This morning I heard some morally corrupt politician when pressed for an answer to an easy enough question, responded by saying "...it's Un Australian, that's why..."

I don't know about any of you out there, but personally I'm fed up to the back teeth with another 'mealy mouthed' politician, whenever they're bereft of an answer, trying to shrewdly sidestep the question, with that old hackneyed response '...it's Un-Australian...' ? Or, we give everyone here, '...a fair go...' ?

What's meant by, it's Un-Australian ? Don't we all now live in a much lionized, multicultural society, where we're all equal ? And where the old ways and former generations have now been blurred into a much newer and superior community without the existance of any of the old cultural baggage or prejudices of yesteryear ?

Sure, many of us still try to give our fellow citizens a 'fair go', but surely this is not exclusively just an Australian characteristic ? However hard we might wish it to be so.

Courtesy at a busy intersection, standing back and allowing a lady to go through a door before you...Is this a 'fair go' or just common courtesy and good manners.

What is really meant by a 'fair go' ? Whatever it is, it's certainly not sole, nor uniquely an Australian quality, not by a long shot.

I do wonder if these two quaint phrases we hear ad nauseam, is just another attempt by the media to inculcate some form of jingoism into the mix of fashionable journalism ?

Cheers...Sung wu.

Dear o sung wu,

Here's a link to get the ball rolling:

http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/letting-go-is-harder-than-a-fair-go-20110128-1a8d6.html

I'll comer back with more later on.

Hi there LEXI...

A thoroughly interesting article, and I couldn't agree with it more.

We're a funny country really, officially we welcome all our new settlers, but many of us install obstacles, in order to dissuade migrants from making overtures of friendship, then we blame them for not being friendly, even accusing them of being aloof ?

Isn't there something about '...giving 'em a fair go...' ? As I said, we're a funny country really.

Many thanks LEXI.

Cheers...Sung Wu.

As I said, we're a funny country really.
o sung wu,
yes, and a weird mob to boot ! :-)

Dear o sung wu,

Here's another link from our very own
online opinion:

http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=4871

Again, thank you very much LEXI for taking the time to extract these topical links, I do appreciate it.

At the conclusion of page one, I stood quietly, faced east, and humbly thanked the 'great geometrician of the universe' that my miserable life was never destined be that of a 'senior public servant'. I do apologise if I sound disingenuous, it just means I'm very much the pragmatist, albeit an uneducated pragmatist.

There's no doubt the ideals, objectives, theoretical visions, and all the other highly desired qualities, are at least comparable to what we all seek and desire. That is to attain Abraham Maslow's motivational technique of 'self-actulization' though not for ourselves, but for our country.

The way this gentleman describes it, we're already there and leading the world, or so it would seem ? The whole tenor of his piece, to me, certainly smacks of jingoism in spades.

Still, I guess he's only supporting his professional calling, that of a senior bureaucrat.

It just annoys the hell out of me, when I hear a politicion utter those words '...it's un-Australian...', when all he/she needs to do is tell the truth. Or am I demanding too much ? Should I put such awkward questions ? I suppose I shouldn't, it's un-Australian to do so ?

Cheers...Sung wu.

O sung wo Gday mate.
You as many will know,we are not the country of mateship and such we once had been.
I know your past job saw most back up their mates but in truth we can not say what is un Australian.
And sometimes the person using that term may just be near as we get to it.
Like to see more of you around here.
Our politics differ but who cares?

Dear o sung wu,

The following is an excerpt from an article
that I discovered on the web. I found it relevant
to this issue:

Here goes:

As Australian society has become more
diverse with continuing immigration expressions of
racism in Australian popular culture have changed
over time. Racist language and attitudes that were
common at the end of the nineteenth century are no
longer acceptable one hundred years later.

However, racism continues to find expression in new
ways, reiforced thropugh the popular media.
Contemporary expressions of racism such as the terms
"Un-Australian," which have emerged in recent years
relate to notions of nationhood which are seen as
incompatible with diversity. These racist beliefs
may be expressed in various stereotyped views of who
the "real" Australians are.

This form of racism is based on an ideology of national
culture which minority cultures are regarded as alien
and a threat to social cohesion.

It consists of pervasive cultural assumptions where the
customs and beliefs of the dominant group in society
are presented as the norm. As a result, the status and
behaviour of minority groups, particularly those who are
more visibly different, are defined and judged with respect
to the dominant group of largely British and Celtic
backgrounds.

These attitudes are widely discussed by shock jocks and
in the media where they are presented as reasonable and
commonsense, and reflected through media images that
don't accurately portray Australia's cultural diversity.
In this way, racial ideologies are expressed and
re-inforced through a process of group interaction and
thereby absorbed into popular culture.

