Crumbling walls to be checked

Friends leave flowers for Bridget Jones after hearing of her death. Picture: Andrew Brownbill Source: Herald Sun

THE devastated parents of two teenagers killed by Thursday's freak wall collapse have spoken of their ''kind-hearted and respectful'' children.

Bridget Jones, who was critically injured in the collapse, lost her fight for life in hospital this morning - three days after her brother Alexander was killed during the tragedy.

''We were so very proud of both of our children,'' Montmorency couple Ian and Sue Jones said in a statement just hours after Bridget lost her battle to survive from severe head injuries.

"They were always kind-hearted and respectful. They had a wide network of friends and yet were both very close to each other.''

Bridget, 18, died in Royal Melbourne Hospital with her parents by her bedside about 6.30am.

Eighteen-year-old Bridget Jones has died, becoming the third person killed by a Melbourne wall collapse.

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Alexander and Bridget were both studying arts at Melbourne University.

Mr and Mrs Jones said Alexander was planning on studying law and perhaps going into politics, while Bridget was considering becoming a teacher.

''They loved sport, particularly tennis, which they played since they were five, and all different genres of music,'' they said.

Friends have left flowers for Bridget Jones after hearing of her death. Picture: Andrew Brownbill

''Alexander and Bridget were keen Blues supporters and were on their way to meet their father for the first Carlton game of the season when this terrible tragedy happened.''

Alexander, 19, had been hailed a hero after leaping to protect Bridget from falling debris during the tragedy in Swanston St on Thursday.

Police said the other woman killed is yet to be formally identified, but she is believed to be a Mount Waverley woman aged in her 30s. Her next of kin have been notified.

An audit of crumbling facades on Victorian building sites is one of four urgent investigations being undertaken after three people, including a brother and sister, were killed by a collapsing wall in Melbourne.

Friends of Alexander and Bridget Jones and the unnamed woman who died in the Carlton wall collapse pay their respects at the site. Picture: Chris Scott

The Victorian Government has ordered the building commission to examine similar walls around the state.

"This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with the family," Premier Denis Napthine said.

"This incident will be fully investigated by the coroner and other relevant authorities."

Victoria Police will also complete an investigation, as will WorkSafe and Grocon, the owner of the site.

Friends of Alexander and Bridget Jones and the unnamed woman who died in the Carlton wall collapse pay their respects at the site. Picture: Chris Scott

Yesterday, Alexander and Bridget's parents spoke of their "overwhelming loss" and thanked the strangers who desperately tried to rescue their "beautiful children".

"We are overwhelmed at the loss of our son, Alexander, and are very distressed to see our critically ill daughter in the hospital," the said in a statement.

The statement was released as scores of friends paid tribute at the scene of the tragedy.

Mr and Mrs Jones, both 57, praised the efforts of passers-by who tried to rescue their children, as well as the work of Royal Melbourne Hospital staff who performed surgery on Bridget on Friday.

Bridget and Alexander with parents Ian and Susan.

"We understand people who were passing by and the emergency services did everything that they could and we are so grateful these people tried their best for our children," the couple's statement says.

Police are continuing to appeal for any further witnesses or anyone else injured as a result of the wall collapse to come forward.

A number of people have already contacted investigators since Friday's appeal.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au

Friends of the siblings left flowers and mementos in a makeshift shrine at the site of the former CUB brewery.

Touchingly, a neighbour saw Bridget kiss her mother goodbye the day before the tragic event: "Sue and Ian were just totally devoted to their children. Not so long ago Ian was here speaking for an hour about how well they were both doing at uni - he was so proud of them."

Alex Jones died trying to save his sister Bridget from a wall collapse in Carlton.

Friends from Alexander and Bridget's former school, Montmorency Secondary College, held a vigil at the scene.

Principal Allan Robinson said of the former school captain: "He was an incredible young man, thoroughly respected and admired by every student and every member of staff at Montmorency Secondary College."

Alexander's friends took turns to write their own stories and tributes to the man they nicknamed Zander, who had aspirations to become prime minister of Australia.

One friend called Alexander, known as "Prime Minister Giggles", "a prince among men".

Many said they would miss the arts student's cheeky grin and "that laugh". A soccer ball and Carlton AFL teddy bear were left.

"I can't describe my pain in words," a friend, Riley, wrote in a tribute.

"You were our light and glue that held us together."

Gillian Goldsworthy wrote on a Facebook tribute page: "Absolutely devastated to hear that Bridget lost her fight for life. Words cannot express my sadness at Ian and Sue's loss. Our thoughts are with you."

Monika Vulevu Cushe posted: "R.I.P Bridget Jones - heaven has a new angel. Together with your loving brother."

Friend Eric Goon called Alex an "amazing man". "He and Bridget were really close. It was typical Zander to be walking her to class."

Former teacher George Ghobrial said the "gifted" student was destined for great things.

"I taught him science and he was just perfect. He did very well academically; but not only that, he was a wonderful person with lots of friends.

"I taught Bridget the year after and she was the same - a lovely person.

"It is so sad."

- with James Dowling, Jon Kaila

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Broncos pull out of Dugan chase

Loz previews round four's Newcastle v Canberra clash.

Josh Dugan. Picture: Ray Strange Source: The Courier-Mail

The Josh Dugan Instagram photo that kicked things off. Source: The Daily Telegraph

Josh Dugan's apology on Twitter. Source: The Daily Telegraph

UPDATE: THE Brisbane Broncos have today ended negotiations with Josh Dugan following his vile social media comments in which he told a Canberra Raiders fan to "end yourself".

The Broncos were willing to sign Dugan to a three-year $2 million deal if the NRL allowed his contract to be registered after he was sacked by the Raiders earlier this month for repeated code of conduct breaches.

The final straw for the Raiders was when he uploaded a photo to Instagram of himself giving the finger with an alcoholic drink in his hand while on the roof of a house.

The Broncos' interest ended today.

"We will not be making any attempt to register a contract for Josh Dugan with the NRL," Broncos' chief executive Paul White said.

"While there were some negotiations, they are now over.

"In light of some fresh allegations of inappropriate behaviour, the Broncos have decided not to take the matter any further."

Dugan was today forced to apologise after hurling abuse on social media again, this time telling a Canberra Raiders fan to "end yourself".

Dugan went berserk on social media photo-sharing app Instagram late on Saturday night.

After Dugan posted a photo of himself and a friend with their shirts off, Raiders fans began antagonising the 22-year-old. 

They criticised Dugan's lack of responsibility and said that the Raiders were better off with replacement fullback Reece Robinson.

A user named @gearbox82 wrote: "There's a man that can not Handel responsibly. Leaves his club, leaves his missus. I'd hate to be your dog.''

Another user named @mark-raider1 then replied: "dw (don't worry) we got Reece lightning Robinson''.

Dugan, who broke up with his long-term partner earlier this month, seemingly had enough of the taunts and wrote a series of vile responses (editor's note: expletives removed).

"I'd hate to be ya nuffie. At least my dog doesn't speak up like you ya loud mouth ... who are ya by the way? I could never play another game of NRL and I've still accomplished more than you.

"haha righto Marky Mark: go get another Raiders Tattoo then end yourself. Your mrs is hot too by the way haha you obviously don't read the news more the fool you haha your a joke.

"All my tats put together are better than your one rubbish one plus your bad head. Should call you don bradman ya batting well above average with her. Send her my way ill show her the time of her life.''

Dugan has since deleted the comments and apologised on Twitter.

Responding to News Limited's story, Dugan explained he was being constantly bullied.

"2 sides to every story and only the bad side of my story has been told over the last few weeks. Yes I stuffed up and yes I'm paying my price but people go on and on about bullying when I am constantly being harassed for simply putting a photo up.

"I apologise to those who I had bad words with but I am a normal person like anyone else.

"Media can write what they want but have not spoken to me personally or seen the abuse I have copped.

"Life goes on and I'm trying to move forward with my life and career."

The NRL employed Charlotte Dawson as an anti-bullying ambassador this year.

Dawson was also told to kill herself on social media last year, causing her to breakdown and self-admit to hospital.

The NRL has a strict code of conduct when it comes to social media.

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Wall tragedy parents thank strangers

The scene of Thursday's fatal wall collapse on Swanston St. Picture: Andrew Henshaw Source: Herald Sun

THE parents of siblings Alexander and Bridget Jones have said they are ''overwhelmed'' and ''distressed'' after their son died and their daughter battles for life in hospital following the wall collapse in Carlton on Thursday.

Ian and Sue Jones issued a statement this afternoon to thank everyone who tried to help in the tragedy.

''We are overwhelmed at the loss of our son Alexander and are very distressed to see our critically ill daughter in the hospital.

''Our hearts go out to the family of the other lady who was killed in this tragedy.

''We understand people who were passing by and the emergency services did everything that they could and we are so grateful these people tried their best for our children.

''We would also like to thank members of Victoria Police and staff at The Royal Melbourne Hospital who have been so caring and respectful.

''We would like to thank our family and friends and the friends of Alexander and Bridget, the Montmorency Secondary College community, and many others who have sent in their wishes and offered support.

Brother and sister Alex and Bridget Jones were devoted to each other.

''We would ask that people respect our privacy at this very sad and difficult time,'' the statement read.

Melbourne University architecture student Alex Jones, 19, was walking sister Bridget, 18, along Swanston St to her 3pm class when a powerful wind gust brought a brick wall crashing down on top of them.

Rescuers on the scene immediately afterwards said Mr Jones's body was found on top of his injured sister, partially shielding her from the crushing impact.

Dozens of friends today gathered at the collapsed wall at the Grocon site on Swanston St to lay flowers and console one another.

Bridget remained fighting for life at the Royal Melbourne Hospital after emergency surgery.

Her brother, and an unidentified woman in her 30s, died instantly.

Thu 28/03/2013: A man and a woman are dead after a brick wall collapsed at the Grocon site

Grieving friends paid tribute to Alex.

