DUI man caught again in missing tyre car

A MAN charged with DUI after he jack-knifed a truck was allegedly caught by police again several hours later driving a car with only three tyres.

Police spokesman Samuel Dinnison said officers received a report about 9.30pm on Friday night that a truck towing a trailer with a tractor on board had attempted a three-point turn on Steere St in Bridgetown when it jack-knifed, causing the trailer to separate from the truck.

The truck drove off and the trailer rolled downhill through a four-way intersection and crashed into a parked car.

While officers were dealing with the trailer, the truck was seen heading back towards the scene.

Officers on foot tried to wave down the truck, but it failed to stop.

The vehicle was stopped about 500m further down the road and the driver was taken into custody.

The 28-year-old Beaconsfield man was told he would be charged for DUI by summons and was released.

At about 12.45am, Australind Police officers were on patrol when they saw a white Holden Colorado ute driving on Sandridge Rd in Bunbury with one of the rear wheels missing.

The rim was grinding on the road causing a large amount of sparks.

Police stopped the vehicle, and it will be alleged the same man was driving this car.

"Officers back-tracked the movements of the vehicle by following the gouge marks in the road, and it appears the vehicle was driven for about 8km on the rim," Mr Dinnison said.

"The gouges also suggest the vehicle had crossed to the wrong side of the road, including through intersections, a number of times and had gone the wrong way through a roundabout."

The 28-year-old man was charged with reckless driving, excess 0.08 and no authority to drive, as his licence was suspended after the earlier incident.

He was refused bail and will appear in Bunbury Magistrates Court today.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Three tornadoes hit coastal towns: 17 hurt

A badly damaged house and downed power lines are seen after a tornado ripped through Bargara on Queensland's coast. YouTube/nikkogsxr

WARNING signals will be broadcast for the Wide Bay area as tornado activity continues throughout the night, with five tornadoes earlier hitting the region.

Earlier this evening, radar imagery was showing a sixth tornado gaining strength about 30km west of Maryborough and moving south to southwest at about 50km/h.

Locals are watching nervously after seeing Bargara, near Bundaberg, hit with the first tornado about 1pm.

It brought down powerlines, tearing off roofs and flinging iron and windows across the streets.

Burnett Heads, just north of Bargara, was then hit about 3pm with a third tornado ripping through Coonarr soon after.

For our comprehensive wrap of the flood crisis, click here.

Bungadoo, around 40km south southwest of Bundaberg was hit just after 4pm and the fifth tornado struck again at Burnett Heads about 6.21pm, damaging the roofs of two homes and several powerlines.

"We've had quite a lot of damage from the tornadoes, with major damage to shopping centres and powerlines down," Bureau of Meteorology technical forecaster Ken Kato said.

Raw vision from Channel Ten shows the impact of wild storms and a tornado near Bundaberg on Queensland's coast.

"I would not call them mini, they are proper tornados," he said.

The Bureau of Meteorology and Emergency Management Queensland will be issuing the Standard Emergency Warning Signal before updates to the severe weather events over radio or television.

EMQ Assistant Director-General Bruce Grady said EMQ had been advised by the BoM that current radar imagery suggests the strong possibility of tornado-like activity would continue to affect areas across the Wide Bay and Burnett District.

"While it is not possible to indicate where exactly these events will occur, destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf has been forecast for the Wide Bay and Burnett, Southeast Coast and parts of the Darling Downs and Granite Belt Districts," Mr Grady said.

The tornadoes have left at least 20 people injured and two people seriously hurt.

Two people were critically injured when a giant pine fell on their parked car on the Esplanade at Bargara, while two homes were completely destroyed in the tornado that struck Burnett Heads.

Authorities said Burnett Heads was again struck by the latest in the series of twisters, which hit the area at 6pm AEST and 6.30pm.

Bargara Bowling Club after the tornado. Picture: Sabrina Lauriston

Two people were believed to have been injured in the second onslaught, with powerlines down and at least one roof torn from a home.

And the Bureau of Meteorology says the worst may be yet to come.

