Rudd won't dignify Gillard attack

Former Prime Minister Julia Gillard speaks about her new role.

New leadership rules are a "clumsy attempt" by Kevin Rudd to ensure he held power, Ms Gillard said. Source: News Limited

FORMER PM Julia Gillard has attacked Kevin Rudd for his focus on selfies and schmoozing, and warned Labor needs to change its poll-driven focus to one with purpose.

"Caucus and party members should use this contest to show that Labor has moved on from its leadership being determined on the basis of opinion polls, or the number of positive media profiles, or the amount of time spent schmoozing media owners and editors, or the frippery of selfies and content-less social media,'' Ms Gillard has written in an essay on Labor's lessons and future for the Guardian Australia website.

Breaking her silence of more than two months, Ms Gillard confessed the leadership battle had wounded her personally.

Tonight, Mr Rudd has declined to dignify Julia Gillard's 5,000 word essay with a response issuing a lengthy "no comment".

"Mr Rudd does not propose to comment on Ms Gillard's essay," a spokesman said.

"On Friday Mr Rudd told his Labor colleagues that he expected free-ranging analysis of his character from a variety of people in the wake of last Saturday's election.

"But Mr Rudd made clear he did not believe it was in the interests of the Labor Party and its future for him to respond."

The long, lonely election night

"I sat alone on election night as the results came in,'' she writes.

"I wanted it that way. I wanted to just let myself be swept up in it.''

She says the loss of power is felt physically in moments of distress - something her Labor colleagues must be also feeling.

"We have some grieving to do together,'' she says.

"But ultimately it has to be grieving for the biggest thing lost, the power to change our nation for the better.''

Anthony Albanese and Bill Shorten at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

Leadership rules 'a power game'

Ms Gillard says the new rules for electing leaders, pushed through caucus by Kevin Rudd after he toppled her, are "a clumsy attempt to hold power''.

Under the new rules, Labor can only change leaders when the former leader resigns, the party loses an election, or three-quarters of the caucus votes no confidence in the leader.

Caucus and party members get to vote for the new leader - currently a contest between Anthony Albanese and Bill Shorten.

"These rules protect an unsupported, poorly performing, incumbent rather than ensuring that the best person gets chosen and supported for the best reasons,'' Ms Gillard writes in an essay for The Guardian Australia online.

"These rules literally mean that a person could hang on as Labor leader and as prime minister even if every member of cabinet ... has decided that person was no longer capable of functioning as prime minister.''

She noted the irony of opposing rules that would have allowed her to take power from Mr Rudd in 2010 but not let him take back the mantle in June as he did.

Ms Gillard says Mr Shorten and Mr Albanese are both worthy candidates for leader.

But the party needs to seize the opportunity of the contest to start demonstrating Labor's purpose again.

Rudd's message of self preservation

Through returning Mr Rudd to the leadership, the party had "unambiguously sent a very clear message that it cared about nothing other than the prospects of survival of its members of parliament at the polls''.

This new contest should be one where the candidates articulated why they wanted to lead Labor rather than just why they could win.

She hoped whoever won would serve as Labor leader for a long time, well into government.

"Achieving that requires much more than a ballot,'' she writes.

"It requires a true acceptance by all of the result of the ballot. Solidarity, not destabilisation.

"This is where Labor has failed.''

Learn the lessons of '96

The former prime minister urges her party to learn the lessons from its 1996 loss and make sure it owns its good record in government while also examining which election promises to keep and which to reject.

She says Labor must stand up for its economic record and also policies that are right but may be unpopular, like carbon pricing.

Carbon 'tax' hurt me politically: Julia Gillard. Source: NewsComAu

Carbon a taxing fight

Ms Gillard concedes she was wrong to not contest coalition leader Tony Abbott's labelling of the carbon pricing scheme as a "tax''.

"I feared the media would end up playing constant silly word games with me, trying to get me to say the word `tax','' she says.

"But I made the wrong choice and, politically, it hurt me terribly.''

When your messages get mixed

Ms Gillard relates the story of an elderly lady asking her during the election whether it was the fault of the lady or the campaign that she can't understand what it's about.

"After a resounding Labor loss, that word fault is now everywhere,'' she writes.

"But though it is so painful and so hard, now is a time for cool analysis.

"It is a time to carefully plan Labor's future and its next contribution to the nation.''

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Super bugs plague Royal Perth Hospital

A new strain of a deadly antibiotic-resistant superbug has gripped Royal Perth Hospital. Picture: Kerris Berrington Source: PerthNow

A NEW strain of a deadly antibiotic-resistant superbug is causing panic among staff at Royal Perth Hospital.

The WA Government has confirmed that 98 patients have been detected with the T90 variety of Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci at RPH since May.

But the real number of VRE cases could be higher because the Government would provide figures only for the latest strain of the bug.

Internal emails obtained by The Sunday Times reveal dozens of suspected cases, likely different strains, have also been investigated in recent weeks. In the past, smaller outbreaks have resulted in drastic action, with one ward emptied and "gassed" at Fremantle Hospital in February because of the possibility that it had up to eight VRE-positive patients. Insiders at RPH said it had been thrown into "panic" by the multiple VRE detections, especially the new strain. Rooms in about 12 wards had been specially cleaned three times daily, with cleaning done around patients because there was nowhere to put them in the already cramped hospital.

The hospital emails revealed at least four wards had been classified "contact/positive" with "no transfers out" allowed.

RPH executive director Frank Daly said "since May 2013, there have been 98 confirmed cases of colonised VRE T90", and that as of Friday, there were still "18 patients at RPH with VRE T90".

But he refused to say how many cases of other types of VRE were in the hospital, though RPH emails revealed dozens of suspected cases had been investigated in recent weeks.

He confirmed RPH had started "an intensive cleaning program . . . three times per day, across four wards" after finding the VRE T90, which he said was detected in WA for the first time last year. "Royal Perth Hospital is placing VRE T90 patients together in ward 6G and this ward is closed to new general admissions," he said.

The emails also revealed RPH was trying to lower VRE numbers through a strategy of "early discharge of positive cases".

Dr Daly confirmed that five patients with VRE T90 were discharged in the past week.

RPH was unable to determine if the 98 cases were community or hospital acquired.

Clinicians said RPH authorities were panicking because it was not known how to control the bug  which was spread often from hands and medical equipment, and which could survive in the environment for a long time  "short of gutting the place". They said RPH was "so run down" it was full of bacteria havens such as cracked vinyl floors.

Dr Daly said the RPH cases were "colonised", meaning the patients carried VRE, but had not developed the infection, and that VRE was prevalent in the community.

But he conceded that "in people with a weakened immune system, such as patients who have undergone surgery", VRE "can find its way into other parts of the body and cause an infection.

"Once infected, the bacterium is resistant to Vancomycin, the antibiotic used to treat Enterococci," he said.

Enterococci normally lives in the gastrointestinal tract, but antibiotic-resistant strains can kill vulnerable people such as very ill patients, causing infections such as meningitis.

United Voice secretary Carolyn Smith said the RPH cases were "directly due to the WA Government's mismanagement of the hospital system", including failing to provide adequate cleaning staff and patient beds at RPH.

Health Minister Kim Hames said RPH had "some of the most stringent testing practices in the world" and he had "every confidence that the hospital is managing those patients with VRE to ensure the risk of spreading the bacteria to other patients is minimised".

He said the number of RPH cleaning staff had not been cut and health spending increased in this year's budget.

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Fear of sharks keeps swimmers away

Less people are going to WA beaches after a spate of shark attacks in past years. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

ABOUT 35,000 West Australians are using the beach less because of "frequent shark attacks".

However, the overwhelming majority rejected calls for a shark cull and say the best solution for preventing fatalities is for swimmers to use common sense.

A groundbreaking study of 768 adults into "the extent that the fear of sharks in WA waters is altering community behaviour" reveals "significant proportions" of beachgoers expect they are more likely to encounter a shark now than two years ago. The study  the first of its kind in this state  was based on interviews with 565 adults in the metropolitan area and 203 from regional areas such as the South-West and Esperance.

Fisheries Minister Troy Buswell said the findings would go on a new website that would give people the latest shark data and safety information. On culling, he said: "I don't think you are going to see a broadscale culling of sharks as a strategy."

One of the key findings was that people wanted more education about shark safety. Other results included:

Thirty-two per cent of metro people were using the beach less than two years ago, compared with 24 per cent who said they were using it more.
Seven per cent of the above metro respondents, which equated to about 35,000 people, said they were using the beach less due to "frequent shark attacks".
Of the 17 per cent of regional people who said they were using the beach less, none mentioned shark attacks.
Forty per cent of metro residents and 37 per cent of regional residents believed they were more likely to encounter a shark now compared with 2011.
Only 19 per cent of people surveyed supported shark culls.
Fifty-one per cent of metro and 71 per cent of regional people believed the responsibility for ensuring safety against sharks rested with the individual.

