Dally M red carpet hits and misses

The 2014 Dally M red carpet fashion hits and misses.

Jodi Anasta and retired West Tigers star Braith Anasta set the standard on the red carpet at the Dally M awards.

Fox Sports' Matt Russell runs through the frontrunners for the 2014 Dally M Awards.

Johnathan Thurston is the red-hot favourite for the 2014 Dally M Medal, but if anyone is to catch him, the experts are tipping it will be Jarryd Hayne, who has an outstanding year at fullback for the Parramatta Eels.

Lara Pitt at the 2014 Dally M Awards at The Star in Pyrmont. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

THE NRL's night of nights, the Dally M Awards, has shaken and stirred The Star in Sydney.

It's the one night of the year when the rugby league WAGs get to outsparkle and outdazzle their other halves and, as always, all eyes were on who wore what on that ruby rug.

The wives and girlfriends of our NRL stars were primping and preening all afternoon at The Darling Hotel to ensure they were red-carpet ready in time.

MORE: Who took out the Dally M Medal for 2014?

This year's annual player awards night boasts a star-studded list of guests and presenters including Olympic and Commonwealth champion hurdler Sally Pearson and Aussie swimming champs Cate and Bronte Campbell.

Stay tuned for all of the glitz and glamour from the 2014 red carpet below.

Queen WAG and fashion favourite Terry Biviano has arrived. The 39-year-old shoe designer descended upon The Star with husband of two years Anthony Minichiello, captain of the Sydney Roosters who ended his record-breaking 302 game career at ANZ Stadium on Friday night.

Terry Biviano and Anthony Minichiello at the 2014 Dally M Awards. Source: News Corp Australia

Never one to shy away from making a bold fashion statement, Biviano stunned in a revealing, white Pallas Couture gown that featured plenty of cut-outs. "It is definitely easier to not have to dress the bump," she told Confidential, referring to last year's event where she was pregnant with her first child.

"This year my dress is a bit more full-on. It is really modern, sexy and sleek. We are pushing the boundaries. Actually I'm a little scared."

Paying tribute to her husband's 14 years as a professional NRL player, she said: "The star attraction this year is going to be my husband.

"It's not only an opportunity to celebrate the great year he and his team have had but it's also a time to celebrate his amazing career.

"It will be the last Dally M's, but all good things must come to an end."

Terry Biviano makes a splash in laser cut lace and Anthony Minichiello reflects on retirement.

Terry Biviano had this Pallas Couture gown designed for the Dally M Awards. Source: News Corp Australia

Instead of a long flowing frock, Jessica Mauboy opted for a white, strapless Steven Khalil number.

"I'm such a big fan of this game, my heart has always been with it, so I will be roaming the room to say hi to as many players as I can," she said ahead of the event.

Jess Mauboy chats to Confidential's Jonathon Moran at the Dally M awards.

Jessica Mauboy looked stunning in this fun, flirty Steven Khalil cocktail dress. Source: News Corp Australia

Jodi Anasta, former Home and Away star and wife of former Wests Tigers player Braith Anasta, arrived wearing local designer J'Aton Couture.

Jodi Anasta at the 2014 Dally M Awards. Source: News Corp Australia

The mum-of-one hit the red carpet with her footballer husband wearing the floor-length, pearl beaded gown with plunging neckline and thigh high split.

"It will be (Braith's) last awards because of his retirement so it will be a big night for us," the 29-year-old told Confidential ahead of the evening.

The glittery frock was a total winner, and quite unlike anything else that was donned this year.

Jodi and Braith Anasta arrive at the 2014 Dally M Awards. Source: News Corp Australia

Erin Molan. Source: News Corp Australia

Belinda Bartholomew. Source: News Corp Australia

Greg Bird and Becky Rochow. Source: News Corp Australia

Corey and Maraux Parker. Source: News Corp Australia

Bachelor lovebirds Tim Robards and Anna Heinrich turned up. Heinrich was wearing a deep red, off-the-shoulder Jennifer Regan gown with matching red lippy and statement earrings.

2013 Bachelor Tim Robards and Anna Heinrich chat to Briana on the red carpet.

Tim Robards and Anna Heinrich. Source: Getty Images

South Sydney Rabbitohs player Sam Burgess arrived with new girlfriend Phoebe Hooke, who wore a full-length, white gown with one sleeve.

Lara Pitt, who is currently six months pregnant, wore an elegant, black floor-length gown which she teamed with a chunky statement necklace. The Fox Sports personality will be front and centre on the red carpet, conducting interviews with Matty Johns.

Rabbitoh's star Sam Burgess says girlfriend Phoebe Hook will join him for the start of his new Rugby Union career in England

Lara Pitt. Source: News Corp Australia

Sam Burgess and Phoebe Hooke. Source: News Corp Australia

Channel 7 news reporter Samantha Brett. Source: News Corp Australia

Channel 9 sports presenter Yvonne Sampson. Source: News Corp Australia

Grand final-bound halfback Trent Hodkinson arrived with his partner of five years, Chantelle Traficante.

"It's nice for him to be recognised for the wonderful year he has had and everything he has gone through to get there so it's a nice reward," Traficante said of her fiance's massive 2014 season.

Lisa Wilkinson chats to Confidential's Jonathon Moran on the Dally M red carpet how she loves being a WAG

Trent Hodkinson and Chantelle Traficante. Source: News Corp Australia

Carley and Gareth Widdop. Source: News Corp Australia

Aidan Guerra and Belinda Bartholomew with Jacqui and Wally Lewis. Source: News Corp Australia

Kurt and Brooke Gidley. Source: News Corp Australia

Lisa Wilkinson. Source: News Corp Australia

Johnathan Thurston and Jarryd Hayne. Source: News Corp Australia

South Sydney's Dylan Walker. Source: News Corp Australia

Brett and Kate Morris. Source: News Corp Australia

Ortenzia Borre. Source: News Corp Australia

Ben Hunt and Bridgette Hagan. Source: News Corp Australia

Jade Albany. Source: News Corp Australia

The Bondi Rescue crew. Source: News Corp Australia

South Sydney superstar Greg Inglis and his wife Sally were looking sharp, while Dally M Medal hot favourite Jonathan Thurston and his partner Samantha Lynch opted for matching black.

Jonathan Thurston and Samantha Lynch. Source: News Corp Australia

Greg and Sally Inglis. Source: News Corp Australia

Retired league star and television personality Beau Ryan and his wife Kara looked glam as they posed for photos together.

Beau Ryan and Kara Ryan. Source: News Corp Australia

Kara Ryan. Source: News Corp Australia

John Sutton and Stacey Shumack. Source: News Corp Australia

Georgia Toovey and Geoff Toovey. Source: News Corp Australia

Jess Yates. Source: News Corp Australia

Louise Ransome. Source: News Corp Australia

Nathan Hindmarsh, Lara Pitt, Gordon Tallis, Brian Fletcher and Matthew Johns. Source: News Corp Australia

Jess Fox and Cate and Bronte Campbell. Source: News Corp Australia

Sally Pearson. Source: News Corp Australia

Megan Barnard. Source: News Corp Australia

Tara Rushton. Source: News Corp Australia

Tony Squires and Mark Bosnich. Source: News Corp Australia

Kel Underwood. Source: News Corp Australia

Which Dally M frock is your favourite? Share with us below.

23.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

ISIS the building company mistaken for terrorists

What's it like to live under the rule of the extremist group known as the Islamic State, or ISIS? WSJ looks at the situation in Raqqa, Syria, through the eyes of two activists and through the lens of ISIS propaganda videos.

Not terrorists — an ISIS Group Australia sign on a building site at Waymouth St, Adelaide. Picture: Stephen Laffer Source: News Limited

Yes, terrorists — Islamic State fighters in a documentary. Source: No Source

A NATIONAL construction company could be forced to change its name of 25 years because staff members are being abused as "terrorists".

ISIS Group Australia — an Australian company that has specialised in commercial office fit-outs and refurbishments since 1989 — has been forced to scale back signage on worksites and asked workers to not wear uniforms branded with the company name.

It comes as a Sydney family has been urged to change the name of their eight-year-old girl, whose name is Isis.

