It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
Christmas decorations snapped today [28/11/07] in Reddacliff Place, the Queen Street Mall and Albert Street.
The Lord Mayor will light the tree this Friday evening.
A Wander Through The Butterfly Garden
Stencils mark the way
The Loder's Creek Butterfly Garden is located at the end of Beale Street, Southport. Butterfly host plants have been signposted along this very peaceful trail.
Host plant - Psychonotis caelius - Alphitonia excelsa and a very friendly water dragon!
We saw plenty of bream and bait fish in the creek and a syringe. A mother Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis) was observed nesting with her little, black chicks in the grassy area along the creek. Only one butterfly was spotted, possibly a Catopsilia pomona, which is a very active yellow creature.
Loders Creek and the paperbark forest
A native bee hive?
Bad Weed Hits Brisbane
A batch of vicious weed is causing headaches for government officials in South East Queensland.
Weed ... vicious and bad
"It began when Sir Bob paid a visit, and I don't see us being able to do anything about it other than encourage residents to recycle properly and buy some of those energy efficient lightbulbs and a green bag. And maybe a Prius," said a City Hall official.
"We are also asking consumers - oh sorry, I mean residents, to immediately report any weed sightings, that may help."
Official ..."...report any weed"
Over the past few years, weed has regularly infested Rainbow and Noosa beaches but now it's all over the place.
"As for the connection between climate change, nutrient run off and tackling the problem properly, look over there, it's a baby rabbit, no, it's $1.6 million!" said a Queensland official.
"Really, what exactly do you want us to do about it? Surely the free market will do something about it if it really is a problem. I mean how bad can it be if the free market hasn't jumped in to stop it? It's probably natural cycles or caused by sunspots or Al Gore being fat, ha ha ha!" he concluded.
New Entertainment Precinct For Spring Hill
The Spring Hill Baths ... Historic
A group of local thespians and swimmers will re-enact scenes from the movie 'Swimming Upstream' at the historic Spring Hill Baths this month.
'Stream Interrupted' will feature some of the more dramatic aspects of the movie, which was based on former swimming champion Anthony Fingleton's book of the same name.
The Spring Hill Baths is the first of a series of venues to be given approval to become part of Brisbane's latest entertainment precinct. No alcohol will be served during musical performances. The Alliance and the International Hotels and the St Pauls Tavern are hoping soon to follow.
Bands who have a MySpace will hold regular gigs at the baths - much to the delight of locals.
"It's so bohemian," said one Spring Hill old timer.
"I love to hear music echoing around the neighbourhood again, it reminds me of the days when musicians, writers, students, and all kinds of eccentric folk resided in the suburb," said another.
The colourful interior that inspired the movie 'Swimming Upstream'
It is expected that the next dramatic work to be performed at the Spring Hill Baths will be a re-enactment of its opening in December 1886, followed by a fashion parade/world record synchronised swimming attempt.
"We just haven't worked out who's going to play Mayor Hipwood," said artistic director Mr D. Tees.
"They have to be prepared to jump right into the role," he laughed.
Julia Challenges Kevin!
Julia ... our first female leader?
Reacting against Kevin's statement to the media that she would make a "great deputy", Julia has decided to challenge for the leadership.
"I have a man date," she said.
Kevin would not be drawn on Julia's remarks, but said he preferred her performance in 'Pretty Woman' over 'My Best Friend's Wedding'.
"Loose, footloose, kick off your Sunday shoes, oowhee, Marie, shake it, shake it for me," he said.
Kenny, no sorry, Kevin ...
New Vision For King George Square
King George Square ... past visions for the future
King George Square will soon be returned to its original form, as construction on the Inner Northern Busway moves into its final stages. Over the next few months, the temporary pokey out metal structures will be dismantled, trees replanted, and fountains reconstructed, but the public will be charged $2 to enter the square - if they don't have a bus ticket.
"Of course corporations will be exempt, and similarly to how Reddacliff Square operates, permitted to tout their wares anytime they like" said the City Hall Leader.
"Cosmopolitan Brisbane doesn't need community groups and activists cluttering up the square. In any case, this will encourage more people to travel on public transport."
Head of the King George Square design project Mr Dim Inishedcharacter agreed.
"People shouldn't be allowed to hang around in public spaces for free. If you're not shopping, eating, swilling expensive cups of coffee, or on your way to work, you're not welcome in Brisbane's CBD."
You can stay.. But only if you pay...
When asked about the persistent bad smell at the intersection of Adelaide and Albert Streets, Mr Dim Inishedcharacter said, "Um, well, excavation for the INB did reveal the historic Wheat Creek Culvert which was built in the 1860s, but I think it's your overactive imagination."
