Apple Maps leaves motorists stranded

David Zacher is in the desert, 70kmfrom Mildura. Picture: Glenn Milne Source: Herald Sun

Apple's latest map tool lists Mildura in a national park about 70km from its actual location. Source: Supplied

POLICE are warning motorists not to rely on Apple's new mapping system on its popular iPhones after a number of motorists were directed into life-threatening situations.

iPhone users who have upgraded to the system's new iOS 6 operating system are at risk of ending up off the beaten track, police have warned.

The alert follows revelations that the mapping system lists Mildura in the middle of the Murray Sunset National Park, about 70km away from the actual location of Mildura.

Local police have been called to assist distressed motorists who have become stranded within the Murray-Sunset National Park after following directions on their Apple iPhone.

Police are extremely concerned as there is no water supply within the park and temperatures can reach as high as 46 degrees, putting lives at risk.

Inspector Simon Clemence said it took one man 24-hours to make contact with the outside world after following the application's directions.

"One guy got far enough in to lose phone coverage and he was stuck there and he got bogged and he had to walk out and it took him 24-hours to get to a point where he had phone coverage and then we came and rescued him," he said. "This is a direct result of this map application."

Police have confirmed five vehicles have become stranded in the park, with many more people presumed to have become lost but found there way back to civilisation.

"We know there are others because we set up a breath testing station on the road there recently and we had a woman who said every left hand turn up the Mallee Highway her application was trying to send her straight into the dirt," Insp Clemence said. "This is just the tip of the iceberg."

David Zacher in the real Mildura. Picture: Glenn Milne Source: Herald Sun

Insp Clemence said the error could be a recipe for disaster as temperatures soared over the summer.

"This is Victoria's biggest National Park. It's over 5000sq km and it's all sandy tracks. This is 4WD terrain with big, deep sand bogs and sand drifts and these people are driving in there with their family truckster and getting stuck," Insp Clemence said. "Once you get about 10-15kms in there is no phone coverage at all … If someone got stuck out there on a 46 degree day then they're in real trouble out there. That's pretty nasty country out there. There's not much shade and a lot of hot sand and no water at all."

Insp Clemence said people should not rely solely on technology to get them to their location.

"Sometimes GPSs make mistakes and sometimes you end up where you shouldn't be," he said.

"It should have been reasonably obvious to most people that things weren't what they should be. If you're driving from a capital city to a major rural town you would think there would be bitumen under your feet all the way and I think a lot of people realise that and come out, but some people just rely on the technology so my advice is you can't put your faith in technology. If it doesn't look right, if it doesn't smell right, it's probably not right."

Police have contacted Apple in relation to the issue and hope the matter is rectified promptly to ensure the safety of motorists travelling to Mildura.

Anyone travelling to Mildura or other locations within Victoria should rely on other forms of mapping until this matter is rectified, police warned.

In September, Apple chief executive Tim Cook offered customers a rare apology for the quality of the company's new mapping application, acknowledging the fierce level of criticism from users of the software.

In a letter posted on Apple's website, Mr Cook suggested customers use competitors' maps software — including the web version from rival Google — until Apple could improve its own mapping software. He didn't say when or how that would take place.

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Schoolgirl killer guilty of slaying

Bega killer Leslie Camilleri has pleaded guilty to the murder of a teenager who disappeared 20 years ago.

BEGA schoolgirls killer Leslie Alfred Camilleri pleaded guilty yesterday to the murder of Prue Bird, 13, who vanished without trace more than 20 years ago.

Flanked by guards, Camilleri was stone-faced in the Supreme Court dock as he pleaded guilty to the 1992 murder of the Glenroy schoolgirl.

Prue's mother, Jenny Bird, shook and wept as Camilleri was led past her.

Camilleri is serving a life sentence for raping and murdering two Bega schoolgirls in 1997 - crimes he committed with an accomplice.

It had long been suspected that Prue was killed to punish her grandmother's partner, who had made statements to police against the men responsible for the 1986 bombing of the Russell St police station.

But yesterday, prosecutor Michele Williams, SC, said the Crown no longer alleged that Prue's murder had been "payback' connected to the bombing.

Prue was last seen alive in the kitchen of her mother's house in Justin Ave, Glenroy, on February 2, 1992. Police believe she was killed some time between that day and February 9.

Leslie Camilleri enters court today before pleading guilty to the murder of Melbourne teen Prue Bird more than 20 years ago. Picture: Norm Oorloff

In February this year, police conducted a three-day search for her remains near Flat Rock Creek, north of Cann River in far East Gippsland. The search was called off after nothing was found.

The demon inside Leslie Camilleri

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Leslie Camilleri, the Bega murders and the hunt for Prue

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The site is near where the bodies of schoolgirls Lauren Barry and Nichole Collins were found in 1997.

Prue Bird was just 13 when she disappeared. Picture: Trevor Pinder

Camilleri and his accomplice, Lindsay Beckett, kidnapped the girls, repeatedly raped them, and drove them across the NSW border into Victoria, where they killed them.

Camilleri is one of the few Victorian prisoners serving a life term without parole.

In February this year, the homicide squad's Detective Sergeant Brent Fisher told Melbourne Magistrates' Court the motive for Prue's murder revolved around payback over the Russell St bombing, about which Prue's grandmother, Julie, and her partner, Paul Kurt Hetzel, gave statements to police.

Whether Camilleri acted alone in Prue's murder remains in dispute. A contested plea hearing is scheduled for February 4.

Camilleri would dispute the prosecution case that he acted with another person in the killing, defence counsel Jacqui Kennedy told the court yesterday.

Camilleri rose but did not bow before Justice Elizabeth Curtain at the arraignment.

Prue Bird's mother Jenny Bird leaves the Supreme Court after notorious killer Leslie Camilleri pleaded guilty Prue's murder more than 20 years earlier. Picture: Norm Oorloff

Asked to verify his name, he responded simply and emotionlessly.

As Camilleri, 43, pleaded guilty to murdering Prue, Mrs Bird, sitting several metres from the killer and staring at him, began to cry.

She continued to weep as Camilleri was led out without sparing her a glance.

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Fraud concern on 'tap and go' pay system

A tap and go card in use. Picture: News Limited Source: News Limited

POLICE have warned "tap and go" contactless payment technology has given credit card thieves a new opportunity to steal other people's money.