Jorja Shae Carter-Smith posted on Facebook: "Zander, a true hero. I know you would have done this to protect your much loved sister, being the gorgeous soul that you were."

Another friend, Bethan Wainman, spoke through tears as she lamented the loss of a ''Mr Nice Guy'', known as ''Zander'' to his mates.

"They were very close and loved each other very much,'' Ms Wainman told the Herald Sun.

"He was an amazing guy and no one had anything bad to say about him.

"He was very funny, jovial, and would always laugh and play around."

Horrified onlookers tried desperately to clear the disaster on Thursday. Picture: Jonathan Lian/Twitter

Zoe Liberona posted on Facebook: "Such a beautiful soul taken way too soon. Rest in peace, Alexander Jones."

Callum Fuller added: "Still in absolute shock. Rest in peace, Alexander Jones."

School friend Steven Kostadinovski said of the former school captain: "Much love to a great human being and individual.

"It was a pleasure to be a part of your life, big fella. Will be missed."

And Matt Perichon said: "It is just so cruel how life can be torn away from such a beautiful young man."

Mourners left flowers, a teddy bear and a Lindt chocolate carrot at the scene of the tragedy.

Alex Jones, 19, died in the Swanton St wall collapse, and his sister, Bridget, 18, is fighting for her life.

Emergency talks will be held next week to determine how and why Thursday's deadly wall collapse happened - and ensure a similar accident never recurs.

WorkSafe, the State Coroner, Victoria Police and Grocon have all launched independent investigations into the incident.

The remainder of the wall was demolished late on Thursday night.

Wire fencing was erected to protect the public from a rubble of bricks and debris still littering the site.

Red brick dust still covered the footpath.

Melbourne north Crime Investigation Unit's Detective Senior Constable Brooke Manley said police had notified known affected families.

Flowers were laid at the scene of the tragedy this morning. Picture: Stuart Walmsley

"It's horrendous - a tragic accident," she said.

"The families involved are devastated."

Police believe more people were injured in the collapse, but fled the scene fearing further harm.

Banyule Mayor Wayne Phillips said the council would offer any support possible to the Jones family, of Montmorency.

It was to be hoped the tragedy was a freak accident and not the result of red tape, he said.

"If it's a freak accident it's very sad," he said.

"But if it's something structural - or something caused by the fact there are heritage restrictions, and they have been demolishing parts of the site around it and the wall was not properly supported - that would be a tragedy," Cr Phillips said.

Next week's talks will involve the State Government, Victorian Building Commission and Melbourne City Council.

Planning Minister Matthew Guy told the Herald Sun he had ordered the Building Commission audit in a bid to prevent similar tragedies.

"We will get the Building Commission to look at all those CBD structures as soon as possible," the minister said.

Mr Guy said he would also seek advice on structural tests and see if they could be carried out more frequently.

"This one has passed the structural strength for some time and that's fine.

"But it's whether or not it remains at that level," he said. "There needs to be a continual audit and continual compliance for structures that are like that."

City of Melbourne spokesman Sam Bishop said: 'If concerns are raised about the integrity of any particular structure in the City of Melbourne, our municipal building surveyor's office will investigate."

The collapse of the wall at the CUB brewery site in Swanston, St, Carlton, is believed to have been caused by a freak gust of wind.

Grocon officials believe the wall was built in the 1970s, forming part of a boundary to the CUB site.

With Peter Rolfe

Additional reporting: Christopher Gillett, Jon Kaila, James Dowling and Jessica Evans

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North Korea declares war - again

Russia and China have urged North Korea and the United States to refrain from flexing their military muscle.

NORTH Korea has announced it has entered a "state of war'' with South Korea and will deal with every inter-Korean issue accordingly.

"As of now, inter-Korea relations enter a state of war and all matters between the two Koreas will be handled according to wartime protocol," the North said in a joint statement attributed to all government bodies and institutions.

"The long-standing situation of the Korean peninsula being neither at peace nor at war is finally over," said the statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), adding that any provocation would trigger a "full-scale conflict and a nuclear war".

The two Koreas have always technically remained at war because the 1950-53 Korean War concluded with an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

The email from North Korea threatening to bomb US bases. Source: Supplied

The White House said it took the new warning seriously, but said Pyongyang's threats were following a familiar pattern.

"We've seen reports of a new and unconstructive statement from North Korea. We take these threats seriously and remain in close contact with our South Korean allies," said Caitlin Hayden, spokeswoman for the National Security Council.

While seeking to show appropriate concern at Pyongyang's latest statement, Washington also sought to place the new threat into the context of a string of rhetoric from Kim Jong-Un's regime.

A close-up of the 'attack plan'. The lettering on the map reads as "Strategic Forces' US Mainland Striking Plan".

"We would also note that North Korea has a long history of bellicose rhetoric and threats and today's announcement follows that familiar pattern," Hayden said, noting that the United States was fully capable of protecting itself and its Asian allies.

CHINA, RUSSIA JOIN THE SABRE-RATTLING.

The government in Seoul also played down the latest statement.

"This is not really a new threat - just part of a series of provocative threats," the Unification Ministry said.

The North had announced earlier this month that it was ripping up the armistice and other bilateral peace pacts signed with Seoul in protest against South Korea-US joint military exercises, which returned the two nations to a state of war.

Voiding the ceasefire theoretically opened the way to a resumption of hostilities, although observers noted it was far from the first time that North Korea had announced the demise of the armistice.

The armistice was approved by the UN General Assembly, and both the United Nations and South Korea have repudiated the North's unilateral withdrawal.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un discusses a strike plan with North Korean officers during an urgent operation meeting at the Supreme Command in an undisclosed location. Kim Jong-Un ordered preparations for strategic rocket strikes on the US mainland and military bases in the Pacific and South Korea. The lettering on the map, rear L, reads as "Strategic Forces' US Mainland Striking Plan". Picture: AFP

Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr condemned the latest round of threats and said Australia was considering imposing more sanctions on the rogue state.

Senator Carr said in a statement that reports from the Australian Embassy in Seoul suggest there is no immediate evidence of increased military preparations by North Korea.

"Despite this, North Korea continues to pose a genuine threat to the safety of millions of people in our region," he said.

Senator Carr has welcomed calls by China and Russia for restraint by all parties, as well as commitments by the United States regarding the defence of South Korea and Japan.

Senator Carr has urged all nations to ensure existing measures are strictly enforced and said Australia is considering further "autonomous sanction" on North Korea.

Earlier, North Korean media issued two photos that appear to show plans for striking the US mainland as tens of thousands rally for it.

The pictures, released by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), both showed leader Kim Jong-Un sitting at a desk in what looked like a dedicated military operations room.

US B-2 stealth bomber flies over a US air base in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul.

LOST IN TRANSLATION: IS GOOGLE CREATING KOREAN CONFUSION?

EXCELLENT PICTURES OF KIM JONG-UN.

The photos accompanied a KCNA report on an emergency meeting with top army leaders in which Kim ordered strategic rocket units to prepare for a possible strike against US mainland and Pacific bases.

One picture showed Kim amongst four uniformed officers, but the main interest lay in the background.

The left of the picture showed a map with the unambiguous title: "Strategic Forces' US Mainland Striking Plan."

Straight lines on the map -- not all of which was visible -- appeared to show the proposed flight paths of missiles striking targets in the continental United States.

KIM JONG UN: MORE BARK THAN BITE?

North Korean army officers punch the air as they chant slogans during a rally at Kim Il Sung Square in downtown Pyongyang, North Korea.

ROCKETS WILL SETTLE US ACCOUNTS

"I don't think this is a mistake," a South Korean defence ministry official told AFP.

"I believe it has been intentionally made public, probably in order to distort facts about the North's military power," the official said.

Most experts say North Korea, despite a successful long-range rocket launch in December, is years from developing a genuine inter-continental ballistic missile capable of striking the US mainland.

Its proven short- and medium-range missiles do not even have the range to strike US Pacific bases in Guam or Hawaii.

Further in the background of the same picture, a wall-length screen appeared to list aspects of North Korea's naval strength, with entries such as "Submarines: 40, Landing Craft: 13, Minesweepers: 6."

A second photo, showing Kim alone at his desk, also had a map in the background which appeared to show the tracked or projected movement of the US 7th Fleet in the Pacific Ocean.

South Korea's K-1 tanks take part in their military exercise in the border city between two Koreas, Paju, north of Seoul, South Korea.

The pictures come as tens of thousands of North Korean soldiers and civilians held a huge rally and march in Pyongyang on Friday, in a mass display of support for a possible military strike against the United States.

The rally in Pyongyang's giant Kim Il-Sung square was attended by soldiers, veterans, workers and students, all wearing military uniforms. The North's young leader, Kim Jong-Un, was not present.

State television said the rally took place to support a decision issued by the Korean People's Army (KPA) supreme command on Tuesday - and ratified by Kim on Friday - to put the country's strategic rocket units on a war footing.

"The statement was the ultimatum of the Korean People's Army against the US imperialists," an announcer said at the start of the rally.

Under giant portraits of Kim's father Kim Jong-Il and grandfather Kim Il-Sung, the massed ranks of civilians and soldiers pledged their allegiance to the current leadership.

"Let's become guns and bombs for our respected leader Kim Jong-Un!," they chanted, pumping their fists in unison.

The rally was addressed by military and party officials who urged North Korean troops to launch a "merciless strike" on the US mainland and US military bases in the Pacific and South Korea.

"We are all ready to wipe them out for our final victory," army officer Kwon Yong-Chol said.

US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said Washington would not be cowed by Pyongyang's bellicose threats and stood ready to respond to "any eventuality".

His comments came as nuclear-capable US B-2 stealth bombers were deployed in ongoing US joint military drills with South Korea.

The B-2 flights, which followed training runs by B-52 bombers, were part of annual drills which North Korea each year denounces as rehearsals for war.