Something To Distract Queenslanders From The Real Issues
http://www.smartstate.qld.gov.au/strategy/sss_consultation/index.shtm?your_say&ad=BT_B_728
Voting begins for Plebiscites on Queensland
Council Amalgamations - AEC Media Release, 26 November 2007
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) announced today that Plebiscites on Council amalgamations in Queensland will commence this week across 85 Queensland Councils.
Electoral Commissioner, Ian Campbell said that voting in the plebiscites will be conducted entirely by post, with around 700,000 voters to receive their ballot material in the mail this week.
The Commonwealth electoral roll used for last Saturday’s federal election was used to generate the list of voters in the Queensland council areas participating in the Plebiscites.
Mr Campbell advised voters that to ensure their vote is counted they should post their completed ballot paper in time for it to reach the Returning Officer by the closing time of the ballot. Voting in the Plebiscites is not compulsory.
The closing time for the ballots is 2pm, Friday 7 December 2007 for voters in the Caboolture, Caloundra, Gold Coast, Noosa, Pine Rivers and Redcliffe Councils. The closing time for the other 79 Councils is 2pm on Friday 14 December 2007.
*New* Labrador Heritage Walk
Historical information, anecdotes and photos have appeared on sleek panels at strategic places around Labrador and Biggera Waters. The ones we saw today [22/11/07] have a photo of the old Grand Hotel (built in 1886 and burned down in 1975), and some local reminiscences of the area. It appears this walk has been developed by the "10,000 steps" folks:
City Hall Approves "Boggo Heights Eco Village"
"Down the lane I walk with my sweet Mary, hair of
gold and lips like cherries.
It's good to touch the green, green grass of home.
Yes, they'll all come to meet me, arms reaching, smiling sweetly.
It's good to touch the green, green grass of home."
['Green Green Grass of Home', written by Claude "Curly" Putman Jr., performed by Tom Jones (1966), Elvis Presley (1975), Johnny Cash (1968) and Kenny Rogers (1977)]
Although construction began many months ago, City Hall has just approved an exciting new residential development on the former Boggo Road prison site.
In a world first, residents of the "Boggo Heights Eco Village" will enjoy a green, environmental and sustainable lifestyle, combined with the thrill of living in what was once one of Australia's most notorious prisons.
The apartments will emit no greenhouse gases whatsoever, and poor people will be able to live there too!
"The "Boggo Heights Eco Village" will boast design features that echo the prison theme," said Head Architect Mr Tern Key.
"Residents might be a bit overwhelmed by the authentic security arrangements, but I'm sure they'll get used to it," he laughed.
On purchasing an apartment in the "Boggo Heights Eco Village", residents will be encouraged to immerse themselves in the prison experience - just like Slim Halliday, John Stuart and James Finch.
Here Yesterday, Gone Today
"I'm a walking nightmare, an arsenal of doom
I kill conversation as I walk into the room
I'm a three line whip, I'm the sort of thing they ban
I'm a walking disaster, I'm a demolition man"
Composed by Sting, from the 1981 Police album 'Ghost in
the Machine'
52 Astor Terrace, earlier this year and yesterday [21/11/07]
The New Northern Private Hotel at 52 Astor Terrace, Spring Hill was demolished this week.
The registered boarding house, which provided low cost accommodation in Spring Hill for many years, is to be replaced by a nine-storey hotel and restaurant.
In February this year, Deputy Mayor David Hinchcliffe said, "It's very sad they are going to have to close. They are citing maintenance costs, yet Council has provided rate discounts and grants in the past, but it seems they are no longer able to make the finances stack up."
Brisbane's (BNE) Beacon Bites The Dust
"Things aint cooking in my kitchen
Strange affliction wash over me
Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire
Couldn't conquer the blue sky
Everywhere you go, you always take the weather with you
Everywhere you go, you always take the weather with you
Everywhere you go you always take the weather, the weather with you
'Weather With You' from the 1991 Crowded House album 'Woodface'
The manager of that building in George Street has announced today that BNE's iconic weather beacon will be switched off at the end of the week.
"We've decided to jump on the environmental bandwagon and say that the beacon emits far too much greenhouse gas," said Ms Joy Kill.
"Not like the City Hall leader's environmentally friendly Transapex link."
Ms Kill said the beacon "never really worked properly" and would be replaced by a giant, solar powered flashing "I heart BNE" sign.
President of the newly formed "Tenants For Saving The Weather Beacon" group, Mr Barry Stir said, "I'd like to suggest where she can stick the weather beacon after they take it down."
It is rumoured that the next BNE icon the mainstream media will gleefully announce is set to bite the dust, will be the digital clock on top of the newly uglified SGIO (sorry, Suncorp) building.
Take Care With Books In North Queensland: Tourists Warned
"Liberty, F**K YEAH!