Known as Mastercard PayPass or Visa payWave, the technology being rolled out by major banks allows the card holder to make a purchase under $100 by waving their card within 4cm of the card reader at the checkout.

The technology is used globally and no signature or PIN is required. Trials began in Australia in 2009, and major retailers now have tap-and-go card readers.

Detective Sergeant Natasha Leaman of Tasmania Police's fraud and e-crime division told The Mercury while the new cards had the same secure chip technology as regular cards, payWave had opened a new fraud window.

"We had a case just recently where an elderly man had his card stolen, he didn't realise for five days and the offender was able to use that card at stores where the payWave facility was available. It was a lot easier for him to use the card," Det-Sgt Leaman said.

Choice spokeswoman Ingrid Just said while new technology to increase consumers' payment options was welcome, there had not been sufficient public awareness raised about payWave before it was rolled out.

"One of the frustrations for consumers was they weren't given the option to opt out," she said.

Australian Bankers' Association chief executive Steven Munchenberg said PayPass and payWave saved consumers time and removed the need for a card to be handed over to a cashier.

Mr Munchenberg said consumers could identify a payWave-enabled card because all cards carry the Mastercard PayPass or Visa payWave logo. He said consumers still had the option of swiping.

Read the full story at The Mercury

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Tragedy shocks nurse's family in India

The radio DJs behind the prank call linked to a British nurse's death are receiving intensive counselling.

RELATIVES of the Indian-born nurse who died after being duped by a prank call from 2DayFM say they are shocked at the news and cannot believe she committed suicide.

Jacintha Saldanha, 46, who had worked at the King Edward VII Hospital committed suicide yesterday, days after she was duped into helping reveal details about the Duchess of Cambridge's health.

A member of her family, who live in the town of Shirve 400 kilometers from the southern city of Bangalore, said they could not believe the mother-of-two could commit suicide.

"We were shocked to hear from her husband (Benedict Barboza) that Jacintha was no more. He did not tell us that she committed suicide," Jacintha's sister-in-law Irene D'Souza said.

"It is hard to believe Jacintha could commit suicide as she was not the type of woman to do it."

Jacintha Saldanha's family and friends are mourning the death of the woman they described as "good natured." Deborah Gembara reports.

D'Souza said Jacintha was planning to come to India to celebrate Christmas with the family and they were planning a big party.

"But today we are going to the church to pray for her soul and for her children, who are going through a bad time."

Earlier, the hospital where the nurse worked condemned the prank call in writing saying she had been "humiliated" by a "premeditated and ill-considered" hoax that can never be reversed.

Southern Cross Austereo, 2DayFM's parent company, is currently holding an emergency board meeting as the fallout from the prank call tragedy continued.

2DayFM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian (left); Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (middle) leaving the King Edward VII hospital; and the front page of The Sun.

However the company is not expected to release the outcome of today's board meeting.

It is thought the board will release a statement tomorrow in response to global condemnation of  2DayFM and its presenters.

Meanwhile, Ms Saldanha's two children and husband Benedict Barboza were being comforted by other relatives today at their Bristol home.

Yesterday Mr Barboza wrote on Facebook: "I am devastated with the tragic loss of my beloved wife Jacintha in tragic circumstances. She will be laid to rest in Shirva (the town where she was born)."

Jacintha Saldanha was described as ''a lovely woman'' by a neighbour. Picture: Supplied

She was a committed Christian.

In a letter to Max Moore-Wilton, chairman of Southern Cross Austereo, hospital chairman Lord Glenarthur protested the action of DJs Mel Greig and Michael Christian.

Lord Glenarthur said Ms Saldanha's death was "tragic beyond words".

"King Edward VII's Hospital cares for sick people, and it was extremely foolish of your presenters even to consider trying to lie their way through to one of our patients, let alone actually make the call," he wrote.

King Edward VII hospital chief executive John Lofthouse tells the media of the death of nurse Jacintha Saldanha. AFP PHOTO / CARL COURT

"Then to discover that, not only had this happened, but that the call had been pre-recorded and the decision to transmit approved by your station's management, was truly appalling.

"The immediate consequence of these premeditated and ill-considered actions was the humiliation of two dedicated and caring nurses who were simply doing their job tending to their patients.

"The longer term consequence has been reported around the world and is, frankly, tragic beyond words.

"I appreciate that you cannot undo the damage which has been done but I would urge you to take steps to ensure that such an incident could never be repeated."

The letter was sent today.

The show has been axed until further notice and Greig and Christian were receiving medical assistance amid growing fears for their "physical and emotional wellbeing".

The Punch: Sydney DJs did not cause this London nurse's death

The 2DayFM duo, described as "deeply shattered", went to ground to escape the outrage over the suicide of the nurse who answered their hoax call.

2DayFM says they're confident no laws were broken following the death of a nurse after a royal baby prank.

Southern Cross Austereo has expressed concerns about the mental health Greig and Christian following global condemnation.

Greig and Christian are being given intensive counselling to deal with the tragic circumstances, an Austereo spokeswoman told AAP.

She said the pair will speak to the media, but the timing will depend on their state of mind, which she described as "fragile".

The radio duo has been confronted with a barrage of abusive and threatening messages via social media following the death of Ms Saldanha, who took their call to London's King Edward VII Hospital.

2DayFM adio hosts Mel Greig and Michael Christian are "deeply shattered" about the tragedy. Picture: AFP Photo / Southern Cross Austero

The pair now faces questioning from NSW police after a formal request from Scotland Yard. "It is (a non-suspicious death) but if you're going to prepare a coroner's brief you will need to look at all aspects of it and there's this question about what was said and done," NSW Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas said.

After receiving abusive and threatening messages on social media, the DJs, who have been taken off air, deleted their Twitter accounts. But that hasn't stopped the outpouring of condemnation on the radio station's Facebook page.

"Hope the joke was worth it. You have blood on your hands," Stuart Brand posted on Facebook.

Ms Saldanha was pronounced dead at staff accommodation close to the hospital.

A London nurse tricked by radio jocks during a prank call has been described as popular after her death.

The nurse, known to friends as Jess, answered the call of the presenters posing as the Queen and Prince Charles and put it through to the duchess' ward where another nurse inadvertently provided intimate details of the duchess' health.

Mental health experts today cautioned against any assumptions about factors contributing to her death and news coverage in Britain have linked her death and the pranks but have cautiously not suggested one led to the other.

