NNN NOOOOOOOOO

Don’t you know

It is a sin,

To put your rubbish

In another’s bin.

You lift the lid

Surprise? Surprise

Big mobs of maggots

Soon-to-be flies.

Plus all the smells

Your senses stretch

No wonder then

You retch and retch.

The sight the stench

Will rot your sox

‘Cos you opened

Pandora’s box.

Where to Live

FANTASY GRIPS MY RESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS

If I could live any place in the world,

You know where it would be,

In the hot, dusty city of Timbuktoo,

The capital of Mali.

I might be quite a fool

Going to where angels fear to tread,

But reading of this lonely place,

Does not fill me with dread.

Why do I feel this as a wish,

It’s really hard to say,

I’ll put it down to the quirkiness

Of Poor Old Henry Gray

What is wrong with Australia – 3

THE SILENT MAJORITY ‘WIMP OUT!

Too often, our agenda is set by a vigorous and raucous minority who make sufficient noise to convince authorities that they speak for far more people than is the case.

The majority are ‘middle of the road’ people who are not given to responding—instead, they remain silent and apathetic. So, interest groups influence agendas in an unfortunate manner because authorities react to their suggestions to counter their vociferousness.

Allowing these myriad splinter groups to influence our country unduly is a factor ripping away at the blessings this country should offer

What is wrong with Australia -2,

 2PREOCCUPATION WITH SOCIAL OVERLAY

Many Australians are so into the giddy world of social engagement that they have little time for the real world. It often seems we are in a whirlpool of recreational pursuits that hide the real world.

We don’t want to know about the severe side of life. Escapism is the order of the day—every day.

Unless and until we are prepared to confront the real world, denial and an ostrich-like stance will continue to afflict us.

We need recreation, but carrying this to excess destroys our country, culture, and people.

NO WAY UBER.

UBER away,

We don’t need you here,

When needing a taxi,

It’s always so near,

Comes within in minutes,

Of a call to their line,

Glad, willing service,

From ten score at least nine,

Taxi’s so clean,

Inside and out,

Keen, willing drivers,

From the rooftops I shout,

“Do we need UBER?

No jolly fear,

We cannot better,

Our taxi’s right here”.

________________

The process of discovery impacts Poor Old Henry

I am a member of an NT Carers Group, one of a number who look after denentia impacted people. My wife has dementia.

Through an exercise at yesterday’s meeting I discovered that I am the oldest member of the group.

Yes indeed, I am a very, very old person.

That has made me feel myself to be a person under the cloud hovering over the heads of those who are in the ‘ancient of days’ phase of life.

I

Adam Drake is my Hero

Adam,

To interface with the words of Tina Turner,

You are SIMPLY THE BEST.

Superlatives to express the great good you do and with such empathy and deep seated commitment fail me.

I may not respond as often as was the case – largely because of circumstances – but I am your number one supporter and disciple of a man in whose footsteps very few could follow.

Henry

This great man wears himself out doing good for and uplifting others.

Pure Advice

SAVE YOUR MONEY

SAVE, DON’T WASTE.

Take no drugs,

Drink no booze,

If caught driving,

You’ve a lot to lose.

Save your dollars,

It’s a sin,

‘Tis like throwing money

In the bin,

To sip and smoke,

Grog and dope,

It’s so deadly,

And no joke.

Give up these habits,

Walk straight each day,

Then you’ll been good,

And blessed I say.

“Waste not dough”,

Bank your bread,

Waste not, want not”,

The wise man said.

________________

Acknowledging the First People of Australia.

A collection of acknowledgements

THANKING THE LARRAKIA

City of Darwin Council

City of Darwin is proud to operate on Larrakia country. We acknowledge the Larrakia people as the Traditional Owners of the Darwin region and pay our respects to Larrakia elders past and present. We are committed to working with all Larrakia people to care for our community and this land and sea for our shared future.

City of Darwin acknowledges the Larrakia people as the Traditional Owners of the land and waterways now known as Darwin. Council pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and values the ongoing contribution to enrich and appreciate the cultural heritage of Darwin. Council acknowledges and respects Australia’s First Peoples as Traditional Owners of lands and waterways across Country, and encourages reconciliation between all. The City of Darwin also values the contribution made to Darwin over the years by people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.

