Wine of the Week:
Well, I have to admit with the combination of a quick trip overseas and the festive season well and truly under way I have forgotten to single out a particular bottle of rouge. However, I would like to take the chance to thank the Oak Barrel in Sydney. They put on a great Christmas party last week that Trish and I attended. They provided a great range to taste and they have never failed to be helpful if you need any advice and guidance on what to buy. They are also online but in case you are ever in Sydney, they are on Elizabeth Street near the Downing Centre and worth the visit.
http://www.oakbarrel.com.au/
So, it has been a hectic time of late dear friends. The first week of December found me in Barcelona, Spain to attend a conference for work. Barcelona is a beautiful city - a great combination of old and new which is something that I haven't seen in any other city. That and was able to stay in a great hotel, the W in Barcelona. Once back, I started to get into the whole cycle of getting ready for Christmas and finishing up work for the year which seems to be a whirlwind in itself. That said, there were a few issues and events that took my attention.
While in Europe, two blonde Australians seemed to grab the attention of the press. Firstly, Julian Assange was arrested on alleged sexual assault charges. It wasn't long before the conspiracy theories came out. Funny thing is, I find them completely believable.
It wasn't long for the facts to come out that the extradition treaty between Sweden and the US would allow Assange to be sent there on spy charges quite easily. There seems to be a fine line between freedom of speech and spying...or that's what I am starting to see.
This one isn't over yet and it's one that everyone should keep an eye on.
Then there was the other Australian blonde - S.K. Warne. While I was in Spain, the story was around how there was a push by some Brisbane businessmen to get some cash to offer Shane to make a comeback to save our Ashes campaign. By the time the Perth test started, Shane had other things or people on his mind. By the end of the Test, all comeback talk had ceased...funny what a convincing win by the home side can do.
Last week, Sydney was under siege...by celebrities. U2, Bon Jovi and Oprah Winfrey all visited our fair city and all three made quite an impact. Traffic stopped, crowds grew and women swooned - and that was just for Oprah!
In fact, the only damage that seemed to occur was to the celebrities themselves as Hugh Jackman sailed into Oprah's stage and came away with a cut eye. However, if I was guaranteed to be comforted with a glass of Penfolds Grange after sailing into a lighting rig...get me up there!
Of course, we are on the downward run towards Christmas. Parties and lunches are happening in abundance, stores are getting busier by the day but the mood approaching Christmas Day does get brighter and brighter. It is a tragedy that the Island by the same name seems to generate feelings of sadness and despair. Nice to see Tony Abbott come out though and try and make hay as the waves crash...who said the concept of goodwill to all men is just a line in a Christmas carol??
So, to spite the Grinch from Warringah I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas. I hope that it's a time well spent with friends and family and that all your Christmas wishes come true...and we get a win in Melbourne!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Time does fly when you're having fun...
Wine of the Week:
Dominique Portet Gippsland Pinot Noir 2009 - must admit, opened this one at a pretty young age but after a few minutes breathing, it delivers like a Victorian Pinot Noir should. In fact, Pinot Noir is one of the better things to come out of Victoria and delivers better than any of the Victorian Bushrangers do that's for sure.
One of the things I like about Pinot Noir is that it is a great red to have during summer due to the fact that it is light enough while giving some of the depth that a red can give you. We got on to Pinots when we had a trip to Singapore and were desperate for a red in the humidity of the place and the high prices of the alcohol. Don't get me wrong, I love the place but gee, how much do you want to charge for a bottle of wine?? See, now I am just prattling on...
http://www.dominiqueportet.com
Today is December 1st. Apart from the first day of summer (in Australia anyway), there is some significance about today - this year even more so. See dear friends, it is 20 years since the Class of 1990 Sydney Technical High School Formal - which has been the sort of benchmark date to mark time passed since leaving high school. Hence by default, it has also today meant a time to pause on the fact that it has been 20 years since some of my close friends and I finished high school.
Let me take you back to 1990 and provide you some facts of that year.
A lot of time has passed since then. Not just for me but for all of us that make up the Class of 1990. It sounds awfully cliched but it is hard to believe that is has been twenty years since we finished high school. Sometimes I feel like that it was just yesterday when I left; but as my knees start to ache from just sitting down that feeling soon disappears.
Thinking back, that year was pretty special. It is hard to remember everything that happened but there were a few events that stand out.
As the years passed since 1990, contact with my schoolmates started to decline as university, new friends and circumstances started to make you drift apart from each other. However, there were seven of us that stayed in pretty close contact for much of the last twenty years. In fact, we have experienced quite a bit together - marriages, births, deaths, moves overseas - the usual events that make up one's life.
We don't get together as often as we used to; that's just the nature of things. However, it is safe to say that we have all been a part of each other's lives over the last twenty years. And I for one not only appreciate that but also am very grateful for it.
So, to the Class of 1990 who may read this thanks for being an integral part of my high school years and the many memories and lessons learnt during that time.
To Andrew, Chris, Craig, Rob, Dave and Winston, thanks for being part of not only my school years but also for the last twenty. It has been quite a ride and one that I feel privileged to have shared with you all. I can't promise any cigar cutters this time...but then again, I won't leave them on a train either - but that is a story for another time.
Soige.
Dominique Portet Gippsland Pinot Noir 2009 - must admit, opened this one at a pretty young age but after a few minutes breathing, it delivers like a Victorian Pinot Noir should. In fact, Pinot Noir is one of the better things to come out of Victoria and delivers better than any of the Victorian Bushrangers do that's for sure.
One of the things I like about Pinot Noir is that it is a great red to have during summer due to the fact that it is light enough while giving some of the depth that a red can give you. We got on to Pinots when we had a trip to Singapore and were desperate for a red in the humidity of the place and the high prices of the alcohol. Don't get me wrong, I love the place but gee, how much do you want to charge for a bottle of wine?? See, now I am just prattling on...
http://www.dominiqueportet.com
Today is December 1st. Apart from the first day of summer (in Australia anyway), there is some significance about today - this year even more so. See dear friends, it is 20 years since the Class of 1990 Sydney Technical High School Formal - which has been the sort of benchmark date to mark time passed since leaving high school. Hence by default, it has also today meant a time to pause on the fact that it has been 20 years since some of my close friends and I finished high school.
- Bob Hawke was Prime Minister of Australia and George H.W. Bush was the President of the United States. In fact, Hawke is elected for a fourth term in March of that year.
- Nelson Mandela is released from imprisonment in South Africa and the ANC is legally allowed to function as a legitimate political organisation.
- Lech Walesa becomes the first elected leadef of Poland, Mary Robinson the first female President of Ireland and Margaret Thatcher resigns as Prime Minister of the UK.
- 'Driving Miss Daisy' won the Oscar for Best Picture and the number one song for the year according to Billboard is 'Hold On' by Wilson Phillips (yes, I tried to expunge it from my memory too...in fact, the Top 100 songs of that year are on this site: Billboard's Top 100 songs of 1990)
- West Germany wins the FIFA World Cup under the banner of a unified Germany; the two Germanys reunify officially in October.
- Collingwood wins the AFL Premiership and Canberra wins the ARL Premiership.