It has forecast the "strong possibility" of further tornado activity around Burnett Heads, Wide Bay and at Maryborough, south of Bundaberg.

See more pictures from the damage

Emergency Services Minister Jack Dempsey, who lives in Bundaberg, said 150 homes had been damaged at Burnett Heads.

Mr Dempsey said he could not confirm the number of injuries, but said a triage centre had been set up in Bargara to deal to tend to at least a dozen people injured by flying glass and other debris.

Two people were critically injured when their car was struck by a tree and were undergoing emergency treatment in Bundaberg hospital, he said.

This Twitter photo from Channel 7 Bundaberg shows emergency crews working to free a man trapped in his car after a pine tree fell on the vehicle during a mini-tornado. PIC: Pippa Bradshaw/ Channel 7

Mr Dempsey said East Bundaberg and small townships in the area had also been hit by mini-tornadoes, but it was not clear whether there had been several individual tornadoes or whether they were part of the same weather system.

Local councillor Greg Barnes told The Courier-Mail he witnessed the Bargara tornado as it tore through his neighbourhood.

Cr Barnes said a man and woman are currently trapped in their ute after a Norfolk Pine was brought down onto the cab of the vehicle. They appear to be seriously injured, he said.

Cr Barnes said the tornado swept through the northern end of Bargara, impacting buildings and homes including his own.

He said the most affected areas were between Bargara Road and McCavanagh Street and Davidson Street and the Esplanade.

Emergency crews have been activated and residents are urged to stay away from the area as there are live wires down.

Cr Barnes said he had heard reports the local bowls club may have lost its roof (Story continues below).

View Triple Twisters in a larger map

"It's not a good situation. I urge people to keep away. It's not something you need to come and see. It's very dangerous. There are live wires down in nearly every street,' Cr Barnes said.

"They're going to have to shut down the power out here. We need the public to play their part and keep away."

Bargara resident Judith McNamara, who witnessed the tornado through her kitchen window, said it left a car in her yard with a tree through it.

"All of a sudden ... I looked up and a tree went flying through the air ... and the car went up," she told ABC radio.

Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said it damaged homes, shops, a bowling club and government buildings.

All roads into the town are closed.

DAMAGE in Bargara after a tornado struck on Saturday. Pic: Ergon Facebook

Kathleen Donaghy, Kelmeny Fraser and Brittany Vonow with AAP

This Twitter picture from Channel Nine News shows emergency personnel at Bargara after the mini tornado hit. PIC: Courtesy Nine News.

A tornado has ripped through Bargara, tearing roofs off homes, ripping down powerlines and knocking down trees. Emergency crews are on scene and many roads have been closed. Picture: Ergon Enegy Facebook Page

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

WA celebrates Australia Day

Thousands flocked to Cottesloe Beach for the Havaianas Thong Challenge. Picture: Thomas Davidson Source: PerthNow

WEST Australians revelled in all the colours of the flag for Australia Day - from swimming in the blue waters of Broome to kicking a footy across the red dirt of the Pilbara or camping on the white beaches of Esperance.

The nation's proudest day brought 300,000 to the shores of the Swan River to see Perth's Australia Day climax, the Skyworks, with nine tonnes of explosive material lighting up the night sky.

Families crowded the shoreline for the 30-minute display, which was accompanied for the first time by giant water fountains lit up with coloured laser beams.

It followed a day of barbecues, beers and beach bathing for many Sandgropers keen to enjoy the clear-blue skies and 35C temperatures.

As the Australian and Aboriginal flags flew side-by-side on the Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time yesterday, Prime Minister Julia Gillard granted Englishman Ian Mears his Australia Day wish by giving him a kiss on the cheek during his citizenship pledge in Canberra.

The downpours across central Queensland caused by ex-tropical cyclone Oswald forced the cancellation of many Australia Day activities, including Yeppoon's Aussie beach party.

In WA, the hot weather proved a boon for the Havaianas Thong Challenge, with almost 2100 people turning out to Cottesloe Beach to break the world record to create the longest line of inflatable airbeds for the second year in a row.

