The May 9 edition
Several weeks ago, I was listening to an episode of Good Weekend Talks (look for us wherever you get your podcasts!) featuring the author and feminist Kathy Lette. She discussed a number of topics, many related to women and ageing. That podcast came soon after an Instagram post by actor-director turned regenerative farmer, Rachel Ward, sparked a vitriolic backlash. Ward, renowned for her Hollywood career playing glamorous romantic leads in her 20s and 30s, now lives on a rural property in northern NSW and had popped up online with a message about her farm’s products. But the benign video post caused an extraordinary reaction among some people, who were seemingly aghast and confused that a 68-year-old woman would appear in public without full hairstyling and make-up. The focus on Ward’s natural look underscored the anxiety that seems to still exist around women, ageing and appearance. Who better to explore this with her than her longtime friend, the irrepressible Lette? You’ll find the result of their edifying encounter here today. Enjoy! – Melissa Stevens, editor
He keeps ex-PMs on retainer, parties with Trump and dines with King Charles: this is Anthony Pratt
He’s one of Australia’s richest men, but this cardboard billionaire lived in a roadside hotel for two years while building his father’s American dream.
- Jane Cadzow
Rachel Ward’s Instagram post blew up – but the main pile-on came from a surprising source
The actor-director turned cattle farmer discusses women, ageing and appearance – and the fallout from her social media post – with author and feminist Kathy Lette.
- Kathy Lette
‘Too many dinner parties’: Why life in London is too much for this tech entrepreneur
Founded 25 years ago, Wikipedia remains a rare internet presence with 65 million entries thanks to a global collective of geeks.
- Jane Wheatley
- Two of Us
- Two of Us
Ronald ‘broke’ when his partner of 27 years had a heart attack. His best friend pulled him through
Librarians Melissa Jackson and Ronald Briggs are colleagues who have become friends.
- Stephen Lacey
A struggling writer was told her career was ‘done’ – then everything changed in 48 hours
Tayari Jones is the author of five novels. An American Marriage won the Women’s Prize and was an Oprah’s Book Club selection. Her latest novel is Kin.
- Benjamin Law
There’s one thing you shouldn’t do when you are ready to go grey
Beware the “instant” method of embracing silver hair, says one expert – who says “grey transitioning” is a growing movement.
- Gay Alcorn
Is it wrong to eavesdrop on someone detailing their intimate problems on the phone?
Someone whinging about their marital and sexual issues in full-volume, XXX-rated audio can be a lively way to pass the time, says our Modern Guru.
- Danny Katz
Should you still dress as if you’re travelling first-class … when you’re not?
Celebrities are dialling down their wardrobes for airport paparazzi, offering a new, loose and layered formula for sky-high style.
- Damien Woolnough
Sleepwear as outerwear: New reasons to enjoy slow mornings at home
Relaxed silhouettes, breathable fabrics … Fresh excuses to keep in those PJs just a little longer through the day.
- Kim Wilson
Polpette di sarde (Sicilian sardine meatballs)
With ready-filleted sardines widely available, these meatballs are an easy midweek option.
- 30 mins - 1 hr
- Julia Busuttil Nishimura
Test your general knowledge with the Good Weekend quiz
Trivia buffs: can you get a perfect score in the interactive superquiz?
Other editions
The June 13 edition
Our next football superstar is here | Capturing beauty in 360-degree detail | A planner and protester on bridging differences | Tasma Walton on dicey topics
- 10 stories
The June 6 edition
The Style Edit | Cinema icon Tony Leung | Kate Ceberano on staying in the game | Vintage fashion’s new moment | Sartorial tricks from the celebrity realm
- 16 stories