Lion tamers take series to the wire

Wallabies captain James Horwill and Sekope Kepu roar with delight after beating the British and Irish Lions at Suncorp Stadium. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

A BOLD captain's call and a nerveless conversion by a second-game "debutant" saw the Wallabies snatch a thrilling victory over the Lions in Melbourne.

Rookie Wallaby Christian Lealiifano went from out-cold in Brisbane to ice-cold last night when he slotted a 76th minute goal from near the sideline, which lifted the Wallabies to a 16-15 win and kept the Test series alive heading to Sydney.

The kick from Lealiifano, who was knocked out in the opening minute in the first Test, came after the Wallabies clawed their way back in a mistake-riddled performance to score the game's only try through centre Adam Ashley-Cooper with just four minutes left.

Trailing 15-9 and with the Lions sensing their first series triumph since 1997 was in hand, Wallabies skipper James Horwill turned down a kickable penalty with nine minutes left to push for a winning try with a scrum on the red line.

Putting aside a mountain of errors, the Wallabies managed to hold on to the ball long enough for under-siege five-eighth James O'Connor to put Ashley-Cooper through a gap and light up the record 56,771 crowd.

Hometown boy Lealiifano, who Robbie Deans joked was "on his real debut", kicked the goal but the Wallabies then had to wait nervously as Lions superboot Leigh Halfpenny took a potential match-winning kick after the siren.

From 50 metres out, though, the kick fell short, and the Wallabies' victory sent both teams to Sydney next Saturday night to sort out the ultimate winner.

British and Irish Lions rugby halfback Ben Youngs (C) is surrounded by Australian Wallabies in their rugby second Test match in Melbourne.

"I am very proud. They don't get any bigger than that. They showed enough composure to get it done. Very proud," said Deans.

Horwill said he was very nervous watching Halfpenny - who had nailed five earlier penalties - line up his kick.

"Yeah, he has hardly missed a kick all tour, so your pulse rate certainly goes up," Horwill said.

"There was a bit of relief to be honest, and jubilation. The boys worked hard for that. Not everything went right. We didn't execute as well as we could have but we found a way to win. That's what you need to do, find a way to win."

The Lions' had injury added to insult, as well, with skipper Sam Warburton suffering a suspected torn hamstring, placing him in major doubt for the third Test.

With Horwill having to face a second IRB judicial hearing tomorrow night, it could see both skippers sidelined.

Horwill was relishing the victory last night, however, which he said was built on character and attitude.

Wallabies centre Christian Lealiifano celebrates victory in the second Test against the British and Irish Lions at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Mark Metcalfe

The game was a stop-stop stinker, for the most part, with penalties, pedantic refereeing and a huge number of nervous errors from both sides, but the Wallabies hung in.

"It wasn't the prettiest game of rugby, it wasn't as entertaining as last week's game with only one try in it, but we found a way to win and that's the most important part," Horwill said.

"The guys keep fronting up, no matter what it is happening. No matter what the score is. As a captain of a team, you couldn't ask anything more of the group.

"The attitude and character of a group is something you can't coach. You can't sit on a training field and say, this is what you have to do to show character and attitude. It is something that comes from within and it is very pleasing to see how much it means to everyone in our group to pull on this jersey."

Asked about his call to push for a scrum at the end, instead of taking the points and coming back, Horwill said the Wallabies wanted to go for the kill.

"We knew what we had to do to get over the stripe. We were obviously down by six, and we'd struggled to build pressure all night. The Lions were good at the breakdown, and were very destructive. We had to build pressure and I felt that was the time to do it," he said.

The momentum shifts to the Wallabies heading to Sydney, just as it did in 2001. But Lions coach Warren Gatland said his players would not find it tough to bounce back psychologically for the finale.

Wallabies centre Christian Lealiifano kicks at goal during the second Test against the British and Irish Lions at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Mark Kolbe

"I don't think it will be tough at all, the guys realise how tough it is, they realise how close it is," Gatland said.

"When we go back and look at the tapes they will realise how close we came to holding Australia out."

AUSTRALIA 16 (Adam Ashley-Cooper try Christian Leali'ifano con 3 pens) bt LIONS 15 (Leigh Halfpenny 5 pens) at Etihad Stadium. Referee: Craig Joubert. Crowd: 56,771.

MATCH CENTRE: Wallabies v British and Irish Lions

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Replay all the action from the game below with our match blog.

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Melissa to return to the news desk

After her leaving announcement on Sunrise, Melissa Doyle broke down in tears. Courtesy: Sunrise Seven Network

Outgoing Sunrise host is heading back to the news desk. Source: The Daily Telegraph

SEVEN is yet to announce its big plan for outgoing Sunrise host Melissa Doyle but Confidential can reveal the popular journalist will spearhead the network's revamped news coverage.

And they're bringing back Matt White to join her on the news desk.

Details are a close-kept secret but Confidential understands a major announcement is imminent.

"A substantial amount of development is being done in the news and public affairs department," a Seven spokesman said.

"Many of our most valued and well respected journalists and reporters will be involved. Details will be announced in forthcoming weeks."

Also involved in the redesign will be senior journalists including Chris Reason, Angela Cox and Mike Amor.

TV's greatest rivalries

David Koch and Mel Doyle vs Lisa Wilkinson and Karl Stefanovic The Sunrise hosts and their Today rivals have long been vying for the top ratings slot. Source: The Sunday Telegraph

White originally fronted Today Tonight but was replaced by the less than impressive Helen Kapalos in the hot seat earlier this year.

He has most recently been involved in sports coverage for the network but is expected to return to a presenting role alongside Doyle at 4.30pm on weekday afternoons.

That project is being overseen by Rob Raschke, who was moved from his post in Brisbane last year to take up the role of the network's national news director.

As well as covering big news stories, Doyle will also front a new prime-time current affairs style show on Seven's digital channel, 7TWO.

Despite rumours Today Tonight was facing the chop following Kapalos's on-air blunder last week, sources say it will remain on the schedule for the "immediate future".

"It is looking shaky but it will likely stay until the end of the year," a well-placed source told us.

After 14 years on the show, Doyle announced her surprise departure from Sunrise earlier this month.

She is understood to be a pivotal player in Seven's attempt to wrangle back its previously-held dominance in television news.

Samantha Armytage replaced Doyle on top-rating breakfast show, Sunrise, which was deemed to need a "freshen up" before Channel Ten's much publicised new breakfast offering goes to air later this year.

Audience Development Australia chief executive David Castran said Doyle was a good choice because of her experience hosting live TV.

"Melissa Doyle has great affinity with a TV audience and is much loved," Castran said. "She would bring warmth and sincerity to the role. And it's a positive sign they are investing in the digital channels. That's good news for viewers."

OUR INSIDER REVEALS WHO'S ON THEIR WAY UP, AND WHO'S ON THEIR WAY OUT:

Hot -

1 Adam Hills (Adam Hills Tonight)
2 Hamish Blake (and Andy Lee – Gap Year)
3 Johanna Griggs (House Rules)
4 Carrie Bickmore (The Project)
5 Steve Peacock (Home and Away)
6 Rihannon Fish (Home and Away)
7 David Speers (Sky News)
8 Hamish McDonald (Ten Late News and The Truth Is?)
9 Janice Peterson (SBS News)
10 Matt Doran (Ten Late News/ Wanted)

Not -
1 Delta Goodrem (The Voice)
2 Helen Kapalos (Today Tonight)
3 Chrissie Swan (Can of Worms)
4 Hugh Sheridan (Rafters)
5 Scott Cam (The Block)
6 Simon Baker (The Mentalist)
7 Matt Preston (Masterchef)
8 George Calombaris (Masterchef)
9 Hayley Lewis (Biggest Loser)
10 Andrew O Keefe (Deal or No Deal)
 

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Ex-factor not enough on TV

Kris Smith seemed to fumble his words during the leadership spill in Canberra last week. Source: Supplied

IS Kris Smith a victim of celebrity spouse malaise? Afterall, it seems to be what happens when the partners (or ex) of celebrities catch the flame bug and stip into the limelight.

This is what happens when the partners (or former partners) of celebrities catch the fame bug and step into the limelight, with unfortunately mixed results.

Take Smith's co-hosting role on the new Seven show, The Daily Edition, which has been receiving mixed reviews.

He amply demonstrates that it's not enough just to look like a TV host, you've also got to talk the talk. It is the latter which has really been letting him down.

Dannii Minogue and Kris Smith after the birth of their son Ethan. Picture: Twitter

The footballer turned model and Myer racing ambassador, best known as the ex of Dannii Minogue and father to their son, Ethan, 3 this week, is embraced for his warm, Northern English accent.

Dannii and Chris in happier times

The downside here is that because he lived on the other side of the world, he is not yet up to speed with the local lingo and especially the intricacies of our political system.

Jennifer Hawkins and Jake Wall.

Unfortunately for Smith, in its first few weeks, the show was broadcast during one of the most turbulent periods in Australian politics.

"Kris Smith contributes to the show's total lack of depth," said one TV insider.

"It really showed during the recent Labor Party leadership crisis in Canberra when Smith fluffed his words and seemed not to understand the terminology.

Brian McFadden and Vogue Williams Pic. Tim Hunter

He called caucus members, cactus members (which is probably more of an adjective to describe that they were 'cactused' after a heavy night of either drowning their sorrows or celebrating following the leadership spill).

