You know that most promises made during an electoral campaign will be promoted to the garbage can within 24 hours of the results being finalised.

You know that integrated living with everyone together in mixed housing domains will have drawbacks created by social and cultural specifics, but the model, which defies logic, will prevail anyway.

You know that fun and laughter are being muted by political correctness and newfound sensitivities but go with the new woke flow notwithstanding it’s severe shortcomings.

What is the most neglected of leadership attributes?

AI RESPONDS

One of the most neglected leadership attributes is often considered to be **empathy**.

While many leaders focus on strategic thinking, decision-making, and results-oriented behaviors, empathy tends to be overlooked. 

Empathy involves understanding and being sensitive to the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of others. It allows leaders to connect with their team members on a personal level, fostering trust, collaboration, and a positive work environment. Leaders who demonstrate empathy can better support their team, address concerns, and motivate individuals, leading to higher engagement and productivity.

Neglecting empathy can result in a disconnect between leaders and their teams, potentially leading to low morale, high turnover, and a lack of innovation. In today’s diverse and rapidly changing work environments, the ability to empathize and understand different perspectives is increasingly crucial for effective leadership.

One of the most neglected leadership attributes is often considered to be **empathy**. While many leaders focus on strategic thinking, decision-making, and results-oriented behaviors, empathy tends to be overlooked. 

Empathy involves understanding and being sensitive to the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of others. It allows leaders to connect with their team members on a personal level, fostering trust, collaboration, and a positive work environment. Leaders who demonstrate empathy can better support their team, address concerns, and motivate individuals, leading to higher engagement and productivity.

Neglecting empathy can result in a disconnect between leaders and their teams, potentially leading to low morale, high turnover, and a lack of innovation. In today’s diverse and rapidly changing work environments, the ability to empathize and understand different perspectives is increasingly crucial for effective leadership.

Also looking forward to the Government’s new legislation, then its enactment, about crime management and control. Can’t wait for the October sittings to begin. Change at last!

The NT,

Hopefully on the way to a new direction.

Why do people who are up against financial pressures prioritise expenditure on drinking, smoking and gambling?

Why do charities bend over backward to provide free meals and accommodation to people whose first port of call with any money from pensions and government support, is at hotels and bottle shops?

Why do women who know that drinking while pregnant can lead to foetal alcohol syndrome deficiency (FASD) appear not to care and keep drinking alcohol anyway?

I

Wonder if

I have ever

Grown out of childhood

For as a school leader

I was once told by a

Student that I was a grown man

But a man with the mind of a child.

And

I took

That as a

Compliment because I always

Told students they should never

Lose their imagination and the creativity

Resident in each one of them as youth.

I

Told them

That a ruination

For so many adults

Is the loss of imagination

Without which they stultify and stagnate.

And

That is

Best put off

For as long as

It can possibly be stayed.

So maybe for me that growing

Up is still to happen in future.

Cockatoo fly past.

OVERSEAS STUDENTS THE PRIORITY

Australian universities are champing at their academic and financial bits, in frantic endeavours to have overseas students return to Australia. They are dead set keen to bend over backwards in order to have as many return as soon as possible and are looking at schemes to expedite their arrival .

This doubtful initiative had been spearheaded by the Charles Darwin University, with 63 students from four different countries arriving via a flight from Singapore. While students had to pay for their seats on the flight, their costs of being quarantined at the Howard Springs facility will be at the expense of the CDU.

Vice Chancellor Simon Maddock commented today that the average amount of money returned by each overseas student to the local economy is in order of $40,000 per year. The University is therefore happy to cover the $157,500 quarantine cost for the 63 students, because of their anticipated $2,520,000 contribution to the university and Territory economies.

This intake of students to the CDU is an icebreaking exercise. The Vice Chancellor and obviously the university board are looking forward to more arrivals. Sadly, this position is one that continues to further relegate domestic students as being unimportant, second class tertiary citizens – without the bags if money being jingled by arrivals from overseas.

I republish this because of history repeating

As a profession, teaching is at its most viable when members respect and support each other in a fully collaborative manner. The joys and challenges of teaching should never belong to those who remain in isolation from each other.

A strength of teacher education is the encouragement offered trainees to link with each other in discussion groups either in person or by discussion boards on Learnline . Observation confirms the help those preparing to teach can help each other on matters varying from assignment tasks to practice teaching rounds. Carrying quality communications habits into teaching beyond graduation is wise.

There is a misnomer that to share matters of challenge is a sign of weakness. That is far from the case. Those raising issues often find that colleagues are having similar issues or have developed strategies that help with mastery of similar difficulties. A problem shared is a problem halved.

Many universities have developed or are establishing alumni groups. Keeping in touch with colleagues through the university post graduation offers professional sharing opportunities.

Sharing through professional associations is recommended. There are maths, science, literacy associations among a host of others. Belonging to associations enables members to keep abreast of trends. Opportunities for personal professional development along with contributing to others through group membership is enriching.

I would recommend a consideration of joining ‘LinkedIn’. This site enables members to build up a global contact base with like minded people. Members can join specific interest groups, sharing global ideas.

Maintaining contact with the graduating peer group is another way of keeping in touch. Whatever the preference, keep in touch with others because that helps support both individual and collective strength.

I did some part time work around Tertiary Education. I was a casually employed marker.  I became very worried about standards of assignments submitted by students for marking.

Background

My own tertiary studies were completed through the 1980s and 1990s. The drift in requirements for assignment presentation that have evolved from then until now are a distinct worry. Universities have the codes of assignment presentation and students are asked to be familiar with those. However it seems that conformity doesn’t really matter. Some of the things that have caused me concern as a marker are indicated.

Glaring Issues

* Many students do not cite or use compulsory course reference texts.

* Some students do not tackle the whole assignment requirement. If there are three elements, they may only complete one or two of these requirements.

* Title pages are generally not provided.

* There is often evidence in one case of material being lifted from a source but not discussed in detail or particularised as required. There is a generalised response to a specific requirement.

* Students waffle on with narrative discourse when a table or rubric would offer greater meaning and clarity to argument.

* Students tend to write on the side of brevity. When a 1,500 to 2,000 word suggestion is offered, many seem to struggle to 1,000 words.

* Some students write in a way that presumes markers can read their minds or have background on issues that should be elaborated and explained. That presumption can mean that students too are vague about issues and the strategy is one that covers the issue.

* Matters of word usage, paper layout, typing text, paragraphing techniques and double spacing of text are either untaught or forgotten skills. Papers are very hard to read.

* Casual markers are employed on a per hour basis. It is generally expected that an assignment will take around 20 or 25 minutes to read and comment upon. The way in which papers are presented and the need to offer advice about deficits makes this an impossible task.

I wanted to write about this difficulty and share it on my blog. It is a real issue and one I find quite confounding. I wonder whether I should worry about these things or am I just whistling in the wind?Posted

How old is too old to be a school principal in Australia?

In Australia, there is no official age limit for becoming a primary school principal. Age should not be a determining factor in someone’s ability to perform the role effectively. The key qualifications for a principal typically include relevant educational qualifications, teaching experience, leadership skills, and the ability to manage a school environment.

However, perceptions about age can vary. Some may believe that younger principals bring fresh ideas and energy, while others may value the experience and wisdom that comes with age. Ultimately, the suitability of a candidate for the role of principal should be based on their skills, experience, and vision for the school rather than their age.

Dear Readers

God help us all!

These sorts of ‘developments’ which are abounding upon us with ever greater zealousness and ferocity, make me glad to have already lived the bulk of my life.

Australia is on the way to hell in a handcart.

Sadly

Henry

Read this column in today’s ‘Australian’ newspaper

Attach:

Trauma’ guide for judges to go woke
EXCLUSIVE ELLIE DUDLEY LEGAL AFFAIRS CORRESPONDENT

Judges should be “trauma-informed” when dealing with Indigenous defendants and consider the “pervasive intergenerational effects of settler-colonialism” when presiding over them in court, a new 200-page guidebook endorsed by the country’s peak judicial body says.

In a clear indication of changing attitudes to how justice should best be achieved, the manual also includes a lengthy section encouraging judges working in specialist courts to consider aspects of the Islamic faith that offer “clear moral and ethical guidelines” when ruling on cases that involve Muslim ­defendants.

It also notes Muslim defendants may have “a sense of personal responsibility to react to world events, in the context of religious injunctions to support others of the same faith”.

The manual, commissioned by the NSW judicial watchdog and endorsed by the Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration, explores the idea of “therapeutic jurisprudence” – which is a new approach to legal research with the goal of ­reforming the law so that it has a positive impact on the wellbeing of defendants.

It also focuses on the physical and emotional “self-care” of judges, with recommendations of herbal teas, exercise and meditation. It says by “incorporating a variety of self-care strategies” into a routine, judges can “promote overall wellbeing to help cope with a challenging workload”.

In a section titled “the importance of being culturally competent” the guide lists attributes and experiences of people with different backgrounds, and stresses that judicial officers should be “trauma-informed” when approaching defendants of varying cultures. “This crucially includes an acknowledgment and understanding of a person’s individual and collective circumstances including the broader social, political and historical context,” the manual reads.

It says Indigenous communities are “still dealing with the pervasive intergenerational effects of settler-colonialism as well as the impact of successive generations of externally imposed government policies and dis­crim­inatory legislation which have marginalised, exploited, forced the removal of children and otherwise undermined First ­Nations communities”.

“The legacy of trauma and dispossession is interconnected with other aspects of First Nations disadvantage such as the disproportionately high incarceration rates for people both sentenced or on remand, substance abuse, social and economic disadvantage, poor mental and physical health and lower life expectancy and exposure to family violence,” the guide says.

The manual observes there is a “distrust of police, family and community services, health services and other non-Aboriginal-run services due to past and present policies that have caused significant trauma”.

“In terms of interactions with the criminal justice system, First Nations people are also significantly under-represented on juries in Australian criminal trials.”

Judges are instructed to prioritise “preserving positive connections and relationships with cultural and personal significance” when “planning orders in conjunction with any legislative framework”.

While the guide was created with specialist courts in mind – such as family violence, drug, mental health or Indigenous courts – the manual would be useful to “mainstream therapeutic interventions where appropriate”, including possibly family courts or civil courts.

Lawyer and psychologist Rhondda Waterworth, the author of the guide, said the techniques included were “designed to facilitate a different outcome for offenders, similar to a therapeutic engagement in any other setting, but with necessary limitations”.

The techniques included are “not designed for use in serious criminal matters, or to excuse ­offender behaviour or argue for judicial leniency”.

“Therapeutic jurisprudence and solution-focused judging do not promote leniency; indeed, ­offenders being held to account and receiving a just outcome – including imprisonment when warranted – is therapeutic in itself because it tells offenders that actions have consequences,” she wrote.

In another section, the guide identifies “potential sensitivities and sources of strength and resilience” for immigrant cultures which judges should bear in mind during proceedings.

It says Islamic teachings provide “clear moral and ethical guidelines” that “encourage prosocial behaviour and personal spiritual development, and discourage criminal activities”.

“These principles could help young offenders develop a strong moral compass and make better life choices, promoting rehabilitation,” the manual reads.

It also says the Muslim faith has strong “principles of justice” that focus on “reconciliation and making amends rather than mere punishment”. “This approach can facilitate the healing process for both offenders and victims, fostering a sense of accountability and personal growth,” the manual states.

It says it is “important” to show deference and politeness towards older Asian individuals, and says “maintaining harmony and avoiding embarrassment or loss of face is crucial in Asian cultures”.

“Criticism or confrontation in public should be avoided, as it can cause embarrassment and damage relationships,” it says. “This may make a court appearance a particularly shaming experience and make it difficult for an offender to participate fully due to becoming emotionally overwhelmed.”

Judges should also be alive to a “potential sensitivity” related to “the historical and ongoing impacts of colonisation, systemic racism, and the after-effects of the historical slave trade” on African defendants.

The guide also provides more practical tips to ensure the justice process can be a therapeutic experience for offenders and other parties, including the presence of support people in the courtroom or breaks in proceedings.

It also says it may be “useful” to avoid having a judge and an offender “facing each other head on” as it could evoke an “automatic, subconscious aggressive, confrontational emotional reaction from an offender”.

“It is useful to analyse how much influence you have, or would like to have, over the physical layout of the courtroom and the interactions and roles of other legal actors and the hearing present for these interactions,” the manual reads. “It could be useful to consider the positioning and orientation of the respective roles.

Therapy sessions are often conducted with seats at a perpendicular or 45 per cent angle from each other, as this is less likely to trigger a sense of being aggressed or confronted, and therefore the client is less defensive and more open to participating.”

The manual has a heavy focus on the emotional and physical wellbeing of judges, offering advice to avoid burnout and promote work-life balance. “When you run through your day, when are the energy highs and lows?

How are you dealing with any ­period of low energy?” it reads.
“Is it possible to consider replacing caffeine, chocolate (or other substances), with five minutes of directed meditation, high intensity exercise (such as stair climbing), or another intervention?”

The Australian, Thursday October 10, 2024

Why has the City of Darwin Council spent many, many thousands of dollars on a ‘memorial’ sculpture, which looks like an emaciated mango tree?

Why has the Council installed parking meters that will only accept credit card payment, and which are so far apart that those parking often have to walk a considerable distance from their parked vehicles to and from the meter?

Why does the Council plant trees that are never pruned or maintained, so they grow up to become quite hazardous to both traffic and pedestrians?

Why are councils loathe to focus on the basics of roads, rubbish, and vegetation maintenance and prefer to become involved in policy areas well and truly beyond the brief of local government?

You are getting old when you start talking about the burial places of predeceased family and friends.

You are aging when people appointed to key organisational positions are younger than your youngest child.

You are getting past it when the body will not respond to the mind’s request that you get up from your reclining chair and attend to work-related tasks.

THE PENULTIMATE DAY

He looks back down the years,
Reflecting I’d say,
On his prime ministership’s
Penultimate day.

The top job was his,
After Turnbull’s demise,
When gifted the party room’s,
Ultimate prize.

With the passing of years,
Both good and hurting,
The voters of Aus,
Find him to be wanting.

Too many blunders
Have caused him to fall
Political bluster destructing
A leader once tall.

Where to from here,
You wonder and say,
A bi-election is looming,
Where Cook landed that day.

What was the hardest personal goal you’ve set for yourself?

During my lifetime, I have faced many challenges and hopefully become stronger for surmounting the barriers I encountered.

For me, the biggest challenge and the most difficult confrontation faced was letting go when it was time to retire.

After more than 40 years in education, stepping away from work and stepping back was hard. It took a while but 12 years on from retirement, I feel this challenge has been mastered.

We all have to give way to others. That is an inevitability. It was a huge challenge – but no longer.

Should men swear?

AI’s response.

The question of whether men (or anyone, for that matter) should swear can vary based on personal values, cultural norms, and situational context. Here are some considerations:

Pros of Swearing

1. Emotional Release: Swearing can serve as a way to express strong feelings, whether they’re anger, frustration, or even excitement.
2. Social Bonding: In some contexts, swearing can create a sense of camaraderie among peers, making interactions feel more genuine.
3. Humor: Swearing can enhance humor and make conversations more engaging.

Cons of Swearing

1. Perception: Swearing can lead to negative perceptions of an individual, impacting personal and professional relationships.
2. Respect: In formal or respectful contexts, swearing may be seen as inappropriate or offensive.
3. Habit Formation: Regular swearing might lead to a habit that spills over into inappropriate situations.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether men should swear depends on the context and their personal beliefs. It’s essential to consider the audience and situation when deciding to use such language.

Are men like roosters?

This is what AI said …

The comparison of men to roosters can be interpreted in various ways, often depending on the context. Here are a few perspectives:

1. **Symbolism**: Roosters are often seen as symbols of masculinity, pride, and vigilance. In this sense, one might say that men, like roosters, can embody traits such as confidence and assertiveness.

2. **Behavioral Traits**: Roosters are known for their crowing, which can be seen as a way of asserting their presence and territory. Similarly, some might argue that men can exhibit behaviors that assert dominance or confidence in social situations.

3. **Cultural References**: In some cultures, roosters are associated with fertility and virility, which can lead to comparisons with male traits in humans.

4. **Stereotypes**: The comparison can also highlight certain stereotypes about masculinity, such as being boastful or aggressive, which may not apply to all men.

Ultimately, while there may be some metaphorical similarities, it’s important to recognize the complexity and individuality of human behavior, which cannot be fully encapsulated by comparisons to animals.

I now think that many men are like roosters.

Seating arrangements in the assembly still being finalised.

The new (15th) Assembly sits on October 15, 2024.

Labor were dismissed and the CLP elected.

Why is the Australian Government so insistent on promoting multicultural enclaves, while downplaying the importance of integration?

Why is defence so underplayed when it comes to recruiting personnel to build our forces and crew our assets?

Why is process deemed to be more important than function when it comes to establishing priorities within organisations?

Will China go to war against Taiwan?

As of my last update in October 2023, the situation between China and Taiwan remains complex and tense. China views Taiwan as a part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. Taiwan, on the other hand, operates as a separate entity with its own government and democratic system.

The likelihood of war depends on various factors, including political developments, military readiness, international relations, and the responses of other countries, particularly the United States, which has a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding Taiwan. 

While there are ongoing military exercises and increased rhetoric from China, many analysts believe that both sides may prefer to avoid a direct military conflict due to the potential for severe economic and human costs. Diplomatic efforts and international pressure also play significant roles in managing tensions.

It’s important to stay updated with reliable news sources for the latest developments, as the situation can change rapidly.

I like my possessions and appreciate the remembrances and the support that they bring to me. But if I was to lose them all, at the end of the day “My life lives within my mind”.

The material reminders might be gone but the memory there in of those things and then meaning would stay imprinted with in my mind for recall.

That would do until my memory was no longer and if it were to fade then I would not know what I have forgotten.

My name is Henry

It all counts for naught.

Where I was born

Was in the Land of Trespass

A place 

Where my parents and theirs

Had no right to impose themselves

Or the generations that follow.

I am guilty by my birth

And guilty of contributing to the birth 

Of children. 

And they in turn have transgressed

By having children of their own.

What right have we

Those who have gone before

Our forebears

And those who follow

To have any purchase to title in this place?

A place where those who came later.

I wish Australia

Was back in the hands

Of Aborigines

With their own footprint

Being despised 

As bringing shame

Because we interposed ourselves

Into this place of traditional sacredness.

How can we redress thisgrevious interference 

The arrival of our forebears imposed

On the unhurried peace and tranquillity 

Of this place 

Before the trespass

Of 1788.

One positive is that to be indigenous was something of which to be ashamed and hidden. Transformative Australian thinking has changed this to the extent that being indigenous is an attribute to be highlighted and lauded.

I wonder whether part of the motivation to disallow abortion has to do with America’s population being reduced by the number of senseless killings happening during mass shootings. Is it all about rebuilding the population base?

I used to think they were there for the good they could do for others.

I now think that 99% of these people are there first and foremost for themselves alone.

Residential aged care in Australia

The facilities that care  appear to be in a minority. Most facility operators appear not to give a rats, beyond taking as much money as possible for the barest amount of care.

Too many of these care homes seem to be about making money and turning profits. The thought of being a victim held captive in one of these places does not bear thinking about. Finishing up in a decent and caring place is about accident rather than pre-planning and management.

How likely is it that China will Invade Taiwan?

AI RESPONDS:

 The likelihood of China invading Taiwan is a complex and highly debated topic, influenced by various political, military, economic, and social factors. As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, here are some key points to consider:

1. **Political Context**: The Chinese government views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must eventually be reunified with the mainland, while Taiwan has its own government and operates as a separate entity. The political leadership in both places plays a significant role in shaping the likelihood of conflict.

2. **Military Capability**: China has been modernizing its military and increasing its capabilities in the region, which raises concerns about its intentions toward Taiwan. However, an invasion would be a complex and risky military operation, and China may weigh the potential costs and consequences.

3. **International Response**: The United States and other countries have expressed support for Taiwan and have commitments to assist in its defense. An invasion could provoke a significant international response, which China would likely consider in its calculations.

4. **Economic Considerations**: Taiwan is a critical player in the global semiconductor industry and other high-tech sectors. An invasion could disrupt global supply chains and have severe economic repercussions for China and the world.

5. **Public Sentiment**: The attitudes of the Taiwanese people toward unification with China are also important. Many in Taiwan identify as Taiwanese rather than Chinese and prefer to maintain their current status.

6. **Current Developments**: The situation is fluid, and developments can change rapidly. Diplomatic efforts, military exercises, and regional tensions can all influence the likelihood of conflict.

Overall, while the potential for conflict exists, predicting an invasion is challenging. Many analysts believe that China may prefer to pursue reunification through non-military means, such as political pressure and economic incentives, rather than through outright invasion. However, the situation remains dynamic, and ongoing developments should be monitored closely.

Response: I am not at all reassured about the future and feel the threat of war on the back of my neck.

 It is only a matter of time before the ‘culture of division’ between groups in Australia, manifested in ever more aggressive rallies, will result in the deaths of people either protesting or resisting protesters.

Laws against the manifestation of support for terrorists are in place but are not enforced because the government is turning a blind eye.

Vile and disgusting rally behaviours are unsettling and jeopardising our country and societal decency.

Why is it almost impossible to buy apples that have not been bruised from the supermarket?

Why is Australia so complacent in the face of threats becoming ever more real toward the onset of World War Three?

Why so so many Australians hate the country that is supposedly their home?

 I always feel out of place in informal situations, everything from conference dinners to important social functions particularly when I’m required to address the part in a suit and tie.

In these situations, my clothes always feel uncomfortable and I’m always worried that my belt is going to let go and my trousers are going to fall at least feel loose and threatening to do so.

With the passing of the years, my aversion to formality has reached a point where I no longer go out to any function requiring me to enter this field of personal discomfort. 

These situations seem to me to me and to feel unnatural. As a retiree, it’s no longer beholden upon me do I have to go out very often in this formal way. In fact, in the last five years I’ve only been out in the formal context twice and on both occasions I was just ever so glad when the functions were over and I could come home and relax.

Formality makes me feel very uncomfortable indeed. That has been the case for the whole of my life. And it doesn’t get any better with age.

His powerfully positive, personally owned leadership brings daily blessings to us all. To every man, woman and child, to the old, middle aged and young, to those in cities, towns, farms and remote areas of this vast land.

He brings joy to us all.

How lucky we are.

I confess to using a laptop, an iPad and an iPhone. I do a lot of work on these. I don’t keep right up-to-date with every new series coming out or anything like that – my iPhone is still a 6S.

But without a computer and technological assistance in communication, particularly written communication, I am fine.

I do a lot of writing by hand. I keep a diary and have done it for the most part since 1970. I like to write by hand for it is important not to lose the skill.

If all of a sudden this Technology was not available, I would be fine. I go back to handwriting, to posting letters in an envelope with a stamp, to taking a bit of extra time to get things done, to go back to books rather than using the Internet for finding out things, to talking face-to-face rather than using the iPhone.

I would be quite happy to use hard currency – as I still do – rather than having everything on cards that I authorise through phone usage.

I could go on and on but won’t. However, I am very glad that I large part of my life was spent in a world of communication that happened before technology. If push came to shove, I would have other ways of communication. Sadly, I was born in recent years without technology and computers would be, sadly, lost.

(The sadness of Alice Springs)

What was:

A gentle breeze is blowing by,

Wafting clouds across the sky,

Birds fluff their wings in gentle breeze,

Sing joyful songs with happy ease.

Men playing cricket on the green,

Their noses polished with sunscreen,

Bowl, bat and field the ball,

Contentment reigns for one and all.

Neighbour dozes ‘neath his house,

Spouse tiptoeing like a mouse,

Buffing windows so they gleam,

Partners for life they are a team.

What is:

Sad it is the wider world,

Shuns the good with hate unfurled,

Alcohol floods – infusion reigns,

Scores of people with addled brains.

Lifted bans mean free for all,

Thefts and threats as people brawl,

People there are losing heart,

As the Alice tears itself apart.

Government’s in an awful bind,

Because the system they did unwind,

Shops are shut, the mall a mess,

Night fighting only adds to stress.

Residents have been sold a pup,

The city’s going belly up,

Almost too late to hear their cry,

Alice Springs about to die.