Revellers south of the river flocked to Bathers Bay in Fremantle for the Indian Ocean Skyshow fireworks after a day of family entertainment and activities.

There were also fireworks in Broome, Carnarvon, Geraldton, Bunbury and Bassendean.

In Karratha, the Whittles family celebrated the life of Steve Irwin by dressing as the famous crocodile hunter.

A flash mob entertained beach-goers cooling off at Scarborough, while young Jordyn Niemann and Kaylee Clift escaped the Kalgoorlie heat by visiting the local pool.

Australia Day breakfast celebrations were a big family hit, with thousands making their way to dozens of bush and beach locations across WA for a snagger and some serenity.

Settled on the South Perth foreshore since 9.30am, Dianella brothers Clint and Rhys Jasper enjoyed the day from the comfort of their 25-foot ski boat.

"What's not to love?" Clint Jasper said, from his inflatable island. "Beautiful city views, beautiful water and we're a pretty good-looking bunch of people."

Accompanied by about 30 family and friends, he said his day would be dictated by "when the beer runs out". Megan Schmitt, 22, held an Australia Day party in the front yard of her $500-a-week rental, complete with a DJ set up and inflatable pool.

In a prime position, only one street back from the South Perth foreshore, the party was attracting attention from honking motorists as they exited the freeway.

Ms Schmitt said she was not worried about gate crashers, providing they had "the right attitude".

"We invited about 100 people but it was a Facebook invite so we only expect half of that," she said.

The party was interrupted by a passing motorcyclist, who fell off his bike after crashing into road barriers.

 That was hectic, she said, before inviting the shaken man in for a beer. Meanwhile, those after something a little different turned up to various Fringe World Festival shows in Perth, including acts with comedy and stripping, drag queens and murder mysteries.

In community centres around the state, thousands of new citizens stood together to pledge their loyalty to Australia.

The biggest citizenship ceremony was held at the Wanneroo showgrounds, with almost 700 people from countries as diverse as Iran to Austria officially becoming Australians.

Further north, ordinary West Australians were honoured for their extraordinary efforts at the City of Joondalup's 2013 Premier's Australia Day Awards.

Sacred Heart College student Rossana Hywood received the Individual Active Citizenship Award for her humanitarian efforts both here and abroad.

Teenager Esme Keogh received the council's Active Citizenship Award for under 25s for her extensive community work, and the West Perth District Football Development Council and the West Perth Football Club were honoured for expanding and developing football opportunities for young people in the north-west corridor of Perth.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Oz Day: Small steps to reconciliation

As Australia Day is celebrated at home, troops overseas send messages to family and friends.

IT was a small step, but a significant one.

At around 8am (AEDT) on Saturday, before the obligatory family barbecues and citizenship ceremonies were under way across the country, the Aboriginal and Australian flags were slowly raised on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Full Australia's Day honours list here

It was the first time both flags have flown side by side atop the bridge on Australia Day.

But while the iconic bridge may have become a symbol of unity for the day, many Aboriginal people see little reason to celebrate January 26, which also marks 225 years since the First Fleet arrived.

The Aboriginal flag sits on top the Harbour Bridge for the first time. Picture: Sam Ruttyn Source: News Limited

About 50 people marked the day near the famous tent embassy in Canberra by announcing that the country's first Aboriginal political party, formed in the Northern Territory two years ago, would contest this year's federal election.

There were calls for people to stand up for their rights and end the NT intervention program, but no repeat of the angry protests that marred last year's Australia Day celebrations in the nation's capital.

In Sydney, NSW Governor Marie Bashir said Captain Arthur Phillip knew he was an intruder who would change the lives of Aboriginal people forever.

Australia Day celebrations are ready to go off this long weekend

''We are walking together, I believe, as one people,'' she said of steps being taken toward reconciliation.

The message of ''one people'' rang true today for the more than 17,000 people from 145 countries who took the citizenship pledge to become freshly-minted Aussies.

At a ceremony in Canberra, National Australia Day Council chair Adam Gilchrist told a crowd that new citizens will enjoy all the opportunities Australia can provide.