Prince William and Kate told how they are "deeply saddened" by the tragedy. A Palace spokesman said the couple had not made a complaint about the prank call.

Overnight Prince William attended an event in aid of a homeless charity while Kate recuperated at home. She was to attend, but the palace said she would cancel her appointments for the next week after spending three days at hospital with severe morning sickness.

Prince William mingled with guests and was congratulated over impending parenthood.

The 2Day FM phone call that preceded Ms Saldanha's death has divided opinions on social media and created headlines around the globe.

Local and international celebrities have weighed into the debate - reacting with both anger and sympathy to the actions of the disgraced DJs.

British journalist and CCN host Piers Morgan tweeted: "The dumb Aussie DJs' prank was silly but they clearly never expected to be taken seriously, let alone possibly cause someone's suicide" while Melbourne broadcaster Neil Mitchell said "what happened in London is a breach of talk radio codes not necessarily breach of codes covering "light entertainment''.

Jemima Khan questioned whether the hype surrounding the call was worse than the actual prank call itself tweeting "was it the ill-judged hoax call of the ensuing hysteria & outrage on twitter/media that led to the poor nurse's suicide?"

But Kelly Osbourne was scathing to the DJs saying "making a prank call to a sick pregnant lady in hospital is sick no matter who it is!"

A Facebook page, RIP Jacintha Saldanha. Shame upon those stupid Australian DJs, has been bombarded with messages of condemnation since being launched yesterday.

While some of the posts target the DJs directly, others suggest criticism should be aimed at the practice of radio phone pranks rather than personalities.

"Its a complete stupid...stupid...stupid prank,no respect to others by the radio presenters especially involving the royal family. All i can say,its so sad that now a husband/children has lost a wife/mother in a tragic situation...RIP jacintha," reads one post.

Another says: "It is time we stopped practical jokes/pranks just for the sake of laughng at someone elses expense and getting good ratings..."

"The DJs did what radio show hosts have done for decades--there was no malice, no intent to harm, simply a prank call which at the time seemed pretty funny. No one could have predicted this type of tragic overreaction on the nurse's part," reads a third post.

A visibly shaken Rhys Holleran, CEO of Southern Cross Austereo, yesterday expressed the network's "deep sorrow" at the death of Ms Saldanha but said the hosts did nothing wrong.

"Both Southern Cross Austereo and the hosts have mutually decided that their show will not return until further notice out of respect for what can only be described as a tragedy," Mr Holleran said.

"Southern Cross Austereo is committed to working with authorities in any investigation into this tragedy.

"Our primary concern is for nurse Saldanha's family. This is a tragic event that could not have been reasonably foreseen."

Major companies have pulled advertising from the station in protest at the prank.

- with Jonathan Marshall, Caroline Marcus, Yoni Bashan, Elissa Doherty, Siobhan Duck and wires
 

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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Prank call radio show axed after death

2DayFM says they're confident no laws were broken following the death of a nurse after a royal baby prank.

• All advertising on 2Day FM "suspended indefinitely"
• 2DayFM hosts off air and show axed "until further notice"
• Anger grows after nurse found dead in apparent suicide
• Jacintha Saldanha victim of radio duo's prank call
• Broadcasting watchdog to quiz station

ALL advertising on 2Day FM has been suspended indefinitely after a nurse duped by a show's presenters in a prank call was found dead in an apparent suicide.

A spokeswoman for Austereo, Sandy Kay, confirmed to AAP that there would be no advertising on 2Day FM over the weekend as the fallout from the prank call to London's King Edward VII Hospital continued.

"We have suspended advertising at least until Monday on that radio station in Sydney out of respect to advertisers until business issues can really be addressed,'' Ms Kay said on Saturday afternoon.

"Advertisers obviously have panicked, I'm sure it will all settle down.''

She said the company would reassess the situation on Monday when it has had time to "regroup''.

Two Sydney radio hosts stand down after the death of the UK nurse at the centre of a recent hoax call.

Earlier supermarket giant Coles and Telstra pulled advertising from 2Day FM as the fallout from the royal prank call continues.

Coles announced on Saturday morning it had informed the station's management it would be removing all its advertising from the station as soon as possible.

"We understand Australians are clearly angry and upset by what appear to be tragic consequences of the 2Day FM UK hospital prank,'' Coles said on its Facebook page.

"We have instructed 2Day FM to remove all Coles group advertising from the station.''

A London nurse tricked by radio jocks during a prank call has been described as popular after her death.

A spokesman for Telstra said the telco has suspended  "advertising on the station until an investigation into the issue has concluded''.

It is believed Optus and Woolworths was reviewing the situation and sought an explanation from 2Day FM.

The radio show responsible for the royal prank call gone tragically wrong has been axed until further notice, and the presenters are "shattered'' after the victim's death, the station says.

Southern Cross Austereo CEO Rhys Holleran this afternoon told reporters he expressed the company's "deep sorrow'' after a hoax call made by Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian was linked to nurse Jacintha Saldanha's apparent suicide on Friday.

Police officers stand outside the King Edward VII's hospital following the death of a nurse who took a hoax call concerning the Duchess of Cambridge's treatment. The nurse, named as Jacintha Saldanha, was one of two hospital staff who were responsible for inadvertently revealing details of the pregnant duchess's medical condition to two Australian DJs. Picture: Oli Scarff/Getty

The pair were taken off air after the tragic news broke and Mr Holleran could not confirm when the show would return.

"Southern Cross Austereo and the hosts have mutually decided that their show will not return until further notice out of respect for what can only be described as a tragedy,'' Mr Holleran told media in Melbourne today.

"Southern Cross Austereo is committed to working with authorities in any investigation into this tragedy. Our primary concern is for her (the nurse's) family. This is a tragic event that could not have been reasonably foreseen.''

Mr Holleran said he was satisfied the company's procedures surrounding prank calls had been met but would not detail what they were.

A coroners at the nurses accommodation block where nurse Jacintha Saldanha was found dead. AFP PHOTO / CARL COURT

In a separate move, Australia's broadcasting regulator says it will be quizzing the owners of 2Day FM over the incident.

Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian have been taken off air after their prank call to London's King Edward VII Hospital was linked to the death of respected nurse and mother Jacintha Saldanha, 46, on Friday.

The hospital was treating the Duchess of Cambridge for acute morning sickness.

The NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA) slammed radio station 2Day FM for its role in a prank call linked to a nurse's death.

