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Daily Mail
03-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Notorious Bra Boy Koby Abberton reveals his chilling one-word reaction when he found out his 10-year-old son almost DROWNED in Bali
Former Bra Boys member and professional surfer Koby Abberton has revealed he told his son to 'never get rescued again' when the 10-year-old got caught in a rip in Bali recently. Abberton, 45, took to Instagram to reveal an online exchange he had with his son Makua's school when he was saved from drowning during a surfing lesson. A representative of the school named Intan Sinuhaji told Abberton, 'Want to inform you that during surfing lesson, Makua got sucked out by the tides. 'The coach needed to throw his leash for Makua to grab and hang on it. Makua got scratch on his left ankle.' But instead of voicing his concern or gratitude, Abberton replied, 'Good. Tell makua to never ever get rescued again by anyone. 'I told makua tide would drop and waves would be big. Pictured: Abberton's conversation with a staffer at his son's school, which he revealed on Instagram Abberton's first reaction when he heard about the scary incident in Bali's notoriously dangerous surf was to write 'good' 'Next time have makua paddle alone and don't be lazy.' The school staffer then appears to get Makua to reply with the message, 'Dad i was stuck in the rip.' That saw Abberton write, 'He can definitely paddle on a surfboard ... So paddle to Padang.' Padang Padang is a famous surf spot in Uluwatu, Bali. It remains unclear where Makua was at the time he got stuck in the rip. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Abberton for comment. Deaths from drowning are a regular occurrence in and around Bali. The Australian government issued an urgent warning to tourists headed for the island getaway on Monday in the wake of recent incidents. 'Australians have drowned in coastal areas, due to rough seas and strong rip currents at popular tourist beaches including in Bali,' the Smartraveller update warned. Earlier this year, Jacob Vennix, 32, drowned on the island after a strong current pulled him out to sea while he was on his honeymoon. Even experienced surfers can be at risk, with well-known Aussie boardrider Gunther Kitzler drowning in Indonesia in March last year after being knocked over by a wave. Abberton moved to Bali with his Ukrainian model wife Olya Nechiporenko in 2011 after he got sick of life in Australi and the direction of the country. 'I grew up at a beach where if you if you did not listen, you got punched in the face – I don't mind that way of life. But when I left Australia, I left that man behind too,' he said, referring to his time as a leading member of the notorious Bra Boys surf gang, which is based at Maroubra Beach in Sydney's east. 'Sadly, men like me don't respect soft men - I'll squish them - but men like that, men we respect, should be running the country.' Abberton and his fellow Bra Boys were the subject of a Russell Crowe-backed documentary in 2007, which raised his profile and helped convince him to relocate. 'Ten years ago I just didn't like the state of Australia, so after the Bra Boys movie and all the media attention there was this really crazy police presence around me and my beach, and I was just the number one target,' he said in 2021. 'I started getting pulled over in the streets with my son in the car and I was told I was taking drugs and all this sort of s**t, and I had this beautiful wife … I just knew I was going to go to jail if I left it up to the police.' His new life in Bali is radically different to what he left behind down under. Abberton describes himself as a 'truth telling dad' and fan of 'Indo eco living' on his Instagram profile, which also features photos and video of him taking Makua to climb Bali's largest volcano on New Year's Eve in 2023. Makua (pictured) told Koby 'dad i was stuck in the rip' in the conversation with his school - with Koby telling him to paddle his way to a popular beach instead of accepting assistance He freely admitted it was a dangerous climb. 'At Some points we were scaling 100ft cliffs into the abyss with no ropes,' he wrote. 'At 4am the wind really kicked on and we were climbing the last of the ravines about 1hr before summit I told Makua we should stop I was scared for him. 'He looked me dead in the eye and said dad I want this. I am a beast dad I got this. 'It was right up there with my proudest moment in life. 'This is a story of a dad just wanting to see his son believe & succeed and have no limitations or fears.' Asked to describe his Bali lifestyle, Abberton said, 'I wake up, I do whatever I want - have a swim, do some yoga, go to the gym, check the waves and if the waves are big I'll make a call and I'll take some kids surfing and surf all day.' Abberton returned to Australia in 2021 to star in a series of SAS Australia on Channel Seven, where he relived his brother Jai's fatal shooting of standover man Tony Hines in 2003. Jai was found not guilty of murder on the grounds of self-defence, but Koby was found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice over the matter. 'In the end of the story, I was the only one who was found guilty. I didn't do anything,' he said on the show. 'Due to that, $700,000 of my money I spent on lawyers fees. I lost all my properties, and I lost my sponsorship that was paying me $500,000 at that time. Back to square one. Nothing.'
