Selina's Christmas miracle

Selina Bello, the stoic young Perth woman who was stabbed at her Como hair salon earlier this year while pregnant, posted this beautiful picture on Facebook this week of her and her newborn son Emilio. Source: Supplied

HER smile says it all - a second chance at life.

Six months ago, as Selina Bello lay in hospital fighting for her life after being stabbed at her Como hair salon she couldn't have imagined what it would feel like to hold her unborn baby in her arms.

But, this Christmas nothing will be able to separate Ms Bello and little Emilio.

"I thank god every day for the second chance we have been given and plan to live my life to its fullest," Ms Bello yesterday told The Sunday Times.

"If this year has taught me anything, it's to value those closest to you because you never know what tomorrow may throw your way."

Ms Bello and her mother Angela Ferullo were allegedly attacked by a man on the morning of June 24 as they worked at their Como hairdressing salon on South Tce.

Ms Ferullo, a 43-year-old mum of four, died in hospital from her injuries.

Ms Bello, 23, was five months pregnant at the time.

She suffered serious injuries and spent more than a week in hospital.

There were concerns that she would lose her precious baby.

This week a friend of Ms Bello's posted this picture on Facebook of her holding her first child, Emilio, in her arms.

Not surprisingly the photograph, which Ms Bello gave permission for The Sunday Times to publish in today's newspaper, attracted nearly 100 "likes" from family and friends since it was posted.

"2013 has been a horrible year which has challenged me in every aspect of my life," Ms Bello said.

"I'm certainly looking forward to welcoming 2014 on a positive note with my beautiful son, partner and family."

The events of June 24 resulted in an outpouring of emotion from the community - from grief over the loss of Ms Ferullo to praise for 67-year-old grandmother Peggy Kew, who threw a chair at the alleged attacker and demanded he leave.

Ms Kew was stabbed too.

"All I could think of was picking up the chair and hitting him on the head and that's what I did,'' Ms Kew told The Sunday Times in an exclusive interview earlier this year.

In the days after the tragedy, bouquets of flowers lay outside the salon filled with heartfelt messages.

One read: "Rest in peace Angie. Your kindness and support will never be forgotten. Wonderful mother, much respect."

Police have charged Ms Ferullo's former husband with murder and attempted murder of Ms Bello.

He's also been charged with the aggravated wounding of Ms Kew.

He has not yet entered a plea to any of the charges.

He is due in court again on January 29.

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Binge eating epidemic ignored

Close-up of a woman eating a hamburger Source: Supplied

BINGE eating is now the most common eating disorder in the country - yet resources to treat the illness are "woefully inadequate" in WA.

A WA expert says the disorder, which can have severe psychological and physical consequences, often goes undiagnosed until people reach their 30s and 40s.

University of WA School of Psychology associate professor Sue Byrne said often binge eaters are just considered "greedy".

A Health Department report tabled in Parliament earlier this month estimates as many as 1850 women and 2000 men could be suffering from Binge Eating Disorder in WA.

This is based on a national prevalence rate of 2.3 per cent, which exceeds the prevalence of both anorexia nervosa (0.3 per cent) and bulimia nervosa (0.9 per cent).

Associate Professor Sue Byrne said resources for all treating eating disorders in the state were "woefully inadequate", but finding treatment for BED was especially difficult.

"In WA we only have one public eating disorder service which is the Centre for Clinical Intervention," she said.

"Up until now we haven't treated Binge Eating Disorder at that service because we were already too overrun with other eating disorders.

"(BED) is now recognised as an actual eating disorder just like Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa, but at the moment, in the public sector there is no treatment for it."

BED is characterised by frequent episodes of eating big amounts of food in a short period of time, but unlike Bulimia Nervosa, is not associated with purging.

Feeling out of control, ashamed and disgusted are common symptoms of the disorder, as is a preoccupation with food or body shape and secretive hiding of food or wrappers.

Associate Professor Byrne said BED could be "extremely distressing" for sufferers of the condition and often lead to obesity.

"Any eating disorder has serious psychological consequences as well as medical consequences, particularly anorexia and bulimia, but also Binge Eating Disorder in that it is associated with weight gain," she said.

"We often see people with Binge Eating Disorder who don't present until they are in their 30s or 40s, but when you talk to them they have actually been binge eating since they were quite young.

"They don't think that it's a disorder, they just think that they are greedy or people have told them that they're lazy or greedy or they think they can't control their food intake so it's not always recognised."

She said when available treatment for the condition was highly successful.

Australian Medical Association WA vice-president Michael Gannon agreed finding treatments for patients could be difficult.

"It's certainly the case that it's frustrating for GPs to gain access to these services," Dr Gannon said.

"For example there is a clinic a Princess Margaret for Children and Adolescents with abnormal eating behaviours and the waiting times for access to these clinics are very poor.

"Equally its actually very difficult, even for those in our community (find it easier) to avail themselves of health services, find it hard to see private psychiatrists for things like Bulimia and Anorexia.

"Stories of people trying to get access to services are well known."

A WA Health spokeswoman said in addition to the CCI the Government also provide an eating disorder treatment service for people under the age of 16.

"The Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) Eating Disorders Program consists of a specialised multidisciplinary team and accepts referrals for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with eating disorders up to the age of 16," she said.

"Binge Eating Disorder is one of several eating disorders treated by the CAHS Eating Disorders Program. In cases where a young person with an eating disorder is medically compromised, they will be admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for medical stabilisation."

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Perth hospital to be understaffed

The interior of the new Fiona Stanley Hospital Intensive Care Unit. Source: Supplied

The new Fiona Stanley Hospital emergency triage for adults. Source: Supplied

The new Fiona Stanley Hospital staff work station. Source: Supplied

WA's new flagship hospital will be short by 115 full-time medical staff when it opens - under the best case scenario.

An internal report obtained by The Sunday Times shows there is a "high risk" Fiona Stanley Hospital will face extensive staff shortages across a number of specialities, including burns, obstetrics and almost all areas of nursing.

The hospital was due to open in April next year, but the Barnett Government has been forced to push that back to staged openings from October.

The document reveals the Government is looking at several ideas to stretch staff at the hospital. These include getting nurses and doctors to work across multiple health sites in the area, increasing the number of foreign and junior doctors and asking employees to broaden their areas of expertise.

Other hospitals in the south metro area face impacts with the Health Department conceding its "once-in-a-generation" shake up of the South Metropolitan Health Service is still mostly unplanned.

State rehabilitation services, currently housed at Shenton Park, and the Royal Perth Hospital burns unit will be among the services to relocate to FSH between October 2014 and April 2015.

Even if all clinical staff working at these and other moving services make the switch with their respective units the new hospital faces a "clinical staff gap" of 115 full-time equivalent staff.

A SMHS spokeswoman refused to confirm the projected shortage to The Sunday Times because she said workforce planning was still in progress.

But she conceded a number of areas had been identified as "of concern". These included burns, obstetrics, ultrasound operators and many areas of nursing such as neonatal, emergency medicine and theatre.

The spokeswoman also confirmed forcing staff to work across multiple sites was being considered.

It is projected the new $2 billion hospital, which reached practical completion this month, will require 3208 full-time health staff when it's fully up and running. These include 727 medical appointments, 646 medical support staff and 1835 nurses and midwives.

Opposition health spokesman Roger Cook said it was "extraordinary" that the Government still didn't have definitive plans on how to staff a big hospital due to be treating emergency patients by early 2015.

"The hospital, which will remain patient-less for the next 12 months, looks like it will also lack the staff it needs to deliver proper health services," he said.

"The failure in workforce planning has been a hallmark of this Government's governance of the health system. "

The Sunday Times has been asking the Health Department for details of its plans for the SMHS reconfiguration since October. Each time the agency replied that details were yet to be finalised.

The Sunday Times this week obtained the latest working document under Freedom of Information laws - a "draft" report written in December 2012.

Australian Medical Association WA vice-president Michael Gannon said doctors were concerned about the "absence of detail" being provided by the Health Department.

"Although it might have appeal to a bureaucrat in East Perth (head office) to have someone where they can, at the push of a pen, redeploy to Rockingham or Fiona Stanley or Bentley (hospitals), that doesn't show respect to people who work in those places," he said.

Health Services Union WA state secretary Dan Hill said the report showed a "lack of appropriate and timely planning" by the Health Department.

"I think it's a real concern for the community," he said.

An extra $75 million has been allocated by the Barnett Government for the commissioning of the FSH and reconfiguration of SMHS, according to the midyear budget review released this week.

But it said the true cost of delivering this reform was unknown.

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Police vow hoon crackdown

Police have vowed to crackdown on hoons. The Sunday Times and PerthNow have launched the Summer Slowdown road safety campaign. Source: Supplied

MORE than 1800 cars have been seized by WA police this year for hoon offences as senior officers vow to "ramp up" intelligence gathering on lunatic drivers this summer.

It comes as a police crackdown on speeding drivers north of Perth this week nabbed hundreds of motorists blatantly breaking road rules - including one driver who was allegedly driving 107km/h above the speed limit at 6.30am.

The figures were released to The Sunday Times and PerthNow as part of our Summer Slowdown road safety campaign.