The nights once quiet,

Watched o’er by stars,

Now ears are burnt,

By hooning cars.

Governments it is time to wake,

How much more can people take,

The city abuzz with crime and sin,

With citizens entrapped therein.

After our August 24 election the hope is our new government can bring this situation under control.

My record to date.

6,020,248

total words analyzed by Gram-marly

since Mar 12, 2023

In the Northern Territory of Australia, and particularly in the Top End, we only have two seasons.

From October until the end of April is – technically –  we have the wet season when most of our rain falls . From the beginning of May through until the end of September is the dry season.

There’s  not all that much difference in temperature gradients between the seasons but during the dry, there is  less humidity.

I am ambivalent about my favourite season. I like the wet particularly when it does rain. I also like the dry season when the humidity drops, particularly if the air is clear and smoke-free.

During the dry season between 50 and 60% of the Northern Territory gets burned out by bushfires so the dry season is often very smoky.

It’s hard for me to determine which I like the better – the wet or  the dry. But I do like cold weather. To live in a cold place is something I would fancy but given where we live that is never ever going to happen.

Why is multiculturalism tearing apart the social fabric of Australia?

AI Responds

The topic of multiculturalism and its impact on the social fabric of Australia is complex and often debated. Here are some points that people might raise when discussing concerns about multiculturalism in Australia:

Potential Challenges of Multiculturalism

1. Social Cohesion: Critics argue that a high level of multiculturalism can lead to a fragmented society where different groups may live in parallel rather than integrating with one another. This can potentially weaken the sense of national identity.
2. Cultural Clashes: Differences in cultural practices, beliefs, and values can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts. For instance, issues related to gender equality, freedom of expression, and other cultural norms may create tensions.
3. Economic Disparities: Some believe that multicultural policies may favor certain groups over others in terms of access to resources, education, and employment opportunities, leading to resentment and perceived inequality.
4. Political Polarization: Multiculturalism can become a polarizing topic in political discourse, where parties may exploit divisions for political gain. This can exacerbate societal tensions and lead to increased nationalism or xenophobia.
5. Integration Concerns: There may be worries about whether immigrants are adequately integrating into Australian society and adopting its values, leading to fears of social isolation or the emergence of parallel societies.
6. Security Concerns: In some cases, multiculturalism has been linked to concerns about national security, especially in the context of extremism or terrorism. The perception that certain communities may not share the same values can provoke public anxiety.

Support for Multiculturalism

It’s also important to recognize that many argue in favor of multiculturalism, highlighting benefits such as:

• Cultural Enrichment: The diversity brought by different cultures can enhance the social fabric, promoting a richer cultural landscape.
• Economic Contributions: Immigrants contribute significantly to the economy, filling essential roles and driving innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Global Perspective: A multicultural society fosters openness and understanding, preparing citizens to operate in a globalized world.
• Community Resilience: Diverse communities can build resilience through shared experiences and collective support networks.

Conclusion

The discourse around multiculturalism in Australia is multifaceted, with valid concerns on both sides of the argument. Rather than seeing multiculturalism as inherently problematic, it may be more constructive to focus on fostering dialogue, understanding, and integration to build a cohesive society while respecting and valuing diversity.

A further thought from Henry

Oneness and unity is NOT WORKING at the moment. Partisanship is pitting groups against each other. The Australian way of life is in tatters. The policies of government are shredding this country.

Is political power more ‘good’ than ‘bad’ or more ‘bad’ than ‘good’?

AI responded:

The nature of political power, whether it is more “good” than “bad” or vice versa, is a complex question that depends on various factors, including the context, the individuals wielding the power, and the systems in place. Here are some considerations that may help explore this topic:

Arguments for Political Power as ‘Good’:

1. Social Order: Political power is essential for maintaining order in society, establishing laws, and enforcing them to protect citizens’ rights.
2. Public Welfare: Governments can provide essential services, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, improving the quality of life for citizens.
3. Empowerment and Representation: Political power can empower marginalized groups and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
4. Conflict Resolution: Political institutions can facilitate dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, reducing violence and promoting stability.

Arguments for Political Power as ‘Bad’:

1. Abuse of Power: History is replete with examples of leaders abusing their power, leading to tyranny, oppression, and human rights violations.
2. Corruption: Political power can lead to corruption, where officials prioritize personal gain over public good, undermining trust in governance.
3. Inequality: Concentrated political power can exacerbate social and economic inequalities, often favoring the interests of the elite over the general populace.
4. Manipulation and Control: Those in power may manipulate information and restrict freedoms to maintain control, stifling dissent and individual liberties.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the assessment of political power as being more “good” or “bad” may be subjective and can vary widely depending on personal beliefs, experiences, and the specific context in which power is exercised. Many argue for a balanced view, recognizing the potential for both positive and negative outcomes associated with political power. Effective systems of checks and balances, transparency, and accountability can help tilt the balance towards a more positive outcome.

‘This is worth further contemplation’ or “Is this worth further contemplation”

Is Australia in dire threat of warlike aggression from an overseas adversary?

AI Responded:

As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, Australia is not considered to be in immediate or dire threat of warlike aggression from an overseas adversary. However, the geopolitical landscape in the Asia-Pacific region has been increasingly complex, with rising tensions involving major powers such as China and the United States.

Australia has been enhancing its defense capabilities and forming strategic alliances, such as the AUKUS pact with the United States and the United Kingdom, to bolster its security in response to regional threats. The Australian government has also been focused on maintaining strong defense partnerships with countries in the region, including Japan and India.

While there are concerns about regional stability and potential conflicts, particularly in areas like the South China Sea, Australia has generally pursued a diplomatic approach to international relations and conflict resolution. It is important to stay updated with current events and analyses from credible sources for the latest information on this topic.

Why don’t I feel any reassurance about the subject?

Please write me a 250 word poem titled “The Indefatigable Adam”

Include:

He travels Australia doing good for and uplifting people.

He is super fit and encourages physical health and wellbeing in others.

He appreciates and looks for the good in everyone.

His great strengths are humility and empathy

He and the members of Balanced Choice unstintingly give of their time and energy. They are a 24/7 team.

He offers praise to others.

His support and advice is positive and uplifting.

He is ALWAYS contactable  and available  

Regardless of their race, colour, creed and beliefs, Adam treats all people equally – with due dignity and respect.

He does not espouse a good life; rather he lives and shows what a good life is to others.

Response:

The Indefatigable Adam

In sunlit lands where red earth meets the sky,  

Adam wanders, a beacon, always nigh,  

With heart unyielding, he travels afar,  

Lifting souls, like a guiding star.  

A champion of health, a figure so fit,  

He inspires the weary, igniting their spirit.  

“Let’s move,” he calls, with a smile so wide,  

Encouraging fitness, a joyful ride.  

With eyes like a lantern, he sees the pure light,  

In every soul, finding hope shining bright.  

His humility whispers, his empathy soars,  

In the tapestry of life, he nurtures, restores.  

Balanced Choice is his family, a tireless brigade,  

With hands outstretched, they give without trade.  

A 24/7 crew, united they stand,  

Supporting each other, a passionate band.  

Praise flows like rivers, from Adam’s sweet tongue,  

He uplifts the weary, and praises the young.  

His counsel, a treasure, like sunshine that streams,  

Igniting the spark of a thousand dreams.  

Race, colour, or creed, in love he believes,  

Every heart worthy, respect he weaves.  

Not just in words, but in actions, he lives,  

A testament of goodness, the life that he gives.  

Indefatigable Adam, relentless and free,  

In the dance of compassion, he embodies decree.  

A life brightly lived, a legacy grand,  

In each joyful moment, love ripe as the sand.  

A great deal is being made in Australia at the moment about the need for teachers to be direct and explicit in terms of the instruction that they give to students. The suggestion is that students learn better if the teacher and they have a primary relationship in terms of input from the teacher and response by the students.

The irony is that this used to be the method under which teachers Were trained in Australia up until the beginning of the 1970s. From there I mean it seems that we’ve gotten away from direct teaching and gone increasingly down the road of student-directed learning what would you like to learn which leaves Students in a situation of fuzziness when it comes to basic could meet of understanding in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

Proper teaching these days is also distorted by technological lines and other gimmicks that supposedly stand in the place of the teacher – so using computer technology and going online to find the answers to things and now of course using artificial intelligence to help in the shaping of responses to assignments.

Teacher directes learning has become almost anachronistic in some places.

We need to get rid of all the aids and the implements and get back to the simple teacher-people relationship with teaching and learning that is direct, explicit and proper. Students need to understand concepts and have head knowledge of key essentials. 

Alas, I think that my wish might be flying in the wind. Not only are the students less able to learn than used to be the case – their teachers are less able to teach.

The way it has become.

RETIREMENT VILLAGES AND HOME OWNERSHIP

A QUESTION OF CONTROL 

In retirement villages, do those taking up a home EVER OWN IT outright including their holding of the title deeds to the house?

In retirement villages, the ownership model can vary, and whether residents own their homes outright, including holding the title deeds, depends on the specific structure of the retirement village. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. **Leasehold Arrangements**:

– In most retirement villages, residents do **not** own their homes outright. They usually enter into a leasehold agreement, where they pay an upfront fee for the right to occupy a property for a set number of years or for life. The title deeds are held by the developer or management company.

2. **Freehold Ownership**:

– In some retirement villages, residents **can** purchase properties under a freehold model, meaning they own the property outright and hold the title deeds. This is less common but is an option in certain locations.

3. **Strata Title Properties**:

– Some retirement villages operate under a strata title model, where individuals own their units and can receive title deeds for their homes. They also share ownership of common areas with other residents. This grants more individual ownership rights compared to leasehold arrangements but still involves some cooperative governance.

4. **Co-operative Housing**:

– In cooperative setups, residents may own shares in a co-op that owns the property, giving them occupancy rights, but they typically do not hold title deeds to their individual units.

### Conclusion

In summary, it is possible for residents in some retirement villages to own their homes outright and hold the title deeds, but this is not the norm in most villages, which typically operate under leasehold agreements. Prospective buyers should carefully investigate the ownership model of any retirement village they are considering.

THIS SERIES WAS A CASE OF QUESTION TO AND ANSWERS BY AI

IT WAS MOTIVATED BY RECENT REPORTS ON THE ABC 7:30 REPORT

RETIREMENT VILLAGES AND HOME OWNERSHIP

A QUESTION OF CONTROL 

Who actually holds and retains the title deeds to homes in retirement villages? Does the title deed holder have absolute control over the house allegedly ‘bought’ by the occupier?

In retirement villages, the holder of the title deeds typically depends on the specific ownership model of the village. Here’s how it generally works:

1. **Title Deed Holder**:

– In **leasehold arrangements**, the title deeds are usually held by either the developer or the management company of the retirement village. The residents do not hold title to the property; they have a right of occupancy based on the lease agreement.

– In **freehold arrangements**, the individual homeowners will hold the title deeds and thus have ownership rights to their property.

2. **Control over the Property**:

– If the title deeds are held by the developer or management company (as in leasehold arrangements), they indeed have significant control over the property. This can include decisions regarding maintenance, management fees, renovations, and, in some cases, even rules governing the occupancy of the property.

– If residents own their homes outright (in freehold or strata title arrangements), they have more control over their property and can make decisions regarding the home, subject to any applicable community or strata regulations.

### Conclusion

In summary, the title deed holder often has substantial control over properties in retirement villages, especially in leasehold arrangements. Residents should be fully aware of who holds the title deeds and the implications for their rights and responsibilities before entering into any agreements.

RETIREMENT VILLAGES AND HOME OWNERSHIP

A QUESTION OF CONTROL 

Do those ‘buying’ a property, receive the title deeds to the homes they buy. Is ownership of the property purchased, transferred to them by their receipt of the title deeds?

In most retirement villages, residents typically **do not receive title deeds** to the homes they purchase. The ownership structure is usually different from traditional home ownership. Here’s a breakdown:

1. **Leasehold Agreements**: Residents usually enter into a leasehold arrangement where they pay an upfront fee for the right to live in the home for a set period or for life. They do not receive title deeds and do not own the land; the ownership remains with the developer or management company.

2. **Freehold Ownership**: In rare cases, a retirement village may offer properties under a freehold structure, where the buyer does receive title deeds and owns the property outright. This is less common in retirement settings.

3. **Strata Title**: This is another arrangement where residents might receive ownership through a title deed for their unit, along with shared ownership of common facilities, depending on local laws.

4. **Co-operative Housing**: Residents own shares in a co-op rather than individual title deeds for properties, so they do not own their home outright.

 Conclusion

In summary, in most retirement villages, ownership is not transferred to the residents through title deeds. To understand the specific arrangements and ownership rights, potential buyers should carefully review their agreements and seek legal advice. 

As an old man there are many things I should take into account. Sometimes I do and other times I am neglectful and that is not in my best interests.

I need to watch what I eat, take care of what I drink, and watch that I don’t eat too much in between meals and snacks.

I need to make sure that I do my share of domestic looking after because that has to be a part of my role.

I must make sure that I keep in touch with our nuclear family members who are a long way away – including our three children, partners, and our 10 grandchildren.

I must make sure not to neglect keeping up to date with what is going on in the world and staying abreast of trends and developments that can be so easily overlooked and forgotten, indeed discounted, when one becomes old.

I must make sure that I do a reasonable amount of physical activity so that I don’t suffer from wasted limb syndrome.

I must make sure that I do not lose my sense of humour. 

Appreciating and respecting the viewpoints of others should always be a part of my demeanour.

I must try and enjoy life and not to virtually – as is my want – to be on the far side of the moon and in its darkness.

This is the second week of the Northern Territory schools break between term three and four.

A good number of years ago, between 2012 and 2016, the then Country Liberal Party Education Minister Peter Chandler understood that not everybody was wrapped with the way the school holidays were shaped within the territory.

We had six weeks at Christmas time, one week between term one and two, four weeks between semester one and semester two, and just one week between term three and term four.

There were no public holidays between the beginning of August and Christmas Day. At the end of term three, people had a little time to wind down before having to crank up for the start of term a week later.

Teachers, students, and those connected with school-based education suffered from fatigue that the weeks break Did not dissipate.

Perceiving this disaffection, Minister Chandler undertook research that suggested different modelling for the territory school holiday breaks.

Several models were proposed and Territorians asked to comment. After consultation the decision made was to change the 6-1-4-1 model to a 6-1-3-2 model.

A week was taken from the mid-semester break (four weeks back to three) and a week added to the break between terms three and four (from one week to two).

This change occurred during Minister Chandler’s time as Education Minister in the Mills/Giles CLP Government between 2012 and 2016.

Hence this extra week has been dubbed “The Chandler Week”.

.

I do not feel reassured about the security vetting of those being rushed into Australia willy-nilly at the behest of our Federal Government.

Too many hasty decisions in all sorts of areas are being made by ministers in the Albanese Government because they want to soft soap and persuade voters in their electorates, lest they be turfed at the next election.

This is a prime example of putting yourself ahead of our population’s wants and needs – both economically and in security terms – at large.

I hope this government has only one term of tenure. 

On the last day of September,

I will remember that October is the month in the Northern Territory which stars as being “The Laksa Month” In this I will remember with respect a former Chief Minister Michael Garner who introduced the idea of this month onto the Northern Territory social and culinary calendar.

He was in Darwin to do his show this morning. I found out afterwards.

God bless Macca and the messages of goodness and uplift he brings to his live and radio audiences.

I did not realise he was in Darwin.

I do remember when he visited to farewell the 5/7 RAR force off to Timor Leste in September 1999.

That was 25 years ago and sadly, the troops had left the night before. That was also the night the authorities started demolishing the iconic old Darwin Hotel, Green Room and all.

Macca’s program took place at Stokes Hill Wharf and he was welcomed by Leanyer Primary School students. It was a significant morning and one I will always remember. School student council President Ellin Lede now Dr Ellin Lede heading up a significant commercial enterprise in Darwin, read a brilliant piece she had written about the transformative nature of positive goodness and its powerful impact.

So, memories of times long ago.

Henry Gray

A very important person said that .. “Giving 56 old army tanks to Ukraine would in no way diminish the capacity of Australian Defence Force.”

Very optimistic. A better thing to ask might be …

What defence force?

Assets wise and from the viewpoint of personnel, Australia, by comparison to most developed countries, is very thin on the ground – and in the air and at sea.

 Glowing Good

When I feel down

In foul mood

I go to work

And glow with good.

For helping others 

Through my work

Confirms my duties 

I do not shirk.

It’s overnight

I feel the gloom

Of thinking idly

In my room.

My head fills with worry

And then I scare

For my own company

I do not care.

But working 

Each and every day

For others

Drives the blues away

I give my time

And share my skills

When I do

The gloom it kills.

To work I’ll go

Each weekday

My work I love

That’s all I’ll say.

Why don’t runner’s up in the Australian Rules Football grand final receive consolation medals or rings?

AI Response

In Australian Rules Football, the tradition is that only the winning team in the Grand Final receives premiership medals and the premiership cup. The runner-up team does not receive consolation medals or rings as part of the tradition and culture surrounding the sport. 

This practice emphasizes the significance of winning the premiership, which is considered the ultimate achievement in the league. The focus is on celebrating the champions, and the absence of consolation awards for the runners-up reinforces the competitive nature of the sport. While it may seem harsh, this tradition is part of what makes the Grand Final such a prestigious and highly coveted event in Australian Rules Football. 

Additionally, some clubs and organizations may choose to recognize their players in other ways, but officially, the league does not provide medals or rings for the runners-up.

I can talk

Think

Reflect on the past, present and future.

I can sing

I can read

Tell stories in 1st, 2nd and 3rd person.

I can write

Wear good clothes

Dress for the occasion without overdoing things.

I can keep a diary

(And have done so since 1970)

I can recall in minute detail, past happenings.

I can remember names

Of past students

And enjoy some remembrances shared with them from time to time.

But

Above all

I can

And do

Listen.

Listening is such an important attribute and a quality and capacity I have AND USE.

Why do Aboriginal people who call the country their mother and who say the land owns them and they belong to the land, leave behind their rubbish and refuse on the ground, even if there are bins nearby?

AI RESPONSE

The relationship that Aboriginal people have with the land is deeply spiritual and cultural, often characterized by a profound connection and sense of belonging. However, the issue of littering or leaving rubbish can be complex and influenced by various factors:

1. **Cultural Practices**: In some Aboriginal cultures, the concept of waste and disposal may differ from Western perspectives. Traditional practices may not align with contemporary waste management systems, leading to misunderstandings about littering.

2. **Socioeconomic Factors**: Many Aboriginal communities face socioeconomic challenges, including limited access to resources, education, and infrastructure. This can affect waste management practices and the availability of proper disposal options.

3. **Community Engagement**: In some cases, there may be a lack of community engagement or awareness regarding the importance of waste disposal. Education and outreach can play a significant role in changing behaviors.

4. **Historical Context**: The history of colonization and its impact on Aboriginal communities can also influence behaviors. Disconnection from traditional practices and land management due to external pressures may lead to practices that seem inconsistent with cultural values.

5. **Environmental Factors**: In some areas, the natural environment may be perceived as resilient, leading to a belief that littering will not have significant consequences. This perception can contribute to the behavior of leaving rubbish behind.

6. **Community Norms**: In some instances, if littering is common within a community, it may become normalized behavior, regardless of the presence of bins.

It’s important to approach this topic with sensitivity and an understanding of the complexities involved. Engaging with Aboriginal communities to promote awareness and education about waste management can help bridge the gap between cultural practices and contemporary environmental stewardship.

Upshot: I still remain confused

How are the purple Beme Scooters in Darwin managed to have their batteries recharged – as they are parked and left everywhere?

In Darwin, as in many other cities where electric scooters are deployed, companies like Beme typically use a system involving local “chargers” or “juicers” to manage the recharging of their scooters. Here’s how the process generally works:

1. Deployment: The scooters are distributed throughout the city for users to rent and ride.
2. User Parking: After use, riders can park the scooters in designated areas or sometimes in any public space, depending on local regulations.
3. Collection by Chargers: Individuals, often referred to as “chargers” or “juicers,” are contracted by the scooter company to collect the scooters that need charging. These individuals usually use their own vehicles to gather scooters from various locations.
4. Recharging: Once collected, the chargers take the scooters to their homes or designated charging stations where they plug them in to recharge the batteries.
5. Return to Service: After the scooters are fully charged, the chargers return them to the streets, placing them in strategic locations to ensure availability for users.

This model allows for efficient management of the scooters, ensuring that they are charged and ready for use while also providing a flexible work opportunity for local residents. The use of local chargers helps to keep operational costs down and allows for a more responsive service to the demand for scooters in the area.

Should old men sing when walking or shopping?

Response:

Whether old men should sing while walking or shopping is a matter of personal preference and context. Singing can be a joyful expression and can enhance one’s mood, regardless of age. Here are a few considerations:

1. Personal Enjoyment: If singing brings joy to the individual and enhances their experience, then it can be a positive activity.
2. Social Context: It’s important to consider the social environment. Singing in public spaces may draw attention, and reactions can vary. Some people may enjoy it, while others might find it distracting.
3. Health Benefits: Singing can have health benefits, such as improving mood and respiratory function, which can be particularly beneficial for older adults.
4. Cultural Norms: In some cultures or communities, singing in public is more accepted than in others. Understanding the local norms can help guide the decision.

Ultimately, if an older man enjoys singing and feels comfortable doing so, there’s no reason he shouldn’t express himself in that way while walking or shopping.

1. I would volunteer as a tree lopper to shape and trim all trees that are overgrown and unattended on the verges of most Darwin roads.
2. I would volunteer as an alcohol controller to intercept and rip out al alcohol being illegally consumed in our streets and parks in Darwin and suburbs.
3. I would volunteer to teach all children in primary schools to sing and to enjoy singing in a confident and unashamed manner.

By and large I appreciate universities and the efforts made to extend tertiary opportunity to students both internally and externally. Universities have to work hard to balance their research and teaching arms, with funding being a constant consideration. Neither do I believe it unfair for students to contribute to their tertiary education through fees charged. Many governments underpin universities by advancing student loans which begin to be paid back when those graduates become earners.

However, my concern has always been the way the university play up the conferral of honorary doctorates.

This for mine discounts the honour due to hardworking students whose degrees come at great cost and substantial debt.

I feel a focus on honorary qualifications degrades the quality of their work and effort.

Sportspeople, politicans, community contributors and notary publics should never be recognised with honorary doctorates or conferred professorships. Universities who indulge in this practice for the sake of attaching a prominent person to the university discredit academe

AI RESPONSE

Predicting the future state of global peace is inherently complex and uncertain, as it depends on a multitude of factors, including political, economic, social, and environmental dynamics. Here are some considerations that could influence whether the world becomes more or less peaceful over the next twenty to thirty years:

### Factors That Could Lead to More Peace:

1. **Global Cooperation**: Increased collaboration on global issues such as climate change, health pandemics, and economic inequality could foster a more peaceful world. International organizations and treaties may play a crucial role in mediating conflicts and promoting peace.

2. **Technological Advancements**: Innovations in communication and technology can enhance understanding and cooperation among nations. For example, social media can facilitate dialogue, while technology can improve transparency and accountability.

3. **Economic Interdependence**: As economies become more interconnected through trade and investment, the costs of conflict may outweigh the benefits, leading to more peaceful relations between countries.

4. **Democratic Governance**: A trend toward democratization in various regions could promote peace, as democracies are generally less likely to go to war with one another.

5. **Conflict Resolution Mechanisms**: Improved mechanisms for conflict resolution, such as mediation and peacekeeping efforts, can help to resolve disputes before they escalate into violence.

### Factors That Could Lead to Less Peace:

1. **Geopolitical Tensions**: Rising tensions between major powers (e.g., the U.S., China, Russia) could lead to conflicts, particularly in contested regions like the South China Sea or Eastern Europe.

2. **Resource Scarcity**: Competition for dwindling resources, such as water and arable land, could lead to conflicts, especially in regions already facing environmental stress.

3. **Nationalism and Populism**: A rise in nationalist and populist movements can lead to increased xenophobia, isolationism, and conflict both within and between nations.