- Flying up to Inverell and winning the quarter final of the Davidson Shield State cricket knock-out competition in front of the whole town.
- The many eighteenth birthdays where $20 buck for a present meant a night of free food and drink!
- Our last day before stu-vac having a champagne breakfast at Carss Park that left me covered in eggs, flour and soy sauce.
- Finishing my last H.S.C exam - 3 unit Economics - in what was a bit of an anti-climax as I was one of the last to finish.
- Our formal and having a photo with two of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on the way to the Hyatt Kingsgate...the rest of the night is a bit of blur apart from most of the invited guests coming back to my place for the post-formal party.
- And little did I know at the time, I also met my beautiful wife for the first time during that year
We don't get together as often as we used to; that's just the nature of things. However, it is safe to say that we have all been a part of each other's lives over the last twenty years. And I for one not only appreciate that but also am very grateful for it.
To Andrew, Chris, Craig, Rob, Dave and Winston, thanks for being part of not only my school years but also for the last twenty. It has been quite a ride and one that I feel privileged to have shared with you all. I can't promise any cigar cutters this time...but then again, I won't leave them on a train either - but that is a story for another time.
Soige.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Playing for Sheep Stations
Wine of the Week:
Magpie Estate 'The Sack' Barossa Valley 2004 Shiraz - The label says "The wine stays long in the mouth...Enjoy this big Barossa red..." It is a very big Barossa red and does require a decanting and some breathing. After that, the peppery nature of the Shiraz comes out and the depth of the wine comes through. We enjoyed this with some cheese and quince paste but I can also see that this wine going well with a nice BBQ'ed steak, salad and a pleasant summer's night.
We bought a few bottles of this drop from The Oak Barrel, which is one of the best bottle shops in Sydney. Simon and 'The Wine Doctor' are more than willing to give you advice on what wine to buy and they have a fine range on offer. They also hold a great number of events and wine tastings so get on the mailing list if you can.
http://www.oakbarrel.com.au
One of the joys that come from playing park cricket is that some of the funniest and memorable things get said when being together with a bunch of like minded blokes for hours on end on a Saturday afternoon. I learnt one of my favourite sayings while playing cricket which is " today we're playing for Sheep Stations". Now if you don't know what this means, it essentially refers to the fact that whatever you may be doing, there is a fair bit riding on it. Come Thursday, that is exactly what Ricky Ponting and the Australians will be playing for when the first Ashes Test starts in Brisbane.
See, not only is it cricket season but it is an Ashes summer which means dear friends, I am like a the proverbial kid on christmas morning who can not sleep the night before and wakes up early on Christmas morning ready to cause havoc on the bounty under the tree. This translates to poring over every article in the build up to the First Test, pondering over what eleven I would have running on to the field as well as keeping my replica Ashes urn next to the TV for the duration of the series; much to my Trish's amusement.
However, I know that some of the ever increasing numbers that read this blog (now in the high single figures) may not want to waste their time reading an in-depth analysis of how the Ashes of 2010/11 will pan out. In fact, some of you may think that the game of cricket is a downright bore but make no mistake, this will be the talking point for many in bars, at the office watercooler and at the many Christmas festivities that you may be invited to.
Thus, as a public service to you and to cater for my excitement, let me give you a few facts and comments that you can drop in conversations so that you can stay in the loop and at the very least, allow you to feign interest quite competently and convincingly.
1. "Did you know that Australia haven't lost a Ashes Series at home since 1986/87?" There is literally a whole generation of Australians who have not lived through losing an Ashes series on home soil. This also means that there is a whole generation that have no idea how painful it is to walk down the street and have sunburnt, drunk Englishmen stop you and gloat how wonderful their team is and how "fooking hopeless you Aussies are" (if you grew up in the 80's you know what I mean...as you would if you were walking around the Sydney CBD after the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final)
2. "Are you following Kevin Pietersen on Twitter?"
I don't like Kevin Pietersen. He is an attention seeking, ego driven fool who I don't think has delivered enough to warrant all the hype that he gets about being one of the lynchpins for England. My biggest fear is that he gets his act together this series...and that we get to hear about it via the Twitter battle he has with Shane Warne during the summer (the fact that they both live on Twitter says it all)
3. "Australia's middle order needs to fire otherwise we're cooked!"
Australia are no longer the dominant side that they once were; which means the whole team has to perform otherwise they will lose. It happened in 2009 and it will happen this summer if the likes of Hussey, North and Clarke do not score runs. If you also mention that it is about time that Callum Ferguson should get a run, you will gain street cred immediately.
4. "Graeme Swann may be a good bowler but he is an utter tool!"
Graeme Swann is England's number one spin bowler and is considered by some to be the best in the world at the moment. He is also a complete idiot - wait and see his press conferences this summer for proof.
5. "Of course I know who Ricky Ponting is...this series is make or break for him!"
While Ricky Ponting will go down in the history as being one of the greatest batsmen Australia has produced, his place in the game will largely be determined by the result of this series. Australia wins, he will be able to leave on his own terms. Australia loses and he will go down in history as one of the least successful Ashes captains and more than likely will mean the end of his tenure as Australian Captain. Harsh and completely unfair but that is the way it is.
6. "My tip is Australia to regain the Ashes 2-1"
It will be close - very close but home ground advantage will see Australia get home. Remember, you heard it here first!
Footnote: In the spirit of complete self-indulgence that epitomises this blog, one of my favourite and more memorable Ashes moments is getting to meet the legend that is Allan Robert Border at the Gabba in 2002. This was after he walked from Sydney to Brisbane and reached the Gabba by tea on the first day of the Ashes test match that year. I joined in on the final 42kms of the walk and while I was struggling to complete it, all it took was a few words from the former Australian Captain - so much so that if he told me to keep going to Cairns I would have.
Magpie Estate 'The Sack' Barossa Valley 2004 Shiraz - The label says "The wine stays long in the mouth...Enjoy this big Barossa red..." It is a very big Barossa red and does require a decanting and some breathing. After that, the peppery nature of the Shiraz comes out and the depth of the wine comes through. We enjoyed this with some cheese and quince paste but I can also see that this wine going well with a nice BBQ'ed steak, salad and a pleasant summer's night.
We bought a few bottles of this drop from The Oak Barrel, which is one of the best bottle shops in Sydney. Simon and 'The Wine Doctor' are more than willing to give you advice on what wine to buy and they have a fine range on offer. They also hold a great number of events and wine tastings so get on the mailing list if you can.
http://www.oakbarrel.com.au
One of the joys that come from playing park cricket is that some of the funniest and memorable things get said when being together with a bunch of like minded blokes for hours on end on a Saturday afternoon. I learnt one of my favourite sayings while playing cricket which is " today we're playing for Sheep Stations". Now if you don't know what this means, it essentially refers to the fact that whatever you may be doing, there is a fair bit riding on it. Come Thursday, that is exactly what Ricky Ponting and the Australians will be playing for when the first Ashes Test starts in Brisbane.