Most said the internet and smartphone apps were the best ways to provide real-time information on matters such as beach closures and shark behaviour.

Shark expert Hugh Edwards said he was not surprised by the study's anti-culling findings.

"Culling is fundamentally and manifestly unfair," he said.

"Back in the 1970s there was a common view that the only good shark is a dead shark but Australian's are much more wildlife conscious than they used to be."

Helicopter patrols will run seven days a week from October to April, and South-West beaches from November 23 to early February. All shark sightings should be reported to 94428600.

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LIVE: Designer capsule #2

Designer Betty Tran delighted crowds with her latest collection at the second Designer Capsule. Picture: Linda Parri Source: Twitter

IT was a star-studded turn out for the second Designer Capsule parade at WA Museum's Hackett Hall.

WA labels Wild Horses, Steph Audino, Betty Tran and Bikini Atoll paraded at the show, held on the fourth night of the Perth Fashion Festival.

Designer Steph Audino impressed the crowd at the second Designer Capsule at the 2013 Perth Fashion Festival. Picture: Kate Waterhouse Source: Twitter

Among the front row guests was LA fashion icon Cameron Silver, who Time Magazine named as one of the world's most influential men in fashion, Singaporean socialite Marie Choo and Sydney Fashion blogger Kate Waterhouse.

Some were left worse for wear after the event. Model Lia Tapper tripped during her final walk for Steph Audino, letting out an audible yelp as she caught herself from falling, while designer Betty Tran has a nasty fall after the show and was attended to by PFF staff members, saying she missed a step.

Perth Fashion Festival, which comprises 30 events, is expected to attract over 35,000 people until it ends on September 16.

Bikini Atoll Swimwear impressed the crowd at the second Designer Capsule at the 2013 Perth Fashion Festival. Picture: Kate Waterhouse Source: Twitter

Designer Capsule #2 - social pictures

Student Runway - see the impressive designs

Full coverage

Other highlights coming up during the festival will be An Evening with Camilla and Marc on Sunday and the Ellery closing show on September 16.

Major shows have sold out, but there are events still in the city. Tickets are also available to some of the designer capsule shows.

Tag #STMforPFF when you post your images on Twitter or Instagram for a chance to have them published on PerthNow.

Designer Wild Horses impressed the crowd at the second Designer Capsule at the 2013 Perth Fashion Festival. Picture: Linda Parri Source: Twitter

Tomorrow's timetable:
11am-5pm: Enex100 Lips & Lashes Bar, Enex100, city. Free
10.30am: Uber + Klein (children's fashion), Fashion Central. Free
Noon: Restyle, Fashion Central. Free
1.30pm: Peachy, Fashion Central. Free
3pm: Curtin 10-Year 3pm Curtin Retrospective, Fashion Central. Free
4.45pm: Windows of the City, winner announced, Fashion Central. Free
5pm: Chic Model Search Final, Fashion Central. Free
7pm: An Evening with Camilla and Marc, WA  Museum. Sold out

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The love story behind Clive Palmer

Wanna be Prime Minister and Billionaire Clive Palmer takes a Miley Cyrus inspired twerking lesson from Kyle. Courtesy 2day FM

Clive Palmer with his pregnant wife Anna on polling day. Picture: Megan Slade. Source: News Limited

HE played "dad" at her first wedding and they live in a fading Queensland golf resort where visitor numbers are down despite the addition of giant mechanised dinosaurs. But behind their wacky exterior, Mr and Mrs Clive Palmer share a touching love story.

Anna Palmer cuts a quietly trim figure beside her blustering political aspirant husband, usually in the sidelines but always close at hand. And despite their wildly different personalities and a 20 year age gap, the relationship between the law degree holding chartered accountant and larger than life Palmer is rock-solid.

Clive Palmer with pregnant wife Anna. Picture: Megan Slade. Source: News Limited

"I was surprised to see how much he depends on her presence," says one business associate who spent several days with the couple last year.

"It was to the point where he wasn't willing to leave her side at all during our dealings. His security guards were banished from the room at one point but he was saying 'where's my wife, where's my wife?'.

"He is very solicitous towards her and their daughter. I would say they appear to be very much in love."

Married for five years, and currently pregnant with the couple's second child, Mrs Palmer spoke last year about their unlikely love story.

Clive Palmer and wife Anna Palmer. Source: News Limited

Mrs Palmer moved to Australia 21 years ago at the age of 18 to marry a young Australian, Andrew Topalov, with whom she had fallen in love as he travelled through her native Bulgaria.

Mr Topalov, who was an aide to then Queensland property developer Clive Palmer, asked his boss to act as father of the bride because visa complications with her parents meant young Anna had nobody to give her away.

"It sounds terrible now, but it made sense," she told Australian Story.

"I met Clive pretty shortly after coming to Australia, because Andrew had talked to him about participating in our wedding.

"We came to visit Clive and his family and I thought it was very nice of them to basically fill in the shoes of my family at our wedding."

Clive Palmer with his wife Anna prepare to fly from his private jet while campaigning in Queensland. Picture: Hamish Cairns Source: Supplied

The pair came together again more than a decade later, after each lost their partners around the same time in 2006 to cancer. Susan Palmer, the mother of Mr Palmer's two children Michael and Emily, died after a short illness, while Anna nursed her husband Andrew through a long battle with melanoma.

"He contacted me first through Andrew's brother to say that if there's anything I needed," she said.

"He became more of a friend (in) the following months and he's quite a busy person, and so was I with all the activities I was trying to get launched into to keep busy, so it took a long time for us to really realise we had other feelings."

Clive and Anna Palmer with daughter Mary...ready for his Titanic plans. Source: Supplied

Mrs Palmer was emotional as she recalled the difficult time after losing her first husband, and her conflicted feelings for Mr Palmer.

"Well, getting married with Clive for me personally . . . was not an easy decision, because I was still feeling very married. I was wearing my wedding ring for a long time and I think he felt the same way. So getting married as such was not a priority . . . getting remarried I should say was not a priority,'' she said.

Soon afterwards came daughter Mary.

Clive Palmer vents his frustration after he was told PM Kevin Rudd's plane would be refuelled before his, saying it will 'undermine democracy in Australia'.

"I really wanted to have a baby very quickly and Clive also very much wanted to have a bigger family, so um, we had Mary very quickly I should say. We were very fortunate, very lucky people to have a beautiful, healthy baby and hopefully, more to follow," she said.

Mr Palmer is currently on course to take the Federal seat of Fairfax on Queensland's Sunshine Coast after pulling slightly ahead of Liberal National incumbent Ted O'Brien in counting from last weekend's election.

Clive Palmer's dinosaur on the Palmer Coolum Resort. Picture: Megan Slade Source: News Limited

His political aspirations have drawn plenty of unwelcome scrutiny, and Mr Palmer would not respond to News Corp's repeated requests for an interview.

Among the revelations that have upset the self-proclaimed billionaire are that his claim of being a professor is exaggerated (he is an honorary adjunct professor) and that he has repeatedly overstated his personal wealth and business earnings.

But those close to him say Mr Palmer's public persona differs greatly from how he is in private.

"He is quite charming, even a little humble," said the former business associate.

"After a couple of days I felt the buffoonery, that kind of crazy Clive, is an act put on because he likes to surprise people."

Palmer United Party leader Clive Palmer spins a game wheel and has a funny rant about Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott while he waits to do a breakfast radio interview in Melbourne.

Mrs Palmer agrees that very few people know the truth about her husband.

"Walking around the streets with Clive, it's very evident to me that everybody thinks that they know him and are very close to him, because even with myself when you see someone on TV a lot you do get to feel as if you know them," she said.

"Having said that, I don't think people really see him as a normal human being or as a man and um, what I would like for people to I suppose understand … is that he is just a person who happened to be very successful in the field that he's chosen to be in.

"I think pretty much what people see is what they get. The only thing they don't see I suppose is all the hard work that he puts behind it."

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PM: My girls to 'stay home until they're married'

Listen to the conversation between Kevin Rudd and incoming PM Tony Abbott on the front steps of the Lodge.

Tony Abbott's girls . . . from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

A SHORT chat between fathers and the handover between Prime Ministers was complete.

Kevin Rudd flew to Canberra on Thursday to hand over the keys to The Lodge and asked Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott if his daughters planned to live at the official residence.