4. **Terrorism and Extremism**: The persistence of terrorism and violent extremism can undermine peace efforts and lead to cycles of violence.

5. **Climate Change**: The impacts of climate change, including natural disasters and displacement, could exacerbate tensions and lead to conflicts over resources.

### Conclusion:

The future of global peace will likely be shaped by a combination of these factors. While there are opportunities for increased cooperation and understanding, significant challenges remain that could lead to conflict. Ultimately, the trajectory will depend on the choices made by governments, organizations, and individuals around the world in addressing these complex issues.

Addendum:

And we know what will drive the leaders of nations.

If there ever was world peace, it has been consigned to history.

Should Australian universities encourage domestic students to pay course fees upfront ?

AI Response

The decision for Australian universities to encourage domestic students to pay course fees upfront involves several considerations, and the implications can vary based on the perspectives of different stakeholders, including students, universities, and the broader educational system. Here are some points to consider:

### Pros of Encouraging Upfront Payment:

1. **Financial Stability for Universities**: Upfront payments can provide universities with immediate cash flow, allowing them to invest in resources, facilities, and staff.

2. **Reduced Debt for Students**: Paying upfront can help students avoid accumulating debt through student loans, which can be a burden after graduation.

3. **Commitment to Education**: Students who pay upfront may be more committed to completing their courses, as they have already invested financially.

4. **Potential Discounts**: Universities might offer discounts or incentives for students who pay upfront, making it more appealing.

5. **Simplified Financial Management**: Upfront payments can simplify financial management for both students and universities, reducing the complexity of loan systems.

### Cons of Encouraging Upfront Payment:

1. **Accessibility Issues**: Many students may not have the financial means to pay large sums upfront, which could limit access to higher education for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

2. **Increased Financial Pressure**: Upfront payments can create significant financial pressure on students and their families, potentially deterring them from pursuing higher education.

3. **Equity Concerns**: Encouraging upfront payments may exacerbate inequalities in access to education, as wealthier students would be more able to pay upfront compared to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

4. **Potential for Increased Dropout Rates**: Students who pay upfront may feel pressured to complete their courses even if they are struggling, leading to stress and potential burnout.

5. **Impact on Student Choices**: Students may feel compelled to choose courses based on financial considerations rather than their interests or career aspirations.

### Conclusion:

While there are potential benefits to encouraging upfront payment of course fees, it is essential to consider the broader implications for equity and access to education. A balanced approach that offers flexible payment options, including upfront payments, payment plans, and financial aid, may be more effective in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue higher education without undue financial burden. Ultimately, any policy should prioritize accessibility and support for all students. 

It cost $13.00

A hat,

A black hat,

A black felt hat,

A black felt hat worn,

A black felt hat worn by,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor Swift,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor Swift at,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor Swift at her,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor Swift at her Sydney,

A black felt hat worn by Taylor Swift at her Sydney Concert.

The hat,

The hat given,

The hat given to,

The hat given to an,

The hat given to an eleven,

The hat given to an eleven year,

The hat given to an eleven year old,

The hat given to an eleven year old girl,

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who,

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who is,

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who is a

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who is a number

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who is a number one,

The hat given to an eleven year old girl who is a number one fan.

The hat,

Which cost $13.00,

Is now conservatively valued,

At $500,000.

Watch,

It appreciate,

In value with,

The passing of time.

Once upon a time there was a kumquat tree that produced several crops of kumquats each year. The problem was in the harvesting. The tree was so tall no-one could pluck the fruit from its most prolific branches. It was beyond the enterprise and reach of everyone trying on conventional plucking methods. Occasionally Hosea would make with the ladder, and more infrequently he would clamber into the branches like a monkey. Otherwise the tree and its fruits were left to the mercy of birds, especially cockatoos. These intelligent birds made for the tree like homing pigeons, beak-handling and clawing the fruit. At the same time they stripped a good deal of foliage and fruits from the tree scattering the debris onto the ground. The concrete floor of the outdoor kitchen copped its fair share of mess.

It was true to say that the tree was a paradise for these birds.

Cleaning the kitchen and tidying the grounds and surrounds was a daily task for Jeleta. She devoted loads of time each day to restoring order.

No sooner was the place cleaned than the messing up started all over. The cockatoos seemed to be king pins.

Occasionally Jeleta looked up. She could see the cockatoos. They reacted toward her with mocking indifference.

The household decided that Keet the dog might, if tied up in the new outdoor kitchen, bark and frighten the cockatoos away. Keet was not at all keen on that idea and strained at his leash, trying to get away. Maybe he thought the cockatoos would bombard him with kumquats, bird droppings or that being tied up to bark was undignified for a senior canine.

Fortunately Skeet and Geet had come up for Christmas. Having heard of the cockatoo challenge, they brought with them what they thought would be the ultimate deterrent. It first required the hammering of three stakes into the ground adjacent to the kumquat tree

Geet and Skeet made sure the stakes were tied together and securely positioned. Geet then went to get what she hoped would be the ultimate cockatoo kumquat tree invasion deterrent.

The new and untried artefact was duly brought back and mounted on the stake. This introduced, fierce looking but inanimate bird cut a fearsome disposition.

OWL a prototype lookalike and fearsome nocturnal bird was installed. Owl’s job was to protect the kumquat tree, its foliage and its fruits.

Owl’s eyes were fearsome, his beak sharp and his very essence one of alertness. Surely this realistic looking scarecrow would be more than a match for those pestilential, fruit destroying, foliage stripping cockatoos.

Owl surveyed the scene unblinkingly. Geet, Skeet and Jelete hoped he would be more than a match for the cockatoos. He sat and surveyed all that was before him.

But ……

Owl was looking in the wrong direction. He had his back to the tree! So the cockatoos were able to make whoopee of the situation, carrying on as if Owl wasn’t there.

After some days, the penny dropped on the collective perplexity at 188 as to why Owl was such an ineffective decoy. It was not possible to reposition Owl’s torso in its completeness because he had been firmly set on an immovable platform. So the next best option was employed.

Owl’s head was twisted in such a way that, although facing forward, he was in fact looking back at the tree. Had he the capacity to think historically, Owl may have well felt like Lot’s wife in ancient times.

Notwithstanding this unusual postural pursuit, Owl looked back as vengefully as he had when looking forward.

There was one significant anatomical difficulty posed by Owl’s cranial re-positioning. The degree of difficulty those at 188 had with turning his head, meant that only one eye could actually focus on the kumquat tree. The other roamed the backyards of nearby neighbours.

A further impediment compounded the situation. Owl had a very stiff neck, so stiff it could not be vertically inclined. Unable to look up, Owl could only look straight ahead. This horizontal perspective gave him a clear if one-eyed view of the kumquat tree trunk. However he could not see what was happening in the tree’s upper branches foliage and fruit levels.

Safe from Owl’s line of sight, the cockatoos continued to frolic, feast and throw residue down onto the ground and into the kitchen. Could he look down, Owl would have be appalled at the ground level mess created by these birds.

It seemed that all Jelete could do was to carry on cleaning. Was this to be her never ending story?

A LITTLE OLD WOMAN And THEIR PACKAGING SERVICE

Once upon a time, the daughter of a little old man and a little old woman, summoned their help. She had commissioned the printing of hoardings displaying the prices of goods to be sold in their cafe. The boards had finally been printed and were ready for dispatch to a distant point of the NT. They would be sent by weekly barge service.

The daughter was reassured that everything would be done by the printer to ensure the boards were delivered to their far distant destination in good order. They were important for advertising purposes and cost several hundred dollars to produce.

Notwithstanding reassurances offered, the daughter had a premonition that all might not be right. So she asked her parents to visit the printer, arranging to receive the boards if this was necessary.

Upon arriving at the printers, the little old man discovered the boards to be ‘bare’. They were not wrapped. The little old man thought that intervention might be wise. Dispatching the three bare boards without wrapping seemed an unwise option – but not one seemingly apparent to the most prominent printers in Darwin.

The little old man and woman took the boards home in their car. The boards were SO BIG that it took some imagination to manoeuvre them into the vehicle. Once home, the couriers cleared their table and took the boards upstairs to rest on its timber surface. They were ever so glad their table was large.

The two looked at the boards and felt a little daunted. How to prepare these fragile statements for a journey of hundreds of kilometres across rough seas on a shipping barge. (Shipping was the only option because the boards exceeded maximum size for posting).

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. They set about the task.

Bubble wrap was the first order of the day. Metres and metres and square metres of plastic bubbles enveloped the boards and were held in place by unbelievable metres of tape.

Whew! After all that, they needed a long spell and an overnight rest.

Next day, it was up and at it again. The barge to Gove was accepting freight the next day, in readiness for sailing the day after.

But first, a trip to Bunnings to buy plywood timber, that needed trimming to almost the exact size of the menu boards. Trimmed, then home to Leanyer to await their usage.

The table was laid with a cloth (a chair cover), in readiness for the reception of the plywood protection.

What followed was hard work. It took some doing for the daughters parents, no longer as supple and dexterous as ‘once upon a time’, to enclose the boards into their protective casing. But it was done. And done to a ‘T’. The package (to date) was gigantic but neat, secured by metres of tape.

Surely this handiwork was worth admiring.

But there was more to be done. That package (with the boards expertly anchored by tape to the backing ply) was still someway from being a complete work.

There was a need for brown paper. Lots of brown paper. The package was wrapped and taped with one paper skin, then wrapped and taped with a second paper sheath.

Now, the package was really secure. It looked as if it would withstand its journey to Gove.

Looking at the package, the little old man and the little old woman spoke with each other.

“Label time”.

Not being given to neat writing, the little old man deferred to his wife’s more professional calligraphic skills. And shortly thereafter, the package was clearly addressed and readied to go.

Job done. Into the car and out to the barge for ‘tomorrow’s shipping’.

The last news is the best news. The boards have arrived and been fastened into place on a wall of the Peninsular Bakery and Cafe.

Yes, Yes, YES!

The boards are up and are selling their message.

I like many brands. Best sent by picture if OK.

The Value of brands

Brands are good

Oh me oh my

They show this old man

What to buy.

So many products

Spoiled for choice

Too little, too much

Which is the worse.

Some of their jingles

Turn me on 

They are such fun

I sing along.

Brands show the way

‘Bout what to buy

Without their guidance

I’d sit and sigh.

Dear Readers

I am closing on age 79 and really starting to feel the years.

As a child, adolescent and as a young man growing up, I was really scared about dying. I remember thinking that if I made 54 at the turn of the century, I would be doing well.

Nearly a quarter of a century later and with children closing on that age, I wonder when too many years leads to an excruciating existence.
I fear losing physical capacity and mental acuity. I fear the onset of faltering voice and am horrified by my aging and wrinkling skin, which is fast losing elasticity and, therefore, hanging on my limbs.

I am no longer afraid of dying and want to depart this life on my terms and without being a burden to others. I’d definitely like to pass over by the respectful method of euthanasia, but here in the NT of Australia that is not an option.

Where does that leave me?

The first sitting of the Northern Territory Parliament under the new Finocchiaro Government will begin on October 15 and run for two weeks, with the government saying it will

• Introduce its promised bail reforms.
• Decrease the age of criminal responsibility from 12 back to 10.
• Bring in minimum mandatory sentences for assaulting frontline workers.

That is all in the first week of the new parliament.

Oversights in the past?

Legislative sense at last.

How old is old for a man in Australia?

Response

In Australia, as in many other countries, the perception of what constitutes “old” can vary based on cultural, social, and individual factors. Generally, people might consider a man to be “old” when he reaches retirement age, which is around 65 years in Australia. However, many people remain active and healthy well into their 70s and beyond.

Statistically, life expectancy in Australia is around 80-85 years, so many would not consider someone to be “old” until they are in their late 70s or 80s. Ultimately, the concept of being “old” is subjective and can depend on health, lifestyle, and personal perspective.

Russia don’t mind, Russia don’t care,
About war’s destruction, And people’s despair, 
Wrecking of cities, Pockmarking the land,
Confirms that Russia, Has a hard, hurting hand.

Slaughter don’t matter, Their point to make,
It matters not, that their claims are fake,
Little by little, They’ll claw back the past,
‘Till Russia becomes, ‘United’ at last.
The countries that fled, Their future has gone,
Back to what was, When Russia has won.

I predict that in times to come – and possibly before 2050 – Australia will have a Muslim Prime Minister and that there will be suburbs and areas in which Sharia Law is enforced.

That will happen because state and territory governments will be increasingly made up of those of the Muslim faith who have been voted into office.

That could all be hastened by the apologist way in which so many Australians demonise our country and its values.

Recently our local newspaper ran a survey to determine the most popular and in demand mobile food vendor in Darwin.

I have never tried his product, I have always been fascinated by the Potato Man and the dedication he brings to the job that he does. He has been the potato man for many many years.

So I upheld the Potato Man and I voted and voted for him and wrote notes to the online site promoting the Potato Man as the very best.

He didn’t win unfortunately – But apparently came a very close second. I am glad that the Potato Man gained that recognition.

I recently sat through a Welcome to Country offered at an NT Parliament House library awards function.

 The ‘Welcome to Country’ which is seemingly compulsory, went on for at least 15 minutes with great attention to minute detail provided by a person who told us this was her fourth welcome to Country ceremony/presentation for the day.

The two hour program included individuals presenting awards who, each in turn, offered  their own personal recognition to the Aboriginal group who came before us.

 Interspersed through the events of the evening were references to and inferences about how detracting were those  who came to this part of the Northern Territory. No mention of anything positive or beneficial accruing to the Aboriginal predecessors of the region by people who came after.

At the end of the evening, I left feeling like an imposter, someone who was trespassing in a country to which he had no right  or entitlement. I felt shamed by the fact that I had been born in Australia.

But in leaving, I was glad that in my four decades of school leadership, I NEVER EVER engaged in any ‘welcome to country’ acknowledgements at my schools.

For mine, we were all ‘together as one’, and differentiation would have been anathema. I am, you are, we are ALL part of Australia, Australians together.

I sometimes reflect upon the statesmanlike qualities he brings to the leadership role he so ably fills. Our PM is the consummate diplomat. All world leaders anticipate and appreciate the wisdom of his utterances. His powerfully positive contributions as our leader enrich and uplift Australis in the eyes of the rest of the world.

He ALWAYS speaks purposely and definitively

The Seekers were my very favourite singing and instrumental group. They were just the best

Their album “The Carnival is Over” was my favourite collection. And still is.

The Seekers, so humble and so very inspirational.

This morning, while showering, I was thinking about some of the essential attributes and decisions our Prime Minister has taken. Decisions, actions and outcomes place him in a critical position on the world’s [political stage.

These are some of the ‘special remembrances’ that come to mind.

• His empathy toward the Bilowealan family had them reinstated in a community that had taken them to heart.

• His perseverance over Julian Assange never wavered until this Australian martyr was welcomed home.

• His willingness to share himself with other world leaders of countries, both big and small, and to keep Australia constantly to the fore in the eyes of his leadership peers by frequent forays onto the world stage.

• His willingness to ‘let his hair down’ and mix with ordinary people on a level of equality.

• His desire, finding practice in government, to offer a level financial playing field to all people – so that differentiation between ‘have’s’ and ‘have not’s’ becomes history with everybody being equal.

• His interprettion in the eyes of some as a modern day ‘Robin Hood’.

• His willingness to relax visa restrictions in order to bring as many people as possible to Australia in the shortest possible time.

• The confidence he places in all his ministers to carry out their portfolio responsibilities without the need for him to offer suggestions about interpretation.

How wonderful it is and how blessed I am to think such thoughts.  Or not?

I am 78 years of age and sh.t scared of becoming a victim of the Australian-aged care system. 

I think of aged care as being a shark tank into which people who are old and frail can be tossed. In and forgotten with all independent decision making being ‘delegated’ into the hands of others.

Inquiry after inquiry and Commission after Commission have confirmed the obvious. Non-compliance with standards is far too common. There seems to be a falsification tendency that exists within the system.

Aged care costs plenty but care in far too many places seems to be minimal. Now the Australian Government is about to increase the cost contributions those entering aged care have to contribute.

Too many people going into nursing homes become shrouded in blankets of sadness that smother them and their families

Why, when they are cross, do certain people attack vehicles and smash windows, inanimate objects taking no part in the altercation?

When individuals express anger or frustration by attacking inanimate objects, such as vehicles or windows, it can be attributed to several psychological and social factors:

1. **Displacement of Anger**: People often experience emotions that they may not feel comfortable expressing directly towards the source of their frustration. Displacing that anger onto inanimate objects can provide a temporary release or outlet for their feelings.

2. **Symbolic Representation**: In some cases, the object being attacked may symbolize something larger, such as societal issues, personal grievances, or a sense of injustice. For example, a vehicle might represent wealth, privilege, or authority, and attacking it can be a way to express discontent with those concepts.

3. **Immediate Release of Tension**: Physical aggression can serve as a way to release pent-up emotions. The act of smashing something can provide a visceral sense of relief, even if it is not directed at a person.

4. **Group Dynamics**: In situations where people are part of a group (such as during protests or riots), there can be a mob mentality that encourages aggressive behavior. Individuals may feel empowered to act out in ways they might not consider when alone.

5. **Frustration with Powerlessness**: When individuals feel powerless in a situation—whether due to personal circumstances, societal issues, or systemic injustices—they may lash out at objects as a way to regain a sense of control or agency.

6. **Emotional Catharsis**: Some people may believe that expressing their anger physically can lead to emotional catharsis, allowing them to feel better afterward. This belief can drive them to act out against inanimate objects.

7. **Lack of Consequences**: In some contexts, individuals may feel that attacking inanimate objects carries fewer consequences than confronting a person directly. This can make it seem like a safer or more acceptable outlet for their anger.

8. **Social Media and Visibility**: In the age of social media, acts of vandalism or destruction can gain attention and validation from others, which may encourage individuals to act out in ways they might not otherwise consider.

While these behaviors can be understood through various psychological and social lenses, they are often not constructive responses to anger or frustration. Such actions can lead to further problems, including legal consequences and damage to community relations. Understanding the underlying emotions and motivations can help in addressing the root causes of such behaviors. 

:

.

That is the Australian Senate question time this afternoon.

I am at my home listening to the radio and to question time in Australia send it from Canberra.

Behaviour of senators in large part is absolutely disgusting and totally disgraceful. At one stage the controller had to call the senate to order seven, yes SEVEN times before any response was forthcoming.

And then we wonder at the disrespect shown in classrooms by children.

The whole atmosphere, outside of the caterwauling and derision across the chamber, tended toward attack and defence.

The atmosphere was awful. It often is.

Is Anthony Albanese an outstanding leader and Prime Minister?

AI RESPONDS

As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, Anthony Albanese, the leader of the Australian Labor Party, became Prime Minister of Australia following the federal election in May 2022. Evaluating whether he is an “outstanding” leader and Prime Minister is subjective and depends on various factors, including political beliefs, policy preferences, and individual perspectives on leadership qualities.

Here are some points that supporters and critics might consider when assessing his leadership:

### Supporters Might Argue:

1. **Focus on Social Issues**: Albanese has emphasized social justice, climate action, and improving healthcare and education, which resonate with many voters who prioritize these issues.

2. **Climate Policy**: His government has committed to more ambitious climate targets, aiming for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which appeals to those concerned about climate change.

3. **Economic Management**: Supporters may point to his government’s handling of economic challenges, including inflation and cost-of-living pressures, as evidence of effective leadership.

4. **Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians**: Albanese has expressed a commitment to advancing reconciliation and addressing Indigenous rights, including the proposal for a Voice to Parliament.

5. **International Relations**: His government has worked to strengthen Australia’s relationships with key allies and engage more actively in the Indo-Pacific region.

### Critics Might Argue:

1. **Implementation of Policies**: Critics may point to challenges in implementing policies or fulfilling campaign promises, particularly in a complex political landscape.

2. **Economic Challenges**: Some may argue that the government has struggled to effectively address rising living costs and inflation, which can impact public perception of his leadership.

3. **Political Opposition**: As with any leader, opposition parties may criticize his decisions and policies, framing them as inadequate or ineffective.

4. **Public Perception**: Public opinion can fluctuate, and leaders often face scrutiny based on current events, media coverage, and public sentiment.

### Conclusion

Ultimately, whether Anthony Albanese is considered an outstanding leader and Prime Minister will depend on individual perspectives and the evolving political landscape. His effectiveness will likely be assessed over time, based on the outcomes of his policies and his ability to navigate challenges both domestically and internationally. Public opinion polls, media analysis, and historical assessments will continue to shape his legacy as Prime Minister.

Without the vibrance of music it can be said 

That poor old Henry would have space in his head

In his mind are filed thousands of songs

His brain is  home to decades of 

gongs.

Why are Australian voters turning away from the Anthony Albanese labor government, when it is only in its first three year term in office?

AI RESPONDS

There are several factors that could contribute to Australian voters turning away from the Anthony Albanese Labor government, even in its first term. While specific reasons can vary based on current events and public sentiment, some common themes include:

1. **Economic Concerns**: Voters often prioritize economic performance. If there are rising costs of living, inflation, or economic instability, voters may hold the government accountable, even if these issues are influenced by global factors.

2. **Policy Decisions**: Specific policies or decisions made by the Albanese government may not resonate with voters. This could include issues related to climate change, healthcare, education, or immigration. If voters feel that the government is not addressing their concerns or priorities, they may seek alternatives.

3. **Expectations vs. Reality**: When a new government comes into power, there are often high expectations for change and improvement. If voters feel that the Albanese government has not delivered on its promises or has failed to make significant progress, they may become disillusioned.

4. **Opposition Campaigning**: The effectiveness of the opposition parties in presenting a viable alternative can also influence voter sentiment. If the opposition is able to effectively critique the government and present their own policies, this can sway public opinion.

5. **Scandals or Controversies**: Any scandals, controversies, or missteps by the government can lead to a loss of public trust. If there are significant issues that arise during the term, they can impact voter perception.

6. **Changing Demographics and Issues**: As demographics change and new issues emerge, voter priorities can shift. The government may need to adapt to these changes to maintain support.

7. **Media Influence**: Media coverage can shape public perception of the government. Negative portrayals or critical reporting can influence how voters view the government’s performance.

It’s important to note that political dynamics are complex and can change rapidly. Public opinion polls and voter sentiment can fluctuate based on current events, so the reasons for any shift in support may evolve over time.

Is the world better or worse than 200 years ago?

AI response

Determining whether the world is better or worse than it was 200 years ago involves considering various factors, including economic development, health, education, social justice, and environmental conditions. Here are some key points to consider:

### Improvements:

1. **Health and Life Expectancy**: 

   – Life expectancy has significantly increased due to advancements in medicine, public health, and nutrition. In the early 19th century, global life expectancy was around 30-40 years; today, it is over 70 years in many parts of the world.

2. **Poverty Reduction**: 

   – The percentage of people living in extreme poverty has decreased dramatically. In the early 19th century, a large portion of the world lived in dire poverty; today, while poverty remains a significant issue, the global trend has been toward reduction.

3. **Education**: 

   – Access to education has improved substantially. Literacy rates have increased, and more people have access to primary, secondary, and higher education than ever before.

4. **Technological Advancements**: 

   – Technology has transformed daily life, improving communication, transportation, and access to information. Innovations in various fields have led to enhanced quality of life.

5. **Social Progress**: 

   – There have been significant strides in human rights, gender equality, and social justice. Movements for civil rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights have gained momentum and led to legislative changes in many countries.

### Challenges:

1. **Environmental Issues**: 

   – The world faces significant environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Industrialization and urbanization have led to environmental degradation that was less pronounced 200 years ago.

2. **Inequality**: 

   – While global poverty has decreased, inequality within and between countries remains a critical issue. Wealth distribution is highly uneven, and many people still lack access to basic resources.

3. **Conflict and Violence**: 

   – Although some forms of violence have decreased, conflicts and wars continue to affect millions. The nature of warfare has changed, and new forms of violence, including terrorism, have emerged.

4. **Mental Health**: 

   – There is increasing awareness of mental health issues, which were less understood 200 years ago. While this awareness is positive, mental health challenges are prevalent in modern society.

5. **Globalization and Cultural Homogenization**: 

   – Globalization has led to cultural exchanges but also to concerns about the loss of local cultures and identities.