G'day BELLY ol' Mate...

Where have you been ? Sure our political ideologies may differ, but as you say, who cares ?

Interestingly, you suggested that in my previous job, 'mateship' and 'sticking together' was very much the norm. In some respect you're completely correct. It's a case of US against THEM ('them' being the general public) a sort of self-protective mechanism, if you like.

However, internally there's many challengers to one's character. You have the cliques, much nepotism, partiality, the 'old boy network', sexism, and another feature concerning the opposit sex, that's far too risque - No, just too rude to articulate herein (a common expression amongst male coppers) that's happening far more often than it should ?

In all my years in the job BELLY, morale's never been good. Despite pay rises, a strong Association (often described by the media as the strongest Union in Australia ?), and a very good Super scheme.

Sorry, I'm well off Topic here. Other than to conclude by...when you join the job, you join with a fresh, positive attitude, together with high ideals.

When you resign, are dismissed, or retire most, not all, but most leave emotionally drained, even sick, cynical, definately misanthropic, revengeful, and more...

Need I say anything further ?

Really good to hear from you BELLY !

Cheers...Sung wu.

Hi there LEXI, many thanks for your link on this topic.

It always worries me when I hear the term 'shock jock' as mentioned in your link LEXI. A term usually referring to 'Talk Radio' Hosts.

On the subject of 'Talk Radio', I'm of the view that you can often gauge the true 'mood' or 'temperature' of a place, by listening to locals voice their grievances, views and opinions on anything that adversely impacts upon their daily lives. I guess that's why so many politicians monitor Talk Back Radio programmes ?

As very much the 'freshman' student, on South African affairs. I listen 'on line' daily, to Radio 702 Johannesburg. 1100hrs here, and about 0200hrs there, they were discussing alternate countries in which to live, other than RSA. One 'talk back' caller, a former white Rhodesian, now living with his family in RSA was asked by the host why he'd left Melbourne, having lived there since fleeing Mr Bob Mugarbe's Zimbabwe in 1980.

He said inter alia '...the country's full of loudmouth shepherds...'. Be that as it may, we all might like to ridicule or deride this bloke, nevertheless that's his opinion, and it will proberly never change !

We Aussies are not as well loved even liked as we might think or wish ? An example. There's an Arcade in London, off New Bond Street. In this Arcade, there are some very exclusive little shops. Dressed casually, I sought entry into such a shop selling, Exclusive Gentleman's Grooming Aids, with a sign (by Appointment to 'HRH' ? or other), above the door, which is always kept closed.

Seeking entry, I was asked from what country I was from ? Having admitted I was from Oz, I was very, very politely informed, that shop had nothing that would hold any interest for, either an Australian, or New Zealand gentleman like myself ! Humiliating, yes. Infuriating, absolutely !

However, it's just a fact. We Aussies are NOT universally loved or even liked. Why, maybe it's our boorish behaviour and uncouth attitude when abroad ?

Thanks again LEXI.

Cheers...Sung wu.

Dear o sung wu,

You might enjoy this:

"Buying bread from a man in Brussels,
He was six foot-four and full of muscles,
I said, "Do you speak my language?"
He just smiled and gave me a vegemite sandwich..."
(Man At Work).

A good one LEXI, a real good one !

Cheers...Sung wu.

The overused word "unAustralian " possibly has been copied from
" UnAmerican " which was used by Senator Mc Carthy in the 1950s anti Communist witch - hunts . It is applied to anybody / anything which the person using it dislikes .

Any policy which does not advance the interests of the speaker is called unAustralian .
The concept of a fair go [ "fairness " would be better ] is not unique to Australia .

In principle , all nations agree with it . In reality , so many people believe that what suits their interests is fair , regardless of what is the corresponding effect on the interests of others .

Lexi my sweet, you say "As Australian society has become more
diverse with continuing immigration expressions of
racism in Australian popular culture have changed
over time. Racist language and attitudes that were
common at the end of the nineteenth century are no
longer acceptable one hundred years later."

I find this interesting, but must ask to just whom it is unacceptable. You will find it very hard to find anyone to whom it is unacceptable in my area.

Now before you all scream bush hicks, let mt assure you this is not the case. Most of the properties are new high quality homes on acreage, with just a smattering of the old farmers, or farm houses.

