Twitter, my PA and life as sex worker

Tech-savvy... Social media is a key part of Grace Bellavue's business strategy. Picture: Instagram/gracebellavue Source: Supplied

• Sex workers marketing themselves on social media
• Clients want "real" people
• Sex worker tweets: "Today's plan. Gorge on scallops, few glasses of vino, float in a pool, get laid"

SHE starts the week just like any other high-flying businesswoman.

First thing Monday morning she checks her emails and calls her PA to make sense of her diary which is always overflowing. She then decides which clients are worth hopping on a plane for, and which ones she can deal with from her own city.

She dresses. Like any woman trying to cut it in a world dominated by men, she's got to look just right, not overdressed but not understated either. Her makeup takes the longest time.

Too much or too little can make all the difference.

Little things matter in her line of work. Her name is Grace Bellavue and she is a sex worker.

Grace Bellavue is one of the new breed of sex workers operating as self-contained businesswomen who market themselves through ads in traditional media, and also increasingly through social media.

Tweets posted by Grace Bellavue. Picture: Twitter

The 24-year-old started in the industry as a "parlour girl". That's industry talk for a woman who works in a legal brothel. But Adelaide-based Bellavue had the instincts of a businesswoman and the savvy to build a profile in an industry as competitive as any.

Her tools are her phone, her PA (a retired sex worker), her energy, her willingness to travel and above all, her sassy persona on Twitter.

Social media is where the real seduction begins, but not in the way you might imagine. This isn't about dirty talk or overtly saucy tweets. As Bellavue explains, a huge part of her appeal is her willingness to be herself in the raucous, 24/7 public forum that is social media.

"People want to have sex with a real person," she says. "When I am myself on Twitter, they tend to see me as more real rather than just tits and arse."

She's real, all right. Like most social media users, Bellavue's Twitter feed varies between the banal – like the weather or what she's eating or drinking – to the highly personal. And we mean highly personal.

Bellavue has over 7,000 Twitter followers, and says she would have seen hundreds of those followers as clients. Her followers are not only attracted by her real, uncensored personality on Twitter, but by the real, uncensored photos on her website.

"Putting your face out there definitely increases business," she says. "This industry has been very agency based for a long time. People generally don't like it when they order a 20 year old blonde and a 32 year old brunette rocks up at the door. That's why there's a trend towards more private operators."

It's not just privateers like Bellavue who are on Twitter. Escorts and sex workers across Australia are increasingly using social media as a tool to keep in touch rather than to attract business.

Rio is a Brisbane-based part-time sex worker with a full-time office job who prefers to do her two weekly shifts in the safety of a brothel. She is also active on Twitter, and admires Bellavue.

"She has definitely marketed herself well and that works well for independent escorts. If I considered going into that side of the industry I would market myself more on Twitter too," Rio says.

Rio uses her Twitter feed to keep in touch with other sex workers. Unlike Bellavue, Rio's life as a sex worker is a secret. A double life can be isolating. Social media is a way to share concerns, fears or just swap stories.

Back in Grace Bellavue's world, things are hotting up. Mondays and Tuesdays can be the busiest days of the week. That's when businessmen tend to travel.

The good news is they're not drunk like the last-minute Saturday night clients. But it makes it hard to find a spare minute to organise anything, like arranging a replacement credit card for the one she just lost. That's never a quick thing to sort out.

Bellavue charges up to $1,000 an hour for her services, depending whether you want the porn star experience or the girlfriend experience. Use your imagination if you're wondering what the difference is.

So is she making a decent living? That's none of our business. But we can say this. Like any businesswoman, Grace Bellavue has considerable expenses.

The travel and the taxis and the hotels are all factored into her hourly rate. But some things aren't like the condoms and lube, which she buys in bulk. Then there's the dry cleaning. This elegant, fast-talking entrepreneur spends over $200 a week at the dry cleaner's.

It's tough, expensive work with all sorts of dangers. But there are rewards. As Grace Bellavue tweeted yesterday.

"Today's plan. Gorge on scallops, salmon & prawns, few glasses of vino, float in a pool, sun bake, get laid. Better than brick making."

Continue the conversation on Twitter: @newscomauHQ @antsharwood @gracebellavue

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Shock jocks vs Aussie internet troll

Triple M's Grill Team managed to have a rough time interviewing Tristan Barker who is dubbed 'Australia's worst internet troll'.

Internet troll Tristan Barker singing with his dad Michael Barker in bottom right corner, on drums. Source: Supplied

INFAMOUS internet troll and cyber bully Tristan Barker was expecting a cushy ride on breakfast radio this morning.

But the heat got too much when he was questioned about his new found fame as Australia's most prolific internet troll.

Austereo's Triple M The Grill show invited Mr Barker on air to find out "if he is an internet troll, is he that bad or just a naughty boy".

Mr Barker, 18, confirmed he had been "a very, very naughty boy" but appeared uncomfortable with the suggestion that him spending hundreds of hours on the internet abusing everyone from celebrities to murder victims was a poor life choice.

One of the show's hosts asked Mr Barker why, with a "life in front of you", he would become a "troll of the highest order" and "pry upon those weaker than you".

But the interview lasted less than two minutes when Mr Barker objected to that claim, suggesting musicians like Nicki Minaj were not vulnerable.

"The only person weaker than me that I think I'm taking advantage of is you stupid breakfast jocks for giving me publicity," he said.

The interview then ended with one host questioning why he had made it on as an interviewee.

Mr Barker's personal Facebook page and the communal Facebeef, on the same social media network site, have enjoyed a massive increase in visitors since they were linked to the teenager over the weekend.

His pages today made international headlines when they were headlined on The Huffington Post.

The abrupt ending breakfast radio interview aired as Mr Barker's father Michael is facing the possibility of being dumped from this weekend's WOMADelaide music festival after publicly supporting his son.

Major WOMADelaide sponsors Coles and Coca-Cola Amatil announced yesterday they were meeting to decide whether support would continue given Mr Barker snr's scheduled appearance.

Are they Super XD Trollz, cyber-bullies or brats with brains? You decide if Nebz and Tristan from Facebeef have too much time on their hands.

New Zealand-based drummer Mr Barker snr, formerly of Split Enz and The John Butler Trio, is to performing at the event with his two-man blues and roots group The Swamp Thing at the four-day music festival starting Friday. The father and son duo have played together in previous performances of The Swamp Thing.

The 18-year-old, who lives with his father in Rotorua, New Zealand, has a reputation of posting questionable comments about celebrities, Muslims, murder victims such as Melbourne's Jill Meagher and emotionally unstable young people. His online following exceeds 350,000 computer users, mainly children. The brother of top Australian tennis player Marvin Barker, is wanted by Melbourne police for questioning.