The campaign is a call for West Australians to remain vigilant behind the wheel during summer, often the most dangerous time on our roads.

Superintendent Mick Emmanuel said so far this year 1826 cars had been seized for hoon related offences.

He's flagged an "aggressive targeting" of hoons by police this summer.

"We are only going to push harder on hoons, our intelligence on them is ramping up and we will target them aggressively and we make no apologies for that," Supt Emmanuel said.

Results from a speed camera operation north of Perth over several days this week clearly showed many drivers have a long way to go when it comes to adhering to simple speed limits.

The speed camera was placed on Marmion Av in Tamala Park on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

On Tuesday, 100 cars were flashed for exceeding the 80km/h limit.

One was allegedly doing 187km/h at 6.30am. Another car was clocked doing 139km/h.

Both cars will be seized by police under hoon laws and impounded for 28 days.

On Wednesday, 176 cars were flashed by the camera.

By Thursday, the number of cars caught speeding had plunged to just eight, a clear sign that drivers using the road were beginning to realise the police action.

Supt Emmanuel said police deployed the camera on Marmion Av following a string of complaints from residents in the area about speeding drivers.

He described the speeds of some of the cars as "totally unacceptable."

"It goes without saying this sort of behaviour is totally irresponsible," he said.

"Not only do they put themselves at risk and the passengers in their vehicle at risk but they are putting the wider community at risk and that is totally unacceptable."

Supt Emmanuel said members of the public should call police if they want a speed camera placed in their suburb, as was the case with the Marmion Av operation.

"We encourage people to let us know what is happening in their area," he said.

Supt Emmanuel said one of the key messages police wanted to get out to the public when they were driving was just to be "patient."

"We need to be diligent because now we are into the festive season, more people are off work, more people will be celebrating with their family and friends, so there is more reason for us to take care on the roads, exercise patience and look after each other," he said.

To keep the safe driving message at the forefront of drivers' minds, The Sunday Times and PerthNow will continue to publicise our Summer Slowdown message for the next three months.

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Arrest in alleged cop car joy ride

Police pursuit in Lancelin. The alleged offender was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. The man allegedly stole a police car and led officers on a chase through the town for several hours. Source: Supplied

A WANTED man led police on a crazy six-and-a-half hour chase after evading officers and allegedly stealing a police car in Lancelin today.

The main road into the sleepy seaside town was locked down as extra police, including a plane and helicopter, tracked the stolen vehicle.

The bizarre sequence of events started when officers tried to arrest the man in the morning.

Police alleged the offender, who was known to them and wanted on outstanding warrants, was driving a different vehicle which sped past a patrol car 15kms outside of Lancelin. The officers followed the vehicle until it became bogged near bushland.

Police pursuit in Lancelin. The alleged offender was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. The man allegedly stole a police car and led officers on a chase through the town for several hours.

Police claim the man fled on foot and managed to evade officers by hiding in terrain. He was then spotted and confronted by one officer who tried to arrest him. Other police swooped, but attempts to catch the man failed.

It is alleged he then jumped into a police vehicle and sped off into nearby bushland prompting a massive land and air search.

Police Airwing kept watch from above while two police cars pursued him on the ground. Road spikes were also used in a bid to halt the vehicle.

Police pursuit in Lancelin. The alleged offender was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. The man allegedly stole a police car and led officers on a chase through the town for several hours.

Witnesses claim they saw offender driving the stolen police car up and down Gin Gin Road, around the local shopping centre, as well as local streets.

Resident Lloyd Jones told The Sunday Times he and his wife watched the drama unfold from their front lawn.

At one stage it appeared the offender almost taunted police by slowing down then speeding up as they closed in on him around the Lancelin shopping centre, he said.

Police pursuit in Lancelin. The alleged offender was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. The man allegedly stole a police car and led officers on a chase through the town for several hours.

"This pursuit continued around us for about 40 minutes," Mr Jones said. "The car made numerous runs up and down the main street going in both directions. He went up and down Gin Gin Road, around the shopping centre at great speed while he was being chased by two pursuit cars.

"At one stage when he came out of Bandy Avenue he had to break because he nearly T-boned a four-wheel drive. At another stage one of the lead police pursuit cars started to try and pass or get alongside him. But the stolen car veered sharply right and the pursuing police car dropped back to avoid a collision.

"It also appeared at some stages the alleged offender slowed his car down, seemingly taunting or daring the two pursuing cars to pass him."

Police pursuit in Lancelin. The alleged offender was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. The man allegedly stole a police car and led officers on a chase through the town for several hours.

A WA Police spokeswoman said police managed to trap the man in a residential street. Following a brief negotiations they arrested him just after 3pm.

Police were unable to comment on whether an internal investigation into the incident had been launched.

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Firearm found down well in Pruiti death case

TWO men have appeared in court charged over the alleged murder of Michael Pruiti, whose body was found in the Perth hills after he went missing two months ago.

Detective Senior Sergeant James Bradley holds images of Michael Pruiti, whose body was found late last week in Karragullen bush. Two men have been charged with murder over his death. Source: Supplied

Police forensic officers at the site where Michael Pruiti's body was found in dense Karragullen bush. Source: News Limited

POLICE investigating the alleged murder of Michael Pruiti, whose body was found in the Perth hills last week, have a recovered a firearm today.

Officers found the firearm at a home in Carmel late this afternoon down a well.

Dredging equipment had to be used to recover the firearm from the well. Officers close to the case said the firearm was recovered about 2.30pm today.

PerthNow understands however the owners of the Carmel property were unaware of the firearm being there.

Police have not yet disclosed what sort of firearm it is.

Mr Pruiti, 31, was last seen in Forrestfield on October 23.

His remains were found in bushland in Karragullen last week. Police remained there today collecting evidence.

Three men have been charged in connection with Mr Pruiti's death.

Ben Mansfield, 33, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court yesterday charged with murder. He was not required to plead to the charge and was remanded in custody.

Christian Gillmore, 32, faced a charge of being an accessory after the murder and was also remanded in custody.

Both men are due back in court next month.

A 19-year-old Pickering Brook man appeared in court today also charged with Mr Pruiti's murder. Daniel Marchesano was not required to plead to the charge and was remanded in custody.

Yesterday, officers spent the day searching for evidence at several sites in Perth's hills.

A Pickering Brook home was searched as was the semi-rural property in Carmel.

Mr Pruiti, 31, had been missing since October 26. His body was found last week in bushland in Karragullen, about 40km east of Perth.

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Shark barrier ready to go

The newly installed Eco Shark Barrier at Coogee Beach. Picture: Nine News Perth. Source: Supplied

WA's first shark barrier is expected to be operational next week.

Work on the final stages of the 300m nylon underwater fence is taking place along Coogee Beach today and will continue over the course of the weekend.

The state government and the City of Cockburn approved a five-month trial of the barrier at the beach even though there has never been a fatal shark attack recorded at Coogee since records began.

Concerns have also been raised the barrier may cause harm to local marine life however the Perth company which designed the barrier, Form Designs, says it was designed with the "specific intention" to be eco-friendly to sea creatures.

The newly installed Eco Shark Barrier at Coogee Beach. Picure: Nine News Perth.

The barrier, which is made up of interlocking cross connectors, will be assembled on the beach over the next few days. It will be held into place by anchors and buoys 75 metres from the shore.

An official unveiling of the barrier is expected on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, four northern beaches, from City Beach to Brighton, were closed for several hours early today after a tagged tiger shark was detected in the area.

The new shark barrier being installed at Coogee Beach, south of Perth, the first in WA after a spate of fatal shark attacks. Picture: Stewart Allen

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Deli owner sued over sperm in water

A Perth deli owner accused of selling bottled water tainted with his semen to a female customer isn't facing criminal prosecution but is still being sued by the woman. Source: News Limited

A PERTH deli owner accused of selling bottled water tainted with his semen to a female customer isn't facing criminal prosecution but is still being sued by the woman.

On December 6, Alicia Cooper's lawyers Slater and Gordon lodged a writ and statement of claim on the woman's behalf in WA's District Court, almost three years after the incident occurred.

Her husband Travis bought the bottle of water from the Dianella business on December 10, 2010 and placed it in their fridge at home, and when she consumed it about three days later, she became alarmed by its bad taste and smell.

A complaint was lodged with the City of Stirling and reported to police, who referred it to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The statement of claim says that a DNA test confirmed the semen belonged to the deli owner Dahn Le. But the DPP determined that the incident could not be defined as an offence under the Criminal Code.

And the City of Stirling could not take action under the Health Act because the 12-month statute of limitations had run out while the police investigation was under way.

"It's extremely frustrating for her,'' Slater and Gordon's Karina Hafford said.

"When something like this happens, a person would automatically assume that there's some criminal penalty or sanctions that would occur.

"The civil action is about compensation, but it's also about justice."

She said the legal firm was surprised to discover the incident fell between the cracks in WA's Criminal Code.

"It's simply extraordinary.''

The Dianella deli is now under new ownership.

Ms Hafford said Ms Cooper had previously sold the same brand of bottled water as part of her job, but could no longer do so and had to quit working in customer service.

