Rebels bikies roar into Osborne Park

Members of the Rebels Motorcycle Club coming down Greenmount Hill into Midland. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

Rebels bikies refuel in Kalgoorlie yesterday before setting off for Perth, where they arrive today. Picture: AAP/Travis Anderson. Source: AAP

HUNDREDS of Rebels bikie gang members have reached the gang's Perth clubhouse in Osborne Park, ending their national run across the country.

The run brings together chapters from across Australia, led by national and world president Alex 'The Maltese Falcon' Vella.

Some 800 Rebels rode into the West Australian capital just after 3pm, joining about 200 of their local fellow gang members - who represent the largest chapter in Australia.

They arrived in the state on Tuesday, spending time in Norseman before travelling to the historic gold mining town of Kalgoorlie on Wednesday.

It's understood some quietly sunk drinks in their hotel and motel rooms, given they were banned from entering licensed venues.

They have brought plenty of business to roadhouses and been met with the state's biggest police presence since the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2011.

Members of the public lined the route with their cameras, from Perth's Hills region into the city, posting dozens of photographs of the spectacle on social media.
 

Rebels bikies make their way through Sawyers Valley. Picture: Grant Wynne, ABC / Twitter Source: PerthNow

On their arrival at the clubhouse - more than an hour earlier than expected and with police helicopters buzzing overhead - the bikies were met by a lone journalist from Fairfax radio, whose tiny Mazda 2 was swamped by Harley Davidsons.

"It's party time,'' one bikie was heard saying.

The gang almost made it to Perth without an arrest, but at about 2.30pm one 34-year-old rider was arrested for hindering police and resisting arrest when he was stopped for a vehicle check at Northam.

On Monday, a 53-year-old member was seriously hurt after he hit a kangaroo about 30km east of Madura on Eyre Highway.

He was part of a small group travelling ahead of the main pack, which was still on the South Australian side of the border.

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Woman fined $8000 for cruelty to dog

Dawg the staffy recovering after his chain collar was embedded in his neck. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

RSPCA Senior Inspector Amanda Swift said choker chains should not be used for tethering dogs. Picture: Kerris Berrington Source: PerthNow

A WOMAN has been fined $8000 for animal cruelty after she neglected her Staffordshire bull terrier to the point where a chain collar had become embedded in its neck.

South Australian woman Nicole Peta Easther, 38, who formerly lived in Maida Vale in WA, was today sentenced in her absence for animal cruelty in Midland Magistrates Court and fined $8000.

She was also ordered to pay the RSPCA about $7500 in court costs after being found guilty of one count of animal cruelty.

The court was told Easther was the owner of a four-year-old male Staffordshire bull terrier known as "Dawg".  

A Kalamunda Shire ranger went to a Maida Vale address and found the dog had a choker chain embedded in its neck.

He also observed that the skin surrounding that part of the choker chain around the animal's neck was red and inflamed and was emitting an abnormal smell.

The dog was immediately taken to the nearest veterinary hospital for treatment and the ranger then contacted the RSPCA.

The RSPCA Inspector attended the veterinary hospital and found about 4cm of the choker chain was embedded in the animal's neck and that skin had grown over that part of the choker chain embedded in the animal's neck.

Magistrate Greg Benn said Easther's cruelty was easily preventable.

"This offence involves suffering which could have been very easily prevented," he said.

"The penalty needs to act as a general deterrent given the dog is entirely at the mercy of its owner."

RSPCA Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said choker chains should not be used for any reason, particularly for tethering animals.

"If people need to contain their dog for a short period of time, RSPCA recommends an enclosure with adequate food, shelter and water with appropriate toys and items to keep the dog occupied," she said.
 

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Holiday homes to bowl you over

This Eagle Bay dream holiday house comes complete with its own ten-pin bowling facility and can be yours for just $10.5 million. Source: PerthNow

HERE is a home that might be right up your alley. Bowling alley that is.

Indeed, it's enough to bowl you over.

Just when you thought you'd seen it all . . . here is a lavish super-star home with (wait for it) its own 10-pin bowling alley.

This private arcade comes complete with two pro lanes and a swag of audio-visual wizardry for all the 10-pin bowling action and excitement.