In recent weeks, site workers have been abused as "terrorists" by passers-by and angry messages have been left on the company's office line.

"Hey you terrorist bastards, I hope you bastards all die in Iraq, you terrorist al-Qaeda bastards, you ISIS pieces of s**t," one message said.

ISIS chief executive Michael Barnes said he was upset that "ill-informed members of the public" had mistaken the company for the terrorist group wreaking havoc in the Middle East.

The terrorist group previously went by the acronym ISIS — or Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham — but is also variously known as ISIL and IS.

Mr Barnes said the company took the safety of its workers and subcontractors "very seriously".

"In recent weeks we have instructed our workers to stop wearing ISIS-branded clothing and are also in the process of scaling back on-site branding to limit attention from misinformed people and ensure the safety of our employees," Mr Barnes said.

"We are upset that what we stand for is becoming eroded by the Islamic State."

Mr Barnes said it was possible the company may be forced to change its name if the abuse did not stop.

"We will continue to monitor how our clients, staff, consultants and subcontractors feel about perceptions around our name and react accordingly," he said.

Marketing specialist and associate director of the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute, Associate Professor Rachel Kennedy, said the confusion could ironically present an opportunity for the company.

"Use it as a talking point — it's really hard for companies to get their brands noticed at all, so they could say 'yeah, it's crazy isn't it, but we're just furniture fitout specialists'," Prof Kennedy said.

"It's not a situation that you would ever intentionally put yourself in, but getting your brand noticed at all is a hard task, so build up the link between the brand and the work you do."

Prof Kennedy said she believed very few people would form the link between the terror group and company, and urged its chiefs to hold firm against a name change.

"Some people don't think that much and it would be a tiny few that are making that connection out of context," she said.

The terrorist group once known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is now seen as the most dangerous extremist group in the world.

"Their buyers are likely to be able to differentiate in the context of when they're looking for someone to do a fitout versus the terrorist organisation."

The ISIS Group employs more than 300 staff, with offices in every state and territory and a turnover of more than $500 million a year.

Originally published as ISIS the building company mistaken for terrorists

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X Factor’s Jason fails to make cut

It's over ... Jason Heerah has been eliminated from The X Factor. Source: Supplied

DELIVERING a near-perfect performance wasn't enough to save The X Factor hopeful Jason Heerah from being sent home tonight.

The powerhouse Melbourne singer's rendition of Guy Sebastian's hit Like It Like That on Sunday was one of the few performances during homegrown Australian classics night that had the superstar judges in agreement on its strength.

But when the bottom two acts came down to Heerah and competition favourite Reigan Deery, it presented an impossible decision.

Tough ... Jason Heerah's stunning rendition of a Guy Sebastian hit wasn't enough to save him from elimination. Source: Supplied

The shock public voting result saw both performers forced to sing again to save themselves.

"This is unbelievable," their coach Redfoo said after the result. "This is what happens if people at home don't vote."

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Their last-ditch efforts were hard to fault and the four judges were deadlocked, meaning the decision reverted to the original public vote.

Competition ... X Factor contestants Rochelle Pitt, Reigan Derry and Jason Heerah. Source: News Corp Australia

In the end, it was 31-year-old Heerah who was eliminated.

"He's worked so hard – he's amazing," Redfoo said.

It was a night of highs and lows for the remaining six acts, who began the show with an energetic group number with breakout pop-indie trio AJR of their single Are You Ready.

Sister act ... The Veronicas wowed the X Factor audience. Picture: Richard Dobson Source: News Corp Australia

Comeback queens The Veronicas then owned the auditorium with their performance of number one single You Ruin Me, while Brit singer Ed Sheeran was a crowd-pleaser.

There were more than a few tears when Heerah was farewelled though.

There are now five acts left who will battle it out for a recording deal with Sony Music.

23.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

What's this? Assange is out?

There he is ... Julian Assange and Eugene Jarecki appear on stage together. Picture: Vimeo. Source: Supplied

JULIAN Assange can't leave the Ecuadorean Embassy without being arrested. So many were left rubbing their eyes when he appeared at a US conference.

However the WikiLeaks founder was following in the footsteps of others like Tupac and Michael Jackson by appearing in the form of a hologram.

Back from the dead ... Snoop Dogg and Tupac appear on stage together in 2012. Picture: Supplied. Source: Supplied

That meant the 43-year-old could appear at the Nantucket Project conference in Massachusetts and not end up in handcuffs.

It was arranged by British billionaire Alki David, whose company Hologram USA specialises in the sort of technology that saw Assange take the stage next to documentary filmmaker Eugene Jarecki.

Assange has been living in the Ecuadorean Embassy since 2012 amid fears he would be extradited to Sweden to answer sexual assault charges.

The Australian whistleblower used his appearance at the conference to slam promote his new book and slam Google's privacy policies.

Assange's book When Google Met WikiLeaks is set to be released this week.

Assange's appearance via hologram is not the first time such technology has been used at events.

In 2012, Tupac appeared at Coachella, when Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg performed with the late rapper on stage.

Not really there ... Michael Jackson at the Billboard Music Awards in 2014. Picture: Supplied. Source: Supplied

Earlier this year Michael Jackson appeared on stage at the Billboard Music Awards, also via hologram.

23.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Baby Gammy’s financial windfall

An overstretched team and lack of information has been blamed for the poor handling of the baby Gammy case.

Caring for him ... Thai surrogate mother Pattaramon Chanbua with Gammy. Picture: AP. Source: AAP

BABY Gammy's surrogate mother and her impoverished Thai family will receive $240,000 from an Australian charity for his long-term care.

Hands Across the Water will buy Pattaramon "Goy" Chanbua a three-bedroom apartment and deliver her generous monthly payments, so she can care full-time for the baby, who has Down syndrome, and not have to seek full-time work.

So much love ... Pattarmon Chanuba says she is glad she kept Gammy. Source: Supplied

Money from the fund will also provide for Gammy's education, medical and therapeutic care until he reaches adulthood, the Sydney-based charity's founder Peter Baines told News Corp Australia.

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Six-thousand donors from across the world poured $240,000 into an online fund for Gammy — the biological child of convicted Australian paedophile David Farnell who, with wife Wendy, took only his healthy twin Pipah home to Western Australia.

Abandoned baby ... David and Wendy Farnell took Gammy's twin Pipah home to Western Australia. Source: Channel 9

Hands Across the Waters — which has raised and distributed over $10 million in the past nine years to help children in Thailand — broke the good news to Ms Pattarmon and her family in person.

"I would like to thank the people who made donation for Gammy" Ms Pattaramon, who has a has a husband and two other children, told News Corp Australia

A three bedroom apartment in Chon Buri will be purchased in trust at a cost of about $130,000 to $140,000.

Cash boost ... money from the fund will also provide for Gammy's education, medical and therapeutic care. Picture: AFP. Source: AFP

Ms Pattaramon will be paid a monthly stipend of 15,000 baht ($530).

It will not be until Gammy is between seven to ten years of age before doctors can determine his intellectual capacity and ability to care for himself, according to Down syndrome specialists in Australia and Thailand.

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Gammy's primary health care will take place at the privately owned Simitivej Siracha Hospital in Chonburi and his Down syndrome care at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok's oldest, attached to one of the Thailand's top Universties Mahidol.

Precious child ... the privately owned Simitivej Siracha Hospital will ensure baby Gammy is well looked after. Picture: Patrick Brown. Source: Supplied

Before deciding to become surrogate, Ms Pattaramon was working in a local factory.

"The basic pay is 9,000 a month but you can earn up to 11,000 baht with overtime," she said, noting the charity's money will go a long way.

Ms Pattaramon said it was also her intention to seek Australian citizenship for Gammy. "I heard the government has offered this but no one has been in touch with me about it. I want to get him Australian citizenship in case he needs more medical treatment and if anything happens to me."

Mr Baines said that Thailand had excellent health care facilities and said could "not envisage a situation" where Gammy would live anywhere but Thailand.

Future plans ... Pattaramon Chanbua said it was also her intention to seek Australian citizenship for Gammy. Picture: Patrick Brown. Source: Supplied

Ms Pattaramon, who claims to have been urged to abort both babies seven months into her pregnancy, says she is glad she kept Gammy.