PM Julia Gillard kisses Ian Mears from London .. who has now becoman Australian Citizen today in a ceremony with Governor General Quentin Bryce on the shore of lake burley griffin in Canberra . Picture: Kym Smith Source: News Limited

''There's no doubt we are richer, we are stronger and a more egalitarian country because they and many others choose to come here,'' he said.

The Canberra ceremony kicked off  with a parade of the Federation Guard and the playing of the national anthem.

The ceremony was attended by Australian of the Year Ita Buttrose, Young Australian of the Year Akram Azimi, Senior Australian of the Year Professor Ian Maddocks and Australia's 2013 Local Hero Indigenous leader Shane Phillips.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Governor-General Quentin Bryce looked on as the Australian flags were raised and a group of Hawk 127 aircraft flew overhead. A 21-gun salute resounded over the capital.

Jessica Mauboy will perform on two floating stages at Athol Bay and Blues point reserve as part of North Sydney's Australia Day celebrations. Picture: John Appleyard

Almost 100 people from 22 countries were taking part in the citizenship pledge in Canberra.

Ms Gillard, who was born in the UK, said she was a proud member of the millions who had taken the pledge since 1949.

A 90 second wrap up of the live Sky coverage of flag raising and citizenship ceremony in Canberra

''As migrants - all four million of us - we did not just adopt a new country,'' she said.

''This is your new country, and you'll never want another. Welcome to citizenship. Welcome to Australia. Welcome home.''

Ms Gillard also gave one Englishman a kiss on the cheek, when he became a citizen.

Ian Mears from London was wearing a tie saying "Kiss me I'm Aussie", and the Prime Minister gave him his Australia Day wish.

World-renowned British actor Miriam Margolyes, known for her roles in the television comedy Blackadder and as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films, was among those to take the pledge in Canberra.

As Australian of the Year, Ita Buttrose will have ageist attitudes and dementia in her sights.

''I'm just very happy to be here, and I will be with friends and the rest of my life will be joyous,'' she said.

Thousands of new people were welcomed at citizenship ceremonies in each state, and families were encouraged to soak up the fun and atmosphere at a variety of free events.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott told an Australia Day breakfast and citizenship ceremony in Adelaide that new citizens are changing the country for the better.

PM Julia Gillard giving actress Miriam Margolyes her certificate for becoming an Australian Citizen at the Australia Day Flag Raising and Citizenship Ceremony on the shore of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. Picture: Kym Smith Source: News Limited

Change should be welcomed ''when it's in accordance with the customs and traditions of our people'', he said.

Thousands of people turned out in Sydney's CBD to watch The Wiggles unveil their new line-up, as indigenous artist Jessica Mauboy performed on a floating stage in Sydney Harbour.

In Tamworth, country music fans lined the town's main drag for an annual cavalcade that celebrates both Australia Day and the finale of the iconic 10-day country music festival.

There was less fanfare in Queensland, where Premier Campbell Newman warned Australia Day revellers to batten down the hatches as heavy downpours threatened parts of the state with flooding.

Almost 100 people have taken part in a citizenship ceremony in Canberra.

Gladstone was declared a disaster area, while mini-tornadoes damaged scores of buildings and injured up to 20 people in Bargara, Burnett Heads and other townships in the Bundaberg district.

Australia Day video messages from Australian Defence Force personnel serving in United Arab Emirates

Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan said the second anniversary of the Queensland floods this year reminded him of those who pulled together to help friends and strangers faced with losing everything.

''The Australian spirit is never stronger than when we face these kinds of events together,'' he said.

Sydney Harbour turns into a race course as the iconic Sydney Ferries race under the Harbour Bridge. Photo: Sam Ruttyn Source: News Limited

Victorians were reminded to remember the volunteers spending their Australia Day fighting blazes in some parts of the state and dealing with the aftermath of others.

Thousands of Tasmanians gathered for a concert at the same pub in Dunally, in the state's east, where ferocious bushfires tore through the region earlier this month.

Local Mayor Kerry Vincent said despite the horror the bushfires brought with them, the community was coming together in the spirit of solidarity.

