Not the National Press Club – Scuttlebut Alley

January 26, 2012 by Pip

“Gossip is a sort of smoke that comes from the dirty tobacco pipes of those that diffuse it; it proves nothing but the bad taste of the smoker”
[George Eliot "Daniel Deronda"]

Yesterday ABC24 televised the National Press Club speech given by Mr. Anthony Albanese, then took it off the air to show a State of the Union speech by President Obama.

Usually, the NPC is also shown on ABC2 but not yesterday. Viewers were instead treated to Mapping The World, and missed the entire question and answer segment of the NPC.

WHY ABC?

The main stream media have all but ignored the speech given by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Leader of the House, the Honourable Anthony Albanese MP.

It wasn’t difficult to find a copy of the transcript:-

http://anthonyalbanese.com.au/speech-to-national-press-club-government-with-a-purpose

Do the “journalists” have a problem with this? If so, what?

Are they not permitted to report the contents of the Minister’s speech, or are they simply happy to put their names to third rate tabloid nonsense?

Or maybe they fell about after the long lunch laughing at their own jokes?

Update: Aboriginal Tent Embassy. This is clearly not on Pip’s topic, but that’s what this blog is about, being vibrant and accepting newsworthy items as they eventuate. At the request of Catching up, confirmed by Pip. Here is the photo referred to on wixxy’s Hey True Blue topic. (Min)

Another photo has now become available:

Posted in Cafe Talk | 383 Comments

383 Responses

on January 26, 2012 at 3:12 am patriciawa

Yes, Pip, I’ve been watching for a mention of this through the day, all the ABC news spots, 7.30, Late News etc. Not a peep. It’s late I’ll get back to it tomorrow. Well done for being on to it.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:28 am 2353

The only comment I’ve seen is that he used a phrase that was apparently in a movie. Hardly good reporting.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:36 am rabbit

Maybe the ABC were worried that ‘THAT’ word might reappear! 80
on January 26, 2012 at 9:08 am Geoff

Happy Invasion Day everyone.
on January 26, 2012 at 9:57 am Pip

Happy Australia Day everyone.

Same here patricia and thank you.
Liberal Party Director Brian Loughnane was so pained at having to watch the Albanese speech that he had to reward himself with a media release, “Attack on Abbott scripted by Hollywood”

The offending lines, about Tony Abbott, were reportedly lifted from the movie
The American President, starring Michael Douglas.

“He’s only interested in two things, making Australians afraid of it and telling them who’s to blame for it.

It’s also quite true, and not in the same league as Liberal MP Julie Bishop’s plagiary a few years ago which was also blamed on a staff member.
http://www.crikey.com.au/2008/10/27/bishops-plagiarism-tells-an-uncomfortable-story-about-neoliberalism

.Twitter was a-flutter and Mr. Albanese and the Prime Minister both replied to all the journalistic tweets….

http://www.smh.com.au/national/doh-albanese-embarrassed-plagiarising-film-president-20120125-1qht9.html

Mr Albanese tweeted last night: ”D’oh! Stuff up (for the record, that comes from another great American, Homer Simpson).”

It is understood Mr Albanese did not know that the words, in material prepared for him for the speech, had been used in a film.

and

Prime Minister Julia Gillard last night gave Mr Albanese some moral support. She tweeted: ”And speaking of actors – I love Michael Douglas because he’s married to a Welsh woman”, adding that ”Albo’s not bad either”
on January 26, 2012 at 10:22 am Tom R

Yes, it looks like it was ignored, until they could find somehting bad to say about it.

Personally, I loved that speech by Douglas. But albo is crazy to htink he can get away with trying to rip it off without attribution. Nothing wrong with using it, it fits, but it needs to be attributed, or this will happen.

Just like Gillards ‘betrayal’ of Wilkie (I mean, really, when has the public cared if pollies double cross each other, it is the Game they all play) all other aspects are ignored, only the gory, negatives dwellt on.

If this quote had not been lifted, it wouldn’t have garnered any airtime. So again, all we get for Labor are negatives. The perception is maintained.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:31 am Pip

Tom, the funny thing is that Albo appears not to know it was lifted !
on January 26, 2012 at 10:32 am Mangrove Jack

We have achieved this in spite of the added difficulties brought about by the outcome of the 2010 election and the presence of an Opposition engaged in the longest dummy spit in Australian political history.

I liked that.

The record of achievements was interesting, but what I found uplifting was Albo’s feisty style.

I’d like to see more of this from Labor in 2012.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:34 am Catching up

Yes the accusations of plagiarism are rife. Not one word about the speech.

I would say that they could not find much to be negative about.

Bolt and Menzies House is making a big thing of the gaff.

No reasons still been given by the ABC.

At least the Coalition has given some publicity ti the speech. Maybe others will go looking.

A speech that highlights what Mr. Abbott is only interested in.

I do not believe their are the many sanctimonious people out their that would think Mr. Albanese has committed a serious offence.

It was not a paper or thesis. It was a very old movie.

Menzie’s House was quick to get the video onto the web.

Maybe they would have been better to use the time to reply to the accuations about their leader.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:35 am Pip

rabbit, what was “THAT’ word ?
on January 26, 2012 at 10:45 am Pip

Cu, there was also an article embroidering the Rudd challenge into the story, but not worth linking.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:48 am Catching up

I have found one of Mr. Albanese answers from yeaterday.

..He said voters would reward Ms Bligh for the speed in which she has led the economic and infrastructure recovery of Queensland since the devastating cyclones and floods.

“It’s been a remarkable effort,” he said.

“Literally thousands of kilometres of roads rebuilt, schools, hospitals, rail lines.

“The economy got back on track … in terms of its economic performance, in terms of employment……

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/rudd-to-play-strong-role-in-qld-poll-20120125-1qh42.html
on January 26, 2012 at 10:53 am Pip

Mangrove, they all need to come out swinging, with nothing but factual comments, and ignore gotcha questions.

It was a gotcha from Laurie Oakes that set the “no carbon tax” meme in motion, and Oakes, being the senior man of integrity is to blame.
Sarcasm alert.
on January 26, 2012 at 11:01 am Catching up

Sorry Pip.

They did try to make a negative out of a positive.

Of course Mr. Rudd would help Ms. Bligh. Normally this would not be a story.

As for the Coalition winning being bad for the PM, I do not know.

Australians in the past have been reluctant to have any party in both state and Federal government.

Another big story that Mr. Rudd will be overseas for the extra time the PM is asking caucus for their views. This I would say be normal for a FM.

Taking an hour or two to get feedback is now seen as a crisis meeting.

I thought this would be normal procedure for most leaders, whether in government or business.

Maybe the PM is looking at preventing a crisis.

Maybe the PM, due to the media constant nagging and negative press, is checking out for sure, what her caucus does think.

A good negotiator has to listen, to bring parties together.

I wonder what the reception be if Mr. Abbott attempted the same exercise. I could not image this happening, as the man listens to no one.
on January 26, 2012 at 11:10 am Catching up

Another answer, also presented in a negative manner, linking to so called crisis meeting and so called goals of Mr. Rudd.

We will just have to learn to ignore headlines and concentrate on the body of the story.

Mr Albanese said the government’s integrity was intact, every bill had passed and its agenda was being rolled out, despite having to deal with a hung parliament.

“There has been no conscious decision to break promises,” Mr Albanese said.

“We have dealt with the parliament that we were given and politics is the art of the possible.”

He said the accusation of a broken promise over the carbon tax did not stack up as emissions trading and action on climate change had been Labor policy since the early 1990s.

Asked about the broken deal with independent Andrew Wilkie over poker machine reform, the minister said the government had done all it could to muster support for the laws.

“The government would have provided our votes for that to occur, but there wasn’t enough independent (MP) support for that to occur,” he said.

Mr Albanese said despite Mr Wilkie withdrawing his support for the government “his position in regard to a confidence motion is essentially the same as in the agreement (made in 2010)”.

The new divide in Australian politics was “builders versus wreckers”, he said, describing Mr Abbott as “one-trick Tony

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/we-didnt-mean-to-break-promises-govt-20120125-1qhd9.html
on January 26, 2012 at 11:15 am Catching up

Another answer from the same site, buried in negative quotes from others.

The minister predicted the government would serve out its full term, arguing opinion polls were heralding a “false dawn”.

“It is always more difficult to speak about long-term planning and achievement than it is to be engaged in short-term populism,” he said.

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/we-didnt-mean-to-break-promises-govt-20120125-1qhd9.html
on January 26, 2012 at 11:27 am Pip

Cu, Kevin Rudd pointed out to the gathered media some time ago, that’s his job, FOREIGN Affairs

The people he deals with are foreigners…..

I hope the brainstorming session arrives at the conclusion that all Labor MPs have to talk policy, and ignore the rest.

Tweeters have reported today that ‘one trick pony’ Abbott has been quizzed about his own slips of the tongue…

“shit happens” “shit eating grin” etc.,
on January 26, 2012 at 11:28 am Catching up

Maybe highlighting the gaff is a mistake by the Coalition. Mr. Albanese’s word is getting wide coverage in full.

“Mr. Abbott is only interested in himself.”
on January 26, 2012 at 11:30 am Pip

That’s an excellent point Cu.

Abbott hits Tamworth music festival
http://bigpondnews.com/articles/National-Regional/2012/01/25/Abbott_hits_Tamworth_music_festival_711420.html

‘I’m a bit of a rhinestone cowboy.

His words!
on January 26, 2012 at 12:48 pm BSA Bob

Re Albanese’s lines
Who fucking cares? This country is being told it fucking cares about two or three lines of an otherwise deliberately under reported script.
Will the press lift their own game & make the slightest effort to forsake their monotonous “knifed”, “forced to defend”, “backflip” & on & on & dutiful regurgitation of Abbott’s attack themes? No.
on January 26, 2012 at 12:48 pm Catching up

I also heard that he said his favourite song is having a beer with Dunstan. (The Project).

When asked why, he replied that he was once close to a Dunstan..

Make what you like of the statement.

Cannot vouch if it is truth but it was repeated on The Project last night.

No, this one has backfired on the Coalition.

Mr. Abbott looked a little lost at Tamworth. Maybe the feed back he is getting is far from positive.
on January 26, 2012 at 12:50 pm Catching up

‘I rather like that old classic I’d like to have a beer with Duncan because Duncan’s me mate, because there was a Duncan I was pretty keen on once upon a time,’ he told reporters assembled at the Tamworth Council Chambers

http://bigpondnews.com/articles/National-Regional/2012/01/25/Abbott_hits_Tamworth_music_festival_711420.html
on January 26, 2012 at 1:10 pm Pip

BSA Bob, “will the press lift their game”.

Not in our lifetime Bob.
Someone tweeted that ABC24 interrupted televising citizenship ceremony for an Abbott press conference…
on January 26, 2012 at 1:11 pm Pip

Cu, he didn’t elaborate on whether that was a surname …..
on January 26, 2012 at 1:30 pm Catching up

I know, but he did leave it up in the air, why?

BSA, surely that is not true. What is the difference waiting a few minutes.

Cannot help but think that Mr. Abbott has a plant in programming.

The only thing that would warrant this behaviour is a n announcement of a National disaster, nothing else.

I wonder what words of wisdom did Mr. Abbott have to spread.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:36 pm Catching up

Mr. Abbott’s words of wisdom that interrupted the PM Citizenship ceremony, is that it time to move on from the Tent Embassy.

Just knew it had to be important.

It is a good day to pick a fight with the Aboriginals.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:46 pm Min

I am still trying to catch up on my reading..you lot have been exceptionally busy.

Today is the 40th Anniversary of the Tent Embassy, so let’s have a brief look at the reason for the Tent Embassy… Very Abbott-esque isn’t it, no solutions to the problem, just a lecture that Aboriginal people should move on.

Indigenous Australians are today marking the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra.

Four decades ago, four men sat under a beach umbrella on the lawns of Parliament House and declared it an embassy.

It was a simple yet symbolic protest against then-prime minister Billy McMahon’s refusal to acknowledge land rights.

Today hundreds of people marched from Canberra’s city centre across Commonwealth Bridge to the embassy, calling for land rights and Aboriginal sovereignty.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-26/tent-embassy-is-40-today/3793998
on January 26, 2012 at 1:47 pm Min

No day is a good day to pick a fight with anyone with even a teaspoon of Aboriginal blood.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:47 pm Catching up

If the broabcast was interrupted. It was more than the PM that the insul was aimed at.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has welcomed 27 new Australian citizens at a citizenship ceremony in Canberra.

Ms Gillard was joined by Governor-General Quentin Bryce, cricketer Adam Gilchrist, and Australian of the Year Geoffrey Rush to welcome Australia’s newest citizens.

Ms Gillard welcomed the new Australians and reflected on what the day meant to her. She also spoke of the significant role immigrants have played in the nation.

“It is modern Australia’s greatest story – the story of inclusion and belonging which is immigration,” she said.

The lakeside celebrations began with a marching band, followed by the Australian anthem and a flag-raising ceremony.

Australia Day is the most popular day of the year to become an Australian citizen.

Today 13,000 people from around 140 countries are taking the pledge across Australia.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:48 pm Pip

Cu, I think ‘programming’ are following orders from further up the chain.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:50 pm Catching up

Well, I believe they are going too far and should be pulled in line.

Anyone know what Sky is doing today.

Are they putting Abbott first.
on January 26, 2012 at 1:53 pm Catching up

Extreme, but I am little in agreement. I had no intention of criticising this day, as many see it as important.

Mr. Abbott’s contribution has led me to change my mind.

“Australia Day is, of course, an artificial fabrication designed by governments, the corporate world, media, Australia Day Councils and smug Anglo-Saxons to ensure that we forget real history.

Advertisement: Story continues below

That Anglo-Saxon smugness is a resilient child of hypocrisy and racism. The mawkish jingoism, the noisy triumphalism and trumped-up nationalism lead to the xenophobia that treats our humanity as something special and beyond the humanity of others who are not of these shores or of those, the original owners, who live within our shores but have been relegated as relics of history, beyond imagination.

Disavowal disposes neatly of the displaced

Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/nations-day-a-chance-to-shine-a-light-into-our-darkness-20120125-1qhn4.html#ixzz1kWrXLr8Q
on January 26, 2012 at 2:02 pm Min

I’ve had quite a morning including a car breaking down and did I have my iPhone recharger in the car..well, no of course not. It’s only at times such as these that one realizes that public phones no longer exist, except in shopping malls. Therefore I hoofed it a couple of k’s to Tweed Centro phoned the NRMA, hoofed it back to the car. And you have it..the car started.

Therefore and ergo, I missed the entire thing and haven’t had Sky news on at all.

Cu, your comment about putting Abbott first, which of course the MSM do with monotonous regularity, reminds me of the old saying..of trying to turn a sows ear into a silk purse.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:10 pm jane

Good post, Pip. I think it’s time that the ABC had a comprehensive boot up the bum!

I mean no disrespect to the POTUS’s State of The Nation speech, but WTF has that got to do with this country on the eve of Australia Day?

For the national broadcaster to give that speech precedence over, and to the total exclusion of, a NPC address by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport of this country is a bloody disgrace!

Particularly on the eve of a day their ABC is so bloody jingoistic about!

Heads should even now be falling into baskets, while the government witnesses said heads being removed, as it knits a new national broadcaster. I can only hope the switchboard resembles a tacky Christmas tree.

As for the beat up about the quote, if that’s the only comment the msm can make then as usual they fail to do their job.

A good negotiator has to listen, to bring parties together.

No danger of that with Liealot, CU.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:18 pm Pip

Jane, the ABC24 anchor, Lyndal Curtis amused herself by posting a link on Twitter, to Slate mag., article about Albo.

I’m not sure if she’s tweeting from work or not but either way, she also needs a kick up the bum!
on January 26, 2012 at 2:20 pm Catching up

Sorry about the car Min. Not doing much better myself. Was cleaning out the spa on Wednesday, bent over the edge, stretch out with the turks head I use., and appears to have done myself damage.

I have either pulled a muscle, broke a rib or created a new hernia in the vicinity of my right lower rib.

Whatever it is, it has slowed me right down.

Maybe better tomorrow, if not it is off to the doctors..

Old age can be a bugger.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:21 pm BSA Bob

Min
My sympathy. I don’t like mobile phones & have only recently got one, strictly reserved for emegencies. Because as you say, public phones no longer exist.
Plus of course the virtual Catch-22 of no longer being able to easily use public phones to ring in that your landline’s buggered. All very dinosaurish I know, but I think this basic phone stucture should be maintained.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:22 pm Catching up

jane, she is a Public Servant I believe.

Do not the new PS guidelines or rules on the net apply to her.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:24 pm BSA Bob

Catching Up
Not if she helps the Coalition.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:26 pm BSA Bob

So the ABC is amusing itself by getting worked up over a speech it deliberately failed to report?
on January 26, 2012 at 2:27 pm Pip

Min, sounds like a horrible start to your day, hope it improves.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:27 pm jane

Pip, it’s well past time for the government to rip them into gear. They have to be reminded who pays their bloated salaries and it ain’t the Emperor!

I want value for my 8 cents!!!!
on January 26, 2012 at 2:32 pm Pip

That’s it Bob. A Conservative ABC tactic.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:33 pm Pip

Or should I say Murdoch lite.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:37 pm Min

Bob, I agree that landlines should be retained, although I think that somewhere in the next couple of decades that we will see them phased out.

Due to my hearing impairment I rarely used to speak on my mobile, keeping it for emergency situations such as phoning the NRMA when my car broke down 12kms from nowhere. However, I am finding that the sound on the iPhone is excellent and can hear on this almost as well as I can on my volume control home phone.

Public phones cost a lot to maintain due to vandalism. They will be gone in the next decade I think, except for more secure locations such as shopping malls.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:38 pm Catching up

I wonder if we could link the site to the Labor site.

I have a suspicion that they do read these sites.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:39 pm Pip

Jane, can you imagine the uproar if the government insisted on the ABc following it’s Charter?

After the Howardisation years ago, and groups such as Friends of the ABC basically being ignored, the Murdoch and Fairfax/Hancock groups would combust at the very thought.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:41 pm Catching up

The Opposition leader in another race in the harbour. Does anyone believe he will eventually win one.

Why have we not seen him at a Citizenship ceremony, like we have seen most other MP’s including Mr. Hockey.

I also noticed, he dressed for the interview, no budgie smugglers.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:42 pm Min

Cu, you could have a broken rib. If you have difficulty in breathing, or that causes a stabbing pain (even a mild one) when you breathe..off to the doctor’s.

