Severe storms sweep across the Hunter - ABC Online

Severe thunderstorms have rolled-in across Newcastle and the greater Hunter region this afternoon bringing lightning, rain, and hail.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a Detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning for large hailstones, heavy rain and damaging winds, with Newcastle and communities north of the city forecast to be most affected. The warning has now been cancelled.

Just before four o'clock this afternoon, the BOM reported hail the size of a 20 cent piece at Edgeworth, west of Newcastle.

Energy provider Ausgrid reports golfball-sized hail fell at Cessnock.

For more details on how to stay safe during a storm, visit the ABC Emergency page; or if in need of emergency assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500, or stay tuned to 1233 ABC Newcastle.

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Severe storms sweep across the Hunter - ABC Online

Severe thunderstorms have rolled-in across Newcastle and the greater Hunter region this afternoon bringing lightning, rain, and hail.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a Detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning for large hailstones, heavy rain and damaging winds, with Newcastle and communities north of the city forecast to be most affected. The warning has now been cancelled.

Just before four o'clock this afternoon, the BOM reported hail the size of a 20 cent piece at Edgeworth, west of Newcastle.

Energy provider Ausgrid reports golfball-sized hail fell at Cessnock.

For more details on how to stay safe during a storm, visit the ABC Emergency page; or if in need of emergency assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500, or stay tuned to 1233 ABC Newcastle.

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Severe storms sweep across the Hunter - ABC Online

Severe thunderstorms have rolled-in across Newcastle and the greater Hunter region this afternoon bringing lightning, rain, and hail.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a Detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning for large hailstones, heavy rain and damaging winds, with Newcastle and communities north of the city forecast to be most affected. The warning has now been cancelled.

Just before four o'clock this afternoon, the BOM reported hail the size of a 20 cent piece at Edgeworth, west of Newcastle.

Energy provider Ausgrid reports golfball-sized hail fell at Cessnock.

For more details on how to stay safe during a storm, visit the ABC Emergency page; or if in need of emergency assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500, or stay tuned to 1233 ABC Newcastle.

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.

Children rescued by their grandmother and a nun - ABC Online

The oldest of the children, 19 year old Princess, had been looking after her siblings since the death of their mother three years ago.

Their grandmother, Isaata Swaray, is a refugee from war-torn Sierra Leone and now living in Newcastle.

She was worried that the children had no parents to care for them and with the spread of the Ebola virus in their community she feared for their safety.

The Dominican Sisters of Eastern Australia and the Solomon Islands provided the funds to purchase the airfares for the children and Sister Di Santleben helped co-ordinate the task.

"These children needed their grandmother and their grandmother needed these children," said Sister Santleben.

The children have arrived in Australia but it got off to a tense start.

Having flown from Liberia to the Ivory Coast they were tested for Ebola and changed clothes, leaving their old clothes to be trashed.

But they were refused entry.

It was days before the problem was solved and they then flew via Dubai, and another Ebola test, and then it was to be one last flight to Sydney and yet another Ebola test.

Ms Swaray and Sister Santleben arrived at Sydney airport early on Saturday morning and were shocked to see that the flight was not listed on the arrivals board.

However they found out that the flight had arrived early.

The children had been met by one of the managers of Sydney airport and been hosted in the VIP lounge.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," said Sister Santleben, "My eyes went flowing with tears of course."

The grandchildren ran into the arms of their grandmother.

Representatives of the travel agency that had arranged the bookings, also arrived early at the aiport with gifts for the children.

"If you knew the grandmother's story you'd understand why she especially needs her children back," said Sister Santleben.

Ms Swaray has been working as a blueberry picker in Newcastle and sending money to the children.

"I pay their rent; I send them money for food; I send them money for school fees; and I send them money for medication," she said.

Hunter New England Health personnel were on hand at their arrival in Newcastle to begin a daily monitoring regime over the next weeks during which the children will be quarantined to their new home.

Having seen her grandchildren lose so much in their brief lives Ms Saraway was distraught about them.

They were alone and vulnerable and Ms Saraway was fearful of the threat of Ebola.