Three years later, she continues to suffer flashbacks when she sees the brand in shops, and is fearful of eating or drinking anything that has not been prepared in her home.

The claim is for loss of earnings, pain and suffering from psychological injuries, and exemplary or punitive damages.

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WA Stolen Generation test case fails

The Collard family has failed in a Supreme Court bid for a Stolen Generation compensation claim. Source: News Limited

AN Aboriginal family split up by the West Australian government's past policy of forcibly removing indigenous children has lost a Supreme Court bid for compensation.

Donald and Sylvia Collard, from the wheatbelt town of Kondinin, were seeking redress from the WA government after their seven children were removed without consent by state officials and placed in state care between March 1958 and December 1961.

The action was considered by the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA (ALSWA) to be a test case for thousands of other indigenous West Australians.

But today, WA Supreme Court Justice Janine Pritchard dismissed the case.

Members of the Collard family were present to hear the outcome and were devastated by the decision, ALSWA chief executive Dennis Eggington said.

They had shown unwavering courage and resilience in sharing their traumatic stories for the case, for the benefit of all members of the stolen generations.

``This test case was more than a case for the Collard family alone,'' Mr Eggington said.

``It was a test case for thousands of our people who were also stolen from their families and we knew that this case could have the capacity to rights the wrongs of the past.

``You cannot underestimate how difficult this process was for family members but they persevered and can hold their heads high in the knowledge that they played such a significant role in this historical case.''

The Collard family is taking time to consider the decision, which was explained in a complex 410-page judgment, and whether to take the matter further.

Lavan Legal, which lodged the writ in May 2010, acted on a pro bono basis.

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Lowe and behold: new Glory coach

New Perth Glory soccer coach Kenny Lowe speaks to the media at McGillivray Oval Mt Claremont Western Australia. Picture: Alf Sorbello Source: News Limited

NEW interim Perth Glory coach Kenny Lowe put his hand up for the job full-time before he even took his first training session on Friday afternoon.

As forecast by PerthNow on Tuesday, Lowe will take over from sacked coach Alistair Edwards.

He has been appointed for the rest of the season but wants to stay for longer.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't want it. It's a waste of time just coming for a giggle isn't it,'' Lowe said.

Captain Jacob Burns (centre), at Perth Glory training at McGillivray Oval, is set to return to the starting line-up. Picture: Bohdan Warchomij

"Obviously I want to stay as long as I possibly can.''

Lowe was confident the club would move on quickly from this week's dramas.

Captain Jacob Burns is set to return to the starting line-up and will lead the team out against Adelaide United on Sunday.

Incoming Glory coach Kenny Lowe, pictured in a post on Twitter with his family, will lead Perth Glory this weekend.

Edwards refused to comply with a list of demands provided by the club, which wanted to rein in the scope of his power, leading to his departure.

Lowe, a former assistant coach at Glory under Dave Mitchell, is the head of the successful WA National Training Centre.

Burns said he was confident Glory would be focused on the job at hand on Sunday.

"What's in the past is in the past. We have a responsibility to the club, to our fans and to the community to get our season back on track,'' he said.

"Everyone here wears the purple shirt proudly and with honour, and we'll go out there and show that this weekend.''

Legal and payout issues regarding Edwards' three-year contract are yet to be resolved.

Earlier this week, Glory CEO Jason Brewer denied "the tail was wagging the dog'' at the club despite the move appearing to be a stunning victory for player power.

The Sunday Times and PerthNow revealed last weekend that there was a bitter player-driven revolt against Edwards - as distinct to purely a personal feud between coach and captain as portrayed by Edwards - and that it was likely only one of the pair could survive at the club.

Glory launched crisis talks on Saturday after players directly challenged Edwards in the team's AAMI Park dressing room following Friday night's 2-0 loss to Melbourne Victory.

Ill feeling had been building for some time before Friday's flashpoint.

Glory players claimed that the situation was "an absolute farce'' and that Edwards had "lost almost the entire dressing room''.

The concerns of players revolved around perceived nepotism shown by Edwards, who signed his sons Cameron, 21, and Ryan, 20, before the season, inconsistencies in selection and the coach's man management style.

Some players even believe the tactical balance of Glory's match-day squads this season has been compromised by Edwards' desire to include both of his sons.

The handling of contract negotiations with defender Steve Pantelidis, and his subsequent departure to Malaysia, also angered some players.

Burns was left out of the starting XI and was an unused substitute in Friday night's loss to Victory in one of a number of recent selection decisions that have raised eyebrows.

Ryan Edwards was preferred to Burns in a re-jigged starting formation, while Cameron Edwards was deployed off the bench.

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Fears flight may have spread measles

Passengers on a Garuda flight may have been exposed to measles. Source: News Limited

PASSENGERS who took a flight from Jakarta to Perth on the weekend may have been exposed to measles, WA Health has warned.

The warning to passengers on Garuda flight GA724 on Sunday comes after a passenger was confirmed to have been infectious with the disease.

Local health officials are contacting passengers who were seated closest to the infected passenger and are most at risk.

Passengers seated elsewhere on the plane may have been exposed to the virus and should also be alert for symptoms.

Director of Communicable Disease Control Paul Armstrong said passengers who developed symptoms should seek medical attention.

"But it is important they phone ahead first to ensure they don't share the waiting area with other patients and risk infecting them," Dr Armstrong said.

Symptoms can include fever, tiredness, runny nose, coughing and sore red eyes, which usually last for several days before a red, blotchy rash appears.

"Complications can range from an ear infection and diarrhoea to pneumonia or swelling of the brain," Dr Armstrong said.

He said people aged up to 47 years who have not received two doses of measles vaccine were particularly susceptible to the disease, but people born before 1966 were usually immune because they had measles during childhood.

Susceptible passengers could expect symptoms to appear any time between December 22 and January 2.

The passenger also attended a number of sites in Perth while infectious on Monday, including Kings Park, University of WA, Forrest Chase, Willetton and Nedlands.

Although the risk of infection is lower, people who were in these areas on that day should also be alert for symptoms.

Dr Armstrong said children should receive two doses of measles vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age.

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We settle the world's biggest arguments

Daniel crosses to Channel Ten's Wake Up to chat about Google's top trending searches for 2013.

Kim Kardashian vs. Emma Watson. It was a bit of a landslide. Source: NewsComAu

EMMA Watson or Kim Kardashian? Game of Thrones or Breaking Bad?

These are the questions we ask each other in the pub every Friday evening. The problem is, there's never any way to answer them objectively.

Until now, that is. We've found a way to settle those arguments once and for all using a tool called Google Trends, which tracks how often certain words are used in Google searches.

Think of it as a tech-savvy popularity contest.

We plugged in a bunch of different terms, limiting the results to searches from Australians over the last 12 months.

1. BATTLE OF THE BRATS

Miley blew the Biebs away with her performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. She grossed out a lot of people too, but it was the most successful piece of attention-seeking by any musician this year. You'd better Beliebe it.

Winner: THE TWERKSTER. Source: NewsComAu

2. BATTLE OF THE BOX

We plugged in five of the TV shows people love to rave about and it turned into a duel between Game of Thrones and Breaking Bad. Check out the spike from the fantasy show's "Red Wedding" episode.

Winner: TYRION LANNISTER. Source: NewsComAu

3. BATTLE OF THE SEXES

We thought "hot women" would be a far more popular search term than "hot men". I mean, blokes have something of a reputation for looking at attractive women on the internet. But the surprisingly close margin suggests there are quite a few women surfing Google Images as well.

Winner: HOT PEOPLE. Source: NewsComAu

4. BATTLE OF THE BABIES

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian had a baby girl, and joined a long tradition of celebrity stupidity by giving her a silly name. Meanwhile, Prince William and Kate Middleton went all old-fashioned on their son.

Winner: COMPASSES. Source: NewsComAu

5. BATTLE OF THE FOREIGN PLACES

We picked out four of your favourite holiday destinations, and London was consistently the top rater. That presumably has something to do with the lovely weather.

Winner: LONDON, INNIT. Source: NewsComAu

6. BATTLE OF THE HEARTTHROBS

Ryan Gosling and Mila Kunis are probably the two most-desired people on the planet. They're closely matched, but the Gos grabbed the win by a sultry whisker.

Winner: "HEY GIRL". Source: NewsComAu

7. BATTLE OF THE POTTERHEADS

You could also call this one "the Triwizard Tournament". Emma Watson was far more popular than her fellow Harry Potter stars, particularly Rupert Grint, who has red hair. That probably didn't help him.

Winner: NERDY GIRLS. Source: NewsComAu

8. BATTLE OF THE SUPERHEROES

A few superhero films came out this year, including Iron Man 3, but that big yellow spike wasn't enough to push Robert Downey Jr's character past Batman.

Winner: BEN AFFLECK. Source: NewsComAu

9. BATTLE OF THE SUPERCARS

Ferrari is still the undisputed king of fast cars, at least among people who spend their lives searching for things on the internet instead of driving.