"There are people at Seven who are probably very happy that the show did not go live otherwise it would have been a total embarrassment," said the insider who prefers not to be named, for obvious reasons.

"You have to evolve the conversation, not just add silly comments for 20 seconds and then move on. It is a total lack of depth, or put simply - it's just bad casting."

Kris Smith during the Mercedes Benz fashion festival in 2012. Picture: Craig Greenhill

You can't blame the sporty Smith who would perhaps have been better served starting his television career as a commentator on a footy show, or a lightweight reality show.

"I would have put him in as host of The Mole or something similar," said the Insider.

"Something where you can see his personality but where he's protected by producers."

Another who has suffered from celebrity spouse malaise is Jake Wall, Jen Hawkins' model/carpenter hubby, whom she once described as being like a glass of red wine because he both soothes and excites her.

Jen and Jake

At one time, it looked as though Wall might have had a big TV career too but it petered out after he won Torvill And Dean's Dancing On Ice on Nine in 2006.

One of the problems was that Wall's TV persona was quite cold.

Wall seems much happier and relaxed now that he has a thriving property development business with Hawkins where he can put his natural skills to good use.

Named one of the Three Sexiest Men Alive in a magazine poll, also back in 2006, Wall now only models from time-to-time.

What is it also about stars who push their spouses to do more? Take the case of Brian McFadden's Irish wife, DJ and model, Vogue Williams.

Determined to make a name and a career for them both in Australia, when McFadden was a judge on the last season of Australia's Got Talent on Seven, he lobbied hard for his beautiful partner to be included as a competitor on Dancing With The Stars, 2012.

Brian and Vogue

The problem with this though was that not many of the audience knew who she was and without a following, she was one of the first to be voted off the spangled dance floor. Instead of it being a launch pad for Williams' television career in Australia, it fizzled out.

One of the most fascinating younger women who may be stricken with celebrity malaise is Home and Away star, Dan Ewing's wife, Marni.

Self-described as a publicist and loving wife, Ewing is front and centre at social occasions with her husband.

However it is the fact that she sometimes quite bizarrely lapses into an American accent that has some people raising eyebrows.

Is she setting herself up for an acting career of her own? Who knows, when it comes to celebrity malaise, you just can't take any career phase for granted.

Follow Daily Telegraph reporter Ros Reines
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One year on: The carbon tax reality

Protesters voice their concerns about the carbon tax. (Photo by Cole Bennetts/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

THE Federal Government has underplayed the effect of the carbon tax on households and businesses while overstating the environmental benefit.

The cost-of-living impact in the first 12 months of the tax will be a rise of 0.7 per cent, according to Westpac and NAB - exactly what Federal Treasury forecast.

Westpac senior economist Huw Mackay said: "I think consumers are probably pleasantly surprised by how modest the impost is."

But not modest enough for the Government.

It says in a new report, "How Australia's carbon price is working One Year On", that "Westpac and National Australia Bank economists have estimated that the carbon price has increased the Consumer Price Index by just 0.4 per cent".

The report, which bizarrely has an American family on the cover, continues: "This means the Household Assistance Package has left many millions of Australian families better off financially."

Farming pigs ... and now carbon, there's tonnes to be made

A Government spokesman on Climate Change said it was not misleading to use the 0.4 per cent figure even though it related to a period before the tax began.

Meanwhile, manufacturers, construction firms and service providers say profits have cooled due to Australia's effort to keep global temperatures from rising more than 2C.

"For most businesses the high fixed carbon tax has so far reduced profitability rather than encouraging change, while squeezing product development, innovation and jobs growth," said Innes Willox, CEO of the Australian Industry Group, which represents more than 60,000 businesses.

But the government report says: "Since the carbon price started, Australia's manufacturing industry has been investing in new equipment to improve energy efficiency and pollution."

These investments are "cleaning up Australian manufacturing and generating big savings for business".

The report also says there has been a five per cent decline in carbon pollution per unit of electricity because the tax has made greener power "more competitive when compared to higher-polluting coal-fired electricity generation".

"As a result, electricity generation is switching away from high-polluting fuels like brown coal."

Renewable energy output was up 30 per cent, it says. Generation from coal was down 14 per cent.

National Generators Forum executive director Tim Reardon said energy from coal was down "largely due to unforeseen technical outages". The increase in hydro was "due to a wet season - there's been no additional build".

The carbon price would need to be more than $100 per tonne to change the economics of generation, Mr Reardon said.

Energy Supply Association CEO Matthew Warren said: "If we didn't have a carbon price we would still see a drop in emissions."

Coalition spokesman on "Climate Action" Greg Hunt said: "If elected, the carbon tax will be repealed and won't make a second anniversary."

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Abbott would still win election - poll

New federal Treasurer Chris Bowen is not ruling out a change to the carbon tax.

Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister is greeted by Tony Abbott and Julie Bishop in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

A NEW opinion poll shows the Coalition still on track for an election win.

The poll of 3000 respondents, taken last night, still has the Opposition leading the Government despite a big improvement in the Labor vote.

The Coalition leads 52-48 per cent after preferences.

If that result was repeated at an election, Opposition Leader Tony Abbott would be able to form government with a comfortable majority of about 20 seats.

Mr Rudd is preferred Prime Minister in the 7News Reachtel poll, leading Mr Abbott 52-48 per cent.

Voters were evenly split on the merits of the Labor leadership change with 44 per cent agreeing with the decision to replace Julia Gillard with Mr Rudd, while 42 per cent disagreed.

It follows a Morgan Poll - conducted in the hours after Mr Rudd won the leadership battle - that showed his return had lifted Labor by five points to a two-party vote of 49.5 compared with 50.5 per cent for the Coalition.

Labor cabinet minister Jason Clare today said Mr Rudd's return as leader had spooked the Coalition, which thought it would have an easy win at the Federal Election.

"The Liberal party has been very cocky for three years; they weren't cocky yesterday,'' the Home Affairs Minister told the Nine Network.

"They know now that the fight is on and there's a real competition at the next election.''

Mr Clare said he switched his vote from Ms Gillard to Mr Rudd at Wednesday's leadership ballot because he believed Labor was heading to a massive defeat under her leadership.

"This makes us more competitive. I can tell that just from yesterday in the Parliament.''

Deputy Opposition Leader Julie Bishop said the return of Mr Rudd did not mean the Liberal Party would need to change its tactics.

"Why do we need to change our tactics? We've been expecting this,'' Ms Bishop said.

She also disputed the new leader has boosted Labor's chances at the polls.

"I don't accept that because the policies are still the same.''

Carbon tax high on agenda

The results come as business leaders and Victorian voters in the nation's most marginal seat have pleaded for Mr Rudd to call an election now, amid reports he is expected to dump the controversial carbon tax in favour of an emissions trading scheme.

The Daily Telegraph reports that the carbon tax, which is due to rise by $1.15 per tonne to $24.15 next week, will top the agenda when Mr Rudd convenes his first cabinet meeting on Monday.

"This is a priority issue," a source close to Mr Rudd said.

Mr Rudd is widely expected to move forward the end of the fixed carbon price period by a year to 2014 - easing pressure on business, but lowering the money reaped by the scheme.

However, in a signal that he would conduct a consensus government, Mr Rudd indicated to colleagues no changes would be made without approval of the cabinet.

Election date game

Mr Rudd has indicated Ms Gillard's nominated date of September 14 was unlikely because it clashed with Yom Kippur. If it is held earlier that would also mean the controversial local government referendum will be shelved.

Mid to late August were last night seen as the most likely poll dates.

Mr Rudd suggested he would return to the practice of John Howard and others by keeping the date his strategic secret until he was ready but said "it's not going to be a huge variation one way or the other".

Mr Abbott said: "We should have an election as soon as possible because it's really the people's job to choose the Government and the Prime Minister."

Voters in Corangamite, Australia's most marginal seat, also demanded an election.

Business groups warned that patience with the Government's "anti-business policies" was close to breaking point and a poll was needed to get shoppers spending again.

There also was anger in corporate Australia that one of the first pieces of legislation passed under the new PM was a crackdown on 457 visa rules for foreign workers

Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said Mr Rudd had "missed a vital opportunity" to restore business confidence.

Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Mark Stone said it was time to clear the air and have an election.

"The change in leadership and resignation of a third of the Cabinet will not produce the stability business needs, nor will it reverse the anti-business policies this Parliament has delivered," he said.

Australian Industry Group chief executive Innes Willox said: "The quicker an election date is decided the better it is for the country."

New cabinet

Mr Rudd is due to name his cabinet today, which will include Senator Penny Wong, Science Minister Don Farrell and Defence Minister Stephen Smith - who's planning to retire from politics at the election.

Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey said the Rudd government was already in disarray, with a third of the cabinet having resigned and major policies up in the air.

"This is a joke, it's a bad joke. The Australian people are paying a price, that's the problem,'' he told Seven this morning.

Mr Rudd was yesterday sworn in as PM by Governor-General Quentin Bryce at Government House with wife Therese Rein, his children and granddaughter, 1. Anthony Albanese became Deputy PM and Chris Bowen Treasurer.

On her last day in Parliament, Ms Gillard came close to tears as independent Rob Oakeshott said he sent her a message that her late father "would be proud of her."

phillip.hudson@news.com.au

With Stephen McMahon

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Boston bomber's chilling confession

Boston bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev has been indicted on a total of 30 counts over the April attacks.