White Slips, F**K YEAH!
The Alamo, F**K YEAH!
Band-aids, F**K YEAH!
Las Vegas, F**K YEAH!
Christmas, F**K YEAH!
Immigrants, F**K YEAH!
Popeye, F**K YEAH!
Democrats, F**K YEAH!
Republicans (republicans)
(f**k yeah, f**k yeah)
Sportsmanship
Books"
'America, F**k Yeah!', from the 2004 soundtrack to 'Team America: World Police'
President of the Queensland Tourism Service, Mr Sonny Shine has warned tourists about the kinds of books they take to North Queensland.
"It's important that terrorists, ahem tourists, are aware of the dangers they may face by carrying books around," he said.
"Particularly in North Queensland, where reading certain books can make the locals uneasy."
The Queensland Tourism Service have released two information brochures which display the sorts of books that are and aren't suitable to leave near dancefloors.
By the dancefloor? No worries
Better not boogie with these books!
It is anticipated that limited news will continue attacking Richard Flanagan, as he has the charisma and ability to galvanise Tasmanians against the pulp mill.
Schoolies Warned Off Drugs
"I once had a pill it was yellow like the colour of
a frangipani,
and it smiled on me, and I was happy.
I once swallowed acid it was purple like the colour of a jacaranda,
she could understand me, and I could understand her."
'Drug Flowers' from The Gin Club's 2005 album 'Fear of the Sea'
The Head of the Queensland Law Enforcement Agency Mr Pad E. Wagon has urged schoolies to behave themselves and avoid drugs.
"I'll admit we've circulated a very odd story about some toy beads, which when ingested, metabolise into the drug fantasy," he said.
"It's just that our media relations unit got bored with the same old drivel we usually put out at this time of year - you know - warning schoolies about getting drunk, fornicating, trashing motel rooms and making a general nuisance of themselves."
Mr Pad E. Wagon said the toy beads were a metaphor for all the evil things that schoolies might be contemplating.
Dr Chatty, A liaison officer with the Department of What Ails Queensland agreed.
"I enjoy appearing on television," she said.
"A lot."
"Look, if schoolies want to let loose, there are plenty of other options," said Mr Pad E. Wagon.
"I think most young people understand that in this day and age, there is no need to rebel and let off steam."
Brisbane Ratepayers To Look At Boring Tunnel Machine
A select group of Brisbane ratepayers will actually get to see how their rates are being spent next Sunday.
The City Hall Leader has announced an open day so they can marvel at the boring tunnel machine.
The ratepayers will be driven around the site on a council bus, then stand on a viewing platform in silly looking construction helmets going, 'OOOh AHHHH!'
The viewing platform and city council bus. No curry lunch I'm afraid!
"I expect some of them will have never been on a council bus," said the City Hall Leader.
"However, once the tunnel is finished and they can't afford to pay the toll to travel through it, they'll definitely be spending more time on the buses," he laughed.
"It never ceases to amaze me how easy it was to make ratepayers believe they need this tunnel."
But although some ratepayers will wee themselves with excitement at the opportunity to look at the boring tunnel machine, not all were happy about the open day.
"Because it's on a Sunday, I won't be able to go to church," said spokesperson for the Public Transport Is Evil Alliance, Mr P Koil.
"And look at the state of the world at present. With climate change and all these terrible resource wars, it's important that we all get our god in."
Ratepayers will also be invited to attend the 'What I Love About Brisbane' wankfest at Customs House next week, where an anointed panel of shills will discuss Brisbane icons such as the Bengal Curry House.
Cornes Calls Erection Victory - Just Don't Mention The Postal Votes
"just a couple of fools can make us all seem dumb
that's why mainsteam media makes me so f*ckin' glum
just anglo reality - intellectual cavities
channel 9 fostering prejudiced mentalities
i won't be a casualty - just mention casually
that i won't stand for you sh*t-eating bullies
preying on peeps without a mainstream voice
most of youse stay silent but i've got no choice
wake up - this country needs a f*cking shake up
wake up - these ***** need a shake up"
(The Herd)
Well folks, that's it. The end of the Howard years. Ms Cornes in Adelaide has called it for Rudd. Ms Cornes was mercilessly hounded, vilified and ridiculed by Adelaide's shill mass media (most notably its commercial FM station, but with some help from its mono-media-pro-Howard Murdoch rag) but managed a swing against the local Howard operative, even though she did not win the seat.
The smilingly smug, faux modest Labor hacks joining in the ABC coverage barely conceal their glee. The commercial stations apparently have overtaken the tally room with "reality reality" TV garbage. Leaning Tony and Red Kerry miss the point when they ask losing right wing politicians "what was it that lost the election? Interest rates? Work-Choices?", when it was more fundamental than that, and no commercial or public media are willing to look at the real reasons and explore the current Australian 'zeitgeist'.
