A 54-YEAR-OLD man has been bashed with a wooden pole by two intruders at his home in Sydney's southwest in what police believe is a targeted attack.
Police said two men wearing balaclavas forced entry into the Canley Vale home at about 7.30pm (AEDT) on Sunday, assaulting the man and leaving him with a fractured arm and head injuries before fleeing.
The victim was taken to Liverpool Hospital where he is in a stable condition.
Police say early inquiries suggest it may have been a targeted attack.
A 54-YEAR-OLD man has been bashed with a wooden pole by two intruders at his home in Sydney's southwest in what police believe is a targeted attack.
Police said two men wearing balaclavas forced entry into the Canley Vale home at about 7.30pm (AEDT) on Sunday, assaulting the man and leaving him with a fractured arm and head injuries before fleeing.
The victim was taken to Liverpool Hospital where he is in a stable condition.
Police say early inquiries suggest it may have been a targeted attack.
Sydney has barely noticed the Kings are back in the Australian basketball league finals for the first time in five years.
There is not even a mention of game two of the semi-final series between the Kings and the Breakers in today's Sydney Morning Herald, while the playoff only rates a small mention at the back of the sport section in the Daily Telegraph, behind rugby league, football, rugby union, racing, Aussie Rules and netball.
To make matters worse, the venue for this afternoon's game, the Sydney Entertainment Centre, doesnâ t even advertise the playoff on any of its billboards.
It is clear the NBL still has a long way to go to win back recognition in Australia's biggest city.
Photo: Photosport
SYDNEY: Two Airbus A380s made a dramatic tandem flight over the Sydney Harbor Bridge to launch the new Qantas-Emirates partnership, hailed by the Australian carrier as a “seismic shift” in aviation.
The tie-up, approved recently by Australia’s competition watchdog, allows the two airlines to combine operations for an initial period of five years, including coordinating ticket prices and schedules.
It will also see Qantas switch its hub for European flights from Singapore to Emirates’ Dubai base as it attempts to turn around its struggling international business.
“Dubai is the best hub for Qantas in the 21st century,” the company’s chief executive Alan Joyce said after watching the flyover by superjumbos from both airlines at 450 meters over Sydney’s famous landmark.
“It is eight hours’ flying time from 75 percent of the world’s population.”
Joyce said the deal was one of the most important strategic initiatives Qantas would ever make, offering benefits to customers in terms of network and frequent flyer benefits and cutting flight times to top European destinations.
“This is one of the biggest days in Qantas’s 92-year history. That’s because this partnership will play a critical role for us into the future,” Joyce said.
“This joint network with Emirates is a key part of tackling the structural challenges that Qantas International is faced with. But more than that... it is a seismic shift in global aviation.”
At a press conference with Joyce, president of Emirates Tim Clark said the stitching together of the airlines’ services had created a “game-changing partnership” providing “one of the most formidable aviation networks in the world.”
He said the aviation sector had not previously contemplated a partnership of this scale, particularly involving Emirates which historically had not been keen on forming partnerships.
The alliance is seen as vital to the sustainability of Qantas, which last year posted its first annual deficit since privatization in 1995 due to tougher competition and high fuel costs for its international arm.
For Emirates customers, it opens up Qantas’s Australian domestic network of more than 50 destinations.
Australia’s Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said he believed the arrangement would benefit Qantas and Emirates, but also Australian businesses and holidaymakers traveling to Europe and northern Africa, as well as Australian tourism.
“But it is also the case that we live in a world whereby, as an end point destination, Qantas couldn’t continue to be exactly as it has been in the past,” Albanese said. “We do need partnerships, which are a fact of the global aviation industry.”
Aviation analyst Geoffrey Thomas said the partnership was a sign of the times. “It recognizes that the hub of aviation is moving from Asia to the Middle East,” he told Sky News, adding that while Asia would remain dominant, the Middle East made more sense for European journeys.
The first Qantas flights departing from Sydney and Melbourne to London via the international hub of Dubai were due to leave Sunday.
Qantas said the feat by the two super-jumbos is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that two commercial airline A380s have flown in formation.
Pilots from both airlines completed dozens of special simulator training sessions, with Emirates pilots traveling Down Under this month to train in Qantas’s A380 simulator.
Sydney sport and media circles are in mourning over the death of PR consultant Rod "Rocket" Allen. Source: AAP
SYDNEY sport and media circles are mourning journalist-turned-PR consultant Rod "Rocket" Allen, whose body was discovered on Cockatoo Island.
It is understood Mr Allen had been camping with his wife Laila on the Sydney Harbour island on Saturday night to celebrate a former colleague's 50th birthday.
Police believe Mr Allen fell from a cliff overnight, but investigations into his death continue.
A spokeswoman could not confirm a News Ltd report he became disoriented when he was returning to his tent on the northern side of the island in the early hours of Sunday morning and fell from a viewing platform overhanging a sandstone cliff.
News Ltd reported investigations by water police would focus on whether there was adequate fencing, lighting and signage around the 20-metre drop and the pathways leading to the platform.
The man nicknamed Rocket joined the media industry more than 20 years ago, as a cadet with News Ltd, and eventually became a sports managing editor for Fairfax before going on to found the public relations firm Rocket Group in 2009.
As media manager for the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club, he watched the Wanderers win the Premiers Plate on Friday in the team's inaugural season.
Club executive chairman Lyall Gorman said football had lost a great friend.
"On this day of immense shock and sadness, we remember Rod's wonderful warm nature," Mr Gorman said.
"I am not sure that in the nine years I have known Rod that I have ever seen him happier or prouder when it came to football (than on Friday)."
As news of his death spread on Sunday evening, friends and colleagues took to Twitter to express their grief.
"Wow.. Can't believe it, Rod Allen, amazing guy, love to his family and friends. Shocked," said Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.
One colleague wrote: "Rod Allen was an inspirational sports editor and a wonderful mentor for all who worked with him,"
Another described the media man as a "master of his craft and an even better bloke", while a third remembered him as a "good guy with a ready smile".