See, not only is it cricket season but it is an Ashes summer which means dear friends, I am like a the proverbial kid on christmas morning who can not sleep the night before and wakes up early on Christmas morning ready to cause havoc on the bounty under the tree. This translates to poring over every article in the build up to the First Test, pondering over what eleven I would have running on to the field as well as keeping my replica Ashes urn next to the TV for the duration of the series; much to my Trish's amusement.
However, I know that some of the ever increasing numbers that read this blog (now in the high single figures) may not want to waste their time reading an in-depth analysis of how the Ashes of 2010/11 will pan out. In fact, some of you may think that the game of cricket is a downright bore but make no mistake, this will be the talking point for many in bars, at the office watercooler and at the many Christmas festivities that you may be invited to.
Thus, as a public service to you and to cater for my excitement, let me give you a few facts and comments that you can drop in conversations so that you can stay in the loop and at the very least, allow you to feign interest quite competently and convincingly.
1. "Did you know that Australia haven't lost a Ashes Series at home since 1986/87?" There is literally a whole generation of Australians who have not lived through losing an Ashes series on home soil. This also means that there is a whole generation that have no idea how painful it is to walk down the street and have sunburnt, drunk Englishmen stop you and gloat how wonderful their team is and how "fooking hopeless you Aussies are" (if you grew up in the 80's you know what I mean...as you would if you were walking around the Sydney CBD after the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final)
2. "Are you following Kevin Pietersen on Twitter?"
I don't like Kevin Pietersen. He is an attention seeking, ego driven fool who I don't think has delivered enough to warrant all the hype that he gets about being one of the lynchpins for England. My biggest fear is that he gets his act together this series...and that we get to hear about it via the Twitter battle he has with Shane Warne during the summer (the fact that they both live on Twitter says it all)
3. "Australia's middle order needs to fire otherwise we're cooked!"
Australia are no longer the dominant side that they once were; which means the whole team has to perform otherwise they will lose. It happened in 2009 and it will happen this summer if the likes of Hussey, North and Clarke do not score runs. If you also mention that it is about time that Callum Ferguson should get a run, you will gain street cred immediately.
4. "Graeme Swann may be a good bowler but he is an utter tool!"
Graeme Swann is England's number one spin bowler and is considered by some to be the best in the world at the moment. He is also a complete idiot - wait and see his press conferences this summer for proof.
5. "Of course I know who Ricky Ponting is...this series is make or break for him!"
While Ricky Ponting will go down in the history as being one of the greatest batsmen Australia has produced, his place in the game will largely be determined by the result of this series. Australia wins, he will be able to leave on his own terms. Australia loses and he will go down in history as one of the least successful Ashes captains and more than likely will mean the end of his tenure as Australian Captain. Harsh and completely unfair but that is the way it is.
6. "My tip is Australia to regain the Ashes 2-1"
It will be close - very close but home ground advantage will see Australia get home. Remember, you heard it here first!
Footnote: In the spirit of complete self-indulgence that epitomises this blog, one of my favourite and more memorable Ashes moments is getting to meet the legend that is Allan Robert Border at the Gabba in 2002. This was after he walked from Sydney to Brisbane and reached the Gabba by tea on the first day of the Ashes test match that year. I joined in on the final 42kms of the walk and while I was struggling to complete it, all it took was a few words from the former Australian Captain - so much so that if he told me to keep going to Cairns I would have.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Another inconvenient truth...
Wine of the Week:
Tatachilla Partners Cabernet Shiraz 2008 - So, we walked into Woolworths Liquor looking for a cheap but cheerful bottle of red and we found this one. It says on the label that it is "a great match with wood fired pizza or spaghetti bolognese" but it is equally a great match with Hoisin Chicken kebabs on the BBQ. Has the peppery taste of the Shiraz while still having some of the depth that Cabernet provides. It is a great Monday night bottle of red and great value at $15. They also do some great whites as well so worth seeking out in your local bottle-o.
http://www.tatachillawines.com.au
It takes a lot for me to go underneath the house and drag out the soapbox but the time has come to crawl under the patio yet again. As I start to mark the run up for my latest spray, I have but two words for you my friends...Medical Specialists.
Now, I am not about to cast aspersions on the work that this body of professionals do or the fact that they conduct themselves in anything less than a professional manner. But seriously...do they have to rub it in our face as to how much 'hand' that they have (eg; as in "talk to the hand")?
Firstly, why does it take nearly a month before I can get an appointment? You get the letter of introduction from your GP to hand in to the specialist but you may as well ask them to send it via Australia Post - it will get in front of the specialist before you do!
Anyway, when you ring to make the appointment, you quickly realise that the specialist has an accomplice...the receptionist. They are the gatekeepers to the magical land of healing but in all honesty, they enjoy toying with you and your affliction.
Example in point - I called up prior to heading to the specialist and they gave me the courtesy of saying that the doctor was running half an hour late. All well and good and thanks for the heads up. But, then you make me wait another hour before letting me to see the Doctor? Seriously, I know that these specialists are intelligent and capable people but surely their time management isn't that bad? I mean, they had to get their uni assignments in on time like everyone else.
And, I am sorry but the sight of two elderly ladies flipping through the latest issue of FHM Magazine wondering aloud as to whether the top ten pick up lines actually work or not, does not provide that much amusement to make up for the fact that you have taken an hour of my life.
Eventually, you are given approval to walk into the inner sanctum that is the Doctor's office. And you are charged up, wanting to give the Doctor a piece of my mind. Who Sir, gives YOU the right to keep me waiting all this time? I mean really, who do you think YOU are???
And as you are about to launch into one of the greatest sprays known to all of mankind, the Doctor humbly apologises for keeping you waiting with a sincerity that is real and reduces you to muttering quietly "oh, that's alright" - with a smile no less.
But, that smile soon disappears as your consultation lasts for all of fifteen minutes. You then hear the voice of the Emperor Palapatine in Return of the Jedi as he says "the hate is swelling in you now".
Then, to top it all off, you are charged close to $200 for the privilege!!! What the hell is that????
No wonder I have to seek solace in a bottle of red!
Tatachilla Partners Cabernet Shiraz 2008 - So, we walked into Woolworths Liquor looking for a cheap but cheerful bottle of red and we found this one. It says on the label that it is "a great match with wood fired pizza or spaghetti bolognese" but it is equally a great match with Hoisin Chicken kebabs on the BBQ. Has the peppery taste of the Shiraz while still having some of the depth that Cabernet provides. It is a great Monday night bottle of red and great value at $15. They also do some great whites as well so worth seeking out in your local bottle-o.
http://www.tatachillawines.com.au
It takes a lot for me to go underneath the house and drag out the soapbox but the time has come to crawl under the patio yet again. As I start to mark the run up for my latest spray, I have but two words for you my friends...Medical Specialists.
Now, I am not about to cast aspersions on the work that this body of professionals do or the fact that they conduct themselves in anything less than a professional manner. But seriously...do they have to rub it in our face as to how much 'hand' that they have (eg; as in "talk to the hand")?
Firstly, why does it take nearly a month before I can get an appointment? You get the letter of introduction from your GP to hand in to the specialist but you may as well ask them to send it via Australia Post - it will get in front of the specialist before you do!
Anyway, when you ring to make the appointment, you quickly realise that the specialist has an accomplice...the receptionist. They are the gatekeepers to the magical land of healing but in all honesty, they enjoy toying with you and your affliction.