Yesterday the teenager's father became engulfed in controversy after supporting his son's views, particularly about United States teenager Amanda Todd, who hanged herself in October 2012.

Following the suicide Mr Barker jnr posted online comments about Miss Todd, calling her "slutty", "attention seeking" and a "histrionic attention whore".

New Zealand born Tristan Barker is wanted by authorities in Australia over comments made on the internet. Picture: Kerry Grant/ Herald on Sunday NZ Source: Supplied

News Ltd spoke to Mr Barker snr about his son's comments and he defended him. "Was she? Was she slutty and attention seeking?"

Ruben Cunningham of anti-bullying organisation Angel's Goal called on WOMADelaide organisers to remove Mr Barker snr from the line-up.

"I am disgusted, this is disgraceful that he would question why a young girl killed herself when he doesn't even know her," Mr Cunningham said.

"He shouldn't be allowed to play at an event sponsored by government organisations."

WOMADelaide is supported by Adelaide City Council and the Government of South Australia.

A spokesman for South Australia Premier Jay Weatherill refused to say what the Arts Minister thought about the comments of the Barker family.

Outspoken cyber bulling crusader, celebrity Charlotte Dawson, said on Twitter: "I just don't think the comments are in line with the spirit of WOMAD."

Lifeline spokesman John Mendel said people affected by, or those who have considered suicide, "would be offended by these words".

"Whenever the suicide is made light of it can be hurtful and humiliating and cause catastrophic consequences," Mr Mendel said.

Ian Scobie, director of WOMADelaide's parent company, Arts Project Australia, said he was "vaguely aware" of the issue and had nothing to say.

Told that sponsors were meeting to discuss the appearance of The Swamp Thing and that the remarks had upset people, Mr Scobie responded: "That is good to hear."

Sponsors of WOMADelaide include Hills Cider, Coopers, Hilton Adelaide and Smeg.

The father and son have played onstage most recently in January at Rotorua's Okere Falls Festival as The Swamp Thing.

It is unclear whether Mr Barker jnr will travel to WOMADelaide but if he does police are likely to speak with him as he enters the country about the alleged sustained harassment of a female.

WOMADelaide's website says The Swamp Thing plays "gritty songs of love, loss, hope and salvation"; remarkably different to the diatribes posted online by Mr Barker and his friends.

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

'I could have brought Mad Dog out'

Smoke can be seen billowing in Justin Ave, the scene of the Glenroy siege involving Antonio Loguancio. Picture: Mark Dadswell Source: Herald Sun

FUGITIVE rapist Antonio Logancio wanted to see the girlfriend he had bashed a week earlier as he held police at bay in a backyard bungalow.

But police - knowing Loguancio was armed with at least one firearm -  could not comply with the request.

Loguancio's assault of the girlfriend, with whom he lived in West Heidelberg, sparked the police search which ended in the stand-off in Justin Avenue, Glenroy.

A friend of Loguancio told the Herald Sun the fugitive had the girlfriend's mobile phone during the siege.

Victoria Police declined to comment on reports that friends of Loguancio told him not to surrender soon after it appeared he may have been ready to give up.

A policewoman guards the siege home in Justin Ave, Glenroy. Picture: Andrew Tauber

It has been reported they told him by one of several mobile telephones he was carrying that he would be shot if he emerged.

The Herald Sun has confirmed Loguancio told negotiators he feared he would be shot if he came outside.

Police had repeatedly assured him he was safe, both by phone and over a loud-hailer.

But the siege dragged on with Loguancio firing dozens of shots on Sunday afternoon in the period before the bungalow erupted in flames.

A neighbour who was made to stay in her property during the two-day seige speaks to the media this morning. Picture: Andrew Tauber

Earlier, a friend of Loguancio said he believed police should have handled the siege situation much better.

Mick Collett, a longtime mate, said his friend would have preferred to end the siege by taking his own life, rather than letting the police "take him in".

The siege ended after a volley of shots and billowing smoke marked the conclusion of Loguancio's eight days at large.

"The only thing I was very upset about, I wanted to go in. I wanted to talk to him. I know a hundred per cent I could have brought him out and they didn't listen to me," Mr Collett told 3AW.

For sale: The siege home in Justin Ave, Glenroy is up for grabs. Picture: Andrew Tauber

"But I can understand their point too - he was armed and that's why they didn't let me in there."

The notorious rapist, holed up in a bungalow in a Glenroy backyard, kept surrounding armed police at bay for over 40 hours.

But about 2pm the siege escalated.

Shots sounded out from the bungalow. Soon after, flames erupted and smoke billowed, as locals looked on.

Forensic officers begin to investigate the charred remains of the bungalow Antonio Loguancio spent his final hours. Picture: Jon Hargest

Police and fire crews converged on the scene soon after. They discovered a body, believed to be that of the notorious rapist.

An autopsy is being conducted to determine the cause of Loguancio's death.

Forensic officers were examining the charred remains of the structure.

Loguancio had been on the run since February 23, when he bashed his partner at their West Heidelberg home.

Police have found a body in the bungalow involved in a siege in Melbourne today following a fire.

By Friday, he was hunkered down in the bungalow in Justin Ave.

In the hours before the gunshots rang out, police had tried to talk the fugitive into leaving the property, promising not to harm him.

"Come to the front door with nothing in your hands. Walk down the driveway and you will be met by police," a negotiator said through a loud hailer.

Deputy Commissioner Tim Cartwright said a coronial inquiry was under way. "Unfortunately we have now located the body of a man at the rear of the premise," he said.

A siege involving Antonio Loguancio has ended. Picture: Victoria Police

"This is a tragedy. Our aim is to resolve with minimal injury and loss of life ... to protect the police members involved and the public."

Mr Cartwright said the result was "not the outcome police had hoped for".

A local named "Darren" told 3AW this morning that the police sirens kept him and fellow residents awake all night.

"I think with the unfolding days ahead the impact it's had on them in their life, sleep-wise or any sort of trauma that may unfold we are yet to see I think," he said.

The burnt bungalow where the body of Antonio Loguancio was believed to be found. Picture: Channel 10

Sue Blake, who lives just three doors away, said she hadn't slept since the drama began on Friday night.

"I feel safe with the police around us but I feel scared." Locals were "normal everyday hardworking people".

Loguancio's childhood friend Cindy Shaw said he was not as violent as he had been portrayed.

"He has always looked after me. I was like his little sister. He was always kind and we had a lot of fun. He could have his moments if he was stirred up, (but) he had a heart of gold. He looked after his family."

The marathon standoff between a serial rapist and police in Melbourne's north has ended

Police had called Loguancio a significant risk to the public.