Not all Australians are celebrating January 26. The Aboriginal community in Tasmania speak out against what they call Invasion Day.

In Western Australia, more than 2500 new citizens from 92 countries took the pledge at more than 80 citizenship ceremonies around the state, including the second-largest in the country, at Wanneroo in Perth's north.

About 300,000 people are expected to attend Perth's Skyworks display on the Swan River tonight, up 50,000 from last year thanks to milder weather.

The city has enjoyed a 36C degree maximum, compared to 2012's sweltering 41C.

Overseas in Afghanistan, Aussie troops sent their recorded messages to loved ones via video link.

Jessica Mauboy's moving rendition of Advance Australia Fair celebrating Australia Day

In the United States, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton wished all Aussies a safe and happy Australia Day and reiterated that the US remains a committed partner and friend.

"As you celebrate your national day with loved ones, know that the United States stands with you as a committed partner and friend," Ms Clinton said in a statement received today.

"I wish all Australians a safe and happy holiday celebration and continued peace and prosperity in the coming year."

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says new Australian citizens are changing the country for the better.

Ms Clinton said her recent visit to Australia for the annual AUSMIN talks had reminded her of the strong bonds that united the two countries.

Brad Ivers of Eltham CFA bats with Matt Thomas (left) of Eltham CFA and Andrew Griffith (centre) of Wattleglen CFA in the field as they celebrate Australia Day with a game of cricket after their night shift on the Hurstbridge Tanker 2 before heading home on January 26, 2013 in Hayfield, Australia Picture: Hamish Blair Source: Herald Sun

 "We are cooperating on more issues than ever before, from strengthening security to space exploration, from expanding educational exchanges to increasing trade and commerce," she said.

"We are also working tirelessly to advance the causes of freedom, democracy and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific and across the globe. All of this is reinforced by the ties of family, friends, values and principles."

Australia in our own words

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

No cane and able to return home to Perth

THE Perth-based maritime worker arrested by Singaporean authorities for swearing on a Tiger Airways flight out of Perth has had his passport returned and been told he faces no further action.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed today that Bruce Griffiths, 47, had been allowed to leave the country after initially being accused under the country's outrage of modesty laws.

It had originally been thought he may face the cane as a potential punishment, after becoming involved in a swearing match with another male passenger whose sleep he disturbed while allowing a female passenger out of her seat.

But as PerthNow revealed yesterday, that punishment was ruled out by local police and Mr Griffiths was today told he was free to leave the country.

"Singapore Police have advised the Australian High Commission that Mr Griffith's case was concluded today and his passport has been returned to him,'' a DFAT spokeswoman said.

"Our obligations under the Privacy Act 1988 constrain us from providing any further details of the case without consent of the individual concerned.''

Australian consular officials have been assisting Mr Griffiths, who had his passport seized on January 4.

Tiger Airways had earlier confirmed there was an incident on the flight, and said it would not compromise on its zero-tolerance policy of bad behaviour on its carriers.

"Tiger Airways has a zero tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour on board our aircraft,'' a spokeswoman said.

"Safety and security of staff and passengers underpins the operation at all times and is something we will not compromise.''

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Serial killer Catherine Birnie could walk

Serial killer Catherine Birnie's life sentence will be reviewed on Friday, January 25 2013. Source: PerthNow

CATHERINE Birnie, jailed for life over four horrific murders which shocked Perth in the 1980s, will have her life sentence reviewed tomorrow by the Prisoners Review Board.

Birnie, who is now aged in her early 60s, was jailed for a minimum 20 years for the murders of four young Perth women she committed with her de facto husband David Birnie in 1986.

The pair had known each other since childhood, before beginning a love affair a year before the murder spree in which they killed Mary Frances Neilson, 22, Susannah Candy, 15, Noelene Gladys Patterson, 31, and Denise Karen Brown, 21.

The couple were sentenced to strict-security life sentences with 20-year minimums.

David Birnie was found dead in his cell in 2005.

Under law, Catherine Birine must now have her jail sentence reviewed every three years.

Three years ago, the then Attorney-General Christian Porter rejected Birnie's release and any change in her status.

