Cup Day: Every race, every result

See the last 400m of the 2012 Melbourne Cup, as Brett Pebble piloted Green Moon to victory.

Jockey Hugh Bowman sends Koonoomoo along the rails for an easy win over Cabernet and Mid Summer Music in the Herald Sun Stakes.

Green Moon, ridden by Brett Prebble, was too good for Fiorente as he claimed the Melbourne Cup. Picture: Salpigtidis George

SuperRacing's Ray Thomas and TAB's Adam Hamilton discuss the major betting moves heading into the Melbourne Cup.

Sky Racing previews the 2012 Melbourne Cup, bringing you all the latest odds.

EXTENSIVE coverage, including late mail and betting, from Melbourne Cup Day, including all Melbourne Cup details.

Green Moon has won the Melbourne Cup with jockey Brett Prebble steering it home ahead of Fiorente and Jakkalberry.

More than 110,000 punters packed Flemington for the 152nd running of the Melbourne Cup. We present all the results, colour and action from the big day.

PICS: All the colour and glamour at Flemington

JOIN OUR LIVE CHAT AND GET THE LATE MAIL AND RACE RESULTS IN THE WINDOW BELOW.

RACE 10 TAVERN PLATE

REWIND: Craig Williams put behind the disappointment of failing on the favourite in the Melbourne Cup Dunaden with a winning double in the final two races at Flemington.

William scored on Unpretentious in the ninth race and then took out the final race on Mahisara for Scone trainer Paul Messara.

Victorian dividends: Manhisara $10.20; $3.60. Mosse Diva $4.40, The New Boy $8.40. Q: $101.30. T: $5863.20. F4 $48,721.30.

Scr: 8, 19, 20

RAY'S TIPS: AERONAUTICAL/Mahisara/Cornell

COMMENT: Waiting all day for the "Get Out Stakes" and the day's best bet - Aeronautical. Stunning effort to win at Rosehill last start, showing dazzling acceleration. All three runs this preparation have been excellent, the big field will ensure a genuine tempo, and the big Flemington track gives him every opportunity to finish right over the top of his rivals. Mahisara, Cornell and Snitzky have chances. Aeronautical $5.50 to $4.80, Hot Lover $6.50 to $5, Cornell $14 to $9.

LATE MAIL: Aeronautical - the bet of the day.

RACE 9 MSS SECURITY SPRING

REWIND: Unpretentious stamped himself as a sprinter of the future with an impressive win in the MSS Security Sprint (1200m).

His jockey Craig Williams was impressed by the win saying the straight was a tough course and a good guide to a horse's future.

Unpretentious came down the outside rail and grabbed Altar and Excellantes, who were fighting the race out closer to the fence. 

Cranbourne trainer Nikki Burke said she was pleased that Unpretentious got the opportunity to show his true ability.

Victorian dividends: Unpretentious $4l $2. Altar $2.80, Excellantes $5.40. Q: $14.20. T: $374.40. F4 $3808.90

Scr: 16, 19, 22

RAY'S TIPS: FAMOUS SEAMUS/Altar/Too Many Reds

COMMENT: Very tough race. Famous Seamus was so good at Randwick, smashing the track record to win the Lightning Handicap. I'm sticking with him. Altar was sound first-up when fourth to Howmuchdoyouloveme at Caulfield. Fitter now and looks a ball of muscle in the mounting yard. Excellantes tried hard at Moonee Valley and is way over the odds. Unpretentious $4.60 to $4.40, Too Many Reds $9 to $7.

LATE MAIL: Altar - she looks so well and has the talent to win this race.

RACE 8 DIAMOND JUBILEE PLATE

REWIND: South Australia achieved success when Adelaide-based jockey Dom Tourneur and trainer Philip Stokes took out the Diamond Jubilee Plate (1800m) on Eclair Surprise (above, red and silver star cap).

Tourneur, who is best known for his association with Alcopop, was taken off that horse before his Mackinnon Stakes win.

He said winning on Eclair Surprise was definitely some consolation. Trainer Philip Stokes said he instructed Tourneur to ride Eclair Surprise for luck. 

Victorian dividends: Eclair Surprise $10.30; $3.50. Grey Assignment $2.70, $1.70. Q: $54.60. T: $364.10. F4 $7394.

Scr: 3

RAY'S TIPS: LIGHTINTHENITE/Tribal Rock/Eclair Surprise

COMMENT: Lightinthenite was held up behind runners for a long way at Caulfield but showed his class when he sprinted through the gap to win well. Classy galloper and simply better than these. Tribal Rock is a lightweight chance as he is a tought, on-pace runner who will take running down. Good betting move for Extra Zero on track. Tribal Moon $7 to $4.60, Lightinthenite $5.50 to $6.

LATE MAIL: Lightinthenite should win but have something each-way at odds on Extra Zero.

Green Moon and Brett Prebble (second from right) charge towards the finish line as their rivals fail to make an impression. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RACE 7  MELBOURNE CUP

REWIND: Green Moon upstaged a field of international stars and former victors to win the Melbourne Cup.

The Robert Hickmott-trained horse stormed clear in the final 200m to win the $6 million race ahead of European stayer Fiorente and Jakkalberry.

Ecstatic winning jockey Brett Prebble, who rides predominantly in Hong Kong, said he had realised a dream.

Key moments: Where the Cup was won

"It's my life's dream to do it," Prebble said.

"Was never going to get beaten."