### Conclusion:

Overall, many indicators suggest that the world is better off in terms of health, education, and overall quality of life compared to 200 years ago. However, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and social inequality. The assessment can vary depending on the specific context and perspective one considers.

Is it wrong for me to think the Federal Government is absolutely stuffed?

Is it wrong for me to think this government is the worst government we have had since Federation?

Is it wrong for me to doubt the wisdom of the renewables policy?

Is it wrong for me to think that coal and gas are almost ‘enemies’ of and to the Australian lifestyle?

Is it wrong for me to despair about our ability to defend ourselves against future aggression?

Is it wrong for this 78-year-old man to feel total and utter despair about the future of this country?

I first visited Melbourne over 30 years ago. That was the city, not the suburbs.

My first impressions were of a dirty, graffiti-riddled city without environmental pride.

I remember that a great deal was being made of the relatively sophisticated suburban railway system connecting the city. I went into one of the stations and was amazed at the amount of graffiti and wanton damage plastered over nearly every carriage coming through the station.

That was then. I can but conjecture that these days, things both environmentally and possibly socially are far, far worse.

I will be the last person wanting to visit the Protest Capital.

At closing on 79 years of age and really starting to feel the years, I wonder how old is too old to keep living.

As a child, adolescent and as a young man growing up, I was really scared about dying. I remember thinking that if I made 54 at the turn of the century, I would be doing well.

Nearly a quarter of a century later and with children closing on that age, I wonder when too many years become too much.

I fear losing physical capacity and mental acuity. I fear the onset of faltering voice and an horrified by my aging and wrinkling skin which is fast losing elasticity, therefore hanging on my limbs.

I am no longer afraid of dying and want to depart this life on my terms and without being a burden to others. I’d definitely like to pass over by the respectful method of euthanasia, but here in the NT of Australia that is not an option. Neither, when finally legalised, will mental decline be an allowed aspect of the legislation.

Suicide may well be my only option. The question becomes one of timing.

During my decades of work, and no matter where we lived, I always looked forward to holidays but they gazetted will be they work related. I looked forward to term breaks, annual leave, and the other periods allowing us to slow down. Holidays had meaning.

now in my 12th year of retirement, holidays have a far less substantial meaning because in terms of comparing retirement with work, “downtime“ is a constant rather than a rarity.

But of course, I value holidays for our children all full-time workers and our grandchildren who are full-time students, with the older three transitioning to work.

Women bring the following positive attributes to leadership roles:

1. Women are all seeing, all knowing and able to join in and contribute to several conversations at once.
2. Women are aware: They have 360 degree vision. 
3. Women have clear goal orientation and crystal-like focus.
4. Women cut to the chase and don’t dither around the edges of issues.
]5. Women are careful synthesisers and succinct summarisers of situations.
]6. Women are adept at timetabling and planning; they are meticulous plan followers.
]7. Women have awareness.
]8. Women show empathy to those who are under the pump.
9. Women excel in engaging others in planning and organisation.
10. Women have excellent leadership and participative perspective. They are both on the organisational balcony with all-encompassing vision and on the dance floor with and among those engaged with endeavour.
11. Women make an extraordinary contribution in going forward.
12. Women contribute proactively to staff endeavour and leadership balance within macro (and micro) management of systems. 

Should parents handball the responsibility for the bringing up of their children to schools and teachers?

AI Response

No, parents should not hand over the responsibility of raising their children entirely to schools and teachers. While schools and educators play a crucial role in a child’s development, education, and socialization, parenting is a fundamental responsibility that encompasses much more than academic learning.

Here are a few reasons why parental involvement is essential:

1. **Emotional Support**: Parents provide emotional guidance and support that is critical for a child’s well-being. They help children develop self-esteem, resilience, and coping skills.

2. **Values and Morals**: Parents are typically the primary source of a child’s values, beliefs, and moral framework. This foundational aspect of upbringing is best taught at home.

3. **Life Skills**: Parents teach practical life skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and responsibility, which are essential for a child’s overall development.

4. **Individual Attention**: Parents can offer personalized attention and support that schools may not be able to provide due to larger class sizes and diverse student needs.

5. **Collaboration with Schools**: A strong partnership between parents and schools enhances a child’s educational experience. When parents are involved, children tend to perform better academically and socially.

6. **Cultural and Family Heritage**: Parents pass down cultural traditions, languages, and family history, which are important for a child’s identity and sense of belonging.

In summary, while schools and teachers are vital in educating children, the responsibility of raising and nurturing children is a shared one, with parents playing a crucial and irreplaceable role.

What do you think?

Should parents of underage children be held responsible for their criminal and antisocial conduct?

The question of whether parents of underage children should be held responsible for their children’s criminal and antisocial conduct is complex and involves various factors, including legal, ethical, and social considerations.

### Arguments for Parental Responsibility:

1. **Influence and Guidance**: Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s values, behavior, and decision-making skills. If a child engages in criminal behavior, it may reflect a failure in parental guidance or supervision.

2. **Deterrence**: Holding parents accountable could serve as a deterrent, encouraging them to be more involved in their children’s lives and to instill better values and behaviors.

3. **Support and Intervention**: In some cases, parental responsibility can lead to interventions that address underlying issues within the family, potentially preventing future delinquency.

4. **Legal Precedents**: Some jurisdictions have laws that hold parents liable for their children’s actions, particularly in cases of vandalism or other property crimes.

### Arguments Against Parental Responsibility:

1. **Individual Accountability**: Children, especially as they grow older, should be held accountable for their own actions. Criminal behavior is ultimately a choice made by the individual, and they should face the consequences.

2. **Circumstantial Factors**: Many factors contribute to a child’s behavior, including peer influence, mental health issues, and socioeconomic conditions. Blaming parents may overlook these complexities.

3. **Unfair Burden**: Holding parents responsible can be unfair, especially if they are doing their best to raise their children in difficult circumstances. It may also lead to further stigmatization of families in crisis.

4. **Potential for Negative Outcomes**: Punishing parents could lead to negative outcomes for the family, such as increased stress, financial strain, or even the removal of children from their homes, which may not be in the best interest of the child.

### Conclusion:

Ultimately, the question of parental responsibility for a child’s criminal behavior is nuanced. A balanced approach that considers the role of parents, the individual circumstances of each case, and the need for accountability may be the most effective way to address this issue. Solutions could include supportive measures for families, educational programs, and community resources, rather than solely punitive measures.

What you you think.

Does Donald Trump bring great blessings to America?

Opinions on Donald Trump’s impact on America vary widely and are often deeply polarized.

Supporters argue that he brought blessings such as:

1. **Economic Growth**: Many supporters credit Trump with strong economic performance during his presidency, including low unemployment rates and stock market gains prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. **Tax Cuts**: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is seen by supporters as a significant achievement that lowered taxes for individuals and businesses.

3. **Judicial Appointments**: Trump appointed three Supreme Court justices and numerous federal judges, which supporters believe will have a long-lasting impact on the judiciary.

4. **Foreign Policy**: Some supporters highlight his administration’s efforts to negotiate peace agreements in the Middle East and a more confrontational stance towards China.

5. **Regulatory Reform**: Trump focused on reducing regulations, which supporters argue helped businesses and economic growth.

On the other hand, critics argue that his presidency brought significant challenges, including:

1. **Division and Polarization**: Many believe Trump exacerbated political and social divisions in the country.

2. **Handling of COVID-19**: Critics point to his administration’s response to the pandemic as inadequate, leading to a high number of cases and deaths.

3. **Environmental Policies**: Some argue that his rollback of environmental regulations has had negative consequences for climate change and public health.

4. **International Relations**: Critics contend that his approach to foreign policy strained relationships with traditional allies.

5. **Impeachment and Legal Issues**: Trump’s presidency was marked by impeachment proceedings and ongoing legal challenges, which some believe have undermined trust in government.

Ultimately, whether Trump brings “great blessings” to America is subjective and depends on individual perspectives and values.

What do you think?

What percentage of Australian land, by state and territory, has been returned to Aboriginal people under Native title legislation?

As of my last update in October 2023, the percentage of land returned to Aboriginal people under Native Title legislation varies by state and territory in Australia. Here are some approximate figures based on available data:

1. **New South Wales**: Approximately 20% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

2. **Victoria**: Around 10% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

3. **Queensland**: Approximately 30% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

4. **Western Australia**: About 40% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

5. **South Australia**: Roughly 15% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

6. **Tasmania**: A small percentage, around 1-2%, has been recognized under Native Title.

7. **Northern Territory**: Approximately 50% of the land area has been recognized under Native Title.

8. **Australian Capital Territory**: Very little land, less than 1%, has been recognized under Native Title.

These figures are approximate and can change as new claims are made and resolved. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult the latest reports from the National Native Title Tribunal or relevant state and territory land management agencies.

Billy Moir, retired school teacher and correspondent extraordinaire is an avid scribe regularly published – often several times each week – in the Northern Territory News, a daily with territory-wide readership.

His alertness and awareness of a myriad of issues leads to lively correspondence that is always on the money.

His interest in everything about life’s world has motivated him to write many hundreds of letters over the years.

May he live for a long time yet and never allow his pen to be stilled nor his letters flow staunched.

I am confused by the revelation that the drivers of motor vehicles are not infringing if drinking alcohol while driving – provided they are under the legal limit.

On the other hand, the use of a mobile phone while driving incurs an infringement if the driver is caught in the act.

There seems to be little logic in this situation and surely a correction is needed

If humans were limited to having only one character trait, what would it be?

If humans were limited to having only one character trait, it could be argued that empathy would be the most beneficial trait.

Empathy allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering compassion, cooperation, and social harmony.

With empathy as the sole trait, people would likely prioritize the well-being of others, leading to a more supportive and cohesive society.

This trait could help mitigat conflicts, promote kindness, and encourage collaborative problem-solving, ultimately enhancing the quality of human interactions and relationships.

If there was only one positive value that could be pursued in life by people, what would it be?

AI responds

If there were only one positive value that could be pursued in life, it could be argued that it would be “compassion.”

Compassion encompasses empathy, kindness, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. It fosters connection, understanding, and support among individuals and communities.

By prioritizing compassion, people can create a more harmonious and supportive society, addressing the needs of others while also enhancing their own sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Ultimately, compassion can lead to positive change, healing, and a deeper sense of belonging in the world.

Gala Day for the CLP on Monday September 16 

On Monday, the many  Electoral Office’s that have been deserted since Labour’s   resounding defeat, on August 24, will come to life. They will come to life with new members elected for the Country Liberal Party (CLP).

The doors,  with new members confirmed and installed will open in EVERY electorate in Darwin and its suburbs – for all sitting members were either not re-standing (Port Darwin and Wanguri) or were defeated (Karama, Sanderson, Johnson, Casuarina, Fannie Bay, Nightcliff). 

It was a clean sweep in. terms of out with Labor and in with the CLP, Independents and Greens.

AI responds

The assertion that attending school three days a week is “very good and sufficient” for Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory is a reflection of the challenges faced in the education system, particularly in remote and Indigenous communities. However, it is important to understand the context and implications of such a statement.

1. **Context of Attendance**: In many remote Aboriginal communities, school attendance rates have historically been lower than the national average. Factors contributing to this include socio-economic challenges, cultural differences, health issues, and geographical barriers. As a result, educational authorities may have set lower attendance benchmarks as a pragmatic response to these challenges.

2. **Educational Outcomes**: While attending school three days a week may be seen as an improvement over lower attendance rates, it is generally not considered sufficient for achieving optimal educational outcomes. Research shows that consistent and regular attendance is crucial for learning and development. Attending school only part-time can hinder students’ academic progress and social development.

3. **Policy and Improvement Efforts**: Educational policies and programs aimed at improving attendance and engagement among Aboriginal students often focus on increasing attendance rates and providing culturally relevant education. The goal is to encourage full-time attendance and support students in overcoming barriers to education.

4. **Broader Implications**: The idea that three days a week is “sufficient” can be problematic as it may inadvertently lower expectations for educational achievement. It is essential to strive for higher attendance rates and to address the underlying issues that contribute to absenteeism.

In summary, while the study may reflect a recognition of the challenges faced by Aboriginal students in the Northern Territory, the notion that attending school three days a week is sufficient does not align with the broader educational goals of ensuring that all students receive a quality education that prepares them for future opportunities. Efforts should continue to improve attendance and engagement among Aboriginal children in a way that respects their cultural context and addresses systemic barriers.

Are Aboriginal people in Australia deemed to be more important than non-aboriginal people?

AI’s response:

The question of whether Aboriginal people in Australia are deemed to be more important than non-Aboriginal people is complex and can vary depending on context, perspective, and the specific issues being discussed.

In Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have unique rights and cultural significance as the original inhabitants of the land. There is a growing recognition of the importance of acknowledging their history, culture, and rights, particularly in the context of reconciliation efforts, land rights, and self-determination. This recognition can sometimes lead to policies and initiatives that prioritize Aboriginal perspectives and needs, especially in areas such as education, health, and land management.

However, this does not mean that Aboriginal people are considered “more important” than non-Aboriginal people in a general sense. Rather, it reflects an effort to address historical injustices, systemic inequalities, and to promote equity and respect for Indigenous cultures.

The goal of these efforts is often to create a more just and equitable society where the rights and voices of Aboriginal peoples are respected and valued alongside those of non-Aboriginal Australians. The focus is on promoting understanding, reconciliation, and equality rather than establishing a hierarchy of importance.

In Australia, is the study and awareness of Aboriginal history and culture more important than the study of Australia since the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788?

AI’s response

The study and awareness of Aboriginal history and culture and the history of Australia since the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 are both important, but they serve different purposes and highlight different aspects of Australia’s national identity and heritage.

1. **Aboriginal History and Culture**: Understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture is crucial for several reasons:

   – **Recognition of Indigenous Rights**: It helps to acknowledge the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples, who have lived on the land for tens of thousands of years.

   – **Cultural Heritage**: Aboriginal cultures are rich and diverse, with unique languages, traditions, and knowledge systems that contribute to Australia’s cultural landscape.

   – **Reconciliation**: Studying Aboriginal history is essential for reconciliation efforts, addressing historical injustices, and fostering mutual respect and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

2. **Post-1788 History**: The history of Australia since the arrival of the First Fleet is also significant:

   – **Colonial Impact**: This period includes the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples, including dispossession, violence, and cultural disruption, which is vital to understanding contemporary issues.

   – **Nation Building**: It encompasses the development of modern Australia, including its political, social, and economic evolution, and the contributions of various communities, including migrants.

   – **Contemporary Issues**: Understanding this history is essential for grasping current societal dynamics, including debates around identity, multiculturalism, and national values.

In summary, both areas of study are important and interconnected. A comprehensive understanding of Australian history should include both the rich and diverse history of Aboriginal peoples and the subsequent history of Australia since 1788. Emphasizing one over the other can lead to an incomplete understanding of the nation’s past and present. Many educators and historians advocate for an integrated approach that acknowledges the significance of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous histories in shaping Australia today.

Our PM to wed his beloved Jodie

This is a beautiful love story of two fine people whose lives have reached a point of conjunction with the intertwining of spirit and love.

Australians should all be happy and rejoice for our PM and his soon-to-be bride.

I feel uplifted and buoyed by the joyful announcement.

I am so glad this great man and excellent Royal, who always acts with courage and conviction, can plan a birthday celebration commensurate with his marking such a crucial chronological milestone.

His life and his example have blessed and inspired so many people, and this will, I am sure, continue to be the case.

His aura of confidence and the positive influence he brings to bear in life’s world are inspirational.

How much more do Australian universities charge international students for course fees than is charged domestic  students?

Australian universities typically charge significantly higher tuition fees for international students compared to domestic students. The exact difference in fees can vary widely depending on the university, the specific course or program, and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate).

As a general guideline:

1. **Domestic Students**: For domestic students, tuition fees are often subsidized by the Australian government. The fees can range from approximately AUD 6,000 to AUD 12,000 per year for undergraduate courses, depending on the field of study.

2. **International Students**: In contrast, international students usually pay full tuition fees, which can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 or more per year. Some specialized programs, such as those in medicine or veterinary science, can be even higher.

As a result, international students may pay anywhere from two to four times more in tuition fees than domestic students, depending on the program and institution. 

It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary significantly, so prospective students should check the specific tuition fees for their chosen course and university.

Given that international students pay their Fees upfront, do Australian universities prefer for domestic students to pay upfront or do they prefer domestic students to defer fee payments by using HECS?

Australian universities generally prefer domestic students to defer their fee payments through HECS-HELP rather than paying upfront. Here are a few reasons why:

1. **Government Funding**: When domestic students defer their fees through HECS-HELP, the government pays the university on behalf of the student. This funding is often more stable and predictable for universities, as it is tied to government policies and funding agreements.

2. **Cash Flow Management**: While upfront payments provide immediate cash flow, the deferred payments through HECS-HELP can lead to a more consistent revenue stream over time, especially if a large number of students choose to defer.

3. **Accessibility for Students**: Allowing students to defer their fees makes higher education more accessible, as it reduces the immediate financial burden on students. This can lead to higher enrollment rates, which is beneficial for universities.

4. **Enrollment Numbers**: Universities may encourage the use of HECS-HELP to attract more domestic students, as the ability to defer payments can make higher education more appealing.

In summary, while upfront payments provide immediate funding, the overall preference tends to lean towards encouraging domestic students to use HECS-HELP for the reasons mentioned above.

Are international students enrolled at Australian universities able to defer their fees and pay later through HECS?

No, international students enrolled at Australian universities are not eligible to defer their fees and pay later through the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS). HECS is specifically designed for domestic students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents. 

International students are required to pay their tuition fees upfront, typically before the start of each semester or academic year. This means that they must arrange to pay their course fees in full at the time of enrollment, and they do not have the option to defer payment like domestic students do under HECS-HELP. 

International students may have access to other forms of financial assistance or scholarships, but these would not include the HECS system.

Do universities in Australia get more money if students pay course fees upfront, or if they defer and pay their fees at a later date through HECS?

In Australia, universities receive funding from the government based on a variety of factors, including the number of students enrolled and the type of courses they offer. When students choose to pay their course fees upfront, the university receives that money immediately, which can be beneficial for cash flow and immediate funding needs.

On the other hand, if students defer their fees through the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS), the university does not receive the payment upfront. Instead, the government pays the university on behalf of the student once the student has completed their course or reaches a certain income threshold. This means that while the university will eventually receive the funds, there is a delay compared to upfront payments.

In summary, universities generally prefer upfront payments because they provide immediate funding. However, the overall financial impact on universities can vary based on enrollment numbers, government funding policies, and the specific arrangements of the HECS system.

The Country Liberal Party won 17 of the 25 Northern Territory Legislative Assembly seats in the August 24 2024 election

How happy they are and what responsibilities they confront.

What is ongoing, never-ending and escalating crime doing to the Northern Territory?

Crime in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia has significant social, economic, and political implications. Here are some key points regarding the impact of crime in the region:

1. **Social Impact**: High crime rates, particularly in urban areas like Darwin and Alice Springs, contribute to a sense of insecurity among residents. Violent crime, property crime, and anti-social behavior can lead to community disintegration, fear, and mistrust among residents.

2. **Economic Consequences**: Crime can deter investment and tourism, which are vital for the NT’s economy. Businesses may face increased costs due to theft, vandalism, and the need for enhanced security measures. Additionally, the costs associated with policing, legal proceedings, and incarceration can strain government budgets.

3. **Indigenous Communities**: Crime disproportionately affects Indigenous populations in the NT. Issues such as substance abuse, domestic violence, and youth crime are prevalent, often linked to socio-economic disadvantage, historical trauma, and systemic issues. This creates cycles of disadvantage and contributes to ongoing social challenges.

4. **Government Response**: The NT government has implemented various strategies to combat crime, including increased police presence, community programs, and legislative changes. However, the effectiveness of these measures is often debated, and there are calls for more holistic approaches that address underlying social issues.

5. **Youth Crime**: There has been a notable increase in youth crime in the NT, leading to concerns about juvenile justice and rehabilitation. Programs aimed at diverting young people from the criminal justice system and providing support and education are critical in addressing this issue.

6. **Public Perception and Policy**: Crime rates can influence public perception and political discourse, leading to calls for tougher law enforcement measures. This can create a cycle where punitive measures are prioritized over preventative and rehabilitative approaches.

7. **Community Initiatives**: Many communities are actively working to address crime through local initiatives, including youth engagement programs, community policing, and partnerships with non-government organizations to provide support services.

Overall, crime in the Northern Territory poses complex challenges that require coordinated efforts from government, communities, and various stakeholders to create sustainable solutions. Addressing the root causes of crime, particularly in Indigenous communities, is essential for fostering long-term safety and well-being in the region.

Pm

Is the thanks from the exiting or incoming politician?

Why are past challenges and successes never considered by  new leaders taking responsibility for governments and their departments?

The phenomenon where new leaders often overlook past challenges and successes when taking responsibility for governments and their departments can be attributed to several factors:

1. **Desire for Change**: New leaders often come into their roles with a mandate to implement change. They may focus on their vision and agenda, believing that previous approaches were inadequate or outdated. This can lead to a dismissal of past experiences.

2. **Lack of Institutional Knowledge**: New leaders may not have a deep understanding of the history, culture, and complexities of the organization they are leading. This lack of familiarity can result in overlooking valuable lessons learned from past successes and failures.

3. **Political Dynamics**: In many cases, new leaders are appointed in a political context where they feel pressure to distance themselves from their predecessors. This can lead to a focus on new initiatives rather than building on previous work.

4. **Time Constraints**: Leaders often face immediate pressures and crises that require urgent attention. In such situations, they may prioritize quick fixes over a thorough analysis of past experiences.

5. **Cognitive Bias**: Leaders may have cognitive biases that affect their perception of past events. For example, they might focus on recent failures while ignoring successes, or they may have a tendency to overestimate their own ideas and solutions.

6. **Organizational Culture**: The culture within an organization can influence how past experiences are valued. If the culture does not emphasize learning from history, new leaders may not prioritize it either.

7. **Communication Gaps**: There may be insufficient communication of past experiences and lessons learned within the organization. If this information is not effectively shared, new leaders may not have access to it.

8. **Innovation Over Tradition**: In a rapidly changing world, there is often a strong emphasis on innovation. New leaders may prioritize new ideas and technologies over established practices, leading to a neglect of historical context.

9. **Accountability and Responsibility**: New leaders may feel a need to establish their own identity and accountability, which can lead them to reject previous strategies and outcomes, regardless of their effectiveness.

To mitigate these issues, new leaders can benefit from actively seeking out historical insights, engaging with long-term staff, and fostering a culture of learning that values both past successes and failures.

New leaders often repeat the mistakes of their predecessors for several reasons:

1. **Lack of Historical Awareness**: New leaders may not have a comprehensive understanding of the decisions and strategies that were previously implemented. Without knowledge of past mistakes, they are likely to make similar errors.

2. **Insufficient Transition Processes**: In many organizations, there is inadequate knowledge transfer during leadership transitions. If outgoing leaders do not effectively communicate lessons learned, incoming leaders may lack critical insights into what went wrong in the past.

3. **Cognitive Biases**: Leaders may fall prey to cognitive biases, such as overconfidence or confirmation bias, which can lead them to underestimate risks or ignore evidence that contradicts their assumptions. This can result in repeating past mistakes.

4. **Pressure to Deliver Results**: New leaders often face intense pressure to produce quick results. This urgency can lead them to adopt familiar strategies or shortcuts that have previously failed, rather than taking the time to analyze past failures and develop more effective approaches.

5. **Organizational Culture**: The culture of an organization can perpetuate certain behaviors and practices. If the culture does not encourage critical reflection or learning from past mistakes, new leaders may inadvertently continue ineffective practices.

6. **Political and Stakeholder Pressures**: New leaders may feel compelled to cater to the interests of stakeholders or political pressures, leading them to make decisions that align with past practices rather than innovative or more effective solutions.

7. **Inertia and Resistance to Change**: Organizations can be resistant to change, and new leaders may find it challenging to implement new strategies. As a result, they may revert to familiar methods that have been used before, even if they were flawed.

