Firepower Sydney Kings

[gangsta boo]

Very interesting article about the sponsor/owner of the Sydney Kings


http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/rise-of-a-man-with-a-magic-mystery-pill/2007/01/07/1168104867997.html

[GordonG]

Extremely interesting, that...

[yuma]

Maybe the Kings will be moved to the Virgin Islands.

[Lemon Custard]

Roll up, roll up for the mystery pill.
Roll up, roll up for the mystery pill.
Roll up GOT EVERYTHING YOU NEED, roll up for the mystery pill.
Roll up SATISFACTION GUARANTEED, roll up for the mystery pill.
The magical mystery pill is hoping to take you away,
Hoping to take you away.

[Daevo]

Didn't season ticket holders get one of these magic pills? Did anybody here use it?

[meg]

He added: "We are not assisting the company that is registered in the Virgin Islands. What we are assisting is an Australian business that operates out of Perth, which is public knowledge and which is on the internet."

It's on the internet you say??? Oh, they must be above board then, I mean, if they're on the internet...

SUSS!!!

[DICKO]

So, basically, the Sydney Kings are either sponsored by :-

a) the Russian Mafia, or at least black market arms dealers

or

b) The Australian Government, through Austrade.

Along with the Rabbitohs, and the Tongan National Rugby team.

:shock:

[yuma]

Not just sponsered but owned by them. I dont think the people at Hills would be too happy to know that there favourite son played for a team possibly owned by the russian mafia.

[MacTavish]

How typical of the Kings though to try and out-do the other clubs :wink:

The Wildcats had a major sponsorship for 2 years from a mysterious Perth based communications company that didn't actually do anything so the Kings just had to out-do them buy being sponsored and then bought by an even more mysterious Perth based company with a dubious background :lol:

[gangsta boo]

Should I auction off my Firepower pills on ebay?? :lol:

[fan since the old snakepit]

Should I auction off my Firepower pills on ebay?? :lol:

Give them to Da Beast. They also help with weight loss.

[felix]

Should I auction off my Firepower pills on ebay?? :lol:

Maybe you should sign up some friends and sell it to them. Or even better, sign up a few Eastern bloc countries along with Russia and sell it to them.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/little-fuel-booster-shoots-for-the-stars/2007/01/07/1168104868041.html

[Splinky]

Reminds me of Oriant - Perth's previous somewhat odd sponsor.

[Judge_Dredd]

Wouldn't the Russian mafia be a step UP ethically from a timeshare company?

[DICKO]

Wouldn't the Russian mafia be a step UP ethically from a timeshare company?

:lol:

[Lemon Custard]

Yeah, I don't get random phone calls at all hours during the day from Firepower, like I did with Trendwest - and those stupid weekly competitions that you'd be hounded to enter. That said, I haven't met anyone (even Kings members who got them for free) who have bothered with the Firepower tablets.

[BlowJoggs]

I was thinking of giving mine to barney telling him they were cough lozenges.

"go Kings, go Jerry Beazley you are a monster

oh my my throat is a little dry for yelling for the Kings for the past 7 years"

"Here, barney have some "Fisherman's Friend""

"hey Cesar why are you making quotation marks with your fingers

are these really Fishermans Friends or are you pulling my leg.

Mmm, these take like my shoe with salt and pepper and all of a sudden I feel more fuel efficient."

[Bouncer]

I havn't used my Firepower pills either. Not sure why, maybe I am afraid it will send out signals and the Russian mafia will come and steal my car.

:D cheers :D

[Virus]

Well the good part of this is that Kings shouldn't have any more financial problems. If the Russian mafia are behind them, then if they get into financial trouble they can just steal/extort some more.

And they will have a cheap way of getting rid of underpeforming players without having to pay out contracts - "say hello to my little friend"

[Lemon Custard]

Firepower just isn't Russian enough. It would be way cooler if all the Kings' middle names went from 'Firepower' to something random in Russian. For example, BJ Классификация Carter, Luke сонорные Kendall or Bradley Smirnoff Sheridan.

[gangsta boo]

:lol: :lol: :lol:

I love it

oh and Ed Scott is player of the week :D

[Shaq]

How typical of the Kings though to try and out-do the other clubs :wink:

The Wildcats had a major sponsorship for 2 years from a mysterious Perth based communications company that didn't actually do anything so the Kings just had to out-do them buy being sponsored and then bought by an even more mysterious Perth based company with a dubious background :lol:

They were south east asian, not Perth based, and yeah, they were mysterious, even Perth fans had no idea who they were!

[DDFan]

:lol: :lol: :lol:

I love it

oh and Ed Scott is player of the week :D

Ed Scott got better. Now to be dubbed "Betta", or "Swalla" (pronounced, swolla).

Let this one go mods, it'll fly over their heads. :wink:

[DICKO]

They can cover their singlets in Классификация as well.

Like the Tigers do (Hello LV?!?!?!?!)with Chinese......Damned hard to work out what's going on on their singlets.

[DDFan]

They can cover their singlets in Классификация as well.

Like the Tigers do (Hello LV?!?!?!?!)with Chinese......Damned hard to work out what's going on on their singlets.

That mob tried to buy into Adelaide. Their slogan was to be, have a Maher JonG night on the tiles.

[GordonG]

Sydney Morning Herald not letting go of this one.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/aus ... 83570.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/austrade-helped-secretive-firm/2007/01/09/1168104983570.html)

"Curiouser and curiouser," said Alice...

[Judge_Dredd]

I didn't mind the suggested links with the Russian mafia and Roumanian arms dealers, or the implications of international money laundering. But if Wayne Carey is involved, you KNOW the whole thing stinks.

JD

[Poida]

Does Goorj drive around in a black Merc with tinted windows?

[DDFan]

Firepower just isn't Russian enough.

You want the Bullets to gun you outta the quarters, roulette style? :shock:
Happy dreams. :P

[DDFan]

BTW, could someone let Stumps know about this thread?

[Virus]

I wouldn't mind being the un-named investor that bought the $30,000 worth of 20 cent shares if it all comes off. By my calculations that would equate to $450,00 if the shares reach the $3 mark mentiooned in the article. Of course if it is all a scam, well the $30,00 is worth.......

[Judge_Dredd]

Pity I've got all my money tied up in the Sydney Harbour Bridge privatisation ...

