Hills’ epic spray at US church

Adam Hills' latest rant was aimed at the Westboro Baptist Church. Source: YouTube

The genius comedian and Academy award-winning actor has died aged 63.

ADAM Hills = 1, Westboro Baptist Church = 0.

The Aussie comedian took aim at the controversial American Church on his UK talk show after the group threatened to picket Robin Williams' memorial service.

Just days after the Mrs Doubtfire star died, the church announced on their Twitter page that "Robin Williams is in hell" for playing several gay characters in films and for supporting the US troops.

But on his TV show The Last Leg, Hills unleashed an epic rant at the Church, suggesting they go after more deserving targets than Williams.

"If you really believe in standing up to those threatening the Christian way of life, Westboro Baptist Church, how about putting your money where your mouth is, taking a direct flight to Iraq and picketing the people threatening to behead Christians if they don't convert?" said Hills.

"I will personally pay for every member of the Westboro Baptist Church to fly to Iraq right now. I'll even fly you first class and pay the carbon offset because I reckon one of two things will happen.

Shirley Phelps-Roper and her daughter Megan from the Westboro Baptist Church. Source: AFP

"Either you'll die while defending your beliefs and you'll be carried away to heaven by a gold chariot to sit at the right hand of God for all eternity OR if I'm right, and I'm willing to bet a dozen first class flights that I am, God will be standing at the pearly gates alongside a 5 ft 8 hairy American comedian dressed as a middle aged Scottish nanny saying, 'Heeeellllooooo'.

"Just when you think there's a chance he might let you in, God will look back and go, 'Hey, not only do I love fags but I fu**ing hate di**s'."

The Westboro Baptist Church member's failed to show up to Williams' memorial service which was held yesterday in San Francisco, but they did respond to Hills on twitter, saying, "Iraq here we come".

Originally published as Hills' epic spray at US church

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Petrol giants ‘ripping off’ motorists

moneysaverHQ's Moira Geddes talks to Bingle spokesperson Marcela Balart about what causes petrol price hikes and variations at the pump.

Unlawful ... The ACCC has begun legal proceedings in the Federal Court against most of the nation's petrol retailers. Picture: AFP/Norbert Millauer Source: AFP

THE ACCC has begun landmark legal action against most of the nation's petrol retailers and a fuel market data company it has been investigating since 2012, alleging they have ripped off motorists by sharing pricing information.

In proceedings commenced in the Federal Court, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission claims "information sharing arrangements" between market data company Informed Sources and BP, Caltex, Woolworths, Eureka (Coles Express) and 7-Eleven allowed the petrol retailers to communicate with each other about their prices, thereby "substantially lessening competition" in breach of the law.

"The ACCC alleges that the arrangements were likely to increase retail petrol price coordination and cooperation, and were likely to decrease competitive rivalry," ACCC chairman Rod Sims said.

"Given the importance of price competition in petrol retailing, the ACCC is concerned that consumers may be paying more for petrol as a result," Mr Sims said.

'(The) arrangements were likely to increase retail petrol price coordination and cooperation' ... Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chairman Rod Sims. Source: News Limited

"The ACCC alleges that fuel retailers can use, and have used, the Informed Sources service as a near real-time communication device in relation to petrol pricing.

"In particular, it is alleged that retailers can propose a price increase to their competitors and monitor the response to it. If, for example, the response is not sufficient, they can quickly withdraw the proposal and may punish competitors that have not accepted the proposed increased price," Mr Sims said.

Woolworths responded: "To be clear, Woolworths Petrol uses Informed Sources to gather actual published prices in the market to ensure we are the most competitive.

"We do not understand how shutting down these websites and apps will benefit consumers.

"Woolworths will strongly defend our use of Informed Sources for the benefit of our customers."

Caltex said it "strongly rejects the allegation that the (Informed Sources) service is in any way illegal. Caltex will defend the ACCC action".

But Australian Automobile Association CEO Andrew McKellar said: "Motorists strongly support the legal action taken by the ACCC.

"The allegations of coordinated price sharing among fuel retailers are deeply concerning and should be examined thoroughly."

Originally published as Petrol giants 'ripping off' motorists

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Dockers to appeal Fyfe ban

Fremantle's Nat Fyfe has been suspended for the third time in two years. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: News Corp Australia

FREMANTLE has opted to appeal star midfielder Nat Fyfe's two-game suspension, with a hearing to take place tomorrow evening.

The Dockers sought an extension this afternoon as the club weighed up its options to challenge last night's AFL Tribunal ruling, which penalised Fyfe for striking Hawthorn's Jordan Lewis.

With Fremantle's top-four hopes potentially hinging on its final game of the season against fifth-placed Port Adelaide, and Michael Barlow already ruled out for a fortnight with a broken thumb, the club is desperate to have Fyfe available.

The grounds for Fremantle's appeal are not yet known.

The decision comes after Fremantle coach Ross Lyon said a still-maturing Fyfe had to learn to harness his competitive spirit in the right way following his third suspension in the past two seasons.

"He's a young player. I think what gets lost with Nathan is he's 22,'' Lyon said.

"But he's a real emerging leader at this football club. Really big influence on and off the field and he's a pleasure to coach.

"It's just that competitive spirit. It's just harnessing it in the right way. In the heat of the moment it doesn't take much to go wrong to find yourself in trouble.

"And clearly what compounds it is the system of loading and past penalties ... from an offence that was debatable anyway.

"I've got no real concerns there. Nathan's an incredibly intelligent guy, focused firmly on team success and I'm sure he'll get the balance right.''

THE BOYS DISCUSS FREO'S WEAPONS IN THE SUPERFOOTY PODCAST BELOW OR CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE IN ITUNES

Forward Hayden Ballantyne is a certain inclusion to face the Lions, while midfielder Nick Suban and defender Garrick Ibbotson are also pushing strongly for a return to the team.

Lyon said the potential loss of both Fyfe and Barlow in Fremantle's engine room would be significant.

"It's not ideal, straight away you lose 60 possessions and a couple of goals,'' he said.

"But we're a no excuse football club. So I've already spoken to the players — we're squarely focused on Brisbane.

"They're in really good form and have got some top flight players and they've knocked off some finalists up there.

"We understand the magnitude of the challenge but we aim to respond powerfully.''

Lyon said he was not worried about playing a day game at the Gabba, after Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson's criticism over the conditions.

"We love the heat and the sun, coming from Perth,'' he said.

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WA Parliament to investigate FIFO suicides

THE families of fly-in, fly-out workers who have committed suicide have a welcomed a decision by WA Parliament to investigate the deaths.

The Education and Health Standing Committee tonight agreed to hold an inquiry into the suicides of FIFO workers in WA.

The committee, whose chair is former mental health minister and Government MP Graham Jacobs, will confirm its terms of reference tomorrow.

It will present a "preliminary report" to Parliament by the end of the year.

● If you are experiencing depression or are suicidal, or know someone who is, help is available. Lifeline: 13 11 44, Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

A parliamentary inquiry has the power to compel mining bosses to provide evidence at public hearings about the mental healthcare they provide employees.

The decision comes after the families of FIFO workers who have committed suicide have spoken to The Sunday Times in recent weeks calling for action to stop the deaths.

It is understood there have been at least nine suicides in just over a year.

Four Pilbara deaths from March to November last year have already been referred to the State Coroner for a potential inquest.

Mental Health Commissioner Tim Marney also said recently he wanted to appoint a senior doctor to do a case-by-case review of the deaths.

Mr Marney said FIFO workers had "greater exposure to risk factors known to contribute to deaths by suicide".

Rhys Connor, a 25-year-old father of one, took his life in July last year.

The family of the concreter and carpenter released his suicide note to The Sunday Times last month in a bid to raise awareness of the mental health problems facing the state's FIFO workforce.

The note warned West Australians "don't know what it's like to work FIFO and have depression".

His family also released haunting video footage from an interview conducted just days before Rhys's death as part of a yet-to-be-released government-funded project into our mining workforce.

In the interview, Rhys said workers were struggling with depression, relationship breakdowns and boredom.

He said anyone planning to work FIFO should "rethink" the idea.

The Sunday Times and PerthNow took the rare step of publishing Rhys's poignant last words.

● WATCH RHYS'S VIDEO HERE

This was done in consultation with mental health experts, who believe the best way to reduce our suicide toll is through open dialogue about the issue.

His mother Anita Miller had urged the Education and Health Standing Committee to take up the inquiry – which was introduced into Parliament as a motion by Opposition Leader Mark McGowan.

Tonight, Ms Miller said was relieved the inquiry will ahead.

