Australian Times weekly newspaper | 8 January 2013

8 - 14 January 2013 Issue: 445

SECRET HANCOCK LONDON HAUL

Hidden sights and unknown delights ENTERTAINMENT P6

TRAVEL HOT SPOTS

Our top ten for 2013

Rinehart reveals $1.2 bn profit

TRAVEL P7

JOBS & MONEY P9

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AUSTRALIA BURNS

n A prolonged heatwave across Australia has led to bushfires that have ravaged communities in Tasmania, Victoria and NSW, with more still at risk from extreme temperatures and high winds.

A FIRE in southern Tasmania has destroyed more than 100 homes and burned through 10,600 hectares since Friday.

The Insurance Council of Australia said at least $26 million in damage had been done to homes, businesses, vehicles and holiday shacks, but expected the figure to rise sharply.

Police allege a 31-year-old New Norfolk man left a campfire unattended near Lake Repulse last week, sparking the massive blaze.

Police said they would proceed with a charge of leaving an unextinguished fire unattended.

State Fire Controller Gavin Freeman said Tasmanians needed to be extra cautious with all fires.

“Members of the public need to make sure any fires lit on their properties over the last week are completely extinguished,” he said.

Police believe the Forcett blaze that tore through the Tasman Peninsula on Friday started with a smouldering tree stump which was thought to have been extinguished.

On Monday, teams of police, Tasmanian and interstate fire services, SES and army reserves were picking their way through the ruins of houses in the area south of the worst hit town, Dunalley.

About 250 properties have already been searched in and around Dunalley, including 90 badly damaged or destroyed buildings, but no bodies have been located.

Police are reluctant to put an exact figure on the number still missing but Acting Commissioner Scott Tilyard suggested there had been

Aussie star with Licence to Thrill | P6 little change from the 100 who were unaccounted for on Sunday.

“About 500 inquiries still need to be confirmed that people have definitely been accounted for,” Mr

Tilyard told reporters on Monday.

“There’s a significantly lower number of people that we do have more serious concerns about.

“Yesterday it was around about

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

100 people.”

Prime Minister Julia Gillard toured Dunalley after her ...continued on p3

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UK tourist waterfall death THE body of a young English tourist who died after falling from a waterfall has been recovered from dense bushland in the Blue Mountains.

The 20-year-old man was walking with friends at Wentworth Falls, west of Sydney, when he slipped over the edge of the falls about midday on Sunday.

“We just saw them all panic and a 20-year-old boy fell over 100m down the waterfall,” a witness told ABC radio.

One of the man’s friends went for help and local police along with the NSW Ambulance SCAT teams were called out to the scene.

The young man’s family have been contacted, but his name has yet to be released.

ABC have reported a witness as saying she saw the holidaymakers ‘mucking around’ on slippery rocks before the tragedy occurred.

Ms Rosa Petroccitto said she was concerned when she saw a group of young people joking around on the slippery rocks close to the edge of the steep drop.

“Then they went down to the ...continued on p3

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2 | News

8 - 14 January 2013

Australia a magnet for crims, says British media n Are

Publisher: Bryce Lowry Editor: Alex Ivett Production/Design: Jackie Lampard Sports Editor: Tim Martin Contributors: Shannon Crane, Phill Browne, Paul Judge, Sepi Roshan, Erin Somerville, Melissa Shortal, Justin Ng, Gareth Mohen, George Katralis, Cameron Jenkins, Chris Arkadieff, Lee Crossley, Mel Edwards, Will Fitzgibbon, Bronwyn Spencer, Emily Banyard, Clare

Boyd-Maccrae, Jonathon Waldheim, Paul Bleakley, Daniel Shillito, Mat Lyons, Sharon Spence Lieb, Nicole Crowley, Alex Bruce-Smith, Tyson Yates, Amber Rose, Bianca Soldani, Jennifer Perkin, Shannon Loves, Charlie Inglefield Advertising Manager: Dominic Young Directors: P Atherton, J Durrant N Durrant, R Phillips and A Laird Additional content:

WHO ARE WE? Australian Times is written and compiled by young Australian journalists living in the UK. Contributing on a volunteer basis, they are uniquely placed to reflect the interests, opinions and attitudes of our community. If you would like to join us, contact info@australiantimes.co.uk ADDRESS: Unit 7C, Commodore House Battersea Reach, London SW18 1TW TEL: 0845 456 4910 EMAIL: info@australiantimes.co.uk

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The Daily Mail have this week put the spotlight on the illicit underbelly of Australian society in an editorial claiming that the nation’s strong economy has resulted in a criminal culture based on drug trafficking and rampant prostitution.

In the article, journalist Sean O’Hare claimed that the increased financial reward of conducting illicit business in Australia provided significant incentive for international criminal enterprises to establish themselves Down Under. The editorial goes on to suggest that the high wages and standard of living enjoyed by Australians has contributed to an increase in the disposable income that is available to be spent on illicit ‘luxuries’ such as drugs and sex.

O’Hare said: “Australia, once an 18th century penal colony, is still attracting criminals although it would seem they are now going there out of choice.

“The Australian Crime Commission, which examines trends and works closely with police agencies, said heroin and MDMA, also known as ecstasy, sell for about eight times more in Australia than in Britain and the United States, though Australia is a much smaller market.”

Australian police claim that despite offering a notably smaller consumer base for criminal syndicates than regions such as the United States of America or the United Kingdom, the difficulty of ensuring consistent supply of product to Australia allows suppliers to set a higher price point than they would in other markets.

Data supplied by the Australian Crime Commission states that a kilogram of cocaine is worth approximately £1,540 in Colombia

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we a nation of criminals? A recent report on Australian Crime Commission statistics by the Daily Mail suggests the strong Aussie dollar and high wages have resulted in a influx of drug smugglers and foreign sex workers. PAUL BLEAKLEY reports.

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On: New Australian High Commissioner, Mike Rann, welcomed to the UK

I was bemused at the line “One of Australia’s most popular Premiers in recent years”. The truth is he was despised by the majority of South Australians. Even those in his own party recognised how unpopular he was and knew that keeping him as leader would have been political suicide. His popularity rating with the South Australian public at that time was around 24%.

Joy Brown

Totally agree Joy. This posting was a “job for the one of the Labor boys” and not based on merit. It should have gone to a

?

What’s your view

or £21,186 in the United States of America. The same kilogram of cocaine would cost approximately £141,000 in the Australian drug market. On the street level – after these drugs have been cut with other substances and packaged – a gram of cocaine in Australia could fetch as much as £195, as opposed to the typical street value of around £50 for the same product in the United Kingdom.

Cocaine is typically classed as an unaffordable ‘luxury’ drug for Australian consumers, while in the United Kingdom police report that it is common practice for street dealers to offer “buy two, get one free” deals to their customers in order to compete in a crowded drug-selling environment that inevitably drives price down.

The Australian Crime Commission report that in the first six months of 2012 authorities made 69,500 arrests for the supply, trafficking or distribution of illicit substances.

This figure represents the highest level of drug-related criminal activity in the past decade. The Daily Mail claims that the financial benefits of drug trafficking in Australia “show why some are willing to risk up to 20 years in prison” in order to do business in the lucrative Australian drug industry.

O’Hare’s editorial also claims that the mining boom in Australia’s rural regions has contributed to an influx of foreign sex workers coming to the country in order to capitalise on the combination of isolation and high disposable income experienced by Australian miners.

A report prepared in early 2012 by the University of New South Wales claims that the average hourly rate

for a sex worker in Sydney was around £100, while women engaged in prostitution could double that rate by working in mining towns where they are able to take advantage of a cornered market that is almost exclusively male. Industry sources claim that a sex worker operating in the remote town of Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, is able to charge upwards of £195 per hour for their services.

The Australian Federal Police claim that the profitable nature of prostitution in Australia is partially responsible for the notable increase in foreigners coming to the country to engage in sex work, both in licensed premises and through illicit avenues. Statistics show that in the past six years 53% of sex workers in Australia have come from Asia, with a further 13.5% coming from other non-English speaking regions to work in the Australian sex trade.

The Daily Mail’s indictment of Australia as a haven from criminality comes on the heels of several editorials and news articles targeted at Australia’s reputation that have been published in the last several months. In early November The Daily Mail published an article denouncing the ‘loutish’ behaviour of Australian spectators at the Melbourne Cup in the presence of Prince Charles. The paper has also been at the forefront of the British media’s campaign against the 2Day FM presenters involved in the royal hoax scandal in late 2012.

career diplomat. Rann was all about spin and called “Media Mike”.

