Passengers rescued from trapped ship

Professor Chris Turney, his crew and passengers on the Akademik Shokalskiy are finally rescued by helicopter after a tense wait in the Antarctic. Courtesy Chris Turney/YouTube/Vine.

ALL 52 passengers have been airlifted from a Russian research vessel icebound in Antarctica and are safe on board an Australian supply ship, rescuers said.

"Aurora Australis has advised AMSA that the 52 passengers from the Akademik Shokalskiy are now on board," the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said.

Passengers were flown to the Australian ship in groups of 12 by a helicopter from a Chinese icebreaker.

The Akademik Shokalsky has been stuck in ice since December 24 100 nautical miles east of the French base Dumont d'Urville, with several icebreaking attempts failing to reach it.

After a number of false starts a helicopter evacuation of the research vessel's passengers began on Thursday evening, with official confirmation that it was underway reaching AMSA at 6.15pm AEDT.

Help from above... A helicopter from the nearby Chinese icebreaker Xue Long picking up the first batch of passengers from the stranded Russian ship MV Akademik Shokalskiy. Picture: Andrew Peacock / www.footloosefotography.com

The Australian agency, which is coordinating the rescue mission, reported all passengers were safey on board the Aurora Australis - an Australian government supply ship - at 10.15pm, some four hours later.

Passengers were airlifted from a makeshift landing pad on the ice beside the Russian ship to an ice floe near the Australis.

Expedition leader Professor Chris Turney expressed relief that the wait was finally over.

"We've made it to the Aurora Australis safe and sound. A huge thanks to the Chinese and the (government's) Australian Antarctic Division for all their hard work," Prof Turney tweeted.

Rescue mission... The helicopter mission to rescue 52 passengers trapped on the icebound Russian research ship finally got underway in Antarctica on January 2 after a number of false starts and failed icebreaking attempts. Picture: Andrew Peacock / www.footloosefotography.com

A helicopter rescue was announced on Tuesday, but heavy rain and winds saw it shelved until Thursday morning, when a second attempt was foiled by unfavourable sea ice.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority said the complex, multi-vessel operation would go ahead as soon as weather and ice conditions permitted, with the situation likely to change rapidly.

By late afternoon a favourable window had opened, with Prof Turney announcing that a helicopter from the nearby Chinese icebreaker Xue Long had arrived at the marooned ship to begin evacuating passengers.

"The Chinese helicopter has arrived at the Shokalskiy. It's 100 percent we're off! A huge thanks to all," Prof Turney tweeted.

His posting was accompanied by footage showing the Xue Long's red helicopter touching down on a landing pad marked out on the ice beside the Akademik Shokalskiy and an orange-suited rescue crew disembarking.

"If it all goes well we'll be off in about an hour's time," Mr Turney said on the film.

Sticky beaks... A pair of Adelie penguins  inspecting the scene as the first load of passsengers from the stranded Russian ship MV Akademik Shokalskiy wait for a helicopter. Picture: Andrew Peacock / www.footloosefotography.com

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority this morning said weather conditions in the Antarctic had improved and those marooned on the MV Akademik Shokalskiy would soon reach the end of their ordeal.

"Wind in the area is now down to 10 knots and visibility has improved. Weather conditions are expected to remain favourable over the next 36 hours," a spokeswoman for AMSA said.

"The helicopter on board the Chinese flagged vessel Xue Long will be used to rescue the passengers from the MV Akademik Shokalskiy."

A screen-capture from the Aurora Australis' web camera shows the ice-breaker approaching the Chinese rescue ship Xue Long  - here little more than a speck on the left-hand side of the image.

The spokeswoman said the mission to rescue those on board the Russian ship, trapped in sea ice around 1500 kilometres from Hobart since Christmas Eve, would be complex and was expected to take around five hours.

The passengers, including scientists and researchers who begun an expedition to Antarctica to study sea ice, were airlifted to safety, while the 22 crew will remain on board.

It is not yet clear if the passengers will then be brought to Australia.

Australia's Rescue Coordination Centre continues to coordinate the incident. 

Rain and winds up to 30 knots have delayed the rescue of passengers stranded on a ship off Antarctica.

The MV Akademik Shokalskiy stuck in Antarctic ica as it waits to be rescued. Picture: Andrew Peacock / www.footloosefotography.com

The MV Akademik Shokalskiy stuck in Antarctic ica as it waits to be rescued. Picture: Andrew Peacock / www.footloosefotography.com

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Clarke's injury a bizarre blow

Fremantle ruckman Zac Clarke has injuring his knee while on his Christmas break. Source: News Limited

FREMANTLE has suffered a bizarre injury blow, with ruckman Zac Clarke injuring his knee while on his Christmas break.