"It won't bring Rhys back – but it could save others from committing suicide," she said.

Ms Miller, who said she would give evidence at the inquiry if asked, said the biggest issue facing FIFO workers was the stigma attached to mental health issues.

She said open debate, like the inquiry, was vital to breaking this down.

John Migas, whose brother Stephen took his life on November 9 last year, said it was good to see WA's politicians trying to "make a difference".

John said he would also give evidence at the inquiry if asked.

"If they need me to help then I will," he said.

"I'm willing to do anything that can save lives or stop another family from going through what we have."

Stephen was working for subcontractor D & S Drainage Services on a Fortescue Metals Group maintenance project. He took his life in his donga a week before his 37th birthday.

John said he hoped mining companies would be called upon to give evidence at the inquiry.

Mr McGowan said the inquiry was a "great opportunity to find ways of saving lives from the scourge of suicide."

"I'm very supportive of the mining industry and hope they take this opportunity to put forward their view on this important issue and what else can be done to prevent suicides," he said.

"FIFO workers are a very important part of our community and it suits many families lifestyles.

"It's essential that we support this workforce and their families."

There are about 50,000 FIFO workers in WA.

Other members of the Education and Health Standing Committee include former police minister Rob Johnson and Labor MP Rita Saffioti.

* If you need help, contact Lifeline WA 13 11 14 or crisischat.lifelinewa.org.au

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BHP sacks 500 iron ore workers

BHP Billiton's iron ore mine at Mount Whaleback, in WA's Pilbara. Hundreds of jobs at the mine have gone as the mining giant slashes costs. Source: News Limited

BHP Billiton chief executive Andrew Mackenzie. Source: News Corp Australia

THE world's largest miner, BHP Billiton, has cut 500 Australian jobs out of its iron ore business.

The jobs have gone in the last month, many more are expected and are linked to an ongoing review of the business by management consultants McKinsey & Company.

However, the WA Premier Colin Barnett said reports suggesting BHP Billiton is set to slash 3000 positions from its workforce are inaccurate.

The cuts come with the iron ore spot price having plunged more than 30 per cent so far in 2014 and the miner trying to slash costs.

The iron ore spot price currently is about $US93 a tonne.

The focus during the recent boom in iron ore prices was to expand as quickly as possible and move tonnes onto ships to capitalise.

That happened too quickly, BHP Billiton chief executive Andrew Mackenzie said earlier in June, with costs that soared then now being reduced.

Among the jobs to go were 170 positions at its Mount Whaleback iron ore mine in the Pilbara and 100 roles at its iron ore division headquarters in Perth.

The iron ore business employs 24,000 people, comprising about 16,000 BHP employees and contractors.

BHP said it was using the external consultants to help with improvement initiatives and organisational reviews as part of an ongoing focus on productivity and cost reduction.

"It is about continuing to safely improve our business and ensuring we are a competitive, world-class operation," a company statement.

"We have been open with our employees about the work being done to improve productivity, and the review, and we hold regular all-employee town hall meetings and question and answer sessions with the business leaders as a matter of course."

The company is also reviewing NSW Illawarra coal operations and is set to cut jobs there to reduce costs.

The Premier said today: "I understand some of the media reports are exaggerated.

"BHP is certainly reducing its workforce but the numbers are likely to be in the hundreds, not the thousands, and essentially they are contract workers for whom the contracts have now expired or are about to.

"Right now, it's not the best time in the mining industry."

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Rinehart family feud boils over in court

John Hancock, the son of australia's richest woman Gina Rinehart, has taken aim at his sister. Picture: Sam Mooy Source: News Corp Australia

JOHN Hancock, the son of mining billionaire Gina Rinehart, branded his youngest sister Ginia a "moron", "an oxygen thief" and "intellectually disabled ", a court heard.

The alleged attacks on Ginia Rinehart were revealed in the NSW Supreme Court where the children of Australia"s richest woman are battling for control of a $5 billion family trust.

Bianca Rinehart arrives at the Supreme Court of NSW today. Source: News Corp Australia

"Tell Ginia to wear a bag over her head to cover up her genetic deficiencies," the court was told Mr Hancock allegedly said.

Mining billionaire Gina Rinehart tells judge that daughter Bianca leaked company secrets

Ms Rinehart "s eldest daughter, Bianca Rinehart, who wants to be appointed trustee over the family"s fortune, was questioned about Mr Hancock"s attacks when she took the stand to give evidence.

Billionaire mining boss Gina Rinehart. Picture: AAP/Tony McDonough Source: Supplied

She said she did not "approve of the language" but defended her brother.

"He doesn't want to see the family business left to someone ... who is not up to it," she said.

She said Ginia, who had backed her mother"s push for an independent trustee to be appointed, was "rendered useless" in the legal battle because she was "so lost in it".

A waste of oxygen according to her brother ... Ginia Rinehart. Source: News Limited

She said there was only a "superficial disconnect" in her relationship with Ginia.

The court also heard that Gina Rinehart had recently emailed swim star Grant Hackett, who is close to the family, to try to intervene in the bitter dispute.

####

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Egypt ‘won’t interfere’ in AJ ruling

The elderly parents of Australian journalist Peter Greste say they are shattered by an Egyptian court's decision to jail him for seven years.

Long ordeal ... Australian journalist Peter Greste was arrested in December as part of a sweeping crackdown on Islamist supporters of ousted President Mohammed Morsi after the military overthrew him. Source: Supplied

EGYPT'S President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi said he will not interfere in court rulings, a day after three Al-Jazeera journalists including Australian Peter Greste, were sentenced to seven years in prison, sparking an international outcry.

El-Sissi was speaking in a nationally televised speech during a military graduation ceremony tonight.

He said Egypt has an independent judiciary and urged people to stop commenting or criticising rulings by courts.

"We will not interfere in court verdicts," he said.

Al-Sisi said Egypt's authorities "will not interfere in judicial matters".

A government official told AFP Sisi cannot legally pardon the journalists until a final court ruling after an appeal.

The shocking news comes as Prime Minister Tony Abbott has vowed to keep lobbying Egypt's government to free jailed Greste.

The federal government today summoned a senior Egyptian diplomat to express outrage over the seven-year sentence handed to the Al Jazeera reporter in Cairo.

It was the latest diplomatic overture from the government to Egyptian authorities about the case, including from Mr Abbott who twice contacted the country's leadership to lobby for Mr Greste. "The Australian government will continue to make intercessions at every level with the Egyptian government and elsewhere to try and ensure that Peter Greste and his colleagues are swiftly released," the prime minister told parliament.

The Prime Minister said he failed to see how the Egyptian government's crackdown on extremist groups is helped by the "very harsh sentence".

With the Egyptian Ambassador Hassan El-Laithy in Cairo, First Secretary Sherif Bedeir Hussein was ordered to front DFAT officials. He said nothing arriving or leaving the department's headquarters.

PETER GRESTE'S PARENTS IN SHOCK

The parents of jailed Australian journalist Peter Greste have vowed to continue fighting for him and for the broader cause of press freedom, saying they are horrified at the thought of their son languishing in a harsh Egyptian prison.

An emotional Juris and Lois Greste today addressed the media in Brisbane, reiterating their message — the same echoed by the international community — that their son was "not a criminal".

The pair often held each other closely as they told of how they had endured a "very fragile" sleep since Mr Greste was sentenced to seven years in Egypt.

PETER GRESTE: What his future holds in an Egypt jail

Shattered ... Peter Greste's parents Juris & Lois were left devastated by the Egyptian court's decision. Picture: Liam Kidston. Source: News Corp Australia

The couple have slammed the sentence as a "slap in the face and a kick in the groin to Australia".

Mr Greste was accused of supporting the blacklisted Muslim Brotherhood, despite no evidence being produced that he or his Al-Jazeera English colleagues were doing anything other than simply covering the situation in Egypt.

His parents today said they had barely slept and were having difficulty collecting their thoughts in the wake of the devastating verdict.

Mr Greste said he was "still in a state of shock", saying it was a "dark time", not only for their family, but also for journalism.

"We are devastated, shocked and dismayed at this finding," Mr Greste said.

"We are not usually a family of superlatives, but I have to say this morning my vocabulary fails to convey just how shattered we are.

"Of course we were hoping for something entirely different. Although we had considered a range of other outcomes, you can never prepare yourself for something as painful as this."

He said the family was adamant that the campaign for media freedom "must never end".

"We are absolutely determined and committed to continue this battle until Peter, as well as his colleagues are all out of prison and free to do and go wherever they decide," he said.