On: Thoughts on a London Year

Oscar

On: “Ranga” added to new edition of Australian Oxford Dictionary

Didn’t any of you read the comic “FOOTROT FLATS”? “RANGA” is not all you think it is. The word has existed in the AU/NZ region of the world for over 47 years and it wasn’t always a slur. At one point it was a compliment.

Russell

On: Julian Assange to run for Australian Senate seat in 2013 election

This is what Australia needs .It will at least give us hope. Those Canberra clowns need a ring master such as Mr Assange!

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Fantastic article, Alex! I’ve been back in Australia for just over a year and had forgotten about a lot of these little oddities of London life, so it was lovely to read your article and reminisce! Enjoy the rest of your time over there, it goes too quickly.

Shannon

On: Sydney ‘embraces’ 2013 with a New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular

I’m so proud to be an Aussie I wish all Aussies in Australia a Happy New Year and may all the Aussies be well and may god bless Australia.

Peter

Brad

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News | 3

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Donations flow as insurers Group were ‘mucking around’ before tragedy struck estimate $26 million bill ...continued from p1

next one (group of rocks) and I knew something was going to happen,” she told ABC. “We just saw them all panic and a 20-year-old boy fell over 100m down the waterfall.

“It’s pretty sad, very unfortunate.”

Paramedics were able to establish the young man had died but their helicopter crew were unable to retrieve his body due to high winds.

PolAir was also on the scene but its crew also called off the retrieval operation because of the dangers posed by the windy conditions.

A guard was placed on the scene overnight.

About 8am (AEDT) on Monday,

Burnt residence, Dunally, southeast Tasmania (AAP Image/Rob Blakers) ...continued from p1 motorcade was taken into the area under police escort.

“There’s really no way of fully appreciating it apart from seeing it yourself,” Ms Gillard said. “(But) the fact that we can stand here shouldn’t fool people into thinking that there’s no continuing firefighting going on.”

Ms Gillard defended her itinerary with many residents from Dunalley still unable to return because of safety concerns.

“I understand the frustration of people who want to get back to see what’s happened to their home,” Ms Gillard said.

“The thing that would be worse ... would be to try to go and see it and get hurt doing so.”

The Queen has also expressed her concern for the bushfire victims in a brief note passed on by Tasmanian Governor Peter Underwood.

“I would like to convey my deep concern for all those who have been affected by the devastating bushfires that have caused widespread destruction across Tasmania,’’ she said.

“I send my sympathy to those people who have lost their homes or livelihoods in the fires, and offer my support and admiration for the firefighters, volunteers and emergency services officers who have been working tirelessly to contain the situation.’’

Australians have responded to the crises by opening their hearts and wallets for the victims, giving more than $350,000 in little over a day.

The Red Cross says it has received more than 2500 donations since the Tasmanian Bushfires 2013 Appeal was launched on Sunday, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for those affected.

Red Cross Tasmanian executive director Ian Burke said the funds were already making a difference, but said there was significant damage done across the state.

“The scenes on the Tasman Peninsula are truly devastating,” he said on Monday.

“These communities face some major challenges and they will need significant long-term support in

their recovery.”

The South Australian government has pledged to donate $250,000 to Tasmania’s bushfire relief effort.

Premier Jay Weatherill phoned his Tasmanian counterpart Lara Giddings on Monday to offer his support and to send firefighters from SA if needed.

“The current extreme heat makes bushfire a frightening reality for us all,” Mr Weatherill said.

“Our thoughts are with all Tasmanians, particularly those who have been directly affected by these fires.”

After recording a top temperature of 45C on Friday, Adelaide sweltered through another hot day on Monday with the mercury topping 40C again.

Victoria faced extreme fire conditions on Tuesday, with a threat to lives and property in the southwest Victorian settlement of Drik Drik under direct attack from fire and embers.

Nearly 500 firefighters and a dozen aircraft battled the blaze, which started on Friday.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) deputy incident controller Andy Cusack said one home had been affected and many others were under threat.

Lightning strikes have already sparked blazes in north-eastern Victoria and there are also fears that fires across the Murray River in NSW may reach Victoria if they take hold.

Northern parts of the state have experienced several days in a row above 40C. Fire services commissioner Craig Lapsley said lightning strikes could take a day to become a fire.

In NSW residents of Oura, near Wagga Wagga in southern NSW, residents were warned to take shelter if a nearby out-of-control grassfire threatened homes.

At mid-afternoon on Monday the fast-moving fire was about 400 hectares in size burning about 14km east of Wagga Wagga.

At the time of going to print warnings had been issued of further “catastrophic” conditions across southeastern Australia, with high winds and temperatures predicted for Tuesday. - AAP

a team of Rescue Squad officers walked into the bushland on foot to retrieve the body of the young man, who was holidaying in Australia from the UK. They worked with a PolAir crew on the operation and successfully retrieved his body about 12.30pm.

Police said the man’s death was not suspicious.

“It seems very likely that he fell accidentally,” said a police spokesman.

A report will also prepared for the coroner, police said.

- AAP

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4 | UK Life

8 - 14 January 2013

How to be a ‘Posh Boy’ SUBCULTURE SLEUTH > PAUL BLEAKLEY

IT IS no big secret that I do not spend my weekends hobnobbing with the rich and powerful. It has never really been a personal choice: I am not some type of Australian neo-communist that rallies against the corruptive influence of excess, I just do not really get the opportunity to go sailing in Cowes or drink expensive champagne on Kings Road in Chelsea.

I have recently had cause, however, to look behind the veil of the British upper classes and have

had my sanitised perspective on these polo-playing men-about-town.

I am not referring here to members of the British aristocracy, as people like Prince William and Prince Harry seem far more grounded and down to Earth than the city traders and members of the boarding school elite to which I refer.

It had been my assumption that posh British boys were a lot like posh Australian boys: arrogant and entitled, yet with the spirit of a true lad lingering underneath the surface.

I mean, posh Australian boys play rugby union while the rest of us play rugby league or AFL. Posh Australian boys drink premium beer, while the rest of us have ‘whatever is on tap’. While they do things

slightly differently, at the end of the day it is still football and beer isn’t it?

Posh British boys are another league entirely. While sitting at a pub recently, I made the critical error of mentioning that £1.80 Sainsbury cider was really great value for money. My posh companion agreed, it was good value for money. It was kind of like when he bought a £60 bottle of wine to take to a restaurant and paid £10 corkage rather than paying £150 at the restaurant for the same bottle.

Um, no. A bottle of cheap Sainsbury cider is not like that at all, sorry.

The insights into the world of a posh boy kept coming thick and fast.

Bathroom attendants? Not there to spray cologne, “slip them a tenner if you want to take a girl into the bathroom”. Trains or buses? Never take a bus, because “a train might be ten times the price, but it is more comfortable”. Going to the races?

Save your money to “bet on the horse your friend owns”.

I had a lot to think about while walking away from my flirtation with poshness. Could it be possible that the twenty minute tube journey from Hounslow to the City had such a profound impact on the way things were done?

I assure you, the irony that I pondered this while delicately sipping a cold glass of Sainsbury cider was not lost on me.

Paul’s survey of UK subcultures continues next week with an attempt to assimilate into chav culture.

A scene from the play Posh by Laura Wade

Fireworks fanatic n With

fireworks featuring in the Timeout London Top 100, our resident adventurer used the celebrations of 2012 to cross off #39.

bron in

the don BRONWYN SPENCER

IT DOESN’T matter how old I am, or how often I’ve seen them - I’m a sucker for fireworks. When they burst into the sky I “ohhh” and “ahhhh” with the best of them. Living in London in 2012 during the year where both the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee were major events, it was a perfect time to tick off number 39 on the Timeout Londons Top 100 List – Fireworks.

My first experience were the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June. While I did spent the evening of the concert holed up at home, sitting on the couch in my PJ’s with a glass of wine, I was still lucky enough to get a glimpse of the fireworks display. Although only because I was standing on my tiptoes looking out the bathroom window on the top floor of my house. Realistically the view was better on TV, but it was still exciting to see the bursts of light and colour celebrating the occasion.

The next time the sky lit up over London was the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games.

Like many others I was watching from the pub with my friends.

Though it would have been amazing

live, even on TV you could tell it was one hell of a show.