A US grand jury has been told one of the Boston bombers scrawled a message declaring he "can't stand to see such evil go unpunished".

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19, was indicted overnight on 30 charges including using a weapon of mass destruction and bombing a place of public use, resulting in death.

Many of the charges were brought against him in April, but new charges cover the killing of a police officer and the carjacking of a motorist during a getaway attempt that left Tsarnaev's older brother, Tamerlan, dead.

The jury was told the 19-year-old Chechen immigrant had scrawled a confession on the inside walls and beams of the boat he was hiding in before his capture, saying, "I don't like killing innocent people.''

But, he allegedly also wrote, "the US Government is killing our innocent civilians. I can't stand to see such evil go unpunished. We Muslims are one body; you hurt one you hurt us all. Stop killing our innocent people, we will stop.''

The indictment further alleged that the Tsarnaev brothers carefully designed the twin bombs in order to "shred skin, shatter bone and cause extreme pain and suffering, as well as death.''

They bought 48 fireworks mortar shells containing explosive powder from a fireworks store. It also disclosed that they used the Internet to order electronic components that could be used in making bombs.

Boston Marathon bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev who will face 30 charges in relation to the attack. 

Three people were killed and more than 260 injured in twin explosions near the finish line of the marathon on April 15.

Authorities said each brother placed a backpack containing a shrapnel-packed pressure cooker bomb near the marathon finish line. The bombs went off within seconds of one another.

Tamerlan Tsarnaev was killed following a shootout with police four days later, and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was captured hiding in a boat in a suburban backyard.

The court papers also confirm that Dzhokhar Tsarnaev inadvertently contributed to his brother's death by running him over during the shootout .

U.S. Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz speaks during a news conference, announcing a 30-count indictment against Boston Marathon bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Picture: Bill Sikes

The Tsarnaev brothers had roots in the turbulent Russian regions of Dagestan and Chechnya, which have become recruiting grounds for Islamic extremists. They had been living in the United States for about a decade.

The indictment makes no mention of any larger conspiracy beyond the brothers and no mention of any direct overseas contacts with extremists. Instead, it suggests the internet played a central role in the suspects' radicalisation.

Sometime before the attack, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev downloaded onto his computer the summer 2010 issue of Inspire, an online English-language magazine published by al-Qaida, according to the indictment. The issue detailed how to make bombs from pressure cookers, explosive powder extracted from fireworks and lethal shrapnel.

He also downloaded various pieces of extremist Muslim literature, including one that advocates "violence designed to terrorise the perceived enemies of Islam, among other things,'' the indictment said.

One tract included a foreword by Anwar al-Awlaki, an American propagandist for al-Qaida who was killed in a US drone strike, federal prosecutors said.

In this April 15, 2013, file photo, blood from victims covers the sidewalk on Boylston Street, at the site of an explosion during the 2013 Boston Marathon in Boston. Picture: Charles Krupa

At the same time the federal indictment was announced, Massachusetts authorities brought a 15-count state indictment against Dzhokhar Tsarnaev over the police officer's slaying and the police shootout.

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10 life lessons from a dying man

Denis Wright, who is battling brain cancer, and his wife Tracey married in 2010. Source: news.com.au

• Denis battles "impossible to cure" brain cancer
• Beat odds to live longer than most patients
• He shares 10 important life lessons
• His blog will remain available for perpetuity

DENIS Wright wasn't meant to live this long. He's had birthdays - 66 of them - but he's also had plenty of deathdays - the dates he thought he would "cark it".

"Every date we've estimated so far has been wrong ... I've embarrassed myself by staying alive," the historian from Armidale in country NSW told news.com.au.

Mr Wright doubted his two daughters and partner's son would see him marry Tracey, the woman who has loved and cared for him, after the "longest engagement in history".

But they did, in 2010, and he said he is "so emotionally close" to his wife "you couldn't separate us with cigarette paper".

Mr Wright has a death sentence named GBM 4 (glioblastoma multiforme). It's an extremely aggressive brain tumour that's been trying to kill him since December 2009.

Dr Charlie Teo, high-profile Australian neurosurgeon, has said the condition is "impossible" to cure.

Mr Wright doesn't know how much longer he has to live. His life is sustained by a drug called Avastin - but this time, he says, "there are no more arrows to fire".

Since his diagnosis, Mr Wright has written hundreds of posts on a blog, called My Unwelcome Stranger , about his experiences.

He writes about his troubled health, why he would rather call someone than send them a text (it's too slow to say anything other than "OK") and how he missed the true importance of a wedding (and that is "the receipt of as many and as expensive a range of gifts as possible," he joked).

Mr Wright wanted to share his life lessons, learned over his 66 years, with news.com.au readers. He provided 10 tips via email as his vocal cords have been significantly damaged by an increasing number of seizures.

Life lessons by Denis Wright:

1. Don't spend your life in a job you hate. Life is too short to live it only in the evening and at weekends.

2. If there's something bad happening in your life you genuinely have no control over, learn all you can about it and how to live with it. Beating your head against a brick wall is unproductive.

3. If you think you can change it, then go all out to do so. Try to understand its nature and work with it where you can.

4. There are no 'good' and 'bad' decisions. If you made what you think might have been a poor choice in life, learn from it, and you might make a better one next time. You don't know what's going to turn out good or bad in the long run, so regrets are a waste of time.

5. Don't agonise about the past, in the sense that you can't change it. Live in the slice of time that's the now. You can't live in the moment; it's too short. The slice is richer. It contains a little of past, present and future.

6. Apologise as soon as you can when you think you've hurt someone. Don't try to pretend you're perfect. Accept responsibility where it's due.

7. Keep your options open for as long as possible. Don't close them unnecessarily.

8. Try to keep your sense of humour if you can, though it's not always possible.

9. Carpe Diem ... Or, for a change, seize the day!

And there's one more.

10. Do not be afraid of death. "If you're not more afraid of your own death than you need to be, then you need have little fear for anything life can hand out."

Mr Wright's blog, which has been visited more than 250,000 times by people from around the world, will be archived by the National Library of Australia online.

You can read the blog here.

Contact this reporter on Twitter @drpiotrowski @newscomauHQ | or email Daniel.Piotrowski@news.com.au

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What's next for Julia Gillard?

Julia Gillard gets emotional while listening to Independent MP Rob Oakeshott delivering his valedictory speech in the House of Representatives Chamber Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

AFTER being ousted from the top job just three years after she claimed it, Julia Gillard will leave office with a $200,000 pension and a private driver for life.

But at just 51 years old, retirement is hardly looming for the former prime minister.

She will have an office, staff, car and free travel for the rest of her life, but rather than becoming the "the most meddlesome great-aunt in Australian history" or investing more time in her knitting, there are plenty of options on the table for Australia's first female PM.

Ms Gillard's biographer Jacqueline Kent said the former prime minister won't be chasing ambassadorial or corporate roles like many former politicians do.

"I could see her working for some NGO, possibly in the area of education. That's where her heart lies," said Ms Kent, author of The Making of Julia Gillard.

"She was minister for education. Education and the importance of it is very much part of her DNA. She comes from a migrant Welsh family. She's always felt all through her life that having fairness and equality of opportunity for education is the absolute bedrock of a fair and civil society."

Ms Kent said Ms Gillard was likely to use the skills she gained in politics in a socially responsible way.

"She's not particularly status conscious. That's one of the nice things about her. I mean she has a very good sense of who she is but she is not chasing a title."

Ms Kent added that Ms Gillard, a trained lawyer, was unlikely to return to the profession.

"I think she may do something that law is connected with but I can't see her going back to it," she said.

"I think she's one of those people that does som

ething, gets to the top of that then thinks 'OK now what will I do?' She got to top of student politics, got to the top of [law firm] Slater and Gordon, got to top of the government, and will want to move on."

Former Labor strategist Adam Kilgour, who is now managing director of communications and government relations firm Diplomacy, said Ms Gillard was a relatively young former prime minster and will have a "pretty significant career" in the future.

"I would have thought Julia Gillard will probably sit back and have a decent holiday after the election and think about things in the cold light of day. That would be the sensible thing to do," Mr Kilgour said.

"But there will be plenty of positions open to her, she's shown she's a very good negotiator."

Mr Kilgour said a lot of former prime ministers find themselves writing books and on speakers circuits.

"Because there's genuine interest, once they're out of the confidentiality of the cabinet room, about how and why they made the decisions they did," he said.

Former Prime Minister John Howard signed with the Washington Speakers Bureau in January 2008 shortly after leaving office, an organisation which also includes former US secretaries of state Colin Powell and Madeline Albright on its roster.

Mr Kilgour said they can also serve useful roles in NGOs either as patrons or directors, such as Red Cross CEO Robert Tickner, who was Aboriginal affairs minister under the Keating government.

New Zealand's first elected female prime minister, Helen Clark, went on to chair the United Nations Development Group, after serving for nine years as prime minister.

Ms Gillard could even branch out into the sports world with her beloved Western Bulldogs AFL team, following in the footsteps of former New South Wales premier Kristina Keneally who now serves as CEO of Basketball Australia, or previous Victorian premier Jeff Kennett who served as president of Hawthorn Football Club.

