August 31, 2011

G-Shock Moment In Time Party At Lo-Fi Darlinghurst, by Eva Rinaldi - 31st August 2011


Darlinghurst's Lo-Fi Collective was pumping hard tonight as Casio (the watch brand) largely financed the liquor fuelled festivities.

Celebrities were a plenty, and as can be expected Big Boi...real name Antwan AndrĂ© Patton    (American Hip Hop Artist from Outkast) turned up late.

There were plenty of Casio watches on display. We're not sure if Casio knows about Patton's colourful biography and powerful news media portfolio.

Patton's mates DJ Mafia, DJ Cam Mahoney and a few of Bondi's Bondi Rescue boys and Maroubra's Bra Boy's also joined in the party festivities, whipping on and off the media wall where the pap's got their shots.

We think Lo-Fi collective is looking to become a well known cool place to hang out and party in Sydney, and if that's the case, they achieved it tonight, al-be-it, by having quite a few controversial characters on hand.

Male model type Didier Cohen also worked the media, as did countless others hoping to get their mug's in the celebrity section of the weekend newspapers.


Didier Cohen


 Nikki Phillips

Nacho Pop

G-SHOCK WATCH


Websites

Kinselas

Casio

Big Boi

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

SYDNEY REVEALS ITS NEW DARLING

        SYDNEY REVEALS ITS NEW DARLING



The Darling, Sydney's newest hotel, will breathe new life into the Sydney hotel landscape when it opens in October 2011.  Nestled on the edge of Sydney harbour, The Darling will exemplify attention to detail, making this imaginative gem an indulgent and relaxing experience.  The boutique accommodation will boast panoramic views of the city skyline, Harbour Bridge and out to the Blue Mountains.  

The Darling will include 171 stylish rooms and suites, with the top floors dedicated to the ultimate in luxury, featuring two bedroom penthouse suites.  The suites, uniquely designed by renowned LA designer, Lawrence Lee, feature floor-to-ceiling Sydney harbour views, bespoke furniture, fireplaces, media rooms, butler service and a private VIP arrival. 

The Darling is a key feature in the $860 million refurbishment and extension of The Star, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination and a strong addition to Sydney’s overall leisure landscape.  The entire complex will be re-orientated to face Darling Harbour, plus will introduce over 20 new bars, cafes and restaurants, a shopping area and a fully refurbished casino when it re-opens towards the end of the year. 

The Darling has been designed as a stand-alone hotel, with its own arrival experience, amenities and alluring personality. It is the first five-star new build hotel in Sydney since the 2000 Olympic Games.  Built in addition to the existing hotel and apartments, The Darling will bring the total rooms and suites at The Star to over 650 across three towers. 

Introducing Drew Schlesinger

The new hotel General Manager, Drew Schlesinger, was hand-picked to manage the new hotel, based on his experience and success of opening and managing landmark hotels around the globe including the InterContinental at New York Times Square, The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and The Water Club in Atlantic City and the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles. 

“Our philosophy of The Darling is to take every aspect, whether it is a water glass or a coat hanger, and pay close attention to its form and function. From the coloured, soft coat hangers, to the hand-made drinking glasses in guest rooms.  From the Egyptian cotton thread count bed sheets to the quality of the mattresses,” Drew explained.

“The architecture and design is sleek with subdued hues, yet the ambiance is warm and inviting – and there's certainly nothing modest about our plush comforts.  The spa will round out the experience and be a welcome addition to Sydney,” he added. 

Spa and Restaurant

A luxurious day spa with 16 private rooms is set to deliver pampering to the highest levels.  An extensive array of Asian and European inspired treatments will feature at the spa, including an indulgent hamam, which is a Turkish variant of a steam bath, sauna or Russian Bath, distinguished by a focus on water.

The spa will be run by experienced international spa operator, Jeanette Haua.  Jeanette’s experience includes managing Shangri La CHI spas in Mactan, Boracay and Manila in the Phillipines, plus spa experience in Fiji and Turkey. 

The hotel will also be home to a stunning, contemporary Japanese restaurant called Sokyo, from Chase Kojima, formerly with Nobu restaurants, delivering an exciting and unexpected menu. 