Example in point - I called up prior to heading to the specialist and they gave me the courtesy of saying that the doctor was running half an hour late. All well and good and thanks for the heads up. But, then you make me wait another hour before letting me to see the Doctor? Seriously, I know that these specialists are intelligent and capable people but surely their time management isn't that bad? I mean, they had to get their uni assignments in on time like everyone else.
And, I am sorry but the sight of two elderly ladies flipping through the latest issue of FHM Magazine wondering aloud as to whether the top ten pick up lines actually work or not, does not provide that much amusement to make up for the fact that you have taken an hour of my life.
Eventually, you are given approval to walk into the inner sanctum that is the Doctor's office. And you are charged up, wanting to give the Doctor a piece of my mind. Who Sir, gives YOU the right to keep me waiting all this time? I mean really, who do you think YOU are???
And as you are about to launch into one of the greatest sprays known to all of mankind, the Doctor humbly apologises for keeping you waiting with a sincerity that is real and reduces you to muttering quietly "oh, that's alright" - with a smile no less.
But, that smile soon disappears as your consultation lasts for all of fifteen minutes. You then hear the voice of the Emperor Palapatine in Return of the Jedi as he says "the hate is swelling in you now".
Then, to top it all off, you are charged close to $200 for the privilege!!! What the hell is that????
No wonder I have to seek solace in a bottle of red!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
An unsung Australian Hero
Wine of the Week:
Glenguin Estate 'Aristea' 2007 Hunter Valley Shiraz - this is one of the hidden bottles that was on the wine rack. Trish and I were having some blue cheese, I decided to do the blog and as custom, a red needed to be opened.
This is a very peppery Shiraz and one that is true to the Hunter's reputation of fine Shiraz. It goes fine with the blue cheese but I as I take each sip, I am thinking that a nice, juicy cattleman's cutlet would go down fine with this one. Either way, the decanter will be empty tonight.
http://glenguinestate.com.au/
I am trying to ensure that this blog isn't too sports oriented but hey, following sport is a big part of my life. That and I like to think that I have a fair grasp of many sports that are followed in this country and the heroes that are put up in different codes. Don Bradman, Clive Churchill, Rod Laver, Ted Whitten etc.
One name that I was not aware of was Peter Norman.
I had seen Peter Norman before...just didn't know who he was. That is until I watched a movie called 'Salute'.
See, Peter Norman is the guy in the Australian tracksuit who is there with the two American athletes - John Carlos and Tommie Smith- during the famous 'Black Power' salute at the 1968 Olympics Games in Mexico City.
I remember seeing this image at the beginning of all things, the TV show 'The Wonder Years' and seeing the kangaroo on the tracksuit of the third guy on the podium. I didn't investigate further but that was to my detriment. I never gave it a second thought - that is until I saw the movie 'Salute'.
'Salute' is a documentary that was made about Peter Norman's life and it is important to point out that it was made by his nephew so naturally, his uncle would be painted in a very good light. That said, the good light is warranted.
The movie shows the quiet but important role that Peter Norman played in what has been deemed one of the most powerful images of the 20th Century. Peter Norman suggested to Carlos and Smith have a glove eachafter they realised that they only had one pair of gloves. He also decided that he would wear one of the badges that supported the human rights movement that was happening at the time.
Why? He was sympathetic to the human rights cause and believed that was happening to the African-Americans in the United States at the time was wrong. Simple as that.
The result of such a belief? He was officially reprimanded by Australian Olympic officials at the time and was not selected in the team to represent Australia in the 1972 Munich Olympics. This, despite the fact that he made the qualifying time for the 200m sprint thirteen times.
Fact is, Peter Norman's time in the final of the 1968 Olympics is still an Australian record and would have medalled at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. And despite all of this, the first time I have heard about him was via this movie. He has since been names as one of the top hundred Australian Olympians but his story still remains unknown.
I have to admit, I felt some sense of shame after watching 'Salute'. Being a sports lover and one who thinks that he has a handle on most of the important sports and sportpeople in this country, the fact that I didn't know the role that Peter Norman played in this critical moment in history, the fact that I did not know the record that he has in Australian Athletics and the fact that he is held in a higher regard in the United States than he does in Australia...made me feel ashamed and embarassed.
Embarassed that he is not held in as high esteem as Don Bradman.
Embarassed that his story is not common place in the Australian story.
Embarassed that his death was not acknowledged with the same reverence as Bradman, Ted Whitten, Clive Churchill and others.
Peter Norman's is a story that every single Australian should be made aware of. It is a story that should be celebrated and it is a story that epitomises everything that is good about this country. If you haven't seen 'Salute', I implore you to see it. Once you do, I am sure that you will agree - it is necessary viewing...for all of us.
Glenguin Estate 'Aristea' 2007 Hunter Valley Shiraz - this is one of the hidden bottles that was on the wine rack. Trish and I were having some blue cheese, I decided to do the blog and as custom, a red needed to be opened.
This is a very peppery Shiraz and one that is true to the Hunter's reputation of fine Shiraz. It goes fine with the blue cheese but I as I take each sip, I am thinking that a nice, juicy cattleman's cutlet would go down fine with this one. Either way, the decanter will be empty tonight.
http://glenguinestate.com.au/
I am trying to ensure that this blog isn't too sports oriented but hey, following sport is a big part of my life. That and I like to think that I have a fair grasp of many sports that are followed in this country and the heroes that are put up in different codes. Don Bradman, Clive Churchill, Rod Laver, Ted Whitten etc.
One name that I was not aware of was Peter Norman.
I had seen Peter Norman before...just didn't know who he was. That is until I watched a movie called 'Salute'.
See, Peter Norman is the guy in the Australian tracksuit who is there with the two American athletes - John Carlos and Tommie Smith- during the famous 'Black Power' salute at the 1968 Olympics Games in Mexico City.
'Salute' is a documentary that was made about Peter Norman's life and it is important to point out that it was made by his nephew so naturally, his uncle would be painted in a very good light. That said, the good light is warranted.
The movie shows the quiet but important role that Peter Norman played in what has been deemed one of the most powerful images of the 20th Century. Peter Norman suggested to Carlos and Smith have a glove eachafter they realised that they only had one pair of gloves. He also decided that he would wear one of the badges that supported the human rights movement that was happening at the time.
Why? He was sympathetic to the human rights cause and believed that was happening to the African-Americans in the United States at the time was wrong. Simple as that.
The result of such a belief? He was officially reprimanded by Australian Olympic officials at the time and was not selected in the team to represent Australia in the 1972 Munich Olympics. This, despite the fact that he made the qualifying time for the 200m sprint thirteen times.
Fact is, Peter Norman's time in the final of the 1968 Olympics is still an Australian record and would have medalled at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. And despite all of this, the first time I have heard about him was via this movie. He has since been names as one of the top hundred Australian Olympians but his story still remains unknown.
I have to admit, I felt some sense of shame after watching 'Salute'. Being a sports lover and one who thinks that he has a handle on most of the important sports and sportpeople in this country, the fact that I didn't know the role that Peter Norman played in this critical moment in history, the fact that I did not know the record that he has in Australian Athletics and the fact that he is held in a higher regard in the United States than he does in Australia...made me feel ashamed and embarassed.
