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  • Motorcyclist Dies in Fiery Crash in Sydney’s North

    Motorcyclist Dies in Fiery Crash in Sydney’s North

    A motorcyclist has died in a fiery crash in Sydney’s north after colliding with a ute and two other cars before crashing through a brick fence and catching fire.

    The crash occurred on Pennant Hills Road in Normanhurst just after 12 p.m. on Monday. Police believe the motorcyclist, who has not yet been formally identified, was a man in his 60s.

    The driver of the ute, a 36-year-old man, has been taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

    The blaze was extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW, but Pennant Hills Road has been closed in both directions between Hinemoa Avenue and Buckingham Avenue, leading to traffic delays on the M1 and surrounding roads.

    Buses are also diverting away from Pennant Hills.

    Police and emergency services are on the scene.

    This is a tragic reminder of the dangers of the road and the importance of safe driving. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.

  • Tragic Motorbike Crash Claims Life in Sydney’s North: Updates and Road Closures

    Tragic Motorbike Crash Claims Life in Sydney’s North: Updates and Road Closures

    In a somber incident, tragedy struck in Sydney’s northern suburbs as a motorcyclist lost their life in a devastating collision. The unfortunate accident unfolded at the intersection of Pennant Hills Road and Fraser Road in Normanhurst, leaving a community in shock.

    Reports indicate that a motorbike and an ute were involved in a multi-vehicle collision, crashing through a brick fence. The collision’s impact was so severe that both vehicles caught fire. It’s a heartbreaking scenario, and the motorcyclist, who is believed to be a man in his 60s, lost their life in the process. While formal identification is pending, the loss is deeply felt.

    The ute involved in the collision flipped onto its side, ending up in the front yard of a nearby home after crashing through the brick wall. The driver of the ute, a 36-year-old man, has been taken to the hospital for mandatory testing as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.

    Swift action from Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the flames, preventing further damage and harm. However, the consequences of the accident extended beyond the crash site. Pennant Hills Road, a crucial route in the area, had to be closed in both directions between Hinemoa Avenue and Buckingham Avenue. This closure led to traffic congestion on the M1 and surrounding roads, causing inconvenience to commuters.

    Additionally, bus routes had to be altered due to the road closure, as confirmed by the Transport Management Centre. It’s a ripple effect that impacts the daily routines of many.

    In the face of such a distressing incident, the response from emergency services and law enforcement has been commendable. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, offering assistance and support.

    As we reflect on this unfortunate event, let us remember the importance of road safety and being vigilant while driving. Our hearts go out to the family and friends affected by this tragedy, and we hope that lessons can be learned to prevent such accidents in the future.

    Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as investigators work to understand the full details of the collision and its aftermath.

  • Prime Minister’s Battle to Win Hearts as By-elections Heat Up – Nagasaki Prepares for the Political Showdown

    Prime Minister’s Battle to Win Hearts as By-elections Heat Up – Nagasaki Prepares for the Political Showdown

    In the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Japan, Nagasaki Prefecture, a political storm is brewing. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has embarked on a challenging journey to regain public support as dissatisfaction over rising prices looms large. The stage is set for a riveting showdown as official campaigning kicks off for a House of Representatives by-election.

    But that’s not all – there’s a dual battle on the horizon. Simultaneously, a separate poll to fill a vacant seat in the House of Councillors, the upper house of Japan’s legislature, is already underway. These twin by-elections, scheduled for October 22, have transformed into epic battles between the ruling party and the opposition forces, each vying for supremacy in the political arena.

    In the heart of Beijing, China, another crucial development unfolds. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a recent meeting with a U.S. congressional delegation, expressed his keenness to mend Sino-U.S. ties. President Xi emphasized the significance of bilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges, particularly climate change. He deemed the relationship between China and the United States as “the most important bilateral relations in the world.” The future of humanity, he opined, depends on how these two major powers manage their relationship.

    Turning to the Middle East, a grim story unfolds. A large-scale, surprise attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel’s retaliatory strikes have led to a staggering death toll of around 1,200. In Israel, where the conflict began with thousands of rocket launches, 700 people have lost their lives. Meanwhile, the heavily populated Gaza Strip enclave has borne the brunt of Israeli air strikes, with over 490 Palestinians losing their lives.