The pair said they were completely satisfied that the Australian Government had truly explored every possible avenue in the lead-up to the trial and sentence, but took aim at the verdict as a blow to the entire nation.

"We put it to you that it is also a slap in the face and a kick in the groin to Australia, as well as all fair-minded people around the world," he said.

Mrs Greste broke down as she told of how she believed her son would push through the dark days ahead, despite facing the prospect of remaining in a tough Egyptian jail.

"I know Peter as being very, very strong," she said.

"This will be a hard time for him but I know that he'll get through it and my Mike and Andrew are going in today and they'll support him and he'll be OK.

"But I can imagine that he's as shocked as we are and absolutely, probably, finding it very difficult at this point. But he'll get through that."

Peter Greste's parents react to his guilty verdict, given seven years in an Egyptian jail for reporting. Courtesy ABC News Australia

ABBOTT 'BEWILDERED' BY SENTENCE

The verdict — delivered by a judge to a packed courtroom in Cairo — has caused outrage around the world.

The Prime Minister earlier said the government would again push for Greste's release.

"We're obviously shocked, dismayed, really bewildered by the decision of the court in Egypt," the Prime Minister told reporters in Parliament House this morning.

Adding his voice to the chorus of those critical of the decision, Mr Abbott said his government will be talking to the reporter's family and the Egyptian government to see how they can free Mr Greste "as quickly as possible".

But he hasn't made any fresh representations to the new President since last night's decision.

The PM insisted he won't be engaging in "unhelpful megaphone diplomacy".

"That won't do Peter Greste any good. It won't do his two Al-Jazeera colleagues any good," he said.

"What we want to do is to talk calmly and patiently and reasonably to the Egyptian Government."

Mr Abbott said his understanding was that the country's court system works at "arm's length" from its government.

"But I do understand that once the court system has done its work then there are options for presidential acts, presidential clemency, presidential pardons and so on and that's why I'm not in the business of being critical of the Government as such."

The PM says he is bewildered by an Egyptian court's decision to jail Australian journalist Peter Greste.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said she will try to intervene to help Greste while his family are "devastated" by his seven-year jail term in Egypt.

Ms Bishop said Greste was "caught up" in a politically motivated situation.

She said the government was providing consular report and were now waiting for the reasons for Greste's seven year jail sentence, which are yet to be published.

"It was a politically motivated situation in the first place when the military were taking over from the brotherhood and Peter Greste got caught up in reporting on that particular political scenario," she told Sky News.

"The reasons for the decision haven't yet been published but will be given in due course to Peter Greste's lawyers and we will have a much closer look at how or why this verdict was reached."

'Gutted' ... Peter Greste's brothers Andrew and Mick were in court to hear their brother's sentence. Picture: Khaled Desouki Source: AFP

She said the Australian ambassador in Cairo were keeping in constant contact with Peter Greste's brothers, who are currently in Egypt with the family "utterly devastated" at the verdict.

Ms Bishop said the government would continue to maintain close consular support with Peter Greste.

"There have been 13 hearings and yet the evidence has been so scant, we just can't understand it," she said.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop spoke of the governments shock and disbelief at the outcome of the trial of Peter Greste.

Ms Bishop said the Australian Government will talk to the new Egyptian Government to see if intervention is possible.

"The Australian government is shocked at the verdict in the Peter Greste case," Ms Bishop said.

"We are deeply dismayed by the fact that a sentence has been imposed and we are appalled by the severity of it.

"The Australian government cannot simply understand it based on the evidence that was presented.

"Peter Greste is a well respected Australian journalist. He was not there to support the Muslim Brotherhood.

"We are all shocked by this verdict and that includes the Prime Minister.

"We will initiate contact at the highest level."

Ms Bishop said she had spoken to Greste's family, and they were "devastated".

"They are devastated as you'd expect, they were hoping there'd be a positive outcome ... that was the hope they held," she said.

The White House has called on Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to pardon Greste and the two other Al Jazeera journalists.

"We call on the Egyptian government to pardon these individuals or commute their sentences so that they can be released immediately, and grant clemency for all politically motivated sentences," said White House spokesman Josh Earnest overnight.

The White House called for clemency after Secretary of State John Kerry — a day after visiting Cairo — called the verdicts handed down against the journalists as "chilling and draconian".

SQUALID, OVERCROWDED: Aussie's brutal life in Egyptian jail

Trying to help ... Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop holding a press conference on Peter Greste in Canberra. Picture: Kym Smith Source: News Corp Australia

Desperate for freedom ... Al-Jazeera news channel's Australian journalist Peter Greste today, listening to the verdict inside the defendants cage. Picture: Khaled Desouki Source: AFP

She added they were still considering their legal options including an appeal, but they were not sure how long an appeal might take.

"They are also mindful of the fact there is a long appeal process ahead of them, but it's fair to say they are absolutely devastated by the verdict," she said.

Ms Bishop emphasised the Australian government would provide ongoing support to Greste and his family.

"We will provide all consular assistance possible to Peter Greste and his family," Ms Bishop said in Canberra.

When asked if the Australian government had done enough to help Greste, Ms Bishop said she made repeated calls and "cannot think of what more" they could have done.

"I cannot think of what more we could have done, we have made constant representations at the highest level of the Egyptian government," she said.

Australian journalist Peter Greste has been found guilty and has received a seven year jail sentence.

"This is a very complicated case. It is a very complicated situation."

Ms Bishop fears Greste was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

"We are doing what we can to have this Australian journalist brought home as soon as possible." Egypt's ambassador to Australia is due to meet with Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials on Tuesday, she said.

Labor MPs were also shocked by the sentence. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said Labor would work with the government to try and secure Greste's release.

Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called the news "heartbreaking", while the minor party's leader Christine Milne urged Prime Minister Tony Abbott to take action with Egypt's government.

AL-JAZEERA SLAMS COURT DECISION

Al-Jazeera slammed the decision as "unjust".

"We condemn ... this kind of unjust verdict," the network's chief Mustafa Sawaq told the satellite news channel.

Greste and two other reporters working for Qatar-based Al-Jazeera English were among the 20 defendants in a trial that has triggered international outrage amid fears of growing media restrictions in Egypt.

The head of Al Jazeera English says the sentencing of three colleagues defies logic, sense and any semblance of justice.

Total disbelief ... Al-Jazeera news channel's Peter Greste and his colleagues, Egyptian-Canadian Mohamed Fadel Fahmy (centre) and Egyptian Baher Mohamed (right), listen to the verdict today. Picture: Khaled Desouki Source: AFP

"Not a shred of evidence was found to support the extraordinary and false charges against them," managing director Al Anstey said in a statement.

"At no point during the long drawn out "trial" did the absurd allegations stand up to scrutiny.

"There were many moments during the hearings where in any other court of law, the trial would be thrown out. There were numerous irregularities in addition to the lack of evidence to stand up the ill-conceived allegations.

"There is only one sensible outcome now. For the verdict to be overturned, and justice to be recognised by Egypt.

"We must keep our voice loud to call for an end to their detention. Alongside us is a worldwide solidarity, a global call for their release, and a demand for basic freedoms to be respected."

Human rights barrister Geoffrey Robertson QC weighed in on the outcry surrounding Greste's jail sentence, calling it an outrage. He called on the Australian government to act against Egypt under an international convention that guarantees freedom of expression.

"After Australia's success against Japan in the whaling case, we should be making more use of international legal avenues, and this is the only way in a world forum that Peter could be vindicated," he said in a statement.

GRESTE RAISES FISTS IN COURT AS BROTHERS 'GUTTED'

Greste's two brothers — Andy and Michael — were in the packed courtroom for the verdict.

His parents, Lois and Juris, watched the verdict live via social media and are devastated by the outcome, a family friend said.

"I haven't seen anything yet which outlines the reasoning," Andrew Greste told the ABC.

"It's very difficult to prepare for that. I don't know how you prepare for that.

"Regardless of whether you prepare yourself, the emotions are just devastated, I'm gutted. It's unbelievable." Andrew said he and Mike were not able to see their brother amid the chaotic scenes as he was whisked away from the mesh cage in which he was locked in the courtroom, but will visit him on Tuesday.

"(It's) obviously something that we're going to have to process and digest over the next day or two, but regardless of whether you prepare yourself the emotions still are just devastating," Mr Greste said.

"There was some pretty chaotic scenes, trying to sort of process the decision.

"The defendants are through a couple of sheets of expanded mesh, and they're probably 30-25m across the courtroom, and obviously the authorities were pretty keen to rush them out of court before, you know, that whole scene got even more chaotic."