The Dockers expect Clarke, 23, to miss up to eight weeks of training after damaging his right posterior cruciate ligament at a concert in Victoria.

Fremantle football operations manager Chris Bond said Clarke was not expected to need surgery.

Clarke is likely to miss Fremantle's pre-season matches against West Coast on February 18 and the Western Bulldogs on February 26.

Given his limited preparation, the Grand Final ruckman could struggle to force his way into the side for the Dockers' Round 1 showdown against Collingwood on March 14.

Fellow ruckman Jon Griffin is also eyeing a return from his own knee injury.

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Thousands to join shark cull protest

More than 6000 people have registered interest in attending an anti-cull rally this weekend against the State Governments catch-and-kill shark policy.

MORE than 6000 people have registered interest in attending an anti-cull rally this weekend against the State Government's catch-and-kill shark policy.

Conservation groups and opposition politicians will speak at the protest, which starts near the Indiana Teahouse at Cottesloe Beach at 10am on Saturday.

Simultaneous demonstrations are being planned at beaches on the eastern states, as well as at Broome's Cable Beach.

It comes as commercial fishers have until tomorrow to bid for the contract to manage and patrol the baited lines.

Up to 72 drum lines will be deployed one kilometre from the shore off Perth and the South-West between January 10 and April 30.

More than 6000 people have registered interest in attending an anti-shark cull rally at Cottesloe Beach on Saturday morning.

Great white, tiger and bull sharks over three metres will be shot and discarded at sea under the $1 million plan, which was announced following the death of surfer Chris Boyd at Gracetown in November.

Western Australians for Shark Conservation (WASC), Sea Shepherd Australia and the Conservation Council of Western Australia will speak alongside the Greens' Rachel Siewert and Lynn MacLaren and Labor's Dave Kelly.

WASC has already confirmed it is planning to take "direct action" to ensure the drum lines don't catch sharks.

The Department of Fisheries warned anyone caught sabotaging the lines could be fined up to $25,000 or be jailed for 12 months.

Premier Colin Barnett holding one of the giant hooks that will be used to drum-line for large sharks along the WA coast.

WASC founder Ross Weir said his group won't stand for the culling of endangered sharks and there were people "willing to intervene".

Mr Weir said it was not to WASC's advantage to reveal how the drum lines would be "neutralised", but confirmed it could include the cutting of lines.

Asked if he was prepared to break the law, he said: "Yes, we do have many members who are prepared to break the law. We do have many members who are prepared to intervene."

Asked if he would urge the public to take direct action at the rally, he added: "Yes, we will be asking the general public to take their boats and to go out there if they feel strongly enough about it."

He said volunteers would be made aware of the potential repercussions.

Another group, Animal Rescue Team, says they have boats and divers at the ready.

Spokeswoman Amy Lee said it would take "non-violent direct action", adding: "The only thing I can say is that we won't be wrecking any equipment. If anything, we will be checking them and quite possible taking the bait off them."

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Mourners pay tribute to alleged punch victim

Irishman Thomas Keaney, who died after an alleged punch attack in Northbridge. Source: Supplied

MOURNERS at a Perth mass tonight held in memory of Irishman Thomas Keaney, who died after an alleged assault in Northbridge, have prayed for an end to street violence.

Family, friends and mourners gathered at St Joseph's Church in Subiaco to pay tribute to the 23-year-old barman.

Mr Keaney's life support was switched off on Saturday, 11 days after he was allegedly punched outside a kebab shop and hit his head on the road. The heartbreaking decision was made by Mr Keaney's parents, who flew to Perth from Ireland to be at his bedside.

His parents Tom and Ann Keaney were at tonight's service and conveyed their sincere gratitude to the people of WA through priest Father Joseph Walsh.

Mr Keaney, who is originally from County Galway, had been in Australia for just over year and was working at The Cure Tavern in Northbridge.

The church service was streamed live online so Mr Keaney's siblings and extended family and friends in Ireland and Chicago could witness the memorial.

Fr Walsh said Mr Keaney's death was a "horrendous tragedy" at such a Christian time of year and called for an end to street violence. He said everyone should find comfort in Mr Keaney's strong faith.

"One thing is absolutely certain - none of us want to be here. But we are here in numbers to celebrate the short, 23 years of Thomas' life," he said.

Fr Walsh said while Mr Keaney's family had suffered anger, hurt and disappointment over their senseless loss, they had also experienced extraordinary hospitality, warmth and support from their surrogate "Australian family".