Tomorrow, the Prisoners Review Board will again review Birnie's jail sentence before providing a report on their recommendation to current Attorney General Michael Mischin for a final decision.

"I can confirm that the Prisoners Review Board will be reviewing Ms Birnie's matter tomorrow (Thursday) for her three-yearly statutory review," a Prisoners Review Board spokeswoman said.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Parched towns soaked by Peta onslaught

Cyclone Peta as seen from the PerthNow car on the North West Coastal Highway, 70km west of Karratha. PICTURES: Theo Fakos Source: PerthNow

ASTONISHING rainfall in the Pilbara region of Western Australia has doubled the water in one of the state's dams in just 24 hours.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Peta and associated weather have dumped more than 28 gigalitres of water into the Harding Dam since Wednesday morning, elevating the dam's storage level from under 40 per cent to 80 per cent in just one day.

The category one cyclone weakened rapidly after crossing the Pilbara coast to the east of Point Samson at around 4pm on Wednesday, the Bureau of Meteorology in WA said.

But the weakening front still brought huge rains.

Hooley Station was the wettest location in WA in the 24 hours to 9am this morning with 261.6 mm, which was its wettest day in 29 years of record.

The last wettest day on record for the station was 159.5 mm on February 22, 2001.

Mount Florance also recorded its wettest day since records started at the station 106 years ago, recording 220mm, while Coolawanyah received 178mm and Wittenoom 122mm.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Peta is now lying in the inland central parts of the Pilbara and will move slowly westwards as it weakens.

Thunderstorms and heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, are still forecast for parts of the Pilbara.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services warned people in the Fortescue River catchment to prepare for possible minor flooding expected on Thursday and Friday.

All roads are open but authorities advise drivers to take extreme caution on approach to floodways.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bushfire contained in Trigg

Amateur footage of bushfires in the suburb of Trigg in northern Perth.

Trigg resident 'Snakey' hoses down his home as a fire burns in nearby Trigg Bushland Reserve. Picture: Thomas Roy Photography. Source: PerthNow

Trigg Bushland Reserve after the fire that threatened homes in Trigg and Karrinyup. Picture: Thomas Roy Photography Source: PerthNow

A helitac works to bring a bushfire in Trigg and Karrinyup under control. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

The aerial view from the Channel 10 news chopper. PICTURE: Channel 10 Source: PerthNow

Another view of the fire from Karrinyup Road. PICTURE: Amelia Broun / Twitter Source: PerthNow

A fire burns near West Coast Highway in Karrinyup, forcing road closures and peak-hour traffic mayhem. PICTURE: Drew Barrett Source: PerthNow

ROADS were closed and Trigg residents were told to evacuate their million-dollar homes as a bushfire burned in Trigg Bushland Reserve this afternoon.

The fire was first reported at 4:06pm and contained just after 6:30pm.

There is no longer any threat to lives or homes but there is a lot of smoke in the area.

Firefighters from eight stations and volunteer firefighters from five stations are working to bring the blaze under control.

They have been assisted by the aircrane, four helitacs and an aerial intelligence helicopter.

West Coast Highway remains closed between Pearl Parade and Karrinyup Road.

Karrinyup Road is closed between West Coast Highway/Marmion Ave and West Coast Drive.

Motorists have been warned to avoid the area.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued a bushfire advice for people in Trigg and Karrinyup in an area bounded by West Coast Highway, Milverton Avenue, Lynn Street, and West Coast Drive.

This includes Elliott Road, Lefroy Street, King Albert Road, Hepworth Avenue, Joffrey Road, Spence Street, Trigg Place.
 

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

The Hottest 100: What the bands think

Hottest of the hot: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Birds of Tokyo and the boys from The Rubens. Picture: Supplied Source: news.com.au

THE votes are in and the day is nearly upon us where we all crank up the volume and settle in to enjoy the Triple J Hottest 100 Countdown. But who have the bands got their money on?

Having backed their top songs for 2012, music lovers across the nation will tune in to Triple J this Saturday for the famed Australia Day countdown to see how their faves fare against the rest.

