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Whistleblower finally returns to Oz

- CHRISTOPHER BUCKTIN

WIKILEAKS founder Julian Assange celebrates his freedom with a kiss from his wife after his dramatic release from prison.

The father of two flew to his native Australia yesterday in the final act of an extraordinary few days.

He was met by his wife Stella in an emotional reunion, hugging and kissing her outside the plane in Canberra.

Stella said her husband needed time to recover from his ordeal, adding: "Julian needs to get used to freedom."

After getting off the plane, the 52-year-old was greeted by his father, John Shipton, and other well-wishers.

In a phone call, Assange told Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who lobbied the US for the release, that he had "saved his life".