It wasn’t all televised fireworks in 2012 however, with Guy Fawkes Night in November one of the best opportunity to see fireworks in the city, regardless of where you are. Over the weekend of the 5th, you couldn’t go into a park without finding some fireworks celebration ready to spark.

There were the local family events at neighbourhood commons, paid events at larger city parks, massive crowds lining the river, and of course lots of televised displays.

This year, we took advantage of the riverside view of the Battersea Park display from the other side of Chelsea Bridge. It was spectacular to see the colours flash across the sky and hear the bursts of gunpowder, although admittedly I’m sure I missed a bit of the atmosphere of the park’s celebration complete with choreographed music and a bonfire.

The year of sparkly things was brought to a close with New Year’s Eve. Like every major city around the world London had an amazing fireworks display to do us proud and close off 2012 – the year of fireworks in London.

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Food & Wine | 5

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Eggs Benedict Royale

n Maze Grill’s Head Chef, Chris Arkadieff,

shows you the best way to start your weekend during the winter months with an eggs benedict recipe fit for a Queen.

chris’s

kitchen

> CHRIS ARKADIEFF

EGGS BENEDICT ROYALE with cured salmon on buckwheat muffins

is a perfect way to get started on a cold morning. It’s easy to prepare and simply delicious. Tempt a few extra hands to help by laying your table with a basket of fresh croissants served with warm orange marmalade, nuts and spices topped with a little cinnamon and nutmeg.

Eggs Benedict Royale

RESTAURANT REVIEW | Satsuma in Soho

By Alex Ivett IN AUSTRALIA I have five favourite Japanese restaurants. There’s one for fancy occasions; polished teak wood, elaborate Japanese specialities and real hand painted ceramic teacups. There’s the sushi train Japanese, for the casual lunch. Here they yell “sumimasen” loudly as they efficiently chop, slice and plate up dish after dish of avocado handrolls and pork gyoza that trundle past you as you sit poised with your chopsticks waiting for variety.

The other three? They’re my local Japanese, in each of the areas I have lived over the years. You know the type of place – small, friendly, uniformly similar menus with all the classics, and three generations of one Japanese family dishing up authentic and reasonably priced dishes from behind a blue parted curtain.

My favourite local wormed its way to the top because of its unexpected location next to a Pancake Parlour in the middle of a bus interchange, and its hand drawn pictures of the entire menu decorating the walls.

Coloured loosely with crayon, like the third generation had drawn them at school to proudly advertise the wares, they match the food itself – warm, comforting and genuine.

Now, having moved to London, I am bereft of a Japanese local. I have tried gyoza in Camden, eaten katsu in Notting Hill and wrestled with ramen in Islington. And yet, I still haven’t found anywhere with the consistency and comfort of Japanese at home.

Perhaps the key is to stop trying to find an exact replacement, and take each Japanese restaurant for what it is. Case in point, Satsuma, in Soho.

It was perhaps unrealistic to think a two leveled restaurant in the midst of the busy heart of Soho would provide the same sense of familiarity and welcome as a neighbourhood local.

No, with Satsuma, it is a place to

come before heading out. Before seeing a show, or a comedy act. A perfect place perhaps for a night out with friends, secluded in your own orange booth under dim lights, making the most of deliciously strong apple martinis and plum wines. In these circumstances, the food is the sideshow, not the main event.

That’s not to say it’s not good.

The edamame, gyoza, and mixed tempura all tick the right boxes.

The tempura is lightly battered and crispy, the salmon and chicken gyoza deliciously fresh and the edamame comes in a generous serve.

On the other hand, the agedashi tofu, normally a favourite back home, is unappealing called a tofu ‘steak’, and comes out much like it sounds. A slab of wobbly tofu that doesn’t allow its accompanying sauce to improve its fairly bland taste.

The Bento Box epitomizes the experience. Traditional Japanese ingredients, with an attempt at a contemporary twist. It is an assorted set meal with a number of inclusions depending on your order, including chicken yakitori, salmon sashimi, seafood salad and crispy prawn with kaffir wrapping. There is a lot going on in one place, and not all of it quite

works. The sashimi hits the mark – fresh, generous slices, and the crispy prawn is an unusual surprise. The seafood salad, on the other hand, would have been best left out of the equation.

It only serves to reinforce there are many different types of Japanese.

Satsuma might not ever be your neighborhood local but then again, it’s not trying to be.

Satsuma Japanese Restaurant, 56 Wardour Street, Soho W1D 4JG London. See www.osatsuma.com.

Coffee Cult visits: Kaffeine in Fitzrovia What you need

• 2 English buckwheat or whole meal muffins cut in two • 3 slices of smoked Scottish salmon • Freshly chopped parsley • Freshly cracked black pepper

For hollandaise sauce • 100g unsalted clarified butter • 2 egg yolks • 2 tsp of fresh lemon juice • 1 tsp of white wine vinegar For poached eggs • 2 large free-range eggs • 2 tsp of white wine vinegar

What to do

For hollandaise sauce: • Melt the butter in a saucepan.

• Place the egg yolks in a large bowl with the vinegar and lemon juice, whisk until the eggs become frothy and pale.

• Place over a saucepan of slow boiling water and whisk for 5 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken. Be careful not to make the mixture too hot or the eggs

will start to scramble.

• Slowly add the melted butter and whisk until the butter is evenly mixed in. Finally season with salt and pepper and a little lemon juice for a more tangy taste is desired.

For poached eggs • Bring a pot of water to the boil and add the vinegar. Stir the water creating a whirlpool. Crack the eggs and add one at a time.

• Simmer for around 4 minutes, until the egg whites form but the yolk is soft.

To serve

• Toast the muffins and lightly butter.

• Place the sliced of salmon on top followed by the poached eggs. Spoon a generous amount of hollandaise over the top and garnish with the fresh parsley and cracked black pepper.

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SQUEEZED amidst the Scandinavian design stores and clothes boutiques of Fitzrovia is Kaffeine. An Australian/ New Zealand owned sliver of a café pumping out over 500 expertly made coffees a day with a focus on fresh and fast sweets and savouries laid out artistically for the crowds that crush into the narrow shop.

This is not one for long, lounging brunches. This is one instead for the homesick Melbournians desperate for a proper cup with a coffee feather on top. A place where one can come and perch on wooden crates or crowd into tall tables, clutching a flat white, and for one moment be transported to the back alleys of DeGraves

Street – before rushing out, suitably caffeinated, to make room for the next body waiting patiently by the door.

The Craic Slim-fit, like the skinny ripped jeans of the pink-haired, tattooed efficient café staff, there’s almost no room for me to squeeze on the rainy day I visit.

That is, until the helpful waitress finds a spot on the tall benches taken up with Prada shopping bags and politely asks the owner to make space.

Perhaps the customer didn’t get the memo that good coffee in London = big crowds because space is only made with great reluctance, much tutting and head shaking. Coffee is spilled, chaos reigns, and I get to enjoy my cup with a sweet serve of justice.

The Crucials It’s not a traditional brunch – there’s no eggs benedict here. The focus is instead on beautifully arranged platters of seasonal salads, quiches and sandwiches served on proper baguette or focaccia bread, with a menu that changes weekly.

A nod to the Antipodean café culture

comes with the freshly baked treats that you feel are justified after the plate of healthy mixed salad you just wolfed down. Anzac biscuits, muffins and Portuguese tarts line the display case, and, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays the piece d’Australian resistance: ‘payday’ lamingtons.

The Connection Kaffeine was founded in 2009 by Melbournian Peter Dore-Smith, and New Zealand partner Hayden Smart.

The motivation was to “create a space that was reflective of the styles of café and the café lifestyles in Australia and New Zealand”. It is a style that has served Kaffeine well, having being awarded a number of awards in the years that have followed.

The Conclusion Serious coffee for those who take their coffee seriously, and their need for space less seriously.

Kaffeine, 66 Great Tichfield Street, WIW 7QJ. Kaffeine is taking pre-orders for lamingtons for Australia Day now.

6 | Entertainment

8 - 14 January 2013

Aussie Melanie Hooper with a Licence to Thrill n

INTERVIEW | Ahead of her UK tour with Brendan Cole’s Licence to Thrill stage show, dancing star Melanie Hooper talks to GEORGIA DAWES about growing up in the Australian ballroom dancing world and the rollercoaster ride of Dancing With The Stars.