Mr Allen had worked as head of media relations for Football Federation Australia, supporting Australia's bids for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the Socceroos' campaigns for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar.
FFA CEO David Gallop paid tribute to Mr Allen's professionalism.
"His no-nonsense approach to the task at hand was his trademark and many who dealt with him appreciated this dedication to getting the story, hitting deadline or managing an issue," Mr Gallop said.
"On behalf of the Australian Football Community, we offer our deepest condolences to his family during this extremely sad time."
Fairfax reported friends and family left the island about 2pm (AEDT) on Sunday before gathering in Balmain to mourn.
SYDNEY – Two Airbus A380s made a dramatic tandem flight Sunday over the Sydney Harbour Bridge to launch the new Qantas-Emirates partnership, hailed by the Australian carrier as a “seismic shift” in aviation.
The tieup, approved last week by Australia’s competition watchdog, allows the two airlines to combine operations for an initial period of five years, including coordinating ticket prices and schedules.
It will also see Qantas switch its hub for European flights from Singapore to Emirates’ Dubai base as it attempts to turn around its struggling international business.
“Dubai is the best hub for Qantas in the 21st century,” the company’s chief executive, Alan Joyce, said after watching the flyover by superjumbos from both airlines at 1,500 feet (450 meters) over Sydney’s famous landmark. “It is eight hours’ flying time from 75 percent of the world’s population.”
At a news conference with Emirates President Tim Clark, Joyce said the partnership would offer huge benefits to customers in terms of network and frequent flier benefits, cutting flight times to top European destinations.
“This is one of the biggest days in Qantas’ 92-year history. That’s because this partnership will play a critical role for us into the future,” Joyce said. “This joint network with Emirates is a key part of tackling the structural challenges that Qantas International is faced with. But more than that . . . it is a seismic shift in global aviation.”
Qantas said the feat by the two superjumbos is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that two commercial airline A380s have flown in formation.
The alliance is seen as vital to the sustainability of Qantas, which last year posted its first annual deficit since privatization in 1995 due to tougher competition and high fuel costs for its international arm.
With services to Asia no longer tied to onward links to Europe, Qantas has said that it is also considering new direct destinations from Australia, including Beijing, Seoul, Mumbai, Delhi and Tokyo-Haneda.
The site of the accident at Cockatoo Island. Picture: Channel 9 Source: Supplied
Rod Allen with his wife Laila in 2005. Picture: Morgan James Source: Supplied
SYDNEY sporting circles are mourning the death of Rod Allen - "an all-round good bloke" - who died in an accident on Cockatoo Island today.
Allen fell off a viewing platform overhanging a cliff on Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour. He had been camping with his wife Laila and close friends.
Following a friend's birthday celebration on Saturday night the former sports editor turned sports media consultant became disoriented when he was returning to his tent on the northern side of the island.
He fell over a sandstone cliff adjacent to the historic Biloela House, where the party was held, in the early hours of the morning.
The investigation by NSW water police will centre on whether there was adequate fencing, lighting and signage around the 20m drop and the pathways leading to the platform, which appeared to be undergoing repairs.
Allen was found at the base of the cliff on Sunday morning.
The world-heritage-listed former convict island is managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, a Federal Government agency.
Executive director Geoff Bailey said "there was no construction work going on anywhere near where the incident happened".
Allen's wife Laila was too upset to speak, however, Allen's friends and colleagues have spoken about his infectious personality which touched the lives of many people.
Post your tributes and messages of support below
Allen grew up in Castle Hill in Sydney’s north-west and was the son of a newspaper compositor.
He joined the Daily Telegraph as a cadet in 1986, rising quickly through the ranks, reporting on politics and business before becoming a sports editor.
In 1998 he joined the Sydney Morning Herald where, in 2004, he became managing sports editor of the SMH and Sun Herald.
He took redundancy in October 2009 to take up the job as head of media relations at Football Federation Australia, working on Australia's bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He also worked as a consultant for the Australian Turf Club, then last year worked for the Australian Olympic Committee at the London Olympics.
Most recently he set up his own consultancy, The Rocket Group.
Stuart Gregor, who knew Allen for 25 years since they began as cadets together at News Limited said he "was one of the really good honest decent blokes who was a true news man no matter what his role".
"He's gone way way too soon," Gregor said.
Mark Skaife, five-time V8 Supercar Champion and six-time Bathurst winner, said:
"Rod was not only an outstanding journalist but also a terrific bloke. I was honoured to have met Rod many times and for him to attend the last fulltime race of my career.
"This news is truly devastating and an enormous loss to the media and sport in this country. My thoughts and prayers are with Rod's family in this terrible, terrible time."
Former Football Federation of Australia boss and friend, Ben Buckley, said Allen's legacy was summed up in a speech at his farewell party from the FFA.
"Someone said that there is no-one they would rather be in the trenches with than Rod Allen. I think that says everything about him," Buckley said.
Buckley said Allen was "very level headed" and calm but also forthright and firm in his views.
"He had a great intuition for what was right and what was wrong and was always willing to back his point of view, that won him respect," Buckley said.
"He was a great friend of many people at the FFA. A wonderful loyal team member. No-one has a bad word to say about him.
"He was well loved by many people in many different aspects of sport. We are deeply saddened by the news.
"He did great work around the World Cup bid and around the A-League.
"He was a great confidant to me - a really great friend of mine.
"He was a fun guy to have around the office." Buckley said.
AOC media director Mike Tancred said Allen was gifted and cool-headed when he ran the main press centre office for the AOC at the London Olympics.
Tancred said Allen's personality and talent "set him apart" in the media industry.
"People who worked with him were encouraged by him - he had a great way with people.
Tancred said the success of Allen's consultancy, Rocket Group, "spoke volumes of his talent".
Tancred said he kept in touch with Allen after the Olympics through their shared passion for horse racing.
Australian Turf Club chief executive Darren Pearce said Allen would "leave a lasting mark on Sydney racing, but more than anything else he will leave a mark on the people he worked closest with".
"I couldn't fathom how someone so fit in the prime of his life and with so much to live for could meet such a tragic end.