About time Australia woke up to itself and got rid of Howard's proto-fascist/neo-liberal government, but, BUT, BIG BUT!!!, it does seem as though the hubristic flush of victory for these people will mean that 'SpringHillVoice' will be needed to keep a very close eye on them during this next term of Australia's parliament.
Illegal and illegitimate invasions, invasive "security" actions on Australians, overtly authoritarian government and 'policing', and especially Labor's views on the acceptability of torture, will continue to be scrutinised here. And, unfortunately, we will probably continue to be threatened and attacked by that machine for doing so.
Anyway, Malcolm Turnball has just claimed victory and stated that he will continue to support: "The Democracy of the Serf", at least that's what it sounded like!
Have a nice Sunday.
We Want Services Not Tax Cuts – Women’s Electoral Lobby
The Women's Electoral Lobby (WEL) recently released their "election edition" newsletter.
In the opening statement, National Co-ordinating Committee representative, Eva Cox outlines why WEL prefer services over the tax cuts promised by the major parties (The Coalition has promised $34 billion in tax cuts, while the ALP has promised $31 billion).
"Women have a particular interest in these decisions as we are both the main users and providers of health, community and personal services...A few extra dollars will not allow us to buy services that don't exist or cost much more, as the market does not provide on the basis of need," she said.
WEL have assessed the policy commitments of the major political parties in the areas of industrial relations, early childhood services, health care, income support, education, human rights, housing, taxation, support for the ageing and giving women a voice.
Only parties with current parliamentary members have been assessed, and the Democrats and the Greens have scored highest on the Form Guide. WEL point out that the new parties - What Women Want and Carers Alliance - would both score very highly on the important policy initiatives.
The WEL Form Guide can be found on the website: http://www.wel.org.au/
WEL is encouraging women to make their vote count this election. Convenor Jozefa Sobski said, "Vote below the line, exhaust your preferences and ensure we elect a new government with a Senate that has the authority to keep it honest and accountable."
Take The Time And Vote Below The Line
Voters Have The Final Say Ranking Candidates On The Ballot
Paper: AEC Media Release
Every elector can choose the order they rank the candidates on their 2007 election ballot papers, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) said today [20/11/07].
Electoral Commissioner, Ian Campbell reminded electors that it was entirely up to them to decide where their preferences go when voting in the House of Representatives election and Senate election.
“Political parties or candidates may suggest to their supporters to vote in a particular manner but electors have the final say when filling in their ballot papers,” he said.
“In completing the green House of Representatives ballot paper, electors can decide for themselves how to allocate their preferences or they can choose to follow a party or candidate’s how-to-vote card.”
Mr Campbell said electors had a choice of voting above or below the line on the white Senate ballot paper. By marking 1 in one box above the line for a party or group, the preferences will be distributed according to the group voting ticket that the party or group has registered with the AEC.
“Any elector that wants to inspect the registered group voting tickets can now find them online at www.aec.gov.au or by calling 13 23 26. Booklets showing the group voting tickets will also be available in every polling place.
“If electors do not want to follow a ticket, they can vote below the line on the Senate ballot paper by numbering all the boxes below the line for each individual candidate in the order of their choice,” Mr Campbell said.
“Polling officials are available to assist electors at all polling places on election day, Saturday 24 November. If you do make a mistake on your ballot paper just ask a polling official for another one,” he said.
“At this election we also have a new online ‘How to vote practice tool’ at www.aec.gov.au to show electors, especially those voting for the first time, how to complete the ballot paper correctly,” he said.
For more information on voting in the 2007 election, visit www.aec.gov.au or call the AEC on 13 23 26.
Group Voting Tickets can be viewed here:
http://www.aec.gov.au/Elections/federal_elections/2007/candidates/gvt.htm
Time For Ted
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDGG8sHXR-Q
Apologies All Around
Liberal candidate for Fadden says "Sorry", musicians' take on John Howard's decade in power
The Liberal candidate for Fadden (Gold Coast) says he is sorry that he missed us, but we were home all day and didn't hear him knocking (although he did nearly run us over on Marine Parade just after we got this flyer!). His note in the letter box tells us that, like most obscure Liberals around the country, he is "Working to get more done locally". Why start getting "more done locally" now, after eleven years? What precisely should locals expect from you, locally, when you get elected? A law to keep the ocean at its current levels?