Embarassed that he is not held in as high esteem as Don Bradman.
Embarassed that his story is not common place in the Australian story.
Embarassed that his death was not acknowledged with the same reverence as Bradman, Ted Whitten, Clive Churchill and others.
Peter Norman's is a story that every single Australian should be made aware of. It is a story that should be celebrated and it is a story that epitomises everything that is good about this country. If you haven't seen 'Salute', I implore you to see it. Once you do, I am sure that you will agree - it is necessary viewing...for all of us.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Horse Sense over Common Sense...
Wine of the Week:
Balgownie Estate Bendigo Shiraz 2006 - A very nice Shiraz one has to say; which dispels the view that a lot of New South Welshmen have that a good shiraz can only be found in the Hunter Valley. It is good to start and gets even better with every sip or gulp - whatever your drinking style may be.
Balgownie Estate has it's cellar doors at the Yarra Valley and Bendigo - we stayed in the Yarra Valley where we tasted the full range of wines; the reds being the pick of the bunch (surprise, surprise). If you can stay there as well, it is both comfortable and relaxing with some bargains during the week.
http://www.balgownieestate.com.au/
Tomorrow is Tuesday November 2nd - the first Tuesday in November.
Melbourne Cup Day.
The Spring Racing Carnival and in particular Cup Day is a particularly dangerous time for me and many others. See, give me an ounce of knowledge and I think I can rival Ken Callendar or Max Presnell in the punting stakes. I start pouring over the form every Saturday from Caulfield Cup day onwards, supplementing my limited knowledge with the tips from the papers and those far more knowledgeable in the racing caper than I. It doesn't help when I picked Shocking to win last year - just added to my delusions of grandeur.
But I digress...whether you follow racing or not, Melbourne Cup day is a very unique day. One state gets a public holiday while the rest of the country looks at ways of trying not to work...while drinking and punting at the same time.
The tagline for the Melbourne Cup is that it is "The Race that stops the Nation" and I have learnt over my thirty eight year existence that it does indeed, stop this nation. I have watched the Cup in many different ways - on a TV in a classroom as a kid, in various bars and pubs, at corporate lunches to last year where Trish and I were at Flemington to see the Cup for the first time. It is definitely one of those things that should be on one's sporting 'bucket list'.
One thing is common - time stands still as all eyes and ears are focused on the three and a bit minutes it takes for the field of twenty four to complete the 3200m. Hope rises and falls with every gallop until the winner reaches the post and we either celebrate or utter that most comforting of words..."there's always next year".
PS: Thanks to those who are far more knowledgeable than I and are very willing to share their racing expertise with me. You know who you are and I (and the NSW TAB) thank you.
One more thing...
Wine goes well with a number of things; one of those is music. Last night, we saw Holly Throsby at the Brass Monkey in Cronulla. She always puts on a great gig and last night was no exception. Holly Throsby plays the type of music that is perfect to listen to on a Sunday afternoon with a glass of vino or watching and listening the rain tumble outside. She has a number of CD's out including her just recently released first children's CD. Check her out on http://www.hollythrosby.com/
Balgownie Estate Bendigo Shiraz 2006 - A very nice Shiraz one has to say; which dispels the view that a lot of New South Welshmen have that a good shiraz can only be found in the Hunter Valley. It is good to start and gets even better with every sip or gulp - whatever your drinking style may be.
Balgownie Estate has it's cellar doors at the Yarra Valley and Bendigo - we stayed in the Yarra Valley where we tasted the full range of wines; the reds being the pick of the bunch (surprise, surprise). If you can stay there as well, it is both comfortable and relaxing with some bargains during the week.
http://www.balgownieestate.com.au/
Tomorrow is Tuesday November 2nd - the first Tuesday in November.
Melbourne Cup Day.
The Spring Racing Carnival and in particular Cup Day is a particularly dangerous time for me and many others. See, give me an ounce of knowledge and I think I can rival Ken Callendar or Max Presnell in the punting stakes. I start pouring over the form every Saturday from Caulfield Cup day onwards, supplementing my limited knowledge with the tips from the papers and those far more knowledgeable in the racing caper than I. It doesn't help when I picked Shocking to win last year - just added to my delusions of grandeur.
But I digress...whether you follow racing or not, Melbourne Cup day is a very unique day. One state gets a public holiday while the rest of the country looks at ways of trying not to work...while drinking and punting at the same time.
The tagline for the Melbourne Cup is that it is "The Race that stops the Nation" and I have learnt over my thirty eight year existence that it does indeed, stop this nation. I have watched the Cup in many different ways - on a TV in a classroom as a kid, in various bars and pubs, at corporate lunches to last year where Trish and I were at Flemington to see the Cup for the first time. It is definitely one of those things that should be on one's sporting 'bucket list'.
One thing is common - time stands still as all eyes and ears are focused on the three and a bit minutes it takes for the field of twenty four to complete the 3200m. Hope rises and falls with every gallop until the winner reaches the post and we either celebrate or utter that most comforting of words..."there's always next year".
PS: Thanks to those who are far more knowledgeable than I and are very willing to share their racing expertise with me. You know who you are and I (and the NSW TAB) thank you.
One more thing...
Wine goes well with a number of things; one of those is music. Last night, we saw Holly Throsby at the Brass Monkey in Cronulla. She always puts on a great gig and last night was no exception. Holly Throsby plays the type of music that is perfect to listen to on a Sunday afternoon with a glass of vino or watching and listening the rain tumble outside. She has a number of CD's out including her just recently released first children's CD. Check her out on http://www.hollythrosby.com/
Monday, October 18, 2010
This may be controversal but...
Wine of the Week:
Climbing Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 - Climbing Wines are from Orange and they have always had a reputation of being a good wine and relatively cheap for around $20. The other noticeable thing about the Climbing range are the labels that adorn each of their wines. The Cab Sav needs a swish or two in the glass to give it some air...after that, very easy drinking and great option for a mid-week (or in this case, beginning of the week) drop.
www.climbingwines.com.au
I have thought about this for a little while and I had to borrow the title from a line from my mate Skull for this one. Skull keeps for the mighty AKA 'A Reserves' and as is the case for approximately ninety percent of what they say, keepers always seem to have the best lines.
Quite frankly, I have been disturbed by the way many in this country have adopted the phrase "un-Australian". It is not so much the actual phrase itself but the fact that it is being used without a lot of thought of what it means.
More often than not, the phrase "un-Australian" has been used to justify a particular point of view or condone particular behaviour such as:
Maybe it's just me but it really grates me that when people are looking to push a particular agenda, they are very quick to label any opposition against their stance as being "un-Australian".
Which begs the question...what does the phrase "un-Australian" mean? Well, I had a discussion about this with my mate Roy over the weekend and he came up with a definition. He suggested that "un-Australian" was where one is not given a fair go - irrespective of who you are, where you come from, that sort of thing. Not a bad option I thought (then again, Roy is a font of wisdom).
So I put it to you all....what does the phrase "un-Australian" mean?