"Rod had been on an amazing journey with Sydney racing over the past four years through the merger process, redevelopment funding and the transformation that is now deep in progress," Pearce said.
"The ATC is deeply saddened by Rod's passing and we send our love and prayers to his mum (who is a regular at Sydney race tracks) his wife Laila and the team at Rocket Group," Pearce said.
V8 Supercars media manager Cole Hitchcock said Allen was "hugely respected" across a number of different sports and a "very approachable, likeable good guy".
"He supportive of V8 supercars over a long period of time" Hitchcock said.
"He recognised the growth of the sport, we literally became mainstream overnight.
"He was instrumental in helping with the profile of the sport."
Sydney Morning Herald sports editor Ian Fuge said all of Allen’s friends were "stunned and struggling" to take this in at the moment.
"Our thoughts are with Rod's family and his many, many friends.
"Rod was a terrific sports editor whose nose for a story and professionalism still resonates on our sportsdesk today.
"But to those of us who worked with him, he was much more than that - he was a close friend. Indeed, many of us were with him last night, celebrating a colleague's birthday.
"He was a champion bloke. Warm, generous, fiercely loyal, always up for a beer and a pub debate, Rod was a fun person to be around. We will all miss him."
Allen, lived in Bondi and liked to keep fit - mainly through boxing training.
He was an avid Parramatta Eels and Socceroos supporter and, as a teenager, was a top amateur tennis player.
by Madeleine Coorey, 2013-03-31 15:38:42.0
FLYOVER: A Qantas Airways and an Emirates Airlines Airbus A380 fly in formation during a flyover at an altitude of around 450m above Sydney on Sunday. Picture: REUTERS
SYDNEY — Two Airbus A380s made a dramatic tandem flight over the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday to launch the new Qantas-Emirates partnership, hailed by the Australian carrier as a "seismic shift" in aviation.
The tie-up, approved last week by Australia’s competition watchdog, allows the two airlines to combine operations for an initial period of five years, including co-ordinating ticket prices and schedules.
It will also see Qantas switch its hub for European flights from Singapore to Emirates’ Dubai base as it attempts to turn around its struggling international business.
"Dubai is the best hub for Qantas in the 21st century," the company’s chief executive Alan Joyce said after watching the flyover by superjumbos from both airlines at 450m over Sydney’s famous landmark.
"It is eight hours’ flying time from 75% of the world’s population." At a press conference with the president of Emirates Tim Clark, Mr Joyce said the partnership would offer huge benefits to customers in terms of network and frequent flyer benefits, cutting flight times to top European destinations.
"This is one of the biggest days in Qantas’s 92-year history.
That’s because this partnership will play a critical role for us into the future," Mr Joyce said.
"This joint network with Emirates is a key part of tackling the structural challenges that Qantas International is faced with. But more than that ... it is a seismic shift in global aviation." Mr Clark said the stitching together of the airlines’ services had created a "game-changing partnership" providing "one of the most formidable aviation networks in the world today".
Qantas said the feat by the two super-jumbos is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that two commercial airline A380s have flown in formation.
Pilots from both airlines completed dozens of special simulator training sessions, with Emirates pilots travelling Down Under this month to train in Qantas’s A380 simulator.
The alliance is seen as vital to the sustainability of Qantas, which last year posted its first annual deficit since privatisation in 1995 due to tougher competition and high fuel costs for its international arm.
With services to Asia no longer tied to onward links to Europe, Qantas has said that it is also considering new direct destinations from Australia, including Beijing, Seoul, Mumbai, Delhi and Tokyo-Haneda.
Australia’s Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said he believed the arrangement would benefit Qantas and Emirates, but also passengers.
"We know that the impact of this will be significant, the impact in terms of opening up opportunities for Australian businesses and recreational travellers to reach destinations with one stop across Europe and across northern Africa," he said, adding there would also be benefits for Australian tourism.
The first Qantas flights departing from Sydney and Melbourne to London via the international hub of Dubai are due to leave on Sunday.
Sapa-AFP
AAP
Sydney sport and media circles are mourning journalist-turned-PR consultant Rod "Rocket" Allen, whose body was discovered on Cockatoo Island.
It is understood Mr Allen had been camping with his wife Laila on the Sydney Harbour island on Saturday night to celebrate a former colleague's 50th birthday.
Police believe Mr Allen fell from a cliff overnight, but investigations into his death continue.
A spokeswoman could not confirm a News Ltd report he became disoriented when he was returning to his tent on the northern side of the island in the early hours of Sunday morning and fell from a viewing platform overhanging a sandstone cliff.
News Ltd reported investigations by water police would focus on whether there was adequate fencing, lighting and signage around the 20-metre drop and the pathways leading to the platform.
The man nicknamed Rocket joined the media industry more than 20 years ago, as a cadet with News Ltd, and eventually became a sports managing editor for Fairfax before going on to found the public relations firm Rocket Group in 2009.
As media manager for the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club, he watched the Wanderers win the Premiers Plate on Friday in the team's inaugural season.
Club executive chairman Lyall Gorman said football had lost a great friend.
"On this day of immense shock and sadness, we remember Rod's wonderful warm nature," Mr Gorman said.
"I am not sure that in the nine years I have known Rod that I have ever seen him happier or prouder when it came to football (than on Friday)."
As news of his death spread on Sunday evening, friends and colleagues took to Twitter to express their grief.
"Wow.. Can't believe it, Rod Allen, amazing guy, love to his family and friends. Shocked," said Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.
One colleague wrote: "Rod Allen was an inspirational sports editor and a wonderful mentor for all who worked with him,"
Another described the media man as a "master of his craft and an even better bloke", while a third remembered him as a "good guy with a ready smile".
Mr Allen had worked as head of media relations for Football Federation Australia, supporting Australia's bids for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the Socceroos' campaigns for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar.
FFA CEO David Gallop paid tribute to Mr Allen's professionalism.
"His no-nonsense approach to the task at hand was his trademark and many who dealt with him appreciated this dedication to getting the story, hitting deadline or managing an issue," Mr Gallop said.