Royal prank: Invasive Aussie radio hosts Mel Greig and Michael Christian. Picture: AFP Photo / Southern Cross Austero

In an open letter to 2Day FM, NSWNMA general secretary Brett Holmes said the "stunt'' would have had "very serious professional consequences'' in the Australian context.

Mr Holmes said in the NSW context a nurse could have faced numerous disciplinary proceedings for answering such a call, including action by the Health Care Complaints Commission.

"Nurses and widwives must comply with strict professional and legal obligations in terms of patient privacy,'' Mr Holmes wrote.

"Such a call, with similar outcomes at an Australian health facility, irrespective of who the patient was, could have serious legal and professional implications for the nurses, midwives or any other health worker involved.''

Ms Saldanha's apparent suicide provoked a massive social media backlash against Greig and Christian, with many on Twitter and Facebook accusing the pair of "having blood on their hands".

But the chairman of Beyond Blue, Jeff Kennett, has expressed concern for the presenters, and said Australians should support rather than crucify the pair for a prank made in good faith.

The broadcasting regulator says it will be talking to the licensee of the radio station which broadcast the prank call.

The call by Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian, who pretended to be the Queen and Prince Charles, has been linked to the death of the nurse they first spoke to, Jacintha Saldanha.

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Ms Saldanha's death and it's believed she took her life.

The chairman of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), Chris Chapman, issued a statement on Saturday saying the authority "does not propose to make any comments at this stage, but will be engaging with the licensee, Today FM Sydney, around the facts and issues surrounding the prank call''.

Mr Chapman added: "These events are a tragedy for all involved and I pass on my heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased nurse in London.''

Ms Saldanha, 46, a mother of two, was unable to be revived after being found unconscious at a nurses' accommodation block near London's exclusive King Edward VII Hospital.

Police said the death was "unexplained" and have launched an investigation, but "the death is not being treated as suspicious at this stage".

Her husband, Ben, and two children - a boy, 16, and girl, 14 - have been informed.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said in a statement they were "deeply saddened" by the news, adding: "Their Royal Highnesses were looked after so wonderfully well at all times by everybody at King Edward VII Hospital, and their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time."

A Palace spokesman said the couple had not made a complaint about the prank call.

The grieving family said: "We as a family are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved Jacintha." 

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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Advertising pulled by prank station

2DayFM says they're confident no laws were broken following the death of a nurse after a royal baby prank.

• All advertising on 2Day FM "suspended indefinitely"
• 2DayFM hosts off air and show axed "until further notice"
• Anger grows after nurse found dead in apparent suicide
• Jacintha Saldanha victim of radio duo's prank call
• Broadcasting watchdog to quiz station

ALL advertising on 2Day FM has been suspended indefinitely after a nurse duped by a show's presenters in a prank call was found dead in an apparent suicide.

A spokeswoman for Austereo, Sandy Kay, confirmed to AAP that there would be no advertising on 2Day FM over the weekend as the fallout from the prank call to London's King Edward VII Hospital continued.

"We have suspended advertising at least until Monday on that radio station in Sydney out of respect to advertisers until business issues can really be addressed,'' Ms Kay said on Saturday afternoon.

"Advertisers obviously have panicked, I'm sure it will all settle down.''

She said the company would reassess the situation on Monday when it has had time to "regroup''.

Two Sydney radio hosts stand down after the death of the UK nurse at the centre of a recent hoax call.

Earlier supermarket giant Coles and Telstra pulled advertising from 2Day FM as the fallout from the royal prank call continues.

Coles announced on Saturday morning it had informed the station's management it would be removing all its advertising from the station as soon as possible.

"We understand Australians are clearly angry and upset by what appear to be tragic consequences of the 2Day FM UK hospital prank,'' Coles said on its Facebook page.

"We have instructed 2Day FM to remove all Coles group advertising from the station.''

A London nurse tricked by radio jocks during a prank call has been described as popular after her death.

A spokesman for Telstra said the telco has suspended  "advertising on the station until an investigation into the issue has concluded''.

It is believed Optus and Woolworths was reviewing the situation and sought an explanation from 2Day FM.

The radio show responsible for the royal prank call gone tragically wrong has been axed until further notice, and the presenters are "shattered'' after the victim's death, the station says.

Southern Cross Austereo CEO Rhys Holleran this afternoon told reporters he expressed the company's "deep sorrow'' after a hoax call made by Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian was linked to nurse Jacintha Saldanha's apparent suicide on Friday.

Police officers stand outside the King Edward VII's hospital following the death of a nurse who took a hoax call concerning the Duchess of Cambridge's treatment. The nurse, named as Jacintha Saldanha, was one of two hospital staff who were responsible for inadvertently revealing details of the pregnant duchess's medical condition to two Australian DJs. Picture: Oli Scarff/Getty

The pair were taken off air after the tragic news broke and Mr Holleran could not confirm when the show would return.

"Southern Cross Austereo and the hosts have mutually decided that their show will not return until further notice out of respect for what can only be described as a tragedy,'' Mr Holleran told media in Melbourne today.

"Southern Cross Austereo is committed to working with authorities in any investigation into this tragedy. Our primary concern is for her (the nurse's) family. This is a tragic event that could not have been reasonably foreseen.''

Mr Holleran said he was satisfied the company's procedures surrounding prank calls had been met but would not detail what they were.

A coroners at the nurses accommodation block where nurse Jacintha Saldanha was found dead. AFP PHOTO / CARL COURT

In a separate move, Australia's broadcasting regulator says it will be quizzing the owners of 2Day FM over the incident.

Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian have been taken off air after their prank call to London's King Edward VII Hospital was linked to the death of respected nurse and mother Jacintha Saldanha, 46, on Friday.

The hospital was treating the Duchess of Cambridge for acute morning sickness.

The NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA) slammed radio station 2Day FM for its role in a prank call linked to a nurse's death.

Royal prank: Invasive Aussie radio hosts Mel Greig and Michael Christian. Picture: AFP Photo / Southern Cross Austero

In an open letter to 2Day FM, NSWNMA general secretary Brett Holmes said the "stunt'' would have had "very serious professional consequences'' in the Australian context.

Mr Holmes said in the NSW context a nurse could have faced numerous disciplinary proceedings for answering such a call, including action by the Health Care Complaints Commission.

"Nurses and widwives must comply with strict professional and legal obligations in terms of patient privacy,'' Mr Holmes wrote.