Climbing Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 - Climbing Wines are from Orange and they have always had a reputation of being a good wine and relatively cheap for around $20. The other noticeable thing about the Climbing range are the labels that adorn each of their wines. The Cab Sav needs a swish or two in the glass to give it some air...after that, very easy drinking and great option for a mid-week (or in this case, beginning of the week) drop.
www.climbingwines.com.au
I have thought about this for a little while and I had to borrow the title from a line from my mate Skull for this one. Skull keeps for the mighty AKA 'A Reserves' and as is the case for approximately ninety percent of what they say, keepers always seem to have the best lines.
Quite frankly, I have been disturbed by the way many in this country have adopted the phrase "un-Australian". It is not so much the actual phrase itself but the fact that it is being used without a lot of thought of what it means.
More often than not, the phrase "un-Australian" has been used to justify a particular point of view or condone particular behaviour such as:
- "oh, you can't build a muslim school in Camden because it is un-Australian"
- "you can't stop Rugby League players from having an alcoholic based bonding session because that would be un-Australian"
- "it's un-Australian not to know Don Bradman's batting average"
Maybe it's just me but it really grates me that when people are looking to push a particular agenda, they are very quick to label any opposition against their stance as being "un-Australian".
Which begs the question...what does the phrase "un-Australian" mean? Well, I had a discussion about this with my mate Roy over the weekend and he came up with a definition. He suggested that "un-Australian" was where one is not given a fair go - irrespective of who you are, where you come from, that sort of thing. Not a bad option I thought (then again, Roy is a font of wisdom).
So I put it to you all....what does the phrase "un-Australian" mean?
Sunday, October 10, 2010
"We are the Champions, my friends...."
Wine of the Week:
Margan Merlot 2007 - there is a saying that when you swirl the wine around a glass and it leaves a coating, then it is a good'un. The Margan Merlot 2007 is one of those wines. A quality wine that leaves you wanting more. It is one of the many good wines that come from the Margan winery; one of the more stylish wineries in the Hunter.
http://www.margan.com.au/
Friends, it has been a while since I have posted on this, what was going to be a weekly project. Circumstances both home and at work have led me to neglect it. However, I hope that I am back on track and while I can not promise for a weekly installment, I can promise that my rants on the soapbox will be more regular.
However, today's chapter is not a rant but purely one of self- indulgence....WE WON!!!!!
Yes, dear friends we (we being the St George-Illawarra Dragons) are the Premiers. This, after the 32-8 beating of the Roosters in last Sunday's Grand Final. It was said that it was one for the True Believers and it certainly was. It was the first time since 1979 that the Big Red V have won the comp and the first time that the joint venture has won the Premiership.
Only one thing could sum it up....WOO HOO!!!!!!!!
It was bucketing Grand Final day and our seats were not under cover but I didn't care...well, I didnt. Trish, Craig and Lynne may have other opinions. It was a great victory and one that set up scenes of jubilation and sheer joy both at the Stadium and at Kogarah Jubilee Oval later that night. They say that a picture paint a thousand words so here are just a few from the night proceedings thanks to Trish who had control of the camera (Thank God!).
The first half was one of our worst all season but the second half was one of our best. It was an emotional rollercoaster which ended in jubiliation (as can be seen from above). It was the first GF that I had been to that the Dragons were in and the first one we had won so...I was happy.
Just one section of the Dragon Army that start the celebrations as the Dragons get the Telstra Premiership Trophy.
We managed to get to the fence for the lap of honour which was awesome. Here, Jamie Soward and Nathan Fien join the crowd in celebrations. Jamie Soward has been much maligned all season as a five-eighth not good enough to guide a team to a premiership. Now, he has the ring to prove them wrong - and wasn't he happy (and rightfully so).
Again, we're getting wet during the lap of honour but no one cared (well, I didnt care anyway)
The Dragons' mascot (Happy Dragon) also is the mascot of their major sponsor...he too, hasn't seen a Premiership since 1979 when he was walking the sidelines at the Sydney Cricket Ground that day as the Dragons beat the Bulldogs. I saw him during the Grand Final marathon on the night before the GF and there he was. Age has not wearied him that's for sure.
Margan Merlot 2007 - there is a saying that when you swirl the wine around a glass and it leaves a coating, then it is a good'un. The Margan Merlot 2007 is one of those wines. A quality wine that leaves you wanting more. It is one of the many good wines that come from the Margan winery; one of the more stylish wineries in the Hunter.
http://www.margan.com.au/
Friends, it has been a while since I have posted on this, what was going to be a weekly project. Circumstances both home and at work have led me to neglect it. However, I hope that I am back on track and while I can not promise for a weekly installment, I can promise that my rants on the soapbox will be more regular.
However, today's chapter is not a rant but purely one of self- indulgence....WE WON!!!!!
Yes, dear friends we (we being the St George-Illawarra Dragons) are the Premiers. This, after the 32-8 beating of the Roosters in last Sunday's Grand Final. It was said that it was one for the True Believers and it certainly was. It was the first time since 1979 that the Big Red V have won the comp and the first time that the joint venture has won the Premiership.
Only one thing could sum it up....WOO HOO!!!!!!!!
It was bucketing Grand Final day and our seats were not under cover but I didn't care...well, I didnt. Trish, Craig and Lynne may have other opinions. It was a great victory and one that set up scenes of jubilation and sheer joy both at the Stadium and at Kogarah Jubilee Oval later that night. They say that a picture paint a thousand words so here are just a few from the night proceedings thanks to Trish who had control of the camera (Thank God!).
The first half was one of our worst all season but the second half was one of our best. It was an emotional rollercoaster which ended in jubiliation (as can be seen from above). It was the first GF that I had been to that the Dragons were in and the first one we had won so...I was happy.
We managed to get to the fence for the lap of honour which was awesome. Here, Jamie Soward and Nathan Fien join the crowd in celebrations. Jamie Soward has been much maligned all season as a five-eighth not good enough to guide a team to a premiership. Now, he has the ring to prove them wrong - and wasn't he happy (and rightfully so).
Again, we're getting wet during the lap of honour but no one cared (well, I didnt care anyway)
The Dragons' mascot (Happy Dragon) also is the mascot of their major sponsor...he too, hasn't seen a Premiership since 1979 when he was walking the sidelines at the Sydney Cricket Ground that day as the Dragons beat the Bulldogs. I saw him during the Grand Final marathon on the night before the GF and there he was. Age has not wearied him that's for sure.
So Trish, Craig and I headed back to Kogarah Oval with reportedly 15,000 other like minded supporters to congratulate the team on their win. It was a joyous celebration and one that I hadn't been a part of since the Sydney Olympics.
All week, I have been smiled at, honked at, cheered by other supporters as we celebrate the breaking of a long Premiership drought. Complete strangers as well as friends and supporters I know, have hugged me and/or shaken my hand from Sunday night right through to today as we went to the dentist in Campsie and cars still were honking their horns at the sight of a red and white jumper.
And make not mistake, the man in the light shirt in the picture is responsible. Wayne Bennett was once one of the most disliked, if not hated men in New South Wales. He is a non-drinker but if he wasn't, he would not have to buy another drink for the rest of life between Kogarah and Wollongong.