Meanwhile, China, North Korea's sole major ally and biggest trading partner, appealed for calm and said "joint efforts" were needed from all parties to prevent the situation deteriorating further.

Russia urged all sides involved in the standoff to refrain from muscle-flexing, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warning that the flare-up could spiral.

"We can simply see the situation getting out of control, it would spiral down into a vicious circle," he told reporters at a news conference.

"We believe it is necessary for all not to build up military muscle and not to use the current situation as an excuse to solve certain geopolitical tasks in the region through military means," he said, calling on all sides to create conditions for the resumption of talks.

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$338M lotto winner barred from claiming winnings

Pedro Quezada, the winner of the Powerball jackpot, talks to the media during a news conference at the New Jersey Lottery headquarter. Quezada , 44, won the $338 million jackpot with the winning ticket he purchased at Eagle Liquors store in Passaic, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) Source: AP

THE man who won $338 million in a Powerball jackpot cannot claim his money until he pays off a $29,000 debt in child support.

Everyone wants to know where Pedro Quezada has gone into hiding since winning the Powerball jackpot, but none more so than the Passaic County Sheriff.

Sheriff Richard H. Berdnik said the outstanding $29,000 has to be paid before Quezada can cash out, The Daily News reported.

"The Sheriff's Office Warrant Squad is attempting to notify Mr Quezada about the issue in an effort to have it resolved in a timely manner," Sheriff Berdnik said in a statement.

"Because of Mr. Quezada's large winnings, generally the New Jersey Division of Lottery would satisfy the judgment before all of the winnings are released. Like everyone else, until this warrant is satisfied, Mr. Quezada is subject to potential arrest," Berdnik said.

Quezada, 45, who won the fourth-largest Powerball jackpot of all time, owes $29,000 in child support payments.

He has five children, some of whom live in North Carolina, he said during Wednesday's press conference to announce his winning ticket. It was not clear to whom the outstanding payments are supposed to be made, Huffington Post reported.

Officers from the Passaic County Sheriff's department visited Quezada's apartment in Passaic, New Jersey, yesterday but the family had split on Tuesday, immediately after learning of their incredible reversal of fortune.

Authorities are not alone in looking for Quezada, random people drawn to his sudden fortune are coming out of the woodwork to give him advice.

Pedro Quezada with his $US338 million cheque after winning the Popwerball lottery jackpot. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

One, a financial planner, drove to Passaic from Virginia today to leave his card at Quezada's door, the Daily News reported.

"I figured I'd take a shot and see what's going on," said Sal Pena, 55. "I just want five minutes of his time."

"You never know unless you try," said Pena.

Relatives and friends Quezada left behind in Jarabacao, the Dominican town where he grew up, can't wait to see him.

"His story is like a soap opera," old family friend Francisco Obrero, 68, told the Daily News. "It should be called 'From Nothing to Everything.' "

Quezada grew up in a cramped, one-story, wooden house with his parents and four siblings The new millionaire left for New York 26 years ago, leaving heartbroken girlfriend Juana Velen German, who dated Quezada for three years, beginning when they were about 17. She spoke for her entire community in the Dominican Republic when she praised his character, cheered his good fortune and hailed his humility.

"I felt very happy to see he won the lottery," said German, 44. "He had always been very humble. He deserves this blessing more than anyone. He is making everyone here very happy."

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Gillies' malfunction goes global

Kylie Gillies arrives at the 2013 Prix de Marie Claire Awards at the Star / Pic: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images Source: The Daily Telegraph

Kylie Gillies arrives at the 2013 Prix de Marie Claire Awards at the Star / Pic: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images Source: The Daily Telegraph

Kylie Gillies arrives at the 2013 Prix de Marie Claire Awards at the Star / Pic: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images Source: The Daily Telegraph

KYLIE Gillies' wardrobe malfunction has made her famous but at least The Morning Show co-host can have a laugh about it.

While most of the black tie-clad babes at the Prix de Marie Claire Awards on Wednesday managed the wind outside like a fan at a photo shoot, poor Kylie Gillies couldn't stop a great big gust sweeping up through her cut out frock.

These photos of the The Morning Show co-host and her Angelina-esque dress by Adelaide designer Paolo Sebastian went around the world yesterday, appearing on London's The Daily Mail and New York Magazine, much to the surprise or horror of the 45-year-old.

"This has been a disaster - my spray tan lady wants to start charging me double," Gillies told Daily Telegraph's Confidential.

"I haven't suffered a wardrobe malfunction of this proportion since I interviewed Keith Urban back in my hometown of Tamworth in 1990.

"Back then it was double denim. I still think this is worse."

Also stealing some spotlight was singer-songwriter Danielle Spencer, who had an amazing diamond necklace draped around her neck that could not have cost less than $500,000.

The mother-of-two said it was a special present that she found in a drawer and seldom wears.

Charlotte Dawson, who has stopped drinking alcohol, also looked a treat in Rachel Gilbert, as did Samara Weaving in Aje.

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Alcohol 'not a factor' in Ryder attack

New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder is in a critical condition in Christchurch Hospital after being attacked.

New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder is in a critical condition after reportedly being bashed. Source: AFP

UPDATE: NEW Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder is in a critical condition with a fractured skull after being savagely bashed in a late-night assault.

The 28-year-old middle-order batsman is understood to be in a coma with a fractured skull, a punctured lung, internal bleeding and is in intensive care at a Christchurch hospital.

His family are at his bedside.

A spokesman for the ambulance service that transported Ryder to hospital said he had suffered "very serious head injuries".

The attack came just days before the talented Ryder was to take up a lucrative Indian Premier League contract.

Ryder has a history of disciplinary lapses and alcohol-related incidents, but although he had been drinking before the early morning attack, police said alcohol was not a factor.

Detective senior sergeant Brian Archer said there was a brief altercation involving Ryder and "two or three'' people when he stepped outside Aikman's bar in the Christchurch suburb of Merivale.

Ryder then crossed the road to a nearby fast-food outlet where he was attacked by one of the people from the initial confrontation.

"The hospital advise he is in a critical condition. He is in an induced coma as a result of suffering multiple injuries,'' Archer said.

A witness, identified only as Adam, told Stuff.co.nz that Ryder had his shirt ripped off and that several men kicked and punched him as he lay on the ground.

Ryder was found lying in a bush, "shaking, vomiting and covered in blood" in the carpark of a McDonald's restaurant across the road from the bar.

"Four dudes were just laying into him and absolutely smashing him on the ground," Adam said.

"His shirt was ripped off and they were kicking him and punching him while he was down."

Adam said he was not sure if the attackers were friends of Ryder, but said they "damn knew who he was''.

The incident occurred while Ryder was having a night out with his Wellington team-mates after earlier losing a season-ending one-day match to Canterbury.

The batsman is on a self-imposed break from international cricket to address "personal issues'' following a series of incidents.

New Zealand Cricket Players' Association chief executive Heath Mills said Ryder was known to have resumed drinking in recent weeks.

"It will be an ongoing struggle for Jesse and we need to do all we can to help him. So it shouldn't be a surprise if, in the future, we have to deal with isolated issues,'' Mills said.

"What I will say is Jesse was having a few drinks with his teammates at the conclusion of his season.

"The actual assault was not an alcohol-fuelled incident.''

Ryder, who last played for New Zealand a year ago, was due to fly out to India this weekend to compete for the Delhi Daredevils, who paid US$260,000 for his services at an auction.

Last year, Ryder, who has a Test average of 40.93 and a highest Test score of 201, took his manager and a psychologist with him to India when he played for the Pune Warriors.

"We are all shocked by what has occurred and extremely concerned for Jesse. New Zealand Cricket's thoughts are with him and his family,'' said New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White.

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'Huge thunderclap' as wall collapsed

Two people have been confirmed dead after a construction wall of bricks fell in Melbourne's CBD. Courtesy: Sky News

THE two people killed when a heritage-listed brick wall collapsed in Swanston Street looked like university students, witnesses say.

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade and Victoria Police have confirmed that two were killed when the wall collapsed at a Grocon site just before 3pm today.

Rubble fell across the footpath on Swanston St, in between Victoria and Queensberry Streets.

The victims, in their late teens, were pedestrians and the accident happened near an RMIT University building.

Acting Inspector Ian Lindsay said roads would be closed for two hours while police removed the deceased people from the site.

"It's definitely a bad start to Good Friday and its a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time," Inspector Lindsay said.

Emergency crews after the collapse. Picture: Mati Safi/Twitter

No family has yet to be notified about the victims deaths.

Police, city engineers, a coroner and Workplace inspectors are on site.

CFMEU state secretary John Setka, who was in his union office across the road, said that the victims appeared to be students.

"They looked young to me, they looked like students, maybe 20 years old," he said.

Mr Setka said he was among CFMEU members who helped lifted a wooden hoarding off the victims.

Pesestrians rush to help people caught under the horror wall collapse. Picture: Jonathan Lian/Twitter

A man and a woman were near each other, while another woman was at a separate part of the collapsed wall, he said.

He said the CFMEU first aiders helped treat one woman who had survived, until ambulance officers and firefighters arrived.

But the man and the other woman appeared to have died instantly, he said.

"I was in a meeting and someone said the wall had collapsed," he said.

"We thought it was one person there but we started lifting (the wooden hoarding) and there was another person.

"There was another one up the other end."

Mr Setka said the incident was terrible.

"This is absolutely tragic," he said.

"Maybe it was just a freak gust of wind and three poor kids happened to be there."

An aerial shot of the Melbourne CBD wall collapse. Picture: Fred Zhang

Jonathan Lian, a university student, said the scene was shocking.

"I was the first on the scene, I saw it happen," he said.

"There was a huge thunderclap, it was really, really loud and people were rushing about in all different directions."

Mr Lian said there were about three or four people near the wall when it fell.

"One guy barely got away," he said.