Now the family is re-united with their grandmother and all can build a new life.

And Sister Santleben's work is done.

"This is what we do," she said, "We get given a challenge and we think that is too big and then we meet it. So, it's an honour."

Newcastle the next stop for 2014 Melbourne Cup winner - ABC Online

For a few minutes this afternoon, Australia stopped and held its breath as the horses in the 154th Melbourne Cup jolted from their barriers and began the 3,200m journey around Flemington Racecourse.

What happened next was a victory that'll be etched in the memories of the 100,000 strong crowd at Flemington, as well as the millions of viewers around the nation.

German stayer, Protectionist, galloped ahead and won by about three lengths, ahead of Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman.

Protectionist is half owned by Rutherford-based syndicate Australian Bloodstock.

The horse came to Australia as the winner of the 3,000m Prix de Kergolay in France, a race won by eventual Melbourne Cup winner Americain in 2010.

Pre-race opinion of co-owner

Before the Melbourne Cup, syndicate member Jamie Lovett was quietly confident about the horse's abilities.

"He's certainly one of these European stayers that're bred to run the two mile. We feel quite confident that he'll run the trip," he said.

"Certainly he's got that little bit of class about him.

"[So] we're entitled to have a little bit of confidence that he'll run well. He's got the credentials to certainly be somewhere in amongst them."

Mr Lovett said the horse's connections were well prepared for the hype and festivities that come with the Melbourne Cup.

"I think anyone that spends a week down here prior to the race realise that it's not just a horse race- the whole of Melbourne (and Australia) embrace it.

"We know what to expect on the day, but I don't think anything really prepares you for when they're loading them into the gates for the Melbourne Cup," said Mr Lovett.

"It's certainly a very exciting time."

Next stop for Protectionist will be Newcastle, where the horse will prepare for the Autumn racing season.

"After the race he'll come to Newcastle; and win, lose or draw, we'll give him a preparation for the championships in the Autumn in Sydney.

"There's a bit to look forward to with the horse."

New trainer's opinion

Kris Lees, who trained Lucia Valentina in the 2014 Melbourne Cup (which ran 13th in the race), will now take over training Protectionist, at the Broadmeadow race facility.

He said Portectionist's victory in the race was 'devastating'.

"To win by four lengths and destroy a very good field was quite breathtaking.

"His closing sections were incredible. He's a really serious horse."

Mr Lees said Jamie Lovett and Luke Murrell's part-ownership arrangement is a deal that's paid off.

"It was a deal put together by Jamie and Luke that they own half the horse up until today, and as of tomorrow morning they own 100 per cent of the horse. They'll syndicate the other 50 per cent of whatever price was worked out between the two parties," said Mr Lees.

"It was a huge gamble, but that's why you've got to take your hat off to them.

"If he'd run 24th, he was going to be a hard sell."

With Protectionist's big win, its reputation will skyrocket. Mr Lees said he'll now have to plan with the owners when the horse races again.

"He won't race for a while now. He's had a long preparation and we'll sit down with Luke and Jamie and try and map out a plan.

"The trick is now trying to place him right... He'll get weighted-out of most things, so he'll probably have to take-on the weight-for-age circuit."

Mr Lees said Protectionist's upcoming residency in Newcastle will be a boost for the region.

"It'll lift the profile of racing in our area, not that he'll race in Newcastle, but he'll be trained out of there and hopefully he can compete on the bigger scale."

Post-race reaction from co-owner

After the race, Jamie Lovett was still coming to terms with the magnitude of the win.

"It's very exciting obviously. It probably hasn't sunk-in, but it's certainly a big thrill," he said.

Mr Lovett said the risk of the ownership deal (where they'll take 100 per cent ownership of Protectionist tomorrow based on its pre-Melbourne Cup value) has paid off.

"It's just one of those things.

"We've got a very good rapport in Germany with some clients that breed and race quite a few horses... Obviously travelling the horse so far across the world, we weren't keen for it to go back.

"I think I'll be paying for the function this evening."

Jamie Lovett and Kris Lees spoke to 1233 ABC Newcastle's Jill Emberson and Paul Bevan.