He said Mr Keaney's parents wanted to thank everyone for their help during this awful time, including the Australian embassy, police, hospital staff, the Claddagh Association and those who had befriended Mr Keaney during his time in Australia, many of whom were at the hospital "every day and night".

The priest invited Mr Keaney's parents back to WA this time next year to "see us as we are" and said they had left a lasting legacy by graciously donating their son's organs.

The Claddagh Association, which assists Irish people during times of crisis throughout WA, is supporting the Keaney family.

"The Irish community have once again rallied around to provide that much needed support during this time of crisis for Thomas's family and friends," the association said in a message on Facebook.

"Our thoughts are with the family here and in Ireland, it is our wish that the outpouring of grief from the Irish in Perth is reflected in coming together to bid farewell to Thomas on his final journey home."

It is understood Mr Keaney's parents will fly home to Ireland at the weekend.

A fundraising event was held in Perth on New Year's Eve, with collection buckets placed in several well-known Irish venues.

Donations to the Keaney family can be made by visiting http://www.claddagh.org.au/ or https://www.facebook.com/Thethomasfund

A 22-year-old Girrawheen man has been charged over Mr Keaney's death and will reappear in court later this month.

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NYE murder accused faces court

A 23-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of James Dorloff at a Wedge Island beach rave party on New Year's Eve.

A 23-YEAR-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Kelmscott man James Dorloff at a Wedge Island beach rave party on New Year's Eve.

Joseph Robert Houston, from Swan View, is also charged with attempted grievous bodily harm and unlawful wounding of Tyson Cumming, who was also injured.

It is alleged Mr Houston slashed the victim across the throat with a machete after a fight erupted at the New Year's beach rave party.

Mr Houston, who is in custody, was not required to plead to any of the charges when he appeared in Perth Magistrate's Court today.

He was remanded in custody on a seven-day hospital order for a mental health assessment and will next appear in court on January 9.

The father of Joseph Houston, 23, talks to the media.

ACCUSED'S FATHER OFFERS 'DEEPEST SYMPATHIES'

The father of Mr Houston told media outside Perth Magistrates Court today his family gave Mr Dorloff's family their "deepest heartfelt sympathies."

"We don't know the full circumstances yet, but when we do, it will all come out in the wash," he said.

"Until then, please, just leave my family alone."

Wedge Island murder accused Joseph Houston,23, Picture: Facebook

Earlier, friends of Mr Dorloff, 21, took to social media to express their sadness over the New Year's tragedy, which unfolded on a remote beach about 160km north of Perth.

Their posts show a tight-knit circle of friends gutted by the events in Wedge Island.

"Thank you for riding shotgun through this car wreck that is my life," his friend Johnny Cady posted with a photo of Mr Dorloff.

"The maddest nicest most genuine cobba out always keen to party beyond sunrise drinkin 'n smoken with friend rember the good tyms with this loose kid! Next week Johnny have to catch up think a hug would do good x," a friend replied.

"Still can't come to terms, I'm in disbelief xx" said another.

Wedge Island rave party victim James Dorloff, 21. Picture: Facebook

Another friend Michelle Polette posted yesterday that her friend would be missed.

"Laying in bed with my eyes filled with tears knowing in not the only one broken," she wrote late last night.

"It's not fair how innocent life gets taking so young, you were a awsum mate to party with & a good bloke., pretty deverstating how people can't even have a good New Years with out sum dog bring weapons, hope the scum gets what's coming that did this RIP mate you will be missed James," Ms Polette wrote yesterday.

"Arhhh my body is just filled with anger!!!! Why do people think it's OK to take another's life! Why? This violence has to stop, it's so unfair!!!!! ;(((( see you soon enough James!!!!" Yvonne Ransom wrote on her page.

Mr Dorloff died and two friends - including a woman - were injured in a brawl at the remote beach on New Year's Eve.

The father of accused killer Joe Houston talks to the media after his son appeared in court charged with the New Year's Eve Wedge Island murder of James Dorloff. Picture: Kaitlyn Offer

Major Crime squad officers spent the day yesterday at the beach interviewing dozens of people who attended the rave party.

Forensic officers spent much of the day there yesterday.

A small community of fishing and holiday shacks makes up the Wedge Island settlement on the mainland.

Police were called to the beach at 1.30am New Year's Day, where officers were initially told a person had been seriously assaulted and that he was unresponsive and CPR was being performed.

Police and the RAC Helicopter were sent to assist the local medical team.

"Local police and detectives were deployed and upon arrival it was confirmed that a male person was deceased on the beach, and two other people were injured and required medical treatment," a WA Police spokeswoman said.

A man, 25, was airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital by helicopter with a serious arm injury and a woman, also 25, was taken to Joondalup Health Campus by road ambulance.

Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing and anyone with information is asked to telephone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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NW survives 170km/h cyclone blast

Tropical cyclone Christine is battering the Pilbara coast, forcing people to take shelter from the winds.

TROPICAL Cyclone Christine blasted the Pilbara coast with 170km/h winds and dumped more than 160mm of rain on the region last night, leaving thousands without power.

The cyclone crossed the coast about midnight, near Roebourne and Whim Creek, but the North West appears to have escaped without major destruction or loss of life.

No deaths or serious injuries have been reported.

This evening, the storm system had been downgraded to a category one and the red alert was lifted as it moved further inland and weakened.

Roebourne appears to have suffered the most damage - the WA Country Health Service has temporarily closed the Roebourne District Hospital after it suffered serious damage.

Twisted light poles show the raw power of Cyclone Christine's 170km/h winds which blasted Port Hedland and Karratha. Picture: Matt Tinney, Channel Nine News

DFES reports that several other buildings in the town, suffered damage and the town's power, water and communications infrastructure have also been hit.

More than 3000 homes remain without power, mainly in the Pilbara biggest town, Karratha.

The cyclone has been downgraded to a category one system as it continues to sweep inland.

The Bureau of Meteorology estimated at 8pm that the cyclone was 195km south-west of Newman and 65km west-north-west of three rivers, and moving south-east at 32km/h.

Cyclone Christine: A tree uprooted in Karratha by high winds. Picture: Jean Jones, Perth Weather Live

Residents awoke this morning telling of a furious night, with Cyclone Christine delivering fearful winds.

At the height of the storm the Bureau of Meteorology predicted the winds at the eye of the cyclone were gusting to 220km/h, but the powerful system spared a direct hit on any of the Pilbara communities.

The system has dumped enormous rainfall across a wide area but has been downgraded to a category two system this morning as it barrels inland towards remote mining communities.

The streets of Port Hedland look like canals after Cyclone Christine dumped more than 120mm on the town and smashed it with high winds. Picture: Matt Tinney, Channel Nine News

CLEAN UP BEGINS

With destruction caused by Cyclone Christine appearing to be largely limited to superficial damage to trees, fences and minor roof leaks, the big clean-up is underway.

Roebourne councillor Robin Vandenberg said many trees had fallen but there was no significant structural damage.

``The red alert has just gone off so we are getting out now to look at the damage, but looking at the area around us from the front yard, it's all just superficial damage,'' he told AAP.

Cyclone Christine: Port Hedland cops it, with a backyard palm tree snapped off by the high winds. Picture: Teeshia Roberts/Perth Weather Live

Mr Vandenberg said on a scale of one to 10, he would rate the cyclone as a seven in severity.

``It's not the worst I've experienced, but it's not at the low end either,'' he said.

Mr Vandenberg has lived in his house for 30 years and said the older buildings had stood the test of time against cyclones, while some of the newer buildings had suffered leaks.

``We have a big patio at the front and back and there were some roars because of the tin but nothing came off,'' he said.

Cyclone Christine left Karratha battered and bruised, but the Pilbara town survived the 170km/h onslaught. Picture: Jean Jones/Perth Weather Live

A red alert remains in place for people in or near Tom Price and Paraburdoo, where residents have been warned to stay indoors and away from doors and windows.

Relocation points have been set up at the Tom Price High School gym and Ashburton Hall in Paraburdoo.

A yellow alert is current for people in or near the inland community of Pannawonica.

A blue alert is current for people in or near the inland communities of Newman, Collier Ranges and Three Rivers.

Cyclone Christine: A radar image as the Category Three system crossed the coast near Roebourne. Picture: Bureau of Meteorology

The all-clear has been given for people between De Grey and Mardie, including Marble Bar, Port Hedland, South Hedland, Whim Creek, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson, Karratha and Dampier.

Those residents have been warned to take caution when heading outside due to fallen debris.

Damaging winds with gusts up to 120km/h are still possible near the cyclone centre and flood warnings have been issued, BoM said.

Australia's biggest iron ore miners - Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton and Fortescue Metals Group - are assessing the impact of the cyclone on port, rail and mine operations, and ship loading is expected to remain suspended for some time.

Port Hedland was lashed by high winds but Tropical Cyclone Christine passed just south of the Pilbara port town. Picture: Matt Tinney, Nine News Perth

A Rio Tinto spokesman said the company's coastal and West Pilbara operations remained closed.

``We are still fully assessing the impact at this stage,'' he said.

State Emergency Services (SES) volunteers have had more than 40 calls related to roof damage, broken fences, fallen trees and flooding.