[Stumps]

BTW, could someone let Stumps know about this thread?
I knew all about this thread. I was just wondering if you cared to explain what it had to do with the other one.

[DICKO]

I wouldn't mind being the un-named investor that bought the $30,000 worth of 20 cent shares if it all comes off. By my calculations that would equate to $450,00 if the shares reach the $3 mark mentiooned in the article. Of course if it is all a scam, well the $30,00 is worth.......

Wasn't it meant to have floated months ago, though? I wouldn't be too confident.

So far, anyone who they've asked about their "partnership" with Firepower denies that there is one. No-one knows anyone that's used their product....in fact I've never seen any of their products. One company claims that their revolutionary pill is actually just a re-branded product that THEY manufacture so their no vaulable IP involved.

The only income that has been mentioned is some sucker who forked out with $30k.....Wayne Carey..... and the Australian Government (speaking of suckers).

[DDFan]

BTW, could someone let Stumps know about this thread?
I knew all about this thread. I was just wondering if you cared to explain what it had to do with the other one.

Don't be so freak'n lazy. Put your head into it.

[Virus]

Wasn't it meant to have floated months ago, though? I wouldn't be too confident.

So far, anyone who they've asked about their "partnership" with Firepower denies that there is one. No-one knows anyone that's used their product....in fact I've never seen any of their products. One company claims that their revolutionary pill is actually just a re-branded product that THEY manufacture so their no vaulable IP involved.

The only income that has been mentioned is some sucker who forked out with $30k.....Wayne Carey..... and the Australian Government (speaking of suckers).
Yep. Two points that would of set alarm bells off in my head before throwing away large sums of money would have been "the company registered in the Virgin Islands" and the one "when the company floated on the Alternative Investment Market in London"

I think I'd prefer to invest my money in a safe investment, like an NBL club! I've heard there is one going cheap at the end of the season!

[meg]

The sad thing about this is that I have a friend who is developing an alternative energy source using waste oil (including cooking oils), and he has had to go overseas to garner financial support...the Australian government just doesn't want to know about it. Anything to keep the oil companies happy.

I'm interested to know why none of you have tried out the magic pills...nobody actually trusting them? :wink:

[isaac]

(Cleaning up.)

[gangsta boo]

Hope someone is there to catch the Kings if they fall.

Thats something that has me worried

[Lemon Custard]

I'm interested to know why none of you have tried out the magic pills...nobody actually trusting them? :wink:

Well, scientifically, they aren't exactly proven to work. Most people would care about something worth an infinite (literally) amount more than the pills - which cost all of us lucky members, nothing. Plus, my car is royalty.

[Judge_Dredd]

A Nissan Cedric?

[DDFan]

I'm interested to know why none of you have tried out the magic pills...nobody actually trusting them? :wink:

Well, scientifically, they aren't exactly proven to work. Most people would care about something worth an infinite (literally) amount more than the pills - which cost all of us lucky members, nothing. Plus, my car is royalty.

KINGSwood? :P :shock:

[Lemon Custard]

No. Ask someone who had off topic last year.

She's beautiful and she just turned one!!

[gangsta boo]

Princess Jazzmine

[Lemon Custard]

And I totally bought a Pez dispenser mascot..

:oops:

[gangsta boo]

:lol:

[Stumps]

BTW, could someone let Stumps know about this thread?
I knew all about this thread. I was just wondering if you cared to explain what it had to do with the other one.
Don't be so freak'n lazy. Put your head into it.
Lazy? I was offering you the courtesy of letting you dig your own grave.

[DDFan]

BTW, could someone let Stumps know about this thread?
I knew all about this thread. I was just wondering if you cared to explain what it had to do with the other one.
Don't be so freak'n lazy. Put your head into it.
Lazy? I was offering you the courtesy of letting you dig your own grave.

Dig it for me, I'll swan dive into it. :P

[T-Rich]

18. Firepower – just the latest in a long line of alleged fuel improvers

Michael Pascoe writes:

Firepower, major sports sponsor, recipient of federal government export grants and purveyor of magic petrol pills and diesel potions, is holding a media briefing this morning. Unfortunately it’s right on Crikey’s deadline, but we’ll see what they have to say.


In the meantime, a wise and loyal subscriber provides this useful link to gadgets website, Dan's Data. Half way down the page Dan does a nice job answering a reader’s letter about Firepower and linking in turn to Tony’s Guide to Fuel Saving Gadgets – a revhead’s more technical guide to various scams, falsehoods and economies-of-truth.


Dan and Tony both know a lot more about the science of the internal combustion engine than I do, but what emerges is an opinion that Firepower is only the latest in a long line of outfits that claim to do incredible things to improve fuel economy but never prove it. Gee, I wonder why...

The Dan’s Data letter came from a fella whose father had invested in Firepower. He "has been told that the Federal government is apparently interested in using their products".


And that sounds suspiciously like the sort of claim a salesman flogging shares in an unlikely fuel gizmo outfit might make.


Firepower makes many strange claims though. Its science-lite website could give the impression its sponsorship of a V8 Supercar team would somehow involves a technical relationship with Holden:


Tasman Motorsport is considered Holden’s rising star and is supported by General Motors Holden accordingly. Firepower is pleased to be working with a partner of this calibre.

The relationship also includes a research and development plan which will see Firepower continue its rigorous testing and technical development of products in a high performance environment.



Er, no. In fact, Holden has demanded that no claim of a technical relationship with it be made because there isn’t any. So it goes. In the general scheme of Firepower’s many claims, it is small beer.


So, off to the media briefing which is to be conducted by Firepower CEO John Finnin. As Gerard Ryle reports in today’s SMH, Finnin worked at Austrade until last June. Back in September 2003 when he met the owners of a Jordanian trucking firm called Alia, he was Austrade’s director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.


Firepower seems to have a good knowledge of the Austrade ropes. According to a Ryle piece yesterday, it has obtained nearly $400,000 in export grants from the Federal Government through Austrade.

Late breaking news: Just out of a most bemusing Firepower media conference, I can report CEO John Finnin doesn’t know who invented the magic potions, won’t or can’t name any UK investment banks they’re allegedly talking to, or any of the claimed major Australian customers using it, or the brokers selling Firepower’s unlisted shares.

He does say South Sydney rugby league club co-owner Peter Holmes a Court is “very enthused about our product” but Holmes a Court is not a shareholder.