He brought in discipline, structure and belief into a side that had all the talent to win the Premiership but none of the above. He may not be the Messiah but he certainly is a God to many a Red V player and supporter. One of the other characteristics that Wayne Bennett has is that he is a realist and understands what these things mean to all stakeholders; including the fans who pay their hard earned week in, week out to support their side. After this picture was taken and the players left the stage to continue their celebrations, Wayne Bennett stayed for another good thirty minutes shaking the hands of the supporters, accepting their thanks with good grace and making their night that more special. Craig also managed to shake hands with the great man - oh, to be over six foot tall!
I don't profess this to be the best writing I have done but it has been a big week and one we will continue to celebrate until the Premiership kicks off next year. Trust me, the drinks Trish, Craig and I had on Craig's balcony at 1.30am on Monday morning were the best we had in a very long time as I introduced them to concept of "winners' p**s" - something I was lucky to experience when we won our cricket premiership a couple of years ago. And guess what...it doesn't run out until March 11, 2011 when the NRL season kicks off again.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Welcome to "The 'Ber's"!
Wine of the Week
Chandon Vintage Tasmanian Cuvee 2006 - yes, I know that I am diverting from the default settings of this blog but...sometimes you just feel the need for bubbles and there has been a need for bubbles this weekend.
Domaine Chandon are well known for their sparkling but they also do some fine still, particularly their Heathcote Shiraz. However, the focus is on bubbles and they have gone down as expected...smooth as silk and leaving you wanting for more.
Also, the Domaine Chandon Vineyard at the Yarra Valley may just have to be one of the most beautiful not just in the Yarra but around Australia. Always a "must visit" when in the Yarra Valley.
http://www.domainechandon.com.au
Let me say right from the outset, I love this time of year. There is something about this time of the year that is almost like the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. You get through the hard yards of the middle of the year; the cold, the wet and miserable weather and you get to the point of the year that I call "The 'ber's".
The way I see it, once you hit the months that end in 'ber', then it is the start of the fun slide down towards the end of the year. In short, another name for 'The "ber's" is party time!!! Let me explain my theory...
September: There will be a time when I am walking around the streets during September and it will hit me - the smell of jasmine. The smell of jasmine and the arrival of the Kingsgrove Sports catalogue mean that the cricket season has arrived! It has been a trigger for near on twenty seven seasons and will be once again as I have decided to pad up for one more season (despite my well documented retirement after the 08/09 Premiership win).
September also means footy finals. Even if your team isn't in the end of season action, you can not help but feel the excitement in the air as teams fight to be the final two teams on Grand Final day and where glory is a week by week proposition. If you are are lucky enough and your team is in the post-season action, then it is a rollercoaster ride of epic proportions.
October: Start of daylight savings; longer days, more time to socialise and get active as the temperatures get warmer. If you are in NSW, you also get a public holiday.
October also means the annual pilgrimage (via the screen) to Bathurst for the James Hardie 1000 (I will always call the race by that name!) as well as the start of the Spring Racing Carnival - not only one of horse racing's most important times of year but also perhaps the most important social period for some. Which leads us to...
November: The first Tuesday of the month and the race that well and truly stops the nation. I always thought that it was the greatest over-exaggeration of all time to say that Australia stops for the Melbourne Cup. However, after now experiencing many Cup days in different venues and different circumstances (including being at Flemington last year), this country should be proud that a three minute horse race should bring an entire country to a standstill and turn a lot of us into experts for the day. They say a little knowledge goes a long way...for me, that is a dangerous proposition come November. I wake up that morning and I think I am Max Presnell/Ken Callender and Lee Freedman all rolled into one...
November also means the start of the Christmas Party season which is always good to see how much free alcohol and canapes you can consume without becoming an embarassment to yourself and a joke to others!
December: The parties continue as we hit the countdown to Christmas. Catching up with friends and family for that all-important 'christmas catch-up' and winding down at work as all look forward to the Christmas/New Year break as we stop, take a breath, think about the year gone and the one just on our doorsteps.
Not to mention the ongoing discussion point for the month that is; what to do on New Year's Eve...but my friends, that is a topic for another time.
So, welcome to 'The 'ber's' everyone - I hope you enjoy it as much as I will.
Chandon Vintage Tasmanian Cuvee 2006 - yes, I know that I am diverting from the default settings of this blog but...sometimes you just feel the need for bubbles and there has been a need for bubbles this weekend.
Domaine Chandon are well known for their sparkling but they also do some fine still, particularly their Heathcote Shiraz. However, the focus is on bubbles and they have gone down as expected...smooth as silk and leaving you wanting for more.
Also, the Domaine Chandon Vineyard at the Yarra Valley may just have to be one of the most beautiful not just in the Yarra but around Australia. Always a "must visit" when in the Yarra Valley.
http://www.domainechandon.com.au
Let me say right from the outset, I love this time of year. There is something about this time of the year that is almost like the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. You get through the hard yards of the middle of the year; the cold, the wet and miserable weather and you get to the point of the year that I call "The 'ber's".
The way I see it, once you hit the months that end in 'ber', then it is the start of the fun slide down towards the end of the year. In short, another name for 'The "ber's" is party time!!! Let me explain my theory...
September: There will be a time when I am walking around the streets during September and it will hit me - the smell of jasmine. The smell of jasmine and the arrival of the Kingsgrove Sports catalogue mean that the cricket season has arrived! It has been a trigger for near on twenty seven seasons and will be once again as I have decided to pad up for one more season (despite my well documented retirement after the 08/09 Premiership win).
September also means footy finals. Even if your team isn't in the end of season action, you can not help but feel the excitement in the air as teams fight to be the final two teams on Grand Final day and where glory is a week by week proposition. If you are are lucky enough and your team is in the post-season action, then it is a rollercoaster ride of epic proportions.
October: Start of daylight savings; longer days, more time to socialise and get active as the temperatures get warmer. If you are in NSW, you also get a public holiday.
October also means the annual pilgrimage (via the screen) to Bathurst for the James Hardie 1000 (I will always call the race by that name!) as well as the start of the Spring Racing Carnival - not only one of horse racing's most important times of year but also perhaps the most important social period for some. Which leads us to...
November: The first Tuesday of the month and the race that well and truly stops the nation. I always thought that it was the greatest over-exaggeration of all time to say that Australia stops for the Melbourne Cup. However, after now experiencing many Cup days in different venues and different circumstances (including being at Flemington last year), this country should be proud that a three minute horse race should bring an entire country to a standstill and turn a lot of us into experts for the day. They say a little knowledge goes a long way...for me, that is a dangerous proposition come November. I wake up that morning and I think I am Max Presnell/Ken Callender and Lee Freedman all rolled into one...
November also means the start of the Christmas Party season which is always good to see how much free alcohol and canapes you can consume without becoming an embarassment to yourself and a joke to others!
December: The parties continue as we hit the countdown to Christmas. Catching up with friends and family for that all-important 'christmas catch-up' and winding down at work as all look forward to the Christmas/New Year break as we stop, take a breath, think about the year gone and the one just on our doorsteps.