A very large percentage are professional, graduates, or trades people, running a business. Many will tell you, they moved out here, 30Km out of the city to get away from their previous city suburb, now taken over by immigrants. These are nice suburbs, & nice affluent immigrants, unlikely to be anything but good neighbours, but they are not us. A small to moderate number of, lets be honest, Asians, were acceptable & welcome, even adding a touch of the exotic, but when they became the majority, that was different.

I came back from the Pacific islands, to a large extent, because I had a need to walk down a street where people were like me, & spoke my language, where I could be invisible. I had had enough exotic. There comes a time where you need to be part of the mob, & not different. It is even worse when you become the odd man out, in your own suburb.

These people are rapidly becoming sick of seeing their districts business & industries taken over by immigrants. I guess you could say they are becoming racists, where they never were before. When a trickle becomes a flood, resentment sets in.
Continued

Continued.
Many years ago an acquaintance had a furniture store in Petersham Sydney. Not a young bloke, he'd been there for years.

As the immigrants moved into the area, he had to hire staff who spoke the languages. No problem, the business prospered. Still the population changed, until the English speaking customer was rare.

He found some staff were making sales in their own right, using his display stock, but the sales were not put through the store. He got rid of a couple of offenders, but the problem grew. Finally he had to sell his business to a couple of the staff, for a small fraction of what it was worth, as he could no longer control what went on there.

If you heard his opinion of southern Europeans, you would blush Lexi, & I for one can't blame him. This is not an isolated case, & neither is the large numbers getting out of the city, to somewhere more Ozzie.

The bright thought is that my acquaintance could now go back to Petersham, & run his business successfully again as it has changed, the dark thought is that he would not want to.

Hi there HASBEEN...

I'm aware of several similar situations involving a degree of coercion even intimidation. One situation applied to an asian fellow to sell property to a consortium of middle eastern people, ostensibly for a development. Very close to a criminal offence, but regrettably the complainant wasn't prepared to take the matter further, in my belief because of fear. Interestingly, the 'deal' fell through, a case of being in the unwanted glare of a police spotlight ?

To my knowledge, this practice continues to flourish unabated, where there are many people who are still urged to leave an area for good. Previously, these dwellings or businesses have been in the same, 'Aussie' family, for several generations. When new occupants or tenants arrive, they simply and quite overtly, 'encourage' the previous occupants or neighbours to leave, by adopting certain unsociable or 'Un Australian' activities or behaviours to a point, were these Aussie families can no longer countenance nor endure staying any longer.

Shrewdly, even cleverly, despite numerous attendences by police, rarely are laws broken. Rather, most breaches fall within the aegis of the local Councils. Noise and loud ethnic music is often featured in complaints. When police attend the premises, all is found to be quiet. Thus a warning and a Nuisance Abatement Notice, citing excessive noise is served. Order is once more restored and police leave, the noise starts up once more, it's almost a cyclic event ?

When you do manage to get the offender(s) before a Magistrate, they (offenders) claim their music is neither appreciated nor understood by the complainent(s. The 'wise' Magistrate dismisses the case, with a kindly suggestion they try to reduce the volume of their music in future. Smiles all round - more evidence of 'multi-cultralism' at work, with another success, for the Parliamentry Annual Report ?

Cheers...Sung wu.

Hi there JAYLEX...

I reckon you struck the nail squarely on the head. I couldn't have put it any better.

I wasn't aware the original script came from none other then, Republican Senator Joe McCarthy. Our erstwhile political inquisitor, of communist sympathisers in Hollywood ?

Didn't he claim there were over 200 odd communists within the ranks of actors and actrasses, including some very big names ? Also, was it he who coined the phrase, 'Reds under the bed' ?

Anyway, I believe you're on the money with your assessment of why so many of our pollies use or abuse such a phrase. How very convenient for them.

Many thanks for your contribution JAYLEX.

Cheers...Sung wu.

Dear Hasbeen,

I understand what you're saying. And I deeply
appreciate your honesty and openess. Heaven knows my own
family, that is, my brothers and their in-laws, who
are farmers, all feel the same way.

I feel differently.
Call me naive - but I can only speak from my own
experiences. And my experiences have all been positive.
I've helped young and old of various ethnic backgrounds
as part of my profession in the library. I've inter-acted with
so many - too numerous to mention - and I've learned a great
deal from people. I personally feel that we have a more
vigorous, exciting Australia as a result of immigration.

And sure there are problems, but through interaction and
discussion, I feel the problems can be sorted out.
Of course, the option involves taking consideraable risks
- but almost every human advance is based on experiment,
innovation and adventure. It's important to remember
Australia before the most recent wave of migration.
It was dull, self-satisfied and joylessly conformist.
A cultural backwater.