For $10.5m, it's not all you get in what must be one of WA's Ultimate Holiday Homes.

What would be in your Ultimate Holiday Home? Join the conversation below or tweet us @perthnow

The kitchen is almost as stunning as the view in this Eagle Bay dream holiday house. Source: PerthNow

The dream home in the pristine and exclusive enclave of Eagle Bay in WA's South-West, is its own wonderland of entertainment and luxury style - from the 12-seat private cinema, international standard squash court with viewers' gallery, fully equipped gymnasium and sublime indoor pool.

There's a sportsman's bar for the armchair competitor (for which, the luxury leather chairs beckon).

The home might knock you off your pins for its leisure facilities - but the clincher has to be the exquisite ocean views on offer in what is widely regarded as the plum-iest part of the region.

Family and guests will be accommodated in style, from the 14-car garage to the elevator.

Agent Andrew Hopkins of JHY Realty in Dunsborough is not exaggerating when he describes the property as a "a truly utopian lifestyle''.

In case you don't like the outdoor pool, there's an indoor pool/spa too. Source: PerthNow

The Wedgetail View residence is one of a select group of pinnacle holidays homes currently on the market in WA, Realestate has found.

Each has its own flavour and array of delights offering a range of experiences from the super-sophisticated to the richly rustic.

102 Black Rocks Road, Bremer Bay. Picture: Supplied Source: PerthNow

For an experience in breathtaking remoteness, 102 Black Rocks Rd Bremer Bay, on the far, far south-eastern coastline of WA, is surely a game-changer.

The architectural "love-child'' of a creative couple, the home has been styled in the mode of a "finca'', the Spanish word for land and house in Ibiza, where the couple first met.

The property was a hands-on journey for the husband-and-wife team who are a sculptor and artist respectively - both professions evident in the incredible cliff-top home.

Originally looking at another property in the area, the couple went to view the spectacular lot on a whim - and saw a whale breach right out of the water in front of them.

"We took it as a sign,'' they said . . . and the rest is history. The Ibizan-styled abode is now on the market for $1.295m and agent Jill McQuoid of Airey Real Estate in Claremont does not hold back when she says it is a home of "extreme beauty''.

308 O'Brien Rd, Gidgegannup. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

Closer to Perth is a weekender that also provides a serene landscape experience, in the longstanding "hills'' retreat of Gidgegannup, 40km north-east of the city.

Dubbed "Banjar'', the $4.95m property rolls over a generous 50ha and the recently constructed building which spans more than 920 square metres on its own, has the Zen mood of an oriental resort.

Horse facilities, paddocks and forest outlooks are among the features of a property which agent John Garland of John Garland International says "offers a vitality and privacy seldom experienced in a near-city location''.

Thurstun Lane, Dunsborough. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

For some, holidays can only be defined by one word: "beach''.

To take a step back to the notion of a beachfront shack of yore, the cosy $2.49m absolute oceanfront cottage home in Thurstun Lane, Dunsborough may be one of the last-remaining examples.

A character home clad in cheerful blue inspired by the colours of the bay, the property has the high ceilings and jarrah floors of a comfy getaway overlooking the turquoise waters of the sea.

Agent Mr Hopkins of JHY Realty argues ``feel the sand between your toes, hear the waves lap at the shore . . . all the sensory wonders of absolute beachfront living can be yours''. And we don't doubt it.

Maitraya private retreat near Albany. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

Of course, if your pockets are truly deep and your guests many, then the private resort which famously accommodated Lady Gaga on retreat, is still for sale - for offers more than $20m.

Maitraya, enjoying some of the most incredible ocean views near Albany, is a pure haven on more than 222ha of exquisite coastline.

A sealed airstrip and a helicopter pad make it easily accessible by air for those who would prefer to fly there, and its long list of amenities (including bird hides) is matched only by the natural wonders on offer.

Agent Nicolette van Wijngaarden of Unique Estates Australia states: "It offers nature, adventure and freedom in one unforgettable package''.

WA's holiday homes certainly promise an affair to remember.