The uncle of Loguancio's partner told Channel 9 the fugitive had beaten and tried to strangle her in last weekend's incident.

"How many chances do they get before they're put in jail?" he said.

- with Mark Buttler

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

WA woman scammed, murdered in South Africa

VICTIM: Wagin woman, Jette Jacobs, 67, has been found dead in a South African villa after meeting her online lover. Source: PerthNow

NIGERIAN LOVE: Jesse Orowo Omokoh, a Nigerian man who seduced Ms Jacobs through an online dating website and persuaded her to send at least $80,000 to him over four years. Source: PerthNow

A WEST Australian woman who went to South Africa to find love has been found dead in her rented villa in a suspected romance scam.

The body of Jette Jacobs, 67, of Wagin, was found in her rented Johannesburg villa by police on February 9.

Ms Jacobs had travelled from Wagin, about 200km south-east of Perth, on November 22 last year to visit a Nigerian man she was having a relationship with on the internet.

Her death is being investigated by local police.

According to WA Police, it is the first such WA death as a consequence of an online scam.

Ms Jacobs, a widow with six grandchildren, lost her husband in 2002 and her subsequent partner in 2009.

She then met a man purporting to be "Jesse Orowo Omokoh" from Nigeria on a dating website and they had regular contact over a four year period.

Ms Jacobs had sent at least $80,000 to Nigeria during this time and met the man known as Jesse during a visit to Johannesburg in 2010 without incident.

During her last visit, Ms Jacobs was to meet Jesse for a second time but he said he could not get a visa to join her immediately.

A letter from Project Sunbird was sent to Ms Jacobs warning that she may be a victim of fraud, but it arrived shortly after she had left Australia.

Project Sunbird is a joint operation between WA Police and Consumer Protection that tracks large amounts of money being sent from WA to West African countries and attempts to warn the senders that they could be victims of relationship fraud.

WA Police and Ms Jacobs' son believe she may have died in suspicious circumstances, with her money, credit cards, jewellery, laptop computer and other personal items missing from the villa.

Detective Senior Constable Robert Martin from the Major Fraud Squad today said such scams had now revealed  "tragic consequences".

"We were hoping with our operation we would be able to prevent this from occurring," he said.

"Unfortunately with Ms Jacobs, she did receive a letter from our Operation Sunbird team, informing her of the dangers, however she had departed for South Africa prior to receiving the letter. Her friend had the letter sitting in the room when I went to visit, it was sitting on the table."

Const Martin said detectives had found an extensive paper trail showing the relationship stemmed back four years, with a number of emails between the two, including one where Ms Jacobs tells Jesse she is raising money for him – the money was meant to go to sick children.

"I am try as you know to raise the money and by the way you are the only one who know this ok," she wrote.

"I will never tell anybody what I am doing here foe (sic) you ok. That is betwin (sic) you and me ok."

"Thank you my sweet woman. Yes I know," Jesse replied.

Const Martin said the task force was now creating a database of scammers to see if Jesse had more WA victims.

Ms Jacobs' son, who did not want to be named, said her friends and family had tried to talk her out of going to South Africa, but she could not be swayed.

"Mum went over for a couple of months and did not return," he said.

"So as you can see, one consequence of the internet scammers has taken her life."

He urged others who find love on the internet to be cautious.

"Don't go, because at the end of the day, they are running a business or a scam or what they want to believe it is, to lure people to go to Africa, and no saying it's a one way ticket, but there's a possibility it's a one way ticket and no return," he said.

"If you do meet someone who is truly in love with you, money doesn't buy it."

WA ScamNet's top tips to avoid relationship fraud:

  *   Do not respond to out-of-the-blue social media messages from strangers requesting romance, such as a friend request on Facebook.
  *   Be on your guard if someone you meet on an online dating site asks you to take the conversation over to email or instant messaging.
  *   Be wary of overseas-based singles especially if they confess their love for you after a short amount of time or want to know about your financial status.
  *   Remember that just because someone shares personal photos does not mean the pictures are of them – scammers often steal other people's photos.
  *   Don't be fooled into thinking that talking to somebody on the phone means you know them and that they are who they say there are.
  *   Be concerned if a person refuses to chat real-time via a webcam and be mindful that even Skype is not scammer proof – watch out for pre-recorded videos.
  *   Alarm bells should ring if someone you do not know personally (have met face-to-face) requests money, particularly by a wire transfer service such as Western Union or even direct bank transfers, which could be going to an account set up with a stolen identity.

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Firearm fear in Mad Dog siege

Smoke can be seen billowing in Justin Ave, the scene of the Glenroy siege involving Antonio Loguancio. Picture: Mark Dadswell Source: Herald Sun

UPDATE: A MARATHON siege involving Antonio Loguancio has ended as police confirm after a body was found in a bungalow in Glenroy this evening.

Deputy Commissioner Tim Cartwright said a coroners investigation is now underway following the siege in Justin Ave, which started at 7pm on Friday.

"Unfortunately we have now located the body of a man at the rear of the premise," Deputy Commissioner Cartwright said.

"This is a tragedy ... our aim is to resolve with minimal injury and loss of life.. to protect the police members involved and the public."

He said it was "not the outcome police had hoped for" and that the matter is now with the coroner.

Smoke had earlier been seen billowing from the property in Justin Ave after a series of loud bangs were heard just before 2pm.

Smoke can be seen billowing in Justin Ave. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Police had made demands over a loudspeaker for Loguancio to give himself up.

Sirens began blaring about 12.15pm, police asking over a loudspeaker: "Come to the front door with nothing in your hands. Walk down the driveway and you will be met by police."

Onlookers are descending on the scene with officers forced to tell several to move on.

Residents are being escorted in and out of their homes for safety.

Earlier, Superintendent Peter O'Neill said an exhausted Loguancio was fearful of returning to jail.

The marathon standoff between a serial rapist and police in Melbourne's north has ended

He said police were in regular contact with Loguancio, who had spoken to police over the phone as recently as about 7am.

A powerful police presence remains at the scene, which is still blocked off to the public, with the ambulance and fire brigade on standby as the standoff enters its third day.

The scene is now quiet after sirens were intermittently sounded throughout the night.

Last night, police confirmed Loguancio was seen with something strapped to his body.

The 40-year-old was seen with the object when he approached the door about 3pm in his bungalow in a quiet street in Melbourne's north.

A firetruck at the scene where smoke can be seen billowing in Justin Ave. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Loguancio was cornered by police at 7pm on Friday.

Childhood friend Cindy Shaw, at the scene, said:  "I tried to get a message through but they (police) just want him calm at the moment  - he's getting tired."

"I just want to get him to chill, come out hopefully, and all this can be over."

