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ABC News
a day ago
- Business
- ABC News
Parliamentary committee dismisses allegations against Darwin Waterfront Corporation
The Darwin Waterfront Corporation (DWC) has been cleared of wrongdoing by a Northern Territory parliamentary committee after the Territory Labor leader raised misuse of public money allegations. Opposition Leader Selena Uibo referred the "serious" allegations to the Public Accounts Committee last month. The allegations included the creation of a made-up unadvertised role that would see DWC's deputy chief executive, Sam Burke, receive a temporary $60,000 higher duties salary increase. The higher duties allowance allegedly continued for up to six years, long after the temporary role ended. Ms Uibo used parliamentary privilege last month to air the claims, which were made in a series of news reports by the NT Independent. Ms Uibo also referred allegations of funds being moved between two public bodies, the DWC and AustralAsia Railway Corporation (AARC). Mr Burke, who is married to NT Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, is the AARC chief executive and was appointed the DWC general manager in 2016. He was then appointed DWC's deputy chief executive in 2020, at the same salary level, in a four-year contract that was renewed in late 2023. Chair of the railway corporation is Alastair Shields, who is also DWC's chief executive. The AARC is a separate statutory body that manages the railway between Darwin and Tarcoola in South Australia, which is co-located with the DWC. The DWC told the committee Mr Burke was paid a $42,000 salary for higher duties between the two organisations, for five separate stints between 2018 and 2020. "Because none of the periods of higher duties exceeded six months, they were not required by NT [public service] guidelines to be advertised," the DWC submission read. DWC chair Patrick Bellot said Mr Burke's salary was cost-shared with the AARC and DWC. "The auditor-general has never raised any concern regarding these transactions in our unqualified annual audit reports." Mr Bellot said both organisations had their own separate annual audits. Mr Shields told the committee the two organisations had become "enmeshed" due to the sharing of resources and staff since the DWC's establishment in 2006. "We've shared board members, staff, office accommodation, resources from the very beginning," he said. Prior to the committee's hearing, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Marie-Clare Boothby, who has responsibility over the DWC, said the allegations would be "put to bed" by the process. Afterwards, she issued a statement welcoming the committee's unanimous dismissal of the allegations. "I am drawing the line in the sand on this matter," she said. The five-member Public Accounts Committee has a government majority of three members.
Telegraph
25-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
The world's busiest airport is shutting down – here's what happens next
When Dubai International (DXB) first opened in 1960, its runway was a strip of compacted sand. Fast forward 65 years and it's the busiest airport on the planet, processing 92.3 million passengers last year alone. More of a luxury shopping mall with planes, DXB far outshines any of our British airports and if, like Tom Hanks in The Terminal, you were ever stranded there, you probably wouldn't mind too much. Where else can you buy a Rolex, a Rolls-Royce and a McChicken sandwich before your 3am boarding call? It's basically The Ritz with baggage claim. Unsurprisingly, though, it's beginning to feel the strain. Hemmed in by highways and residential areas, DXB has nowhere to bulge, so last April UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that operations would slowly be phased across to Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), located 38 miles to the south of DXB, when its expansion is completed in 2032. Backed by the desert, this hyper-modern, AI-purring, mega-hub will be aviation's new darling with 400 aircraft gates (compared to the current 29) and poised to handle 260 million passengers per year once it's fully operational. With DXB being gently nudged aside like a beloved grandparent who's just a little too slow for today's high-speed air travel, what will become of the empty site? Dubai isn't the kind of city to let 7,200 acres of prime urban real estate, just a 15-minute drive from downtown, gather sand. This is a place that built a ski slope in the desert and named islands after continents. They dream big, so something more innovative and headline-worthy is also likely. We game-planned some potential scenarios and explored how other decommissioned airports around the world have been reinvented to see where Dubai might take inspiration. Let's taxi down the runway of possibilities. Scenario 1: The World's Swankiest Urban Park Authorities could take the urban park route. Think Central Park meets Blade Runner. Runways transformed