Building inspectors survey the damage at the site of the collapse. Picture: Mark Dadswell

"The police are here and ambulances."

A man and a woman were killed in the accident and another person was seriously injured and taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Building workers rushed to the wall when it collapse to prevent further falls, Seven News reported.

And pictures emerging on twitter show officer workers and witnesses frantically trying to pull bricks away from the wall and rescue people.

Firefighters were also on the scene trying to clear the debris.

The Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union confirmed that the accident happened on a Grocon site.

"It is a Grocon site, it's the former CUB site," spokeswoman Anaya Latter said.

She said that members of the public were believed to be the victims.

CFMEU secretary John Setka told the ABC that it was " a tall brick wall, in front of it were sheets of timber...the whole lot has come down."

The accident happened in an area regularly used by university students and is in between the an RMIT building and Melbourne University.

WorkSafe is now investigating the accident.

"We have two investigators and two inspectors on site," spokesman Peter Flaherty said.

The wall was three metres high and 20 metres long, he said.

The CUB site had been vacant for 17 years but is being developed into apartments, Grocon's website says.

"The heritage listed old bluestone walls of the brewery façade facing Bouverie Street, as well as the redbrick Malthouse opening on to Swanston Street, will also be preserved," the website says.

Victoria Police confirmed in a statement that two people had died as a result of the collapsed wall.

"Emergency services are currently on the scene of an incident in Carlton where its believed a wall has collapsed on a number of pedestrians," the statement said.

"The incident, which occurred at the corner of Swanston Street and Cornell Place, was reported to police just before 3pm and its believed a man and a woman have been killed as a result."

Police said that the a second woman was injured and taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious condition.

Grocon deputy chief Carolyn Viney said the company was investigating.

"We extend our sympathies to the families of those killed and to the person injured, and we also thank those who worked at the scene to assist in trying to rescue them," she said.

"This is a terrible tragedy for all concerned, particularly coming at this time of year when people are preparing for the Easter break."
 

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Italy court overturns Knox acquittal

A question remains after Italy's top court overturned the 2011 murder acquittal of American student Amanda Knox: If convicted in a retrial, would Knox be extridicted to Italy? Deborah Lutterbeck reports.

ITALY'S highest court of appeal overturned the acquittal of US student Amanda Knox and ordered a retrial over the murder of her British housemate in what prosecutors said was a drug-fuelled sex attack.

Ms Knox and her Italian former boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito - originally sentenced to 26 and 25 years in prison for killing and sexually assaulting Meredith Kercher in 2007 - were acquitted on appeal in 2011 after four years in prison.

Both now face a retrial in a Florence court after judges upheld a 2012 prosecution appeal against their acquittals.

Ms Knox, 25, said the news was "painful'' and insisted "the prosecution's theory of my involvement in Meredith's murder has been repeatedly revealed to be completely unfounded and unfair."

"No matter what happens, my family and I will face this continuing legal battle as we always have, confident in the truth and with our heads held high in the face of wrongful accusations and unreasonable adversity,'' she said in a statement.

Ms Knox's lawyer Carlo Dalla Vedova told journalists outside the Rome courthouse that the Seattle student was upset but "willing to fight''.

Ms Knox has not yet decided whether she will turn up for the trial, she said.

This file picture taken on March 12, 2011 shows Amanda Knox in court before the start of a session of her appeal trial in Perugia's courthouse. Ms Knox said the decision to retry her for murder was "painful" and "unfounded". Picture: AFP

Kercher, 21, was found half-naked with her throat slashed in a pool of blood in her bedroom in the house in the university town of Perugia that she shared with Ms Knox in November 2007.

Prosecutors had alleged that she was killed in a drug-fuelled sex attack, claiming Ms Knox delivered the final blows while Mr Sollecito and a third defendant held the victim down.

Investigators insist that 47 knife wounds on Kercher and the apparent use of two different knives in the attack meant that more than one killer had been involved.

Ms Knox returned to the US immediately after her release in 2011 and, should she not return to Italy, will likely be tried in absentia.

If convicted again, Italy may seek her extradition but the US does not normally hand over its citizens for legal action.

Amanda Knox cries following the verdict that overturned her conviction and acquits her of murdering her British roomate Meredith Kercher, at the Perugia court on Oct. 3, 2011. Picture: AP

Mr Sollecito, who turned 29 on Tuesday, continued to protest his innocence.

"I am disappointed. But I am innocent and can go on with my head held high,'' lawyer Luca Maori quoted him as saying.

"It's not been easy from the start. We have had to climb a mountain, but we draw great strength both from being innocent and from the fact the court's ruling today is not a guilty verdict," Mr Sollecito's lawyer Giulia Bongiorno said.

"The retrial means the court has decided some details need to be reviewed. The battle continues," she said.

Prosecutors told the court Monday they were convinced the former lovers were guilty of murdering Kercher.

Calling for the judges to "make sure the final curtain does not drop on this shocking and dire crime,'' they said the acquittal, which was based mainly on the admissibility of DNA evidence, contained "omissions and many mistakes''.

Amanda Knox's lawyer Luciano Ghirga talks to journalists as he leaves Italy's Court of Cassation, in Rome. If she does not return to Italy, Ms Knox can be tried in absentia, but the US is unlikely to hand her over to Italian authorities even if she is found guilty again. Picture: AP

Prosecutor general Luigi Riello had described it as "a rare mix of violation of the law and illogicality.''

The third accused, Ivory Coast-born drifter Rudy Guede, who has also denied the murder, is the only person still in prison for the crime.

Kercher family lawyer Francesco Maresca punched the air in victory at the court decision.

"This decision serves to review the definitive and final truth of Meredith's murder. Guede was not alone, the judges will tell us who was there with him,'' he said.

Kercher's older sister Stephanie said her family welcomed the ruling.

There are "still questions that are unanswered and we are all looking to find out the truth,'' she told Sky News.

From left, Meredith Kercher's brother Lyle, sister Stephanie and mother Arline wait for the verdict in the Amanda Knox appeals trial at the Perugia court on Oct. 3, 2011. Picture: AP

The key to the appeal was an independent analysis of two pieces of evidence that had helped convict Ms Knox and Mr Sollecito - a kitchen knife and Kercher's bra clasp.

An appeals judge quashed the 2009 convictions of Ms Knox and Mr Sollecito in 2011 after the review cast serious doubt on the original analysis, with experts and video evidence pointing to sloppy practice among the police at the crime scene and possible contamination of evidence.

"The court of appeal in Florence will very likely look at all the evidence again, from scratch, possibly calling in new external DNA experts,'' said criminology professor Ernesto Savona.

Ms Knox has been repeatedly painted by her accusers as a seductive "she-devil'' who had an unhealthy obsession with sex, while her defence has insisted she is simply a naive girl-next-door, a yoga lover whose nickname "Foxy Knoxy'' referred to her childhood soccer skills.

In her first interrogation following the murder -without a lawyer or an interpreter present - Ms Knox said that she was in the house at the time, and falsely identified the owner of a bar where she worked as a waitress as the killer.

She later said she was with Mr Sollecito at his house all night and blamed her initial comments on exhaustion and police coercion.

Amanda Knox and her former boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito will face retrial for the alleged murder of Meredith Kercher. Ms Knox has not decided if she will attend the retrial in Italy, her lawyer said. Picture: AFP

Overnight, she expressed sympathy for Kercher's family, saying "our hearts go out to them.''

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Freed hostage bans wife from him

Australian former soldier Warren Rodwell thanks Philippine officials, friends and family for their help in his release after being held hostage by Abu Sayyaf militants for 15 months. Jessica Gray reports.

Miraflor Gutang wife of Warren Rodwell. Photo: Supplied Source: Supplied

Australian hostage Warren Rodwell recovers after being released by militants following 15 months in captivity. Picture: AP Source: AP

THE Filipino wife of freed hostage Warren Rodwell - who claimed she had to sell her house to help pay his $94,000 ransom - has been blocked from seeing her estranged husband.

It has emerged that Miraflor Gutang, who was married to Mr Rodwell soon before he went missing, has fled her Mindanao home to seek refuge with family after Mr Rodwell reportedly denied a request to see her.

Ms Gutang, 29, could not be contacted yesterday for comment and sources reported that she was hiding out in Naga City.

The pair is believed to have fallen out before Mr Rodwell was kidnapped and the couple has not spoken to each other since Rodwell was released on Saturday.

Warren Rodwell is released in Pagadian City in the southern Philippines, 15 months after he was taken captive by rebels from the Abu Sayyaf group.

News Limited can also reveal that Filipino investigators and senior officials are looking into the possibility that the high-profile al-Qaida linked group Abu Sayyaf was not involved in Mr Rodwell's 15-month kidnapping ordeal.

Mr Rodwell, who is still recovering from emaciation, has already undergone questioning by detectives from the anti-kidnapping unit who were keen to talk with him as soon as possible about any clues he could provide.

ADFAT spokesman last night said there had been "various claims" about who was responsible for the kidnapping, which had been picked up by media outlets.

Kidnapped man Warren Rodwell has offered his heartfelt thanks to Australian and Filipino authorities.

"The kidnappers made every effort to hide their real identities ... we cannot be certain of the accuracies of these public claims (by the group responsible)," he said.

It is believed that other splinter Islamic groups or opportunistic locals could have targetted Mr Rodwell and this is being investigated by senior Filipino police led by Senior Superintendent Renato Gumban.

DFAT said it would continue to support Mr Rodwell, 54, as he recovers his strength.

They will also provide ongoing assistance for his sister Denise and brother Wayne - who helped co-ordinate and put up the ransom money.

The family of freed Australian hostage Warren Rodwell have thanked Philippine and Australian authorities.

The former Australian soldier could remain in Manila for up to two weeks depending on his health and the Philippines' famous Easter week celebrations - where major government departments and stores across the country shutdown - are also likely to cause some delay.