"The short answer is, yes, mate, because they don't want to leave until such time as they get married," Mr Abbott replied.

Mr Rudd quipped: "I know that feeling."

It is assumed Mr Abbott was referring to his daughters staying at home in general - rather than specifically at The Lodge, which is currently being refurbed.

Mr Abbott's eldest daughter Louise lives in Switzerland with her boyfriend Stefano.

The ladies in Tony Abbott's life ... from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

His youngest daughters Frances and Bridget currently live at home in Sydney, where they are studying and are likely to remain based until The Lodge is refurbished.

CONTEST: Shorten on campaign to lead Labor

Tea at The Lodge for the incoming Prime Minister was a tradition of previous outgoing leaders such Paul Keating who gave John Howard a guided tour in 1996.

Outgoing PM Kevin Rudd welcomes Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott to The Lodge for the official handover of the Prime Ministerial Canberra residence. Picture: Ray Strange Source: News Limited

Mr Howard and his wife Janette hosted Mr Rudd and his wife Therese Rein in 2007.

He said in his concession speech on Saturday he would continue the tradition and after Thursday's brief meeting Mr Rudd left the residence for the final time.

ELECTION: Liberals ahead as vote count continues

The Lodge handover came as Federal Liberal Director Brian Loughnane ordered all campaign staff to keep all advertising and material prepared about Mr Rudd's leadership in case he attempts a comeback.

Bill Shorten will stand for the Labor leadership, saying he wants to lead the rebuilding of the party.

Orders to keep the Rudd files came before former Trade Minister Craig Emerson said Mr Rudd had been telling people he planned to make a third comeback for the Labor leadership, emulating Prime Minister Andrew Fisher.

TRUST ME: Shorten's Labor pitch for leadership

Meanwhile, Mr Abbott received his first call from US President Barack Obama on Thursday.

He told the President America and Australia were the "greatest friends."

Tony Abbott taking US President Barack Obama's phone call of congratulations. Source: Supplied

If it was possible to punish Syria for the use of chemical weapons on their own people without the use of military force that would be welcome, Mr Abbott said.

PHONE CALL: Obama congratulates Abbott

If America took further steps against the regime in Syria it would have political support from Australia, he said.

The pair will meet at the APEC summit in Bali next month.

1226718203478

Bowen/Albanese/Shorten update

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For sale: the WA town time forgot

For $1.9million you'll get the town hall, the general store (not operating), the caretaker's cottage, ex-Bunnings office building, locomotive shed plus three self-contained cottages. Source: PerthNow

WHY just buy one house, when you can buy a whole town?

This is a town, albeit, that long ago relegated its "open for business'' sign to the dusty attic of antiquity and became a tourist remnant of WA's bushfaring past.

Welcome to Nyamup, deep in the heart of the land time forgot.

Actually it's about 10km south of Manjimup in the South-West heartland, a place more currently known for its gourmet truffles.

This quirky reminder of the 1930s - thought to be WA's only private town - was a timber mill town back when there was still a 51m tree left in the region to establish a fire-watch (the world's only wooden treetop tower - climb at your own risk - known as The Diamond Tree).

The heritage Nyamup Community Hall. Nyamup was a mill town and is thought to be WA's only private town. Source: PerthNow

Nyamup was born as a mill town in 1939 and ceased timber production in 1989 and its 22ha (70 acres) is on the market for $1.9m.

This includes the Town Hall, the general store (not operating), the Caretakers cottage, ex-Bunnings office building, locomotive shed plus three self-contained cottages each with their own rainwater tank currently used for tourists looking for a rustic and some would say romantic getaway.

"The State also supplies water from the nearest dam which is almost on the boundary line of the property,'' says agent Julianna Szodorai of this slice of old-fashioned heaven.

A call to the Shire of Manjimup is a gorgeous experience of Hobbit-like overtones and they helpfully procure a document showing the heritage history of the Nyamup Community Hall (Town Hall).

"(It) is one of the significant buildings in the Nyamup Mill Town Holiday Village . . . the Town Hall can be hired for dances or other functions, and the whole town can be booked for special events.''

Says agent Ms Szodorai: ``You can create this town to match your suitable needs. This 70 acres of land is surrounded by big trees and a beautiful forest with a river running through the property.''

Nyamup is 10km south of Manjimup in the South-West heartland, a place more currently known for its gourmet truffles. Source: PerthNow

* For further queries on the heritage-listed town, contact Julianna Szodorai of Buy and Sell Real Estate.com, Westminster, 0419 854 510.

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Scherri-Lee sizzles in Handsome

Model Shenika Rule with her grandmother Doreen Creed, mum and six sisters. Picture: Linda Parri Source: PerthNow

Scherri-Lee Biggs preparing to take the runway for the National Showcase at Perth Fashion Festival. Source: PerthNow

IT may have been a nippy 13 degrees outside tonight, but Perth's Scherri-Lee Biggs sizzled on the catwalk at Perth Fashion Festival.

The former Miss Universe Australia, who is now based in Sydney, donned a bathing suit for Sydney swimwear label We Are Handsome at the National Showcase - a celebration of talented Australian designers.

Sydney-based fashion label Desert Designs captured the beauty of the Australian life and landscape with Aboriginal digital prints.

Re-live the runway live below

WA Designer Collections

Jaime Lee stuns Perth

Full coverage

Tonight's collection reflected the work of celebrated Aboriginal artist Jimmy Pike who learned to use western art materials while serving time in Fremantle Prison.

A model walks the runway in the National Showcase at Perth Fashion Festival. Picture: Linda Parri Source: PerthNow

Indigenous model Shenika Rule,  led the parade, with her Mum, grandmother and six of her eight sisters watching proudly from the sidelines.

Rules Grandmother Doreen Creed, who has 30 grandchildren, could barely contain her excitement.

"She was as beautiful as ever," she said.

Crowds were wowed by Gorman, with designer Lisa Gorman saying she was inspired by Melbourne suburb Fitzroy.

Her spring/summer collection focused on block prints, bold colours and the use of geometry.

Perth Fashion Festival, which comprises 30 events, is expected to attract over 35,000 people until it ends on September 16.

Other highlights coming up during the festival will be An Evening with Camilla and Marc on Sunday and the Ellery closing show on September 16.

Scherri-Lee Biggs opened the National Showcase in this gorgeous swimsuit at the Perth Fashion Festival. Source: PerthNow

Major shows have sold out, but there are events still in the city. Tickets are also available to some of the designer capsule shows.

Tag #STMforPFF when you post your images on Twitter or Instagram for a chance to have them published on PerthNow.

Tomorrow's timetable:
11am: Wesley Quarter, Fashion Central. Free.
Noon: Wesley Quarter Live STM Fashion Shoot, Wesley Quarter, city. Free
Noon: Forrest Chase, Fashion Central. Free
1.30pm: Amore + Sorvete with Poppy Lissiman Addition, Fashion Central. Free
2.30pm: Chic Model Search Semi-final, Fashion Central. Free
4pm: Wesley Quarter Live STM Fashion Shoot, Wesley Quarter, city. Free
4pm: Skye & Staghorn Swimwear, Fashion Central. Free
5pm: Target Fashion, Fashion Central. Free
6.30pm: Student Runway, Fashion Paramount, from $60+bf
7.30pm: One Fell Swoop VIP show, Peroni Privé Bar. Invitation only
8.30pm: One Fell Swoop public event, Peroni Privé Bar. Sold out
9pm: Designer Capsule #2, Fashion Paramount, from $60+bf

 

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Rebels bikies roar into Osborne Park

Members of the Rebels Motorcycle Club coming down Greenmount Hill into Midland. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

Rebels bikies refuel in Kalgoorlie yesterday before setting off for Perth, where they arrive today. Picture: AAP/Travis Anderson. Source: AAP

HUNDREDS of Rebels bikie gang members have reached the gang's Perth clubhouse in Osborne Park, ending their national run across the country.

The run brings together chapters from across Australia, led by national and world president Alex 'The Maltese Falcon' Vella.

Some 800 Rebels rode into the West Australian capital just after 3pm, joining about 200 of their local fellow gang members - who represent the largest chapter in Australia.

They arrived in the state on Tuesday, spending time in Norseman before travelling to the historic gold mining town of Kalgoorlie on Wednesday.

It's understood some quietly sunk drinks in their hotel and motel rooms, given they were banned from entering licensed venues.

They have brought plenty of business to roadhouses and been met with the state's biggest police presence since the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2011.

Members of the public lined the route with their cameras, from Perth's Hills region into the city, posting dozens of photographs of the spectacle on social media.
 