Luxury Retail Offering

A sophisticated new retail area will feature some of the leading luxury brands, including Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique, Gucci and Bottega Veneta.  Boasting 5,500m2 of floor space, the upscale retail space will be conveniently located between the hotel, refurbished casino, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Other features of The Darling include:

An outdoor custom designed pool area with a deck, cabanas and bar.
Access to the 20 new restaurants, bars and cafes featuring renowned Australian and international chefs including David Chang, Teage Ezard, Stefano Manfredi, Adriano Zumbo, Flying Fish & Chips and Golden Century.
Access to the new retail collection including the following brands:
G Star Raw, Calvin Klein Jeans, IM lingerie, Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique, Salvatore Ferragamo , LK Jewellery, Gucci, Bottega Veneta , Moda Emporio

Reservations for The Darling will start from August 2011, on 1800 800 830.  The Star will open its new bars, restaurants and retail collection from September whilst The Darling opens in late October 2011.

For further information, please visit http://www.thedarling.com.au/

Notes to Editors

Room features:
-          King and double/double size beds plus pillows designed exclusively for The Darling
-          Kitchens located in penthouse suites and spa tubs in selected suites
-          Sheets – 400 thread count Egyptian long-staple cotton throughout
-          High Definition HD LED TVs and cable TV with on demand features
-          Latest in-room entertainment centre (iPod, radio etc)
-          State of the art telecommunications systems with conference and speaker capability with fibre optics and IP TV’s.
-          Private/direct line access availability to specific rooms and data port connections for modem/fax hook ups

Drew Schlesinger- Bio

With 34 years of experience, Drew has served as General Manager and Director of Operations in major metropolitan cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Atlanta. Most recently he was the General Manager for the InterContinental at New York Times Square.

Drew has also managed operations of the The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and The Water Club in Atlantic City; managed the pre-opening and grand opening of 70 Park Avenue Hotel, The Kimpton Hotels & Resorts’ first hotel in New York City; and served as General Manager of Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles, an Ian Schrager Hotel. 








August 29, 2011

Miranda Kerr- relaunch Kora Organic Skincare Sydney, by Eva Rinaldi 29th August 2011


Miranda Kerr was lovely in Sydney today at the and today she hit the David Jones store in Sydney at 12pm to relaunch of her Kora organics skincare range.

The supermodel signed autographs for fans and is clearly excited about it.

After having recently given birth to her baby Flynn, Miranda has said she was content to give up modelling and focus on her other projects if her body didn't bounce back.

"It's funny, but I really didn't mind if my body didn't go back to what it was before," Kerr said.
"I had decided during the pregnancy that between my skincare range, Kora Organics, and my book, Treasure Yourself, that there were plenty of other things I could do in my life.





Photo - Eva Rinaldi

August 28, 2011

Soccer Final: Abbotsford Wolves VS Strathfield by Eva Rinaldi - 28th August 2011

 


It was always going to be an ultra competitive game - the grand final of the season, as the Abbotsford Wolves took on Strathfield.

Both teams, their parents and other supporters were reved up for this one.

The whistle blew at 10.15am and The Wolves started with a howl, with Strathfield quickly establishing themselves as a dangerous rival.

The odds were further stacked against the popular Abbotsford Wolves when it became apparent they had just 1 reserve against 4 back-ups on the Strathfield team. The reserves later showed to be a pivotal element in the finals encounter, as Strathfield later went on to maim Wolves with 3 serious injuries in the course of the match.

There were no goals in the first half with Wolves failing to capitalise on many close calls.

Strathfield scored late into the second half taking them to a 1 - Nil lead, where the score stayed for the remained of the match.

Just 15 minutes into the second half disaster struck again for the Wolves, as celebrated player Joseph Rinaldi suffered a leg injury that is understood to be a fracture, thanks to studs beneath the left knee. The referee believes it was an accident and no penalty was issued.

The bottom line - the better team won and it was a most enjoyable game from a spectators perspective. Both sides shook hands at the conclusion of the match and were quick to grab drinks and celebrate with their supporters in attendance.
Let's hear it for both teams and for another enjoyable Sunday afternoon of soccer.










Final score: 1 - Nil

Injury list: Joseph Rinaldi, Harry Bown and Ricky Morsello (all Abbotsford Wolves)

Websites


Abbotsford Wolves (Juniors) http://www.ajfc.net.au

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr http://www.flickr.com/evarinaldiphotography

Eva Rinaldi Photography http://www.evarinaldi.com

August 23, 2011

Abduction' Premiere Via Fox Entertainment Quarter Sydney, by Eva Rinaldi - 23rd August 2011



Sydney movie hub - The Entertainment Quarter, went crazy tonight as 1000s showed up for the Abduction premiere.