Winner: RED PAINT. Source: NewsComAu

10. BATTLE OF THE SLIGHTLY LESS BRATTY SINGERS

One Direction was tracking marginally above Taytay until the boy band came to Australia on tour. At that point, all the fangirls started feverishly Googling their crushes, pushing 1D to an easy win.

Winner: HARRY STYLES' EGO Source: NewsComAu

11. BATTLE ROYAL

For all the enduring talk about Pippa Middleton's backside, not to mention her social life, she was still well beaten by her sister. Meanwhile, bad boy Prince Harry edged out his brother, who will probably be King one day, if that's any consolation.

Winner: PERSONALITY. Source: NewsComAu

Winner: LACK OF PERSONALITY. Source: NewsComAu

12. BATTLE OF THE POLLIES

Australians seem to despise their politicians in fairly equal measure, and they Google their leaders in equal measure as well. You'll notice spikes for Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard during the final round of leadership speculation, then a big one for Tony Abbott on election night.

Winner: NOBODY. WE ALL LOSE NO MATTER WHAT. Source: NewsComAu

13. BATTLE OF THE DOCTORS

Doctor Who fans got super-excited about the show's recent 50th anniversary special, which featured the two most recent incarnations of the character, played by Matt Smith and David Tennant. The two men can't be split. Let the debate over who's better continue in earnest.

Winner: PEOPLE WITH MICROSCOPES WHO CAN ACTUALLY PICK A WINNER ON THIS GRAPH. Source: NewsComAu

14. BATTLE OF THE TREKKIES

Let's stick with the sci-fi theme and settle the argument between Star Trek and Star Wars forever. Sorry Trekkies, lasers beat phasers. That blue spike corresponding with the release of the new Star Trek movie wasn't enough to close the gap.

Winner: DARTH VADER'S VOICE. Source: NewsComAu

15. BATTLE OF THE BRUTES

Which Australian footy code is officially the most popular? The AFL. By a mile. Before you go off your rocker, soccer fans, even "football" didn't come close. We checked.

Winner: SLEEVELESS JERSEYS. Source: NewsComAu

16. BATTLE OF THE TWANKERS

Facebook stalkers rejoice! Mark Zuckerberg's creation is easily the top social media site by this metric, and everything else is an afterthought. Even Google Plus. Who would have thought?

Winner: FACEBOOK STALKERS. Source: NewsComAu

17. BATTLE OF THE GEN Y STUFF

There are two types of people in Generation Y - those who take selfies and those who make memes. Think of them as takers vs. makers. The selfie-obsessed sap our collective will to live, while the meme-obsessed give us cheap laughs. Thankfully, even though selfie is the "word of the year", the memes still win this battle.

Winner: INTERNET WIT. Source: NewsComAu

18. BATTLE FOR HUMANITY'S SOUL

In the blue corner, Emma Watson, who's smart, classy and refreshingly modest. In the red corner, Kim Kardashian, who's self-centred, and alsmost married to Kanye West. The results are in, and they're terrible.

Winner: NOT HUMANITY. Source: NewsComAu

19. BATTLE FOR THE INTERNET'S SOUL

Australian internet users are kind of interested in money and sport. They're very interested in food. But nothing compares to porn. Absolutely nothing. We tried a gazillion different search terms, and none of them were even competitive. This graph's as sad as it was predictable.

Winner: SELF-LOVE. Source: NewsComAu

What did we leave out? Continue the conversation on Twitter: @SamClench | @newscomauHQ

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'A $20 cab fare would have saved Luke's life'

Luke Beyer with his mum Colleen. Luke, 17, was killed by a drunk driver in May 2011. Source: Supplied

COLLEEN Beyer, whose son was killed by a drunk driver in 2011, has thrown her support behind The Sunday Times and PerthNow Summer Slowdown road safety campaign, urging drivers not to speed.

She's issued a specific plea to young drivers to plan ahead, adhere to speed limits and especially don't drink and drive.

"I urge everyone to support this campaign. The life you save could be your own. Not only that, but you will prevent another family like ours going through the heartache and despair which we face everyday of losing a loved one," Ms Beyer said this week.

Road crash statistics reveal summer is often the most dangerous time on WA roads, with the state recording 48 deaths from December to February this year. So far this summer there have been seven road fatalities.

Ms Beyer's son Luke was killed by a drunk driver in May 2011. Luke was only 17.

A brilliant soccer player for the Balcatta Soccer Club he had just started studying sports science at university and had a part-time job at the Ballajura IGA store.

Tom Davies, left, a close friend of Luke Beyer's, pictured with Matt Beyer, is a founder of Enough is Enough WA, a campaign against drink driving. Picture: Theo Fakos

It was after leaving that IGA store on the night of May 27, 2011 that his life was cut short and his parents, family and friends' lives would change forever.

That night, Luke had kindly agreed to pick up a few mates from the movies and drop them off home.

As Luke sat in his Toyota Camry at the intersection of Illawarra Crescent and Sloop Rise in Ballajura with two of his mates in the car, another young driver slammed his Mazda utility into Luke's vehicle.

That other young driver was Cory Nepia-Keelan.

Nepia-Keelan was at the wheel of the white Mazda when it lost control and slammed into Luke's car, killing him and injuring his two mates.

The Sunday Times anbd Perthnow has launched the Summer Slowdown road safety campaign.

Nepia-Keelan, who was 22 at the time, also had a passenger with him.

He didn't have a licence and later recorded a blood-alcohol level of 0.107 - more than double the legal limit.

Last year, he was jailed for four years over the crash. He could be released on parole as early as February.

Two and a half years on and Colleen Beyer, her husband Martin and her other son Matt are still grieving.

"The devastation and trauma of losing Luke that day is still as painful two and a half years on as it was then," Ms Beyer said. "In ways it's worse because as the time goes by you realise that he's never coming home."

Ms Beyer said special occasions like birthdays and Christmas were "marred with sadness.''

"As Christmas approaches I dread going to the shops," she said.

"I used to enjoy Christmas so much. I loved decorating the home and buying presents. I now find it really hard to put up our own tree as we used to do it all together.

"Every part of who we used to be has changed forever because of one stupid action of another …. I miss who I used to be and I miss Luke even more."

Ms Beyer said her son would still be alive today had Nepia-Keelan and his passenger spent just $20 on a cab to get home that fateful night.

"The devastation we face every day could have so easily been avoided if he (Nepia-Keelan) chose to catch a cab," she said.

"A $20 cab fare would have saved my sons life."

Ms Beyer said young drivers in particular, because of their lack of experience on the roads, had to watch their speed and plan ahead if they went out with friends to avoid drink driving.

"I know first-hand about the dangers of speeding especially when combined with alcohol," she said.

"It's so easy to lose control of your car, especially when you are young and inexperienced. Don't risk a few seconds of fun for a lifetime of regret. It's not worth risking your life or someone else's."

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WA's most profitable suburbs revealed

NEW data has revealed Perth's most profitable suburbs for 2013.

All residential properties in 55 locations across WA sold for above their previous purchase price over the 12 months to August, RP Data records show.

Most of the areas were within the Perth metropolitan area but the Pilbara town of Onslow recorded the highest average gain for houses.

Sixteen houses were sold in the mining town over the year with an average profit of $795,344.

North Coogee, a suburb south of Fremantle, was the metropolitan suburb with the highest average gain for the period.

Fourteen homes were sold with an average gain of $680,978.

The next most profitable suburbs were Menora (with an average gain of $663,476) in North Perth, Newman ($580,516) in the Pilbara, Daglish ($573,682) in the western suburbs, Baynton ($560,068) in Karratha, and Hilbert ($555,036), southeast of Perth.

WA recorded some of the highest average gains nationally, along with NSW and Victoria, according to RP Data.

Western suburbs such as City Beach ($856,194) and Churchlands ($838,670) recorded high average gains on houses sold over the time period although not all houses across these suburbs sold above the previous purchase price.

Over the year to November, values across Perth rose by 8.9 per cent, RP Data figures show.

WA's top 25 most profitable suburbs

Suburb (Total sales, average gain)

1. Onslow (16, $795,344)

2. North Coogee (14, $680,978)

3. Menora (21, $663,476)

4. Newman (29, $580,516)

5. Daglish (11, $573,682)

6. Baynton (25, $560,068)

7. Hilbert (14, $555,036)

8. Wandi (19, $502,184)

9. Trigg (32, $467,359)

10. Inglewood (57, $433,851)

11. Champion Lakes (18, $409,392)

12. Murdoch (20, $404,083)

13. Walliston (13, $328,981)

14. Joondanna (40, $324,720)

15. South Hedland (11, $320,409)

16. White Gum Valley (35, $318,786)

17. Highgate (11, $318,091)

18. Ashfield (15, $301,507)

19. West Perth (16,$297,484)

20. Boya (10, $297,100)

21. Alkimos (29, $296,617)

22. Karawara (16, $291,188)

23. Bennett Springs (84, $267,061)

24. Hamersley (81, $261,812)

25. Samson (24, $260,708)

Source: RP Data

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Eagle Newman should be jailed over punch: victim

Brett Marris leaves court after Murray Newman was found guilty of grievous bodily harm. Picture: Jordan Shields Source: News Limited

Brett Marris had his jaw broken after being punched by West Coast Eagle Murray Newman. Picture: Channel 7 Source: Supplied

THE man who suffered a broken jaw when he was punched by West Coast Eagles player Murray Newman in a nightclub fight wants his attacker jailed.