Listening to the verdict ... Al-Jazeera news channel's Australian journalist Peter Greste inside the defendants cage during his trial for allegedly supporting the Muslim Brotherhood today at the police institute near Cairo's Tora prison. Picture: Khaled Desouki Source: AFP

"We're not going to give up the fight to get Peter released because we believe he's completely innocent, he's done nothing wrong. It's just going to be a matter of looking at all the options."

The journalist's family say they will not be formally speaking to the media until 10am AEST on Tuesday.

But a spokeswoman for the Greste family said they were devastated by the news. "I can't see how they (the family) can continue after this," Heidi Ross told the ABC.

"They will, of course, because they have to. We always knew it was possible but you just don't think it could possibly happen, especially as there was no concrete evidence against Peter.

"Peter was a correspondent there on a relief posting — he had been there for two weeks, he didn't speak Arabic. He was a correspondent ... merely doing his job."

The Australian journalist embraced his colleagues, Canadian-Egyptian acting Cairo bureau chief Mohammed Fahmy and Egyptian producer Baher Mohammed, in the moments before the verdict was read out.

Baher Mohammed, who also received an extra three years in prison on separate charges.

"I swear they will pay for this," Fahmy shouted angrily from the defendants' cage after the sentences were announced. Greste raised his fists in the air.

"They just ruined a family," said Fahmy's brother Adel, who was attending the session. He said they would appeal the verdict but added that he had little faith in the system. "Everything is corrupt," he said.

The trio were accused of supporting the Muslim Brotherhood, which the authorities have declared a terrorist organisation, and "spreading false news".

Temperatures soared to 45 degrees in the packed room during the lengthy wait for the verdict.

Family members waved to the defendants who stood behind bars in the courtroom.

The case has caused an outcry, with rights groups saying the prosecution of the journalists was politicised and undermines freedom of expression in Egypt.

The three were arrested in December as part of a sweeping crackdown on Islamist supporters of ousted President Mohammed Morsi.

Caged ... Peter Greste at an earlier court appearance in Cairo. Source: Supplied

JUST LEFT TO LANGUISH IN JAIL

Greste and his colleagues have been detained for nearly six months, along with six others.

Al-Jazeera says only nine of the 20 defendants are on its staff, including two foreign reporters who are abroad. A Dutch journalist, who is not working with the channel, is also among the defendants.

Nightmare ... Peter Greste's parents Lois and Juris with his brother Andrew. Picture: Annette Dew Source: News Corp Australia

Sixteen are Egyptians accused of belonging to the Brotherhood, which the military-installed government designated a "terrorist organisation" in December.

The four foreigners are also alleged to have collaborated with and assisted their Egyptian co-defendants by providing media material, as well as editing and broadcasting it.

The authorities also say the accused journalists were operating in Egypt without valid accreditation.

"On June 23, the entire world will be watching Egypt to see whether they uphold the values of press freedom," Al-Jazeera said.

On Sunday, US Secretary of State John Kerry also called for freedom of the press to be upheld in Egypt as he made a surprise visit to Cairo.

WORLD LEADERS CONDEMN EGYPT'S DECISION

Britain's Foreign Secretary William Hague is summoning Egypt's ambassador over the prison sentences handed down to journalists working for Al-Jazeera, including Australian Peter Greste.

"I have instructed officials to summon the Egyptian Ambassador to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office today," Hague said in a statement.

A spokesman for Prime Minister David Cameron said he was "completely appalled" by the verdicts.

Two British journalists working for the network, Sue Turton and Dominic Kane, were among 11 defendants being tried in absentia out of 20 overall.

They were handed 10-year sentences.

The Netherlands has also summoned the Egyptian ambassador over Cairo's heavy sentencing and will raise the issue with the EU.

"I have summoned the Egyptian ambassador to the ministry and will raise this matter with my European Union colleagues in Luxembourg," Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans said in a statement, adding that Dutch journalist Rena Netjes, who was tried in absentia, "did not get a fair trial".

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Pratt’s final plea to Labor: reform

WA Labor senator Louise Pratt, whose term in Parliament is about to come to an end. Source: News Corp Australia

OUTGOING Labor senator Louise Pratt has urged her party to take the hard road towards internal reform to avoid a repeat of the events that dumped her from parliament.

Senator Pratt was shunted from the top spot on Labor's ticket in the West Australian senate election re-run in April, replaced by controversial union heavyweight Joe Bullock in a factional powerplay.

Upon conceding defeat, Senator Pratt blasted her running mate for homophobic remarks and called on Labor to break the grasp of union powerbrokers whose wrangling had delivered Mr Bullock victory.

It was a message she drilled home in her final speech before parliament, saying she'd witnessed first hand Labor's failure to reform in Western Australia.

"I really hope that the prospect of reform is made a reality. It is a challenge that we simply must meet," she told the chamber today.

She also said it was vital the circumstances that prompted the WA senate election re-run were never allowed to repeat again, as it would erode the voting public's confidence in democratic processes.

More than 1300 WA senate votes were lost during a recount after the September election, forcing another poll to be held.

Labor senate leader Penny Wong — who is openly gay — said Senator Pratt had been a strong advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Australians and thanked her for her efforts to promote equality.

"Being gay in this parliament and open about it is certainly not easy. It takes a degree of courage, and I thank her for that," she said.

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MH370 pilot named ‘prime suspect’ in disappearance

Family members of Chinese passengers on board missing flight MH370 prayed together on the 100th day since the plane's disappearance. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).

Captain Zaharie Ahmad Shah is again the focus. Source: Supplied

AN OFFICIAL police investigation into the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight 370 has identified the captain as the prime suspect — if it is proven human intervention was involved.

Captain Zaharie Shah became the focus of the special investigation in Malaysia after all other passengers were cleared of any suspicion, The Sunday Times reported.

The search for MH370 has covered massive amounts of ocean. Source: Supplied

In the greatest aviation mystery of our time, MH370 vanished without a trace with 239 people on board while en route to Beijing from Kuala Lumpur on March 8 this year.

Although the new conclusion gives insight into the police focus, it does not solve the riddle of the disappearance as the investigation has not ruled out the possibility of terrorism or mechanical failure.

Suspicious flight paths were discovered on the captain's home simulator. Source: Facebook

After conducting 170 interviews, investigators noted strange behaviour by the pilot. He had made no future plans - socially or professionally - and his home flight simulator was programmed with a flight path into the depths of the Southern Ocean before landing the plane on an island with a small runway. The drills were deleted from the computer but specialists were able to retrieve the files. There is also speculation his home life was fraught with difficulties, though this has been denied by his family.

Captain Zaharie Ahmad Shah with his family. Source: Supplied

The Sunday Times reported although the results of the inquiry have not been released publicly, they have been shared by those close to the investigation.

Malaysian police said in a statement:

"The police investigation is still ongoing. To date no conclusions can be made as to the contributor to the incident and it would be sub judice to say so. Nevertheless, the police are still looking into all possible angles."

The families of the victims are desperate for closure. Source: Supplied

The Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak hinted on March 15 the government believed it was possible a "deliberate action by someone on the plane" was behind the MH370 mystery.

Family and friends of Mr Shah claim he was a good man and the truth will be revealed when investigators find the missing black box.

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Backpackers’ real life ‘Wolf Creek’ hell

Posted warning about a man called Joe Sturt ... Kimberley Croc Backpackers YHA. Picture: Twitter Source: Twitter

The outback once more becomes a place of horror as another unwitting tourist becomes the prey for crazed, serial-killing pig-shooter Mick Taylor.

BACKPACKERS in WA have been warned of a mysterious man after seven tourists were left stranded in scenes reminiscent of 'Wolf Creek'.

The alleged incident occurred in the remote north west WA towns of Halls Creek and Kununurra last Monday.

JOHN JARRATT: Back as Mick Taylor in Wolf Creek 2 trailer

WOLF CREEK 2: Number one in Australian box office

A warning note posted at a local hostel has warned travellers.

"Please be aware of young 25-35 male "farmer cowboy" going by the name of Joe Sturt (possible real name is Jack) he is asking around local hostels, accommodation for travellers to work on Contract Mustering teams jobs in WA/NT area," it reads.

"HE IS NOT WHO HE SAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"7 travellers from Kimberley Croc Backpackers YHA, Kununurra 12/6 went with him to Halls Creek and within 24 hours they had been reported missing persons been sent off by him into different dead end locations with no petrol," the poster reads.

"It ended with 5 persons in a serious car accident, resulting in 2 being flown to Perth Hospital in a critical condition. The rest are treated for minor injuries and were then left stranded in HC."