One punter has cashed in on the massive first four pool, turning a bet of 8 cents into $77,552 after selecting Green Moon, Fiorente, Jakkalberry and Kelinni in the first four.

Amazingly, the bet was the customer's first ever with the online bookmaker, with the bet of 8 cents giving them 8% of the first four dividend.

"What an amazing bet, made even more extraordinary given it was their first ever bet with us," said sportsbet.com.au's Shaun Anderson.

The result was a bonanza for bookmakers, but some punters had the day of their lives.

In NSW, the trifecta paid $51,171 and the first four paid $1.467 million.

On the Victorian TAB, the trifecta paid $45,941 and the first four $969,406.

Prebble was overjoyed to win his first Cup.

"It's my life dream to do it,"he said.

He said his horse was checked by other runners soon after the start but he was always confident.

"I pressed him a bit soon but it's hard to wait here when you've got so much power underneath you.

"I was very confident they weren't going to pick him up when I let him down and he ran all the way through the wire."

FULL MELBOURNE CUP RESULTS

Pos Odds Horse Weight Jockey Prizemoney Margin

1 $20 GREEN MOON 53.5 B Prebble $3,600,000
2 $31 FIORENTE 53.5 J McDonald $900,000 1.0L
3 $81 JAKKALBERRY 55.5 C O'Donoghue $450,000 2.3L

4 $19 KELINNI 51 G Boss $250,000 3.0L
5 $7.50 MOUNT ATHOS 54 R Moore $175,000 3.2L
6 $41 GLENCADAM GOLD 53.5 T Berry $125,000 4.0L
7 $26 MOURAYAN 53.5 H Bowman $125,000 4.7L
8 $9.50 RED CADEAUX 55.5 M Rodd $125,000 5.7L
9 $101 PRECEDENCE 53 B Shinn $125,000 5.9L
10 $18 MY QUEST FOR PEACE 53.5 C Brown $125,000 6.1L
11 $7.50 AMERICAIN 58 D Oliver 6.5L
12 $31 CAVALRYMAN 54 L Dettori 7.5L
13 $101 VOILA ICI 55 V Duric 7.8L
14 $7 fav DUNADEN 59 C Williams 9.8L
15 $71 NIWOT 53.5 D Dunn 9.9L
16 $20 LIGHTS OF HEAVEN 53 L Nolen 10.7L
17 $61 WINCHESTER 55.5 J Mott 10.9L
18 $51 SANAGAS 54 N Hall 11.3L
19 $17 MALUCKYDAY 53.5 J Cassidy 11.7L
20 $16 GALILEO'S CHOICE 53.5 P Smullen 11.8L
21 $151 UNUSUAL SUSPECT 53 G Schofield 11.9L
22 $51 ZABEELIONAIRE 52 C Newitt 12.1L
23 $101 TAC DE BOISTRON 53.5 O Doleuze 13.3L
24 $21 ETHIOPIA 53.5 R McLeod 63.3L

VICTORIAN TAB DIVIDENDS

14 Green Moon $22.50 $7.40
11 Fiorente $11.80
3 Jakkalberry $16

Quinella: $506.90
Exacta: $765.30
Duets: (14-11) $185.20
(14-3) $246.70
(11-3) $359.10
Trifecta: (14-11-3) $45,941.60
First four: (14-11-3-24) $969,406.60
All started.

Brothers in arms: Brett Prebble celebrates his Melbourne Cup win aboard Green Moon with James McDonald on runner-up Fiorente. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Scr: Nil

RAY'S TIPS: MALUCKYDAY/Americain/Mount Athos

COMMENT: Massive push for Mount Athos - he will nearly start favourite on track. The form English stayer of the northern hemisphere summer and could be the horse to finally break trainer Luca Cumani's Melbourne Cup jinx. Americain and Maluckyday look magnificent in the mounting yard and they are still my quinella selections. Good money for Dunaden and Green Moon. Wide open Melbourne Cup - good luck everyone. TAB Fixed Odds big bets on Melbourne Cup runners in the last few minutes include $4000 @ $41 on Fiorente, $4000 @ $7.50 on Dunaden (twice) and $2000 @ $19 on Ethiopia. From the ring: Dunaden $7.50 to $7, Americain $7 to $7.50, Mount Athos $7 to $8.

LATE MAIL: The internationals to dominate with Mount Athos, Americain, Dunaden and Red Cadeaux all popular on track.

RACE 6 LEXUS HYBRID PLATE

REWIND: Embattled jockey Damien Oliver tasted victory at Flemington in the race before the Melbourne Cup when he took out the Lexus Hybrid Plate (1400m) on Walk With Attitude.

Walk With Attitude is owned by Gerry Ryan, who part-owns Oliver's ride in the Melbourne Cup, Americain.

"I can't thank Gerry enough for putting me on," Oliver said.

Oliver said the track rating of Good 3 was spot on.

Walk With Attitude, who is trained by Darren Weir at Ballarat, defeated Thunder Rain and Medusa's Miss in a close finish.

Victorian dividends: Walk With Attitude $6.50; $2. Thunder Rain $10.60, Medusa's Miss $2.50. Q: $188.10. T: $2738.50. F4 $23,457.20.

Scr: 1

RAY'S TIPS: ANGELIC LIGHT/Medusa's Miss/Coins

COMMENT: Emerging filly Angelic Light impressed beating a smart filly in Agueda at Moonee Valley last start. She's three from three this campaign and can maintain her winning momentum here. Good push at big odds for Catered - she's still a maiden but should nearly have won at Caulfield last start. Angelic Flight $3.70 to $4,.40, Benaden $6 to $7, Mareeza $6 to $7.