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All-new Mazda3 unveiled

A look at the all-new Mazda3. Credit: Mazda

THE all-new version of Australia's top-selling car - the Mazda3 - has been unveiled overnight ahead of a local showroom debut early next year.

The current model Mazda3 ended the Holden Commodore's record 15-year winning streak two years ago and is in a neck-and-neck race with the Toyota Corolla to make it three in a row.

Mazda3 still Australia's number one

Mazda3 cuts price in sales war with Toyota

It's expected to get a sales boost with a price cut. The price of the new Mazda3 is expected to dip to $19,990 plus on-road costs, matching recent price cuts of its main rivals the Toyota Corolla and Nissan Pulsar.

The all-new version of Australia's top-selling vehicle, the Mazda3.

Buying or selling, old or new, news and reviews: CarsGuide.com.au

CarsGuide: Mazda3 Neo reviewed

The Mazda3 is not only Australia's top-selling car, it is also the first choice among private buyers. Four out of five Mazda3s are sold to private customers rather than fleets, which typically account for the majority of new-car sales.

Although the new, third-generation Mazda3 borrows design cues from Alfa Romeo (the tapered roofline and rear end appearance) and BMW (the shape of the dashboard and the tablet-style sat-nav display) it will continue to be sourced from Japan.

Both the sedan and the hatch will go on sale at the same time, says Mazda Australia, which is expected to be before March 2014.

The powertrain line-up will be the same as before - a choice of 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder petrol engines - but they will be new generation engines with fuel-saving technology, similar to those used in the Mazda CX-5 softroader.

The Mazda3 needed to make fuel economy improvements; the automatic version of the current model uses almost as much fuel as the new Holden Commodore V6.

The unveiling of the new, third-generation model marks the 10th anniversary of the Mazda3, with the first one built in June 2003. More than 3.5 million Mazda3s have been built since then.

When the Mazda3 outsold the Holden Commodore in 2011 it was the first time since World War I an imported car had led Australian new-car sales.

Holden is hopeful the new VF Commodore that has just gone on sale will mark a turnaround for the company, but the car maker concedes the Commodore is on target for "a top five" place rather than regaining its top-seller status.

This reporter is on Twitter: @JoshuaDowling
 

The back and inside of the all-new version of Australia's top-selling vehicle, the Mazda3.

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Gillard gets teary on backbench

Former prime minister Julia Gillard is flanked by former ministers Greg Combet (left) and Wayne Swan during outgoing MP Robert Oakeshott's speech. Source: Getty Images

Outgoing Independent MP Rob Oakeshott brings the former PM to tears as he tells the House of Representatives about a text he sent her shortly before she was ousted last night.

Former Prime Minister Julia Gillard fights back tears during a round of applause in Parliament today. Picture: Gary Ramage Source: Getty Images

Julia Gillard is comforted by Labor MP Kirsten Livermore. Source: Supplied

JULIA Gillard fought back tears when she sat in Parliament as a backbencher for the first time since her leadership challenge last night.

The emotional moment came when the former prime minister entered the chamber to listen to outgoing Independent MP Robert Oakeshott's valedictory speech.

After an awkward moment when Mr Oakeshott mistakenly said, "thank you, prime minister" as she entered, he described the moment he sent a text message to Ms Gillard minutes before the party meeting.

"We all get a bit of a sense about what's going on in the joint. I sent the prime minister a text and it was to say: Y'our father would be proud of you.'"

As applause erupted throughout the room, including the public gallery, Ms Gillard struggled to fight back her emotions.

He continued to speak of the abuse Ms Gillard copped during her three years as prime minister.

"I have been shocked, frankly, over the last three years, to meet ugly Australia and just to see the width and depth of ugly Australia."

Former prime minister Julia Gillard and Labor MP Kirsten Livermore. Source: Getty Images

Julia Gillard is comforted by Kirsten Livermore. Source: Supplied

Independant MP Peter Slipper shakes hands with former prime minister Julia Gillard. Source: Supplied

Earlier this morning, Ms Gillard, who was last night ousted from the job that had been hers for three years and three days, was spotted having a coffee with Mr Swan at Parliament House's Aussies Cafe.

Observers said Ms Gillard looked relaxed. She's smiling in the photo below, snapped by columnist Miranda Devine, who added that Mr Rudd was being sworn in on the monitor behind her. "They're ignoring it," Ms Devine said.

A relaxed Julia Gillard talks with friends, including Wayne Swan. Source: news.com.au

Julia Gillard was spotted having a coffee at Aussies Cafe this morning. Picture: Twitter Source: news.com.au

LIVE: RUDD'S RETURN TO POWER

Ms Gillard last night reflected on her government's achievements and her historic role as the country's first female prime minister.

She said it had been a privilege to have been elected to the role and that being a woman does not explain everything or nothing about her position.

"I do want to say the reaction to being the first female prime minister does not explain everything about my time in the prime ministership, nor does it explain nothing about my prime ministership," she said.

READ MORE: JULIA GILLARD REFLECTS ON HER HISTORIC LEADERSHIP

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LIVE: Rudd's first day back on job

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd making a statement in the House of Representatives Chamber Parliament House in Canberra today. Source: News Limited

KEVIN Rudd has dodged a barrage of political blows in his first Question Time as PM, turning Tony Abbott's attacks around and lecturing his colleagues to be nicer to each other.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd kisses the deputy leader of the opposition Julie Bishop just before he addresses Parliament for what is likely to be its last day before elections, in Canberra. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft) Source: AP

Showing exactly why he is an effective campaigner, Mr Rudd refused to be drawn on the leadership spill, even when confronted with his own pledge that he would not challenge.

Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister is greeted by Tony Abbott and Julie Bishop in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

One after the other, he batted down what he labelled negative questions with quick, machinegun answers and refused to be drawn on the election date.

While paying tribute to outgoing Defence Minister Stephen Smith, PM Kevin Rudd makes a joke in parliament about Smith's organisational

When asked by Opposition frontbencher Christopher Pyne how Australians could be sure who the Prime Minister would be if they voted for Labor considering the two knifings in three years, Mr Rudd said Australians didn't want this constant negativity any more.

Question Time in the House of Representatives. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

"Once again you see on parade the old politics whereby we scream at each other, we don't work with each other, we try and scare people rather than making them think," Mr Rudd said.

"And then on top of that we engage in politics that divides ordinary Australians rather than unites them."

After a long and bloody night, Labor has woken up to a new dawn with Kevin Rudd as PM.

He also reminded the Opposition Leader he had faced four Coalition leaders during his four years in the job last time.

Even when Mr Abbott went for the jugular, asking Mr Rudd if he would finally admit his responsibility for the stream of asylum seeker boats, he immediately turned the tables.

Criticising Mr Abbott's turn-back-the-boats plan as unworkable and unwelcome by Indonesia, Mr Rudd said he issued a "genuine invitation" for Mr Abbott to take part in high-level Government briefings so that he may create some real policies.

He said serious debate was needed on the issue, and "it should be about policies that work rather than sound bytes that sound good".

Promising to unite the ALP, Mr Rudd earlier addressed the house on the ugly nature of politics, saying it was "a very hard life indeed".

Former speaker Peter Slipper gives a 'precautionary' valedictory speech in parliament today.

"But let us all remember, particularly on days like this, that in this parliament, in this place, we are all human beings.

"We all have families and we all have emotions.

"So let us try, just try, to be a little kinder and gentler with each other in the further deliberations of this parliament."

###

More stories:

'I HEARD SHE'D UPSET A FEW PEOPLE'

LEADERSHIP SPILL DRAWS 4M VIEWERS

RUDD 2.0 CHASES YOUTH AND BUSINESS

AUSTRALIA DESERVES BETTER

GILLARD REFLECTS ON HISTORIC LEADERSHIP

THE MAN WHO KNIFED TWO PMs

SWAN'S GONE, WHO'S NEXT?

HOW THE WORLD PORTRAYS RUDD, GILLARD

GG WILL ASK RUDD TO TEST HIS SUPPORT

RUDD'S COUP CREATES STIR

That was then: Julia Gillard with supporters arriving for the Labor leadership spill vote in February 2012. Source: News Limited

This is now: Julia Gillard with supporters walking to the Labor leadership spill vote on Wednesday night. Source: News Limited

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Rudd gives 'be nice' lecture

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd making a statement in the House of Representatives Chamber Parliament House in Canberra today. Source: News Limited

KEVIN Rudd has dodged a barrage of political blows in his first Question Time as PM, turning Tony Abbott's attacks around and lecturing his colleagues to be nicer to each other.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd kisses the deputy leader of the opposition Julie Bishop just before he addresses Parliament for what is likely to be its last day before elections, in Canberra. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft) Source: AP

Showing exactly why he is an effective campaigner, Mr Rudd refused to be drawn on the leadership spill, even when confronted with his own pledge that he would not challenge.

Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister is greeted by Tony Abbott and Julie Bishop in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

One after the other, he batted down what he labelled negative questions with quick, machinegun answers and refused to be drawn on the election date.

While paying tribute to outgoing Defence Minister Stephen Smith, PM Kevin Rudd makes a joke in parliament about Smith's organisational

When asked by Opposition frontbencher Christopher Pyne how Australians could be sure who the Prime Minister would be if they voted for Labor considering the two knifings in three years, Mr Rudd said Australians didn't want this constant negativity any more.