Brett Marris, whose jaw is held together by metal plates, said did nothing to incite the attack despite what he claimed was a defence attempt to portray him as a "homewrecker".

"I do (have sympathy for Newman) in the sense that I hope he hasn't ruined his career personally, but you do the crime, you got to do the time," Mr Marris told Seven News tonight.

A District Court jury yesterday found Newman guilty of fracturing Mr Marris' jaw at a Northbridge nightclub for sleeping with his girlfriend.

Marris admits he slept with Newman's former girlfriend, but claimed the Eagle's defence tried to portray him as a homewrecker.

"I definitely did not incite the fight, definitely never laid a hand on him apart from after I'd been hit to defend myself," he said.

Newman was supported in court during his trial by a string of teammates including Eagles captain Darren Glass, Dean Cox, Nic Naitanui, Josh Kennedy and Sharrod Wellingham.

Mr Marris said he had been concerned about the high-profile players "being able to sway the jury".

The West Coast Eagles are standing by the troubled player despite his grievous bodily harm conviction.

Prosecutors alleged Newman had a grudge against Mr Marris because he had slept with Newman's girlfriend when the couple were on a break.

After weeks of threats from Newman on Facebook, including one message to "start digging a grave", the pair saw each other at the Library Nightclub in Northbridge in November last year. They fought for about 10 seconds before bouncers broke up the fight, the court heard.

But Newman claimed he acted in self-defence against a taller man who grabbed his throat.

Newman, who has no prior record, was bailed ahead of his sentencing on March 7.

In a statement yesterday, the Eagles confirmed Newman would remain on the rookie list.

``We believe it is important to support Murray through a pivotal time in his young life,'' general manager of football Craig Vozzo said.

``Since the incident, we have noticed very positive changes in Murray's life and we feel we need to assist that progress.

``With our support, understanding and direction, we believe Murray can mature into a young man who can contribute positively to the Western Australian community.''

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Train Robber Ronnie Biggs dead at 84

Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs has died at the age of 84 after years of ill health, Sky sources say.

British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs in 1965. Source: News Limited

RONNIE Biggs, famous for his part in the Great Train Robbery of 1963, has died at the age of 84.

The notorious criminal spent decades on the run after breaking out of prison, and returned to Britain in 2001.

He suffered from poor health in his last few years, and died in the early hours of this morning, according to Sky News.

IN PICTURES: RONNIE BIGGS

Biggs was part of a gang that robbed a Glasgow to London mail train in 1963.

British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs with Detective Superintendent Jack Slipper and Detective Inspector Peter Jones after his arrest 1974. Source: News Limited

Biggs, who could not speak due to his strokes and communicated through a spelling board, said in 2009 he had no regrets.

"If you want to ask me if I have any regrets about being one of the train robbers, my answer is, 'No'.

"I will go further: I am proud to have been one of them. I am equally happy to be described as the 'tea-boy' or 'The Brain'.

"I was there that August night and that is what counts. I am one of the few witnesses - living or dead - to what was 'The Crime of the Century'."

He did admit to some regrets.

"It is regrettable, as I have said many times, that the train driver was injured," he said.

He was last seen in public in March at the funeral of Bruce Reynolds who masterminded the audacious robbery.

Ronnie Biggs, notorious for his role in the Great Train Robbery of 1963 arrives to attend the funeral of the mastermind of the robbery, Bruce Reynolds. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

The gang pounced shortly after 3am as the train passed through the Buckinghamshire countryside close to Cheddington.

The train driver Jack Mills was struck with an iron bar and never worked again.

Biggs was jailed for his part in the robbery itself but escaped from jail after serving just 15 months of a 30-year sentence.

He escaped by scaling a prison wall and leaping on to the roof of a furniture van.

He avoided British justice for almost 40 years, mainly living in Brazil and Australia.

A poster of British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs, which was circulated by South Australian police. Source: News Limited

Biggs lived under an assumed identity in Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne for four years.

When authorities started closing in, he moved to Brazil.

Signature and fingerprints of British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs from 1965. Source: News Limited

With no extradition agreement between the UK and Brazil, he flaunted his freedom before he voluntarily returned home in 2001 for treatment.

Biggs was taken from Norwich prison to hospital.

Convicted train robber Ronnie Biggs leaves Chiswick Police Station on his way to court in 2001. He was granted a release by British Justice Secretary Jack Straw on compassionate grounds in 2009. Source: News Limited

In 2009, he was granted compassionate release from his prison sentence after suffering pneumonia.

Biggs's release, dubbed his "final escape" in the UK, divided opinion.

The train drivers' union was among those to hit out at Biggs for dodging his sentence, lacking remorse and profiting from his notoriety.

British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs being kissed with son Michael on their way back to Britain. Picture: Supplied Source: News Limited

In his 2011 biography, Biggs said he believed the public saw him as a "lovable rogue".

While on the run for 35 years, he did attract some popularity for his ingenuity in evading capture and for cheekily thumbing his nose at the law from sun-soaked beaches.

Great Train Robber Ronald "Ronnie" Biggs lying on the beach. Source: News Limited

In 2011, Biggs apologised to his Australian family and expressed regret for never having met his grandchildren in his latest and last book.

Biggs spent more than four years Down Under after escaping prison and a 30-year sentence for his role in the robbery, which netted him and his 15 accomplices Pound2.6 million.

Great Train Robber, escapee Ronald "Ronnie" Biggs with wife Charmaine in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1981. Source: News Limited

In a one-off media appearance before "retiring from public life", Biggs faced reporters for the launch of his updated autobiography, Odd Man Out.

"My wife, Charmian, and our sons, Chris and Farley, I am truly sorry for everything I put you through. It was not fair, and I know that," Biggs writes to his Australian family in the opening of the new book.

Charmian, wife of British fugitive criminal Great Train Robber Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs with sons Farley and Chris in 1974. Source: News Limited

"I love you all very much and never stopped loving you, despite what I may have given you good reason to think.

"To my 'Australian' grandchildren, who I have never had the chance to meet, I will always regret that I could not be there for you and play the role of doting grandfather. Hopefully I would not have been a bad influence but your grandmother will probably not agree."

Ronnie Biggs, one of the masterminds of Britain's Great Train Robbery in 1963, holding up a poster of himself during promotions for his book "Odd Man Out". Picture: AFP Source: AFP

Due to ill-health in the later part of his life, Biggs, could not speak and communicated through a spelling board.

When asked if he had any regrets, he said: "If you want to ask me if I have any regrets about being one of the train robbers, my answer is, 'No!'

Great Train Robber, Ronald (Ronnie) Biggs. Source: News Limited

"I will go further: I am proud to have been one of them. I am equally happy to be described as the 'tea-boy' or 'The Brain'.

"I was there that August night and that is what counts. I am one of the few witnesses, living or dead, to what was then 'the Crime of the Century'."

Ronnie Biggs, one of Britain's most notorious criminals, marks the release of his autobiography "One Man Out: The Last Straw" in London in 2011. Picture: AP Source: News Limited

Some of Biggs's famous quotes while he was on the run include:

On being a fugitive:

"One report said that since my time on the run I've had 2,500 girlfriends. I mean you got to realise, I've been on the run for more than 30 years, I have got to have had more than that."

On being a criminal:

"There's a difference between criminals and crooks. Crooks steal. Criminals blow some guy's brains out. I'm a crook."

"I am no longer a criminal. I gave up that practice years ago."

On being the brains of the robbery:

"It has been rumoured that I was the brains of the robbery, but that was totally incorrect. I've been described as the tea boy, which is also incorrect."

On growing up:

"I used to have a list of things from my school buddies of what kind of art material they wanted. I'd go up to the West End of London and spend the whole day knocking stuff off."

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WA's light rail shelved for three years

PERTH'S $2 billion light rail plan has been pushed back three years after the Government delivered its mid-year budget review.

PERTH'S $2 billion light rail plan has been pushed back three years because the loss of the AAA credit rating has forced the Barnett Government to focus on "better value for money to taxpayers".

Treasurer Troy Buswell today unveiled the 2013-14 midyear review of the state's finances, which includes a "three-year deferral of the MAX Light Rail project".

Last month, The Sunday Times revealed that the project would stop short of the CBD in a bid to save costs.

At the March election, the Government promised to start construction in 2016 - but now it has decided to significantly delay the project, which aimed to connect Mirrabooka to the CBD and then branch out to the western and eastern suburbs.

JOE SPAGNOLO: Shelving light rail makes mockery of election

Mr Buswell said the reform agenda - which also includes $995 million cuts to the Housing Authority, Water Corporation and Main Roads programs - was "aimed squarely at recovering the state's AAA credit rating".

"Our number one priority is to return the State to AAA status and that will mean constant evaluation of programs and projects to deliver better value for money to taxpayers," he said.

"This will effectively reduce net debt from around $28.3 billion to $26.9 billion and reduce gross borrowings by $2.2 billion from $50.2 billion to around $48 billion and put the brakes on the State's debt which is one of the key components in returning to our AAA credit rating."