Ms Shaw said Loguancio was misunderstood.

"He has always looked after me," she said. "I was like his little sister. He was always kind and we had a lot of fun."

Police spring into action after loud bangs were heard during the Glenroy siege. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Ms Shaw said everyone wanted the siege to end safely.

"I just want it to end," she said. "I want him to come out and just be safe. Everyone who cares about him wants him to just be all right."

Resident Sue Blake, who lives just three doors away from the siege house, said she hadn't slept since the drama began on Friday night.

"I feel safe with the police around us but I feel scared with the situation happening here," she said.

Ms Blake said she had heard police negotiators trying to talk Loguancio into surrendering.

Antonio Loguancio. Picture: Victoria Police

"They are just trying to keep him calm and tell him to come out - it will be ok, it's solvable. I am very impressed."

Police said he had not been given any food. It was unclear if he had slept since the standoff began.

Nearby residents come to watch the siege action in Glenroy yesterday. Picture: Chris Scott

Police were blowing a loud siren about 6 o'clock last night to keep Loguancio awake.

A robot was seen entering the property to assess the situation.

Victoria Police Superintendent Dean Stevenson said Loguancio was having mood swings.

"He did come out at some stage with something strapped to him, but we haven't been able to establish if that was a firearm or not," Supt Stevenson said.

"It was either on his arm or on his chest."

Nearby residents watch the siege action in Justin Ave, Glenroy, yesterday. Picture: Chris Scott

He did not confirm if police knew whether Loguancio had taken drugs.

Police wanted him to surrender peacefully and to take him to a police station, Supt Stevenson said.

"He will get an opportunity to see his family, opportunity to see a solicitor, to talk to a solicitor, an opportunity to talk to whoever he would like to talk to back at that police station," he said.

"We want to negotiate a peaceful resolution, we don't want anyone hurt out of this." Police have been pursuing Loguancio after an alleged assault on a woman a week ago.

Loguancio's best friend, Mick Collett, who was in regular phone contact with the fugitive, said Loguancio feared police would shoot him and did not want to go to jail.

Mr Collett said Loguancio was a night owl and had no intention of ending the siege.

"He just doesn't want to go to jail for something he didn't do - that's all it is," Mr Collett told the Sunday Herald Sun.

Loguancio's mother and sister were at the scene, but it was believed he had refused to speak to either of them.

Mr Collett said Loguancio should be enjoying a day at the Avalon Air Show with him instead of being under police siege.

John Lawrie, who described himself as Loguancio's 'surrogate brother', said he knows him as a lovable man and a big kid but has urged Loguancio to come out immediately.

''Just do yourself a favour...Just come out peacefully,''Mr Lawrie said.

Joe Greco, 54, whose Maude St property is directly behind the scene of the siege, said two armed Special Operations Group officers had jumped his fence on Friday night and continued to man the area.

"They explained they were police officers and said, 'Oh, this shouldn't be long' but then at about 10pm one of them told me it was confirmed he's got a shotgun," Mr Greco said.

"The whole neighbourhood has to be inconvenienced because of some actions.

"Out of all the places in Victoria this guy had to come and get held-up, it's at the back of mine."

Glenroy resident Craig Jackson, 49, said he wanted police to end the siege.

"They are playing to his every need and these poor people are trapped and can't leave their homes," he said.

On Thursday, police appealed for help finding Loguancio after he allegedly assaulted his partner and breached a court-imposed supervision order.

The assault happened five days earlier but police defended the decision not to go public sooner.

They believed Loguancio could be caught because he was a "creature of habit".

A man at the scene yesterday who claimed to know Loguancio said he wouldn't give up without a fight.

"I'm staying here to see what happens," he said. "It won't be pretty.

"He's not going back to jail, he told me that."

It is understood the man, who would not be named, had already been interviewed by police.

A friend said he hoped he could talk Loguancio out of doing something reckless.

- with Angus Thompson, Anthony Dowsley, Erin Marie, Christopher Gillett 

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

State shuts down as rain drives us inside

WILD weather across the state is easing with the Department of Community Safety cancelling alerts in several regions.

7.25pm: THE Bureau Meteorology has issued flood warnings for residents along the Bremer River and Logan River this evening.

The weather bureau is warning the Bremer River may have a renewed peak of up to 7m just upstream of Ipswich overnight.

Hydrologist Jeff Carey said there could also be two minor flood level peaks along the upper Logan River.

"The first peak could be seen between Rathdowney and Round Mountain, and the other downstream between Yarrahappini and Maclean Bridge," he said.

Water levels are receding in the Lockyer, Laidley and Warrill Creeks.

Danya Schuler and husband Pascal Stussi with son Kayden Stussi, 3, take on the wind and rain with their dog Roxy at Coolum. Picture: Megan Slade

Earlier, emergency alerts for Somerset Regional Council, Banana Shire Council and Lockyer Valley Regional Council have been cancelled.

More showers are forecast, but the immediate threat of flooding is thought to have eased.

In Dalby, perhaps the worst hit town in recent days, flood waters are receding in several places but rising in others as showers continue in the area.

Dalby police said the Warrego highway has been cut at Dalby and Warra.

Charlies Creek at Chinchilla is also rising and is likely to cut the highway within the next few hours.

The Moonie highway is also closed 4km outside of Dalby.

Rain didn't stop the fun at the Future Music Festival at Doomben Race Track in Brisbane. See the full report in mX. Picture: Steve Pohlner

The Warrego Highway to Toowoomba has been reopened but is in a severely damaged state and motorists are advised to avoid the area or take of extreme road conditions.

In Bundaberg, the Burnett River is rising but Bundaberg police said there are no properties currently at risk.

People in Maryborough are again monitoring the Mary River, but a police spokesperson said the local rainfall is not posing an issue.

All roads and bridges remain open but police are on alert for a rise in the river in around two days time when water from falls upstream hits the town.

11am: UNSTABLE weather conditions have forced the closure of most Gold Coast beaches today.

There are 28 beaches closed across the Gold Coast, although seven remain open.

Rain didn't stop the fun at the Future Music Festival at Doomben Race Track in Brisbane. See the full report in mX. Picture: Steve Pohlner

Gold Coast Surf Life-Saving co-ordinator Peter Anderson has warned swimmers to only swim between the flags and not to enter the water at any closed beach.

Strong undercurrents and large swells are increasing with the upcoming high tide at 11.50am and erosion is continuing to cause issues with beach access.

Waves from a 1.5m to  2.5m have been recorded.

Beaches the length of the Sunshine Coast are also closed.

Exposed beaches from Sunshine Beach to Caloundra have been deemed unsafe for swimming, with 15 beaches closed.

