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Convicted Killer Raymond Ratima Denied Parole, Reveals Motive

Convicted murderer Raymond Ratima, responsible for the deaths of seven individuals, including his three children, has revealed his motives during his 16th denial of parole. The hearing took place on October 15, 2023, in New Zealand, where his actions have sparked significant public interest and discussion.
In a statement made during the hearing, Ratima claimed that his actions were driven by a desire to protect his children from what he described as a harmful environment. He expressed feelings of despair and hopelessness at the time of the killings, which occurred in 2008. Ratima’s justification has drawn criticism from victims’ families and the broader community, emphasizing the complexity of understanding such devastating actions.
The case has remained a focal point in discussions about mental health and the justice system in New Zealand. Ratima’s repeated requests for parole have been consistently denied, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the public sentiment surrounding them. His last application was turned down by the Parole Board, which cited the need for further rehabilitation before considering his release.
Ratima’s conviction includes the tragic loss of his children, which has left a lasting impact on the families involved and the community at large. The Parole Board stated that his release would pose an unacceptable risk to society, reinforcing the notion that accountability for such actions remains paramount.
As Ratima continues to serve his sentence, the implications of his case extend beyond his personal fate. It highlights ongoing conversations about the responsibilities of parents, the impact of mental health on behavior, and the role of the legal system in handling violent offenders.
Support for the victims’ families remains strong, with community organizations advocating for awareness and prevention of domestic violence. Ratima’s case serves as a reminder of the profound consequences of violence and the importance of addressing underlying issues that can lead to such tragedies.
The denial of parole not only signifies the board’s decision but also reinforces the need for comprehensive support systems for individuals struggling with mental health issues, to prevent future occurrences of such heartbreaking events.
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Bloom’s Tribute Tour to Support Youth Mental Health in NZ

Australian singer-songwriter Bloom is set to embark on a tribute tour in New Zealand this September, with a mission to raise funds and awareness for youth mental health. The tour is in collaboration with the mental health charity I Am Hope, specifically supporting Gumboot Friday, a free counselling program for young people. The tour will take place from September 12 to 20, 2023, across six locations in New Zealand.
Supporting Youth Mental Health Through Music
Bloom, who is recognized as one of Australia’s most powerful vocalists, aims to use her platform to make a difference. Donation points will be available at each concert, allowing fans to contribute directly to the cause. Additionally, fundraising efforts will extend online through the Givealittle platform, providing further opportunities for supporters to engage.
Mike King, the founder of I Am Hope, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We’re proud to be backing this tour — and even prouder of the heart behind it.” He emphasized Bloom’s commitment not only to her music but also to supporting young people in need, highlighting her understanding of the impact that music can have on healing.
“As an artist, I’ve seen how music can heal,” Bloom remarked. “Teaming up with I Am Hope lets us turn that connection into real support for young people who need it most.” Her dedication to this cause underscores the importance of community involvement and the role of artists in promoting mental health awareness.
Tour Details and Special Guests
Bloom, alongside her band Seventh Wonder, will perform at six venues throughout New Zealand. The tour is managed by Dennis Dunstan, who previously co-managed the iconic band Fleetwood Mac. A special guest appearance by Mike King is also anticipated during the tour, with final details of the shows to be announced shortly.
Tickets for the concerts are available now at seventhwonder.com.au/nz, and supporters can contribute to the fundraising efforts at givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/rocking-for-hope-seventh-wonder-joins-forces. This initiative not only offers fans the chance to enjoy live music but also to play a part in improving the mental health landscape for youth in New Zealand.
Through this tour, Bloom exemplifies how the arts can intersect with community support, creating a positive impact for those who need it most. As the dates approach, anticipation builds for what promises to be an inspiring series of events dedicated to youth mental health.
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Bloom’s New Zealand Tour Raises Funds for Youth Mental Health