I have had a broken rib..caused by a 6′ 4″ boyfriend giving me a BIG hug..but that’s another story…
on January 26, 2012 at 2:44 pm Pip

Min, how far did you have to walk??
on January 26, 2012 at 2:44 pm BSA Bob

So as Tom R. said at 10.22, this speech was ignored, nay, deliberately buried, until they could find something negative to say about it? They’re active political players with a stunt like that. What’s their charter say about that?
on January 26, 2012 at 2:52 pm Pip

Cu, I’m with Min, maybe you should see a doctor about your rib.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:54 pm Catching up

Min, it is not affecting my breathing. Too low down, the last one.

I did not hit myself, I only bent over the over the edge of the spa.

I do have good bones for a seventy year old.

I suspect another hernia, in spite of the webbing they inserted tie last time.

How you could have one in this region, I do not know. I am sure that time will fix it.

It is mostly hurts when I bend over or sit or lie down.

If I keep still, no pain but I do get stiff.
on January 26, 2012 at 2:56 pm Pip

BSA Bob, you have described the ABC attitude perfectly

They’re active political players with a stunt like that.
on January 26, 2012 at 3:00 pm Pip

Australia Day and Australia’s Beautiful Inspiring Beautiful Set of Numbers
http://afrankview.net/2012/01/australia-day-and-australias-beautiful-inspiring-beautiful-set-of-numbers/

How appropriatement that on this Australia Day that I update Australia’s Beautiful Inspiring Set of Numbers. Something that I and many others have fondly christened the BISONs.

Yes indeed, our BISONs are truly beautiful and inspiring
on January 26, 2012 at 3:02 pm Catching up

Will do tomorrow. I need to know what harm I have caused. Do not feel like sitting in the hospital emergency.
on January 26, 2012 at 3:03 pm Roswell

Cu, it could be a collapsed lung. I’ve had them before.
on January 26, 2012 at 3:08 pm Min

Pip @2.44pm..not far, just a couple of kms each way. The thing that really gave me the irrits was me being so stupid as to have not put my phone recharger in the car.
on January 26, 2012 at 3:08 pm Min

ps..it’s now in the car…
on January 26, 2012 at 3:09 pm BSA Bob

Catching Up
Whatever it is you’d better get to a medico.
on January 26, 2012 at 3:27 pm Catching up

No Roswell, it is only hurts when one moves. Breathing OK.

It did not hurt much yesterday. If It was any worse, I would be moving fast.

It appears our GP Super Clinic does not open today. This does not surprise me, as I had concerns about the doctor they gave the responsibility to. Good doctor but his old surgery was not into customer service. It appears the same still applies.

It just annoys me that I cannot do much. Not that I do much anyway.

Thanks for everyone concerns. It is just that I have no one around to whinge to.
on January 26, 2012 at 4:20 pm Min

It makes your heart sink to see photos such as the PM and Abbott being rushed from the restaurant.
on January 26, 2012 at 4:33 pm Pip

Min, thank you for your technical expertise
on January 26, 2012 at 4:40 pm Pip

After the debacle with the PM and Abbott and the protesters,
Abbott posts on Twitter his Address to Inaugural National Emergency Medals Ceremony.

Nothing else to say here folks – move on
on January 26, 2012 at 4:40 pm Chris Townley

I watched the two versions of Anthony’s Press club Speech and I think Michael Douglas does it better. Can we trade, I much prefer Michael, except when he’s a geeko.
on January 26, 2012 at 4:45 pm Pip

CT, bet you didn’t
on January 26, 2012 at 4:46 pm Min

Another photo has now become available, which I have also put on Pip’s topic.
on January 26, 2012 at 5:13 pm patriciawa

Sorry, Pip, got side-tracked by a link to Feral Skeleton’s inaugural post at her new site.

hillbillyskeleton-punkchicken.blogspot.com/…/iron-ladys-iron-grip-on-tony-abbotts.html

I see your post has inspired lots of comments about how badly the media treat anything constructive at all about this Labor government and refuse to print anything critical of the Opposition. Even Fairfax and the ABC have joined the Murdoch News Ltd line, so that the one third of independent reporting and commenting one might expect from MSM just isn’t there, not even an address by a senior government minister at the National Press Club!

I’ve pondered before how this could be so all pervasive, but today reading FS’s post about Gina Rinehart’s influence on Tony Abbott and his party’s direction I began to see how her vast wealth, could be impacting on our media too, even that not directly controlled by Rupert Murdoch. lt explains the vicious determination to destroy the reputations of Labor politicians. Remember how even Kevin Rudd mindlessly eating his earwax became an almost indictable offence!

Now we have an unascribed quote treated as if it were plagiarism and somehow far more important than the overall message a senior politician like Anthony Albanese is trying to convey. Our Prime Minister and Governor General at major national celebrations are sidelined to feature the Abbott’s antics. It’s astonishing that the government and Gillard are still able to function so well when their treatment by the media must be so demoralising. They are true Trojans.
on January 26, 2012 at 5:22 pm Pip

Hi patricia, the government is functioning and the conservative elite and vested interests don’t want the public to catch on.

The anti-mining tax campaign is a classic, what with the wealthiest miner in the country being many times more wealthy than Queen Elizabeth, and now a part owner of Channel 10 and Fairfax…she doesn’t have to buy the ABC.

Unfortunately, their tactics have worked brilliantly!

It really does beg the question about whether the journalists do not have permission to report favourably about the government,
on January 26, 2012 at 5:34 pm patriciawa

Agreed, Pip. It will be interesting to see how the Invasion Day protest is reported too. I see that that the immediate net stories by the Canberra Times and others are saying that the riot was sparked by Tony Abbott’s comments. But that picture of the PM seemingly in distress is not good. So open to being misconstrued.

I was going to copy the pome I did for FS to here, but I think it needs revision with this latest development.
on January 26, 2012 at 5:44 pm Miglo

I’ve been away from my computer so I’m not up to speed on today’s events. Some catching up to do.
on January 26, 2012 at 5:47 pm Miglo

Cu, political parties do indeed read blog sites. If a policy idea is thrown into the wind it is from such places as blog sites that the parties gauge public opinion.

Overseas many government departments now have blogs on their internate sites. It will soon happen in Australia.
on January 26, 2012 at 5:47 pm Catching up

Funny thing is that the so called riots did not appear to be so violent.

There are pictures of security/police taking it up to the demonstrators.

There appears to be two on the steps where the PM fell.

The demonstrators appeared as confused as everyone else.

Something is wrong with the picture.

Maybe they were afraid of the glass breaking, Maybe they are just not up to the job of providing security and panicked” face.

I am not so sure it was fear on the PM or for god sakes let me go.

It was a glass walled cafe. That could be frightening, but whether there was enough evidence or violence that indicated they would physically attack the PM, I am not so sure.

What I am sure of, is that Mr. Abbott’s unnecessary words made near the embassy did nothing to help.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:02 pm Min

Patricia, I had a look for the link and this seems to be the one. Well done Hillbilly Skeleton!!

http://hillbillyskeleton-punkchicken.blogspot.com/
on January 26, 2012 at 6:11 pm Miglo

I just tried to post a comment on Hillbilly’s blog but it doesn’t recognise my WordPress account. How did you do it, Patricia?
on January 26, 2012 at 6:12 pm Miglo

I have the same trouble with Tom R’s blog as well as Mr Denmore’s.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:35 pm BSA Bob

Just watching footage of Abbott saying “that glass would break very easily”
He speaks with authority on the subject, one of the few instances when this would be the case.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:37 pm Min

The 13th photo on this link is of Tony Abbott in the PM’s car..that look on his face has a certain degree of smugness.

http://www.theage.com.au/photogallery/national/pm-rushed-away-from-protesters-20120126-1qj7d.html
on January 26, 2012 at 6:39 pm Miglo

Bob, that was probably a statement generated by fear.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:41 pm Miglo

Min, that picture says a thousand words.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:42 pm Miglo

I guess that’s the end of Tone’s visits to Aboriginal communities. Gosh, they will be pleased.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:51 pm BSA Bob

I thought Gillard looked quite good in the only stuff I’ve seen so far, being seen to have concern for Mr Abbott’s welfare. More concern than I’ve got I must say.
on January 26, 2012 at 6:59 pm Min

I wonder if the smirkers will be out in full force about Gillard with this one. Ans: yes probably.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:04 pm Min

Bob, she certainly is a classy lady.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:15 pm BSA Bob

Min at 6.37
More than a degree of smugness, more the cat that swallowed the cream. In fairness a still photograph of an action scene can convey the wrong impression but hey, it’s Abbott, since when was he fair?
on January 26, 2012 at 7:35 pm Min

I’m just watching the report on Sky and after being advised that the situation was deteriorating, Julia Gillard’s first response was to enquire about Tony Abbott.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:38 pm BSA Bob

Watching ABC News, no mention at all of Abbott’s remarks, no, a marauding band of protesters chanced upon the event & decided to wreck it. This ABC mob are just about as bad as Murdoch now, worse in the sense that they still retain the image of impartiality & authority.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:40 pm BSA Bob

Certainly no vision of Gillard’s concern for him on ABC.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:56 pm Catching up

“Julia Gillard’s first response was to enquire about Tony Abbott”

Maybe the PM was aware it was probably his fault.

I noticed it was women first.
on January 26, 2012 at 7:57 pm Catching up

It must have irked Mr.Abbott to share the PM’s car.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:01 pm rabbit

Reports are that surgeons successfully removed Abbott’s foot from his mouth, but a rectal examination found a large dog-whistle requiring a complete histeriaectomy. Both dog and whistle are alive and well. Abbott was, unusually, unavailable for comment.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:04 pm Miglo

According to the people who were there, this man is to blame:

http://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-national/aboriginal-activists-demand-abbott-apology-20120126-1qj0v.html
on January 26, 2012 at 8:04 pm jane

Bob, their ABC is worse because they’re bludging on our dollar to run party political broadcasts for the Liars Party.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:06 pm BSA Bob

Jane
Amen
on January 26, 2012 at 8:09 pm BSA Bob

Miglo at 8.04
So the protesters didn’t know Julia was there? That won’t get much of a run.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:13 pm Miglo

Bob, I’d like to see the look on Abbott’s face when he finds out about that. I’m guessing it won’t wear a smirk.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:31 pm Min

Sigh..how very typical. I spotted a comment: “About time JuLiar copped some of her own back.”

I do not understand this attitude at all. Who would wish violence against another person. Certainly we are appalled at Abbott’s smirk and his utterly insensitive comments which border on racial vilification, but I very much doubt that anyone would wish him actual damage – such as these right wing ranters do Gillard.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:34 pm Miglo

Was that via my link, Min?
on January 26, 2012 at 8:35 pm BSA Bob

Menzies House are slow off the mark on this, I suppose they’re working on a line about the protesters not being REAL Australians.
I’m off for an early night. It’s been a big day on this thread, starting with Their ABC pulling an important speech, then exhuming it when they found something to whinge about & finishing with a riot which as far as I’m concerned they selectively reported too. Like morale, opinions can always go lower & I’ve been very disappointed in them today. I’ve not used the “their” ABC before but think I might from now on.
on January 26, 2012 at 8:38 pm BSA Bob

Before I go, just saw Min at 8.31
Can we expect an avalanche of “I’m no fan of Abbott but….”?
on January 26, 2012 at 8:39 pm Min

A Facebook comment Migs. Someone posted a copy of the photo of Julia almost falling, and above was one of the comments.

Even now Abbott will be working out a way how to gain extra political mileage out of this, probably along the lines of it all being ‘her fault’, ‘her failure’…
on January 26, 2012 at 8:40 pm Min

Bob, that’s guaranteed.
on January 26, 2012 at 9:03 pm Catching up

This has to be true. They would not lie, would they. I noticed that he kept behind her on the way out. Ladies first for Mr. Abbott.

While trapped inside the restaurant, the Nine Network recorded Ms Gillard expressing her concern for Mr Abbott’s safety.

“OK, what about Mr Abbott? Where have you got him? We’d better help him through too, hadn’t we?” she told her security guard when he informed her it was not safe to stay much longer.

Meeting up with Ms Gillard, Mr Abbott said he was concerned the glass windows would be smashed and asked when they would leave.

“They’ll let us know. We’ll just pull together,” Ms Gillard reassured him

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-26/gillard-27fine27-after-riot-rescue/3795354
on January 26, 2012 at 9:25 pm Roswell

Was anybody hurt? Was any property damaged?
on January 26, 2012 at 9:42 pm Miglo

Without trying to sound like Andrew Bolt, from the images I’ve seen there were not many black faces amongst them.
on January 26, 2012 at 9:44 pm Pip

Roswell, I think the total damage was one lost ladies blue suede shoe.
on January 26, 2012 at 9:45 pm Pip

Umm, the lady wasn’t lost….
on January 26, 2012 at 9:48 pm Miglo

Did they tread on the blue suede shoe?
on January 26, 2012 at 9:50 pm Pip

Ashghebranious tweeted a link to a great old song, and I really like this verse ..

All the people, of different races.
With different lives, in different places.
It doesn’t matter, which religions.
It’s all the same when the, ship is sinking
on January 26, 2012 at 9:51 pm Pip

Migs, let’s just say it got lost in the shuffle, er.. kerfuffle.
on January 26, 2012 at 9:59 pm Catching up

Roswell all that appear to happen was lot of noise, a little banging on the glass and little contact between demonstrators and police.

I thought that Anderson said the PM should not have been caught up in it. it was Abbott the was in firing line. I Must have been wrong, as it was reported that he said he did not know the PM was there.

It is a shame as Anderson earlier had given a very good interview on the ABC.

The actions of the police seem to leave as lot to be desired. Why was not the car closer to the steps.

The PM said she is happy with the security. I am not so sure I would have been.

I know what it is to be man handled of a serious situation. It does not feel nice. You have no control over how the police handle you. You have no control whatever.

It is said what occurred to day is practise by security.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:02 pm Pip

Just saying, the PM is a kinder gentler soul than I…

I would have left the bugger to find his own way out!
on January 26, 2012 at 10:12 pm jane

rabbit @8.01pm, roflmao!
on January 26, 2012 at 10:13 pm jane

Hear! Hear! Pip.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:17 pm Pip

Ha ha, Jane, thanks for mentioning this one… I missed it.

Trusty rabbit, first with the news

rabbit
Reports are that surgeons successfully removed Abbott’s foot from his mouth, but a rectal examination found a large dog-whistle requiring a complete histeriaectomy. Both dog and whistle are alive and well. Abbott was, unusually, unavailable for comment.
on January 26, 2012 at 10:28 pm Pip

histeriaectomy??
on January 26, 2012 at 11:50 pm Catching up

I question how violent this demonstration was. Good video views.

Shows the PM calm and collected. I live how she said the Mt. Abbott, we will pull together. I am sure she was having a dig.

People, such as myself, who were not involved have to be careful about the judgements made. The footage from Channel Nine is infused with a world view based on violence and separation. Notice how the protesters become scapegoats and stereotypes, and the behavior of the police, which on its face seems extraordinarily inappropriate is not commented upon. The behavior of those who protect the PM just seems bizarre……

……ELSEWHERE:

The BBC report describes the fraca as “absolutely extraordinary scenes in the Australian Capital”. In this report the protesters do not seem to be exceptionally violent, and numbering about 200 people.
…….

http://wmmbb.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/the-image-of-australia-day/.
on January 26, 2012 at 11:59 pm patriciawa

Hi Miglo. I’ve had problems at other wordpress sites having a comment accepted after having my user name and password rejected again and again.

I was initially rejected today when I tried my normal user name – patriciawa.
Then it was clear it had to be a site name following http//:. So I used polliepomes.wordpress.com and bingo!

It was good to see on the preview as it came up that the site then automatically brought up my user name with gravatar.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:09 am Pip

Cu, I can understand the Police reaction, because if the Prime Minister had actually been injured there would have been hell to pay, although as you pointed out earlier, she remained calm.

By tomorrow there will be so much more ‘news’ and opinion to sift through, beginning with Michelle Grattan’s return to her favourite subject, Labor’s primary vote, and a sloppy mish-mash of mind-reading…..her credibility is slipping away.
Even resorted to the tired old phrase from last year -
In 2011 she was described as too wooden in her appearances after the Queensland floods

Clint Eastwood’s performances were described as “wooden” 30 years ago” !

Gillard’s credibility slips away
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/opinion/politics/gillards-credibility-slips-away-20120126-1qjnz.html

So best, she thought, to cut her losses early and retreat to her compromise for a trial of pre-commitment in the ACT.

and
The government is paranoid about losing a vote on legislation in the House.

and

The affair is another indication of the cost of minority government to the PM. Desperate to keep office, she overcommitted to Wilkie and now has under-delivered. Questioned at the National Press Club this week, minister Anthony Albanese said: ”There has been no conscious decision to break promises. We have dealt with the Parliament that we were given.” A cynic might say, at least on gambling: when you saw the hung Parliament, you should have been careful what you promised. But at the time, the one priority was staying in power.

Well Michelle, at that time Tony Abbott was also hell-bent on obtaining power; no mention of negotiating skills here.

*****

I’m going to keep this little paragraph in a safe place for some time….and keep tabs on who does, and who doesn’t, give credit where it’s due to the government.

She has a strong story to tell – not that the government gets much credit – but how things go from here depends substantially on what happens abroad where, as the International Monetary Fund reminded us again this week, there are some scary portents. That promise of a 2012-13 surplus could be in play again.

The rest is just more Craig Thomson “what if”, and more of the same about Kevin Rudd and “the challenge”.

The opinion writers will need therapy to assure them that a hung Parliament is not a bad thing, and to cure them of their obsession with the polls and the next election.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:43 am Catching up

Pip, politics in this country is becoming surreal.

I do not know if we are going to see dirt or complete confusion in th next few weeks from the Opposition and the media.

Menzies House has really gone on the attack over today.

Personally, I believe was a case of police and security mob over reacting. Yes, the Aboriginals got a little excited but nothing more. The police not making any arrests is an indication of this.

As if there has not been enough division today, they are going the full hog.

Their writings point to Mr. Abbott’s comments today being planned, not a brain fart as usual.

“Day of shame shows why we must stop this racial charade

SO THIS is what reconciliation looks like on Australia Day, after so many concessions over so many useless years.

Reconciliation means Prime Minister Julia Gillard being trapped by furious Aboriginal protesters inside a Canberra building yesterday for half an hour.