"On behalf of the Australian Football Community, we offer our deepest condolences to his family during this extremely sad time."
Fairfax reported friends and family left the island about 2pm (AEDT) on Sunday before gathering in Balmain to mourn.
SYDNEY sport and media circles are mourning journalist-turned-PR consultant Rod "Rocket" Allen, whose body was discovered on Cockatoo Island.
It is understood Mr Allen had been camping with his wife Laila on the Sydney Harbour island on Saturday night to celebrate a former colleague's 50th birthday.
Police believe Mr Allen fell from a cliff overnight, but investigations into his death continue.
A spokeswoman could not confirm a News Ltd report he became disoriented when he was returning to his tent on the northern side of the island in the early hours of Sunday morning and fell from a viewing platform overhanging a sandstone cliff.
News Ltd reported investigations by water police would focus on whether there was adequate fencing, lighting and signage around the 20-metre drop and the pathways leading to the platform.
The man nicknamed Rocket joined the media industry more than 20 years ago, as a cadet with News Ltd, and eventually became a sports managing editor for Fairfax before going on to found the public relations firm Rocket Group in 2009.
As media manager for the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club, he watched the Wanderers win the Premiers Plate on Friday in the team's inaugural season.
Club executive chairman Lyall Gorman said football had lost a great friend.
"On this day of immense shock and sadness, we remember Rod's wonderful warm nature," Mr Gorman said.
"I am not sure that in the nine years I have known Rod that I have ever seen him happier or prouder when it came to football (than on Friday)."
As news of his death spread on Sunday evening, friends and colleagues took to Twitter to express their grief.
"Wow.. Can't believe it, Rod Allen, amazing guy, love to his family and friends. Shocked," said Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.
One colleague wrote: "Rod Allen was an inspirational sports editor and a wonderful mentor for all who worked with him,"
Another described the media man as a "master of his craft and an even better bloke", while a third remembered him as a "good guy with a ready smile".
Mr Allen had worked as head of media relations for Football Federation Australia, supporting Australia's bids for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the Socceroos' campaigns for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar.
FFA CEO David Gallop paid tribute to Mr Allen's professionalism.
"His no-nonsense approach to the task at hand was his trademark and many who dealt with him appreciated this dedication to getting the story, hitting deadline or managing an issue," Mr Gallop said.
"On behalf of the Australian Football Community, we offer our deepest condolences to his family during this extremely sad time."
Fairfax reported friends and family left the island about 2pm (AEDT) on Sunday before gathering in Balmain to mourn.
Sydney sport and media circles are mourning journalist-turned-PR consultant Rod "Rocket" Allen, whose body was discovered on Cockatoo Island.
It is understood Mr Allen had been camping with his wife Laila on the Sydney Harbour island on Saturday night to celebrate a former colleague's 50th birthday.
Police believe Mr Allen fell from a cliff overnight, but investigations into his death continue.
A spokeswoman could not confirm a News Ltd report he became disoriented when he was returning to his tent on the northern side of the island in the early hours of Sunday morning and fell from a viewing platform overhanging a sandstone cliff.
News Ltd reported investigations by water police would focus on whether there was adequate fencing, lighting and signage around the 20-metre drop and the pathways leading to the platform.
The man nicknamed Rocket joined the media industry more than 20 years ago, as a cadet with News Ltd, and eventually became a sports managing editor for Fairfax before going on to found the public relations firm Rocket Group in 2009.
As media manager for the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club, he watched the Wanderers win the Premiers Plate on Friday in the team's inaugural season.
Club executive chairman Lyall Gorman said football had lost a great friend.
"On this day of immense shock and sadness, we remember Rod's wonderful warm nature," Mr Gorman said.
"I am not sure that in the nine years I have known Rod that I have ever seen him happier or prouder when it came to football (than on Friday)."
As news of his death spread on Sunday evening, friends and colleagues took to Twitter to express their grief.
"Wow.. Can't believe it, Rod Allen, amazing guy, love to his family and friends. Shocked," said Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.
One colleague wrote: "Rod Allen was an inspirational sports editor and a wonderful mentor for all who worked with him,"
Another described the media man as a "master of his craft and an even better bloke", while a third remembered him as a "good guy with a ready smile".
Mr Allen had worked as head of media relations for Football Federation Australia, supporting Australia's bids for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the Socceroos' campaigns for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar.
FFA CEO David Gallop paid tribute to Mr Allen's professionalism.
"His no-nonsense approach to the task at hand was his trademark and many who dealt with him appreciated this dedication to getting the story, hitting deadline or managing an issue," Mr Gallop said.
"On behalf of the Australian Football Community, we offer our deepest condolences to his family during this extremely sad time."
Fairfax reported friends and family left the island about 2pm (AEDT) on Sunday before gathering in Balmain to mourn.
AN off-duty police officer has a broken nose and hand and will need dental work after being king-hit in Sydney's Hyde Park.
Three people were arrested after the alleged assault which began when the male officer, 23, was walking through the park with two female friends about 1am (AEDT) on Sunday and passed a group of young people.
Police allege a 21-year-old woman began punching one of the officer's friends causing her to fall to the ground.
About the same time the police officer was king-hit by a male and fell to the ground.
As he got to his feet he was assaulted again, police said.
A 19-year-old man picked up his officer's wallet and his police identification that had fallen from his pocket and threw it down a stormwater drain as the group fled.
A 19-year-old man, a 21-year-old woman, and a 15-year-old youth were arrested and taken to City Central Local Police Station.
The man was charged with aggravated robbery, and the woman with common assault. The youth was released pending further inquiries.
The two accused will face court next month.
The officer was taken to St Vincent's Hospital and his police ID and wallet were recovered.
SYDNEY - Defending champion Melbourne and South Sydney are looking impressive as the only two unbeaten teams after four rounds in Australia's National Rugby League.
Australia and Melbourne captain Billy Slater scored three tries as the Storm beat Brisbane 32-26. It was the Storm's 13th consecutive win and the side remains unbeaten since last July.
