'Just because she is a woman in a position of power does not mean she is, or considers herself to be, a 'feminist hero'.'

But that's my point Suze, the author never claims this. He claims feminists put her up as a feminist hero REGARDLESS of the obvious evidence to the contrary, evidence that existed before she even became leader.

Why is this such a disappointing read from a writer who usually exhilarates?

Just very poor timing, it seems.

The issue of the hour is sexist bullying. This has been rampant in Australia in recent years.

Finally someone has called it for what it is and said Enough! With clarity of voice and a devastating blend of controlled indignation, considered argument, background evidence and direct quotes.

She has been justly applauded around the world for delivering this so effectively.

Of course, Labor and the PM have a long list of failures and weaknesses. No question at all. But there are strengths and successes as well.

To take the opportunity afforded by a rare, overdue and highly welcome achievement to focus on some of the obvious deficiencies just seems churlish and vindictive.

Certainly we must condemn the negatives when they arise. But why not also celebrate the positives on the rare occasions they are delivered?

I find it amusing to read the discourse from so many of you above. Much of the trouble we face today centers on the issue of ‘Rational Response.’

What is the ‘Rational Response’ to our societal, political, economic and environmental problems?
For example, take two well-known and seemingly intractable problems:
1) Criminals are known to make their entry through the back-door.
2) Strawberry infused dessert is delicious and fattening.

In consideration of these dilemmas, and the “Rational Response’: I’ve invested in a rowing machine and I’ve taken to wearing two layers of pants at all times.

The double-layered pants offer indispensable reaction time. Before the perpetrator can penetrate the outer fabric en route to my back door, I’m well aware of his intention. Defensive maneuvers can begin with the safety pants still intact.

The rowing machine, of course, enables me to enjoy all the scrumptious strawberry infused Dessert I can possibly eat without fear of becoming obese and more importantly, outgrowing my safety pants.

So you see, even in our complex and difficult circumstances, the ‘Rational Response’ is indeed possible. You’ve got to work hard to crack the nut before it cracks you.

Any rational discourse relating to 'Dear Julia' just seems to become irrational!

I have never found an article by this bloke worth reading.

Nothing has changed with this one.

Yes I do know Gillard and what she is really like.

Unlike most who write here.

Hi Marilyn,

Must admit I was intrigued by both your fairly forceful denunciation of the PM and Tony's questions to you.

I would also be interested in your answers to these from Tony:

1. How do you know what she [the PM] is really like? What is the nature of your acquaintanceship beyond what anyone can learn from the media?

2. When did you two last speak?

3. If you've never met her and got to know her properly can you reasonably claim to know her any better than you would another stranger - me for example?

Thanks, Marilyn.