SILENCE IS GOLDEN IN GREY MA T TER FOR LIT TLE ONES
AUSTRALIA has offered to help train The Philippines military for its fight against Islamic extremists.
The role would be similar to the help Australia is giving Iraq in the fight against Islamic State, which is looking to expand into the southern Philippines. Australia already has sent two surveillance planes.
Foreign Minister Julie Bishop yesterday said she had outlined to President Rodrigo Duterte what support Australia was giving Iraq but he had yet to respond to the offer.
“It is a very dangerous fight but Australia has already offered — and is supplying — support to The Philippines and we stand ready to assist should they require more,” she said.
“Obviously, we would be ready to support The Philippines in the same way we are supporting Iraq in advising, assisting and training of the armed forces.” A SURFER has escaped almost unscathed after fighting his way out of the jaws of a shark.
Marcel Brundler, 37, had puncture marks in his board and wetsuit after the attack near Lorne in Victoria yesterday.
“At first I didn’t think anything of it, we have lots of dolphins in the water here, but then I realised it was big, much bigger,” Mr Brundler said.
“I’m no expert but this was a least three metres long.”
Mr Brundler said he punched and kicked his way out and rode a wave to shore. “I was really, really lucky this wave popped up out of nowhere.”
Mr Brundler had just a little scratch on his back and was remarkably calm after the attack, police said.
“The shark left bite marks in his board and tore at his wetsuit ... but he has no injuries. He was very, very lucky.”
The popular surf beach has been closed.