 

I am privileged to work and live on the lands of the Larrakia (Gulumoerrgin) people of the Darwin region (Garramilla/Garrmalang). I thank them for their ongoing protection of country, and acknowledge elders past, present, and emerging.

 

Coles dockets

Charles Darwin University

 acknowledges all First Nations people across the lands on which we live and work, and we pay our respects to Elders both past and present.

Imprints Booksellers 

is located on the land of the Kaurna people, and we respect their people and culture.

 

ACEL

 acknowledges First Australians, the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing culture, their contribution and connection to land, waters and community, and we pay our respect to elders past, present and emerging.

NT News

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land in all states and territories on which we work and report. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging, and honour

their history, cultures, and traditions of story telling.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples and acknowledge Elders past and present.

Woolworths

 

Woolworths Group acknowledges the many 

Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise their strengths and enduring connection to lands, waters and skies as the Custodians of the oldest continuing cultures on the planet. 

 

Woolworths Group supports the invitation set out in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to walk together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are committed to actively contributing to Australia’s reconciliation journey through listening and learning, empowering more diverse voices, caring deeply for our communities and working together for a better tomorrow.

An individual

I acknowledge and pay respect to the Widjabal people of Bundjalung Nation on whose Land we work, meet and study. I recognise the significant role the past and future Elders play in the life of the University and the region. I am mindful that within and without the buildings, the Land always was and always will be Aboriginal Land

AFL

Acknowledgement of Country

In the spirit of reconciliation the AFL acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

Peoples Choice

We acknowledge and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet, work and live. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet, work and live. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past, present and future.

Luke Gosling

 I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. I pay respect to them and their cultures and to elders past, present and future.

AEU NT

We acknowledge that our office operates out of the traditional lands of the Larrakia people in Garramilla (Darwin) and acknowledge the many lands across the Territory upon which we all teach, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.

Jingili Primary School

Woolworths second edition

Woolworths Group acknowledges the many Traditional Owners of the lands across Australia, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise their strengths and enduring connection to lands, waters and skies as the Custodians of the oldest continuing cultures on the planet.

 

We are committed to actively contributing to Australia’s reconciliation journey through listening and learning, empowering more diverse voices, caring deeply for our communities and working together for a better tomorrow.

Woolworths in more detail

Our Vision for Reconciliation

 

Woolworths Group acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Lands and pays respect to Elders past and present.

As one of Australia’s largest retailers, we have the honour of serving thousands of communities and millions of people across rural, remote and metro areas. Representing the communities we serve, Woolworths Group has a unique opportunity to make positive and tangible changes to the lives of all Australians, including First Nations peoples.

Our latest RAP tells the story of our Reconciliation journey. Supported by our strategic focuses across Indigenous education, employment, sourcing and health, our RAP plays to our organisational strengths in the belief that our actions will make a meaningful contribution toward reconciliation and Closing the Gap within Australia.

Led by our values of ‘we care deeply’, ‘we listen and learn’, and ‘we do the right thing’, our RAP stays true to Woolworths Group’s purpose of creating better experiences for a better tomorrow.

Our vision for reconciliation is an Australia where First Nations peoples have equitable access to the essential products, services and opportunities they need to truly thrive for a better tomorrow.

A brave heart for a better tomorrow.

——————

——————

——————

Regis

Regis acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.

————————

ARRCS respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live and connect to Australia’s First Nations Peoples. We acknowledge Elders both past and present, whose ongoing effort to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures will leave a lasting legacy for future leaders and reconciliation within Australia.

  the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants and the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work

——————-

I acknowledge Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners of the country I work on, and their connection to land and community. I pay my respect to all Traditional Owners, and to the Elders both past and present.

——————-

  • The National Indigenous Times acknowledges and pays respect to past and present Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation. We recognise Aboriginal Community’s continuing connection to their lands, waters and stories and acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded.

Footer

McGrath Foundation 

In the spirit of reconciliation, the McGrath Foundation acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging who have nurtured these lands and cared for each other for thousands of years. May we learn from their experience and be guided by their wisdom.

Acknowledgement of Country

Trove acknowledges First Australian peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this country and their continued connection to land, sea, and culture. Trove pays their respects to the resilience and strength of Ancestors and Elders past, present, and emerging and extends that respect to all First Australian peoples.