There is a large amount of debris and dirty water causing unsafe and unstable and dangerous conditions.

Ella Young and and Mika Dargie don't let Brisbane's wet weather stop them trying out for the Lingerie Football League. Picture: Peter Wallis

Maroochydore beach is closed due to severe erosion.

Meanwhile, several major highways across the state have been cut including the Dawson highway, the Leichardt highway, the Bunya highway and the Burnett highway.

The Bureau of Meteorology continues to have flood warnings in place for the Brisbane, Mary and Bremer rivers with low lying areas at risk of flooding.

The wet conditions saw 10 people rescued from flood waters by emergency services across Brisbane last night.

Around midnight, swift water rescue crews helped ambulance services reach a patient stranded in a home on Upper Brookfield Road at Brookfield.

The crews crossed several flooded waterways to transport the patient and another resident to hospital.

Ella Young and and Mika Dargie don't let Brisbane's wet weather stop them trying out for the Lingerie Football League. Picture: Peter Wallis

In Lawnton two people were rescued from Leis Park on Leis Parade at around 12.30am when they realised they had become surrounded by waist deep flood waters.

The SES used flood flotation devices to escort the couple out of the park.

Three young children and three adults were also rescued from the roof of their car in the early hours of this morning at Brightview near Lowood.

They became stranded after attempting to drive through flood waters.

Emergency services are urging people to avoid flood waters and not to drive through flooded roads.

8am: DALBY residents fled to higher ground overnight to avoid possible flooding, but the weather bureau has predicted the worst has been and gone.

Creek levels in the town, north west of Toowoomba, peaked at 3.21m on Saturday night, slightly below predictions.

Flood waters are starting to recede this morning but showers and storms over the next couple could change the situation.

Senior forecaster at the bureau Pardeep Singh said the southeast can say goodbye to the low pressure system that dumped heavy rain yesterday.

"(It will be a) generally quieter week in the south east. Might see a bit of sun soon," he said.

The system will weaken as it moves north in the next few days, he said.

Showers are expected today in the Lockyer Valley, which is on flood alert.

A motorist braves flooded Albert Street in Goodna. Pic: Paul Tully

Minor flood levels may be reached but should ease quickly.

Flash flooding was seen throughout Brisbane and surrounds yesterday as parts of the city recorded falls of almost 100mm.

The weather bureau confirmed the city has received half its annual rainfall already this year.

Brisbane's average for March is 148mm, with 92mm recorded in the past 24 hours.

Many areas around the southeast have recorded rainfall in excess of 100mm since yesterday.

The bureau said most areas around Brisbane received around 80mm but Mt Gravatt in the south saw more than 110mm.

Flooding in Lotus Street, Woolloongabba near the Russian Club Pic: Gerard O'Connor

Caboolture, north of Brisbane, recorded the most rain in for the state with 142mm since 9am Saturday.

Overnight, it was reported that drenching rains since the start of the year have seen Brisbane receive more than half its annual average rainfall.

Thanks to the rain associated with ex-Cyclone Oswald, a wet February and a soggy start to March, more than 600mm has fallen on Brisbane, where the annual mean rainfall is 1149mm.

The bucketing is just a snapshot of a wild start to 2013 in Queensland - with more to come.

The weather bureau is watching a monsoon trough in the north that could turn into a cyclone, bringing more rain to drench Queensland.

Brisbane will today exceed its March average rainfall in the wettest weekend since the Australia Day holiday deluge.

From late Friday night to yesterday evening, between 100 and 120mm had fallen, with another 50 to 70mm expected before noon today, as a result of an upper air system fuelled by moist east-northeasterlies.

The downpour appeared likely to match or even beat the 145mm soaking Brisbane received on January 28, as well as the monthly average for March of 140.7mm.

Weather bureau senior forecaster Praveep Singh said the Gold and Sunshine coasts may also beat their monthly average.

"We could end up getting close to 200mm in the southeast, particularly in the hinterland areas," he said. "We're not expecting it to clear until later tomorrow."

The solid rain forced more releases from Brisbane's Wivenhoe and North Pine dams to reduce rising supply levels back to 88 per cent.

The latest drenching triggered an emergency alert for areas in the Lockyer Valley last night, with residents in Forest Hill, Laidley and Glenore Grove warned of possible flooding and urged to evacuate to centres at Laidley High School and Forest Hill Community Hall if necessary.

Residents in the Biloela region, southwest of Gladstone, were also on alert after the Banana Shire Council advised of an imminent threat to life or property at 9.30pm due to flooding of the Grevillea Creek. Those in the area were being urged to leave immediately.

And authorities in Dalby, west of Toowoomba, were last night expecting 30 homes to be inundated as the Myall Creek inched towards a 3.2m peak.

Reporting by Kathleen Donaghey, Robyn Ironside, Kris Crane and Caitlin Drysdale

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

'Mad Dog' contacts his alleged victim

Police prepare for a possible confrontation in Justin Ave. Picture: Blair Hamish Source: Herald Sun

A FUGITIVE under siege in a Melbourne suburb for more than 24 hours was seen with something strapped to his body, police have confirmed.

Antonio "Mad Dog" Loguancio, 40, was seen with the object when he approached the door about 3pm in his bungalow in a quiet street in Melbourne's north.

Loguancio was cornered by police at 7pm on Friday in Justin Ave, Glenroy.

Police said he had not been given any food. It was unclear if he had slept since the standoff began.

Police were blowing a loud siren about 6 o'clock last night to keep Loguancio awake.

Serial rapist Antonio Loguancio remains holed up in a house in Melbourne's north as a stand off with police enters a second day.

A robot was seen entering the property to assess the situation.

Victoria Police Superintendent Dean Stevenson said Loguancio was having mood swings.

"He did come out at some stage with something strapped to him, but we haven't been able to establish if that was a firearm or not," Supt Stevenson said.

"It was either on his arm or on his chest."

Interested bystanders watch on the scene of the siege in Justin Ave, Glenroy. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

He did not confirm if police knew whether Loguancio had taken drugs.

Police wanted him to surrender peacefully and to take him to a police station, Supt Stevenson said.

"He will get an opportunity to see his family, opportunity to see a solicitor, to talk to a solicitor, an opportunity to talk to whoever he would like to talk to back at that police station," he said.

Antonio Loguancio. Picture: Victoria Police

"We want to negotiate a peaceful resolution, we don't want anyone hurt out of this." Police have been pursuing Loguancio after an alleged assault on a woman a week ago.

Loguancio's best friend, Mick Collett, who was in regular phone contact with the fugitive, said Loguancio feared police would shoot him and did not want to go to jail.