* For further information contact: Andrew Hopkins 0407 440 438 (Eagle Bay and Dunsborough); Jill McQuoid 0418 924 679 (Bremer Bay); John Garland 0418 923 347 (Gidgegannup); Nicolette van Wijngaarden 0411 144 877 and Neil McAllister, Mack Hall Real Estate, 0417 179 218 (Albany)

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Prince William quits armed forces

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge awards a rosette during his visit at Anglesey agricultural show on his first official engagement since the birth of his son Prince George of Cambridge. Picture: Getty Images Source: Getty Images

RAF helicopter pilot Prince William at the controls of a Sea King helicopter working for the search-and-rescue service which is under threat of privatisation. Source: AP

PRINCE William is to leave the armed forces and temporarily focus on official engagements both in Britain and overseas, Kensington Palace says.

The new father will spend the next year considering his future work options with an announcement on that to come "in due course".

The Duke of Cambridge's wife Kate gave birth to baby George in July.

Prince William has been working as an RAF search and rescue helicopter pilot in Wales.

But the palace on Thursday announced "the Duke is to leave operational service in the armed forces".

"He completes his tour with the RAF search and rescue force ... after more than seven-and-a-half years of full-time military service," the palace said in a statement.

Prince William plans to support the work of the Queen and the royal family through a program of official engagements with Kate.

Over the next 12 months he'll work with the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

"He will expand his work in the field of conservation particularly in respect of endangered species," the palace said, adding he'd also continue to work with his charities on issues relating to children, young people, veterans and serving members of the armed forces.

As to his long-term future, the palace stated: "The Duke is currently considering a number of options for public service, a further announcement on which will follow in due course."

William, Kate and little Prince George are expected to move into their official residence at Kensington Palace within the next few weeks.

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Welcome to the Lodge, ladies

Former PM Kevin Rudd honours a promise to give incoming PM Tony Abbott a guided tour of The Lodge.

Tony Abbott's girls . . . from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

A SHORT chat between fathers and the handover between Prime Ministers was complete.

Kevin Rudd flew to Canberra on Thursday to hand over the keys to The Lodge and asked Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott if his daughters planned to live at the official residence.

"The short answer is yes, because they don't want to leave home," Mr Abbott replied.

WELCOME: Rudd opens Lodge door to Abbott era

ABBOTT GOVT: Science Naplan tests face axe

SETBACK: Indonesia to block dob a smuggler plan

Mr Rudd quipped: "I know that feeling. "

Mr Abbott's eldest daughter Louise lives in Switzerland with her boyfriend Stefano.

The ladies in Tony Abbott's life ... from right, daughters Bridget, Louise, wife Margaret and Frances. Picture: AP Source: AP

His youngest daughters Frances and Bridget live at home in Sydney, where they are studying and are likely to remain based.

CONTEST: Shorten on campaign to lead Labor

Tea at The Lodge for the incoming Prime Minister was a tradition of previous outgoing leaders such Paul Keating who gave John Howard a guided tour in 1996.

Outgoing PM Kevin Rudd welcomes Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott to The Lodge for the official handover of the Prime Ministerial Canberra residence. Picture: Ray Strange Source: News Limited

Mr Howard and his wife Janette hosted Mr Rudd and his wife Therese Rein in 2007.

He said in his concession speech on Saturday he would continue the tradition and after Thursday's brief meeting Mr Rudd left the residence for the final time.

ELECTION: Liberals ahead as vote count continues

The Lodge handover came as Federal Liberal Director Brian Loughnane ordered all campaign staff to keep all advertising and material prepared about Mr Rudd's leadership in case he attempts a comeback.

Bill Shorten will stand for the Labor leadership, saying he wants to lead the rebuilding of the party.

Orders to keep the Rudd files came before former Trade Minister Craig Emerson said Mr Rudd had been telling people he planned to make a third comeback for the Labor leadership, emulating Prime Minister Andrew Fisher.

TRUST ME: Shorten's Labor pitch for leadership

Meanwhile, Mr Abbott received his first call from US President Barack Obama on Thursday.

He told the President America and Australia were the "greatest friends."

