Thursday, 22 November 2018

Bali Nine Member Renae Lawrence Lands in Newcastle

BY IAN CROUCH

After 13 years imprisoned in Indonesia, Bali Nine drug smuggler Renae Lawrence has made it back to her hometown of Newcastle.

Lawrence, her mother Beverley Waterman and other family members were the last passengers to disembark the Virgin Airlines flight which left Brisbane this morning and touched down at Williamtown at 11:15am.

The 41-year-old was rushed through the terminal to a waiting white car, as a massive media contingent followed in hot pursuit.

A couple of camera crew took a tumble as they scrambled for pictures.

Neither Lawrence or her family made any comment as they were bundled into the waiting car and a blue towel was placed over Lawrence's head as the vehicle sped away.

The former panel beater from Wallsend was released from Bali's Bangli gaol overnight after having her 20-year sentence for heroin smuggling reduced for good behaviour and turning informant.

She's the first member of the infamous syndicate to be released.

Renae Lawrence crosses the tarmac at Newcastle Airport.