LATE MAIL: Back Angelic Light to win and have a saver on Catered at odds.

Eye-catching celebs hit Flemington

 Cheers for Charles in Melbourne

BREAKING NEWS:  Leon Corstens had a major scare two hours out from the Cup when stewards held an inquiry into a race-day treatment given to his Cup runner Zabeelionaire.

Stewards charged Corstens with failing to notify them of a raceday treatment but ultimately deemed it a minor offence and Corstens was given a $500 fine.

Corstens had used a herbal hoof oil on Zabeelionaire and said it had been cleared by a vet who was employed by Racing Victoria.

"I thought I had gained permission," Corstens said, adding: "I don't want to be charged, I've been charged enough."

Corstens has been fined and suspended a handful of times throughout his career for various indiscretions.

RACE 5 SCHWEPPES TONIC 1000

REWIND: Peter Snowden and Kerrin McEvoy combined to win the Schweppes Tonic (1000m) with brilliant three-year-old filly Genteel (above) easily taking out the race.

Her trainer Peter Snowden said he was impressed with the performance.

"She's an impressive filly. When Kerrin pushed the button she showed a really good turn of foot," Snowden said.

"I've learnt a lot about her and 1000m to 1100m is her best distance."

Genteel, who started a $3.90 favourite, defeated Magnier and Kolonga.

Victorian dividends: Gentel $3.90; $1.50. Magnier $1.60, Kolonga $3.80. Q: $5.80 T: $125.30. F4 $671.90.

Scr: 10

RAY'S TIPS: GENTEEL, Sistine Demon, Magnier

COMMENT: Genteel was very dominant and ran fast time at Gosford when resuming. This is a step up today but she is a filly loaded with potential. Magnier is a striking individual and from the in-form Anthony Cummings stable. Malasun is very fast and is expected to improve sharply here. Genteel $4.80 to $3.90, Malasun $4 to $4.40, Magnier $4 to $4.40.

LATE MAIL: Malasun

RACE 4 HERALD SUN STAKES

REWIND:  Mornington trainer Simon Vercoe will always remember the 2012 Melbourne Cup Day after his four-year-old mare Koonoomoo (above) gave him his first city winner when she won the Group 3 Herald Sun Stakes (1400m).

Jockey Hugh Bowman eased Koonoomoo ($26) to last from her outside barrier in the early stages before  securing a rails run in the straight to charge home and win easily over Cabernet and Mid Summer Music.

Bowman said he knew Koonoomoo was going well, but with 300m to go he was concerned about getting a run as there was a wall of horses in front of her.

"She did it all. She gave me an armchair ride and then she just went whoosh in the closing stages when the big gap opened up,"  Bowman said.

Bowman, who has wasted to get down to 53kG to ride Mourayan in the Melbourne Cup, said he had never felt better.

Victorian dividends: Koonoomoo $23.30; $7.50. Cabernet $4.60, Mid Summer Music. $3.10. Q: $168.20. T: $3937.60. F4 $30,361.80.

Scr: 17, 18, 19, 20

RAY'S TIPS: ANGEL OF MERCY/Detours/Steps In Time

COMMENT: Angel Of Mercy is a talented mare, who shaped promisingly at Randwick first-up. She did run the closest of thirds to Shopaholic and Mosheen in the Vanity over this course and distance this year. She is terrific value in an open race. Detours was very unlucky at Caulfield and is the pick in the yard. Whateverwhenever $6.50-$6, Sheila's Star $7.50-$5.50, Angel Of Mercy $12-$9.

LATE MAIL: Detours should enjoy Flemington's wide, open spaces.

RACE 3 LAVAZZA LONG BLACK

REWIND: A brilliant ride by Dwayne Dunn on Verdant (above), coming from last after gaining a run on the fence, secured him first prize in the Lavazza Long Black (2800m).

Verdant, an imported galloper who was bought by Robert Smerdon in England just over a year ago, proved too strong for Garud and Practiced.

Smerdon said next autumn he intends to target the Sydney and Adelaide Cups with Verdant and this time next year the Melbourne Cup.

Dunn said he decided to follow Craig Williams on Practiced and he brought him into the race.

Victorian dividends: Verdant $7.30; $2.50. Gurad $1.90, Practiced $1.70 Q: $13.40. T: $83.70. F4 $429.30.

Scr: 13

RAY'S TIPS: Practiced/Garud/Crafty Cruiser

COMMENT: Practiced won well at Caulfield during the Cup Carnvial then lined up in the Bendigo Cup and ran into a potential toplinerin Puissance De Lune and ran second, beaten eight lengths! There is no horses of Puissance De Lune's ability in this field and Practiced should win comfortably. Garud finally broke throught at Geelong and could run the quinella. Crocodile Canyon is the best each-way chance. The favourite Garud continues to firm with TAB. He has been $4.20 to $4.

LATE MAIL:  Practiced is very fit, drawn to suit and excels at Flemington.

BREAKING NEWS: French stayer Brigantin will miss the rest of the spring after suffering a leg injury.

As a  result he will miss the Queen Elizabeth Stakes on Saturday which he iwasl likely to start favourite.

Brigantin was one of the big tips for the Melbourne Cup but needed to win the Geelong Cup to gain a run but finished an unlucky third.