    In the world of academia, a Nobel Prize shines a spotlight on gender equality. Claudia Goldin, a labor economist based in the United States, has been awarded this year’s Nobel Prize in economics. Her groundbreaking work centers on women’s labor market outcomes. With a focus on bridging the gender gap in pay and addressing the underrepresentation of women in the global workforce, Goldin, a Harvard University professor and economic historian, has delved into over 200 years of data from the United States. Her research has illuminated how and why gender differences in earnings and employment rates have evolved over time.

    Back on the Pacific coast of Japan, a minor yet noteworthy event occurred. Japan’s weather agency reported the detection of small tsunamis in the Izu chain near Tokyo and other coastal areas. These ripples in the sea followed a nearby earthquake and, fortunately, caused no damage or injuries. While some islands experienced tsunamis up to 60 centimeters in height, other areas saw waves measuring 30 cm to 40 cm. Authorities issued advisories in response to the situation, ensuring public safety.

    Shifting gears, we move to Kyoto, western Japan, where Prime Minister Fumio Kishida unveiled plans to boost artificial intelligence (AI) development. In his pledge, he stated that an upcoming economic package, expected to be outlined by the end of the month, will allocate resources to foster AI growth. This initiative aims to harness the discussions from the ongoing Internet Governance Forum and contribute to the Hiroshima AI Process. The Group of Seven industrialized nations will collaborate to establish AI-related rules, preventing misuse of this transformative technology.

    Finally, in northeastern Japan, an unexpected incident unfolded aboard a Shinkansen bullet train. Four passengers, including a child, sustained burns and minor injuries when a chemical liquid accidentally leaked from a passenger’s belongings. The individual responsible, an employee of a geological survey company in Tokyo, had stored an industrial chemical in his hand luggage, leading to the unfortunate spill.

    Ending on a lighter note, we shift our gaze to China, where the beloved Japan-born giant panda, Xiang Xiang, has made her public debut. After returning to China in February following quarantine and examination, the female panda was captured on video leisurely enjoying bamboo shoots at a research center in Sichuan Province.

    As the world turns, events unfold across Japan and beyond, shaping our collective narrative in the diverse tapestry of news and stories.

  • Major Earthquake Rocks Western Afghanistan, Raising Concerns of Casualties and Damage

    Major Earthquake Rocks Western Afghanistan, Raising Concerns of Casualties and Damage

    In a significant seismic event, a powerful earthquake, registering at a magnitude of 6.3, struck western Afghanistan. This major temblor was accompanied by a series of aftershocks, including magnitudes of 5.5, 4.7, 5.9, and 4.6, sending shockwaves of concern throughout the region.

    The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenter of the initial earthquake was located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Herat, the largest city in the region. While the full extent of the damage is still emerging, the quake has already claimed one life and caused numerous injuries.

    Videos shared on social media depict the harrowing moments as residents and shopkeepers fled their buildings in Herat. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as the ground trembled beneath them. Walls cracked, plaster fell, and buildings sustained damage, with some walls and portions of structures collapsing.

    Bashir Ahmad, a 45-year-old resident of Herat, recounted the frightening experience, saying, “We were in our offices, and suddenly the building started shaking. Wall plasters started to fall down, and the walls got cracks; some walls and parts of the building collapsed.” He expressed deep concern as network connections were disrupted, making it difficult to contact family members.

    The National Disaster Management Authority expressed preliminary estimates of casualties, but there are fears that the toll could rise significantly, especially in rural and mountainous areas where landslides have been reported.

    The USGS also issued a preliminary report warning of “significant casualties” and describing the disaster as “potentially widespread.” Past events with similar alert levels have necessitated regional or national-level responses.

    Herat, often regarded as the cultural capital of Afghanistan, is home to an estimated population of 1.9 million. Tragically, this is not the region’s first encounter with devastating earthquakes. In June of the previous year, a 5.9-magnitude quake struck, claiming over 1,000 lives and leaving tens of thousands homeless—a catastrophe of historic proportions.