South Sydney, meanwhile, has made its best start to a season in more than 40 years. The Rabbitohs, who beat Canterbury 17-12, haven't won the first four matches of any season since 1971, which coincided with the last of their 20 league titles.
On Sunday, Gold Coast won its third match in a row with a 29-10 win over Penrith, handing the Panthers their third loss in four matches.
© Copyright 2013
Qantas and Emirates planes fly over the Opera House in Sydney today. Picture: Nikki Short Source: The Australian
TWO Airbus A380s made a dramatic tandem flight over the Sydney Harbour Bridge today to launch the new Qantas-Emirates partnership, hailed by the Australian carrier as a "seismic shift" in aviation.
The tie-up, approved last week by Australia's competition watchdog, allows the two airlines to combine operations for an initial period of five years, including coordinating ticket prices and schedules.
It will also see Qantas switch its hub for European flights from Singapore to Emirates' Dubai base as it attempts to turn around its struggling international business.
"Dubai is the best hub for Qantas in the 21st century," the company's chief executive Alan Joyce said after watching the flyover by superjumbos from both airlines at 1,500 feet (450 metres) over Sydney's famous landmark.
"It is eight hours' flying time from 75 per cent of the world's population."
At a press conference with the president of Emirates Tim Clark, Joyce said the partnership would offer huge benefits to customers in terms of network and frequent flyer benefits, cutting flight times to top European destinations.
"This is one of the biggest days in Qantas's 92-year history. That's because this partnership will play a critical role for us into the future," Joyce said.
"This joint network with Emirates is a key part of tackling the structural challenges that Qantas International is faced with. But more than that... it is a seismic shift in global aviation."
Clark said the stitching together of the airlines' services had created a "game-changing partnership" providing "one of the most formidable aviation networks in the world today".
Qantas said the feat by the two super-jumbos is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that two commercial airline A380s have flown in formation.
Pilots from both airlines completed dozens of special simulator training sessions, with Emirates pilots travelling Down Under this month to train in Qantas's A380 simulator.
The alliance is seen as vital to the sustainability of Qantas, which last year posted its first annual deficit since privatisation in 1995 due to tougher competition and high fuel costs for its international arm.
With services to Asia no longer tied to onward links to Europe, Qantas has said that it is also considering new direct destinations from Australia, including Beijing, Seoul, Mumbai, Delhi and Tokyo-Haneda.
Australia's Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said he believed the arrangement would benefit Qantas and Emirates, but also passengers.
"We know that the impact of this will be significant, the impact in terms of opening up opportunities for Australian businesses and recreational travellers to reach destinations with one stop across Europe and across northern Africa," he said, adding there would also be benefits for Australian tourism.
The first Qantas flights departing from Sydney and Melbourne to London via the international hub of Dubai are due to leave later today.
Swans co-captain Kieren Jack celebrates a goal in the second quarter. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph
Swans defender Ted Richards looks to dish off the ball upfield against GWS Giants. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun
All eyes will be on Lachie Whitfield as the top draft pick makes his debut against Sydney. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun
7.20pm: Swans 106 - 76
SYDNEY survived a second quarter scare to overcome GWS Giants by 30 points at ANZ Stadium.
The plucky Giants kicked five goals in a hurry to take a one-point lead before the Swans hit back, almost instantly with five goals of their own to kick clear by half time.
The Swans played bursts throughout the match outlasting the young Giants who fought hard to stay within striking distance.
Josh Kennedy, Kieren Jack (three goals) and Ryan O'Keefe were the pick of the Swans with Jon Patton leading the Giants with three majors of his own.
Live HQ: Click for live SuperCoach scores and stats
Tom Scully was solid throughout but was reported during the first quarter for tripping Swan defender Rhyce Shaw.
7.02pm: Swans 87 - Giants 63
THE sting has gone out of the Battle of the Bridge with Sydney leading cross-town rivals GWS Giants by 24 points late in the final quarter.
Giants coach Kevin Sheedy activated Taylor Adams in the term replacing Will Hoskin-Elliott.
The Hyphen is stiff to be handed the red vest after collecting 19 disposals while clunking seven marks in a handy start to his 2013 campaign.
Sydney too used its substitute with local hope Dane Rampe making way for small forward Tony Armstrong.
AFL - Sydney Swans v GWS Giants at ANZ Stadium. The Giants Jeremy Cameron handballs ahead of Ted Richards and Lewis Roberts-Thompson. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph
SYDNEY looks to have the GWS Giants' measure heading into the final quarter at Etihad Stadium.
The Swans edged 31 points clear of their cross-town rivals in a tight term where the likes of Josh Kennedy, Jude Bolton and Kieren Jack stood tall.
Giants young gun Lachie Whitfield left the field of play late in the term with tightness in his leg.
6.22pm: Swans 61 - Giants 42
LIAM Sumner has given the Giants a sniff with his first goal early in the third quarter against Sydney at ANZ Stadium.
But the Josh Kennedy-led Swans hold a 19 point buffer despite the plucky Giants best efforts.
Kennedy has 19 disposals including 17 contested and a goal.
5.55pm: Swans 61 - Giants 34
SYDNEY is starting to assert its authority over a plucky GWS Giants outfit at ANZ Stadium.
The reigning premiers jumped to a 27-point lead after being headed midway through the term.
Kieren Jack and Mike Pyke have done most of the damage with two goals apiece while Josh Kennedy leads allcomers with 17 disposals.
The Giants controlled the first 10-15 minutes of the second quarter but faded as the Swans drove home five unanswered goals to close out the first half.
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Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh (13 disposals) got busy in the second quarter kicking a goal after being well held.
Giants captain Phil Davis left the field late in the second quarter with what appeared to be a hip/back injury.
Meanwhile, Tom Scully was reported in the first quarter for tripping Swans defender Rhyce Shaw.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Phil Davis of the Giants lies on the ground after injuring his hip during the round one AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Sydney Swans at ANZ Stadium on March 30, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images
JUDE Bolton has steadied the ship for Sydney after GWS Giants surged to the lead with a five-goal burst in the second quarter.