Twilight star Taylor Lautner advised he was shocked at the awesome reception he received when Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan and Tobey Maguire were just a few metres away filming The Great Gatsby.

"It's amazing the support I get. You never really get used to it," he told the press at tonight's premiere of his flick Abduction.

"It's because of everyone here that I get to do what I do. I'm always thankful."

Lautner spent towards an hour getting snapped and signing autographs for his many fans, some of which slept overnight to get a top place in the fan barrier area.

The cat is out of the bag - Lautner is a black belt in karate and just loves doing most of his own stunts. His stunts appear to be world class, but I may be a touch bias.

The action thriller opens in Sydney cinemas September 22.

"I got to put some of that (martial arts) to use which is exciting and I managed to come out with just a few bumps and bruises."

In the movie there is a "Who can you trust" type of theme running.  I say you can trust this movie will not let you down if your looking for an action - thriller.





Websites

Abduction

Fox Studios Australia

The Entertainment Quarter

Village Roadshow

Lionsgate

Eva Rinaldi Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

August 21, 2011

IGT Wins Again with Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™


It's a blockbuster summer for International Game Technology ( IGT) with the debut of Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™ Reel MultiPLAY Slots, the sequel to the award-winning Sex And The City™ slot machine.


This new slot game is appearing in casinos worldwide where it is sure to be equally as fantastic as the original.


"The original Sex And The City™ Slots remain one of the most popular games on casino floors throughout the world," said Tom Mikulich, IGT senior vice president of MegaJackpots. "And if early reviews are any indication, we expect the new Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™ title to be just as popular with players. The combination of unique game play and interactive bonuses will entertain fans of the original game and new players alike."
Players will experience even more glitz and glamour on the casino floor as Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™ joins the award-winning, player-favorite original, Sex And The City™ Slots. And not only have players fallen in love with the smash-hit Sex And The City™ slot theme, it's also a favorite with the casino industry. According to the Roth Fantini Quarterly Slot Survey of January 2011, the original Sex And The City™ title, introduced in 2009, continues its lead as the top performing premium leased game in North America.


"It's hard to imagine a tougher act to follow than the original Sex And The City™ slot game, but with Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™, IGT clearly has another big winner," said Robert Allen, corporate vice president of Casino Operations at Pinnacle Entertainment.
Adorned with a diamond-lit cabinet, the Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™ game is the perfect sequel. Along with its sophisticated presentation, Sex And The City Big Diamonds!™ Reel MultiPLAY interface comes with all new bonus content and features five progressive pick bonus levels, one for each of the five characters of the hit series.  


Mr. Big is back and his winning charm is bigger than ever. He steals players' hearts with a random wilds diamond shower feature in the base game.


Carrie's bonus is called The Right to Shoes, and in this version, players will experience a marvelous new twist using the "accept or reject" bonus feature. Charlotte's bonus is the Glamorous Gifts bonus, which awards the player a virtual wheel spin. In Miranda's Retail Therapy bonus, players touch the screen to spin the wheel to award shopping bags filled with credits, multipliers and maybe an additional spin. And in Samantha's Glimmer Ring bonus, players can populate gems in the top box display while a diamond ring moves back and forth, highlighting the potential for big wins.


Sex and the City™ Video Slots,

Premiering the Sex and the City slot game. Winning never looked so good.
The Sex and the City™ video slot is the first MegaJackpots game to feature IGT's top-performing MultiPLAY game interface. The characters, music and video from the show are combined with customized hardware, superior math, truly entertaining bonuses and the potential to win more – it's one stellar package. Fans of the television series will be in haute heaven when they play the game, but even players who are only slightly familiar with the series will find something to love. The branding is spot-on, and the game play is off-the-charts fun, too. Sex and the City™ slots include nine different variations of bonuses that feature the show's characters. Players will want to see them all. It's simply fabulous.
Sex and the City Slots Comes to MegaJackpotsSex and the City™ Video Slots Game machines banked in pairs with an attention-grabbing topper.

August 13, 2011

Sydney's Hilton Hotel brings back Extreme Cabaret By Popular Demand, by Eva Rinaldi - 13th August 2011


Sydney's in-crowd was once again back at The Hilton's Zeta Bar last night for more teasing and titillation by Extreme Cabaret.

Friday's at Zeta have never been hotter than at current thanks to the cabaret and carnival themes.