"They were going to inject him and kill him and then I would deliver both babies, she said. Following the birth, she said the Farnell's had offered to take him to Australia and place him in an orphanage to avoid paying her extra money.

"They told me they were too old to look after him," she said.

The Farnells, who could not be reached for comment, have previously denied they asked to have any abortions performed.

Originally published as Baby Gammy's financial windfall

23.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

The Donald ‘Trumped’ by horror tweet

Tricked ... Donald Trump retweeted a picture of Fred and Rosemary West believing it was a Twitter user's parents. Picture: AP Photo/Richard Drew, File. Source: AP

BILLIONAIRE businessman Donald Trump is known for his social media mishaps but this latest one has the internet laughing at how easily he was fooled.

One of his Twitter followers @Feckhead sent Trump a message asking him to retweet it in honour of his deceased parents.

"My parents who passed away always said you were big inspiration," @Feckhead wrote.

"Can you pls RT for their memory?"

Trump did as he was asked but one has to wonder how long he spent looking at the picture of @Feckhead's "parents".

If you don't recognise their faces they are of course Fred and Rosemary West, the so-called "House of Horrors" serial killers who tortured and raped many women in the UK before murdering at least 11 of them.

Serial killers ... Fred and Rosemary West killed at least 11 women. Picture: AP Photo/PA/Files. Source: AP

Fred West hanged himself in 1995, while Rosemary West, who is now 60, remains in prison.

The prank on Trump was orchestrated by comedian Philip Bradbury, who is yet to reveal why he targeted Trump.

The businessman has not taken too kindly to ending up with egg on his face, taking to Twitter to voice his anger.

It was only last month that Trump courted controversy on social media when he said that US Ebola doctors shouldn't be allowed back into America to receive treatment.

"The US cannot allow EBOLA infected people back. People that go to far away places to help out are great-but must suffer the consequences!" he wrote

Prankster ... Philip Bradbury made the internet laugh at Donald Trump. Picture: Twitter. Source: Supplied

The internet exploded with applause for Bradbury, with many shaking their heads at how easily Trump was fooled in this latest social media gaffe.

23.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

$340 for a flight to nowhere?

The Pan Am Experience gives passengers the chance to step back in time. Picture: Michael Kelley/Air Hollywood Source: Supplied

FANCY a blast from the past that involves spending $340 to sit on a movie set and pretend you're flying in a 1970s Pan Am jet?

Then The Pan Am Experience is your dream come true. Set in the Air Hollywood film studio in Los Angeles, this unique dining concept has opened for business aboard a recreated Pan Am 747.

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Flight attendants in original 1970s Pan Am uniforms. Picture: Michael Kelley/Air Hollywood Source: Supplied

In first class, vintage-clad flight attendants serve passengers a four-course meal from trolleys on original Pan Am china. The menu includes a prawn and crabmeat cocktail, chateaubriand and a fruit and cheese trolley for dessert.

"Everything from the china to the glassware is authentic with careful attention to the exquisite service delivery of the era and menu offerings of Pan Am," announces the Pan Am Experience website.

HIGH-FLYERS: How first-class came of age

The main deck of The Pan Am Experience. Picture: Michael Kelley/Air Hollywood Source: Supplied

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The Pan Am experience starts on the main deck with cocktail hour, where guests can explore and mingle throughout the cabin. Then "passengers" sit back and enjoy a movie in an original Pan Am Sleeperette seat (for Main Deck passengers) or Upper Deck Lounge seats (for Upper Deck passengers).

Later comes the dinner service, followed by a viewing of a vast collection of airline memorabilia amassed by Anthony Toth, a United Airlines sales executive who owns the largest collection of Pan Am memorabilia in the world and has partnered with Air Hollywood to share his treasures with the public.

First class travel through the ages

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‘Qatar won’t host World Cup’

FIFA official Theo Zwanziger says Qatar will not host the World Cup. Picture: Supplied Source: AFP

QATAR will not host the World Cup in 2022 because of scorching temperatures, a top FIFA official says.

"I think that at the end of the day the 2022 World Cup will not take place in Qatar," Theo Zwanziger, a German member of FIFA, said in an interview with Sport Bild Plus.

The former head of the German football federation (DFB) cited high summer temperatures as the reason Qatar would lose the right to host football's global showpiece.

"As Mr Zwanziger himself says, it's his personal opinion," a FIFA spokesman responded to AFP subsidiary SID when asked about the German's statement.

Zwanziger said: "Doctors say, and I had insisted on this point in the protocol, that they cannot guarantee that a World Cup can be held in summer in these conditions."

While Qatar has reportedly developed stadium cooling systems, Mr Zwanziger said "the World Cup involves not only stadiums. There are fans coming from the four corners of the world who will be concerned by the heat".

"The first incident putting a life in danger will be subject to an investigation. And that, nobody in the FIFA Executive Committee would want to reply to."

Qatar presented this model of its Al-Rayyan stadium in its bid for the FIFA 2022 World Cup. Picture: AP/Osama Faisal Source: AP

But in an interview with Die Welt newspaper, Hassan al-Thawadi, secretary-general of the Qatar 2022 organising committee, declared himself "sure that the 2022 World Cup would take place in Qatar".

"No, I'm not worried. Firstly because there's no basis to lose the World Cup," he said.

"And secondly because it's the first World Cup in the Middle East.

"When people think of this region, it's rather in terms of conflict. The World Cup will be an occasion to unite peoples. It will leave a positive heritage."

Controversy has plagued FIFA's awarding of the World Cup to Qatar in 2010, with summer temperatures in the Gulf emirate reaching the upper-40s Celsius.

The idea of switching the World Cup to cooler winter months does not sit comfortably with all officials of Europe's big leagues.

FIFA inspectors tour a stadium in Doha as part of Qatar's 2022 World Cup bid. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

Gas-rich Qatar has also come under the spotlight over foreign workers' rights as well as accusations that corruption played a part in winning the right to host the World Cup.

Britain's Sunday Times newspaper has alleged that former Qatari football boss Mohamed Bin Hammam paid more than $US5 million ($5.6 million) to gain support for the emirate ahead of the vote.

Qatar has strongly denied the allegations.

FIFA's ethic committee is to announce in early 2015 the results of its investigation into the attribution of not only the 2022 World Cup to Qatar, but also the 2018 edition to Russia.

Originally published as 'Qatar won't host World Cup'

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brownlow LIVE: Eagle in shock win

Matt Priddis seals the Brownlow Medal in round 23, with a total of 26 votes.

Matt Priddis and the Brownlow Medal. Source: Getty Images

A DECADE after being overlooked in four drafts, West Coast midfielder Matt Priddis has won the 2014 Brownlow Medallist.

Priddis slowly worked his way up the leaderboard as the focus remained on runaway leader Gary Ablett and his pursuers, led by Geelong captain Joel Selwood and Sydney onballer Josh Kennedy.

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The first former rookie to win the medal polled 26 votes, one ahead of ineligible Docker Nat Fyfe. He was a notable omission from this year's All-Australian team after making the 40-player long list.

The curly-haired midfielder, a former surf lifesaver, found himself in the lead - due to Fyfe's ineligibility - with three rounds to go after four best-on-ground performances and votes in 13 games.

Matt Priddis drinks to his surprise Brownlow win. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The AFL was privately delighted when Priddis grabbed two votes in the final-round victory over Gold Coast to edge past ineligible fellow West Australian Fyfe.

Priddis said playing with fellow Brownlow medallists Chris Judd and Ben Cousins had been a great apprenticeship.

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"I was overlooked in four national drafts and the Subiaco Football Club and Peter German were massive in my development," he said.

"They just told me to play to my strengths and that's all I've really tried to do. I can't thank them enough for giving me a start.

Check out the best dressed from this year's Brownlow Medal red carpet.

"I was never going to give up because it was my childhood dream. I grew up like every young kid kicking the footy and going to the park with my brother and my old man and it was always my childhood dream.