Of course this is only my opinion. ;-)

Any links to as to how to get a fair go ?

Hello there Lexi...

I hope you don't mind me making a comment to something you've said to HASBEEN ?

You mentioned, as part of your job in a library, you've had many positive experiences with all manner of folk from differing ethnic origins, and backgrounds.

Unfortunately, in my former line of work, my experience could only be described as being diametrically opposite to that, which you've glowingly described earlier.

I would agree with you totally, when you say there are many of those people who've come here, and made a tremendously good fist of living in a new country.

I must tell you though Lexi, there are parts of Sydney that could only be described as ethnic enclaves and war zones. Police must first appraise themselves of all available intelligence before embarking upon normal enquiries.

Obviously, I'll not identify these areas, but I can assure you...sorry ! What I mean to say, I can absolutely PROMISE you, there are ares in metropolitian Sydney, that police have (almost) lost control - Naturally, the Politicians will deny it - just ask the average detective, or any patrol within that area, they'll tell you ?

From my point of view, as a former detective, I can only say that, in my opinion, multi-culturalism has failed miserably. Unfortunately, the very good people we do get here, are substantially out-weighed by some of the most undesirables'. Criminals in their former country of origin. We'll rue the day that we've EVER let in certain ethnic groups. Am I racist ? No, I'm just a realist, based purely on the evidence I've seen in my former vocation. Are there ethnic groups that I'd not attempt to befriend, yes absolutely. That statement gnaws at me greatly as a practising humanist.

I'm sorry if I appear to be so negative and full of gloom, regrettably it's the truth. Australia will regret this human 'experiment', unluckily. Why in heaven, don't our politicians listen ? We must be far more selective with our migration policy.

Cheers...Sung wu (who, for the sake of my grandchildren, is proved wrong.)

Unfortunately pc has replaced commonsense in Australia. Aussies have always been good at having a go at immigrants as well as themselves. My eighty odd year father would call the Chinese slant eyes but then have a best mate as a Chinaman to go fishing with. He would call soccer wog ball but still have many European friends. Most immigrants copped a bit, toughened up and gave back as much as they got. Nowadays the pc brigade would jail the likes of my father and encourage litigation. The same mob are happy to encourage migration here from people who despise any sort of Western values. Go figure. Australians were certainly a racist mob but not enough to deter multitudes from coming here and making themselves a homes.

I agree Lexi, we can only take people as we find them. I personally have never had a problem with anyone, apart from a couple of poms in the Royal Navy, when I did my aircraft carrier training over there.

I have happily mixed with islanders, aboriginals, & all manner of other Oz population. In my first house in an outer suburb of Sydney, my neighbours were a Pom on one side, a Czech on the other & a Maltese over the back, & we got on famously. We did all speak English, [except the pom of course], which helped, even if a bit unusual in that area.

I have never experienced the feeling of being forced out of my chosen area, but the anger of those who feel they were is very real. If too great an influx of immigrants were to enter the area I believe the reception would be less than welcoming. The few market gardeners we have are mostly welcome, at least since we managed to get them to understand that when water restrictions said no pumping from the river Tuesday & Friday, it meant them too.

We have absorbed many, & made them ozzies, but if the rate becomes too great, as I believe it is now, we will end up with all the problems of the middle east right here, in your & my grand kids faces, with not much likelihood of fixing them.

Dear o sung wu, Hasbeen,

My experiences have only been positive - that's
all I've got to go on.

Perhaps I've been
lucky - or perhaps it's how you re-act to
people and situations. I've been in a couple
of incidents that could have gotten out of hand.

I remember one particular situation when I
took a short cut through a tunnel near a railway
station on my way to evening class when I was held up
by a young African bloke who demanded my money.

I said -"I'll give you everything I've got (I only
had a couple of dollars on me) but could you at
least leave me enough for a cup of coffee - as I'm
on my way to class.

Surprise, surprise - he did just
that. And I went on my way. I saw him a week later
walking with his friends near that same station.
He didn't recognise me, and I said nothing to him.
I did not report the incident because I felt that
the young guy was "high" at the time - and I didn't
see the point of making things worse for him over a
few dollars.

Another episode took place - when a gang of Italian youths
broke into a vending machine outside the library
and were stealing bottles from the machine.

I ran out and confronted them with "Put the stuff back!"
at the top of my voice. One of them said, "Lady,
take it easy. Do you know how much money we've lost
on this bl**dy machine? We're now just getting
some of it back!" I continued to yell - "Put it back!"
And another of them called out, "Hit her! Hit her!"
To which the first bloke replied, "Nah, she's allright.
She's helped me with assignments." Anyway, I told
them, "I'm going into the library to call security.
You guys had better not be here when they arrive."
The blokes took their bottles and left. I did call
Center Management (the library was in a shopping centre),
and reported the broken machine.

cont'd ...