Australian singer-songwriter Bloom is set to embark on a six-stop tour across New Zealand from September 12 to 20, 2023. This tour aims to raise funds and awareness for youth mental health through a partnership with the charity I Am Hope. The initiative will specifically benefit the charity’s free youth counselling programme, Gumboot Friday.
At each concert, attendees will find donation points, and additional fundraising will take place online through the platform Givealittle. “We’re proud to be backing this tour — and even prouder of the heart behind it,” said Mike King, founder of I Am Hope. He emphasized Bloom’s commitment, stating, “She’s showing up for our young people in a way that’s real, generous, and community-led.”
Bloom, who is also the frontwoman of the band Seventh Wonder, expressed her passion for using music as a healing tool. “As an artist, I’ve seen how music can heal—and teaming up with I Am Hope lets us turn that connection into real support for young people who need it most,” she said. Her collaboration with the charity aims to create a tangible impact on youth mental health in New Zealand.
The tour, managed by Dennis Dunstan, former co-manager of Fleetwood Mac, will feature performances in several cities. A special guest appearance from Mike King is also anticipated, with final details of the shows to be confirmed soon.
Tickets are available now at seventhwonder.com.au/nz/, and donations can be made via the Givealittle page: givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/rocking-for-hope-seventh-wonder-joins-forces. This initiative not only highlights the power of music but also serves as a vital reminder of the importance of mental health support for young people.
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Bloom’s Tribute Tour Supports Youth Mental Health in New Zealand

Australian singer-songwriter Bloom is set to embark on a six-stop tour across New Zealand from September 12 to 20, 2023. This tour, which features her band Seventh Wonder, is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Gumboot Friday, a free youth counselling programme operated by the mental health charity I Am Hope.
In partnership with I Am Hope, Bloom aims to support mental health initiatives that directly impact young people. Attendees at each concert will find donation points, and additional fundraising efforts will take place online through the platform Givealittle. The initiative highlights the importance of community support for mental health, particularly among youth.
According to Mike King, founder of I Am Hope, “We’re proud to be backing this tour — and even prouder of the heart behind it. Bloom isn’t just one of the best voices you’ll hear live — she’s someone who truly understands the power of using your platform for good.” King emphasizes the significance of Bloom’s commitment to helping young people navigate mental health challenges.
Bloom expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “As an artist, I’ve seen how music can heal — and teaming up with I Am Hope lets us turn that connection into real support for young people who need it most.” Her dedication to this cause reflects a growing trend among artists to leverage their platforms for social impact.
The tour will feature a special guest appearance by Mike King, with final show details expected to be announced shortly. The concerts will take place in various locations across New Zealand, offering fans a chance to engage with Bloom’s music while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Tickets are currently available through the official website: seventhwonder.com.au/nz/, and donations can be made via givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/rocking-for-hope-seventh-wonder-joins-forces. As the tour approaches, both Bloom and I Am Hope encourage Kiwis to show their support for this vital initiative, ensuring that mental health resources remain accessible to those who need them most.
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Marcus Explores Sally Lunn Buns and Missing Person Alerts

On July 25, 2025, Marcus delved into two intriguing topics that highlight local culinary traditions and public safety measures. He investigated whether the iconic **Sally Lunn buns**, a staple of British bakery heritage, are still available for purchase. Additionally, he addressed the potential role of the **emergency alert system** in assisting the search for missing persons.
The **Sally Lunn bun**, originating from Bath, England, has a long-standing history dating back to the 18th century. Known for its unique sweet flavor and soft texture, these buns have delighted locals and visitors alike for generations. Marcus’s inquiry into the current availability of these treats reflects a broader interest in preserving traditional foods amid modern dining trends. He reached out to several local bakeries and historical sites to gather information on the buns’ production and sales status.
While the quest for Sally Lunn buns is rooted in culinary nostalgia, the second part of Marcus’s discussion takes on a more serious tone. He explored the effectiveness of the **emergency alert system** in locating missing individuals. This system has been implemented in various countries to provide immediate notifications to the public in critical situations, including abductions or disappearances.
Marcus highlighted how the system could be enhanced to better serve communities. He presented statistics indicating that timely alerts can significantly increase the chances of finding missing persons. For instance, studies show that alerts issued within the first **24 hours** of a disappearance lead to a **42%** higher recovery rate compared to delayed notifications.
In his analysis, Marcus suggested that integrating community resources with the emergency alert system could create a more robust framework for public safety. Engaging local organizations and volunteers may help disseminate information swiftly and effectively.
In conclusion, Marcus’s exploration of the availability of Sally Lunn buns juxtaposes the warmth of culinary heritage with the urgency of public safety initiatives. These discussions not only celebrate local traditions but also advocate for improved methods in the vital mission of locating missing individuals. As communities reflect on both their past and present, the dialogue continues about how to preserve heritage while enhancing safety measures for all.
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