into broad palm-shaded boulevards for cycling, jogging and e-scooting, lined smart-cooling systems to tackle the desert heat. Concourse areas housing indoor gardens or vertical farms, and terminal buildings transformed into co-working hives crowned with rooftop restaurants playing vintage boarding announcements for hipster ASMR. Green, futuristic and, of course, wildly Instagrammable. Berlin Tempelhof is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. Once one of Europe's busiest airports, it played a heroic role in the Berlin Airlift – where British and American forces delivered supplies to West Berlin during the Cold War Soviet blockade. It closed in 2008 and now lives on as the 950-acre Tempelhofer Feld, one of the world's largest urban open spaces. Locals rollerblade down its runways, fly kites across the former airfields, and gather for festivals and community events in the former aircraft hangars. Its massive terminal buildings now host trade fairs and exhibitions – from art shows to tech summits – and even emergency housing at times of crisis. And, more recently, Berlin Tegel – the capital's primary international airport that closed in 2021 and was replaced by Berlin Brandenburg Airport – is now being converted into Urban Tech Republic, a research and green technology hub for start-ups. Like Tempelhof, Croydon was one of Europe's big three pre-Second World War airports (alongside Paris-Le Bourget), and they've leaned into the vintage vibes – turning their Grade II-listed terminal into an aviation history centre and occasionally hiring it out for period film sets due to its well-preserved Art Deco architecture. It works because it's got that old-school charm. DXB, on the other hand, is more sci-fi than sepia, and too sleek and modern to pull off the retro museum look. Scenario 2: An Airport City Dubai is facing a housing shortage due to a surge in population and a booming economy, so there's a high probability it might be converted into a futuristic urban neighbourhood: a hyper-connected 'aerotropolis' that blends tech, luxury lifestyle and sustainability with Dubai's signature ambition. It could be a place where residents interact with city services through personalised AI assistants – booking health appointments, making restaurant reservations, or ordering drone deliveries like those currently in use in Shenzhen, China. Where former runways become smart boulevards with kinetic pavements (to harvest footstep energy) and AI-optimized public transport and cohesive communities host rooftop parties in the former air traffic control tower or attend TED talks in aeroplane hangars rebranded as 'creative event domes'. Hong Kong's Kai Tak Airport is the closest match. Once the stuff of pilot legends (and passenger nightmares) thanks to its nerve-jangling landings over apartment blocks, it shut down in 1998 and got a serious facelift. Now called the Kai Tak Development, it's a massive waterfront neighbourhood made up of schools and residential apartments organised along the old runway, which now hosts cruise ships instead of 747s, and framed by the verdant Sky Garden. A handful of others have followed suit. In Greece, the former Ellinikon International Airport near Athens is in the process of becoming one of Europe's largest urban regeneration projects. Already partially opened as the Ellinikon Experience Park, the site is set to include luxury housing, cultural venues, sports facilities, and one of the Mediterranean's largest coastal parks. And Stapleton Airport in Denver, Colorado, is now a walkable neighbourhood with schools and parks, where the airport's control tower has been converted into a restaurant as a playful nod to its high-flying past. For the moment, DXB's future is all conjecture. 'It should be stressed that the closure of DXB is only a distant prospect at the moment. It's too far into the future to make the decision now,' said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. 'But if a bigger Heathrow was built just up the road, would you keep both open? Probably not, is the answer – it's operationally difficult and costly to maintain two mega airports, when one satisfies a city's needs, and if the site was converted into park or a development, it would allow the northern part of Dubai to go high-rise – but those are options that the Dubai Government will no doubt consider in due course.' It'll be fifteen years at least before any real changes take place, but it's not hard to imagine the kids that will play tag on turf where jumbo jets once touched down; travellers lazing in cafés where execs once stress-scrolled emails; and yes – TikTokers posing under the vintage departure boards (#RetroRunway). The airport that once never slept will finally chill out, reborn as a smart, stylish, sun-soaked urban playground. DXB won't fade – it'll reinvent, Dubai-style: bigger, bolder and with better Wi-Fi. Goodbye takeoffs, hello glow-up. So here's to you, DXB: no delays, no turbulence – just clear skies ahead.
