After seeing this I am absolutely convinced that Australia has a Chinese future:

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/feb/02/chau-chak-wing-awarded-590000-in-defamation-case-over-abc-four-corners-episode

Chris Lewis - you wrote - in response to TTBN - which I over-fill.

I only offer my opinion.

what I remember has shaped my opinion.

"I remember homosexuality being illegal, something I could never understand."

Yes, I agree as was Aussie Policy in the 70's.

"I remember being harassed by police for no reason."

I am unaware of any reason for such harassment.

"I remember Australia being far less tolerant to non-Anglo celts."

I am unaware of any reason for such harassment, we all had friends - as children - growing up within Multicultural Societies - I still firmly believe today, it was us kids that changed society, as kids we saw "no colour, no creed, nor religion"......and just played together.

"I remember a much more boring sport context, mainly AFL and cricket."

Oh hey - OUCH - AFL, Cricket, and Rugby League are the Icon institutions of traditional past history.

You just "got me" as a true blue St George Supporter..... lol

"I remember, as a ward of the state, being powerless against govt appointed guardians who were corrupt and abusive."

Chris - As a Ward of the State - nothing I can say here will atone for any abuse you suffered as a child.....an innocent child who deserved to be brought up with love and "safety", under appointed "guardians".

No child asked to be born - no child deserved to be placed into any home of corruption or abuse.

I do hope you have sought legal representation as to avenues of compensation for such abuse.

"I remember Australians being rather ignorant about environmental issues."

No, Australians have never been ignorant about environmental issues.

"Yes, there were some good things about the past, but overall I reckon today is better."

I agree, today is better, and Chris = tomorrow will be better also, and the day after that, and the day after that.

So I write an "Open" note to all Forum users and friends that have posted me over many years in the past.

I simply ask the following -

1. It doesn't matter if one has a university degree or not, this does not detract that this person has an opinion - on any topic.

2. There are people on this forum who have been abused as children whilst in Government Institutions and others - who are seeking to communicate with "normal people". Sometimes their truth will be told within this forum.....look out for it and assist.

3. There are also Indigenous Aussies - who join this forum as a chance to "voice their views".... look and assist, and follow such member.

3. There are Vietnam vets on this forum - be mindful and compassionate in views, as they reach out - we can be mindful of their views and discuss ours - whether it be the same or diverse.

4. There are also "young" people on this forum who seek guidance from "older heads" in discussions.

We all have a job - so let's give all Aussies - a "hand up" and not a "slap down".