    Earlier in the current year, a magnitude 6.5 earthquake near Jurm in northeastern Afghanistan resulted in the loss of 13 lives. The country is frequently susceptible to earthquakes, particularly in the Hindu Kush mountain range, situated at the convergence of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates.

    The grim reality of this earthquake is exacerbated by Afghanistan’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, marked by the withdrawal of foreign aid since the return of the Taliban to power in 2021. The seismic event further compounds the challenges facing the country and its people.

    As rescue and relief efforts continue in the aftermath of this major earthquake, the world watches with empathy and concern, hoping for a swift and effective response to mitigate the suffering caused by this natural disaster.

  • Israel Under Attack: Netanyahu Declares War as Gaza Militants Launch Surprise Assault

    Israel Under Attack: Netanyahu Declares War as Gaza Militants Launch Surprise Assault

    In a shocking turn of events, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has declared that the country is now in a state of war. The reason? Palestinian militants from Gaza unleashed a deadly barrage of rockets and sent gunmen into Israeli territory, igniting a major escalation in the long-standing conflict between the two sides.

    Netanyahu, in a solemn video message, addressed the nation, saying, “Citizens of Israel, we are at war – not in an operation, not in rounds – at war.”

    The early morning rocket attacks from Gaza, described as “massive” by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), tragically claimed at least one life and left over 100 people injured, according to reports from hospitals.

    Hamas, the Palestinian militant group in control of Gaza, claimed responsibility for the rocket attack and called for a widespread uprising against Israel. Their military commander, Muhammad Al-Deif, urged people to take up arms, declaring, “This is the time to use it – get out with trucks, cars, axes, today the best and most honorable history starts.”

    Termed “Al-Aqsa Storm,” the operation allegedly involved targeting Israeli positions, airports, and military sites with thousands of rockets, as a response to attacks on women, the desecration of the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, and the ongoing Gaza siege.

    IDF spokesperson Lt Col Richard Hecht revealed that Israeli forces were actively engaged in ground battles at multiple locations. To counter the attack, the IDF struck several targets linked to Hamas in Gaza, and thousands of reservists were called up for duty.

    Warning sirens wailed across areas near Gaza, urging Israelis to stay in their homes or seek shelter. The IDF held Hamas responsible for the attack, emphasizing that the consequences would be significant.

    Israeli President Isaac Herzog acknowledged that the nation was facing a challenging moment and extended support to the IDF, security forces, and the affected residents.

    CNN teams in Jerusalem reported rocket warnings and interceptions, indicating the severity of the situation. The initial rocket barrage occurred early in the morning when most Israelis were asleep, an unusual occurrence as Gaza is typically sealed off and heavily monitored.

    Reports emerged of infiltrators from Gaza entering Israeli territories, including Kibbutz Beeri and Netiv HaAsara, although authorities had not yet confirmed the details.

    Videos on social media captured masked gunmen in a pickup truck driving through the Israeli city of Sderot, with gunfire audible in the background. Tragically, one woman lost her life, and at least 15 people sustained injuries in the attacks across southern and lowland regions of Israel.

    Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s rescue service, responded to the missile strikes and live firing incidents. MDA urged people to follow instructions from authorities and promptly seek shelter when alarms sounded. A special blood donation drive was organized in Tel Aviv due to an urgent need for blood donations.

    The rocket attacks, witnessed by a CNN producer in Gaza, triggered alarms across a wide area, from Tel Aviv to Beer Sheva and beyond. Footage showed the aftermath of a rocket strike in Ashkelon, where multiple cars burned next to an apartment complex.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant conducted security assessments at IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv, indicating the gravity of the situation.

    Gaza, one of the most densely populated places globally, houses nearly 2 million people in a small area. It has been isolated from the rest of the world due to an Israeli blockade since 2007, with Egypt controlling the southern border crossing.

    As the situation unfolds, the death toll is expected to rise, with Magen David Adom reporting at least 22 people killed and over 70 seriously injured since the commencement of this massive Hamas attack. Thousands of rockets have been fired at central and southern regions, leaving the people of Israel in a state of shock and fear.

