Character matters

This was unsuccessfully submitted for publication to a newspaper's letters column. The good thing about having a blog is that enables opiniated people to self publish instead. You have an alternative outlet. 

Reports of Labor caucus dissatisfaction with Premier Jacinta Allan's leadership, combined with the Victorian government's challenging fiscal situation, and endemic maladministration, invite comparisons with the former Cain/Kirner governments (1982-1992), but with one important distinction.

Rather than spin and obfuscation, the likes of former Premier John Cain (1982-1990), his deputy, Robert Fordham (1982-1989), and Treasurer, Rob Jolly (1982-1990), resigned from their positions because of their conviction that it was the only way to take responsibility and accountability either for their, or the government's failed policies.

By comparison, their present-day successors seem to be lacking in such character and integrity. 

 

That was so last century, man

Visitors to this blog, if indeed there are any, may remember John Jost, former host of ABC TV's nightly current affairs programme, The 7.30 Report. 

This video clip was the only one I could find. If gives you some idea of Jost's grumpy screen persona. Unlike Clive Robertson, one of Jost's contemporaries, it was his natural disposition, and not a shtick. 

No way

Why did this need to be released in cinemas? If this film's low box office takings are any indication, it looks like movie fans worldwide are asking this very question. 

Can hate and tolerance coexist?

As any thoughtful student of history will be aware, antisemitism is the oldest hatred. In this recent presentation to the Sydney Institute, David Harris, former Chief Executive Officer of the American Jewish Committee, gives an overview of historical and contemporary antisemitism. 

One hundred proof drivel

The internet is full of vile content pushed by so called influencers such as Nick Fuentes and Ana Kasperian. It is well past time they were put in their place. 

Sycophancy writ large

Heading to cinemas soon is this satirical biopic about Russian dictator, Vladimir Putin. Featuring Jude Law as Putin, it follows a young spin doctor, Vadim Baranov (Paul Dano) who helps Putin to create his image when he takes power. The film is far from flattering to its subject. 

I'd like to organise a boy's night out to see this film, inviting along American buddies such as Steve Bannon, Tucker Carlson, and Nick Fuentes. Closer to home, my fellow Australian, George Christensen, would also be more than welcome. 

One wonders if this spin doctor character was the one who convinced Mr Putin to use Christianity and the Russian Orthodox Church as a political prop. 

How very reassuring

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation tonight to talk about the fuel crisis. All television networks covered it live, in prime time. In the end, Albanese didn't really say anything to allay anxieties about impending rationing or shortages. 

All he did was call for calm. What a let down. There was no information given about what his government is doing to manage the crisis. Why did he bother?