"Such a call, with similar outcomes at an Australian health facility, irrespective of who the patient was, could have serious legal and professional implications for the nurses, midwives or any other health worker involved.''

Ms Saldanha's apparent suicide provoked a massive social media backlash against Greig and Christian, with many on Twitter and Facebook accusing the pair of "having blood on their hands".

But the chairman of Beyond Blue, Jeff Kennett, has expressed concern for the presenters, and said Australians should support rather than crucify the pair for a prank made in good faith.

The broadcasting regulator says it will be talking to the licensee of the radio station which broadcast the prank call.

The call by Sydney 2Day FM presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian, who pretended to be the Queen and Prince Charles, has been linked to the death of the nurse they first spoke to, Jacintha Saldanha.

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Ms Saldanha's death and it's believed she took her life.

The chairman of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), Chris Chapman, issued a statement on Saturday saying the authority "does not propose to make any comments at this stage, but will be engaging with the licensee, Today FM Sydney, around the facts and issues surrounding the prank call''.

Mr Chapman added: "These events are a tragedy for all involved and I pass on my heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased nurse in London.''

Ms Saldanha, 46, a mother of two, was unable to be revived after being found unconscious at a nurses' accommodation block near London's exclusive King Edward VII Hospital.

Police said the death was "unexplained" and have launched an investigation, but "the death is not being treated as suspicious at this stage".

Her husband, Ben, and two children - a boy, 16, and girl, 14 - have been informed.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said in a statement they were "deeply saddened" by the news, adding: "Their Royal Highnesses were looked after so wonderfully well at all times by everybody at King Edward VII Hospital, and their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time."

A Palace spokesman said the couple had not made a complaint about the prank call.

The grieving family said: "We as a family are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved Jacintha." 

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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Our son has come home, say Morcombes

Moments of Daniel Morcombe's young life were celebrated in this touching tribute, chosen by family to be shown at his funeral service.

IN the arms of his brothers Dean and Bradley, Daniel Morcombe has been carried towards his final resting place.

Thousands wept and hugged as they watched Daniel's final procession to the strains of the emotion-charged Elton John song that shares his name.

Hundreds of students stood shoulder to shoulder with friends, Daniel Morcombe Foundation supporters, SES, police and complete strangers in a special guard of honour.

Tears that had been welling for 90 minutes during the farewell ceremony finally flowed as Daniel was taken away for a private burial service at Woombye Cemetery, just a few hundred metres from his childhood home.

Bruce Morcombe, as he had done so many times before, put his arm around wife Denise to comfort her and help her walk as they followed the procession.

As the vehicles pulled away under police escort, the crowd began to clap in a final show of support for the boy who launched a child safety revolution.

During the service, Bruce Morcombe implored the thousands of people gathered on the Sunshine Coast to focus on the good that followed the "evil act" that took his son Daniel.

"A moment in time that will live with all of us forever occurred nine years ago today," Mr Morcombe said.

"Please do not be sad. Appreciate that the evil act which took Daniel happened a long time ago. Today is about embracing his return to family and being reflective of what might have been," he said.

"Do we dwell on what we have lost or accept the space we are in and find some positives?

Daniel Morcombe's casket is carried from St Catherine of Siena Catholic church on the Sunshine Coast. Picture: Glenn Barnes

"He may no longer with us but Daniel's legacy lives on. The Daniel Morcombe Foundation is committed to doing all we can to ensure this never happens again by educating children on ways to keep safe and supporting young victims of crime."

See more pictures from the funeral here

Mr Morcombe paid tribute to police, SES volunteers, media, government and business leaders, Daniel's former schools and the broad community for never forgetting Daniel.

He also made special mention of the efforts of West Australian Police and the Queensland Coroner "for getting us to where we are today".

Daniel loved lasagne, animals and trying to ride "harder, higher and faster" than his brothers on his motocross bike, his big brother said.

Delivering one of several eulogies at this morning's funeral service, Dean Morcombe, 24, told of the special bond between Daniel and his twin Bradley, now 22.

"They shared many secrets. Living on acreage we had a few ponies and they would ride their favourites - Bullet and Sorrento," Dean said.

"They were great friends, often getting into mischief or blaming each other as the reason why their room was so untidy. What are brothers for?

"The three of us shared a passion for motocross bikes but in addition he loved his animals. Mittens the cat and Chief our dog are too no longer with us, but Bullet enjoys retirement on our Tasmanian property.

Daniel Morcombe's casket is carried from St Catherine of Siena Catholic church on the Sunshine Coast. Picture: Glenn Barnes

"Daniel also enjoyed the company of his friends - sharing a movie or going to the shops. He enjoyed food with lasagne his favourite. It was also recommended you don't stand between him and a birthday cake."

Read the eulogies in full here

Christmas presents Daniel Morcombe never had the chance to open were placed on his casket in an emotional tribute.

Daniel's parents Bruce and Denise placed the gifts, along with their son's Year 9 report card, which he did not see as it arrived the day after he disappeared, and a school photo taken in 2003.

The Requiem Mass at St Catherine's Church on the grounds of Siena Catholic College where Daniel went to school, is being attended by thousands of people wearing red.

Father Jan Bialasiewicz said Bruce and Denise were finally able to put their son Daniel to rest.

Shortly before the service, former Queensland Police commissioner Bob Atkinson paid tribute to the courage of Bruce and Denise Morcombe as thousands prepare to farewell their son Daniel this morning.

Showers have eased and a sea of red, the colour that has become a symbol for the child safety campaign that followed Daniel's disappearance in 2003, is streaming into the grounds surrounding St Catherine's Church at Sippy Downs.

Families, students, friends, police, SES volunteers and hundreds who never met Daniel but were touched by his loss are among those attending.

Bruce Morcombe speaks at the funeral for his son Daniel, held at St Catherine of Siena Catholic church, Sippy Downs on the Sunshine Coast. Thousands more mourners were gathered outside. Picture: Glenn Barnes

Outside the church, Mr Atkinson was full of praise for the Morcombe family.

"Out of this tragedy there have been great displays of courage, character and resilience. It's not dissimilar to what we saw in the 2010 summer of storms," he said.

Mr Atkinson said that while the Morcombes were still going through difficult times, it was some comfort they now knew where Daniel was.

"Not knowing would unthinkable ... the worst nightmare for any parent. We were able to provide an answer to that question."