"I was never going to give up, I just wanted to play at the highest level possible, if that was going to be at Subiaco I was OK with that. West Coast helped me realise a childhood dream and I couldn't thank them enough for that.

He thanked his wife Ashleigh, who is pregnant with their second child and did not travel to Melbourne.

"It's a shame she can't be here tonight, she's suffering from pretty bad morning sickness," he said.

Gary Ablett hangs the Brownlow Medal around Matt Priddis's neck. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

"She's 23 weeks pregnant and we've got a two-year-old daughter Nala. They bring me so much joy.

"I think my two best years of footy have been since the birth of my first child. It just gives you great balance ... I've been with Ashleigh for 12 years and she understands the demands of AFL footy and I love her so much. She's the best.

The 29-year-old's steady vote gathering gained momentum in the back-end of the season, despite the Eagles' sporadic form.

Swans ace Lance Franklin was equal second with two-time winner Ablett on 22 votes.

Joel Selwood just misses out on the Brownlow Medal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

It was the most votes polled by a Coleman Medallist, but Franklin knew he would fall just short after sitting out the last home-and-away game.

Priddis said he had been consistent through the year.

"I've got a pretty simple role, and being an inside mid you get to control your performances a little bit more than half-forwards or wingers so I'm pretty lucky in that regard," he said.

Priddis was taken in the rookie draft in 2006 after winning that year's Sandover Medal in the WAFL.

In a remarkable first season with the Swans, Franklin has kicked 67 goals from 19 home-and-away games, silencing the critics who had earlier suggested his recruitment from Hawthorn threatened to harm Sydney's culture.

Now, as a Coleman Medal winner, and with second in the Brownlow, Franklin is a serious chance to win a third premiership medal - and his first with the Swans in his maiden season at the club.

The AFL had flown two medals to Sydney with Franklin and Josh Kennedy considered chances to take home the medal, and both were in the mix for most of the evening.

Kennedy was stiff, too, having suffered hamstring tightness in Round 21, which saw him miss the final two games of the season.

LEADERBOARD
26 Matt Priddis (West Coast)

25 Nathan Fyfe* (Fremantle)

22 Gary Ablett (Gold Coast)

22 Lance Franklin (Sydney)

21 Joel Selwood (Geelong)

21 Josh Kennedy (Sydney)

21 Travis Boak (Port Adelaide)

21 Patrick Dangerfield (Adelaide)

Recap the thrilling count in our live blog below.

Originally published as Eagle rocks: Priddis claims Brownlow

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brownlow red carpet shocks

Rebecca Judd, Kylie Brown and Erin Maxwell tells us their thoughts on the Brownlow red carpet fashions

All ready for the red carpet arrivals for the 2014 AFL Brownlow Medal at Crown Casino. Source: News Corp Australia

IT'S that time of year again. AFL's biggest stars are preparing to grace the red carpet at Melbourne Crown Casino for the 2014 Brownlow Medal.

But as our footy stars are suiting up for the annual event, as usual tonight is all about the WAGs.

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True to form, the wives and girlfriends have upstaged their partners at the league's glitzy night of nights.

Stay tuned for all the red carpet glitz and glamour — and of course this year's frock shocks — below.

Grecko hits the red carpet. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Gabi Grecko has arrived. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

All eyes were on Brownlow veteran Geoffrey Edelsten's on-again off-again fiancee Gabi Grecko — and she didn't disappoint. The 25-year-old model turned on the vamp, giving former red carpet standout Brynne a run for her money in the cleavage department.

Grecko donned a diamante-encrusted gown with a daring, low-cut front and thigh high split, accessorising with black crystal tears.

Gabi Grecko and Geoff Edelsten on the red carpet together. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Grecko revealed that she designed her own dress for the event. Lucky, when asked about the evening ahead, she knew exactly what all the hype was about. "I'm told this is about football," she was overheard telling reporters.

Edelsten and Grecko looking rather serious on the red carpet. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Former Cat's skipper Tom Harley's wife Felicity showed off her latest Brownlow accessory, a baby bump.

Pregnant with her second child, the Women's Health magazine boss looked stunning in a floor-length red Alex Perry gown. "Brownlow ready with my best new accessory A BABY BUMP!" she wrote on social media before arriving at the event.

Baby surprise! Tom Harley and his pregnant wife Felicity on the red carpet. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Channel 7 presenter Rachael Finch was the first to hit the red carpet wearing a black lace gown with sheer panelling by Paolo Sebastian. Finch is presenting tonight.

Daniel Giansiracusa and Rachael Finch. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Finch wearing Paolo Sebastian. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

As usual, Queen WAG Rebecca Judd knocked it out of the park wearing favoured local designer J'Aton. The model and television presenter hit the red carpet with husband Chris Judd in a tiered gown with high neckline cutouts and beaded embellishments.

Chris and Bec Judd. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Bec Judd on the red carpet in Melbourne. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Scott Pendlebury's partner Alex Davis looked sleek in a floor-length navy Julie Simonelli gown.

A regular on best dressed lists, Nadia Bartel — who is the wife of Geelong Cats star Jimmy Bartel — turned heads as she posed for photographers in this white number with leather studded harness and gunmetal buckles.

Nadia Bartel. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Alex Davis. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Gary Ablett with Jordan Paplia. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Patrick Dangerfield and Mardi Harwood. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Todd and Kirsty Goldstei. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Jason Akermanis. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Julie Dal Santo. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Mardi Harwood. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Nick and Erin Maxwell. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Hawthorn skipper Luke Hodge and wife Laureen. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Stefan Martin and Madeline Ryan. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Lucy Freer with Jordan Lewis. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Stephen and Jo Silvagni. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Barry Round and Jenni Lumb. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

David and Libby Koch on the red carpet. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Bob and Rebecca Skilton on the red carpet. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: News Corp Australia

Ruby Keddia. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Emma Clapham. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia

Unfortunately Buddy Franklin and Jesinta Campbell won't be attending Crown tonight for the Brownlow Medal. Instead, the A-listers will be in Sydney for the Swans' black tie Brownlow function dinner.

Who gets your vote for best dressed at the Brownlow? Share with us below.

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Assault argument ‘the dumbest defence ever’

Ray Rice has been suspended indefinitely after a tape emerged of him assaulting his wife. Source: AP

The Philadelphia Eagles have won three from three for the first time in 10 years, after a 37-34 victory over the Washington Redskins, but the result was overshadowed by a huge all in brawl in the fourth quarter.

THAT punch you saw? It was taken out of context, Ray Rice says.

When the former Baltimore Ravens star appeals his indefinite suspension from the NFL, he plans to argue the tape of him punching his then-fiancée was edited, ESPN reported.

Rice's legal team will maintain the video of him decking Janay Rice is "a cleaned-up, whittled-down and condensed version," according to the report.

In July, the league suspended Rice for two games — until TMZ revealed the inside-the-elevator footage, which shows Rice belting Palmer.

At that point, he was suspended indefinitely.

Janay Rice, left, looks on as her husband Ray Rice speaks to the media. Source: AP

TMZ responded to the report with a story headlined "dumbest defence ever".

"As we initially reported, the original raw video was jerky ... so we removed the reverse frames," TMZ reported.

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Eagle rocks: Priddis claims Brownlow

Matt Priddis seals the Brownlow Medal in round 23, with a total of 26 votes.

Matt Priddis and the Brownlow Medal. Source: Getty Images

A DECADE after being overlooked in four drafts, West Coast midfielder Matt Priddis has won the 2014 Brownlow Medallist.

Priddis slowly worked his way up the leaderboard as the focus remained on runaway leader Gary Ablett and his pursuers, led by Geelong captain Joel Selwood and Sydney onballer Josh Kennedy.

BROWNLOW TRACKER: EVERY GAME, EVERY VOTE

RED CARPET: ALL THE BROWNLOW GLAMOUR

The first former rookie to win the medal polled 26 votes, one ahead of ineligible Docker Nat Fyfe. He was a notable omission from this year's All-Australian team after making the 40-player long list.

The curly-haired midfielder, a former surf lifesaver, found himself in the lead - due to Fyfe's ineligibility - with three rounds to go after four best-on-ground performances and votes in 13 games.