TWO TIMES Australian Professional Latin Champion, UK RS Professional Latin Champion and German Open RS Professional Latin Champion Melanie Hooper agrees that growing up in the Australian ballroom dancing world was often very similar to the hit Australian film Strictly Ballroom; the glitzy costumes, the flamboyant characters and the fierce competitions.

At 13, Melanie started ballroom dancing as a hobby at the local dance school in her hometown of Townsville, Australia.

Melanie says she was initially attracted to dancing because of the fantastic, eye-catching costumes.

“The costumes are definitely a reason why I started competing when I was younger. However, I only own one old competition dress at the moment, the dresses I usually wear in shows are supplied or made for me.”

“I have to help Wayne with his bogo pogo” Scott Hastings, Strictly Ballroom She has come a long way from her local dance school and is now known internationally for her incredibly fast, sharp and fiery dancing style.

Melanie became an Australian crowd favourite when she hit the silver screen on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) as one of the professional dancers, coming third place in her very first season. Yes, that’s why her name was sounding so familiar!

“Performing on DWTS is a roller coaster ride,” she tells Australian Times.

“It is a lot of fun with so many memorable moments, but their can also be some stressful bumps along the way. All in all it’s an amazing opportunity, the teaching, performing and meeting such great people along the way. I do love it!”

However, soon UK audiences won’t be limited to watching the divine Melanie Hooper cha-cha, rumba, shimmy and shake across the television, even if it is an 80inch flat screen. From January to March 2013 Melanie will be hitting the London stage dancing both ballroom and latin styles with Patrick Helm in Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole’s hit show Licence to Thrill.

Featuring six talented professional dancers, two vocalists and a 14 person band, audiences are set to be dazzled with sexy, fiery and dramatic choreography in this two hour dance and big band extravaganza. The show includes both ballroom and latin dance, with waltzes and foxtrots that will take you on a journey of beauty and elegance while the fast pace quicksteps and tangos will get your heart racing and your temperature soaring.

“Brendan’s new show is going to be so exciting,” says Melanie.

“A new cast of fantastic dancers, new music and new choreography. It’s definitely going to be a crowd pleaser.”

Secret London n

London is a dynamic and vibrant city, and it can sometimes be hard to make sure you have your finger on the pulse. GEORGE KATRALIS lets us in on a few of his favourite off the beaten track London haunts with Part 1 of his Top 10 Secret London list.

LONDON can be a big dark place … but it’s within these dark corners that lie the best of what this city has to offer. London is famous for its hidden scenes. Places and things so off the beaten track that word of mouth via a friend of a friend is the only way to catch wind of such things.

Lucky for you, I am this friend and I am blowing the whistle on what I consider to be London’s Top 10 bestkept secrets. Join me won’t you?

the silver screen. Ever wanted to see something in the big screen but never got the chance? Well, chances are these guys will do it.

Often hosting movie marathons, double bills and dress up nights if you fancy watching a John Hughes classic, quoting Anchorman, singing along to Grease coupled with a Die Hard double feature, then you’ve found your place.

See www.princecharlescinema.com.

What’s On Flume 24 January @ XOYO Rolf Harris 8 February @ Royal Festival Hall Southbank Centre Wolfe Bowart’s Letter’s End 24-27 February @ Southbank Centre The Australian Pink Floyd Show 25 February @ London 02 Arena The Rubens 27 February @ Scala Olivia Newton-John 13 March @ Royal Albert Hall Tommy Emmanuel 16 March @ Shepherd’s Bush Empire

It’s not just the dancing that will have audience members scoring a ‘10 out of 10’ with their scorecards.

Melanie says the costumes and the music are also sure to impress.

“The costumes in Brendan’s show are always spectacular, lots of colour and bling which everyone loves. Especially me.

“The music is all types; some old classic songs mixed with some new which keeps everyone happy and toe tapping throughout the night.”

Brendan Cole, the brains behind Licence to Thrill, is a native New Zealander. However, there is definitely no Kiwi vs Aussie rivalry when it comes to Brendan and Melanie Hooper.

“Working with Brendan is a dream.

He is a fantastic dancer and a great friend. We always have so much fun on tour and Brendan always make sure of that, both on and off stage.

I think the audiences can see how genuine and charismatic he is.”

With shows starting on 20 January and running until 1 March Melanie will be burning the floor, and probably some holes in her shoes, as she tours all over England with the show.

However, she hopes to enjoy some of the sights and sounds of a European winter: “Apart from touring with the show I am looking forward to catching up with friends, sightseeing London again and also visiting Paris and Rome at the end of the tour.”

With 20 January fast approaching it is time to scrub up on your favourite Strictly Ballroom quotes, watch the last few seasons (at least) of DWTS Australia and then be sure to check out Melanie Hooper in Brendan Cole’s dance extravaganza Licence to Thrill.

Soon you will be wanting to dance the ‘Bogo Pogo’ with Tina Sparkle too.

Licence to Thrill is on at Barbican Hall on 13 February 2013 and other UK locations from 20 January to 9 March. See brendancole.com for more information and tickets.

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Entertainment

AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

Sofar Sounds

One for the music lovers. Sofar is an underground musical movement that started here in London. It was dreamt up by two friends who once attended a gig and couldn’t hear a word of the show above the overly vocal crowd.

Instead of complaining, they decided to create a night for those who love the purity of music. To hear what is often missed on the big stage.

How? By placing music in the intimate setting of a pop up style gig held in someone’s living room.

This is a must for anyone who loves good music. And with the likes of festival touring bands dropping in, you never know who you might see.

See www.sofarsounds.com.

Freud Café London

Hidden beneath the streets of Shaftsbury Avenue, this hidden cellar type café/bar is one of my personal favourite finds. It hosts an easygoing crowd who can enjoy the 40+ cocktails on offer whilst admiring the monthly rotating art exhibits that hang on the aged industrial concrete walls. People pack into this place with good reason. Get in early and enjoy the atmosphere.

See www.freud.eu.

Prince Charles Cinema Staying on the topic of films, this little old school cinema situated in the back streets of Leicester Square is a throw back to the cinema going experience we all remember from our childhood.

Popcorn from the popper, sticky floors, non-elevated chairs so if you’re sitting behind someone tall you’re pretty much screwed. But don’t let that turn you off – The Prince is home to the classics long forgotten from

Tame Impala 25 June @ Hammersmith Apollo

For full details... ...and more Aussie gigs go to: AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

See what we are following this week on

Toadie and Celebrity Big Brother 2013 Delta Goodrem @delta_goodrem YAY!! GO RYAN! he will win xx @TVWEEKmag #Neighbours star Ryan Moloney, aka Toadie, has entered UK’s Celebrity Big Brother house!

Secret Cinema

From music to film, whether a casual film goer or a seasoned film buff, this is one of the most fun cinema going experiences you will ever have. Not only do you see a film, but, without giving away too much, you sort of become part of it too.

Secret Cinema sells tickets to their customers before even announcing what film is showing, what genre to expect, or even where they are going to see it.

Armed with nothing but cryptic clues in the lead up to the night to help you pick your fancy dress attire and find your location for the event, upon arrival you are greeted by actors playing out roles from the soon to be screened film. So much fun you can’t help but get involved.

See www.secretcinema.org.

Pam Ann 28-29 March @ Hammersmith Apollo

Blue Anchor

As far as London pubs go, you wont find a better one then this.

Frequented by locals, and on a warm summers day quite literally bursting at the seams, this old school nautical themed bar is hidden along the Thames beneath the beautiful Hammersmith Bridge.

On any given day you’ll see couples walking their dogs, or rowers charging down the river. I am almost hesitant if to share this gem with you because it has fast become my favourite get away in London. For a great atmosphere, friendly staff and a killer Chicken Parmigiana, the Blue Anchor is well worth a visit.

See www.blueanchorlondon.com.

Well, that should be enough to get you through this week at least. I don’t want to spoil you…well, not too much.

Watch this space again next week for numbers 5 to 10 of my Top 10.

Adam Postans @couchpotatoadam Paula Hamilton believing Toadie was a producer getting her out of the basement was a brilliant moment.

Jellyfish Neighbours @JellyFishAUS Toadie’s certainly making the most of the Neighbours Christmas break. #RyanMaloney #teamtoadie Elizabeth Windsor @Queen_UK The DoE wonders if Claire Richards could have done with “taking a few more steps” over the last few years. #CBB Ross Noble @realrossnoble possible celebs still to enter #cbb Bloke who used to fly BBC balloon, the waiter from duty free, The milk tray mans Check out what we’re following this week on AustralianTimes.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @AustralianTimes

travel

Travel | 7

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Montenegro Affordable historic coastal towns.