AFLW

Acknowledgement of Country

In the spirit of reconciliation the AFL acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

ACEL

ACEL acknowledges First Australians, the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing culture, their contribution and connection to land, waters and community, and we pay our respect to elders past, present and emerging.

CARERS AUSTRALIA

Carers Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities as the traditional custodians of the land we work on and pay our respects to elders past and present. As an inclusive organisation we celebrate people of all backgrounds, genders, cultures, and abilities

EVOLUTION.

The days they come and go,

The weeks they come and go,

The months, years, decades, scores – they come and go,

People come and go.

We get born,

Grow up,

Get old,

And go dead.

The world keeps on turning,

Orbiting,

Home to the billions of living,

And care-taking the remains,

Retaining the memories,

Of those billions

who have passed over.

_________________

PARENTS, DO YOUR JOB

(You birthed them, now educate them).

Gonski came, Gonski went,

Problems still remain,

Gillard’s panacea man,

Education remains a pain.

We want it all for free it seems,

No-one wants to pay,

The best for no outlay to us,

Sorry, that’s not the way.

Sipping grog and smoking fags,

In debt up to the hilt,

While spending not on learning costs,

Kids’ future learning spilt.

Get real good folk, prioritise,

Fund your children going forward,

Their education’s on your heads,

Abrogation’s nought but fraud.

PLAY THE BALL …!

What are you passionate about?

Focus on issues.

The message not the messenger.

Avoid demeaning emails.

Cope with stupidity and aggravation by thinking ‘alter ego’.

Play devil’s advocate and enjoy the scorn people pour upon you in response.

Love words.

Learn to laugh at yourself.

Try to avoid being submerged in the bog of despair – often easier said than done.

Think and reflect.

NORTHERN TERRITORY MEMORY CLINIC FACES FUNDING CRISIS

The Northern  Territory Memory Clinic, a vital part of the program offered in support of people living with dementia and carers in the NT, is in dire straits. The memory clinic is presently supported by a .5 part-time doctor –  with the other half of the position supporting the geriatric program at Palmerston Regional Hospital.

Three specialist nurses support the memory clinic. One full-time NT-funded position will remain unchanged. The Commonwealth currently funds two positions through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), and this funding is being cut from July 1.

Staff curtailment will mean that memory clinic support services to the Katherine and Nhulunbuy areas will cease, along with visits to people under the care-at-home program in Darwin and Palmerston.

The Memory Clinic centre and staff support an ever-growing number of clients. Services need to be expanded, not curtailed

Thoughts from the Shadows – 13

  • Dementia is incurable because the brainbox is a sealed unit.
  • Canning currency reduces money from concrete to concept.
  • Australian politics  are a kaleidoscope of confusion.
  • Care packages  are gravy trains  for unscrupulous providers.
  • Dementia diminishes  life’s sparkle and grows lethargy.

Last Hurrah

I am in a canoe,

Lying flatly, comfortably on my back,

Looking up at the sky,

With its blueness,

Fleecy clouds wafting across its face.

Drifting,

Toward the twilight zone of the day,

Slowly,

Ever so slowly the sun kisses then eases past the western horizon.

Twilight,

Envelopes the sky and surrounds fading into grey surreality.

Stars,

Twinkle and stare from overhead as the canoe drifts further into the ocean of blackness.

Found,

In the early morning by a lone fisherman,

The canoe?

Empty.

AI and a question of location

Can I live on Easter Island

Living on Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui, is certainly possible, but it comes with unique challenges and considerations:

Considerations for Living on Easter Island

  1. Location:
  • Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean.
  1. Population:
  • The island has a small population, around 7,000 residents, primarily concentrated in the main town, Hanga Roa.
  1. Cost of Living:
  • The cost of living can be relatively high due to its isolation. Many goods are imported, leading to higher prices.
  1. Employment:
  • Job opportunities are limited, mainly in tourism, fishing, and local services. It may be challenging to find work unless you have specialized skills or are involved in tourism.
  1. Housing:
  • Housing options are available, but they can be limited and may be expensive compared to mainland Chile.
  1. Culture:
  • Rapa Nui has a rich cultural heritage. Participating in local customs and understanding the culture is essential for integrating into the community.
  1. Access and Transportation:
  • The island is accessible mainly by air from mainland Chile, with limited flights. There are no major roads or public transportation systems.
  1. Healthcare:
  • There are basic healthcare facilities, but for serious medical issues, evacuation to the mainland may be necessary.
  1. Utilities and Resources:
  • Utilities may be limited compared to urban areas. Water and electricity can sometimes be an issue, depending on the season.
  1. Environment:
    • The island’s environment is fragile, and residents are encouraged to follow sustainable practices.