Time Out Dubai
22-05-2025
- Time Out Dubai
A private jet for your four-legged friend? Yes, and it's flying to the UK and the EU
You can now travel with your furry bestie in a private jet without the hefty price tag. British-based K9 JETS is one of the world's first pay-per-seat pet jet services, trusted by thousands of pet owners worldwide. Get all the comfort and calm of private flying without having to charter a whole jet, plus you'll get to sit alongside your four-legged companion. What's not to love? Even brachycephalic (flat-nosed) breeds are welcome, and there are no size restrictions for pets in the cabin. Fly comfortably with your pet beside you Your pet travels comfortably in the cabin with you. There are no restrictions on size or breed, so all pets are welcome. You'll also avoid busy terminals and long queues by using private airport facilities for a smoother and faster boarding experience. And for added peace of mind, your booking is fully ATOL protected, just like a standard commercial flight. One seat includes: Two small pets or one large pet 30 kilos of checked-in baggage + a cabin baggage Monthly flights K9 JETS operates monthly flights all year round from Jetex Al Maktoum (DWC), Dubai, to London, Milan and Geneva, which is a game-changer for anyone relocating or heading to the UK for the summer holidays. More routes will be announced soon. Prices start from approximately Dhs36,400 per seat, and that includes your pet's spot in the cabin. Upcoming flights Dubai – London (Sunday July 6, Friday August 8, Saturday September 6) Dubai – Milan (Saturday July 26, Saturday August 30) It's a brilliant option for families making the big move to Dubai or for residents planning a European escape with their pets in tow. The service is tailored to make the process smooth and straightforward, and more importantly, stress-free to make your and your furry bestie's travel experience as comfortable as possible. Whether you're relocating or just in need of a guilt-free summer with your loved companion abroad, K9 JETS makes it all a bit less complicated. Ready to jet off home with your fur-friend right next to you? Learn more:
ABC News
22-05-2025
- Business
- ABC News
Misuse of public money claims at Darwin Waterfront Corporation referred to NT Public Accounts Committee
Misuse of public money allegations involving the Darwin Waterfront Corporation (DWC) and its deputy chief executive have been referred to a parliamentary committee for scrutiny. On Wednesday night, Opposition Leader Selena Uibo told NT parliament she was referring "serious" allegations relating to conduct at the DWC to the NT Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The DWC is a statutory authority established by the NT government which controls the Darwin Waterfront, one of the Top End's most popular recreational facilities. The DWC board released a statement on Thursday saying it "categorically denies any wrongdoing and welcomes the opportunity to respond to any matters raised by participating in any inquiry". Ms Uibo's referral follows a series of media reports by the NT Independent about the allegations, which the online publication said were based on internal memos. Speaking in parliament, Ms Uibo said the allegations involved "significant sums of public money and they cannot be allowed to quietly fade into the background". She said among the claims was the "alleged creation of a made-up, part-time job for Mr Sam Burke", the DWC's deputy chief executive. Ms Uibo said the role was "reportedly unadvertised" and allegedly resulted "in a $60,000 salary increase via a temporary higher duties allowance". "The higher duties allowance allegedly continued for up to six years," she said. Ms Uibo also referenced "reports of public service rules being repeatedly breached". "With roles not advertised, promotions bypassing merits-based reviews and job evaluation [processes] ignored for the benefit of certain individuals," she said. Mr Burke, Chief Minister Lia Finocchario's husband, has worked at the DWC since January 2016. He is also the chief executive of AustralAsia Railway Corporation (AARC), another statutory authority established under NT law. Ms Uibo said the allegations included money being transferred between "taxpayer-funded entities to support Mr Burke's salary". "There have been claims of funds being moved between the DWC and the AARC," she said. "It has been further alleged that a memo outlines how the DWC would recoup salary costs from the AARC, raising concerns of potential fraud and gross conflicts of interest." In a statement, AARC chair Alastair Shields said the two corporations were co-located and for many years had "shared some corporate services and staff for efficiency". "There is nothing untoward or unusual about this arrangement, and it predates the appointment of Mr Burke as chief executive." Mr Burke initially joined the DWC as general manager, which a spokesperson said he secured "following an open recruitment process". The DWC spokesperson said in 2023, Mr Burke's title changed from general manager to deputy chief executive — a role responsible for the corporation's daily operations. "This was a change in title