Mr Atkinson said police tried their best not to get emotional so they could be objective and do their jobs, but conceded like many others he "could not help be touched by this".

See more pictures from the funeral here

Overnight, it was reported that Daniel James Morcombe was a brave boy who made his parents proud.

Today, as Bruce and Denise Morcombe lay their son to rest, they hope he is proud of them - and they want the world to remember the life he lived.

His first steps. His favourite stuffed toy, old bear. His love of all creatures great and small.

The family of Daniel Morcombe gather for his funeral at St Catherine of Siena Catholic church in Sippy Downs on the Sunshine Coast. Picture: Glenn Barnes

His quiet, loving nature with a little bit of mischief and a large dose of strength and determination.

These are just some of the things that set Daniel apart, making him so special to his family and friends.

"All of us have gained strength from Daniel," Mr Morcombe told The Courier-Mail.

"He was a loving son, trusted friend and a good kid who enjoyed life.

"I think the Australian public have taken and embraced that little boy because of his eyes and his smile. In every photo they pick up, there's that happy kid.

"They have always wondered what happened to that boy in the red T-shirt.

"We are all better people for having Daniel come into our lives.

"He wasn't able to grow up into a young man but he had special qualities - he was very loyal and very loving.

"He was a cherished family member."

The funeral for Daniel Morcombe Funeral at St Catherine of Siena Catholic church, Sippy Downs on the Sunshine Coast. Thousands more mourners were gathered outside. Picture: Glenn Barnes

This week, Mrs Morcombe shared her memories of Daniel, reminiscing about his christening on a freezing winter's day in Melbourne in 1990, childhood toys and the last present he gave her before he disappeared.

"In Year 9, Daniel made a wooden box at school and gave it to me," she said.

"One day he said: 'Are you going to use it?'

"I said: 'Yes, one day I'll put some special things in it.'

"Little did I know. It's now filled with his special things."

His special things include drawings, letters and a toy motocross bike.

Mrs Morcombe still has Daniel's favourite stuffed toy.

"That was old bear. He loved old bear," she said.

"He was sewn and stitched and hot-glued back together. It's seen better days. The bear probably has a few stories."

Bruce and Denise Morcombe in their garden at home on the Sunshine Coast.

Mrs Morcombe said Daniel was an affectionate son - he would pick flowers for his mum to show how much he loved her - and inseparable from twin, Bradley. They were born eight weeks premature on December 19, 1989.

"Daniel and Bradley were always together," she said. "They were a bit mischievous. Bradley was always the bigger talker. Daniel was a lot quieter and Bradley used to talk for him too.

"A couple of weeks after their first birthday they walked.

"I think Bradley walked first but they were pretty much at the same time."

Daniel also loved animals, especially his miniature horse called Bullet, and was always cradling their cats.

"When they were babies I had to shoo the cat out of their room because I was afraid he'd sleep on them," she said.

Thousands will gather on the Sunshine Coast today to celebrate Daniel's legacy and remember the short life of a boy who touched the heart of a nation, inspired a child-safety revolution and gave his parents the strength to go on. Daniel will be farewelled at Siena Catholic College, where the diligent student harboured dreams of one day becoming a vet.

GALLERY: The Daniel Morcombe story

The day after Daniel disappeared while waiting for a bus at Woombye nine years ago, his father made a vow.

In their own words, the treasured moments in Daniel's life that Bruce and Denise Morcombe most vividly remember; birth, first day at school, presents for mum, family holidays and birthday parties. Only in today's print edition of The Courier-Mail.

"On the evening of Monday December 8, 2003, I silently promised to him I would never give up," Mr Morcombe said.

Today they will finally bury their boy, who was at the centre of Australia's highest-profile missing person's case, after almost a decade of searching.

"Even though we've had years and years of mental preparation, suddenly we had to go to a funeral director and have a look at a coffin and organise flowers and pick a grave plot at a cemetery," Mr Morcombe said.

"Even though we had years of knowing 'well, he isn't coming home' we had never done any of that - not one bit.

"It's horrible doing that for your own child.

"It's still bad preparing a funeral for an elderly parent but you know that's part of life's cycle.

"For a kid it's not the way it should be."

Beneath the Morcombes' bravery and behind their child-safety crusade remains their private pain.

Mr Morcombe urged others not to be sad about what was undoubtedly for them the saddest homecoming.

A look at the eight year crusade to find a missing son.

He has tried to remain positive as he wrote a eulogy and steeled himself to deliver it at a service that will be beamed into living rooms around the country.

"I have probably been a better father to Daniel in the last nine years than I was in his first 14," he said.

"It is a sad reflection but I, like most fathers, wish I had spent more one-on-one time with him and cherished those moments.

"This has been a huge motivating factor in my relentless search for the truth."

EDITORIAL: Morcombes in our thoughts

While Mr Morcombe appears stoic, dignified and patient, Mrs Morcombe's eyes reflect her perpetual torment.

The past 12 months have delivered her the answers she feared. She will no longer search for Daniel's face in the crowd.

"I've been pretty sad all week," she said.

"It's something that we wanted but not something you look forward to.

This photo was published on the official Daniel Morcombe Foundation Facebook page on August 12 2012 by Denise Morcombe, with the message: "Wanted to keep my favorite photo till we had a funeral but waiting is forever, this is a photo taken of Dan at school which we were given after the arrest that we hadn't seen until then Denise x"

"I'm not looking forward to walking into that church and seeing the casket there. When they carry Daniel out - that's going to be the saddest part."

Last week Daniel was brought home to the Sunshine Coast after his family was granted permission to receive his remains.

The significant development followed months of legal wrangling over which authority had the final say on whether Daniel's remains could be released.

Brett Peter Cowan, 43, has been charged with child stealing, deprivation of liberty, indecent treatment, murder and interfering with a corpse.

His committal hearing was yesterday adjourned until February.

His lawyers said he intended to plead not guilty to all charges.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION: Behind the search for Daniel Morcombe

The Morcombes, whose lives were irrevocably changed on this day nine years ago, said their blue-eyed boy with the beautiful smile would not be forgotten.

"We've got to look at some positives going forward and the foundation is Daniel's legacy," Mr Morcombe said.

RED HONOUR: People attending Daniel Morcombe's public funeral service today have been urged by his family to wear a touch of red.

They said they could at least take comfort from knowing their son would now, finally, rest in peace.
 