Previously planned $104 million spending on the Kwinana bulk jetty and terminal facilities will also be removed.

Public net debt would fall by around $1.5 billion, which includes a decline in gross borrowings by $2.2 billion, over the next three and a half years.

Mr Buswell said the Government introduced a new policy to hold public sector salary increases to the CPI from November 1, 2013 and legislation to enable the WA Industrial Relations Commission to take account of the State's finances when deliberating on wage claims, which would contribute savings of $2.7 billion over the forward estimates.

The Treasurer said voluntary redundancies were the other major contributor to the savings figure, with the Government spending $132 million to pay out 1,000 public sector employees in order to reap the longer term benefits.

Mr Buswell said that while the State's economy continued to grow at around double the growth in the national economy in 2012-13, a population influx of more than 1,000 people per week continued to place extraordinary pressure on areas such as health and education.

The route of the proposed Light Rail Network. Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Reaction: Greens label decision 'appalling'

WA Greens MP Lynn McLaren said the Government decision was appalling.

"I am appalled that the Treasurer will slash housing and transport to deliver a bigger surplus at the expense of those who are struggling with job cuts and the nation's highest cost of living.

"WA voters have a right to expect the delivery of the MAX light rail after the Barnett promised it in the March election. Yet nine months later they are abandoning this pivotal cornerstone of their election platform. We are justifiably outraged.

"While we don't have the breakdown of the $995m cut to the Housing Authority, Water Corp and Main Roads, I do fear for those vulnerable families among the thousands on the waiting list for public housing.

"A social impact assessment of the re-jigged budget wouldn't look good.

"In the week before Christmas, and within nine months of an election, these announcements remind me of the Grinch."

Curtin University's Peter Newman, a proponent of light rail, believes it is time the State Government considered different ways of funding rail infrastructure.

He said a study by the Curtin University Sustainable Policy Institute showed that 60 per cent of the funding needed for the Mandurah rail line could have been raised by value capture.

"(This is) a type of public financing that recovers some or all of the value that public infrastructure generates for private landowners," he said.

"For light rail, that percentage would be even higher and enable WA to build the project entirely as a public-private partnership," he said.

"Consortiums would compete to build-own-operate the entire light rail system and which could include land development options.

"Capital and ongoing operating costs would come from a special fund based on value capture."

Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said the decision was concerning in the face of anticipated population growth.

"While the City of Perth and the general community were clearly concerned about the CBD routes for this light rail, we remained fully supportive of the need for this type of transportation," she said.

"It is concerning that such commitments can be curtailed in such a way."

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Fast and Furious hoons' cars seized

Perth's rev-heads hit the streets for a Paul Walker tribute cruise at City Beach, Perth

THREE hoons who allegedly drove recklessly during a car club cruise dedicated to the memory of Fast and the Furious actor Paul Walker have had their cars seized.

Perth's Unforgotten Car Club organised and promoted a memorial cruise following the death of Walker, who died last month when the powerful Porsche he was being driven in crashed into a tree in California.

Police issued more than 180 traffic infringements to participants and investigations were launched after video footage of the driving was supplied by the public.

Today, WA police said they had seized three cars and impounded them for 28 days.

Screen grabs taken from YouTube footage of a car cruise in memory of Fast and Furious actor Paul Walker.

A 19-year-old man from Bicton was charged with creating excess noise and smoke and had his Mitsubishi Mirage impounded.

A 21-year-old man from Mirrabooka has been charged with reckless driving and had his Holden Commodore impounded.

A 19-year-old man from Kenwick has also been charged with reckless driving and had his Holden Commodore Ute impounded. Inquiries into other vehicles involved in dangerous driving behaviour are continuing, while all three men charged will appear in court at a later date.

Screen grabs taken from YouTube footage of a car cruise in memory of Fast and Furious actor Paul Walker.

Screen grabs taken from YouTube footage of a car cruise in memory of Fast and Furious actor Paul Walker.

Screen grabs taken from YouTube footage of a car cruise in memory of Fast and Furious actor Paul Walker.

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10km/h between life and death

The head of the RPH Trauma Unit, Dr Sudhakar Rao, talks about the road accident victims he sees at the hosptial every day. Picture: Theo Fakos Source: News Limited

JUST 10 kilometres an hour. That's what is seen as the difference between surviving or dying in a car wreck.

With The Sunday Times and PerthNow launching our Summer Slowdown campaign this week, Dr Sudhakar Rao, the head of trauma at Royal Perth Hospital, believes a slight easing in speed is all you need to stay alive.

So far, in just 18 days of summer, seven people have already lost their lives on WA's roads. Last summer there were 48 fatalities.

"A 10km/h drop at any speed makes a big difference to the level of injury," Dr Rao said. "The higher the speed, the higher the energy of the impact that goes without saying.

"The types of injuries that are more magnified with high speed are pretty much everything.

"You can multiply all the injuries by some sort of exponential factor and say that the injuries you get are very, very serious at high speed.

Join PerthNow's Summer Slowdown and be vigilant behind the wheel. Source: Supplied

"Once you go above 80km/h in a crash your risk of internal injuries substantially goes up, as well as head injuries.

"When people don't make it out of a car and into an ambulance and they die at the scene, the usual cause of death is massive internal haemorrhaging or a severe head injury.

"The ones that come to us and survive and die despite everything we do … that's usually due to massive internal injuries."

Dr Rao admitted those injured in crashes involving speeds above 100km/h were always fighting for their lives. But he said some injuries were "less likely" to occur in crashes at low speed.

"Internal injuries to the lungs and organs and inside the abdomen, which are the (injuries) that bleed and kill people, they are less likely to occur under 60km/h or 50km/h," he said.

Dr Rao's message to all drivers, not just this summer, but at all times is a simple one: Watch your speed, wear seatbelts in the car and your helmets on bikes.

"Use all your safety features and buy a vehicle that has a safe rating," he said.

"If you drive at a lower speed too your chances of having a crash are lowered but if you do have a crash your risk of serious injury is much less also."

To keep the safe driving message at the forefront of drivers' minds, The Sunday Times and PerthNow will continue to publicise our Summer Slowdown message for the next three months as a constant reminder to West Aussies to be vigilant behind the wheel.

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Eagle Newman found guilty of assault

THE career of West Coast footballer Murray Newman could be in doubt after he was found guilty of grievous bodily harm.

THE career of West Coast Eagles footballer Murray Newman could be in doubt after he was found guilty of fracturing a man's jaw at a Perth nightclub for sleeping with his girlfriend.

Tonight, the Eagles issued a statement saying that Newman will remain on the club's rookie list.

The statement read: "The club accepts the jury's verdict and does not condone Murray's actions, however, it intends to stand by him and he will remain on the club's rookie list."

The Eagles' general manager of football, Craig Vozzo said: "We believe it is important to support Murray through a pivotal time in his young life.

"Since the incident, we have noticed positive changes in Murray's life and we feel we need to assist that progress.

"With support, understanding and direction we believe Murray can mature into a young man who can contribute positively to the Western Australian community."

However, a jail sentence remains a posibility for Newman.

He was supported in court during the trial by teammates including captain Darren Glass, Dean Cox, Nic Naitanui, Josh Kennedy and Sharrod Wellingham.

Newman has been on trial in the Perth District Court for three days, accused of causing grievous bodily harm to Brett Marris, then aged 20, in November last year.

Prosecutors alleged Newman had a grudge against Mr Marris because he had slept with Newman's girlfriend when the couple were on a break.

After weeks of threats from Newman on Facebook, the pair saw each other at the Library Nightclub in Northbridge, where they fought for about 10 seconds before bouncers broke up the fight, the court heard.

But Newman claimed he acted in self-defence against a taller man who grabbed his throat.

It took a jury about three hours to convict Newman on Wednesday.

Judge John Staude ordered pre-sentence and psychological reports.

He also scolded Newman as he told the footballer he had been found guilty of a serious offence that could carry a jail term.

"Take your hands out of your pockets,'' Judge Staude said.

But he noted Newman had no prior record and that he was young when he committed the offence.

During the trial, Newman's threatening Facebook messages were shown to the jury including one in which he told Mr Marris to "start digging a grave''.

Newman also called Mr Marris a "little girl'' and asked why he did not want to meet for a "crack''.

In another message, Newman wrote: "I won't rest til you ey (sic) hurt.''

Newman will be sentenced on March 7 and has had his bail renewed, with conditions including not entering licensed premises except for official West Coast Eagles business.

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Esperance swelters in 45C heat

The town of Esperance has sweltered through its hottest day on record, with a maximum temperature of 45C. Picture: file image Source: News Limited

ESPERANCE has sweltered through its hottest December day on record with the temperature smashing through the 45C mark today.

According to the Bureau of Metrology the mercury in the picturesque coastal town got to 45.3C at 1.23pm today.

The previous record of 44.9C was set on December 29 in 2009.

At Esperance Airport, the maximum peaked a little higher, reaching 45.6, while coastal towns of Ravensthorpe and Munglinup also set new records, pushing past the 45C mark.