Rebels bikies make their way through Sawyers Valley. Picture: Grant Wynne, ABC / Twitter Source: PerthNow

On their arrival at the clubhouse - more than an hour earlier than expected and with police helicopters buzzing overhead - the bikies were met by a lone journalist from Fairfax radio, whose tiny Mazda 2 was swamped by Harley Davidsons.

"It's party time,'' one bikie was heard saying.

The gang almost made it to Perth without an arrest, but at about 2.30pm one 34-year-old rider was arrested for hindering police and resisting arrest when he was stopped for a vehicle check at Northam.

On Monday, a 53-year-old member was seriously hurt after he hit a kangaroo about 30km east of Madura on Eyre Highway.

He was part of a small group travelling ahead of the main pack, which was still on the South Australian side of the border.

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Woman fined $8000 for cruelty to dog

Dawg the staffy recovering after his chain collar was embedded in his neck. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

RSPCA Senior Inspector Amanda Swift said choker chains should not be used for tethering dogs. Picture: Kerris Berrington Source: PerthNow

A WOMAN has been fined $8000 for animal cruelty after she neglected her Staffordshire bull terrier to the point where a chain collar had become embedded in its neck.

South Australian woman Nicole Peta Easther, 38, who formerly lived in Maida Vale in WA, was today sentenced in her absence for animal cruelty in Midland Magistrates Court and fined $8000.

She was also ordered to pay the RSPCA about $7500 in court costs after being found guilty of one count of animal cruelty.

The court was told Easther was the owner of a four-year-old male Staffordshire bull terrier known as "Dawg".  

A Kalamunda Shire ranger went to a Maida Vale address and found the dog had a choker chain embedded in its neck.

He also observed that the skin surrounding that part of the choker chain around the animal's neck was red and inflamed and was emitting an abnormal smell.

The dog was immediately taken to the nearest veterinary hospital for treatment and the ranger then contacted the RSPCA.

The RSPCA Inspector attended the veterinary hospital and found about 4cm of the choker chain was embedded in the animal's neck and that skin had grown over that part of the choker chain embedded in the animal's neck.

Magistrate Greg Benn said Easther's cruelty was easily preventable.

"This offence involves suffering which could have been very easily prevented," he said.

"The penalty needs to act as a general deterrent given the dog is entirely at the mercy of its owner."

RSPCA Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said choker chains should not be used for any reason, particularly for tethering animals.

"If people need to contain their dog for a short period of time, RSPCA recommends an enclosure with adequate food, shelter and water with appropriate toys and items to keep the dog occupied," she said.
 

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Prince William quits armed forces

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge awards a rosette during his visit at Anglesey agricultural show on his first official engagement since the birth of his son Prince George of Cambridge. Picture: Getty Images Source: Getty Images

RAF helicopter pilot Prince William at the controls of a Sea King helicopter working for the search-and-rescue service which is under threat of privatisation. Source: AP

PRINCE William is to leave the armed forces and temporarily focus on official engagements both in Britain and overseas, Kensington Palace says.

The new father will spend the next year considering his future work options with an announcement on that to come "in due course".

The Duke of Cambridge's wife Kate gave birth to baby George in July.

Prince William has been working as an RAF search and rescue helicopter pilot in Wales.

But the palace on Thursday announced "the Duke is to leave operational service in the armed forces".

"He completes his tour with the RAF search and rescue force ... after more than seven-and-a-half years of full-time military service," the palace said in a statement.

Prince William plans to support the work of the Queen and the royal family through a program of official engagements with Kate.

Over the next 12 months he'll work with the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

"He will expand his work in the field of conservation particularly in respect of endangered species," the palace said, adding he'd also continue to work with his charities on issues relating to children, young people, veterans and serving members of the armed forces.

As to his long-term future, the palace stated: "The Duke is currently considering a number of options for public service, a further announcement on which will follow in due course."

William, Kate and little Prince George are expected to move into their official residence at Kensington Palace within the next few weeks.

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Welcome to the Lodge, ladies

Former PM Kevin Rudd honours a promise to give incoming PM Tony Abbott a guided tour of The Lodge.

Tony Abbott's girls . . . from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

A SHORT chat between fathers and the handover between Prime Ministers was complete.

Kevin Rudd flew to Canberra on Thursday to hand over the keys to The Lodge and asked Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott if his daughters planned to live at the official residence.

"The short answer is yes, because they don't want to leave home," Mr Abbott replied.

WELCOME: Rudd opens Lodge door to Abbott era

ABBOTT GOVT: Science Naplan tests face axe

SETBACK: Indonesia to block dob a smuggler plan

Mr Rudd quipped: "I know that feeling. "

Mr Abbott's eldest daughter Louise lives in Switzerland with her boyfriend Stefano.

The ladies in Tony Abbott's life ... from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

His youngest daughters Frances and Bridget live at home in Sydney, where they are studying and are likely to remain based.

CONTEST: Shorten on campaign to lead Labor

Tea at The Lodge for the incoming Prime Minister was a tradition of previous outgoing leaders such Paul Keating who gave John Howard a guided tour in 1996.

Outgoing PM Kevin Rudd welcomes Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott to The Lodge for the official handover of the Prime Ministerial Canberra residence. Picture: Ray Strange Source: News Limited

Mr Howard and his wife Janette hosted Mr Rudd and his wife Therese Rein in 2007.

He said in his concession speech on Saturday he would continue the tradition and after Thursday's brief meeting Mr Rudd left the residence for the final time.

ELECTION: Liberals ahead as vote count continues

The Lodge handover came as Federal Liberal Director Brian Loughnane ordered all campaign staff to keep all advertising and material prepared about Mr Rudd's leadership in case he attempts a comeback.

Bill Shorten will stand for the Labor leadership, saying he wants to lead the rebuilding of the party.

Orders to keep the Rudd files came before former Trade Minister Craig Emerson said Mr Rudd had been telling people he planned to make a third comeback for the Labor leadership, emulating Prime Minister Andrew Fisher.

TRUST ME: Shorten's Labor pitch for leadership

Meanwhile, Mr Abbott received his first call from US President Barack Obama on Thursday.

He told the President America and Australia were the "greatest friends."

Tony Abbott taking US President Barack Obama's phone call of congratulations. Source: Supplied

If it was possible to punish Syria for the use of chemical weapons on their own people without the use of military force that would be welcome, Mr Abbott said.

PHONE CALL: Obama congratulates Abbott

If America took further steps against the regime in Syria it would have political support from Australia, he said.

The pair will meet at the APEC summit in Bali next month.

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No WACA Test in 2014-15 cricket season

The Western Australian Cricket Association has warned of devastating effects after Perth missed out on a Test match during the 2014/15 season.

Australia against the West Indies at a packed WACA ground in Perth earlier this year. Perth has been dropped as a Test Match venue for the 2014/15 season. Source: PerthNow

PERTH has been dropped as a Test match venue after Cricket Australia announced its schedule for the 2014-15 season.

India, who will tour during the 2014-15 summer, will play four Tests in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.

It will be the first time since 1976-77 season that the WACA Ground has not hosted a Test during an Australian summer.

The decision has angered WA cricket officials and WACA chief executive Christina Matthews said the WACA was 'extremely disappointed' with the decision.

"The fans in WA have consistently supported Test cricket at the WACA and we are devastated that thousands of loyal cricket fans will not be able to see the Test match live against India," she said.

Perth will host additional one-day internationals during the summer but Ms Matthews said there was no compensation for losing a Test.

"The ongoing effect this loss will have on the WACA and cricket in Western Australia will be devastating and we are extremely disappointed by the decision, not only for the Association, but for our Members and WA cricket supporters," she said.

"We will continue talks with CA and will be seeking an understanding from them of all the elements behind the decision."

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said the WACA's capacity and facilities were factors in the decision to axe Perth from the Test schedule.

"Though a traditional Test match venue with a proud history, the WACA ground has the smallest capacity of the five mainland Test venues and has historically attracted lower attendances," he said.

"The WACA has been working hard to improve the facilities for its fans but it still requires significant improvements."

Ms Matthews said the WACA had outlined several reasons why Perth should remain a Test venue.

"Domestic TV ratings from the Perth match of the last series between these two nations was the equal highest in Australia at 1.12 million," she said.

"The 2008 and 2012 Tests between Australia and India at the WACA were also extremely well attended, with the first three days of the 2012 Test sold out, so the WA cricket fans are the big losers here."

Mr Sutherland said it was a one-off situation that he does not see happening again.

"All have strong claims for hosting a Test and many factors were taken into consideration, including the allocation of 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup matches, but on this occasion the Adelaide Oval and the Gabba were considered to have the strongest claims," he said.