Horizon Power says 3200 homes are without electricity in Roebourne, Karratha and Point Samson.

Port Hedland had more than 100mm of rain to 6am today. Picture: Matt Tinney, Nine News Perth

More than 25 customers are also without power in the Port Hedland area, and there are damaged transmission lines in Karratha, Roebourne and Port Hedland.

PICTURES: Send us your best pics

A satellite image showing category three Cyclone Christine bearing down on the Pilbara coast yesterday afternoon. Picture: Bureau of Meteorology

By early today the cyclone had begun to weaken and was downgraded to a Category Two storm, but is still packing destructive winds up to 130km/h at its centre.

To 9am, Roebourne had recorded 134mm, Port Hedland 123mm and Karratha 110mm.

DeGrey topped the state with 161mm in 24 hours to 9am.

By 11.30am Marble Bar had recorded nearly 130mm as the decaying cyclone dumps its load over inland mining regions.

Channel Nine News reporter Matt Tinney, who saw out the cyclone in Port Hedland, told 6PR radio this morning there were unconfirmed reports that a family had to bunker down in the bathroom of their house in Wickham, north of Roebourne, when their roof was ripped off by ferocious winds.

"It hasn't been confirmed yet because authorities can't go out there because of the red alert and the town being in lockdown," he said.

"So once they can get out there they will.

"Here in Port Hedland we're getting a first look at the damage - trees are down, the streets are flooded, the rain's coming in horizontally.

"I can only just see the port now, but about 10 minutes ago I saw the port was flooded as well."

More than 100 homes and businesses are without power in Port Hedland this morning.

Horizon Power advises Roebourne, Karratha and Point Sampson customers are also starting the day without electricity.

The supply will remain cut until the cyclone has cleared the area.

SES volunteers have had more than 56 calls related to roof damage, broken fences, fallen trees and flooding.

Volunteers will start work once it is safe to do so.

An Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Rapid Damage Assessment team is on location to help if required and incident management teams have been established to help people that may be impacted by the cyclone.

DFES is working closely with WA Police, Western Power, Main Roads, Local Government, Department of Health, Water Corporation, Department of Education, Department of Child Protection and Family Support and Telstra to minimise the impact on the community.

CYCLONE WARNING REMAINS

A Cyclone warning is current for inland parts of the Pilbara including Paraburdoo, Tom Price and Newman extending into central WA to include Three Rivers, Wiluna and Leinster.

The Cyclone warning for coastal parts of the Pilbara including Karratha has been cancelled.

DFES State Emergency Service (SES) advises of the following community alerts:

RED ALERT: People in or near Tom Price and Paraburdoo. You need to immediately head to shelter and stay indoors away from doors and windows.

YELLOW ALERT: People in inland areas surrounding and including Pannawonica. You need to take action and get ready to shelter from the cyclone.

BLUE ALERT: People in or near Newman and inland to the Collier Ranges and Three Rivers including Kumarina and east to Granite Peak and southwest to Wiluna, need to prepare for cyclonic weather and organise an emergency kit including first aid kit, torch, portable radio, spare batteries, food and water.

People needing SES assistance can call 132 500.

In a life-threatening situation call 000. For more safety tips visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au

MINING OPERATIONS CLOSE DOWN

Australia's biggest iron ore miners have stopped loading ships and suspended rail operations as cyclone Christine heads towards the Pilbara coast.

A cyclone warning has been issued for coastal areas from Bidyadanga to Onslow, including Port Hedland, Karratha and Onslow, and extending inland to Paraburdoo.

BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Fortescue Metals Group have suspended their port operations in the region.

BHP said ``tie-down'' activities at Port Hedland, Australia's largest iron ore export port, have been completed.

``Extreme weather preparations continue across our mining operations in line with alerts issued by Department of Fire and Emergency Services,'' BHP said in a statement.

``Any production impacts will be in our next operational report.''

The highest priority is to ensure the safety of employees, BHP said.

Rio Tinto said ship loading had now stopped, but mine and rail operations continue to operate as normal.

Fortescue Metals Group said its Port Hedland operations and rail operations had been secured, in line with the company's cyclone readiness procedures.

``Conditions are being closely monitored and plans will be updated accordingly,'' the company said.

KARIJINI CLOSED

The Department of Parks and Wildlife advises that Karijini National Park in the Shire of Ashburton will be closed until further notice from 12pm today due to Cyclone Christine.

Gales, destructive winds and heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Christine are expected in the region today and tomorrow.

PILBARA HEALTH SERVICES

The WA Country Health Service Pilbara wishes to advise residents of Karratha, Port Hedland and surrounding districts of health service access in the lead up to and during Cyclone Christine.