Bureau of Metrology spokesman Neil Bennett tweeted the record breaking temperature this afternoon.

BOM records show the past few days have been extremely hot in the town.

On Sunday it got to 39.6C and yesterday it reached 37.1C.

But there is relief in sight.

Tomorrow the forecast maximum is just 24C and on Thursday its expected to top just 21C.

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Brothers jailed for body-in-boot murder

TWO brothers convicted of murdering a Perth businessman and stuffing him in the boot of his car have been jailed for life with a minimum of 18 years.

TWO brothers convicted of murdering a Perth businessman over a perceived debt and stuffing him in the boot of his car have been jailed for life with a minimum of 18 years.

Ambrose John Clarke, 49, and Xavier Gerard Clarke, 47, were convicted by a WA Supreme Court jury this month of murdering Ambrose's former business associate, Peter Davis.

Mr Davis's battered body was found in his vehicle at the Great Eastern Motor Lodge in Perth's eastern suburbs on May 31, 2011.

The 57-year-old was lured to the northern suburb of Malaga and murdered over a perceived debt of more than $300,000, after intimidation and attempts to recover the money through an unlicensed debt collector failed.

Justice Stephen Hall sentenced the brothers today after concluding their plan was to hurt Mr Davis and the intention was eventually formed to kill him.

He said the brothers and a third person likely to have been involved had left Mr Davis in the car with life-threatening injuries.

``He was in no state to protect himself,'' Justice Hall said.

``You were more concerned with protecting yourselves.''

Justice Hall said the crime ``commenced with anger, continued with brutality and concluded with callous contempt for the life of another''.

Although Ambrose was the leader, Xavier was a ``willing and active'' participant in the crime and should receive the same sentence, Justice Hall said.

He added that the pair showed no remorse but were at a low risk of reoffending.

Justice Hall also referred to the ``harrowing'' victim impact statements from the Davis family, and said it must have been ``very painful'' for the victim's son, Kurt Davis, to write his statement.

Kurt was instrumental in finding his father's body when by chance he came upon Ambrose Clarke at the motor lodge.

Outside court, Mr Davis's mother, Madeline, said she was ``over the moon'' with the sentence.

``I miss Peter, I love him and I'm going to try to get on with my life,'' she said.

``I just hit rock-bottom going through all this.''

Ms Davis said she felt sorry for Xavier for getting caught up in his brother's plans.

Kurt said justice for his father had been achieved.

``We've all struggled as a family but we've held together,'' he said.

``That's 18 years we don't have to think about them.''

Mr Davis's wife, Jenni, said the family was taking every day as it came.

``We'll have a better Christmas this year,'' she said.

Marcus Clarke, the offenders' brother, said the pair maintained their innocence and he criticised the police investigation.

``The battle is far from over,'' he said.

Sister Monique-Bertino Clarke said an appeal would be considered.

``An innocent man is dead and two innocent men are in jail for life for a crime they did not commit,'' she said.

The Davis family said they were not concerned about an appeal.

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One winner of $70 million jackpot

ONE lucky soul from Queensland is $70 million richer tonight after taking out the entire OZ Lotto Division 1 jackpot.

The $70 million prize is easily the richest lotto prize to be won in Australia, eclipsing the $58.7 million won by a syndicate from Melbourne in 2008.

Two West Australians have claimed consolation prizes, picking up more than $39,000 each as they shared Division 2 with another 19 people around the country.

The lucky numbers were: 26, 24, 20, 17, 34, 39, 36 and the supplementary numbers: 22, 23.

Lotterywest chief executive Jan Stewart said: "We are absolutely delighted with Western Australia's response to tonight's OZ Lotto draw and that two Western Australians picked up a Division 2 prize.

"We would have loved for a Western Australian to win Division 1 but the big winner is the WA community that will be supported through our grants program."

Over the seven weeks of jackpotting, the OZ Lotto draw raised about $15 million for WA hospitals, sporting and recreation groups including support for the Western Australian Institute of Sport, the arts and not-for-profit organisations.

There will be another two chances for local payers to win big, in Thursday's $40 million Powerball jackpot and the $30 million Megadraw on Saturday January 4.

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Eagle 'scared' when he hit man

WEST Coast Eagles footballer Murray Newman claims he was scared and intimidated by a love rival in the moments before he punched him, breaking his jaw.

WEST Coast Eagles footballer Murray Newman claims he was scared and intimidated by a love rival in the moments before he punched him, breaking his jaw.

Newman is on trial in the Perth District Court accused of causing grievous bodily harm to Brett Marris, then aged 20, in November last year.

Giving evidence to the jury today, Newman claimed that on the night of the fight, he did not deliberately seek out Mr Marris to exact revenge for sleeping with his girlfriend when they were on a break.

But he had "brushed shoulders" with Mr Marris as he left the Library nightclub in Northbridge.

Supported by teammates including Nic Naitanui, Josh Kennedy and Sharrod Wellingham, Newman said he had feared for his own safety from the larger Mr Marris, who was with a friend.

"I felt scared because they could turn against me," Newman said.

According to his evidence, Newman was grabbed around the throat by Mr Marris - which is when he hit out to defend himself.

Brett Marris outside the Perth District Court. Picture: file image. Source: News Limited

Defence lawyer David Grace QC told the jury they should question the reliability of Mr Marris' evidence, while saying threatening Facebook messages the footballer had sent the victim before the alleged assault were "immature".

Weeks of threats from Newman on Facebook included messages such as: "start digging a grave".

Newman also called Mr Marris a "little girl" and asked why he did not want to meet "for a crack".

In another message, Newman said: "I won't rest til you ey (sic) hurt."

In his closing address, prosecutor Michael Perrella said Newman's claims of self-defence were a "complete red-herring", and questioned why he not mentioned being grabbed by the throat to the police.

"It is an attempt to portray himself as the victim to take your focus away from the fact that he was the aggressor," Mr Perrella said.

The trial continues.

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Glory show Edwards the door

A player revolt led by skipper Jacob Burns has resulted in Perth Glory coach Alistair Edwards forced out of the club, with youth mentor Kenny Lowe to take charge for the rest of the A-League season.

Perth Glory coach Alistair Edwards has been sacked following player unrest. Source: News Limited

RENOWNED youth mentor Kenny Lowe is the favourite to take over as coach at Perth Glory and could be appointed as early as Wednesday following the sensational sacking of Alistair Edwards.

Simon Hill chats to Fox Sports News about Perth Glory sacking head coach Alistair Edwards following a player revolt.

Edwards has been effectively forced out of the club and captain Jacob Burns is set to lead the team out against Adelaide United on Sunday.

Edwards refused to comply with a list of demands provided by the club, which wanted to rein in the scope of his power.

Perth Glory is in crisis with coach Alistair Edwards reportedly facing a player revolt following his side's two-nil loss to Melbourne Victory.

Lowe, a former assistant coach at Glory under Dave Mitchell, is the head of the successful WA National Training Centre.

Former coach Mich D'Avray is not believed to be in the running.

Legal and payout issues regarding Edwards' three-year contract are yet to be resolved.

Glory CEO Jason Brewer denied "the tail was wagging the dog'' at the club despite the move appearing to be a stunning victory for player power.

Perth coach Alistair Edwards has admitted there is a rift between himself and Glory captain Jacob Burns.

"It's with a lot of regret that this afternoon I had to inform Alistair Edwards that he would no longer be the head coach of Perth Glory Football Club,'' Brewer said.

Brewer indicated it was Edwards' poor man-management skills that had cost him his job, but denied his sons Ryan and Cameron had been favoured over other players.

"If you ask the majority of the players, I think when you look at the head coach's technical and tactical capabilities, I think he's one of the better coaches in the A-League,'' Brewer said.

Re-live all the highlights from Melbourne Victory's win over Perth Glory.

"As we all know, to be able to be effective requires other qualities.''

The Sunday Times and PerthNow revealed on the weekend that there was a bitter player-driven revolt against Edwards - as distinct to purely a personal feud between coach and captain as portrayed by Edwards - and that it was likely only one of the pair could survive at the club.

On Tuesday Burns emerged as that man after receiving the backing of most of the squad in crisis talks over the past few days and the 35-year-old is set to make a triumphant return to the starting XI against the Reds at nib Stadium.

Perth Glory CEO Jason Brewer addresses the media. Source: News Limited

Glory launched crisis talks on Saturday after players directly challenged Edwards in the team's AAMI Park dressing room following Friday night's 2-0 loss to Melbourne Victory.

Ill feeling had been building for some time before Friday's flashpoint.

Glory players claimed on Saturday that the situation was "an absolute farce'' and that Edwards had "lost almost the entire dressing room''.

The concerns of players revolved around perceived nepotism shown by Edwards, who signed his sons Cameron, 21, and Ryan, 20, before the season, inconsistencies in selection and the coach's man management style.

Jacob Burns at Perth Glory training on Tuesday. Source: News Limited

Some players even believe the tactical balance of Glory's match-day squads this season has been compromised by Edwards' desire to include both of his sons.

The handling of contract negotiations with defender Steve Pantelidis, and his subsequent departure to Malaysia, also angered some players.