Conclusion

If you’re considering moving to Easter Island, it’s essential to plan carefully, research the local lifestyle, and consider the logistical aspects of living in such a remote location.

A question to ask AI

Do ladies or girls with the name ‘Hettie’ have a greater propensity for tears than others?

The propensity for tears or emotional expression in individuals is influenced more by personality traits, upbringing, and individual circumstances rather than their name.

Considerations:

  • Cultural Influence: Names can sometimes carry cultural or familial significance, which may influence a person’s identity and behavior, but this varies widely among individuals.
  • Individual Differences: Emotional expression, including the likelihood of crying, can differ greatly regardless of name. Factors such as temperament, life experiences, and social environments play a significant role.
  • Stereotypes and Generalizations: There may be stereotypes associated with certain names, but attributing emotional characteristics to names can lead to overgeneralization and may not accurately reflect individual traits.

Conclusion:

There is no scientific evidence or research to suggest that individuals named “Hettie” have a greater propensity for tears than anyone else. Emotional responses are complex and vary widely from person to person.

Poor Old Henry – health and well-being for a very old man

I don’t overly think on these things and stories a lot more when younger. I am not foolhardy but take chances things will generally be okay.

If I needed hospitalisation that would be impossible because I am carer for my wife who has dementia. If I had to go to hospital there would be no one to care for her.

I do not smoke or drink alcohol but am no fitness freak I try to keep my weight down But my body looks yuk and in my old age I am but a caricature of my former physical self .

I survive

Poor Old Henry and coping with negative feelings

I do not cope well and in my life with increasing challenges as a carer for my loved one.

Headache pills

Sleeping tablets

Strong wake-up coffee each morning

Trying to keep steady with the exhaustion I have in maintaining our place and caring properly for my wife

Antidepressants for the waves of depression that constantly consume me.

Enduring countless dreams of all sorts that impact me each night.

I do not cope well – it’s an existence

Thoughts from the Shadows – 13

  • The frustrations of living are often overwhelmingly hurtful.
  • In ONE hour I will become an octogenarian.  80 – it is scary. 
  • Governments love debt and often waste our money on garbage.
  • The warp and weft of the Australian fabric is being shredded.
  • Australia’s defence shield  is as secure as tissue paper.
  • .
  • .

From Neil McCormack

Alzheimer Awareness Week is coming

Someone once said if you take care of someone with dementia you lose them more and more everyday. When they get the diagnosis, when they go through different stages, when they need treatment and when they pass away. This is called “ambiguous loss”.
As the brain slowly dies, they change physically and eventually forget who their loved ones are. They could end up lying in bed, not moving and not eating or drinking.
There will be people who will scroll past this post because Dementia has not touched them. They may not know what it’s like to have a loved one who has battled or is still battling dementia.
To raise awareness of this cruel disease, I would like my friends to put this on their page today. Hold your finger on the post to copy and paste to your timeline.
A special thank you to anyone willing to put this on their timeline for Alzheimer Awareness Week!
💜🙏

Poor Old Henry gets lost in thought.

Thinking

Reflecting

Revisiting past personal, family, community and wider history.

Remembering key learnings and the impact they had on my personal, family and professional life.

Pondering my past studies, readings, community contributions, the value of my mission statement and the focus of my priorities.

Thanking my Father for the wisdom of his advice and his impact upon the shaping of my foundations and underpinning values of emergence from youth into manhood.

All in all, without overlooking the present, I get lost in the repository of my mind

What is wrong with Australia – 1

 SELLING OUR INHERITANCE – BLESSING DESTROYED

At the government and private levels, Australia is so wrong to be in the game of selling off assets and companies into overseas control. We used to be a country identified as ‘Australia’ regarding asset ownership and management. No longer.

Increasingly, we have sold off segments of our birthright for cash advantage. Sadly, that cash is soon wasted, generally squandered on some ‘quick fix’ and wholly unsustainable project. We keep selling, and we keep wasting.