Officers in Justin Ave with police dogs. Picture: Hamish Blair

Mr Collett said Loguancio was a night owl and had no intention of ending the siege.

"He just doesn't want to go to jail for something he didn't do - that's all it is," Mr Collett told the Sunday Herald Sun.

Loguancio's mother and sister were at the scene, but it was believed he had refused to speak to either of them.

Mr Collett said Loguancio should be enjoying a day at the Avalon Air Show with him instead of being under police siege.

Police set up at the scene in Glenroy where Antonio Loguancio is holed up inside a house. Picture: Ian Currie

John Lawrie, who described himself as Loguancio's 'surrogate brother', said he knows him as a lovable man and a big kid but has urged Loguancio to come out immediately.

''Just do yourself a favour...Just come out peacefully,''Mr Lawrie said.

Joe Greco, 54, whose Maude St property is directly behind the scene of the siege, said two armed Special Operations Group officers had jumped his fence on Friday night and continued to man the area.

"They explained they were police officers and said, 'Oh, this shouldn't be long' but then at about 10pm one of them told me it was confirmed he's got a shotgun," Mr Greco said.

Armed police walk down Justin Ave, Glenroy. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

"The whole neighbourhood has to be inconvenienced because of some actions.

"Out of all the places in Victoria this guy had to come and get held-up, it's at the back of mine."

Glenroy resident Craig Jackson, 49, said he wanted police to end the siege.

"They are playing to his every need and these poor people are trapped and can't leave their homes," he said.

On Thursday, police appealed for help finding Loguancio after he allegedly assaulted his partner and breached a court-imposed supervision order.

The assault happened five days earlier but police defended the decision not to go public sooner.

They believed Loguancio could be caught because he was a "creature of habit".

A man at the scene yesterday who claimed to know Loguancio said he wouldn't give up without a fight.

Police set up at the scene in Glenroy. Picture: Ian Currie

"I'm staying here to see what happens," he said. "It won't be pretty.

"He's not going back to jail, he told me that."

It is understood the man, who would not be named, had already been interviewed by police.

A friend said he hoped he could talk Loguancio out of doing something reckless.

A resident at the location of the siege last night. Picture: Ian Currie

- with Christopher Gillett 

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Peter Harvey dies at 68

Veteran journalist Peter Harvey dies after a long battle with cancer

Peter Harvey talks candidly about being diagnosed with cancer in October last year.

Much-loved and respected journalist ... Peter Harvey / Pic: Channel 9 Source: Supplied

PETER Harvey, the journalist with the 'voice of God' who has been a loved and trusted face of Australian television news for almost 40 years, has died with his family by his bedside. He was 68.

Harvey was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October but was positive to the end, telling an interviewer that he would hang on to the possibility that "things are going to be better, not worse.

"I don't want worries about my day, ruining my tomorrows."

Harvey was a journalist for 50 years, first with The Daily Telegraph and then with Newsweek and the Guardian, but it was at the Nine Network in 1975 that he found his home.

"This is the saddest of days for the Nine Network," says Nine chief executive, David Gyngell. "Peter Harvey – Harves as he is known to everyone – is and will remain an indelible part of Nine."

Harvey has covered politics, wars, and human tragedy, and has been a mentor to generations of journalists. His children, of whom he was extremely proud, have followed in his footsteps.

Claire Harvey is the deputy editor of The Sunday Telegraph, and Adam Harvey is a journalist with ABC's 7.30.

Claire said her father thanked the public for their good wishes during his last days. "Dad is comfy, and smiling, in hospital with our mum Anne holding his hand," she wrote on Twitter. "He asked me to thank everyone for the love."

Peter Harvey is known as a beautiful writer, an incisive newsman and a talented storyteller, but he will best be remembered for his voice, one that his Nine colleagues described as the 'voice of God'.

Leave your tribute to Peter Harvey below

"One of the funny things is that I'm getting kids aged 18 and 19 coming up to me and saying, 'would you say Peter Harvey, Canberra' for me, you know?" he recently told the ABC. "I left Canberra in 97!"

Harvey's colleagues say Australian journalism won't be the same without him. "We lose a character," says Ray Martin. "Journalism, like politics and life, is full of bland, colourless people. He is full of colour."

Long-time friend and Nine Network colleague Peter Overton says "we lose a fine storyteller. He came into the lounge rooms of so many families across Australia for so many years."

Peter Harvey is survived by his wife, Anne, his children Claire and Adam, and his grandson Rory.

Tributes to Pater Harvey:

"A journalist of integrity and authority," Prime Minister Julia Gillard

"It's the saddest of days for all of us because Peter Harvey has been such a huge and indelible part of the history and fabric of the Nine Network for close on 40 years,'' Nine chief executive David Gyngell

"We all love him. He's a great colleague, a mentor to so many young reporters and producers, a wonderful storyteller and a terrific person to have around the place,'' Nine's news director Darren Wick

"You're the storytellers' storyteller and the best of men,'' reporter Hugh Riminton

"He was a newsman's newsman,'' friend and former colleague Paul Bongiorno

"We lose a character. Journalism, like politics and life, is full of bland, colourless people. He is full of colour," - Ray Martin

"Peter Harvey passes away Legend!'' Sandra Sully

"Very sad to hear of the passing of Peter Harvey. You will be missed Sir. #RIP #WeLoveHarves,'' Charlotte Dawson

"I'm not going to let the fears and worries of tomorrow take the joy out of today'' RIP Peter Harvey. You will be deeply missed.'' Layne Beachley

"RIP Peter Harvey TV legend. My thoughts go to his friends and family,'' Matt Moran

"Sad news. Channel Nine reports the death of Peter Harvey. We'll all miss,'' Mark Scott

"The best writer of a TV yarn, the best voice and an absolute gentleman,'' Kieran Gilbert

"It's the saddest of days for all of us because Peter Harvey has been such a huge and indelible part of the history and fabric of the Nine Network for close on 40 years. He is a legend in the true sense of the word, now and always, in this place. We have lost not only a wonderful old school journalist of shining integrity but a fantastic story-teller and simply a great human being and a close friend. Our deepest sympathies and love go out to his wife Anne and to their children Claire and Adam - both proud journos just like their dad,'' David Gyngell

"He has been called 'a journalist's journalist', and there was truth in that, but he had the knack of explaining quite complex issues in language everybody could understand. Peter was best known for his time in Canberra where he covered politics with distinction and earned the respect of politicians from all parties. But he was extraordinarily versatile - a war correspondent before his long stint in the national capital and then turning his hand to everything from showbiz to crime reporting to commentary for Sixty Minutes after transferring to Sydney in 1997. He was a talented broadcaster, able to ad lib material where most of us would need a script. One of the things I most admired about him was the way he mentored younger colleagues. Peter's was a generous spirit. He's a real loss to journalism,'' Laurie Oakes

"Peter Harvey had a great presence, a great voice and a fantastic feel and humility for people, he always brought them into his stories in a interesting way. He will be greatly missed as a journalist and a man.'' Cameron Williams

"Peter Harvey is one of my dear, dear friends and someone I regard on a very deep personal basis. Whats hes done for me, given me and taught me I will carry for the rest of my career and life.'' Peter Overton

"Peter was an icon of Australian journalism his sign off from Canberra was as famous as the man and he was tremendous storyteller,'' Chris Uhlman, ABC.