Sources said Mr Rodwell - who is staying at an undisclosed location - was keen to get back to Australia as soon as possible after his ordeal.

His captors had initially threatened to kill him unless a $US2 million ($1.93) ransom was paid.

Through a strategy of using Mr Rodwell's wife Miraflor as a front for negotiations, the ransom was eventually settled for $94,000 in a deal brokered by Al-Rasheed Sakalahul, the vice-governor of the southern Philippine province of Basilan.

On the weekend, Ms Gutang claimed she had to sell her home, a water filling station and a vehicle to help fund Mr Rodwell's ransom.

Australian hostage Warren Rodwell (C) who was recently released talks arrives at the Manila International Airport in Manila on March 25, 2013. Australian Warren Rodwell said on March 25 he was overwhelmed, happy and thankful at finally being free after 15 months as a hostage of Islamic militants in the southern Philippines. AFP PHOTO/NOEL CELIS Source: AFP

It is believed that Mr Rodwell's Australian based family provided the bulk of the funds.

Mr Rodwell was released by his captorsnear Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur on the weekend.

He was put in a boat in the early hours of the morning and had to paddle his own way to shore.

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Knox forced to wait another day

A ruling in Italy's high court is expected in appeal case of Amanda Knox, the US student convicted of murder

AMERICAN student Amanda Knox and her former Italian boyfriend have to wait another day to learn if they must stand trial yet again in Italy for the 2007 murder of her roommate.

Italy's top Court of Cassation put off until Tuesday morning its announcement of its decision on whether to definitively confirm their 2011 acquittals or throw out those verdicts and order what would be the their third trial.

Neither of the two came to court in Rome on Monday to follow the latest stage in their case. Knox was waiting for the decision in her home state of Washington, while her co-defendant and former boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, stayed in northern Italy to continue his studies.

The court heard six hours of arguments Monday and spent several hours deliberating that and a handful of other cases before announcing it would issue its decision at 10am (8pm AEDT) Tuesday.

Italian prosecutors have asked the high court to throw out the acquittals for the murder of 21-year-old British student Meredith Kercher and order a new trial.

Kercher's body was found in November 2007 in her bedroom of the house she shared with Knox and other roommates in Perugia, an Italian university town with popular with foreign students. Her throat had been slashed.

Prosecutors have alleged that Kercher was the victim of a drug-fueled sex game gone awry Knox and Sollecito have denied wrongdoing, claiming they weren't even in the house the night of the murder.

Amanda Knox pictured at a news conference in Seattle in 2011, after returning home from Italy after an Italian appeals court threw out her murder conviction for the death of her British roommate, Meredith Kercher. Picture: AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

The high court generally gives its rulings the day it hears arguments. But prosecutor general Luigi Riello told reporters that ``in very complex cases, it happens'' that the court takes another day.

A lawyer for Sollecito, Giulia Bongiorno, said the delay perhaps meant the court wanted ''more time to reflect'' before its ruling.

Sollecito's father shrugged off the suspense.

"We have waited so many years, one night is not going to make a difference,'' said Francesco Sollecito after some 12 hours in the courthouse, most of that time spent standing quietly in the back of the courtroom during final pleas by both sides. He said he hadn't yet spoken by phone with his son, who was in the northern city of Verona.

Knox, meanwhile, was waiting anxiously in Seattle to hear if her long legal battle was finally over, or if another chapter still needed to be written.

"She's carefully paying attention to what will come out,'' attorney Luciano Ghirga told reporters. ``This is a fundamental stage. The trial is very complex.''

This is an undated file photo released by the Italian police of 22-year-old murdered British university student Meredith Kercher.

Ghirga had left the courthouse when deliberations began. He had left for the day by the time the court stunned fellow lawyers by saying they'd have to wait another day.

Knox, now 25, and Sollecito, who turns 29 on Tuesday, were arrested shortly after Kercher's body was found in a pool of blood.

In a first trial, both were convicted and given long prison sentences: 26 years for Knox, 25 for Sollecito.

An appeals court acquitted them in 2011, criticizing virtually the entire case mounted by prosecutors. The appellate court noted that the murder weapon was never found, said that DNA tests were faulty and that prosecutors provided no murder motive.

After nearly four years behind bars in Italy, Knox returned to her hometown of Seattle and Sollecito resumed his computer science studies, following the degree he successfully earned while studying in prison.

Knox is now a student at the University of Washington, according to her family spokesman, Dave Marriott.

Amanda Knox is not expected to return to Italy if a retrial is ordered.

Italy's judicial system allows for two levels of appeals, and prosecutors can appeal acquittals.

Although the court on Monday heard gruesome details, including how Kercher choked on her own blood, it will not rule on the guilt or innocence of the defendants. Its sole task is to decide if the appellate trial was properly conducted.

If the Cassation Court upholds the acquittals, that ends the case for Knox and Sollecito.

But if it agrees with prosecutors that the appellate court erred - for instance, by not allowing sufficient forensic evidence tests, as Riello contended in court Monday - it throws out the acquittals.

It would then order a new appeals trial. In that case, that trial would be held by an appellate court in Florence, since the smaller town of Perugia only has one appellate court and it cannot hear the same case again.

Should a new trial be ordered, Italian law cannot compel Knox to return. The appellate court hearing the case could declare her in contempt of court but that carries no additional penalties.

It is unclear what would happen if she was convicted in a new appeals trial.

"If the court orders another trial, if she is convicted at that trial and if the conviction is upheld by the highest court, then Italy could seek her extradition,'' Knox's lawyer Carlo Dalla Vedova said.

Italy is not obliged to seek her extradition but it could decide to do so. It would then be up to the United States to decide if it honors the request. U.S. and Italian authorities could also come to a deal that would keep Knox in the United States.

Riello, the prosecutor general, argued before the court that there were ample reasons "not to bring down the curtain on the case.''

Riello contended the appellate court was too dismissive in casting aside DNA evidence that led to the conviction in the lower court, arguing that another trial could make way for more definitive testing.

An attorney for Kercher family members also argued for a new trial. The lawyer, Francesco Maresca, contended that the appellate court tried to have it both ways by saying that it didn't have the scientific expertise to decide the worth of forensic evidence but also deciding which tests to order.

The Kercher family didn't attend Monday's hearing.

Defence attorneys said they were confident the acquittals would be upheld.

"We know Raffaele Sollecito is innocent,'' said his attorney, Giulia Bongiorno, who called the entire case "`an absurd judicial process.''

Before the court, Bongiorno argued there was an ``unending series of errors by scientific police'' in how they handled evidence in the case, including the fact that the crime scene had been disturbed ``and possibly contaminated'' during the investigation.

Bongiorno noted that a key piece of evidence - a clasp from Kercher's bra -- had been found 1 meter (yard) away from its original position in the bedroom when police forensic experts had gone back to the crime scene 47 days after their original inspection.

A young man from Ivory Coast, Rudy Guede, was convicted of the slaying in a separate proceeding and is serving a 16-year sentence. Kercher's family has resisted theories that Guede acted alone.

The same court also heard arguments in Knox's appeal of her slander conviction for having accused, after police interrogation, a local pub owner of carrying out the killing. The man was held for two weeks based on her allegations, but was then released for lack of evidence.

Riello argued that conviction should stand because "you cannot drag in an innocent person while exercising your right to a defence.''

Knox's lawyer Dalla Vedova said the slander verdict should be thrown out because she was questioned without a lawyer even though police essentially treated Knox as a suspect in their 14 hour interrogation session.

"The girl was confused, worn out,'' her lawyer told the court. Dalla Vedova added that while Knox was alone, 36 investigators signed the interrogation sheet.

Because of time served in prison before the appeals level acquittals, Knox didn't have to serve any time for the slander conviction.

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Voters dump Labor over Rudd farce

Voters have condemned the ALP after last week's aborted leadership challenge. Picture: Stefan Postles/Getty Source: Getty Images

LABOR'S ranks would be cut in half if the election were held now, with support for the Government plunging to a 12-month low and Julia Gillard's approval rating tumbling after last week's leadership turmoil.

With six months to the election, voters have embraced Tony Abbott and condemned the ALP for the farce that ended in a leadership spill that Kevin Rudd did not contest.

Today's Newspoll, published in The Australian, shows the Coalition with a massive 20-point lead on primary vote with its support up six points to 50 per cent.

Labor fell four points to 30 per cent and the Greens were down a point to 10 per cent.

After preferences, it puts the Coalition ahead 58 to 42 per cent.

That would mean an eight-point swing from the last election and, if repeated across the board on September 14, Labor would lose 35 seats and have only 37 MPs left in the House of Representatives - even worse than Paul Keating's 1996 defeat.

The latest Newspoll shows Julia Gillard is fast losing popularity while her government faces a wipeout.

Newspoll shows Ms Gillard's satisfaction rating dived six points to a 13-month low of 26 per cent but her dissatisfaction rating soared eight to 68 per cent.

Mr Abbott's ratings were his best since September 2011, with his approval rating up three points to 39 per cent and dissatisfaction rating down five to 50 per cent.

Mr Abbott's approval rating is 13 points ahead of Ms Gillard's.

He also jumped in front as preferred PM, rising five points to 43 per cent as Ms Gillard crashed seven points to 35 per cent.

Ms Gillard this afternoon said she did not comment on opinion polls.

''I don't comment on opinion polls but I don't think anybody in the country needs an opinion poll to tell them Labor had a truly appalling week,'' she said.

''For us that week is over, the government has always had a sense of purpose, now it has a sense of unity.''

June 24, 2010

Gillard becomes Australia's first female Prime Minister after challenging Kevin Rudd. The incident becomes known as the 'knifing' of Rudd.

August 2, 2010

The PM says it's time voters had a chance to see the "real Julia". The move backfires when people ask: if it's now time to see the real Julia, who was she before?

December 15, 2010

At least 30 asylum seekers die when their ramshackle boat breaks up after being tossed against cliffs in rough seas off Christmas Island. The incident reignites debate about boat arrivals in Australia.