I forgot to mention that over the years
I've lived and worked in some of the
toughest neighbourhoods in both New York
and Los Angeles where I mixed with the
local population, did my laundry at night
in the area, and not once did I encounter
any problems with anyone. Luck? Perhaps.
I tend to take people as I find them - and
a smile and politeness usually works wonders.
But hey, that's me!

Lexi,

Like you I've lived in both New Yok and L.A.[and Miami and Colorado too]. Queens was predominantly a white immigrant area, but I once talked my way out of a situatiion with 3 black guys on the street. So yes, at times your own attitude can help defuse situations.
However, I lost my way in L.A., and ended up in Watts. Now that scared me. No white faces, all the stores had iron bars across the wondows, and broke the speed limit to get out of there.
Went into a restaurant in Bayou country, and was told to go look somewhere else to eat. This was for black folks only. Tried the nice approach, but all it got me was the door opened for me to leave.
This made me aware that when any ethnic group congregate in one area, it can cause problems. In america it is mainly a black/white problem, but in this country it is more a religious problem.
In Perth there was a predominately aboriginal area. When the black
[muslim africans with their pangas]and the middle eastern muslims were housed in that area, conflict arose between the groups, and it was the the aboriginals who moved away. This is now an area we avoid.
Being nice doesn't work because most of them can't even speak our language.

Dear worldwatcher,

My car broke down driving through Watts in Los Angeles
and I went into a nearby house and asked to use their phone.
Sometimes, ignorance is bliss. I didn't have a problem -
and received the help I needed plus a cup of tea.

In New Orleans the taxi driver was black and when it came
time to pay him, we stopped at a garage and asked for change.
When the garage owner saw our black driver - he told us
that he couldn't help us with the change. We ended up
paying the driver with what we had - even thought it was
less than the price of the fare - he told us not to worry
about it.

In Los Angeles, I worked at the University Library (Reference
Department)
of the University of Southern California. It was an elitist
University surrounded by a black ghetto area. I used to travel
by bus daily and would end up being the only white-face on
the bus by the time the bus reached the campus. I am well-
aware of the race problem in the United States having lived
and worked there for close to ten years.

A friend of ours was in the LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department)
and the stories he would tell were horrific. However, I
looked upon the situation as the result of what disadvantage
can do to people's lives. Especially to people who were not
given a "fair go."

Lexi my dear,

Just goes to show - a pretty face will win 'em over every time [almost].

Somehow don't think a man would get the same result as you did.

Gender as well as age does make a difference in most situations we encounter.

Hi there LEXI...

Thank you again for your response, and I do appreciate what you're telling me. Often a smile, a kind word, a deed, in fact the many other kindnesses we do unto others, can soothe and pacify the savage beast in most of us ? Not all, I'm afraid.

The several instances you've kindly cited herein, both here in Oz, and in the United States, we've/I've had to deal with an a single shift ! Whether it's the uniform, our presence or simply a combination of testosterone/drugs/booze/ or straight out sheer evil, I don't know. But deal with it , we must. Because if it's not us, then who ?

I do agree - everyone, particularly coppers should always try the softest approach first. When that fails, and fail it usually does, particularly when the offender(s) have an audience of their peers all yelling in their own language, diplomacy simply flies right out the window !

You mentioned Watts, Compton, Rampart and other districts in South Central LA, where there exists many social wrongs, and issues. Nothwithstanding the Rodney King (dec) affair, these social problems are the making of government. Not police. It's police who often have to clean up the mess.

I've spent several shifts with that agency (LAPD), doing what's called a 'ride along', an observer if you like. I found the place, in the mid eighties at least, was a veritable war zone.

Similarly, I did the same in Elizabeth, NJ (described as the 'arm pit' of the East Coast). And with the NYPD also, where I was consigned, as a 'foot' or beat observer, within the 'Projects' (housing) precinct, in Brooklyn. Often police in the US MUST take an agressive posture, or the crooks will walk all over them. Sadly it's all too true. US police really earn their salary.

Sometimes, I get so very weary, and tired, trying to continually defend and justify police ? I often wonder if their many critics and detractors had their way, and could 'shape' them into the model they desired. I wonder then what would happen ?

O sung wu

'I often wonder if their many critics and detractors had their way, and could 'shape' them into the model they desired. I wonder then what would happen ? '

you would end up with Police Commissioners leading Mardi Gras and going out for dinner while the State burns.

o sung wu,

You have to have been there to experience it, don't you? They earn every cent they are paid!