Increasingly, we Australians are tenants in a country owned and controlled by overseas principals. We have allowed ourselves to become bankrupt yet continue to sell off whatever bits of the farm remain.

BATH TIME FOR HENRY V111 AND ELIZABETH 1

Poor Old Henry asked AI

What was added to the water when King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth ! were taking a bath? Were the baths for a long or short period of time?

Response:

In the time of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, bathing practices were quite different from today. The water in their baths was typically heated and might be infused with various substances such as:

  1. Herbs and Essential Oils: Lavender, rosemary, and other aromatic herbs were often added for fragrance and potential medicinal properties.
  2. Milk: Sometimes, milk was added to baths for its believed skin-softening qualities.
  3. Honey or Oils: These were also occasionally added for moisturizing effects.

Regarding the duration of the baths, both monarchs typically bathed infrequently by modern standards. Bathing was not a daily ritual; it was more common to bathe once every few weeks or even longer. When they did bathe, the water was usually changed after use due to hygiene concerns, as allowing multiple people to use the same bathwater was common. The actual time spent in the bath would vary, but it would generally be for a shorter duration compared to today’s standards of relaxation and self-care.

Way to go

Iran

Is the 14 largest country in the world.

Has a population of 93 million.

Gas only had three Supreme Leaders in nearly five decades.

Therefore it could be assumed that the country is stable, prosperous and the leadership admired and appreciated by the vast majority.

Assumptions

Can be so wrong.

What is wrong with Australia

WE ARE BLESSED

We are blessed to live in Australia, but I suspect we are somewhat extravagant about our birthright. Over the following few entries, I thought to outline what we might do differently and better. This does not come from an expert, but rather from an aging Australian-born and raised citizen whose next ‘major’ birthday centenary will take me to the threescore and ten—getting closer by the year.

Older adults see things differently, possibly more reflectively than the young. We have experienced what is yet to unfold for them, albeit in a different world. The constant is that we all have youth and then grow older. 

I worry about this country and will share some thoughts about it.

I  am revisiting and extending my observations in 2026. Having just turned 80 gives me licence to revisit these issues.

Today

I am overwhelmed by depression

I feel life closing in on me

I feel sick in the body , bloated in my body. Drowning in spirit and beside my mind.

I feel lonely

In need of debate and c on variation

But an stuck in the stupor of stationary posture

And about as vibrant and alive as a pillar of salt

How to break out if this inertia I do not know

In a word

Buggered

SIR KIER

Sir Kier,

Sir Kier,

You speak so well,

At the podium it seemed,

With pride you did swell,

As you pronounced your abstention

From involving as well

In the Iran schnozzle

Now on the boil

Sure to impact 

With huge human toll.

Good old Sir Kier

Said to the crowd

In educated tones

Both cultured and loud

That the UK stood clear

Of taking sides in the war

The Iranian born audience

With approval did roar.

Fantastic Sir Kier

Has dispatched for good

Traditional Anglo culture 

For which the UK once stood.

In its new age of confusion 

Past leaders would quail

“We left you the gift of our country

But you flounder and fail.”

My brain

Is my gearbox 

And it feels itself

To be in need 

Of a grease and oil change.

Every so often

The sump of an engine 

Needs to be drained

And topped up  

With fresh oil.

They say brain drain

Is when good brains

In the heads of smart people 

Leave the country 

For overseas destinations.

To me brain drain

Is the need for overhaul. 

My gears in the brain box

Don’t seem to mesh

With past precision 

And things are grating on my mind

Like never before.

Biggest Influences for POH – The Scary Ones

Self doubt

Fear of heights

Fear of cliff faces

Fear of cascading tears

Fear of low flying aircraft

Fear of fire

Fear of cyclones

Fear of earthquakes

Fear of war

Fear of leftist ideology

Fear to think about camaraderie

Fear of false accusations

Fear of the reality of dreams being experienced

Fear of car crashes

Fear of molestation in shopping centres

Fear of courts condoning crime through light sentencing

Fear of positions being filled by other than the merit principle of selection

Fear of not being understood by recently arrived telephonists from non-English speaking countries

Fear of death duties

Fear of debt

Fear of selfish politicians

Fear of dementia’s evolution

The list goes on and on and on …..

A Relief for POH

Do ladies or girls with the name ‘Hettie’ have a greater propensity for tears than others?

