Trade and terror top Bush's tour to Oz

Trade and terrorism topped the agenda for US President George Bush’s talks with the leader of Australia, a nation he dubbed his ”sheriff” in the US-led war on terror.

Bush arrived in Australia today ahead of a landmark speech thanking the nation for its staunch support of the war on terror.

On the final stop of a six-nation Asia-Pacific tour, Bush jetted into Canberra to a low-key greeting from Prime Minister John Howard.

A handful of protesters, shouted “Go home Bush!” at the president’s car as it swept into the US embassy.

Thousands more peace activists have vowed to protest tomorrow outside Parliament House where Bush was due to give a speech expressing his gratitude to Australia for its support for the war on terror and for sending troops to fight alongside US forces in Iraq.

In a packed schedule, Bush also will visit Governor-General Michael Jeffrey at his official Canberra residence, pay his respects to Australia’s fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial and squeeze in talks and a barbecue lunch with Howard before flying on to Hawaii.

Howard and Bush will discuss terror and moves to finalise a US-Australia free-trade deal before year’s end.

Bush will get a warm welcome from Howard and his government, but thousands of protesters will voice their anger at America’s policy in Iraq and plan to burn effigies of Bush and Howard.

Bush’s 21-hour stay from tonight to Thursday evening has prompted an unprecedented security crackdown.

Hundreds of extra police have been sent to the capital to manage crowds and fighter jets will patrol the skies.