A very good friend of mine was a homicide dectective in New York, and had previously been one in the drug squad.

One humorous story he told me was regarding him trying to dissuade a drunk woman wearing spiky high heels from getting in her car and driving. He offered to call her a cab, and his was reward was being stomped by said heels. She ended up going to jail.

Yes, they do have to have a tough attitude in New York. They can't afford to be any other way as it is regarded as weakness. You would have probably noticed that the petty small time criminals may not have liked them, but they did have respect for 'the man'.

The average life expectancy was 52 for detectives. My friend only made it to 49. After being shot and stabbed at various times while on the job, he succumbed to a heart attack.

This was a good man who had joined the force with the belief he could make a difference.

I still have his gold shield, given to me by his relatives to help me remember our friendship.

Thank You one and all, for your patience and
understanding and for sharing your experiences
with me. I've expressed my point of view and feel
that I have nothing further to add.
See you on another thread.

Hi there RUNNER...

Might you be referring to a certain lady, formerly a Chief Police Commissioner in the State of Victoria, per chance ?

You're so right and topical, particularly in the last 48 hours or so, of our current situation, with these extreme weather conditions creating dangerous Fire Hazards.

Of course I wasn't there. However, whatever her reason was, for not remaining at her post, as the head of emergency services during such a critical event - well only history will record her actions as kindly as possible.

Apparently, many of those much closer to what was going on, don't have a kind word for her, with respect to her decisions on such a momentous day ?

From my knowledge, she was 'head hunted' from us in NSW by a former Premier of Victoria, Ms Joan Kirner ? They wanted to inculcate a much softer image of the police in that State, than previously ? And the rest, as they say, is history.

Thanks again RUNNER.

Cheers...Sung Wu.

And thank you too LEXI. You've always managed to present a view and opinion worthy of appreciable merit, that often motivates me and others herein to reflect upon what you've said. Again, thank you.

Hi there WORLDWATCHER...

What can I say ? I'm quite close to a few law enforcement people over there, thankfully they're all still 'above ground'. I don't mean that irreverently at all ! A phrase often used by a Special Agent of the FBI, who just happened to be, prior to his retirement, the PFI for the Bureau, on the West Coast of the US.

I don't for a moment believe there'd be a much tougher duty, than that of a major crime squad detective, in any large city agency in the United States.

I was given an amazing figure by some Union Rep. (from the 'Fraternal Protection League of Sworn Officers', or something ?) of 'Burn-Out'.

Apparently, a Patrolman according to this bloke, was determined to be emotionally and administratively 'Burnt-Out after a little over five and half years on the 'street' ? As your good (dec) friend indicated (though didn't actually articulate it), it's one hell of a tough way to earn a buck !

I'm so sorry for your friends premature and lamentable passing WORLDWATCHER. It's just so unfair, and my words, so inadequate ?

With kind regards...Sung wu.

o sung wu

ticked all the right boxes as far as the social engineers were concerned but failed to understand the nature of the enemy. This whole philosophy is undoing western civilisation. I am thankful that I grew up in an era where coppers were generally respected and feared. I know their were a few corrupt ones but most were decent hard working people. I don't envy the task of the modern day copper. I think many are chose because of their academic ability, sexuality and agreeing with social dogmas. No wonder their is such a huge drop out rate. Almost impossible to police where the social engineers have undermined the authority of police. I suppose they have done the same of fathers and teachers so it comes as little surprise. Well on the positive note generally police get paid a lot better than they use to although they earn every cent.

Dear worldwatcher,

Please accept my deepest sympathy at the loss of your
friend. The police detective friend of ours in Los
Angeles that I mentioned in my earlier post has now
retired from the force due to ill-health. He's got
a drinking problem as a result of his work. He was
awarded a medal for bravery and saving lives in
one particular incident. Plus his work with young
people received recognition. However, his health
will never be the same.

Lexi dear,

Yes, unfortunately some do resort to drink to try and blot out some of the things they've seen. Some take even more drastic measures like 'eating their gun'. And of course, there is also a very high divorce rate due in part to the weird hours they work.

I'm a leadfoot, and my friend once told me of an incident where he saw a motorcyclist beheaded in an accident. My friend was always lecturing me to slow down when he was in the car - he was a really nervous passenger.

Don't know how I'd feel if I had to witness some of the terrible things these brave police see. It would give me nightmares for the rest of my life.

