush SERVES 2 PREP 15 MINS ■ 1 white peach ■ ¼ cup vodka ■ 1 cup guava nectar ■ 1 tbsp raspberry-flavoured cordial ■ 1½ cups crushed ice ■ 300ml bottle sparkling natural mineral water, chilled 1 Halve peach and remove stone. Thinly slice. Divide between two glass tumblers. 2 Pour vodka, nectar and cordial into a medium jug. Stir to combine. 3 Just before serving, divide crushed ice between tumblers. Pour vodka mixture over ice. Top up with mineral water. Stir to combine. TIP To crush ice, use a food processor, or put cubes in a freezer bag, wrap in a tea towel and crush with a rolling pin. Apple Elderflower Spritz SERVES 4 PREP 10 MINS ■…

KEEPING CELERY CRISP To extend the life of celery, trim both ends of stalks. Wrap in damp paper towel and place in a large snap-lock bag or container. Refrigerate for up to three weeks. If paper becomes dry, simply dampen it again. SWEET ESCAPE Missed out on an Italian summer (while envy-scrolling through everyone’s snaps)? Drown your sorrows with an icy treat, courtesy of Connoisseur’s latest La Dolce Vita range, inspired by Italy’s sweetest flavours. Enjoy scoops of smooth, velvety Pistachio Gelato or bite into a delicious Almond Biscotti Gelato stick – sweet and creamy ice-cream covered in milk chocolate with an almond crunch. It’s no Roman holiday but comes mighty close. RRP $12 (1 litre tub or 4-pack bars). EVERYDAY ZIN Mudgee’s Lowe Wines has taken its star grape…

For an effortless glow, Bali Body’s latest innovation has – quite literally – got you covered. Their Clear 1 Hour Express Tan is a light, rinse-free formula that glides on clear to deliver a luminous look in one to three hours. The best bit? It’s packed with skin-loving niacinamide and vitamin E for an added treat. Bali Body Clear 1 Hour Express Tan, $33.95, au.balibodyco.com For a sun-kissed glow all year round, try these self-tan drops. Infused with organic grape water to hydrate the skin, mix a few drops into your favourite serum or moisturiser and 100 per cent natural-origin DHA works to gradually build up your tan. Caudalie Self-Tan Sun Drops, $42, sephora.com.au Light up your complexion with these illuminating drops infused with SPF 30 for extra protection. Available…

Ricky Martin The singer was livin’ la vida loca as he performed at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena during his Australian tour. Jane Fonda When the power suits show up, you know it’s serious. Jane and her pal, Jamie Lee Curtis, meant business at a Women in Film event in Beverly Hills. Lisa Wilkinson London was calling Lisa … and she happily answered! The star made sure to get a photo in an iconic red phone box while in the UK. Chris Hemsworth Bonding time, action-hero style! Chris and one of his twin sons hit the dirt bike trails near their home in Byron Bay, NSW. Scott Cam With tools down on The Block until filming begins on next year’s season, the show’s host has plenty of free time to babysit…

Production has screeched to a halt on Channel Seven’s new renovation show, My Reno Rules, after asbestos was found in both homes purchased for the new series. “The delay caused a major headache in the production schedule,” a show insider tells New Idea. “It’s also left the host, Dr Chris Brown, twiddling his thumbs while the issue is dealt with.” Chris, 47, hasn’t had “the easiest time” since he moved across to Channel Seven from Network Ten in 2023, our insider adds. His first big project for Seven, Dream Home, was not renewed for a second season, while his wildlife show, Once In A Lifetime, is finally going to air in 2026 after a two-year delay. He’s also co-hosted two seasons of Dancing with the Stars alongside Sonia Kruger, but…

Two years after they took out The Block 2023 and won $1.75 million, Steph and Gian Ottavio have welcomed a priceless gift into the world. Their daughter, Ilaria, arrived on November 9, with the pair gushing on social media that the tot has “changed our lives forever”. The proud parents also shared a carousel of photos with their little girl, as well as various videos of themselves as a family of three. Many of The Block’s cast and crew were quick to ‘ohh and ahh’ over adorable Ilaria. The show’s host Shelley Craft offered congratulations, as did 2024 winners Maddy and Charlotte who commented, “Ohhh she’s just divine. We can’t wait to meet her.”…