Finnin claims the incredible pills give him about an extra twenty per cent fuel economy in his Maserati Quattroporte – which he said isn’t a company car.

The secret ingredients of the Firepower pill are two precious to risk patenting – but the company gets them knocked up by a subcontractor in New Zealand. Funnily enough, the literally incredible formula cannot be reverse-engineered, says Finnin.

There’s also a mystery about boss Tim Johnstone’s involvement with colourful Perth millionaire Warren Anderson but the biggest surprise of all is that Finnin claims Shell, Volvo and TUV have all tested Firepower products and he will make the results public next week. We await with interest but without holding any breath.

[DICKO]

How much money would a company have to put UP FRONT to become the naming rights sponsor of an NBL Club?

How much would an individual have to put UP FRONT to become the named owner of a club?

I just can't see how this company can have the kind of money required. The individual maybe, but I'd love to know how legit the methods of getting that money were.

We had a guy down here in Melbourne a while back, during the Titans folding I think (but I can't remember which.....we 've had a few) who promised money, got himself ingrained with some people. got treated nice and when it came to the crunch, didn't front up with the dollars.

I can't see that happening here.....they must have put SOMETHING up for this to work. Otherwise, when the creditors are all paid, it will be ......

"Welcome to the Sydney Entertainment Centre, please put your hands together for YOUR SYDNEYAUSTRADEKINGS !!!!!!!

[curious]

One assumes that those that owned the Club previously aren't mugs. Ie Mac Bank people and a very good lawyer, etc.
One also assumes / hopes that they got a cheque that didn't bounce.!!!

[meg]

How much money would a company have to put UP FRONT to become the naming rights sponsor of an NBL Club?



Not very much, actually. The naming rights for the NBL was in the vicinity of a million (Ok, I can't actually remember the number, but that sounds nice, and I don't think it's too far off, though I'm sure someone here will shoot me down), so for one team I'd say it was considerably less

[curious]

Usually naming rights got for about $300K +/-

[Daevo]

Usually naming rights got for about $300K +/-
I suspect some might be a lot less :wink:

[fan since the old snakepit]

18. Firepower – just the latest in a long line of alleged fuel improvers

Michael Pascoe writes:

He does say South Sydney rugby league club co-owner Peter Holmes a Court is “very enthused about our product” but Holmes a Court is not a shareholder.

Finnin claims the incredible pills give him about an extra twenty per cent fuel economy in his Maserati Quattroporte – which he said isn’t a company car.

The secret ingredients of the Firepower pill are two precious to risk patenting – but the company gets them knocked up by a subcontractor in New Zealand. Funnily enough, the literally incredible formula cannot be reverse-engineered, says Finnin.


Secret firepower formula revealed for the first time.

Take equal parts
1) Sheep shit
2) Rabbit shit

Chew and mix into a smooth paste with saliva, get a dubious sponsorship with a (wish they were) high profile sports franchise that has fans who believe any crap thats placed before them........... .
Anyway it dont have to work to be good, its just got to go close like the Beasts missed shots.

[Bouncer]

Take equal parts
1) Sheep shit
2) Rabbit shit

Sounds like the hot dogs we used to get served up at the Snakepit, Salmonella on roll with sauce anyone :roll:


:D cheers :D

[Poida]

:lol: That's one of your better lines Bouncer :)

[devils]

They had a news story about the firepower owner on ABC radio the other day.

Owner used to work high up at AUSTRADE, and now firepower is getting pretty a big grant from AUSTRADE....interesting to see what happens in the coming weeks.

[meg]

They had a news story about the firepower owner on ABC radio the other day.

Owner used to work high up at AUSTRADE, and now firepower is getting pretty a big grant from AUSTRADE....interesting to see what happens in the coming weeks.

Yes, that information was available in the SMH reports posted here last week.
I think someone even made the "Your Austrade Sydney Kings" joke...

[meg]

More digging by the SMH...

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/fir ... 79192.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/firepower-chief-linked-to-halliburton/2007/01/15/1168709679192.html)

[Daevo]

It get's interestinger & interestinger.....what a tangled web they weave :shock: :wink:

[Virus]

The SMH is like a dog with a bone on this story, they just won't let go of it!

[meg]

That's investigative journalism for ya!

[isaac]

Neither should they IMO.

Exactly - investigative journalism. Don't get a whole lot of that in papers these days.

[Judge_Dredd]

Fortunately, this one doesn't appear to involve any Packer or Murdoch interests, so it's open slather for the journos -- and about time.

JD

[curious]

I find it amusing that one of the Kings sponsors is going after them. Not that they shouldnt. Where is Tim when you want him. ;) Serious journalist that he is. Or Kogoy!!! ;)

[meg]

The more I read about this, the more I think it needs the John Clarke & Brian Dawe treatment...

"It's a pill, that makes your car run better!"

"Great! So where can I buy it?"

"Nowhere, it's not for sale...but if you buy a Sydney Kings membership, we'll give you one for FREE!!"

[isaac]

Crikey wonders why it's a non-story for all but the SMH:

Thing is, if I had a potion that could do half of what Firepower wants you to believe its pills can, I would be off to a couple of credible organisations, maybe the University of NSW and NRMA, to conduct credible tests, publish the results and sit back counting the many credible billions that would be thrown at me by the world’s biggest and most credible companies.


But not the mysterious Tim Johnston. That’s apparently fine with the ACCC, ASIC, the NBL, the NRL, the ARU, Peter Beattie, Austrade and the rest of Australia’s media.


Never mind. It’s January. Most of us are still asleep. Some of us seem always to be asleep.

[DDFan]

The SMH is like a dog with a bone on this story, they just won't let go of it!

I don't think the SMH is going to these lengths, 'cos they're Kings haters. There'd be huge points to score, if they prevented even one of their readership from getting burnt, if indeed FirePower do turn out to be suss.
From what I've read, all the ingredients of an under-handed operation are there.
By all means, if you think the SMH is going overboard, put your money where your mouth is, & back your FirePower buddies. Let us know how you go.

[Daevo]

...but if you buy a Sydney Kings membership, we'll give you one for FREE!!"
You're just jealous that you pigs fans didn't get given the pill by your club :lol: Hmm, now there's an idea....merge the 2 Sydney teams & their sponsors so Westbus can use the pills to improve their efficiency. They can then make a profit & just maybe get their buses to run on time for a change :wink: :P

[meg]

Jealousy = Sydney Kings? Sorry to tell you, it doesn't exist.