During Yellow Alert, people in Karratha requiring urgent medical care can access Nickol Bay Hospital however, it is recommended that only emergency patients or those requiring urgent care come to the hospital during this time.

As is usual practice in the lead up to a cyclone, an emergency medical team will be managing patients and where possible, transferring to other hospitals that are not in the predicted path of the cyclone.

Upon Red Alert status, an Emergency Medical Response Team will be located in the Karratha Leisureplex (Cyclone Evacuation Centre) immediately adjacent to Nickol Bay Hospital. This is where more people and services are expected to locate to ensure safe refuge.

Please do not go to Nickol Bay Hospital during a Red Alert. Medical staff will only be available at the Karratha Leisureplex.

Port Hedland residents are advised that they can seek urgent medical attention at the Hedland Health Campus.

Residents can keep up to date with Tropical Cyclone forecasts by checking the BoM website.

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Lara, Sam may spend NYE in Perth

Lara Bingle and Sam Worthington enjoy a coffee in Perth, where they have arrived to see in the New Year. Picture: Media-Mode.com Source: Media Mode

GLAMOUR couple Lara Bingle and Sam Worthington are believed to be preparing to see in the New Year in Perth.

The lovestruck pair were spotted shopping at a North Perth grocer yesterday and enjoying a coffee.

Many pundits expected the couple to lob at the Marquee nightclub in Sydney tonight but it appears they may remain in Perth to bring in 2014.

Have you seen Sam Worthington and Lara Bingle in Perth? Tell us below.

Lara Bingle and Sam Worthington. Picture: Lara Bingle/Instagram annettepics Source: Supplied

It's been a big festive season for the pair, who revealed their relationship in October and have spent the last few months in Amsterdam and Paris for Worthington's latest film.

They joined thousands of fans at Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks took on the Oklahoma City Thunder on Christmas Day.

Late last week, they jetted into Sydney, where Bingle wasted little time in heading straight to the beach, posting pictures on Instagram.

Sam Worthington and Lara Bingle snap themselves on a beach in Sydney. Picture: Instagram. Source: Supplied

Worthington, who grew up in Rockingham and went to school in Fremantle, is gearing up for a big 2013, with several film projects including James Cameron's Avatar 2.

Perth's hottest New Year's Eve events

Catching public transport in Perth tonight? Here's all you need to know

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Man, 77, dies in Burswood crash

A 77-year-old man died after he was hit by a car on Great Eastern Highway near Crown Burswood last night. Picture: Stewart Allen Source: News Limited

POLICE have charged a 20-year-old woman with dangerous driving causing death after a 77-year-old pedestrian was killed in Burswood last night.

It will be alleged the Ocean Reef woman was driving a Mazda Tribute Station wagon on Great Eastern Highway about 8.50pm when her vehicle struck the man who died as a result.

Police want to hear from anyone who witnessed the crash or who saw the Mazda Tribute being driven just prior to the incident.

The 20-year-old woman will appear in the Perth Magistrates Court on Januray 14.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Teen, 19, arrested over Warwick double murder

Police have released the names of the mother and daughter found dead in a Warwick

A 19-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested and is being questioned by police over the murder of Maureen and Tamara Horstman in their Warwick home on Sunday afternoon.

Major Crime Squad detectives arrested the teenager at a Mirrabooka house.

Earlier, it was revealed the son and twin brother of two women found dead in their Warwick home has been ruled out as a suspect in the double murder after being questioned by police.

Tonight there are reports that the pair may have been murdered during a burglary gone wrong.

Seven News reported the mother and daughter may have been killed after confronting a burglar who had broken into the home on Sunday afternoon.

Tamara Horstman who was found dead with her mother Maureen in their Warwick home on Sunday. Source: Facebook

This evening, the 19-year-old man taken into custody by police was still being questioned and had not been charged.

The bodies of Tamara Alexandra Horstman, 26, and her mother Maureen Anne Horstman, 67, were found on Sunday afternoon after Tamara failed to arrive at work at Grand Cinemas Warwick.

Police arrived at the crime scene at about 2.30pm on Sunday. The parents of one of Miss Horstman's friends went to the Warwick address to check on her.

It was reported that around the same time Nicholas Horstman, the son and twin brother of the dead women, called triple zero. Mr Horstman bought the house with his mother and twin sister last year.

Forensic police officers at work at the house where the bodies of a mother and her daughter were discovered on Sunday afternoon. Picture: Alf Sorbello

Police have not revealed how the women died, but it is believed Maureen suffered chest injuries and Tamara suffered head injuries.