The propensity for tears or emotional expression in individuals is influenced more by personality traits, upbringing, and individual circumstances rather than their name.

Considerations:

  • Cultural Influence: Names can sometimes carry cultural or familial significance, which may influence a person’s identity and behavior, but this varies widely among individuals.
  • Individual Differences: Emotional expression, including the likelihood of crying, can differ greatly regardless of name. Factors such as temperament, life experiences, and social environments play a significant role.
  • Stereotypes and Generalizations: There may be stereotypes associated with certain names, but attributing emotional characteristics to names can lead to overgeneralization and may not accurately reflect individual traits.

Conclusion:

There is no scientific evidence or research to suggest that individuals named “Hettie” have a greater propensity for tears than anyone else. Emotional responses are complex and vary widely from person to person.

Great to know

Henry asks AI about the hottest for longest

Which is the hottest place on earth for the longest time of the year?

The hottest place on Earth for the longest duration is typically considered to be Dallol, located in the Afar Triangle of northeastern Ethiopia.

Key Facts about Dallol:

  • Average Annual Temperature: Dallol has an average annual temperature of around 34.4°C (94°F).
  • Extreme Temperatures: The area has recorded temperatures exceeding 50°C (122°F).
  • Geothermal Activity: Dallol is known for its volcanic activity, including hot springs and sulfur fields, contributing to its extreme heat.

Other Notable Mentions:

  • Death Valley, California, USA: Known for its dramatic heat, especially in the summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 50°C.
  • Lut Desert, Iran: This region has recorded some of the highest surface temperatures on Earth, with satellite measurements showing 70.7°C (159.3°F).

Dallol stands out due to its consistently high temperatures throughout the year, making it unique in terms of the duration of extreme heat.

Henry asks AI about the coldest for longest

Which place on earth has the coldest temperatures for the longest periods of time?

The place on Earth with the coldest temperatures for the longest periods is typically considered to be Antarctica, specifically at a high point on the East Antarctic Plateau.

Key Facts about the Coldest Place:

  • Location: The area known as the Dome Argus on the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
  • Extreme Temperatures: Satellite measurements have recorded temperatures as low as −128.6°F (−89.2°C) at Vostok Station on July 21, 1983, which is the lowest natural temperature ever recorded on Earth.
  • Coldest Months: The winter months (May to August) see the most extreme cold, with temperatures often remaining well below freezing for extended periods.
  • Long Duration of Cold: Due to the high elevation and the polar climate, parts of Antarctica can experience continuous cold for most of the year, especially during the long polar nights.

Other Notable Cold Places:

  • Oymyakon, Russia: Known as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth, with temperatures dropping below −50°C (−58°F).
  • Yakutsk, Russia: Often cited for extreme winter temperatures but not as cold as the highest points in Antarctica.

Antarctica remains the most extreme in terms of sustained cold temperatures over long periods.

Henry asks AI a third question

Since the year 1 ad, had there ever been total worldwide peace for at least the period of a week?

The concept of total worldwide peace is complex, especially since the year 1 AD. Throughout history, there have been numerous conflicts, wars, and societal upheavals across various regions of the world.

While there may have been brief periods of relative peace in localized areas, it’s highly unlikely that there has ever been a week where the entire globe was free of conflict, given the continuous nature of human disputes and differing interests among nations, tribes, and groups.

Historically significant periods, such as the Pax Romana (27 BC to 180 AD) or the Pax Britannica (1815 to 1914), involved relative peace within certain empires or regions but did not eliminate conflict elsewhere in the world. Thus, finding a time frame of total worldwide peace, even for a week, appears improbable based on historical records.

The Tower of Babel fixed things for good!

Henry asked AI another

Which is the most important invention and advancement in the field of communications and why?

The most important invention in the field of communications is arguably the Internet. Here’s why:

1. Global Connectivity

  • The Internet enables instantaneous communication across the globe, transcending geographical barriers. This interconnectedness allows people from different countries to interact, share ideas, and collaborate like never before.

2. Information Access

  • It serves as a vast repository of information, making knowledge accessible to anyone with an Internet connection. This democratization of information has transformed education and learning.

3. Real-time Communication

  • Technologies such as email, instant messaging, and video conferencing have revolutionized how we communicate. They allow for real-time interaction, facilitating both personal and professional communication.