Meanwhile, back on Earth, Billy Baillie's band, Suffering County, has a tune on "YouTube" which has been getting a lot of airplay on Brisbane's 4ZzZ (102.1 FM):
'Sorry Johnny It's Time To Go' - by 'Suffering County
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUJirCTXCTw
Here are the lyrics for those who wish to sing along:
"Sorry about the wharfie's strike in '97, when you sent in the dogs on instructions from heaven
Sorry about the tax known as the G.S.T., you promised us it would never be
Sorry about the alliance with your mate Bush, and the war in Iraq which you did push
Sorry about the weapons of mass destruction
Sorry about David Hicks, and your inaction
Well I'm sorry you believed C.I.A. misinformation, and I'm sorry you used the policies of One Nation
Sorry about the children overboard,
Sorry about the invading terrorist hordes,
Well I'm sorry about the pacific solution, and I'm sorry about all them little kids in detention
I'm sorry you put us on Bin Laden's list, and now you've gone and got every muslim pissed
I'm sorry you introduced new police powers, I'm sorry civil liberties disappear by the hour
Well I'm sorry you couldn't keep interest rates low, I'm sorry you never signed Kyoto
I'm sorry the polls are at an all time low
Well I'm sorry Johnny, but it's time to go
Sorry you made it easy to get the sack, and sorry you made it impossible to get them back
Sorry we have to daily suffer your TV ads full of lies and deceit, now that makes us mad
Sorry we have to pay for them too
Sorry about the millions wasted on you
Sorry we have to listen to how great you've been, every bloody day on our TV screens!
And I'm sorry you're so scared of the youth of today, you can't even fact them on Triple J
Sorry you forgot we're all refugees, who've become part of this great land, like meat pie and peas
Sorry about the plight of the Sudanese, sorry you treat them like some infectious disease
Sorry about the unions you love to bash, when they're made up of tax-paying Mums and Dads
Sorry to the original owners of this land, you sent in the army when all they need is a hand
Sorry you don't get too much sleep at night, worried sick about their black babies plight
Sorry little Amanda had to go, was it your chance of re-election that she might blow?
Sorry Johnny, you've had a good innings, it might be time to cash in your winnings
Sorry, at the end, Bradman went out for a duck, and thanks to Maxine, you're all out of luck
Well sorry Johnny, but it's OK, 'cos history will have its say
About all the great deeds, that you have done, but I'm awfully fucking sorry, I can't think of none
The word is "sorry" if you just stop and THINK......."
Tune into 4ZzZ (102.1 FM - South East Queensland) to hear this track if you can't see/hear the above link. The video on "YouTube" is pretty funny. We also recommend the "Shoothroughs" song/video on "YouTube" called 'Arselicker' which is every bit as good, and was well before its time (Mark Latham famously asked for it to be played on Triple J in 2004! - Champagne!!)
Anyway, we'd just like to say "Sorry!"
Media Release: Socialist Alliance Slams Lord Mayor Accusations
“Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman must be feeling the pressure of possibly being the Liberal Party’s most senior elected official in the country in a week’s time, with his false and inflammatory accusations about the anti-Vietnam movement,” said Jim McIlroy, Vietnam era anti-war protester and Socialist Alliance candidate for the federal seat of Griffith, today.
In an article published over the weekend, Newman accused the ALP and “their socialist alliance type fellow travellers” of throwing paint and eggs at Vietnam veterans at the time of the Moratorium anti-war marches (back in the early 1970s).
“The Labor Party can answer for themselves, but the Socialist Alliance categorically denies Newman’s charges. The overwhelming majority of anti-war protesters were happy to see the Vietnam veterans finally return, due in considerable part to the mass mobilizations against the war by the Australian people."
“It was the Fraser Liberal government which refused to take responsibility for the proper reintegration of the Vietnam vets back into society, and denied claims regarding the effects of Agent Orange and other health issues on Australian Vietnam veterans and on the Vietnamese people themselves.
“If Mayor Newman is so concerned about the welfare of Australian troops, he should call for the immediate withdrawal of Australian forces from Iraq and Afghanistan. These overseas invasions, involving US and Australian troops, are totally unjustified, have caused enormous loss of civilian lives, and are a threat to the safety of the soldiers themselves, as we have seen with the recent deaths of Australian troops in Afghanistan,” McIlroy added.
“The next Australian government, whether Labor or Liberal, should get our troops out as soon as possible, and redirect our aid and reconstruction efforts to really assisting the Iraqi and Afghani peoples to develop their basic infrastructure and public services.”
Who's Gonna Save Us?
"Uh oh, overflow, population, common group, but it'll do. Save yourself, serve yourself. World serves its own needs, listen to your heart bleed. Tell me with the rapture and the reverent in the right - right. You vitriolic, patriotic, slam, fight, bright light, feeling pretty psyched.
It's the end of the world as we know it.
It's the end of the world as we know it.
It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine."
R.E.M.'s 'It's the end of the world as we know it (and I feel fine)' from their 1987 album 'Document'.