Tony Abbott taking US President Barack Obama's phone call of congratulations. Source: Supplied

If it was possible to punish Syria for the use of chemical weapons on their own people without the use of military force that would be welcome, Mr Abbott said.

PHONE CALL: Obama congratulates Abbott

If America took further steps against the regime in Syria it would have political support from Australia, he said.

The pair will meet at the APEC summit in Bali next month.

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Victim 'unrecognisable' after assault

A Perth man has described the moment he was beaten to a bloody pulp by two men at a bar in the city at the weekend while at his son?s bucks night.

Allan, who is recuperating at his suburban home after he was attacked at Tiger Lils Restaurant and Bar in Murray Street last weekend. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

Police believe this man can help with inquries into an assault at Tiger Lil's in the city. Picture: Supplied. Source: PerthNow

A PERTH man has described the moment he was beaten to a bloody pulp by two men at a bar in the city at the weekend while at his son's bucks night.

The 47-year-old victim, who only wants to be known as Allan, was bashed by the two men between 11pm on Saturday and 1am on Sunday at Tiger Lil's on Murray Street.

Just hours after the savage assault, he had a seizure in hospital and needed stitches to various parts of his face.

Because of the seizure, he's been told he can't drive a car for at least six months.

Allan was out having a few quiet drinks for his son's bucks night when he was savagely beaten by the pair.

Allan said one of the men spoke with him briefly as he was sat down on his own at the rear of the venue.

He tried to get up, but was pushed back down and punched by one of the men.

The first attacker was then assisted by a second younger man.

"This guy just stood over me and said "move along" or something like that, I questioned him and the result was I ended up getting the crap punched out of me," Allan said.

"I don't think I said anything wrong, even if I did does it justify what happened?

"The first punch took me out of action…I don't know how long it went on for.

"The next thing I can recollect…I woke up on the floor.

"My right hand was covered in blood and there was blood running down over my right eye.

"I was not even looking at him when the first blow came.

"I've got stitches on my right eyebrow, above my upper lip, on the inside of my upper lip…the right side of my head is pounding.

"It was just brutal…it's just very cowardly."

Allan was taken to Royal Perth Hospital by taxi where he was treated for various facial injuries.

His wife Alice said when she got to the hospital to see her husband, Allan was almost unrecognisable.

"He was a mess and he was distraught," she said.

"I was on my own with him in the room when he had the seizure.

"He was just sitting there minding his own business (in the bar.)

"It's just been really very traumatic for all of us."

Alice said she feared if the two men responsible were not caught soon they could do the same to someone else.

"They've gone and done it to somebody who was not doing anything wrong so I am frightened if something is not done about these people the next person could be dead," she said.

Detective Senior Constable Sam Hazlitt of Perth City Detectives said two men who attacked Allan inside the bar were last seen leaving the venue walking along Murray Street.

"We see these sorts of incidents far too often on Perth's streets," he said.

The first man who attacked Allan is Caucasian, aged around 30, 188cm tall, with a medium to heavy build.

He was wearing a black shirt, had a mullet style haircut, tattoos on his right arm and a gold chain around his neck.

The second man is younger aged in his 20s and had a shaved head with a mullet at the back.

Police want to speak to the man pictured who they believe can assist with their inquiries.

Anyone with any information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Why we'll never forget September 11

The North Tower was hit first and hit highest, leaving people above the impact zone no chance of escape Source: Supplied

IT WAS unquestionably the most terrible day of our age. September 11, 2001.

Almost 3000 innocent people died when terrorists hijacked four civilian planes. Two of the planes struck the twin towers of New York's World Trade Center. One nosedived into the Pentagon in Washington. And one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania thanks to the brave efforts of passengers who stormed the cockpit.

As Americans begin their day of mourning, we've compiled 30 images to remind you why this day was so momentous.