  • Vancouver’s Okeya Kyujiro Earns Coveted Michelin Star

    Vancouver’s Okeya Kyujiro Earns Coveted Michelin Star

    In a glittering ceremony, the prestigious Michelin Guide has once again illuminated Vancouver’s vibrant restaurant scene, adding a shimmering star to its culinary constellation. The much-coveted Michelin star has been bestowed upon the exquisite Japanese restaurant, Okeya Kyujiro, situated in the heart of Yaletown. This gastronomic gem, led by the gifted Chef Takuya Matsuda, has taken its rightful place among the city’s culinary elite.

    A Starry Triumph in Vancouver

    For the city of Vancouver, this is a starry triumph, marking the ninth restaurant to earn this prestigious accolade. Okeya Kyujiro’s Executive Chef, Yuki Anai, expressed their sheer joy at this remarkable achievement, a goal they had tirelessly pursued since the restaurant’s inception just one year ago in September.

    A Taste of Michelin Glory

    The Michelin Guide, known for its discerning palate and meticulous evaluations, has also celebrated five exceptional establishments with the coveted “Bib Gourmand” recognition. These restaurants, known for offering exceptional value without compromising on flavor, have become staples of Vancouver’s gastronomic landscape. The newly anointed Bib Gourmand recipients include Farmer’s Apprentice, Karma Indian Bistro, Motonobu Udon, Seaport City Seafood, and Sushi Hil, joining the ranks of 17 esteemed restaurants in this category.

    Celebrating Culinary Excellence

    The Michelin Guide’s 2023 Vancouver selections span a range of culinary distinctions, from Michelin stars to the highly-regarded Bib Gourmand and Recommended designations. With a total of 77 distinguished establishments now featured, Vancouver’s culinary landscape has been graced with even more recognition than before.

    New Stars Shine Bright

    Among the new stars, Okeya Kyujiro stands out as a beacon of culinary artistry. This Yaletown gem offers a theatrical dining experience, featuring a captivating 20-course menu in an immersive and ceremonial setting, with a price point of $300 per person. The Michelin inspector’s verdict? A truly memorable show from start to finish.

    A Delicious Tapestry of Recommendations

    The Bib Gourmand designation pays tribute to restaurants like Farmer’s Apprentice, Karma Indian Bistro, Motonobu Udon, Seaport City Seafood, and Sushi Hil, where you can savor extraordinary flavors without breaking the bank.

    Meanwhile, 12 other establishments have been recommended by Michelin, signifying their above-average quality while not reaching star status. These include Archer, Bao Bei, Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar, Elisa, Folke, Hānai, Moltaqa, Regal Mansion Cuisine, Sushi Jin, Suyo, Tetsu Sushi Bar, and Wildlight Kitchen and Bar.

    Acknowledging Culinary Excellence

    During the enchanting event held in Vancouver, special awards were presented to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the culinary world. Max Curzon-Price of Suyo Peruvian restaurant received the Michelin Exceptional Cocktails Award, while Kelcie Jones of Burdock was honored with the Michelin Sommelier Award. The front-of-house team at Okeya Kyujiro was lauded with the Michelin Outstanding Service Award, and Chef Warren Chow of Wildlight Kitchen and Bar was recognized with the Michelin Young Chef Award.

    Vancouver’s Culinary Renaissance

    The Michelin Guide’s presence in Vancouver, now in its second year, has had a profound impact. It has introduced new customers to these exceptional restaurants, attracted tourists from near and far, and even played a role in staff recruitment and retention. Vancouver’s culinary scene, rooted in local, fresh, farm-to-table cuisine, is experiencing a renaissance that is becoming increasingly recognized and celebrated.

    The Five-Star Criteria

    Michelin restaurants are judged by anonymous inspectors based on five critical criteria: the quality of ingredients, mastery of cooking techniques, the harmony of flavors, the chef’s personality expressed in dishes, and consistency across menus and visits.

    The Michelin Guide’s 2023 selections for Vancouver are a testament to the city’s culinary prowess, with these exceptional restaurants shining brighter than ever before.

  • Ismael “El Bola”: Breathing New Life into Flamenco

    Ismael “El Bola”: Breathing New Life into Flamenco

    Ismael de la Rosa, known as “El Bola,” is a name that resonates with the passion of humble hearts. In a phone conversation, he shares the temperament that defines many artists. A delicate note from his throat can stir the senses, plunging us into a near-cathartic experience. Ismael hails from Triana, a place steeped in tradition, where his family, the Fernández lineage, has deep roots. These artists from Triana had to leave their homeland in the mid-20th century, but their legacy lives on.