Matt Priddis drinks to his surprise Brownlow win. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The AFL was privately delighted when Priddis grabbed two votes in the final-round victory over Gold Coast to edge past ineligible fellow West Australian Fyfe.

Priddis said playing with fellow Brownlow medallists Chris Judd and Ben Cousins had been a great apprenticeship.

HISTORY, PRIDDIS TOO MUCH FOR ABLETT

BRIDESMAID SELWOOD LEAVES RUN TOO LATE

"I was overlooked in four national drafts and the Subiaco Football Club and Peter German were massive in my development," he said.

"They just told me to play to my strengths and that's all I've really tried to do. I can't thank them enough for giving me a start.

Check out the best dressed from this year's Brownlow Medal red carpet.

"I was never going to give up because it was my childhood dream. I grew up like every young kid kicking the footy and going to the park with my brother and my old man and it was always my childhood dream.

"I was never going to give up, I just wanted to play at the highest level possible, if that was going to be at Subiaco I was OK with that. West Coast helped me realise a childhood dream and I couldn't thank them enough for that.

He thanked his wife Ashleigh, who is pregnant with their second child and did not travel to Melbourne.

"It's a shame she can't be here tonight, she's suffering from pretty bad morning sickness," he said.

Gary Ablett hangs the Brownlow Medal around Matt Priddis's neck. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

"She's 23 weeks pregnant and we've got a two-year-old daughter Nala. They bring me so much joy.

"I think my two best years of footy have been since the birth of my first child. It just gives you great balance ... I've been with Ashleigh for 12 years and she understands the demands of AFL footy and I love her so much. She's the best.

The 29-year-old's steady vote gathering gained momentum in the back-end of the season, despite the Eagles' sporadic form.

Swans ace Lance Franklin was equal second with two-time winner Ablett on 22 votes.

Joel Selwood just misses out on the Brownlow Medal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

It was the most votes polled by a Coleman Medallist, but Franklin knew he would fall just short after sitting out the last home-and-away game.

Priddis said he had been consistent through the year.

"I've got a pretty simple role, and being an inside mid you get to control your performances a little bit more than half-forwards or wingers so I'm pretty lucky in that regard," he said.

Priddis was taken in the rookie draft in 2006 after winning that year's Sandover Medal in the WAFL.

In a remarkable first season with the Swans, Franklin has kicked 67 goals from 19 home-and-away games, silencing the critics who had earlier suggested his recruitment from Hawthorn threatened to harm Sydney's culture.

Now, as a Coleman Medal winner, and with second in the Brownlow, Franklin is a serious chance to win a third premiership medal - and his first with the Swans in his maiden season at the club.

The AFL had flown two medals to Sydney with Franklin and Josh Kennedy considered chances to take home the medal, and both were in the mix for most of the evening.

Kennedy was stiff, too, having suffered hamstring tightness in Round 21, which saw him miss the final two games of the season.

LEADERBOARD
26 Matt Priddis (West Coast)

25 Nathan Fyfe* (Fremantle)

22 Gary Ablett (Gold Coast)

22 Lance Franklin (Sydney)

21 Joel Selwood (Geelong)

21 Josh Kennedy (Sydney)

21 Travis Boak (Port Adelaide)

21 Patrick Dangerfield (Adelaide)

Recap the thrilling count in our live blog below.

Originally published as Eagle rocks: Priddis claims Brownlow

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Should booze be banned on flights?

Aussie airlines will continue to serve alcohol to passengers despite a series of drunken incidents. Picture: Bruce Long Source: News Corp Australia

AUSTRALIAN airlines will continue to serve alcohol to passengers despite a series of drunken incidents resulting in planes being diverted.

Anti-alcohol organisation Drug Arm Australasia has declared its support for banning booze on planes, and even in airports.

But Qantas and Virgin Australia are both satisfied their service of alcohol is responsible and their response to out of control passengers sufficient.

BOOZE BOTHER: Passenger 'tried to steal whisky'

Flight crews must be trained in responsible service of alcohol. Source: News Limited

In the latest incident a Qantas plane travelling from Bangkok to Sydney was diverted to Cairns on Sunday morning after a man tried to steal alcohol from a trolley and then became loud and abusive.

Crew tried to restrain him with plastic handcuffs but he broke all four pairs on board.

It followed another incident last month on a Virgin Australia flight from Brisbane to Darwin which was forced to divert to Townsville when a passenger became abusive.

The diversions cost airlines tens of thousands of dollars which they can try to recover from the passengers' responsible.

FLIGHT FURY: Police vow to crack down on air rage

MILE-HIGH TROUBLE: Call for new unruly passenger laws

A spokeswoman for Drug Arm Australasia said the organisation would support an initiative to cease serving alcohol on planes.

"The non-supply of alcohol on flights would reduce the risk and harms associated with alcohol use and increase the safety of both passengers and crew," she said.

Under Australian aviation laws, airline flight crews must be trained in the responsible service of alcohol, but no other restrictions apply.

A Virgin Australia spokeswoman said the airline had strict protocols in place and had the right to refuse service on board.

"Our policy also states that guests are unable to consume their own alcohol on board including Duty Free purchases and our crew are trained to monitor any consumption of this kind," she said.

"We continually review our practices to ensure the highest standard of safety and customer experience is maintained."

A Qantas spokesman said the vast majority of customers were responsible in their alcohol consumption.

"Offering alcohol on board our planes and in our lounges is part of Qantas' premium service and it is valued by our customers," he said.

"However we take a zero tolerance approach towards anti-social and aggressive behaviour and for any actions that could compromise the safety of anyone on board a Qantas group aircraft."

Should alcohol be banned from flights?

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pro-pot news reporter quits on live TV

Media savvy ... Charlo Greene reporting from Denver on marijuana legalisation for KTVA. Picture: Facebook Source: Supplied

A US news reporter has quit her job on live TV, outing herself as the owner of an Alaskan cannabis club and declaring "f**k it".

Charlo Greene was reporting for KTVA on the campaign to legalise marijuana in Alaska when she broke from her script to tell the audience: "Everything you heard is why I, the actual owner of the Alaska Cannabis Club, will be dedicating all of my energy toward fighting for freedom and fairness, which begins with legalising marijuana here in Alaska."

"As for this job, not that I have a choice but, f — k it, I quit," Greene said, before exiting the set.

The Alaska Cannabis Club, for which Greene is president and CEO, does not distribute marijuana but acts to "connect medical marijuana cardholders in need to medical marijuana cardholders with green".

Her blindsided news anchor was left to fumble a startled apology. "We'll be right back. Pardon for us," she stammered awkwardly before continuing to report the story.

The station also later issued a public apology and announced they had "terminated the employee", although presumably they meant simply her employment.

Greene took the opportunity of her suddenly raised profile to launch a crowd-funding campaign on Indiegogo, in support of marijuana reform in Alaska and the United States.

"Imagine, if after Colorado and Washington have legalised recreational marijuana and are offering the rest of the world a positive outlook on what ending marijuana prohibition can do, Alaskan voters fail to continue moving our nation in the direction toward freedom and fairness," she wrote.

'Passionate' ... Charlo Greene makes her shock on-air resignation while reporting on the debate over legal access to marijuana. Picture: YouTube Source: Supplied

Greene, who has reported extensively on marijuana legalisation in the course of her job, plans to use her professional skills in the service of the campaign.

"Few people fighting for marijuana legalisation in Alaska are as media savvy, well-educated on the marijuana industry, passionate, professional and completely dedicated to passing this initiative as me, the only person in Alaska that has had the balls to face the injustice of Alaska's medical marijuana catch-22 and do something about it," she said.

'Pardon for us' ... KTVA's baffled anchor fumbles a hasty apology. Picture: YouTube Source: Supplied

Reactions were mixed on the Alaska Cannabis Club's Facebook page to Greene's surprise announcement, with some followers dismayed at her on-air profanity.

"Seems like it draws negative attention to the issue because of how immature it was handled," wrote Facebook user Jamie Parton. "I hope she didn't ruin some of your efforts."