"The Adelaide Oval is scheduled to complete a $535 million dollar re-development this season that will see the venue deliver world-class facilities for fans, players, broadcasters and media.

"The Oval has also built up a strong history of attendance over many seasons and the new facilities will only add to that fan experience.

"The Gabba is a large high quality venue in Australia's third largest city and serves a large population of Australian cricket fans, including the large urban areas of the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, plus many who travel long distances to make the annual trip to Brisbane for the Test match.

"Another factor in the Gabba's favour was the limitations on their ability to effectively host other international cricket matches in the 2014-15 summer due to the G20 summit and the 2015 Asian Cup being scheduled respectively in November 2014 and January 2015."

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Rebels biker serious after hitting roo

A Rebels bikie has been seriously injured after hitting a kangaroo 30km east of  Madura on the national run to WA.

A REBELS biker is in a serious condition after hitting a kangaroo and coming off his motorbike on the national ride to Perth.

The 53-year-old man was riding with a small group of bikers about 6.30pm, just on dusk, yesterday when he struck a kangaroo about 30km east of Madura on remote Eyre Highway, about 1250km east of Perth.

The Kalgoorlie Royal Flying Doctor Service was called to treat the injured biker in one of the most isolated parts of WA.

He was riding with a small contingent of motorcyclists ahead of the main Rebels group who were still on the SA side of the WA-SA border. 

"He was moved by car to Madura Pass Oasis Roadhouse where staff provided first aid using their RFDS Medical Chest under the guidance of RFDS medical staff and a RFDS doctor,'' a RFDS spokesman said.

"The RFDS landed at the nearby dirt strip at 9.35pm and spent an hour at the scene stabilising him pre-flight. He was then taken to Kalgoorlie Hospital in a serious but stable condition.''

Police warning, but WA roadhouses welcome Rebels

The man is part of the Rebels, Australia's biggest bikie gang, which is crossing the WA border this morning as part of their "national run" to Perth.

Police may be warning the public, but roadhouses across Western Australia are laying out welcome mats as 1000 Rebels bikies begin the final leg of their national run into Perth.

Rebels bikies banned from licensed venues

Today the massed ranks of the Rebels were at the Border Crossing roadhouse on the South Australian/West Australian border, preparing to leave for the ride across WA for the rest of the week.

WA Police warned motorists about the mass of motorcycles, which are being followed by around 200 police, as they travel through Eucla, Norseman and Kalgoorlie before hitting Great Eastern Highway into Perth.

Police said they are anticipating the group to arrive in the city on Friday.

But before that, roadhouses along the route are hoping for an economic boost from the demand for fuel, cigarettes and food from the bikies, and their police escort.

``We have lots of hot food, lots of cigarettes and lots of staff all ready to go,'' said Ross, who works at the Caltex petrol station in Norseman.

``The word we are getting is that there will be 1000 Rebels and 200 police. We have got about 20,000 litres of fuel waiting for them, and we will treat them like we treat anyone else.''

The bikies are tipped to stay at the Norseman racecourse tonight before heading off again on Wednesday.

As WA police launch the state's biggest security operation since the arrival of the Queen in 2011, they have already warned the bikies they will not be permitted to enter any pubs or clubs during their time in the state.

Sergeant Gerry Cassidy said the motorbikes could be so loud they had the potential to affect road users' concentration.

``Consider using designated rest areas or comfort stops along the road until the group has passed,'' Sgt Cassidy said.

"Short term delays as the group travel along the planned route may also occur," police said.

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Less is more for complete beauty queen

"I'm proud to represent those who look differently, but it's about what you can do ... I'm just like you." Picture: Donald Kravitz/Getty Images Source: Supplied

BORN without her left forearm, Nicole Kelly has been overcoming disability her entire life. Now representing Iowa in the Miss America pageant, she hopes to win the crown and inspire others to overcome their own difficulties.

She chooses to focus on what she has, rather than what she lacks.

"The reason I'm here is not because I'm a public interest story," she told The Associated Press, in between rehearsals for three nights of preliminary competition. "I'm here not because I look different, but because I have the intelligence, I have the ability and all the things that Miss America needs to have.

Picture: Twitter Source: Supplied

"I'm proud to represent those who look differently, but it's about what you can do and how you celebrate it," she said. "I'm just like you."

She said she developed an outgoing personality "that would not give in to 'no"' as a way to deal with the stares she often got.

She says on her official Miss Iowa web page that: "when people ask me what happened to my arm, I like to ask, 'Well, what do you think happened?'"

"My favourite explanation to date has been that it was bitten off by a shark."

Picture: Facebook Source: Supplied

The 23-year-old resident of Keokuk, Iowa, a Mississippi River town, Kelly said she never let her disability stop her from doing what she wanted. She played baseball, swam and dived, danced.

"I just did it," she said. "There never was an issue. No excuses, nor should there have been."

Kelly said people she met while growing up generally went through three phases. The first was when she approached them, because they were too intimidated to approach her. The second was when they grew comfortable enough to ask her questions like, "How do you do your hair?" or "How do you tie your shoes?"

The third phase "was when they completely forgot about it" and just saw her as Nikki, not a person with a disability.

She entered her first pageant this January, fell in love with the competition and won, advancing through the ranks to win the Miss Iowa crown. She was soon inundated with media attention, not all of it welcome.

Picture: Facebook Source: Supplied

She said one TV station surreptitiously shot close-ups of her partial arm without her realising it and made that a central part of their report.

"I got a lot of unwanted attention, but there's also the flip side of this enormous platform", to bring attention to people with disabilities.

Since graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Kelly has landed internships in theatres in Santa Fe, New Mexico; Chicago and New York. That led to a paid job as the guardian for child actors in the Broadway play "The Assembled Parties."

A social media post to thank her room mate for her support. Picture: Facebook Source: Supplied

Kelly is scheduled to sing during the talent portion of the competition. She hopes to work in theatre management - after winning the Miss America pageant.

"It would definitely be cool to win the crown, but I want the job. I want to be in a new city every second day, I want to log 20,000 miles on aeroplanes and meet new people all the time."

She would not be the first Miss America with a disability. In 1995, Miss Alabama, Heather Whitestone won the crown with a hearing impairment.

The 2014 Miss America will be crowned Sunday night in Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall, as the pageant returns home after a six-year stint in Las Vegas.

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Police accused of 'bogus' arrest of Perth man

A Perth man acquitted last week on death penalty charges in Malaysia has been re-arrested at the airport.

Dominic Bird after he was acquitted of drug trafficking last week. AFP PHOTO / NEW STRAITS TIMES / EFFENDY RASHID Source: AFP

AUTHORITIES in Malaysia have been accused of conspiring to secure a ''bogus''' arrest warrant for Perth man Dominic Bird to prevent him returning to Australia following his acquittal on drug charges that carry the death penalty.

Mr Bird last week walked free after being found not guilty of charges of supplying a large quantity of methamphetamine to an undercover police officer, but was unable to immediately return home due to issues surrounding his visa.

He now faces the prospect of a death sentence once again hanging over his head after prosecutors on Monday lodged an appeal against last Wednesday's verdict.

The 33-year-old was re-arrested on Monday just 10 minutes before he was to board a flight to Australia, after a warrant for his arrest was issued when he failed to appear at a hearing at the Malaysian Court of Appeal scheduled for 9am local time on Monday.

But it has been revealed Mr Bird was unable to attend the hearing because he was in the custody of Malaysian immigration officials, who had taken him to the LCCT airport on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur from where he was to fly home to Perth.

His legal team were also not advised of the hearing, and were therefore unable to challenge the request for his arrest or ensure their client was present.

Mr Bird, who last week said he was ``ecstatic that I'm out of the handcuffs'', on Tuesday said he began to suspect something was afoot when authorities delayed issuing a new visa until Monday morning.

The delay effectively gave prosecutors time to lodge their appeal.

His lawyer Muhammed Shafee Abdullah today described the events of the past few days as ``farcical''.

``Although it was the immigration that arrested him, we know for a fact it wasn't the immigration that wanted to do that. The immigration was instructed by the prosecution, and maybe even with the police knowing it,'' Mr Abdullah told reporters outside the Malaysian Court of Appeal.

``That arrest was unlawful. We have seen the warrant. We were shocked.''

``It would be appear that the arrest (on Wednesday last week) was bogus purely to ensure that he was still available for the arrest on Monday.''

Still, Mr Abdullah said his client was holding up well.

``I am quite surprised that he is putting up pretty well. But I am sure that deep inside he is frustrated because he was just 10 minutes from freedom,'' he said.

Mr Bird was remanded in custody pending a bail hearing which has been scheduled for Thursday.