8. **Limited Resources and Support**: New leaders may not have the resources or support needed to implement significant changes. This limitation can lead them to rely on existing strategies, even if they are known to be ineffective.

9. **Overemphasis on Short-Term Goals**: A focus on short-term objectives can lead leaders to overlook long-term consequences. This short-sightedness can result in repeating past mistakes that had negative long-term impacts.

10. **Echo Chambers**: New leaders may surround themselves with advisors or teams that reinforce their views and strategies, leading to a lack of diverse perspectives that could highlight past mistakes.

To avoid repeating the mistakes of predecessors, new leaders can benefit from conducting thorough reviews of past decisions, engaging with experienced staff, fostering a culture of open communication and learning, and being willing to challenge established norms and practices.

Response:

The question of whether very old people should lead governments is a complex and nuanced issue that involves various factors, including experience, wisdom, health, and the ability to connect with a diverse electorate. Here are some considerations for both sides of the argument:

### Arguments in Favor:

1. **Experience and Wisdom**: Older leaders often have decades of experience in politics, governance, and public service. Their long careers may provide them with valuable insights and a deep understanding of complex issues.

2. **Historical Perspective**: Older leaders may have lived through significant historical events and can draw on those experiences to inform their decision-making.

3. **Stability**: In times of crisis, older leaders may provide a sense of stability and continuity, having navigated previous challenges.

4. **Mentorship**: Older leaders can serve as mentors to younger politicians, helping to guide the next generation of leaders.

### Arguments Against:

1. **Health Concerns**: As people age, they may face health issues that could impact their ability to perform the demanding duties of a government leader. This raises concerns about their capacity to serve effectively.

2. **Disconnect with Younger Generations**: Very old leaders may struggle to relate to the needs and concerns of younger constituents, potentially leading to policies that do not reflect the priorities of the majority of the population.

3. **Resistance to Change**: Older leaders may be less inclined to embrace new ideas and innovations, which can be crucial in a rapidly changing world.

4. **Succession Planning**: Relying on very old leaders may hinder the development of younger leaders and the necessary succession planning for future governance.

### Conclusion:

Ultimately, the suitability of any individual to lead a government should be based on their abilities, health, vision, and connection with the electorate rather than solely on their age. A diverse leadership that includes individuals of various ages can bring a balance of experience and fresh perspectives, which may be beneficial for effective governance. It’s essential for political systems to encourage a range of voices and ensure that leaders are capable of addressing the needs of all citizens, regardless of their age.

Singing in the toilet is generally considered a lighthearted and harmless activity. Many people enjoy singing in the shower or bathroom because the acoustics can be good, and it can be a private space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. However, whether it’s “wrong” can depend on the context:

1. **Privacy**: If you’re in a public restroom, singing might disturb others or be seen as inappropriate. In a private bathroom, it’s usually fine.

2. **Volume**: If you’re singing loudly, it might be disruptive to others nearby. Being mindful of your volume is important.

3. **Cultural Norms**: In some cultures or settings, singing in certain places might be frowned upon, so it’s good to be aware of the norms around you.

Overall, if you’re enjoying yourself and not bothering anyone else, there’s nothing wrong with singing in the toilet!

Good to know.

The decision for male school principals to wear pink, wide-brimmed hats while supervising students should be based on the context of the school environment, the message it conveys, and the comfort level of the principal.

Here are some considerations:

1. **School Culture**: If the school promotes a culture of inclusivity and self-expression, wearing a pink hat may be perfectly acceptable. It could even be seen as a way to challenge gender norms.

2. **Professionalism**: Principals are often seen as role models. If the hat is perceived as unprofessional by the school community, it might be advisable to choose more neutral attire.

3. **Student Engagement**: A unique hat could serve as a conversation starter and make the principal more approachable to students, fostering a positive environment.

4. **Personal Preference**: Ultimately, the principal should feel comfortable and confident in their attire. If wearing the hat aligns with their personality and leadership style, it could be a positive choice.

5. **Community Reaction**: Consider how parents, staff, and students might react. If there is a risk of negative feedback or misunderstanding, it may be wise to reconsider.

In conclusion, there is no definitive answer, and the decision should be made based on the specific context and values of the school community.

I think it was okay for me to wear a pink hat.

One of the most despised traits that people often cite is **hypocrisy**.

Hypocrisy involves claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one’s own behavior does not conform. It can lead to a loss of trust and respect, as people generally value authenticity and integrity.

Other traits that are commonly viewed negatively include dishonesty, arrogance, and selfishness, but hypocrisy tends to resonate deeply because it undermines the very principles of honesty and integrity that people expect from others.

I do not like going out.

I have been to one formal occasion in the past three years – to be awarded a medal at Government House.

I ordered a suit to be tailored. It was fitted and adjusted three times. It was NEVER right but in the end I ran out of time for try-ons and had to take the garments.

The suit cost A$590. Then there were accessories.

On the night:

The coat was too big.

The pants were too loose and the belt was faulty. My pants kept threatening to fall to my ankles and I had to keep hitching them up.

The shirt was way too big and its sleeves far too long.

I felt like a dork and the next day, gave the suit and shirt to the Red Cross.

Now I hate going out at night and with very few exceptions, stay home.

What is the most important human trait or value?

AI’s response:

Determining the most important human trait or value can be subjective, as it often depends on individual beliefs, cultural backgrounds, and personal experiences. However, many would argue that empathy is one of the most crucial human traits.

Empathy allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering compassion, connection, and cooperation. It plays a vital role in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and promoting social harmony. By being empathetic, people can support one another, create inclusive communities, and work towards the common good.

Other important traits and values often mentioned include integrity, kindness, respect, and resilience. Each of these contributes to personal development and the well-being of society as a whole. Ultimately, the significance of any trait or value may vary based on context and individual perspectives.

There is so much tinsel and glitter about life in Australia.

There is so little meaningful substance.

So much trite nonsense is consuming educational curriculums.

So little literacy and numeracy substance remains a core teaching priority.

I think that the decency of what has been an Australian way of life has been cast into the vast wilderness of this country – somewhere between Lake Disappointment and Mount Hopeless.

INJURED TEACHERS COMPO BLOWOUT

Herald Sun Tuesday September 3 2024 Bolding mine

exclusive – Suzan Delibasic – Susie O’Brien

More than $50m has been paid out to Victorian teachers and tertiary staff who were injured on the job in the past two years, with experts blaming the ­“explosion” of compensation claims on aggressive students and staff bullies.

WorkSafe data obtained by the Herald Sun under Freedom of Information laws shows teachers from state and private schools, as well as tertiary and TAFE educators, made 1199 of claims in 2022 and 1468 claims in 2023. The claims included teachers suffering psychological stress, concussions, fractures and even cases of deafness.

Some of the biggest payouts include more than $141,500 for psychological harm, $120,253 for head injuries and $103,000 for wrist injuries. There was just over $25m in payouts in 2023, compared to $26.2m in 2022.

Carbone Lawyers partner and head of personal injury law John Karantzis said there had been an “explosion” of WorkSafe claims at schools.

“Teachers and support staff are under fire from aggressive schoolchildren and gangs,” Mr Karantzis said.

“Just recently, we had a case where a student pulled a knife on him and held it to his throat.

“Teachers are also experiencing psychological harm, including bullying from students and staff.”

Mr Karantzis said the Education Department and independent schools needed to provide better support and training.

“Unfortunately we’re seeing time and time again that staff are not being trained to manage these types of violent and aggressive situations, and as a result they are suffering serious long-term injuries.”

Michael*, 65, who worked at a state school in Melbourne’s north, sustained serious psychological and leg injuries in mid-2020 after breaking up two fights between females in the schoolyard.

“Two girls got into a massive punch-on and I tried to break up the fight. I put my arm out and one of the girls ran into me and took the full force of her weight,” he said.

“I didn’t fall but I felt something crack in my right knee.”

Michael said he notified the school about the fight, but “nothing was done”.

“They failed in their duty of care,” he said.

Michael said he was then injured on the same day after being forced to intervene in another altercation between two female students. He said he felt unsafe due to youth gangs that would frequently enter the schoolyard.

“They would have knives, knuckle dusters and their biggest defence was that they would ring up their friends who would show up to the school in a car.

“One of the worst things I saw was a year 9 boy having his head stomped by a group of students.

“This has had a traumatising impact on me … It’s not going to go away and I’ve had to do a lot of work with a psychologist to rebalance my life.”

Michael, who has had two surgeries and full knee replacements, is now awaiting a payout of more than $320,000 in compensation after seeking help from Carbone Lawyers.

Meanwhile, another law firm, Arnold Thomas & Becker, has received almost 100 inquiries in the past year relating to teacher injuries while working.

One of their clients, regional primary school teacher Julie*, who injured her vertebrae after tripping due to the school providing an unsafe environment, said her whole life had been “turned upside down”.

“It’s affected everything from my physical to mental wellbeing, my life will never be the same,” she said.

An Education Department spokesman said: “Victoria leads the nation in supporting health and wellbeing for principals and school staff and we have invested more than $200m since 2018 to support health, safety and wellbeing risks in schools.

* Names have been changed

CHECK OUT THE SEARCHABLE GRAPHIC AT HERALDSUN.COM.AU

TEACHERS WALK OUT OF ‘TOXIC’ PRIMARY

Suzan Delibasic

Sunday Herald Sun September 8 2024.   Bolding mine

Five teachers have resigned from a Victorian primary school making allegations about a “toxic” culture, and saying the stress had taken a toll on their mental health.

The Sunday Herald Sun can reveal the staff, who have asked to remain anonymous, claim to have endured months of “bullying”, “intimidation” and “extreme stress” from the leadership team at Jindivick Primary School.

Some said they had experienced panic attacks on their way to work.

They said their concerns had been passed on to the Department of Education and the Victorian Ombudsman.

A teacher who quit her job claimed the school leadership team had failed to provide a safe and ­inclusive environment.

“It got to a point where you couldn’t even say anything to children that were misbehaving including swearing at teachers and other serious behavioural issues,” she said. “Their (children’s) accounts of incidents were believed over ours.

“I also witnessed the bullying and toxic culture created by the principal and it left me ­extremely stressed.

“It’s not somewhere that I would encourage anyone to work in. I feel extremely sorry for what my colleagues have gone through.”

Several former teachers also claimed that principal Lara-Jayne Wilson, who was ­appointed late last year, had failed to support them.

Another woman, who has been teaching for almost 15 years, said she was forced to ­resign in July, claiming she was offered no support by the Department of Education or the school’s regional director.

She said her problems began when a parent made an ­“unsubstantiated” complaint about the way she had spoken to her child.

“The principal did not advise me of the complaint or communicate with me as to why the student was removed from my class,” she said. “I felt like I was kept in the dark.”

The teacher claimed it took weeks to secure a meeting with the principal and when they eventually met she was “given the impression that everything had been sorted”. She continued to feel “distressed” for months and felt Ms Wilson continued to “target” her.

“She would gaslight me and lie that staff were making complaints about me, but I would ask staff members about it and they wouldn’t know what I was talking about,” she said.

“It was seriously intimidating, and I felt so much anxiety driving to school every day. It’s taken a serious toll on my mental health and I even had an employment limitation, which prevents me from working in any public system, and that is still being investigated.

“I’ve provided eight referees who have provided eight written character references supporting me, but I’m still awaiting an answer from the department.”

A Department of Education spokesman said: “We’re helping schools tackle challenging student behaviour so that teachers can teach and students can learn in a positive and supported environment.”

?

 To date this year, there have been 49 deaths on Northern Territory roads. Included are vehicle drivers and passengers, motorbike and quad bike riders, cyclists, pedestrians and people sleeping on roadways. 

This is horrendous and shameful for a territory with a population of 250,000. With four months to go until the end of 2024, who knows how many will have died when the bell tolls to end the year.

SCHOOLS SHOULD BE FOR CHILDREN

All school pedagogy should put children first. When the Northern Territory took on responsibility for education in 1979, our first director was Dr Jim Eedle. 

In March of that year he gathered all Principals of Northern Territory schools to a conference in Katherine. He said to us in his inimitable way of speaking, that we should always remember that “schools are for children”.

This he said was the prime function of schools. He went on to say that structure and organisation should always be about supporting function, the looking after of education for children. He suggested that if structure became the all important thing, that the quality of function would diminish.

Fast forward 45 years, and I think that the function of education is now well and truly in the shadow of structure. How I would love to have a revisitation to the words and sentiments of our first Director.

There is a possibility but not a strong probability that Jim Chalmers will replace Anthony Albanese as government leader before the next federal government election.

There is a possibility but not a strong probability that Australia will wise up to the wisdom of going steadily when it comes to replacing reliance on fossil fuels.

While blogging has many advantages, there are also several disadvantages and challenges that bloggers may face. Here are some common drawbacks:

1. Time-Consuming: Creating high-quality blog content can be time-intensive. Researching, writing, editing, and promoting posts require significant effort and dedication.
2. Consistency Required: To build and maintain an audience, bloggers need to post regularly. This can be challenging, especially for those with other commitments, leading to burnout or inconsistency.
3. Technical Challenges: Setting up and maintaining a blog can involve technical skills, such as web design, SEO, and troubleshooting. Not everyone is comfortable with these aspects, which can be a barrier to entry.
4. Competition: The blogging space is highly competitive, with millions of blogs available on various topics. Standing out and attracting an audience can be difficult.
5. Monetization Challenges: While there are opportunities to monetize a blog, it often takes time to generate significant income. Many bloggers struggle to find effective monetization strategies.
6. Negative Feedback: Bloggers may receive criticism or negative comments from readers. Handling criticism can be challenging and may affect a blogger’s confidence and motivation.
7. Privacy Concerns: Sharing personal experiences or opinions can lead to privacy issues. Bloggers may face unwanted attention or scrutiny, especially if they discuss sensitive topics.
8. Platform Dependence: If using a third-party platform (like Medium or Blogger), bloggers may be subject to the platform’s rules and policies. Changes in algorithms or platform features can impact visibility and traffic.
9. SEO Knowledge Required: To attract organic traffic, bloggers need to understand search engine optimization (SEO). This can be complex and requires ongoing learning and adaptation.
10. Content Theft: Bloggers may face issues with content theft, where others copy and use their work without permission. This can be frustrating and may require legal action.
11. Emotional Investment: Blogging can be an emotional journey, especially if a blogger invests a lot of time and effort into their content. Low engagement or lack of recognition can be disheartening.
12. Distraction from Main Goals: For some, blogging can become a distraction from other important tasks or goals, particularly if it takes up too much time or energy.
13. Evolving Trends: The blogging landscape is constantly changing, with new trends, technologies, and audience preferences. Keeping up with these changes can be demanding.
14. Limited Audience: Initially, it can be challenging to attract readers, especially if the blog is new or the niche is not well-defined. Building an audience takes time and effort.

Despite these challenges, many bloggers find the experience rewarding and fulfilling. By being aware of these disadvantages, aspiring bloggers can better prepare themselves and develop strategies to overcome potential obstacles.

Blogging offers numerous advantages, both for individuals and businesses. Here are some key benefits:

1. Creative Expression: Blogging provides a platform for individuals to express their thoughts, ideas, and creativity. It allows writers to share their passions and interests with a wider audience.
2. Building Authority: Regularly publishing informative and insightful content can establish a blogger as an authority in their niche. This can lead to increased credibility and trust among readers.
3. Improved Writing Skills: Consistent blogging helps improve writing and communication skills. Over time, bloggers learn to articulate their thoughts more clearly and effectively.
4. Networking Opportunities: Blogging can connect individuals with like-minded people, including other bloggers, industry experts, and readers. This can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and friendships.
5. SEO Benefits: Well-optimized blogs can improve search engine rankings, driving organic traffic to a website. Quality content can attract backlinks and enhance online visibility.
6. Monetization Potential: Bloggers can monetize their content through various means, such as affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, advertising, and selling products or services.
7. Audience Engagement: Blogs allow for direct interaction with readers through comments and social media. This engagement can foster a community around the blog and encourage reader loyalty.
8. Personal Branding: Blogging helps individuals build their personal brand. It showcases expertise, personality, and values, which can be beneficial for career advancement or business growth.
9. Knowledge Sharing: Blogging allows individuals to share their knowledge and insights, contributing to the collective understanding of a topic. This can be particularly valuable in educational or professional contexts.
10. Flexibility and Control: Bloggers have full control over their content, design, and publishing schedule. This flexibility allows them to adapt their blog to their personal or business goals.
11. Long-Term Value: Quality blog posts can continue to attract traffic and generate interest long after they are published, providing ongoing value over time.
12. Therapeutic Benefits: For some, blogging can be a form of therapy, allowing them to process thoughts and emotions, share personal experiences, and connect with others who may be going through similar situations.

Overall, blogging can be a powerful tool for personal growth, professional development, and community building.

Come tourists, come

To all potential tourists

Come tourists, come

To all potential tourists; 

Come see the NT, 

The best views by far, 

Share time in the NT, 

See how lucky we are, 

To live in a place, 

So worthwhile to share, 

Come and enjoy,

Is my entreaty and prayer.

; 

Come see the NT, 

The best views by far, 

Share time in the NT, 

See how lucky we are, 

To live in a place, 

So worthwhile to share, 

Come and enjoy,

Is my entreaty and prayer.

The new government going forward

I believe that our new Chief Minister and her government are well-positioned to make a positive difference in how our territory is developing.

The government will need to be resolute, firm on its key commitments, and not become the fall guy sucked in by the desire to appease narrowly focused ‘one issue’ interest groups.

POH’s question

What is the most frequently uttered swearword in the world?

AI’s response

The most frequently uttered swearword in the world is often considered to be the F-word, “fuck.” It is widely used in various languages and cultures, often due to its versatility as an expletive, intensifier, or in various expressions. However, the frequency of its use can vary significantly depending on cultural context, language, and social norms. Other common swearwords may include variations of “shit” and “damn,” but “fuck” tends to be the most prominent in many English-speaking contexts.

That is the way it is!

Sad but true,

Discounted and condemned for what may or may not have happened historically.

For whites like me, the future is bleak.

The baby’s first word

It’s not uncommon for children to pick up on expletives or swear words, especially if they hear them frequently in their environment. However, the first words that babies typically learn to speak are usually simple, everyday words related to their immediate experiences, such as “mama,” “dada,” “ball,” or “no.” 

While some children may indeed learn a swear word early on if they hear it often, it’s more likely that their first words will be those that are used in positive or neutral contexts. The context in which language is used plays a significant role in language acquisition, and children tend to mimic words that are used in loving or playful interactions. 

That said, it’s important for parents and caregivers to be mindful of their language around young children, as they are very impressionable and often mimic what they hear.

Why don’t people smile and laugh and be happy any more?

There are many factors that can influence why people may seem less inclined to smile, laugh, or express happiness. Here are a few potential reasons:

1. **Stress and Anxiety**: Many people face significant stress from work, financial pressures, or personal issues, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and make it harder to feel happy or relaxed.

2. **Social Media and Comparison**: The rise of social media can lead to unhealthy comparisons with others, which may affect self-esteem and overall happiness. People often present curated versions of their lives online, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

3. **Isolation**: Modern life can be isolating. Many people experience loneliness, which can diminish feelings of joy and connection with others.

4. **Mental Health Issues**: Conditions such as depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person’s ability to feel happiness or express joy. Mental health awareness has increased, but stigma and lack of access to care can still be barriers.

5. **Cultural Shifts**: Societal norms and values can change over time. In some cultures, there may be less emphasis on open expressions of joy or laughter, especially in serious contexts.

6. **Global Events**: Events such as pandemics, political unrest, or environmental crises can lead to a collective sense of worry and fear, overshadowing moments of joy.

7. **Busy Lifestyles**: Many people lead fast-paced lives filled with responsibilities, leaving little time for leisure and enjoyment, which can contribute to a lack of happiness.

8. **Lack of Connection**: Genuine connections with others are vital for happiness. If people feel disconnected from friends, family, or community, it can lead to feelings of sadness or apathy.

While these factors can contribute to a perceived decline in happiness, it’s important to remember that many people still find joy and laughter in their lives. Encouraging connection, mindfulness, and self-care can help foster a more positive outlook.

Oh, woe is me, for  I feel quite undone.

Yesterday, our rates notice for the City of Darwin Council arrived in the mail. Inclusions apart from the Bill itself, include a statement about all the wonderful things that Council has done.

However, there was one glaring omission! In past years the council has included an insert in rates notices that this year was missing. 

What was missing, was a detail about our Lord Mayor and our councillors in the various awards – which now leaves me wondering who they all are, because you never hear from ward councillors from one election to the next – or so it seems.

I haven’t been contacted by a councillor in our ward for at least the last eight or nine years. Who are they and where are they? Without that inclusion reminding me of who our councillors are, I have completely lost touch with them.

My granddaughter has a function to attend this evening, as he is shortlisted for an award in creative writing.

Coming from a feeling remote corner of the Northern Territory, she must shop for Clothing and accessories to wear to the function this evening.

Now I am her old grandfather and I am with her if she looks at what she wants and makes a selection for this evening.

It is important and I am remembering that what she gets  It’s for her to wear, not me.

I am supportive, and can offer suggestions but in no way must I dictate what she chooses to wear.

Grandparents should be there for their grandchildren, but should not get in their faces.

Why is it important for up-and-coming leaders and those responsible for organisations, to discount the past and never to learn from the  mistakes and successes of their predecessors.

This propensity to discount and ignore the past puts organisations into a position of where so often the samei I i shortfalls and the same standard progress is repeated over and over and over.

All old people like me can do, is to sit back and think lol“been there, done that“, and watch while they sink  or swim.I

 I’m waiting for my granddaughter to collect her luggage when the baggage handlers put it on for Carol so it can be collected.

While I’m sitting, I’m thinking about the fact that when we first travelled on an aeroplane in 1975, passengers were much different to the way they are now, in terms of the way they dress and just their general department and demeanour.

It’s so much more casual now with everybody dressed in anything.

The airports are jampacked with people everywhere even here in Darwin. At Darwin, there’s a lot of confusion at the moment because upgrades are happening within the terminal and also outside. I think they’re anticipating a major uptake in the number of people coming through and using this airport in future years.

To say that passengers – and there are lots  of them  – are anything other than amotley collection would be an overstatement.

These days the crush of people going through airports onto planes to sit in cramped circumstances like battery hens in cages is the way it is in 2024.

I have a 14 or 15-year-old vehicle that has been well-maintained and is regularly serviced.

We drive quite a bit to keep our eye on how things are progressing in various parts of Darwin. We also visit Palmerston, Darwin‘s nearby city neighbour.

Buildings are going up everywhere and houses are being constructed at a rate of knots.

However, one of the things becoming painterly obvious is the state of our roads, both major and minor in our two cities. Driving along many roads is now like driving on a corrugated gravel track. It may look smooth but reflects the underlying surface of the road breaking down.

Potholes do not help, but they are repaired in time. In many places, the surface bitumen is  breaking down and patching makes the roads look like a web of striations.

However, it is the subsurfaces of our roads that are breaking down giving more and more impact to one feeling as if driving on corrugations. The only way this is going to be fixed is for the road to be taken up and rebuilt at sub-surface levels.

Whether or not that ever happens, I do not know I do know that the fixing would run to many, many millions of dollars.

I do not feel reassured about the security vetting of those being rushed into Australia willy-nilly at the behest of our Federal Government.

Too many hasty decisions in all sorts of areas are being made by ministers in the Albanese Government because they want to soft soap and persuade voters in their electorates, lest they be turfed at the next election.

This is a prime example of putting yourself ahead of our population’s wants and needs – both economically and in security terms – at large.

I hope this government has only one term of tenure. 

I looked and listened to the interviews of the Democratic hopefuls on TV. 

It seemed to be a staged production focussed on ‘non-commitment’ as an outcome to be gleaned by viewers. 

Given the calibre of key candidates on both sides of the political equation, I shudder at the likely future confronting America.

God help us all, for we are at a significant political crossroads.

I despise and hate the motivations of all terrorists.  What happened in Israel on October 7 was and is reprehensible.

However, I also question the motivations of Israel’s PM Netanyahu, whose actions as a leader seem to paint him as someone hell-bent on deflecting those legal problems he confronts in Israel because of his leadership strategies. 