It means Gillard and guests at the Australia Day function being heckled and abused as racists.

It means Gillard, fear on her face, being monitored and falling in the melee as police rushed her to her car for safety, one shoe lost in the crowd.

It means Opposition Leader Tony Abbott also being bundled into Gillard’s car to protect him from assault.

It means protesters trying to block the car with its terrified occupants.

It means them fighting police and vilely abusing them.

Yet here are some concessions we’ve made to a reconciliation movement that now destroys the cause it preaches.

We’ve allowed a shambolic Aboriginal tent embassy to despoil public space in Canberra for 40 years, when we wouldn’t tolerate a (non-Aboriginal) Occupy Melbourne protest for 40 days.

We’ve formally apologised to stolen generations despite not being able to identify even 10 of the tens of thousands of Aboriginal children said to have been stolen just to breed out the colour.

We’ve held Sorry Days and marched over bridges.

http://www.menzieshouse.com.au/2012/01/day-of-shame-shows-why-we-must-stop-this-racial-charade.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Menzies House%28Menzies+House%29

“
on January 27, 2012 at 2:01 am Catching up

Pip, Mr. Abbott is not desperate to become PM. Anything goes with the man.

I see a PM who is doing the best job she can with a hostile Opposition and media.

I seen no evidence that the PM was scared out of her wits today. How would anyone look if they were bundle up by a couple of hefty men and pulled along, off balance and looking at the gravel coming up to meet your face. I think I would have a similar look on my face.

The PM has delivered on the Poker machines. The PM has done it on her own terms. The same goes for the Clean Energy legislation.

The problem for the media and the Opposition is not that the PM has failed but the fact that she has succeeded.

In the next few weeks the goodies from the CE Bill and the MRRT are coming on line.

People will have more in their pockets. With the economy slowing, it might even help with tthat.

I noticed that the government is now describe as hung. They have given up on a Labor Green coalition.

It is actually a minority government that is given a mandate by the support of one Green and a couple of Independents.

It is a legitimate government in accordance with the Constitution. It functions as the Constitution intended.
on January 27, 2012 at 2:10 am Catching up

<but how things go from here depends substantially on what happens abroad where, as the International Monetary Fund reminded us again this week, there are some scary portents. That promise of a 2012-13 surplus could be in play again."

Falling in with Mr. Hockey scare campaign and effort to talk the economy down. He advise the public and business to start saving so they will be in a better place to meet the economic trouble that are coming.

Wonderful, scare the people into not spending will sure help the country.

I would love to know who Mr. Abbott met during his two days of closed meetings. I am sure the likes of Mr. Bolt and Industry leaders would have been involved.

I cannot help but believe they were plotting the downfall of the government.

The media showed no interest except to say they were occurring.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:00 am Pip

Cu, there’s no doubt at all that Abbott is plotting the downfall of the government, and his latest announcement about turning back the boats and bullying the Indonesians is all a part of his grand plan.

You’re probably right about his mysterious meetings, given that his media mates are in lock-step with him.

I think we can expect his attack dog Mr. Scott Morrison to make regular announcements on the subject as well.

He must know that it won’t work but he’s banking on the idea that he will look like a strong leader….much better than a sissy woman leading us in a calm and thoughtful manner.

The sleazy look he gave behind her back just as the security detail were telling her about the deteriorating situation was worth a thousand words.

I’m off to bed now, ‘night Cu.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:01 am Pip

“It is not defeat that destroys you, being demoralized by defeat is what destroys you

Imran Khan
on January 27, 2012 at 8:05 am Min

Cu @1.43am

It means Gillard, fear on her face..

I guess that if I was being dragged along by Security Guards that I wouldn’t look too thrilled about it either.

Note, no mention of the look of fear on Tony Abbott’s face. From the pic on this topic, the expressions appear to me to be identical.
on January 27, 2012 at 8:51 am 2353

Why is this a Gillard story anyway? The reporting should be Abbott brain snap on Aboriginal Embassy causes PM to be evacuated.

And why didn’t the PM Security Detail throw Abbott to the crowds? It’s interesting that as Sunrise is reporting that some indigenous leaders are now decrying the protest, Abbott’s name is now being linked to it. Of course the two Sunrise “shock jock” clowns are following the party line.
on January 27, 2012 at 10:19 am Tom R

2353 Why is this a Gillard story anyway?

Because gina and rupe won’t allow it to be about yabot

Meanwhile

Gillard and Abbott accused of provoking activists

http://www.news.com.au/national/mob-sinks-slipper-into-nations-day/story-e6frfkvr-1226254820835

Only in ozmedia world could they hunt for the one person they can quote involving the PM in a debacle directly attributed to yabots inability to remove his foot from his mouth. While yabot and his crew can voice their displeasure at having the tents spoil their pretty lawns, to do so at such a time and place just proves yet again how unfit for office he is.

Yet it is all about the PM’s shoe, and her fear, which looks to be more about how she is being man-handled by the ‘security’ officer. Who the hell trained that goose anyway? Randy Savage?
on January 27, 2012 at 10:35 am Min

Tom and 2353,

Gillard and Abbott..

Gillard gave a very inspiring speech on the occasion of Australia Day and yet according to news.com she has somehow “provoked activists”.

Added to Abbott’s gaff is the fact that it was the 40th Anniversay of the Tent Embassy. Poor timing indeed to tell people who have spent decades on this that should all just pack up and go home.
on January 27, 2012 at 11:32 am Pip

This article and the poll take the booby prize.

The Midas touch: what Julia Gillard’s shoes say about her
http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/fashion/the-midas-touch-what-julia-gillards-shoes-say-about-her-20120127-1qkjc.html

It should be noted, however, that the original Midas boutiques which opened in 1976 appeared to fly in the face of Gillard’s party’s commitment to social democracy: they began trading under the name of Snobb.
on January 27, 2012 at 11:37 am Min

Pip..talk about trivia time. The issue is about Tony Abbott’s insensitve remarks resulting in Aboriginal activists seeking him about to protest and the SMH turns it into a story about designer shoes.
on January 27, 2012 at 11:44 am Pip

Abbott tumbles in embassy scrum
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/abbott-tumbles-in-embassy-scrum/2434598.aspx?storypage=0

Tony Abbott’s penchant for the seemingly casual but precisely directed incendiary remark is well known, but rarely has he had to deal directly with the consequences. But blowback was certainly what the Opposition Leader received at an Australia Day ceremony at The Lobby restaurant near Old Parliament House yesterday. Unfortunately, the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, was also caught in the crossfire.

This particular “seemingly casual but precisely directed incendiary remark” highlighted Mr. Abbott’s serious lack of judgement.
on January 27, 2012 at 11:45 am Catching up

A cartoon that sums up the over reaction on all sides yesterday.

http://www.yourdemocracy.net.au/drupal/node/16954
on January 27, 2012 at 12:00 pm Min

Mike Stuchbery has had a really good go at Bolt and his type…

Now every polemicist, every pundit with a copraphilic smirk has a free kick, a b-roll of angry scenes to lash and whip the populace into a frenzy. They don’t care that the outrage has racial overtones, as long as there is outrage. It’s their oxygen. Devine, Akerman, Blair, the entire stable will have a crack.

Andrew Bolt’s first off the blocks. Within hours, he’s had a chest-beating call for an end to the Reconciliation movement published. It’s all about the hate of the Left, and a grasping, agitating core of Indigenous peoples despoiling his national day.

Never mind the 200 odd years of genocide, the disparity in life expectancy, deaths in custody. Aboriginals hate.

That’s his message and it will go to millions.

You just can’t make this crap up.

http://mike-stuchbery.com/2012/01/27/australia-day/
on January 27, 2012 at 12:01 pm Catching up

Mr. Abbott tried his hardest to get the Thompson affair in the limelight this morning on the ABC. No luck on his part.

(It s said that FWA will be releasing negative findings in three days). How does one know this is so?

He told the reporters that questions on his comments yesterday had been answered and move on. They did of course.

He was asked a couple of other questions, which he manage to answer with rescinding the none existent carbon tax.

Oh, he also said that the Opposition means what it says and does what they mean or words to that effect. He also said they are up front.

When the questions did not meet his expectations, once again walked away.

Mr. Abbott gives the impression of being bored when asked questions that doe not meet the theme of what he wants to say.

I had to laugh, I was listening to the first part of this interview on ABC Radio News.

They played what Mr. Abbott had to say and a little of Mr. Pyne. They then transfer back to the news, saying they will come back when Mr. Abbott speaks again.

They added that they believe he would have something to say about yesterday.

The inference being that they had no interest in what he had to say about anything else.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:03 pm Pip

Cu, thanks for the link…. a welcome reason to laugh
on January 27, 2012 at 12:20 pm Catching up

I thought it said all of what occurred yesterday.

The PM told Mr. Abbott that they would pull together. I do not think the PM meant to be the battering ram out in front with Mr. Abbott hiding behind her. That is not pulling together.

It is said that the security men were behind Mr. Abbott, prodding/poking/pushing him along.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:21 pm Pip

Andrew Bolt doesn’t have it all his own way…

Where to go for the worst commentary on Julia and Tony’s big day in Canberra
http://blogs.crikey.com.au/purepoison/2012/01/27/where-to-go-for-the-worst-commentary-on-julia-and-tonys-big-day-in-canberra/

I don’t know that we need to see Mr Abbott looking shitscared. Could we crop him out and focus on the bit where it looks like Ms Gillard desperately clinging to her rescuer?

From the (apparently unintentionally) patronising “Ms Gillard put on a brave face” lines to the embarrassing News Ltd “He’s Australia’s answer to Kevin Costner” rubbish about the bodyguard dragging her, it hasn’t exactly been the media’s finest hour.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:24 pm Pip

Cu, this morning Abbott is back to insisting that the Prime Minister interfere in the Fair Work Australia inquiry into Craig Thomson, while he implies that she has already interfered….
on January 27, 2012 at 12:27 pm Pip

Another excellent appraisal of Bolt’s scuttlebuttage.

ANDREW BOLT, TRANSLATED.
http://mike-stuchbery.com/2012/01/27/andrew-bolt-translated/#more-2122

Since my translations of the fevered pronouncements of various pundits, zealots and chancers have been so popular lately, I thought I’d be remiss if I didn’t have a crack at Andrew Bolt’s blast regarding the Australia Day scuffle in Canberra yesterday. Once again I’ve strapped on the goggles, slipped into my HAZMAT suit and waded into the stewy dung soup that is the pages of the Herald Sun.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:30 pm Min

Stuchbery was certainly on a roll…
on January 27, 2012 at 12:30 pm Miglo

Damn, I thought Bolt was still on leave.

Time to get out some of those brown paper bags they keep in the pocket of airplane seats.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:44 pm Catching up

Ten news this morning. There appears that there are more than Mr. Thompson being investigated.

Ms. Jackson did not even know she was being investigated.

Some might even see Mr. Thompson actions as attempting to clean up the union.

There have been allegations of problems before, during and after Mr. Thompson’s reign.

Mr. Abbott was once again crying crocodile tears for members of the union.

I am sure most of these members know there much more wrong than the actions of Mr. Thompson

.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:49 pm Catching up

Have I missed the outcry from the members of the union that Mr. Thompson once headed calling for his blood.

I must have miss the headlines.
on January 27, 2012 at 12:58 pm Pip

Wow, shock jock Ray Hadley, not known for his ‘fair and balanced’ attitude has
“received information” that looks very much like a plot from his dirty tricks manual. Anything goes to defend his mate Tony.
Anonymity guaranteed.

Reports the Prime Minister’s office encouraged protesters to target Tony Abbott over tent embassy

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/reports-the-prime-ministers-office-encouraged-protesters-to-target-tony-abbott-over-tent-embassy/story-fn59niix-1226255195987

Sydney radio presenter Ray Hadley today said he’d received information that Ms Shaw or another protester had received a call from a Gillard staffer about comments Mr Abbott made earlier in the day about the tent embassy.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:10 pm Pip

Isn’t it odd that two genuine news items this week have been scuttled by the media.

The first being the speech given by Minister Anthony Albanese, the contents of which remain a mystery to the average punter who relies on main stream media for information,

The second, an account of the medal presentation to emergency services personnel by the Prime Minister and Tony Abbott.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:18 pm Min

Pip, and that’s how they do it, how to turn a matter of procedure into “an event”. Let’s do a rewind on that one.

Sydney radio presenter Ray Hadley today said he’d received information that Ms Shaw or another protester had received a call from a Gillard staffer about comments Mr Abbott made earlier in the day about the tent embassy.

Other interpretation: Ms. Gillard’s office alerted the PM to comments made by Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott.

Somehow, and quite amazingly this is the Prime Minister’s office encouraging protestors.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:22 pm Pip

Min, it will grow legs within the hour !
on January 27, 2012 at 1:27 pm Pip

Cu, i don’t think you’ve missed anything at all, how could we miss the twisty hints being offered in the media.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:46 pm Pip

ABC boss in frame for top BBC job
http://www.smh.com.au/business/abc-boss-in-frame-for-top-bbc-job-20120127-1qkgt.html

Australian Broadcasting Corporation chief Mark Scott has emerged as a potential contender for the top job at the British Broadcasting Corporation, according to a report.

The Guardian newspaper named Mr Scott as a possible replacement for BBC’s director general Mark Thompson. Mr Thompson has signalled his intention to step down from the role, possibly as early as this year.

Perhaps they are impressed with the way he has transformed “our” ABC into
Murdoch lite.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:49 pm Tom R

From your link to Stutchberry Pip

waded into the stewy dung soup that is the pages of the Herald Sun.

A fairly concise description there imo

Also, how can a piece of gossip from a shock jock with a history of dubious callers make it to the top of stories in a national broadsheet? Perhaps they journos should stick to shoe stories.
on January 27, 2012 at 1:50 pm Pip

Hi Tom, perhaps the journos should have a good look at what they do for a living.
on January 27, 2012 at 2:26 pm Roswell

Pip, I think they’re quite comfortable with what they do for a living. They are encouraged to, and they enjoy, writing crap.
on January 27, 2012 at 2:33 pm Min

So we have…

One of the protesters repeated Tony Abbott’s inference about the Tent Embassy which caused a group of people to go to the restaurant.

Why would Ray Hadley believe that this needed a tip off, after all Tony Abbott’s statement plus the awards ceremony which the PM and Abbott were attending, were all in the media.

it was interrupted by about 200 people who had been nearby..

So, it’s nearby..would it require ‘a tip off’ to know that the PM and Abbott were there?

An announcement by protester Barbara Shaw that Mr Abbott wanted the tent embassy removed sparked a near riot, forcing Ms Gillard and the Opposition leader to flee a Canberra restaurant.

Sydney radio presenter Ray Hadley today said he’d received information that Ms Shaw or another protester had received a call from a Gillard staffer about comments Mr Abbott made earlier in the day about the tent embassy.
on January 27, 2012 at 2:50 pm Pip

Min, “So, it’s nearby..would it require ‘a tip off’ to know that the PM and Abbott were there?”

Short answer …. no ….

ltd news is running this across their various sites – the story did grow legs …
no need to give any of them a click
on January 27, 2012 at 2:56 pm Tom R

People do what trucks of in-consequence couldn’t

Activists from the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra have blocked one of the city’s main thoroughfares and are marching on Parliament House.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-27/protesters-march-on-parliament-house/3796988

tabot wanted it, tabot got it. Just not how he expected it.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:00 pm Min

I note that some of the right are tut-tutting about those naughty Aboriginal Activists.

Look what you’ve done, they bleat, you have set the cause back a decade or more!

How ironic. Tony Abbott can stand in front of a crowd saying Ditch the Witch. We can listen to suggestions that the PM should be assassinated and all over a carbon tax…which of course (at least to me) is nothing compared with the problems faced by many Aboriginal communities.

This reminds me the American civil rights movement. Black Americans were always expected to turn the other cheek, to never ever retaliate, to be grateful for every small concession white America chose to donate. The inference is that there are two sets of rules, one for the white population and one for everyone else.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:01 pm Min

Pip, thank you..definitely no clicks required to know how some are going to play the story.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:05 pm Min

Basically, I think..and yes this is just speculation on my part..that the PM’s security did a bit of a panic. I am certain that in the future events will not be held in a building with open glass windows.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:08 pm Roswell

I’ve notices too Min that the right have gone feral. Those Aborigines are so naughty. They should listen to those white people who know what’s best for them.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:09 pm Roswell

Noticed, not notices.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:13 pm Roswell

I’m not an Aborigine and I wasn’t within a million miles of tent embassy but if I were to wear the shoes of either, I can only guess that I would have been disappointed in what Abbott said.

I’m not blaming him for anything other than another brain fart. Another Obama moment.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:17 pm Tom R

I am certain that in the future events will not be held in a building with open glass windows.

That would truly be a shame

Perhaps, in future, we could get politicians whose entire political tactic is to insite and inflame.

tabot wanted this shit, he SHOULD be happy.

And yes, apparently, the anti-carbon tax was just concerned citizens (shipped in by shock jocks.

This is apparently ‘activists’
on January 27, 2012 at 3:17 pm Pip

Min, I missed your earlier link to Mike Stuchbery but it was worth repeating
on January 27, 2012 at 3:21 pm Pip

Tom, from my link @ 11.44am, ries in with your comment about political tactics.

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/abbott-tumbles-in-embassy-scrum/2434598.aspx?storypage=0

Tony Abbott’s penchant for the seemingly casual but precisely directed incendiary remark is well known, but rarely has he had to deal directly with the consequences.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:23 pm Tom R

He doesn’t have to deal with the consequences here either Pip

Our valued journos have already turned it around onto an attack on Labor. Poor old tabot is being victimised.
on January 27, 2012 at 3:45 pm Miglo

Roswell, you are too rational.
on January 27, 2012 at 4:33 pm Pip

ltd news just gets sillier.

Would they ever consider writing a piece about Abbott’s judgement, and whether he has a

penchant for the seemingly casual but precisely directed incendiary remark

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/abbott-tumbles-in-embassy-scrum/2434598.aspx?storypage=0

NO, this is the best they can do…

Cue Whitney Houston: Here’s Julia Gillard’s bodyguard

By Simon Benson, Ian McPhedran and Owen Vaughan
From: news.com.au, The Daily Telegraph
January 27, 2012 8:31AM

Pics of bodyguard and PM a worldwide sensation

He’s the new Heath, so will Hollywood come calling?