    A Year to Remember

    Just about a year ago, Ismael was performing flamenco for thousands of people at C. Tangana’s final concert in Spain. It was an unforgettable night at the Plaza de España in Seville, his hometown. Singing for a crowd of 20,000, surrounded by family, and friends, and knowing he was soon headed to Latin America made it an extraordinary and magical evening.

    Reflecting on the Past Year

    The past year has been a transformative one for Ismael’s career. He’s worked not only with C. Tangana but also with renowned artists like Farruquito, the dancer Alfonso Losa, and guitarist Yerai Cortés. Balancing these two facets of his career has been a wonderful experience, motivating him and reaffirming his presence in the world of music.

    Charting a Path for the Future

    Ismael belongs to a generation, alongside Yerai Cortés and Israel Fernández, that is poised to breathe new life into flamenco. They understand the essence of flamenco and the importance of preserving its roots. Their mission is to ensure that their audience feels at least half of the passion they have for this art form.

    The Changing Face of Flamenco

    Flamenco today is a far cry from what it once was. It’s no longer confined to the margins; it’s become mainstream. Ismael acknowledges this shift and the fact that their generation didn’t experience the hardships and struggles of their predecessors.

    Flamenco’s Resurgence

    The fusion of popular culture, urban music, and flamenco has placed flamenco at the center stage. Groups like La Plazuela are introducing new generations to flamenco. However, Ismael suggests that what’s being created now might be better termed “flamenquito” or “urban flamenco.” While it’s a positive trend, it’s distinct from the pioneering work of artists like Lole and Manuel.

    Roots and Heritage

    Ismael’s family, the Fernández lineage, has deep roots in Triana. They come from the ancient Triana, the Cava de los Gitanos. Despite the family’s history in Triana, they didn’t follow the path to Las Tres Mil Viviendas like many others. Instead, they settled in Camas, specifically La Pañoleta. Theirs is a true Gypsy family with a rich heritage.

    The journey from Triana to the World

    Ismael’s journey has taken him from the historic streets of Triana to places like the United States and Japan, where he has performed and left an indelible mark. Japan, in particular, has a deep appreciation for flamenco. Ismael has visited cities like Osaka and Tokyo multiple times, marveling at the country’s love for flamenco. His first trip to Japan was at the age of six when he accompanied his father to Disneyland Tokyo.

    In the United States, Ismael’s father called him with an unexpected opportunity. He needed to replace him for a commitment to Madonna. Ismael spent ten days with the iconic singer in New York, and something extraordinary happened. Madonna was captivated by their flamenco performance. She couldn’t stop exclaiming, “Amazing, amazing,” with an astonished look on her face.

    A Remarkable Experience

    Ismael’s journey from Triana to the world has been nothing short of remarkable. His passion for flamenco, combined with his rich family heritage, is a testament to the enduring power of this art form. As he continues to take flamenco to new generations and audiences around the world, he keeps the spirit of Triana alive in his heart.

  • Queensland Government Takes Legal Action Over Derelict Double Island Resort

    Queensland Government Takes Legal Action Over Derelict Double Island Resort

    In a bid to revive a once-glamorous tropical island resort, the Queensland government has taken legal action against the owner of Double Island, a paradise that was once frequented by Hollywood’s elite, including Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston.

    Double Island, situated off the coast of Palm Cove, north of Cairns, was purchased by Hong Kong-based billionaire Benny Wu for a cool $5.68 million back in 2012. Back then, it was a 17.8-hectare haven that drew the rich and famous like a magnet. But today, it lies in ruins, a shadow of its former glory.

    The Queensland government had given Mr. Wu an ultimatum earlier this year in April: restore the facilities and open the island to the public. Sadly, that deadline has come and gone without any action. Now, the Department of Resources has initiated legal proceedings against Mr. Wu’s Fortune Island Holding Company in the Queensland Land Court.

