00:08
On 2GB Sydney and network stations across Australia, this is Mornings with Mark Levy.
00:17
A very good morning to you and happy Friday. It's the 7th of August. I'm Mark Levy. Welcome to Mornings as we broadcast in Sydney, Canberra and across Australia on the 2GB app. Coming up on the show today, finally. The ABC apologises to Gina Reinhardt over that vile segment. The Labor MP making fun of the housing market, which is collapsing. Hanson hysteria continues with another attack at One Nation. While in sport, the Cowboys respond after last week's humiliating loss in the NRL. Quick look at Sydney's weather.
00:47
Careabout, a free independent matching service connecting you with compatible aged care support. Call 131300. We're in for a sunny day. Tops of 19 in the city. 20 in the west it'll be much the same tomorrow with a few showers expected on sunday while in canberra for our two double c listeners morning frost and fog developing into a nice day with a high of 15 degrees fine tomorrow with some wet weather to creep in on sunday as always love to hear from you on this friday the number to call 131873 you can email me at 2gb.com where you click onto the feedback icon And the text line's up and running as well.
01:24
0460 873 873. Well, we've made it to the end of the working week and there is plenty of excitement amongst the Perth Bears supporters with their inaugural jersey to be unveiled this afternoon. I'll catch up with Mal Meninga later in the show. I've also invited the Warburton brothers into the studio this morning to talk about something pretty special. that they're doing for their mum, Emma, who's battling brain cancer. The boys are embarking on an 80-kilometre run for 80 days of treatment and they're trying to raise $80,000 for the brain cancer group.
01:56
So I'll introduce you to Jem, Ben and Sam in the second hour. And, of course, good luck to all those taking part in the city to surf. The big fun run happening over the course of the weekend. Thousands of people to make their way from Hyde Park to Bondi Beach. And I want to lend my support to RSL New South Wales, which is again fielding the largest veteran and family team this year. So we're talking about more than 300 veterans, current serving personnel and family members.
02:23
walking and running the 14-kilometre journey and 74-year-old Gary Heskett served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and he's taking part on the weekends, so we'll check in with Gary to see how he's been preparing for the city to surf. In the meantime, let's get stuck into the news of the day and...
02:41
Can you believe it's taken nearly a month for the ABC Managing Director, Hugh Marks, to apologise for the vile depiction of Australia's richest and most generous woman, Gina Reinhart, on that Race Around the World program and to remove the segment from the public broadcaster's platforms? Talk about too little too late. It's like closing the stable door after the horse has already bolted.
03:05
Now, as Ryan Keane reports today in The Telegraph, the ABC has apologised to billionaire Gina Reinhart and removed a vile segment allegedly encouraging sodomy and murder against her, but a disgusted ex-ABC chairman says it still needs a culture change. ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks publicly apologised to the mining magnate yesterday and said it had wiped the Race Around the World segment from its platforms 25 days after it aired on July 12.
03:36
The removal and apology, a news item in the ABC Radio's 5pm bulletin, came days after Mr Reinhart threatened legal action in relation to the programme's airing of a French revolutionary-style depiction of a violent attack on her.
03:52
Now, the former ABC chair of five years, Morris Newman, said the publicly funded broadcaster had to be dragged kicking and screaming to say sorry. The whole thing is a disgrace. It's disgusting. The fact that apology has been issued doesn't really change anything about the culture of the organisation. The culture is inward-looking. It's self-serving. It doesn't really have much to do with the broad audience that pays for it. It actually broadcasts to a very narrow group of left-leaning people. It's not what the Charter is about.
04:24
It's not what the Act is about. It's not what editorial policy is about.
04:28
Now, an ABC ombudsman probe launched after Ms Reinhart's Hancock prospecting complained and alleged civil and criminal breaches arising from this segment. This is the bit that astounds me.
04:42
The internal ombudsman found the content did not breach ABC standards relating to harm and offence.
04:52
Hugh Marks said, While the Ombudsman has found that the film did not breach the ABC's editorial policies, the ABC acknowledges the episode has fallen short of community expectations. Fallen short?
05:04
The ABC apologises to Mrs. Reinhardt and to anyone else affected or upset by the publication of the film. Well, let's just face facts for a second. The only reason, the only reason the ABC has apologised is because of the threat of legal action and the wave of public outrage over the last three weeks.
05:23
The apology should have been offered within seconds, not weeks.
05:27
The segment wasn't a sharp satire or edgy commentary. It was explicit incitement to violence and violence against women.
05:36
Frame it however you like, but broadcasting a scenario detailing the physical violation and murder of a woman is disgusting.
05:44
Could you imagine the response from ACMA if the same thing went to air on Channel 9 or, say, Channel 7? Yet the ABC's internal ombudsman concluded with a straight face that the segment didn't breach its editorial standards on harm and offence. Are they kidding?
06:00
That finding is an absolute farce. It effectively says to the general public that if the target is a wealthy, conservative or prominent in business, the ABC's rules don't apply. The hypocrisy is breathtaking.
06:14
I made the point last week and I'll repeat it again today. If you think back to the endless coverage and panel discussions about the misogynistic Ditch the Witch campaigns directed at Labor figures, Jacinta Allen, the former Prime Minister Julia Gillard, why then does that moral crusade disappear over at the ABC when the target is a conservative woman?
06:36
Why does violence against women suddenly become fair game for these grotesque so-called comedy segments the moment the woman in question happens to head a mining company?
06:47
The reality is that there is one rule for the ABC's favoured political class and entirely another for everyone else.
06:54
taxpayers shell out $1.3 billion a year to fund a public broadcaster bound by a charter requiring balance, impartiality and community standard compliance. Instead, the ABC operates as an insulated, self-serving echo chamber that broadcasts to a narrow slice of the inner city left.
07:12
All the while, they treat the broader public with contempt. Saying sorry after 25 days of defiance isn't leadership, it's damage control.
07:21
Until the leaders at the ABC, like Hugh Marks, face real accountability and overhaul of culture that greenlights sadistic abuse as editorial policy, the public has every right to ask why we're paying for it. Do you agree?
07:35
And why do they keep getting away with it?
07:37
And what are we gonna do about the ABC? Because I've reached the opinion that the best way forward is making it a subscription service. Yes, ABC radio plays an important part in the regions and during emergencies for their emergency broadcasts, but when it comes to the TV arm of the ABC, is there anything worth watching anymore?
07:56
Given the latest controversy, the answer is clearly no.
08:00
So what do you think, folks? I'd love to know how you feel about it. 131873. You're entitled to have your say, ladies and gentlemen, you're the people paying for it. You're the ones paying for our ABC. 131873, the number. You can email me at 2GB.com and you can text me, 0460 873 873.
08:20
Look, one of the other big talking points over the last few weeks has been the budget changes and the effect they're having on the housing market. And you've heard all of the experts we've spoken to on this program.
08:32
Well, some of the Labor MPs, yes, the Labor MPs within the Albanese government clearly think this is some sort of joke.
08:40
Bennelong MP, Jerome Luxal, he needs to start reading the room, Jerome. He also needs to stop with these stupid social media skits. Jerome, you're an elected member of parliament. Grow up.
08:54
Well, as John Rolfe and Abisha Subkoda report today in The Telegraph, Albanese government MPs are celebrating, yes, celebrating how their shock property changes, tax changes in the May budget are tanking the housing market as economists warn a real estate crash will harm the economy and drive up unemployment.
09:15
And in making light of the downturn in the property market, The pollies have also been caught making claims so over the top they'd make a real estate agent blush.
09:25
In one example, a Sydney Labor MP rewrote an auction news report to infer that a Lane Cove apartment had sold to first home buyers instead of investors because Labor's capital gains tax and negative gearing interventions had, quote, fixed the market.
09:40
Posting on social media, Bennelong MP Jerome Laxalle said, we changed tax settings to help first home buyers. It's working across Australia and it's working in Lane Cove. Good. He then attached an image of the news report, which quoted an auctioneer saying conditions were the worst he'd seen, including during the 2008 global financial crisis. But what did Jerome Laxalle do? He crossed out worst and replaced it with best. I mean, how juvenile.
10:09
The article said the apartment had sold for the reserve price of $785,000 to the only bidder, a couple buying their first home.
10:17
Asked by The Telegraph about his post, Mr Lacksale said, I'm thrilled to see first home buyers having a crack at owning houses that were previously much more likely to go to an investor. However, the selling agent of the property disagreed, saying the apartment would have sold to owner-occupiers even without Labor's recent tax changes.
10:36
Alex Banning is his name, from Rain and Horn, saying that it's still a classic first home buyer property. It would have been before the budget announcement, it's affordable. Now, that assessment was put to Mr Luxar, but, oh, surprise, surprise, radio silence from the Bennelong MP.
10:55
You listen to The Economist, you listen to the experts like Tom Panos, who we spoke to on this show this week. This is no laughing matter. But we've got Labor MPs like this Jerome Laxale and you've got Tanya Plibersek, who goes on television this week and says, quote, not in my lifetime has there been a better time to be a first home buyer in Australia. It's time to wake up and start living in the real world to these Labor MPs.
11:20
And I think it's further proof that they haven't got a clue.
11:23
Labor's broken promise on the changes to the capital gains tax and negative gearing were pitched as a silver bullet for housing affordability. Instead, they've become a lesson in unintended consequences. In the minds of Labor, a tanking market has caused for victory laps.
11:38
But what they're failing to admit is a property crash doesn't magically empower young Australians. It drags down the broader economy, threatens financial stability and drives up unemployment.
11:50
Real estate professionals are already pointing out the supreme irony of these tax policies. Falling asset prices and soaring rents will eventually draw investors right back in. So it obliterates the very outcome that Labor wants to achieve.
12:04
So we'll talk more about that throughout the morning, no doubt, because I know it's a hot-button issue with a lot of people living not only in Sydney but right across Australia who are affected by all of this.
12:15
Now, when it comes to the pressure that we're feeling, certainly in housing, in hospitals and in schools, I think everyone's starting to now concede that our immigration levels are still too high.
12:27
One Nation leader, Pauline Hanson, is driving the need to drastically cut the number of migrants coming into Australia. As Ellen Ransley reports today, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has dismissed claims that cutting the number of migrants to Australia hurts businesses, saying the nation does not need any more Uber drivers, nail technicians or dog walkers. After Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke postponed that major speech yesterday where he was set to outline measures to reduce the country's net overseas migration figures, business groups urged caution, warning Labor not to shoot themselves in the foot with mooted backpacker caps or changes to family visas.
13:06
So whether you're a fan of Pauline Hanson or not, there's no doubt that we need to drastically reduce the number of people that we're letting into this country. And as Pauline Hanson has made clear, she's nominated that figure of 130,000 places per year, which is well below the government's forecast of 185,000 in 26-27.
13:30
So we'll seize on some of the comments from Pauline Hanson today. And I'll have a bit... I've been talking about this... What do I call it? Anti-Hansonism or Hanson hysteria. And it's akin to Trump derangement syndrome in the United States. Well... I note that there's still some people intent on wanting to do whatever it takes to destroy One Nation. There's a story on the front page of the Herald today. Pauline Hanson used party funds to pay for a five-star London hotel during her recent European trip, including keeping rooms vacant while she flew to Italy with mining billionaire Gina Reinhart, but insists she did not touch One Nation's $5 million war chest created by thousands of small donations from ordinary Australians in a virtual fundraising campaign.
14:14
Well, after reading the story today by Rob Harris and Paul Sicarl, what I would say is, who cares?
14:20
Who cares?
14:22
All of those Australians made donations to One Nation because they're sick and tired of the major parties and the status quo.
14:29
Now, if Pauline Hanson wants to stay in a five-star hotel, good luck to her.
14:33
Good luck to her.
14:36
And I just wish that some sections of the media would give the same sort of attention to the likes of Chris Bowen, who is flying around the world at the expense of us, the taxpayer, but not actually achieving anything.
14:50
Yet here we go again, front page of the Herald, oh, it's all about Pauline Hanson staying in a five-star hotel. Again, who cares? Who cares?
14:58
So we'll talk more about Hanson hysteria and the anti-Hansonism that's, well, certainly gripping the nation at the moment. Just before I get to ICAC and the Alan Jones trial, I do need your help with something this morning, folks. Have we got any Commonwealth Bank customers listening in this morning, CBA customers? Because I've received an email overnight from a CBA customer saying, who's pointed to the fact that the bank has emailed him to say that they're gonna close his accounts within 30 days.