Burns was left out of the starting XI and was an unused substitute in Friday night's loss to Victory in one of a number of recent selection decisions that have raised eyebrows.

Former Perth Glory coach Alistair Edwards arrives at Perth's domestic airport Source: News Limited

Ryan Edwards was preferred to Burns in a re-jigged starting formation, while Cameron Edwards was deployed off the bench.

The situation echoes the ugly reign of former coach Steve McMahon, who was sacked in December 2005 amid a similar player backlash.

McMahon signed his son, Stephen McMahon Jr, who was widely viewed to be of less than A-League standard.

Cameron and Ryan Edwards will remain in the Glory squad and trained with the team on Tuesday evening.

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Taxi 'hoon' on 152km/h charge

A 25-year-old taxi driver has been charged after speeding at 152km/h on the freeway with passengers onboard. Source: News Limited

A TAXI has been impounded and its 25-year-old driver charged with recklessness after police allegedly clocked the cab doing 152km/h - with three passengers inside.

Police say the bizarre incident on the Mitchell Freeway involved a taxi speeding at 152km/h on the northbound on-ramp in Warwick when they spotted it about 3.45am last night and gave chase.
Officers caught up to the taxi at the Burns Beach Rd intersection and further allege that the car was then doing 125km/hr in the 80km/hr speed zone.

"The officers activated their emergency lights and stopped the taxi near Joondalup Drive,'' a police spokesman said today.
"The vehicle was impounded for 28 days and the 25-year-old male driver from Maylands will be summonsed for reckless driving.''

The three passengers were given a lift home by police.

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South Africa farewells 'greatest son'

Mandela's close friend Ahmed Kathrada, who was in prison with the anti-apartheid leader, delivers an emotional eulogy. Michaela Cabrera reports.

THE world's most beloved voice of freedom, Nelson Mandela, has been buried in the beautiful rolling green pastures of South Africa's Eastern Cape, where he was born 95 years ago.

Ten days of intense mourning ended as Mandela was laid to rest alongside family members in open fields by the village of Qunu, from where he spent his early years herding cows and then went on to change the world.

Devoted wife ... Nelson Mandela's widow Graca Machel, left, arrives for the funeral service. Source: AP

A 21-canon salute welcomed Mandela's flag-draped coffin, which was carried on a gun carriage to his family's estate.

Nelson Mandela's remains have been returned to his childhood village on the eve of a traditional burial.

Joining Mandela's widow, Graca Machel, were members of his large extended family, including ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and his grandson, Mandla, both controversial and divisive figures in South Africa.

Final farewell ... Winnie Mandela Madikizela, the former wife of Nelson Mandela, at the funeral. Source: AFP

A final salute... Members of the South African armed forces acting as pall bearers saluting as late South African former President Nelson Mandela's coffin is lowered into the grave, watched by Mandela's ex-wife Winnie Mandela Madikizela (2nd L), widow Graca Machel (3rd L) and South African president Jacob Zuma (4th L).

Prince Charles, the Reverend Jesse Jackson, Richard Branson, Oprah Winfrey, Prince Albert of Monaco, Sir Viv Richards, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, President Jacob Zuma, African leaders and former President Thabo Mbeki were joined by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who arrived at the last moment.

Tutu had earlier claimed he was staying home because he had not received an invitation.

African National Congress deputy, Cyril Ramaphosa, seen as a future South African president, said of Mandela: "The person who lies here is South Africa's greatest son."

In memory ... children sit in front of Nelson Mandela's family house in Qunu. Source: AFP

President Zuma said when Mandela became sick last year, his country was gripped with worry. "We did not want to confront the reality of your mortality," he said.

The day began with an early morning private family viewing of the body, followed by the state funeral service, which began at 8am and then dragged on with speeches that often sounded like advertisements for the ruling ANC, which faces a tough election next year.

Ill-disciplined speakers rambled so long they forced a breach of Tembu tradition, which requires that a person of his stature be set down at noon, as the sun is at its highest.

The family's traditional representative, Chief Ngangomhlaba Matanzima, praised Mandela by addressing him by his numerous clan titles. He said Mandela's 27-year imprisonment had brought great honour to the Xhosa people in the Transkei region of the Eastern Cape.

A life celebrated ... villagers dance in front of Nelson Mandela's family home in Qunu. Source: AFP

Mandela was an international figure, but granddaughter Nandi - who said he would always make the grandchildren pick up their clothes - pointed to a key moment for which South Africans will always thank him.

It came in 1993, when black communist leader Chris Hani was executed by a white right-wing assassin, taking the country to the brink of civil war. Though Mandela was not yet president, he successfully appealed to the nation to pull back from bloodshed.

Ahmed Kathrada, who spent 26 years on Robben Island with Mandela, said the last time he saw him alive was when he visited him in hospital and found him gravely ill.

"I was filled with an overwhelming mixture of sadness, emotion and pride," he said.

Members of the public watch as the hearse carrying the coffin of Nelson Mandela drives through the streets of Mthatha on its way to Qunu. Source: AFP

The family's traditional representative, Chief Ngangomhlaba Matanzima, praised Mandela by addressing him by his numerous clan titles. He said Mandela had suffered during his 27-year imprisonment but had brought great honour to the Xhosa people in the Transkei region of the Eastern Cape.

In mourning ... Graca Machel, the widow of Nelson Mandela, was joined by Jesse Jackson, President Jacob Zuma and Winnie Mandela at an ANC-led send-off ceremony for the global icon. Source: Getty Images

"I first met him 67 years ago and recalled the tall healthy strong man, the boxer, the prisoner who easily wielded the pick and shovel when we couldn't do so, the prisoner who vigorously exercised every morning before we were unlocked.

"What I saw in hospital was a man helpless and reduced to a shadow of himself."

Kathrada said Mandela had "united South Africa and the world on a scale never experienced in history."

Back home ... the river in Qunu where Nelson Mandela played as a child. Source: Supplied

Grandson Mandla, who was accused of privately selling exclusive broadcast rights to his grandfather's funeral to the South African Broadcasting Corporation, lost an ugly family battle to have Mandela buried on his own private estate, 20km from Qunu.

Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, to Nongaphi Nosekeni and Henry Gadla Mandela.

Paying tribute ... People sing and dance while waiting for Nelson Mandela's funeral cortege to pass. Source: Getty Images

His father, a chief and advisor to the Thembu royal family, died when he was nine, and Mandela was taken in by Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, who treated Mandela as one of his own and insisted he have an education.

He joined the ANC at the age of 25 and together with Oliver Tambo opened the first black legal practice in Johannesburg, which the ground was set for his long battle against the Apartheid regime.

In honour ... a religious leader stands by a poster showing Nelson Mandela during a farewell service at the Waterkloof air force base in Pretoria before the departure of Mandela's coffin Source: AFP

His father, a chief and adviser to the Thembu royal family, died when he was nine, and Mandela was taken in by Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, who treated Mandela as one of his own and insisted he have an education.

He joined the ANC at the age of 25 and together with Oliver Tambo opened the first black legal practice in Johannesburg.

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Toddler killed by reversing car

DRIVEWAY TRAGEDY: A toddler has been killed by a car outside at a home in Wyndham. Source: News Limited

POLICE are investigating the death of a toddler in a driveway accident in Wyndham yesterday.

The 14-month-old boy was struck by a car reversing from a home just after 5pm.

"The family took the child straight to Wyndham District Hospital, however tragically the child

could not be revived," a police spokesman said.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Boy, 5, injured
Meanwhile, South West Traffic officers are investigating a crash that injured a five-year-old boy.

A Mitsubishi Pajero was being driven on Woodley Road, Glen Iris, near Bunbury, about 6.30pm last night when it collided with the boy who was riding his bike near the Gidgee Entrance intersection.

The boy was taken to Bunbury Hospital with serious injuries and later flown to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment.

Motorcyclist killed

Officers are also investigating the death of a 46-year-old man who injured in a motorcycle crash in Vasse last night.

The man was riding a motorcycle west on Vasse-Yallingup Siding Road about 6pm last night when he failed to negotiate a bend and consequently collided with a tree stump.

"It appears the rider failed to negotiate a bend in the road and left the road, continuing on the

dirt/gravel for approximately 100m before colliding with a tree stump," a police spokesman said.

"He was thrown from the motorcycle and collided with a tree."

He died as a result of injuries.

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Girl, 9, in public pool tragedy

A nine-year-old girl was pulled from a public swimming pool in Harvey. File picture. Source: News Limited

A NINE-YEAR-OLD Australind girl is fighting for her life after being pulled from a public swimming pool in the South West.

A Princess Margaret Hospital spokeswoman said the girl was in a critical condition.

The youngster was at a swimming meet at the Dr Peter Topham Memorial Swimming Pool in Harvey when police were called around 7pm last night.

"The information we were given was that a young girl was being pulled out of the pool, and it was not known how long she had been under water," a police spokesman said.

St John Ambulance crews attended the scene and the girl was taken to Harvey Hospital.

She was then transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital by the RAC Rescue Helicopter. The girl was taken to intensive care.
Shire of Harvey chief executive officer Michael Parker and the manager of the swimming pool both declined to comment.

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