He is singularly minded to the point of discounting what millions of Israelis are feeling and wanting.

Is the West wise to follow him with what seems like one hundred per cent compliance with his whims?

Sixty DV callouts a night – that is just a massive impost on our police and others associated with trying to contain this vile behaviour.

Indeed, DV perpetrators HAVE to be dealt with the severest of penalties if the domestic violence epidemic is to be slowed.

At the moment, it seems rates of DV abuse are growing exponentially.

I am so happy that the VAD Committee has recommended practical and logical ways in which the entitlement to end one’s life if passed through the Assembly, will work.

When the law is passed, it will be a total relief to me, a 78-year-old man. With  euthanasia  not being an option available to me, should I need to access the option, I have been left feeling very insecure and vulnerable.

Appreciation of Adam Drake

Adam Drake is a remarkable individual whose dedication to uplifting others shines brightly across the Northern Territory. His unwavering support manifests in countless ways—whether through the generous sharing of his time, financial contributions, or priceless wisdom, Adam tirelessly engages with those in need. He serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for individuals battling the shadows of self-doubt and uncertainty.

In a world where challenges can often feel overwhelming, Adam’s commitment to doing good is a testament to his character. He doesn’t just offer assistance; he embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy, empowering others to recognize their potential and strive for a brighter future. Through his actions, he fosters a sense of community and belonging, reminding everyone he touches that they are not alone in their struggles.

Adam’s ability to connect on a personal level encourages resilience and inspires individuals to envision and pursue a better way forward. His presence is transformative. As he continues to uplift and support those around him, Adam Drake exemplifies the profound impact one person can have on countless lives, making the world a better place for all. Thank you, Adam, for being such a guiding light.

Is it wrong for me to think the Federal Government is absolutely stuffed?
Is it wrong for me to think this government is the worst government we have had since Federation?
Is it wrong for me to doubt the wisdom of the renewables policy?
Is it wrong for me to think that coal and gas are almost ‘enemies’ of and to the Australian lifestyle?
Is it wrong for me to despair about our ability to defend ourselves against future aggression?

Is it wrong for this 78-year-old man to feel total and utter despair about the future of this country?

LET’S LICENSE MUMS AND DADS

In The Sunday Mail (Brisbane) September 1 2024

Emily Pidgeon

A retired detective who believes pet owners have stricter responsibility expectations than parents is calling for radical solutions to tackle the youth crime crisis.

Former detective superintendent Mark Ainsworth says there is a certain level of accountability for animal owners, and questioned whether similar guidelines should be put in place for parents and guardians.

“You need licences to look after certain animals,” Mr Ainsworth told Gary Jubelin on the I Catch Killers podcast.

“You’re responsible for the animal’s wellbeing and you’re held accountable (for its behaviour).

“What’s the difference between that and holding a parent or guardian accountable for their child’s behaviour?

“People have to take responsibility for the children they’re raising.

“If someone breaks into a house or damages something, the parents need to be held accountable.

“I’m not saying this relates to all parents and guardians.

]

“I understand some are at their wits’ end trying to control their kids and conform with laws.”

The respected detective, who led the 2012 investigation into Allison Baden-Clay’s murder, said youth crime isn’t a policing issue, it’s a “whole community problem”.

Police have become babysitters, he said, which is “costing the community a hell of a lot of money”.

“Particularly here in Queensland, they are used as a stopgap measure for other duties, which are not necessarily policing duties.”

The retired investigator said he believed the youth crime epidemic was partially caused by the baby bonus scheme introduced by the John Howard government in 2004.

“Women in particular who got the $5000 baby bonus ran out and bought televisions or put drugs up their arms,” he said. “Now society is trying to look after those kids. I’m not saying all, but a lot fall into that age category.”

Mr Ainsworth said youth crime has become a core focus in policing, taking crucial resources away from solving other crimes.

“These offenders are getting put before the court, they get bail or they get sentenced and then they’re meeting with like- minded kids who then come out and reoffend,” he said.

Imposing tougher prison sentences, he said, won’t solve the problem.

“In reality, how often does a juvenile receive the maximum penalty? I’d argue it’s not a deterrent for the kid at the time.

“It’s just an easy way for the government to say we’re tightening things up, but they’re not looking at the core issues going on.”

Mr Ainsworth said he believed the solution was encouraging young children to step away from technology and learn important life skills.

“Set up a diversionary system to divert kids away from the court system,” he said. “It’s nothing new. They can get an education, learn farming skills, learn respect, learn a trade and more importantly, get away from social media.

“So there’s no phones or no computers and they can learn life skills that we learned as kids growing up.”

The former officer, who was with Queensland Police Service for almost 40 years, said a diversion program should be accessible to all children.

After retiring as a full-time Educator in January 2012, I had the chance to sit back, reflect and learn. There was also within my heart a desire to share with others – especially those who are in preservice training or at the very beginning of their teaching careers – some thoughts and ideas that they might find helpful.

At the beginning of my teaching career – and that was back when education was a lot simpler than it is now in terms of expectations and demands placed on teachers – I was helped in my learning by several educators who were far more experienced than me.

That help came to me in face-to-face conversation, through the telephone, and by letter or correspondence. To say that I was appreciative would be an understatement for in those days of inspection and careful study of newbies by inspectors and superintendents, it was easy to fall foul of expectations.

As I came to the other end of my professional life, the end rather than the beginning, an ambition was born within me and the determination that I hax been helped by senior colleagues and those who had gone before.

It was for this reason that I established my blog with WordPress in 2013, calling it “Education A Life Force“.

In the years since, I have used my blog primarily for educative purposes and through my LinkedIn account have both shared posts on my blog and invited others to my blog by sharing its address. The feedback I get suggests that what I am doing has been appreciated.

I also have a blog for more general purposes not related specifically to education.

There are other things I have done to spread messages, but my blog has been a prime source of helping me to help those in the same way as I was supported by others.

And by the way, I really appreciate WordPress and its management

Last weekend, the Country Liberal Party was resoundingly elected to the Northern Territory Assembly for the next four years.

With some authority, The CLP which had eight years ago been voted out of office leaving only two seats, turned out all around and came back to secure 17 seats in the new assembly. Labour has been reduced to probably for St Se.

Along with many other Northern Territorians, I am looking forward to some of the issues we have confronted, being overcome.

When opening the Australian newspaper on Friday, August 30, I saw the advertisement below.

This advertisement creates significant concern for me, because bringing a plethora of people into the Northern Territory from elsewhere to do all we get devising, guiding, and everything else, Will without doubt, defeat the purposes of this new government.

What we do not need coming into the territory to fill key roles are experts with wonderful CVs, great university credentials and limited experience – if any – in the Northern Territory and its unique politics and specific lifestyle.

We have had the past governments of the Northern Territory undone by the practice of bringing in outsiders who do little other than establish the depth and breadth of their own experience before taking off to greener pastures.

Far too often in the past governments and various of its departments,  have been short-sheeted and left floundering in embarrassment by this practice.

We do not need more of the same! We do not need a government with the potential to be undone and reduced to mediocrity because of the infusion of those who,  in practical terms,  know very little about our territory.

But alas! I can already hear the flow of expressions of interest coming upon us like an avalanche.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) fleet is made up of 31 commissioned warships and 16 non-commissioned as of April 2024. The main strength is the seven frigates and three destroyers of the surface combatant force: seven Anzac class frigates and three Hobart class destroyers.

Where does Australia’s navy rank in the world?

Ranked 19th among the 140 most powerful armies in the world, Australia placed 47th in terms of naval power.

BAE System’s Global Combat Ship – Australia will be one of the most advanced anti-submarine warships in the world. The Hunter Class FFGs will be built in Australia by ASC Shipbuilding  

The Hunter Class will begin entering service in the early 2030s replacing the 8 Anzac Class frigates, which have been in service since 1996.

The service currently forms the Navy’s Submarine Force Element Group (FEG) and consists of six Collins class submarines. The Royal Australian Navy Submarine Service has been established four times, with the initial three attempts being foiled by combat losses and Australia’s economic problems.

I am convinced that the Western World is living in some degree of ‘independence’ on borrowed time.

Western leadership, actual and potential is like a limp lettuce leaf compared to those leading the communist bloc.

We are going under, and I feel as secure about our future as a drowning man.

With each passing year, the world is becoming ever more complex. Getting from start to finish on issues becomes ever more difficult because of blocks and obstacles inserted by everything from process to the specific – and often selfish – demands of narrowly focused interest groups. 

Oh, for a return to the definitive times of the past – times that were more definitive and people had the confidence to back themselves in on issues and decisions of consequence.

People everywhere are talking about peace and creating peace in places where war is presently being played out.  

While talking about peace in our world, leaders of most countries preparing, to a greater or lesser extent, for war.

Well, maybe not in Australia where things defencewise just seem to meander slowly, slowly along.

The year 2030 is the one that the Australian Government has proudly earmarked as our country becoming of age in terms of responsibility for minimising the use of fossil fuels and becoming ever more dependent upon renewables.

My thinking about 2030 is that the same vision will be far from the mind of the Australian government. By then if we are not on the brink of a regional war, The war will already be upon us.

Do you think I am dreaming? I wish I was!

In essence, I think we are on the brink of a worldwide Holocaust and totality of destruction. 

I can feel it in my bones.

We live close to the T junction of two major roads. When we moved here in 1987, both streets were quiet and relatively free from the likelihood of anything happening.

Fast forward to 2024, thirty-seven years later. Traffic volume has increased at least one thousandfold, and the escalation shows no signs of plateauing any time soon.

Vehicles start moving earlier and end later. The streets are no longer quiet.

I can put up with most things except increased traffic is an outcome of progress. However, there are two exceptions to my tolerance.

The first relates to people on motorbikes who like to rev and rev and rev as much as they can, particularly late at night and in the early hours.

The second increasingly distasteful experiences extend to people in vehicles who insist on tyres screeching and on Herning and on making as much engine noise as possible entering and leaving the T-junction of our roads.

I would desperately love to have a set of tyre spikes and be able to use them To help curb over-enthusiastic bike and vehicle drivers who care not a whit about the noise they make and the offence  they create.

Is it wrong for me to think this way?

Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary reached the summit of Mount Everest in May of 1953, the British had been trying to climb it for 31 years. However, the summit was reached for the irst time by a Nepalese and New Zealand citizen, with both working together to reach the top of the world.

For poor old Mount Everest, it has been all downhill since then. With the passing of years, more and more people have taken to climbing the mountain. Tens of thousands have had a go, with some not being able to go past one of the interim camps on the way up the mountain.

They have left many ‘gifts’ – indeed hundreds  of tonnes of them – on the mountain.  Material waste. and human excrement of all kinds. Mount Everest has been turned from the centrepiece of a beautiful, pristine wilderness into one of the most notorious of the world’s  rubbish dumps.

A sad and permanent pessimism is all pervasive and sits within my soul.

It is always there and is created by a number of circumstances relating to environment, social and economic circumstances and the increasingly tenuous state of the country – Australia – and the world in which we live.

THERE IS NEVER ANY BLUE SKY

Blue sky,

Has fled from my life.

Replaced,

By ever thickening,

Ever darkening,

Clouds of despair.

From bright light,

To dimming.

Then penumbric reflection,

Of dusk.

Deepening,

Into the black night,

Of depression.

Like an Arctic winter,

The sun,

No longer rises.

My life,

Is without shadow,

Without illumination.

I am

Lost in tundra darkness,

24/7/365.

More and more,

I realise,

Extinguishment,

Is the only escape.

I suffer greatly from a post election syndrome. It might be called “depleted recognition syndrome“.

For me, a wonderful thing in the weeks and sometimes months leading up to an election is the number of pamphlets from aspiring candidates extolling personal and party virtues. Some even contain handwritten messages inviting me to contact them to discuss matters should I so wish.

My letterbox flourishes and I feel valued.

Now the election is over and decisions have been made about who is going to represent constituents in parliament, the mailbox has gone from being overloaded pretty well to nothing at all. No more pamphlets and no more paraphernalia – until the next election.

How on earth will I cope?

I am trying in my thinking to square what is happening in Alice Springs with its everlasting feast of youth crime – and non- fix with the issue being totally out of control – with what is happening with stood-down Yipirinya School principal Gavin Morris, who is on the mat over matters of trying to kerb aberrant behaviour, which has had an impact on the school.

How do I deal with the disparity?

Note: This is from two decades ago.

Teacher development consumed a hell of a lot of my time, and that of my senior leadership group, goes into developing people so that they can do their job better in terms of building kids and achieving, hopefully, the outcomes that we want.

We are riddled with teachers in our system up here who oughtn’t to be teaching.

We also have a hell of a lot of teachers in our system who are got to be’s, not want to be’s.

They don’t want to teach, but they have to teach, and often it’s because they weren’t sufficiently qualified to pick up any other occupation from a training viewpoint.

Have things changed?

. I don’t think that it’s something that we should just sort of lay down and accept.

I mean, I was never a principal who’s a doormat. And all my time – touch wood I suppose – I’ve never been physically set upon by any parent, and woe betide any parent that tried it on because I’d bring the full force of the law to weigh on them, and I’d do that for my staff as well.

But, you know, at the end of the day I think you’ve got to take a position, you’ve got to be seen, you’ve got to have a profile, you’ve got to have visibility, you’ve got to share that with your staff, you’ve got to have them supporting it.

SCREECH, YELL, HOLLOW, SCREAM

Canberra May 29, 2024

I have been listening to the federal parliamentary question time in the House of Representatives.

I am sitting in my car listening to it right now.

Talk about a circus of shouting, hollowing, screaming, and elected members on both sides of at the house. The whole thing is just a total and utter shambles and schnozzle.

I just hope that students and other impressionable people are not listening to the hubbub going on in the Federal Parliament this afternoon. What a terrible, terrible example our politicians are setting to the listening public.

One sensible question and one sensible answer fell into the midst of the session, but that was almost anachronistic.

I was principal at Leanyer School for 20 years before retiring 12 years ago.

Had the Labour government been returned at the election on the weekend, there was a promise that if the Wanguri Seat passed to Shlok Sharma, the school would be upgraded in terms of facilities and staff to the tune of $4 million.

With the CLP winning government, that has gone, with the promise being blown away in the wind of political change.

This issue has caused me to reflect upon the school and its community.

So many electorate offices in Darwin’s northern suburbs at the moment, and in the wash-up to Saturday’s election, are closed and being cleaned by politicians and their staff after so many incumbencies – in Saturday’s election – were terminated by voters. There is some shock and horror at how territory electors removed many politicians from office. 

Change is major.

I drove around in Darwin and its suburbs this afternoon as is the case on most afternoons. It’s nice to go for a drive. But I could not help feel emptiness and disappointment today.

Today is the day after the Northern Territory election. Those wonderful posters and core flutes have all disappeared – all 50,000 or 60,000 of them. How empty the streets looked.

There were no faces coming back at me through our windscreen and side windows; no happy smiles sparkling eyes or glistening white teeth. No more political aspirants.

I hope I can cope with what we have now lost.

If people apply for jobs in writing and do not make it onto a short list for interview, make sure they are contacted and advised their applications were unsuccessful. Non-communication is rude.

If people are unsuitable for advertised positions, consider offering them feedback as to why their applications were unsuccessful. Encourage them to up-skill to achieve placement in the future.

 GOVERNMENT has talked of cutting red tape and reducing the time and effort business owners have to devote to administrative process. I hope this happens so owners can refocus on prime needs.

It is a sad state of affairs that throws up the realisation that many young people are disinterested in work. Let us remember and appreciate young people who have a positive and caring work ethic.

My hope is that businesses committing to the employment of young people are not disappointed. Some honour their employers. Others are definitely ‘short term’ jumping ship, going at a moment’s notice.

As business or service providers, consider thanking clients or users for patronising your organisation. Appreciation expressed in this way will travel via grapevine to others. Value your customers.

Make sure that ONLINE DETAILS are kept up to date, particularly opening hours. If sites get out of date, they can be a source of frustration rather than a font of information for potential customers.

Consider PROMOTIONS through pages of papers, sometimes produced periodicals and via online writing onto interest groups and conference sites. Consider pamphlet drops and get to be known.

A problem for enterprise in the NT (and elsewhere) is the STICKABILITY of employees, particularly many of the younger set. Workers need to commit to their work, respecting ‘the boss and the business’.

It is important to INVITE CUSTOMER FEEDBACK and their genuine response to service rendered. Seek both compliment and suggestions that might lead to improvement of service delivery.

BRIEF DAILY SUMMARIES can be useful. Summary might include: *Activity/project; * How did I feel (+’s and -‘s); *What did I learn; * Implications for study/ work (tasks), people (relations) and self.

The excitement of the buildup to the NT election has gone. It is all flat the day after.

I feel flat and exhausted. Maybe this sort of excitement is not good for an old man.

The Northern Territory election, predicted by some to be a cliffhanger, was anything but that!

Rather than it being a cliffhanger, Labor fell off the cliff.

Election Day,

The time has come,

Who will have lost,

Who will have won,

We know not yet,

But time will tell,

Will it be red (Labor) or blue (CLP),

Come the winner’s bell?

One mob will cheer,

The other sign,

As time ebbs out,

On Election day,

The hype’s been huge,

What can I say,

What will come to the NT,

Post Election Day.

WORD OF MOUTH support from satisfied customers and happy clients is the best of all advertising for Northern Territory companies. Shoddy service on the other hand will turn on you in this place.

There are business enterprises that do a great job. We need to remember to appreciate them. Small Business Awards programs are one avenue and nomination for recognition is worth contemplation.

Some businesses fall on hard times, with situations beyond their control. When confronted, proprietors need to look at alternative opportunities. The first reaction should not be defeatist. Chin up!

Businesses shoot themselves in the foot when profit at all costs becomes paramount. It is then that the customer and client becomes disaffected. They feel regarded as being pawns in a profit game.

It seems that many businesses are not particularly interested in business enhancement and public relations. Quotes sought for work needed are not offered or reluctantly provided. 

APATHY IS SAD!

There are businesses and proprietors who care. For some, there is the challenge of having staff engaged and interested. For others there are staff shortage issues. Employees turnover can be a problem. Skewed motivation is an issue when it is discovered employees are more interested in their salary than their work.

However, the apparent ‘don’t care and not interested’ is certainly inherent within the management of some businesses, particularly trades areas where work is plentiful. Further, there are some business which take the line of ‘the customer owes’ when it comes to arranging work to be done. In fifty year’s in the NT, both in remote areas and Darwin, I have seen and experienced plenty of both caring and disinterested businesses. 

THANKS and APPRECIATION need to be built into all organisations. We focus too much on compliance and accountability and insufficiently on genuinely valuing what employees do for businesses.

We should aim to support NT BUSINESSES by preferring them for supply of product and in the letting of contracts for capital works construction. To by-pass local business and go elsewhere is not right.

SELF-CERTIFICATION is a dangerous thing. I believe all work undertaken should be checked by an external certifier, in order to validate the work to both the builder and the client. It avoids pitfalls.

When dealing with matters, aim to play the ball (issues dealing) and not the man (messenger). Too often we sidetrack and in having goes at people overlook the need to concentrate on the agenda.

Coaching, mentoring and genuine patronage need to be part of strong organisations. Confidence and strength needs to be built within. Sharing of ideas needs to be organisational health at heart.

The fabric of organisations is strong if ‘warp’ and ‘weft’ communications are open and honest. Subordinate to superordinate links and peer to peer contexts need to be supportive and appreciative.

The 4 R’s of housing 

Reports

Remediation

Renovation

Responsibility

The oldest issue

The longest issue

The most cost focussed issue

The most neglected issue

The most often recycled issue

An issue without end.

 English used to be, very definitely, the prime language and the major way of communication in Australia. We learned English when we went to school, including speech, listening, grammar, punctuation, and all the rules that went with the use of our language in oral or written form. 

Students going for year 12 had to take English as a compulsory unit – at least one sometimes more than one unit.

When I trained as a teacher, the English Method and its teaching was a number one unit. We had to be able to speak correctly, read correctly, listen carefully, and have no speech imperfections in our make-up.

No longer! The purity of English has turned it into a hybrid form of communication and distorted its expression.

With the inroads of IT end the corrupted language which is part of these platforms, we are drifting in terms of English language competence, from bad to worse.

This acceptance of language mediocrity blows my mind.

My last excitement was 22 August 2020. That was the day we had our last Northern Territory election. I get very, very excited about elections.

My next day of great excitement will be tomorrow August 24, 2024. Four tomorrow is exactly 4 years after our last election.

Elections really, really turn me on.

.Worth a read and reflection.

STUDENTS SCHOOLED IN SMUT

Herald Sun Monday July 1 2024

EXCLUSIVE – Susie O’Brien – Suzan Delibasic

A growing sexual culture in Victorian schools means students are calling teachers pedophiles and sluts, and making pornographic memes and comments about them.

Both male and female teachers are reporting a rise in “casual statements about serious sexual issues” including boys being suspended for catcalls such as “clap them cheeks”.

Slurs also included girls who “call any male teacher who tries to maintain the class rules a pedophile at the drop of the hat”, according to one teacher on an online forum.

The teacher also said they had seen “disturbingly graphic public declarations of sexual acts directed toward female staff and students”.

“We recently suspended a boy who had a Word document with a list of various girls and women at the school and his preferred sex acts for each one,” the teacher wrote.

Another teacher reported one student who said “f–k you bitch” when he was disciplined.

A collection of teachers at one private boys’ school said boys were drawing penises on their school books, threatened to “piss in the corner” if not allowed to go to the bathroom and referred to a group of female teachers as a “coven”.

The Herald Sun has found a litany of social media posts, both from students in state and private schools, where teachers are accused of being pedophiles and having relationships with students.

“(Teacher’s name) after he preys on innocent little Indian boys,” one TikTok post said, while another post accuses a teacher of having a “relationship” with a student.

There are also several degrading posts in which teachers are matched up as couples while being mocked.

Samantha Schulz, a senior lecturer at the University of Adelaide, called for a national collection of instances of anti-social behaviour, abuse and harassment in schools.

Dr Schulz said the offensive attitudes “cut across the sectors” and were found in many different types of schools.

“Little change will be made until the problem is measured and acknowledged, and a unified system of reporting is put in place,” she said.

Dr Schulz surveyed teachers’ comments on social media, reporting “heightened use of misogynistic language and behaviours by male students, some as young as five”.

One teacher said: “Boys are increasingly using misogynistic language towards female students and teachers, telling them to ‘make me a sandwich’.”

Other teachers noted the use of terms like “slut” and “rape-able” used about female teachers. They said boys would make animal noises and grab their genitals and make rude gestures towards women and girls at the school.

Monash University researcher George Variyan said social media extended the reach of such attitudes, operating as a kind of “echo chamber” for Andrew Tate and other influencers.

“We need to do more, and it’s not just about having a one-hour consent education incursion,” he said. “This kind of profane behaviour has always been there but now technology is amplifying this.

“There’s not a single parent or teacher out there who is not concerned about this issue,” Dr Variyan said.

A Department of Education spokeswoman said: “Any harassment of staff by students is completely unacceptable, and schools will take appropriate disciplinary action against any students who engage in this kind of conduct.”

Come Sunday, the Northern Territory election will be all over, bar the shouting. No more will a drive around our streets and suburbs be the same. The 50,000 -maybe more – core flutes have been reflecting the faces of electoral hopefuls for many weeks. It will all be gone a day after the electon.

I will miss the happy, smiling, anticipatory faces.

I am 78 years of age and sh.t scared of becoming a victim of the Australian-aged care system. Metaphorically, I think of aged care as being a shark tank into which people who are old and frail can be too easily tossed.

Non-compliance with standards is far too common. There seems to be a falsification tendency within the system.

Aged care costs plenty but care in far too many places seems to be minimal.

Too many people going into nursing homes become shrouded in blankets of sadness that smother them and their families.

OLD FASHIONED READING IS THE BEST

In these modern times, it is easy to replace traditional reading approaches with device supported alternatives. The proof of this change is confirmed by the number of bookshops that have been relocated away from the Northern Territory, changed business focus or closed. Among these are the ABC Bookshop, Dymocks and Angus & Robertson. While newsagents carry text material, dedicated bookshops are in decline.