Warning to backpackers ... The poster put up at Kimberley Croc Backpackers YHA. Source: News Corp Australia

Wolf Creek 2 ... Actor John Jarratt as Mick Taylor. Source: Supplied

Backpackers are being told not to have anything to do with the mystery man.

"Who knows his intentions but he is not a trustworthy character," the poster states.

"He is possibly from Northern Territory and was conning travellers using stolen vehicles, false IDs and will probably be back in Kununurra area again."

The poster then pleads with travellers to be careful when accepting farm work from anyone entering the hostel and to ensure they can prove who they are.

Details of what exactly caused the accident are unknown, but local media reports an Irish national was driving the car when it flipped several times, leaving the 25-year-old driver with serious head and back injuries and two female passengers with broken bones.

The owner of the Kimberley Croc Backpacker YHA in Kununurra confirmed the incident to News Corp Australia, however was away at the time of the incident and had little detail.

Staff members are concerned the man may return, and are unsure what his motives might be.

Yesterday Queensland police released a statement saying a man had been taken into custody in relation to the incident.

The statement read: "A 25-year-old man from Cairns is currently in custody in Roebourne Regional Prison after it is alleged between 16 to 18 June 2014 the man approached groups of Backpackers in Broome, offering them work at a remote station.

"At least nine backpackers gave the man money to purchase swags, boots and camping gear for them.

"It is also alleged the man stole a stole a 2011 Hilux utility from Broome Motors.

"The man has been charged with stealing of a motor vehicle and stealing. He is due to appear in the Karratha Magistrates Court on 30 June 2014.

Police inquiries are continuing into this matter.

WA Police are working closely with police in Queensland and the Northern Territory in relation to possible other offences committed.

Yesterday Western Australia Police released a statement to News Corp saying: "WA Police has not received any complaints in relation to the incidents on this warning poster or in relation to the person mentioned"

Anyone with any information regarding these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Sinkhole stuns patrons at Crown

A casino patron returned to her car to find it partially stuck in a sinkhole. Picture: Matthew Poon. Source: News Corp Australia

A casino patron returned to her car to find it partially stuck in a sinkhole. Picture: Matthew Poon Source: News Corp Australia

CROWN Perth is unable to explain why a patron's car has sunk into its car park.

This morning a woman's Hyundai four-wheel-drive was found stuck in a one-metre-deep sinkhole.

A staff member told PerthNow that Crown security officers were working with the woman to have the car safely removed.

The staffer could not say why the hole had appeared or if other vehicles had or would be affected.

It appears that the ground has fallen in under the weight of the car.

The front and rear wheels on the passenger's side of the vehicle are both below ground.

The car park is at the old Burswood Dome site and the area has been cordoned off.

The Dome was demolished a year ago.

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I’m sorry, says foul-mouthed rep

Sue Williams, pictured with husband Steve, has accepted the apology of Oz Best Buys owner Gordon Akman who called her a "stupid c---" for asking when her purchase would be shipped. Picture: Damian Kelly Source: Supplied

Gordon Akman says he made a "big mistake'' by swearing. Source: Supplied

A CUSTOMER service rep who called a Perth grandmother a 'stupid c---' after she emailed him with questions has apologised for his behaviour.

The Sunday Times revealed today that the proprietor of website Oz Best Buys, Gordon Akman, called customer Sue Williams an "absolute f---wit" and "one hell of a rude stupid c---" after she sent a series of emails asking for the shipping details and postal tracking order of some portable solar panels she had purchased on the site.

When confronted about his behaviour this week, Mr Akman said it was justified and he didn't want "f---ing idiots" like Mrs Williams as a customer.

But this morning the Queensland business owner sent Mrs Williams and husband Steve an email expressing his "deeply regret" over his actions.

"I made a big mistake swearing that I deeply regret," the email said.

"I lost my temper because of all the emails after your order on Sunday night before I had a chance to fill the order and provide tracking information etc.

"I just wanted to refund your order and let you shop somewhere else.

"I didn't know the person I was emailing was a grandmother (not that it wouldn't have been wrong if it were anyone else).

"I feel really bad about it and sincerely apologise."

Mrs Williams said she was happy Mr Akman had apologised.

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Worst customer service ever?

Sue and Steve Williams attempted to buy a portable solar panel online through website Oz Best Buys but ended up disgusted at the treatment Sue received by the online customer service representative. Photo: Damien Kelly Source: Supplied

A PERTH grandmother is "disgusted" at her treatment by an online customer service representative who called her a "stupid c---" for asking when her purchase would be shipped.

But the man who sent the email is unrepentant and told The Sunday Times he didn't want "f---ing idiots" as customers.

Sue Williams and husband Steve attempted to buy a portable solar panel online through website Oz Best Buys on Sunday night.

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Storms bring floods and crash chaos

A SEVERE weather warning has been cancelled for parts of Perth and the South West after heavy storms swept over the region this afternoon.

An Instagram post by Fremantle Docker Hayden Ballantyne of a flooded Rushton Park in Mandurah. "Little bit of rain in old Mandurah..." Source: Supplied

The Bureau of Meteorology said a strong cold front moved over the South West, bringing downpours and high gusts.

Gusts of 96km/h were recorded at Rottnest Island at midday before the cold front swept east in the early afternoon.

More than 24mm of rain was dumped on Mandurah in the space of an hour as local sports matches were called off.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services said SES volunteers were dispatched to homes hit by minor flood damage across the region.

Ten minor crashes were reported on Perth roads by 2pm, with flooding reported at Mounts Bay Road and Mitchell Freeway.

The front continues to move east and will lie near Southern Cross to Esperance this evening and will continue to weaken.

Dangerous gusts are no longer expected, although some squally conditions with possible heavy falls will continue overnight, particularly near the south coast where small hail is possible.

STORMS HIT PERTH

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‘Goodnight sweetie, can we have sex?’

Dr John Barry Myers is facing misconduct allegations at the State Administrative Tribunal. Photo: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

A VICTORIAN doctor groped and requested oral sex from a 68-year-old woman admitted to a regional WA hospital for depression and suicidal thoughts, a tribunal has been told.

John Barry Myers is facing professional misconduct allegations brought to the State Administrative Tribunal by the Medical Board of Australia.

Dr Myers, who is suspended from practising, worked at Geraldton Regional Hospital as a locum physician for three months in 2012.

During that time he allegedly fondled the woman's breast and bottom, hugged her, made advances for oral sex and came into her room after dark to kiss her on the cheek and say "goodnight sweetie".

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, this week told the SAT hearing "with all of his past history he shouldn't have even been near me".

Dr Myers had four previous adverse findings against him through the Medical Board of Victoria and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal from 2001 to 2013.

The 2013 finding resulted in the cancellation of registration for a year.

The previous findings against him were not used in evidence this week. But he was asked why he did not tell the WA Country Health Service about a 2001 disciplinary act­ion involving an indecent ass­ault conviction when he applied for the locum role.

He denied trying to deceive his employer by not disclosing the conviction

Dr Myers represented himself during this week's hearing. He was not allowed to ask questions directly while the pat­ient gave evidence via video link because his voice was too distressing for her.

The woman said she even asked nurses if Dr Myers was really a doctor because she could not believe how he behaved.

"A real doctor wouldn't sit there and ask me to suck his private parts," she said.

Dr Myers argued he did not fondle or make advances, accusing her of being manipulative to get attention from her family.

He said he had only given advice, telling her to "suck his (her husband's) c--k and put it between your breasts".

The tribunal heard Dr Myers was not the now-70-year-old's treating doctor at the time and only needed to monitor her physical progress.

He admitted seeing her three or four times a day, often alone in her room, during her stay in hospital, but it was recorded in hospital notes that he saw her only twice with an intern doctor. The patient's psychiatrist and mental health case officer told the SAT the woman had never presented to them as manipulative and her ordeal had put her under great stress.

A Health Department spokeswoman said Dr Myers completed all relevant documentation and provided referees before being employed.

The SAT is yet to reach a verdict.

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Gridlock drives fast-track plan

Most West Australians are able to see a doctor within two days, according to the results of the WA Speaks survey.

A plan to allow cars carrying passengers to use bus express lanes on freeways is being considered by the State Government. Source: News Limited

CARS carrying passengers would be able to use express bus lanes on freeways and highways under a proposal being considered by the Barnett Government.

In a bid to ease Perth's traffic woes, Transport Minister Dean Nalder wants to encourage more people to car pool on their commute to work.

He's also looking at the potential for "reversible lanes" that change direction during rush hour. Motorists could also be allowed to use freeway emergency lanes during peak periods.