Thanks to both you and Sung Wu. You've been there, seen it, and can both understand that these men and women put their lives and health constantly on the line to help make our lives safer.

For the luckier ones, they have the chance to retire and hopefully live out the remainder of their lives in peace. Which they richly deserve!

Many thanks to you all, for finding the time to respond to this little topic. A topic that managed to promote some very interesting perspectives and diverse opinions.

Cheers...Sung wu.

Dear worldwatcher,

You're so right. I remember that family friend of ours
when he first graduated from the Police Academy in
Los Angeles. He was such an idealistic young man -
and so handsome. His first assignment was - in Watts.
A year later we didn't recognise him. His hair had
turned white - and he'd aged by decades. What he had
seen and the stories he had to tell - as I stated
earlier - were horrific. His life had changed drastically.
It looked like he was living in a war zone.
Our hearts went out to him and his family. Today - he
doesn't keep in touch or answer any of our letters.
Not sure how he's doing. And as you point out - he's one
of many in the police force. They defintely deserve our
support. Their job is such a tough one.

I'd define the "fair go" as the right to enter the marketplace and use one's skills or natural attributes to compete with others for material gains, most of Australia's White majority would see any sort of contrived impediment or discrimination to the right to compete on equal terms as unjust.No human group accepts outsiders as equals without testing them and if the newcomer is found wanting or unable to improve himself he's rejected by the community and ostracised or exiled while the person who shapes up and can hold his own is accepted.
The important thing here is that a migrant be able to pull his own weight, no human society can carry dead weight on a long term basis and no healthy society desires a bunch of useless mouths to feed. In the normal life cycle it's considered good enough that we take responsibility for our very young people, the aged and the infirm, taking responsibility for outsiders is a state priority only, given the choice "we the people" would not let these people into the country and we'd expel those who have become a burden.
A "nation of migrants" is an oxymoron, we're a nation of SETTLERS and settlers build and improve upon their fresh start, just as any other nation has social conventions and demands certain things of it's people so does Australia, if a person has no capacity to compete in the marketplace or no intention of improving themselves beyond the level at which they entered society then they have no business being here.

Jay of Melbourne,

I like your term settlers so much more than migrants. It describes far more accurately how we came here and helped build this country.

Aussies had no time for those who weren't willing to work and contribute to our wonderful country.

In my opinion, with such a small population spread over vast distances, we've accomplished miracles!

It's been hard work, and for some under harsh conditions too, but I still marvel that we have good roads, world class hospitals, good communications, and a sense of camaraderie it would be hard to beat.

Sadly, this has changed. Is it any wonder that we resent paying for those who are now arriving to be merely sloths?

We didn't strive all these years for this to be the result of our labours.

Hi there JAY of MELBOURNE...

As usual you do tend to identify exactly where the point lies, with your term 'settlers' ! Implying quite correctly, that all who came here, came to build themselves a new home, together with a new and better life. As such, the 'traditional' Aussie, including all those fantastic people who arrived here in the forties and fifties from war torn Europe, generally resent anyone who comes here with their collective hands out, seeking a lifetime of succour, compliments of the Australian taxpayer.

And to the others, who have the impudence to dare accuse many of us of being Racist, because we unilaterally condemn these illegal boat arrivals (yes Marilyn, - 'ILLEGAL') arriving unannounced, are simply uttering nothing but sheer unadulterated nonsence.

Personally, I think - No believe, most Aussies welcome carefully regulated immigration per se. ? What they don't like, is being overtly 'put upon' by people who think we're stupid enough to simply permit them to unambiguously, avail themselves of our very generous Social Security benefits and public health.

Aussies are very easy going folk. But like a King Brown 'Joe Blake', if you try to push him around, or you step on him, you'll be bitten, it WILL hurt, and you'll never ever forget it !

Thanks again, JAY of MELBOURNE.

O Sung, Worldwatcher,
As a general principle I have no objection to more or less open borders as long as they are open to everyone regardless of race or national origin and nobody is given priority or assisted passage.
That is to say that if a person is of good character, has proper documentation of identity, a bank balance which can sustain them in the short term and clean criminal and health records they should be able to buy in to the fair go. We all want to live among "people like us" basically those who are able to survive in their native lands but want to "upgrade" ie prosper in a new location because like it or not that's what colonies and multicultural societies in general are all about, material prosperity.
What the Leftist and to a certain extent the Christian proponents of open borders really want is a society of mixed race people that's run by a tiny W.A.S.P elite, to that end they'd deny entry to those ethnic groups who make up the traditional majority in this country in favour of others. They're the types who are really hated by other Australians because their whole system is premised on privilege and special provisions for favoured groups, the social constructs such as "asylum seeker", "humanitarian arrival" and "skilled migrant" so beloved of the PC establishment.
The problem with immigration at the moment is that it's not fair or democratic, it's riddled with corruption, policy is driven by PC dogma and religious beliefs and it's resulting in the harmful effects of greater stratification and division in society.