Tablets and electronic books are becoming ever more popular, replacing what was a preference for books and traditional texts. Newspapers and some magazines have skyrocketing numbers of online readers, but subscriptions to hardcopy and paper formats are declining.

Electronic reading is an individualised alternative. The interaction is between the reader and the device. Text sharing and discussion does not take place because this reading method is not a group activity. Reading from devices does little to promote text sharing and companionship between readers.

Jackie Sinnerton made this point in a recent column about what should be an important sharing between parents and children. She suggests that “… parents should stick with old fashioned storybooks when reading to their children and ditch the electronic devices … reading from a device or e-book fails to engage children in the same way as a storybook. Parents and children verbalise and interact more when story and pictures are in print.” (Reading more special when it’s in print, NT News, 27 March 2019)

Traditional reading offers interactive opportunities for parents and children. Quoting from a prominent paediatrician Dr Tiffany Munzer, Sinnerton explains that the tradition of parents and children reading together offers “ … interactions, including warmth, closeness and enthusiasm during reading (which) create positive associations with reading (that) will likely stick with children as they get older.” (Op cit).

Although not stated, this benefit will in all likelihood be carried forward and become a habit that today’s children will practice as tomorrow’s parents.

Traditional reading promotes family togetherness. It also supports children in their acquiring of reading, conversational and comprehension skills.

The NT News and other papers belonging to the Murdock stable recognise the importance of shared readings in the family context. From time to time, sets of books which can be purchased by families reading newspapers, are offered for sale at most reasonable prices. This is a positive and practical initiative.

Access to traditional books and sharing quality time focussing on written text, adds value to family life. Children from homes where shared reading and discussion is a family habit, stand to gain a head start in reading, discussion and social sharing which are elements of formal schooling.

MEDIA INFLUENCES YOUTH

From time to time the issue of media influence on shaping the values of young people comes up for discussion.

It is often asserted that what young people see, hear and experience has no influence on the shaping of their attitudes and values. People are scoffed at if they suggest otherwise. Researchers and others connected with empirical study assert that young people know that games are for amusement. Therefore, playing these games will have no impact upon their lives.

I believe that to be totally wrong. Many young people immerse themselves for hours on end, day after day, week after week in playing these games. Common sense suggests this has to impact on their thinking and attitudes.

Young people may become so totally absorbed in this “escape from reality“ that it becomes their reality.

While some of these amusements are quite benign, many of the more popular ones are about murder, massacre, slaughter, and macabre behaviours. It stands to reason that young people (and those who are not so young) who become totally immersed in these activities will be influenced by their addiction.

The fact that so many young people these days are “I“ and “me” people who do not think about others, may well be a result of exposure to online gaming. Lack of manners, slack, disrespectful speech, the inability to focus on real life tasks in school and elsewhere, disinclination toward real life activities all point toward cyberspace influence. The key characters in online games generally behave in a way that promotes heroism through bullying, harassment and other negative behaviour. Can we wonder at this bravado and these attitudes rubbing off on the impressionable minds of youthful gamers?

Common sense suggests that the antisocial behaviour of many young people has its genesis in their indulgent online activities. When cyberspace completely absorbs the minds and the attention of users, something has to give!

One of the most recent games is “fortnite”, which focuses on extremely negative social behaviour. Game changes and modifications always seem to focus on negatives, rather than social decency.

I believe it imperative for parents to be aware of the online games their children are playing. They would be wise to monitor the classification of these activities and the length of time spent in online indulgence.

Without doubt, the games children play impacts on their thinking, attitudes and behaviour. That can have negative consequences. It may result in them making poor decisions that impact upon their lives and their futures.

ALLERGY AWARENESS ON SCHOOL AGENDAS

Schools have to be increasingly aware of food allergy issues. Nut allergies are of particular concern. It seems more and more children are becoming nut sensitive. Recess and lunch box contents can be an issue.

“With severe allergies on the rise, no childcare centre, pre-school or school can afford to be uninformed about the risks to children in their care. They need to arm themselves with information on food allergy and anaphylaxis and create environments that are safer for all.” (Allergy and Anaphylaxis Aust. Website)

Until about 20 years ago, very few schools had policies that considered the risk of food allergies. This has changed. Most schools, particularly preschools in primary’s have policies relating to allergic sensitivities that can confront children.

The most common of these allergies is that relating to the susceptibility of some children to fall violently ill, if they come into contact with nuts. Many schools advertise that they are “nut free zones”. Parents are frequently asked to take into account the fact that foods including nuts and sandwich spreads containing nuts should not be included in children’s recesses and lunches.

While this is restrictive parents for the most part accept that nut contamination could have far reaching consequences for susceptible children.

Two way awareness

It is important for care and caution to be a two way process. Children who are nut allergic should understand their condition. It’s important that they take care to steer clear of any food danger. I believe the children from very young ages, including those in preschool, should be aware of the need for self-preservation.

From time to time there is a worry that children suffering from allergies might be teased or even threatened with contamination. This is usually an unnecessary fear. One of the qualities demonstrated by children is a genuine empathy and care for those whose circumstances are confronted in this way. It’s wise for teachers and children in all classes to be aware of children who may suffer from allergic reaction to nuts.

Schools in which all staff and therefore students are aware of an allergy situation can offer support. A further safeguard is for teachers and school support staff to have epipen training so this can be administered in the case of an emergency.

Nut consciousness and allergy awareness is the part and parcel of modern education. It’s just another duty of care responsibility existing for schools and staff. That duty is helped when parents and students cooperate to help make school environments safe, secure places for all students.

IN THE BLACK – NEVER IN THE RED

I hate debt.

Interest payments on borrowings are dead money.

I always work on the principle of having money to buy and having money to save.

Savings are important. They are enhanced by budgetting to meet expenses.

In budgeting, I ensure that splurging is avoided. Money is not treated in a miserly or penny-pinching manner. It is spent sensibly and saved prudently.

Budgeting is important and accountability critical. I would not have it any other way.

I ABHOR ‘I’

“I“!!

It is a selfish word. It is the most misplaced word. It is a suffocating word, smothering the notion of “we“ and “us“. It is a proud word, forever upholding individuals over the collective.

I was born a baby boomer. Then came the X and Y generations, the Millennials and the Z generation.

Going back over time the focus always used to be on “we“ in terms of the way we put others before ourselves and valued the community above ourselves.

Now that’s all gone! People think only of themselves, and what they want, and to hell with the rest!

Too many politicians are in politics for themselves and not other people. Too many CEOs of retailing and manufacturing companies are in their positions for their good, and what they want comes first. Too many people in government departments are more concerned about themselves and what they can get out of their jobs than they are about the jobs they do and the people they serve.

Service for others used to be heart service. These days it is lip service. It is not genuine but rather pretends. People who put others before themselves are a distinct minority.

Yes, the word “I” is the word I would most like to banish into extinction.

In my whole life, I have only once been on a motorbike as a pillion passenger – and have never actually driven a bike.

On this particular occasion, I was invited to be a pillion passenger on the motorbike owned by my future brother-in-law.

I got onto the bike, we travelled about a metre, and the bike spilled onto the ground and us with it.

What happened then was that the motorbike chain ripped the gusset out of my trousers.

I had to make a quick trip uptown on foot in as modest a way as possible to buy a new pair of pants. The only ones I could get were a size or three too big but that was the way it had to be.

No more motorbike riding for me ever again.

We are just five days away from the official Northern Territory Legislative Assembly election on August 24. 

I have been counting the days down in my diary for the past several months, and now it’s down to single digits for days remaining.

Tonight on Sky News there was an hour-long debate between Government Chief Minister Eva Lawler and Country Liberal Party Opposition Leader Lia Finnochario. 

I recorded the debate and will watch it tomorrow.  In overall terms, I am very, VERY excited about the culmination of our once in every four years election.

Early voting started on August 12 and within the first seven days of pre-polling, 58,000 have already voted. With only around 6,000 voters in each of our 25 seats, seats could change and the election outcome is far from predictable.

I am very excited.

Very rarely do I have a dreamless sleep. Most nights it seems, I dream and dream and sometimes those dreams seem endless.

They are also repetitious, sometimes night after night, the same old, same old. Like trying to end an endless stream of laundry that has to be washed in  an old fashioned way and then hung on outside lines to dry.

 And in this dream it is always raining and drying washing is almost impossible.

My dreams go on and on. I have done so much to rehabilitate our educational system in the NT.  All in my dreams. 

Should dreaming be as intense and the memories of dreams as permanent as they become?

I do not know!

It is 2024. By 2019, this man was already the longest-serving PM in Israel’s history. 

Turbulence and trouble always seem to dog his heels. He faces stiff scrutiny in Israel for some of his leadership actions. Is this conflict a tool by which he can help stave off this examination?

I am sh.t scared of becoming a victim of the Australian-aged care system. I think of aged care as being a shark tank into which people who are old and frail can be tossed.

Non-compliance with standards is far too common. There seems to be a falsification tendency that exists within the system.

Aged care costs plenty but care in far too many places seems to be minimal. 

Too many people going into nursing homes become shrouded in blankets of sadness that smother them and their families.

Do politicans, ahead of elections, make promises they know will never be realised?

Why do voters swallow political promises – like fish taking a baited hook – knowing that they will be binned the day after the election?

Why do educators tacitly allow students to set the behaviour agenda in classrooms and act so powerlessly when it comes to behavioural expectations?

Attacking Mr Dutton for his cautionary and common sense approach to an intake of Gazian refugees who have, at best, been cursorily vetted is ridiculous.

It confirms that far too many politicians are all about popularism rather than a rational and logical approach to issues like this.

Australian politicians calling Dutton out for racism need only look at many countries in Europe to see how mass migration condoned by political leaders – without security checks – has brought so many to the brink of disaster.

Dear Mr Sharma,

We are into the last week, indeed the last few days,  before voting will culminate in what happens on August 24. All our candidates in all the seats will be getting quite excited with anticipation.  I have been counting down the days in my diary and we are nearly there.

Although I would never in a million years dream of standing for an election, as a very, very old man who has been voting in NT elections since 1975, I get very, very excited about elections.

I am often disappointed that the many, many promises are either not kept or are diluted to the point of making little discernible change to the issues they identified.

But so what! Elections tend to be full of what becomes empty rhetoric – and there is always next time!

All the very best for the last days of the campaign.

Regards

Poor Old Henry

August 19 2024

Today is a special remembrance day for Australian defence Force personnel who were conscripted into d3efence service and then sent to Vietnam. Australia committed to supporting America during the Vietnam War.

For so many who went to Vietnam, death awaited. Many others from both Australia and America, lost limbs and in other ways were hideously injured by the atrocities of war.

For Australian returned servicepeople, one of the awful underpinnings ws theway in which they were spurned and reviled by the general poploation. The war was horrible, accomplished little, and hurt many with terrible physical and mental scars.

PTSD was a major affliction while others succumbed to cancer. Many – indeed scores of returnees – lost mariages, families and their lives through suicide.

I am 78 and consider myself ever so lucky that the birthday ballot, by which those conscripted to training and war, did not include my date of birth.

So much sacrifice, so many deaths, and so much loss of access to an everyday and decent life – and for what?

In the Sunday Territorian today, August 18 2024

An Australian past Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, now Australia’s ambassodor to America, is doing a great job in representing our country, He is articulate, astute, a scholar, a person with deep understanding of China and South East Asia and a person who is careful to represent our country to the best of his ablity.

Importantly, and despite some criticism, he is more than willing to establish a reputation as being supportive of everyone he contacts. He represents Australia in a way that may incur expenditures but that is necessary for the interests of the critical representative role he fills.

This has attracted some response (as per the Sunday Telegraph), but expenditure is understandable in the interests of the critical representative role he fills.

Do non-indigenous Australians, individually and organisationally, have to apologise time and time and time again for the perceived historical treatment of Indigenous Australians?

Is compensation for perceived wrongs toward Indigenous Australians being rolled out time and time and time again?

Is there seemingly no end to the huge amounts of money paid in recompense terms to those who were here before us?

Is money often paid as royalties wasted by splurge spending, meaning benefits it might bring, are quickly dissipated?

(but beware rose-coloured glasses)

So much hoo-ha and confusion now exists in this world. It is so very complicated and unstraightforward.

I grew up in a simpler era and find myself increasingly confused as we walk through these modern times.

The clarity of life has become quite kaleidoscopic.

I was once nimble, a fleet of foot, and because of our farm’s terrain with steep and rocky hills, very, very good at climbing.

Alas, now a hack, all that is in the past.

I remind myself of a draft horse these days, for that is what I am like. I’m slow but dependable and will get there in the end.

I won’t be put off by distractions, like a draft horse that goes from one place to another and the completer and finisher of tasks. It may take a little while to complete, but those tasks will get done.

I’ve often thought draft horses are reflective, accepting of people and focused on endpoints rather than distractions.

I hope that is me.

Protecting public service from abuse

Attacks on public servants are not new, but sadly, they seem to increase exponentially in these modern times.

Front-line providers  – teachers, school principals, police, paramedics, nurses, hospital orderlies and support staff in government departments – are increasingly on the receiving end of vile and abusive behaviours.

The matter needs to be addressed, but will the government elected on August 24 meaningfully address the issue, or will it succumb to the noisy minority interest group brigade and let it go through to the keeper?

Unfortunately, present rhetoric is unlikely to translate into action outcomes.

Abuse of public servants and those delivering front line services is going from bad to worse.

Politicians, promises and delivery

Throughout my adult life, I have tried to live with the offerings of politics in a way that focuses on issues rather than personalities, on the quality of messages rather than the messengers.

So much of our political system, not only in the NT but Australia-wide, is strong on distorting what opposition politicians say by denouncing and criticising them as people – thus muddying their messages.

Sadly, all political parties, whether in government or opposition, are intense on messaging but very short when delivering outcomes.

Our political system is strewn with broken promises.

Taxi drivers upside

I have been a periodic user of Darwin Taxis for the past 30 years.

There are some outstanding drivers with whom one can enjoy conversation while travelling.

Taxi drivers do it tough, working long shifts, often in dangerous conditions at night – and increasingly during the day – and earn relatively meagre wages.

I am always happy to tip drivers who are positive in outlook and dispositionally friendly.

They never ask – and I have never been ripped off.

Five times the Australian average

The sad and growing scourge of violence against women will only ever get worse.

Justice systems allow offenders to bail while waiting for their court cases for violent offences.

On top of that, penalties are often trivial. Appended protection and trespass orders are ineffective and a waste of paper upon which they are printed.

Electronic bracelets should be required for EVERYONE who is charged with violence – and not only against women.

These matters are being treated far too trivially and leniently by the justice system.

In these times of increasing violence, God help women, children and us all.

Dr Peter Forrest Historian Extraordinaire

Few things make my blood boil more the the crass and indifferent manner in which our universities hand out honorary doctorates to notary publics.

These doctorates are not earned through any academic effort but conferred because recipients are deemed to be important people.

The awarding of an Honorary Doctorate to Peter Forrest is an exception, for this man and his partner have spent decades researching and writing about NT History.

The amount of research Dr Forrest has done would, in terms of time devoted to study and pages written, be the equivalent of several PhDs.

I am glad he has been honoured.

Care Homes scare me

As a 78-year-old Territorian who has been here since 1975, I fear contemplating a final years stint in a retirement home.

The various surveys, including the Royal Commission into Aged Care, have filled me with dread.

A primary focus of care is to make money from those in homes, especially where questions of equity about residential rights are considered.  

Neither do I want to become a burden on others because of declining physicality or mental health. 

I would much prefer to have access to the option of  Voluntary Assisted  Dying rather than ending up in institutionalised care.

We do not have access to VAD at the moment, so suicide has to be contemplated.

POLICE ARE LUMBERED

Without stating the obvious, it seems to me that our police force in the Northern Territory is increasingly lumbered with responsibilities to counter crime, which makes their load almost an impossible one.

They are increasingly responsible for domestic violence issues (which seem to be growing at an exponential rate), countering public violence, and managing what appears to be an increase in traffic violations. They must be aware of potential injury to people and wanton damage to property being levied against our community.

I have personally witnessed on many occasions how police do their jobs and do them well. I’m also well aware of how they are treated by members of the public, with insult, attempted assault, taunting, racial vilification of them in their work, and so on.

One of the difficulties for police is that they must be so cautious in carrying out their duties, lest they even minimally overstep the mark. It seems that perpetrators of wrongdoing have so many rights that even the slightest policing misstep violates their entitlements.

Requiring police to be doing evermore in policing and demanding they be ever more vigilant in terms of the way they react to wrongdoing must be frustrating to the extreme. It is no wonder that many police leave the force.

I wonder, too, whether it is wise for new police who have just finished their training to be given first-up appointments to crime hot spots and remote areas around the territory. 

I have a massive respect for our police force, and that stretches ck over decades in the Northern Territory. However, for them to be disrespected and treated like baggage and have to minutely monitor every action they undertake lest they cause offence or impose upon the entitlements of perpetrators of wrongdoing is just not right.

I have an ancient vehicle that still goes well. Registration requires an annual check for serviceability and roadworthiness, which is fine.

I want to stay with this vehicle because car theft in the NT (Including Hiluxes, SUVs and flashy, expensive and new cars} is rife.

Over a short time, hundreds of vehicles worth millions of dollars have been stolen. 

If they are crashed, sympathy is heaped upon the thieves, especially if they are killed or maimed. Scarcely a thought is offered to vehicle owners, many of whom are still paying these vehicles off.

The fact they are up against it, with insurance premiums hiked for claims and payments still due on damaged, trashed or burnt vehicles, matters not.

My ancient vehicle will do quite nicely

Homegrown territorians needed to boost the NT – CM says

I think our Chief Minister is right to be concerned about the lack of Territory talent aimed at being more significant contributors to our economy and developing socio-economic direction.

But whether or not the territory becomes more focussed upon by those born and raised here is a vexed question.

So many, young and old, move away because they believe their chances of succeeding are better elsewhere.

Part of this may have to do with the many middle and upper occupational levels, filled by those from overseas and interstate rather than from within the NT.

Many outsiders also come to boost their CVs and broaden their experience before moving elsewhere.

Remote area teacher needs

This is a new and continuing chapter in a story of need that is decades old.

It takes me back in time to the memory of a working party st up in the late 1970’s, with the task of “developing a program of incentives that woud attact teachers to remote area service “, then “retaining them for extended periods of time.”

Many of the needs and incentives being identified and suggested in 2024, were made by that group of educators.

The working group included members appointed by the education department and the teachers’ union.

I was a union member of the group.

Our extensive recommendations were minimally met, and what we identified back then are still concerns of this present time.

Defence in a hopeless situation

Beneath the announcements and the veneer about our defence forces, infrastructural development and assets – to be used in war – acquisition, there seems to be little real consolidation;

I feel that Australia is far from being prepared for any conflict, either in supporting allies or in defending our shores.

We are short on navy personnel, with, I believe, only three vessels in service at the moment.

The ADF is vigorously trying to step up recruiting to make up personnel shortfalls, while equipment upgrades and supply are many years away. We have been caught short on defence.

Will war come to Darwin

With Darwin being where Darwin is, and with the ever-upgrading of defence training and facilities, I stand in the yard, look at our home, look at the surrounding neighbourhood, and wonder when (not ‘if’) it will be reduced to smouldering rubble by a missile or barrages of rockets directed at our city. 

Darwin, Palmerston, Nhulunbuy (where fuel storage is anticipated), Alice Springs (with Pine Gap being front and centre of Chinese interest) and other towns and communities will need bomb shelters and missile refuges. 

Our state of readiness for protection from environmental desecration and shattered infrastructure occasioned by war is zero out of ten.

The war that will envelop our region is imminent, and we are far from ready.

Crime will not stop

We came to the NT in 1975.

No matter where we lived, safety and security were not an issue – until we came to Darwin in 1987.

It was then I became aware that all was not well; this was reinforced when our home was broken into in 1989.

Since then, I have watched with increasing concern as criminal behaviours, mainly youth crime, have grown to exponential proportions.

The government and opposition promise the issue will be addressed every four years during election campaigns.

After each election, promises are found to have been hollow, and the only thing happening is increased crime.

Will things be different after the August 24 2024 election?

Sadly, I think not.

Age can be a burden

As a person now aged 78, I cringe at the thought of physical or mental incapacity requiring me to go into aged care in a residential facility.

I have read too many chilling accounts of what can and often does go wrong.

The Australian Royal Commission into Aged Care was a real eye-opener for me.

Should I decline to become dependent on others, particularly in an institutionalised situation, and having lived what I hope has been a complete and fruitful life, I want to be able to opt-out.

That is why entitlement to Voluntary Assisted Dying is so essential. The alternatives are not at all palatable.

Is the King coming?

The King IS coming and so is his Queen

How wonderful it will be when our King comes visiting his most loyal country in October.

I live in hope the trip goes ahead, as I would love the opportunity to see our King and Queen Camilla.

I remember well as a seven-year-old joining the throng to wave to our then Queen Elizabeth 11 and Prince Phillip on the road past Kings Park in Perth.

That was in 1953. I would love for that childhood experience to be reduplicated in my old age.

Expenditure priorities in times of scarcity

When facing cost of living pressures, people would be wise to assess expenditure priorities.

With accommodation costs at astronomic levels and food costs rising, cutting back on costs associated with social and recreational pursuits seems a common sense choice.

Given Australia’s economic circumstances, I am amazed that expenditures on alcohol, sports venue attendance, gambling, and food delivery to homes by Uber (adding hugely to costs) have not been trimmed.

CDU prioritising International students

While this may be an excellent initiative, consider our own (domestic) students who often have a hard time gaining part-time employment to help offset their HECS costs.  Initiatives in both education/training and employment opportunities that promote international students over locals are shortsighted and disappointing.

Analysing the Royals

How wonderful it is to have hundreds of experts studying the body language, poise, facial expressions, gaits when walking, and the revealing traits of royal personages when they wave to crowds. The Royals must feel chuffed about all this attention.

Good morning world, from Leanyer in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory in Australia. It is 9.30 am on Friday August 16 2024.

I hope wherever you are in the world, you and yours have a great day.

Henry

Thoughts for August 15 in email to him

Dear Mr Sharma

I look out my window every morning, to see your smiling countenance coming at me from across the road in Leanyer Drive.

It is somehow reassuring to know that you’re out there, with others, looking to represent our electorate beyond August 24.

I am going to miss your happy face every morning once the core flutes have gone.

All the best with your campaign as we reach the business end of the upcoming election.

Poor old Henry

15th of August 2024

Posted on March 11, 2013 on my blog

PREPARING THOSE WHO WOULD TEACH

A lot is being talked about in the community and reported in the media on the subject of teacher quality. The soul searching and almost daily comment around Australia and in the Northern Territory is futuristic and forward looking. I believe in looking forward, those responsible for teacher preparation need to reflect on past teacher training practices, revisiting and including some of the key elements in our 21st century teacher preparation courses.

Historical Priorities

My teacher training dates back to 1968 and 1969 at Graylands Teachers College, a post second-world-war collection of Nissan Huts with a few added on buildings, in Perth WA.

At that time, two year training programs were being phased out, being replaced by three years of training. As a mature age student I was required to be one of the last two year trainees.

Fast forward nearly sixty years, and no-one gets to graduate as a teacher without a four year degree or a Graduate Diploma in Teaching built onto a pre-existing degree. The difference between training then and now, involves more than course length.

You would think that the extra training would lead to better teaching on graduation. Not so. In those past years, trainees were taught to teach and were properly readied for the classroom. These days, its often a case of degree qualified teachers being readied to take up classroom positions without the methodological awareness training they need to confidently enter the profession. High level academic qualifications do not necessarily translate into excellent teaching skills.

While the world is a more complicated place than it was fifty years ago, the essence of what is required to be a good teacher stays the same. Subject knowledge, a sound understanding of teaching methods and the ability to ‘model’ as a teacher dealing with children were essentials when I trained – and should be the same in this day and age.

The needs remain but I worry that critical teaching and preparation methodologies are insufficiently stressed. Rather than prospective teachers receiving that understanding while in training, they graduate with degrees and as neophytes are expected to begin acquiring practical teaching skills and dispositions upon full-time entry into classroom teaching positions.