Mr Nalder commented after being confronted with the results of the WA Speaks survey, conducted by The Sunday Times and Nine News.

The poll, based on the views of more than 6000 respondents, confirmed the state's love affair with the motor vehicle despite 55 per cent of the people who commute saying the time taken has blown out.

Just 8 per cent of West Australians who drive to work have embraced car pooling.

Sixty-seven per cent of respondents who commute to work do so by motor vehicle – almost exactly the same response found in a similar 2011 poll.

Commutes by train (9 per cent), bus (5 per cent) and bicycle (2 per cent) all trail far behind.

WA's car-centric outlook is further underlined by respondents saying priority to ease congestion should be given to extending and widening freeways ahead of other transport options such as light rail.

Other major findings from the survey, analysed by the nation's leading poll company Galaxy Research, include:

67 PER CENT of West Australians are optimistic about the state's future.

JUST 12 PER CENT consider Colin Barnett to be the best person to lead the state.

67 PER CENT said they had not prospered from the mining boom.

61 PER CENT of respondents with a home loan were facing housing stress.

TWO-THIRDS oppose the Barnett Government's shark catch-and-kill policy.

WA Transport Minister Dean Nalder Source: News Corp Australia

Mr Nalder said that while some motorists may have good reason to carry no passengers, the percentage of sole-occupancy cars was too high.

He has instructed officials to look at creating more dedicated bus lanes, with the potential for opening them up to ride-sharers.

He would "definitely consider" allowing carpoolers to use Perth's existing bus lanes.

"I know it occurs in other places and as our city grows we need to look more innovatively at the way we do things," he said.

"The priority would be to make sure that public transport is not held up, but I will discuss further with the department to see if it can be considered."

Mr Nalder said he wanted to use existing lanes in a "smarter way", such as allowing cars to use the emergency lane on freeways during peak traffic periods, to keep traffic flowing,.

"I have a particular interest on Kwinana Freeway around Canning Bridge where it gets blocked up every morning," he said.

"I'd like to look at whether from Canning Bridge through to the Narrows we can utilise the emergency lane during peak period times just to see if we can keep that traffic flow."

He said car pooling wasn't popular in Perth because historically the city had never suffered from traffic congestion.

Allowing carpoolers into bus lanes needed to be "thought through" further to avoid scams used by drivers elsewhere.

In Sydney, cars with two or more passengers are permitted to use special transit lanes, along with buses, taxis and motorcycles.

"I've heard stories that you need to check for cardboard cutouts (in passenger seats), but I think there are opportunities and we should be considering those sorts of things," Mr Nalder said.

He is also looking at the potential for reversible lanes during peak hour, as on Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The concept is similar to the reversible lane on the Narrows Bridge in the 1980s, but instead of a boom gate it would be operated by traffic lights.

Mr Nalder cited Canning Highway in his constituency as an example of where dedicated express and reversible lanes could be introduced.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Deidre Willmott said congestion was hurting productivity, reducing staff punctuality and resulting in higher fuel costs.

Labor transport spokesman Ken Travers said the Barnett Government's failure to expand the city's railway in recent years was the real problem.

The WA Speaks survey shows the perception of public transport in WA is not good, with 41 per cent viewing it as "poor" or "very poor".

Thirty-four per cent said it was "satisfactory".

More than half had experienced violence while using public transport and anti-social behaviour was the top reason more people didn't switch to buses or trains.

Mr Nalder said the poor perception of public transport was "concerning" and he took the feedback seriously.

He said authorities needed to educate the public that travelling by bus or train was safe, pointing to the network's 10,000 CCTV cameras.

A drop in Transperth pat-ronage over the past year was the result of a downturn in the economy and service shutdowns caused by Perth City Link construction works, he added.

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Dad released over baby gas death

THE father of a baby girl who died from suspected gas exposure on Wednesday night has been released without charge.

But the tragic death is still being investigated as a suspected homicide.

Fung Lai Chun, also known as Calvin, was apparently alone with his 11-month old daughter when they both succumbed to gas poisoning at their house in Harrisdale.

He had been in police custody since his release from hospital yesterday morning and was assisting police with their inquiries, but was released without charge yesterday.

WA Police can only hold suspects for 12 hours without the permission of a magistrate. It is understood the court granted one extension.

Mother Yong Si Yen arrived home at the Pricklystreet Street address about 10pm on Wednesday and found her daughter unconscious.

She drove the child to a nearby 24-hour gym and asked for help.

Ryan Shreeve, who was at Jett Fitness in Canning Vale when the distraught young mother arrived, told Nine News that he called an ambulance and checked the baby's pulse, but "there was nothing there".

The child was pronounced dead at Armadale Hospital a short time later.

Meanwhile, emergency services went to the couple's home and carried out the unconscious Mr Fung, taking him to Royal Perth Hospital.

Neighbours said the street reeked of gas.

A spokesman for WA Police said the major crime squad was still investigating the girl's death.

A post-mortem will be conducted next week.

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Hostel warden charged with sex crimes

CHILD abuse squad detectives have charged a 69-year-old man, who is currently in prison, with two additional charges relating to historic child sex offences.

Police allege the offences occurred between 1975 and 1988 when the offender was a warden at a regional WA hostel.

He is expected to appear in the Katanning Magistrates Court on July 15.

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Minister leaves protesters hungry

The Aviary Restaurant in Perth, where protesters turned up to target Mathias Cormann only to discover he wasn't there. Source: News Limited

Finance Minister Mathias Cormann Source: News Corp Australia

PROTESTERS annoyed the wrong lunching businesspeople in Perth after they turned up at a CBD restaurant expecting to badger Mathias Cormann — but the Finance Minister wasn't there.

About 50 people protesting cuts to health, education and welfare in the federal government's budget rallied outside The Aviary restaurant, where they had heard the minister would be hosting an exclusive $250-a-head business luncheon.

While the protest alert was sent out days ago, it is believed the event was cancelled last month.

To the annoyance of shoppers and workers on their lunch break, the protesters remained in the area for over an hour, chanting slogans and spruiking the demise of the Abbott government.

Many wore top hats and held fake cigars to mock the now infamous pre-budget cigar-smoking footage of Mr Cormann and Treasurer Joe Hockey, but ended up flogging socialist newspapers.

It was one of several protests against the federal government's tough budget and its asylum seeker policy on Friday.

A protester angry about job losses and university fees lunged at Foreign Minister Julie Bishop's car as she left a C20 summit in Melbourne.

The man was arrested in the middle of the street, with a group of a dozen protesters chanting "This is a peaceful protest" and then "Let him go" as he was being handled by police.

In Fremantle, south of Perth, refugee advocates picketed near a press conference held by Immigration Minister Scott Morrison where he presided at the naming ceremony of the Australian Customs and Border Protection vessel Thaiyak.

One protester said it was a cruel irony the ceremony, paid for with taxpayers' money, was being held on World Refugee Day.

At another event in Perth, a 400-strong crowd of seniors rallying against cuts to concessions pushed the Town Hall to capacity, forcing dozens of elderly people to stand outside the building.

The budget has been described as having the toughest impact on Australians in almost two decades.

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Albany couple called euthanasia group

AN elderly couple found dead at an Albany property were suffering serious illnesses and had contacted a euthanasia group.

Police were called to a property on Morley Place in Middleton Beach at 8.40am this morning, where they found two bodies.

Major Crime Squad detectives are looking into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the couple.

Carol O'Neil, the Perth chapter coordinator of euthanasia organisation Exit International, said she was contacted by the couple about six months ago.

She said Sheila and Geoffrey, both aged in their 80's, requested information about euthanasia.

"The general gist of the conversation was they wanted some information about how to end their life peacefully from exit international," Ms O'Neil said.

"Both had quite progressive and serious neurological diseases and both were both quite unwell and were struggling with day to day things.

She said Sheila suffered from multiple sclerosis and Geoffrey had Parkinson's disease.

Ms O'Neil said the couple "didn't want to go to a nursing home or be more dependent on other people."

Ms O'Neil was unable to confirm if the couple had euthanized themselves.

Anyone with information about the circumstances of the couple's deaths are asked to call police on 131 444.

• If you are thinking about suicide, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14

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Sattler sues former employer

Howard Sattler is suing his former employer Fairfax Media for unfair dismissal. Source: News Limited

HOWARD Sattler has sued his former employer Fairfax Media for unfair dismissal after Perth's 6PR sacked the shock jock for asking Julia Gillard if her partner was gay.

Sattler's lawyer, Nick Stagg of Lavan Legal, said the writ had been filed in the WA Supreme Court this week but was yet to be served on the media company.