Rugged mountains for off the beaten track adventure.

n

A new year means new sights to see, oceans to swim in and historic wonders to discover. Here’s our pick of the hottest destinations for 2013.

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MONTENEGRO is emerging as the latest Mediterranean hotspot, with rugged mountainous beauty and kilometers of undiscovered coastline all wrapped up in an easily traversable and affordable package.

Two-thirds the size of Wales, Montenegro offers historic coastal towns set along the Riviera just below Croatia, perfect for 2013’s summer months. For those who wish to combine their sunbaking with something slightly more adventurous, the natural beauty of Montenegro can be seen in its rugged interior – with an improving network of hiking and biking trails and infrastructure increasingly catering to foreign tourists.

Slovakia Experiencing a cultural renaissance.

As yet largely undiscovered, as visitors flocked to neighbouring Austria and Hungary, it is time for Slovakia’s tourism renaissance.

It has joined the EU and is one of the continent’s fastest-growing economies, but still a very affordable alternative for European travellers. It is a country packed with historic ruins of castles, beautiful national parks and medieval towns.

In addition the town of Košice, a well-preserved city dating back to the 12th century, has been named the European Capital of Culture 2013. Historic sights are undergoing restoration in anticipation of 2013 visitors, and the city has planned a program of music, events and celebrations that are sure to impress.

Festivals in Europe £189

No one throws a party like the Irish – and there is no better time to experience this than on St Patrick’s Day! The streets of Dublin are filled with music, street theatre, comedy and more, “Cead mile failte” (A thousand welcomes).

£189

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Visit some of North America’s greatest cities and National Parks Like-minded traveling companions, all aged 18 to 39

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First rate transport, accommodation and Topdeck Road Crew Loads of ‘Totally Topdeck’ inclusions.

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Iceland Natural phenomena The Vatnajokull ice cap, Laugahraun lava field, the 30km gorge in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park.

Activities Glacier walks, thermal pools, white-water rafting, hiking, whale watching and the northern lights (winter).

Most isolated The Westfjords region is sparsely populated, isolated and spectacularly beautiful.

£169

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Slovakia Cultural celebrations Košice – lively mix of old and new.

Mountain magic High Tatras – snowfields, clear mountain lakes, waterfalls and pine forest.

Off the beaten track East Slovakia – folk customs, historic architecture and natural beauty preserved in a unique region.

The people of Valencia celebrate their patron saint’s day and the passing of winter with a fiery party of ferocious proportions. Over 400 spectacular effigies are constructed for one reason – to be burnt to a cinder to welcome in the new Spring.

Be enchanted by the mystery of Venice as the locals don elaborate masks while celebrating the festivities of Carnival.

The famous canals come alive with street parties, costumes and celebrations during this unique festival.

Why Topdeck North America

Coastal beauty Stari Bar and Budva.

Historic towns Kotor and Herceg Novi.

Hiking and walking Durmitor National Park - also a ski resort in winter.

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*Terms and conditions apply. Prices quoted are for specific departures only. All trips subject to availability. Discounts are off the base trip price only, and do not apply to food funds and local payments. Exchange rates correct at time of printing, and subject to currency fluctuations, depending when payment is made. Offer subject to availability. The 10% book and pay in full by 31st January offer for North America trips is valid for new confirmed bookings made from 1 January 2013 and paid in full by 31 January 2013. This 10% discount applies exclusively to all North America trips listed in Topdeck’s 2013 North America brochure. This discount can be combined up to a maximum of 20% using one standard brochure discount with the exception of the ‘Early Payment Option’. Please contact our friendly team for further details. The discount does not apply to Food Fund or pre/post accommodation. Normal cancellation conditions apply. Topdeck reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. See online for full terms and conditions.

Image by Thom Quine

Iceland

Unique island nation worth exploring again and again Only three hours from London, it’s almost easier to get there than it is from Sydney to Canberra. And, with unrivalled scenery, a chic European capital, natural wonders and its own ice cap all within an area of 100,000 square km, how could you not go.

Starting off in the compact capital Reykjavik – a historical, entertaining and friendly city, it is a perfect place to be introduced to the buzz and energy of Iceland. It’s only a stones throw from here to the spectacular natural wilderness that offers more outdoor activities than you could possibly fit into one visit.

8 | Travel

8 - 14 January 2013

yet untouched and free from the crowds already climbing over Troy and Ephesus. This can be combined with visits to the historic towns of Mardin and Midyat and a hike along the recently inaugurated Abraham’s Path walking trail, which will take visitors through Kurdish homestays offering simple homestays.

Madagascar Wildlife lovers rejoice

Madagascar is one for the nature lovers. With 5% of all known animal and plant species residing here, and 5000km of coastline to discover them along, it is a destination best marked in the diaries for the summer months. It is however difficult to get around, with the road system best suited to off-road vehicles.

For those who want to stay put, there is 450km of barrier reef and 250 islands to choose from.

Underwater diving sites offer shipwrecks, ‘cathedrals’, and abundant sealife. Above ground are pristine beaches, hammocks, sailing and whale watching.

Carinthia, Austria

Image by ÿÿ

Turkey

Discover untouched historical sights in Southeast Turkey Turkey has in recent years become a popular destination for tourists coming from the UK, and with good reason. The cultural and

historical intensity of Istanbul, combined with the beautiful Mediterranean coastline, is enough in itself to justify an extended visit.

2013 will be the year southeast Turkey is added to the itinerary, with low-cost airlines starting to discover this unique historical area.

The recently uncovered ruins of Göbekli Tepe near Sanliurfa are as

PROMOTION

Australians still call London home (away from home)

ASK Aussies what brought them to London and you’ll get all sorts of responses.

Tales of misspent youth travelling with friends after high school or university; visiting long-lost relatives; months working behind bars to pay for their next European excursion.

Whatever it is that fuels our love affair with the capital of our convict past, Australians can’t keep away.

Over the last couple of years, travel industry experts have pointed to the strong Aussie dollar as one of the main reasons that more Australians have been leaving their home shores.

It definitely makes a difference to your holiday fun when two-thirds of your cash doesn’t disappear somewhere between Tullamarine and Heathrow.

It’s also a lot cheaper and easier these days to jump on an overseas flight with more low-cost carriers and established airlines flying down every year.

But one of the biggest draw-cards is surely the fact that this place feels so much like a home away from home. It’s not Australia, but they still speak our language, they have Neighbours on the telly, and they like to hang out in pubs.

And take a short train ride (about the same as driving Sydney to Canberra) and you’re standing under the Eiffel Tower or on Pont Neuf.

The ease of access to Europe and beyond makes London the ideal first stop north of Cape York.

If you look at the number of annual travellers, the UK usually sits below

Australia’s close cousin, New Zealand, in rankings, but it’s always up there in the top five destinations for Australians heading overseas and usually the number one destination in Europe.

When Australians book their travel online it’s a similar story. Customers of Wotif.com – Australia’s leading travel site – made London their number one European travel destination in 2012.

Matt Harris is one guy who loves seeing more Australians in London.

The London-born head of Wotif. com’s European office here in London says bring it on.

“We’ve been Australia’s favourite travel site for twelve years now, so it’s no surprise they come to us when they’re off to Europe as well.”

About Wotif.com Wotif.com sells accommodation online in 68 countries. Our great rates, broad accommodation range, easy-to-use site and 24/7 Customer Service Centre have made us the most popular way for business and leisure travellers in Australia and New Zealand to book accommodation online. Every month our site attracts 4.5 million visits, with customers making over 250,000 bookings.

We launched in Brisbane, Australia, in March 2000 and now have offices in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, China and Malaysia to support our growing international presence.

Wotif.com is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, trading under the code WTF.

A winter getaway without breaking the budget In the southernmost corner of Australia, backing onto Italy and Slovenia, Carinthia combines Mediterranean charm with Australian efficiency. Beautiful winter scenery, world class skiing on slopes without the crowds and plenty of après-ski in traditional surroundings.

It’s not just a place reserved for the winter months either, with hiking and swimming in natural lakes perfect activities to enjoy in the gentle Austrian sun.

Northern Cyprus

A cultural kaleidoscope with a unique character Northern Cyprus, the Turkishcontrolled state, is prime for rediscovery with a surfeit of historical sites, coastal treks and the golden beaches of the Karpas Peninsula. Touted as the ‘pure Mediterranean’, it holds a traditional and romantic appeal in an increasingly touristy country.

Image by Anjadora

Sicily Island wonders

Sicily is the football of Italy – the large island that sits below the bootshaped mainland. With a typical Mediterranean climate, it also has a Mediterranean culture and flavor, making it perfect for travel in the summer months. However, with archeological sites such as the Valle dei Templi and the Villa Romana del Casale, as well as the tallest active volcano in Europe, it is a destination worth exploring year round.

Turkey Must-see Vibrant, fascinating Istanbul – spice markets, beautiful mosques and delicious food.

Make time Cave churches and fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.

Discover History comes alive in southeast Turkey.

Madagascar Wildlife spotting Parc National D’ankarafantsika, Park National Montagne d’Ambre, Parc National de Ranomafana.

Beach getaways L’lle Sainte-Marie, Nosy Be and Masoala Peninsula.

Carinthia Medieval magic The towns of Friesach or Gmund.

Lakeside lounging Lake Wörth, Lake Millstatt or Lake Ossiach.

Ski areas Bad Kleinkirchheim and St. Oswald.

Londonderry UK City of Culture

The second-largest city in Northern Island, Derry will in 2013 be undergoing a cultural renaissance after being named UK City of Culture 2013. With an old walled city lining the bank of the River Foyle, Derry offers a wealth of culture and history in one location.

Northern Cyprus Habourside living Girne (Kyrenia). Picturesque stone harbour and Kyrenia Castle harbour.

Village life Bellapais, containing the ruins of Bellapais Abbey built in the 12th century.

Sicily Archeological wonders

Agrigento, Selinunte, Segesta.

Mediterranean magic

Pelagie Islands.

City life

Palermo, Syracuse.

Sri Lanka

Low-cost paradise making a comeback With the civil war which wracked the country from 1983 to 2009 over, visitors are slowly but surly returning to Sri Lanka. Offering beautiful beaches, national parks full of wildlife and eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer travellers, and all in a compact location.

Londonderry Festival Fun

All Ireland Fleadh – the world’s biggest Irish festival.

Arts & Culture

Host of the Turner Prize in 2013, and regular events including the Jazz Festival and Earhart Festival.

Sri Lanka Historical sites

The ruins of Polonnaruwa.

Beach bliss

Mirissa Beach, Unawatuna Beach or Tangalle Beach.

Adventure seekers

Trekking around Kandy and camping in the Knuckles Range.

Image by Karen Eliot

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Jobs & Money | 9

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Rinehart finally reveals Hancock finances to corporate regulators n

Dollar Review

Aussie Dollar boosted by strong US economic data

Billionaire mining magnate Gina Rinehart’s company, Hancock Prospecting By Saskia Johnston Australian Dollar began has posted a massive $1.2 billion profit THE trading last week around the 1.5595 mark against the British Pound and for fiscal 2011, almost double 2010.

0.9645 to the US Dollar. The Aussie

with agreements with Rio Tinto,” the company said.

Hancock outlayed a massive $415 million in capital expenditure in the year ending June 30, 2011, up from $8.29 million in the previous year.

Meanwhile, marketing and royalty costs rose to $143 million in 2011, from $87 million in 2010.

Income tax expenses rose from $295 million to $518 million, including $67 million in deferred tax.

The report also showed funds issued to a consortium of Korean and Japanese investors led by POSCO could be converted to an equity interest in Roy Hill Holdings’ iron ore project in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

Hancock Prospecting owns about 70 per cent of Roy Hill Holdings, which is trying to build a large iron mine, along with railway track and port facilities.

In December, Hancock began raising up to $7 billion in debt to help fund its $10 billion Roy Hill project after the construction deadline was pushed back to mid2013.

In a section of the report entitled Contingencies, Hancock said directors of the company were not able to assess the impact of native title claims in relation to Hope Downs.

Hancock also said it was unable to quantify if any damages could be awarded to a claim made by certain companies within the group in relations to royalties from the Hope Downs mine.

“There are no significant liabilities arising from such legal actions,” the company said. - AAP

strengthened throughout the week to close on 1.533 to the British Pound and 0.954 to the US Dollar.

The strength in the Australian Dollar is in part attributable to the positive US jobs data released on Friday. US non-farm payroll figures showed 155,000 jobs were added to the economy in December 2012. These figures helped increase risk appetite and push global market shares higher.

Key focus remains on any decisions regarding the US ‘Fiscal Cliff’, after Thursday’s US Congress agreement was reached on measures to avoid part of it, market sentiment became more positive, thereby assisting the strength in the Aussie.

Looking ahead at the AUD/USD currency pair investors will be keeping a close eye on the release of the AIG (American International

Exchange rates GBP/AUD: 1.530 EUR/AUD: 1.243 USD/AUD: 1.047 NZD/AUD: 1.262 09:54 GMT, 07 January 2013

Note: The above exchange rates are based on “interbank” rates. If you want to transfer money to or from Australia then please register/login on our website, or call us on 0808 141 2335 for a live dealing rate. Make use of a Rate Notifier to send you alert when the Australian exchange rate reaches levels you are looking for.

GAIN A PROFESSIONAL EDGE FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS Sable offers an impressive portfolio of professional services. We have over 25 years of experience advising individuals, contractors and small businesses who have international interests and connections.

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Sable Group

Castlewood House 77/91 New Oxford Street London WC1A 1DG t: +44 (0) 845 094 3990 info@sable-group.com www.sable-group.com

Sable is a group of professional service companies.

Sable Accounting Limited is a limited company registered in England and Wales with registered number 03517738.

Sable Private Wealth Management Limited is registered in England & Wales, number 04305265, Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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BILLIONAIRE Gina Rinehart’s company Hancock Prospecting posted a massive $1.2 billion profit in 2010/11, almost doubling its previous profit, documents filed on Christmas Eve show.

The mining magnate, who was recently named the 39th richest person in the world, gave into pressure from the corporate regulator and lodged two longoverdue annual reports for the 2010 and 2011 financial years on December 24, 2012.

Publication of the financial reports comes two months after Ms Rinehart failed in a bid to dismiss court action brought by her three eldest children, who are trying to oust her as trustee of the multimillion dollar family trust.

Details of the private company’s financial position were considered sensitive in the context of the family legal stoush.

Hancock’s 2011 annual report showed profit attributable to owners of the private company rose to $1.19 billion for the 12 months to June 30, 2011, up from $688 million in 2009/10.

The report, lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), noted that Hancock had net assets of $2.78 billion at June 30, 2011, up from $1.64 billion a year earlier.

Revenue was $2.37 billion in fiscal 2011, up from $1.41 billion in the prior year.

Dividends more than doubled, increasing to $12.49 million in 2011, up from $6.17 million in the prior year.

On top of that, the sale of the group’s coal assets in Queensland to GVK in late 2011 raised $US735 million ($A705.37 million).

Hancock said it conducted a certain amount of exploration and production activities as part of its 50 per cent Hope Downs joint venture with mining giant Rio Tinto.

The 2011 annual report also showed Hancock still owed Rio Tinto $83.3 million, after paying back $25 million over the 2010/11 as part of an agreement to build its latest mine under the joint venture.

“The loans relate to funds advanced to the group by Rio Tinto in relation to the funding of the group’s share of the Hope Downs project expenditure, in accordance

Group, Inc) performance on the construction index.

Chinese data also due to be released later this week includes inflation and trade numbers.

Although these are something to take note of, GDP numbers from China due later this month will be the primary focus.

On the domestic front, investors will be initially eyeing reaction to Tuesday’s local trade data release. Speculation suggests the deficit is expected to have widened from A$2.1 billion to A$2.3 billion.

“Analysts expect the Aussie will continue to enjoy strong support over coming days, helped by a mix of improving prices for iron ore - Australia’s biggest export better investor sentiment and likely improving domestic economic data,” said Enda Curran according to the Wall Street Journal on Monday.

www.sable-group.com

10 | Sport

8 - 14 January 2013

ARLC implements new NRL rules for 2013 season

By Shannon Loves THE Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) have implemented a number of new rules in the NRL, effective at the beginning of the 2013 season, in an attempt to bring some clarity to disputable areas of the game. These include changes to State of Origin eligibility, the video referee and benefit of the doubt rule, and to the rules on shoulder charges.