[Judge_Dredd]

If they provided free birth control pills that work as well as the petrol ones, it might bump up next year's crowds.

JD

[meg]

If they provided free birth control pills that work as well as the petrol ones, it might bump up next year's crowds.

JD

:lol: :lol: :lol: Nice.

[Stumps]

I don't think the SMH is going to these lengths, 'cos they're Kings haters.
I don't think anybody is suggesting that.

[Virus]

I don't think the SMH is going to these lengths, 'cos they're Kings haters. There'd be huge points to score, if they prevented even one of their readership from getting burnt, if indeed FirePower do turn out to be suss.
From what I've read, all the ingredients of an under-handed operation are there.
By all means, if you think the SMH is going overboard, put your money where your mouth is, & back your FirePower buddies. Let us know how you go.

I didn't say they were going overboard with it. I was just commenting that they won't let go of it, which I find suprising as most Sydney papers don't normally concentrate that long on one story. But I don't want them to stop investigating, I find the whole thing extremely interesting.

My "FirePower buddies"??? Just cause I buy my drugs and fire arms from them, doesn't mean I am friendly with them :wink:

[DDFan]

I don't think the SMH is going to these lengths, 'cos they're Kings haters.
I don't think anybody is suggesting that.
The SMH is like a dog with a bone on this story, they just won't let go of it!
Virus seemed to be stressed that the SMH kept their sniffers on it. Just checking fuel lines, before lift-off. :P

LATE NOTE: Just saw virus' response & happy it. No probs. :D

[Virus]

Virus seemed to be stressed that the SMH kept their sniffers on it. Just checking fuel lines, before lift-off. :P

LATE NOTE: Just saw virus' response & happy it. No probs. :D

Too right Im stressed. Didn't you read the last article about the oil company - to make money you have to sell your shares before anyone realises that the companies are bogus! Thanks SMH :x

[DDFan]

Virus seemed to be stressed that the SMH kept their sniffers on it. Just checking fuel lines, before lift-off. :P

LATE NOTE: Just saw virus' response & happy it. No probs. :D

Too right Im stressed. Didn't you read the last article about the oil company - to make money you have to sell your shares before anyone realises that the companies are bogus! Thanks SMH :x

No haven't caught up with that one. It's all look'n pretty dodgy, & I worry that good people might get dragged down by whoever's behind it.
Keep up the good work SMH.

[Bench Warmer]

Transylvania, Halliburton, Dick Cheney, heroin convictions, fly-by-the-night WA entrepreneurs, magic pills - all sounds very exciting! At least the Kings' sponsor actually has a product, albeit one that is not easy to find. 8)

[Voice(s)]

The sad thing in all this is how governments are more than willing to turn a blind eye to dodgy set ups.

[isaac]

And the NBL, had they any say/veto in the Kings ownership matter.

[curious]

I guess if the Kings are happy and the cash is there its not an NBL decision?

[isaac]

It impacts the league if things fall down. And I suspect that the NBL may have some say in the matter, though I'm not entirely sure.

[Derek]

Sydney Morning Herald[/i]]THE board of the Sydney Kings, including five Macquarie Bank executives, have resigned their directorships of the basketball team amid a multimillion-dollar buy-out by the controversial Perth businessman Tim Johnston.

Source. (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/board-quits-as-firepower-tycoon-swoops-on-kings/2007/01/16/1168709754648.html)

DN

[Virus]

I never realised before reading that article that the Mac Bank consortium only paid $400,000 for the Kings. What a bargain that was, considering Bob Turner and David Koch paid $3 million before them.

The quote about the 500 percent return they made from their $2 million sale to Johnston is a bit misleading though. After deducting the purchase price and four years of losses from the $2 million sale, its hard to imagine that they made much of a profit.

Im also suprised that Turner, after blowing more than $2.6 million of his backers money on the Kings, was able to talk new investors to back him with the Slingers licence.

[Stumps]

Sydney Morning Herald[/i]]THE board of the Sydney Kings, including five Macquarie Bank executives, have resigned their directorships of the basketball team amid a multimillion-dollar buy-out by the controversial Perth businessman Tim Johnston.

Source. (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/board-quits-as-firepower-tycoon-swoops-on-kings/2007/01/16/1168709754648.html)

DN
Oh dear :?

[meg]

Hmmm...getting rid of those asking questions? Would have been some very interesting board meetings in the last few weeks!

[isaac]

I think those resignations are more part of the transfer of ownership than anything. But I guess it's a little like the scaffolding has been taken away - will everything stay standing?

[Daevo]

Im also suprised that Turner, after blowing more than $2.6 million of his backers money on the Kings, was able to talk new investors to back him with the Slingers licence.
I've been on the receiving end of a Turner presentation & he has a great sales pitch
(although maybe not as good as "controversial Perth businessman Tim Johnston")
:wink: :lol:

[Skindog the Hawk]

I thought the more intriguing part of the article was this..

Mr Johnston has told sports bodies his company is not interested in retail or local sales, preferring to concentrate on military and big mining contracts for his fuel technology.

So...all those Sydney Kings supporters wanting to "drive further" and get behind their Firepower Sydney Kings are not going to be able to do so unless they're a miner or military power?!??! :lol: 8)

This looks verrrrrrrrrrrrry dodgy - I'd love to see what would happen if the NBL vetoed the transfer of ownership now...would they have cojones and/or the reason??

SD.

[Coachpete]

I thought the more intriguing part of the article was this..

[quote="SMH article":1b0jp5mc]Mr Johnston has told sports bodies his company is not interested in retail or local sales, preferring to concentrate on military and big mining contracts for his fuel technology.

So...all those Sydney Kings supporters wanting to "drive further" and get behind their Firepower Sydney Kings are not going to be able to do so unless they're a miner or military power?!??! :lol: 8)

This looks verrrrrrrrrrrrry dodgy - I'd love to see what would happen if the NBL vetoed the transfer of ownership now...would they have cojones and/or the reason??

SD.[/quote:1b0jp5mc]

How could they do it without a reason?

[Southern Joe]

I thought the more intriguing part of the article was this..

[quote="SMH article":2cf7emq5]Mr Johnston has told sports bodies his company is not interested in retail or local sales, preferring to concentrate on military and big mining contracts for his fuel technology.