January 2011

Gillard visits flood-ravaged Queensland, and is criticised by some commentators for lack of warmth. Her one-off flood levy to help Queenslanders recover is highly controversial.

February 24, 2011

Gillard breaks an election promise in announcing a carbon tax. Tony Abbott slams the announcement as "an utter betrayal of the Australian people".

March 21, 2011

Gillard cops flack when she reveals she is opposed to gay marriage and, despite being an atheist, that she thinks it's important for people to understand the Bible.

March 23, 2011

A carbon tax protest rally led by Tony Abbott in Canberra turns personal when anti-government demonstrators start chanting "ditch the bitch". Placards at the rally read "Ju-Liar" and "Bob Brown's bitch".

May 7, 2011

The Gillard Government announces it is close to signing the "Malaysia Solution". Issues surrounding human rights and unaccompanied children then dog the government.

May 18, 2011

The Prime Minister flicks the switch on the National Broadband Network on mainland Australia. Many commentators and the Opposition call it waste of money but Gillard says naysayers are out of touch.

May 30, 2011

The government suspends live exports after Four Corners exposes brutal mistreatment of Australian cattle in Indonesian slaughterhouses. Pastoralists' livelihoods suffer as their cattle remain in limbo.

June 15, 2011

Newspoll shows support for Julia Gillard has crashed to a record low of just 30 per cent. The figure is lower than Kevin Rudd's was when she replaced him.

September 27, 2011

Kevin Rudd adds fuel to leadership speculation when he makes a gaffe on ABC Radio: "I'm a very happy little vegemite being prime minister ... being foreign minister of Australia."

November 23, 2011

The mining tax is passed after parliament sits late into the night. The Opposition vows to repeal the tax if elected and accuses the Government of secretive "backdoor deals".

November 24, 2011

Canberra is stunned by a deal installing Peter Slipper, a member of the Queensland Liberals, as Speaker of the House of Representatives. It shores up the government's numbers but the ousting of Harry Jenkins, a popular and effective Speaker, is seen has harsh.

December 2, 2011

Gillard is widely criticised for "airbrushing" Kevin Rudd from ALP history at the party's National Conference in Sydney.

January 22, 2012

Gillard reneges on a deal with key independent Andrew Wilkie to introduce measures to tackle problem gambling. Wilkie pulls his support from the government in retaliation. The move puts a new complexion on the installation of Slipper as Speaker.

January 26, 2012

One of Gillard's key advisors is forced to resign after admitting he tipped off Aboriginal activists to incorrect reports that Tony Abbott wanted to close the tent embassy.

February 24, 2012

Kevin Rudd announces he will contest the leadership, saying Gillard has lost the confidence of the Australian people.

February 27, 2012

Gillard retains the top job after winning the challenge 71-31, but it comes at a cost as Mark Arbib resigns.

March 26, 2012

Queensland Labor is stunned with a landslide state election reducing the party to a rump in the parliament. Gillard says she respects the "shouted" message from voters, but rejects claims it serves as a warning to her own Government.

April 23, 2012

The PM is forced to defend her decision to appoint Peter Slipper as Speaker after allegations he abused his Cabcharge account and sexually harassed a former adviser.

April 29, 2012

Gillard accepts Craig Thompson's resignation and stands Peter Slipper aside indefinitely. She says the scandals have "crossed a line", but some commentators see it as another complete U-turn.

May 8, 2012

Voters were unconvinced by Gillard's 2012 Federal Budget offering $5 billion in cost-of-living offset measures to counteract the impact of the Carbon Tax.

May 9, 2012

Gillard said she was "deeply disturbed" that a three-year investigation by Fair Work Australia found suspended Labor MP Craig Thomson had spent almost $500,000 of union members' funds on prostitutes, fine dining, hotels, cash withdrawals, air travel and electioneering.

May 10, 2012

Gillard declared that US President Barak Obama's support for same-sex marriage would not change her own view on the issue.

June 21, 2012

About 90 asylum seekers were lost at sea after a boat capsized north-west of Christmas Island. Rescue attempts successfully pulled 109  out of the water.

June 28, 2012

A second asylum-seeking vessel sank, claiming the lives of at least four people. Merchant and naval vessels rescued 125.

August 12, 2012

Gillard was forced into a major back-down by announcing the Government would nominate Nauru and Manus Island to be reopened as offshore processing facilities for asylum seekers.

August 18, 2012

It was revealed Julia Gillard had been under investigation when she resigned from her law firm Slater and Gordon in 1995. Questions had been raised about work she had done for her then boyfriend,  a union boss accused of corruption.

August 23, 2012

The Australian reveals that Gillard admitted that the entity she set up for Wilson was a slush fund to raise cash for the re-election of union officials. Gillard breaks her silence, denying any wrongdoing and declaring the story is part of a sexist internet smear campaign.

October 9, 2012

A fiery speech by Prime Minister Julia Gillard slamming Opposition Leader Tony Abbott for being a misogynist gains global attention.

November 11, 2012

Wayne Hem swears in a statutory declaration that he made the Gillard payment and other payments after being instructed to do so by Bruce Wilson.

November 15, 2012

The Australian reveals that former AWU official Helmut Gries, who first raised concerns that union money may have been spent on Gillard's renovations, now doubts that version of events.

January 28, 2013

First bloke Tim Mathieson attracts the wrong sort of attention for the following comment: "We can get a blood test for (prostate cancer), but the digital examination is the only true way to get a correct reading on your prostate, so make sure you go and do that, and perhaps look for a small Asian female doctor is probably the best way."

January 30, 2013

Prime Minister Julia Gillard announces a September 14 election date, initiating one of the longest campaigns in Australian history.

January 31, 2103

Former Labor MP Craig Thomson is arrested at his electoral office on the NSW Central Coast and is charged with 150 offences relating to allegedly fraudulent use of union funds at the Health Services Union.

February 2, 2013

Ministers Nicola Roxon and Chris Evans announce their resignations ahead of the election.

February 19, 2013

Greens leader Christine Milne announces the end of her party's minority government agreement with Labor over its failed mining tax. The Greens will continue to offer supply until the September election.

February 26, 2013

A Newspoll published in The Australian shows a five-point drop in support for Julia Gillard as preferred Prime Minister, giving Opposition Leader Tony Abbott a four point lead of 40 to 36 per cent. Last November, Ms Gillard enjoyed a 14-point lead in the preferred PM stakes.

March 3, 2013

Julia Gillard begins a five-day stay in western Sydney where she tries to increase her appeal with a disillusioned electorate through promises to tighten the rules around the 457 Visas, giving $1 billion for the WestConnex road project for the M4 and a $50 million promise of federal funds for the Warragamba Dam.

March 9, 2013

Stephen Smith's comments about federal Labor's woes having an impact on Liberal Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett's landslide victory reportedly leave the PM fuming. Similar comments made by ex- Labor Minister, Alannah MacTiernan about the electoral massacre Labor faced with Julia Gillard as leader days later, further inflamed the situation and sparked a fresh round of leadership speculation.

March 11, 2013

A Newspoll published in The Australian shows that Labor's overall approval support rose three points to 34 per cent while the Coalition fell three points to 44 per cent. Ms Gillard regained her lead over Tony Abbott as preferred Prime Minister 42 to 38 per cent. Later that day, several members of the public were booted out of the federal parliament during question for heckling the prime minister and calling her a "moll" and "Ju-liar".

March 12, 2013

Bill Shorten rules out taking over from Julia Gillard as Labor MPs meet to find a circuit breaker to the crisis around the party leadership. Meanwhile, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy announces a raft of controversial new media reforms which the government wants to pass parliament by the end of the following week.

March 16, 2013

Labor MPs warn controversial media laws should be scrapped if they fail to pass parliament because they would be a dead weight ahead of an election.

March 18, 2013

Kevin Rudd surges ahead of Julia Gillard as preferred Labor leader according to a Nielsen poll. 62 per cent of voters named Mr Rudd as preferred Labor leader, over Ms Gillard (31 per cent). Labor's primary vote also drops back to 31 per cent.

March 19, 2013

Julia Gillard's key backers challenge Kevin Rudd's numbers men to "reveal names" after disputing their claims the former PM was close to having the numbers in caucus behind him to take back the leadership. Mr Rudd ruled out that he would run for the leadership by Friday.

March 21, 2013

Simon Crean calls on the PM to call a spill of all leadership positions to ''end the stalemate'', and Julia Gillard calls a ballot for 4.30 that day. Kevin Rudd announced he would not challenge for the leadership, and Ms Gillard was re-elected unopposed.

March 22, 2013

Cabinet ministers Chris Bowen and Martin Ferguson, senior minister Kim Carr, parliamentary secretary Richard Marles and three whips - Joel Fitzgibbon, Ed Husic and Janelle Saffin - all resigned in the wake of the botched attempt to roll the Prime Minister. Simon Crean was also sacked by Ms Gillard for his role in the attempted spill.

Foreign Minister Bob Carr believes voters don't want a Coalition government led by Tony Abbott, despite the Newspoll showing otherwise.

''But they are being driven into the Liberal camp and into Abbott's column by Labor's behaviour,'' he told Sky News from New York.

The challenge for Labor was to put the events of last week ''thoroughly behind it'' and have a conversation with the Australian people.

Senator Carr cited the government's achievements including the creation of nearly one million jobs, a $2.2 billion commitment to mental health and historically-low inflation that meant cash in the pockets and bank accounts of families.

''We just need to ram home these achievements and the risk to them from a change of government in September.''

Finance Minister Penny Wong today said she is not surprised Labor is trailing the Coalition.

''If you have a week like we had, where you are clearly focused on your internals and not doing what's best for Australians then voters will indicate their view about that,'' she told ABC radio.

''I share their view.

''It was not the best week the government's ever had,'' she said.