RACE 2 TAB TROPHY HANDICAP

REWIND:

Pat Carey was hoping the win of his tough mare Kasane (above) in the TAB Trophy Handicap was an omen of things to come for Melbourne Cup day.

Carey will saddle local Cup hope Ethiopia in the big race at 3pm today, but the Mornington trainer was delighted that Kasane was able to make it three stable wins in this race after a strong performance to outlast the fast-finishing Mabsam and Aliyana.

"It's been a pretty good race for is, so let's hope it's the start of a big day," Carey said as rain started to fall at Flemington in the moments after Race 2.

Carey has previously won this event with Candy Vale and Influential Miss and was particularly pleased with this win as his wife, Cheryl, is a part-owner.

He was also pleased that Brett Prebble, who once rode Thong Classic for Carey in the Melbourne Cup, was able to salute on Kasane in the 1700m on his hit-and-run return to Melbourne to hop on Green Moon in the Cup.

"We didn't need any introduction," Carey said of his relationship with Prebble, who gave the six-year-old mare a near perfect ride.

Victorian dividends: Kasane $28.70; $7.50. Mabsam $3.50, Aliyana $4. Q: $135.10. T: $5269.40. F4 $39,009.40.

RAY'S TIPS: Tavarnelle/Shihabi/Sense Of Pride

COMMENT: Several fancied runners in this open race. Sydney mare Tavarnelle has been backed from $5.50 to $5 and is sharing favouritism with Shihabi at those odds.

Champagne Ruby and Sense Of Pride also fancied.

LATE MAIL: Tavarnelle

RACE 1 7NEWS PLATE

REWIND: Unbeaten filly Villa Verde (above) will be set for next year's Gold Slipper after the Shaun O'Dwyer-trained grey won the 7News Plate in blistering fashion.

So impressive when she won at Caulfield last month, the daughter of Not A Single Doubt followed it up with an easy back-to-back win, easily accounting for first-starters Purrific and Thump.

Sold for $95,000 at this year's Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sales, Villa Verde will head straight to the paddock for a spell before being set for the richest two-year-old race in the country.

O'Dwyer said he had always had a big opinion of the filly and that she would be given every chance of chasing further riches in Sydney next April.

"The Melbourne Cup and the Golden Slipper are almost like the two Holy Grails. It's great to be here on Cup day, but we might have just found our Slipper horse," O'Dwyer said.

"She has always done everything right. We've got a good opinion of her." - Glenn McFarlane

Victorian dividends: Villa Verde $3.20; $1.60. Purrific $3.20, Thump $3.70. Q: $19.20. T: $221.40. F4 $889.60

Scr:  12

RAY'S TIPS: Villa Verde/Endless Summer/Purrific

COMMENT: Two horses dominate the markets in the opening race for two-year-olds. The best move has been for the Peter Snowden-trained Itameri, who opened at $6 on Sunday for this race, but is now into $4. Villa Verde, who has drifted slightly, is still favourite at $3.50.

LATE MAIL: Itameri

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Four winners for $112 million draw

FOUR lucky Aussies have become instant multimillionaires after claiming a chunk in tonight's $100m Oz Lotto jackpot.

The four golden-ticket holders were spread across Victoria, Queensland and NSW and will pocket a ritzy $27.9m each.

The record lottery crashed websites across the country as people logged on to check their numbers.

Were you a winner? Let us know in the comments.

The winning numbers are 29, 43, 8, 7, 15, 2, 13. The supps are 21 and 20.

Tatts Group public relations manager Elissa Lewis said winners had not yet been notified.

"It was a new Australian record we have set tonight,'' Ms Lewis said.

"We don't know a lot of detail yet because there are so many entries but we urge anyone who thinks they have a Division One ticket to call.''

A further 64 lucky Aussies held the winning ticket for Division Two

Almost 3.5 million Aussies will share in the prize pool which rocketed from $100m to almost $112m after people flocked to buy tickets in the biggest lottery in Australian history.

The $112m jackpot beats the 2009 record when a guaranteed jackpot of $90 million surged to just over $106m.

Roughly one in every two Australian adults -- about 7.5 million people -- were expected to buy a ticket in tonight's draw.

Next weeks draw will fall back to $2 million.

People who believed they had won the jackpot should call 1300 556 646.

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

How to smash your goals in 90 days

Rowdy McLean outlines 6 steps on how to smash your goals. Picture: Thinkstock Source: news.com.au

SETTING goals is easy; putting them into practice is where most of us grind to a halt. But what if you didn't just set them but could smash through them in a mere 90 days?

It is all within everyone's reach, according to self-made Queensland millionaire Rowdy McLean, whose new book, Play a Bigger Game, is a guide to achieving, doing, being and having more.

"We all want more. More money, more love, more time, more chocolate, more clothes, more of something. What we struggle with is how to go and get it," says Rowdy, who started his career in communications at 24 and retired just 10 years later.

"We make shallow promises to ourselves and to others about what we are going to do and then fail to follow through. Then we fall into a rut, we feel like we are not going anywhere or making and progress or even worse, going backwards. Another year passes and it seems like the same old thing going around again."

That can change in 90 days, says Rowdy. "Ninety days is enough time to show some results but not too far off to get lost in the daily grin," he says. "You can do it four times a year. And if you complete four significant changes in your life every year you can't help but start to live the lifestyle you have always imagined."