So...all those Sydney Kings supporters wanting to "drive further" and get behind their Firepower Sydney Kings are not going to be able to do so unless they're a miner or military power?!??! :lol: 8)

This looks verrrrrrrrrrrrry dodgy - I'd love to see what would happen if the NBL vetoed the transfer of ownership now...would they have cojones and/or the reason??

SD.[/quote:2cf7emq5]

.... Well ... it DOES explain why the pills haven't been seen in stores.

As long as the money ain't monopoly money & IS all legit .. then let it go thru.

[yuma]

Another important piece in that article is that Tim Johnston is buying the kings, not firepower. So if firepower goes down the Kings will be fine as Tim Johnston owns it, and he cant be brought down if the company goes bankrupt because its a $1 company. deleted.

[Lemon Custard]

This all sounds extremely dodgy, but this is the bit I don't like.

Mr Johnston has bought the Sydney Kings in his own name, rather than in the name of Firepower. Firepower had earlier been the naming rights partner with the Kings for $750,000 a year, and the Kings will be known as the Firepower Kings.

Where's the "Sydney"?!?!?!

[Virus]

Mr Johnston has bought the Sydney Kings in his own name, rather than in the name of Firepower. Firepower had earlier been the naming rights partner with the Kings for $750,000 a year, and the Kings will be known as the Firepower Kings.

Where's the "Sydney"?!?!?!

I hope like hell thats just a misprint. Otherwise it would suggest that the new Kings management is going to stick with the strategy of the previous mangement and take home games to Canberra.

[Lemon Custard]

Being that in the entire article they said "Sydney Kings" every single time they mentioned the team and the ownership, and then in this particular place they didn't, I don't like the look of it at all. They tried this and it didn't work before, why do it again?!?!

[isaac]

sydneykings.com.au mentions both "Firepower Sydney Kings" and "Firepower Kings", but the latter seems to be an abbreviation only.

[Lemon Custard]

But the article I'm pointing to mentions that Firepower was already a naming rights sponser and then goes on to say that the name would be further changed to Firepower Kings.

Oh wow, do I hope I'm wrong.

[pilonv1]

Maybe the team is moving ;)

[isaac]

I'd give them the benefit of the doubt for now. Not sure that it's quite the same as the Adelaide Fellas debacle.

[Lemon Custard]

Maybe the team is moving ;)

Stop it! I'm too young to die of a heart attack!

[Lemon Custard]

I'd give them the benefit of the doubt for now. Not sure that it's quite the same as the Adelaide Fellas debacle.

I hope you're right. I really really do.

(edited for spelling.. geez I've been off lately)

[Virus]

When previous management announced the move of some home games to Canberra, there was mention that the team would consider changing the name to a more neutral name if it proved successful.

You would think that they would only consider dropping "Sydney" from the name if they were going to stick with the Canberra strategy, otherwise it would make no sense to drop Sydney off a Sydney based team. So its either a misprint, or an ominous decision for the future of the team as we currently know it.

[Lemon Custard]

Yeah, at every Canberra game, they never mentioned the word 'Sydney'. They were always just the Kings. So that definitely makes sense. But after the events of the last Canberra game, I was hoping that they would reconsider going back.

[Virus]

I agree. In a way I was kinder glad the team got flogged, copped abuse from a hostile crowd and that the Kings fans that made the trip down for the game got harrased. I was sure after all that disaster that Rucker and co would have seen enough to scrap the idea.

Especially on top of the financial disaster that it must have been as well. So if they are in fact still considering it, then maybe they were finally successful in getting Government funding.

[isaac]

LC, email Rucker and see if you can get his word that "Sydney" will remain in the name for the coming season.

[Jacala]

Any Firepower links in Hong Kong? :lol:

[Judge_Dredd]

You mean post-merger?

The "Honkers Firepower BBQ Pig Kings - featuring Dr Ng". Nickname: The Char Siu.

When the players come out for the post-game chat and autograph signing, Dr Ng will do free consultations and provide scripts. HK people love a bargain, so they may actually draw a (modest) crowd. Esp families and the elderly. (Come to think of it, no difference from now.)

JD

[Voice(s)]

But what's stumpy gonna do with his season ticket if the Kings move to the Baltic states? lol

[gangsta boo]

More Firepower intrigue in todays News Review section of the SMH. They are not letting it go lightly

[Daevo]

Hmm, a problem in Johnston meeting the ownership rules for the Kings:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/firepo ... 80051.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/firepower-hit-by-rules-on-kings/2007/01/19/1169095980051.html)

A big exposé on Johnston's sporting contacts: http://www.smh.com.au/news/business/int ... 75213.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/business/into-the-dragons-lair/2007/01/19/1169095975213.html)

Then continuing to niggle on the lack of substance surrounding Firepower: http://www.smh.com.au/news/business/int ... 75213.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/business/into-the-dragons-lair/2007/01/19/1169095975213.html)

[sixers33]

I don't see a problem with the Firepower Kings.

There is the Adelaide Pura Milk 36ers.

[Skindog the Hawk]

Hmm, a problem in Johnston meeting the ownership rules for the Kings:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/firepo ... 80051.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/firepower-hit-by-rules-on-kings/2007/01/19/1169095980051.html)

So does this mean they become the West Perth Firepower Kings, who just happen to play all of their "home" games in either Canberra or Sydney?!?

SD.

[Lemon Custard]

I don't see a problem with the Firepower Kings.

There is the Adelaide Pura Milk 36ers.

Yeah, but they still have their home town in their team name. Completely different kettle of fish.

[DDFan]

I'm not so sure that the suggestion/naming rights of FirePower, would warm the hearts of volunteers in the Summer season either.

[Lemon Custard]

LC, email Rucker and see if you can get his word that "Sydney" will remain in the name for the coming season.

I figure I'll just ask him at tonight's game. He’s pretty approachable. 'Cept if you're a Razors fan and openly admit to it. Then he's quite openly rude and obnoxious.

[DDFan]

LC, email Rucker and see if you can get his word that "Sydney" will remain in the name for the coming season.

I figure I'll just ask him at tonight's game. He’s pretty approachable. 'Cept if you're a Razors fan and openly admit to it. Then he's quite openly rude and obnoxious.

He's the man for the Kings top job then. No question.

[Voice(s)]

Quite clearly this is a story that just keeps on giving and giving lol Money laundering at it's best.