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Shocked by tragic loss of two young lives

IT was supposed to be a night of pre-Christmas cheer at a fundraising concert, but it ended in unimaginable tragedy.

Rebecca Wild, an innocent, much-loved and respected 16-year-old, went to the Port Pirie West Primary School concert with friends on Tuesday night to enjoy a sausage sizzle and end-of-year celebrations in Memorial Park.

At the end of it she had made what turned out to be a fatal decision to meet up with an ex-boyfriend, several friends posted on Facebook.

About 24 hours later, she was found dead at the Quorn Cemetery, more than 100km from where she was last seen.

Just 4km from where Ms Wild was buried in a shallow grave lay the body of 22-year-old Jasinta-Leigh Fullerton, who was allegedly killed by the same man.

A handful of students and friends of Ms Wild paid tribute after school today in a multi-church prayer vigil held opposite John Pirie Secondary School.

Baptist pastor Roger Kleinig said the 24-7 Pray Group began praying for Ms Wild on Wednesday after she was reported missing.

Senior school students, some clearly emotional and offering each other comfort, gathered in subdued groups, all of them shocked to be ending the school year on such a tragic note.

Rebecca's friends console each other at the Combined Churches of Port Pirie prayer vigil. Picture: Simon Cross

"I've got a counselling background and I wanted to give the kids a bit of an understanding of the phases of shock and grief and disbelief," said Mr Kleinig, who led the after-school vigil.

"We just thought we would see if we could extend a hand of support to the young people."

John Pirie Secondary School principal Sharryn Daly paid tribute to "a lovely kid" who was on top of her studies.

"Life was pretty good, she had some good friends, a very supportive family," Ms Daly said.

Rebecca's friends console each other at the prayer at the Combined Churches of Port Pirie - Picture: Simon Cross

Ms Wild, the eldest child of five, would be very much missed by her teachers, friends and students, and Ms Daly said the school would decide on a permanent memorial for her once students returned next year.

Police said they believe Ms Fullerton - who had suffered visible head wounds when she was found dead on Groves Rd about 3.45am on Wednesday - was killed after coming across the murderer together with Ms Wild.

They would not reveal whether Ms Wild was alive when Ms Fullerton came across the pair and where she saw them.

Police also did not disclose the type of weapon used to kill Ms Fullerton, which had been found at a separate location.

Yesterday morning police worked to remove Ms Wild's body from the makeshift grave, cordoning off Cemetery Rd during the excavation.

A 19-year-old Quorn man, whose name and image are suppressed, appeared briefly in the Port Augusta Magistrates Court yesterday charged with two counts of murder.

He was remanded in custody to appear on February 18.

Letters left at the prayer vigil for Rebecca Wild held at the Combined Churches of Port Pirie - Picture: Simon Cross

Ms Wild's friends paid tribute to the John Pirie Secondary School student and keen netballer.

Solomontown Netball Club coach Janelle Tattoli told The Advertiser that she was a quiet and reliable girl who came from a good family.

Ms Tattoli said Rebecca played as defender and often helped out with coaching and volunteering when she wasn't on the court.

"She was a really nice, quiet girl - well liked. She would always say hello and give you a smile when she went past," she said.

"She will definitely be sorely missed and she was an all-round great girl. She will be missed by everybody."

Outside court, family friend Brian Harvey said Ms Wild was a fantastic girl whom he had known for a long time.

"I am devastated," he said.

Online tributes for two women murdered in the state's mid-north, Fringe fever hits Adelaide and a pregnant Duchess of Cambridge leaves a British hospital

"We've known the family for many years. I haven't seen the family or spoken with them yet, but I will be in time.

"(Rebecca) was a very respectful girl. She would always call me Mr Harvey.

"She used to play sports with our grandchildren and we would see her at all the presentations.

"She would have a go at anything as far as sport went."

Ms Wild's popularity was highlighted when a Facebook tribute page attracted almost 900 "likes" within a few hours.

"We are all upset and moved for the lost (sic), of these (sic) beautiful girl, who was taken away from us by a monster ... Rest In Peace," the page's creator posted.

Port Pirie Regional Council mayor Brenton Vanstone said the effect of Ms Wild's death would increase over time.

Police at the Quorn cemetery investigating the deaths of Quorn camel jockey Jasinta-Leigh Fullerton, inset top, and Port Pirie teenager Rebecca Wild. Main picture: Mark Brake

"When there is an incident like this, people put aside everything and show care and concern that only a close-knit community can show," he said.

"They say that good triumphs over evil, but for this momentary passage in time evil has triumphed."

While Port Pirie was coming to terms with the loss of Ms Wild, the people of Quorn continued to mourn Ms Fullerton's death.

Flinders Ranges Council mayor Peter Slattery said the community was dismayed and dumbfounded that Ms Fullerton - whom he described as outgoing and friendly - had been murdered and that one of their own was now accused of double murder.

"Losing young people in the community by senseless means is always hard," he said.

Facebook friends flocked to the social media site to grieve and share memories for the "beautiful young soul".

"RIP Jess. I will always remember the good times we had at the Trans and will not forget our night at the `Hotshots'. `Save a horse, ride a cowboy', will always remind me of you. You will be sadly missed," one friend posted.

South Australian police have released new details around the double murder near Quorn.

Major Crime officer-in-charge Detective Superintendent Grant Moyle described the discovery of the two bodies yesterday as "an unusual course of events".

"I thought not much would surprise me after my time in Major Crime, but this certainly has," he said.

Det-Supt Moyle said police believed they had caught the man responsible.

"We are satisfied he was the only person involved."

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Police officer killed in Sydney axe attack

A senior NSW police officer has died after being attacked with an knife in western Sydney. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

A senior NSW police officer has died after being attacked with an knife in western Sydney. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

Police arrest one man involved in the dispute. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

A HIGHLY respected police officer was allegedly killed when he was stabbed in the neck while trying to break up feuding neighbours Thursday..

Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson, 45, was fatally attacked moments after he and a colleague arrived at a rural property at Oakville, near Windsor, after a callout about a man firing a bow and arrow over a fence.

Police were called about 2pm and, as a senior officer, Insp Anderson arrived a couple of hours later when the situation escalated following a stand-off. He had only been at the Scheyville Rd property for a few minutes when he was allegedly knifed from behind. It is understood he had walked over to the fence to speak with the neighbour on the other side, when a 19-year-old man allegedly attacked him.