His lawyers will argue that he be released without condition pending the outcome of the appeal, and be allowed to return to Australia while the legal process runs its course.

Authorities would be reluctant to allow Mr Bird to return home while the appeal is pending because of the Australian government's policy of not granting extradition in cases which carry the death penalty.

The appeal process could take up to six months.

Mr Bird was initially arrested at a cafe near his apartment in Kuala Lumpur on March 1 last year after allegedly being caught supplying an undercover police officer with 167 grams of methamphetamine.

The case against him was thrown out of court last week after the judge ruled the prosecution had failed to prove its case, and amid allegations of corruption against Inspector Luther Nurjib, the undercover officer who arrested Mr Bird and who was later accused of ``setting up'' the Australian.

Insp Nurjib was found guilty of contempt of court last month and fined RM2000 ($A665), after it emerged he had threatened and attempted to bribe a witness in the Bird case.

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Firestorms sweep across NSW

Dramatic pictures of fire crews on the ground battling fierce fires in rural NSW.

A HOME was destroyed, seven firefighters injured and thousands of residents and school students evacuated yesterday as NSW was ravaged by 63 blazes - prompting warnings of a horror bushfire season ahead.

Just 10 days into spring, Sydney's western suburbs, its northern fringes and the Blue Mountains were wrapped in thick smoke as firefronts raged.

Nutt Road Londonderry ablaze last night / Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

Winds gusting to 70km/h fanned the flames which were sparked by record September temperatures of more than 32C - 12 degrees above the average.

ONE FAMILY'S TERROR OF STAYING BEHIND TO SAVE EVERYTHING

The conditions were eased by a cool change which swept across the city's west in the early evening.

Intense flames rage adjecent to Blacktown Road as firefighters try to contain the blaze. Picture courtesy Channel 9 Source: Supplied

Jeff Caffyn runs to protect his house in Garfield Rd Marsden Park / Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

Firefighters battle a blaze in Bligh Park. Picture: Rogers Phil Source: Supplied

A home was destroyed in a 10ha grassfire near Grange Ave at Marsden Park, in the western suburbs, which was being fought by 70 firefighters.

CLOSED FIRE STATIONS 'PUT LIVES IN DANGER'

There were reports a fire truck had been destroyed as 150 crew members, using 30 appliances, battled a major grassfire at Castlereagh and Londonderry on the city's northern borders.

More than 3000 homes in the Richmond and Londonderry areas lost electricity as a result of the fires.

There were also reports a fish farm had been destroyed at South Windsor.

RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers said having so many fires in such a concentrated area around Sydney's greater west was a challenge.

Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

A children's cubby house and play set are choked by smoke in Bligh Park. Picture: Phil Rogers Source: Supplied

Large fires also burned at Cessnock, Wyong, Bathurst, the Snowy Mountains, the Bega Valley on the south coast and the Clarence Valley on the north coast.

In Winmalee, in the Blue Mountains, some residents rushed to pack belongings while others brought out deck chairs to watch the clouds of smoke.

Police went door-to-door and the RFS told residents to evacuate as the fire erupted late yesterday morning.

There are fears yesterday's infernos are a sign of things to come after an unseasonably dry winter.

Sue Marshal in Marsden Park off Garfield Rd / Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

Concerned residents fear for their properties in Londonderry as the fires move closer. Source: News Limited

The bushfire Bligh Park / Picture: Dwayne Elix Source: Supplied

INTERACTIVE MAP - RURAL FIRE SERVICE

NSW Fire Commissioner Greg Mullins, Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons and Police and Emergency Services minister Mike Gallacher last night visited crews in the Blue Mountains.

Mr Mullins said: "We hope this is not a portent of things to come.''

He said a wind change was sending the fire toward Hawkesbury Heights.

"It is a big body of fire that is going to take days to bring under control,"RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said: "This is not good news for the next three months and is not a good sign for summer.

"The fact we have had the hottest start ever to spring is a big concern.

"We have a situation where a lot of the vegetation is already dry and if you add continuing dry weather, then days of hot weather with strong winds and you have a very worrying situation."

"Today should serve as a wake-up call to everyone - you must be prepared for bushfires before they are on your doorstep.''

View of Londonderry fires from Bowen Mountain. Picture: Duncan Media Source: Supplied

Fire burns out of control in the Windsor Downs Nature Reserve. Source: News Limited

A large bushfire moves into Londonderry. Source: News Limited

Walter Markowski, 67, lives on Devlin Rd, Castlereagh, and spotted the flames about 1km from his property.

"I got an old tank of water from the roof and started putting out spot fires," he said. "The wind was changing quite rapidly. It was a whirlwind going back and forward.

"I put a spot fire out from the roof of my work shed. My home is all right.

"The wind was like a tornado and it kept changing the fire all the time."

Neighbour Jason Laurence rounded up his racing dogs as the fire approached.

"I have 12 dogs and I had to decide which ones to save. Luckily my mate came around with an eight-dog trailer and put eight in the trailer and four in my car and got out of there," he said.

A man waters down his roof in Windsor Downs / Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

Devlin St Londonderry / Picture: Stephen Cooper Source: News Limited

A bushfire burns out of control at Marsden Park Source: News Limited

Bushfire in the Bligh Park area. Picture: Phil Rogers Source: News Limited

Bushfire at Marsden Park. Source: News Limited

Fire picture from tweeted by journalist Lizzie Pearl at Castlereagh Source: DailyTelegraph

A fish farm is destroyed by fire at South Windsor Source: Supplied

Aerial pictures courtesy of Channel 9 above Castlereagh Source: Supplied

Bush fire in the Bligh Park area / Picture: Phil Rogers Source: News Limited

Premier Barry O'Farrell told parliament yesterday that at one point there were 59 bush and grass fires blazing in NSW, 40 of them uncontained.

Mr O'Farrell said more than 500 firefighters and 200 appliances are responding to the fires across NSW. Two aircraft dropped water at Winmalee and another two were doing their vital work at Castlereagh yesterday.

SEND YOUR PICTURES TO PHOTO@DAILYTELEGRAPH.COM.AU

At Londonderry, where students from the public school were evacuated to the Penrith regatta centre, anxious residents were told to leave their homes. Some huddled at a petrol station as they waited to hear if their properties were safe.

The smell of bushfire smoke was wafting across Sydney's CBD.

Yashmin Narsamma said: "The coppers are at the front gates evacuating everybody. I've got horses, dogs, cats, kids in there.

Sonia Kovacek added: "I wanted to stay, I wanted to protect my cows.

Resident Kate Alexander opted to remain at her home. The farm owner did not know if her cattle, horse and sheep were safe. Ms Kovacek said a bushfire threatened a similar area three years ago and called for more back burning over the winter.

According to the NSW Rural Fire Service the fire is burning under strong northerly winds around Tickner Road, Castlereagh with properties on Devlin Road under threat.

A burnt out shed in Castlereagh. A grass fire is stalking homes near Devlin Road. Pic: Channel 9 Source: Supplied

Aerial pictures courtesy of Channel 9 above the Castlereagh blaze Source: Supplied

Pictures of the Castlereagh fire from the Channel 7 news chopper Source: Supplied

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Perth man re-arrested in Kuala Lumpur

Dominic Jude Christopher Bird, 32, was arrested in March last year for alleged possession of 167 grams of methamphetamine. AFP PHOTO / NEW STRAITS TIMES / EFFENDY RASHID Source: AFP

A PERTH man acquitted by a court in Malaysia last week on charges that carry the death penalty has been re-arrested while preparing to board a plane to Australia.

Dominic Bird, 33, who was acquitted last Wednesday on drug trafficking charges, was taken into custody at Kuala Lumpur International Airport this morning.

An application will be heard by the Court of Appeal in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday to decide whether or not to grant prosecutors an appeal against last week's decision.

Mr Bird's lawyers say they will vigorously fight the move by prosecutors.

``To re-arrest him, and now for the court to say he should be held pending an appeal ... the concept of rule of law is breached,'' Mr Bird's lawyer, Muhammed Shafee Abdullah, told AAP on Monday.

Mr Bird was set free by the Kuala Lumpur High Court last Wednesday, but was unable to return home immediately because his visa for Malaysia had expired, and was then detained at an immigration office.

However, prosecutors had suggested on Wednesday that organising a new visa for Mr Bird was a formality.

``This is total trickery on their part,'' Mr Abdullah said.

It's understood Mr Bird was escorted to the airport on Monday morning by Australian consular officials, having finally obtained the visa.

But he was then taken back into custody before he could board his flight.

His Australian-born lawyer, Tania Scivetti told AAP the application hearing, and any subsequent appeal, would be ``fiercely'' challenged on the grounds it's ``contrary to our fundamental rights to liberty and rule of law''.

