Crime has reached epidemic proportions. There is no way I would buy a new car, particularly not a Hilux. So many vehicles are stolen, domestic violence has increased, and assaults on people and the damaging of property have become commonplace. 

Our shopping centres are not safe places because of behaviour, and everything is being forgiven. Causes are examined to determine why those who perpetrated crimes, particularly youthful offenders, can be excused.

Since coming to Darwin in 1987, I have witnessed the building of two new jails (each one increasing in size) and juvenile detention centres. The third detention centre is being built. Some people are urging the government to extend the jail for adults. Our correctional facilities are bursting at the seams; our police force is underdone in terms of numbers, and in some cases, it seems increasingly hesitant about their powers, lest they offend against the rights of those breaching the law.

The streets and parks of older suburban areas have become very rundown, and Maintenance seems to be sporadic.

A great deal has gone into establishing new suburbs and housing on claims, but I suspect how buildings have been put up might mean unless the life expectancy is held for older and more substantial structures.

The place is being built upon and built upon and built upon and could be said to be blowing up like a balloon. I sometimes wonder whether this frenetic growth will eventually collapse inwardly and we will realise that maintenance and care for what we had and neglected should have been given a higher priority than is the case.

So in conclusion, what I like most about the place where I live is a reflection upon its history when things, in my opinion, were far better than they are now.

But, comparing what was to what the world now offers, is anywhere any good?