Question Time in the House of Representatives. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra. Source: News Limited

"Once again you see on parade the old politics whereby we scream at each other, we don't work with each other, we try and scare people rather than making them think," Mr Rudd said.

"And then on top of that we engage in politics that divides ordinary Australians rather than unites them."

After a long and bloody night, Labor has woken up to a new dawn with Kevin Rudd as PM.

He also reminded the Opposition Leader he had faced four Coalition leaders during his four years in the job last time.

Even when Mr Abbott went for the jugular, asking Mr Rudd if he would finally admit his responsibility for the stream of asylum seeker boats, he immediately turned the tables.

Criticising Mr Abbott's turn-back-the-boats plan as unworkable and unwelcome by Indonesia, Mr Rudd said he issued a "genuine invitation" for Mr Abbott to take part in high-level Government briefings so that he may create some real policies.

He said serious debate was needed on the issue, and "it should be about policies that work rather than sound bytes that sound good".

Promising to unite the ALP, Mr Rudd earlier addressed the house on the ugly nature of politics, saying it was "a very hard life indeed".

Former speaker Peter Slipper gives a 'precautionary' valedictory speech in parliament today.

"But let us all remember, particularly on days like this, that in this parliament, in this place, we are all human beings.

"We all have families and we all have emotions.

"So let us try, just try, to be a little kinder and gentler with each other in the further deliberations of this parliament."

###

More stories:

'I HEARD SHE'D UPSET A FEW PEOPLE'

LEADERSHIP SPILL DRAWS 4M VIEWERS

RUDD 2.0 CHASES YOUTH AND BUSINESS

AUSTRALIA DESERVES BETTER

GILLARD REFLECTS ON HISTORIC LEADERSHIP

THE MAN WHO KNIFED TWO PMs

SWAN'S GONE, WHO'S NEXT?

HOW THE WORLD PORTRAYS RUDD, GILLARD

GG WILL ASK RUDD TO TEST HIS SUPPORT

RUDD'S COUP CREATES STIR

That was then: Julia Gillard with supporters arriving for the Labor leadership spill vote in February 2012. Source: News Limited

This is now: Julia Gillard with supporters walking to the Labor leadership spill vote on Wednesday night. Source: News Limited

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Our guide to leadership spill

Tony Windsor announces he won't run again at the next election. Source: Supplied

A LOT has happened in Canberra today, so we've pulled together this quick guide to the unfolding leadership crisis. Here's everything you need to know to get up to speed.

1. There will be a leadership spill at 7pm AEST

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced there will be a leadership ballot at 7pm.

It comes after a petition for leadership vote was circulated among Labor MPs throughout the day.

Rudd backers did not expect the spill to be so early. "We expect it tomorrow," a Rudd supporter said this morning.

2. But will he win?

This morning, senior Rudd allies said they were confident the former PM had the numbers to seize the Labor leadership. But at this stage, it's impossible to predict where the numbers would fall.

Political commentators Graham Richardson and Peter Van Onselen believe it's Rudd's to lose. All we know is that several Labor MPs have moved into the former prime minister's column.

3. Why tonight?

It always had to be today or tomorrow.

Rudd is off on a trip to China tomorrow afternoon for a conference and it's the last week that Parliament is sitting before the election.

Mr Rudd's office confirmed to news.com.au this afternoon that he is still headed overseas.

4. But there's a constitutional catch

Even if Rudd takes over, the Governor-General Quentin Bryce may ask Rudd to test his parliamentary majority with a vote. And the support might not be there.

Independent MP Tony Windsor said this morning that if Rudd becomes leader he may support the "second place getter" at the last election: Tony Abbott.

Mr Windsor and fellow independent Rob Oakeshott gave Ms Gillard the numbers to form a minority government after the 2010 election.

"If the Labor Party can't get its mess together, there may be a scenario where ... Tony Abbott, may in fact receive my vote," he told reporters in Canberra today.

"If it came back to the house, to test the confidence, I wouldn't guarantee the challenger that it would naturally flow that my support would be that way."

It's not clear where the other independents stand on a Rudd government. Rob Oakeshott won't say if he would change his mind. Bob Katter, the akubra-wearing North Queensland MP, said this morning he would back a Rudd Labor Government and then said the opposite on Twitter.

Andrew Wilkie, another independent, said he had an "open mind".

5. Hey, what happens to the loser?

Both contenders have pledged to quit politics if they lose.

Continue the conversation on Twitter: @drpiotrowski @newscomauHQ

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How the Labor crisis unfolded

Will she turn up? Prime Minister Julia Gillard during House of Representatives question time on June 24, 2013 in Canberra, Australia. Picture: Getty Images Source: Getty Images

THIS morning Australia woke up with Julia Gillard as Prime Minister. Tomorrow, depending upon constitutional matters, we may have a new one: Kevin Rudd.

It was the crisis that's been percolating for months. The great Chicken Kev fizzer of March - where Simon Crean attempted to politically suicide bomb Julia Gillard's leadership - did little to clear the air.

The cmatter had to be dealt with this week as parliament will rise at the end of the week until after the election campaign.

Talk of a leadership spill began in earnest today after it was revealed this morning that Rudd backers were circulating a petition calling for a special Caucus meeting to be held.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced a decision to call a spill mid-to-late this afternoon in an interview with Sky News.

"(The ballot is) in the best interests of the nation and the best interests of the Labor Party," Ms Gillard said.

The Prime Minister laid down a tough set of rules for the ballot, which Mr Rudd has accepted: "If you win you should be Labor leader, if you lose you should retire from politics."

LABOR LEADERSHIP LIVE: JULIA GILLARD OR KEVIN RUDD?

ANALYSIS: WHAT THE HELL IS HAPPENING - EXPLAINED

On Twitter they were being called "Thunderdome" rules and she was being compared to a do-or-die wrestler.

Earlier, an action-packed Question Time came to an end, with Opposition Leader Tony Abbott demanding Ms Gillard announce an early election.

Ms Gillard did not directly respond to Mr Abbott's questions: "I can assure the Australian people I am getting on with the job," she said.

Mr Abbott invoked Ms Gillard's historic status as the country's first female head of Government in his speech to Parliament decrying the party's apparent leadership woes.

"We all wished the Prime Minister well when she came into office on the 24th of June 2010," he said. "I was very conscious, as the father of three daughters."

"I was conscious of the significance of the occasion - while I deeply regret it."

Read our rolling coverage of today's parliamentary sitting below.

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd smiles as he sits in parliament during question time. Picture: AAP

EARLIER LIVE QUESTION TIME UPDATES:

3.31pm : The leadership situation is fluid.

Both Rudd and Gillard supporters believe they have the votes, says Sky News political editor David Speers.

Here's News Ltd Sunday papers political editor Samantha Maiden's take. She points out that we still haven't heard directly from Kevin Rudd.

3.22pm: The Speaker has welcomed her mum to the House. Not a bad day to visit.

3.20pm: What's happening? The House is voting on an Opposition motion to suspend standing orders. (UPDATED: The motion failed to pass.)

3.15pm: Abbott's leadership speech was a good move for him, writes Malcolm Farr.

Anthony Albanese is still rattling off positive statistics about the Government's management of the economy.

"He has to stand up and put forward his alternative vision," he said.

3.12pm: Labor's Leader of the House Anthony Albanese says Tony Abbott trying to suspend standing orders is the "longest dummy spit" in Australian political history.

Meanwhile, national political reporter Patrick Lion points out Abbott was talking to one person during his speech: you.

3.10pm: "Lady Macbeth"... "the hunter has become the hunted..." ... "Madame DeMarge..."

Abbott frontbencher Christopher Pyne is throwing around some flowery metaphors in condemnation of Julia Gillard.

3.00pm: Abbott has brought up his daughters while discussing Prime Minister Julia Gillard's leadership.

"We all wished the Prime Minister well when she came into office on the 24th of June 2010," he said. "I was very conscious as the father of three daughters.

"I was conscious of the significance of the occasion, while I deeply regret it... Nevertheless I thought it was an opportunity for our country."

2.57pm: Tony Abbott is hammering away at the Prime Minister, demanding parliamentary standing orders be suspended.

"No one is interested in the proceedings of this Parliament," he announced - only what Labor wheelers and dealers are doing in the backrooms. "Let's bring on the election."

2:50pm: FINALLY. A question about the leadership - and today's events.

Tony Abbott took the stand and asked, given the crisis: "Will (the PM) bring forward the election date to August the 3rd and ask the people who should run our country?"

Prime Minister Gillard said to that: "Thank you very much, and to the Leader of theOpposition's questions, it's a pity he didn't listen to some of the answers from earlier in Question Time.

"I can assure the Australian people I am getting on with the job. That is what the Government is doing.

"That's why I can come into Parliament today to say we have legislated a system to improve school funding," Ms Gillard said. She then continued to discuss the Government's achievements with the Gonski laws.

2.48pm: Kevin's STILL headed to China tomorrow, our political editor Malcolm Farr says. Think the Prime Minister might want him to stay there.

2.42pm: Meanwhile, Lanai Scarr has noticed a few suspicious departures from the House: key members of the Kevin Rudd fan club.

2.40pm: If you were an alien tuning in to Question Time from Outer Space today, you probably wouldn't realise there's actually something going on behind the scenes. Here's our explainer about the leadership crisis.