15:30
Now, his name's Pete, and we'll touch base with Commonwealth Bank to see if we can get an answer on this.
15:36
Let me share what Pete has written to me. Mark, CBA has just sent me a notice that they're closing my accounts. No reason, nothing. I've called them, and they wouldn't elaborate. This has killed me as I have to rearrange all my accounts.
15:48
Peter goes on to say, Mark, I've never felt so down. It's having an effect on my health. I've been banking with CBA for 74 years and they've emailed me saying we're closing your accounts in 30 days with no reason why.
16:02
Well, really? What sort of customer service is that?
16:06
You bank with CBA for 74 years and you get an email telling you that you've got 30 days to find another option?
16:13
Are you in the same boat? Because as Peter's pointed out to me today, it's happening to a few of the people in his circle of friends.
16:20
So if you can shed any light on that for me, I need your help this morning. 131873 is the number. You can email me at 2GB.com. You can text me 0460 873 873 and we'll obviously go in search of some answers from the Commonwealth Bank in relation to that.
16:36
ICAC yesterday, jeez, Jean-Claude Perrottet. By the end of the day, he looked like he'd gone 12 rounds with Mike Tyson. He looked a shadow of his former self, given what had been revealed...
16:48
in the hearing, and the youngest brother of the former Premier thanked fugitive developer Jean Nassif for, quote, all the support he had provided to the Perrottet family in an intercepted phone call before a second wiretap heard the top-lace boss offer him $100,000 in cash for factional recruitment work.
17:10
So as I've alluded to throughout these ICAC hearings, it's gonna get worse before it gets any better.
17:16
And it was a pretty damning day again yesterday, this time for Jean-Claude Perrottet, who I will say, after watching him in the witness box, He's not exactly the sharpest tool in the shed, Jean-Claude Perrottet. From the corruption inquiry to the Downing Centre, Alan Jones, his defence team has been cross-examining the first complainant in his sexual assault and touching trial.
17:38
One of his alleged victims has denied accusing the broadcaster of indecent assault to make money after he'd been sacked from his job in law enforcement for serious misconduct. So that trial will continue in the Downing Centre local court today. We've got a fair bit of news out of Macquarie Street. The drug driving law is back in the news today. James O'Doherty is reporting that the Premier's overhaul of the drug driving laws could push up the cost of green slips. with the government conceding it has no idea whether a three-strikes warning system for medical cannabis patients will impact compulsory third-party insurance costs.
18:12
So we'll certainly touch on that one. We've got the US establishing the administrative framework for a military base in WA. Amid revelations, 2,300 Americans will be deployed to the state to support enduring submarine deployments to Perth's HMAS Stirling. And there's a story today about the smart glasses... Now, they've triggered fears about invasion of privacy and misuse, and it comes after Kmart sold out of a $89 pair of camera glasses capable of capturing videos and photos.
18:45
I note the Attorney-General, Michelle Rowland, has written to the Privacy Commissioner and asked her to give priority consideration to the technology. and its privacy implications. So we'll certainly keep an eye on that one as well. Now, we turn to sport. Snoring or waking up exhausted, visit resmed.com.au and take a free online sleep assessment or find a store near you. Gee, the Cowboys, they needed to bounce back last night from that record loss to the Roosters, and they did so, winning 30 points to eight over the Gold Coast at Seabus Super Stadium. Gee, we've got a big night tonight.
19:17
The Warriors and the Panthers at six o'clock in Auckland as the Indigenous round continues. I'll be on air from seven o'clock with the continuous call team from Alleyard Stadium. And I was at a golf day yesterday with Josh Morris, who's very excited about this one. In fact, he's dubbed it the Josh Morris Cup, given he featured for both clubs, Roosters and Canterbury. And no James Tedesco. He's out through injury. So Cody Ramsey will take over at fullback. While in the AFL, an early taste of finals footy as well, with Brisbane at home to Hawthorne. Last night, the Kangaroos beat the Western Bulldogs by 23 points.
19:49
The Swans are at home tomorrow to Port Adelaide and the Giants tackle the Gold Coast on Sunday in Canberra. I should also mention another big weekend of NRLW. I've had a few people say, Mark, don't forget NRLW. Yeah, well, it's becoming hugely popular and it's growing and growing. So NRLW across the weekend off the back of Magic Round in Wagga Wagga last weekend. The new Wallabies coach, Les Kiss, says he's put very little time into forecasting what tricks and tactics Eddie Jones has planned when Japan take on Australia tomorrow night in Osaka.
20:21
While in Super Rugby, Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps are returning to the New South Wales Waratahs. Manus Labashane is ready to go for the big test match against Bangladesh starting next week in Darwin. David Croft, the voice of Formula One, has questioned whether it's time for McLaren to put their eggs in a Lando Norris basket. with Oscar Piastri not having the pace as he backed the British chances of defending his world title. So that's gone down like a lead balloon with Australian motorsport fans. And we'll check in with the boys from Better to run through the footy tips and hopefully find a winner on the races tomorrow with the Metropolitan meeting in Sydney at headquarters, Royal Roundwick.
20:57
So there's plenty for us to talk about this morning. If you've got an opinion, a share story, to tell something, to report, the number to call 131873. You can email me at 2GB.com or you can text me 0460 873 873. You're with Mark Levy as we broadcast on 2GB in Sydney through the 2GB app and via network stations right across Australia.
21:22
Yeah, a lot of people wanting to have their say about the response from the ABC that we've finally had after, what, 25 days or whatever it was. Mark, happy Friday from Paul. The ABC's response is on par with Labor's response to immigration. Too little, too late. And to be fair, both disingenuous. from Paul at Paddo. Yeah, I'd agree with you, Paul. Thank you for touching base. Mark, I'm a North Sydney rate payer and pleased to see the pool reopening today. Saddened by the huge cost blowout, but I wonder, does anyone swing or even suffer any setback for so poorly managing costs from Steve?
21:57
Yeah, North Sydney pool opening today off the back of, what's it cost? Hundred and something million bucks?
22:02
I'll dig up the final figure. I just haven't got it in front of me. Brett says, Mark, Jerome Laxale is another Chris Bowen. Never had a real job in his life. Started on the council, became mayor and from their federal government, the only time you've ever seen him in our election is a month before the election. Well, is that right, Brett? If you follow him on social media or have seen some of his social media clips, I'll stand by what I said earlier. Jerome, grow up. Can the ABC do the same segment of Gina but instead use somebody else? Let's see how that pans out. Well, Jim, we've got to call it out.
22:33
in relation to any woman depicted in that sort of vile video. But I understand the point you're making. And I made it certainly off the top of the show as well. Thanks for getting in touch. Happy Friday to you. Lynne writes, what does it tell us about the ABC that it has a history of hiring people like Grace Tame as well, who disrespect Australia? Well, she certainly disrespected Jewish Australians by what she said on the steps of the town hall, didn't she? Carol's phone through in Lithgow wanting to have her say about the ABC as well. Carol, good morning to you.
23:05
Good morning, Mark. I hope you're having a wonderful morning so far.
23:08
I'm having a great morning. All the better for hearing from you. Carol, what would you like to say?
23:12
Yeah, I'm just in agreeance with the ABC and the hypocrisy on this issue is just appalling. Violence is violence. ABC need to catch up.
23:21
And I do feel that, like, there is no accountability and no leadership. Like, it's just disgusting. And I feel like the example that's being set here is just not – like, we need to have a standard. And I feel like Kate McGinnis, is that her name, the filmmaker, she needs to be disqualified from that show.
23:38
It's not good enough. Like, that needs to be – there needs to be a clear message.
23:43
And I just feel like it's not good enough. And you've got ABC ex-employees like Lee Sayles and Lisa Miller – who they could have caught it out. Like Lisa Miller was the judge this week, last week. And she's like, I love everything that Kate does and gave her a point. It's like, that is not okay. That is not sending a clear message.
24:03
There's a massive issue around domestic violence in this country and it's just not being addressed. And when you have organizations, corporate, it's not doing their job, It's really quite, it's poor form.
24:17
I couldn't agree more, Carol, and well said. Thank you for calling through.
24:22
And you are right to point to the huge problem we have at the moment with domestic violence in this country, and it's something that I've spoken about passionately on this program.
24:31
And it's the reason why recently I got pretty fired up talking about this topic in this particular segment on the ABC, and that is because I've met victims of domestic violence. I've met a mother of a young woman who lost her life to domestic violence.
24:49
There's another young woman in Queensland who lost her life this week in a murder-suicide.
24:58
She was a pregnant young woman living at Charleville in Queensland.
25:02
Yet our public broadcaster that is funded by us, the taxpayer, according to its charter and according to the ombudsman, the ombudsman says that it didn't breach ABC standards relating to harm and offence. What? It's just, I cannot wrap my head around it. And I will say this, I'm so lucky to have bosses here at this radio network and a management team here at this radio network that I know if I go too far with something that I say or I breach any rules, you know what they'll do?
25:39
They'd be straight on the phone. They'd say, Mark, we need to speak to you.
25:45
And I know for sure and certain that my bosses, if content like that went to air, they would apologise for it immediately.
25:52
Oh, but not over at the ABC.
25:55
Hugh Marks waits, what, 25 days to apologise for a segment depicting Australia's most generous woman, Gina Reinhart, in the way that it did. And I'm not going to describe it. People have seen it. I'm not going to describe it because it is just vile. It is abhorrent and it needed to be called out.
26:15
And it just goes to show why we continue to raise concerns and alarm at the way in which the ABC is being managed.
26:24
Now, I said it earlier, Hugh Marks used to be a boss of mine. He ran the Nine Entertainment Company when we were a part of the Nine stable.
26:31
And we used to get emails from time to time talking about culture and talking about standards. Is he sending out those same emails to the staff now that he's the managing director of the ABC?
26:44
There should have been an immediate apology. It shouldn't take public outrage and it shouldn't take broadcasters like me to sit here and highlight the vile treatment of a wonderful woman like Gina Reinhart. Whether you agree or disagree with her political stance, there is no excuse for political violence and threats of violence in what the ABC has described as satire. Give me a break. 26 to 10.
27:09
Yeah, a few stories around the place just away from the ABC. We might revisit the ABC. There's a couple of people waiting on the line wanting to talk about it. We might revisit it in the second hour. One bloke and a mate of mine who's been writing about the ABC for years in The Australian, he's also got a TV program of an afternoon on News 24. Chris Kenny, he's going to join us in the second hour just to highlight what needs to change over at Aunty. because it's certainly become the big story, hasn't it?
27:41
The fact that the ABC management have taken so long to offer up an apology to Gina Reinhart. So we'll talk to Chris about it in the second hour and then we'll share more of your feedback on it. In the meantime, though, our traffic man, Steve Carline, has been talking about this incident at Marylands on the M4, just 100 metres before the on-ramp at Coleman Street. We've been in touch with paramedics. They've told us There's been a six-car pile-up. One ambulance crew was on scene with paramedics assessing two patients with minor injuries.
28:13
They've been transported to Westmead Hospital.
28:16
So at this stage, we'll leave it in the capable hands of Steve to keep an eye on and update you on those delays. But just repeating a...
28:25
A six-car pile-up, we're told, at Merrylands on the M4, just 100 metres before the on-ramp at Coleman Street. While we're talking about emergency services, you would have heard this morning Ben Fordham talking about this one. A 23-year-old man has been found dead. After a suspected dog attack on a rural property in Sydney South West, emergency services rushed to a property at Eshel Park shortly before midday on Wednesday after reports a man's body had been discovered.
28:56
Officers arrived and found the 23-year-old deceased with significant injuries. A crime scene was established as detectives launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Police said initial inquiries indicate the man may have been attacked by animals before he died, with Ben reporting this morning up to eight dogs were on the property with the animals allegedly unregistered and not microchipped. So we'll leave that in the hands of police, like I say, and if there's any more to share on that, we'll certainly keep you updated on it.
29:27
And also from police this morning, there's a teenager who's in hospital with serious gunshot wounds after being shot in Sydney's south-west operation. Overnight, police say they were called to Mimosa Street in Greenacre shortly before 9pm after receiving several calls reporting shots fired. Investigators were told the 18-year-old man had been shot twice in the chest on nearby Banksia Street before being driven to Mimosa Street where emergency services found him. He was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital where he's now in a stable condition.