After 10 years together, four as husband and wife, New Idea hears that Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton are going through a rough patch. So much so, further reports are emerging that divorce could be on the cards. “They’ve been living separate lives for almost six months,” our Hollywood insider exclusively reveals. Gwen, 56, is currently preparing for her Las Vegas residency, while country music singer Blake, 49, has been busy with his new talent show series with Keith Urban, The Road, in Nashville. While Gwen and Blake have always been proud of their ‘odd couple’ romance, friends fear it’s those differences that have caused their undoing. The couple met while serving as coaches on the US version of The Voice in 2014. “They were a mismatch from the start,”…

SHOP TILL THEY DROP This time of year will always be emotional for Patti Newton, but she’s getting through it with a little help – and some hugs! – from her friends. Last month marked four years since Patti, 80, said goodbye to her late husband, Bert, on October 30. To mark the anniversary, Patti took to Instagram to share some precious family moments, saying, “miss you every day”. A few days later, she posted some footage from their November 9, 1974 wedding. In that caption she wrote, “The start of a beautiful life with the love of my life. So lucky to have had him. Miss you every day Alb.” Amid the dual anniversaries, and with the holidays fast approaching, Patti is keeping busy by surrounding herself with family…

As soon as the bus pulls up at the side of the road, the dogs leap from their porches and driveways, tails wagging, tongues lolling, heading straight for their designated seats. Buddy the Labrador, a border collie mix, always saves the spot next to him for his best mate, Clive. Behind the wheel, welcoming the pooches aboard, is Jo McVilly. With a warm smile, she reveals, Set on seven lush acres, it is a wonderland of creeks, tunnels, slides and dedicated splash zones. “It’s the first of its kind in Australia!” dog trainer Jo says. “We’ve got a huge trampoline, which [the dogs] absolutely love.” The team have around 69 hounds on their weekly day care roster. This includes pooches with owners who are busy with work, need a little…

GET READY FOR Christmas 5 WEEKS TO GO! FOR MORE RECIPES, VISIT New Idea Magazine newideamagazine or newidea.com.au/food Malteser Ice-Cream Bombe SERVES 10-12 PREP 1 HOUR 15 MINS ■ 250g packet digestive biscuits ■ 50g butter, melted ■ 200g dulce de leche or Top ’n’ Fill Caramel ■ 200g chocolate ice-cream ■ 240g Maltesers ■ 300g caramel or vanilla ice-cream ■ 150ml thickened cream ■ 200g dark chocolate, finely chopped ■ Icing sugar, to decorate 1 Line a 1.2-litre pudding basin with a double layer of plastic wrap, extending about 5cm above edge. 2 Process biscuits in a food processor until fine crumbs. Add butter and 2 tbsp of the caramel. Process until combined. Reserve 3 tbsp of the crumbs. Set aside. Using the back of a spoon, press remaining…

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world – and it disproportionately impacts women. Even mild depletion can affect how you feel, function and look. The tricky part is that symptoms often creep in gradually. Fatigue, brain fog, pale skin, hair shedding, restless legs or moods that feel low, grumpy or anxious – these can all be explained away as stress or the busyness of life. Yet time and again, I’ve seen how restoring iron levels allows so many other aspects of health to fall into place – often in ways women describe as life-changing. Here’s how iron deficiency can show up at different stages of a woman’s life. TEENAGE (RDI 15-18MG) Many girls begin their menstruation years already iron deficient, and countless more slip into deficiency…

GET READY FOR Christmas 5 WEEKS TO GO! Cosy, crafty or traditional, it’s fun to set a festive table. Your living room deserves a little extra cheer, too! Discover these festive finds and more at kmart.com.au Compiled by Stephanie De Nobile. Imagery courtesy of Kmart.…

THE FUNERAL CRASHERS Out now, Hachette, $32.99 A toxic plume of Estée Lauder Youth Dew seeped like mustard gas through the cracks around the bedroom door. Martin’s handkerchief was no match for the concoction of rose, lavender and earthy moss. He was mid-sneeze when his mother emerged wearing a dead fox around her neck, identification made easier by the fact that the creature’s head, feet and tail were still attached. Martin had learned to expect the unexpected where his mother was concerned and simply blew his nose. Only the cat seemed surprised, unsure whether to snuggle up to the moth-eaten carcass or claw it to pieces. ‘He is rather spectacular, isn’t he?’ Edwina flicked the stole’s brush tail over her shoulder while admiring herself in the gilt mirror by the…

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