AFP haven’t revealed his name yet

“Our saying is to run and hide not to stand and fight”

They’re still rolling around laughing at their own jokes.
on January 27, 2012 at 4:43 pm Catching up

We spent hours talking about Mr. Abbott’s statement from the minute he made it.

Maybe the embassy found out the same way,

I believe women would had I Pads and Smart phones as well as access to radios and TVs, just as we do. Some might even blog.

They might even have been looking at the interviews of their mates, that were happening at the same time..
on January 27, 2012 at 4:56 pm Min

Cu, re “maybe the embassy found out the same way.” Currently there is no reason to suspect that there is any truth to the rumour, specially given that the sole source of information appears to be shock jock Ray Hadley.

So far this is nothing more than standard shock jock fare, get your name in the papers by saying something controversial.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:05 pm Catching up

We are being told that there is another angry protest outside Parliamet House.

Except for one shot of burning the flag, it appears to be veru quiet and orderly.

Maybe we are all as Jarl says, blind. I nust be, as I cannot see wehat they do.

They were welcome with a heavy police present, including dogs.

…….Indigenous leaders condemn ‘disgraceful’ protesters” is how the ABC has been describing it and much of the Fairfax press has carried similar stories. The television networks have, of course, reveled in the dramatic footage. Channel 9’s news report from last night, which carried the inside-the-restaurant footage of the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader conferring on whether to evacuate, repeatedly framed the protest in emotive terms like “violent”, “raging”, “angry mob”, under siege” and so on.

Few media outlets seem to have asked whether there was in fact any violence from protesters. The available video and eyewitness evidence suggests that the violence came mainly from police and security staff. Yes, there was chanting, Yes, there was banging on the windows of local restaurant The Lobby.

But were the protesters really “violent”? What exactly would this “violence” have consisted of?

Police have laid no charges. No-one appears to have been hurt through the actions of protesters. The available footage, particularly from Channel 9, which can be seen here on the 3AW site, shows no violence from protesters. What it shows is confusion and panic from police and security, protestors milling about shouting, and rough handling of protesters by police. …………..

……. New Matilda has spoken to one protester who attended yesterday’s march to the tent embassy, Jennifer Killen, a high school teacher from Sydney. “I got up early yesterday and went to the ANU at 9am for the start of the march,” she said. “There were a couple of police on bikes either looking amused or bored, it was well marshalled. We walked over to parliament and back to the embassy. The camp kitchen was feeding everyone. I met people aged three to 80. It was a family occasion.”

“There were — at a guess — around 2000 people on the big march. Why was that all ignored? The Sydney Morning Herald headline was ‘Australia day turns ugly’, but I saw a peaceful march by people who had been neglected for generations.”
………….

http://newmatilda.com/2012/01/27/mob-violence-wasnt
on January 27, 2012 at 5:11 pm Catching up

PS. I noticed they burnt the flag on top of a pile of gum leaves. Maybe they were cleansing the flag.

The symbolism is I suspect that they are burning what they see as a false flag, that does not represent them as the sovereign nation.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:15 pm Catching up

FWA has released a statement. Due on the fifth of March.

Letters have been sent out to at a few people last year

Three have been given extensions.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:23 pm Min

Federal police to investigate.

I would suggest that any incident involving the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition would necessitate a federal police investigation.

Also from the link below is:

Mr Outram described yesterday’s protest as “opportunistic” involving about 50 people from the Aboriginal tent embassy.

It seems that we have gone from 200 people to 50.

http://www.news.com.au/national/mob-sinks-slipper-into-nations-day/story-e6frfkvr-1226255412805
on January 27, 2012 at 5:30 pm Pip

Min, I think it went from 100 to 200 then back to 50
on January 27, 2012 at 5:38 pm Min

And they are STILL going on and on about Julia’s shoe. How dare the Prime Minister wear quality shoes..perhaps she should dress in flatties from BigW.

Actually Midas for a quality shoe isn’t all that expensive..I spotted a nice beige suede strappy number I wouldn’t mind myself.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:41 pm Miglo

And how many of that number were non-Aboriginals? The media and others are going on about the behavior of the crowd, expressing outrage that this is how Aborigines behave.

Err, no. They don’t.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:46 pm Pip

Min, not that I would know but daughter says Midas is middle of the road.

However, Midas used to be Snobb; how dare the ‘socialist’ PM buy such a brand…
on January 27, 2012 at 5:48 pm Min

Migs, that seems to be the way that the game is played.

When it’s anything remotely positive then it’s straight out of the Andrew Bolt book of rules, the person cannot possibly be a ‘real’ Aboriginal.

Negative, whether the people are indeed Aboriginal or white activist supporters..then as you observed they all must be Aboriginals because of their behaviour.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:51 pm Min

Pip, your daughter is right. Good quality but certainly not completely over the top, about $100 for sandals and $150 for heels.
on January 27, 2012 at 5:57 pm Pip

Miglo, some were Occupy Melbourne crew.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:05 pm Pip

Gawd Min, is THAT middle of the road >
on January 27, 2012 at 6:05 pm Roswell

I’m more than pleased that a large number of non-aboriginal people attended the anniversary of the tent embassy. It shows that many people from mainstream Australia are interested in the issues. To say that this is typical behaviour of aborigines is so ignorant.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:08 pm Pip

Mr. Denmore wasn’t impressed either…
http://thefailedestate.blogspot.com/2012/01/frame-game.html

My philosophy when I suspect a beat-up is to ignore the Australian media’s version altogether and see how the global wires treat the story.
Correspondents who work for the like of Reuters and AP know a riot when they see one and their seen-it-all-subs often have a perspective lacking locally.

Their headline on the story: “Aussie PM Loses Shoe in Protest Fracas”. Quite.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:09 pm Min

Pip, I love these lines from Mr. Denmore..

But then: “Extraordinary scenes in Canberra today as an angry and violent mob forced the emergency evacuation of the prime minister and opposition leader from an official function…” Hubba Hubba. “Running the gauntlet of baying protesters, federal police bundled a clearly terrified prime minister into a waiting car.” Oh, journalistic joy: ‘Anger, violence, gauntlets, terror’ – don’t get to use those words covering Senate Estimates. And for a Canberra cameraman – the novelty of spontaneous and unrehearsed speed, movement, colour and emotion was mana from heaven. Who can blame them for beating it up?
on January 27, 2012 at 6:14 pm Pip

Roswell, it’s not only ignorant but nasty too.

Menzies House are backing up their last years’ support for Andrew Blot with a petition to close down the Tent embassy.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:21 pm Pip

A tweeter commented that :-

Footage shows PM Gillard to be genuine human being with regard for others. Media in overdrive to correct this dangerous perception
on January 27, 2012 at 6:25 pm Min

Pip, yes it is..a pair of Gucci heels would set you back over $500.00.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:33 pm Pip

Min, it’s been a while since….
on January 27, 2012 at 6:44 pm Roswell

Min, so many people make generalisations. I once attended a rally in Sydney in support of gay marriage. I’m not gay.

I also once marched in Adelaide in support of an aboriginal cause. I’m not aboriginal.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:50 pm Pip

Julia Gillard staffer forced to quit over protest
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/mob-sinks-slipper-into-nations-day/story-fn7x8me2-1226254728520

In a statement tonight, a spokesperson for Ms Gillard said: “…. a member of the Prime Minister’s media unit did call another individual yesterday and disclosed the presence of the Opposition Leader at the Lobby restaurant. This information was subsequently passed on to a member of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

“During that discussion, the staff member did not in any way suggest or encourage violence or demonstration.

“Nevertheless, given the circumstances of yesterday’s function at the Lobby Restaurant, this action was an error of judgement. As such, the staff member’s resignation has been accepted.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:52 pm Pip

I won a second-hand game of snakes and ladders in grade 4 for being the best ‘marcher’ in the school.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:53 pm Min

Roswell, and I once marched in an anti-Vietnam War protest and I had no one in the Army at that time.
on January 27, 2012 at 6:54 pm Min

Pip, well there goes my theory. For once in a blue moon a shock jock got it right. I see that the PM has dealt with the matter promptly.
on January 27, 2012 at 7:10 pm Pip

The ex-staffer is named Tony Hodges…..do you think the meeja will be
chasing him now.
on January 27, 2012 at 7:47 pm Catching up

Pip, Mr Abbott might not have meant this outcome but his supporters are milking it to the hilt.

A little truth goes a long way. It would if that is what we found.

“Menzies House, a non-partisan online activist community, today launched an online campaign calling on the Federal Government to shut down the Aboriginal Tent Embassy. The campaign ‘

http://www.menzieshouse.com.au/2012/01/media-release-online-campaign-launched-to-close-tent-embassy-menzies-house-a-non-partisan-online-activist-community-today.html
on January 27, 2012 at 7:55 pm Min

Cu, nicely summarised..a small dairy herd by the time that they’ve finished with it.
on January 27, 2012 at 7:55 pm Catching up

Min, the ABC started off with 500. Maybe the police have a problem with the red head in dark glasses. It the pictures tell the truth, he will be have to be dealt with. He did let go with I believe, a number of right jabs.
on January 27, 2012 at 7:57 pm Min

At least the alternative media are coming out strongly to put forward differences of opinion from that of the MSM…

The most insidious claim in all the media reporting and comments from politicians is that the protesters are an ungrateful “mob” who don’t really have much to complain about anyway. This is what was so offensive about Abbott’s comments that “I think a lot has changed for the better since then… I think its probably time to move on from that”. And its the line the government and the media have been pushing ever since Rudd’s fake apology.

40 years on – if you’re not angry, get your head checked

The reality is that the situation for Aboriginal people in Australia is as dire as ever, with no real improvement in the 40 years since the Tent Embassy was first established in 1972. Racist measures like the Northern Territory Intervention are making things worse.

http://sa.org.au/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=7201%3Amedia-paints-black-as-white-and-might-as-right-at-tent-embassy&Itemid=454
on January 27, 2012 at 8:02 pm Bacchus

LOL – a non-partisan At the top of their web page, it says “Australia’s leading online community for conservative, centre-right and libertarian thinkers.”

Current campaigns include, “Support Bolt”, “Stop Gillard’s Carbon Tax”, and “Close the TentEmbassy”

They’re about as non-partisan as the Liberal Party of Australia
on January 27, 2012 at 8:09 pm Min

I just remembered..knew that there was something about Tony Abbott and The Apology.

In Tony Abbott’s speech he stated that the best thing that Kevin Rudd ever did was his apology to the stolen generations. But wasn’t it Abbott, who although he did attend, was one of the ones who refused to join in with the applause.
on January 27, 2012 at 8:16 pm Pip

Bacchus, the non-partisan Menzies House was founded by non other than the extreme right-wing Senator Bernardi.

They must be joking…
on January 27, 2012 at 8:36 pm Catching up

I think the shock jock got it half right.

However, a spokesperson said that accusation was false and that the person did not directly contact tent embassy organisers.

‘A member of the Prime Minister’s media unit did call another individual yesterday and disclosed the presence of the Opposition Leader at the Lobby restaurant,’ the spokesperson said in a statement.

‘This information was subsequently passed onto a member of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

‘During that discussion, the staff member did not in any way suggest or encourage violence or demonstration.

‘Nevertheless, given the circumstances of yesterday’s function at the Lobby Restaurant, this action was an error of judgement.’

Mr Hadley earlier on Friday told listeners he had information a member of Ms Gillard’s staff contacted tent embassy representative Barbara Shaw to tell her what Mr Abbott said earlier on Thursday about the site.

http://bigpondnews.com/articles/TopStories/2012/01/27/PM_staffer_resigns_after_passing_on_info_712056.html
on January 27, 2012 at 9:22 pm Min

What we have here is that Fair Work Australia has completed it’s investigation and that Craig Thomson has 4 weeks to respond.

Julia Gillard has responded appropriately:

“They are independent of us. The investigation is in progress and it should conclude.”

However, these “insignificant details” do not stop Tony Abbott from yet another of his ‘demands’..

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said the length of time it had taken to investigate the matter was “scandalous” and the report should be released.

“But this is not just an issue for Fair Work Australia,” he said.

How pray tell does Tony Abbott know that this isn’t “just an issue for Fair Work Australa” when he does not have a clue what the report might contain.

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/watchdog-seeks-thomson-comments-by-march-20120127-1qk35.html
on January 27, 2012 at 9:37 pm Catching up

The Project has pointed out that Mr.Abbott was right behind the PM on them steps where she lost the shoe. One could be forgiven for thinking Mr. Abbott gave her a shove. He was close enough to catch the heel of her shoe.

They really lay it in to Mr. Abbott.

They showed him in a library. Someone said that this is groups work. Mr. Abbott’s reply was he always likes group work as long as someone else does the work

For once I believe he told the truth.

.
The PM is on her feet for hours and has to look good.

Buying cheap shoes would not meet this need.

I notice the shoe looked comfortable and strong wearing. Nothing fancy about it.
on January 27, 2012 at 9:53 pm Min

A very interesting post via John Passant aka En Passant,

http://enpassant.com.au/?p=12156
on January 27, 2012 at 10:22 pm Pip

Min, if Fairfax have access to the statement from FWA, then the Coalition could have the same information, which is that the report is not ready for release, and the three being investigated have until 5th March to respond.

Fairfax reported that the findings “are adverse”. is this normal procedure, to
announce such information ahead of an official report being released?
on January 27, 2012 at 10:40 pm Min

Pip, the term adverse would indicate that Fair Work Australia believes that there are questions which they believe Craig Thompson should be required to answer, however it’s not a conviction.

I’m not completely 100% about the workings of FWA, however I should imagine that if this had been a criminal matter it would be equivalent to charges being laid.
on January 27, 2012 at 10:40 pm Pip

Manager of Opposition Business Christopher Pyne appears to be
hinting that he has his own conspiracy theory.
Not only that but he believes that Labor are trying to tear down Tony Abbott.

Pots and kettles Christopher.

PM’s staffer resigns after passing on info
http://news.brisbanetimes.com.au/breaking-news-national/pms-staffer-resigns-after-passing-on-info-20120127-1qlpn.html

“The prime minister should immediately initiate an Australian Federal Police (AFP) inquiry into who the schedule was released to, and for what purpose, and into whoever was involved in the decision to breach the leader of opposition’s security,” Mr Pyne told AAP.

“The opposition finds it remarkable that the staffer would have acted unilaterally and we believe the prime minister needs to do more than simply scapegoat one staffer.”

Mr Pyne said the action also showed the Labor party was obsessed with Mr Abbott.

“What this shows is the government has no ideas worthy to put before the Australian people and it is obsessed in tearing down Tony Abbott,” he said.
on January 27, 2012 at 10:47 pm Pip

Min, thanks for that….where is Senator Brandis to keep us up to date
on the legals ??

He’s been remarkably quiet..for him….
on January 28, 2012 at 1:14 am Bacchus

The maximum penalty for a breach under the Fair Work legislation is a $2200 fine. But allegations of criminal offences can be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Inquiry finds against Thomson

So if an adverse finding from FWA is all that’s found, it won’t be enough for the Liberals to get rid of Mr Thompson. If it’s referred to the DPP, they’d have to investigate, decide whether to lay charges, & if it’s decided to proceed – lay charges, get a hearing date, proceed to trial & if found guilty, sentence Mr Thompson. (By this time it’s about 2015 and everyone’s lost interest because it doesn’t matter to the barrackers any more)…
on January 28, 2012 at 7:28 am Catching up

Mr. Pyne could just be right. That is that the government has no love for Mr. Abbott.

It is politics we are talking about.

Surely Mr. Pyne is not saying that Mr. Abbott should be in a criticism free zone.

Is Mr. Pyne under the illusion that Mr. Abbott is above scrutiny.

Whether Labor is obsessed with tearing down Mr. Abbott is another thing. Personally I would like to see him stay where he is.

The Labor government does seem to be dong many more things than attacking Mr.Abbott.

As for a police investigation, when was it a crime to repeat something that was in the news to someone, who then spoke to someone at the embassy.

Are we now responsible for what other people do with what we say to them.

As for tearing him down, he will do a good job of that himself.

Mr. Pyne does certainly gets upset when criticism is aimed at the Opposition leader. One has only to watch his sanctimonious reactions in Parliament.

As for Mr. Thompson, adverse findings can mean anything from a serious crime. having bad structures in place, or being just plain careless in the role..

There is a lot of water to flow under the bridge before Mr. Thompson delivers to the Opposition what they want. That is if he is guilty of any crime.

I cannot imagine anyone being squeaky clean after under going the extreme scrutiny this man has. No one is perfect.

Does Australia and business need unnecessary political disruptions at this time in the political and economy cycle.

Maybe stability is more important, especially when Mr.Abbott promises so much change. Change back to the past.

There will be another election, come what may in about 18 months or more. Why cannot Mr. Abbott wait, like any other Opposition leader.
on January 28, 2012 at 8:03 am Min

Bacchus and..

If it’s referred to the DPP, they’d have to investigate, decide whether to lay charges, & if it’s decided to proceed – lay charges, get a hearing date, proceed to trial & if found guilty, sentence Mr Thompson. (By this time it’s about 2015 and everyone’s lost interest because it doesn’t matter to the barrackers any more)…

Plus what charges are laid must carry a penalty of a minimum of 12 months imprisonment. Mostly, and this is just in ‘normal circumstances’, the DPP would be reluctant to press for a prosecution for a crime which carries with is a prison sentence where the crime is of a non-violent nature.
on January 28, 2012 at 8:41 am Min

Regarding Tony Abbott’s suggestion that the Tent Embassy be removed, it being past it’s use-by date. Here is a little piece of history:

In 1995 the site of the Tent Embassy was added to the Australian Register of the National Estate as the only Aboriginal site in Australia that is recognised nationally as a site representing political struggle for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

Hence it’s importance symbolically. And if Tony Abbott didn’t know this given his so-called concern for the Aboriginal people, then he is indeed an ignorant and arrogant pr*ck.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:32 am Tom R

But tabot reckons that’s not what he said Min, even his newspapers are spinning this line. Unfortunately, he had them fooled earlier

Time for tent embassy to fold, says Tony Abbott

http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/time-for-tent-embassy-to-fold-says-tony-abbott/story-e6frfku0-1226254319517

Even more unfortunately for the Government, their media advisors really seem to be kindergarten qualified. This has turned completely and irrevocably back onto Labor now. And it is all their own doing. Why not just leave it be, and let tabots words do their own damage?

Although, in reality, advising people of publicly nominated events isn’t really a shattering thing to do, the perception, and more than likely the intent, is a pretty despicable thing to do.