29:59
There's a crime scene in place right now and I'm sure we'll be hearing more and more about it. I think there's a press conference scheduled from police a little later this morning as well. So I know Mark Morrie and William Tyson are on the case over at the telly. If there's any more on that that the boys managed to track down, given they've been covering a number of these shooting incidents across Sydney, we won't suggest that they're gang-related at this point or underworld-related. We'll just wait and see what the investigations uncover as police continue to look into what led up to and who was responsible for the shooting of this teenager who is now in a stable condition.
30:35
So a busy night for police, certainly, and a busy week, another busy week for police.
30:46
And I just wanted to give this a mention because we've got some really phenomenal stories to share with you later in the morning. Just on a positive note, I received this one from a listener, Keith. He says, has started in the last 24 hours a 50-hour treadmill challenge in the name of two friends, Kai and Jade, who sadly took their own lives within three weeks of each other.
31:14
And he's doing it to raise money for Lifeline, of who I know you're a great supporter. Any mention of this would be greatly appreciated.
31:23
He's hoping to raise about $15,000 for not only Lifeline, but the Black Dog Institute as well. after he himself suffered a mental health issue. So could you imagine, you can imagine these causes are very important to him. Well, first and foremost, Keith, thank you for letting me know. And I want to single out your son, Jacob, who is just doing a phenomenal thing. He started at 9am yesterday. He's well and truly into it. He's been going for 24 hours. He's going to go for 50 hours.
31:52
And I'm assuming, you'll have to get back in touch with me, Keith, and let me know, but I'm assuming if we just Google Jacob Jones, we'll be able to find where we can donate to the cause. And obviously we're certainly thinking of all of the family of friends of Kai and Jade. And if this story has brought up some...
32:10
bad memories for you or if you're in need of some help you can contact Lifeline 13 11 14 is their number 13 11 14 but yeah well done Jacob if you're listening this morning job well done to you and Keith obviously a very proud father as well 18 to 10 131873, the number, 2GB.com. Click onto the feedback icon if you would like to join us. Roger says, Mark, Clinton Maynard threw you under the bus yesterday.
32:36
The golf day was only for lunch for you, according to Josh Morris. Oh, is that right, Roger?
32:42
I thought he was rock solid there, Josh. Now, we had a golf day for some of the advertisers and for those advertising agencies who support the radio network put together by our sales, head of sales, Brian Gallagher, and Cass from downstairs who looks after a whole range of different things for the radio network. She said, oh, Mark, it'd be great if you could pop in and say g'day. So it's the first time I'd ever been there. Strathfield Golf Club. Gee, it's a nice place.
33:11
So, yeah, I popped out. It was only for lunch. I'm not a golfer, Rog. I don't have the patience for golf.
33:18
I do my best work at the 19th, if you know what I mean. So, yeah, I went and met everybody and had a chicken schnitzel and some chips and some salad for lunch with the rest of the crew and, oh, that's right, okay. There'll be a square up for Josh Morris coming tonight.
33:33
MUSIC PLAYS That reminds me, I did play golf once. I've got a few mates who run some pubs up in Newcastle and they said, come on, we'll go and have a round at Merriweather Golf Course.
33:45
I said, yeah, okay. We had an early morning start. So we went and did the front nine. Then all of a sudden we sort of go past the clubhouse and the golf pro comes out and he says, excuse me, mate. I said, yeah.
33:58
He said, are you in that first group that teed off just after eight o'clock? I said, yeah. He said, mate, we've had 12 complaints for a foul language down the first few holes that sort of backed onto the houses from the golf course. I said, yeah, that was me, sorry. The frustration got the better of me. So I had a bit of a potty mouth on that particular day.
34:23
It is a frustrating game though. I mean, you sit there and watch all the great golfers, whether it be in the Live Golf or PGA, and they stand there on the tee with all of those big galleries around them, and they hit the ball and it just goes dead straight.
34:36
And then every time I go to either a golf driving range or I have a crack at hitting a golf ball, it ends up in the car park.
34:42
So I think I'm entitled to have a bit of a potty mouth when I'm watching everybody do it so easily and my ball ends up in a neighbour's backyard. Anyway, 131873, the number. Carla's phone through at Greenwich. Carla, good morning.
34:56
Good morning. Thanks for taking my call. Not a problem. Carla, what would you like to say?
35:01
Well, I'd like to say, do you know what the ABC stands for?
35:05
I do, but you've clearly got a clever little analogy for me.
35:09
Yes, it's a bloody con. LAUGHTER
35:14
All right, well, let me put you to the test. What does 2GB stand for?
35:19
I knew you were going to ask me that. Too good, bro.
35:22
Oh, Carla, that's brilliant. That was better than what I was going to come up with. So the ABC stands for a bloody con, and 2GB means too good, bro. Carla, you're a superstar. Have a great weekend. It's 10 to 10.
35:42
We had a message earlier about the reopening of the North Sydney Olympic pool, finally, as we welcome you back to the 2GB Morning Show at 7 to 10. Well, it's been, what, five years? And here's the price tag, $122 million.
35:57
It's reopening this morning, and after years of planning and, dare I say, debate, the pool closed for what was supposed to be a $58 million upgrade in February of 2021.
36:07
The pool will open to swimmers, in fact, from 2.30 this afternoon. Entry will be free for the opening weekend. Swimmers are encouraged to limit their stay for an hour for the first few days. But hear this, you'll be able to experience the new 50-metre heated outdoor pool, the 25-metre indoor pool, program pool, the gym and the outdoor children's splash pad and water play area. So there you are. Now, you might be able to help me. Was North Sydney pool, did they have the diving boards or am I mistaken there?
36:39
I just vaguely remember going there as a kid. Obviously, it's been quite a while since I was a kid, but I'm pretty sure it was at the...
36:46
Western side, they had the diving boards. Was that right? Somebody will correct me if I'm wrong. Where else can you go to the diving boards? There used to be the pools at Botany. I don't even know if they're still there. They used to have, I think, oh, they had the water slides at Botany. But I'm just racking my brain. North Sydney pool, did they have the diving boards or not? Anyway, somebody will tell me. 131873 is the number to ring. In the meantime, here's another good news story. It involves the police. They've formed their first ever Indigenous rugby league team. They're going to be called the Trackers, who will make their historic debut at Allianz Stadium this weekend.
37:19
In 2026, the Indigenous Police Rugby League Club General Committee was formed to establish a rugby league team to strengthen connections between the police and Indigenous community through a strong tie on the sporting field. The formation of the Trackers has brought together 23 players comprising of sworn police officers and unsworn staff of Indigenous background and the Trackers are set to play their inaugural curtain raiser at Allianz Stadium tomorrow at 5.30 where they'll play against the Royal Australian Navy team.
37:50
Now, I believe the Commissioner Mal Lanyon's been down there this morning to announce the team. I just hope the Commissioner wasn't like a few of the previous ARL Commission Chairman when he sits there and announces the team where, well, I think it was Peter Beattie said so-and-so from the Cronulla Seagulls.
38:09
I'm sure he didn't. He's a good man, Mel. So good luck to all of those players featuring in the Indigenous Police Rugby League team, the Trackers, up against the Royal Australian Navy team tomorrow. And we'll certainly keep an eye on that for those people heading along to Allianz Stadium. Four and a half to ten.
38:25
Yeah, I asked the question, I just was trying to refresh my memory about North Sydney pool and the diving towers. They did, but they were brought down in the 70s, the springboards removed in the 80s. A few people have said, Mark, you might be thinking of the Warringah Aquatic Centre and that's exactly, I've just had a member of my family text me, it was the Warringah Aquatic Centre and apparently the slides at Botany were closed due to some public liability issues. There you are. Of course, of course they were.
38:53
You're not allowed to have any fun anymore. Obviously, if there's safety issues, yes, you've got to fix them, but public liability, come on. They're water slides. Anyway, we've got a break for some news. We'll talk to Chris Kenny about these ABC dramas in the next hour, and I've got some really positive stories to share for you in the back half of the show. So look forward to having you with us right through the midday before Michael McLaren takes over. And if you've got a good news story for us, go to the win page at 2GB.com. News is next.
39:19
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39:54
Across Australia, this is Mornings with Mark Levy.
40:00
Yes, second hour of the program. Nice to have you with us. We'll catch up with Chris Kenny, who's been writing about the ABC in the Australian newspaper over many months, and he's had his stouches with the ABC over many years.
40:13
And most recently, he interviewed Kim Williams, the chair of the ABC, on his News 24 program. So I thought, who better to talk to about... the drama at the ABC and what needs to change than Chris. So we'll do that in the next 20 minutes. And later this hour, I've got an incredible story for you. Three brothers, their names are Sam, Ben and Jem, the Warburton brothers. There's actually four of them, but three of the boys are coming in today to have a chat to me. They are going to run from Bondi to Manly in support of their mum, Emma. who's battling brain cancer at the moment.
40:45
They're doing 80 kilometres for 80 days of treatment and they're hoping to try and raise $80,000. So I love when people do this sort of thing. Sam, Ben and Jim. So we'll have a chat with the boys later this hour and I'm looking forward to meeting them here in the 2GB studios. A few other stories around the place at the moment. Alan Jones has arrived for the next day, the fifth day of his trial.
41:12
And it appears that a lot of the reporting around the start of the day always refers to what he's wearing. Lime green linen blazer paired with a matching tie and a pale pink shirt. He arrived a short time ago flanked by his lawyers, Chris Murphy and Brian Wrench. So anything out of that this morning and before we go off at midday we'll certainly let you know. The New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has said that federal tax changes phasing out negative gearing for existing dwellings and reducing the capital gains tax concession are obviously having an impact on affordability.
41:45
He's told the Housing Now conference that it's a bad time if you're selling and it's a good time if you're buying. If you're in the same market, it might not make that much of a difference, he said, presumably referring to people needing to both buy and sell a house at the same time.
42:00
What he went on to say is that it's underappreciated how much those interest rate rises and the effect on borrowing has had on the marketplace. And look, just while we're on the topic of this Housing Now conference, the opposition in New South Wales is going to make an announcement through the Liberal leader, Kelly Sloan, today. And I know Kelly was on the ABC this morning talking about this. It's a new approach to housing. That's if the opposition wins the next election. This is what Kelly's had to say earlier this morning on the ABC relating to housing.
42:36
We know that it's so important to meet housing targets in New South Wales, but we are rapidly falling behind. We're about 40% behind our National Housing Accord target. And on the current trajectory, that's going to equal about 150,000 homes that we're short on a five-year target. Something needs to happen. And what we're saying is that some of the policies by the current government are too rigid, that they're not working. And so today we're focused on the means government's LMR policy. So this is the low and mid-rise housing policy that probably a lot of your listeners have been ringing in.
43:09
I've heard them talk about this one size fits all approach for infill. And it's just not working. So the policy was proposed to deliver 112,000 homes over five years. We've only had just under 5,000 approvals.
43:26
And part of the reason is that in many communities, this has been an arbitrary sort of put up or shut up policy, build all these homes, and it often doesn't work. We know Sydney is so different. So we're saying, if the local council can meet its housing targets through an alternate plan, we should formalise a pathway for them to do that. So, in other words, they can't duck and weave and not meet their commitments. But the councils and the local communities know where it works best.
43:57
So they should have a stronger say in where that development goes.
44:00
Yeah, there's certainly merit in what Kelly is saying, the opposition leader in New South Wales, but... Anyone who's dealt with council knows that in most cases councils are the ones that stand in the way of actual real progress. They make you jump through all of the hoops and you've got to deal with red tape, green tape, everything else.
44:17
So obviously the opposition has more faith in councils than I certainly do. But the other problem we've got in this country is that we want people to go out there, developers in particular, to build houses. But why would you build a house at the moment wanting, as a developer, wanting to sell it when we've got house prices coming down?
44:36
All the while the costs of building these houses are through the roof.
44:41
So that's where the federal government has a massive, massive responsibility and part to play in all of this. Yes, we need to have these conversations at a state level and at a local government level. But where the real problem is at the moment is through the decision-making and the poor decision-making coming from Canberra.
45:01
Look, one of the other things I wanted to have a chat to you about this morning at 12 past 10 involves travel expenses of our politicians. We spoke yesterday about the cost of flying the energy and climate change minister, Chris Bowen, around the world so he can spruik net zero. In fact, Jake McCallum's got another story about the man I refer to as Bobo today. He writes in The Telegraph, Jake, the Minister has faced a fresh lashing after revelations he spent more than $118,000 in a nine-day jaunt to New York last year in a failed attempt to secure the United Nations COP31 on home soil.
45:37
That's off the back of the revelation yesterday that Mr Bowen splashed over $340,000 in taxpayer cash on international trips in the last financial year, including the massive bill racked up in New York City.