Here are Rowdy's six steps to smashing through your goals:

1. Decide and Commit
Choose one thing and just one thing only. In a busy world it's hard to do everything on the to-do list and important things get lost or left by the wayside. So just choose one thing. Lose five kilos, save $500, get a promotion or improve a relationship. Whatever it is, decide and commit to just it for 90 days.

2. Be clear
Describe the result that you want as clearly as possible. The more detailed the picture of what you want to achieve the more likely it will become real. What your mind can picture, your hands can create. Poor picture equals poor result.

3. Be real
If it's not important it won't get done so come up with three clear reasons why you simply must achieve this goal. The reasons have to be strong and well founded because they will keep you going when the going gets tough and you go off track. They'll get you back on track by reminding you that you simply must get this done. There is no other option.

4. Be active
Create an action plan. What are the key things that need to be done in the next 90 days? Three good solid actions is a good number each with clear deadlines or milestones. This allows you to break the bigger goal down into smaller key steps and measure the progress. If you miss a deadline or milestone, review and refine and reset.

5. Be humble
Don't underestimate the obstacles you may come up against, or the support that can help you overcome them. And don't reinvent the wheel; every goal you want to smash has probably set and smashed by someone else. Do your research, find out what works best and ask for help if you need it. There are few things worse than stumbling blindly in pursuit of a goal that you don't understand, so consider finding a mentor who can help light the way. Also, define the obstacles that might get in the way such as lack of time, resources, motivation or help and plan for these. It will mean, when you hit the speed bump you can just re-adjust and keep pushing forward.

6. Be bold
Execute each of the actions, meet the deadlines and milestones and you will succeed. Then start all over again with another goal and another 90 days. 

Now read the 8 simple tips on how to get headhunted...

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Man shot dead as wedding turns bloody

A young father has died following a triple shooting at a wedding reception in Sydney's southwest.

Three men have been wounded in a shooting at a wedding reception in Sydney's southwest.

Police at the scene. Picture: Bill Hearne Source: The Daily Telegraph

Police have established a crime scene. Picture: Bill Hearne Source: The Daily Telegraph

Police have established a crime scene at Bareena Street, Canley Vale. Picture: Bill Hearne Source: The Daily Telegraph

Shot dead... Faalau Pisu. Picture: Facebook Source: The Daily Telegraph

FAALAU Pisu killed after being shot twice in the head at a wedding reception was a member of the Comanchero Outlaw Motorcycle Gang.

Police have also revealed that two others who were shot outside the Serbian function centre at Canley Vale this morning also had links to the Comancheros.

A 27-year-old man shot in the leg is an associate of the gang, while a 25-year-old man who was also shot is a member.

Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis said police have obtained some CCTV footage and they are looking for a blue utility that was spotted in the area at the time of the incident.

He said there were about 100 guests at the wedding, with a "number'' of Comanchero members and associates in attendance.

He revealed that Strike Force Raptor had been monitoring the event earlier in the night, and pulled over a number of guests on their way to the wedding.

"Our proactive arm Strike Force Raptor did some proactive interactions early in the day, so we were monitoring it,'' Acting Chief Supt Katsogiannis said.

"They pulled over a number of Comanchero members on their way to the wedding and spoke to them.''

Acting Chief Supt Katsogiannis said it was a brazen attack.

"Anytime a firearm is used is a concern for us, particularly when it involves the tragic loss of the life of a young man in the prime of his life," he said.

"Certainly it's a concern. Certainly it shows the brazenness and the carelessness of the people involved."

Strike Force Pindamir comprising detectives from the State Crime Command has been put together to investigate the incident together with the Homicide Squad and South West Metropolitan Region.

Earlier today, Mr Pisu was described as a "loving father''.

The 23-year-old was rushed to Liverpool Hospital in a critical condition after he was shot twice in the head outside the Serbian National Defence Council - a reception centre.

Mr Pisu family reportedly made the decision to turn off his life support.

His  adopted sister Faimai Faye Ale said her brother was the "joker" of the family who went out of his way to make people laugh.

"He would do anything for you," she said.

"He was the joker of the family and the idol of all the little boys," she said from the family's Mt Pritchard home.

Ms Ale said Mr Pisu, who was a forklift driver, had been "acting strange" in the days leading up to the shooting.

She said her family didn't know the couple getting married.

Ms Ale said her brother would be badly missed.

"We love you Faalau and we wish this didn't happen to you,'' she said.

According to Mr Pisu MySpace page, he was an amateur boxer and was studying to become a personal trainer.

He graduated from Ashcroft High School in southwest Sydney in 2006.

About 50 people gathered at the entrance of Liverpool Hospital overnight, many overcome with grief.

Police were called to the function centre on Bareena Street, Canley Vale at 12.20am, after reports of the shooting.

Police from Cabramatta Local Area Command investigated the incident and a crime scene was established.

Were you at the wedding or did you witness what happened? Tell us: news@dailytelegraph.com.au

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Team Tomic closes ranks as critics mount

Nine News image from footage of Bernard Tomic being booked by police on the Gold Coast. Picture: Channel 9
Source: Supplied

BERNARD Tomic's father and coach John has hit out at claims the tennis wonder kid is burnt out and descending into a downward spiral.

The 20-year-old star, who faces a courtroom hearing on driving charges on the Gold Coast tomorrow, made headlines yet again this week after another run-in with police at a Surfers Paradise resort.

Tennis greats have said Tomic needs an extended break from the game - and his dad - but John Tomic said the world No.49's career was still on track.