``They informed us he was going back today, and on that basis, the embassy escorted him to the airport,'' Ms Scivetti told AAP.

``He was just about to board a flight to go back to Australia and 10 minutes before he was to board they arrested him.''

Mr Bird was initially arrested at a cafe near his apartment in Kuala Lumpur on March 1 last year and accused of supplying an undercover police officer with 167 grams of methamphetamine.

However, the prosecution's case collapsed following allegations of corruption against Inspector Luther Nurjib - the undercover officer who arrested Mr Bird - who was later accused of ``setting up'' the Australian.

Insp Nurjib was found guilty of contempt of court and fined RM2000 ($A665), after it emerged he had threatened and attempted to bribe a witness in the Bird case.

In delivering the ruling, Kuala Lumpur High Court's Justice Kamardin Hashim found the prosecution failed to prove its case and the defence raised reasonable doubt.

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Boat journalists 'exhausted, sunburnt'

Two journalists, one Dutch, the other American, have been found on an asylum-seeker boat at Christmas Island. Picture: Colin Murty Source: TheAustralian

THE two journalists who arrived on an asylum seeker boat at Christmas Island were on assignment for The New York Times magazine.

Australian Federal Police and Customs officials confirmed the two journalists arrived at Christmas Island on Monday onboard a boat carrying 57 passengers and two crew that was detected north of the island overnight.

The two men were named on Twitter by a Reuters reporter as writer Luke Mogelson and photographer Joel van Houdt.

Mr van Houdt's girlfriend, journalist Amie Ferris-Rotman, said the pair made the risky three-day voyage from Indonesia on assignment for the magazine.

``Joel emailed me. He said they're both exhausted and badly sunburned, and are laying low for now,'' Ms Ferris-Rotman told AAP.

Mr Mogelson and Mr van Houdt are founding contributors to the website Razistan.org, which was set up to highlight the war in Afghanistan.

``Our core project is a website of unique photo essays that bring into vivid relief not only the conflict and its participants but also the country and its people,'' the website says.

Mr van Houdt, 32, is a Dutch national whose photographs have appeared in The Wall Street Journal.

Mr Mogelson, 30, is a Kabul-based US citizen.

Ms Ferris-Rotman said the journalists knew the dangers of the journey, which has claimed dozens of lives this year alone.

``I was incredibly anxious. He managed to send some texts from a safe house in Jakarta, but then the contact suddenly stopped for a few days,'' Ms Ferris-Rotman said.

``I now realise that's when he was on the boat. I am incredibly relieved they made it without sharks, the ship breaking or the Australian police confiscating his photo cards.''

A spokeswoman for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship said the pair disembarked from a suspected irregular entry vessel on Monday before revealing themselves as journalists.

This latest boat arrival follows a vessel that arrived on Sunday carrying 88 passengers and two crew.

It was the first asylum seeker boat to arrive in Australia since Tony Abbott's election as prime minister on Saturday.

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Keith on cassettes and rock 'n' roll

Country music artist Keith Urban has a new album being released, titled Fuse. Picture: AP Source: AP

ONE of the childhood memories Sunday and Faith Kidman Urban may tease their father about in years to come will be that contraption he used to test out his new songs on them.

It was called a cassette player back in the day.

Just like the other seven studio albums the country superstar has released, the songs for his latest record, Fuse, began as demos on a cassette tape.

Urban, who deeply respects the musical intuition of wife Nicole, often puts that machine on their kitchen bench and plays his works in progress.

But he isn't quite ready to use his five and two-year-old daughters as unbiased arbiters of his future hits, whether it's current No. 1 on the US Country Airplay chart Little Bit Of Everything or the potential smash Somewhere In My Car.

"It might be a good song for the Wiggles (if they love it). I'll be doing Somewhere In My Big Red Car on the next record. It's nice when (Sunday) likes the song, but it's probably not an accurate barometer," he says backstage a few hours before performing at the famed Red Rocks amphitheatre in Colorado.

Keith Urban performs in the US. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

"There are certain ones, if they've got the groove factor, that they like and that's a good sign."

Even after consistently hitting the top spot since But For The Grace Of God delivered his first of 15 No. 1 country chart singles in the US back in 2001, Urban remains grateful each time his fans or supporters at American radio reward him with a chart topper.

His previous two records, Defying Gravity and Get Closer, delivered more of those milestones and Urban's star turn as a coach on the inaugural season of The Voice here in 2012 helped finally deliver a coveted No. 1 on the Australian album charts.

"I think it may mean even more now because you only get so many of them," he says.

"I've been very fortunate on the last record, and now this one, to get some more.

"Certainly Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing didn't have one; I think there were a couple of twos. Being in rehab didn't help. People were a little worried I think."

Urban released Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing in November 2006, days after he entered rehab and just a few months after his wedding to Kidman in Sydney.

His personal crisis was followed by another chart resurgence, but he felt he hit a career crossroads 18 months ago. Urban was recovering from throat surgery, had signed on to do The Voice at Kidman's encouragement and while a greatest hits collection was buying him time to consider his next studio record, the country hero didn't know what he wanted to do.

As those who have witnessed him on The Voice and now American Idol are aware, Urban is a voracious music fan who listens to everything.

Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. for FOX's "American Idol XIII." Picture: AP Source: AP

And for his eighth studio record, Fuse, he wanted a chance to experiment, to push his sound into new territory.

Listen to some of the tracks from Fuse below:

He had his light bulb moment after recalling a documentary he had seen about the fraught making of U2's Achtung Baby, their fusion of rock'n'roll with the next wave of recording technology.

"I have to think that the voice surgery I had at the end of 2011 was the turning point," he says. "Yeah, I had that 'band at the crossroads' moment because I have made a lot of records and made a particular sound and I am interested in where my sound can go next while still being me.

"Some people will say it's a contemporary country record, others will say there is nothing country about this record. It just depends who you talk to."

Like his current US concerts, which probably won't make it to Australia now until late 2014, most of the songs on Fuse started with a drum machine and a banjo.

But they were finished with an array of international hitmakers you rarely see on the credits of a country record.

Keith Urban's album cover for Fuse. Picture: AP Source: AP

Urban sought out or was matched with an eclectic collection of collaborators for Fuse including Butch Walker (Pink, Fall Out Boy), Mike Elizondo (Eminem, Avenged Sevenfold), Jay Joyce (The Wallflowers) and Stargate (Beyonce, Rihanna).

"What happened was I got halfway through the record and I hit this point where I couldn't jack it up to the next place I wanted to in my head. I needed people," he says.

"I wanted to collaborate because I wanted to know if I work with Jay Joyce if that will affect the way I play guitar.

"Someone else's presence and the way they play changes the way you play. If I sit in with John Mayer, I am liable to play stuff with him that I wouldn't play with Brad Paisley. It's reactionary to the moment."

The banjo and drum machine aesthetic isn't alien to Urban because that's how he learned to play solo in his early pubs days in Australia, setting up in the corner with his instrument and a beat box to play covers at the Normanby Hotel in Brisbane, sometimes to only two people.

Between his Sunday evening sets, he would head to the nearest KFC for some dinner and then sit in his car, listening to music.

Keith Urban performs during the NFL Kickoff in 2013. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Which explains another of his musical obsessions beside the guitar and the radio - cars.

Fuse has three songs dedicated to this particular passion - the aforementioned Somewhere In My Car, the Bonnie and Clyde narrative Cop Car and the reverential Red Camaro.

"I have always loved the car. I think it's a strong metaphor for so many things. And rock 'n' roll has a lot of the car, too," he says.

"It's youth, it's usually that first piece of independence and freedom that you get. And then it becomes the place where so many things in your life happen."

Like romance. Many of the car songs also reference girls.

He becomes a little coy when asked if he and the missus enjoy the occasional romantic drive.

"Nice segue," he says, chuckling. "Gosh, a specific romantic drive? I don't know, we go on dates all the time, have date night once a week so that's always a romantic drive."

Actor Nicole Kidman, left, and musician Keith Urban arrive at the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel this year. Picture: AP Source: News Limited

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Man dead after building wall collapse

A man has died after part of a building collapsed in Bayswater.

Rescue teams are at the scene of a building collapse in Bayswater. Picture: Grant Wynne, ABC Source: Twitter

A man has died after a wall collapsed in Bayswater today. Picture: Nine News Perth Source: PerthNow

A MAN has died after part of a building collapsed in Bayswater.

Police said the incident happened just before 4.30pm at a Clune Street waste reduction plant.

It is believed firefighters attempted to free the man, but he died at the scene.

