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Former sports star to sue ACA

A former State of Origin player is preparing to sue Nine over a story about the collapse of his gym.

Wayne Michael Bartrim, a former Queensland State of Origin player, is preparing to sue the Nine Network for defamation over A Current Affair’s story about the financial collapse of his gym.

The Daily Telegraph reports that Bartrim, who bought Alive Gym and Fitness at Lawnton, was declared bankrupt in May 2006 after the business failed. He was the subject of a story on A Current Affair in June last year.

Bartrim is claiming the story was defamatory, including that he allegedly stole money from gym members, dishonestly took equipment from the gym, engaged in deceptive and illegal practices, and that he relied on his good reputation for immoral purposes.

According to Brisbane Supreme Court documents Bartrim states the story has caused he and his wife to “suffer distress, embarrassment and public humiliation”, and that it has tarnished his personal and business reputation.”

Last month Bartrim sought extra time in which to formally launch action against Nine.

He said he had previously been unable to pursue them in court because he could not afford legal representation.

An extension of time was granted until October 3 to commence proceedings.

Source: Daily Telegraph

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