Speaking exclusively to The Sunday Mail, Tomic Sr said there was no crisis.

"In the Tomic camp and the Tomic family there's still plenty of energy to deliver the desire that we had 10 years ago," he said. "We have to work hard to be a success and that is what we will do."

The young star reportedly arrived on the Gold Coast with a goal to down the racquets for a month and "run amok".

For most of the world's stars, November is a rare month off ahead of preparations for a relentless 11-month season.

"We are in the off-season," John Tomic said. "We will start again at the end of the month."

Roger Rasheed says Bernard Tomic needs to step away from tennis to settle his off-court issues.

He refused to comment on calls from some of Australia's most respected tennis figures that Bernard needs a break from the game and his father should hand over the coaching reins to somebody else.

Police confronted Tomic and a friend at the Moroccan Apartments in Surfers Paradise on Monday morning after reports the pair were brawling in a high-rise hot tub after a birthday bender.

No charges were laid and the incident was dismissed as a "misunderstanding", but it comes at a poor time for a young man battling a plummeting world ranking and a public image crisis.

Some close to Tomic fear his father has driven him to the edge of burnout.

Tomic admitted he had endured a difficult year but was optimistic he would "have a better year next year".

Tennis figures on the Gold Coast are not surprised to see Tomic struggling.

But for every hater in his home town, there is someone willing to speak glowingly. Even the mother of his ex-girlfriend, glamorous model Donay Meijer, thinks he has been hard done by.

Nine News image from footage showing Bernard Tomic's 'brawl' with a friend. Picture: Channel 9

"He was always very respectful towards me and my family," she said.

Professor Mark Kebbell from Griffith University's school of applied psychology said Tomic's behaviour was not rare among young celebs.

"He is a young man with an incredible amount of money and with that comes an incredible amount of temptation," he said.

A former friend said Tomic's youth was filled with a single-minded dream to be the No.1 tennis player in the world and drive a Ferrari.

"John came from no money at all, but he was highly intelligent and making money became incredibly important to them," the friend said.

A tennis associate recalls John Tomic as a strict disciplinarian. "If Bernard would stuff up a shot on the practice court his dad would be in to him all the time," he said.

"There were stories of John forcing Bernard to do push-ups in the rain. It's no wonder Bernard seems to be rebelling."

Tennis player Bernard Tomic appearing at Southport Court on driving charges. Pictured with high-profile lawyer Chris Nyst. Pics Tim Marsden

Tomic will face Southport Magistrates Court tomorrow with high-profile defence lawyer Chris Nyst for the start of a two-day hearing into his run-in with police on Australia Day.

He had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges.

-- with Marco Monteverde

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Goodrem suffers serious burns

Delta Goodrem has suffered burns to her legs. Picture: David Caird Source: Herald Sun

SINGER Delta Goodrem has assured fans she will be fit enough to perform at her scheduled Melbourne concerts next week, despite suffering nasty burns to her legs in a bizarre accident last Friday.

Goodrem was forced to flee the stage half-way through her second Sydney show last night to seek medical treatment for burns.

It is understood she injured herself on her vocal steamer, while warming up for her concert in her hotel room.

She is recovering well and will attend the Melbourne Cup as planned.

She will also perform at Hamer Hall on Wednesday and Thursday night.

"Unfortunately the pain and effects from treating the burns got greater and greater as the night progressed and ultimately there came a point that I could not continue performing," Ms Goodrem said in a statement.

"I want everyone to know that I am recovering well and will be in fine form for my forthcoming Melbourne shows next week. Thank you again for your support and understanding."

Promoter Paul Dainty said patrons at the Sydney concert would be entitled to a 50 per cent refund.

Earlier the Dainty Group, who are promoting Goodrem's national tour, issued a statement on its Facebook site: "Delta Goodrem give her Sydney audience a stunning performance this evening considering she had sustained burns in the late afternoon from a steam accident in her hotel.

"She was determined to do the show for her fans and took to the stage knowing she had the full support of everyone in the theatre. Delta will rest for the weekend in preparation for the Melbourne concerts next week.''

One of Goodrem's fans tweeted that the songstress had tried valiantly to perform on Saturday night until, overcome by pain, she had to leave the stage.

"Delta came out on stage and after a couple of songs, confessed to the audience, how much pain she was really in and rolled up her pants, revealing the bandaged to cover her legs.

"Her band and back up singers explained that she should be resting but she didn't want to disappoint anyone.

"Delta went on through the beginning of the show with tears streaming down her face and after the third time of the pain reaching an unbearable state.

"She apologised quietly to the audience in tears and limped off stage. She was unable to continue with the show,'' the tweet said.

Fans are rallying behind The Voice coach online sending get well messages to Goodrem on Twitter and Facebook.

Ticketmaster will contact all patrons regarding the refund procedure.

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Beckham as 'thick as batsh*t'

David Beckham practices with LA Galaxy and says his desire to play is as strong as ever.

Soccer superstar David Beckham arrives in Melbourne to a storm of attention.

Superstar David Beckham and his LA Galaxy team mates have arrived in Sydney ahead of their friendly soccer match against Newcastle on Saturday night. Check out what Beck's has to say here.

David Beckham has been slammed by New Zealand PM John Key. Source: News Limited

HE played in the country, for a fee admittedly, but does he deserve this?

New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key has called soccer superstar David Beckham "thick as batsh*t".

According to Radio New Zealand, Key slammed Beckham, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and now Los Angeles Galaxy superstar, for not being too bright.