You're be delighted to hear that the cabaret human statues were back, as were the dancers. Last night saw the debut of little person 'Mini Lady Gaga' who added extra Moulin Rouge energy to the arts collaboration.

The award winning Zeta Bar was going crazy, in a good way, and guys and girls lapped it up.  The bar sure did a healthy trade, and we understand a number of last minute accommodation bookings were taken in by the Hilton Hotel, which is always a good sign of a fun and hot night out in Sexy Sin City.

The 8 foot tall (on stilts) ringmaster / MC was back, which acted as quite the conversation piece and ice breaker facilitator for conversations between lads and lassies in attendance.

If you didn't already hear The Hilton's Zeta Bar will be presenting their Extreme Cabaret each Friday till the end of September, already many club goers in Sydney are being influenced into dressing up in Extreme Cabaret garb.

It's all just in time for 'Underbelly Razor' which returns to Channel Nine on Sunday August 21. Ladies, don't be afraid to dress up as vice queens Kate Leigh or Tilly Devine.

The Zeta Bar remains a  favourite of many Sydney based celebs, but no one is disclosing the names of who is showing up each and every Friday. You just have to turn up and play "name that celeb". The Extreme Cabaret "dolls" will be back, and they are looking forward to tantalising and titillating you, so don't disappoint them will you darlings.

PS: wondering what to wear? Feathers, black with red and blue and white are in, as are shades of conservative bondage fashion, but don't forget - it's Hilton, not Kings Cross, so if in doubt play it a little safe, and leave it to the performers to show off their skin.




Websites

Hilton Hotel Sydney http://www.hiltonsydney.com.au



August 12, 2011

Myer launches Spring Summer collection at Sydney's Carriageworks, by Eva Rinaldi - 11th August 2011



Sydney's Carriageworks caught fashion fever tonight as the Myer Spring Summer 2011/12 Collection launched.

Vintage maxi dresses, bikini, floppy hats and funky music was all the rage.

Myer ambassadors Jennifer Hawkins (former Miss Universe... just in case you forgot) and male model Kris Smith were the catwalk headliners. The new brands welcomed in were Sass & Bide, Fleur Wood and Jayson Brunsdon Black Label.

Hawkins opened the show for the 500 guests, in an eye-catching sass & bide ensemble, complete with a long, gold sequinned jacket.

'Our Jen' spruiked Cozi, which was fairly well received. Controversial Wayne Cooper did his thing, as did Leona Edmiston. Cooper featured lots of pink dresses, tops and trousers; a beige silk suit and a nude - white jumpsuit. Edmiston played it relatively safe with black dresses, complimented with fingerless gloves and head scarves.

Judy Coomber, Myer group general manager of fashion and accessories, went with a foursome of themes in the impressive collection.

The first is about bold colours including tangerine, emerald, gold, red, purple and fuchsia.

Myer's range also includes Riviera-inspired ensembles. Vintage remains popular, with softish florals, maxi dresses and big hats.

So ladies, believe me, there will be plenty of opportunities to splash your fashion dollar on this season in just about any fashion that takes your fancy.




Websites

Myer

Carriageworks

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

August 11, 2011

MADAME TUSSAUDS SET TO ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET


MADAME TUSSAUDS SET TO ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET
ON SYDNEY’S DARLING HARBOUR

·         Madame Tussauds confirmed to open in Darling Harbour in May 2012
·         First brand new Australian celebrity figure announced in the line-up of high profile stars, legends and heroes

Sydney, 11th August 2011: One of the world’s most famous attractions is set to change the local entertainment scene as Madame Tussauds arrives on the shores of Sydney in May 2012. The first ever attraction of its kind to launch in Australia, Madame Tussauds Sydney will be making its grand entrance on the Aquarium Wharf in Darling Harbour next year.

As the sixth attraction of Merlin Entertainments Group (‘Merlin’) in Sydney, the hugely successful Madame Tussauds franchise will offer the ultimate celebrity experience and add a completely new dimension to Sydney’s attractions by bringing the glitz and glamour to the local entertainment scene. The newest attraction will be situated next to Merlin’s other family attractions such as Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney, which will further reinstate Darling Harbour’s position as the go-to destination in Sydney.

Further reflecting Australia’s unique culture and personality, Madame Tussauds is also proud to announce that their first, unique-to-Australia celebrity figure to appear in the line-up of local and international figures will be Home & Away star Ray Meagher.