2.35pm: The Prime Minister has shown no signs of being under stress today, despite the leadership crisis. This isn't the first time she's faced a spill.

ABC political correspondent Latika Bourke is mystified about what's really happening.

Meanwhile, the PM says the Victorian Premier has written to her about the Gonski reforms, which have passed the Senate and will be placed into law.

2.30pm: It's clear there's some wheeling and dealing occurring while the Prime Minister answers questions about education reforms, lakes and climate change.

Joel Fitzgibbon, one of Rudd's most prominent supporters, has just handed Rudd a piece of paper. Rudd has otherwise been tapping away on his iPad, Lanai Scarr reports.

2.25pm: Disgraced ex-Labor MP Craig Thomson has stood up to ask the PM about the state of the Tuggerah Lakes on the central coast of NSW.

2.24pm: The Herald Sun's political editor, Phil Hudson, says key Rudd backer Joel Fitzgibbon has arrived and is having a deep-and-meaningful chat with retiring MP Tony Windsor.

2.22pm: Sophie Mirabella, a Victorian Liberal MP, asks another question about the carbon tax. News.com.au understands the temperature has risen quite a bit on the Labor side of the House.

2.19pm: Not a single mention of the leadership crisis so far. Right now the Treasurer is being asked about what the Government has done to support jobs.

MORE: WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN FEDERAL POLITICS?

News Limited columnist Peter Van Onselen says talk of a 9am Labor caucus meeting is an attempt to expose Rudd supporters.

2.14pm: Our political editor Malcolm Farr says he can't see key Rudd supporters in the House, including Joel Fitzgibbon, who is well known to be in the former PM's corner.

Daryl Melham, another Rudd backer, is also absent from the chamber.

2.11pm: Bill Shorten has his head in papers on the front bench, Lanai Scarr reports. Wonder what he's thinking.

LIVE UPDATES: RUDD GETS READY FOR SHOWDOWN

2.09pm: "I remind the Prime Minister of her promise before the election that there will be no carbon tax under the Government I need..." Tony Abbott continues to hammer away on the issue. On that issue we're all thinking about, well, the silence is deafening.

2.07pm: Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has asked a question about the effects of the carbon price. We didn't expect that.

2:05pm (all times AEST): Prime Minister Julia Gillard has taken the stand in Parliament to discuss Yirrkala bark petitions. She did not mention the Labor leadership fiasco. Kevin Rudd is present.

Awkward: It's Question Time in Parliament this afternoon. Meanwhile, MPs backing Kevin Rudd are circulating a petition for a fresh leadership challenge against Julia Gillard. LIVE UPDATES HERE.

You can cut the tension in the air with a knife.

Thank you very much Speaker. I remind members of an important anniversary in coming weeks. Early in 1963.

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LIVE: KRudd's odds suddenly Shorten

Kevin Rudd has regained the Labor leadership, three years after he lost it. Source: News Limited

KEVIN Rudd said he resumes the task he began in 2007 "with humility" and he praised the "extraordinary intelligence" of Julia Gillard who had been "a remarkable reformer."

Mr Rudd said his role is "to forge consensus wherever I can" and to rid the national debate of the vitriol which he says has characterised this parliament.

"In recent years politics has failed the Australian people. There's just been too much negativity all around," he said.

IN PICTURES: Kevin Rudd wins Labor spill

"I intend to lead a government that brings people together and gets the best out of them," he said.

Mr Rudd told young people he understood why they have switched off politics, but he now asks them to re-engage.

"We need you, we need your ideas, we need your enthusiasm," he said.

Julia Gillard visited Governor-General Quentin Bryce to ask her to commission Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister after she lost the Labor leadership.

"In view of his election I have written to the Governor-General asking her to commission Mr Rudd as Prime Minister," Ms Gillard said.

Following her defeat, Ms Gillard confirmed she would not contest the safe seat of Lalor at the 2013 election and has nominated the NDIS, carbon tax and Gonski reforms as key achievements of her minority government.

She said she was "proud" to be the nation's first female prime minister and despite the attacks she says she suffered, she thinks over time it will get easier for women to hold the top job.

"It will be easier for the next woman, and the woman after that and the woman after that. And I am proud of that," she said.

Earlier this evening, Kevin Rudd regained the job he lost to Ms Gillard, three years and three days to the day he was forced out by a leadership ballot.

He won the ballot 57- 45 votes and it is understood he will call an August election.

Treasurer and Deputy Leader Wayne Swan quit the frontbench and Anthony Albanese was elected in his place.

In his outgoing speech, Mr Swan said it was a "privilege"to serve as Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer.

Craig Emerson, Joe Ludwig and Communications Minister Stephen Conroy have quit. Penny Wong has been elected as the new Labor leader in the Senate, a position previously held by Mr Conroy with Jacinta Collins as deputy. Dr Emerson also said he will not contest the next election.

Climate Change Minister Greg Combet has resigned.

Peter Garrett has also quit and will not contest the seat of Kingsford-Smith at the election.

Julia Gillard said she was proud of the NDIS and carbon tax. Picture: Kym Smith

Returning Officer Chris Hayes said the meeting was quite sombre but people were glad the issue was resolved.

The Governor-General is tonight seeking high-level advice before confirming Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister for the second time.

News Limited has learned that Ms Bryce was waiting to meet with the Acting Solicitor-General to discuss the constitutional impact of the leadership change before agreeing to commission Mr Rudd.

It is understood Ms Gillard is scheduled to travel the short distance to Government House to resign her office at prime minister.

But Ms Bryce will examine the resignation letter before seeking legal advice. Once satisfied she is expected to invite Mr Rudd to form government.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has warned Coalition MPs about getting too comfortable.

He warned his colleagues against getting "too cocky'' following the leadership change, according to one MP.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard calls for a ballot tonight to determine the leadership of the Labor Party. Courtesy: Sky News

GOVENOR GENERAL SEEKS ADVICE ON RUDD RETURN

HOW DID WE GET HERE

KEV'S TO DO LIST

RUDD SUPPORTERS SOUND OUT WILKIE, CROOK

RUDD'S ATTACK OF THE BLUES

COALITION READY TO FIGHT RUDD

WINDSOR EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS

ONE AMIGO LEFT STANDING

RUDD HAS THE NUMBERS: SUPPORTERS

KATTER BACKS RUDD

WINDSOR AND OAKESHOTT CALL IT A DAY

PM'S STRATEGY TO EXPOSE ENEMIES

###

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LIVE: KRudd praises Gillard

Kevin Rudd has regained the Labor leadership, three years after he lost it. Source: News Limited

KEVIN Rudd said he resumes the task he began in 2007 "with humility" and he praised the "extraordinary intelligence" of Julia Gillard who had been "a remarkable reformer."

Mr Rudd said his role is "to forge consensus wherever I can" and to rid the national debate of the vitriol which he says has characterised this parliament.

"In recent years politics has failed the Australian people. There's just been too much negativity all around," he said.

IN PICTURES: Kevin Rudd wins Labor spill

"I intend to lead a government that brings people together and gets the best out of them," he said.

Mr Rudd told young people he understood why they have switched off politics, but he now asks them to re-engage.

"We need you, we need your ideas, we need your enthusiasm," he said.

Julia Gillard visited Governor-General Quentin Bryce to ask her to commission Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister after she lost the Labor leadership.

"In view of his election I have written to the Governor-General asking her to commission Mr Rudd as Prime Minister," Ms Gillard said.

Following her defeat, Ms Gillard confirmed she would not contest the safe seat of Lalor at the 2013 election and has nominated the NDIS, carbon tax and Gonski reforms as key achievements of her minority government.

She said she was "proud" to be the nation's first female prime minister and despite the attacks she says she suffered, she thinks over time it will get easier for women to hold the top job.

"It will be easier for the next woman, and the woman after that and the woman after that. And I am proud of that," she said.

Earlier this evening, Kevin Rudd regained the job he lost to Ms Gillard, three years and three days to the day he was forced out by a leadership ballot.

He won the ballot 57- 45 votes and it is understood he will call an August election.

Treasurer and Deputy Leader Wayne Swan quit the frontbench and Anthony Albanese was elected in his place.

In his outgoing speech, Mr Swan said it was a "privilege"to serve as Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer.

Craig Emerson, Joe Ludwig and Communications Minister Stephen Conroy have quit. Penny Wong has been elected as the new Labor leader in the Senate, a position previously held by Mr Conroy with Jacinta Collins as deputy. Dr Emerson also said he will not contest the next election.

Climate Change Minister Greg Combet has resigned.

Peter Garrett has also quit and will not contest the seat of Kingsford-Smith at the election.

Julia Gillard said she was proud of the NDIS and carbon tax. Picture: Kym Smith

Returning Officer Chris Hayes said the meeting was quite sombre but people were glad the issue was resolved.

The Governor-General is tonight seeking high-level advice before confirming Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister for the second time.

News Limited has learned that Ms Bryce was waiting to meet with the Acting Solicitor-General to discuss the constitutional impact of the leadership change before agreeing to commission Mr Rudd.

It is understood Ms Gillard is scheduled to travel the short distance to Government House to resign her office at prime minister.

But Ms Bryce will examine the resignation letter before seeking legal advice. Once satisfied she is expected to invite Mr Rudd to form government.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has warned Coalition MPs about getting too comfortable.