He told students that his own son had spent 45 minutes with the former England skipper when he played an exhibition match for LA Galaxy in Auckland in 2008, which cost more than $2 million.

Key said Beckham, 37, was good looking and a nice guy to have spent that long with his son, but is said to have joked he was "thick as bat sh*t".

Key made the stinging remarks about "Golden Balls" in the city of Dunedin yesterday.

The Prime Minister's office said it had no comment to make on the matter.

But this isn't the first time Beckham's brainpower has been called into question.

The Sun reported Beckham as previously saying: "My parents have been there for me, ever since I was about seven."

And when asked another time whether he was a volatile player, he said: "Well, I can play in the centre, on the right, and occasionally on the left side."

Speaking on faith, Beckham said: "We're definitely going to get Brooklyn christened but we don't know into which religion."

His wife Victoria told him in a 2000 telly documentary: "You make yourself sound stupid and you're not."

Beckham and his wife, 38, a former singer in The Spice Girls, have amassed an estimated fortune of $248 million between them.

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Passenger dead after train derails

A train has been derailed in this fatal smash in Dandenong South Picture: Jon Hargest Source: Herald Sun

Train smash and derailment in Dandenong South. Picture: Channel 7 news chopper Source: Supplied

A TRAIN driver and his passengers were buried under rubble after a horror crash with a truck claimed one life in Dandenong South today.

Police said a 43-year-old Cranbourne West man was found dead, buried under 1.5m of rubble in the front carriage.

Eleven of the 13 known passengers on the train have been taken to hospital - many with lacerations and bruising.

Pictures of fatal train crash

A seriously injured 59-year-old woman who was taken to Dandenong Hospital has since been transferred to The Alfred hospital for surgery.

The train driver, who was trapped for a significant time until onlookers plucked him out, is in a serious condition at The Alfred.

People were buried under potatoes, chairs and broken glass and under all sorts of debris

Most of the passengers have been discharged, but a 36-year-old man remains under observation at Dandenong Hospital and a man and a woman are being kept at Frankston Hospital overnight for check ups.

Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill had earlier said police feared more victims could be pulled from the wreckage.

"At this stage I must reinforce that we are yet to completely examine the scene," he said.

"We might have more injured or deceased...the investigation is still in its infancy."

Were you a witness to the train crash? Send your pictures or video to news@heraldsun.com.au

The truck, carrying potatoes and vegetables, was travelling south along Abbotts Rd when it reportedly passed through the level crossing and it's trailer collided with the Metro train at 11.42am.

The force of the collision ripped open the first carriage and saw four of the six carriages spill off the track with two crashing on to their side and sliding for up to 250m.

The track, overhead wires, signalling system and sleepers were all seriously damaged.

Mr Hill said police were investigating why the truck crossed the intersection with the boom gates down.

The 59-year truck driver has been taken to Dandenong Police station and assisting police with their inquiries.

Witness Mick McGuigan watched the tragedy unfold and said it was "as if a bomb went off" when the train and truck collided.

Mr McGuigan then rushed to help find the injured passengers and pull them to safety.

"People were buried under potatoes, chairs and broken glass and under all sorts of debris,'' he said.

Premier Ted Baillieu, who was at the scene, described the man's death as "a tremendous tragedy".

"Our hearts and our sympathies go out to his family, his friends," he said.

"This is a tragic loss of life but we can say...it's extremely lucky that no more lives were lost."

Ambulance paramedic Andrew Watson said a number of passengers were able to free themselves and walked to paramedics.

"Considering the impact of this collision today, we are lucky that no other people were seriously injured," he said.

Metro boss Andrew Lezala said the train driver was "severely traumatised" with his cabin "pretty much destroyed" in the crash.

He said cameras and recording devices onboard the train would be studied to help police piece together what happened.

Train services have been suspended between Dandenong and Cranbourne.

Buses will operate until the scene is cleared.

Melbourne Cup commuters face a week of chaos with major train delays and crowding as a result of the tragedy.

Mr Lezala said because the ground either side of the track is boggy, it will take at least five days to fix and reopen the line - possibly longer.

Transport Minister Terry Mulder said it was one of the worst accidents since the 2007 Kerang rail disaster.

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No touching: Detention for hugging a classmate

Heidi Rome's daughter, R, was punished for hugging her classmate. Source: Supplied

A MOTHER in Western Australia is demanding an apology from her kids' school after her 12-year-old daughter was given a detention for hugging a classmate.

Heidi Rome's daughter Amber was punished at the Adam Road Primary School in Bunbury, south of Perth, for giving her friend a quick hug after the school bell rang.

Apparently that violated the school's no-hugging policy, a "blanket rule" which was brought in last year.

The WA Education Department today confirmed the school's policy. It was introduced after "excessive hugging" left some students with bruises and others feeling left out.

The school's acting principal Gemma Preston told news.com.au: "We introduced a rule about hugging last year after parents complained about their children being hurt by excessive hugging.

"For example, some children received bruised ribs from an over-enthusiastic hug.

"This behaviour was getting out of control with students hugging each other several times a day, and this was becoming disruptive to classes.

"The rule was reinforced with our Year 6 and 7 students again last week during a general talk about being role models for the younger students.

"In this particular incident, the students involved were hugging on school grounds just two hours after this talk and it was important to follow it through as a discipline issue."

Education department deputy director general David Axworthy said: "Principals are in the best position to determine what rules need to be made inside their schools."