State of Origin eligibility has been a major point of frustration for many rugby league fans. Previously, players who were born in one state but played for a junior representative team in the other state were eligible to play for either. From this year, players will only be able to represent New South Wales or Queensland if they lived there before the age of 13.

Other than this, the only way they are able to play Origin football is if the player is a son of an Origin player and they are selected to represent the state in which their father played.

“The intention there is to bring some real clarity around the

eligibility. I think we’ve got some very clear rules,” NRL’s General Manager of Strategic Projects, Shane Mattiske, said on Fox Sports News.

“Importantly, we’ve got this new father-son rule. Now that we’ve got a team in Melbourne this becomes important. If Billy Slater’s son ever plays for Queensland and his son grows up in Victoria, it means that Billy’s son could then ensure he plays for Queensland.”

The shoulder charge rule has also been altered in preparation for the 2013 season. The shoulder charge has officially been banned; the rule now states that defenders must attempt to make a tackle with their arms out in front of them in order for it to be legal.

This has divided opinion within the rugby league community, with some claiming the NRL is slowly driving out the hard men of the game. Prop Ben Matulino is one player who has effectively incorporated the shoulder charge into his game.

“I’m pretty angry to see it go but I can’t really change anything about it,” he said.

“You’ve just got to adapt to it.”

The overhaul of the benefit of the doubt rule will perhaps see the biggest change in the game on a week to week basis. The new rule means that on-field referees are obliged to make a decision on whether or not to award a try. If they have any doubt they may send it to the video ref, who can only change the decision if there is sufficient evidence to suggest the original call was incorrect.

The benefit of the doubt rule has been the cause of controversy since it was first introduced, with the decision to scrap it being praised by coaches and players. Warriors coach Mathew Elliot has shown his support for the way the video ref will be utilised in 2013.

“I think what people are after is the referees to make a decision and then let the technology either support that or go against that,” he said.

“That’s what they (the ARL Commission) have done - the refs make a decision rather than go upstairs all the time. I actually really like it.”

“Australia has taken its toll”: Djokovic Continued from p12... singles encounters at the mixedteams Hopman Cup in Perth, with the only blemish being a 6-4 6-4 loss to world No.52 Tomic on Wednesday night.

However, Djokovic was still jet lagged and sleep deprived when he entered that match and showed his true colours in straight-sets smashings of Tommy Haas and Fernando Verdasco.

Djokovic’s heroics weren’t enough to secure top-seeded Serbia a maiden Hopman Cup triumph.

Instead, Spain snared their fourth title when Verdasco and Anabel Medina Garrigues prevailed in the deciding mixed doubles against Serbia in Saturday night’s final.

It capped an interesting tournament for Djokovic, who endured a nervy moment last week when a hoarding holding back fans toppled over and struck the Serbian on the knee while he was signing autographs.

Djokovic was lucky to escape with just soreness and says he’s in good shape as he puts the finishing touches on his preparations for the Australian Open, “Coming to Australia has taken its toll,” said Djokovic, who played an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi before teaming up with Ana Ivanovic for a third time at the Hopman Cup. “The first few days felt slow but

already the last few days I have been striking the ball better and the last few matches were really good.

“I’m happy with the way I’m playing.

“Obviously I know I can work on a few more things and adjustments to get it to the best possible level.

“But I am where I aim to be, where I want to be in this moment.”

Djokovic predicted he would face a tough task to win his fourth Australian Open title, despite the withdrawal of former world No.1 Rafael Nadal.

“It’s a huge challenge,” Djokovic said.

“I love the Australian Open. That court brings back the best memories of my career.

“I like the hard court, I like the conditions and I’m going to go for the trophy of course.

“I have high ambitions for myself, but I’m absolutely aware that it’s going to be very difficult because today’s grand slam is very competitive.

“Andy Murray winning his first grand slam title last year also got him to this group of players who are serious candidates to win the Australian Open title.”

World No.13 Ivanovic, who suffered a 6-4 6-7 (7-3) 6-2 loss to Medina Garrigues on Saturday night, said she would take a few days off before rounding out her preparations

Magnussen primed for pool return says coach

James Magnussen receiving his Olympics 2012 silver medal Continued from p12...

TOUGH TASK: Novak Djokovic during the Hopman Cup in Perth.

(AAP Image/Tony McDonough) for the Australian Open.

The 25th edition of the Hopman Cup, played at the new $549 million Perth Arena, attracted a record event crowd of 104,468 over the eight days.

By Justin Chadwick

Magnussen spearheads a 30-strong Australian squad to take on China and South Africa in the $500,000 two-day team competition from 18 January.

Favoured for two gold medals in London, the young New South Welshman was edged into silver in the 100m free and missed a medal altogether in the sprint relay.

“He did a good job going into London but he has found another level. He has been amazing at training,” Best told AAP. “He copped a bit of flak from a few people but at the end of the day he tried his guts out and had a good crack at his first Olympics.

“To give your all and to have people have a go at you like they did, it takes a hell of a lot of character to stand up and make yourself better, especially at 21.

“He continues to surprise me the way he steps up.”

Best said Magnussen expected to be scrutinised at every meet following his London campaign but hoped the man dubbed “the Missile” would just have fun at Perth.

“This is more about giving him a chance to get up there and race again and enjoy it,” he said.

“And to have the local crowd behind the team will be a big thing.

“Everyone makes mistakes. When you do it on the biggest stage in the world, everyone sees it.”

Best said they did not have to go back to the drawing board after he was pipped by American Nathan Adrian in London.

“We reviewed the race and looked at what went right and wrong, but a lot of things went right in the process for preparing for London. We don’t want to throw everything away,” he said.

Best applauded the creation of the Perth event, saying it was just what was needed after Swimming Australia organised an independent review into team culture following the London Games.

“It’s more about what the team does and less about the individuals which is good - it’s the culture that Swimming Australia is moving towards after the review process,” he said.

“It’s a good team-building concept.

It’s a smart idea.”

A near full-strength Australian team also boasting the likes of Alicia Coutts, Christian Sprenger and Emily Seebohm will use the event to prepare for the 2013 world championship trials starting in Adelaide in April.

China will feature Coutts’ 200m individual medley rival, dual Olympic champion Ye Shiwen, while Chad Le Clos - the man who upset Michael Phelps in London’s 200m butterfly final - leads South Africa.

By Laine Clark

Coach Cheika puts “chasing pack” through their paces Continued from p12...

There they were, Berrick Barnes, Benn Robinson and Drew Mitchell amongst them, sweating it out when they could have just as easily been enjoying a day at the beach.

Cheika calls them the “chasing pack”, with the “lead group” containing the likes of young gun Bernard Foley and AFL convert Israel Folau having already gone through the gruelling pre-season program.

Despite coming back of their own volition a week ahead of schedule, there were no favours afforded the group - which was missing only Adam Ashley-Cooper, Sekope Kepu, Wycliff Palu and Tatafu Polota-Nau of the

franchise’s European tourists.

“I didn’t speak to any of them, they just wanted to (come back)”, Cheika said.

“It shows the respect for their teammates and that is the most important thing in this game.

“The players have been really open to a different way of working.

“These sessions, a lot of the education’s done on the run, on the field, that puts pressure to learn.

“There’s obviously a whole new game shape that they’re playing, there’s a lot of new things .. they want to get better, you can see that.”

Said Mitchell of the early return: “It was an individual decision.

“I had a fair bit of time off last year

through my ankle and that sort of stuff - in terms of conditioning I’m probably a little bit behind most guys so it was important for me to get back.”

Mitchell’s eagerness may also have something to do with the competition for places ahead of the Super Rugby season opener on 23 February.

While admitting the Test stars had some credit to burn, Cheika is desperate to create competition for places.

The outside backs are particularly deep, with the likes of Australian representatives Lachie Turner, Mitchell and Ashley-Cooper facing heat from Tom Kingston, Peter Betham and Folau.

“You just make them compete against each other - that’s it,” Cheika said.

“Everyone’s really clear with the criteria for judgement which we have.

“The idea is to build a squad of depth ... if you want to try to be the best team you’ve got to have that.”

Cheika is also casting his eye over potential captains.

Incumbent Robinson - who inherited the role as a result of former skipper Rocky Elsom’s injury ruined 2012 season - has already stated his desire to retain the captaincy.

“You’ve got to see who wants it the most,” Cheika said of the captaincy.

“The leadership’s earned, it’s not a given.

Israel Folau trains with the Waratahs in Sydney (AAP Image/Tracey Nearmy) “A lot of the guys are back and running around now - we’ll see who wants to earn the respect to be the boss.”