New cabinet minister Gary Gray, a former ALP national secretary, said Labor was in a similar predicament in late 1992.

That was when the country had become ''completely fascinated'' by then Opposition Leader John Hewson and his Fightback policy.

''What the Labor Party did was retreat to its own core values, produce its own policy framework and win in 1993,'' he told ABC radio.

Mr Gray said it was true last week was a terrible one, with Ms Gillard again forced to fight for her job.

''The Prime Minister's own leadership and her strength and her unquestioned leadership of the Labor Party is a great asset for our party,'' he said.

Cabinet minister Craig Emerson said recent internal destabilisation played a role in Labor's poor standing with voters.

''I'm not going to say that every opinion poll is exclusively the result of destabilisation,'' he told Sky News.

''But I can say this ... it doesn't help at all.''

Now the leadership crisis was behind it, Labor had an opportunity to re-enter ''the contest of ideas'' with the Coalition.

But Senior Liberal George Brandis dismissed that view, saying sacked cabinet minister Simon Crean was still publicly voicing his concerns about the direction of the party.

Last week the government was ''chaotic, divided and dysfunctional'' and the disunity was wearing on the electorate.

''The public get one of the basic truths of politics,'' Senator Brandis said.

''If you can't govern yourselves, you can't govern the country.''

Ms Gillard yesterday unveiled her new front bench, vowed there would be "no tolerance" for any disloyalty and declared she was appalled by self-indulgent disunity.

"Like Australians around the nation, I was appalled by the events of last week," Ms Gillard said.

"My political party, the Labor Party that I love very dearly, was self-indulgent ... it was an unseemly display but out of that has come clarity."

Ms Gillard's sixth reshuffle in three years sees a record 10 women in the ministry of 30 with Ballarat MP Catherine King, Sharon Bird from NSW and Jan McLucas from Queensland promoted as junior ministers and getting a pay rise from $238,187 to $300,116.

The Cabinet was cut from 21 to 20, with extra roles for Craig Emerson, who adds Tertiary Education to Trade, and Rudd supporter Anthony Albanese adding Regional Development to Infrastructure and Transport.

Two new Cabinet faces are former Woodside executive Gary Gray, who takes Resources and Energy, Tourism and Small Business, and Jason Clare, who has the same portfolio of Home Affairs and Cabinet Secretary. They get a $28,582 pay rise.

But a sign of the political carnage Labor has suffered over the past five years is the 10 ex-Cabinet ministers sitting on the back bench.

Victoria loses three ministers who backed Mr Rudd - Martin Ferguson and Simon Crean from Cabinet, who will have their pay slashed from $328,698 to $190,550, and junior minister Kim Carr.

Ms King becomes Minister for Regional Services, Local Communities and Road Safety, while Melbourne Ports MP Michael Danby is promoted to parliamentary secretary for the arts.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, has been given extra Cabinet duties as Special Minister of State.

The federal Coalition says Labor's latest cabinet reshuffle is a sign of an ''end-stage government'' that has run out of capable people to fill crucial positions.

Liberal senator George Brandis says the PM has resorted to forming ''super ministries'' and heaping responsibility on a few senior MPs because of a lack of talent.

Bundling together trade and education, two of the ''great departments of state'', because of a lack of ''heavyweight people'' for the roles was a mistake, he added.

Senator Brandis said Dr Emerson had effectively become a ''part-time'' trade minister.

The promotion to the junior ministry of senators Don Farrell and Jan McLucas and MPs Sharon Bird and Catherine King sent a message.

''None of these people were capable of being promoted to cabinet,'' Senator Brandis told Sky News today.

''This is what happens to an end-stage government - you just run out of people.''

But Ms Gillard said she was ''spoilt for choice'' when considering the reshuffle.

''Fortunately, federal Labor has a depth of talent,'' she told ABC radio.

phillip.hudson@news.com.au

 - with AAP

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No radiation in Russian tycoon death

Police cordon off roads near the UK home of Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky, who was found dead in "unclear" circumstances.

The Russian tycoon was reportedly found dead at his London home. Picture: AP/Sang Tan Source: AP

RADIATION experts found no hazardous materials in their search of the property where former Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky's body was found.

British police are investigating the unexplained death of the self-exiled tycoon who had a bitter falling out with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Berezovsky, who fled to Britain in the early 2000s, was found dead on Saturday at the property in Ascot, a town 40 kilometers west of London. He was 67, and Thames Valley police say his death is being treated as "unexplained."

Police said on Sunday that officers specially trained in chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials have given the scene the "all clear."

"Officers found nothing of concern in the property and we are now progressing the investigation as normal," a statement from police said, adding that the majority of the cordon put in place around the property has now been lifted.

A mathematician-turned-Mercedes dealer, Berezovsky amassed his wealth during Russia's chaotic privatization of state assets in the early 1990s.

Once a member of Russian President Boris Yeltsin's inner circle, Berezovsky fell out with Yeltsin's successor, Putin, and fled Britain to escape fraud charges that he said were politically motivated.

He became a strident and frequent critic of Putin, accusing the leader of ushering in a dictatorship, and accused the security services of organizing the 1999 apartment house bombings in Moscow and two other Russian cities that became a pretext for Russian troops to sweep into Chechnya for the second war there in half a decade.

Putin's spokesman acknowledged on Sunday that the Russian president considered Berezovsky an enemy with clearly stated intentions to fight.

"We know for certain that he spared no expense in support of processes, within Russia and beyond, that could be said to have been directed against Russia and Putin," spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on the independent cable television channel Rain. "He definitely was Putin's opponent, and unfortunately not only his political opponent, but most likely in other dimensions as well."

In recent years, Berezovsky fended off legal attacks that often bore political undertones - and others that bit into his fortune.

Russia repeatedly sought to extradite on Berezovksy on a wide variety of criminal charges, and the tycoon vehemently rejected allegations over the years that he was linked to several deaths, including that of slain journalist Anna Politkovskaya and ex-KGB agent Alexander Litvinenko.

Berezovsky won a libel case in 2010 against a Kremlin-owned broadcaster that aired a show in which it was suggested he was behind the poisoning of Litvinenko, who had fled Russia with Berezovsky's help after accusing officials there of plotting to assassinate political opponents.

Hi son-in-law, Egor Schuppe, said Berezovsky was depressed and had failed to keep in touch with friends and acquaintances, broadcaster Russia Today reported.

The tycoon was involved in a bitter multi-million pound legal battle with fellow tycoon and Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich last year.

He sought more than $A4.39 billion in damages from Abramovich after accusing his rival of blackmail, breach of trust and breach of contract.

He lost the case and subsequently agreed to pay Abramovich $51.23 million in legal costs.

Berezovsky also ran up $365,898 in costs in a legal battle with his former partner, Elena Gorbunova, with whom he had two children.

Berezovsky's colourful past is likely to prompt intense speculation about his death - he was paranoid about plots against his life, and in 1995 he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt that decapitated his driver.

His lawyer told Russian state television that he had been informed by contacts in London that Berezovsky had killed himself.

"Berezovsky has been in a terrible state as of late. He was in debt. He felt destroyed,'' said Dobrovinsky. "He was forced to sell his paintings and other things.''

However, the oligarch's friend Demyan Kudryavtsev firmly denied that Berezovsky had killed himself.

"No! This is not so!'' he was quoted as saying by the Prime news agency in Russia.

"Nobody knows this. There are no external signs of a suicide. There are no signs that he injected himself or swallowed any pills. No one knows why his heart stopped.''

Born January 23, 1946, in Moscow, Berezovsky trained in forestry and worked as an academic for nearly two decades before becoming one of the super-rich oligarchs who dominated Russia in the 1990s.

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We miss our brave brother

Steve and Sandy Matthews of Spring Bluff, near Murphy's Creek, who died after being swept away in floodwaters. Source: Supplied Source: Supplied

Sam Matthews (right) with sisters Sarah Norman (left), Victoria Matthews and brother Dan. Picture: Mark Calleja Source: The Courier-Mail

• Sam Matthews awarded posthumous Bravery Medal
• The 20-year-old saved sister in the 2011 Queensland Floods
• He died in a freak fire six months later

HE knew his mum and dad were dead but he kept going to save his little sister.

Sam Matthews couldn't help his parents Steve and Sandy, who were swept to their deaths in the Queensland 2011 floods, but his actions ensured his then-15-year-old sister Victoria survived.

Sam, who died in a freak fire six months later, is today being recognised for his heroic actions with a posthumous Bravery Medal from Governor-General Quentin Bryce.

His oldest sister Sarah Norman said the 20-year-old's actions during the Lockyer Valley floods had been "extraordinary" in the circumstances.

"(News of the award) made me kind of sit down and get a bit teary," she said.

"Just that he's being recognised on such a large scale for his actions was a bit of a surprise but he deserves it.

"Sam was so humble and it's just a shame that he couldn't be here to receive it himself so that he could understand that what he did was so fantastic."

When an "inland tsunami" smashed into their Spring Bluff home on January 10, Sam pushed Victoria up into the roof cavity - as water raged around them - before going back to help his parents.

But when the water surged, a wall collapsed and a lounge blocked his way, he could not reach them.

"When I first saw the house I thought they were all dead," Ms Norman said.

"To see him I was comforted to know that he and Victoria were OK but when he signalled that Mum and Dad were in the water I immediately knew that they were dead, so he too would have known that at that point.

"But he looked after Victoria. He was a wreck, we were all a wreck, but he did what he could."

Sam Matthews after the flood Source:

When the water slightly subsided Sam climbed out of the ceiling and signalled to his sister Sarah, who was on higher ground.

He then crossed the swollen creek and secured a snatch-trap to allow others to cross before setting off on foot to find his parents.

The bodies of Steve, 56, and Sandy, 46, were later found near each other, about 2km from their home.

Ms Norman, 28, said her brother had just started to recover from those traumatic events when he was killed in a blaze at Murphys Creek, days shy of his 21st birthday.