Ms Preston told Ms Rome she had to make example of Amber and her friend, who were "caught" hugging just hours after a school address on the ban.

Ms Rome is angry her daughter, a high achiever and a "bright, caring person who her teacher thinks highly of" has become a victim of a "silly, ridiculous rule".

"I didn't even know about it, and everyone I've spoken to thinks it's outrageous," she told news.com.au.

"Some parents are aware of the rule - they think it's absolutely ridiculous. Some parents aren't aware - they also think it's absolutely ridiculous."

She was told by the school that she would have to put the issue in writing.

Ms Rome says she is concerned that kids are getting the wrong message when they are punished for being friendly.

"It's a really good school that's just got a silly rule that I'm wanting to try and change," she said.

"I think my daughter deserves an apology for this over-the-top punishment."

In 2010 the parents from a Gold Coast primary school labelled a move to issue detentions for hugging on school grounds as "political correctness gone mad".

Ms Rome says some parents at Amber's school had complained about boyfriend/girlfriend hugging and excessive contact, prompting the rule to be introduced.

Heidi Rome's 12-year-old daughter Amber, standing with her siblings, was given detention over a "silly, ridiculous rule". Source: Supplied

But she is adamant that her daughter's punishment was taking that issue to the extreme.

"Why not teach children appropriate behaviour instead of banning hugs altogether? What is that teaching the children - that hugs are inappropriate and wrong?" she said.

"Schools should be a comforting place for kids and be all warm and fuzzy. Hugging is a development thing and a social skill."

Ms Rome does not know how to explain the rule to her younger children, aged nine and five.

"I'm concerned about the social implications," she said.

"My youngest goes up to my eldest daughter's friends to give them a hug, like he would normally, but then they say they can't. How's my five-year-old supposed to know the difference?"

News.com.au contacted the school and we were referred to the Education Department for comment.

chris.paine@news.com.au

On Twitter: @christoforpaine

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War hero kept battle story from wife

Watch the dramatic scenes from the frontline as Corporal Daniel Keighran drew enemy fire to help injured soldiers. Courtesy: Channel 9

• Corporal Daniel Keighran award Victoria Cross for bravery
• Only told his wife of the incident two weeks ago
• Repeatedly broke cover in fierce gunfight to save colleagues
• Soldier awarded VC | Read the citation

WHEN Australia's latest Victoria Cross recipient Daniel Keighran first told his wife Katherine why he was receiving it, she wasn't impressed.

Corporal Keighran now works as an underground gold miner at La Mancha's Frog's Leg Mine in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. It's a far cry from the hail of Taliban gunfire he deliberately ran into just over two years ago, in an act of extraordinary bravery that helped save colleagues.

This morning he had Australia's highest military honour, the Victoria Cross, pinned on his chest by the Governor-General in Canberra.

The build-up to the moment began two weeks ago, when the 29-year-old was met at Kalgoorlie airport by Chief of Army David Morrison who informed him of the honour.

It was only after that meeting that the now army reservist told his wife what happened in Afghanistan in August 2010.

Official portrait of Corporal Daniel Keighran, VC with his wife Kathryn. Photography by Lauren Black

"I hadn't told her," he said after receiving the honour today.

"We spoke in depth and I let her know."

The 29-year-old, originally from Nambour in Queensland, was involved in a firefight between Taliban fighters and Australian and Afghan troops. He repeatedly broke cover to draw fire, allowing the enemy locations to be identified and neutralised.

In the citation it was noted the enemy fire was "accurate and intense''. He repeatedly exposed himself to life-threatening gunfire coming from multiple directions.

Then Lance Corporal Daniel Keighran (fifth from the left, front) with the soldiers from 6th Battalion of The Royal Australian Regiment in front of guard tower four at Camp Smitty. Picture: Supplied.

On one occasion he moved from cover to draw fire away from a team that was treating a casualty, and then assisted in clearing the landing zone for an evacuation. The Australian and Afghan forces sustained no further injuries.

Today he said he had always been "quite private" about what happened on the battlefield.

"She wasn't impressed to start with," he said of his wife's response.

Katherine appeared very proud of her husband at the ceremony at Government House in Canberra.

Corporal Daniel Keighran honoured with the Victoria Cross. Vision courtesy Channel 7.

Cpl Keighran declined to talk about the death of one of his "good mates", Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney, in the same action for which he received the VC.

Asked for more detail about the incident which led to his honour Cpl Keighran said: "I don't want to go into it.

"It's more about the boys from 6RAR and Delta company and acknowledging them as well. I am extremely honoured to receive this award today."

Corporal Daniel Keighran received the nation's highest military honour today for repeatedly drawing enemy fire during battle in which one of his mates was killed.

He said the "training took over" when he embarked on his brave deeds.

Tributes

Governor-General Quentin Bryce described Corporal Keighran, who enlisted in 2000, as a man of profound physical and moral strength.

"A man selfless in the face of threat, courageous in the face of terror, generous in the face of suffering and humble in the face of an honour bestowed,'' she said.

Ms Bryce said there were other heroes on that day, but what he did was different.

"Acknowledging it here now does not diminish the efforts and sacrifices of those who fought beside you,'' she said.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who met with Corporal Keighran and his wife yesterday, expressed a "tremendous sense of pride".

Corporal Keighran had been modest about his "amazing acts of valour", Ms Gillard said.

"To you Corporal Keighran, here today, despite your modesty we acknowledge those acts of valour," the Prime Minister said.

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