4. Social Media Platforms

  • Social media has changed interpersonal communication, creating new ways for people to connect, share experiences, and mobilize for causes. It has also played a critical role in shaping public discourse and social movements.

5. Economic Impact

  • The Internet has spurred the growth of new industries and economic models, such as e-commerce, digital marketing, and remote work. This has significantly changed how businesses operate and engage with consumers.

6. Innovation Catalyst

  • It has enabled technological advancements in other fields, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and IoT (Internet of Things), thereby pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Conclusion

While there have been many significant inventions in the field of communications, the Internet stands out due to its profound impact on how we connect, share, and collaborate in an increasingly digital world.

Henry asked AI

Which is the most important invention of all time and why?

Determining the most important invention of all time is subjective and can vary based on different perspectives. However, a common contender for this title is the wheel. Here’s why:

Importance of the Wheel

  1. Fundamental to Transportation: The wheel revolutionized how people traveled and transported goods, leading to the development of carts, chariots, and eventually vehicles.
  2. Catalyst for Trade: The ability to move goods over long distances more efficiently facilitated trade, which was crucial for economic development and the rise of civilizations.
  3. Enhancement of Machinery: The wheel is integral to many machines. Its principles are applied in countless inventions, from simple devices like water wheels to complex machinery in modern manufacturing.
  4. Cultural Exchange: Improved transportation enabled cultural exchange and interaction between different societies, contributing to the spread of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices.
  5. Foundation for Future Innovations: The concepts associated with the wheel have influenced numerous other inventions, including gears and engines, ultimately shaping the industrial and technological advancements we see today.

In summary, the wheel’s impact on transportation, trade, and technology has made it one of the most transformative inventions throughout human history.

PARLIAMENT or a ‘CRACKLE of COCKATOOS’?

Listening to the Senate in Canberra this afternoon during question time, all I can say that this chamber of debate resembles and reflects a bloody awful mess of misplaced, patriotism, foolish and stupid questions, and quite inane answers. Not that anyone would hear the answers for all the squawking that is going on.

I have listened to this chamber before and it was a disgrace. It is always a disgrace.

The world is choking on people

AI CONFIRMS

As of the latest estimates, the global birth and death rates are as follows:

Births

  • Approximately 385,000 babies are born each day worldwide.

Deaths

  • Approximately 150,000 people die each day globally.

Summary

  • Net Increase: This results in a net daily population increase of around 235,000 people.

These numbers can vary based on several factors including healthcare advancements, socio-economic developments, and changes in global health policies.

Horrible

What is happening in the middle of the world from west to east is horrible Terror rules and missiles are doing the talking. Peace has gone Armageddon is spreading across the globe. What a transformation; it is literally a case of hell on earth.

Shopping draw cards for Poor Old Henry

Shopping preference

Given some of the places we had to shop during years of outback appointments, I consider us lucky to have the choice of either Woolworths or Coles in Darwin. We shop in both, but I confess—a swing in preference to Coles in the past few years. 

While prices are comparable, Cole’s offers outstanding opportunities for customers to earn credits toward some quality kitchen and dining extras. Since 2024, Coles has offered credits (One credit for every $20 spentand with bonus crdit opportunities) for kitchen knives, stone glass containers, European glassware, and now kitchen aid cookware. I have been able to obtain some quality items that help support members of our family in their business. 

These days, Woolworths offers incentives of a less durable nature (cards and things) with appeal to children, but nothing of a long-lasting and practical nature. 

In terms of comparison, it is Coles every time for me.

ABSENCE MAY BE UNAVOIDABLE

Absence from school

The issue of school attendance in both remote and urban school situations is one continuing to attract attention. That has been so for the past 40 years.  Solutions are proposed but often not followed  up by authorities.

In 2009 the  enrolment of school age children became compulsory. However, there are still many school aged children in the Territory who have never been enrolled.

 For children in urban schools, absence for a host of reasons  occurs during term time . A major factor is that of families taking holidays during school terms when airfares and accomodation are cheaper. Attendance can be a problem for all schools.

Lead from the front.

Principals,  school leadership teams and school councils need to be proactive when  dealing with attendance issues. One strategy that works, is to encourage students on term time holidays, to develop a travelogue covering their experiences. This helps reinforce the learning children do while on family travels. Using  media (photos and videos) to embellish adventures, adds to the written word.  Trip diaries can be shared with classes and may even attract commendation and awards from classroom teachers and principals.