[Bouncer]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

[GordonG]

They're still at it - not giving up easily on this one, are they?

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/firepower-link-to-dead-dictator-and-former-spy/2007/01/29/1169919274761.html

[Daevo]

They certainly aren't giving up but the questions they are raising seem to be getting more tenuous at each iteration so if they don't get something of substance soon then I suspect this story will fizzle & die. They certainly aren't the only NBL team sponsor to have questions raised about their business. I wonder how this game attracts them.

[isaac]

(Playing it safe.)

[meg]

LC, email Rucker and see if you can get his word that "Sydney" will remain in the name for the coming season.

I figure I'll just ask him at tonight's game. He’s pretty approachable. 'Cept if you're a Razors fan and openly admit to it. Then he's quite openly rude and obnoxious.

Be sure to let him know he always has right of reply... :wink:

[metalslugsman]

Tests that show a product won't damage engines is like testing a rain dance to show that it doesn't statistically decrease the chance of rain.

not quite - tests to show an additive wont damage the engine are quite important. to fine-tune your analogy you would perhaps have said that it is like testing that rain-dances wont damage the entire meteorological system that rain and other weather events are linked to. changes in rainfall are more of performance issue and not part of the analogous test

[isaac]

Overly technical considering the discussion! ;)

If the pills performed, Firepower would have no issue with allowing an independent laboratory to conduct tests - would you agree?

[metalslugsman]

Overly technical considering the discussion! ;)

If the pills performed, Firepower would have no issue with allowing an independent laboratory to conduct tests - would you agree?

yes - but i like arguing and sometimes you just have to argue with what you have got

[isaac]

That's true!

[glockers]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

At least Rugby Union clubs have even worst crowds so the guy won't be disappointed with ours.

[Jacala]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

At least Rugby Union clubs have even worst crowds so the guy won't be disappointed with ours.

The top level of Basketball in Australia gets better crowds than the top level of Union? :shock:

[metalslugsman]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

At least Rugby Union clubs have even worst crowds so the guy won't be disappointed with ours.

The top level of Basketball in Australia gets better crowds than the top level of Union? :shock:

yeah i think you might want to check union crowds glockers, the other sporting team that Firepower sponsors in the Western Force (Super 14 rugby union you know?) and we had the best average crowds of any team at around 30000 per game. how many games did an NBL team play in fron of a crowd of 30000 in the las t 10, 15 or 20 years?

[Bouncer]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

At least Rugby Union clubs have even worst crowds so the guy won't be disappointed with ours.

The top level of Basketball in Australia gets better crowds than the top level of Union? :shock:

yeah i think you might want to check union crowds glockers, the other sporting team that Firepower sponsors in the Western Force (Super 14 rugby union you know?) and we had the best average crowds of any team at around 30000 per game. how many games did an NBL team play in fron of a crowd of 30000 in the las t 10, 15 or 20 years?

What I think he is saying is that the NBL (the top level in Basketball) draws more people in a season than Super 14 (the top level in Union). Obviously it's pretty hard to fit 30K into any Australian basketball stadium. The Superdome holds 20k or so, that's about the biggest basketball venue I have been to.

:D cheers :D

[Splinky]

Crikey is continuing to dig into the Firepower issue. They had a writeup on the 'scientific' findings as to the benefits of the Firepower pill.

Judging by the information they've seen, the product, and indeed the company, look very dodgy indeed.

I wish I could become uber-rich selling a product like that.

Hey, do any of you guys want to buy some snake oil from me?

[Bouncer]

Crikey is continuing to dig into the Firepower issue. They had a writeup on the 'scientific' findings as to the benefits of the Firepower pill.

Judging by the information they've seen, the product, and indeed the company, look very dodgy indeed.

I wish I could become uber-rich selling a product like that.

Hey, do any of you guys want to buy some snake oil from me?

Their main product isn't pills for cars, in fact I don't even think they make the pills. The pills are like caps that other sponsors have, they buy them and give them away as promotional items. Their main products are heavy industry technology based for reducing emmissions from factories and reducing their energy costs.

:D cheers :D

[Splinky]

Bouncer, have you been drinking the Firepower Kool-Aid?

I'm all for sports sponsorship, but just like Oriant was dodgy, so is Firepower.

[metalslugsman]

Had a quick chat to one of the new owner's managers last night. Seems like a nice guy, solid handshake, played and coached rep rugby at the highest level, knows the concept of team work. Should be interesting to watch the developments.

:D cheers :D

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

At least Rugby Union clubs have even worst crowds so the guy won't be disappointed with ours.

The top level of Basketball in Australia gets better crowds than the top level of Union? :shock:

yeah i think you might want to check union crowds glockers, the other sporting team that Firepower sponsors in the Western Force (Super 14 rugby union you know?) and we had the best average crowds of any team at around 30000 per game. how many games did an NBL team play in fron of a crowd of 30000 in the las t 10, 15 or 20 years?

What I think he is saying is that the NBL (the top level in Basketball) draws more people in a season than Super 14 (the top level in Union). Obviously it's pretty hard to fit 30K into any Australian basketball stadium. The Superdome holds 20k or so, that's about the biggest basketball venue I have been to.

:D cheers :D

you might struggle with that one too. 6 home games with an average of 30000 people is 180000 crowd total. for one team. even if the other teams are averaging only 20000 per game, with 7 home games they have crowd totals of 140000.

i don't have official figures but i am guessing that the most any NBL team would average would be 5000 per game (& i think i am being generous). that makes a team total over say 18 home games of 90000. what is the average Kings crowd? am i in the vicinity? i would guess less than 5000 per game

[fan since the old snakepit]

kings get about 3000 mutes who after a win get praised by the coach and players for their support. Its about as fake as their sponsor.

[Voice(s)]

Not to take away from the fact glockers is doing a glockers once again but these firepower pills are available in the servo up the road here FWIW

[glockers]

I said Rugby Union Clubs, you know like Sydney Uni, Randwick.

Super 14 is an international competition. Yeah provincial sides but from halfway around the globe.

[Daevo]

Bouncer, have you been drinking the Firepower Kool-Aid?
:lol: If he is then he is probably peeing 10% less than normal :wink:

[Jacala]

I said Rugby Union Clubs, you know like Sydney Uni, Randwick.

Super 14 is an international competition. Yeah provincial sides but from halfway around the globe.