The Giants burst out of the blocks after the break with Jonathon Patton (two goals) and Jeremy Cameron (one goal) doing most of the damage.
But Sydney responded through Bolton who marked strongly 40m out on a slight angle.
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SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Dylan Shiel of the Giants breaks the tackle of Mike Pyke of the Swans during the round one AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Sydney Swans at ANZ Stadium on March 30, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images
The Swans dominated the first quarter but the Giants exploded after the break at ANZ Stadium with back-to-back majors within a couple of minutes of play.
Greene's goal was the best of the game so far, threading a drop punt between the big sticks from deep in the right forward pocket.
Swans magnet Josh Kennedy has nine disposals and a goal to his name while Giants young gun Adam Treloar leads allcomers with 12 possessions.
Sydney star Adam Goodes leads to the ball. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph
UNLIKE Brisbane, Sydney is experiencing no premiership hangover putting paid to GWS Giants in the first quarter at ANZ Stadium.
Mike Pyke opened the scoring with a goal before back-to-back majors made it 22-1 scoreline nearing quarter time.
Josh Kennedy kicked the Swans second swooping on the pack and snapping his first goal for 2013.
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Shane Mumford added to the Giants woes converting a set shot from about 40m on a slight angle.
The ruckman has been solid up forward taking four marks.
Earlier today, NAB Cup champions Brisbane was hammered by 68 points by the Western Bulldogs.
Adam Treloar has been the pick of the Giants early with Callan Ward and Stephen Coniglio busy in the clinches.
Top draft pick Lachie Whitfield is yet to touch the ball.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Dylan Shiel of the Giants breaks the tackle of Mike Pyke of the Swans during the round one AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Sydney Swans at ANZ Stadium on March 30, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images
RUCKMAN Mike Pyke has given the Swans the ideal start kicking a goal within 30 seconds of the opening bounce at ANZ Stadium.
The Canadian won soft a hands in the back free kick running with the flight of the ball and made no mistake from the set shot.
The Swans will be out to get their premiership defence off on the right foot after having their colours lowered by the Giants during the NAB Cup.
Giants top draft pick Lachie Whitfield started on the ground.
Adam Treloar has the job on Swans ball magnet Josh Kennedy.
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Meanwhile, Taylor Adams (Giants) and Tony Armstrong (Swans) are the substitutes.
WITH Sydney's median house price hitting the magical $600,000 for the first time, there's no greater indicator of a real-estate comeback.
RP Data statistics show for the year to December 2012, the median sale price for Sydney houses was at its highest mark and units were sitting at $480,000.
Although alternative data agencies have previously reported Sydney's median for houses as more than $600,000, RP Data uses the geographically larger ABS Sydney Statistical Division, which captures parts of the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains, where local median house prices are closer to the $350,000 price point.
While the middle market is climbing, the long suffering prestige sector, where homes are priced more than $3 million, is also on an upward trajectory. This month a six-bedroom house at 21 Wentworth Rd, Vaucluse, sold for $12 million and a Bellevue Hill mansion went for $7.7 million. Industry insiders say these are clear signs the high-priced suburbs are bouncing back from three years on struggle street.
Australian airline Qantas marked the official launch of its partnership with Emirates on Sunday with a spectacular tandem flyover of the Sydney Harbour Bridge by two Airbus A380s.
Qantas said the feat by the two super-jumbos -- one from each of the carriers -- is thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that two commercial airline A380s have flown in formation.
As the planes flew over the bridge the Qantas jet was in the lead, flying at about 1,500 feet (450 metres).
"The sight of two of the world's great airlines flying two of the world's largest aircraft so close together over Sydney Harbour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Qantas chief pilot Philip Green said before the event.
"There has been a huge amount of planning which has been necessary to make this possible, including seeking approval from safety regulators in both Australia and the United Arab Emirates."
Pilots from both airlines have completed dozens of special simulator training sessions since January, with Emirates pilots travelling Down Under to conduct sessions in Qantas's A380 simulator in Sydney this month.
The aircraft took off from Sydney airport early Sunday, flying north along the coast, then south and slightly out to sea, before turning and cruising over the city, passing the Opera House and flying over the Harbour Bridge.
Australia's competition regulator formally approved the Qantas-Emirates tie-up last week, allowing the carriers to combine operations for an initial period of five years.
The airlines will coordinate ticket prices and schedules and struggling Qantas will shift its hub for European flights from Singapore to Dubai, ending a decades-long partnership with British Airways on the London route.
Sydney co-captain Kieren Jack won the Brett Kirk Medal for his best on ground effort of three goals and 25 disposals. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph
WHEN it was time for a Sydney Swans leader to step up last night, co-captain Kieren Jack was the man.
It was also fitting that a Sydney boy born and bred took out the Brett Kirk medal as the best player in the "Battle of the Bridge", showing how far the code has come in this city.
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"It was good to lead the boys out for the first time, that was something that meant a lot," Jack said.
"There are some really good people in there, some really good players I respect. To lead them out was something I'll always remember."
To claim the award named in honour of his former teammate and one of the Swans' most celebrated players was
"I respect the bloke enormously and he's a player I tried to model my game on," Jack said.
It wasn't pretty, but the premiers did what they needed to as they got the better of a much-improved GWS Giants in the season-opener.
"The first game of the season you want to get off to a good start and we did," Swans coach John Longmire said.
"If we knew we would take a 30-point win before coming here tonight, I would have taken it."
Norm Smith medallist from last year's grand final, Ryan O'Keefe, gave Jack a run for his money as best on ground, shutting down Giants youngster Toby Greene.
O'Keefe kept Greene to 11 possessions while chalking up 27 touches himself.
The Swans led at every change, with a four-goals-to-nil opening quarter setting up the victory.
Grand final hero Mike Pyke celebrated the birth of his first child just eight days ago with the opening goal.
Fellow ruckman Shane Mumford was unstoppable as he took three contested marks in front of goal but could only convert one of them.
The Giants' Jonathon Patton and Jeremy Cameron didn't bother the stats sheet in the first quarter but made up for it in the second when they helped their side wrestle the lead back at one point.