45:51
Well, he went to the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, but for what?
45:56
Bobo only delivered one speech where he lashed critics of Net Zero and the minister was apparently also lobbying representatives from around the world to host the COP summit in Adelaide. However, that failed with Turkey to host COP31. So the trip to New York failed to achieve anything and we're the ones who were forced to foot the bill. And has that passed the pub test? I wouldn't have thought so, especially at a time when hardworking Australians are having to make sacrifices in this rising cost of living crisis. Now, here's the other question that I want to pose and float with you on expenses today.
46:32
And I'd love to know how you feel about it via the open line, the email and the text line. So don't be shy. Jump on the line and let me know how you feel about it.
46:40
So the question I'm putting to you this morning is how do you feel about paying for the politicians' families to join them in Canberra?
46:49
Do you think it's fair that the taxpayer, you and me, is covering the costs of family members to fly to the nation's capital for events like the announcement of the budget?
47:00
Now, in my opinion, the answer is no.
47:02
It's nothing more than a photo opportunity.
47:05
And how can they justify it given the struggles of millions of Australians?
47:09
We're talking about families who are being forced to cancel holidays just to afford the bills and to put food on the table.
47:17
But the report in The Telegraph today...
47:20
goes into chapter and verse on the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority, which has revealed that between May 10 and 15, politicians from across the political spectrum, and this isn't just attack at Labor here, on talking Labor, Liberal and the Nationals, they all saw fit to bill the public thousands of dollars to fly their loved ones into the nation's capital. Jim Chalmers claimed $1,449 to fly two family members from Brisbane to Canberra. Anthony Albanese billed $2,500 for family travel from Sydney.
47:54
Liberal Senator Jacinda Namperjipa-Price charged $3,500 for family flights from Alice Springs. Madeline King, one of the government ministers, $2,300.
48:04
Labor MP Steve Georgianis, $1,660. Nationals MP Patrick Conahan, $923. They all added their family travel to the public ledger.
48:17
Now, admittedly, these politicians spend a lot of time away from home. I get that. No-one denies that a life in federal politics demands significant sacrifice. The endless travel, late-night sittings, long stretches away from home, they would take an undeniable toll on families.
48:32
But the reason I'm raising this today is we're talking about Budget Week.
48:37
Budget Week is not a family holiday, nor is it a personal milestone. It's a gruelling high-pressure week of work at Parliament House.
48:46
So why exactly do our elected representatives need to be flanked by their loved ones during the delivery of the national budget?
48:53
I'll call it for what it is, a publicly funded photo opportunity.
48:57
It's a chance, you see, for these politicians to frame themselves as down-to-earth family figures against the backdrop of Parliament House, projecting a polished image of warmth while handing down physical decisions that ask the rest of the nation to make hard sacrifices.
49:13
The messaging for mine could not be more tone deaf.
49:17
Asking everyday Australians to tighten their belts while political leaders treat the public purse as a convenient travel budget for their relatives sends a damaging signal.
49:27
It reinforces a deep-seated belief that there is one standard for the political class in Canberra and quite another for the working families who fund them.
49:36
The rules around parliamentary family travel, I think, are long overdue for a strict common sense overhaul. If an executive in the private sector wants to fly their family to join them on an interstate business trip, they pay for it out of their own pocket. There is no plausible reason why federal politicians earning base salaries well above the national average cannot do exactly the same thing. Do you agree or not?
50:02
131873 is the number. You can email me at 2GB.com and you can text me 0460 873 873.
50:09
Isn't it time to have a closer look at the rules around this?
50:12
The public should not be expected to bankroll family travel simply because a politician wants an audience in the gallery or a warm welcome at the post-budget celebration.
50:23
If our political leaders genuinely want to demonstrate empathy with struggling households, I think they can start by showing the same discipline with public money that everyday Australians are forced to show with their own.
50:41
Now, everyone knows politicians have been on the gravy train for years, but that shouldn't include their family members as well, in particular, flying them to Canberra for Budget Week. Jump on the line, have your say, 131873. You can email me at 2GB.com and you can have your say via the text line, 0460 873 873. Shane at Kingroy says, Mark, I'm a long-distance truckie. Where's my family allowance for travel?
51:06
Um... Mark, I'd love a holiday. Unlike politicians who take the family to sporting events, we pay for it. As you said, it doesn't pass the pub test.
51:14
Larry says, let me guess, Mark, it's within the guidelines. It's a bloody joke.
51:18
Brad writes, Mark, absolutely not. There's people at their wit's end struggling to live. So why should we pay for politicians to fly their families to Canberra? Do the normal working class people who work in a state or offshore have that privilege? Definitely not.
51:33
Now, again, I'm not suggesting that politicians should be restricted from having their family members with them if there's a gala dinner or there's a visiting head of state. They're more than entitled to do all of that.
51:46
But given what's being reported today in The Telegraph and the information that's come through from the Parliamentary Expenses Authority, the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority, why is the taxpayer picking up the bill for Jim Chalmers, Anthony Albanese, Jacinta Napa Jimper-Price, Madeline King, Steve Georgianis and Pat Conaghan flying their families to Canberra for Budget Week? What do they need their families for in the Parliament of Australia in Budget Week? What, to do some sightseeing while they're locked away in meetings?
52:15
Doesn't pass the pub test if you ask me. 19 and a half past 10. 22 past 10 finance update. The All Ordinary is down 28.4.3 of a percent to $9,423.6. The dollar, 70.31 US cents. Well, as we touched on in the first hour of the program, and I obviously gave you my thoughts on this, apology of sorts that we've finally had go the way of Gina Reinhart from the ABC, 25 days, mind you, after the short film on the ABC's Race Around the World program was put to air.
52:50
You'll know that Ms Reinhart asked for the clip to be removed. However, the taxpayer-funded broadcaster refused, instead defending it as satirical in tone. Eventually, the vision was sent to its internal ombudsman for review after audience complaints and the removal of the clip came just days after Ms Reinhart threatened legal action. Here was the ABC Managing Director Hugh Mark's public apology to Gina Reinhart yesterday.
53:16
Everybody should go through the same complaint process. Everybody is entitled to the same treatment by the ABC and ultimately we felt the treatment of Ms Reinhart was not fair and so we apologised and we've edited it and changed the program. And I think the ABC has to hold itself to a higher standard and I think it's really important we make that change. It's also important that we acknowledge we got this wrong, that we issue the apology and we make the relevant changes so that it doesn't happen again.
53:42
To wait nearly a month, Not good enough.
53:46
One man who's been writing a lot about the ABC and has done over recent years is a mate of mine and a former colleague. He's been writing about the ABC in the Australian newspaper. He talks about the ABC regularly on his News 24 program, The Kenny Report, from five o'clock. I speak of Chris Kenny, who has lashed the ABC for spending weeks defending the grotesque sketch. I thought we'd catch up with him. He's on the line. Chris, good morning to you.
54:15
G'day, Mark. Good to join you.
54:16
Mate, 25 days ago, this short film on the ABC's Race Around the World program went to air. I've had a read of the Ombudsman's report this morning. They said they originally received eight complaints. They then received a further 988. Now, given what I've seen and given what everybody's heard and obviously seen, I would have thought management from day one would have come out and said, look, this doesn't pass the pub test. It's not good enough. but they've waited nearly a month tuition or apology to Gina Reinhart. Mate, it's just not good enough, is it?
54:46
Mate, it just goes to show how completely out of touch they are with community standards, how they're living in a little isolated bubble, how there is no accountability or judgment at the ABC. And, of course, it goes to their political bias, again, because they only ever do this to right of centre or conservative targets necessarily. they always choose the same targets. And it's just extraordinary, Mark, that this ever went to air. What sort of a grown adult would look at this sort of fantasising about sodomising and killing a woman and think that that's funny and put it to air?
55:20
It was not amusing. And yet, you know... A number of sets of eyes, of course, would have had to look at this before it went to air. And then they had ABC personalities, including Lee Sales, sort of judging the film as it went to air. The worst she said about it was that it was a nasty joke about Gina Reinhart. I mean, I just don't understand the mentality of these people that think this is...
55:43
an appropriate way to talk about anybody on air, especially on a publicly funded broadcaster. And yet, even after it goes to air, as you say, they should have responded immediately. It's taken them four weeks of publicity and controversy and pleas from the public, so they finally, finally...
56:05
come to the conclusion that was obvious to every Australian who ever saw it or heard about it.
56:10
Chris, I think it's important for the listeners to hear what the rules are in relation to editorial standards relating to harm and offence. So, according to this Ombudsman investigation report, 7.1 says...
56:30
7.6, where there is editorial justification for content which may lead to dangerous imitation or exacerbate serious threats to individual or public health, safety or welfare, take appropriate steps to mitigate those risks, particularly by taking care with how content is expressed or presented. Well, where was the care in relation to this skit that went to air in the Round the World program? I would have thought there's a cross against both those.
56:59
editorial standards, yet the Ombudsman, the internal Ombudsman, mind you, Chris, has found, oh no, no breach. I mean, what?
57:07
It is absurd, isn't it? You just take this back a step, really, though, and just think about common decency. Anybody with common sense and common decency would know that you don't talk about, you don't abuse people in such a foul and violent way for no reason. But you're right, they go through all these technical editorial guidelines. The internal ombudsman said it ticks off the boxes, and now the ABC says they're going to rewrite the guidelines around violence so that they don't have these mistakes again. And it all misses the point really in the end because if you need to read, you know, a whole bunch of paragraphs in the editorial guidelines to understand that it's inappropriate to sort of joke about violence against women and killing a prominent woman just because you happen not to like or not like her political views, well, then you just haven't got the character and judgment that's required to be involved in the media.
57:56
And this is the point, you know, that they just think that they want to abuse her. And thank God that some people in the media, yourself and us at News 24 and others, have kept a focus on this because otherwise the ABC would have just marched on. And then they'd pick another conservative target. Just think about the way the ABC rails against any attacks about women of the left, you know, ditch the witch campaign or even... talking, looking at your watch while you're listening to Julia Gillard, they get all up in high dudgeon about that.
58:28
And, you know, generally speaking, of course, they're right. Women do get abused too much in public life and we should be on the guard for it. But they seem to be very, very touchy about women of the left. Yet Gina Reinhart, they just see that she's ready to be abused. And they've been very, very, you know, they've had a similar bias in other cases. So they've been really caught out this time. And It just comes back to decent personal judgment rather than a rule book.
58:53
I love Chris recently. I saw your interview with Kim Williams, the chair. And first and foremost, good on the chair of the ABC for fronting up because you've been a vocal critic of the public broadcaster for many years and rightfully so. I just want to share with the audience, you know, we talk about impartiality over at the ABC and political bias. According to Kim Williams, when you questioned him, Chris, he said, he said, what bias? This is what he said, listeners.
59:19
Surely you would not contend that there's not a green-left bias at the ABC, that there's not an ABC position on climate change, net zero, Indigenous issues, for instance.
59:31
I'd most certainly contest that with you, Chris.
59:36
In fact, I would have no idea how the overwhelming majority of people at the ABC vote, and nor would I seek to find out. The ABC is a national resource, it is a force for impartiality, and it's a force for objective journalism.
59:55
If I said something like that, Chris Kenny, you know what my mum and dad used to say? You're going to get pimples on your tongue, Mark. Of course. Do you really think that the ABC employees are taking Liberal and National and One Nation how to vote cards? I mean, give me a break.
60:10
look it's just absurd isn't it and look like you the first thing i would say is all credit to kim williams for turning up and having a long interview with me on my program and it was great to have the discussion with him but it's just completely implausible to have that flat-out denial of bias as an issue you know i i was surprised to be frank i thought he would have a a more realistic answer to that i mean for instance you you've got to if you're running an organization like that you've got to understand that look you're You've got 4,000 employees. They're effectively employed by the government.
60:40
They're in public broadcasting. Of course, they're going to have a natural leniency towards big government and an interventionist view of the world. And we need to guard against that at every turn. And we need to improve. But to just deny it outright shows that they're never going to get on top of the problem if they don't even recognise it.
60:59
It's pretty sad, I reckon.
61:01
One last one, Chris. What do we do with the ABC? It's costing us, what, $1.2, $1.3 billion a year. I'm of the view now, and look, I fully appreciate that ABC radio plays a very important part in the regions and through emergencies, as we do here at 2GB. But when it comes to the television arm, is it time to just make it a subscription service? What do you think? What do you think?