The pair were found dead inside the Felgate Place home shortly after 2pm Sunday in separate rooms.

Mr Horstman was eliminated as a suspect and released after being questioned by homicide detectives.

Detective Superintendent Anthony Lee said being questioned by police did not indicate guilt or participation in the crime.

Forensic police officers at work at the house where the bodies of a mother and her daughter were discovered on Sunday afternoon. Picture: Alf Sorbello

``When police take this action and it is reported a person is in police custody, the public should continue to provide information to police,'' he said.

Today, forensic police remain at the Felgate Place home, with items being seized from inside the double-storey house.

Tamara's Mazda3 car, which had been missing, was yesterday found in Mirrabooka, about 8km from where the bodies were found, after a member of the public heard via the media about the search and alerted police. Police had earlier yesterday issued a public plea for help over the whereabouts of the Mazda.

Police want to speak with anyone who saw the 2008 model sedan with the registration plate 1CZO 135 between 9am Sunday and midday on Monday. It was found parked on the corner of Teneriffe Place and Pampus Court in Mirrabooka.

Miss Horstman studied at Edith Cowan University after graduating dux of Prendiville Catholic College in 2004.

Her friends Teegan Dean and Rachel Hunter told Nine News last night they were still in disbelief over the double murder.

"It doesn't feel real," Miss Dean said.

Miss Hunter said Miss Horstman was "fun and crazy. She was the person you want to be with at a party."

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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'Slight improvements' for Schu

Michael Schumacher continues to fight for his life in a French hospital after a skiing accident.

SEVEN-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher has undergone further surgery to relieve pressure on his brain as he continues to fight for his life after a skiing accident in the French Alps.

Doctors last night revealed they saw a "surgical window of opportunity" to carry out a second, two-hour operation to remove blood clots after a brain scan revealed a slight improvement in the 44-year-old's condition.

But the medical team say the retired motor ace remains in a "fragile" critical condition.

"The situation is more under control than yesterday but we cannot say that he is out of danger," head anaesthetician Jean-Francois Payen said at CHU Grenoble Hospital.

"We have won some time but we must continue an hour-by-hour surveillance."

Doctors were very pleased there had been no worsening of Schumacher's condition and he was showing "very slight" improvements, but they said they cannot say what will happen in coming days and the situation was still touch and go.

The second operation had its risks but the family gave their permission prior to the operation taking place at 10pm local time.

The F1 legend remained in an induced coma and in a state of hypothermia to give him the best chance to recover from the serious head trauma. Professor Emmanuel Gay, one of the specialists treating Schumacher said the German was not out of danger and he was still haemorrhaging in the brain.

Sky Sports Germany's Sandra Baumgartner says Michael Schumacher's accident has had a profound effect on his home country where he is viewed as a national hero.

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"We cannot say that we have won because there are still some highs and some lows, but it's better than yesterday," he said. "He is still in a very critical condition, this has not changed. And we still cannot tell how he will be, which state he will be in when he does wake up. We cannot speculate on the future because once again it would be too early to do so."

Brain scans had shown intercranial haematoma (internal bleeding), cerebral contusions (brain tissue bruising) and oedema (fluid build up).

Further operations have not been ruled out but "strategies" would be considered over the next 48 hours.

"There are still many haematomas in the brain, with little bits everywhere," Professor Gay said. "That is what makes the situation critical and it needs to be looked at hour by hour, day by day. The situation can still evolve, but we won't be able to evacuate the other haematomas at the moment because they are not accessible. They are not as big as the one we removed yesterday."

The update on Schumacher's condition came amid revelations he may have been travelling up to 96km/h when he went between two marked ski runs and hit a rocky outcrop. Witnesses said the helmet he was wearing split in two and was full of blood.

Aerial images of the run clearly show the two ski runs with barely 50m between them. There is speculation Schumacher may have been travelling too fast to switch between the two runs and accidentally went off-piste.

Fans of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher have gathered outside the Grenoble hospital where he is being treated for serious brain trauma sustained in a skiing accident in the French Alps.

There has been huge global interest in the accident; more than 100 media were yesterday at the hospital waiting for word and broadcasting live updates around the world.

Schumacher, who turns 45 on Friday, was skiing with his 14-year-old son Mick when the accident happened just after 11am on Sunday.

Doctors said the helmet had given him a fighting chance but his head still suffered a very violent shock.

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He was flown from the Meribel resort in the Trois Vallees ski area within eight minutes of the accident, before being transferred to the nearby city of Grenoble for specialist treatment.

Fans have gathered outside the hospital, including some who have made the more than four-hour drive from Germany to be close to their hero.