only and there was no salary increase at this time," they said. Ms Uibo said allegations had been made about Mr Burke being "promoted" in 2023. "Mr Burke signed a new four-year executive contract in November 2023 ... promoting him … with a salary of $259,824, plus benefits," she said. Ms Finocchiaro has declined to answer questions relating to the allegations, saying that "clear separations are appropriately and properly in place". Calls for an inquiry, by the Labor opposition and independent MLA Justine Davis, have been shut down by Tourism Minister Marie-Clare Boothby. In deciding not to call an inquiry, Ms Boothby referenced a departmental briefing which she said proved "due process under those allegations was actually followed". Ms Boothby has refused to publicly release the briefing. In its statement, the DWC board said it had been subject to annual audits by the NT auditor-general. "These audits, conducted in accordance with the relevant NT laws and with reference to the Commonwealth corporations law, have consistently found no evidence to support any finding of financial or governance misconduct," it said. Ms Uibo acknowledged in her speech that the allegations occurred solely during Labor's eight years in power. "But that does not, and it will not, deter me from demanding accountability," the former cabinet minister said. The DWC board said it had invited Ms Uibo "for a briefing on the allegations", but had not received a response. The five-member Public Accounts Committee — which has a government majority of three members — will now decide whether to accept Ms Uibo's referral and investigate the allegations. Mr Burke was contacted for comment.
India Today
14-05-2025
- Politics
- India Today
Lashkar, terror allies glorify Pak military op, threaten India at Karachi rally
In a concerning development that underscores the deepening nexus between Pakistan's military and radical Islamist elements, a series of orchestrated gatherings across Pakistan have been held to glorify the Pakistan Army's so-called "Operation Bunyan Marsoos" with extremist rhetoric flowing freely from the clerics and leaders from banned and controversial groups assembled under the umbrella of the Difa-e-Watan Council (DWC) -- an alliance known for hosting extremist ideologues -- to heap praise on the military's role in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor in Karachi on Tuesday the groups actively participating were Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Ahl-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaat, both designated terror organisations. These events, carefully choreographed to appear as spontaneous outpourings of national pride, were instead marked by incendiary speeches, veiled threats to India, and glorification of religious warfare.'ARMY OF MARTYRS, NOT SECULAR SOLDIERS'One of the most controversial figures to speak was Mufti Tariq Masood, a hardline cleric known for his inflammatory the Pakistan Army's actions, Masood declared: "Our enemy calls our army a religious army and those who are traitors to the country call this army a secular army After winning this war, we came to know and became convinced that our army is not a secular army. It is an army that has the passion for martyrdom and sacrifices its life in the name of religion and Islam, in the name of Allah." advertisementHis remarks are seen as a dangerous conflation of state military action with religious extremism, suggesting the institutionalisation of jihadist ideology within the armed to the provocative narrative, Allama Rashid Mahmood Soomro, General Secretary of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Sindh), openly threatened India while reinforcing the clerical establishment's allegiance to the military: "My leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman challenged Modi from Minar-e-Pakistan Lahore... We told Modi that we like to have breakfast in India... we also like to hoist the flag of Pakistan over Delhi."He further boasted about Pakistan's supposed military feats, claiming that Pakistani forces had "destroyed the pride of Israel by shooting down Israeli drones."He also claimed that the Pakistani Army shot down Rafale jets and also destroyed the S-400 air system, built in Russia."By shooting down Rafale, we destroyed the blood of Europe by destroying S-400, it has also told should think a hundred times before messing with Pakistan," he added. These fantastical and unverified claims have been dismissed by defence analysts as propaganda, but their wider impact on radicalising youth and promoting militancy remains a serious QUIET ENDORSEMENT?While there has been no official statement from the Pakistan Army directly endorsing the DWC events, the absence of condemnation and the scale of coordination strongly suggest tacit approval. Intelligence sources indicate the gatherings were neither impeded nor monitored -- unlike civil society protests, which often face warn that by allowing religious extremists to serve as mouthpieces for military operations, Pakistan risks further damaging its international image, alienating moderate voices, and entrenching violent ideologies within its borders.