'Educated on the industry'... Charlo Greene in Colorado, reporting on the legal production of marijuana in that state. Picture: Facebook Source: Supplied

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘I know what happened to MH370’

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott says he will not give up the search of the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, while Malaysia appeals to re-enter crash site of the downed MH17 in eastern Ukraine. Nathan Frandino reports.

Mystery ... Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 was travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing when it disappeared. Picture: AP Source: AP

THE mystery around the disappearance of MH370 has deepened, with the head of the Indonesian police force claiming he knows what happened to it.

General Sutarman reportedly told a meeting of airline officials and senior police, "I spoke to the Malaysian Police Chief Tun Mohammed Hanif Omar. I actually know what had actually happened with MH370."

Memorial ... paper cranes hang on a board offering condolences to the Malaysia Airlines MH370 and MH17 victims and their families in Kuala Lumpur. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

The astonishing claims have sparked concerns that officials have always known what caused the Malaysian Airlines plane to vanish six months ago with 239 passengers and crew on board.

Indonesian news organisation Kompas.com reported General Sutarman's comments were witnessed by a number of high-ranking police officers and representatives of Lion Air.

FIGHT BACK: Can this sale save Malaysia Airlines?

Meanwhile the Inspector General of Police in Malaysia, Khalid Abu Bakar, said he was shocked at the comments and that he would speak to the Indonesian police chief.

A new search for the Boeing 777, which was flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing when it disappeared, is set to be launched next month.

Concerned ... Malaysia Police Inspector General, Khalid Abu Bakar (pictured), said he would speak with the Indonesian police chief. Picture: Supplied Source: AP

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More proof that chicks dig beards

Peek-a-boo ... Bradley Bailey and his daughter before he shaves off his beard. Picture: YouTube. Source: Supplied

BRADLEY Bailey decided to shave his beard off in the middle of a game of peek-a-boo with his daughter. Her reaction is priceless.

Mr Bailey dons a very impressive bushy beard at the beginning of the YouTube clip as he puts a towel over his head and plays peak-a-boo with his daughter.

She bursts into giggles and they keep playing until Mr Bailey tells her he will be right back.

They then start the game again. But as the little girl lifts up the towel there is a look of confusion on her face.

You did what? ... Bradley Bailey's daughter can't believe what she is seeing. Source: Supplied

"Peek-a-boo," Mr Bailey says. "Peek-a-boo?"

The girl then breaks into tears and starts crying hysterically wanting to get away from her beardless father.

You think you know a person ... Bradley Bailey's daughter doesn't like his clean shaved look. Source: Supplied

Some YouTube users have criticised Mr Bailey for playing the prank on his daughter but he has fired back saying his only regret is that he didn't film her reaction in landscape.

Get away from me ... The little girl is not interested in her beardless father. Source: Supplied

Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, who made the film Super Size Me, had a similar experience with his son in the documentary Mansome.

He walks out of a bathroom after shaving off his moustache much to the chagrin of his son who also starts crying hysterically.

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘$1500 Qantas holiday’ a scam

The official Qantas Facebook page is verified with a blue tick. Source: Supplied

QANTAS has put the brakes on a Facebook scam using the airline's official logo to get personal and financial details from victims.

The promotional banners invited people to "like" them and share with friends in order to win a prize of a $1500 travel voucher.

Those who clicked on the page were then taken to an imitation Qantas Facebook page where they were asked to provide personal details.

PHONE SCAM: Qantas, Virgin warn of $999 holiday credit hoax

A Qantas spokeswoman said the scam had nothing to do with the airline.

"Our campaigns are always run from our authenticated Facebook page — identified by its authorised blue tick, or through the official Qantas website," said the spokeswoman.

"Individuals who encounter the page are advised not to provide personal details.

"If unsure, we encourage you to get in touch with Qantas to confirm before divulging any information."

She said Qantas had already had a number of the scam pages removed.

"Facebook have been advised of the scam and are investigating," the spokeswoman said.

The latest promotion claims to be a "birthday" celebration — even though Qantas does not mark its anniversary until November.

It comes as the official Qantas Facebook page runs a competition offering a chance to win a seat on the inaugural A380 flight from Sydney to Dallas Fort Worth on September 29.

Similar Facebook scams have also targeted other airlines, including Jetstar.

Facebook users are urged to read the advice posted Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's SCAMwatch website, where suspected scams can be reported.

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Aneri killed as she waited for a bus

The 16 year old has been mowed down by an out of control four-wheel-drive on a footpath in Kogarah, at the scene of an identical tragedy seven years ago

THE grief-stricken friends of the 16-year-old girl killed in a 4WD crash involving an ­unlicensed driver have made an emotional plea for ­motorists to slow down.

The southern suburb of Kogarah is still coming to grips with the fatal crash into the Railway Pde pharmacy — the same spot at which another young life was cut short in 2007.

Glass is shattered and the shop's display is strewn across the pavement after the Mitsubishi Challenger crashed into the chemist. Source: News Corp Australia

Police are investigating why the driver lost control and the 4WD mounted the kerb. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The 4WD had turned left from Montgomery St into Railway Parade when it hit the shop. Source: News Corp Australia

Two other people were severely hurt in yesterday's crash, which killed Aneri Patel.

Aneri Patel / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Aneri was waiting at a bus stop after finishing a maths exam when she was hit by the car just after 11.30am.

She was trapped under the car and died at the scene.

The driver of the car entering Kogarah Police Station / Picture: Channel 9 Source: Supplied

The female driver, 26, had mandatory blood and urine tests before she was arrested and taken to Kogarah police station for questioning last night.

Police at the scene of the crash / Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

Her 29-year-old female passenger, the owner of the ­vehicle, had ­appeared in court just before the crash on serious driving charges. Two children aged two and four, who were also passengers, escaped the crash unhurt.

Aneri Patel, 16 / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Aneri Patel, 16 / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

A critical incident investigation team has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Police said the decision — endorsed by the coroner — was based on information there were a number of police officers in the area, given the crash site's proximity to ­Kogarah police station and Kogarah Local Court.

Police at the scene of the crash / Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The independent critical incident team will speak with those police officers as part of their probe.

School friends took to Facebook last night not just to pay tribute to their friend, but to ask drivers to slow down.

One student wrote: "RIP to Aneri, a great friend to many. God bless her family and provide them with strength and support through this tragic time. You will always be ­remembered in our hearts.

The 16-year-old on the pavement was killed and two people were trapped — one was an employee and the other a customer. Source: News Corp Australia

The accident happened in exactly the same spot as a fatality in 2007. Source: News Corp Australia

"Please take this as a caution to drive safely as you could hold someone's life in your hands."

Another student wrote: "Aneri, I hope you find peace where you are going."

Witnesses say the Mitsubishi Challenger that killed Aneri was turning left from Montgomery St when it leapt the kerb and ploughed into a group of students waiting at the bus stop.

Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The 4WD then smashed into the front of the pharmacy, trapping employee Sue Ferguson, 51, and a customer, aged 84. Both were stable in hospital last night.

Police said they would be looking into speed as a factor in the crash.

A witness is overwhelmed at the site of the crash which happened at 11.30am. Source: News Corp Australia

Witnesses were shocked at the scene unfolding in front of them. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

A witness rings a friend watch as emergency services try to help those trapped. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

Police Superintendent David Donahue said: "It would appear (Aneri) was at the bus stop. There were a number of students."

The year 11 student, understood to be an only child, had attended Kogarah High since year 7.

A classmate said. "She was a nice, quiet girl, very peaceful.

"She was very smart and would always be on her laptop."

Location view of O'Reilly & Daly Chemist in Kogarah, where the accident occurred. Source: Supplied

Google overview showing the bend the chemist sits on in Railway Parade. Source: Supplied

Kogarah High released a statement yesterday saying: "Our thoughts are with the student's family and friends."

Elizabeth Issa saw the crash from across the road.

"I saw a car come through and hit the bus sign and through inside the chemist," she said.

"There were four or five people waiting for the bus."

The vehicle's passenger was driven away from the police station late last night with the children in the back of the police car.

All she said was: "You guys have got the wrong person."

A spokeswoman for Kogarah Council said the speed limit on Railway Pde was ­reduced from 60km/h to 50km/after the 2007 fatal crash.