Meagher, who is popularly known for his role as Alf Stewart in the series Home & Away since 1988, will be one of the first local celebrities to be featured in Madame Tussauds Sydney amongst other Aussie celebrities and heroes.

Fans will be able to get up close and personal with their favourite Aussie stars including Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman who will be featured alongside other international A-listers like Johnny Depp and Lady Gaga; as well as politicians, literary and sports stars and many others.

The latest attraction will reflect the franchise’s 200 years of expertise and research, with each figure crafted with both a high level of artistry and accuracy. Most contemporary figures are also produced following sittings with the celebrities themselves – and talks are already well advanced with a number of Australian icons. Extensive research into producing wax figures includes hundreds of separate measurements, hours matching skin tone, eye and hair colour – with every individual hair inserted separately.  Celebrities and film studio wardrobe departments often supply clothing for their figures to Madame Tussauds, or designers will reproduce significant or iconic outfits as exact replicas.

Costing $14 million and featuring 1,800sqm of space, the new Madame Tussauds Sydney in Darling Harbour is the latest addition to Merlin’s four newly acquired attractions Sydney Aquarium and Oceanworld Manly, and the soon to be relaunched WILD LIFE Sydney and Sydney Tower Eye, which is set to offer endless entertaining and interactive fun for both locals and visitors alike. Madame Tussauds Sydney will be the 13th Madame Tussauds in the world and fifth in Asia Pacific  -  joining its highly successful sister attractions in Hong Kong, Shanghai, BangkokA short term travelling exhibition is also due to open soon in Tokyo. 

August 9, 2011

Green Lantern review; Sydney, Australia braces for premiere, by Eva Rinaldi - 9th August 2011

 

Mind you, the competition in the superhero genre has been pretty stiff, with Captain America: The First Avenger, X-Men: First Class and Thor, but the general feeling is that the movie should have been considerably better - especially considering a budget of around $200 million.

The blurb goes something like this...A test pilot is granted a mystical green ring that bestows him with other worldly powers, as well as membership into an intergalactic squadron tasked with keeping peace within the universe.

Green Lantern is almost certain to live on via the big screen, but likely not with the same director.

Despite the big-budget superhero movie’s rather disappointing box office performance so far, Warner Bros. executives still want to find a way to make a sequel work. Bringing superheroes from its DC Comics unit to the big screen is a top priority for the studio, and executives believe that the problem with "Green Lantern" was in execution, not concept. When quizzed they were happy to share the following:

"We had a decent opening so we learned there is an audience,” said Warner Bros. film group President Jeff Robinov, pointing to the film’s box office debut of $53 million. “To go forward we need to make it a little edgier and darker with more emphasis on action…. And we have to find a way to balance the time the movie spends in space versus on Earth."

After its luke warm opening, “Green Lantern” went green at the U.S box office, ending up with only $114 million. Its overseas performance in important countries such as Great Britain, Germany and Russia has also been weak. Australia isn't looking crash hot we must report, but Aussies are big super hero film buffs, so we will know soon enough.

No, before you ask us, lead actor Ryan Reynolds will not be doing the red carpet premier in Australia, but I'll show up anyway to take some snaps and to (hopefully) enjoy the movie, but I know I will have my work cut cut out for me.

The secret to enjoying this movie is to enjoy the superhero genre, and not to expect too much. Excelsior (not). DC Comics or even Marvel Entertainment would struggle to get this into a thumbs up category, but DC Comics is going to do a sequel we hear - in order to attempt to at least break even.

Our friends at Box Office Mojo asked the well versed readers a question, and the results speak for themselves...

Do you want to see a sequel to 'Green Lantern?'

41.5%  No.
33.6%  Yes.
24.8%  I don't care.

Future Of DC Superhero Flicks...

The future is already speculative, and this is especially true for DC superhero movies. We've got "The Dark Knight Rises,” the final chapter of director Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, coming out next season, followed by Zack Snyder’s Superman reboot, "Man of Steel," circa June 2013. Later that year or in 2014, Warner could very well move forward with a second Green Lantern or Flash movie. Robinov said the studio has "a solid script". The exec also remains keen in bringing DC heroes together for a "Justice League" movie.

We like his ambition, but let's get the basics right at DC first, before unleashing the best you may have to offer.

Green Lantern - slightly a green light, over a red light. See if for yourself and you be the judge... or Justice League, and make your vote count.

The green flick enjoys its Sydney, Australia premiere tonight.

The Players...