Patton's two goals were eye-catching, the first coming from a 55m bomb and the second with a strong mark on the lead.
When Devon Smith slotted a banana kick from the boundary line, GWS had their noses in front by five points.
The Giants' run only served to spark the premiers into action. Jack swooped on some costly mistakes to snap two goals and Pyke marked and goaled to establish a 26-point lead at the long break.
Jack was lucky to get away with an ankle tap his rugby league champion father Garry would have been proud of
as Stephen Coniglio ran into an open goal.
The frustration began to show on Giants young gun Jeremy Cameron who punched the fence in anger and cut his knuckles.
GWS were still well in the match when Liam Sumner goaled and could have been closer when he missed on the run from close range.
A running goal to Adam Treloar closed the gap to 19 points but the Swans steadied again through Sam Reid and Jude Bolton.
The Giants were gallant but didn't have quite enough experience to really threaten the reigning champion.
March 31, 2013, 3 a.m.
SYDNEY 4.5 9.7 12.9 16.10 (106) GWS GIANTS 0.4 5.4 7.8 11.10 (76)
GOALS Sydney: Jack 3, Goodes 2, McGlynn 2, Bolton 2, Pyke 2, Reid 2, Kennedy, McVeigh, Mumford. GWS: Patton 3, Sumner 2, Treloar, Shiel, Smith, Cameron, Giles, Greene.
BEST Sydney: Jack, Kennedy, Hannebery, McVeigh, O'Keefe, Shaw. GWS: Shiel, Treloar, Ward, Coniglio, Brogan, Patton.
UMPIRES Chamberlain, Fila, Leppard.
CROWD 23,690 at ANZ Stadium.
The Swans have begun their premiership defence with a rusty win over a much improved Greater Western Sydney side.
After all the hype, the match went as many expected - the Swans matching their patchy pre-season form while the Giants showed improvement after their second pre-season.
Sydney led by 25 points at quarter-time before the Giants piled on five unanswered goals during the second quarter to snatch the lead.
A controversial free kick against Tom Scully for an in-the-back tackle allowed Jude Bolton then sparked a five-goal response from the Swans and the reigning premiers led by 27 points at half-time.
The game settled into an intriguing rhythm during the second half with the honours being shared. Sydney's class stood out in the 30-point win.
The Giants showed harder, fitter bodies, increased confidence and a bit of extra experience will make them a much more formidable opponent this season.
There were over a dozen debutants in the corresponding game last season, but just two on Saturday. Lachie Whitfield and Lachie Plowman, both 18, were thrown into the furnace. Scully's leading performance was matched by a willingness across the ground, including from standout Adam Treloar, while Jonathon Patton (three goals) and Liam Sumner (two) provided something up forward.
The Swans would be annoyed that six of the Giants' goals came from their turnovers. They were patchy throughout the match and may have been fortunate to meet GWS in the first round.
Shane Mumford and Mike Pyke were the ruckmen-turned goalscorers before Sam Reid got going. The midfield cast of Kieren Jack, Jarrad McVeigh and Josh Kennedy shone as usual.
The first quarter began with Pyke scoring after just 45 seconds. The Giants patched the wound, blocking the middle of the ground and putting everything into winning contested possession.
Mumford became the unlikely hero up front, causing problems for 100-gamer Stephen Gilham, Tim Mohr and, finally, Phil Davis, with 1.2 and five contested marks. Kennedy nailed a snap and Goodes scored from a free kick to gain a comfortable lead at the first change.
The Giants started the second quarter as though it was a different match, with their first five ventures inside 50 metres resulting in five straight goals. Toby Greene and Jeremy Cameron each scored from tough angles and Patton kicked two after he and Cameron each went in search of the ball. Devon Smith's slot from deep inside the pocket gave the Giants the lead.
But the Swans roared back with five of their own. The first came 16 minutes into the term through Bolton. McVeigh, Jack and Pyke added to the comeback to make it a 27-point difference at the main break. The decisive statistic to that point was the tackle count of 45 to 32 the Swans' way.
Sydney just had the better of the third term, but the first goal went to Sumner, who might have had a second moments later if not for the width of the post. Reid goaled twice in the term, the first a snap, the second after rising above a pack to mark. In between, Patton set up a goal for Treloar, who was the Giants' leading possession-getter. Bolton's second for the Swans ensured a 31-point lead at the last break.
LITTLE TO SEE HERE, FOLKS
Anyone who turned up late didn't miss much. After 15 minutes, the disposal numbers were 33 to 28, in favour of the Giants. There had been just 10 marks and half the players on the ground had not registered a single possession.
SWANS HAVE THE NUMBERS
The Giants have boasted that their membership has grown to more than 11,000 in just their second year. But the smallish crowd of 23,690 at the cavernous ANZ Stadium was almost entirely red and white. Where were all those members?
MOHR IN THE CLEAR
Tim Mohr became the subject of the new concussion rule after he received a head knock in the third quarter. Mohr was taken from the field and assessed, and cleared of concussion and injury. He returned to the field.
Perth Glory 1 Adelaide United 1
Jacob Burns of the Glory runs on to the ball. Photo: Getty Images
Perth Glory beat out Sydney FC for the last place in the A-League finals with a 1-1 draw against Adelaide United at nib Stadium on Saturday night.
The Glory entered the match needing only a draw to leapfrog Sydney into sixth spot on goal difference.
Adrian Zahra's 58th-minute goal eased the tension, but the Glory were given a fright when Adelaide midfielder Jake Barker-Daish pegged one back in the 91st minute.
And the Reds almost snatched victory with the final play of the match, only for Perth goalkeeper Danny Vukovic to pull off a sharp diving save to deny Dario Vidosic's long-range free kick.
The result capped a remarkable turnaround for Perth, who were dead last on the ladder when Alistair Edwards took over as coach last month.
Under Edwards, Perth won four and drew one of their seven games to secure a fairytale finals berth.
But the work of previous coach Ian Ferguson shouldn't be forgotten.
A string of heartbreaking one-goal losses brought about Ferguson's undoing.