Nice own goal fellas It really looks like they are steering the most unelectable individual into the office.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:03 am Miglo

I can only agree with you, Tom. The media advisers to the Government are complete amateurs. There isn’t much they don’t completely stuff up.

They’re worse than Neil Craig. No Plan B.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:09 am Tom R

They’re worse than Neil Craig

Primus?

btw, I see you are posting elsewhere again …. apparently
on January 28, 2012 at 11:11 am Tom R

But re the advisors, I think they have probably done as much, if not more, damage than the media themsleves.

With both of htese actively working against the Government, what is most surprising is that the polls aren’t worst.

Although, after this little escapade, they will most probably deteriorate again.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:37 am Miglo

I’m only posting here, Tom. Is someone imitating me elsewhere?
on January 28, 2012 at 12:03 pm Miglo

I wouldn’t be surprised though.
on January 28, 2012 at 12:05 pm Tom R

Is someone imitating me elsewhere?

I think it is actually more a case of something else
on January 28, 2012 at 12:17 pm Catching up

We better be careful. We also reported what Mr. Abbott said, maybe someone who read it here, told the embassy.

Under the rationalisation going on now, that could be interpreted as inciting a riot.

Problem is that I did not see much evidence of a riot.

What was the intention of Mr. Abbott’s remark. At the very least he was sitting on the fence as usual. His statement was deliberately ambiguous, in the fact that other meanings could have been read into it.

All that many was doing, was interpreting the statement in the same manner as everything the PM says. Not the literal words but what we believe they meant.

Maybe it is true that the people in the so called riot only wanted Mr. Abbott to tell them to their face what he meant.

The junior officer in the PM’s press unit was naive but was his intent to incite a riot. One thing for sure, the PM needs to look at this unit, along with the security men that panic and unnecessarily dragged the PM along in such a undignified manner. Did Mr. Abbott stand on her heel, causing her to lose her shoe. He was definitely close behind her at the time, dropping back as soon as they were on flat ground.

Was the man working or was he talking to a friend. Did he asked the person to tell the embassy to go and attack Mr. Abbott. Did he incite a riot. Is the matter worth the beat up it is now getting?

What it has done is allow the media to divert their attention from the words of Mr. Abbott and the embassy’s reaction to them, with the assistance of Mr. Bolt and Menzies House to spread their hate.

One fact is that the whole of he country knew immediately what Mr. Abbott said.

The event at the cafe was announced. Anyone walking past could have seen Mr. Abbott there.

It was an event that one would expect Mr. Abbott to attend.

What could have the PM done to prevent what happened.

The big fact is all involved appeared to have panicked.
on January 28, 2012 at 12:22 pm Tom R

What was the intention of Mr. Abbott’s remark.

well, according to ltdnews, as shown above, the meaning was quite clear.

Up until the point when the shit hit the proverbial.

Then of course, they were misconstrued to mean what they had reported it as saying.

murdoch = Histories airbrush
on January 28, 2012 at 12:38 pm Roswell

“Murdoch – history’s airbrush”

That was gold.
on January 28, 2012 at 1:37 pm Min

Re What was the intention of Mr. Abbott’s remark.

This is the interpretation from the Courier Mail, not exactly a left leaning rag..

Mr Abbott yesterday said Aboriginal rights had improved in Australia in the past 40 years and “it is probably time to move on from that”.

Therefore although Tony Abbott did not specifically suggest that the tent embassy be removed, to suggest that it had become irrelevant on it’s 40th Anniversary was bound to cause a reaction.

So did Tony Abbott mean to cause the reaction or was it just another Prince Philip/Reagan-esque brain fart.

Either which way..Tony for Prime Minister?

And another one from the same link:

One man wielded a spear while others brandished sticks and rocks.

So the PM’s security over-reacted?

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/national/julia-gillard-tony-abbott-trapped-in-canberra-restaurant-amid-rowdy-australia-day-protests/story-e6freooo-1226254425146
on January 28, 2012 at 1:44 pm Pip

Senator Bernardi’s apostles at Menzies House have their petition up and running…more or less..

closethetentembassydotcom banner reads
CLOSE THE TENT EMBASSY
Sign our petition to Close the Racist and Divisive Aboriginal Tent Embassy

{Hello pots, meet kettle}

Update: Due to Google removing our original petition, we have lost all signatures prior to 28 Jan 12:30am Sydney Time. If you have signed prior to this time, please do so again. We apologies for the inconvenience.

This is what the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra has resulted in.

A brutal attack on the Prime Minister of Australia and the Leader of the Opposition.

There can be no doubt that today’s Aboriginal Tent Embassy is an illegal symbol of racism, and division. One which is trying to create two Australias, and demand that people be treated not on the basis of their character, but by the colour of their skin.
on January 28, 2012 at 1:46 pm Catching up

Min, did you see the video of the man with the spear being punched by the redhead copper. .

The spear was not used in any way as threatening. There was another of a man with a spear, also no threat,

The spears were I believe were a part of a dance.
on January 28, 2012 at 1:48 pm BSA Bob

My initial thoughts are that this is very, very bad news folks. I think the attack on Gillard will be as comprehensive & carefully crafted as was the defence of Abbott. The notion of deliberately ruining Australia day through an appeal to racism will be pushed & pushed. A media quite happy to let Abbott take his time in responding, a media who assured us that his comments were pretty bland really, are now using words such as “sparked”, “incite” in relation to the staffer.
I also think this may become one of the great beatups of our time. Someone told someone else that Tony Abbott would be somewhere? Dear me. It was classified information?, an industry that lives on digging under classified information gets worked up over that?. As for the supposed misinformation the staffer gave, well perhaps. Will he be given the same right to explain that he didn’t really mean anything nasty at all as Abbott was given?
As for Abbott’s statement, I agree with those who pointed out that it was designed to tell people what they wanted to hear. Actually I have a personal beef with the term “move on” as it’s usually uttered as a suggestion by those who’ve successfully moved in. On hearing it I thought it was condescending, threatening even.
But there’s no getting around the fact that this is very, very bad. How utterly despair making that a party that’s relied on jingoism for so long (& will certainly do so as it pushes this) & racism (& will again as soon as it’s convenient) should profit from this episode.
on January 28, 2012 at 1:55 pm Roswell

Brilliantly said Bob.
on January 28, 2012 at 1:57 pm Roswell

Pip, that Bernardi fellow sounds like a nasty piece of work. He seems to thrive on lying too.
on January 28, 2012 at 2:00 pm Pip

BSA Bob,the Herald Sun is happy to help..

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/breaking-news/security-breach-pm-must-detail-what-adviser-said-abbott/story-e6frf7jx-1226255999213

Mr Abbott said Ms Gillard needed to face the cameras.

“What did he say precisely? To whom did he say it precisely? Why did he say it precisely? And what instructions was he under precisely?” Mr Abbott told Sky News today.

“I mean this is too important for the PM and her office to just spin it away.

“I’m sure there are decent people in the Prime Minister’s office, but it looks like a pretty grubby business.”

That last sentence is a classic two bob each way Tonyism.

“In part at least, it seems that a member of the Prime Minister’s senior staff was trying to trigger something potentially dire for political advantage,” he said

Of course, Mr. Abbott and company would know nothing about such tactics.
on January 28, 2012 at 2:10 pm Pip

Roswell, “piece of work” doesn’t really show his true colours.
on January 28, 2012 at 2:19 pm Min

Cu @1.46pm it doesn’t matter whether the ‘weapon’, a spear was there for ceremonial purposes, the fact is that is was there and so the PM’s body guards must, for security reasons, have to assume that the item would have the potential to be used in an act of aggression.

I believe that the body guards (just a personal opinion) acted in a clumsy manner which embarrassed all.
on January 28, 2012 at 2:22 pm Pip

Watching an interview with Aboriginal spokesperson Barbara Shaw on ABC24 and an interseting white van appeared in the background….

Call me suspicious, say I’ve seen too many cop shows, but it looked for all the world like a surveillance van with the driver watching intently.

Suddenly the camera shortened it’s angle and the van drove off …..
on January 28, 2012 at 2:32 pm Catching up

What do we know? Well one thing is thsat it is not good for the PM.

Why should this be so?

There is no evidence that the PM set up the riot as is being inferred.

…….. And suddenly – incredibly – Abbott was the victim. It was a conspiracy within the government! Abbott was set up! The media unit incited a riot to get at Abbott, and it backfired …..

………………..Right now, the news services are reporting that Hodges mentioned Abbott’s location to Kim Sattler, the Secretary of UnionsACT, who passed it on to Barbara Shaw. It doesn’t take a genius to see how the Coalition will use this information, given their persistent stereotyping of union leaders as Labor ‘lackeys’ and ‘thugs’. It’s certainly helped along by the media description of Sattler as a ‘national Labor figure’ and ‘well-connected’. Never mind that Sattler denies saying anything to Shaw.

But let’s back up a bit. What we know is that a junior media staffer admitted he mentioned Abbott’s location to someone, who passed it on to Shaw – and that somewhere along the line the message was distorted to include a false quote about tearing down the Tent Embassy. What we know is that protesters at the Tent Embassy, hearing that distorted message, surrounded the Lobby restaurant, engaged in intimidation and violent tactics, pushed against police lines. What we know is that the Prime Minister’s security detail judged the situation to be unsafe, removed Gillard and escorted Abbott out at her request.

The rest is supposition and spin……………

….. Keep that in mind over the next few days, as Abbott pulls the victim’s mantle over himself, Pyne thunders self-righteous condemnation, and Gillard is pursued by media who are apparently more interested in rumour than reporting.

Because ultimately, that’s what this Australia Day was all about – a Prime Minister forced to flee on the advice of trained security professionals with protesters in pursuit ….

http://consciencevote.wordpress.com/2012/01/28/shameful-australia-day-shouldnt-be-obscured-by-spin/#comments

………
on January 28, 2012 at 2:43 pm BSA Bob

Catching Up
That’s a good link. Ta.
on January 28, 2012 at 2:48 pm Pip

Opposition wants probe into Gillard adviser leak
http://www.abc.net.au/am/content/2012/s3417574.htm

CHRIS PYNE: People need to know who was informed and why they were informed and who else in the Prime Minister’s office had any involvement in the release of the Leader of the Opposition’s schedule.

MICHAEL EDWARDS: That’s senior Opposition frontbencher Christopher Pyne.

And he says Tony Hodges is a mere scapegoat.

should read CHRISTOPHER PYNE
{ ? } no proof reading here ….TONY HODGES: The suggestion that one staffer was responsible for this all on their own beggars belief. And the Prime Minister, while we’re sure she wouldn’t have been so stupid to have released the Leader of the Opposition’s schedule to protesters in order to damage him, she clearly has to find out what’s going on in her own office.
on January 28, 2012 at 3:05 pm Min

Yep, that’s all the opinions and it seems that there is one heck of a lot of them around at the moment. Links upon links, everyone has an opinion.

No damage done, no charges laid but perhaps a few knuckles wrapped over the awkward handling by the PM’s security.

I am feeling like some Saturday arvo fun. We had some great fun with this one a while back on Migs’ FB group. One for the ladies, and other friends who like cute blokes.
on January 28, 2012 at 3:12 pm BSA Bob

So many calls for enquiries into exactly who knew what, & yet Christopher & George Brandis were entirely satisfied with Alexander Downer’s assurances that he knew precisely zilch about eight years worth of illegal scams.
Note the emerging “I’m not saying Gillard was involved but….”

Angry now- Abbott spends years getting in the way of half the businesses in the country & in front of every camera he can find & raving to all the microphones & sympathetic journalists he sees & he now gets upset about his movements being supposedly fucking CLASSIFIED?
on January 28, 2012 at 3:14 pm Min

And from one of my all time favorite movies: Hepburn, I never realized that any experience could be so stimulating.
on January 28, 2012 at 3:20 pm Min

My rant: Perhaps the PM kicked it “The Shoe” off deliberately for dramatic effect?

It’s as suspected, the media is morphing into an episode of Toddlers & Tiaras.
on January 28, 2012 at 3:21 pm Miglo

Never in my life have I seen so much crap written in such a few short days over a mole hill like I’ve seen over the few just passed.

Abbott had a brain fart. I don’t think he meant to incite trouble.

Kim Sattler said where Abbott was. Big deal. It’s nothing.
on January 28, 2012 at 3:25 pm Pip

Hey Min, what about Sam…
on January 28, 2012 at 3:45 pm Pip

Miglo, just watched the PM’s press conference.

Para-phrasing…

Firstly Hodges tried to contact a Chris Burke, I missed his title,
then contacted Sattler because he thought to give the Tent embassy people a chance to respond to Abbott’s comment.

PM said Hodges action were unauthorised, and he is a hardworker paying a heavy price.
At no time did he misrepresent Abbott’s comments and did not incite violence.

Hodges acted alone and made a grave error of judgement.

Event was meant to be bipartisan and to honour National Emergency Medal recipients, not normally in the public eye, who were receiving medals which would take pride of place in their families.

PM does not intend to express an attitude to Sattler’s remarks.

The PM said she is angry at the Coalition’s insinuations that she had some part in this. She finds their insinuations deeply offensive and negative.

At the medla event inside the building she said she saw to her left a “limited protest” and had no idea who they were or what they could be protesting about at such an occasion.

As the meet and greet and the cuppas continued, more people arrived outside and the security men decided to move the PM and Mr. Abbott out of the building, because of the possibility of the glass breaking around the many guests.

PM also waved away a question about her being injured and she said she scuffed her foot but that she’d had worse blisters from high heels on a night out..
The PM invited Mr. Abbott in to The Lodge for a “drink of water” but he wanted to go back to Parliament House to check on his staff.

Bet there’ll be a cartoon to that effect in tomorrow’s papers !
on January 28, 2012 at 3:57 pm Catching up

Miglo, agreed Abbott had a brain fart but is not backward in making hay of it.

The responsible thing to do would be to talk down the racism, not up it.

Yes the security men had a responsibility to beware the situation could be dangerous. They also should have handled the PM better, As Laurie Oakes said this morning, frog marching her out was not appropriate or necessary.

There were enough of them to clear a path first. I will add and bring the car closer.

Laurie also congratulated on the behaviour of the PM, being calm and collected. He also was impressed that the PM mentioned Mr. Abbott. The look on the face of the security people showed that they had not given him a thought.

Mr. Oakes also pointed out that Asio and the Federal police vet all the PM engagements. The warning bells should have rung much earlier.

Mr. Oakes also said that Mr. Abbott got a bum steer. I am not too upset by this, as the PM endures bum steers daily.

Ms Sattler it is said has denied her involvement.

The one that gets me that the so called riot would not have happened if Mr. Hodges did not make his call.

Where is the evidence that they did not already know.

After all, I understand they were only a 100 metres away.

All we have, is all using the events to make the PM look bad. Surely much more happened over the last couple of days.
on January 28, 2012 at 4:12 pm Catching up

Mr. Burke is the Minister for ACT Indigenous affairs. Mr.Burke is himself an Indigenous person.

Mr. Hodges was attempting to have two or three representatives at the event to ask Mr. Abbott questions.

None of this was or would have been supported by the PM.

Conduct acceptable and unauthorised. The PM said that Mr. Hodges judgement was amiss.
on January 28, 2012 at 4:18 pm Catching up

A grave error of judgement because on Australia Day there should be bi-partisan behaviour.

Very angry of the insinuations made made by Mr. Abbott and Mr. Pyne.
on January 28, 2012 at 4:20 pm Pip

From my post @ 3.45pm,
Firstly Hodges tried to contact a Chris Burke

Chris Burke is the Minister for Indigenous Affairs.

Tony Hodges first tried to contact him about asking the Tent Embassy for a comment on Abbott’s remark, but Mr. Burke was unavailable.

We might never know what his opinions were on the subject, or what his actions would have been, the circus has moved on.
on January 28, 2012 at 4:22 pm Min

Pip @3.25pm..the story of my life too.
on January 28, 2012 at 4:31 pm Catching up

Sun-Herald relaese. It appears to be all over the place.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/pm-staffer-forced-to-quit-over-leak/story-fn7x8me2-1226255738200
on January 28, 2012 at 4:37 pm Pip

http://www.news.com.au/national/gillard-adviser-tony-hodges-forced-to-quit-over-tip-off-which-led-to-protest-violence/story-e6frfkvr-1226255907487

Ms Gillard said after arriving at the Canberra event before her Mr Hodges was informed of Tony Abbott’s comments by journalists.

She said Mr Hodges then tried to contact the Minister for Indigenous affairs Chris Burke who was unavailable and then contacted the representative for UnionsACT Kim Sattler.

Ms Gillard says Mr Hodges suggested a few representatives of the tent embassy come to the event to respond to Mr Abbott’s comments to the media.

Mr. Hodges would almost certainly have been reminded by his superiors that it was a bipartisan event, and an altogether bad idea of his.
on January 28, 2012 at 5:56 pm Pip

Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon rebuts Kristian Kerr’s scuttlebuttage

Kerr’s inept spies revive ASIO’s cold war delusions
http://lee-rhiannon.greensmps.org.au/content/news-story/kerrs-inept-spies-revive-asios-cold-war-delusions#.TyODQ3qTpHA.twitter

The Australian has published two articles that attempt to link me with the KGB, the notorious secret police that operated in the old Soviet Union. The report by Christian Kerr is based on inaccurate ASIO records.

This latest Australian report reveals more about the bias of the News Limited style of journalism and their reliance on spies’ inaccurate reports to back up their stories than it does about my life in the 1970s.

As a former Liberal party staffer and continuing backer of the conservative side of politics Kerr brings his own level of bias to this report. That plus his reliance of the discredited stories of former ASIO spies has resulted in a story of few facts, much supposition and considerable distortion.

Reading my ASIO file and Kerr’s article leaves me with the impression that many of these characters are still living in the cold war.

Who else but the Greens’ nemesis, Senator Eric Abetz would continue his anti Greens campaign without first validating the claims.

Eric Abetz would, just as he did with the Godwin Grech “evidence”.

RHIANNON MUST EXPLAIN K.G.B. CONTACT
http://www.international.to/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4706:rhiannon-must-explain-kgb-contact&catid=80:politics&Itemid=120
on January 28, 2012 at 6:18 pm BSA Bob

Pip
I’m nowhere near as keen on the Greens as some here, but I like Lee Rhiannon. She seems a pretty genuine person.
I don’t like Eric Abetz.
on January 28, 2012 at 6:47 pm Miglo

Would anybody else like a copy of my Honour’s thesis?
on January 28, 2012 at 6:49 pm Pip

Hi Bob, I’m not a Greens supporter as such either, they’ve shot themselves and the government in the foot a couple of times…

However, Eric Abetz is a PITB of the highest order IMHO.
on January 28, 2012 at 6:55 pm Pip

STOP THE ‘CLOSE THE TENT EMBASSY PETITION’
PETITION CAMPAIGN.

http://mike-stuchbery.com/2012/01/28/stop-the-close-the-tent-embassy-petition-petition-campaign/

MEDIA RELEASE
Online Campaign Launched by Mike Stuchbery to encourage Senator Cory Bernadi to condemn the ‘Close The Tent Embassy’ petition, created by Menzies House, a ‘non-partisan online activist community’ (Barf).

Mike Stuchbery, blogger, today launched an online campaign calling on Senator Cory Bernardi of South Australia to condemn the collection of junior fascists, zealots, party hacks and budding racists at Menzies House – the think-tank he helped establish – for establishing a petition to shut down the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

What a pack of losers.

Menzies House’s new website, http://www.closethetentembassy.com, is coupled with Facebook & social media outreach efforts, and asks Australians to sign a petition calling on the government to take action and shut down the Tent Embassy, thus perpetuating the screeching death-spiral of civilized, nuanced political debate in this country.
on January 28, 2012 at 7:04 pm Pip

Yes please Miglo,
on January 28, 2012 at 7:06 pm Miglo

I thought you had it, Pip.

My mistake.
on January 28, 2012 at 7:11 pm Catching up

We know what it was all about on Thursday.

Well according to Mr. Pyne, and he must be correct, it was to disrupt Mr. Abbott’s speech.

It must have been a wonderful speech, to precious to spread, as we have not heard one word of of it.

I think that the PM’s explanation is more believable than Mr. Pynes conspiracy.

They would not be a little paranoid would they.

They keep saying the PM is out to get them.
on January 28, 2012 at 7:45 pm Pip

Cu, grandiose paranoia, a common condition among leadership personalities, not that I see Pyne ever being a leader unless it ‘s as last man standing.

No, Pyne is spruiking a popular theme of the Liberals.
on January 28, 2012 at 7:47 pm Pip

Did Abbott make a speech ? …
on January 28, 2012 at 7:56 pm Miglo

News.com have published Abbott’s comment that this was set up by Gillard. Let’s see the right wingers come here again and have a go at us for suggesting conspiracies.

I’d post the link but I’ve not yet mastered Min’s instructions on how to do the linking on an iPad.

I’m sure it’s simple.
on January 28, 2012 at 8:13 pm Pip

I’ll have a look Migs/
on January 28, 2012 at 9:01 pm Pip

Migs, I haven’thad a chance to have nuch og a look but there is this:-

‘Grubby business’

Mr Abbott said Ms Gillard needed to face the cameras.

“What did he say precisely? To whom did he say it precisely? Why did he say it precisely? And what instructions was he under precisely?” Mr Abbott told Sky News today.

“I mean this is too important for the PM and her office to just spin it away.

“I’m sure there are decent people in the Prime Minister’s office, but it looks like a pretty grubby business.”

I’m not sure whether there’s been an Abbott response to the PM’s explanation;
it might take them a while to put the next Coalition attack together..
on January 28, 2012 at 9:11 pm Pip

In the meantime I found this one about an unpretentious bloke…
Rupert Murdoch.

How an unpretentious charmer became fixated on a conspiracy of liberals

http://www.theage.com.au/national/how-an-unpretentious-charmer-became-fixated-on-a-conspiracy-of-liberals-20120127-1qlkg.html

FOR someone who has a genuine love of newspapers and a deep interest in television, Rupert Murdoch has very odd views on journalism and the media. He is contemptuous of most journalistic ideals, reserving special disdain for what he calls the ”liberal media”. While the rest of the world hailed the investigative journalism of the Watergate scandal in the 1970s, Murdoch scorned it as ”the new cult of adversarial journalism”.

And this about the Institute of Public Affairs, who have over-run our “ABC”

Yet Rupert Murdoch is at least as devoted to propagating his own ideas and political beliefs as he is to making money. Murdoch has a particular conservative world view that has evolved over the years and on whose evangelisation he spends many millions annually, through both corporate spending and personal (often secret) donations. Key parts of his empire are deeply enmeshed in their nation’s politics and operate as megaphones for Murdoch’s values and leverage.

More than any other global corporate giant, Murdoch has supported and participated in conservative think tanks in the United States, Britain and Australia. In 1988-89 he took a seat on the board of the Hoover Institution, during the high tide of Reaganism, joining former Reagan official Jeane Kirkpatrick and former Defence secretary Donald Rumsfeld. At the same time, in Australia Murdoch joined the council of the Institute of Public Affairs and remained on it until 2000, regularly giving generous donations to the influential think tank (while his journalists continued to report regularly on the institute and its political campaigns).
on January 28, 2012 at 9:13 pm Min

Pip and..

Mr Abbott said Ms Gillard needed to face the cameras

..hell that would take some doing, trying to shove Abbott aside from in front the cameras, a neat right hip might do the trick..Julia’s neat bum might do it, although it might cause Tony’s puny little hips a wee twang.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:17 pm Min

Migs @7.56pm. You just need to push until the bubble appears.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:19 pm Miglo

And when she does face the cameras will he again carry on that she’s a media groupie?
on January 28, 2012 at 9:24 pm Miglo

Push what?
on January 28, 2012 at 9:43 pm Pip

Min, why aim for the hips

Chris Kenny interviewed Abbott, and asked the big question.
The answer was less than satisfactory.

http://www.liberal.org.au/Latest-News/2012/01/28/Tony-Abbott-interview-with-Chris-Kenny.aspx

CHRIS KENNY:

You are not suggesting at all, are you, that the Prime Minister would’ve been aware of this, that she would’ve sanctioned this?

TONY ABBOTT:

I think Chris she has to give us a full explanation because this is probably the most serious security incident to befall our nation’s leaders for quite a few years and, in part at least, it was triggered by the Prime Minister’s own office. In part, at least, it seems that a member of the Prime Minister’s senior staff was trying to trigger something, something potentially dire, for political advantage.

CHRIS KENNY:

Now, we’ve seen the pictures. You were close with the Prime Minister in that situation. You discussed the situation with her. You would’ve had a sense of how she felt about it. She would’ve felt vulnerable. I thought she appeared calm and generous in the way she dealt with it. Was that your reading of her situation? It surprised her and she acted admirably?

TONY ABBOTT:

Look, I have nothing but praise for the way the Prime Minister and her security detail handled the situation. But the situation should never have arisen. It should never have arisen. Information was fed to the crowd at the Tent Embassy which was false. Trouble was triggered and it seems that someone from the Prime Minister’s office had a very big hand in all of that.

There’s more but that’s the gist of it.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:46 pm Min

Migs and Push what?

Would you like me to come over and find it for you…
on January 28, 2012 at 9:48 pm Miglo

You might have to. Plus it’ll give people something to talk about.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:49 pm Min

Pip and: Min, why aim for the hips

Ans: Asks Migs.
on January 28, 2012 at 9:53 pm Pip

I’m all ears
on January 28, 2012 at 9:54 pm Miglo

He has very nice hips. He’s a beautiful person.

I adore him.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:01 pm Min

Migs..umm..Tony Abbott??
on January 28, 2012 at 10:03 pm Pip

Migs.what are you smoing ??
on January 28, 2012 at 10:05 pm Pip

That would be smo-k-ing
on January 28, 2012 at 10:06 pm Min

Pip..shhh…I can tell you what Migs is smoing, but I would prefer not to discuss t’other.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:07 pm Pip

Hmm, smoing… is that a word ?
on January 28, 2012 at 10:07 pm Min

Pip,..you actually got it right the first time.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:16 pm Miglo

He is a great man. I love him.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:22 pm Catching up

“Mr Abbott said Ms Gillard needed to face the cameras”

I thought the PM faced the cameras.

The PM did say that she had to wait until she had the whole story as there were so many different allegations flying around this took time. Fair enough.

The PM not only faced the cameras but stayed around to answer every question.

Mr. Abbott may face the camera but he does not stay around to answer all questions.

I see Mr. Brandis once again approaching the police, to force them into a unnecessary investigation and waste of police time.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:23 pm Pip

Come on Migs, tell us what you’ve been “smoing’ ?
on January 28, 2012 at 10:25 pm Miglo

Pip, I’m high on the ecstacy of life. I love everyone.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:29 pm BSA Bob

Miglo at 9.19
Yes.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:32 pm BSA Bob

Miglo at 10.25
It must be good gear if it makes you love Abbott & Pyne. I’m not sure I could handle anything that strong.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:32 pm Miglo

Actually, this blog site is full of happy people.

Is there any other way to live life?

Even BSA Bob is happy, until he watches the news.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:33 pm Miglo

Pyne? Great bloke. Fine example of a man.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:36 pm BSA Bob

That’s fairly true, except that he gets pissed off before he watches it as well.
The misery of anticipation.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:37 pm Pip

Bob, I’m with you I don’t think I could handle anything that strong !

Now, Eric Abetz on the other hand, what a bundle of laughs he is….
on January 28, 2012 at 10:41 pm Miglo

Here it is:

JULIA Gillard says she is absolutely furious at Tony Abbotts insinuation that she was behind the violent protests that broke out at the Lobby restaurant in Canberra.

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/national/gillard-adviser-tony-hodges-forced-to-quit-over-tip-off-which-led-to-protest-violence/story-e6frfkvr-1226255907487#ixzz1kkhTJpVe
on January 28, 2012 at 10:42 pm Catching up

Miglo,

Pyne, mummy they are picking on me.

Yes son, if the heat is too hot, stay out of the kitchen.

I do not think even a mother could stand this bloke.

I reared four kids, have numerous grand and great grand kids.

The one thing I cannot stand from any of them is whining.

The second great no, no, would be sanctimonious pricks.

It is the PM in the hot seat. It is the Opposition doing the whinging.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:42 pm BSA Bob

Pip
Abetz reminds me of Colonel Klink without the charm & good humour.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:43 pm Pip

Where’s Min, has she retired for the evening?
on January 28, 2012 at 10:46 pm Pip

Cu, you’ve given me an earworm of whiney pyne … I’ll have to put on a CD to get rid of it
on January 28, 2012 at 10:52 pm Pip

Cu, what’s the bet Brandis has been working away on another dirt campaign…
or should that be a continuation..
on January 28, 2012 at 10:55 pm Pip

Bob.what about Bernardi, there’s a charmer … Hannibal Lector comes to mind.
on January 28, 2012 at 10:56 pm Miglo

I draw the line with Bernardi. He’s a bit too radical for my liking.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:08 pm Pip

Thank goodness, I thought you were ill Migs….
on January 28, 2012 at 11:16 pm Catching up

Miglo, is there a coffee shop near the restaurant, or are they talking about the same place

I take it that this would have been the nearest shops to the embassy.

The myth is being created the the PM knew what was happening and could have stopped it. Not sure what the PM would have gained from the events that occurred.

That the embassy was given false information.

The lady that made the announcement has said on more than one occasion that she over heard Mr. Abbott’s name being mention and asked what he was up to.

She was told that he had said something about the embassy and that maybe she should get over there.

It appears the message got mangled some how.

We not even sure, and I believe she also is sure who the lady was.

It does fit in with someone suggesting the leaders should walk a hundred metres up the road to voice their response to what Mr. Abbott had said.

I do not see how anyone could have foreseen how angry the crowd would have been.

Many thought that when the police surrounded the PM, that she was coming out to talk. There were two people on the steps. Michael Anderson and someone else.

The picture show him attempting to get out of the way of the PM.

I think by tomorrow, cowardliness will be added to the myth. Mr. Abbott will play his role as victim with great aplomb.

With digging back to the seventies ASIO files for dirt on the Greens, we are in for very dirty politics indeed.

I better be careful, back in that time I had a little to do with the May Day celebrations that bought me in contact with some Young Communist turnouts. . Had a good time too.

I even got to know a couple of those horrible Commo’s. Had an aunt that live a couple of doors away from one of the bigger ones.

I am sure that was enough to earn a mention.

PS, I voted DLP in those days. in case someone gets the wrong idea.

Mr. Abbott and Mr. Pyne asked for a detailed explanation. The PM has given one.

Mr. Pyne claims that it raises more questions than it answers. Does not explain why.

Mr. Pyne does not believe the PM.

Accuse the PM of being obsessed with Mr. Abbott and being unable to attend to government business. Does not say what is being not being attended to.

Mr. Windsor today congratulated the PM on the body that has been set up to oversee the mining industry legislation.

There is something announced every day.

What is the PM not addressing?

Maybe Mr. Pyne can tell us, in detail as he demands from the PM.

Maybe Mr. Pyne can also offer some proof for his allegations. One example will do.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:21 pm Pip

Cu,
Mr. Pyne claims that it raises more questions than it answers. Does not explain why.

That’s his wheedly way of keeping the story going while they build up a myth ready for Parliament.

Myth = pack of lies

“Wheedly Whiney”…. I might use that again…
on January 28, 2012 at 11:25 pm Pip

Cu, I get the distinct impression that many DLP voters jumped to the Liberals,
and they or their children are still there, many on the Shadow front bench.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:28 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 10.55
I’m probably the only person in the realm who’se never seen those movies, but I know the gist of what you’re getting at. If Hannibal’s as bad as Cori Bernardi he must be a horrible person indeed.

Catching Up
I agree that it would be nice if Mr Pyne provided a sample question. It sounded a pretty grandiose, & dare I say plagiarised? thing to say. It would also have been nice for him to have been asked to provide one.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:33 pm Pip

Cu, and Bob, did you see my link @ 9.43pm, I’ve just discovered that it went up a lane so here it is again…

http://www.liberal.org.au/Latest-News/2012/01/28/Tony-Abbott-interview-with-Chris-Kenny.aspx
on January 28, 2012 at 11:39 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 11.21
The notion of a triumphally screeching Pyne in an Abbott government creates in me a deperate need for whatever Miglo’s having & bugger the consequences. I still remember what I called his “Hardman” period in the last months of the Howard government. He reminded me of some sort of totalitarian newsreader, positively raging at the camera as he railed at the evils of the enemy being held at bay by his glorious leader.
A creature that’s seriously beyond the pale.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:48 pm Pip

Bob, I’ll have what Miglo’s having

Another of Pyne’s rude “look at me, don’t look at them” acts is in Question Time, walking in front of the camera when a Minister is speaking.

There were complaints, and I’m not sure, but I think the ABC has dealt with the “problem” as best they can by switching cameras.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:49 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 11.33
I’d read your quote from that link, read the link itself this time. A good collection of invitations to Abbott to talk on any subject of his choosing I thought.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:49 pm Catching up

Pip, I just grew up I made the mistake of reading all Lang’s books.

I do not agree that he was always right but there are many, many building, hospitals, rail and bridges that have his name on them.

Great effort considering it was a depression.

He did put Australia first.

It was a shame that it took a great war to fix up that depression.

It is a shame that the wars since then have all led to financial crisis.

Wheedly Whiny, terrific, he does remind one of a weed.

I had this stupid idea that my parents would have voted Country Party. I was still going to mass then, Sadly O let that influence who I voted for.

I never asked my parents who they voted for, but I am sure now it would have been Labor. This in spite of or maybe because my father was a small wheat and sheep cocky..

My mother’s background of small business and distrust of big business, meant that Labor was the only option. My mother died before I was old enough to ask her. My father in his late nineties. He was a private man and I felt it was not proper to ask.

What is taught me was to never make assumptions and to never take things at face value.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:51 pm Catching up

Has anyone noticed that all that astro-surfing, or whatever one calls it, that we saw early last year, appears to have disappeared.
on January 28, 2012 at 11:54 pm Pip

Media reports today suggest that Peter Garrett wants Australian school students to be taught that Australia Day is also Invasion Day.

“Australia Day is not simply a day to mark the arrival of the First Fleet. In its historical context that is the day the colony of New South Wales was founded,” said Christopher Pyne, Shadow Minister for Education.

“Australia Day is the national holiday when we celebrate the achievements and the great nation that Australia has become over almost 225 years. That includes the achievements of both indigenous and non-indigenous Australians,” he said.

“It is important for all Australians to know about the mistakes that past generations and individuals have made and human nature being what it is will continue to make, but Australia Day should be a day of celebration and a source of pride for all Australians not a day for political agendas and the history wars,” Mr Pyne said.

January 25, 2012

http://www.pyneonline.com.au/media/media-releases/australia-day-vs-invasion-day

“not a day for political agendas and the history wars,”

No, but the next day it’s permitted apparently.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:04 am BSA Bob

Like his “more questions than it answers” line today, Pyne cites no evidence for his case, no media reports, not even suggestive ones.
Creep.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:05 am Pip

Australia Day lessons for all
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/wa/12711412/australia-day-lessons-for-all/

Learning about the history and significance of Australia Day will be compulsory for all children by Year 3 under the new national curriculum.

Federal School Education Minister Peter Garrett said the study of Australia Day had been optional under State curriculums.

“This is too important a day to leave as an ‘optional extra’ which is why, under the new curriculum, every kid in the country will learn about the history and significance of January 26,” he said.

“Australia Day is central to our history and sense of self. It’s a day where we celebrate everything that makes this country great and acknowledge the importance of the original inhabitants.”

Year 3s will also be expected to learn about Anzac Day, Harmony Week, National Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC Week and National Sorry Day.

Nyoongar elder Cedric Jacobs said it was important that children learnt the history of their nation, but they should be taught that Australia Day was a colonial celebration which marked the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet.

Hysterical spinmeister, wheedly whiney Pyne needs lessons in telling the truth, or in comprehending plain english.

Nowhere in Mr. Garrett’s explanation are the words Invasion Day to be seen.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:08 am Pip

Bob, the world belongs to Rupert and his minions faithfully follow the Liberal handbook of lies for every occasion.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:10 am Miglo

I think there’s a strong case to argue that it was indeed an invasion. Perhaps I’ll put forward the argument in a new post.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:13 am Pip

Cu, I’m off to make a cuppa, and I’m plagiarising a line from a movie

“I’ll be back”.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:16 am Miglo

Hasta la vista, baby.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:20 am Miglo

Frankly, Pip, I don’t give a damn.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:22 am BSA Bob

Pip
Thanks for that bit. Isn’t Whyne being just a wee bit libellous? No he isn’t becaue he only refers to “suggestions” he’s able to discern. While not being able to discern any “suggestions” in Abbott’s Australia day speech. Yes the world does belong to Murdoch. & his minions.

Miglo
As a white anglo saxon Aussie the whole Aboriginal debate’s never had any direct relevance to me. But if I was Aboriginal I’d think my country had been invaded. Because it was.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:25 am Pip

Are you talkin’ to ME ?
on January 29, 2012 at 12:26 am Catching up

Just looking at Bolt’s site. He is saying he does not believe the PM. No reason given, at least none that add up.

Funny. I do not believe what Mr. Bolt says.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:33 am BSA Bob

Catching Up
Wasn’t Bolt the lucky recipient of a massive leak from the Howard government a long time ago? Does anyone know whether Mr Abbott wanted a full investigation about that?
on January 29, 2012 at 12:39 am Miglo

Cu, how can you bring yourself to look at Bolt’s site? Is it akin to looking at a train wreck?
on January 29, 2012 at 12:47 am Pip

Blot doesn’t have to give a reason, he’s untouchable Court case or not
and more ^#%* is hitting the fan tonight as a direct result of misleading headlines, mis-understanding what everyone has said and an embroidering of the two.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/outed-unionist-kim-sattler-says-pm-julia-gillards-story-is-inaccurate/story-fn7x8me2-1226256247775

Outed unionist Kim Sattler says PM Julia Gillard’s story is inaccurate

Note the mischievous use of “go-between”.

THE unionist named by Julia Gillard as the go-between who ignited the Australia Day fiasco has disputed the Prime Minister’s version of events.
Kim Sattler last night said she had been forced into hiding in Canberra after Ms Gillard took the dramatic step of identifying her at a live press conference as the person who tipped off Aboriginal protesters.

But Ms Sattler, a staunch Labor Party supporter and secretary of Unions ACT, said she was “the messenger who is being shot” and that she had only repeated information given to her by Ms Gillard’s then press secretary, Tony Hodges.

this is what the Prime Minister said:-

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/gillard-outlines-adviser-tony-hodges-role-in-tent-embassy-riot/story-fn59niix-1226256122527

The Prime Minister said Mr Hodges first contacted ACT Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Chris Bourke.

When Dr Bourke was unavailable he was referred to ACT Unions secretary Kim Sattler.

.Ms Gillard said Mr Hodges spoke to Ms Sattler by phone.

”Mr Hodges accurately conveyed to her the statement made by Mr Abbott,” the prime minister said.

”At no point did Mr Hodges say to Ms Sattler that Mr Abbott had suggested that the tent embassy be torn down or removed in any way.”

She said Mr Hodges suggested to Ms Sattler that it may be appropriate for a couple of Aboriginal spokespeople to go to the restaurant to respond to Mr Abbott’s remarks.

”Mr Hodges in taking these actions acted alone and his actions were not authorised. Clearly they are viewed by me as unacceptable.”
on January 29, 2012 at 1:30 am Pip

Following on from the comment above, there were two more accounts of what happened:-

Earlier, tent embassy members had identified Ms Satter as the person who advised protesters on Australia Day as to Mr Abbott’s whereabouts.

“This person said Tony Abbott is in the coffee shop talking to the press about closing down the Aboriginal Tent Embassy,” Tent Embassy representative Barbara Shaw told reporters on Saturday.

“She clearly stated ‘tell people’. So that’s what I did.”

“They (media representatives) clearly stated that it was Kim Sattler speaking to me. It’s recorded on a number of videos.

“I know who she is now. Thursday afternoon I didn’t know who she was.”

Ms Shaw identified a photograph of Ms Sattler which was handed to her.

One of the founders of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, Michael Anderson, said Ms Sattler had spoken to him as well.

“There was a lady running around here when I was doing a radio interview and she said the prime minister’s office wants to talk to you and I thought she was joking and said I’ll talk later,” he told reporters.

“I know that woman to be Kim Sattler.”

Mr Anderson said Ms Sattler recognised who he was.

“She came and then she went away and, because I didn’t respond, she went to other people,” he said.

“All she said was ‘Michael. the prime minister’s office would like to talk to you.”‘
on January 29, 2012 at 2:09 am Pip

news.com is hard at work trying to engineer a guilty verdict for the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Julia Gillard denies knowing unions Kim Sattler
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/julia-gillard-denies-knowing-kim-sattler/story-fn7x8me2-1226256252600

After much weaving of information the bottom line reads

Ms Gillard said it was “very very likely” she had been at the same events in Canberra as Ms Sattler, but flatly denied a connection.

Then there’s Samantha Maiden whose agenda never alters by one line.

PM Julia Gillard knew pokies reform by 2014 was a no-win game
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/prime-minister-julia-gillard-knew-pokies-reform-by-2014-was-a-no-win-game/story-fn7x8me2-1226256211235

JULIA Gillard was warned last April that the 2014 deadline for poker machine reform demanded by independent MP Andrew Wilkie could not be delivered.
But details were kept secret from the public for nine months, as the Government maintained it was working with Mr Wilkie to deliver the reforms.

Families Minister Jenny Macklin’s office has now revealed the Government knew for months of concerns over the time frame.

Given the tone of Mr. Wilkie’s response he may well have been aware of this, the article doesn’t specify.

Mr Wilkie had stuck to his guns on the 2014 deadline until the final week of the negotiations.

Mr Wilkie told the Sunday Herald Sun the Productivity Commission had assured him the 2014 time line was achievable.

“In any case, I indicated to the Government I was prepared to extend the time line,” he said.

“The Prime Minister and I have agreed we should continue to meet regularly, but not weekly as is the case with those cross-benchers who support the Government. I’ve been meeting Tony Abbott weekly and will continue to do so.”
on January 29, 2012 at 2:31 am Pip

More “plagiarism” …. this time the title of a novel … forgivable in this instance.

Far from the madding crowd, PM honours heroes

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/far-from-the-madding-crowd-pm-honours-heroes-20120127-1qlt9.html#ixzz1klZBDdqy

Earlier, as the media hovered waiting for the Prime Minister, one of the medal recipients wearing a Salvos uniform walked past and joked with reporters that they were waiting for him.

In truth, maybe they should have been, because like his fellow award recipients, Warwick Wilson’s role in the aftermath of Black Saturday is a compelling story of dedication.

Mr Wilson and his team immediately turned out at the staging area at Whittlesea, and provided critical support for survivors. Over nine days, they produced almost 29,000 meals, and provided clothing and chaplaincy support. Their community programs continue today.

As we asked Mr Wilson his official title in the Salvos, the chief of the CFA Euan Ferguson chipped in: ”Put him down as the person the emergency services call when they need help. This is very richly deserved.”

As far as I can see, this is the first account of the actual National Emergency Medal presentations.
on January 29, 2012 at 2:44 am Catching up

“Prime Minister Julia Gillard denies knowing unions Kim Sattler”

Pip, you knew that one was coming by the way they asked the question today.

The PM said that she did not know her but added that she meets lots of people in her job at meetings and other gatherings.

The PM said that it was likely they have met.

Now that sounds reasonable to me. I know when I worked, there were many people at the regular meetings and case conference I attended. This did not mean I remember them for ever.

The PM did not flatly deny a connection. The truth was the Opposite. They could have met but she did not remember.

When is this mob going to stop twisting every word uttered by the PM, to suit their own story.

The practice is bordering on the ridiculous.

“JULIA Gillard was warned last April that the 2014 deadline for poker machine reform demanded by independent MP Andrew Wilkie could not be delivered”

The PM was warned by who? Does that mean that the PM has to accept everything as fact and set in stone.

The PM probably believed it was hard but worthwhile trying to change things around. I am sure that all knew back then that the clubs were willing to play dirty and spend up to 40 million fighting the proposition.

So now if someone says something is not going to work, the PM MUST accept this so called fact and abandon any attempt of achieving her aims.

I think the same fears were aired in public at the time. This does not mean that the PM was not genuine in her attempt to please Mr. Wilkie. It was not actually a secret.

It was always known that the time frame was difficult. Does that means that one should not try.

It just means that this PM is willing to take risks to do what is right. When one takes risks, you sometimes fail.

There is still reform taking place.

Would they be happy if the PM could perform miracles, as they expect her to be able to do so.

I doubt it, as they only want her to fail.

The PM has to fail, in order to prove their stupid predictions of what the PM will do and how long she will last.
on January 29, 2012 at 8:30 am Min

Mobius, and the PM would have been advised that the legislation would not have got through in the form that Wilkie wanted it. Windsor especially made it plain that he wanted concessions regarding the timeframe as he believed that it would adversely affect small country clubs.

I disagree with Tony Windsor, I don’t believe that even country clubs should be permitted to make profits from those with a gambling problem. The facts were there, that’s where 40% of the clubs’ profits originates from.

Yet, in spite of these facts Wilkie called it as the PM going back on her word. How can getting ‘something’ through be called lying. I would consider it doing one’s best under the circumstances.
on January 29, 2012 at 8:35 am Möbius Ecko

Huh Min?

I’ve been incognito for around two weeks and mostly out of contact, so you must be replying to someone else.

Sadly I won’t be around here much this year due to several factors that have nothing to do with this blog or the great people here.
on January 29, 2012 at 8:43 am Min

Sorry Mobius, I thought that I saw a comment here from you. Pity my new glasses didn’t arrive yesterday, I clearly need them.
on January 29, 2012 at 9:07 am Tom R

pyne says Australia Day is

“not a day for political agendas and the history wars,”

Meanwhile, on Australia Day

Time for tent embassy to fold, says Tony Abbott

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/time-for-tent-embassy-to-fold-says-tony-abbott/story-e6frfku0-1226254319517#ixzz1knApIygM

Now he says that Labor were spinning his words? Is accusing the PMs office of spinning his words.

Perhaps he should look a little closer to home (channeling oakes)
on January 29, 2012 at 9:08 am Tom R

hmm, position opens in PM’s office

I won’t be around here much this year due to several factors
on January 29, 2012 at 9:48 am Min

Tom, when has there ever been a moment for Tony Abbott to not pursue the occasion for his political agenda. You name it, he’s in boots and all never missing an occasion to push his baaaad government theme.

I think that given Abbott’s attitude towards what is 99.9% of the time a calm and peaceful protest, of some 40 years that the signs are not good for indigenous people that he would take notice of their concerns when/if in office.
on January 29, 2012 at 10:40 am Catching up

It appears the police have had no complaint form the government or the Opposition.

So it is up to Mr. Pyne or Mr. Abbott to lodge a complaint if they are so concerned.

They should do this or shut up.

As for Me. Sattler hiding, why should she do this. I read that she did approach the police on Friday. I do not know if this is true.

According to the available evidence, all she was asked was to deliver a message, which Mr. Anderson said he received but ignore, to contact the PM’s office.

The lady who made announcement, said that she overheard what was being said.

It appears the most likely outcome is that the message got mangle, like chinese whispers.

It is far stretch for anyone to insinuate that the aim of the exercise was to cause a riot. A riot which I gave suspicions did not occur.

Why would the PM want a riot at a ceremony that was being held for the first time and she initiated.

The PM appeared to be having a good day up to this time.

It beats me how the people involved were not aware before this.

Mr. Anderson said he was busy at the time being interviewed. Surely one of the journalist ask him for his reaction.

Most of the videos. including those showing the slapping of the glass seem very mild, a long way from a riot.

I would say this is why the police present said at the time there would be no arrests.

The police in most of he videos, including where they are holding the line appear relaxed. One would not expect this in a situation that was dangerous.

It there are video that say otherwise, where are they.
on January 29, 2012 at 11:09 am Tom R

said that she overheard what was being said.

From my link to the ltdnewsstory, it looks more like a case of what was actually reported.

I note that the allegations are abounding (from ltdnews themselves) that the Labor figures have actually distorted what tabot actually said. However, it looks more the case that these people are simply stating what ltdnews have themselves reported. True, always a dangerous thing to do.

Time for tent embassy to fold, says Tony Abbott

They are the journalists words. They are now trying (very successfully) to blame Labor for distorting what was said.

The airbrush is out and being applied vigorously. Isn’t it time that the journo’s asked themselves where they got that headline from? Rather than trying to sheet the blame home to the Government?
on January 29, 2012 at 11:11 am Pip

Good morning everyone

Tom,
Perhaps he should look a little closer to home (channeling oakes)

I’m going well, I can’t remember what Oakes big ‘leak’ was although I do remember the big smirk on his face!
on January 29, 2012 at 11:18 am Pip

Min, no there’s never been a time when Abbott wasn’t pursuing a political agenda.

Cu, that’s it exactly, chinese whispers, story gets muddled, then muddied
by ltd news minions.

Mobious, you’ll be missed
on January 29, 2012 at 11:23 am Min

Tom, excellent pick up. Doubtless Hodges would have been keeping his eye on the news reports as they were presented by news.com.
on January 29, 2012 at 11:24 am Min

Pip, you are spot on there. When has news.com ever reported accurately on events without resorting to sensationalism.
on January 29, 2012 at 11:28 am Pip

Tom, the airbrush is definitely out and being applied vigorously without a hint of irony.

Speaking of airbrushing, here comes the syrupy spin from Michael Duffy of Radio National’s Counterpoint ‘fame’.

The extraordinary rise of an ordinary man
http://www.smh.com.au/national/the-extraordinary-rise-of-an-ordinary-man-20120128-1qmrm.html
on January 29, 2012 at 11:33 am Catching up

Pip, no great conspiracy, as least on the part of Labor and no incitement to riot.

Mr. Hodges was actually doing his job.

It appears he was ensuring that that the embassy reps got a chance to reply to Mr. Abbott’s words.

Surely this is every day politics. It would never have been a story if the embassy crowd did not get excited.

The PM, I believe was genuine in her desire for the day to be bi-partisan, as it should be.

Mr, Abbott was being his opportunistic self. He could nor resist the chance for a smart remark on the steps of the Opera House.

He cannot resist the opportunity to stir the shit.

His role in this case, should be to calm things down.

Mr. Abbott knows there is support, especially within his party for anti Indigenous sentiments to be stirred.

Mr. Abbott cannot hold back from being divisive. Divide and rule is the name of the game for him. He Has no concern for any harm he causes. He never takes responsibility for the damage4 he does.

Winning at all costs is the name of the day.

Mr. Abbott is like the toddler that throws a tantrum. When they get their own way, they are still not happy and do not know what to do with their victory.
on January 29, 2012 at 11:54 am Pip

Cu, we must be mistaken about Abbott, his former parliamentary colleague, the “family values” fellow holds a high opinion of Abbott….

The former Liberal politician Ross Cameron suggests: ”When you become leader, you lose a couple of octaves of personality.” But the degree of difference, the apparent decline in reflection and exuberance, were striking.

The Prime Minister is not given the same leeway!
on January 29, 2012 at 12:12 pm Tom R

Lets see if I have this chain of events correct.

tabot makes insensitive remarks on a day of celebration.
media amplify this remark
PM’s media advisors asks Union person to seek comment on what has been reported. Mentions where tabot is, which is public knowledge any way (apparenlty now this is hanging offense)
Union person talks to demonstration organisers
Demonstration seeks out tabot to voice displeasure
media run amok for a day
Labor implicated in plot to attack tabot

Have I missed out much?

If this was a flow chart, I don’t think Visio currently has the ability to join up these separate actions succinctly.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:14 pm Catching up

Maybe this comment has hit home.

”
Perhaps modern politics is more about image than about reality. And a contest amongst both media and commentariat to be the most outraged. Ironically too many were ready to chastise the tent embassy crowd for reacting hastily to incorrect information, only to do the same thing themselves to media reports.

Written by Kevin Rennie

http://globalvoicesonline.org/2012/01/28/australia-day-fury-follows-aboriginal-tent-embassy-protest/
on January 29, 2012 at 12:18 pm Min

Tom, the only one that I can think of is PM’s security does an untidy job of ushering the PM and the Leader of the Opposition out of the restaurant.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:20 pm Catching up

Union boss contradicting what the PM said!!!!

“Tony Hodges spoke to me by phone on Thursday afternoon. He told me what Tony Abbott had said – that people should ‘move on’ from the Tent Embassy,” she said in the statement.

“He also said that Abbott would be at an event at the Lobby that afternoon.

“Other people knew that already as Tony Abbott had been spotted at the Lobby already by other people walking back from the cafe next door.

Photo: Former media adviser Tony Hodges (supplied)

“I merely passed on that information to the organisers at the Embassy in case they wished to make a statement to the media.”

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-29/union-official-defends-role-in-protest-fiasco/3798704

Is not this what the PM said. Also it has been reported that Ms. Sattler did not go to the police on Friday as it was reported, that is what she said.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:20 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 11.28
I waded through that article. I thought it was both sycophantic & contradictory.
I hope someone with more application than I takes it apart.
I think what I used to refer to as Abbott’s “gunfighter’s eyes”, those slits behind which it seemed obvious to me was a calculating mind thinking “what do I have to say to you, what do you want to hear?” aren’t on display as much any more. The reason is that he knows he’s under no threat from his questioners.
While nobody knows what an Abbott prime ministership would be like, I find myself in some agreement with Duffy that initially it’d be pretty bland.I think he’d spend the nation’s fiscal capital to preserve his political capital & content himself with getting the driver’s pay as the train roars toward the buffers. And some aggressive wedging.
At least that’s what he’d try for, circumstances might derail it. Plus of course he often can’t help himself.

I see we’ve moved on to the “poor scapegoat” phase of the riot coverage wherein we learn that nasty Julia Gillard has “named & shamed” a victim of all this. The same article I read accuses Gillard of coverups. The Murdoch press can do that sort of thing. I suppose there’s some footage of Abbott out there, dripping faux concern for the “scapegoats”. Things are moving satisfactorily toward the naming of the scapegoat of choice.

P.S. On reflection the contrariness I mentioned is on display in the title of Duffy’s article.
Abbott’s rise has definitely been extraordinary but he ‘aint an ordinary bloke.
The article makes that clear.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:23 pm Pip

That’s about right Tom.

Kevin’s words are perfect.

Perhaps modern politics is more about image than about reality. And a contest amongst both media and commentariat to be the most outraged. Ironically too many were ready to chastise the tent embassy crowd for reacting hastily to incorrect information, only to do the same thing themselves to media reports.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:31 pm Catching up

Bob, can one say he is extraordinary .

I doubt it.
on January 29, 2012 at 12:37 pm Catching up

Please tell me what Mr. Pyne is on about. Ms. Sattler response seems to fit in what the government is saying.