Of course, there are the "sure things" expected to crack the holy list - Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are the boys we can't stop talking about, while Aussie beat-maker Flume will surely score a nod or two and Mumford and Sons looks set to dominate.

We chatted to The Rubens frontman Sam Margin, who was happy to spill on his predictions as to who will top this year's list.

Sam Margin's predictions:

-Alt-J: Breezeblocks
-Tame Impala (probably two songs)

-The Black Keys: Gold On The Ceiling

While The Rubens are favourites this year with hit singles My Gun and The Best We Got, the super talented musician said the four boys from country NSW will be content with just cracking the list.

"Anywhere in the top 100, if we beat the top 100, we'll be happy. If we scrape into the top 20 that would be absolutely amazing", he said.

Birds of Tokyo drummer Adam Weston shared his own fantasy forecast for the countdown:

Adam Weston's predictions:

-The Shins: Simple Song
-Macklemore & Ryan Lewis: Thrift Shop
-Tame Impala: Elephant

"[Elephant] is a stompin' kind of track; it's quite infectious", he confessed.

Adam, who's mother's birthday falls on Australia Day, admitted that there is a fairly strict "no radio" policy in his house so he relies on updates from the band via text.

"We'll be happy to crack the top 50 this year", Weston told.

Online bookmakers were forced to suspend betting earlier this week when some tech-whiz decided to ruin the surprise and circulate his very own Warmest 100 Countdown, which was created by compiling some 35,000 song votes shared on social media sites.

But this doesn't mean we can't still have our very own Fantasy Top 10.

PerthNow's Top 10 Frontrunners:

Of Monsters and Men: Little Talks
Flume: Holdin On
Mumford & Sons: I Will Wait
The Rubens: My Gun
The XX: Angels
The Temper Trap: Trembling Hands
Rudemental: Not Giving In (ft. John Newman & Alex Clare)
Ball Park Music: Surrender
Two Door Cinema Club: Sun
Alabama Shakes: Hold On

Last year, Aussies voted for Gotye's Somebody That I Used To Know as the top song of 2011, with Angus and Julia Stone's Big Jet Plane taking out the title in 2010.

Who have you tipped to take out the top dog spot for 2012? Have your say below.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More

Perth prepares for big bang at Skyworks

PERTH CELEBRATES: Fireworks from the South Perth foreshore on Australia Day last year. Picture: Bohdan Warchomij Source: PerthNow

IT will begin with bouncy castles and a circus and end with several big bangs when Perth celebrates Australia Day this weekend.

In what has become Western Australia's biggest annual community event, the City of Perth's 29th annual Australia Day Skyworks on the Swan River is expected to be more colourful than ever this year.

Last year's crowd numbers were down to about 250,000 due to extreme heat and a thunderstorm, but with a sunny 35 degrees expected this Saturday, organisers are hoping for larger crowds.

There are free activities at Langley Park, following the closure of some viewing points due to the construction of Elizabeth Quay.

The Langley Park Entertainment Zone would offer circus shows, motor cross displays, bouncy castles, mini-golf, face painting, and a laser and water show during the 30-minute pyrotechnics display.

Boaties will also be able to get closer this year, with new river access restrictions expanded to east of the Narrows Bridge.

Limited alcohol will be permitted in two Picnic Zones at Langley Park and Kings Park, but other areas will remain alcohol-free.

Other local councils will also host events including the Cities of Fremantle and Cockburn that will host the Indian Ocean Skyshow at Bathers Bay.

Police Commander Murray Smalpage said there would be a significant police presence where large crowds were expected to gather.

"Police will focus on anti-social behaviour and alcohol-fuelled violence as they ensure families have a safe and enjoyable night wherever they choose to celebrate,'' he said.

Surf lifesavers are also reminding beach-goers to swim between the red and yellow flags, apply sunscreen and stay hydrated over the long weekend.

Since patrols began this season in October, Surf Life Saving WA volunteers have performed 481 rescues, administered first aid to 1840 beach-goers and carried out 10,609 preventative actions.

22.16 | 0 komentar | Read More