You're comparing the NBL to Sydney club rugby? :shock:

[Daevo]

I said Rugby Union Clubs, you know like Sydney Uni, Randwick.

Super 14 is an international competition. Yeah provincial sides but from halfway around the globe.

You're comparing the NBL to Sydney club rugby? :shock:
I thought the same myself....he should get to more Waratah games & listen to the crickets chirping :wink: :lol:

[spik]

I said Rugby Union Clubs, you know like Sydney Uni, Randwick.

Super 14 is an international competition. Yeah provincial sides but from halfway around the globe.

Hmm, do we have some issue with the difference between professional and amateur (or at best semi-professional)?

Point is - as stated above - they don't compare.... However, even Club Rugby gets more media coverage AND advertises more than the NBL.

Spik
8)

[Lemon Custard]

kings get about 3000 mutes who after a win get praised by the coach and players for their support. Its about as fake as their sponsor.

Well their praise could have something to do with the amazing home record we've had for the last 4 seasons.

(and on a random sidenote, didn't the school holidays end on Monday?)

[Bouncer]

kings get about 3000 mutes who after a win get praised by the coach and players for their support. Its about as fake as their sponsor.

Well at least the Kings sponsor hasn't sacked the coach :oops:

And BG has had plenty of opportunity to thank the Kings fans after wins over the Hawks. What is it, 2 from 2 this year, 3 from 3 last year and you probably don't want me to mention 2004/05. 8)

Maybe the Kings giving up home court advantage will help the Hawks for the next game.

:D cheers :D

[meg]

I said Rugby Union Clubs, you know like Sydney Uni, Randwick.

Super 14 is an international competition. Yeah provincial sides but from halfway around the globe.

You're comparing the NBL to Sydney club rugby? :shock:

Club Rugby is on FTA, and has been for years. That would suggest that there are enough crowds and viewers to justify the broadcast. I'll be interested to see how long Channel 9 perseveres with the NBL.

[Derek]

Not to take away from the fact glockers is doing a glockers once again but these firepower pills are available in the servo up the road here FWIW

So, are you willing to test them? This is SCIENCE, man!

DN

[Voice(s)]

As I don't have a car or ever will, I may be tempted to purchase these magic pills with the inention of finding a test subject. I'm sure I will. I might grab them on a trip down to buy the day's paper and Farmers Union Iced Coffee that stumpy so generously affords me.

If they come in anything other than a brown paper bag or jet black plastic wrapper, I might even try and get a photo up if anyone genuinely cares to see them or want's confirmation of their existence?

I see no problem in stumpy's taxes propping up the russian mafia, personally lol

[fan since the old snakepit]

kings get about 3000 mutes who after a win get praised by the coach and players for their support. Its about as fake as their sponsor.

Well at least the Kings sponsor hasn't sacked the coach :oops:

And BG has had plenty of opportunity to thank the Kings fans after wins over the Hawks. What is it, 2 from 2 this year, 3 from 3 last year and you probably don't want me to mention 2004/05. 8)

Maybe the Kings giving up home court advantage will help the Hawks for the next game.

:D cheers :D

My post was in relation to a question about crowds. Of course the Kings have a great record against the Hawks. More budget, better playing depth, better coach. I think it has nothing to do with their crowd support. They beat us all the time in our place as well.
I was aluding to the fact that for all their sucess the crowds are poor and lifeless and the place lacks atmosphere, but the Kings players & Goorj crap on about how great the crowd is etc. I would be insulted that anyone could be so condescending.

[yuma]

http://www.pieseauto2.ro/upload/poze/149_247_0_mica_PILLAmbalajOriginalFata.jpg

[Voice(s)]

Cool, no need to waste money on this then! lol

[meg]

.....and the secret ingredient is.....*drum roll*....

mothballs!! (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/the-secret-ingredient-of-sport-sponsors-fuel-pill/2007/08/07/1186252708319.html)

[Judge_Dredd]

They should be making a virtue of it:

"For a moth free petrol tank, go with Firepower!"

[isaac]

Also currently under investigation by ASIC:

http://www.leaguehq.com.au/news/news/fi ... 05769.html (http://www.leaguehq.com.au/news/news/firepower-fallout-a-nonissue-say-souths/2007/08/07/1186252705769.html)

National Basketball League commissioner Rick Burton said the league would monitor the issue closely with the Sydney Kings, who are also sponsored by Firepower.

"The NBL will stay in close contact with the Sydney Kings in relation to this issue, and will follow the course of any investigation by ASIC with great interest," Burton said. "As I'm sure will all the other sports that Firepower are involved with as sponsors or owners. It would, however, be reckless and premature to speculate on the outcome of any such investigation or of any potential NBL action which might arise from this matter.

"The Sydney Kings are financial with the NBL and under no investigation by my office at this time."

[DDFan]

Breaking News:
Environmentally conscious Fuel Outlets Australia-wide, are now proud to announce the introduction of the Lead-free, Kings FirePower Urinal Sanitiser.
The new Green slogan being: "We'll take the p1$$, but aim for a better world".

[Judge_Dredd]

The p1ss part is right, DD, but I'm not sure I even trust their aim.

[Voice(s)]

and here we were thinking this was a front by the Russian mafia for money laundering, tsk tsk.

[Stumps]

Is anybody else hearing that things could be getting quite serious for the Kings' imminent future ... could cashflow problems perhaps be behind their failure to secure an import?

[Judge_Dredd]

could cashflow problems perhaps be behind their failure to secure an import?

That's not my understanding (if I'm being told the truth)

[Stumps]

Let's hope you are.

[MacTavish]

Firepower are the major sponsors of one of the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club feature races here next month, a $120k sprint. They seem to be getting involved with anything they can get their hands on, that's for sure.

Talk was that even some of the Kings organisation ie. players etc would be in attendance for the event.

[gangsta boo]

Is anybody else hearing that things could be getting quite serious for the Kings' imminent future ... could cashflow problems perhaps be behind their failure to secure an import?

Didn't curious mention something in the headlines I'd like to see thread...and was that joking or serious?

Hmm I don't like where this is going.....

[fan since the old snakepit]

I dont think that the people from Firepower suffer from lack of money. They just struggle to explain where it legitimately came from.


By the way . Did you hear about the pilot who put a Firepower pill in his Tiger Moth............

[Mookie]

I dont think that the people from Firepower suffer from lack of money. They just struggle to explain where it legitimately came from.
Yes, but once ASIC gets involved and puts the company into administration / prosecutes some directors, they'll soon run out of money (legit and otherwise).