If Mr. Pyne has any evidence that a crime was committed, it is up to him to go the police. In fact it is his duty to.

Mr Hodges did not misrepresent Mr Abbott’s remarks. Mr Hodges did not incite violence or a demonstration,” she said.

But the manager of opposition business, Christopher Pyne, has told Sky News this morning that Ms Sattler’s statement contradicts the Prime Minister’s version of events.

“We’re getting two conflicting stories; on the one hand, the Prime Minister is saying none of this had anything to do with her office, that Mr Abbott’s views were conveyed correctly,” he said.

“In fact, Kim Sattler is saying Mr Abbott’s views were conveyed in a completely false way. Now the Prime Minister can’t just cant just sweep this under the table”.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-29/union-official-defends-role-in-protest-fiasco/3798704
on January 29, 2012 at 1:04 pm Pip

Contrary to ltd news version, and the ridiculous demands of the even more ridiculous Christopher Pyne with his Gilbert and Sullivan persona….

http://www.smh.com.au/national/gobetween-backs-pms-version-in-war-of-words-20120129-1qnoq.html
ACT union official Kim Sattler says reports that her account of events on Australia Day contradicts Prime Minister Julia Gillard are “inaccurate”.

In a statement issued today, Ms Sattler said the News Limited reports were “inaccurate”.

“As I said in my statement yesterday, Tony Hodges from the prime minister’s office told me what Tony Abbott had said – that people should ‘move on’ from the tent embassy,” she said.

“Yesterday the prime minister gave an accurate account of my role.”
on January 29, 2012 at 1:07 pm Pip

I think it was Pollytics who used the term “monkeys flinging poo”, some time ago, but I could be mistaken about the author.

Christopher Pyne is the monkey… or should that be ass…
on January 29, 2012 at 1:16 pm Möbius Ecko

Gillard told a press meeting in NZ that the media have been inaccurate in reporting her statements and in reporting Sattler’s statements.

She said that everything Sattler has stated has fully concurred with what she herself has said and concords with the briefings she has had on the matter, which is different from what the media is reporting.

Chalk up another sad showing for the media in this country and I’m afraid, and very despondent, it will only get worse as we near an election.

An example was Riley on Sunrise this morning in full flight stating nameless Labor “figures” and Rudd moving against Gillard because the Queensland election is his rehearsal for it.

I think they believe if they state the Rudd takeover conspiracy fantasy enough times they hope it will happen. Or even if it never does just by publishing it so often it will go down in history as being true and they were always right about it. The other out of course if it doesn’t happen, they will forever more report that Rudd was a coward and spineless as he always wanted to move on Gillard but never did, thus it’s not the media’s fault he was a chicken and never made their constant predictions of an overthrow come to pass.
on January 29, 2012 at 1:23 pm Pip

Mobious, ltd news are all over this as usual and I need to correct my previous statement about monkeys flinging poo; include all of the “news” reporters not just P.O.O. Pyne.
on January 29, 2012 at 1:34 pm Catching up

Pip. he might not be an ass but his comments are assigned. The PM could put the Rudd stories to bed and the she wants by calling a spill.

I am glad that the PM is not bowing to the media’s stupid stories by doing so.

While they are concentrating on this shit, the PM is being left alone to get on with the job.

Look at the last few days, the allegations are so outrageous that many will find it hard to swallow what is being said.

Their efforts smell of desperation. They are now straight out lying. Lies that are easily recognised.

The PM is letting them stew in their own juice. Somewhere along the line, Mr. Abbott and the media will have to deliver.
on January 29, 2012 at 1:35 pm Pip

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/propaganda

propaganda [ˌprɒpəˈgændə]
n
1. (Government, Politics & Diplomacy) the organized dissemination of information, allegations, etc., to assist or damage the cause of a government, movement, etc

Any form of communication in support of national objectives designed to influence the opinions, emotions, attitudes, or behavior of any group in order to benefit the sponsor, either directly or indirectly. See also black propaganda; grey propaganda; white propaganda.
Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. US Department of Defense 2005.

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/scuttlebutt

scuttlebutt – a report (often malicious) about the behavior of other people;
on January 29, 2012 at 1:39 pm Pip

Looking at Rupert Murdoch

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/yellow+press

yellow journalism
n.
Journalism that exploits, distorts, or exaggerates the news to create sensations and attract readers.
on January 29, 2012 at 1:54 pm Pip

This will remain for the duration without any correction, not worth giving a click.

Coalition frontbencher Christopher Pyne presses for police probe into Australia Day protest
by: Lanai Vasek From: The Australian January 29, 2012 10:40AM
on January 29, 2012 at 2:14 pm Catching up

Most serious security breach since the 1970′s. !!!!

Mr. Abbott is sure pushing the empty barrel. If he wants a police investigation, make a complaint to the police.

Mr. Abbott is going further today.

The “she” are back.

Serious protest. Serious security breach in 30 odd years.

He is giving her a chance to be honourable. He’s giving her the chance to do the right thing.

What has the PM done wrong.

Whinging about the PM office claiming it was his fault. That according to Mr. Abbott really low.

Mr Abbott, I was verballed and I want to know who I was verballed by.

We do know that he is very good at verbaling everyone else.

He is not as good as playing the victim as he thinks he has.

We are now getting a history lesson back to to the 2007.

It was a ugly business.

Once again cut the PC short while questions were being asked. Could not catch the questions, but they were obviously not to Mr. Abbott’s liking.

ABC24 PC.
on January 29, 2012 at 2:16 pm Catching up

It appears those arrests in the UK of Murdoch’s men are the most serious so far.

ABC 24
on January 29, 2012 at 2:18 pm Pip

For ABC lurkers, catch up !
http://www.smh.com.au/national/gobetween-backs-pms-version-in-war-of-words-20120129-1qnoq.html

When the PM or her Ministers are making formal announcements on ABC24, they can be cut off for an Abbott brain fart pronouncement.

When Abbott needs air time to tell straight out lies about the government he is
given as much time as he likes.

ABC24 first story in the news now, faithfully showing Abbott repeating all his slogans and demanding to know ‘verbatim’ from the PM,

Para-phrasing Abbott
Australian people will inevitably draw the conclusion that this is a very grubby incident.

what did her office know about what is the most serious security breach balh balh,

PM will always do things the dishonourable thing.

He wants to give her a chance ..blah blah,

He’s giving the PM a chance to ‘do the right thing’.

Come on ABC get up to date with Ms Sattler’s comments, preferabl y today…

“grubby” … “grubby” ….

apology incident when Labor people turned their backs on Nelson.

PM’s office tried to exploit [tent embassy] for political purposes.

PM must ask for investigation

blah blah
on January 29, 2012 at 2:37 pm Catching up

Pip, it made one cringe. That any can take this man seriously is unbelievable..

Like all bullies, he is good at dishing it out. I am afraid he is very fragile when it comes to having it dished out to him

What I am unable to workout, what has he had done to him that is so bad.

If I told you it was time to move on, what would you think I meant by the statement.

The very least is that there is no relevant role for the tent embassy today. I would also take it to mean, it is time the embassy was closed down.

What other meanings could these words have.

Many are now saying that they seen Mr. Abbott arrive. With so many people moving about, it would have been impossible for this not to be the case.

“I first thought what a terrible tragedy it is that so many people immediately assume that our leaders are liars. But on reflection, I have realised something else. Ask the same people whether they would believe Abbott in the same situation, and the answer is invariably ‘yes’.

The people who are accusing Gillard of lying in this instance, are the same right-wingers who are convinced she has lied about everything else. Furthermore, the people who denounce the PM for ‘lying’ about a carbon tax and to Andrew Wilkie about pokies reforms, have never and will never vote for Labor in their lives. These people are so convinced of the irredeemable incompetence and immoral nature of Australia’s first female prime minister that, in their eyes, she will never be able to do anything right, and she will always be seeking to cover up her mistakes.

The reality is that the contrived indignation of these conservatives – the so-called ‘cynicism of government’ in which they take so much pride – is nothing more than a cover for their rank partisanship. Not content (or perhaps not able) to muster rational, evidence-based arguments against the policies of the Gillard Government, they instead expend monumental energy on trashing the characters of those people in it.

Whether or not they are right about Gillard is a secondary issue. That they are so sure of themselves, that they do not question anything put forward by their own side, that they are so utterly convinced that their worldview is the correct and only one, is, I believe, far more reason to be wary of them.”

http://www.blogotariat.com/node/238712

“
on January 29, 2012 at 2:46 pm Pip

Cu, Abbott knows the art of the dog-whistle. He can make a provocative statement and afterwards use plausible deniability.

He’s a trained journalist!

Among other things….
on January 29, 2012 at 2:47 pm Catching up

A government that has a fixation on Mr. Abbott and is unable to deal with the problems facing the country

On Friday we had released the names of those to oversee the MRRT. This was highly welcomed by Mr.Windsor.

Earlier in the week, assistance to the automobile industry. Support put in place for those losing their jobs at Toyota.

The PM is today talking with the NZ PM in Melbourne.

Announced today.

“Australia and New Zealand have launched a new platform to increase their defence co-operation.

Australian Defence Minister Stephen Smith and his New Zealand counterpart, Jonathan Coleman, announced the Australia-New Zealand Defence Relationship Framework, which builds on the Anzac tradition of trans-Tasman military collaboration.

The framework includes closer co-operation to develop and buy military hardware and services and to share the defence burden in the region”

http://bigpondnews.com/articles/TopStories/2012/01/29/New_framework_for_Anzac_nations_712613.html

,
on January 29, 2012 at 2:55 pm Catching up

Most previous governments would still be in holiday mood at this time of the year.

The Gillard government has not closed down as usual. It is now in full operation mode.

The government is very functional, addressing the problems that face Australia.

Mr. Abbott and Mr. Pyne are to busy defending their egos and plotting the downfall of the PM to notice.
on January 29, 2012 at 2:59 pm Catching up

ACT union official Kim Sattler has denied reports she told the Australian Federal Police on Friday about her involvement in telling protesters about Mr Abbott’s location on Australia Day

http://bigpondnews.com/articles/Politics/2012/01/29/Protest_intermediary_backs_Gillard_712617.html
on January 29, 2012 at 3:09 pm Catching up

Further evidence that Mr Pyne does not know what is going on in politics and what this government has achieved. The PM and her ministers were even out on New Years day making important announcements.

……….The Prime Minister will try to steal John Howard’s promise of interest rates being lower under a Coalition government by hammering home the message that interest rates, taxes and unemployment are all lower under her government.

The economy was the ”killing floor” for all arguments the government would make this year, a senior source told The Sun-Herald.

Advertisement: Story continues below

Ms Gillard is expected to point out that Australia had recently been awarded a triple gold rating by all three global ratings agencies – a feat not achieved by the Howard government – when she addresses a lunch held by the Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.

The speech was intended to be Ms Gillard’s first major appearance for the year and is an attempt to present her as more prime ministerial and above the day-to-day cut and thrust of politics………..

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/how-ill-slay-abbott-20120128-1qn1o.html#ixzz1koiABwvg
on January 29, 2012 at 3:11 pm Pip

Windsor welcomes mining committee appointments
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-28/appointments-made-to-csg-committee/3798234

Cu, Abbott, Pyne + company are being given much free advertising space across the media landscape so why would they waste time doing what they are being paid for compliments of “the taxpayers’.
on January 29, 2012 at 3:13 pm Catching up

If Mr. Abbott or Mr. Pyne has any evidence, I suggest they lodge a complaint instead of whinging on the TV.

Late yesterday afternoon a spokeswoman for the Australian Federal Police said: ”In order to investigate we need a referral. The AFP has not received a referral in relation to this matter.”

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/how-ill-slay-abbott-20120128-1qn1o.html#ixzz1kojc8RVw

Mr. Abbott is calling for a expensive enquiry so he can go on a fishing expedition.

One needs to remind Mr. Abbott that one needs to be sure of what will be revealed before going down this path. Enquiries can be a two edge saw.
on January 29, 2012 at 3:18 pm Catching up

ABC24 PC between the NZ PM and our PM. Sorry it was on earlier.
There was much announced at this PC.

Much that should have been done in the past. Much that is overdue.
on January 29, 2012 at 3:28 pm Pip

It’s apparently just too hard for the ABc to put up a clarifying headline, such as:- Sattler backs Prime Minister.

Instead there is this:-

War of words over protest fiasco
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-29/union-official-defends-role-in-protest-fiasco/3798704

The fallout from the Aboriginal Tent Embassy Australia Day protests is continuing, with the Opposition and the Government squabbling over what happened in the lead-up to the demonstrations.

A rehash with the new information buried somewhere in the middle is not good enough, when at the same time the Coalition are still blathering on with yesterday’s arguments.
on January 29, 2012 at 3:30 pm Pip

Meanwhile the government is still working …

Gillard, Key hold talks in Melbourne
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-29/gillard-and-key-meet-for-bi-lateral-talks/3798842
on January 29, 2012 at 3:33 pm Catching up

Coul not say it better. I notice when we asked why of visitors to this site, we rarely get a answer. Yes, we do get abuse but no rational reasdon why they hoild the views they do.

……So next time someone tells you they “hate this bloody government”, ask why. Chances are, their explanations will be pretty thin.

Of course, people are entitled to their views. But please don’t patronise and belittle those who disagree with you, who have a bit more faith in government, and who don’t see the world in such a relentlessly negative way. (Wait, did I say world? I meant the opposing political party).

Take your conspiracy theories, your high-and-mighty cynicism and your confected moral outrage, and crawl back to the lonely room from which you tweet your 140-character, quasi-cynical negativity. If you spent less time on that and more time on dispelling your ignorance and questioning yourself, you would realise that you don’t know everything, that government is a tricky business and that not everything a politician says is a lie. Some things can be taken on face value…….

http://thepoliticsproject.wordpress.com/2012/01/29/the-reality-of-the-gillard-haters/#comments
on January 29, 2012 at 3:35 pm Pip

Mid afternoon, The Australian is still at it with their usual key word…”defend”.

Julia Gillard defends her office’s role in Australia Day protest

No space for the complete quote from Ms Sattler’s Facebook page, but plenty
to repeat the nonsense from Christopher Pyne.

No click for their page either!
on January 29, 2012 at 3:44 pm Catching up

The anger was clear when the first question from the media was about Mr. Hodges. A little rude when a joint PC is being held to make important announcements between the two countries.

I suggest it is bad manners.

The second question on same subject. The PM said once again she answer the question yesterday. She pointed out that once again the question will be the same.

I wonder how the NZ PM felt.

The PM walked away with a disgusted look on her face.

After talk was about how controlled press conference was.

It was pointed out that there is usually three questions on each side are asked.

Main talk about Australia Day. Little about some serious matters that the PMs wanted to talk about.

Backing up for Mr. Abbott’s call for an inquiry.

Once again the PM was treated disgracefully. with the rehash of facts, distorted facts and innuendo that had nothing to do with what the PC was called for.
We could not have that, it would have shown the PM in a Positive light.

ABC 24 is NOT a news station. It is Gossip station.
on January 29, 2012 at 3:52 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 1.07
I think the term you’re looking for is “ass hole”. In addition to flinging it he produces a hell of a lot of it too.
on January 29, 2012 at 4:01 pm BSA Bob

Pip at 3.28
Told you all so! Somewhere I’ve told you so! Though it’s obvious to anyone who can hear or read. “Squabbling” is of course Their ABC’s code for saying that Labor’s got one in. A good sign, even though they’ll already be working on a new negative.
on January 29, 2012 at 4:05 pm BSA Bob

C.U. at 3.44
So tonight we can confidently expect “try as she might, Julia Gillard couldn’t escape questions…..”
on January 29, 2012 at 4:16 pm Catching up

Bob, I am sure you are right. There will be nothing about the two PMs and seven ministers from north countries spending the day in meetings, talking about our nearest and most important trading partners.

This has nothing to do with whether one likes the PM or not.

Mr. Bolt is crying tears because no one has apologized to Mr. Abbott. That includes the media, ABC and the government.

THE PM DID ANSWER THE QUESTIONS IN FULL.

The PM looked embarrassed, as she should, because of the behaviour of the Australian press.

I have a gripe that one cannot hear the questions being asked. Surely this could be corrected.
on January 29, 2012 at 4:19 pm Catching up

PS It is not like the PM does not make her self available for questions.

When the PM faces the media, she stays until the press have stopped asking questions.

The PM also ensures that all get a fair go, when asking questions.
on January 30, 2012 at 1:33 pm Shaneinqld

I have personally been the victim of incited verbalised threats many a time when an indigenous persons government benefits were not in their account for some reason. Just because the government did not give them their money, it seemed they had the right to threaten intimidate and abuse.

When it did disintegrate to mob protest on one occasion it was truly scary. It is frightening when a mob gets angry. It is frightening when they join forces and congregate outside the building you are in, inciting and telling each other more and more lies to whip up a frenzy. It is frightening when you know you will have to leave that building at the end of the days work. It is frightening when you pull down the rollerdoor at the front of the building, knowing there is only one exit out the back for all the staff, of which their protection is in your hands.

Unless you have personally experienced these things you know nothing at all of the impact, non physical aggression and verbalisation has on your mental state.

Just because an aggressor does not actually cause physical harm, does not mean the victim is not traumatised or suffers no anxiety or future duress from unwarranted abuse.

Everyone has a right to protest peacefully. No one has a right to intimidate, vilify or abuse and harrass. That means no one.

If the Government leaked Tony Abbots whereabouts (even if it is not a criminal offence) it was dirty grubby politics.
on January 30, 2012 at 2:20 pm Shaneinqld

I also find the burning of a countries flag reprehensible. Despite many people having no affilication with a countries flag, we know that the buring of a nations flag represents hosility and aggression and hatred of the country. Thats why overseas countries burnt the US flag.

The burning of the Australian Flag by a group of indigenous protestors was unacceptable in the least.

I could imagine what would happen if I went to the public park in Dubbo or Moree and set fire to the Aboriginal Flag. But I would not do it because I have respect for the Aboriginal Flag and what it represents. I also have enough respect for my Aboriginal friends.

I find it amazing that those among the protestors of some middle ground, allowed the flag to be burnt.

The whole group have lost my support and respect.
on January 30, 2012 at 4:35 pm Miglo

Shane, I agree with 99% of what you say. The burning of the flag is unacceptable to me, but I accept it means less to others than it does to you and I.

I’m sure it wouldn’t have happened if there was something symbolic of Aboriginal Australia on the flag in place of the Union Jack.

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