61:23
I think that's one option, Mark. But, you know, if you thought about it this way, when you look back at why the ABC was formed, if we didn't have it today, there would be no reason... to create it. There's just no need for a national broadcaster at all. We've got so many media choices right across this country and right around the world. People can access all the information and entertainment and news and discussion and music that they want. But having grown into this great Bayamoth, this publicly funded Bayamoth, now they've got to cull it back.
61:53
It's got to be cut back. I mean, they've got, what, five TV stations, 65 radio stations, endless online and social media platforms that And it's all pumping out this green left view of the world. So at the very least, it should be pulled back to a national, perhaps, radio news network and one television station. Surely that's enough. And maybe, as you say, on a subscription basis. And then, of course, you add to that SBS, which is another half a billion dollars a year. And when you consider that the ABC charter means it's supposed to reflect...
62:27
the diversity of Australia anyway, well, that should be wrapped in. There should be one public broadcaster and it should be a damn sight smaller than it is now.
62:37
Otherwise, why have it at all? That's the other alternative. But at the moment, it has a massive effect on the public debate. As you know, Mark, that's the problem. You know, such a big... green left voice that pumps out propaganda on so many issues 24-7. It distorts the debate in this country to a terrible degree.
62:56
Certainly does. Hey, Chris, keep up the good work, mate. Always good to hear your voice and we'll catch up again soon.
63:01
Mark, there's just one thing I could just add. It's kind of related to the ABC. I just want to congratulate you on the work you do defending our Jewish Australian community, mate. This is an issue that is important for everyone. It's about protecting the integrity and character and diversity of this country. And you've been an absolute warrior on this cause, mate, and I dipped my lid to you.
63:21
Oh, that's very kind of you, Chris. And I know you've done exactly the same thing. And the point I make and continue to make is that any responsible broadcaster in this country will do exactly what you and I have done in supporting a section of our community who has been, which has been vilified for simply being Jewish. It's just wrong. Thank you, Chris. That's Chris Kenny. You can read his pieces in the Australian newspaper where he's been writing about the ABC. He's also got his News 24 program, The Kenny Report, as well. We'll take a break at 26 to 11. Mark Levy here on 2GB Mornings.
63:54
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64:22
I've had a few people reach out to me in relation to an email I mentioned off the top of the show from a gentleman by the name of Pete who got in touch in relation to the Commonwealth Bank, emailing him saying, look, we're closing your accounts in 30 days. He's phoned them wanting some sort of explanation and he got nothing.
64:41
He's put in a complaint to, it must be a regulator, and they virtually said we're getting a lot of these complaints. So if you're the same, I'd love to hear from you. I have heard from a number of people. There's one here from Lynn. Good morning, Mark. Good luck getting a response from CBA. I worked for them for well over 40 years. They were always customer service focused. However, since the new CEO came on board, customer service takes a back seat to him amassing his huge bonuses. I resumed as a result of unrealistic targets, overworked staff, cost cutting. They're no longer the bank that I was proud to work for.
65:14
Well, I'm going to see what they come back with. I don't know a lot about it. Just going off the back of an email I've had, there might be more to the story, but we'll give Commonwealth Bank and CBA a chance to respond. That's the least we can do, given what I'm getting from listeners in relation to closing their accounts. But in relation to Peter, I would have thought a customer of 74 years deserves a bit more respect than being told that in 30 days the bank is going to close his account.
65:43
I wouldn't have thought that's how you treat your customers. Is there more to the story? I guess we'll wait and find out.
66:06
The jump in imports narrowed Australia's goods trade surplus to $1.1 billion in the June quarter, the lowest figure since 2017. That's according to the Bureau of Statistics. Despite the decline in the quarterly trade surplus, the trade balance increased $4.3 billion in the month of June, above forecasts that was largely driven by a 60% jump in non-monetary gold exports, reversing a 35% decline in May. So, That report coming through from AAP. Barry wants to have a chat about the standards of our pollies.
66:39
He's in Nowra. Morning, Barry.
66:42
Good morning, Mark.
66:43
What would you like to say, right, Ben?
66:45
Mate, very simple. How red-hot are our politicians? This current mob, as you've said this morning, in relation to family reunification, when they bring them down for budget week, all paid for by the taxpayer. These are the same politicians who have numerous investment properties and negative geared them and then voted to have abolished negative gearing.
67:09
These are the same politicians who, the senior members in the cabinet, who have still got defined benefit superannuation schemes, far more generous than any other government. than any other taxpayer. And if you cast your mind back to Mark Latham when he was running against John Howard for the prime ministership, Mark Latham wanted to end the superannuation scheme, was going to wedge Howard, so Howard had to back it and then not avail the politicians of these defined benefit schemes.
67:46
This just says... heaps about our politicians, and you wonder why One Nation, and I'm a Liberal voter, I'm going One Nation, and I'll tell you why I'm going to One Nation. I want to blow up the joint politically, as they say, because it is that bad.
68:02
It is that bad. People just want, we don't care.
68:06
I don't care whether the Labor goes and the Liberals and the Conservatives go because they are just not achieving or delivering what us, the average taxpayers, want.
68:18
Yeah, and Barry, your call sums up what a lot of people are writing to me and saying, and it echoes exactly what they're saying at the moment. We're sick of the status quo. We want a political party that is going to put us first. and start improving the lives of Australians instead feathering their own nest like we're seeing with Chris Bowen at the moment in relation to, you know, setting himself up post his political career with a cushy job at the UN.
68:43
Why we are paying the amount of money we're paying for electricity in this country is beyond me and why we've got a government that is allowed to continue to suggest and continue to lie to us in relation to, oh, we're bringing your power bills down. No, they're not. It was supposed to come down by $275.
69:01
And if you go to an election promising something and you fail to deliver, in my opinion, you should be held accountable for that. The problem we've got at the moment is that the government isn't up against much in the opposition. So if we want to do away with the status quo, people are looking for options. And one of those options at the moment is Pauline Hanson and One Nation. Am I sold on One Nation yet? No.
69:20
But at the moment, what else is there out there? Yes, there's been a bump in the polls, the opinion polls for the coalition, but they've got to get out there and they've got to keep selling their message. They've got to keep prosecuting their case because at the moment, there are a lot of people frustrated with Labor and the coalition. So what are they doing? They're looking for other options. They're not going green. They're not going teal, but they're going orange. They're going to One Nation. Barry, I thank you for calling through. We'll take a break at 17 to 11. After this, three incredible brothers doing something pretty special for their mum.
69:52
13 to 11, Mark Levy here on 2GB Mornings. Well, you know I love a great story and I love when young Australians do pretty incredible things. And I've got three of four brothers in the studio with me at the moment. The four brothers' names are Ben, Tom, Jem and Sam, the Warburton brothers, and they're taking on a massive physical challenge for a cause that hits fairly close to home. To honour 80 gruelling days of treatment, the brothers are lacing up the run 80 kilometres to raise critical funds and awareness for the brain cancer group tomorrow, and they'll be running from Bondi to Manly, and they're doing it for their mum, Emma, who is battling brain cancer.
70:29
Let me introduce you to the boys who are in the studio with me. I've got Sam, Jem and Ben in the studio with me. Boys, good morning to you. Morning, Mark. Thanks for having us.
70:37
Thanks for having us.
70:39
First question, you're all young blokes. Had you heard of 2GB before you walked inside the studio?
70:44
Of course, of course. Our dad often plays it a lot. But, yeah, no, we're very familiar with the show.
70:50
Good, good. Well, mate, I... I want to tip my hat to you because what you're doing is pretty incredible and extraordinary. Sam, let's talk about why you're doing this, okay?
71:01
I said to you boys that, you know, I argue with my mum from time to time, but I said, we've only got one mum, haven't we? And your mum's got a battle ahead of her at the moment. She's battling brain cancer. Tell us about Emma.
71:11
Yeah. So in 2023, out of the blue, our mum just collapsed at home and we had no idea what was going on. She was very healthy before.
71:20
And, you know, over the course of the next few weeks, she went to the emergency department and went to hospital and got scans and everything. We found out she had grade three brain cancer and her initial prognosis was one to three years, which was really scary for all of us. And thankfully, thanks to a All of the doctors and the nurses and the incredible specialists who worked with her, she's doing pretty well at the moment and actually just doing really well comparative to where she was three years ago.
71:46
But one of the groups that provided so much support to her during that time was the brain cancer group. They've got a great team, great staff members, great doctors, great nurses, and the nurse practitioner especially did so much work for mum.
71:59
And we were just thinking, like, how can we pay some of that back? You know, how can we get some awareness? Because they're still a small group and they do a great job for their size, but they're a small group. And so we were just trying to figure out how we can pay some of that back to what we saw. And, Jem, you as a band of brothers, there's four of you.
72:15
I'm assuming, you know, you used to bash each other up growing up. You might still do that. But you know what? You just get together and say, well, you know, we've all got two legs. We can go out there and have a run and have a walk and try and raise some money, eh? Yeah.
72:26
Yeah, it's pretty special. We've wanted to do something for a while. We just didn't really have the time in our lives to do it. We've all been pretty busy the last few years, especially with mum going through treatment and supporting our family in different ways. And then we sort of came together this year and really wanted to do something big and really push ourselves forward. um for mom and so we came together and we were initially going to walk the 80ks and then uh ben was like well that's a bit that's a bit boring why don't we run it um and the physio tom our brother the physio um was probably the most skeptical um knowing the stress fractures and things like that but yeah we decided to run it and here we are getting ready to go tomorrow morning so so ben you're the are you the eldest are you yeah i'm the uh captain as they call it so you're in charge i am i like to think i am so so where are you running from and to how's this going to work
73:13
Yeah, so we're running. So like Sam said earlier, I think mum did 80 days of treatment. So 80 days of surgery, recovery and ICU and then radio and chemotherapy. And so we were looking to run 80 kilometres and it just so happens that the Bondi to Manly coastal walk, well coastal run is 79 to 80 kilometres. So we've rejigged it so that we have exactly 80 kilometres. So yeah, we're starting at Bondi tomorrow morning at 3am outside the pavilion and And then we'll end in Manly up in Queenscliff, however long it takes.
73:46
And have you got a support crew coming with you or is it just the four brothers doing it by yourselves?
73:49
Yeah, thankfully we're really, really lucky to have lots of people around us. Our dad is the chief of the pit crew. He's super keen to get along. So he's going to be following us in the car along the way and he's got all our food and supplements and everything that we need. And then we're really lucky to have some of our partners helping out as well and then like friends and family as well. So yeah, we feel really, really well supported.
74:11
Sam, how does mum feel about what you guys are doing for her? Look, I'm not sure if... I think it'll hit her in full scope tomorrow when she sees us at the end.
74:20
But I think she's just very grateful. I mean, a lot of this journey for her has been really hard and she's been supported by a lot of people.
74:30
How does she feel about it? I think she's a bit worried about us, as all mums are. But I think, yeah, she's really keen to see how it goes and really keen to give back to the group that supported her as well.
74:39
Now, I want you to be honest with me, boys. Right, so is mum listening this morning, knowing you're on the radio? Almost certainly. She'll be listening, right. So I'm going to ask this on behalf of Emma, your mum.
74:50
Well, the four of your little rat bags, and this is an opportunity to, you know, make good on all the crap you used to give her growing up. Righto, honestly, come on. No lies.
74:59
I think we were actually pretty good.
75:01
Of course you are.
75:01
In the scale of getting. Any mum who's looking after four boys anywhere. You go to any art gallery or something, we're wrestling somewhere on the couch and she's an artist and she loves art. So I can clearly remember those ones going to art galleries and we're all wrestling on couches and everything and she's trying to show us this art. But yeah, we were definitely ratbags at times and she definitely She definitely put us in our place.
75:23
Well, that one's for Emma, right? Emma, that one was for you, okay? How can people support you, boys? We want to raise as much money. So I think I'm right in saying so you're doing 80Ks for 80 days of treatment and you want to try and raise $80,000. Is that right?
75:37
Yeah, spot on. We're at $62,000, $63,000 at the moment. So we've done an amazing job. The support's been unbelievable. But we're still going. We want to get to 80 and then we want to pump 80 if we can, if that's even possible. You can find us on Instagram primarily. So if you just search 80 for 80 and brain cancer or the official tag is 80 kilometers for 80 days, follow us along there. You can find the donation link in our bio there as well. And we'll have a bunch of content going throughout the day tomorrow as well. So you can see us in all our highs and lows.
76:07
Well, it's a cause very close to my heart. I call the footy on the radio network here as well as doing the morning show. And one of the country's most versatile sports commentators is David Morrow. We lost David a couple of years ago to brain cancer and I watched him deteriorate to a point where he lost his life. When I came across your story, knowing what mum is going through, I thought let's get you into the studio to have a chat. So I'd encourage our listeners to get behind you. I want to wish you all the very best of luck for tomorrow.
76:36
And you're just very lucky that Tom's the physio because you might have some running repairs along the way, eh? Yeah, very, very lucky.
76:43
And thanks for having us, Mark.
76:44
No worries in the world. And have a look at all these people out here. I'm just going to single out a few people because I know they'll be inspired by what you're doing because community clubs, right, they're a big supporter of what we do here at the Radio Network and we've got some of the CEOs of all of the community clubs out there that are having a tour of the Radio Network and I'll single out a few of them in just a second. but they get behind a lot of different charities and causes. So we've got Rebecca Reant, who's the boss of Clubs New South Wales. Hello, Rebecca. Thank you for your support. Bernadette McLaughlin, Darren Flynn, Ben Rossley from Clubs New South Wales.
77:16
And then have a listen to this for a list. We've got Scott, the boss of Reevesby Workers, Daniel from West Leagues, Michael from Campbelltown Catholic Club, Vicky from Cabra Vale, Chris from Paraleagues. Jeez, Chris has got some plans out of Paraleagues. I saw the plans, Chris, and spoke to the Lord Mayor. They're very excited. Joe Kelly from Easts. Where's Joe? You know I'm a bunny, but I still love you, Joe. He's a good man, Joe. Michael's there from Bankstown Sports, Glenn from Blacktown Workers, John at Canterbury Leagues, Geoff at Sporties, Craig at St George, Rebecca at Parramatta Leagues. So I reckon they're all going to want to shake your hand and wish you well for what you're doing.
77:49
Good luck, boys. You're an inspiration and I know Mum will be extremely proud of you. Great to catch up.
77:54
Thanks so much, Mark.
77:55
Appreciate it. How good's that, ladies and gentlemen? So get behind them if you can. The Warburton Brothers. They're running 80Ks for 80 days of treatment for Mum Emma, who's battling brain cancer, and they're trying to raise $80,000. So if you can, get on board and support them. 80Ks for 80 days. You can find them on Instagram. That's what Australia's all about. People pitching in and doing extraordinary things. Young blokes in their 20s. They've certainly given me a kick up the backside to get out there and maybe do a bit more exercise as well. Good. Good luck, boys. There they are, four and a half to 11.
78:26
We will check in with Mal Meninga. They've got the inaugural Perth Bears jumper to be unveiled this afternoon. We'll check in with Big Mal after the news. And I mentioned all of the club bosses that are in today. Working under Rebecca with Clubs New South Wales is a lovely lady by the name of Bernadette McLaughlin. Now, I used to work under Bernadette when I was a 16-year-old carrying the money around for the tote ladies for the tab at the race courses. So a blast from the past. How am I going, Bernadette? I think I'm going all right in life.
78:57
I was a cheeky little bugger back then. I had all the pimples and everything else. Anyway, we're going all right. We'll take a break for some news. We'll come back for the final hour of the morning show on 2GB. And yes, thanks to Clubs New South Wales for their support of 2GB Mornings.
79:17
This is Mornings with Mark Levy, right across Australia.
79:22
Great to have you with us. Final hour of the program on this Friday morning. Happy end of the working week and looking forward to a big weekend of footy. I nearly caused a stir in and amongst the club bosses then. We had the boss of Canterbury Leagues. We had the boss of the Roosters there, Eastern Suburbs Lease Club. I said, who's going to win tonight, boys? And then...
79:41
They both looked at each other and thought, oh, no. Hey, speaking of rugby league, it is a really, really exciting day because, as you know, the Perth Bears are about to enter the competition.
79:53
And I know there's a lot of North Sydney Bears fans who have been waiting for this opportunity. And I love what the new franchise has done. They've kept the famous Bear logo, changed it up and modernised it a little bit. But today they're going to unveil their inaugural jersey.
80:09
And this has been a long time coming for all those long-suffering Perth Bears supporters, I should say, but it's also been a long time coming for rugby league followers in Perth.
80:18
And what a great thrill to have a rugby league immortal and a terrific fellow, mind you, as the head coach of the Perth Bears next year. I speak of Mal Meninga and I've got the immortal, the head coach, on the line with me now. Mal, good afternoon to you, mate.
80:33
You got me at hello, Mark. Thanks, mate. Thank you.
80:37
Oh, mate, it's so exciting, mate. You know, I've obviously hear from Jamie Rogers and James Bracey who are rusted on North Sydney Bears supporters and I hear from friends of mine in Perth who are that excited when Rugby League comes to town, let alone the fact that they've got their own team now. How's it all coming along and what's the mood like on the ground over in the West?
81:00
Oh, it's fantastic. Honestly, it's fantastic. Everywhere you go, a lot of support. People wish us all the best of luck. And as you mentioned, we've got our jersey launch today. We've got a bear walk tomorrow as part of the game because obviously the Storm are playing against Manly. And sort of after that game, that NRL game, we sort of take over the town, which is fantastic. So...
81:26
It's all the buzz. Media everywhere. You know, people are inquiring. Jerseys go on sale soon, so it's fantastic.
81:34
And that's the thing, isn't it, Mal? I mean, I know a few months ago people were saying, oh, it's all about PNG, but this was always going to happen, right? PNG, when you sign big plays, you're going to get headlines. You understand how the media works. I do as well. But now... But now that you're unveiling your inaugural jersey, you know, you've signed your players, you're going to get into a pre-season come the end of the year. This is a real opportunity for the Perth Bears to grab hold of their headlines, win over the support and hopefully set yourselves up for what's going to be a brilliant start to the Perth Bears campaign.
82:07
Yeah, really happy with the way we're progressing. You know, we haven't made noise and, you know, you're right in saying all that. That's been a deliberate...
82:15
plan strategy wise certainly from a football department but certainly from our commercial and administration side of things it's been very deliberate in the way we've gone about our business you know so I'm really happy with you know the way it's all come together I think everyone in our organisation is really happy with the way it's all come together and um it's all culminating like a really it is a really big uh couple of days coming up um you know for rugby league here in wa as well but you know celebrating acknowledging you know the history of the north sydney bears i think that's you know that's paramount well i know you're not going to give away what it actually looks like this is more just a point of the announcement but um is there anything you can tell us about the jersey or do you want to keep it a secret Oh, well, it's going to be black and red.
83:01
And it's going to have the bear logo on it, you know. So, you know, it's – it'd have to be Einstein, but, you know, it looks great. I mean, just the power – that's the power of the colours and – You know, it's going to be striking. You know, the players are going to love wearing it, you know, coming, you know, the first round of next year, 27. It's a special moment for the club and unique part of history. We're creating over here at the moment.
83:30
Speaking of over there, we know that it's an AFL town. We had the Western Reds. I was only talking to Big MG about this recently. And MG told me that when the Western Reds first started, they sort of worked in concert with the AFL. Is that something you've done, Mal, to try and win over those AFL fans? Because one thing that really annoys me is, you know, there's plenty of people out there that either like AFL or you like rugby league. Why can't we as sports fans and a sports-mad country and in a city like Perth have two teams, whether it be the Fremantle Dockers and the Perth Bears, whether it be the West Coast Eagles and the Perth Bears?
84:06
Yeah. But we need to get everybody on board, don't we? And are you having some success at doing it?
84:11
Well, it's been a collective.
84:13
The other sports have been terrific, you know, and lend us information around, you know, so from a team point of view – all the organizations um the wildcats the basketball team the western force even you know so given us um plenty of data plenty of advice around you know travel and accommodation and all those sort of things you know so it's funny we haven't had any adverse comments around you know the different sporting codes and and you know getting respected within that community um it's all around helping Hey, Mark, it's West versus East, mate.
84:47
That's the key over here, mate. Honestly, everyone's on board regardless of where they follow AFL. They're saying to us, you know, we'll come and watch the game of rugby league, you know. So for us, you know, that's encouraging. You know, we certainly don't want to let them down either. We want to build respect over here and we want to be competitive and, you know, really happy with the way that the roster is building.
85:09
Well, I love what they're doing this afternoon, Mal. You've got a big announcement happening in Perth at the same time. You've got an announcement happening... I think it's at North Sydney League. So it's going to be a great day for the Bears, a great day for the Perth Bears and really exciting for rugby league fans in particular with the addition of another new team to the National Rugby League. And to have you heading up as coach, mate, that's just, you know, feather in the cap to everybody involved and obviously a challenge for you, but a challenge that you've hit head on before and been successful at as well. Good, good. Good luck with it all. Good luck with it all now.
85:39
Mate, I wish you well and look forward to talking to you throughout next year's rugby league season. But big day for the club and I really wanted to mention it for you and promote it for you on the show today. Thanks for joining us, mate, and we'll talk soon.
85:51
Thanks for your support. Thanks, Mark. Cheers.
85:52
Good on you, buddy. Mal Meninga, rugby league immortal and the coach of the Perth Bears. So the big jersey unveil will be happening this afternoon. I'm sure if you're on social media, you'll see it. But most importantly as well, if you want to buy one of the jerseys, they'll also be available this afternoon as well. All you need to do is go to perthbears.com.au. and you can buy them from the shop. And you've got sizes from small all the way up to 7XL, women's sizes 6 to 20, kids' sizes 6 to 14. So it's going to be phenomenal, and it coincides with the game of rugby league at HBF Park in Perth tomorrow between the Melbourne Storm and the Manly Seagulls.
86:31
So get involved, get on board, and let's continue to celebrate the great game of rugby league, which is going from strength to strength. Perthbears.com.au if you want to buy one of the new jerseys. And thankfully, it's red and black. And thankfully, it's got a bear on it. That's all we need. We'll take a break at a quarter past 11. Be back with more right after this.
86:51
17 past 11, get ready for the real world, Mal. It's a bit different coaching origin. Well, look, he's a rugby league immortal and he's surrounded himself with good people.
87:03
Look, I think anybody that's been following the addition of these new teams are fully aware that they need to hit the ground running because success breeds success.
87:13
And if teams enter the competition and are not successful, it's going to be difficult for them to garner support. But I think given the team that they're putting together, and there'll be more players to come under Malmeninga and the other people involved with the Perth Bears, the same with the PNG Chiefs, it's important for us to ensure that they do succeed early days. We can't have these teams waiting 20, 30 years for success.
87:38
They need to be competitive in the competition, otherwise they're not going to be able to get the crowds and the support that they need. So that's the challenge, not only for the clubs themselves, but for the NRL and the ARL Commission as well. Finance update for you. The All Ordinary is down 19.4.21% to $9,432.6, the dollar buying 70.31 US cents. This news from police. A man's in a stable condition after being stabbed in his home during a break-and-enter.
88:08
in the Inner West overnight. At about 1.20 this morning, emergency services were called to a unit block on Illawarra Road near Harnett Avenue, Marrickville, after reports of a stabbing. On arrival, officers attached to Inner West Police Area Command found that a 61-year-old man had been stabbed several times in the torso by an unknown person. The 61-year-old was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to hospital in a stable condition. Police established a crime scene and officers from the dog unit assisted in a search of the nearby area.
88:40
However, the unknown person could not be located. As investigations continue, detectives are hoping to speak to a man who was seen in the area at the time of the stabbing. Anyone with information or if you saw what happened, call Crimestoppers 1800 333 000. The number again for Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.
88:58
Bye.
89:04
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89:37
Bryden's Lawyers need expert compensation advice. That's what they do. Terms and conditions apply. Well, we turn to Sunday. Tens of thousands will line up for the iconic city to surf, tackling the 14-kilometre course from Sydney's CBD all the way up Heartbreak Hill to Bondi Beach. Among them is RSL New South Wales' largest team yet, with over 300 veterans and family members ranging in age from just three to 84 taking on the challenge together.
90:08
Gary Heskett, a Vietnam veteran and dedicated community advocate, is one of the vets taking on the challenge. Gary comes from an incredible four-generation military lineage.
90:19
He served in the Royal Australian Navy during Vietnam, followed by a distinguished 25-year career across the ambulance service and the New South Wales Police Force, where he worked as a senior detective and Olympic security commander. Now at 74 and based in Coffs Harbour, Gary serves as Senior Vice President and Wellbeing Support Officer for his local RSL sub-branch. Wow, what a life dedicated to public service. I'm pleased to say I've got Gary Heskett on the line with me now. Gary, good morning to you.