With a little imagination and by recognising travel as providing learning opportunities, these times away from school can become significant learning journeys for children.

While some parents request holiday assignments and worksheets, these are often not completed. That does not justify the time and effort taken by staff setting up these individual programs.

More than legislation needed

Legislating  to solve attendance problems can be pretentious. The Tasmanian Government has decreed that from the beginning of 2018, no family holidays during term time will be allowed. Families will be liable for penalties of up to $2000 if  they fail to follow this attendance directive. 

Tasmania could have learned from the NT. We have legislation about school attendance, but when tested in court it has had very limited success. Further, the many steps that have to be actioned  prior to any court hearing, are both lengthy and onerous.    

There needs to be some follow up for all students on this issue, including recognition of children with outstanding attendance records.  Mention in school newsletters and the presentation of merit certificates are two ways of acknowledging conscientious attenders. However, absences which result from family circumstances ought not be punitively treated. Encouraging children toward educational enrichment through their travels is 

IS A SCHOOL A SCHOOL OR A CRECHE

Published 13 years ago

Teachers, particularly Primary School teachers often wonder whether schools are schools. It seems that many including parents, politicians and the community at large think of them as creches. Accord hij ing to the Macquarie Dictionary a school is a place where instruction is given for children. A creche is a nursery where children are cared for while their parents work. It seems to many educators  that parents and primary caregivers are muddled between the two.

I am not blaming parents for the social malaise of the early 21st century. Talking about parents, schools and children Jeff Wells (Weekend Australian 20-21 April 1991) wrote it is a sign of the economic times that many families have to offer their children to be brought up by institutions alternate the nuclear family because of economic imperatives.

Changes in Educational Perception and School Definition

During the past fifteen to twenty years, for instance, teachers and office staff have become increasingly the minders for sick children, They are sent to school when unwell because parents cannot afford the time off work to care for them. The phenomena of unwell children spending their days in school medical rooms is exacerbated by industrial relations laws that either don’t recognise or are unkind to the needs of parents. This is still the case, notwithstanding the changes to legislation that has lead to some apparent enlightenment and added employee entitlement under the Fair Work Act.This puts school staff into a position of being minders, with school too often like unto health centres. 

Front and centre to this are children who will endure as much as they can when sent to school ill, because they fear consequences if  parents are contacted by the school about their unwellness. Over my years as a school principal, I became all too aware of this phenomena.

It is during the past twenty odd years that vacation school care, outside school hours care  (before and after school) homework centres, school extracurricular programs for sport and so on, have sprung up. I have the greatest respect for the support these programs offer, but make the point that their necessity has been occasioned by parents who are increasingly obligated to work and occupational commitment. The modern world and economic necessity have prioritised their time, largely taking family destiny out of their parental hands.

Expecations coming down from On High

Added to this role expansion (some would say distortion) are in-school imperatives increasingly driven by Australian Government compliance requirement setting detailed agendas which put a real squash on school, learning and teaching time. principals and teachers in schools are feeling the squeeze like never before. Be it wise or not, school based educators appear to be increasingly supplicant to these demands; rarely if ever is debate about the wisdom or otherwise of imposed agendas initiated at school or system level. Schools and staff are expected to ‘stretch’ and cover curricular demands.

I recall Jim Spinks, a prominent Tasmanian school Principal and ‘practical academic’ advising that if things are added onto the school curriculum, items have to be dropped off in order to enable sensible accommodation. This exhortation is rarely followed meaning that schools and staff members become overwhelmed by requirements.

 Metaphorically, schools are like sponges, given more and more to soak up: The capacity to endlessly absorb responsibility is reaching toward a perilous end-point. Confirming this is both anecdotal and empirical evidence attesting to teachers leaving the profession in increasing numbers. There is only so much a body can take and there is a huge lack of appreciation offered schools  and staff members.

Aspiration and Actuality

Caring educators believing in and practising quality education always aim to meet the needs of learners. However there is an onus on society, its governments and its institutions to make sure  schools and educators are affirmatively recognised and appreciated. Meeting the needs of children and students will be more likely to happen if education’s key servants – teachers and support staff – are given support, credit and recognition deserved for they role they play in educational and developmental partnerships.