Jay of Melbourne,

You are so right. Who could fault such a rational observation?

You have confirmed the sentiments of many of we settlers. I don't think anyone would object to migration [ well, maybe the Greens ] under the terms you set out. In fact, we'd welcome it.

I think the majority of Australians simply object [ and with good reason] to being abused by the system allowing illegals coming here with very little scrutiny, and jumping the queue of migrants who can prove they can offer something to our economy, instead of bleeding it.

We supposedly have a quota for those who are genuine refugees, and who are patiently waiting in camps for approval to come here.
In some cases these people have very little materially to offer, but have taken the necessary steps to legally apply for permission to come here. They too must feel great resentment that the queue jumpers can get in so quickly because the illegals can afford to pay a smuggler.

Any government who promises to halt this immediately, and follows through immediately on that promise has my vote for sure.

Oh yes, and all those illegals should be immediately returned to their country of origin! Also en masse, not a few at a time on a chartered plane

I concur completely with your comments JAY of MELBOURNE.

If any single issue is slowly diminishing our Aussie culture, and way of life, much like a virulent malignancy, It's government orchestrated Political Correctness. Where the last vestiges of free and open speech, is heavily restricted even banned.

Because, political correctness is just another form of official censorship. Where the last relics of free speech are officially sanitized, in order to placate and mollify the many minorities and religious factions now holding some ascendancy within this hitherto, once great country of ours.

.

Calling Bazz,

How many boat arrivals since Christmas? Still can't find any mention of the number anywhere.

O sung Wu,
There is no circumstance in the real world where diversity is a strength, "diversity is our strength" was a slogan created by the Jewish group Bnai Brith in the U.S.A for one of their advertising campaigns, one of Bill Clinton's speechwriters took that tag and changed it to "diversity is our greatest strength", the rest is history.
The whole concept of ethnic diversity strengthening a society is stupid, no sane person believes it but as I said, the pro immigration crowd don't want a society that's diverse.
Using a food analogy (because it's all about the food, right lol) their ultimate objective is not a traditional "bring a plate" buffet with a range of appealing dishes on offer, what they really want is a melting pot in which the only item produced is a brown soup which tastes of nothing in particular but which still keeps splitting and congealing into unidentifiable, unpalatable lumps.

Actually while I'm cracking wise with a culinary motif consider the following:
-At a buffet a normal person isn't going to take a piece of Pavlova and a piece of Zucchini Fritata, mash them together and expect the resulting mess to taste good merely because the main ingredient in both is eggs.
-21st century Politically Correct Australia is a "Clayton's" nation, people of a certain age will remember the Clayton's adverts for "The drink you have when you're not having a drink".That beverage was marketed with the idea that all is not as it seems, that because it's colour and packaging are suggestive of other brands of strong drink a teetotaller can pull a swifty and blend in with more "sophisticated" drinkers.
I don't drink alchohol, years ago probably as a joke someone gave me a bottle of Clayton's, I drank it and while it tasted pretty good taking it up as a regular tipple in placeof alchohol just seemed pointless. It's an expensive way to look "sophisicated",to "fit in", generally people who don't drink aren't concerned about the approval of their supposed betters, just being who you are costs nothing, pretending to be something you're not usually comes at a high price.
So it is with PC,it costs money to appear "sophisticated", to become "educated" and "culturally aware",you can't pull the wool over the eyes of your "Betters" who won't accept any substitute for the real thing, however it costs nothing just to follow your instincts and the lay of the land, just "be" where you are.

Hi there J of M...

Love your turn of phrase and your clever use of culinary examples in order to illustrate a point. Indeed, I do remember the Clayton's advertisment '...the drink you have when you don't want to drink...' !

Somehow, I think many of us are simply living in the past, because we really don't appreciate what our future holds for us. That's why we applaud so loudly whenever we see something of our past way of life.
I went to school by tram in Sydney. Later, (high school) a double decker bus. Everyone smoking away, on top, unhealthy sure !

A shocking admission to make J of M, but I'll be so glad that I won't be around to witness the total and absolute decimation, both our way of life, and our once great country. If I might be permitted to borrow a movie line, we're on the road to perdition.

Call me a fatalist even a doomsayer, I'd prefer a realist.

Many thanks for your superb contributions J of M.