But the close nature of those results meant Perth's goal difference never suffered terribly.
And in the end, it was their superior goal difference compared to Sydney that decided the race for sixth spot.
Sydney's finals chances were hanging by a thread following a 3-1 loss to Brisbane on Thursday night.
The Sky Blues needed both Newcastle and Perth to lose their matches.
Western Sydney's 3-0 win over the Jets completed the first part of the equation, but Perth became the ultimate party poopers in front of their biggest ever home crowd of 16,707 in the A-League.
Perth dominated play against Adelaide in the opening half but couldn't find the back of the net despite creating a series of good chances.
Ryo Nagai should have put the home side ahead when he was taken down by Cameron Watson in the box.
But his scuffed penalty was deflected onto the post by a diving Eugene Galekovic, with Glory players unable to capitalise on the rebound.
Adelaide's defence finally cracked in the 58th minute when Steve McGarry's dangerous cross was met by Zahra.
Although Adelaide goalkeeper Galekovic got a palm to Zahra's strike, the ball bounced in off the crossbar, with Zahra celebrating his third career goal with an acrobatic backflip routine.
Glory midfielder Steve McGarry should have made the result safe in the 84th minute, but sprayed his close-range shot wide of the target.
PERTH GLORY 1 (Adrian Zahra 58m) ADELAIDE UNITED 1 (Jake Barker-Daish 90+1m) at nib Stadium. Crowd: 16,707. Referee: Kris Griffiths-Jones.
Glory players celebrate after the game. Picture: Justin Benson-cooper Source: PerthNow
IT was a cruel end to Sydney FC's season last night, with Alessandro Del Piero and his Sky Blues denied a shot at finals football by the barest margin - goal difference.
Perth Glory's draw with Adelaide ensured last season's grand finalists squeezed into the top six and forced out Frank Farina's team.
A 58th-minute goal from Adrian Zahra, in front of a Perth record crowd of 16,707, was crucial for Glory.
Adelaide, who will still host a final next weekend, dragged a goal back in stoppage time through Jake Barker-Daish - his first A-League goal - to give the Sky Blues what turned out to be false hope.
A brilliant save from Danny Vukovic, denying Adelaide talisman Dario Vidosic with the final kick of the game, only broke Sydney hearts.
Perth were the better team last night and will fancy their chances with an experienced line-up that can stand up to the rigours of finals football.
They also have a victory over third-placed Melbourne Victory in the bank to give them some heart should they meet next week.
Champions Brisbane Roar will likely head to Adelaide for the other semi-final, also confident they can make some noise in the high-stakes matches to follow.
If Wellington beat Victory by two goals today, then Roar will have to face Victory and Adelaide will sneak into third place and face a re-match with Glory. However, that scenario looks unlikely.
The Glory are a tough, experienced team and they squeezed the life out of the Reds last night.
It was a great result for interim coach Alistair Edwards.
They were especially impressive in the midfield and will welcome back star striker Shane Smeltz and playmaker Liam Miller.
Ryo Nagai missed a first-half penalty, with Reds keeper Eugene Galekovic tapping it on to the bar.
Nicky Ward was industrious for Glory and Dean Heffernan was strong up front.
Nagai was classy and a deserved man of the match despite missing his spot kick.
With the Western Sydney Wanderers and Central Coast having the week off, they are still in prime position for the grand final.
However, all games are sudden death from here on and nothing can be taken for granted.
Sydney police have released CCTV images of two people they want to speak to over the theft of almost $400,000 worth of diamonds.
About 12.30pm (AEDT) on Tuesday, a man and woman entered a jewellery store in the Sydney CBD and were shown a number of pieces.
Police alleged that while no one was looking, the man entered a workshop area and stole a number of rare high-quality diamonds.
The pair continued to browse and left the store a short time later.
Staff members noticed the diamonds were missing the next day, and contacted police.
The man is described as being of Indian or sub-continental appearance, aged in his early to mid-40s and about 170cm tall.
The woman is described as being between 35 and 45 years of age, about 160cms tall and dark olive skin.
Sydney FC coach Frank Farina looks on after his side's loss to Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday night. Picture: Chris Hyde Source: Getty Images
FRANK Farina's time away from football has him better prepared for the arduous and unforgiving task of returning Sydney FC to the top of the A-League.
While the former Roar coach's Suncorp Stadium comeback didn't go to plan on Thursday night when Brisbane beat the Sky Blues 3-1, Farina is relishing the challenge of turning Sydney into championship contenders.
"I've always said it was going to be a rollercoaster ride for Sydney FC this season," said Farina, who took over in November when they were last in the league.
"I had to change the confidence levels in the team and the mentality, and you don't do that overnight."
Or in two-thirds of a season it seems, judging by Sydney's insipid performance against the Roar when their campaign was on the line.
But Farina will now have an entire pre-season to re-shape the Sky Blues, where failure isn't an option.
"This club is a bit different," he said. "There are expectations and demands from supporters, the board - everyone.
"Even with Brisbane, everyone expects to do well and win it, but it's not demanded. If you don't win things, heads won't roll.
"But Sydney and probably Melbourne Victory have enormous demands on them.
"I've enjoyed it, though. That's what we do it for."
Farina's enjoyment also comes from the fact that he's back in the A-League.
After his sacking from the Roar for being caught drink driving while on his way to a morning training session, the former Socceroos coach's A-League adventure seemed over for good.
He had little involvement with football for the best part of 18 months before becoming involved with Papua New Guinea, where he coached the national team among other tasks.
"I got to see a different side of life," he said.
"In Papua New Guinea there are players that live in places that don't have electricity, don't have running water, then they come into the national team and it's like heaven for them.
"Am I better for it? Yes I am. Sometimes you've got to step aside and regather your thoughts. You can get a bit complacent in what you're doing.
"In my hiatus from the game, I realised that we're lucky people to be involved in football, doing something we love and getting paid good money to do it."
Farina, who turns 49 in September, said he held no grudges against the Roar board and owners that sacked him. "I made a mistake and it was as simple as that," he said.