On Saturday 17th November, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its Fourth Assessment Report. The Synthesis Report outlines the "abrupt or irreversable" impacts of anthropogenic warming and reveals a bleak future for our planet if immediate action is not taken.
According to the report, approximately 20 -30 % of species are likely to be at an increased risk of extinction if increases in global average warming exceed 1.5 - 2.5 degrees celsius (relative to 1980 - 1999). Partial loss of ice sheets on polar land could imply metres of sea level rise, major changes in coastlines and inundation of low-lying areas, with greatest effects in river deltas and low-lying islands. Impacts of large-scale and persistent changes in the meridional overturning circulation (MOC) of the Atlantic Ocean are likely to include changes in marine ecosystem productivity, fisheries, ocean CO2 uptake, oceanic oxygen concentrations and terrestrial vegetation.
The report finds that in Australia, by 2020, significant loss of biodiversity is projected to occur in the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland Wet Tropics. By 2030, water security problems are projected to intensify in southern and eastern Australia, and production from agriculture and forestry is projected to decline over much of southern and eastern Australia due to increased drought and fire. By 2050, ongoing coastal development and population growth in some areas are projected to exacerbate risks from sea level rise and increases in the severity and frequency of storms and coastal flooding.
A table outlines adaptation and mitigation strategies that could be implemented as they relate to sectors such as the tourism and agricultural industries, and infrastructure (water, health and transport), along with the attendant "constraints" or "opportunities". For example, with a sector such as energy supply, the IPCC suggests the reduction of fossil fuel subsidies, along with taxes or carbon charges on fossil fuels, plus "feed-in tariffs for renewable energy technologies", renewable energy obligations and producer subsidies. Yet the report acknowledges that "resistance by vested interests" may make these policies "difficult to implement".
The "Climate Change Coalition" is running candidates in this election. This new environment-conscious party believes that subsidies which promote emissions should be eliminated - eg Fringe Benefit Tax concessions for corporate vehicle use which encourage extra driving, hence extra fuel usage and emissions, subsidies to coal-fired power stations and concessional excise for aviational fuels etc.
This unique party is made up of a diverse group of individuals from around Australia. Broadcaster and scientist Dr Karl Kruszelnicki and writer and media presenter Patrice Newell are running for the senate in NSW, and are the most well known candidates. Climate Change Coalition supporters include actress Rachel Ward, comedian and writer Wendy Harmer and broadcaster Phillip Adams. The Queensland Senate candidates are Civil Engineer Steve Posselt, who recently completed a kayaking odyssey from Brisbane to Adelaide to make a statement about the urgent need for climate change action, and Phil Johnson, who has a research and business background in the health sector.
The Climate Change Coalition candidate for Hunter in NSW, John Harvey, recently said:
"Climate change is not Liberal or Labor, Greens or Shooters Party, Christian Democrats or Secular Party. Climate change is the greatest crisis we have ever been faced with - it is not only an issue of politics, it is a concern that affects everyone on our planet.
"Electing a Climate Change Coalition candidate into the Senate will mean that every person who is concerned with climate change, no matter what their political allegiance, can be represented."
As the Secretary-General of the United Nationa, Ban Ki Moon said of climate change: "It's the defining challenge of our age".
So, this Saturday when you're filling out the ballot papers in the polling booth, take your time, and vote below the line. But make sure that you follow the instructions and number every single box or else your vote goes straight down the memory hole!
Bevis Gets Grilled At The Brunswick
"Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
Everybody knows that the war is over
Everybody knows the good guys lost
Everybody knows the fight was fixed
The poor stay poor, the rich get rich
That's how it goes
Everybody knows"
Leonard Cohen's 'Everybody Knows' from his 1988 album, 'I'm Your Man'
A mixed crowd comprising mostly party faithful, along with a few blow ins and interlopers, descended on the Brunswick Hotel in New Farm Brisbane for last night's "Politics in the Pub" event.
The speakers were the candidates for Brisbane - Ewan Saunders from the Socialist Alliance, Mark White from Family First, Nick Contarino from the Citizen's Electoral Council, Elizabeth Guthrie from the Greens, Don Sinnamon from the Democrats and sitting member Arch Bevis (ALP). They each gave a five minute talk outlining their backgrounds, policies, and particular interest areas.
Sharply dressed true believers made furtive phone calls and scanned the room for Liberal Party spies and satirists, while waving at the guests on the Bevis table. A sprinkling of free wheeling radicals with a sense of social purpose circulated throughout the room. An earnest young citizen journalist transcribed furiously into his spirax and Senator Andrew Bartlett graced the Democrats table briefly.
It was all pretty restrained - no fiery rhetoric, arm waving or blowing one's top. Indeed many folks looked a bit bored. Perhaps this was because there wasn't much drinking going on. One candidate was even observed sipping a cup of tea, and many glasses of softdrink were purchased throughout the course of the evening. I suppose it was a school night - and after all, it is Brisbane - the wowser capital of the world!
In any case, the Brunswick Hotel is an excellent Brisbane pub - laidback, friendly and good value - Mr Sydney paid $6.20 a shout for a schooner and a pot of XXXX, which we thought was quite reasonable. The front bar, with its windows overlooking the passing parade on Brunswick Street, is the best place to while away some time. I was intrigued by the circular pool table, but unimpressed with the "designated smoking area" beneath the UV lights at the pub's entrance.
But the food looked really good. Plates piled high with bangers and mash, roast of the day, assorted bistro style crumbed dishes and other hearty fare were delivered with panache by a Dylan Moran lookalike and a young blonde lass, whose cameraderie with the chef often proved more entertaining than what the speakers had to say!
The younger candidates - Saunders, Guthrie and Sinnamon - were the most interesting and progressive speakers. Guthrie presented a metaphorical tale straight from the heart, highlighting her passion for the environment and future generations. Sinnamon displayed his detailed knowledge of legislation as it applies to the status of refugees in our country, while Saunders stood confidently on stage bravely denouncing the ABCC, and calling for urgent action climate change i.e. that we need to reduce carbon emissions 60% by 2010.
White spoke well - but he was on enemy territory, and Contarino caused plenty of eyebrow raising and snickering. Bevis pointed out the pride he has in his union background and the achievements he made during that time.
"This is the bad bit," one of the young true believers was overhead saying to his pal when the candidates alighted the stage and questiontime commenced.
It was fortuitous the Liberal Party's candidate Ted O'Brien was unable to attend, because it was very snug up on stage!
Questions from the audience were very conservative and mostly directed at Bevis. They focussed on tax policy, climate change, transportation, immigration and education. One gentleman asked about streamlining the education systems throughout the country to make it easier for army children. Unsurprisingly, no one asked about the war on terror - but then I left at nine to miss my train and catch some fruity jazz and unrolled Coopers at Rics - so who knows what may have transpired!
Surveys were distributed throughout the audience which appeared to indicate that whoever organises "Politics in the Pub" is a keen recycler and moonlights at the Department of Housing.
More Specialists Please
Anyone battling cancer will understand how the current shortage of oncology specialists throughout Australia impacts upon their treatment. Even patients with private health insurance expect to wait hours to see their specialist at scheduled appointment times. Funding for million dollar cancer centres is all well and good, but cancer patients and their families agree that the most important part of treatment is the specialist/patient relationship. With a small number of oncology specialists stretched to the limit, the patient to practitioner ratio urgently needs to be addressed.
The AMA estimates that in the long term $125 million and $250 million is required per year to support specialist training. (The Commonwealth currently funds $60 million to specialist training).
This topic is of particular personal interest and importance, as a close family member has been struggling with cancer and over the past 7 years I have experienced the dire shortage of professionals first hand.
I asked the candidates for Brisbane what their party's policies were in relation to the current shortage of oncology specialists in Australia, specifically relating to actual doctors and nurses - not screening machines, funding for pharmaceutical companies or awareness campaigns.
Greens candidate Elizabeth Guthrie said, "The Greens believe governments are ultimately responsible for ensuring all people have access to the resources and opportunities required for good health. Whilst we do not have a specific policy relating directly to Oncology (or any other specific services) our health care policy statements highlight the overall requirement for more and better health care services across the board.
"The Greens are acutely aware that people with cancer often spend relatively long periods in hospital awaiting investigations and often treatments. We believe this is time that could, with proper care and management be better spent at home with loved ones. Through their disability policy the Greens are committed to providing partners, relatives and friends who act as carers with eligibility for registration as professional carers and adequate support, including income and respite.
"The Greens have a strong commitment to improving service access, service efficiency and outpatient alternatives and is the only party with strong commitments to the holistic, quality of life aspects of care."
Democrats candidate Don Sinnamon said, "Firstly - there's
a shortage of doctors nationwide that needs to be addressed through more fully-funded
places at university for both doctors and nurses. The government should also
be funding additional places for specialist training onsite in hospitals and
clinics in the oncology area, as well as many others that are understaffed.
"Specialist services need to be supported - not just through trying to
get more specialist doctors, but more support for allied health and nurse
practitioners, which would free up the specialist doctors to provide a broader
consultative service and insure that patients are getting the best care that
addresses their individual needs.
"We don't agree with the Government's current push to take over small
hospitals on an ad hoc basis - it's unrealistic to expect that local hospitals
will each be able to provide the full range of specialist services - there
needs to be a larger scale tackling of the problem, taking in regional needs
and services."
Liberal candidate Ted O'Brien and sitting Labor member Arch Bevis did not
respond to my question (which I asked a month ago), so I consulted the party
websites to find out what their policies are.
In October, the Liberal Party announced that a re-elected Coalition government will invest $37 million to double the number of training places for medical specialists in private hospitals and surgeries to 300 each year by 2011, while the ALP announced $15 million of funding in independent clinical trials, drugs and research into cancer treatment, $30 million toward the Olivia Newton-John cancer centre in Melbourne and $50 million for a comprehensive cancer centre in Sydney.
As was reported on Saturday's 'At The Local' on radio station 4ZzZ, Mr O'Brien will not be appearing at Tuesday evening's "Politics In The Pub" at the Brunswick Hotel in New Farm. All other candidates for Brisbane will be participating in this community forum - including the sitting member Arch Bevis - but then New Farm isn't exactly enemy territory for the Minister for Homeland Security!
Genetically Modified Canola
Given the recent approval of genetically modified canola in NSW and Victoria, I asked the folks at Goodman Fielder whether they would be using it in their "Crisco" cooking oil, and if so would they make this clear on the label. Here's the response from the Consumer Advisory Centre:
"It is our policy that we will not supply food products that contain genetically modified material. In addition, we will clearly abide by any labelling requirements established by Australia's regulatory agency, Food Standards Australia New Zealand, and in line with the Trade Practices Act governed by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
Goodman Fielder in Australia and New Zealand continues to review all ingredients used in our consumer products, and as much as technically possible works to eliminate ingredients derived through genetic modification, through substitution, sourcing from areas where non-genetically modified crops are grown and IP systems. For example actions taken by companies included:
" Products reformulated to remove genetically modified ingredients, e.g. removing soy fibre and replacing with wheat fibre.
" Ingredients sourced from countries or areas which do not grow genetically modified crops, eg corn from New Zealand.
" Ingredients sourced from suppliers that have identity preservation (IP) systems in place to segregate genetically modified and non-genetically materialsWe have sourced ingredients from suppliers in line with our commitment not to provide food products that contain genetically modified material, which means that our products do not require labelling.
Woolworths' Seedless Watermelon
A Questionable Googie Egg
Dear Pace Farm,
We purchased a half dozen of your eggs recently (barcode 9313715 330173). All were fine apart from one - its white was cloudy and the yolk was white.
Just wondering if you'd be able to advise what this might mean.
Cheers,
On November 24, Make Sure You Vote - And Buy Nothing!
On 24 November, environmentalists, social activists and concerned citizens in as many as 65 countries will hit the streets for a 24-hour consumer fast in celebration of the 15th annual Buy Nothing Day, a global cultural phenomenon that originated in Vancouver, Canada.
Featured in recent years by the likes of CNN, MSNBC, Wired, the BBC, USA Today, The Age and the CBC, the international event has been gaining mainstream momentum as the climate crisis drives average people to seek out greener alternatives to unrestrained consumption.
Timed to coincide with one of the busiest shopping days on the US retail calendar, as well as the unofficial start of the international holiday-shopping season, Buy Nothing Day has taken many shapes, from relaxed family outings, to free, non-commercial street parties, to politically charged public protests. Anyone can take part provided they spend a day without spending.
In past years, street activists have proven particularly imaginative in their celebrations, bringing zombie marches, credit-card cut-ups, and shopaholic clinics to malls and public squares in an effort to expose the environmental and social consequences of First World over-consumption.
Kalle Lasn is the co-founder of the Adbusters Media Foundation, the organization responsible for launching Buy Nothing Day as a yearly, global event. He explains that while most participants used to see the day simply as an escape from the marketing mind games and frantic consumerism that have come to characterize modern life, the focus has since shifted in light of the new political mood surrounding climate change.
“So much emphasis,” he notes, “has been placed on buying carbon offsets and compact fluorescent lightbulbs and hybrid cars that we are losing sight of the core cause of our environmental problems: we consume far too much.”
“Buy Nothing Day isn't just about changing your routine for one day. It’s about starting a lasting lifestyle commitment. With over six billion people on the planet, it is the responsibility of the most affluent – the upper 20% that consumes 80% of the world’s resources – to set out on a new path.”
http://www.adbusters.org/home/
Ann And George
The eyes have it - captured on a traffic pole on the corner of George and Ann Streets - today [28/11/07]
An extract from Chapter 15 (Time for Leadership: Issues of Importance to Aboriginal and Islander People - Annie Holden and Noel Pearson) from 'The Goss Government: Promise and Performance of Labor in Queensland', edited by Bron Stevens and John Wanna (1993):