However, no other changes were made to the intersection because no recommendations were made by the coroner, NSW Police or the now Roads and Maritime Services.

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘I was more than just his prostitute’

Madison Ashton arrives at Queens Square Court today in a renewed bid to claim a slice of his multi-million dollar estate. Source: News Limited

• Madison Ashton lost claim for $10m of billionaire's estate in 2012
• Today told court Richard Pratt 'intended to create legal relations'
• She stopped working as hooker to become his mistress in 2003

THE mistress of the late cardboard billionaire Richard Pratt has returned to court in another attempt to claim part of his riches, saying their relationship was more than just "prostitute and client".

Former Penthouse Pet Madison Ashton sued the packaging baron's ­estate for $10 million after he died in 2009, but lost her case in 2012.

Madison Ashton gave up a 'very lucrative' career at Pratt's insistence. Source: News Limited

Madison Ashton says relationship with Pratt was 'more than prostitute and client'. Source: News Limited

The late billionaire Richard Pratt (R) and wife Jeanne at the state memorial for Australian businessman Kerry Packer at the Sydney Opera House in 2006. Picture: AFP PHOTO Source: News Limited

Yesterday she returned to the ­Supreme Court to appeal that decision, saying the elderly multi-billionaire had an "intention to create legal relations" with her after first using her services as an escort.

The court heard they initially had a "prostitute and client" agreement but that changed in November 2003.

In a conversation at that time he asked her to stop working as an escort and become his "kept mistress", sleeping exclusively with him.

Ashton in 2009. Source: News Corp Australia

Ashton in 2011. Source: News Limited

She agreed, and yesterday the court was told that she believed this arrangement was not far from a "traditional de facto" relationship.

The court also heard that Pratt had a "voracious appetite for young women like Ms Ashton", and that promising her $5 million wouldn't have been very much money to such a wealthy man.

Ms Ashton, who has worked as an escort since her teens, is now in her 40s and still runs her sex services website under the name Christine McQueen.

Ashton, pictured in 2011 at an earlier hearing, has worked as a prostitute since she was 19 and has two children. Source: News Limited

She says she banked on Pratt's vow to look after her and her two children.

The court heard that Pratt never wanted their relationship to become public and would have predicted she would sue if things turned sour.

He had previous disputes with his other kept mistresses.

In her initial lawsuit, Ms Ashton claimed Pratt promised to pay her $500,000 a year, set up a $5 million trust for her children, pay her $30,000 annual travel costs and cover her $36,000 annual rent bill.

The payments would be in return for her agreeing to give up her work as a prostitute.

She claimed that she gave up her ­lucrative career in the high-class escort business between 2003 and 2004 to ­become Mr Pratt's mistress.

The packaging king died in 2009 at the age of 74 following a battle with prostate cancer.

The appeal hearing continues.

Madison Ashton in her glamour modelling heyday. Source: Supplied

Originally published as 'I was more than just his prostitute'

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Aneri killed as she waited for a bus

The 16 year old has been mowed down by an out of control four-wheel-drive on a footpath in Kogarah, at the scene of an identical tragedy seven years ago

THE grief-stricken friends of the 16-year-old girl killed in a 4WD crash involving an ­unlicensed driver have made an emotional plea for ­motorists to slow down.

The southern suburb of Kogarah is still coming to grips with the fatal crash into the Railway Pde pharmacy — the same spot at which another young life was cut short in 2007.

Glass is shattered and the shop's display is strewn across the pavement after the Mitsubishi Challenger crashed into the chemist. Source: News Corp Australia

Police are investigating why the driver lost control and the 4WD mounted the kerb. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The 4WD had turned left from Montgomery St into Railway Parade when it hit the shop. Source: News Corp Australia

Two other people were severely hurt in yesterday's crash, which killed Aneri Patel.

Aneri Patel / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Aneri was waiting at a bus stop after finishing a maths exam when she was hit by the car just after 11.30am.

She was trapped under the car and died at the scene.

The driver of the car entering Kogarah Police Station / Picture: Channel 9 Source: Supplied

The female driver, 26, had mandatory blood and urine tests before she was arrested and taken to Kogarah police station for questioning last night.

Police at the scene of the crash / Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

Her 29-year-old female passenger, the owner of the ­vehicle, had ­appeared in court just before the crash on serious driving charges. Two children aged two and four, who were also passengers, escaped the crash unhurt.

Aneri Patel, 16 / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Aneri Patel, 16 / Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

A critical incident investigation team has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Police said the decision — endorsed by the coroner — was based on information there were a number of police officers in the area, given the crash site's proximity to ­Kogarah police station and Kogarah Local Court.

Police at the scene of the crash / Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The independent critical incident team will speak with those police officers as part of their probe.

School friends took to Facebook last night not just to pay tribute to their friend, but to ask drivers to slow down.

One student wrote: "RIP to Aneri, a great friend to many. God bless her family and provide them with strength and support through this tragic time. You will always be ­remembered in our hearts.

The 16-year-old on the pavement was killed and two people were trapped — one was an employee and the other a customer. Source: News Corp Australia

The accident happened in exactly the same spot as a fatality in 2007. Source: News Corp Australia

"Please take this as a caution to drive safely as you could hold someone's life in your hands."

Another student wrote: "Aneri, I hope you find peace where you are going."

Witnesses say the Mitsubishi Challenger that killed Aneri was turning left from Montgomery St when it leapt the kerb and ploughed into a group of students waiting at the bus stop.

Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

The 4WD then smashed into the front of the pharmacy, trapping employee Sue Ferguson, 51, and a customer, aged 84. Both were stable in hospital last night.

Police said they would be looking into speed as a factor in the crash.

A witness is overwhelmed at the site of the crash which happened at 11.30am. Source: News Corp Australia

Witnesses were shocked at the scene unfolding in front of them. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

A witness rings a friend watch as emergency services try to help those trapped. Picture: Carly Earl Source: News Corp Australia

Police Superintendent David Donahue said: "It would appear (Aneri) was at the bus stop. There were a number of students."

The year 11 student, understood to be an only child, had attended Kogarah High since year 7.

A classmate said. "She was a nice, quiet girl, very peaceful.

"She was very smart and would always be on her laptop."

Location view of O'Reilly & Daly Chemist in Kogarah, where the accident occurred. Source: Supplied

Google overview showing the bend the chemist sits on in Railway Parade. Source: Supplied

Kogarah High released a statement yesterday saying: "Our thoughts are with the student's family and friends."

Elizabeth Issa saw the crash from across the road.

"I saw a car come through and hit the bus sign and through inside the chemist," she said.

"There were four or five people waiting for the bus."

The vehicle's passenger was driven away from the police station late last night with the children in the back of the police car.

All she said was: "You guys have got the wrong person."

A spokeswoman for Kogarah Council said the speed limit on Railway Pde was ­reduced from 60km/h to 50km/after the 2007 fatal crash.

However, no other changes were made to the intersection because no recommendations were made by the coroner, NSW Police or the now Roads and Maritime Services.

23.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Retailer sells school shooting jumper

Horror fashion ... Urban Outfitters is elling this jumper "in honour" of the victims of the Kent State University shooting in 1970. Picture: Supplied. Source: Supplied

A US clothing retailer is selling a vintage jumper with fake blood splatter on it "in honour" of a US university shooting.

"Get it or regret it!" read the description for the jumper online which Urban Outfitters has been selling for $129.

The jumper appears to be a macabre reference to the shootings at Kent State University on May 4, 1970, in which four unarmed college students were killed by Ohio National Guardsmen during a Vietnam War protest.

After the jumper was circulated on social media it soon sold out and has been popping up on eBay for resale with people willing to pay up to $550 for the poor taste fashion item.

The item has been slammed by Kent State University.

"We take great offence to a company using our pain for their publicity and profit," the Ohio university said in a statement online. "This item is beyond poor taste and trivialises a loss of life that still hurts the Kent State community today."

16092014KentState Source: Supplied

The shooting inspired the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song Ohio.

It isn't the first time that Urban Outfitters has come under attack for poor taste fashion designs in its stores.

The company marketed a T-shirt that featured the word "depression" in a repeating pattern, which was deemed to be insensitive.