"He had just gotten to a point where he was starting to look upwards a bit," she said.

"We'd had a lot of really good talks after the floods and moved through a lot of things.

"I'm glad he got to that point at least but it was sad that after doing so well he has died."

A week before his death Sam told News Limited that he had bought a block of land and planned to build there.

"Every day has its struggles," he said.

"I was thrown in the deep end with buying (the land).

"I don't know if I was ready for it but you just have to be ready for it. It's a big responsibility I guess."

Sam Matthews with father Steve (left) and brother Dan (right). Photo: Supplied. Source: Supplied

Ms Norman said she was "gutted" by Sam's shock death.

"With mum and dad it was hugely sad but you kind of had this sense of reason - we thought at least they were together," she said.

"But with Sam there was just nothing. He died in a fire in a paddock. When we went to the property (where he died) that day I was totally empty. I just sat there in the car. I couldn't move. I didn't know how to react. There was no emotion to go with how I felt. I couldn't comprehend.

"It was our lowest. We went to all of these low places (after the flood) and didn't think we could go any lower - we just didn't expect it."

Ms Norman, her siblings - Victoria, now 18, and Dan Matthews, 30 - and their families are still struggling to move on from their unimaginable grief.

"It's seriously changed all of our lives forever. We're never going to go back to a stage where we can feel like we're living a life close to what we had previously," she said.

"Post floods and post Sam's death we keep moving but everything in our lives has changed and it's nice to have some acknowledgement of things that happened at that time because it had such a big impact on our lives.

"So it's nice that Sam's being recognised, even after all of this time, because what he did was so big and if he were still alive (the events of January 10) would still be affecting his life."

Sarah Norman with husband Jethro and children (from left) Israel, Eleanor and Vera, at their Toowoomba home. Photo: Megan Slade. Source: The Courier-Mail

Today The Australian Bravery Decorations Council is awarding one Star of Courage, 19 Bravery Medals, 50 Commendations for Brave Conduct and 15 Group Bravery Citations.

Many nominations considered by the council were for individual who demonstrated courage and determination in the face of one of the worst floods in Australia's history.

Ms Bryce said national bravery awards recognised the heroic actions of those who put the safety and lives of others before their own.

"We are privileged to have such role models in our society, and it is an honour to be able to recognise their acts of selfless bravery and thank them publicly for their brave actions," she said.

Follow @itsKShort or email kristin.shorten@news.com.au

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A hot trend that repels the blokes

Rebecca Boyd-Bais and Char Alrich are divided on whether comfortable 'man-repeller' tracksuits are a good look on women. Picture: Hunter Bradley Source: The Daily Telegraph

THEY go by the name man repellers - fashion trends which only women can appreciate. And they've come to a chain store near you.

From wedged sneakers to leather track pants, this season's styles are more about comfort and pushing the boundaries of taste than impressing the opposite sex.

Since appearing on the runways of Isabel Marant, Phillip Lim and Celine in recent seasons, androgynous clothing such as beanies, drop-crotch pants, sneakers and loose knit jumpers have now found their way onto Sydney's streets.

They've been championed by everyone from Rihanna and Miley Cyrus to Cara Delevingne and according to local retailers, Australian women can't get enough of this comfy fashion either.

"Beanies are flying out the door, particularly the slouch beanie, plus anything with a leather-look," said Sportsgirl trend forecaster Leigh Hawkes. "I think these styles have become popular here because we have that laid back attitude to fashion and it's also a lifestyle thing.

"Aussie girls know how to wear these styles with attitude."

Top styles at the moment include elastic-waist pants, logo-emblazoned fleece and knit jumpers, onesies and sneaker styles and brands such as Witchery, Bonds, and Topshop have begun incorporating the trendy designs in their ranges.

Char Alrich admitted she dressed to impress other women more so than men.

"I dress totally for women," the 21-year-old Point piper resident said.

"Some people say the track pant is the new Ugg boot but every woman likes to be comfortable and on trend at the same time. Gone are the Juicy Couture tracksuit days though; it's more about a cool top, some nice slouchy pants and some nice footwear."

Student Rebecca Boyd-Bias, 23, said while there were a few styles, such as the Isabel Marant wedge sneakers that she liked, she preferred a slightly more feminine look.

"From a boyfriend perspective I think they secretly like it but if they're going to take you out for dinner they'd want you in a nice evening frock," she said.

Sporteluxe fashion blogger Bianca Cheah advised women incorporate these pieces sparingly into their looks.

"If you're going to wear a track pant to say a lunch, make sure you pair it with something more structured like a blazer and heels," she said.

"Women shouldn't use the trend as an excuse to look slobby."

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Rodwell: 'I look like a racing dog'

Warren Rodwell is released in Pagadian City in the southern Philippines, 15 months after he was taken captive by rebels from the Abu Sayyaf group.

KIDNAPPERS in the Philippines were paid a $94,000 ransom to release Australian hostage Warren Rodwell.

Basilan vice-governor Al Rasheed Sakalahul has revealed Abu Sayyaf, the leader of Islamic militants Pujuri Indama, was paid the equivalent of A$94,000, not $164,000 as previously reported.

Mr Sakalahul said he knew the exact amount because the kidnapper counted the money in front of him and Roger Gutang, brother of Mr Rodwell's wife Miraflor.

"Throughout the negotiations, I only served as guide. I am willing to be subjected to a lie detector test," told the Inquirer Global Nation in the Philippines. 

"If this is what the reports are saying, I challenge the Australian Embassy, Flor, Roger and Rodwell to an open media briefing so the truth would come out.''

Former soldier and Australian citizen Warren Rodwell has been released by al-Qaida-linked captors who held him hostage in the Philippines for over one year.

Mr Sakalahul said Mr Gutang served as the bag man who handed the money to the group.

"It was the wife Flor who worked hard. She called me asking help to determine if indeed her husband was till alive," Mr Sakalahul said.

He said initially that he did not know if any ransom was paid for Rodwell's release.

"My role was to determine if Rodwell was alive through a proof of life," he said.

Warren Richard Rodwell arrives at the Phillippines Western Mindanao Command headquarters in Zamboanga City, 850km south of Manilla. Picture: AP

Proof of life was obtained after Mr Rodwell was able to answer a question about something only he and his parents knew – "Where did Rodwell live when he was 12 years old?"

Mr Sakalahul told the paper he received that proof of life through a phone call, with Mr Rodwell himself answering "Gill Goulburn and West Tamworth."

Mr Rodwell, 54, looking emaciated and exhausted, was taken to Pagadian City by Abu Sayyaf Islamic fighters after his release on Saturday, 15 months after being kidnapped.

Authorities picked up the former Australian soldier and adventurer after receiving a phone call from his captors.

Warren Rodwell sits next to Philippine police superintendent Jilius Munez (R) at the police station in Pagadian City in southern island of Mindanao shortly after his release. Picture: Jong Cadion/AFP

"I look like a racing dog," Rodwell said in a video shown on Seven News.

His captors had demanded a $2 million ransom and released several proof-of-life photos and videos in which they threatened to execute their victim in "an unusual way".

"I personally hold no hope at all for being released," Mr Rodwell said in a video last December, adding he knew little about any negotiations taking place.

He said most of his captors did not speak English.

Posted on Dec 26, 2012 Warren Rodwell is an Australian national who was kidnapped in southern Philippines last year

In a short video taken yesterday after his release, Mr Rodwell takes off a blue T-shirt and, smiling, points to his ribs and says: "Lose weight".

Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the outcome was a huge relief for Mr Rodwell's family.

"I think all Australians will be very pleased to hear this news and delighted on behalf of the Rodwell family," Ms Gillard said.

"Mr Rodwell's family have shown a great deal of courage and stoicism in what has been a tremendously difficult situation."

Australian Warren Rodwell, in a new proof-of-life photo issued by kidnappers in the Philippines. Picture: Facebook

Foreign Affairs Minister Bob Carr said the Australian Government had a strict policy against paying ransoms and would neither confirm nor deny whether the Rodwell family had arranged for any payment to be made.

Mr Rodwell may have lost half his body weight in captivity.

His kidnappers, the al-Qaida-linked Abu Sayyaf, have described hostage payments as being for "food and lodging".

"The Australian Government never pays ransoms - to do so would leave Australians exposed in all parts of the world to kidnappers who'd be motivated by a desire to get money and to get it fast from the Australian Government," Senator Carr told the ABC.

"But I won't comment on arrangements that may have been made by Mr Rodwell's family and Abu Sayyaf, the kidnappers, made through the Philippines anti-kidnapping unit and their police force."

Mr Rodwell was snatched on December 5, 2011, from his residence near Ipil, where he ran a store with his Filipina wife Miraflor Gutang. It is believed Mr Rodwell was wounded in the violent kidnapping.

Al-Rasheed Sakkalahul, who negotiated with the Abu Sayyaf for Mr Rodwell's release, said the militants called him to confirm the release.

"Rodwell's family directly negotiated with the kidnappers and I do not know if they paid ransom ... my role was to get Rodwell out safely," he said.

Senator Carr said he had spoken to Mr Rodwell's "enormously relieved" sister Denise, who would fly to the Philippines.

"It's a good outcome, but I imagine that he's going to take some time to recover from what was a very unsettling experience, to say the least," he said.

Mr Rodwell was flown from Pagadian to Zamboanga, where it was understood he was being cared for and debriefed at the Philippines-US joint counter-terrorism base at Camp Navarro.

Early reports suggested Mr Rodwell attempted to fight off his kidnappers when he was initially taken.

Bloodstains were found beside his house after he was taken away by kidnappers dressed in police uniforms.

They used speedboats to take him away through a string of neighbouring islands.

Abu Sayyaf is among a number of militant Islamic separatist groups seeking to establish an Islamic enclave in the southern Philippines.

The group has a history of using kidnappings to raise funds and is known to have received support from al-Qaida.

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