He warned his colleagues against getting "too cocky'' following the leadership change, according to one MP.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard calls for a ballot tonight to determine the leadership of the Labor Party. Courtesy: Sky News

GOVENOR GENERAL SEEKS ADVICE ON RUDD RETURN

HOW DID WE GET HERE

KEV'S TO DO LIST

RUDD SUPPORTERS SOUND OUT WILKIE, CROOK

RUDD'S ATTACK OF THE BLUES

COALITION READY TO FIGHT RUDD

WINDSOR EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS

ONE AMIGO LEFT STANDING

RUDD HAS THE NUMBERS: SUPPORTERS

KATTER BACKS RUDD

WINDSOR AND OAKESHOTT CALL IT A DAY

PM'S STRATEGY TO EXPOSE ENEMIES

###

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Stunt walker's 22 minutes of terror

Nik crosses the Grand Canyon. Picture: Discovery Channel Source: news.com.au

NO net, no harness. Daredevil Nik Wallenda has just become the first man to walk across the Grand Canyon on a tightrope.

As his family watched on, the record-breaker walked 450m above the canyon rigged up with multiple cameras and microphones - without a harness. It what may seem like a strange move, he wore blue jeans to complete the stunt. His shoes were hand-made by his mother.

The craziest stunts ever.

The Discovery Channel broadcast the stunt with a 10-second delay this morning. Wallenda, a seventh generation member of the Flying Wallendas circus family, admitted a mishap would doubtless boost ratings.

Watch the amazing Grand Canyon walk.

Wallenda trained for the worst, and said that - unlike his great-grandfather Karl who grabbed vainly for the wire before falling to his death in 1978 aged 73 - he would be able to hold on if necessary.

"It's not like I just grab with my hands like people visualise. I wrap my legs round it, my hands round it, I hug that wire like a bear hug until help comes. I've got rescue teams that would be with me within a minute," he said.

Buffeted by strong winds he went down onto the wire twice in a stunt that took just 22 minutes to complete. Nearing the end he blew a kiss into the air, then started running towards his family and supporters.

"I wanna die in a bed next to my wife, at an old age over 100 years old. That's my dream," Wallenda told AFP. "I don't want to die performing."

Today, he lives another day.

LIVE BLOG: How it happened.

12pm: He's on his knees blowing a kiss. HE'S RUNNING. And he's done it!

11.57am: Nik's started thanking everyone he can think of. His dad has told him to pay attention.

11.55am: Still walking slowly Nik is ALMOST there. He's still praying.

11.51am: His sitting down. Whispering. Now he's UP. He's been on nearly 14 minutes now.

11.49am Nik is at the halfway point.

11.43am: Placing one foot slowly in front of the other Nik is being buffeted by winds. He's praying repeatedly saying "Praise you Jesus. Winds are way worse than I expected".

11.42am: No matter how comfy they are we can't understand WHY he is wearing jeans.

11.40am: He's gone down onto his knees. "I'm not liking it. Thank you Jesus." He's back up. And he's praying.

11.37am: Nik's first thoughts: "I'm excited I want to get going."

AND HE'S OFF. "That's a precarious spot. Oh my god. My shoes feel slippery. There is dust in this canyon. Praise god this is awesome."

11.30am: The shoes made with love by his mum are going on.

11.27am: FINALLY. Nik is in the helicopter on his way to the starting line. His wife is crying. "I pray that whoever watches this will be proud of him and never give up on a dream. This is everything, this is all he has been dreaming of since he was a little boy." He first stepped onto a wire at the age of 2.

11.22am: Nik is saying a quiet prayer with his family. The preacher is asking God to calm the winds.

11.02am: Nik will cross the canyon at a spot called Hell Hole Bend.

11am: Nik's still sitting in his trailer in his jeans and T-shirt. He's playing with his nephew.

10.59am Nik told Discovery Channel: "If I were to fall, I am dying, I am dead".

10.52am: In the last ten minutes 77.25km/h wind gusts have been recorded on the wire. Nik won't be able to wipe the dust off his eyes as he is walking.

10.46am: The engineer says he is very happy with the tension on the wire now. He says once Nik gets on the wire he will be happy because "it's all up to the kid". "He's ready."

10.34am: Nik says "I'm excited this is a dream come true." Nik has three children and a wife. He says he has decided to risk his life today because he is "carrying on a legacy".

10.30am: The sun is beginning to set over the Grand Canyon.

10.26am: Nik is saying a last prayer. Let's hope it really isn't his last prayer.

10.25am: Nik's dad Terry says: "I am proud of my son I am confident in his abilities, he's not foolish".

10.24am. Nik's mother makes all his tightrope walking shoes by hand. She says they are made "with love". Awwww.

10.23am: Engineers held a meeting with Nik last night concerned that the wire was losing tension.

10:20am: SEVEN members of Nik's family have died tightrope walking.

10.19am: It's currently 30 degrees with winds gusting at 56km/h

10.14am: Nik says his big concern is wind conditions and extreme heat in the desert.

10.13am: Here's what happened last time Nik walked a tightrope. He was the first person to walk a tightrope over Niagara Falls. That time he had safety equipment. This time he won't.

10.10am: At the moment, Nik is wearing a blue T-shirt and jeans. Yes, JEANS.

10.04am: Nik Wallenda is checking out the Grand Canyon, standing with his toes right on the edge.

###

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Non-organic veggie burger 'dirty'

Wellness Warrior Jessica Ainscough tucks into a Big Burger from Manna Haven Cafe in Byron Bay. Image: Instagram. Source: Supplied

AN holistic wellness coach who says she felt "dirty" after eating a non-organic veggie burger at a Byron Bay cafe has apologised after an online "rant" about the food she was served.

'Wellness warrior' Jessica Ainscough vented on her blog after eating a burger she believed was 100 per cent organic, only to later discover it was 'not totally' chemical-free.

The holistic health coach, who was in Byron Bay last week, follows a strict organic diet after overcoming cancer without using modern medicine.

In a June 18 post titled 'BEWARE OF ORGANIC CAFES THAT LIE TO US', Ms Ainscough said she was 'pissed off' that Manna Haven Cafe falsely claimed to be 'vegan, raw and organic'.

The 26-year-old said she had initially been excited to find somewhere 'safe' for lunch and ordered the veggie Burger thinking it was organic.

The not-for-profit cafe's menu describes its Big Burger as being 'cancer fighting rather than cancer causing' and vegan, low glycaemic index and a superfood.

After posting a picture on Instagram of herself tucking into the burger, a follower tipped her off that the ingredients may not have been completely organic.

Ms Ainscough called the cafe and was told that 'not all of it' was.

"I felt dirty. I felt like I needed to give my insides about 10 showers. I was so shocked that I just hung up the phone, but I wish I'd told her that since her 'cancer fighting' burger contains pesticides it is actually cancer causing," she wrote.

"If a cafe claims to be organic and charge prices that reflect this, we should be able to trust that what they're serving us is just that. Otherwise, it's false advertising and on par with green washing."

In comments posted on Ms Ainscough's blog, her followers overwhelmingly supported her stance but some urged her to be a `wellness warrior' not a 'wellness worrier'.

"The amount of stress this situation has caused you (worrying) is likely to cause more havoc on your body than the fact that your lettuce on the bun was not 100% organic," posted Tess.

Manna Haven, which is managed by volunteers and donates its profit to charity, responded to the online criticism with one of the cafe's founders Anita Carvill saying she was shocked by the backlash.

"There was nowhere that said the burger was 100 per cent organic so I'm not sure how she got that impression," Ms Carvill said.

"The options on the sign are just options, there is no false advertising.

"I think it is important before people get too upset to ensure they have not made a mistake in assuming or misunderstanding things. At Manna menu options are dependent on produced sourced and cooked on the day. For any inconvenience we may have caused we apologise."

The popular cafe, which is Ranked #2 of 96 restaurants in Byron Bay, also apologised to Ms Aincough personally for the 'silly misunderstand' and is spending thousands of dollars on rebranding as a result.

Sunshine Coast writer Ms Ainscough is a cancer success story after being told four years ago that her entire left arm was riddled with a rare form of cancer, epithelioid sarcoma, and that it had to be amputated.

Instead of accepting her doctor's solution she radicalized her diet and 'systematically detoxified my body'.

"I'm living proof that doctors aren't always right, that wellness starts in your mind, and that YOU are the most important authority on your own health &body," her blog says.

Ms Ainscough has also since apologised, saying her original "rant" was "a bit harsh".

"I want to publicly apologise for any harm that my blog may have caused your business. Although I still believe that the loose use of the word "organic" is a massive issue in the health world, I can see with hindsight that my rant could have been handled better," she wrote yesterday.

She says she has learnt from her burger experience and will now always ask more questions when ordering meals.

"I feel like it's my responsibility to share the mistake I made with those who may make the same one," she said.

"I know that not everyone cares whether they eat organic food 100% of the time, but for some of us we don't have the luxury of being complacent. Organic food is our medicine, and if we can't eat organic we go without.

"The word 'organic' is the green light that tells us it's safe to eat. It doesn't matter if some of the ingredients are organic - if they're mixed with conventional ingredients the whole dish is rendered poisonous to those of us who have to be so pedantic for the sake of our health and lives."