90:50
G'day, Mark. We got all the information incorrect there, mate. Actually, I...
90:58
I was a Royal Australian Regiment Infantry Soldier in Vietnam, not the Navy.
91:04
Oh. Well, firstly, mate, I apologise. The information that was sent to us indicated you were in the Navy, so I want to apologise for that, and we'll have to get on to your people and get them to send the correct information.
91:14
My only time in the Navy was on the HMA of Sydney going over and the HMA of Sydney coming over.
91:20
Well, you know what? Either way, Gaz, we've got to say thank you for your service, buddy, because we need more and more people like you in this country for what you've done for everybody here in this country. Mate, the city to surf, are you mad?
91:32
Yes. Look, I realised it was the largest cohort in the run, and I thought I'll just throw my name into the ring, and it keeps me fit, personally. And so I... I missed out last year and they rang me and looked at my age, looked at my background, and they said, you think you could do it? I said, yes, I think I can. I'll just get into some training. So I'm here for it, to do it.
91:56
Well, I mean, you've obviously got that very proud military background, so you certainly know what a challenge it's going to be. But to be doing it with RSL New South Wales' largest team yet, over 300 veterans and family members, mate, what a special moment for all those people taking part, eh?
92:15
I think it's great. There's no doubt, Mark, that I'll probably be jogging along alongside younger veteran generations that served in various areas of peacekeeping, Timor, Afghanistan, Iraq, and so forth. So they're a bit younger than me and probably a lot fitter, but hey, It's all about trying to put the word out there to say, get off your bum and have a crack and stay fit.
92:41
Yeah. You know, the other thing, Gary, that I love about this is that the family members are involved as well, because with service comes a lot of sacrifice and we sometimes forget about the role that the families play in this. And to have the families alongside the veterans, I think it's really important. You agree?
92:58
Yeah, I do. I totally agree. And it's the way that And I just, well, the other day, only just recently, I just finished off a suicide course because I'm a welfare officer. And these are things you've got to know and be aware of. And it is a sad indictment on when they come back sometimes. But however, look, you know, Second World War soldiers suffered it from First World War soldiers and Vietnam suffered it from Second World War soldiers. And you know what it's like. It's our generation.
93:29
But that's the way it is. It's our country. It's our culture. We don't really like to – I think from our various – or our Australian culture is that we don't want to ever put our hand up to say, well, I'm not a wannabe. I just did my job. Yeah. And that's who we are, Mark.
93:46
Yeah.
93:46
Really. We're in America, very patriotic, wear the hats around everywhere. Thank you for your service. Thank you kindly. God bless you. But here, we're just totally different. Yeah.
93:56
And, Gary, I think it's really important, isn't it? We – We get caught up in a lot of the crap in the world at the moment and the crap going on in this country as well, but we can't lose sight of the fact that we do live in the best country in the world, don't we?
94:08
You've only got to travel, and anybody that has travelled, you cannot wait to get back home. This is the country that everybody wants to be in. No doubt about that. Yes.
94:20
Now, how are you going to celebrate when you get rid of this city to surf and you complete it? Nice cold beer or something?
94:26
I will, and I'm staying here with a mate of mine in Sydney at the moment at Concord. We serve together in Vietnam, and he's caring for me at the moment, and he'll drive me to the start line.
94:40
What can I say? We will celebrate with a few beers. Got no doubts about it whatsoever.
94:45
Yeah, good on you, mate. Well, it's a great honour to talk to you, Gary. Thank you for what you've done for this country, also for your local community and what you're doing as well with your sub-branch. I wish you all the best, mate, and I'd love to be able to stand there and shake your hand at the end of it and say thank you, but I'm constantly in awe of men like yourself and all those that wore that uniform, mate. So thank you again for joining us.
95:08
Oh, very humbled. Very humble, Mark.
95:10
Talk to you soon, Ike. I'm very humbled, mate. Thank you very much. Good on you, buddy. There he is, Gary Heskett. What an amazing man.
95:17
You know, a life of service, and he's going to be joining over 300 veterans and family members for the City to Surf that sets off on Sunday morning.
95:27
It's something that I've never done. I'd love to do. I've obviously got to shed a bit of weight before I do it. I don't think I'd get through the 14 kilometres, but I'd take my hat off to anybody that gets out there and takes part in, I think I'm right in saying, the world's biggest fun run.
95:41
That's how big it's become and there's nothing better. I'm pretty sure I'm right in saying back in the day, well, quite a number of years ago now, that radio stations like the old 2UE and maybe even 2GB used to call the city to surf. You might remember that.
95:58
I vaguely remember hearing Ray talk about it from time to time where, you know, we'd paint the picture and we'd have somebody on the back of a motorbike calling the city to surf. and some of the professional competitors' early days. But it's going to be a great weekend and it's a fun run. It's all about keeping fit, staying active. But what a remarkable thing RSL New South Wales is doing. That is really, really special. So if you're taking part, you're going to set off on the 14km course from the CBD to Bondi Beach. I wish you all the very best of luck.
96:30
And make sure you stay hydrated and continue that hydration when you get to the finish line because there'll be some celebrations, no doubt, come the end of the course. Sensational. 131873. If you're taking part on Sunday and you want to share it with us, here's a question for you as well. Are you one of the people that have dressed up? You know, you see the blokes dress up in the gorilla suits. You see them dress up as Superman. You do all these different things. Have you done it before? How difficult is it? And how do you conquer Heartbreak Hill?
96:59
That looks like the tough part, but geez, it sounds like there might be a little bit of rain around late on Sunday. Let's hope it stays pretty sunny for the day. But if you've taken part, you've dressed up and you can shed light on what it's like to compete in the city to surf, I'd love to hear from you this morning. In the meantime, have you heard about the goat? Some say that he always knows the fastest way home. They say he always knows when there's an overlap on the short side, even with his eyes closed. They say if they put him in the bunker, well, you'd never hear a coach complain about a call again. I all say that when the goat bets NRL, he gets ahead of the game with better.
97:33
What's gambling really costing you? For free and confidential support, visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. When we return, we'll check in with the boys, run through the footy tips and hopefully find a winner on the races tomorrow in Sydney at Royal Randwick as well. It's 29 past 11.
97:48
We'll catch up with the boys in just a sec from Better. In the meantime, we have received a few calls and texts regarding a situation unfolding at Tregear. We've been in contact with emergency services. The fireys have confirmed there was a fire in a storeroom at the public school this morning. They were called to the scene at about 10 to 10, arriving with three fire trucks and 12 firefighters, and the fire was extinguished before they arrived. Paramedics were also in attendance. Nine ambulance resources on scene. They tell us everyone was safely evacuated. Multiple students and teachers were assessed on scene.
98:21
One adult was transported to Mount Druitt Hospital in a serious condition and there is still an ambulance on scene.
98:28
That was all happening this morning at Tregear Public School, a fire in a storeroom that was quickly brought under control. And confirmed cases of the H5N1 bird flu strain have continued to surge higher, with the latest diagnostic data revealing 155 known or suspected positive cases, a tenfold increase compared to figures from just two weeks ago. The figures released by Beth Cookson, the federal government's chief veterinary officer, identified 32 new infections across South Australia, including 29 greater crested terns and three silver gulls found to be carrying the virus.
99:04
So as we spoke to the farmer from Cowra, I think he was from, also from the Farmers Federation. He said, look, Mark, we've been preparing for this for years, decades. He said 30 years, I think is what he said. So it's unlike what we saw in the pandemic where we tell people to isolate. We've just got to ensure that these farms and the agriculture sector are prepared for what could potentially come.
99:29
So at the moment it's just about trying to stem the infections rather than stopping them completely. It's here. It was always going to come here. Now they've got to work out a way in which they can just prevent it causing more and more damage to the wildlife, in particular the birds across Australia. 131873, the number, 2GB.com. Click onto the feedback icon. Time for this. Music.
99:53
Find a winner thanks to Better. Stay ahead of the game with Better.
99:57
Download the Better app today.
99:59
What are you really gambling with?
100:01
Yes, Duncan McRae's with us this week, so Sally's obviously got another fact-finding mission. Duncan, mate, you're a great man to be on the show as well. I make it sound like we don't appreciate you having on the line, but we do love you anyway. Hello, Dunkey.
100:14
Yeah, you get the poverty pack with me, Mark. It's all good. Thank you very much. Hello to Piggy as well and all the listeners and looking forward to a big weekend of sport. Can't wait. There's some ripper games tonight and can't wait to get Piggy's thoughts on them.
100:30
Yep, it's always good to have you, Duncan. Hello, Piggy.
100:33
Morning, Levy. Morning, Duncan. What have you been up to, Piggy? Working hard as always?
100:38
Yeah, just busy, busy, Levy, you know me. Looking forward to tonight.
100:42
I did want to ask you, given the St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW side only has one win on the board this year and you're the recruitment manager and assistant coach, has the club indicated to you that you have the full support of the board as yet?
100:56
Yeah, Levy, look, we're in the first year of a five-year plan, so we're working really hard at the moment to turn things around.
101:05
What was the score on the weekend? Yeah.
101:08
38-8. Yeah, right.
101:10
Any improvement?
101:11
Yeah, we'll be improving this week.
101:15
It's a ruthless business. I don't know why people want to be coaches. Anyway, your recruitment as well. Who have you got this weekend? You got a game this week?
101:24
Yeah, I've got the Tigers on Sunday. Will be the game before the Dragons take on the Sharkies, the local derby in the men's at Coggera.
101:31
And who's favoured for the NRLW Tigers-Dragons game?
101:35
I think the Tigers would be favoured, but we'll do our best, Levy.
101:40
Get on the Tigers, ladies and gentlemen.
101:44
All right, let's get into it. We start off tonight, and Duncan mentioned it's a great night of sport. It's a great weekend of sport with the rugby as well and some racing too. Warriors and Panthers, though, go Media Stadium in Auckland. What are the better punters doing on this one, Duncan?
101:59
Yeah, what a rip rear. The Warriors at home, 2.35 outsiders, boys. The Red Hot Panthers, $1.60, and they're giving away three and a half starts to New Zealand.
102:08
Yeah, cracking game this one. We're getting an early look at the finals, aren't we, with these two teams? Look, I'm going to go with the Panthers in a tight one. It'll be a great contest, but Panthers to win.
102:17
All right, the game that Piggy and I will call with Josh Morris on the touchline. The Roosters and Canterbury here, Duncan. Another cracker.
102:25
Yeah, another belt, isn't it? Yeah, the Chooks at home after that big win, $1.50, $2.60, the Informed Bulldogs as well, and they've got five and a half start for their tonight's game at Allianz.
102:35
Yeah, look, I'm tipping the Roosters, but they won't have it their own way. We know the Bulldogs have come into some real good form in the last few weeks, so it'll be a cracking contest. Roosters to win.
102:45
The other news, yeah, no James Tedesco, so Cody Ramsey takes over at the back, so.
102:50
We'll see how they go either way. They're still a champion footy side, the Roosters, aren't they? We'll be on deck from 1 o'clock tomorrow from the Interactive Studio. Myself, Daryl, Paul Gallon and Piggy's with us as well. 3 o'clock though, the game in Perth, HBF Park, the Melbourne Storm and the Manly Seagulls. Duncan?
103:06
Yeah, two teams both need a win, don't they, Mark? 2.15, the Storm. $1.70 favourites here, the Seagulls, and they've got two and a half start for their game in WA.
103:16
Yeah, I've gone the Melbourne Storm. I've gone the Outsiders in this one. I think Cameron Munster's back in for the Melbourne Storm.
103:22
So I think the Melbourne Storm can win that one.
103:25
So just before we get to the 5.30 game, Piggy, can you confirm or deny it's been brought to my attention that you've pulled out of the 2GB presented tipping competition. Is this true?
103:38
I was waiting for this to come up. So it's true, isn't it? Yeah, it's true, Levy. I'm too busy, so...
103:45
I just had to move on from that one.
103:47
Mate, you're too busy. How long does it take you to send through tips every week?
103:54
Look, I'm at the bottom as well, so it probably wasn't worth my while sending the tips in.
104:01
You could make one of the greatest comebacks of all time. You've just got to stop tipping the dragon.
104:06
Levy, I was about 30 behind second last place. Yeah, okay.
104:10
You know what, I think you made a good choice there, Piggy. Well done. All right, well, we might investigate that more tonight. 5.30, Duncan. Dolphins Brisbane from Suncorp tomorrow.