"Peter loved his celebrity but he knew how not to take it too seriously and he always always knew younger journalist the time of day. A mentor to so many and much loved,'' Ken Sutcliffe

"Words can't express how much i will miss my dear friend and mentor #PeterHarvey. Much love to his daughter @chmharvey and family. RIP,'' Leila Mckinnon

"It with immense sadness I write #RIPPeterHarvey. Truly one of the greats. An honour to have worked in the same building,'' David Campbell

"One of the great journalists of our time. Inspired me to get into TV. Thoughts are with his family.'' Michael Pell

"So incredibly sad and a great loss. RIP Peter Harvey. #truelegend'' Natarsha Belling

''Peter was an absolute inspiration to so many young journalists, always a gentleman and always made it look easy,'' David Speers

''Peter Harvey was one of the nicest, most passionate, endearing and supremely talented people I have ever met. We'll miss you so much Harves,'' Emma Freedman

''We have lost a great mentor and a true gentleman. Will miss his dry humour, quick wit and genuine advice in the newsroom. #peterharvey,'' Amelia Adams

''Peter Harvey was a real gentleman,'' Larry Emdur

''The veteran, the legend. He was always there. On 60 minutes Peter's mail bag was as legendary as him. He lived and breathed the job . We loved him,'' Michael Usher

''Peter has been a huge part of the media landscape. He has been a huge inspiration to so many,'' Jim Wilson, Seven.

''Fitting to be in crew van in middle of England when news came thru of Peter Harvey's death. They'd all worked with the legend.Vale,'' Derryn Hinch

''Peter was one of the most recognised and respected journalists in Australia. From the wonderful storytelling to his legendary sign off, Peter will be sorely missed by his colleagues and viewers alike,'' NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell

''Rest easy Harves. The grand man of news and a gentleman every step of the way,'' Mark Burrows

MESSAGE TO ALL FROM DAVID GYNGELL
It's with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of the great Peter Harvey.
As all of you know, Peter had been battling terminal illness for the past six months. And as we all witnessed, he confronted the inevitable with his trademark mix of courage, selflessness and humour.
That was simply inspiring. But not the least bit surprising.
And it was the mark of the man that Peter insisted on coming to work and fronting the cameras right to the end – always grateful of ours and the literally thousands of well wishes from the public, but actually embarrassed about being the centre of so much ' fuss'. As usual thinking little of himself and much more of others, principally his beloved family.
On behalf of everyone at Nine I extend our heartfelt sympathies to Peter's wife Anne and their children Claire and Adam. Their loss is profound and our thoughts and prayers are with them.
Likewise, this is the saddest of days for the Nine Network. Peter Harvey - Harves as he is known to everyone – is and will remain an indelible part of Nine. Like Tony Greig who we also lost so sadly recently, Peter was a huge chunk of the DNA of this place. He will consequently always be a legend at Nine.
Harves has been with us since way back in 1975. A remarkable 38 years in which he brought his gravitas, understanding, authority and humour to every story he touched. From the Whitlam dismissal of that first year, through two amazing decades reporting federal politics before switching bases to Nine in Sydney from where he travelled far and wide, covering everything from the Gulf War, to famine in Africa, the ninetieth anniversary of Gallipoli, the overthrow of the Marcos administration in the Philippines to the quirky human interest local stories only he could do justice. And everything in between. He reported from every continent and invariably did so with distinction. And for the past ten years in addition to his News duties, Harves became the one-of-kind mailbag segment man for 60 Minutes with his unusual and laser-accurate take on news and public debate.
In short, there's pretty much nothing Harves hasn't done, and certainly nothing he hasn't done really well. He'll be remembered fondly forever for his famous deep-throated ' Peter Harvey, Canberra' sign-off of course, but for much, much more .
Peter's legacy will be his continuous highly quality award-winning journalism for the better part of five decades, and the huge respect of his peers across Australian journalism and politics. And that of young journalists wherever he worked, for whom his time, advice and warmth was legendary.But beyond that, Peter Harvey so clearly won the respect and friendship of his audience – the millions of people who came to trust him, and enjoy what he did and the special way he did it.
Australians can pick a good bloke. And they found one in Harves. Indeed, the best of the best.
He was a larger-than-life figure. A wonderful story teller and a lovable, generous big bloke with a huge heart and that distinctive one-in-a-million voice. A man who loved his family above all, then his craft which he honed to an art form, and then his colleagues. And who could laugh at himself and the rest of us, and make us all smile.
Peter Harvey will be fondly and deeply missed.

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Tigers shattered by teammate's death

Mosese Fotuaika in action for Keebra Park during the ARL Schoolboy Cup at Suncorp Stadium. Picture: Ross Michael Source: The Daily Telegraph

Mystery surrounds the death of Mosese Fotuaika. Picture: Michael Ross Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

UPDATE: CAPTAIN Robbie Farah says the Wests Tigers squad is shattered by the death of their teammate Mosese Fotuaika.

The promising Tigers prop was found dead in a Sydney townhouse overnight and has been described as a player who had the potential to make it to the top in rugby league.

Fotuaika, a member of the Tigers' 2012 premiership-winning under-20s team, had been promoted to the senior side for the recent NRL trial matches and looked poised to make his NRL debut.

A NSW police spokesperson said officers from Holroyd area command were called to a townhouse in Merrylands about 6.50pm AEDT last night.

They confirmed a 20-year-old man was found dead inside the premises and said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

The Tigers released a statement this afternoon to express their sadness at the loss of their young teammate.

"Mosese had a great future ahead of him and we will miss him dearly," Farah said, in the statement.

"We are a very close knit club and will stick together and support each other during this tough time."

Tigers CEO Stephen Humphreys said Fotuaika was "a player of great potential and a very popular and respected member of our club."

"We are all deeply shocked and devastated by the news of his death. I have been in regular contact with his family and partner and are providing them with all of the comfort and support we can in this most difficult time.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

"Our players and staff have met together this morning to support each other. With the assistance of the NRL, we have begun to provide professional counselling as they try to come to terms with what has happened.