Director: Martin Campbell

Writer: Greg Berlanti

Actors:            Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Angela Bassett, Tim Robbins

Producer: Greg Berlanti

August 5, 2011

Hilton Hotel Sydney loves Extreme Cabaret; 2nd week running, by Eva Rinaldi - 5th August 2011





Sydney's in-crowd was once again delighted and titillated by Extreme Cabaret at the Hilton Hotel's Zeta Bar earlier tonight.

It's the second Friday night in a row that the famous Hotel has gone with the Extreme Cabaret theme, and tonight I was ecstatic to be asked to create a cabaret human statue for my wonderful new client.

The award winning Zeta Bar was going off once again and guys and girls lapped up the eye candy and took in the atmosphere.

Human Statue Victoria and dancer Missy helped keep the party going, helped along by the 8 foot tall (on stilts) ringmaster / MC.

The Hilton's Zeta Bar will be presenting their Extreme Cabaret each Friday till the end of September.

Some patrons were overheard saying that the human statue creation bore some resemblance to 'Underbelly Razor' costume themes.

The Zeta Bar is a favorite of many Sydney based celebs, but exactly who was there tonight was kept under wraps, and no one is saying names of who is to be there next Friday either, but rest assured the Extreme Cabaret "dolls" will be back.  Will you be there with bells (or feathers) on?

A big thank you and well done to the team at Hilton Hotel and Karina Vincent's Bar Solutions.

We're so looking forward to doing it all over again next Friday.


Websites

Hilton Hotel Sydney www.hiltonsydney.com.au



Human Statue Bodyart www.humanstatuebodyart.com.au


Eva Rinaldi Photography www.evarinaldi.com

August 4, 2011

Sydney bomb hoax teen keen to move forward, by Eva Rinaldi - 4th August 2011

     


The father of the teenage victim of last night's bomb hoax in Sydney's north shore suburb, Mosman, advises his family is eager for their lives to return to normal.

Madeleine Pulver, 18, spent 10 hours chained to a complex fake bomb in her Mosman home on Sydney's north shore.

The Year 12 student told police she was ambushed by a masked intruder about 2.30pm yesterday.

She was finally released about midnight after an operation which included explosives experts from the Australian Federal Police and the British military.

The NSW Robbery and Serious Crime Squad has set up a strike force to investigate the terrifying incident and are treating it as extortion.

In this afternoons press conference, Bill Pulver thanked police and their friends for their support.

"I can tell you that we, as parents, are extraordinarily proud of Maddie," Mr Pulver said.

"I think she has woken up this morning in pretty good spirits, she's a little tired, a little sore from holding this damned device in place for about 10 hours.

"But she is now, as we are, eager for her to get on with her life.

"So again, I sincerely ask you to respect our privacy going forward."

An emotionally drained Mr Pulver said he and his wife wanted to thank everyone who helped their daughter last night.

The first two hours of the delicate operation were left to a junior female officer who was left alone with Madeleine to make sure she did not move.

The policewoman had no specialist training or protective gear.

"You are a wonderful group of people and we will be forever grateful," Mr Pulver said.

"Maddie particularly wanted to thank those few officers... they were an incredible comfort during an horrific ordeal.

"She also wanted to thank an extraordinary group of friends, family, neighbours...

"Clearly there is an ongoing investigation and we would call for full support [with] the NSW police department."

Detective Superintendent Luke Moore says police are facing a complex and extensive investigation.

"It's very early stages in the investigation. I can tell you that we are still conducting extensive forensic examinations at the family home," he said.

"We have some initial lines of inquiry that we are following up and we will continue to do so."

Det Supt Moore confirmed there was a letter of demand attached to the device that was believed to be a bomb.

"It was an elaborate device certainly made to look as though it was potentially explosive," he said.

"We are treating this as an attempted extortion."

Det Supt Moore said police did not have a full description of the offender, but there was "no doubt" police were looking for a suspect.

He said police were hopeful of speaking with Madeleine in the next day or so.

The 18-year-old's private school, Wenona, has postponed its HSC trial exams and is offering counselling to students and staff.

School principal Dr Briony Scott has advised students not to speak to the news media, including paps, and to stay clear of social networking sites.

"Our staff will be able to provide additional support to Year 12 and extra counsellors will be at the school today," she said in a statement on the school's website.

"As police continue their investigations, we ask that the school community respects the integrity of their inquiries as well as the privacy of the family by not indulging in public commentary through the media or social networking sites," she said.




Websites

NSW Police

Australian Federal Police

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography