Categories
Politics and activism

Some thoughts on the Labor leadership spill

A few thoughts on Federal politics from the last few days. I think Gillard did some great stuff. Carbon tax (some don’t like it, but it works), National Disability Insurance Scheme, the Royal Commission into child abuse, and (along with her predecessors on both sides) keeping the economy afloat in dire economic times — and  ... [More]

Categories
Politics and activism transport

Moving forward

Julia Gillard apparently mentioned “Moving forward” some 22 times during her press conference today announcing the election. “Moving forward.” It sounds vaguely familiar. Ah yes: Well, it worked for them. Update: Had a text message from an ex-Connex management person saying they are “very proud” their slogan has been recycled! Also: Renowned author and former  ... [More]

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Friends and loved ones Politics and activism

Julia and the Freddo

In my circle of friends, the story goes (and I’m sure she’ll correct any details I get wrong) that while ago Kathy was in the local supermarket with one of the kids, who was promised a Freddo Frog, but Kathy didn’t have the correct small change handy. Sorry kid, no Freddo this time. Uh oh,  ... [More]

Categories
Net Politics and activism

Reference works part 2

In 2007, a week or so after Kevin Rudd became PM, I took a look at a bunch of online reference works, some free, some corporate, to see how many had updated their articles on Australia. The score was 2/5 getting it right, with Wikipedia and Britannica having been updated, and Citizendium, Encyclopedia.com and CIA  ... [More]

Categories
Politics and activism

Julia Gillard, Prime Minister

I for one would like to welcome our new red-headed overlord. One of the things about the Westminster system is that if the ruling party loses confidence in the leader, they can replace him. And for those of you watching from overseas, that’s what happened this morning: Kevin Rudd, Prime Minister since the 2007 election,  ... [More]