Schumacher's wife Corinna, his 16-year-old daughter Gina-Marie and son Mick remained at his bedside overnight.

Sky Sports Germany's Gernot Bauer confirms that Michael Schumacher remains in a critical but stable condition at a Grenoble hospital following his skiing accident.

"We would like to thank the medical team who we know do everything possible to help Michael," the Schumacher family said yesterday in a written statement.

"We would like to also thank the people from all around the world who have expressed their sympathy and sent their best wishes for Michael's recovery."

MEDICOS say the next day or so will determine the future of seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher, including if emergency surgery has saved his life and or if he has suffered any long-term damage.

Schumacher is being watched around the clock by doctors and his family who have maintained a bedside vigilas he continues to fight for his life. following a skiing accident.

The 44-year-old German remains in an induced coma in a critical condition after he suffered internal bleeding and severe bruising to the brain when his head struck a rock during a high-speed off-piste ski run in the French Alps.

Doctors declined to say Schumacher was in a stable condition overnight, rather that he was still in a critical condition and being kept in a coma and in a state of hypothermia to give him the best chance to recover from the serious head trauma.

Professor Stephen Chabardes, the neurosurgeon who operated on the star, said all recommended treatments were being performed and he was being watched hour-by-hour. He said brain scans had shown intercranial haematoma (internal bleeding), cerebral contusions (brain tissue bruising and oedema (fluid build-up).

As the most successful driver in Formula 1 history, Michael Schumacher amassed seven World Championships and 91 race wins in 307 starts for Jordan, Benetton, Mercedes and most famously Ferrari.

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"We operated urgently to try to eliminate the (bleeding) haematoma and after the operation we saw that we had been able to eliminate these but also sadly the appearance of various bilateral lesions," he said.

Anaesthetist Jean-Francois Payen said: "We are working day and night at his bedside; it is too early to say anything as far as prognosis is concerned."

And neurologist Jean-Luc Truelle said it would take time for a better indication of the potential lasting damage.

The German, 45 on Friday, was skiing with son Mick, 14, off-piste when he fell and hit a rock, striking his head.

Doctors said Schumacher's helmet had given him a fighting chance but his head still suffered a very violent shock.

Witnesses, who called emergency services,confirmed he had been wearing a helmet but had been knocked unconscious and they saw blood coming from under the damaged helmet, marking the snow about him.

A Ferrari fan waits in front of the emergency department of the Grenoble hospital where Michael Schumacher is being treated for a severe head injury.

Paramedics flew to the Trois Vallees ski area within eight minutes of the accident and had him back to a local hospital before he was transferred to the nearby city of Grenoble for specialist treatment.

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Outside the hospital, Schumacher's fans have gathered - including some who drove more than four hours from Germany to be close to their hero. There are also more than a dozen television live broadcast vans parked in front of the hospital, broadcasting the latest news around the world.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she was shocked "along with millions of Germans" by the accident to the F1 legend."We listened to the doctors earlier as they described the situation as extraordinarily serious," her spokesman Steffen Seibert said. "We hope, along with Michael Schumacher and his family, that his injuries will heal and he will recover. We wish his wife, his children and the rest of his family strength and mutual support."

Schumacher who lives in Switzerland was on a private trip staying locally at his chalet when the accident happened at the Meribel ski resort.

In a bizarre incident, the Guardian has reported that a journalist dressed as a priest in an attempt to gain access to Schumacher's hospital room.

"I wouldn't have ever imagined something like this could happen," Schumacher's manager, Sabine Kehm, was quoted as telling a journalist.

Michael Schumacher's friend and surgeon Professor Gerard Saillant at a press conference about the F1 legend's condition in Grenoble.

After the ruse was discovered the man was was purportedly escorted off the hospital's premises.

Schumacher is a towering figure in the motor industry and considered the greatest F1 driver ever. He retired from F1 for the final time in 2012 after a three-season comeback with Mercedes.

The race ace, who also drove for Jordan, Benetton and Ferrari, won the last of his world titles in 2004. He won two with Benetton, in 1994 and 1995, before moving to Ferrari and winning five in a row from 2000. The German has 91 career race wins.

Schumacher is considered the first ever self-made billionaire sports star.

Jean Marc Grenier, the deputy director of the hospital, speaks to the press.

Michael Schumacher pictured while announcing his retirement from Formula 1 at the end of the 2012 season.

A file photo shows Michael Schumacher skiing in the Italian Alps in 2006. Schumacher is in a critical condition after hitting his head in a fall while skiing.

A file pitcure of Michael Schumacher from his Ferrari days, Schumacher is in a critical condition after hitting his head in a fall while skiing.

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