By the way . Did you hear about the pilot who put a Firepower pill in his Tiger Moth............
I'll pay that...

[Derek]

(Firepower) argue that documents they have been ordered to produce may expose them to "investigation, prosecution, conviction or penalty they otherwise would not be exposed to".

Is this like Pleading the Fifth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleading_the_fifth)?

DN

[Stumps]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y114/stumps31/fif.jpg

[Daevo]

Firepower in the headlines again.... :? :roll:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dum ... 54344.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dumped-by-firepower-after-child-sex-claims/2007/08/22/1187462354344.html)

[AngusH]

Firepower in the headlines again.... :? :roll:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dum ... 54344.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dumped-by-firepower-after-child-sex-claims/2007/08/22/1187462354344.html)

Now THAT'S Firedpower!

[The Dunkmeister]

word has it the cash from firepower to the kings isnt forthcoming and things are getting serious with debts.

[stellation]

Firepower in the headlines again.... :? :roll:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dum ... 54344.html (http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/dumped-by-firepower-after-child-sex-claims/2007/08/22/1187462354344.html)
You know, some of us read that article and thought "that really doesn't have anything to do with basketball" :P

[Daevo]

Niether are magic pills or the various other stories about Firepower & their staff mentioned in this thread. It just seems that this company attracts bad publicity like a magnet

[curious]

word has it the cash from firepower to the kings isnt forthcoming and things are getting serious with debts.
AFAIK, Firepower is a naming rights sponsor only. The owner of the Kings is the owner of Firepower. 2 different scenarios.

[The Dunkmeister]

heard at boomers game money has dried up from both. interesting.

[isaac]

Not that different IMO. Primary source of his funds would be that entity. If it's copping a bit of heat, it would likely impact his ability or willingness to fully support the Kings.

[curious]

Is any other Firepower sponsored team complaining? That would be a good indication of where the problem lies.

[Daevo]

Is any other Firepower sponsored team complaining?
Matt Giteau doesn't seem to be complaining :P Maybe he could sponsor the Kings :wink:

[isaac]

1. Have the Kings complained publically? Haven't seen any significant public mentions of this issue. Might explain why there's been nothing from other entities either.

2. It's feasible that other sports are in different phases, and any drying up of sponsorship may not be discovered for a while?

3. Perhaps it's an issue between the owner and those in the trenches? Is Rucker still involved?

---

On August 8, Rick Burton said:
"The Sydney Kings are financial with the NBL and under no investigation by my office at this time."

Last I heard (since August 8 ), that wasn't entirely correct?

[Stumps]

Is any other Firepower sponsored team complaining?
Matt Giteau doesn't seem to be complaining :P
Funny you should say that ... :?

http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/4175374a10295.html

[Daevo]

:lol: I heard about that yesterday which is what prompted the post....denials are flowing thick & fast in both directions :wink:
http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,865 ... 17,00.html (http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22287146-23217,00.html)

[phill]

Thought I'd drag this post to the front page. Some interesting reading here.

[gangsta boo]

Shows I was worried back then....and it came to be :cry:

[phill]

I thought the more intriguing part of the article was this..

[quote="SMH article":3r070dik]Mr Johnston has told sports bodies his company is not interested in retail or local sales, preferring to concentrate on military and big mining contracts for his fuel technology.

So...all those Sydney Kings supporters wanting to "drive further" and get behind their Firepower Sydney Kings are not going to be able to do so unless they're a miner or military power?!??! :lol: 8)

This looks verrrrrrrrrrrrry dodgy - I'd love to see what would happen if the NBL vetoed the transfer of ownership now...would they have cojones and/or the reason??

SD.[/quote:3r070dik]

Skindog. You were right on the money here. If only in hindsight..

[SnakeBite]

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

Not having a go but thats a bit like the old Fast Forward/Full Frontal "Great Wrong Calls in History" sketches..

[Skindog the Hawk]

This looks verrrrrrrrrrrrry dodgy

Skindog. You were right on the money here. If only in hindsight..
Dude...Firepower smelt very bad from a very big distance...but to be honest, unless the NBL was getting screwed over, nothing was ever going to happen.

Ah well, we live in hope - hope that the mistakes of today will not be repeated tomorrow.

SD.

[Stumps]

Well, it's worth noting that Tim Johnston and Firepower as they were then would probably have no trouble satisfying the criteria on which the recent Kings bid fell down ($x in the bank and a solid medium-term business plan).

[Daevo]

PS; I am glad the salary cap is unenforceable (according to the Harmster), because these guys have the funds to buy the whole NBL, not just one team.

Not having a go but thats a bit like the old Fast Forward/Full Frontal "Great Wrong Calls in History" sketches..
:lol: Somehow I'm not surprised the same group who conned a significant number of prominent sports people, 3 high profile sports clubs in national competition & a pile of politicians/bureaucrats managed to pull the wool over Bouncer's eyes :wink:

[SnakeBite]

Thing is though, this fuel saving scam isn't even a new thing. People have been conned with this since the dawn of the internal combustion engine.

Remember Peter Brock's big falling out with Holden in the late 80's because he believed that a "special" magnet attached to the ignition leads of his signature SS Commodores would provide fuel savings?

Its all cyclical , this scam will come up again in about 10 years time. (if there is any fossil fuel left!!)

Ultimately it really shows how desperate NBL clubs(and the NBL) are in needing sponsorship, and how they are willing to forgoe things like due dillingence and reasearch into these types of con artists and scammers.

[Voice(s)]

Lets not get too eager to sink a baseball bat into the NBL over this guy. Governments, an NRL club, that Western Force ruggers club, teh Giteau, plenty of AFL superstars and at least one Head Coach, Steve Waugh and an international standard boxer among others also wanted some of Johnston's magic beans. Were they all desperate too? The word you might be looking for is greed.

[SnakeBite]

Which is the word I wanted to use intially to be honest. But thought it was being too strong!

As said, when it really comes down to it the success of a scam like this is all because of people's greed.

Apparently the Force and Souths got most of the monies owed to them however (most of which was no doubt supplied by gullible investors) including some poor sap that pissed 20 Million away.

[kc4mvp]

The NOPOWER SYDNEY KINGS should be left in rest, enough of the comments.

Dam I just made one --DOH!!