Moment of impact: the south tower is hit Source: Supplied

As smoke billows from the north tower, the second hijacked plane bears down on the south tower Source: Supplied

There are many shots from different angles of the planes striking the towers, but one reason there are not thousands of different images is that iPhones had not yet been invented and many phones had no cameras. Source: Supplied

The millisecond before the plane strikes the south tower Source: Supplied

Here's one for the conspiracy nutters who claim the building was bombed and that there were never any planes. Clue: bombs don't make plane-shaped holes. Source: Supplied

One of the most horrific and enduring 9/11 images was the people trapped in the upper levels of the twin towers. Many jumped. Some held hands while they did so. At least two hundred people are believed to have taken the fateful plunge. Source: Supplied

Another view of the south tower being struck Source: Supplied

As office workers descend, heroes ascend. Firefighters carrying huge loads had to walk a few floors at a time, rest for a few seconds, then walk a few more floors. Pic taken by John Labriola, who had an office on 71st floor. Source: Supplied

The south tower of the World Trade Center was the second hit but first to fall. Source: Supplied

This picture taken by Associated Press photographer Richard drew was deemed too controversial by most newspaper editors. "The Falling Man" became the subject of a documentary, but the identity of the man plummeting to his death is still disputed. Some families refuse to believe it could be their relative for religious reasons, even though no 9/11 victim has been classified as dying by suicide. Source: Supplied

Strangers became friends as they fled the horror together. Many remain close to this day, including countless office workers who helped each other out of the twin towers. Source: Supplied

This was a day of mourning for all Americans, whether they knew a victim or not. Source: Supplied

There were also 125 victims at the Pentagon in Washington — 70 civilian and 55 military personnel. Source: Supplied

There is something about this man's dust-covered suit and general demeanour which makes this an unforgettable image Source: Supplied

The force of the world's highest towers collapsing reduced buildings to ash which coated survivors in a ghoulish cloak. Source: Supplied

Many men hugged on a day when over 400 emergency workers were killed. Source: Supplied

Not much left: this would not be one of those searches where victims emerged for days to come Source: Supplied

Fire soon spread to many nearby buildings Source: Supplied

And sometimes the heroes needed a little attention themselves. Source: Supplied

People had no idea if the dust cloud would kill them, hence the terror. Source: Supplied

No, this is not a still from the latest blockbuster disaster movie. It's yet another 9/11 hero carrying yet another survivor to safety. Source: Supplied

While for some, words just couldn't describe the horror. Source: Supplied

The North tower was hit first and collapsed second, possibly because it was hit higher Source: Supplied

The search continued in vain. Source: Supplied

This guy wasn't alone in seeking comfort in a familiar symbol after the attacks. Source: Supplied

Looks like a New Yorker, tough like a New Yorker, devastated like every New Yorker was on 9/11. Source: Supplied

Manhattan was bathed in an eerie smoke for days afterwards Source: Supplied

With bridges and tunnels closed to all but emergency vehicles, New Yorkers had no choice but to walk home. The green sign on the left says: Welcome to Manhattan Source: Supplied

Engineers say that the World Trade Centers had an unusual design, where much of the structural load was carried by the exterior shell of the building rather than central columns. So when that shell was pierced, the buildings were weakened significantly, precipitating their collapse. Source: Supplied

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Destructive winds smash Mandurah

A Mandurah pest control business was virtually torn apart by the wild winds which struck about 2am. Picture: Twitter/Channel 9 Source: PerthNow

A Secret Harbour family inspects the damage with a fibro fence laying in ruins. Picture: Twitter/Channel 9 Source: PerthNow

A gazebo was destroyed at Anstey Park, Secret Harbour, just north of Mandurah overnight. Picture: Emma Reid

A MANDURAH pest control business has been virtually destroyed and at least 20 homes damaged as destructive winds tore through the region overnight.

The Mandurah Pest Control business suffered extensive damage to its brick premises.

Violent winds and a weak tornado have brought down trees and damaged about 20 houses in Secret Harbour, just north of Mandurah overnight.

A 100km/h wind gust was recorded at Mandurah at 1.53am today and Cape Leeuwin has been buffeted by strong winds in excess of 75km/h since about 5am, with a maximum gust of 106km/h at midday, after an earlier peak of 96km/h just after 7am.

Isolated thunderstorms are forecast to continue in Perth's southern suburbs tonight, with westerly winds between 25km/h and 40km/h expected.

A severe weather warning remains in place tonight for people south-west of a line from Mandurah to Albany, with warnings of gusts up to 100km/h.

A marine wind warning and a sheep graziers warning also remain in place for WA's south-west.

Mandurah Pest Control owner Troy Cherry arrived at work this morning to find the top storey of his business completely levelled.

The father-of-two said the entire front of the building would need to be rebuilt.

"It's just hit the front of our building and damaged the front of our building only and nothing else around has been damaged," he said.

"Five foot (1.5m) of bricks all the way around the roof have fallen on top of the roof and completely flattened everything in the office."

Mr Cherry said 50 years of customer records had been lost as well as personal belongings, including his children's motorbikes.

"There is nothing we can do about it. We can't get in there. It's just too unsafe," he said.

Mr Cherry said it was "devastating". "I think I'm in shock still," he said.

"At the moment all that matters is everybody is safe. No-one was in the building.

"If it happened two hours later there would have been all four of us standing there discussing the day's work."

A fallen tree smashed onto a gazebo in Anstey Park, Secret Harbour.

"As you can see it has been completely smashed by a fallen tree," said PerthNow reader Emma Reid.

Storm damage at Secret Harbour. Picture: Trish Crellin Source: PerthNow

The SES received 30 calls for assistance, with Secret Harbour, just north of Mandurah, the worst affected suburb.

"There was also one request for assistance in Waroona and another in Nannup," the statement said.

"Both were for roof damage."

Mrs Reid, who lives in Secret Harbour, said the damage was the result of "ferocious" winds, the worst of which hit around 2am. She and her husband were woken up by a "roar of wind" at around 2am.

"It was just wild out there," she said. We thought the roof was going to come off. We didn't get much sleep."

Storm damage at Secret Harbour. Picture: Trish Crellin Source: PerthNow

The strong cold front has dumped heavy rain on the city and is threatening destructive winds in excess of 125km/h in the south of the state from Mandurah to Albany.

Widespread, heavy showers brought decent falls across the metropolitan.

By 2pm Bickley had recorded 37mm, Perth 25mm, Jandakot 26mm and Champion Lakes 20mm. Dwellingup, 97km south of the city, has had 37mm.

Swanbourne has also had 20mm and Perth Airport 22mm.

Perth has now had more than 40mm for September, and is on track to reach the monthly average of just over 80mm.

And the city is facing another wintry day, with showers and storms forecast with a maximum temperature of 19C. The Bureau is tipping 100 per cent likelihood of more rain, with 10mm-25mm possible.

Showers are tipped on and off for the next week.

Today's Forecast: Cloudy. Showers and scattered thunderstorms. Winds northwesterly 25km/h to 35km/h turning westerly 30 to 45km/h during the morning.

In the South West, Mount William had the state's highest fall to 9am, 32mm, Witchcliffe had 27mm and Collie 24mm.

Some rain has also penetrated into the Great Southern with many centres recording 5mm or more and some around 10mm. Wandering and Williams had 11mm to 9am.

Severe Weather Warning

A Severe Weather Warning remains in place for destructive winds, now estimated to be up to 100km/h for people in the Lower West, South West and South Coastal forecast districts.

The wild weather is expected to affect areas southwest of a line from Mandurah to Albany, including: Mandurah, Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River, Bridgetown and Albany.

"A strong cold front is moving across southwestern parts of the state, with a low pressure system passing south of the state to lie south of Albany by Wednesday evening,'' the Bureau advised.

"In isolated areas showers and thunderstorms may produce dangerous gusts in excess of 100km/h which could cause significant damage or destruction to homes and property.

"The greatest risk of dangerous gusts is most likely from mid to late Wednesday morning as the low moves to lie south of Albany by Wednesday evening. Strong and squally winds are expected to continue through to Wednesday evening.''

"This is typical weather for this time of year but winds may cause damage to property and make road conditions hazardous.''

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:

    If outside find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams.
    Close your curtains and blinds, and stay inside away from windows.
    Unplug electrical appliances and do not use land line telephones if there is lightning.
    If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
    Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.

If your home or property has significant damage, like a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the SES on 132 500.