"We request everyone to respect the sensitive nature of this situation and the privacy of all concerned."

NRL Chief Executive, Dave Smith, said the NRL had been in close contact with the club to assist in terms of counselling and support and the "rugby League family will pull together to help people get through this difficult time."

Teammates took to Twitter to pay tribute, with Tim Moltzen tweeting, "Such a sad end to the day. R.I.P big Moses, such a great kid and gone way to young. Be sorely missed by everyone at the club.#brothers."

"RIP Moses absolutely shattered, gone too young," prop Aaron Woods posted. Former Tigers forward Andrew Fifita tweeted: "My heart goes out to your family brother. Gone way too soon. Still can't believe it. Rip brother. #Mosese Fotuaika."

The Balmain Tigers' Facebook fan page also posted a notice of the loss.

"Thoughts and prayers go out to the wests tigers very own moses Fotuaika and his family during this very difficult time may god help them and watch over them!!" it read.

Fotuaika attended Keebra Park High School in Queensland, the same school as Tigers playmaker Benji Marshall.

If you need help, call Lifeline's 24hr crisis telephone line on 13 11 14

NZRL high performance general manager Tony Kemp said it was a sad day for the sport and offered condolences on behalf of the national organisation to Fotuaika's family.

Kemp was sure Fotuaika had the goods to reach the top.

``He got player of the day last year in the NYC (National Youth Competition) final, so he was on track,'' he said.

``Most of our national team now have been Junior Kiwis and Mosese was a Junior Kiwi last year, so he had plenty of potential.''

Kemp said he had no further details about Fotuaika's death apart from what was in the media, but said mental health was one area that New Zealand sport needed to spend more time on.

- with AAP

03.30 | 0 komentar | Read More

Aussie DJ Ajax hit by truck, killed

DJ Ajax taking the crowd on a jacking techno journey at Festival First Night in Sydney in 2008 as a Dad films his kids dancing with glowsticks.

DJ Ajax has reportedly been killed in a car accident. Picture Amos Aikman Source: news.com.au

Ajax was voted one of Australia's top five DJs every year since 2005. Picture: Manuela Cifra Source: news.com.au

UPDATE: AUSTRALIAN DJ Ajax, who died suddenly on his birthday yesterday, has been remembered as a pioneer who changed the nation's dance music scene.

Sydney-based Ajax, born Adrian Thomas, died instantly after being hit by a truck in Parkville, in Melbourne's inner north just before 1am.

Police say there were no suspicious circumstances.

"It's believed the man ran in front of the north bound truck on College Crescent shortly before 1am. He died at the scene," a police spokesperson said.

A road ambulance was not called as he died on impact, an Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said.

Thomas, who turned 42 yesterday, was part of the Modular Records signed electro band known as Bang Gang - who spawned hit compilation albums and club nights, and founded music label and management company, Sweat it Out.

Tributes have since flooded into Twitter and the popular DJ's official Facebook page from friends, fans and industry colleagues.

Well-known Melbourne DJ Grant Smillie told the Herald Sun it had been DJ Ajax's birthday yesterday and that he was shocked to receive the news of his death.

"He was an icon for our industry and was always really positive. His energy was infectious," Smillie said.

"He had the ability to make the most underground record cool.

"It was his birthday yesterday. I only saw him two weeks ago in Melbourne at an event with Sneaky Sound System."

OneLove director Frank Cotela said he could not believe the news and that his assistant Tyson O'Brien was good friends with him and was devastated by the news.

"We are really shocked about this, he was a genuine, top bloke," Cotela said.

"He was a big part of the OneLove and Stereosonic family, and produced numerous CD's for OneLove."

O'Brien said that Thomas had been out on the eve of his 42nd birthday and had plans to meet for dinner with another Melbourne DJ Miami Horror.

"It's quite shocking news, I was meant to meet up with him but had to work," he said. "He was the life of the party, a captivating ball of energy and a true dance legend, as he liked to call himself."

"The tribute messages that have flooded Facebook show how he touched so many people."

O'Brien said that DJ Ajax had been an inspiration to many young DJs who wanted to break into the industry.

"He made a lot of people want to get into DJing. He was inspirational," he said.

In a previous video interview on OneLove TV, Thomas said he liked hanging out with young people who came to watch him play because it made him feel young.

"I don't like the competitive nature of Djing.. it's not a …sport," he said. "Even though I'm 36, I guess I'm quite immature because I hang out with a lot of young people."

A spokesperson for Modular Records said: "It is a tragedy and a shock and Adrian will be greatly missed. It was an honor to work with, know, and love him. Any further details of his death and funeral arrangements will be communicated by his family at an appropriate time."

Vincent Vendetta from Australian band Midnight Juggernauts said Thomas' tragic death was "all so deeply sad".

"Adrian was always one of the brightest leading lights; a real support and driver of the scene. From coming to our first tiny shows in '04, or giving us one of our first remixes it was clear he was always eager to push up-and-comers.

"There's so many other Australian acts he'd encourage and champion along the way as well. I'll remember the times we all spent in rainy London together in '06 when we should have been cold and depressed, but he'd always spread his infectious fireball energy to make everyone cheery and untroubled. People loved to be around him. A hub and father figure of the scene. He'll be greatly missed."

Sneaky Sound System's 'Black' Angus McDonald was a close friend of Thomas.

"RIP my brother, RIP my inspiration, RIP my roomy, RIP my favourite (sic) DJ ever... I love you so f----- much," McDonald wrote.

Potbelleez member Jonny Sonic noted Ajax's influence.

"You changed Australian dance music forever," Sonic posted on Instagram with a picture of the pair.

US DJ Erol Alkan tweeted "saddened to hear about the passing of DJ Ajax RIP."

American DJ A-Trak wrote "RIP to Ajax, my thoughts are with all the Australian homies, I can't believe this. Such a warm and generous dude, a real leader."

Johnny Mackay from rock band Children Collide wrote "DJ AJAX was one of the best guys I ever knew. He was respected and loved in all corners of the music world and will be forever missed. RIP buddy."

Basketball star Liz Cambage tweeted "so lost for words, rest in peace Ajax xxx".

Ajax was regularly voted one of Australia's Top 5 DJs and launched his own label Sweat It Out in 2008.

The label scored major success with Yolanda Be Cool's international hit We Speak No Americano.

Ajax was working with Guy Chappell of Yacht Club DJs and Michael Belsar of Hunting Ground on the group Twinsy.

Sydney station FBI are playing tribute to Ajax at midday today, airing some of his mixtapes.

The station can be streamed outside of Sydney on fbiradio.com

His death has not been added to the road toll and police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

If you are having personal problems contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

03.29 | 0 komentar | Read More