A WorkSafe spokeswoman told PerthNow they were investigating the incident and inspectors were on their way to the scene.

She said it appeared an internal wall had collapsed inside the building.

A man has died after a wall collapsed in Bayswater today. Picture: Nine News Perth Source: PerthNow

Police spokeswoman Sergeant Naomi Smith said further details on the death were not known at this stage, but police would prepare a report for the coroner.

Emergency services are at the scene.

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Sports party set for shock Senate win

The Australian Sports Party's Wayne Dropulich is set to pinch a Senate seat in a shock poll result. Source: The Courier-Mail

LIKE all good sportsmen, potential West Australian senator Wayne Dropulich is refusing to celebrate a win until he hears the final siren.

In a shock outcome, the Australian Sports Party is predicted to win a place in the senate out of WA, despite polling just 0.22 per cent of the initial vote as counting continues.

The micro-party is set to benefit from a slew of preferences to potentially deliver Mr Dropulich into a seat, on the back of a campaign championing a growth of grassroots sport and a push for more active children.

"We are in with a good shot for a first-time party,'' Mr Dropulich said.

"But it is just a case of wait and see for now. We are happy with the position and hopeful it continues.''

Mr Dropulich, a former Australian gridiron representative player who still plays for a seniors team, said he would have a healthy message to take to Canberra if given the chance.

"It is about giving people the opportunity to enjoy and participate in grassroots sport and the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities,'' he said.

And in a diplomatic answer, Mr Dropulich refused to reveal his AFL preferences in the football-mad state.

But he did say he had been delighted to see the Fremantle Dockers prevail against Geelong in the AFL preliminary final on election day.

"I was very pleased to see them win - it is great for the state.''

Status quo in WA, despite some new voices

Status quo was the election headline in Western Australia - but there will still be several new voices on the state's political stage.

Despite Labor's primary vote slumping to a miserable 29 per cent in WA, the party looked set to retain their three WA legislative seats, with former frontbenchers Gary Gray and Melissa Parke hanging on, and Alannah MacTiernan finally getting to Canberra.

But major damage was still done to WA Labor, with the ousted government poised to lose one of their Senate seats and a greater swing away from Labor in the west than in Queensland.

According to deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop and WA Premier Colin Barnett, that shows the apparent contempt in which the Labor party is held in Perth and beyond.

Barnett wants better deal for WA

Only one federal WA seat looked likely to change hands, with Liberal candidate Rick Wilson holding a slight lead in O'Connor against Nationals hopeful Chub Witham.

And Ms MacTiernan, a former high-profile state Labor minister, said the "Greek tragedy'' of the ALP's leadership battle outweighed any policy positives, but a strong Labor voice was still possible.

"I think that we can form a very credible opposition and rebuild for the future,'' Ms MacTiernan said.

Christian Porter, a former state rival of Ms MacTiernan, was elevated to the federal ranks in Pearce, despite a slight awing away from the Liberals in his seat.

And in time he will hope to join the four WA MPs tipped for ministerial positions - Ms Bishop, Stirling MP Michael Keenan and senators David Johnston and Mathias Cormann.

Disappointment for the Nationals echoed across the state, with the party failing to win Durack, and the bid for a Senate seat on a knife edge - even with former AFL star David Wirrpanda in the ranks.

Despite public goodwill, Wirrpanda failed to generate the popularity he enjoyed as a premiership player for West Coast, with the Nationals' Senate vote in WA languishing behind the Palmer United Party late with counting continuing.

And Labor's decision to put former union stalwart Joe Bullock on top of their senate ticket in WA looks to have cost Senator Louise Pratt her job.

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'WA economy to flourish', vows Bishop

Julie Bishop, with supporters and friends including WA Premier Colin Barnett, at a victory celebration breakfast at Cottesloe Beach in Perth. Picture: Kerris Berrington Source: PerthNow

DEPUTY Liberal leader Julie Bishop is looking forward to 'getting down to work straight away' after the Coalition won an 'emphatic' victory in the Federal Election overnight.

At her post-election breakfast in Cottesloe this morning, Ms Bishop said she was looking forward to being foreign minister.

"It's one of the greatest honours I can imagine," she said.

"I've had a number of phone calls overnight from representatives of major trading partners and allies and there's been a great deal of warmth in the conversations that I've had with a number of our friends.

"I would hope to make my first visits to our neighbours in the region - New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Singapore."

WA Liberals rejoice in national power play

Of the 77 per cent of votes counted, the coalition holds 88 seats in Parliament against the Labor party's 53.

In WA, Liberal candidate won all but three of the 15 seats, prompting Ms Bishop to declare it was an 'emphatic victory' in the state.

"In WA the primary vote of Labor is now 29 per cent that is the lowest of any state or territory," she said.

"I don't think Labor would find much joy in the result in WA.

"The Liberal primary vote is about 51 per cent and that's an emphatic win in WA."

Barnett wants better deal for WA

Ms Bishop denied Premier Colin Barnett's recent budget cuts had affected West Australians decisions at the polls.

"I believe that the WA people know that the Barnett Government have had some tough budget decisions to make," she said.

"But they will be relieved to know that federally there is a Government that will support Western Australia.

"We will repeal the carbon tax, mining tax, we will get rid of red tape, we will embrace free trade agreements. We will be the sort of government that will make the West Australian economy flourish.

Ms Bishop will fly to Canberra this afternoon to begin briefings with the Coalition and set a plan in place.

"My Abbott and I have spoken this morning and we will be getting down to work straight away," she said.

"We intend to be a purposeful Government. We intend to bring stability and certainty and competence to the heart of Government."

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Barnett wants better deal for WA

WA Premier Colin Barnett, pictured in Cottesloe this morning, says he expects a better deal for WA. Picture: Kerris Berrington Source: PerthNow

WEST Australian Premier Colin Barnett is expecting a better deal for his state and a better reception for himself as the Tony Abbott-led Liberal government is installed into Canberra.

Celebrating with federal deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop in the leafy Perth suburb of Cottesloe, Mr Barnett said Mr Abbott's ascension would also be great news for Australia's international trading partners.

And Mr Barnett also dismissed the argument that dissatisfaction with his government may be why federal Liberal candidates failed to claim any of the Labor seats in the state.

Mr Barnett said he would contact Mr Abbott this week to open a line of communication he hoped would prove fruitful.

"I have got no doubt Tony Abbott will prove to be a very good PM, and for WA it will also be good,'' he told reporters on Sunday.

"There is no doubt it will restore international confidence particularly in the mining industry.

"I think the Labor governments have let this state down badly. There has almost been a patronising attitude to WA.''

As counting stood today, the Liberals were holding their federal seats in WA.

They had a chance of winning O'Connor from the Nationals, as well as three Senate places.

The result diluted talk of a protest vote against his unpopular moves to cut education budgets in recent weeks, Mr Barnett said.

"No one's blaming me, no one has said anything to me at all,'' Mr Barnett said.

"We won a big victory in (the state election in) March, we won a big victory today - I think WA is doing pretty well.''

The coalition win might not help Mr Barnett secure federal funding he had wanted for rail projects, given Mr Abbott favours road over rail funding.

But Mr Barnett praised Mr Abbott's promised removal of the mining and carbon taxes.

"Tony Abbott absolutely has a clear mandate to repeal those taxes,'' Mr Barnett said.

"If people in parliament oppose that they are failing in their responsibility as MPs.''

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Two on cemetery murder charges

Baldivis woman Diana Matthews, whose body was found in a lake at the Rockingham Regional Memorial Park on April 29, 2011. Source: PerthNow

Friends and family hold a memorial for Baldivis woman Diana Matthews whose body was found in a lake at the Rockingham Regional Memorial Park on April 29, 2011 Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

POLICE have charged two people with murder over the death of Baldivis woman Diana Matthews, whose body was found at a Rockingham cemetery in 2011.

Major Crime Detectives made an arrest on Thursday last week following a two-year investigation.

Ms Matthews' body was discovered half-submerged in a man-made lake at Rockingham Regional Memorial Park.

She was last seen alive walking from her Baldivis home to a park on Tamworth Blvd at about 8pm.

Earlier that evening, she was seen at the Caltex service station on Baldivis Rd.

At 11.30pm, less than four hours later, passers-by found the 46-year-old's body at the cemetery.

Detectives have not revealed how Ms Matthews died.

Police have charged a 33-year-old woman with murder.

The accused woman was remanded in custody after appearing in the Perth Magistrates Court yesterday.

She will next appear in the Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on September 25.

This morning, police said a 36-year-old man had also been charged with murder and he will appear in the Perth Magistrates Court tomorrow.

A 32-year-old woman who had been assisting police with their inquiry has been released without charge.

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