Forecast: The week ahead

Thursday 12 September
Min 12, Max 20.
Cloudy. Isolated showers. Winds westerly 25 to 35 km/h decreasing to 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming northwesterly and light in the late evening.

Friday 13 September
Min 13, Max 20. Showers and chance of a storm.

Saturday 14 September
Min 10, Max 19. Morning storms. Showers.

Sunday 15 September
Min 10, Max 21. Possible shower.

Monday 16 September
Min 12, Max 23. Shower or two. Becoming windy.

Tuesday 17 September
Min 13, Max 19. Morning shower or two.

Wednesday 18 September
Min 12, Max 21. Shower or two.

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No WACA Test in 2014-15 cricket season

The Western Australian Cricket Association has warned of devastating effects after Perth missed out on a Test match during the 2014/15 season.

Australia against the West Indies at a packed WACA ground in Perth earlier this year. Perth has been dropped as a Test Match venue for the 2014/15 season. Source: PerthNow

PERTH has been dropped as a Test match venue after Cricket Australia announced its schedule for the 2014-15 season.

India, who will tour during the 2014-15 summer, will play four Tests in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.

It will be the first time since 1976-77 season that the WACA Ground has not hosted a Test during an Australian summer.

The decision has angered WA cricket officials and WACA chief executive Christina Matthews said the WACA was 'extremely disappointed' with the decision.

"The fans in WA have consistently supported Test cricket at the WACA and we are devastated that thousands of loyal cricket fans will not be able to see the Test match live against India," she said.

Perth will host additional one-day internationals during the summer but Ms Matthews said there was no compensation for losing a Test.

"The ongoing effect this loss will have on the WACA and cricket in Western Australia will be devastating and we are extremely disappointed by the decision, not only for the Association, but for our Members and WA cricket supporters," she said.

"We will continue talks with CA and will be seeking an understanding from them of all the elements behind the decision."

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said the WACA's capacity and facilities were factors in the decision to axe Perth from the Test schedule.

"Though a traditional Test match venue with a proud history, the WACA ground has the smallest capacity of the five mainland Test venues and has historically attracted lower attendances," he said.

"The WACA has been working hard to improve the facilities for its fans but it still requires significant improvements."

Ms Matthews said the WACA had outlined several reasons why Perth should remain a Test venue.

"Domestic TV ratings from the Perth match of the last series between these two nations was the equal highest in Australia at 1.12 million," she said.

"The 2008 and 2012 Tests between Australia and India at the WACA were also extremely well attended, with the first three days of the 2012 Test sold out, so the WA cricket fans are the big losers here."

Mr Sutherland said it was a one-off situation that he does not see happening again.

"All have strong claims for hosting a Test and many factors were taken into consideration, including the allocation of 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup matches, but on this occasion the Adelaide Oval and the Gabba were considered to have the strongest claims," he said.

"The Adelaide Oval is scheduled to complete a $535 million dollar re-development this season that will see the venue deliver world-class facilities for fans, players, broadcasters and media.

"The Oval has also built up a strong history of attendance over many seasons and the new facilities will only add to that fan experience.

"The Gabba is a large high quality venue in Australia's third largest city and serves a large population of Australian cricket fans, including the large urban areas of the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, plus many who travel long distances to make the annual trip to Brisbane for the Test match.

"Another factor in the Gabba's favour was the limitations on their ability to effectively host other international cricket matches in the 2014-15 summer due to the G20 summit and the 2015 Asian Cup being scheduled respectively in November 2014 and January 2015."

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Man crushed in scissor lift accident

File picture: BGC Cement plant in Naval Base, where a man has been crushed to death in a scissor lift.. Picture: Alf Sorbello. Source: PerthNow

A MAN has been killed after he was crushed by a scissor lift at the BGC cement plant in Naval Base this afternoon.

The 44-year-old man was working at the company's cement site on Beard and Morley Streets.

Police were notified about 12.30pm today of the incident. Emergency services are on site, as are WorkSafe inspectors.

WorkSafe was called in to investigate another death at the BGC plant last year, after a man was buried alive when a sand pile collapsed on him in a silo.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Lex McCulloch said any work-related death was a tragedy, and relayed his sincere condolences to the family.

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