A pretty good historical take on Adelaide's foundations. The City of the Plain.

Adelaide really took off in the 40s with manufacturing, agriculture and livestock and it is still predominantly in that low tech phase. It's a stand out example of not going with the times so while it's rural village atmosphere may be charming, it's a veneer that hides the working poor and the under employed.

SA will need Commonwealth Gov handouts over the next 20 years.

Dear Cheryl,

Unlike the eastern states that were created by convicts, South Australians arrived by choice and are not there to be slaves. They may not work that many hours in a formal job or have that many dollars, but are therefore rich in free time.

"Low tech" is what makes South Australia self-sufficient, with enough people still knowing the good old skills. Once the world-economy collapses, which no doubt it will, and electronic goods no longer arrive at our shores, or any other cheap merchandise for that matter, South Australians are to be the least affected.

When the rest of the world goes over the cliff, South Australia can remain and flourish. You are encroaching on a sanctuary of sanity with your "going with the times" fantasy, like an elephant in a china store.

Nobody wants the commonwealth's pittance - South Australians want independence!

You're not alone in your Federation fantasy of independence for SA, Yuyutsu. Not other state is so dependent on GST revenues to survive. Indeed, your luddite and protectionist attitude is positively endearing and worthy of Menzies or the old Country Party. It is truly historic.

Low tech jobs go to Asia. Your end of the world comments are typical of the fiscal death wish of the protectionist, anti-market sect which live comfortably (for now) in Adelaide.

Adelaide has circled the wagons and can't seem to understand why tourists pass by, why Asia doesn't come knocking or why the rest of Australia (Qlds and WA) is sick of carrying SA.