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Mum-of-two Melissa Hartman revived after suffering cardiac arrest
Mum-of-two Melissa Hartman revived after suffering cardiac arrest

Herald Sun

time5 hours ago

  • Health
  • Herald Sun

Mum-of-two Melissa Hartman revived after suffering cardiac arrest

Don't miss out on the headlines from Heart Health. Followed categories will be added to My News. Melissa Hartman was 31 years old when her heart suddenly stopped while she was getting ready for a date one August afternoon. The mother-of-two had no idea that she had suffered a cardiac arrest and flatlined for 20 minutes after a coughing fit. 'I was a bit nervous for the date but not nervous enough to have a bloody cardiac arrest,' the now 35-year-old told The Advertiser. Luckily, Ms Hartman organised for a friend to visit before her date and he arrived just as she collapsed. 'He found me on the floor, I had no pulse and had stopped breathing,' she said. 'He was straight onto the CPR.' Paramedics arrived and administered seven shocks of a defibrillator and three rounds of adrenaline to stabilise Ms Hartman. With a less than one per cent chance of survival, she was placed into an induced coma at Flinders Hospital for a week. 'For the first 48 hours, nobody expected me to survive at all,' she said. Despite all odds, the Christie Downs woman made it. But when she flatlined, on the floor her home she said she had a 'death experience' and saw a 'white light'. 'It was so bloody peaceful and calm and I wasn't even tired, it was just amazing,' she said. 'That was a miracle in itself, not feeling exhausted and chronically fatigued.' She said since being revived she's attempted to feel that again. Following her episode, Ms Hartman refers to the day as her 'birthday'. 'I've come back for a reason,' she said. She said by calling it her 'birthday' it allows the people closest to her to feel better about it. 'Mum still has it in her mind, (as) when she got the call,' she said. 'It helps her heal.' Eventually, when Ms Hartman was brought out of a coma she was transferred to ICU. Doctors eventually discovered two benign brain tumours — which are still present. She also spent six weeks in Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre where she learnt how to walk, talk, eat and read again after suffering a brain injury. 'After only a week in the coma, I'd lost everything — I had to learn who my kids were again,' she said. Ms Hartman, who is a single mum, said her children, Ayla, 8 and Mason, 11, were the reason she pushed through rehabilitation. She said she didn't want to have a carer 'raise' her children. 'If I didn't have my kids, I'd still be in a bed in hospital now,' she said. 'I'm not going to have my kids watching me lay down and admit defeat. 'If I can come back from the dead, they can get up and clean their rooms.' Ms Hartman, who lives with a hypoxic brain injury, is emceeing the Brain Injury South Australia launch event marking Brain Awareness Week on August 18, 2025. She wants to spread awareness about the importance of learning CPR. Originally published as Mum-of-two Melissa Hartman bought back from the dead after suffering cardiac arrest

MRL completes shift into lime and cement
MRL completes shift into lime and cement

Herald Sun

time10 hours ago

  • Business
  • Herald Sun

MRL completes shift into lime and cement

Don't miss out on the headlines from Stockhead. Followed categories will be added to My News. Mayur Resources changes name to Pacific Lime and Cement as it becomes a PNG supplier of building and industrial materials Company will focus on delivering high-quality lime, cement and downstream building products Future expansion will include concrete production, castings, bricks, pavers, and other building products Mayur Resources has rebranded itself as Pacific Lime and Cement to reflect its successful transition from a resource developer into an integrated supplier of building and industrial materials in Papua New Guinea. The move to focus on the delivery of high-quality lime, cement and downstream building products is timely given that the country's cement demand is projected to grow significantly in 2026. It also comes as the PNG Government flagged its interest in reducing or eliminating cement imports. Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru said in June 2025 that cement is 'essential in building our nation'. 'Our rebrand to Pacific Lime and Cement reflects our transformation into an integrated industrial materials company focused on nation-building in Papua New Guinea,' managing director Paul Mulder said. 'The new name positions us clearly in the market as a supplier of cement, quicklime, and processed building products, underpinned by our own quarry, processing, power, water, and international wharf infrastructure, all within our dedicated Special Economic Zone. 'The CCL Project is poised to become PNG's first vertically integrated downstream manufacturing hub, enabling the country to be self-sufficient in critical industrial materials like cement and quicklime. 'Through the SEZ, the platform is set to expand further downstream into concrete production, castings, bricks, pavers, and other building products, stimulating further economic and social development.' Mayur Resources (ASX:MRL) expects to commence trading on the ASX under the ticker PLA pending completion of administrative requirements. Strategic direction Originally incorporated in 2011 to pursue strategic development opportunities in PNG, the company has evolved to focus on building materials, renewable energy, and other nation-building initiatives. Early construction is already underway at the company's CCL (Central Cement and Lime project) and a final investment decision is imminent. Location and SEZ of the Central Cement and Lime project. Pic: Pacific Lime and Cement CCL sits just 25km north of the capital Port Moresby and will feature a co-located quarry, plant site and deep draft wharf to enable very low operating costs while providing direct access to both seaborne domestic and export markets. The fully permitted Stage 1 lime development will be capable of delivering >400,000tpa of quicklime and hydrated lime from two kilns to generate EBITDA of ~US$34.5m annually. Stage 2 will involve the construction of two additional kilns. Meanwhile, the cement development will be integrated with the lime project and export wharf facilities. This targets production of 1.65Mt of clinker, which makes up the bulk of cement. CCL also has Special Economic Zone status, which was verified by the PNG government in June 2025 to be legally valid and very much in full force. This SEZ provides fiscal benefits such as tax relief and duty exemptions for downstream processing operations. The company adds that while lime and cement remain the core focus, it will not limit itself in its consideration of complementary initiatives in renewable energy, battery minerals, nature-based carbon, and broader industrial development that contribute to long-term nation-building in PNG. Originally published as Mayur turns over new leaf with Pacific Lime and Cement rebrand

Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney
Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney

Herald Sun

time10 hours ago

  • Herald Sun

Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney

Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. An opportunity to travel back to the 19th century and enjoy a unique stay steeped in rich Sydney history? It's possible at family owned The Russell Boutique Hotel which, along with Sydney's oldest pub, Fortune of War, has just reopened after a meticulous five-year renovation. The location The Russell sits in the sandstone precinct of The Rocks. For those thinking about a pre- or post-cruise stay, locations don't come more convenient than this. Surrounded by the sandstone buildings of The Rocks, the hotel - directly across the road from the Museum of Contemporary Art - is a five minute walk from both Circular Quay Station and the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Enjoy a local Dreamtime or The Rocks walking tour, dine at Quay, say yes to BridgeClimb, shop The Rocks Markets, or explore the harbour by ferry or on foot. Just don't forget a drink at Fortune of War, which has been serving ice-cold beer since 1828. The vibe The Bistro 1828 Bar at The Russell. Picture: Kitti Gould. Originally built as the Port Jackson hotel and reincarnated as the Russell Private Hospital in the 1930s, owners Steve and Fiona Speed aren't exaggerating when they say there's 'a story in every corner of these walls'. Although carefully updated to introduce modern amenities while retaining its old world charm, the quirks of this 28-room property are everywhere - from the rabbit warren of hallways and stairs leading to rooms which aren't in any kind of numerical order, to the multitude of colours used to brighten the common areas. Happily, charm wins out over confusion, with the blue-hued sitting room, and a spacious rooftop with partial views of the Harbour Bridge proving to be particular highlights. The room Marvellous detail at The Russell's rooms. Picture: David Li. Unlike chain hotels, there is no uniformity here; each of the property's rooms vary widely both in terms of size and decor. A common thread? Each room features its own piece of antique furniture, be it bedside tables, a chair or even the original and ornate marble fireplaces, striking wallpaper - many with a classic Australiana design - and custommade, upholstered bedheads. My room, a spacious Timeless suite, overlooks First Fleet Park and George Street, and is one of 20 featuring an ensuite (with a generous tub, no less). Its antique desk, armchairs, large wardrobe with minibar and a bouquet of sweet-scented lilies hark back to another time, but a flat screen, universal adaptors and alarm clock with wireless charging - not to mention its newly added air conditioning units- bring The Russell into the modern day. The remaining eight rooms have shared bathroom facilities, and according to manager Valentin, are among some of the property's most popular. The dining Try the beef and Guinness stew. Picture: Kitti Gould. Down the winding staircase where Bistro 1828, Fortune of War's new dining venue, sits, you'll likely take a seat expecting classic pub fare that befits the heritage timber interiors. Parmigiana and bangers and mash are certainly represented, but for those who prefer something a little more adventurous, executive chef Mark Williamson (ex Bistro Moncur) has elevated the food offerings to include the likes of prawn linguine and Greek lamb salad. Breakfast is included with every stay, and while The Fortune of War Big Breakfast is a clear favourite with diners, you have the option to choose two items from the Something Light menu, or a main from the Fortune of War classics (plus an add-on if your main is priced under $20). The extras Comfy common rooms at The Russell Hotel. Simplicity done well is the motto here, so while there are no traditional 'hotel' facilities (gym etc) to speak of, hot and cold zip water taps are located on each floor and very much appreciated, as is the rooftop laundry. Add to that a line of bathroom amenities available to buy at reception - as well as a signature scent inspired by native botanica - and live music from the beer garden below (luckily, the musician has a great set list), and you've got most senses covered. What's hot? There's no duplicating the character and charm of the property which anchors you to The Rocks' history and location. It's like Playing Beatie Bow, but for adults who yearn for a certain level of comfort with their time travel. What's not? Powerpoints were located so far from my beautiful antique desk that it was rendered useless, leaving me to work from bed. The verdict: 8/10 The perfect pre- or post- cruise accommodation for those keen to immerse themselves in Sydney's colonial history, but also enjoy some of the city's landmarks mere moments from your door. Rooms at The Russell Boutique Hotel start from $300 and include a hearty breakfast. For further information visit Originally published as Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney

Marriage numbers rise, divorce rates down, ABS figures show
Marriage numbers rise, divorce rates down, ABS figures show

Herald Sun

time10 hours ago

  • General
  • Herald Sun

Marriage numbers rise, divorce rates down, ABS figures show

Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News. A growing 'try before you buy' attitude to marriage, with more couples living together before tying the knot, may be behind Australia's declining divorce rates. New ABS data shows marriage numbers are up and divorce rates are down — with nuptials between couples of the same or non-binary gender rising and Friday becoming popular as a day to say 'I do'. Dr Lixia Qu, a senior research fellow at the Australian Institute of Family Studies, said people marrying at a later age, and more couples living together before marriage, was likely contributing to the declining divorce rates. 'These days most couples live together before getting married — if they marry at all,' Dr Xu said. 'Being able to 'try before you buy' was less of an option (in the past) … due to stigma and societal expectations.' There were 120,844 marriages registered in Australia in 2024, 2 per cent higher than the 118,439 marriages registered in 2023, the latest ABS data shows. Victoria recorded the highest increase with 2,234 more marriages (up 7.5 per cent) in 2024 than the year before. There were 4,746 marriages registered nationally in 2024 for couples of the same or non-binary gender, up by 4.1 per cent from the 4,558 marriages registered in 2023. Conversely, divorce rates went down. The ABS said 47,216 divorces were granted in Australia in 2024, down 3 per cent from the 48,700 divorces granted in 2023. The median duration of marriages (from marriage to divorce) increased slightly to 13.2 years in 2024, up from 13.0 years in 2023. The median age at divorce in 2024 was similar to previous years — 47.1 years for men and 44.1 years for women. Wedding season was also, well, seasonal. Most couples opted to say their vows in autumn and spring. Winter, Easter and Christmas periods recorded a lower number of marriage ceremonies. February 24 was the most popular date to get married in 2024. ABS figures said 1,773 marriages took place in that late summer day. Other popular dates in 2024 were April 20 (1,605 marriages), April 6 (1,580 marriages). October 12 and October 26 each shared 1,579 marriages each. Saturday, according to statistics, was best day to seal the deal. ABS numbers said 55,000 marriages took place on a Saturday in 2024. The top 42 dates to get married also fell on a Saturday. Friday was the second most common day to get married, with about 20,000 marriage ceremonies happening on this day. While the ABS figures suggest love and marriage is back in style, some experts believe divorce rates are down due to cost of living pressures. Family law specialist Kylie Burke said: 'The old model, where one person keeps the home and the other rents nearby, is increasingly off the table. The question we're hearing more and more is: Can either of us afford to live after this? 'Dividing assets is just one part of the picture now,' she added. 'It's also about ensuring both parties can afford to live … and plan for their financial future.'

Wyong, Corowa best bets, inside mail for Thursday, July 24, 2025
Wyong, Corowa best bets, inside mail for Thursday, July 24, 2025