    Michael Healy, the member for Cairns and assistant tourism minister, expressed the government’s frustration, emphasizing that they expect leaseholders to uphold their end of the deal. “There are expectations that when people sign leases they will comply,” he remarked. “We had indicated to the tenant that we were not happy with the fact that they hadn’t been compliant and that unless they had provided us with the appropriate documentation and evidence, we would proceed with the forfeiture of the lease. We have a wonderful island there. It has enormous potential, and we really want to see that potential realized.”

    Documents presented to the Land Court reveal a history of complaints dating back to 2017, highlighting issues with the use and management of the leased land. Photographs obtained by ABC depict a sorry state of affairs, with mold-covered safari-style tents, scattered plastic chairs, and a once-glistening pool now reduced to a murky green sludge at the bottom.

    Palm Cove businessman Tony Richards, who has a long association with the island, welcomes the legal action as a necessary step to end Mr. Wu’s lease. He reminisces about the island’s heyday when it attracted A-list celebrities like Keanu Reeves. “Keanu Reeves liked to work out in the gym, so before his stay on the island, a glass-fronted, beautiful gymnasium was built,” Mr. Richards fondly recalls.

    He firmly believes that the island holds immense potential and that there is keen interest from potential developers. With optimism in his voice, he envisions the resort being restored to its former glory. “It’s a beautiful island,” he asserts.

  • Local Official Arrested After Fatal Bicycle Collision: Alcohol Involved

    Local Official Arrested After Fatal Bicycle Collision: Alcohol Involved

    In a tragic incident in Oudenaarde, a 22-year-old cyclist lost his life in a collision. The driver, identified as Mathieu Mas, a local official, was immediately taken into custody for questioning. The accident occurred at the intersection of Aalststraat and Smissestraat in Oudenaarde around 11:20 p.m.

    Late last night, tragedy struck in Oudenaarde as a 22-year-old cyclist lost his life in a heartbreaking accident. The collision took place at the intersection of Aalststraat and Smissestraat, around 11:20 PM.

    The young cyclist was struck by a car and tragically passed away at the scene. The driver of the car, Mathieu Mas, who also serves as the local official for Social Affairs and Chairman of the OCMW, was arrested on the spot. His driver’s license has been suspended for 15 days.

    The East Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office has appointed a traffic expert to investigate the precise circumstances of the accident. Once Mas has been questioned, the prosecutor’s office will provide further updates.

    Update: Cyclist (22) Dies in Collision with Local Official; Driver Found to Be Intoxicated

    In Oudenaarde, a cyclist (22) tragically lost his life in a traffic accident on Wednesday night. The driver of the vehicle was arrested at the scene. Shockingly, it was revealed that the driver is Mathieu Mas, a member of the CD&V party, who is set to lead the newly formed “Iedereen 9700!” party in the upcoming elections. The prosecutor’s office confirmed that the driver had consumed alcohol and will be presented to the investigating judge.

    The accident occurred around 11 PM on Wednesday at the corner of Aalststraat and Smissestraat. A young cyclist from Oudenaarde was struck by a car while crossing the road and sadly, the 22-year-old victim lost his life at the scene. The young man, O.D.T., was traveling from a small road leading from the Scheldt to Smissestraat. The driver of the car, Mathieu Mas (37), who also serves as a local official and OCMW Chairman in Oudenaarde, was apprehended by the police at the scene, and his driver’s license was immediately suspended for 15 days.

    The father of the victim works for the city of Oudenaarde, and a staff meeting was coincidentally scheduled for Thursday morning. It’s clear that this tragic incident has deeply affected everyone involved. Both the police and the prosecutor’s office are diligently investigating the circumstances of the accident. The prosecutor’s office confirmed that the driver was under the influence of alcohol, and he will be presented before the investigating judge later this afternoon.

    The East Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office has verified the facts and appointed a traffic expert to investigate the exact details of the accident. Further communication will follow after the driver’s interrogation.

    Update: Local Official Mathieu Mas (37) Immediately Arrested after Fatal Bicycle Accident (22); Alcohol and Speed Factors Revealed

    CD&V official Mathieu Mas (37) was the driver involved in the tragic collision that claimed the life of a young cyclist (22) in Oudenaarde on Wednesday night. The victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene, and the politician was promptly taken into custody, with his driver’s license immediately revoked. According to the East Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office, Mas was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident and was also speeding. He will appear before the investigating judge this afternoon.