Sattler flagged the action after he was terminated in June last year, saying he had been unfairly dismissed because the former prime minister had known it was going to be a candid interview and he still had six months left on his contract.

Howard Sattler was sacked by 6PR after he asked then-Prime Minister Julia Gillard if her partner was gay. Picture: File image Source: News Limited

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Buswell bin tip ‘never followed up’

Former treasurer Troy Buswell fronts the media for first time since crashing his ministerial car in February. Source: News Corp Australia

A SECURITY guard reported seeing Troy Buswell empty a bin full of bottles in the basement of a government building the morning he crashed his car,a parliamentary committee report has revealed.

Police were made aware of the sighting, but it did not appear it was followed up, the inquiry found.

The committee that examined the police investigation into Mr Buswell's late-night car crashes has concluded the response was inadequate.

Mr Buswell quit cabinet following revelations he had a mental breakdown after crashing into parked cars, a pole and the front gate of his Subiaco home while returning from a wedding in the early hours of February 23.

The damaged front of Troy Buswell's ministerial car, which was towed away for further police examination. Picture: Nine News

Before Mr Buswell returned to parliament as a backbencher last month, he told reporters he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression, but refused to answer whether he was drunk when the crashes occurred.

The inquiry also revealed the bizarre sighting of Mr Buswell by a security guard at Dumas House – where the then-treasurer worked – in the early hours of February 23.

The committee said it was appropriate that Department of Premier and Cabinet director general Peter Conran had "in a timely fashion" made police aware of the sighting.

"It does, however, appear that this was never followed up by police," the committee said in its report.

"Given ongoing questions about where Mr Buswell went immediately after the wedding reception and where he parked his car, this lack of follow-up is perplexing."

The report says police ordered CCTV footage from Dumas House parking areas, including the garaged area, between 10pm on February 22 and 2am on February 23.

Premier Colin Barnett told Parliament today CCTV was handed over to the police but there was no vision of the Vasse MP emptying anything into a bin.

The opposition-instigated inquiry examined matters including how police investigated the crashes on the night, the subsequent conduct of the investigation and collection of evidence, the decision to prosecute and the charges laid.

Mr Buswell was fined $3100 and disqualified from driving for one year after he admitted to 11 traffic offences committed during the ill-fated journey, but did not face drink-driving charges because he was not breathalysed on the night.

Police went to Mr Buswell's home following a tip off from a member of the public who reported seeing a man who resembled the treasurer barely able to stand as he struggled to get into the property.

But when they arrived, the lights were off, the gate was closed and no-one was around.

The traffic offence charges including failing to stop after an accident were only laid after the scandal was exposed in the media.

"The Committee has come to the conclusion that there was a systemic failure at a number of levels on the evening," the report on the inquiry read.

"There was an inadequate police response; Dignitary Protection were unaware of the then state Treasurer's car registration or home address; police subsequently let any investigation lapse and left it to the media to join the dots."

The committee said police did not make the connection between the report of erratic driving outside Mr Buswell's home and the smashed cars parked in nearby streets.

"No follow-up occurred between the taking of these initial reports and media reports which surfaced some weeks later," the committee said.

"Only at that time, when police came under public scrutiny, did they spring into action.

"By that time, however, long after the event, any deficiencies in the original investigation could not readily be corrected."

The committee said the investigation was then conducted under the false assumption that no charges could be laid in the absence of a breathalyser reading.

But traffic police didn't cop the blame for not knowing the house they visited was Mr Buswell's residence and that he was behind the wheel of the erratically driven Holden Caprice because it was up to the government's dignitary protection unit to maintain and update adequate records on such matters.

And because they initially did not know they were looking into the conduct of a minister, police could not be accused of treating the incident more leniently.

"The police were let down by an unsophisticated communications system which did not reveal connections between events which were clearly linked," the committee concluded.

"The police investigation was then hampered by the refusal of the Member for Vasse to be interviewed."

The committee said one of the most concerning findings of the inquiry was that drink drivers had been sent the message they could evade a conviction if they laid low.

WA Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan has rejected the committee's finding of a systemic failure on the night of the incident.

"The police did what they did based on the information they had on the night," he said.

Mr O'Callaghan also noted dissent in the committee after deputy chairman, Liberal MP Ian Britza, said he tendered the "minority report" with great reluctance.

Premier Colin Barnett said it was time to let Mr Buswell get on with recovering from bipolar disorder and depression.

But Labor leader Mark McGowan said questions remained about revelations about the security guard's sighting of Mr Buswell at Dumas House.

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Harris jury considering verdict

The jury in the Rolf Harris trial has been asked to deliver true verdicts 'whatever the consequences.'

THE jury in the long-running Rolf Harris trial has now retired to consider its verdict on his 12 charges of indecently assaulting four women from 1968 to 1986.

After seven weeks of hearing evidence from almost 100 witnesses including live Skype testimony from Australia and the US, the six man and six woman jury left Southwark Crown Court's Room 2 at 12.15pm local time to consider all that they've heard and the folios of evidence they had been handed.

Judge Nigel Sweeney reminded them of their obligations. He said there would inevitably be debate in their deliberations but they should listen to each other and then reach verdicts of all they would agree. He said he wanted unanimous verdicts for each of the 12 charges.

Earlier in the day, Judge Sweeney summarised the evidence presented by one alleged victim Sydney woman Tonya Lee who detailed how she had been assaulted by Harris when as a 15-year-old in 1986 she travelled to London with a performing troupe. She had claimed been left terrified and crying after he groped her at a table in a pub then indecently assaulted her again outside the pub's toilets.

Guilty or innocent? ... Rolf Harris leaves Southwark Crown Court in London. Picture: Justin Tallis Source: AFP

Her credibility had been challenged by Harris lawyers after it was revealed she had been paid $44,000 by Channel 9 and another $22,000 by the Bauer Media Group for an article in Woman's Day. Celebrity publicist Max Markson arranged the interviews for a 20 per cent cut of the money.

Judge Sweeney also reminded the jury about how Ms Lee's credibility was challenged by Harris when she lied to police about having done a deal with the media.

The judge also raised the issue of how the performing troupe's director Cathy Henkel, now an acclaimed documentary maker, recalled how she felt "pressurised" by Harris' brother and manager Bruce Harris over what she would tell police about events on that 1986 tour. Judge Sweeney said Bruce Harris later denied trying to "nobble" the witness.

The trial had taken longer than expected with considerable legal argument over admissibility over certain pieces or evidence and rules of law as well as other judicial commitments in other courts for the prosecutor Sasha Wass QC and the judge himself who sits on various terrorism trials.

Hoping to be cleared innocent ... the Australian artist and entertainer, his niece Jenny (left) and daughter Bindi (right), leave Southwark Crown Court in London. Picture: Justin Tallis Source: AFP

On the eve of closing the defence case last Wednesday, Harris' defence barrister Sonia Woodley QC took ill and was subsequently hospitalised for two days and has not since returned to court leaving her junior barrister Simon Ray to step up.

Even the jury's deliberations will now still be delayed with one juror to undergo a medical procedure that cannot be delayed so after today they cannot reconvene again until after 2pm Friday local time leaving the strong likelihood they will return again first thing Monday to continue deliberations.

Generally, juries submit hand written questions to the court to reaffirm certain evidence during their deliberations but this jury has consistently been formally questioning both prosecution and defence counsels throughout the case, at one stage submitting four formal requests in one day.

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Gym member couldn’t find baby’s pulse

Police have launched a murder inquiry into the death of a baby girl in Perths south-east

THE father of a baby girl is being questioned by homicide detectives after a murder inquiry was launched into her "suspicious" death in Perth's south-east last night.

It is understood the girl's mother found the 11-month-old baby and the child's father unconscious in their home in Pricklybark Street in Harrisdale about 10pm last night.

The distraught mother took the child to the car park of Jetts Gym on Ranford Road in Canning Vale and called St John Ambulance.

Witness Ryan Shreeve, who was at the gym at the time, told Nine News he rushed to act on instinct and "did what I could".

Police at the Pricklybark Street, Harrisdale address where they are investigating the suspicious death of an 11-month-old baby. Picture: Theo Fakos

"I instantly dialled 000, talked to emergency services, gave them where I was, and proceeded to check the baby's pulse ... and there was nothing there," he said.

"The look in the mother's eyes ... I just wanted to ensure that this baby left alive, I knew this was not right, this was not good

Mr Shreeve told reporters he tried to console the baby's mother, but she was inconsolable.

