A New York woman has sparked a heated online debate after a viral video told friends to stop asking to stay at her apartment for free. Bridget Goes, 25, said guests should book a hotel or hostel instead, arguing that visitors who cannot afford New York should travel home or skip the concert. Many viewers agreed, while others said friends should always be welcome to stay. Financial experts from Ally Financial say social spending is pressuring young adults' savings, and advise friends to be open about their budgets.
Three students at Medowie Christian School are reflecting on their final years of school as the Class of 2026 prepares to leave. Bethany says she has grown in confidence through leadership and public speaking, and is proud of helping start Salt and Light, a group where girls can share their experiences. Callum says he is proud of the person he has become, and urges others to commit fully to their goals. Annika, who moved from another country, says school taught her resilience and flexibility, and she expects to miss everyday moments with teachers and friends.
Aussie Red Hatters, a social group for women over 50, will hold its 16th convention in Queensland this October. Organiser Michelle Johnsson says 328 women have registered, with the theme of fun and flowers. Highlights include boat cruises to see jacaranda trees and a flash mob dance at the Goodna Jacaranda Festival. Members in South Wollongong's Ruby Ragers say the group is purely social, with no fundraising. They say dressing up in red hats and purple clothes gives them confidence and joy.
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The Canungra Owls Under 15 girls lost 7–2 to Northern Rivers in their final game of the season at Moriarty Park. Canungra took an early lead through Chloe Delaney, and Jasmine Thompson converted a penalty to level the score. Many of the girls have played together since they were six and still attend the same team three times a week, despite now studying at four different high schools. The team has spent more than 100 hours each season training and travelling, with the players describing themselves as a group that stands by one another.
Jackie Elliott founded Rural Women's Day after struggling for nine years to find women her own age in rural Victoria. The non-profit holds social events for women working in agriculture and living in isolated areas. The first event, held in Dunkeld in 2019, was meant to be a one-off. It has since grown to 50 events across mainland Australia, connecting more than 5,000 women. Ms Elliott says the events also support mental health by giving women a chance to talk with others facing similar challenges.
Evonne Goolagong Cawley recalls her long friendship with Ash Barty, whom she first saw play at the 2011 Australian Open Junior Championships. Goolagong Cawley says she acted as a mentor to Barty without pushing advice unless asked. In 2014, Barty was struggling with burnout and took a break from tennis, returning in 2016. In 2021, Barty became the first Australian woman to win Wimbledon since Goolagong Cawley's own 1980 title. Goolagong Cawley says she sent Barty a message before the final, reading Dreams do come true.
Clinical psychologist Gemma Cribb says long-term happiness in relationships basically depends on a good friendship. She says couples should keep asking each other ongoing questions about their inner lives. Cribb also advises partners to appreciate each other and respond to each other's needs. She says healthy couples accept each other's habits, even when disagreements over money, sex, time, mess and children keep returning. Amanda and Sarah, who share their own experiences, say small daily rituals help them stay connected.
North Illawarra Probus, one of Australia's oldest branches, has existed for 47 years. The club meets monthly at the Woonona Bulli RSL, where guest speakers give practical talks to members. President Shelley Tough says the group has built lasting friendships, though membership fell after Covid. Members, now about 60, take part in trips, lunches and games days. The next meeting is on Tuesday, 13 October at 10.30am, with cellist Tanya Phillips as guest speaker.
Woman's Day's midlife guide argues that socialising supports happiness and wellbeing, and that staying connected to the local community may help keep people physically younger. Amber Bramble notes that around 15 per cent of Australians admit to feeling socially isolated, and suggests joining clubs as an effective way to meet people. Options include walking and swimming groups, dance classes such as ballroom and salsa, book clubs, team sports including walking netball, and volunteer roles. Lifestyle Editor Janine Donovan recounts how rowing with her children became a community that gave her lasting friendships in midlife.