Teacher Training in the Sixties

In the 1960’s, trainees at Graylands undertook the following studies:

* Educational Theory and Practice, a detailed unit that occupied two years.

* Teaching Methods for key subjects which also conducted over two years. Key subjects included English, Mathematics, Psychology, Social Science (including history and geography). Teaching method included consideration of Junior, Middle and Senior Primary students.

* One year courses taken during the two year program included Social Institutions, Science, Art, Craft, Music, Oral English, Physical Education, Health Education, and Drama.

* Students had to undertake one major and three minor electives relating to teaching and involving research and formal recording and documentation. Nature Study, further investigation of Education Theory and Methodology, Creative Writing and Historical research are examples of optional studies.

* A compulsory one year course in Arithmetic set at Grade Seven level had to be satisfied. This included an exam which had to be passed before graduation. Those failing had to re-study, re-sit and pass the exam before satisfying training requirements.

* A compulsory one year Spelling course had to be passed. Trainees sat a test during which 100 words were administered. A pass required 99% (ie one mistake only allowed). A cross out and re-write of a word so it was correct, was deemed a ‘mistake’. Students failing this and Arithmetic had to re-sit the exams at a later date.

There were other requirements .

* During the two year course, students had to attend lessons being taught at Demonstration Schools. They had to observe then discuss lessons with demonstration teachers. They then had to write these lessons in a Demonstration Book in reflective manner that indicated their developing awareness of teaching pros and cons.

* At the beginning of their two year program, all potential teachers were given a reading and oracy task. Those who were assessed as being other than fully competent readers and speakers, were required to attend speech and diction classes aimed at developing these skills. This was seen as necessary because classroom teachers were models for their students.

Practice Teaching

* Students undertook a practice teaching round (teaching practicum) each term. Duration increased from the first practice of one week to the final practice of one month. Each student went out on practice teaching six times during their two year program, in different school types and at varying grade levels.

Trainee teachers were rigorously assessed by the practice school and the training college. At the end of formal observations both oral and written feedback was offered the practice teacher. This focussed on lesson content, teaching method, and vital supplementaries of classroom control (management) and student assessment.

At the end of the practice, a Teaching Mark was awarded to each student. She or he took this to the next practice, with the challenge that competencies be consolidated in order to ‘grow’ the person as a preservice teacher. Evidence of growth sustained or added to the teaching mark, but backward movement reduced that evaluation.

Graduation

In order to graduate, students had to pass all subjects. They also had to attain a C level Teaching Mark or better. Those failing in these requirement might be Awarded a Conditional Teaching Certificate, with a requirement that the deficit be made good and the certificate confirmed within the first teaching year. If this did not happen, employment of the teacher was discontinued.

Of the various courses I have undertaken over time, the attaining of my Teacher’s Certificate was by far and away the hardest of these studies. 

Along with other students (there were some 230 from memory in my course, including quite a healthy percentage of men) I often wondered at the need for the course to be so rigorous and often so fatiguing.

Over the years, I have come to bless the training I received for its focus on both rigour and emphasis. Teacher training was character building. Not everyone stayed the course. However the attrition rate was not huge, because prior to entry all aspirants were psychologically tested and evaluated for suitability to undertake the training program.

Without doubt, the focus and the quality of our training helped, for we were solidly prepared for entry into schools and classrooms. 

Our preparation for this vital profession was based on a solid foundation.

I don’t disrespect modern day teacher preparations by Universities and Colleges of Advanced Education. However, there is room for the solid foundation received by those who trained yesterday to be revisited in these modern times.

Henry Gray

March 11 2013

And where are we in 2024? Further than ever behind the eight ball when it comes to preparing teachers to teach.

This was the CLP Cabinet with Terry Mills as the first CLP Chief Minister, following the CLP losing the ejection to Clare Martin’s ALP Government in 2001.

There is a possibility but not a strong probability that the asking of ‘Dorothy Fix’ questions during question time, will become a thing of the past.

There is a possibility but not a strong probability that America will wrest back the Number One Economic Position in the world from China.

There is a possibility but little probability that the drain of police exiting the Northern Territory will be halted.

You know you have lost bulk when warning signs like this, no longer worry you for fear of collapsing under your weight.

NAPLAN results for students tested in Literacy and Numeracy around Australia in 2024 reveal alarming trends.  There are declines in overall literacy and numeracy outcomes for students in many areas. Testing involves all Australian students in Years 2, 5, 7 and 9.

Testing commenced in 2008 and has been part of the education calendar in every year since – excepting for 2021 when cancelled because of the Covid pandemic.

The lead article in today’s Australian newspaper. It is worth a read and some reflection.

Australia has sacrificed the teaching and understanding of basics, loading the curriculum with nonsense subjects, woke attitudes, and general crap.

Schools are failing. Educational fads prevail with commitment to critical teaching out the window.  (See Peta Credlin’s commentary on Sky on 14 August 2024)

You know birds have brains when they can find and open a packet of birdseed and go for the ‘self-service’ option when it comes to feeding.

You know that election day is drawing nigh, when the milk you are using, expires on election day.

It is late in the day but better late than never. Yesterday was the first day of pre-polling for our election in the Northern Territory and my wife and I cast our votes.

Meanwhile, both the Labour government and CLP opposition are advertising and advertising. Sadly, – and I speak as a person who has been voting in the Northern Territory since 1975 – at least 80% of those promises, particularly about the control of crime, will never be realised. 

Governments are frightened to take charge of the situation because they run into antagonism from rowdy interest groups who wouldn’t have a clue about what’s going on, just wanting to protect and “understand” the perpetrators of grievous sin.

As for the rest of it, we will wait and see what happens in the wash-up from the election. But I am not holding my breath.

Why is there such apathy about voting and the political system in Australia?  Some 480,000 students in our schools do not know what civics and civic education is about.

Voting in Australiauscompulsory, but 600,000 people failed to vote at the last Federal election. 

Of those who voted, 800,000 cast donkey -informal and invalid – votes.

Australians are fed political disinformation and misinformation. 

Australians are in danger of becoming a politically illiterate society.

In the right space, NO

Can sweep away obstacles

Can be a definitive response

Can offer clarity out of confusion

Can make the utterer stronger

Can earn respect for the user

Is often hard to utter the first time

Can earn respect based response from peers

Is often sparingly enunciated because it is easier to go with the flow

Is, sadly, often discounted

Is a word that should be central rather than peripheral to vocabulary

Why (17)

Do politicans act in such an unholy and rabble rousing manner during question time in parliament?

Are trite and meaningless questions asked by many posing questions for cabinet ministers to answer?

Are 25 billion dollars splurged on online gambling in Australia every year? (Are the intense advertising campaigns conducted by gambling houses leading people into gambling addiction?) 

What gives me peace? A short, simple question. but one shrouded in complexity. It is a question I find hard to answer because peace of mind does not come easily.

I think a lot but most of my thoughts focus on things and issues I find worrisome. Rather than focusing on peaceful things, my thoughts lead to worries about problems at the local, territory and Australian levels.

It seems at times there are so many issues of a social, emotional, economic and political nature that there is little room in my head for thoughts that generate peace and serenity.

At night I try to switch off, but nine times out of ten, finish up dreaming. and so intensely that I wake up in the morning remembering quite vividly the details of my dreams. They are hardly peaceful but focus on issues requiring solutions.

I guess what gives me peace, or as close as it comes, is when I am sitting in front of the television, chilling out and dozing off.

That’s the way it is for me

It’s here?

It’s here!

Pre-polling in the NT begins today.  Mobile polling booths will be starting the countless thousands of kilometres they will cover around the Northern Territory from today right through until Friday August 23.

Wow! What a program!!

Tomorrow, August 12 2024, is the day pre-polling for the Northern Territory election opens. Many will vote before the official voting day on Saturday, August 24.

The isolation of many communities in the NT means mobile polling booths are visited around the territory. Electoral officials set up in each community for several hours, with people encouraged to vote before the temporary facilities are pulled down and moved on. Travel from one community to the next is by vehicle or plane. 

So, starting tomorrow, we are on the business end of choosing the next government. It’s on for young and old.

.With the imposition of an increasing number of barriers to free speech, fewer and fewer people have the confidence to comment freely on issues. Cartoonists have been an exception to this rule. They defy the odds by region, state, country and the world for plying their trade and calling those out who act wrongfully or make shortsighted and crass decisions.

Good cartoonists honestly and unswervingly highlight the pros and cons of issues. While they may invoke people and personalities into cartoons, they do this to magnify matters about which we should be concerned.

All cartoonists have specific drawing styles, which adds to their stamp of communication by caricature. A key ingredient of cartooning is conveying a message so the reader is not left wondering what the cartoon is really about. His style and relevance make the cartoonist’s messages meaningful. They take on contentious matters and stimulate debate on issues.

Any law or its interpretation that would stifle the free expression of cartoonists would be a retrograde step. Freedom for cartoonists to express what are often deep-seated community opinions must be preserved. That right should be as sacrosanct as parliamentary privilege.

But if laws of restriction were to be introduced, I am sure cartoonists would defy them and continue their trade of offering us all deep-seated awareness and understanding

GOTTA BE GOOD AT SOMETHING

Posted on May 29, 2023

GOTTA BE GOOD AT SOMETHING

I WASN’T GOOD AT

On the Farm as a Child

Extracting double-gee plants and seeds from growing wheat crops.

Removing eggs from. Underneath clucky hens inmm laying nests.

Hand milking cows.

Crutching and doctoring flyblown sheep.

Eating vegetables prescribed by my Mother.

Wearing a hat for sun protection – and I have suffered!

Resisting spoonfulls of sugar from the sugar bowl.

Denying myself scoops of fat from the dripping tin in the Coolgardie safe.

Dedicating time to feeding and watering the fowls.

Cutting heads off roosters being prepared for sale in our home town.

Sitting still in church.

Focussing on the study of mathematics, physics and chemistry.

As an Adult and Educator I wasn’t good at:

Accomodating Type B personality people.

Pretending agreement with policies with which I actively disagreed.

Having to take on staff members who were ‘gottabees’.

Having to acquiesce to ‘ascribed authority focussed’ superordinates.

Sloppily dressed members of staff.

Accepting system perogfatives to ‘water down’ expectations for some students.

Appreciating system and Australia-wide testing regimes.

Not sharing my school’s successes with media.

Being told in 1974 that I was over-educating indigenous children.

Lots more examples could be furnished; in fact many more hundreds of things at which I am not good could be listed.

A GOOD THING

One thing I believe myself to be good at doing is saying “sorry” when I’m wrong, learning from my mistakes, appreciating those who point out my weaknesses and improvements, and always striving to do my best.

Oops – that is four good things

Never in all my life have I ever wanted to open a shop. It is not my scene. That said, my daughter and son-in-law have a bakery and cafe in one of the Northern Territory’s regional towns. It is known as “The Peninsular Bakery and Cafe”, a business they started from scratch twelve years ago. Now the business is thriving and enjoys an outstanding reputation. (They have a website and Facebook page if anyone wants to explore online.)

Their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to serving people through the service provided is well and truly understood and apprecated.

Considering this question, the only shop I could think of as being one for me would be a florist shop. I love flowers, and during my years as a school principal, I spent hundreds of dollars on flowers to help celebrate birthdays, school anniversaries and so on. I loved the joy that the giving of flowers brought to people for whom they were purchased.

The joy I felt in giving flowers and the delight I Invariably saw or heard about from recipients made everything worthwhile.

Yes, it would be a florist shop for me

Why is K3 salt being touted as a guaranteed weight-loss agent?

Why do people succumb to scammers’ ‘invitations’ to be ripped off, when they know before responding that ‘offers’ are too good to be true, and they will be fleeced?

Do so many of Australia’s international teams suddenly choke and snatch defeat from the jaws of victory when leading games by big margins?

Why do so many sportspeople become proud, lose all vestiges of humility, and believe they are entitled to special treatment wherever they go and with whatever they do?

Both the Labor government and the CLP opposition in the NT are set to launch their campaigns this weekend. With pre-polling for the August 24 election opening on Monday August 12, voters will be faced with significant choices. 

Matt Cunningham writing in our local paper today, has written as follows and I share his thoughts.

THE SEATS CLP NEED TO WIN TO CLAIM NT ELECTION

Matt Cunningham, NT News, 10 August 2024

The 2024 Territory election could be one of the closest in recent memory. The Country Liberal Party needs to gain six seats to win a majority. Here are seven electorates it will be targeting as early polling begins on Monday.

l

PORT DARWIN

Labor’s incumbent Paul Kirby is retiring at the election after he was dumped from the cabinet late last year.

Labor was probably lucky to hold this seat in 2020.

The conservative vote was split between the CLP and Territory Alliance.

At the 11th hour TA candidate Gary Strachan (now running for the CLP in Johnston) reversed his preferences and put Labor ahead of the CLP after a dispute with CLP candidate Toby George.

The CLP’s candidate in 2024 is health professional Robyn Cahill.

Labor’s candidate is Brian Manning, an assistant school principal.

If the CLP can’t win this seat in 2024, they’re done.

FONG LIM

Like Port Darwin, this is an inner-city seat the CLP needs to win to have any hope of victory. The incumbent is Education Minister Mark Monaghan.

The CLP’s candidate Tanzil Ranman is an Oxford scholar and economic geographer from the Department of Chief Minister.

He was a member of the Labor Party until a few months ago but switched sides after missing out on ALP preselection.

GOYDER

This conservative seat in Darwin’s rural area is held by former CLP deputy leader Kezia Purick, who is retiring.

Purick defected and became an independent during the CLP’s last term in government and has comfortably held the seat since.

The CLP would be confident of winning the seat back but will face a stiff contest from Independent Belinda Kolstad, who is being backed by Purick.

Although even if Kolstad won, she would be almost certain to support a CLP minority government.

BLAIN

This seat is in Palmerston, where a swing to the CLP is likely to be most pronounced, given the law-and-order and cost-of-living issues that are being felt more acutely by voters here. Blain is the former seat of CLP Chief Minister Terry Mills.

Incumbent Mark Turner became the first Labor candidate to win the seat in 2020, when the conservative vote was split between Mills, standing for his new Territory Alliance Party, and the CLP.

Turner was kicked out of the Labor caucus in 2021 and later expelled from the party when he crossed the floor to support a CLP motion for an inquiry into police morale.

The former police officer has been an outspoken supporter of former constable Zachary Rolfe. Labor and CLP insiders believe Turner is a genuine chance to hold the seat as an independent. Labor’s candidate is Palmerston councillor Dani Eveleigh, while Matthew Kerle, who lost to Turner by just 13 votes in 2020 (2PP after Terry Mills was eliminated), is standing again for the CLP.

DRYSDALE

Also in Palmerston, Drysdale is held by Chief Minister Eva Lawler. While Lawler appears to have turned Labor’s electoral fortunes around there are some in the ALP who fear she could lose her own seat if there are strong swings in Palmerston.

It’s unlikely, but not beyond the realms of possibility that Labor could win enough seats to form a minority government but lose its leader along the way.

The CLP’s candidate is former soldier Clinton Howe who has been working hard on the doors.

WANGURI

Darwin’s northern suburbs – home to many of the almost 24,000 public servants in the NT – have been a Labor stronghold since Clare Martin’s historic election victory in 2001.

The CLP’s best chance of pegging back one of these seats (Labor holds them all) could be in Wanguri.

This might seem unlikely given Labor’s massive margin.

However, incumbent and former deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison is retiring and much of the vote in Wanguri would be her personal vote.

Wanguri includes many family-oriented, traditionally conservative voters who would have been attracted to Manison – the daughter of a police officer and perhaps the most centrist member of the Labor caucus – but might be reluctant to vote for a new Labor candidate, particularly given the crime issues the government has faced.

Labor’s candidate is former shoppies’ union organiser Shlok Sharma who is getting strong support from Manison.

The CLP’s candidate is Oly Carlson, a long-time Darwin resident who from all reports has been working hard on the doors ahead of election day.

Popular former lord mayor Graeme Sawyer’s entry as an independent adds an extra twist.

KARAMA

This is another northern suburbs seat that could fall to the CLP.

Residents in this seat have been impacted more than others by the dramatic rise in crime and anti-social behaviour.

Held by Minister for Territory Families Ngaree Ah Kit.

The CLP’s candidate is former Chamber of Commerce deputy chief executive Brian O’Gallagher.

These are the same two candidates who contested in 2020.

Continual travelling companions

Never be without

Your common sense

Your powers of observation

Your listening ears.

Leave them home at your peril.

Never ever underestimate the value of keeping a diary. You never know when you will be thankful you did!

In a previous entry I wrote of the value of record keeping. Many professionals keep brief records because of the time it takes to compile these documents. Over the years I have put hundreds and hundreds of hours into diary keeping and extended records including case notes. My diaries are personal documents. Copies of all other records were always kept. When I retired, these records came with me.

Records can help if one becomes involved with writing. As a regular contributor to newspaper columns and in writing for online and print publications my records have been an invaluable assist.

In recent years, it has become commonplace for past students to begin litigation against former teachers and principals. These actions can be about any number of issues, ranging from teaching ineptitude resulting in fail grades through to allegations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Without the advantage of records, recall is at best vague and hazy. With the assistance of records, searches can be made to assist in refuting false and malicious allegations.

I strongly urge educators to establish the diary habit and practice record keeping. You never know when this habit will reward you for the effort.

I am astounded and very disappointed for the Principal of Yipinya School in Alice Springs, Dr Gavin Morris. He has been charged with allegedly physically assaulting some students in 2023. 

It is not for me to speculate on the pros and cons of what is happening at the moment, other than to reaffirm that people in charge of institutions – in this case a major school organisation – are, these days, walking on eggshells.

People in positions of authority have to be especially careful of the way they go about fulfilling their leadership briefs. 

I feel for Dr Morris at this time.

One of the sticking points about life and relationships both personal and professional, is to insist that ‘your’ viewpoint is the right viewpoint.

To offer and incorrect statement or recommend an action that proves to be wrong is reluctantly followed by an apology.

Within school contexts, this can have atmosphere destroying and suspicion arousing outcomes.

For teachers, it can be all too easy to make mistakes. It may be the incorrect spelling of a word, the misunderstanding of roles played by children in some dispute, or getting it wrong when it comes to a particular fact being correct or incorrect.

In these instances and others, to apologise to students for a mistake or misunderstanding is important. It models a correct social attitude to children and also earns respect from children and students.

200th ANNIVERSARY!

WRITING FOR THE SUNS

A little over four years ago, I was invited to write a weekly education column for the Suns, a community newspaper published each Tuesday as an insert in the Northern Territory News.

The Suns has gone through a number of changes over time, and I am outlining distribution as it happens in 2017. The Suns is also published as a stand alone paper which people can pick up for free.

Along with other NT News products it is also available online.

This week was my 200th column for the Suns, my first being published on July 2, 2013. I have enjoyed developing the column and can confirm that educational topics are never-ending.

My columns are necessarily edited for inclusion in the paper. Unedited versions are published on my blog at
https://lnkd.in/gse2g-g

I have enjoyed giving back and giving to the community through my column. Many people comment to me and generally in terms of appreciation. It is a nice and personally rewarding way of engaging with the community in a volunteer context.

And I wanted to share my 200th celebration on my blog.

Regards.

Henry Gray

Australia’s preoccupation with the Olympic games has taken its collective mind off the real world and its here-and-now issues.

I hope on the NT election day of August 24, there are no ambulance movements, no vehicle thefts, no home invasions or business break-ins. I hope there are no incidents of domestic violence, or alcohol-induced incidents at shopping centres, in car parks, at bus exchanges or in taverns or nightclubs.

I hope there will be no distractions to Territorians celebrating election day and rejoicing with whoever is chosen to form the new four-year – we have fixed terms – government.

Do non-indigenous Australians, individually and organisationally,  have to apologise time and time and time again for the perceived historical treatment of Indigenous Australians?

Is compensation for perceived wrongs toward Indigenous Australians being rolled out time and time and time again?

Is there seemingly no end to the huge amounts of money paid in recompense terms to those who were here before us?

Is money often paid as royalties wasted by splurge spending, meaning benefits it might bring, are quickly dissipated?

There is a lot of frailty about human life. One can be up and going, vibrant and happy one day and suddenly reduced by accident or illness the next.

Life can look like going on for endless years – only to be truncated by environmental catastrophe or man-made disaster.

Add these days, the prominence of scammers and the deep deceptions with which so many genuine persons are confronted, and the issue of threats and ruination are compounded.

One never knows in retiring for the night, how the next day will emerge.

Life is tenuous and fraught.

For the whole of my life, I have never gone into spending a huge amount of money on meals at restaurants or on the purchase of exotic provisions to cook meals at home. Don’t get me wrong; I’m far from skin G regarding meals and purchasing ingredients if we cook at home.

When travelling overseas, we often provided for ourselves by buying food from supermarkets or shops and then preparing that food ourselves. The same happened when we were travelling around Australia. The only exception I can think of was when we had Christmas dinner in Georgetown on Penang Island in Malaysia one Christmas.

We went to the Tunku Abdul Razzak Centre for our Christmas lunch. We decided somewhat extraordinarily to purchase a decent bottle of wine for our meal. From memory, I think it was about AU$45, the most I have ever paid for a bottle of wine.

Very few people, it seems, ever had wine with their meals at the restaurant. We had two or three drink waiters hovering around usFrom the bottle being opened until it was consumed.

I remember the wine but not what comprised the rest of the mail.

(Actually, it was on the same day that the five of us had the wildest and most hair-raising race ride in two trishaws from our hotel to our lunchtime meal. It was downhill all the way, and if the topic of a ride ever comes up on this site, I will write more fulsomely about going to dinner.)

When it comes to eating, I’m somewhat of a traditionalist and like plain and wholesome meals without too much garnish. I also love a good steak. We have had three meals in Australia going back over the years, which I remember not so much because of cost but the excellent way the steaks for our dinner are prepared and served.

The third most favourite steak I’ve eaten in this context was at the RSL Club in Gunnedah, New South Wales, back in the late 1970s.

The second-best steak I’ve ever eaten was served to us in the BP Cafe attached to the service station in Ravensthorpe in Western Australia.

A gold plate for the best steak I have eaten goes to the then chef, an apprentice of the Margo Myles Restaurant in the Tennant Creek Hotel in the Northern Territory. The steak was out of this world. It was probably around 1984 or 1985 when that particular meal was served, and I still remember it to this day.

I am 78 years old. Based on three meals a day for the years I’ve been alive, I’d estimate eating 84,660 meals in various situations. That is a lot of eating and a lot of meals. I’d hate to have to pay for them all at once.

Listening was an important attribute instilled as an attribute enhancing comprehension and understanding.

Handwriting was taught and legibility encouraged.

Children learned about words through phonetic study.

Oral reading to the teacher and within groups lead to fluency when sharing text. Discussion within groups and shared conversation built understanding about meaning of the written word.

Children learned tables and mathematical formulae. They developed the ability to carry out mental computation and were dexterous without the need for calculator assistance.

Grammar was studied. Rules relating to the English language and usage were studied and understood.

Spelling was an essential subject. Words and their usage was an important part of study.

My oh my, how things have changed.

I woke this morning to the realisation that the Australian Stock market had fallen 3% yesterday, losing $100 billion, reinforced to me the fragility and artificiality of the global financial world.

The chess-like pieces on the Stockmarket boss’s game are not kings, queens, bishops and pawns: They are bulls and bears, hellbent on eliminating each other.

Health issues continue to plague a significant proportion of people in the Northern Territory. So many of those afflicted could avoid impacts if habits and lifestyle were more significantly appreciated.

Hurry on August 24 – Election Day in the NT.

The share market has decreased leveraging huge losses over the past 24 hours, up one day and down the next. How many bankrupcies will grow from the stock market plunges today and in the days ahead?

Looking around the world on the news, it is hard to find anywhere where there is anything other than bitter struggles and unrest, with riotous behaviour ripping the world asunder.

The Darwin Turf Club carnival wound up today, with the Darwin Cup being one of the closest in recent years.

Now, it is only 19 days before the next NT Government election. Pre-polling opens in a week.

There is both a possibility and strong probability that the Australian stocks and shares market will decline by close to 6% for the day, August 5 2024,

And close to 18% by COB August 9 2024.