Mean Machine member bailed over fraud

OLYMPIC swimmer Neil Brooks and his wife have faced court over an alleged $ 1.95 million fraud but the Mean Machine member says he’s got “nothing to hide”.

The 1980 medley relay gold medallist appeared in the Brisbane Magistrates Court yesterday after being charged with one count of fraud and was bailed on conditions including that he reside at a Hong Kong address.

Court documents allege Brooks “dishonestly induced” Glenn Melcheck to deliver $ 1.95 million to Alfords Operations Pty Ltd in February 26, 2008 at Southport. Outside court, the former swimmer and sports commentator said he was looking forward to facing his accusers.

Brooks was arrested yesterday morning when he flew into Brisbane International Airport and surrendered to detectives from the Financial and Cyber Crime Group. His matter will return to court on December 11.

His wife Linda Brooks also faced court yesterday on a similar fraud charge, but will be required to come back today as Magistrate Suzette Coates said she needed more information before signing off on bail.