Recognition evidence from a close family member who has had long-term opportunity to observe the accused's characteristics (stature, stance, facial features, habitual clothing) is admissible as direct evidence of fact, distinguishable from the police officer evidence excluded in Smith v The Queen. Alternatively, such familiarity may constitute specialised knowledge based on experience under s 79 of the Evidence Act, on the basis that s 79 accommodates ad hoc experts. Security camera photographs are admissible for jury comparison unless their probative value is outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice under s 137.
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