Herald Sun

time10 hours ago

  • Sport
  • Herald Sun

Wyong, Corowa best bets, inside mail for Thursday, July 24, 2025

Don't miss out on the headlines from Horse Racing. Followed categories will be added to My News. Racenet and The Daily Telegraph form analyst Adam Sherry provides his best bets and race-by-race analysis for Wyong and top selection at Corowa on Thursday. • PUNT LIKE A PRO: Become a Racenet iQ member and get expert tips – with fully transparent return on investment statistics – from Racenet's team of professional punters at our Pro Tips section. SUBSCRIBE NOW! ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ WYONG TIPS BEST BET Race 1 No.2: SUPER ECLIPSE Will take plenty of benefit from her first-up third. Extra trip suits. NEXT BEST Race 8 No.1: HOW MUCH BETTER Racing well. Will appreciate the step up to 1600m and unbeaten here. VALUE BET Race 7 No.12: GRAPHIC SIGHT Big maiden win first-up. Drawn well and a good chance again. QUADDIE Race 5: 2, 3, 5 Race 6: 1, 2, 4 Race 7: 1, 6, 12 Race 8: 1, 2, 4 JOCKEY TO FOLLOW Apprentice WILLIAM STANLEY has two rides and both can win. COROWA TIPS BEST BET Race 6 No.5: DEKADANCE Kicked off his campaign with a win and can go back-to-back. NEXT BEST Race 5 No.3: EL PIBE DE ORO Racing in good form on the synthetic. Has place at The Valley. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ WYONG INSIDE MAIL RACE 1: MAIDEN HANDICAP (1600m) SUPER ECLIPSE (2) wasn't far behind the placegetters in her first two starts at Canterbury. Raced keenly when resuming with a third to Outta Line in a Super Maiden here. ZAMAZING (4) was third to Celtic Sin at his only run here back in May when resuming. Led and caught on the line by Steel Rain over 1600m at Gosford last start. OMAHA SANDS (3) was OK in his first two runs back from a spell before a third to Steel Rain and Zamazing. Was steadied late when awkwardly placed on heels. BET: SUPER ECLIPSE to win. RACE 2: SUPER MAIDEN PLATE (1000m) GAMP (2) laid in and wasn't fully tested when a length second to Hoku at Newcastle first-up. Led and run down by the favourite Bev's Nine over this track and distance last start. COPPERLINE (7) is a brother to Ritzsun on debut. Very good in leading all the way to win his last two trials, the latest by over four lengths from Star Of Indigo on the Beaumont on July 9. WAL'S ME MATE (1) has solid metro form with placings at Kensington and Warwick Farm over 1250m and 1200m. First go at 1000m. BET: GAMP to win. RACE 3: MIDWAY MAIDEN HANDICAP (1300m) FIREWORK (1) kicked off last campaign with back-to-back second placings behind Fly Scotty Fly and Money Team over 1100m and 1200m here on his home track. Narrowly beaten by Denial at Kembla first-up this time off the back on one soft trial. Will be better for the run. PICCADERRO (2) was bumped at the top of the straight when third to Sugar Island at Coffs Harbour last start. Blinkers off, winkers and crossover nose band on. ALFRED (4) will be better for his first-up fifth at Gosford and a step up in trip. BET: FIREWORK to win. RACE 4: 2YO MAIDEN HANDICAP (1300m) EXTRA HEIGHTS (2) is a first starter by Extreme Choice. Jumped well before drifting back and sitting three-wide before sailing down the outside rail when a neck second to Koibito in his July 11 Randwick trial. IMPURITEZE (9) is a debutant by Trapeze Artist from a daughter of Bold Promise. Settled midfield and closed nicely when second to Valedictorian in his Randwick heat the same day. FABRES (7) race wide without cover when third to Sapling and Tequisoda when resuming here on July 5. Drawn out again. BET: EXTRA HEIGHTS to win. RACE 5: BENCHMARK 68 HANDICAP (1350m) AGED CARE (3) had cardiac arrhythmia when resuming at Scone back in May. Had a trial and retuned with a win at Port Macquarie before a second to Malabar here after racing wide without cover. CALIFORNIA SECRET (2) placed once in his first six starts but has found his best form this campaign. He started with a barnstorming win at Muswellbrook and followed with wins at Newcastle to complete the hat-trick. Game in defeat behind Audrey's Lane over 1400m last start. CELTIC SIN (5) has claims on his win two starts back. BET: AGED CARE to win. RACE 6: PROVINCIAL CLASS 1 HANDICAP (1350m) IMPRESSIONISM (1) ended is first campaign with back-to-back seconds in the country. Resumed over 1300m at Newcastle and defied a betting drift to led all-the-way and beat Bohemian Art before going for another break. THE PACIFIC (4) improved off his first-up run to break his maiden at Kembla second-up last campaign. Will take improvement from his first-up seventh at Newcastle over 1200m. JUSTICE WARRIOR (2) has always shown nice ability and finally broke through with an all-the-way win at Tamworth. Will take plenty of confidence from that victory. BET: IMPRESSIONISM to win. RACE 7: BENCHMARK 64 HANDICAP (1200m) GRAPHIC SIGHT (12) was given a good break after his debut third at Canberra last December when racing three-wide. Returned with a stylish all-the-way win at Goulburn on July 8. BURJ (6) resumed with a sixth behind a dominant Diddle Dumpling over 1000m at Gosford on June 12 and returned there a month later when a short head second to Divine Vicky over 1100m. Her maiden win was over 1300m so she will appreciate a step up in trip here. TRUE AMOR (1) dropped in grade and led all-the-way here last start. Chance again although wide gate isn't ideal. BET: GRAPHIC SIGHT each-way. RACE 8: BENCHMARK 64 HANDICAP (1600m) HOW MUCH BETTER (1) has been good in his three runs this campaign including a last start third to Audrey's Lane over 1400m at Newcastle. Back a little in grade but steps up to the mile which will suit him ideally. Unbeaten on his home track. DUBAI WARRIOR (4) was beaten as an odds-on fav at Wagga when sitting midfield. Freshened and appreciated rolling along in front to win here last start. COSMIC LAD (2) has claims on his first-up win here. BET: HOW MUCH BETTER to win.

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