104:19
Yeah, another ripper we're at home. The Dolphins here, $1.43, boys. $2.85 for the defending Premier's Broncos, and they've got seven and a half starts of their game up there in Queensland.
104:30
Yeah, boys, I can't go near the Broncos. I'm tipping the Dolphins. I think they're a team that if they can stay injury-free, they can give the competition a shake. So I think they win.
104:40
7.35, Mike Pearce or Josh Morris to call our bunnies, Duncan, as they take on the Parramatta Eels.
104:46
Yeah, best back team all weekend. They're $1.45 into $1.30 now, the Bunnies. $3.55 for the Yields. Ten and a half start for Parramatta. Our Bunnies will obviously welcome back Cameron Murray, Talis Duncan and David Fafita. So some big in for the Bunnies, boys.
105:02
Yeah, big in for the bunnies, but I'm tipping the eels, boys. I'm tipping my eels off the back of that great performance over the Tigers last week.
105:12
Mate, you're supposed to be an expert.
105:13
Mate, did you boys watch that eels-tigers game last week?
105:19
It was the worst game of the year. Wasn't there 33 errors or something?
105:25
I think there was about 34 or 35 errors. I think some of the players apologised after the game. It was that bad. But how the Eels won still amazes me, but they did.
105:39
They can't be that bad again.
105:40
Eels to win. All right. He's an expert, this bloke. Unbelievable. Two o'clock on Sunday. Mike, Daryl, Cooper and Brini will be on deck tomorrow. I saw Brini at a golf day yesterday. He looked like he hit them pretty well. Canberra, Newcastle from two o'clock.
105:54
Yeah, two informed teams, aren't they, Mark? $1.80 the Raiders at home, $2 the Knights are on fire as well, and they've got one and a half start for their trip to Canberra.
106:03
Yeah, this is probably one of the hardest of the round to pick. I went with the Newcastle Knights purely. I just think they've got to get their final spot sorted, got to cement themselves in the eight, and I think they win.
106:14
And then the game to wrap up the round, to be called by Mike Darrell and Cooper Johns, 4 o'clock from St George Venues Jubilee Stadium, Coggera, the local derby, Duncan, the Dragons and the Sharks.
106:25
Yeah, it's always a ripper, isn't it, boys? 4.55 here for Piggy's Dragons. The Sharkies, aren't they, on fire? $1.20, and they're giving away a big 15.5 start for the Dragons at home.
106:36
Four means nothing in the local derby. Go the Dragons. They're going to get the win.
106:41
I think the Dragons got the Sharks the derby last year, didn't they?
106:46
I'm not too sure. I'm not too sure, Levy. I have to go to the record books for that one.
106:51
Thanks very much for being the expert in this wonderful segment, Paid For By Better. I thought you'd bring something to the table, but anyway. Let's go to the racing, Duncan. We're in Sydney tomorrow at headquarters Royal Randwick. First race at 11.30, the last at 4.55. Punters keen on anything tomorrow, mate?
107:08
Yeah, we've got some big racing coming back, isn't it? Now the spring's not far away. We'll kick it off in the Missile Stakes, boys. Boys, we're Angel Capital, back 240 out to 270, a bit of a drift. The big mover in that race has been Midnight Dynamite, 15 into 9, and just a couple others, boys. Race 4, number 3, L Hudson's been 650 into $4.60, and up in Brisbane, race 8, number 2, Cosmo Centurius, best backed up there, 550 into 4.20.
107:36
All right, Peggy, your time to shine. You've had a pretty good year in the tipping stakes this year. What are you like tomorrow?
107:40
Yeah, Levy, I'm at Randwick tomorrow. Early on too, race one, number 10, Bangkok hottie.
107:49
LAUGHTER Listen to him laughing. So have you put any thought into this, like form or anything, or just got a name?
107:59
Well, as you just mentioned, I'm having a good run at the moment. I've had a great run this year, and hopefully it continues with the Bangkok hottie.
108:09
How is Darren Flindell going to keep a straight face? And down to the 200, Bangkok hottie said, let's go. Duggan, price?
108:17
Yeah, I'll just stick to the prices here, boys. $280 to the $220, please. Thank you.
108:24
Does it bring back bad memories, son?
108:31
Can we have a segment off air, please?
108:37
Oh, what have you done to this show?
108:40
Race one tomorrow, Bangkok hottie. Righto, Duncan, have a great weekend. Thank you. See you. Bye-bye. Piggy?
108:48
See you this time, I leave you. No, no, no. Content director just said he's going to give you a buzz in a sec, all right?
108:54
Okay.
108:56
Bye-bye.
108:59
Bye-bye. There he is. Piggy Riddell.
109:02
Oh, dear.
109:04
Race one. Number 10, Bangkok Hottie, David Payne and Chad Schofield. Oh, it's favourite. So, all right, 11.30 tomorrow, we'll all be watching with interest. On the way to the break, the breakdown of a relationship can be a very stressful time, which is why it's important to choose the right lawyer. Brighton's Lawyers has an expert team of family lawyers who are committed to achieving the best outcome for you and for your family. No matter what challenges you face, the family law team at Bryden's Lawyers can help guide you through with minimal stress and delay. Call Bryden's Lawyers on 1800 848 848 or visit brydens.com.au.
109:38
Bryden's Lawyers need expert family law advice. That's what they do. Terms and conditions apply. 1-800-848-848 the number. Otherwise, go to the website brydens.com.au. And while we're talking about things to see and do, make sure you continue to send us that good news because we are giving away the brand-new all-electric BMW iX1 worth over $90,000 in December.
110:02
We'll have our good news story and winner of the week to be announced very, very shortly. You can email... Sorry, you can go to the winpage at 2GB.com, I should say. winpage at 2GB.com and you'll be able to fill out all of the information. We're making it easy for you. We were giving you an email, but... We're now directing you to the 2GB website. Go to the win page. It's all thanks to 2GB and Parramatta BMW, your destination for driving joy. So keep them coming. Go to the web page, 2GB.com, and click on win, and you could win the brand new all-electric BMW iX1 worth over $90,000.
110:38
We'll be giving it away in December, and I have a commercial agreement with Parramatta BMW. We'll take a break. 14 to midday. Michael McLaren to join us right after this.
110:48
I just wanted to highlight a couple of announcements from the New South Wales government before we check in with Michael McLaren. Look, I've criticised the government from time to time. That's my job, I suppose, to sit here and hold relevant governments to account. But there's a couple of announcements today that are interesting and probably worth sharing with you and fairly positive as well. The first comes from Steve Camper.
111:11
who's announced the Men's Labor Government is helping community sporting organisations improve safety at local sports grounds and facilities with $500,000 now available under the 2026 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program. Eligible sporting organisations can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to purchase, install and maintain automated external defibrillators as well as provide training. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time and every minute without defibrillation reduces a person's chance of survival.
111:43
And I can certainly speak from experience here, given I'm proud to be an ambassador with the work being done through the heartbeat of sport and the heartbeat of football program.
111:54
So that's a great announcement from Steve Campbell. Well done to the minister. And this has come through from Ryan Park. More than 9,100 patients in New South Wales who called triple zero in the first six months of 2026 avoided a trip to an emergency department by ambulance thanks to the Virtual Clinical Care Centre. In 2025, more than 17,000 patients received care through the VCCC. It enables patients to be safely referred to alternative care options when an ambulance or hospital visit is not required.
112:25
We know that the emergency departments and hospitals are under enormous strain at the moment, and if we can alleviate some of the pressure by potentially, in not life-threatening cases, refer them on to specialist care somewhere else, well, I would have thought that's a good thing. So... A couple of interesting announcements there from the New South Wales Government. Michael McLaren is here. Good morning, Michael.
112:45
Good morning, Mark.
112:46
Happy Friday, mate. You too. What have you got coming up this afternoon?
112:49
I've got all sorts of different stuff today. Professor Brian Schmidt, who's the Nobel Laureate and astrophysicist and other very impressive things, he had a piece this week about dumb AI.
113:00
So I don't know if that's the AI without the I bit. I don't know. But he's a little concerned about where some of this might go, so I want to have a chat to him about that. Darren Chester on the latest with this bird flu. The numbers are really, to use COVID terminologies, the curve is ratcheting up. For Friday food, everything dairy farming today, we're going to be chatting with the winner of the Harvey Norman Dairy Produce Award. Great. And Prue Goward, a name I think a lot of our listeners will know, she wrote a piece in The Fin today. She's got a couple of concerns about the census.
113:31
And I think she's pretty valid in what she says. I mean, surely they've got all this information on us, don't they? So why do we need to reconfirm it every five years? A lot of our contemporaries only do it every 10 years, UK, US, for example. So we're spending a lot of money to do this. But even if they didn't have all this information, which I think they do, what do they then do with it? I mean, the theory, we know the theory. Oh, they go and plan the next motorway and...
113:54
Do they? I mean, where's the evidence that's ever happened? So, you know, I know people are worried about privacy and personal information. I get all of that. What, our sexual inclination is really none of the government's business. Yeah. But more broadly, I mean, do we need these things anymore? You know, I mean, they go way back to ancient Rome where they didn't have digitised forms of information back in, you know, 55 BC when the Doomsday Book came along. Again, they didn't have the internet and all the databases they've got now. So do we need to keep doing it?
114:25
I'm also going to say this to you. What's happening? You're back. Back. The voice is back. Well, it's largely back. I mean, that's your Friday good news story, I know, but it's improving.
114:37
It's getting there.
114:38
Are your Tigers going to win on the weekend?
114:40
Well, considering they've got the bye, I hope so. It should be two points.
114:47
I should know that, shouldn't I? I am the rugby league caller on the stage. I've seen where your tips are at. What about Piggy pulling out because he's 30 behind?
114:54
Oh, that's just cowardly. Exactly.
114:58
So he's tipping, what is it, Bangkok Princess or something? What is it? He's out of the footy cog. What's going on with Piggy?
115:04
I'm going to use that tonight. Michael McLaren, I think you're cowardly. Cowardly. I'll use that tonight.
115:07
Just don't say that. He's bigger than me.
115:09
Thank you, Michael. You've had a great week, mate. We'll catch you next week. You do. Thank you. There he is, Michael McLaren. Have a good weekend to you and your team. In the meantime, we're so much lovely.
115:29
All I really need is a little good news. Parramatta BMW is your destination for driving joy.
115:37
Well, as you know by now, throughout the week we share the good news stories that come through from you, our wonderful listeners, and it's time to announce this week's winner who will be in the running to win the new BMW iX1 from Parramatta BMW. Congratulations to Cherie from Newport who reached out to us via the win page at 2GB.com and she wrote to us about the community that's built into a community chair basically and local community that catch up at a local cafe from one small gesture of kindness.
116:07
It was a terrific story earlier this week. So, Cherie, you're now a finalist in the running to win the BMW iX1. You'll be joining us on the day, hopefully, at Parramatta BMW when we give it away.
116:19
So do what Cherie has done and get in touch. All you need to do is go to the win page at 2GB.com and share with us your good news story. It might be something happening in your family, in your local community. You may have just seen something around the place or spotted a story that you'd like to share with us. All thanks to 2GB.com. And a special shout-out to the team headed up by PK, Peter Kalitsis, the dealer principal at Parramatta BMW, your destination for driving joy. And, look, I know we're giving one away, but if you're in the market for a new car, head in and see the crew and tell them that I sent you in as well.
116:51
Of course, I have a commercial agreement with Parramatta BMW.
116:55
All I really need is a bit of...
117:00
Sheree's been in touch. She heard us mention that she's the winner of the Good News Story of the Week. Congratulations, Sheree, and I look forward to meeting you if you can join us at Parramatta BMW when we give away that particular car. And a number of people have been in touch, having a chuckle at Piggy's horse tip for tomorrow. Yes, Bangkok hottie in the first race at Royal Randwick. There's a few messages there that I can't share for obvious reasons. Thank you.
117:26
Thank you very much for your company today and this week. I'll be back tonight, of course, to call some footy with the Roosters taking on Canterbury from Allianz Stadium. I'll be there with Piggy and Josh Morris. Thank you to my team headed up brilliantly by Georgia. Thank you, Georgia, to Pat and Ben, to Chris in the adjoining studio. We've had Julian and Jason with us today on work experience as well. Thank you, team. Behave yourselves over the weekend. We'll see you on Monday. They always do. They don't get up to any mischief. That's it for me. Michael's up next. Have a great weekend. I'll see you around the roundabout.
117:57
Bye-bye.
