Palmer floats idea of new internet news website, 'Rage'

by: Kym Agius From:
AAP July 14, 2012

BILLIONAIRE mining magnate Clive Palmer says he is considering launching an online newspaper staffed by former Fairfax journalists, which he wants to call "Rage".

"One of the things we are thinking about very seriously is running an online news service across Australia and offering some hope to all the journalists that are being dismissed at The Age and Fairfax," he told reporters in Brisbane.

"We could have that online soon, so we can have more diversity in the media in Australia."
Mr Palmer also said if he chose to run at the federal election, he would try his chances for preselection in Fairfax, on the Sunshine Coast.

After abandoning his tilt at the Brisbane seat of Lilley, held by Treasurer Wayne Swan, Mr Palmer flagged challenging Bob Katter in his north Queensland electorate of Kennedy or running in Fairfax.
.
Fairfax, where Mr Palmer has a home and owns the Coolum resort, is held by retiring Liberal MP Alex Somlyay.

"I've narrowed it down, probably to Fairfax being the seat I most favour at the moment," he said.

"I don't want to seek an office if I went for federal parliament, I don't seek to be a minister, I've got no ambition on being prime minister, I just seek to promote ideas."
He said he would seriously consider his intentions when the Liberal National Party calls for preselection for the seat.

He also hosed down reports he was planning to spend up to $4 billion to create an international hotel, casino and tourism destination on the Sunshine Coast on par with world-class facilities in Dubai.

Mr Palmer said he had no firm plans, but a $4 billion price tag wasn't realistic.
"I don't have that sort of money to spend," he said.

"We're certainly looking at a lot of options, drawing up a lot of plans, looking at different ways we can go about things.

"We're just still examining things, talking to the community, talking to the local government."


http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/palmer-floats-idea-of-new-internet-news-website-rage/story-fndo48ca-1226426018273

Palmer's 'jaw dropping' plan for Coolum resort

DateJuly 14, 2012 - 8:18AM

Clive Palmer has detailed "jaw dropping" plans to spend up to $4 billion to create an international hotel, casino and tourism destination on the Sunshine Coast on a par with world-class facilities in Dubai.

The billionaire met Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson for almost three hours yesterday to reveal his plans which might include development of a chairlift or skylink to Mt Coolum.

Cr Jamieson revealed he had met Mr Palmer in response to a question at a Property Council luncheon yesterday. The Mayor told the luncheon it was a "very interesting discussion" but was coy on the details, saying they were confidential.

But Bill Schoch, general manager of the Palmer Coolum Resort, says the "multifaceted" plans involving a $3 billion to $4 billion investment would put the Sunshine Coast on the international map.

Mr Palmer wanted to "make a major destination of world-class significance" at Coolum similar to developments in Dubai.

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/palmers-jaw-dropping-plan-for-coolum-resort-20120714-222d8.html

You should just create a Palmer thread.

Palmer maintains the rage with new areas of expertise
DateJuly 15, 2012

Clive Palmer. Businessman … mining magnate … (adjunct) professor … billionaire … tourism operator … self-confessed (''not as fat now'') fat cat. And now the man with many hats is thinking about adding two more to his growing pile: politician and media saviour.

Mr Palmer fronted the media at the LNP state convention in Brisbane yesterday, wearing a name tag which presented him as ''Prof Clive Palmer'', to discuss his latest plans.

While still not confirming a tilt at politics, Mr Palmer did indicate the seat he may run in, if he decides to pick up the political mantle.


Web of intrigue ... Clive Palmer addresses the LNP convention in Brisbane. Photo: Michelle Smith

''I've narrowed it down, probably to Fairfax [on the Sunshine Coast], as being the seat I most favour at the moment,'' he said.

Palmer's 'jaw dropping' $4b tourism plan

''Because I've had a house in Fairfax for over 15 years, it is an exciting area, it's got the Palmer Coolum Resort there, there are a lot of links there. We [are] the largest employer on the Sunshine Coast. So it's better, if I was going to stand for politics, which I haven't decided yet, to stand somewhere where the people know you and you know the people.''

But the announcements didn't stop there. In a seemingly jovial mood, Mr Palmer told the press pack he was ''seriously'' considering starting an online national news site, called Rage.

''One of the things we are thinking about, very seriously, is running an online news service across Australia and offering some hope to all the journalists who have been dismissed with The Age and Fairfax [publishers of The Age and The Sun-Herald] and we have now sought to trademark the name Rage. I thought that could be a good thing and we might have that online soon, so we can have more media diversity in Australia.''

The potential for the name Rage not to be available, as it is already synonymous with a late-night music program shown on the ABC for the past 25 years, didn't seem to faze Mr Palmer.

''They [the ABC] may not have the trademark and that is the potential thing,'' he said. So did the potential member for Fairfax want to save the media company Fairfax, asked a journalist.

''Well, that's right, you could put it that way, that should get you a headline,'' Mr Palmer said. ''You should get a promotion on that and a much better assignment next week.''

But Mr Palmer need not fear about that. When he was noticed standing in the back of the conference while the deputy Coalition leader, Julie Bishop, spoke, he was set upon by photographers.

Word filtered out he would speak to the media and its members covering the conference filtered outside to wait.

When word was received Mr Palmer would address the conference before speaking to the media, the press slid back inside the doors.

Mr Palmer, whose companies are the main sponsors of the LNP convention, commented on the friendliness of the delegates and media, remarking on the number of people who wanted to speak to him. Which, reading between the lines, seems to mean he is well aware he doesn't need to stand for Parliament to be heard.



Read more: http://www.watoday.com.au/opinion/political-news/palmer-maintains-the-rage-with-new-areas-of-expertise-20120714-223ef.html#ixzz20fWT0Uzy

Safety first for Clive Palmer's Titanic II project

From: AAP July 17, 2012

MINING magnate Clive Palmer has released plans for his Titanic II, with the modern version of the ill-fated ship to feature a new "safety deck".

Mr Palmer, who is known for wild and spontaneous pronouncements, showed preliminary drawings of the luxury cruise ship to Brisbane reporters on Tuesday.

Mr Palmer says the Titanic II will include "proper life boats", safety chutes and slides on an extra "safety deck" to make it compliant with today's regulations.

The drawings depict nine decks complete with first, second and third class, officer and crew accommodation.

Mr Palmer says Titanic II will have a casino, but pensioners will be barred from it as he doesn't want it to suck money from passengers who can't afford to lose it.

''There will be strict restrictions,'' he told reporters.

.''No pensioners will be allowed to go.

''There will be some sort of screening to make sure people who do go there can afford to.''

Mr Palmer imagines those who travel with a first-class ticket will be able to afford to go to the casino but perhaps not those in third class.

But he says he'll be buying a third class ticket.