    The fatal accident occurred around 11:19 PM on Aalststraat in Oudenaarde. It involved a collision between a car and a 22-year-old cyclist, who tragically lost his life at the scene. Efforts to resuscitate the victim continued for some time, and the fire department worked late into the night to clear the accident site.

    The East Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office has promptly engaged a traffic expert to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. It is possible that the cyclist entered Aalststraat, a priority road, from a side street, resulting in a collision with the vehicle driven by CD&V official Mathieu Mas, who was operating his company car from Immo Nobles. According to local residents, Mas’s car was situated approximately 70 meters from the accident site, while the victim was found 30 meters away.

    Mas’s driver’s license was immediately suspended for 15 days, and he did not flee the scene. The prosecutor’s office has confirmed that Mas was intoxicated at the time of the accident and was also speeding. The official has already been interrogated about the incident and is set to appear before the investigating judge in Oudenaarde later today.

    Mathieu Mas assumed the role of Social Affairs official in 2019, succeeding Cindy Franssen. He also became the Chairman of the Special Social Service Committee. Just last week, Mas made headlines with the announcement of his new political party, ‘Iedereen 9700!,’ a collaboration between CD&V and Vooruit.

  • Beloved St Kilda Restaurateur Kevin Donovan Passes Away, Leaving a Culinary Legacy

    Beloved St Kilda Restaurateur Kevin Donovan Passes Away, Leaving a Culinary Legacy

    In a heartfelt farewell to the culinary world, Kevin Donovan, the co-founder of St Kilda’s iconic Donovans restaurant, has sadly passed away at the age of 68. His legacy as a renowned American-born restaurateur will forever be etched in the annals of Melbourne’s dining history.

    Kevin and his wife, Gail Donovan, recently bid farewell to their beloved restaurant, Donovans, after an impressive 26-year journey at its helm. Their decision to sell the restaurant on August 31 marked the end of an era. Kevin had been grappling with an undisclosed illness for the past five years, rendering him unable to actively participate in the restaurant’s operations for at least three years, as Gail had revealed earlier.

    The story of Kevin’s culinary adventure in Australia began in 1986 when he arrived on these shores to open the Hyatt on Collins, now known as the Grand Hyatt Melbourne. In this esteemed establishment, he held the position of director of food and beverage, setting the stage for his remarkable career.

    Fate played its part when Kevin interviewed Gail for a job at the Hyatt. Their connection was instant and profound. As Gail fondly recalls, “I went home and said to my housemate, ‘I’m going to marry that guy.’ I thought he was wonderful.” Little did they know that this chance meeting would lead to a culinary partnership that would shape the Melbourne dining scene.

    Their journey continued with the management of the South Yarra restaurant, Chinois, before destiny beckoned them to St Kilda. Here, they took over the former Jean Jacques By The Sea, a beachside bathing pavilion steeped in history dating back to 1928. Transforming it into a culinary gem, they rebranded it as The Pavilion before infusing it with their vibrant, personal touch, creating the beloved Donovans in 1997. Alongside silent partners Richard B. Fisher and Jeanne Donovan Fisher (no relation), they breathed new life into this seaside dining institution.

    Donovans quickly became a culinary landmark, earning at least one prestigious Good Food Guide hat each year since its inception. Their culinary excellence was further acknowledged when they were jointly awarded the Vittoria Coffee Legend Award in The Age Good Food Guide 2016.

    As Kevin Donovan’s culinary journey comes to an end, the restaurant’s new owner, Nick Parkhouse, reassures Donovans’ legion of loyal patrons that the spirit of this cherished establishment will remain unchanged. He promises, “What Gail and Kevin have created is one of the most iconic restaurants, not only in Melbourne, but Australia. It’s so revered and loved, and there’s not a damn thing that’s going to change. It’s my honor to carry the mantle.”

    In the memory of Kevin Donovan, we celebrate a life dedicated to the art of gastronomy, leaving behind a culinary legacy that will continue to delight and inspire generations of food enthusiasts.