Jetts Gym at Canning Vale where the baby was taken by the mother for help late last night. Picture Theo Fakos

"I've got kids ... it was just surreal and it will be something that will be etched in my head for a long time. Last night I couldn't sleep just thinking about what else and the whats and the ifs ... so it was pretty hard," he said.

The child was pronounced dead a short time later at nearby Armadale hospital.

Neighbours say they saw a man being dragged unconscious from the house between 10 and 11pm.

They said the suburban street smelled of gas.

The man, understood to be the baby's father, was taken to Royal Perth Hospital but was discharged this morning. He is now assisting police.

The Major Crime Squad is investigating the child's death.

Detectives door-knocked houses in the quiet street this morning.

Forensic investigators blocked off the street to examine the scene and were still there tonight collecting evidence.

Neighbours say the quiet couple had lived in the house for about a year.

Nine News reported that witnesses saw the baby girl and her father at their home earlier in the day, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. The next time they saw the house firefighters were at the scene and the street smelled of gas.

Nine News reported police were not ruling out the possibility the tragedy was a murder-suicide bid. Neighbours say the couple had lived in the country for about six years and travelled to and from Malaysia.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 13 14 44.

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‘The first sip is pretty hard’

Peter O'Shaughnessy, 78, who was rescued after becoming lost in the Goldfields has urged fellow prospectors to carry a personal locator beacon which could save their life. Picture: File image Source: News Limited

AN experienced bushman who became lost in Western Australia's Goldfields region has urged fellow prospectors to carry a potentially life-saving personal locator beacon.

Peter O'Shaughnessy spent a night in the wilderness northeast of Kalgoorlie-Boulder in May after he became separated from his friend.

The 78-year-old went into survival mode, constructing a makeshift shelter from shrubbery and drinking his own urine.

"I just got some branches, made a little teepee and then got the flat bark from ribbon gums and made a nice waterproof layer, then covered it up with gum leaves," he told ABC radio presenter Gillian O'Shaughnessy, who is his daughter.

"I survived on a diet of sandalwood nuts, which are quite delicious, saltbush leaves which are very high in protein and taste alright - a bit salty - washed down with a steady stream of my own urine.

"The first sip is pretty hard to take, but you really just moisten your lips. Because it's pretty salty."

Despite his best efforts, Mr O'Shaughnessy still suffered from dehydration and exposure, but was in good spirits when he was found.

The helicopter pilot told him that if he hadn't wildly waved his metal detector in the air, he would not have been spotted.

Today, Mr O'Shaughnessy joined a state government campaign aimed at improving the safety of prospectors and saving the considerable expense of searching.

Aircraft searches cost up to $5000 per hour.

With winter a prime time for prospectors to head to the outback, WA's mines and petroleum minister Bill Marmion urged the more than 3000 people issued with Miner's Rights licences this season to carry personal locator beacons, saying they were "a small price to pay for something that could save your life".

The push for personal beacons comes after an inquest into the death of prospector Michael Graham near Menzies following a month-long search that covered 1500 square kilometres last year.

He was among nine prospectors reported missing to WA Police in 2013.

Only one was carrying a personal locator beacon and he was found within four hours.

On average, searches last 11.3 hours but many last one or two days.

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Live: Australia v Netherlands, Group B

CAN Australia spring a massive upset and keep their World Cup hopes alive in the match against the Netherlands on Thursday morning? Bookmakers and 2010 coach Pim Verbeek are among those who give the Socceroos no chance at all against a Dutch team demolished Spain 5-1 in their opening game.

Join us from 1.45am for coverage of the big match and until then check out all our preview material.

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Coles guilty over fresh bread claims

The Aussie supermarket was misleading consumers by claiming their bread is baked fresh every day, according to the Federal Court. So how is made?

Coles has been found guilty of mislabelling bread as "freshly baked" when it was actually made months ago overseas. Source: Supplied

SUPERMARKET giant Coles is facing more than $3 million in fines after losing a court battle over the freshness of its bread.

The Federal Court agreed with the consumer watchdog's case that Coles falsely advertised pre-cooked bread as freshly baked.

Bread from the "Cuisine Royale" and "Coles Bakery" range advertised as "fresh, baked today and sold today" included one product from Ireland first baked months earlier.

Other loaves that the company claimed were "freshly baked" were found to have been made in Denmark and Germany before being frozen and transported to Australia.

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett initially put the issue in the spotlight. Source: News Corp Australia

Chief Justice Allsop ruled that Coles breached three sections of Australian Consumer Law and the "Baked Today, Sold Today" labels amounted to a misleading representation.

"It is not the place of the court to provide an advice …as to how Coles might sell bread that has been par-baked from frozen product…A start would, however, be to make it tolerably clear to the public that the recent baking was the completion of a baking process that had taken place sometime before, off site, and that "freshly baked" actually meant the completion of the baking process of frozen product prepared and frozen off site by suppliers," he said.

A lawyer for Coles argued the supermarket never intended the labels to be misleading.

The case follows a year-long investigation from the ACCC triggered by former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett who discovered his "freshly baked" bread was made from foreign ingredients in Ireland.

"I don't feel any sense of vindication or pride whatsoever," Mr Kennett said about today's ruling.

"I just hope it sends a message across the bow of all advertising agencies... that we expect them to be able to offer their products or services to use in a way that accurately reflects what they are offering us.

"I am very pleased that Coles have accepted the umpire's decision and are not going to challenge it further. I respect that."

The ACCC has also instigated separate proceedings against Coles for alleged "unconscionable conduct" towards 200 small suppliers, alleging that the company attempted to secure better trading terms and improve their earnings through rebates.

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How it happend: NSW ends Qld’s reign

Trent Hodkinson proved the difference as NSW ran out 6-4 winners in game two of the State of Origin series to end the Blues eight-year drought.

NSW have broken the curse and won their first Origin series since 2005..Picture Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

IT'S all over. New South Wales has broken the curse and ended Queensland's eight year State of Origin sstreak.

Trent Hodkinson was the hero for the Blues scoring the only try of the match late in the second half and then converting it to give NSW a 6-4 victory.

After repeat sets on the Queensland line, Daly Cherry-Evans fell for a Hodkinson dummy and he scooted over to score.

Jarryd Hayne saved the day for NSW early in the second half with a last ditch tackle forcicng the ball from Sam Thaiday just as he was about to score.

Johnathan Thurston earlier kicked two first-half penalties to give Queensland a 4-0 lead at half-time.

"I've never wanted anything more in my life," Robbie Farah said after the match.

"I think about it every day, the losses over the last few years hurt so bad.. I'm sure my mum has a great big smile on her face watching down on us.

"We hung in there - it wasn't pretty but we kept banging on the door until we broke through."

Blues coach Laurie Daley paid tribute to the almost 84,000 strong crowd.

"My heart is racing.. the crowd got us home," Daley said.

GALLERY: ALL THE BEST PICS FROM ORIGIN II

MATCH CENTRE: Teams, Match Tracker, Polls and Stats as they happen

See how the match unfolded and check out all the post-game reaction.

Join us four our all day coverage of the build up to the big game and stay with us as we cover the game with our live blog below!

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Two senior bikies on drugs charges

The Gang Crime Squad has charged a senior member of the Bandidos bikie gang over a high-speed police chase.

THE two most senior members in the Bandidos bikie gang in WA are facing drugs charges, with one getting arrested last week following a high speed car chase.

PerthNow can reveal the president and the vice president of the WA chapter of the Bandidos bikie gang are before the courts on drug related charges.

A 38-year-old man was granted bail this morning when he faced the Fremantle Magistrate's Court, following his arrest at Perth Airport last night.

Police sources say he is the president of the Bandidos in WA.

He has been charged with possessing a prohibited drug with intent to sell or supply and will face court again next month.

The 38-year-old man's arrest followed the arrest of another man following an alleged high speed car chase in Munster last week.

A still image from Police Air Wing vision, showing the target vehicle being stopped and surrounded by police officers. Source: Supplied

The 40-year-old man from East Riverton, who sources say is the Bandidos vice president, was arrested last Thursday after he allegedly led police on a wild car chase which reached speeds of 200km/h.

It's also alleged he threw items out of the car window during the chase.

He has been charged with a string of drug and driving offences. He faced court last week and was refused bail, and he will front court again on June 20.

PerthNow first revealed the presence of the Bandidos in WA last October after it took over the Rock Machine bikie gang in a "patch over" deal.

The Bandidos emerged in Australia more than 30 years ago following a split from another notorious bikie gang, the Comancheros.

In addition to the Bandidos, there are another eight outlaw motorcycle gangs in WA today.

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