The retailer has also drawn the ire of activist groups for its appropriation of Native American patterns and iconography.

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New royal baby on the way

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their second child.

Prince William and Catherine are to have another baby in a surprise announcement the heir to the throne first hinted at during his tour to Australia and New Zealand earlier this year.

In a short statement by Kensington Palace last night, royal aides confirmed the couple are expecting a second child to baby Prince George, who turned one just two months ago.

The announcement is believed to have come after 32-year-old Kate was again struck down by the debilitating hyperemesis gravidarum, an acute form of morning sickness.

It is understood she may not yet be 12 weeks pregnant but she was to miss a crucial public engagement in Oxford yesterday and possibly others during the week and the palace wanted to rush the announcement rather than fuel rumours.

But the duchess is being treated at the palace rather than having to be hospitalised as she was in December 2012.

Growing family ... Prince William and his wife Catherine are "very pleased" to announce that they are expecting their second child, Kensington Palace said. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

Then, the duchess was also not quite at 12 weeks when the palace was forced to reveal she was pregnant with baby George, after she had to be hospitalised with the illness.

Yesterday, the palace said the couple was however "delighted" with the news, as was the Queen and other members of the royal family including grandfather Prince Charles.

"Many congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I'm delighted by the happy news that they're expecting another baby," British Prime Minister David Cameron said, in one of the first official congrats messages posted moments after the public revelation of another heir was announced about 10.30am local time.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said the Duchess's attendance at future events would be decided on a "case by case" basis.

As well as the trip to Oxford University, she was scheduled to be among the guests at the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games in London for wounded soldiers from across the Commonwealth on Wednesday evening along with William, Prince Harry and the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

The following day she was due to attend a solemn Drumhead service at Lee Valley Athletics Centre with the Duke and Harry, and later with William to watch Invictus competitors taking part in matches and heats.

The Duchess is also due to make her first official solo overseas tour, to Malta, for two days in two weeks' time, from September 20-21.

A spokesman said: "We will be planning this on a case-by-case basis — it's too early to talk about Malta and Invictus."

Royal outing ... Prince William, his wife Catherine and their son Prince George with a bilby during a visit to Sydney's Taronga Zoo. Picture: AFP/DAVID GRAY Source: AFP

The couple's second child will become fourth in line to the throne, shifting Prince Harry further down the line of succession to fifth with the Duke of York moving to sixth and princesses Beatrice and Eugenie seventh and eight.

The future bub is already being dubbed by the British press as "spare to the heir".

Rumours that a second royal baby might not be too far off first surfaced during the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's overseas tour to New Zealand and Australia.

When William was presented with a lace shawl for Prince George in Wellington in April, he told its creator Cynthia Read "You might have to make another one soon", prompting the suggestion that a little brother or sister for George was on the cards.

But the rumour was quashed after Catherine sampled glasses of wine at a vineyard and then took a high-speed jet boat ride in which the operator asked whether anyone was pregnant, for safety reasons, and no royal hands were raised. But it was perhaps clear the couple were already trying.

Excitement builds ... tourists pose for photographs outside the official residence of Prince William and Kate the Duchess of Cambridge outside Kensington Palace in London. Picture: AP/Matt Dunham Source: AFP

A sibling for George, born on July 22 last year, always appeared to be a question of when rather than if.

But second-born royal have on occasion ended up as monarch.

The country's last king, George VI, was not meant to accede to the throne and only did so when his older brother Edward VIII abdicated over his love for American divorcee Wallis Simpson in 1936.

George VI's father, George V, was also not destined to wear the crown.

But he outlived his older brother the Duke of Clarence and Avondale — Prince Albert Victor — who died from flu in 1892. George V became king in 1910.

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NPH marries David Burtka

Married ... Neil Patrick Harris (R) and David Burtka attend the Grammy Awards in January. Picture: Christopher Polk/Getty Images for NARAS Source: Getty Images

NEIL Patrick Harris and David Burtka were married in Italy over the weekend, and had the best wedding singer ever in Elton John.

The couple (resplendent in Tom Ford tuxedos), has been together for 10 years and are parents to four-year-old twins Gideon and Harper.

The couple's friend and mentor, How I Met Your Mother producer and director Pam Fryman, officiated the ceremony.

"We happily confirm that Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka were married in Italy in an intimate ceremony surrounded by their close friends and family," a rep for Harris said.

"Guess what? @DavidBurtka and I got married over the weekend. In Italy. Yup, we put the 'n' and 'd' in 'husband'," Harris tweeted.

The couple announced their engagement via Twitter in June 2011 after passage of the Marriage Equality Act in New York. (Harris also revealed that they actually got engaged five years earlier, but kept the news a secret.)

Harris told E! News in 2013 that he and Burtka would eventually get married — they just didn't know when.

"Certainly, we have children and marriage is an appropriate thing to do [as] a part of their well being, so I'm sure it will be inevitable — and awesome!" he said.

Harris recently gave an interview where he spoke about how all "honeymoon" periods end, prompting rumours of trouble within the couple's relationship. Harris shot down the gossip by posting a photo on Instagram of Burtka and their kids.

"I couldn't be more in love with my family," he wrote. "Any reports to the contrary are woefully mistaken. #grateful."

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Another royal baby on the way

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their second child.

THE Duchess of Cambridge is pregnant with her second child, Clarence House has confirmed.

The new royal baby will be a younger sibling for 14-month-old Prince George.

The news broke as Catherine — who is reportedly around eight weeks pregnant — was forced to cancel an engagment in Oxford with Prince William due to severe morning sickness.

Baby joy ... Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, is pregnant with her second child.

"As with her first pregnancy, The Duchess is suffering from Hyperemesis Gravidarum," Kensington Palace said in a statement.

Big brother ... the happy couple are already parents to Prince George. Picture Mike Batterham Source: News Corp Australia

It is understood that Catherine's pregnancy has not passed the 12-week stage — a similar position to when she was struck by acute morning sickness when pregnant with Prince George.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said the Duchess's attendance at future events would be decided on a "case by case" basis.

The Duchess had been due to carry out her first solo overseas tour in Malta later this month.

"Her Royal Highness will no longer accompany The Duke of Cambridge on their planned engagement in Oxford today," the Kensington Palace statement said.

"The Duchess is being treated by doctors at Kensington Palace."

Engagement cancelled ... the Duchess of Cambridge is again being treated by doctors for severe morning sickness. Picture: John Stillwell/Getty Source: Getty Images

Clarence House announced the news that the royal couple were expecting their second child on Twitter.

"The Queen and members of both families are delighted with the news that Their Royal Highnesses are expecting their second child," the tweet said.

Catherine's morning sickness — called hyperemesis gravidarum — is a condition that may require supplementary hydration, medication and nutrients.

Unlike when she was pregnant with George, the Duchess is being treated at Kensington Palace and not at a hospital.

New addition ... the couple with baby Prince George and their cocker spaniel Lupo in a photo taken by Catherine's father, Michael Middleton. Picture: Getty Images Source: Getty Images

Prime Minister Tony Abbott congratulated the couple on their new arrival, calling the pregnancy "an exciting time in any young family's life".

British Prime Minister David Cameron said: "Many congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I'm delighted by the happy news that they're expecting another baby."

The baby announcement comes two months after the couple's first child, Prince George, had his first birthday.

Adorable ... Prince George turned one on July 22. Picture: John Stillwell/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

The couple's second child will become fourth in line to the throne, moving Prince Harry further down the line of succession.

Prince Charles, 65, is first in line to be king, followed by Prince William, 32.

Prince George, who turned one in July this year, is third in line. Prince Harry, 30, is currently fourth, but will be pushed to fifth when the new baby Cambridge arrives.

On hold ... Catherine had been due to carry out her first solo tour in Malta. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images Source: Supplied

Prince Andrew follows Harry, then his daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

However, Queen Elizabeth is showing no signs of giving up the throne any time soon. The spritely 88-year-old is in good health with a full schedule of public commitments.

She is currently holidaying at her Scottish retreat Balmoral, but met with Prime Minister David Cameron on Sunday to discuss the upcoming Scottish referendum.

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