FACT
18-03-2025
- FACT
Dream destinations to discover during the Eid holidays
From tropical islands to ancient cities, here are the best destinations to explore. As the Eid holidays approach, it's the perfect time to embark on a new adventure. Whether you're dreaming of pristine beaches, ancient cities, or picturesque landscapes, this is your chance to explore a destination that blends culture, relaxation, and discovery. From the Silk Road wonders of Uzbekistan to the sun-drenched shores of the Maldives, pack your bags for the upcoming Eid holidays. Head to Armenia to spend Eid exploring one of the world's oldest civilisations. With sites like the Geghard Monastery and Khor Virap awaiting you, discover the beauty of Lake Sevan and Tatev Monastery, and soak in views of Mount Ararat. Head to Yerevan and wander through the historic Republic Square, visit the Geghard Monastery carved into the mountains, and step into the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Azerbaijan Swap your usual Eid routine for an unforgettable trip to Azerbaijan. Start in Baku's Old City with a delicious Azerbaijani breakfast, then wander through Sheki's cobbled streets and admire the Sheki Khan's Palace. Discover ancient churches, unwind in the healing oil baths of Naftalan, and hike through villages in the mountains that seem frozen in time. Don't miss the sweeping modernity of Baku's Flame Towers and take some time off by the serene Caspian Sea. Celebrate Eid with a refreshing change of scenery in Georgia. Stroll through Tbilisi's charming Old Town, then explore ancient sites like Uplistsikhe and Vardzia. Nature lovers will be awed by the views of Kazbegi National Park and Gergeti Trinity Church. To relax and soak in the experience, visit the seaside town of Batumi, stroll through lush botanical gardens, and unwind on the Black Sea shores. Indonesia This Eid, Indonesia promises a relaxing retreat. Start your mornings in Bali and then move on to discover ancient temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. Head to Ubud for a taste of local arts and crafts and hike up Mount Bromo for a sunrise you won't forget. Japan Celebrate Eid with a twist in Japan, where tradition meets modern marvels. Begin your trip with the cherry blossom-lined streets of Kyoto and experience a traditional tea ceremony. Head to Tokyo for city lights, endless shopping, and delicious street food. But if enjoying a scenic ride is more your thing, make your way to Mount Fuji. Kazakhstan This Eid, Kazakhstan promises a trip filled with unforgettable adventures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Start your journey in Almaty, explore the breathtaking backdrop of the Tian Shan Mountains, and head to the green bazaar for traditional Kazakh snacks. Explore the Charyn Canyon, soak in the serene Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes, and marvel at the ancient Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Malaysia For Eid, Malaysia promises a beautiful blend of modern attractions and rich cultural experiences. You can admire the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur and explore local markets. For nature lovers, Langkawi has stunning beaches filled with water sports and plenty of spots for relaxation. Head to UNESCO-listed George Town in Penang, known for its history, colourful street art, and mouthwatering street food, or explore the rainforests and wildlife in Borneo's Kinabalu National Park. Maldives Make this Eid extra special with a tropical retreat in the Maldives. With picturesque overwater villas and endless shades of turquoise, you're set for a relaxing holiday. But there's more to the Maldives than dreamy beaches. Spend the days snorkelling over coral reefs, diving with manta rays, or island-hopping between points like Dhigurah and Thoddoo. And if you need a dose of added luxury, how about underwater dining or unwinding at a private spa set over the ocean? This Eid, escape to the pristine shores of Mauritius. This island feels straight out of a fairytale, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and unmatched natural beauty. Go snorkelling, take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, or hike through the Black River Gorges National Park. Don't miss the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel, a natural wonder that looks outworldly. For a taste of the Island's culture, head to the bazaar of Port Louis and try delicious Mauritian Creole cuisine featuring fresh seafood and aromatic spices. Montenegro For a breathtaking Eid escape, Montenegro is a hidden gem worth discovering. Stroll through Kotor's medieval old town or enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Skadar. Explore charming villages and treat yourself to delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a mix of history, making for a perfect Eid holiday. Morocco Head to Morocco for a unique Eid escape. Explore its souks and colourful medinas as you wander through the maze-like streets of Marrakech. Shop for artisanal crafts and sip mint tea in a traditional riad. From coastal retreats in Essaouira to exploring French colonial legacy in Casablanca, Morocco has tons to charm with. Nepal This Eid, head to Nepal and stroll through Kathmandu's historic temples and bustling streets. Take in the beauty of Bhaktapur and Patan, and try paragliding and mountain biking in Pokhara. For wildlife lovers, Chitwan National Park is the place to go on a safari and spot tigers, rhinos, and crocodiles. If you're up for trekking, the trails of Annapurna Circuit and Gokyo Lake are sure to entertain. Oman This Eid, treat yourself to a quick escape steeped in culture, luxury and adventure. Be it shopping at Mutrah Souq, trying your hands on authentic Omani cuisine, spoiling yourself in Al Bustan Palace, or exploring Wahiba Sands, Oman has it all. Don't miss the stunning architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and travel back in time at Nizwa Fort for a better grasp of the country's history. For outdoor enthusiasts, take a plunge in Wadi Shab and the breathtaking Bimmah Sinkhole. Whether you're after culture, adventure, or scenic splendour, Oman has something unique in store for you. Turn your Eid into an island dream in Seychelles. Stand on the edge of Anse Source d'Argent, one of the most iconic beaches, with sand beneath your feet and water so clear it's hard to believe it's real. From here, hop on a boat to Curieuse Island, where giant tortoises roam freely, and you can spend the day hiking through nature. If you want more, stroll through the jungles of Morne Seychellois National Park to catch breathtaking views. Singapore Swap Dubai's city views this Eid with those offered in Singapore. Start your journey by exploring the iconic Marina Bay Sands and take in the views from its rooftop infinity pool. To taste local culture, wander through the streets of Chinatown and Little India, where you can sample delicious street food and shop for souvenirs. Go on a wildlife experience at the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, or visit attractions like Universal Studios and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Sri Lanka offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for your Eid holiday. Climb to the top of Sigiriya, explore the tea trails of Ella, and experience the spiritual calm at Kandy's Temple of the Tooth. Explore the beauty of Bundala National Park, take a train ride through tea gardens, and enjoy fresh Sri Lankan crabs. For a chance to spot dolphins and whales, the beaches of Unawatuna and Mirissa are the perfect place to go. If you're looking for an Eid trip with breathtaking beaches, incredible food, and endless adventure, Thailand is your go-to place. Head to the picture-perfect islands of Phuket and Krabi, where crystal-clear waters and scuba diving adventures await. If you're up for a thrill, how about going jungle trekking or taking a dip with elephants in Chiang Mai? As for the food, you can try authentic Pad Thai, spicy Tom Yum, and mango sticky rice that will surely transport you to a new world of flavours. If you're looking to make the most of your Eid break, Turkey's got you covered. Stroll through the streets of Istanbul, where you can gaze at the Hagia Sophia, visit the ancient Blue Mosque, and browse for hidden gems at the Grand Bazaar. For a fairytale experience, visit Cappadocia, where hot air balloons glide over rock formations at sunrise. History enthusiasts will be amazed by the ancient city of Ephesus, while beach lovers can soak up the sun along the Turquoise Coast of Antalya and Bodrum. And, of course, you can't leave without trying Turkey's mouthwatering food – juicy kebabs, sweet baklava, and endless cups of Turkish tea. Uzbekistan Visit Uzbekistan this Eid and walk along the ancient Silk Road cities of Samarkand and Bukhara. Spot turquoise domes and intricate mosaics as they take you back in time. Explore local bazaars filled with spices, sweets, and handicrafts or unwind at the traditional tea houses. Vietnam This Eid, let Vietnam surprise you with its blend of natural beauty and cultural wonders. Cruise through the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay, stroll through Hanoi's streets and savour treats like pho and spring rolls. Whether city life or beach vibes, Vietnam's something for everyone.