By Steve Jancetic

Sport | 11

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Bernard Tomic believes Brisbane Lions keep noses clean top ten awaits this year

By Ben Horne

By Liam Fitzgibbon SUCH is Bernard Tomic’s confidence heading towards next week’s Australian Open, he hinted he felt his top 10 goal could even be achieved sooner rather than later.

“The way I’ve been playing now, there’s no stopping me,” he said.

“I’m not going to say I’ll be in the top 10 in two or three months. It could take a little bit longer, I don’t know. It could happen just like that, the way I’ve been playing.

“But I believe I’ll get there this year and if I keep up this attitude and the way I’ve been playing, who knows from there? I could go even higher.”

The rejuvenated Tomic plans to significantly break up his tournament schedule this year in a bid to avoid the mental and physical drain he believes caused his late 2012 collapse.

He headed into this week’s Sydney International feeling better than ever after returning from a competitive break with a remarkable performance at the Hopman Cup, featuring a win over world No.1 Novak Djokovic.

Tomic suffered an inglorious end to 2012, slipping to No.52 from a career-high ranking of 27. He faced criticism over his attitude and came under scrutiny for several off-court mishaps.

He admitted on Sunday he could have handled things better and to being stung by the widespread criticism that came his way.

However, a two-month break from competition helped him identify burnout as the problem and he revealed he would play no more than three tournaments in a row in a year when he hopes to crack the

world’s top 10.

Tomic’s tournament and Davis Cup workload last year was considerably higher than in 2011, when he cracked the top 50 for the first time.

“One of the biggest problems I had last year was I had no time to rest or train,” Tomic said ahead of his opening match against countryman Marinko Matosevic on Tuesday.

“I played a whole bunch of tournaments in a row.

“Tournaments didn’t feel like tournaments to me at a stage because I didn’t know what I was playing. “... I think from now I’ve decided to play not more than three tournaments in a row and having two weeks off after each period.

“That’s when I’m going to give myself the best chance. When I’m prepared and fit to play each tournament. To give 100 per cent. “... It (last year) is just a learning curve and I’m happy it happened in a way, because you learn from your mistakes.”

With his confidence and form peaking, and the withdrawal of top seeds Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Richard Gasquet in Sydney, Tomic can sense an opportunity to go deep into the draw as he seeks a maiden ATP title.

He said it would feel strange to face current Australian No.1 Matosevic in the opening round but insisted he thrived under the pressure of playing on home soil.

While Tomic is resigned to being overlooked for Australia’s opening Davis Cup tie in Taiwan next month and the following round, he hoped he could be back in the frame for selection for the second round playoffs in September.

Warne accepts one-match ban Continued from p12...

The top-placed Renegades could find themselves hosting the Stars in a semi-final next week at Etihad Stadium and CA officials are desperate for high TV ratings with a new TV deal on the horizon.

“It’s not a great thing for the game to see an altercation between two players,” Sutherland said.

“But there was clearly a lot of passion out there and there was a lot at stake.

“Whilst we can stand here and say that we don’t condone anything that happened last night, this sort of thing is probably something that only inspires a greater rivalry between the Renegades and the Stars and creates greater interest for the Big Bash League.”

The Renegades are considering a possible replacement player for West Indian import Samuels who has a suspected fractured eye socket after being struck by a bouncer during Sunday’s game.

Samuels is facing charges of making inappropriate physical contact with a player and engaging in unbecoming behaviour towards a player.

Sutherland says Warne has done a

“I WENT TOO FAR”: Shane Warne cops ban for one match and $4,500 fine for his heated exchange with Marlon Samuels.

(AAP Image/Julian Smith) phenomenal job in his promotion of the BBL. “This doesn’t chequer his career or future as a player,” Sutherland said.

“What’s of more interest to all of us is whether he wants to play and still feels he has something to offer.”

RESPECT may still be the ultimate goal for the Brisbane Lions but young gun Daniel Rich reckons they have already ticked one box for 2013.

Rich said the Lions could only make the competition take notice if they ended their four-year finals drought but was not going to make any bold claims at their first day back at training after the Christmas break.

However, Rich thought the Lions had shown the right team mentality to achieve the goal after emerging from the end-ofyear interval without any players making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

The AFL has been left red-faced by a string of off-season incidents.

Most recently Gold Coast Suns midfielder Harley Bennell was charged

during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Western Australia after a nightclub fight broke out.

“The good thing has been that we had no issues over the break,” Rich said on Monday.

“It’s been a focus here at the Lions that you train hard and prepare well and when you have a break you don’t do anything stupid.

“I can’t speak for other clubs but we have had a good attitude over the break, and not got into trouble which has obviously been seen at other clubs.

“And that sort of thing is player driven.

“You shouldn’t have to rely on the coach being like a school teacher - if it is driven by the senior players the younger guys follow.”

The Lions took giant strides last season, finishing 2012 with three

straight victories to boost their win tally to 10 - six more than the previous year.

Rich believed finals footy was the only way to ensure the former three-time champions gained respect once again.

But he was not going to mention the “f” word - yet.

“It’s about putting words into actions,” he said.

“I am not sure what other teams think of us to be honest.

“But it’s always about earning respect if you are not making finals - that’s why we are here.

“These next few months are about achieving those long term goals.”

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NRL 2013

Season shake-up with new rules P11

WARNE BANNED n

Melbourne Stars Captain Shane Warne admits he went too far with obscene language and dissent in Big Bash mid-pitch stoush with Marlon Samuels but says penalty is harsh.

By Greg Buckle SHANE WARNE won’t appeal against his one-match BBL ban for physical and verbally attacking Marlon Samuels, despite claiming he’s been treated harshly.

The Melbourne Stars captain was also fined $4500 and will miss his side’s vital last game against Sydney Thunder at the MCG on Tuesday.

The Stars (4-3 win-loss record) are yet to confirm a place in next week’s semi-finals.

Warne faced four charges following his side’s loss to the Melbourne Renegades before a record crowd of over 46,000 at the MCG on Sunday night.

Charges of using obscene language and showing dissent at an umpire’s decision attracted fines of $1500 while his shirt-grabbing incident with Samuels drew a $3000 fine and a one-game suspension.

Miked up for TV, Warne could be heard saying “F*** you, Marlon!”.

The comment was Warne’s response to an earlier incident when Samuels appeared to deliberately impede Stars’ batsman David Hussey.

Later in Samuels’ innings, Warne struck the batsman with a throw to the body which prompted Samuels to angrily throw his bat down the pitch.

Warne, 43, was found not guilty on the ball-throwing charge.

He read a prepared statement to reporters in which he complained about his penalty then refused to take questions.

He said on Twitter: “Thanks for support guys, sport can be emotional and at times very passionate too. I went too far in trying to stand up for the team.

“Lastly, will take my penalty on the chin, as I was disappointed with some of my actions, in my opinion though the penalty is very harsh.”

Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland failed to strongly condemn Warne’s on-field behaviour. ...continued on p11

Swim Australia moves on from Olympic loss STEELED by his London Olympic critics, James Magnussen has gone to “another level” at training as he prepares to come under scrutiny again at his first meet since his 2012 Games disappointment.

Magnussen’s coach Brant Best said on Monday his star charge looked forward to racing for his country again before home crowds at next week’s inaugural Aquatic Super Series in Perth after moving on from the London Games fallout.

World 100m freestyle champion ...continued on p10

Djokovic primed for Australian Open defence HE SUFFERED a freak injury scare, got beaten by Bernard Tomic in straight sets and failed in his bid to land an elusive Hopman Cup title.

But world No.1 Novak Djokovic is brimming with confidence as he attempts to become the first man in the open tennis era to win three consecutive Australian Open titles.

The five-times grand slam champion won three of his four ...continued on p10

“THERE’S NO STOPPING ME” Tomic shoots for top ten | P11

REJUVENATED: Bernard Tomic during the Hopman Cup last week where he defeated world No.1 Novak Djokovic. (AAP Image/Tony McDonough)

Early bird Waratahs sweat it out in Sydney

THEY weren’t due back at training until next week, but the Waratahs’ national team contingent braved a sweltering Sydney morning to display their commitment to turning the struggling Super Rugby franchise around.

The Michael Cheika era was in full swing at Centennial Park on Monday, the new coach casting a watchful eye as his crop of stars took part in a torturous series of running drills. ...continued on p10