Join the conversation on Twitter @itsKShort @newscomauHQ @JessAinscough

###

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Pup quits as selector; Arthur axed

Robert "Crash" Craddock slams Australia's players and administrators following the sacking of Mickey Arthur.

UPDATE: DARREN Lehmann has been confirmed as Australia's new cricket coach while CEO James Sutherland explained why Mickey Arthur was sacked.

Arthur was dumped after a meeting with chief executive James Sutherland and high performance manager Pat Howard in Bristol last night, where Australia A beat Gloucester.

Lehmann is currently in England coaching Australia A and is the current Queensland coach. He confirmed tonight at a Cricket Australia press conference in Bristol he has signed a two-year deal, starting immediately.

The first Ashes Test is just 16 days away.

CA CEO James Sutherland said despite the unfortunate timing, it was a decision deemed necessary with such a big series fast approaching.

Revisit some highlights of Darren 'Boof' Lehmann's on-field career.

"The timing is far from ideal but we didn't feel we could sit back and hope matters would change without addressing issues critical to a high performing team culture,'' Sutherland said of Arthur's sacking.

"It obviously isn't the type of change we want to make (16 days) out from the Ashes commencing but we believe a change is needed.
 

Arthur was appointed in November 2011 and since that time Australia has struggled with inconsistent performances and numerous off-field issues. Australia has won 10 of 19 Tests, 18 of 39 ODIs and 7 of 16 T20s with Arthur at the helm.

Sutherland said those failures were at the heart of the decision.
 

Michael Clarke has stepped down as a selector, while Mickey Arthur has been sacked as coach on a dramatic day in Australian cricket.

"This has been a difficult decision to make but one that we feel is necessary,'' he said.
 

"We are looking to establish a high performing Australian cricket team that is consistent over a period of time. To achieve that, we need all the parts moving in the right direction. Recent on-field results have been too inconsistent.
 

"Discipline, consistency of behaviour and accountability for performance are all key ingredients that need to improve. And we see that the head coach is ultimately responsible for that.''

Captain Michael Clarke, who has resigned as a selector, said at the press conference tonight he was shocked upon hearing Arthur had been cut but said his thoughts then quickly moved to maintaining focus on the team's performance.

"This is a decision made by Cricket Australia, it had nothing to do with the players or nothing to do with me personally.

He said there was no excuse for poor behaviour in the the team despite the recent loss of senior players Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey.

Lehmann said he was excited to be taking over and that there wouldn't be any ongoing problems with the squad "off the field or on the field".

"It's important to talk about the game - whether that's with a beer or a Diet Coke - I don't mind, " he said.

Queensland Bulls coach Darren Lehmann will take over the reins of the Australian team. Picture: Glenn Barnes

As part of a review of Australian cricket two years ago, the coach and captain were granted selection powers.
But Clarke has repeatedly come under pressure to step aside from the role.

News Limited has written on several occasions that Clarke's selection role was causing to much angst. One one hand he had to be a confidant to his players yet on another he had to sit in judgement on them at the selection table.

And Clarke's relationship with some of his senior players - particularly his deputy Shane Watson - has been rocky for some time.

The first Test of the Ashes series begins on July 10 at Trent Bridge.

Players to blame for Arthur's demise

Arthur is the victim of Australia's poor performance on the field and lack of discipline off it.

His dismissal continues a tumultuous year for Australia.

Why Boof is right man for the job

The Test team lost 4-0 in India and failed to win a match in the recent Champions Trophy in England.

Just as bad was the homework fiasco in India, when four players including vice-captain Shane Watson were suspended for the third Test in Mohali.

How the world is reacting to Mickey's sacking

Watson returned home for the birth of his first child but was then remarkably appointed Australia's 44th Test captain when Michael Clarke was unable to play the last Test with ongoing back problems.

Following the Test Watson, 32, was forced to resign as vice-captain with Brad Haddin, 35, appointed Clarke's deputy for the Ashes tour.

Steve Smith added to Ashes squad

During the past month or so David Warner set what must be a record after he was twice charged with bringing the game into disrepute. He pleaded guilty to both charges.

The first charge was for an expletive-laden twitter rant against two cricket writers during the IPL and the second was for punching England's Joe Root in a Birmingham bar at 2.30am, after Australia had lost its Champions Trophy match to England.

Mickey Arthur's career record

Warner was fined $5750 for the first offence and was suspended for a month and fined $11,500 for hitting Root.

Sutherland was furious over Warner's attack on Root and equally angry that five other Australian players were out late drinking with the old enemy after losing to the team it needs to beat to regain the Ashes.

Warner will be a better man: Ponting

During the latter stages of the IPL Warner told Arthur and other CA officials that he was not drinking as he prepared for the Ashes but CA has since found this is not the case.

 - Addiitional reporting by Ben Dorries

22.55 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pup quits as selector; Arthur axed

Robert "Crash" Craddock slams Australia's players and administrators following the sacking of Mickey Arthur.

UPDATE: DARREN Lehmann has been confirmed as Australia's new cricket coach while CEO James Sutherland explained why Mickey Arthur was sacked.

Arthur was dumped after a meeting with chief executive James Sutherland and high performance manager Pat Howard in Bristol last night, where Australia A beat Gloucester.

Lehmann is currently in England coaching Australia A and is the current Queensland coach. He confirmed tonight at a Cricket Australia press conference in Bristol he has signed a two-year deal, starting immediately.

The first Ashes Test is just 16 days away.

CA CEO James Sutherland said despite the unfortunate timing, it was a decision deemed necessary with such a big series fast approaching.

Revisit some highlights of Darren 'Boof' Lehmann's on-field career.

"The timing is far from ideal but we didn't feel we could sit back and hope matters would change without addressing issues critical to a high performing team culture,'' Sutherland said of Arthur's sacking.

"It obviously isn't the type of change we want to make (16 days) out from the Ashes commencing but we believe a change is needed.
 

Arthur was appointed in November 2011 and since that time Australia has struggled with inconsistent performances and numerous off-field issues. Australia has won 10 of 19 Tests, 18 of 39 ODIs and 7 of 16 T20s with Arthur at the helm.

Sutherland said those failures were at the heart of the decision.
 

Michael Clarke has stepped down as a selector, while Mickey Arthur has been sacked as coach on a dramatic day in Australian cricket.

"This has been a difficult decision to make but one that we feel is necessary,'' he said.
 

"We are looking to establish a high performing Australian cricket team that is consistent over a period of time. To achieve that, we need all the parts moving in the right direction. Recent on-field results have been too inconsistent.
 

"Discipline, consistency of behaviour and accountability for performance are all key ingredients that need to improve. And we see that the head coach is ultimately responsible for that.''

Captain Michael Clarke, who has resigned as a selector, said at the press conference tonight he was shocked upon hearing Arthur had been cut but said his thoughts then quickly moved to maintaining focus on the team's performance.

"This is a decision made by Cricket Australia, it had nothing to do with the players or nothing to do with me personally.

He said there was no excuse for poor behaviour in the the team despite the recent loss of senior players Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey.

Lehmann said he was excited to be taking over and that there wouldn't be any ongoing problems with the squad "off the field or on the field".

"It's important to talk about the game - whether that's with a beer or a Diet Coke - I don't mind, " he said.

Queensland Bulls coach Darren Lehmann will take over the reins of the Australian team. Picture: Glenn Barnes

As part of a review of Australian cricket two years ago, the coach and captain were granted selection powers.
But Clarke has repeatedly come under pressure to step aside from the role.

News Limited has written on several occasions that Clarke's selection role was causing to much angst. One one hand he had to be a confidant to his players yet on another he had to sit in judgement on them at the selection table.

And Clarke's relationship with some of his senior players - particularly his deputy Shane Watson - has been rocky for some time.

The first Test of the Ashes series begins on July 10 at Trent Bridge.

Players to blame for Arthur's demise

Arthur is the victim of Australia's poor performance on the field and lack of discipline off it.

His dismissal continues a tumultuous year for Australia.

Why Boof is right man for the job

The Test team lost 4-0 in India and failed to win a match in the recent Champions Trophy in England.

Just as bad was the homework fiasco in India, when four players including vice-captain Shane Watson were suspended for the third Test in Mohali.

How the world is reacting to Mickey's sacking

Watson returned home for the birth of his first child but was then remarkably appointed Australia's 44th Test captain when Michael Clarke was unable to play the last Test with ongoing back problems.

Following the Test Watson, 32, was forced to resign as vice-captain with Brad Haddin, 35, appointed Clarke's deputy for the Ashes tour.

Steve Smith added to Ashes squad

During the past month or so David Warner set what must be a record after he was twice charged with bringing the game into disrepute. He pleaded guilty to both charges.

The first charge was for an expletive-laden twitter rant against two cricket writers during the IPL and the second was for punching England's Joe Root in a Birmingham bar at 2.30am, after Australia had lost its Champions Trophy match to England.

Mickey Arthur's career record

Warner was fined $5750 for the first offence and was suspended for a month and fined $11,500 for hitting Root.

Sutherland was furious over Warner's attack on Root and equally angry that five other Australian players were out late drinking with the old enemy after losing to the team it needs to beat to regain the Ashes.

Warner will be a better man: Ponting

During the latter stages of the IPL Warner told Arthur and other CA officials that he was not drinking as he prepared for the Ashes but CA has since found this is not the case.

 - Addiitional reporting by Ben Dorries

22.55 | 0 komentar | Read More