Swans cashed up after exits

THE spate of retirements at the Swans is likely to cut at least $2 million from the club's wage bill next season, giving it significant clout to chase rival clubs' players.

Rudd promises to publicly honour Iraq war troops for their 'fantastic job'

PRIME Minister Kevin Rudd has pledged to publicly recognise Australian troops who served in Iraq and ensure they are spared any Vietnam-style fallout from the widespread opposition to the war.