''It's more fun to dance with a Irish drunk than to sit in a casino,'' he said.

From deck D upwards, engineers Deltamarin have managed to keep the public rooms, passenger stairs, cabins and features in similar locations as in the original ship.

The board of his shipping company Blue Star Line is yet to approve the final design.

The first voyage is set for late 2016.

AAP

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/safety-first-for-clive-palmers-titanic-ii-project/story-e6frg6nf-1226427977769

PENSIONERS will be barred from the casino on board Clive Palmer's re-imagined Titanic.

The mining billionaire on Tuesday gave a glimpse of the first drawings of Titanic II, a modern version of the original ill-fated liner.
Mr Palmer says Titanic II will have a casino, but he doesn't want it to suck money from passengers who can't afford to lose it.
"There will be strict restrictions," he told reporters.
"No pensioners will be allowed to go.
"There will be some sort of screening to make sure people who do go there can afford to."
Mr Palmer imagines those who travel with a first-class ticket will be able to afford to go to the casino but perhaps not those in third class.
But he says he'll be buying a third class ticket.
"It's more fun to dance with an Irish drunk than to sit in a casino," he said.
The Titanic II will also have a new "safety deck" that Mr Palmer says will have "proper life boats", safety chutes and slides to make it compliant with today's regulations.
The drawings depict nine decks complete with first, second and third-class, officer and crew accommodation.
From deck D upwards, engineers Deltamarin have managed to keep the public rooms, passenger stairs, cabins and features in similar locations as in the original ship.
The board of his shipping company Blue Star Line is yet to approve the final design.
The first voyage is set for late 2016.


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/national/first-drawings-of-titanic-ii-show-new-deck/story-e6frfku9-1226427880258#ixzz20qTSmKJI

But he says he'll be buying a third class ticket.
"It's more fun to dance with an Irish drunk than to sit in a casino," he said.

[Clive Palmer denies he has been in talks for a Jurrasic Park style project.

From:
Gold Coast Bulletin August 02, 2012


TITANIC II is unbelievable enough. But would you credit billionaire Clive Palmer with trying to open a Jurassic Park on the Sunshine Coast?

The Sunshine Coast daily does. Much to Mr Palmer's ire.

On speculation he had been in talks with a clone research institute on the prospects of bringing dinosaurs back to life, Mr Palmer told the Gold Coast Bulletin: "It's just a beat-up of a story and untrue."

Editor of The Sunshine Coast Daily, Mark Furler, said: "Mr Palmer has changed his tune several times on this project and the people of the Sunshine Coast wait with bated breath to see what the real plans are.

"We've heard of everything from monorails to highrises to cloned dinosaurs. The rumour mill has gone into overdrive and a lot of those rumours are coming from Clive's camp."

A source inside the Palmer camp reportedly said the billionaire had been in talks with the Scotland-based scientists who cloned Dolly the Sheep at the Roslin Institute in 1996.
But Mr Palmer was adamant: "There was never any verification, the journalist never spoke to me."

Ju

The Roslin Institute, which stunned the world when it created the world's first cloned mammal with Dolly, says resurrecting dinosaurs would be difficult because a suitable surrogate to carry a baby dinosaur would be hard to find.

It is also unlikely that whole dinosaur cells still exist - even if the carcass were frozen.
More than 100,000 whole dinosaur cells would probably be needed to even attempt to clone a dinosaur.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/clives-jurassic-park-idea-extinct/story-fndo2j43-1226441351758

Just imagined Palmer dancing :-& :-&

Edited by Krackovich: 17/7/2012 05:07:43 PM

Clive Palmer's hovercraft plans with casino complex on the Sunshine Coast
FIRST it was Titanic II then rumours of cloning dinosaurs - now mining mogul Clive Palmer has plans for a casino with hovercraft and airport.

Mr Palmer has unveiled plans for a multi-billion-dollar casino complex today, which include an international airport and hovercraft port, at his Coolum Palmer Resort on the Sunshine Coast, north of Brisbane.

A trademark for the name Coolum Casino and the domain name www.coolumcasino.com.au were registered in March, leading to speculation the billionaire was planning a casino.

Palmer's mini Las Vegas plans for sleepy town

The ambitious plans unveiled include a casino, as well as a hovercraft station, an international airport, a convention centre, a water park, a beachside amusement park, a wildlife park, a hotel with thousands of rooms and an aquarium.

RELATED COVERAGE
Palmer unveils plans for Coolum casino
Courier Mail, 1 hour ago
Palmer plans Coolum casino, theme park
The Australian, 1 hour ago
Stop singing to Clives tune
Courier Mail, 5 hours ago
Palmer bets on casino venture
Courier Mail, 7 hours ago
Clive's Jurassic Park idea 'extinct'
Herald Sun, 8 hours ago


The planned hovercraft would hold a capacity of up to 400 passengers and would ferry tourists to and from Brisbane and the islands of Moreton Bay.

Mr Palmer said the new complex would be a boost for the regional tourism industry, employing 9000 locals and revitalising the sector across the state, which has struggled to lure visitors since the floods and cyclone Yasi.

The redevelopment would require state government approval to go ahead.

His latest plans come after he has continued to deny he was in talks with a clone research institute on the prospects of bringing dinosaurs back to life.
Palmer denies Jurassic Park style project

He is also in an ongoing war of words with Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan, who recently used Bruce Springsteen's Badlands ballad in his recent tit for tat warfare Mr Palmer.

While Mr Palmer continues to bait Swan with claims he will challenge him at the next Federal election, Mr Palmer, in true Australian fashion, criticised Swan's foreign music taste.

Stop singing to Clive Palmer's tune

"I rely on Redgum. Unlike the Treasurer, I don’t go to the United States for inspiration."

The eccentric Queensland billionaire also recently revealed detailed plans for his Titanic II project.

Mr Palmer has previously declined to say what the Titanic II project might cost, but he ruled out seeking any co-investors.

Drawings of Titanic II

"We don't want any partners. If you look for partners things mightn't happen. This is just for me to go for a little sail around the world in," he said.

The final design was still subject to approval by the board of Mr Palmer's shipping company Blue Star Lines.

It is due to make its maiden voyage in late 2016 after completion at China's CSC Jinling Shipyard.http://www.couriermail.com.au/business/clive-palmers-hovercraft-plans-with-casino-complex-on-the-sunshine-coast/story-fn7kjcme-1226442168966

i'm guessing either mental illness or boredom

Thoughts of Chairman Clive
DateAugust 4, 2012

Deborah Snow

The mining magnate doesn't apologise for his wealth or his power but he wants to be remembered for more, writes Deborah Snow.

Listening to some of Clive Palmer's anecdotes over a 2½-hour lunch, it's sometimes hard to suspend disbelief. What to make, for instance, of his claim that he sat on Chairman Mao Zedong's knee, as a child?

Or that during the same nine-month interlude in China, in the early '60s, he also met legendary premier Chou En-lai, and came across the former emperor Pu Yi, tending the decrepit gardens of the Forbidden City in Beijing?

He insists these things are true.

''I remember looking down at the carpet and he [Mao] was sitting in a sort of old-style lounge chair with white tablecloths each side of it … [Later] Chou En-lai took me and dad to the Forbidden City. There was an old guy, cutting flowers; I remember his big hands and secateurs. He said when he was a young boy he used to live there and was very sad. Now he was cutting flowers and his life was full of happiness. That was Pu Yi, the last emperor.''

Exactly what Palmer snr and his family were doing in China at that critical time is nigh impossible to discover. Australia's most colourful billionaire just stonewalls.

George Palmer wasn't a spy, he says, and didn't speak the language but ''was concerned with the fact that 200 million to 300 million Chinese faced starvation''.

''I think he would have gone at other people's request.'' But as for the rest, Palmer says it's a secret he will probably take to his grave.

There's no mystery, though, about his own lavish admiration for the Chinese.

He even argues that the internal workings of the Communist Party are ''highly democratic - people vote for various leaders and things like that''.

Then again, why wouldn't you be fond of a country which has provided a good chunk of your billions? (BRW magazine most recently estimated Palmer's worth at $3.85 billion, down from $5 billion last year. Palmer won't give a figure but says ''don't believe what you read in the papers''.)

Like Gina Rinehart and Andrew Forrest, Clive Palmer can thank iron ore in Western Australia for some of his wealth, but he built his original fortune on Gold Coast real estate, amassing $40 million before he'd reached the age of 30.

He also has nickel and coal interests in Queensland and a stake in gas and oil claims off PNG which he claims could eventually rival the North West Shelf.

The mining press has pointed out that he has yet to actually ship any ore from the West Australian project, which has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. But Palmer says that will change next month, adding that if journalists weren't ''too lazy'' to travel to the Pilbara they would see for themselves the $6 billion Sino Iron port and mine construction being undertaken by his Chinese partner, Citic Pacific.

''I'll probably end up getting about 1½ billion dollars a year of income out of it,'' he states breezily. ''It's good enough to keep people away from the door.'' He insists he has never greased a palm to do business with China - ''I can honestly say that to you.''

When not tending his mining interests Palmer collects golf courses and resorts, has stables of vintage cars and trotting thoroughbreds and is fired with enthusiasm for his latest hobby horse, the recreation of the doomed 1912 ocean liner Titanic.

He says the idea sprang from a casual conversation with bosses at a Chinese shipyard, who were perplexed at buyers wanting their bulk shipping but not their cruise ships.

''I said 'people need to have confidence and faith in your project'. And they said 'how do we do that?' And I said 'well, you could build the Titanic'. It just popped out … We signed a memorandum to do it that day.''

Asked about the apparent randomness of this decision he replies, ''Why would you want to do the same thing all your life and be bored?''

The man who likes to style himself ''professor'' (he has an adjunct professorship at Bond University) meets the Herald for lunch at the Palmer Grill, inside the recently renamed Palmer Coolum resort on the Sunshine Coast, which he took over after a recent court battle with the Hyatt group. This weekend the 160-hectare resort is offering a ''Titanic Culinary Journey'' with ''lavish menus from the world's most famous ship''. But on a mid-week day the restaurant is empty of other diners.

Beyond the picture windows, the kangaroos outnumber the golfers on the championship course. Palmer points out, slightly defensively, that it is mid-winter.

Having made himself unpopular among locals with deep staff cuts, he has just announced plans for a $2.5 billion remake of the resort, with a proposed casino, theme park, water park, beachfront hotel and shopping centre linked by monorail to a new international airport. Environmental controversy looms.

Meanwhile he is trying to downsize himself, so lunch is an abstemious affair, apart from a shared bottle of red. He orders half a dozen scallops followed by a parma salad ''with extra tomato''. (He has lost 30 kilos, and is at 120 aiming for 100.)

As to why he hasn't tried the gastric bypass reputedly undergone by fellow weighty billionaire James Packer, Palmer says he is taking his father's advice to ''always go the hard way''.

George Palmer was infatuated with silent film as a child, and according to his son shot a Hollywood-acclaimed feature at the age of 16 with money he raised from five years of collecting bottles.

Palmer snr also pioneered the packaging of Queensland holidays, set up radio stations in Melbourne and Tasmania, and experimented with TV transmission.

''He was more talented then me, much more creative than I am,'' Palmer says. ''He started a lot of ventures but he sold them before they became really successful.''

George wasn't particularly impressed with the son's millions though. ''He took the view, and I take the same view, that anything you are given is only temporary.''

There's a lot of homespun philosophy peppering Palmer's conversation and it seems he hankers after being defined by more than his money.

Despite getting the cold shoulder from Tony Abbott, Palmer is still actively toying with running for a federal seat in Queensland, though he seems to have backed off targeting the Treasurer, Wayne Swan (who renewed his assault on the billionaire this week).

Palmer is adamant his own political ambitions shouldn't be dismissed.

A former spokesman for one-time premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen, he has been a National Party member since the age of 15 and a life member since he was 36.

''I have been the youngest life member, I have been the largest donor, the strongest supporter of the party,'' he says.

''Why shouldn't I be prepared to nominate? Why should I worry about what Tony Abbott says?

''I'm not a business person who has been interested in politics, I'm a political person who has gone into business.''

But he won't countenance mothballing his business interests should he ever find himself in Parliament.

''All I need to do is not vote on or take part in any decision that affects me. As a company director I do that all the time. This whole concept of giving up your business is designed to keep achievers in Australia out of politics,'' he says.

Asked what keeps him awake at night, Palmer at first deadpans ''television''. Then he adds ''and my [four-year-old] daughter. And the economy … and refugees that come to Australia. You worry why the Australian navy stood by while 40 people drowned [off Christmas Island in December 2010]''.

He is a strong advocate of onshore processing and believes the refugee policies of both major parties are ''morally bankrupt''.

A practising Catholic who says he attends Mass weekly, Palmer has two adult children from his first marriage to Sue, who died of cancer. His youngest child is the product of his second marriage to Anna, the widow of a friend who also succumbed to cancer.

He bristles at being asked how he reconciles his religion with his liking for litigation and his reputation for ruthlessness in business. ''I don't think I am ruthless, not at all … I'm trying to do the best I can in sometimes difficult circumstances to make a contribution to whatever I do.''

It's true Palmer has sometimes shown extraordinary generosity, once showering employees at his Townsville nickel plant with Mercedes-Benz cars and overseas holidays.

But he can show scant mercy towards business rivals and critics. He has a hefty writ against this paper over an investigative series on his Chinese mining deals, yet sings the praises of the quality media and talks of starting a website for out-of-work journalists.

Similar contradictions manifest in his political heroes: apart from Joh, former US Democratic president John F. Kennedy is another - and Palmer's son Michael was an intern for a year with Senator Ted Kennedy. He says he is concerned about global warming but opposes the carbon tax and is not the least bit queasy about being a coal baron. ''I'd be hypocritical if I was.''

So how would he tackle the problem of a warming planet? ''Change our diet - not eat so many sheep,'' he offers. Or promote the search for ''global answers'' through the Club of Madrid, an organisation of former world leaders to which he contributes through its ''president's circle'' of donors.

These are not measures likely to immediately impact on his coal fortunes, I point out.

''Worse than doing nothing is to do something that's ineffective and say you've done something,'' he shoots back.

''If you're a billionaire you are always the baddie.''



Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/national/thoughts-of-chairman-clive-20120803-23ks6.html#ixzz22UsWaFdO

...Queensland
Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer donates $250,000 to public sector union Together Queensland to assist sacked public servants

by: Robyn Ironside From: The Courier-Mail August 24, 2012 3:12PM

CLIVE Palmer is acting like a "spoilt billionaire" and seeking revenge against the LNP by donating to a union fund for sacked public servants, Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney says.
While acknowledging the $250,000 donation would be welcomed by affected workers, Mr Seeney said Mr Palmer's motives were suspicious.

"Clive Palmer's a billionaire, he can do whatever he likes with his money but I would question the motives of this today," Mr Seeney said.

"Everyone needs to understand what's going on here.

"Clive Palmer thought that he could get favoured treatment from the LNP Government, he hasn't been able to do that and he's sought out to attack us ever since.

"Hell hath no fury like a billionaire scorned - that's what we're seeing today."

Mr Seeney promised his Government would "do everything it can" to help axed workers, including offering generous separation packages so many would leave the public sector with more than one year's pay.


BIG SPENDERS: Donations from Clive Palmer's companies (and others) to the Liberal Party and the LNP are contrasted with the flow of funds to the federal Labor Party and the Queensland ALP.
He also rejected suggestions that changes made late yesterday in State Parliament to strip workers of job security provisions were Premier Campbell Newman's version of the much-criticised Work Choices laws.

"Absolutely not. That's a huge exaggeration," he said, also stressing the law change was "not at all" about avoiding Supreme Court action launched by unions.

"The changes that were made last night were about making sure that we can manage the business of Government in a way that every other business manages it's business," he said.



EARLIER


ECCENTRIC Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer has announced a $250,000 donation to the public sector union Together Queensland to assist sacked public servants.

Two weeks after Professor Palmer attacked the LNP Government on radio for slashing jobs, he has "put his money where his mouth is" and set up the "Hope Fund".

It will be overseen by former National Party Premier Mike Ahern and former Labor Deputy Premier Jim Elder who will decide who gets the cash.

Professor Palmer said he was very concerned about the impact of the government's strategy to tackle the State's debt.

"The removal of tens of thousands of people out of work isn't going to make much of an impact on our $65 billion deficit," he said.

"But it will have an impact on the Queenslanders losing their jobs and will have an impact on the wider community, especially in regional areas outside Brisbane."

Alex Scott from Together said Prof Palmer's offer of support would provide workers with the hope of getting on with their lives during a very difficult time.

"Our members welcome the fact that Professor Palmer cares about all Queensland workers and we appreciate that he understands and is emphatic towards the unnecessary human cost of a mismanaged process of change," said Mr Scott.

Last night State Parliament passed legislation erasing job security and giving the government the ability to outsource nearly all public service jobs to the private sector.

The Public Service and Other Legislation amendment bill was introduced to negate Supreme Court being taken by unions against a directive removing job security.

Although the government claimed it was confident of winning the court case, any injunction sought by the union would have delayed the measures necessary to make extensive job cuts.

Unions and the opposition have condemned the Bill as "Newman's Work Choices".

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-billionaire-clive-palmer-donates-250000-to-public-sector-union-together-queensland-to-assist-sacked-public-servants/story-e6freoof-1226457179750

Clive Palmer wins surf livesaving medal
SFrom: Gold Coast Bulletin
September 06, 2012 10:23AM

HE might not look like an iron man, but mining magnate Clive Palmer will receive a Bronze Medallion after qualifying as a surf lifesaver.
Mr Palmer qualified for his Bronze Medallion in 1973, but never received it, The Gold Coast Bulletin reports.

He was also part of a beach relay team that won the Point Danger Branch Titles in 1974.

The Tweed Heads Coolangatta Surf Lifesaving Club will on Thursday present Mr Palmer with the medallion he should have received as a teenager.



Read more: http://www.news.com.au/business/clive-palmer-wins-surf-livesaving-medal/story-e6frfm1i-1226466244791#ixzz25e6gjz3C

Is Gina Rienhart Clive Palmer with a wig?

Is Clive Palmer Gina Rienhart with lipstick and a wig?? :-k.

Why life's not so fine for super-loaded Clive Palmer
http://video.news.com.au/2237661599/Clive-Palmers-fine-dodging


Speedster ... Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer / Pic: Jamie Hanson

LEAD-FOOTED Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer has lost 108 demerit points and been fined more than $5000 after racking up 35 speeding and other driving offences.
His latest speeding charge was dealt with in Southport Magistrates Court on the Gold Coast yesterday, where his three-page traffic history was described as "substantial".
Mr Palmer had indicated he would fight his latest $333 fine he received in January for driving his Mercedes more than 20km/h over the speed limit, but yesterday pleaded guilty through his solicitor.
He was caught doing 81km/h in a 60km/h zone at Biggera Waters on January 27.
Magistrate Michael O'Driscoll ordered the billionaire pay the original $411 fine plus $78 in court costs. A Palmer staffer was in court and paid the fine immediately.
Mr Palmer's traffic record shows the billionaire has been slapped with more than $5600 in fines for 35 traffic offences and lost 108 demerit points since 1988. Speeding tickets accounted for 24 of the fines, with Mr Palmer caught exceeding the speed limit by up to 44km/h in some cases.
The other fines were for using a mobile phone while driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, disobeying a stop sign and following another vehicle too closely.
The record showed Mr Palmer has made a habit out of contesting fines, taking 12 to court and having the Queensland government's debt collector take enforcement action against him which could have included suspending his driver's licence. He also has a history of stringing out paying the fines with some not finalised for up to 15 months.
There were several periods when Mr Palmer lost so many demerit points he came close to losing his licence.
In an 18-month period between May 1990 and November 1991 Mr Palmer was caught speeding eight times and lost 29 demerit points.
On five of those occasions, he was more than 30km/h over the limit.
He had a bad patch in 2004 when he was nabbed five times in 10 months and racked up more than $1000 in fines - he fought them all in court.
In May Mr Palmer said he planned to contest the fine despite the 28-day appeal period lapsing.
He was facing jail, with the State Penalties Enforcement Registry chasing him, demanding he pay up.
Days later, the Newman government stepped in and ordered police issue a summons against the generous LNP donor to allow him a second chance to appeal.


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/business/why-lifes-not-so-fine-for-super-loaded-clive-palmer/story-e6frfm1i-1226471368757#ixzz266QoFsCY

Mr Palmer's traffic record shows the billionaire has been slapped with more than $5600 in fines for 35 traffic offences and lost 108 demerit points since 1988. Speeding tickets accounted for 24 of the fines, with Mr Palmer caught exceeding the speed limit by up to 44km/h in some cases.
The other fines were for using a mobile phone while driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, disobeying a stop sign and following another vehicle too closely.

Understandable...

Edited by farrand93: 11/9/2012 07:36:53 AM

Billionaire Clive Palmer lashes out over mining audit order, comparing Liberal National Party LNP to "Nazis"


Clive Palmer addresses Queensland's LNP conference in July. Picture: Annette Dew Source: The Courier-Mail

OUTSPOKEN billionaire and LNP donor Clive Palmer has compared members of the party's hierarchy to Nazis in an insult likely to inflame an already tense situation.

Internal divisions in the LNP deepened yesterday as the mining magnate took aim, and Gold Coast MP Alex Douglas dragged Premier Campbell Newman into the fray by demanding he intervene in a dispute between MPs.

Mr Palmer's LNP life membership was suspended on Friday following a blistering attack in which he called for the removal of Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney and Treasurer Tim Nicholls and claimed "crooks" in Cabinet had cooked the books to exaggerate the state deficit.

Mr Palmer said his suspension was punishment for lodging a complaint with the LNP just hours earlier against Mr Seeney.

The entrepreneur, who has lodged legal action against Mr Seeney and the Co-ordinator General over the rejection of his Waratah Coal project as a preferred tenderer for a multibillion-dollar mine/rail/port development in central Queensland, accused Mr Seeney of bullying by ordering an audit of his mining operations.

He described the action as a misuse of power comparable to the disregard Nazis held for the courts in the lead-up to World War II.

"It was extraordinary to me that any government in Australia would use stormtrooper tactics to get at a person just because they have gone to court to get a decision," Mr Palmer said.

"By suspending me, they don't have to deal with the issues I've raised."

It also prevented him from lodging further complaints that the Newman Government was introducing policies that had not been passed by the party conference.

"I support the LNP and its policies, but not policies which have not been endorsed by the party. I did not join the Campbell Newman Party."

SHOWDOWN: Queensland Premier Campbell Newman has been dragged into the fray between the Liberal National Party and billionaire Clive Palmer.

The decision to suspend Mr Palmer with immediate effect was made by the LNP's four-member president's committee, pending a final ruling at the party's executive meeting on November 23.

The entrepreneur yesterday said he had no regrets over his actions and said his phone had not stopped ringing with calls of support, including from two Government ministers and 17 backbench MPs "expressing outrage at how I've been treated".

He said his intention was "not to split the party, but fix it" and encouraged the "10,000 good people in the LNP" to make their feelings known to the state executive.

A spokesman for Premier Campbell Newman dismissed the comments, saying: "I will not be distracted by a billionaire's media antics" and would focus on "serious issues like rebuilding the economy and creating jobs for families."

Clive Palmer quits LNP within hours of being reinstated by party

HAPPIER TIMES: Clive Palmer addresses Queensland's LNP conference. Picture: Annette Dew Source: The Courier-Mail

CLIVE Palmer tonight quit the LNP after a dramatic few hours in which the outspoken life member, who had been suspended from the party, was reinstated.

The Courier-Mail understands lawyers for the LNP and for Mr Palmer exchanged letters tonight, ending the billionaire's tumultuous relationship with the party he has been associated with for more than 40 years.

In two surprise moves, the party reinstated Mr Palmer who then resigned.

``I'm very sad to see Professor Palmer go from the LNP but I'm sure that he will support our side of politics in the future,'' LNP state president Bruce McIver said.

``When Professor Palmer is through his business-interest issues, it would be nice to see him come back into the party he's belonged to and served so faithfully for many years.''

Mr Palmer's public battle with the LNP parliamentary wing has taken a toll on the party, which is also fending off criticism on a separate front as some ministers continue to be embroiled in controversy.

Mr Palmer was suspended by the LNP on November 9 after he publicly attacked the LNP Government's leadership and demanded Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney and Treasurer Tim Nicholls be removed.

``These books have been cooked by the biggest crooks that have ever occupied office in the state of Queensland," Mr Palmer told a press conference before his suspension.

The party was due to decide on his membership at a state executive meeting today.

Mr Palmer had previously labelled his suspension undemocratic and vowed to fight.

But the resignation is unlikely to silence Mr Palmer as he continues his crusade against the leadership of the parliamentary wing, including railing against the rejection of his Waratah Coal project as a preferred tenderer for a multi-billion-dollar development.

The mining magnate is also unhappy with Mr Seeney's decision to order an audit of his mining operations, likening it to ``stormtrooper tactics''.

Mr Palmer had previously been one of Premier Campbell Newman's biggest supporters and one of the party's biggest donors, helping it capitalise on its resurgence in Queensland.

But the relationship quickly soured once the LNP took office following its landslide win at the March election.

In August, Mr Palmer donated to a union fund to help sacked public servants, appearing at a press conference with Together secretary Alex Scott.

He earned an instant rebuke from Mr Seeney.

``Hell hath no fury like a billionaire scorned,'' the Deputy Premier said at the time.

Mr Newman accused Mr Palmer of trying to bully his Government over his plans for a $2.5 billion tourism development on the Sunshine Coast.

``Well, Mr Palmer has sought to use his contacts in the LNP to lobby myself, the Deputy Premier, members of the Cabinet, over some of his proposals which frankly are inappropriate,'' he said.

Palmer's Titanic gamble talked up in New York

Clive Palmer gives an update on the progress of his Titanic II ship construction.

FLAMBOYANT Australian tycoon Clive Palmer unveiled his plan for building a perfect replica of the Titanic - plus a lot of extra lifeboats.
More than a century after the original, supposedly unsinkable ocean liner hit an iceberg and went down in the North Atlantic, Palmer thinks the time has come to complete the unfinished journey to New York.

"The Titanic was the ship of dreams. Titanic II is the ship where dreams will come true," Mr Palmer said in New York at the project's official launch.

Featuring the same rigid divisions as in 1912 between first, second and third class, passengers will eat either in an ornate dining room or at a long common table. "There'll be no mingling" between classes, Mr Palmer said.

Passengers in the luxury section will enjoy the identical grand staircase and reproductions of the original Titanic's Turkish bath and swimming pool.

Rebuffing public skepticism about the project, Mr Palmer said a contract could be signed with China's CSC Jinling Shipyard within days, with construction starting by the end of this year and the launch in 2016. He wouldn't say what it will all cost.

"Certain people, certain individuals spend too much time in the pub or the bar saying, 'Oh that will never happen,'" he said. Mr Palmer refused to give the estimated cost, saying bluntly: "I'm funding this myself because I want to spend the money I've got before I die."

A larger than life character who has made a fortune in mining, Mr Palmer said he was unfazed by the seeming temptation of fate in giving one of the unluckiest shipping projects in history a second chance. "I'm not too superstitious," he said.
Titanic II will closely resemble the original, although with important modifications, including a slightly wider hull and an extra layer of decking.
Passengers will be provided with period costumes appropriate to their class of ticket, Mr Palmer said, joking that he will be in third class. "That's where the fun's going to be."
One modification that Mr Palmer underlined is a vast improvement in the lifeboats, which were insufficient on the original ship, contributing to the loss of more than 1500 people when it sank in icy waters.
Mr Palmer said this time the ship would exceed regulatory requirements with top-of-the-range lifeboats that are "very safe."
"You could go round the world in them if you wanted," he said.
But he wouldn't fall into the trap of echoing the "unsinkable" claim.
"It would be very cavalier to say anything like that. I think people have said that in the past," Mr Palmer deadpanned.


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/travel/news/palmers-titanic-gamble-talked-up-in-new-york/story-e6frfq80-1226586458693#ixzz2M2iKlMU3

But he wouldn't fall into the trap of echoing the "unsinkable" claim.
"It would be very cavalier to say anything like that. I think people have said that in the past," Mr Palmer deadpanned.

No teething troubles for Clive Palmer's dino park
One of Clive Palmer's dinosaurs.

THE world's biggest dinosaur park, dubbed Palmersauria, will roar to life sooner than expected on the Sunshine Coast.
The dream of eccentric mining billionaire Clive Palmer, the attraction is coming together in the grounds of the Palmer Coolum Resort.
It features more than 150 replica animatronic prehistoric creatures, imported from China.
Resort general manager Bill Schoch said while an official name had not been settled on, there was little doubt "Palmer" would be in the title, building on a brand that already included Palmer Resort, Palmer Golf, Palmer Grill and Palmer Motorama vintage car museum.
All of the creatures can make sounds and some will move, such as "Jeff" the resort's towering T. rex.
Airborne dinosaurs will swoop down on a flying fox, while a canopy walk will provide a unique perspective.


COURSE HAZARD: Clive Palmer's dinosaur on the golf course at Coolum.

"There is some paperwork to finalise with council, but we will now be able to get it up and going much quicker than previously thought. I would say within six months to be safe, but it should be sooner," Mr Schoch said.
"This will be unique in the world and provide a very up close and personal experience. I think it will create lasting memories for children and families.
"Some dinosaurs may look ferocious, but touch them and they are as cuddly as a koala."
Mr Palmer, known for his hands-on approach to projects, personally put in stakes with photographs across the site last weekend to show workers where he wanted certain dinosaurs to be placed.
Mr Schoch said there would be an educational guide to the creatures and a souvenir shop.
There would also be a fence "to keep the dinosaurs in".


Read more: http://www.couriermail.com.au/travel/news/no-teething-troubles-for-clive-palmers-dino-park/story-e6frfq80-1226598919235#ixzz2NjmGRXpH

Clive Palmer running for Federal Parliament, says he wants to be PM

Clive Palmer announces his run for Federal Parliament saying he wants to be prime minister. Picture: Mark Calleja

BILLIONAIRE miner Clive Palmer says he will contest the seat of Fairfax on the Sunshine Coast and wants to be prime minister.
Mr Palmer launched his United Australia Party this morning and said candidates would run in all 150 lower house seats.
"I’m running to be the prime minister of Australia," Mr Palmer said.
"I am standing because I think I can offer better service to the community than anyone else."
Mr Palmer said he had "made enough wealth" and was seeking to enter parliament at the September 14 election because he wanted to "serve the Australian people".
"Now is the time for Australia to claim back itself," he said.
Mr Palmer said there was very little difference between the Labor and Liberal parties.
"I am fed up with watching television and seeing Tony Abbott who is no different to Julia Gillard," he said.

Mr Palmer said over coming weeks "major figures in politics, in this nation’s history" would join his party.
"They will make a courageous stand to get government back for the people," he said.
He said the UAP was not intended to compete with Bob Katter’s Australia Party.
"We are not there to offer or to compete with the Katter party we are there to change the government of this nation and that’s the reason we are standing."
Palmer's run labelled a 'stunt'
Former prime minister Kevin Rudd, a Queensland MP, said he was surprised that Mr Palmer had waited until just five months before the September poll to unveil his true intentions.
"Anyone in Australia can stick their hand up and have a go, it’s democracy," Mr Rudd told the Seven Network’s Sunrise program.
"But the thing with Clive is why on earth are you doing it now? If you are going to run and you are going to put a lot of money in behind your campaign, at least the Australian people have the right to put you under some scrutiny about what policies you would take to an election and whether they should be supported or not.
“I think this last minute stunt like Clive has got in mind is not good because people want to know what you would change."
Mr Palmer, the founder of Queensland resource giant Mineralogy, has previously been a massive donor to the Liberal National Party, but relinquished his membership last year due to differences.
Last night he confirmed he would seek to re-form the United Australia Party, which was dissolved in 1945.
The former life member of the Liberal National Party said the new UAP would contest 127 lower house seats in the September federal election, and stand for all seats in the Senate.
Julia Gillard this morning lashed Mr Palmer for claiming neither big political party cared about indigenous infant mortality.
"That claim is complete rubbish from Mr Palmer," the Prime Minister told ABC Radio in Darwin.
"We’ve been very focused on indigenous mortality rates, child mortality … so the facts are always good to acquaint yourself with and I suggest Mr Palmer acquaint himself with those facts."
On Mr Palmer’s plan to enter politics, Ms Gillard said it was a matter entirely for him.
"It’s all a question for Mr Palmer and the appropriate party registration processes," she said.
Mr Palmer said he would run for a Queensland-based seat but has not confirmed which one.
Last year he said he would seek LNP pre-selection in Wayne Swan’s Brisbane-based electorate of Lilley, but pulled out at the last minute. He has also nominated Mr Rudd’s electorate of Griffith and Bob Katter’s seat of Kennedy.
This morning Mr Swan said Labor would never "bow to vested interests like Mr Palmer". He said Mr Palmer was only seeking to enter politics because he was "pretty upset that he doesn’t control LNP".
Opposition treasury spokesman Joe Hockey said Mr Palmer was a "fairly unique individual".
"He is out there in his own orbit and he is entitled to that place," Mr Hockey said.
"I’m with Kevin, I want to see his policy."
Deputy Liberal Leader Julie Bishop said Mr Palmer was entitled to put his hand up for election, but that if voters wanted real change they should vote for the Coalition on September 14.
"I welcome a contest of ideas," she said.
Palmer seeks to crush "Uniting Australia Party"
Mr Palmer has promised to crush an attempt by the "Uniting Australia Party" to register with the Australian Electoral Commission and has until May 24 to dispute its claim to the similar-sounding name.
But his fury is unlikely to move the Australian Electoral Commission, given that his own party is yet to appear on the register of parties.
Mr Palmer - whose nephew Blair Brewster last year trademarked the United Australia Party - says he will "absolutely" lodge an objection on the basis of the similarity between the two names, despite only learning of the new party on Wednesday when contacted by The Courier-Mail.
"They can't do that because we've got the trademark for the United Australia Party and we'll object to it," he said.
But the trademark may not be enough to convince the AEC to reject the name, which would leave Mr Palmer until only May 13 to lodge an application for a new name for the September Federal election.
Mr Palmer's proposed United Australia Party does not appear on the AEC's Current Register of Political Parties.
Meanwhile, the Uniting Australia Party, registered by Daniel Watt of Daisy Hill and nine other party members, lists preventing the sale of farming land to "non-nationals" as its top priority.
It also aims to "stop the lifelong perks of ex-prime ministers and MPs".
Secretary John Smith said the party had already amassed 700 members and planned to enter four candidates in the Queensland senate race, and candidates were being sought for a possible push for Lower House seats.
Mr Smith, who said the party had "nothing to do with Clive Palmer", said he was confident the billionaire's objection would not be upheld by the AEC.
"There's no stoush over the name as far as the electoral commission is concerned," he said.
"There was a worry if he had registered it with the AEC, then we probably wouldn't have been able to use it. But he's not a registered party."
Prior to the state election, Bob Katter was forced to drop "The Australian Party" as an abbreviation for his party as it sounded too similar to other names bearing the word "Australian".
An AEC spokesman declined to comment on the dispute.


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/national-news/clive-palmers-political-party-under-threat-of-hijacking/story-fncynjr2-1226629545317#ixzz2RWpcRZQU

Palmer, Gillard, Milne, Abbott.

I dont know which is the smallest evil.

*prays for sexy party candidate in electorate.*

I'm embarrassed that this bloke comes from my State. Grant Kenny is another one who embarrasses me as a Qld'er.

Sitting MPs to join federal candidate Clive Palmer's party

BILLIONAIRE federal candidate Clive Palmer said that by tomorrow, two or more current sitting MPs will defect to his party ahead of the election.
Mr Palmer told journalists today that he will run a candidate in every lower house seat, with two or more being current sitting MPs.
He also revealed his Queensland office was broken into last night, and he claims it is part of a political conspiracy.
More to come


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/sitting-mps-to-join-federal-candidate-clive-palmers-party/story-e6frfkp9-1226631444557#ixzz2RooB2Qm8

Well, Gillard really.

Greens are nutjobs. No way you'd elect them.

Abbott, psycho, vacuous half-wit with no policies beyond three word slogans, with an indication his policies will result in little more than trying to create a dystopian corporatocracy for the benefit of News Limited and the mining companies.

Palmer, lol. I'd rather not take the risk of a GCU job on the entire nation.

Gillard... at least they've got policies.

Peter Slipper joins Clive Palmer's United Australia Party


New recruit: Former Speaker Peter Slipper is joining Clive Palmer's party. Picture: Gary Ramage
FORMER Parliamentary Speaker and ex-Liberal MP-turned independent Peter Slipper has joined billionaire Clive Palmer's United Australia Party.
Mr Palmer today confirmed Mr Slipper had applied to become a member of the Party - and his application had been accepted.
But Mr Slipper won't be standing for the seat of Fisher.
A United Australia Party statement said Bill Schoch - Mr Palmer's Coolum Resort manager - remained the Party’s endorsed candidate for Fisher in the next Federal election.

Peter Slipper has joined Clive Palmer's United Australia Party. Picture: Mark Calleja


The statement said: "United Australia Party Secretary and endorsed candidate for the seat of Dickson Clive Mensink said the United Australia Party was an open and inclusive party that welcomed members from all political, social and economic backgrounds."
“The United Australia Party is about delivering common sense policies to the nation,” the statement said.
Mr Palmer said the Party wanted to create more jobs and build a stronger economy.
“Taxes need to be reduced to stimulate growth in the economy and restore consumer and business confidence.

The rot has to be stopped.”

United Australia Party intends to field candidates in all seats at the September 14 election.



Read more: http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/peter-slipper-joins-clive-palmers-united-australia-party/story-e6frfkp9-1226639861716#ixzz2SyAdzYgY

Mirrors the 'signings' Palmer made for his Football Australia; discarged idiots that nobody likes in an attempt to gain 'authenticity'

This party wont exist by the elections, much like Football Australia didnt exist at crunch time.

But: http://unitedaustralia.org/join-uap/

Palmer United Party stands for and is committed in its efforts and vision to carry out the following functions:

Party Officials should not be Lobbyists, thereby taking a strong position on Paid Political Lobbyists saving tax payers dollars and introducing Fair Policies

Abolish Carbon Tax

Revising the current Australian Governments Refugee Policy to ensure Australia is protected and refugees are given opportunities for a better future and lifestyle

Creating Mineral Wealth to continuously contribute to the welfare of the Australian community. This will be achieved by utilising mineral resources from Queensland and Western Australia, and incentives from the Commonwealth of Australia to establish downstream processing in the States of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia ; and exporting products at a higher dollar value, thereby creating more revenue , jobs, tax and more facilities.

Establishing a System where people create wealth in various parts of the country and for that wealth should flow back to the Community. For example, if the region creates wealth it should go back to the community. This way we develop the whole country and not just Sydney and Melbourne, but we develop right across Australia where the wealth is.

http://unitedaustralia.org/policies/

Mr Palmer said the Party wanted to create more jobs and build a stronger economy.

“Taxes need to be reduced to stimulate growth in the economy and restore consumer and business confidence.

The rot has to be stopped.”

Gaz wants in.

Clive Palmer won't make preference deals

Billionaire Clive Palmer's United Australia Party will not do preference deals with other parties in the federal election. Picture: Brett Costello


CLIVE Palmer's political party will not make any preference deals ahead of the federal election.
The Queensland mining magnate intends to field candidates in all lower house and Senate races in the federal election under the Palmer United Party name, provided it is registered.
But he says he won't do preference deals with other parties.
"We won't be doing any deals with anyone," he told ABC's Q&A program on Monday.
"I'll be hoping we get a lot of preferences from (Opposition Leader) Tony Abbott, we'll accept his preferences gratefully.
"I don't think our preferences will be distributed."
Parties often do deals relating to Senate ballots, where they can decide how preferences will be distributed if electors vote above the line.
For House of Representative races, preference deals relate to how to vote cards.
Bob Katter says his Katter's Australian Party will work out preferences on a seat-by-seat and state-by-state basis.
"But if anyone thinks that we're there to jump when the Liberal Party cracks the whip, you're making one hell of a big mistake," he told Q&A.
He likened the two-party system to the Coles and Woolworths supermarket duopoly.
"I can't see any difference in their policies," he said.
Mr Palmer said Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Mr Abbott were both "pretty boring".
"If you're happy with everything that's being done and that's enough for you and your family...you should vote again for Tony Gillard (Gillard) and Julia Abbott (Abbott)," he said.


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/national-news/palmer-wont-make-preference-deals/story-fncynjr2-1226641596919#ixzz2TD82YQxI

Billionaire Clive Palmer confirms his wife is pregnant


BIG PLANS: Clive and Anna Palmer with daughter Mary in front of a poster for his planned Titanic II cruise liner.

IF you noticed a spring in Clive Palmer's step as he touts his Titanic-like tilt for Canberra, it's because the billionaire has a baby on board.
The mischief-making mining magnate told news.com.au that his wife, Bulgarian-born Anna, is eight weeks pregnant.
"I think, like most Australians who are having babies, I'm pretty happy about it," he said.
"I found out a couple of weeks ago and it's a big celebration for me. I look forward to becoming prime minister and a new dad at the same time.
"(Anna) is excited and happy. Our other children Michael, Emily and Mary are all excited about it."
Mr Palmer married Anna, 20 years his junior, in 2007. Mary arrived a year later.


Clive and Anna Palmer at a Titanic event in August 2012. Image: Bernice Wood.

His eldest two children are from his marriage to his first wife Susan, who he lost to cancer.
The 59-year-old said that while his three kids "seemed pretty happy" with him as a dad, he could probably do better.
"I'm sure I'm not doing enough, I'm sure I can be doing more," he said.
"No parent is ever doing enough.



"You've got to remember when they give a baby to you at the hospital it's only got the husband and wife to look after it in the world and it's a sacred trust you've got to take very seriously."
Queensland's richest man - who is busily juggling his business empire, Titanic II project and politics - said they were yet to consider baby names.
But he wouldn't rule out Rose or Jack, the names of characters from the film Titanic.
"Rose would be good. We'll see how it goes," he said.


Clive Palmer with his wife Anna, daughters Emily and Mary, and son Michael in 2009. Image: News Queensland.

"We'll make sure we have a name that makes sure everyone realises that he's an individual or she's an individual. That's what important with a name."
Right now the billionaire, who is launching a fledgling political party, has bigger issues at hand.
Last night he hit another hurdle in trying to register his Palmer United Party (PUP) before the federal election.
He said the Australian Electoral Commission had rejected the PUP because it had too many members.


PARTY TIME: Clive Palmer announces his candidate for the Sunshine Coast seat of Fisher, Palmer resort manager Bill Schoch. Picture: Megan Slade

But if his bold bid for the lodge succeeds, Mr Palmer said running the country will come first.
"Being prime minister is more important (than kids) because you've got a stake in the country and their future and you know what other people having kids are going through," he said.
"But nothing can take the place of time and love. You've got to make sure you read stories to your kids every night before they go to bed so they realise they're important.
"I'm a person who's got a lot of good support staff and resources. I've got my own plane, cars and staff so having that support really helps you a lot (to juggle everything)."


Read more: http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/billionaire-clive-palmers-wife-is-pregnant/story-fnet08xa-1226641873794#ixzz2TEVmYvPq

Don't worry guys, Higgins will help him out.

Glenn Lazarus will vie for a seat in the Federal Senate after joining Clive Palmer's United Party


United ... Scott Higgins, Clive Palmer and Glenn Lazarus. Source: Glenn Barnes / News Limited

Former Test prop Glenn Lazarus will stand for the senate on Clive Palmer's Palmer United Party ticket.

By getting to the end of his maiden press conference in Brisbane, Lazarus has already enjoyed a longer political career than his former State of Origin rival and ex-Canberra Raiders teammate Mal Meninga, whose political ambitions came to an abrupt end in a comical press conference in 2001.

Lazarus has earmarked Palmer, the eccentric Queensland mining billionaire, as an outstanding choice to be Australia’s next Prime Minister.

"I am standing to help deliver the vision of the Palmer United Party for all Australians,”’ said Lazarus, nicknamed the Brick with Eyes during his State of Origin days with NSW.

"Right now the nation as a whole desperately needs an alternative to the tired and clueless government of Julia Gillard and the Tony Abbott-led Opposition, which has virtually the same policies as Labor.

"We need someone with integrity and expertise that can lead us out of this economic crisis and create community wealth and jobs. It’s time for a change to Clive Palmer and the Palmer United Party.”

Palmer announced the Queensland Senate team to stand for the party at the September 14 federal election Thursday.



He said joining Lazarus will be veteran Brisbane barrister and former crown prosecutor Harry Fong and former A-League football goalkeeper Scott Higgins.

Lazarus is 47 and won premierships with Canberra, Brisbane and Melbourne Storm, played 22 State of Origin matches for NSW and 21 Tests for Australia. He lives in Brisbane.

Meninga announced he would be standing as an Independent for a seat in the ACT Legislative assembly in 2001 but soon after withdrew by saying: "And the thing about that is, I guess, I was a public figure and I was put on the podium where I was just a person out there ... I'm buggered, I'm sorry, I have to resign."

I have this sick feeling we're going to turn into America soon and guys like this are going to get in.

I have this sick feeling we're going to turn into America soon and guys like this are going to get in.

I don't think that's particularly likely with the Westminster system.

It's plausible though. Especially when so many people are looking for an alternative to the assclowns we have at the moment.

But the second palmer gets in power the minimum wage will be cut and taxes will be restructured to favour the rich.

I would like to think the majority (and that includes the very stupid, fucked up twisted sick minded fools, not forgeting the ferals) of Australian voters would be smarter then elect this fool or any of his henchmen, In all seriousness, if this "political" party came to power I think I'd move to Fiji and open a dive shop.