Earlier reports had wrongly said he was struck with an axe.

Insp Anderson's colleague's panicked calls for help, as his superior lay injured, were heard across the police radio network.

Senior police said the colleague tried desperately to render assistance to his dying partner but he lapsed into cardiac arrest.

With no time to wait for an ambulance helicopter, paramedics rushed Insp Anderson by road to Hawkesbury Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione rushed to the hospital shortly afterwards, where Insp Anderson's distraught wife and three children had gathered.

Back at the crime scene, a 19-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, believed to be a mother and her son, were arrested and taken to Windsor police station for questioning.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal the feuding neighbours had been involved in a long-standing dispute, which had featured on A Current Affair in August this year.

One of the neighbours, who is not under arrest, is well-known to police and is well known in the tow truck industry.

Other residents in the street said the bad blood between the men was well known.

Outside the hospital, Mr Scipione paid tribute to his fallen colleague.

"A veteran of the police force ... an excellent officer and a damn good bloke," he said.

"He was called to a dispute and at the scene suffered some serious injuries. He was pronounced deceased a short time after."

He said NSW had lost a dedicated, brave and skilled officer, who would have gone a long way in the job. "Insp Anderson worked for me as a young officer. He was a fine officer then, his tenacity his courage his wisdom and his strength stood him in very good stead to go much much further than he has," Mr Scipione said.

Below: Inspector Anderson on the ABC's Australian Story

Killed ... Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson / Pic: ABC Australian Story Source: The Daily Telegraph

Insp Anderson was heavily involved in an investigation of alleged police inaction following the high-profile case of domestic violence victim Catherine Smith.

Ms Smith was found not guilty of attempting to murder her own husband after revelations she had suffered 20 years of terror at her husband's hands.

Insp Anderson appeared on ABC'S Australian Story describing Ms Smith as "tenacious" and "probably one of the most singularly determined people that I have ever met".

He also personally delivered a letter of apology to Ms Smith following her acquittal.

"It was a step that we could take to try and restore Catherine's faith in the New South Wales police," he told the ABC.

NSW Police Association president Scott Weber said the force has lost a colleague and a leader in their our organisation.

"He was a father, a brother and an incredibly well-respected officer," Mr Weber said.

He said it was incomprehensible to think an officer could attend a routine neighbourhood dispute, and never go home. "It just highlights the dangers police face everyday. I ask anyone tomorrow if they see a police officer pass on their condolences," he said.

A neighbour who knew Insp Anderson said he was a well-known cop who had worked in various stations throughout western Sydney.

"He'd been around the traps a bit, and for this to happen is really hard to understand. He must have let his guard down which is unlike him," the neighbour said.

It is the second officer to die on duty this year, following the death of senior constable David Rixon who was shot in the chest during a traffic stop in Tamworth.

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Police officer killed in Sydney knife attack

A senior NSW police officer has died after being attacked with an knife in western Sydney. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

A senior NSW police officer has died after being attacked with an knife in western Sydney. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

Police arrest one man involved in the dispute. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

A HIGHLY respected police officer was allegedly killed when he was stabbed in the neck while trying to break up feuding neighbours Thursday..

Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson, 45, was fatally attacked moments after he and a colleague arrived at a rural property at Oakville, near Windsor, after a callout about a man firing a bow and arrow over a fence.

Police were called about 2pm and, as a senior officer, Insp Anderson arrived a couple of hours later when the situation escalated following a stand-off. He had only been at the Scheyville Rd property for a few minutes when he was allegedly knifed from behind. It is understood he had walked over to the fence to speak with the neighbour on the other side, when a 19-year-old man allegedly attacked him.

Earlier reports had wrongly said he was struck with an axe.

Insp Anderson's colleague's panicked calls for help, as his superior lay injured, were heard across the police radio network.

Senior police said the colleague tried desperately to render assistance to his dying partner but he lapsed into cardiac arrest.

With no time to wait for an ambulance helicopter, paramedics rushed Insp Anderson by road to Hawkesbury Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione rushed to the hospital shortly afterwards, where Insp Anderson's distraught wife and three children had gathered.

Back at the crime scene, a 19-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, believed to be a mother and her son, were arrested and taken to Windsor police station for questioning.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal the feuding neighbours had been involved in a long-standing dispute, which had featured on A Current Affair in August this year.

One of the neighbours, who is not under arrest, is well-known to police and is well known in the tow truck industry.

Other residents in the street said the bad blood between the men was well known.

Outside the hospital, Mr Scipione paid tribute to his fallen colleague.

"A veteran of the police force ... an excellent officer and a damn good bloke," he said.

"He was called to a dispute and at the scene suffered some serious injuries. He was pronounced deceased a short time after."

He said NSW had lost a dedicated, brave and skilled officer, who would have gone a long way in the job. "Insp Anderson worked for me as a young officer. He was a fine officer then, his tenacity his courage his wisdom and his strength stood him in very good stead to go much much further than he has," Mr Scipione said.

Below: Inspector Anderson on the ABC's Australian Story

Killed ... Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson / Pic: ABC Australian Story Source: The Daily Telegraph

Insp Anderson was heavily involved in an investigation of alleged police inaction following the high-profile case of domestic violence victim Catherine Smith.

Ms Smith was found not guilty of attempting to murder her own husband after revelations she had suffered 20 years of terror at her husband's hands.

Insp Anderson appeared on ABC'S Australian Story describing Ms Smith as "tenacious" and "probably one of the most singularly determined people that I have ever met".

He also personally delivered a letter of apology to Ms Smith following her acquittal.

"It was a step that we could take to try and restore Catherine's faith in the New South Wales police," he told the ABC.

NSW Police Association president Scott Weber said the force has lost a colleague and a leader in their our organisation.

"He was a father, a brother and an incredibly well-respected officer," Mr Weber said.

He said it was incomprehensible to think an officer could attend a routine neighbourhood dispute, and never go home. "It just highlights the dangers police face everyday. I ask anyone tomorrow if they see a police officer pass on their condolences," he said.

A neighbour who knew Insp Anderson said he was a well-known cop who had worked in various stations throughout western Sydney.

"He'd been around the traps a bit, and for this to happen is really hard to understand. He must have let his guard down which is unlike him," the neighbour said.

It is the second officer to die on duty this year, following the death of senior constable David Rixon who was shot in the chest during a traffic stop in Tamworth.

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