Not to mention the ongoing discussion point for the month that is; what to do on New Year's Eve...but my friends, that is a topic for another time.
So, welcome to 'The 'ber's' everyone - I hope you enjoy it as much as I will.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
One final election comment - promise.
Wine of the Week:
Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir 2007
Perhaps an over-indulgence on a Sunday afternoon but hey, everyone deserves it once in a while. Most know how enjoyable Coldstream Hills is so I wont need to wax lyrical but it is a fine drop. Very easy, very good drinking. The only risk would be that it could lead to another bottle, then another...then another.
http://www.coldstreamhills.com.au
I do promise that this wont turn into a political soapbox every week but there has been a fair bit going on.
It has been a week since we voted and we as yet, do not have a parliament and still under the rule of a caretaker government. I don't think anyone would have thought that it would have lasted this long but it has.
Last week, sleep won in the end in the battle between my debut as a political commentator and tiredness but not before seeing both leaders giving their anticipated speeches. The fact that nothing was said that made me fire up the laptop again may have said more than anything I could. However, there has been a couple of developments that has left me slightly amused.
Is it just me or is the fact that the independents have banded together into an alliance slightly ironic?
And why do all the pictures of Bob Katter have him in a black cowboy hat? If he ends up growing a thin black moustache, that will do me!!!
What did make me more than laugh but also cringe was this report in the SMH on the sunday after the election.
http://www.smh.com.au/federal-election/blamedodging-keneally-on-another-planet-20100822-13ahe.html
Now, as most of you may know I am a Labor supporter and a passionate one at that. However, when NSW go to the polls next year I can not, in all conscious vote for them to stay in government. And if I there was any doubt prior to this report, this just confirms it.
I never thought I would have agreed with Barry O'Farrell in a hundred years but in this case, I do. If Kristina Keneally didn't think that a backlash against NSW Labor wasn't going to happen at a National level, then in the words of the immortal Darryl Kerrigan..."tell her she's dreamin'"!
Tragic thing is she did give me some hope...once. Hopefully, the Dragons will not fail me this year as well.
Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir 2007
Perhaps an over-indulgence on a Sunday afternoon but hey, everyone deserves it once in a while. Most know how enjoyable Coldstream Hills is so I wont need to wax lyrical but it is a fine drop. Very easy, very good drinking. The only risk would be that it could lead to another bottle, then another...then another.
http://www.coldstreamhills.com.au
I do promise that this wont turn into a political soapbox every week but there has been a fair bit going on.
It has been a week since we voted and we as yet, do not have a parliament and still under the rule of a caretaker government. I don't think anyone would have thought that it would have lasted this long but it has.
Last week, sleep won in the end in the battle between my debut as a political commentator and tiredness but not before seeing both leaders giving their anticipated speeches. The fact that nothing was said that made me fire up the laptop again may have said more than anything I could. However, there has been a couple of developments that has left me slightly amused.
Is it just me or is the fact that the independents have banded together into an alliance slightly ironic?
And why do all the pictures of Bob Katter have him in a black cowboy hat? If he ends up growing a thin black moustache, that will do me!!!
What did make me more than laugh but also cringe was this report in the SMH on the sunday after the election.
http://www.smh.com.au/federal-election/blamedodging-keneally-on-another-planet-20100822-13ahe.html
Now, as most of you may know I am a Labor supporter and a passionate one at that. However, when NSW go to the polls next year I can not, in all conscious vote for them to stay in government. And if I there was any doubt prior to this report, this just confirms it.
I never thought I would have agreed with Barry O'Farrell in a hundred years but in this case, I do. If Kristina Keneally didn't think that a backlash against NSW Labor wasn't going to happen at a National level, then in the words of the immortal Darryl Kerrigan..."tell her she's dreamin'"!
Tragic thing is she did give me some hope...once. Hopefully, the Dragons will not fail me this year as well.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Don's Party - 2010 Version
Wine of the Hour:
Oakridge Pinot Noir 2008 - a very nice pinot and a great way to start (what could be) a good night. The Yarra is known for its pinots and this one is no exception to the fine tradition the Yarra has.
So, election night 2010. Currently, I am with some good friends in the Blue Mountains - the majority being Labor supporters...Labor supporters that are quite worried; including myself. The talk is of a swing but how much. There is nervousness, uncertainity and concern I have to say. In the midst of this, there is also some good food, good wine, great company and no doubt some enjoyable conversation. The goal this week - to keep track of the vibe here in the mountains. This dependent on time, level of alcohol drunk and network coverage...stay tuned.
7.03pm: so the early numbers have started to come in. The early run by the Coalition has caused some concern. The eyes are focused on the ABC and there are some issues that Anthony Green has with the discrepancy between his graphics and his latest numbers. Did you know that the ABC had the greatest ratings for the 2007 election?? Perhaps that is why the commercial networks have tried to spice up their coverage with a full range of experts and network personalities (another aside....is anyone else scared by the way Tracey Grimshaw looks???) Still a sombre tone in the room. Especially as we look at the state by state swing. I have still a very sick feeling in my stomach which hasn't disappeared as yet.
Joe Hockey is currently on the screen talking that the Australian people have made the right decision. Funny thing is, different people have different views on what that right decision is.
9.03pm: We have just enjoyed a great dinner starting with Pancetta and Sweet Potato soup followed by a roast dinner (Thanks Joey, Dave & Jac). Just now waiting for chocolate tart that my wife made for dessert and that may ease the pain that the count is showing. That and the Piggs Peak Werewolf 2009 (the wine of the hour). It is a big red with a bit of oomph! The room here needs a bit of oomph. The mood is quite sombre. Quite worried. Except for two who are flying the blue flag. Kerry O'Brien is now crying that we are heading for a hung parliament-mirroring the events of the UK late last year. One can only imagine the back rooms calls originating from the MCEC & Four Seasons to those independents and green candidates who may hold the balance of power.
All aside, there is one thing that overcomes political lines and that is friendship. Sounds very corny and cliched but it is true. That, I have to say is the saving grace at this time. Sitting and looking around a room and seeing people who have shared significant stages and events in your life and are still there, is a thing that is to be treasured. To be savoured; just like a good red.
The count continues as the country's attention heads to the Golden West...but not with a lot of confidence.
9:41pm: Computer graphics have a lot to answer for...ABC had the Coalition ahead, Sky News has Labor ahead. It is causing emotions to run high and for many of us to ride the emotional rollercoaster. The only answer to this is two-fold; dessert and more red!
9.50pm: Just seeing Bob Brown on the TV...did anyone else know about the affliation with the "Flemish Greens"????
10.05pm: Wyatt Roy, potentially the youngest MP at 20 years old. Jeremy said it all when he said that he had the vote of the miners (minors). Funniest thing that has been said all night.
And, Anthony Green has called a "Hung Parliament"...the only thing that is certain is a long few days, let alone night.
10.38pm: Looks like it will be a hung parliament and a result as to who will be in government wont be known for a few days. All we are waiting for are the two leaders to make an appearance...interesting to see what they both say.
Oakridge Pinot Noir 2008 - a very nice pinot and a great way to start (what could be) a good night. The Yarra is known for its pinots and this one is no exception to the fine tradition the Yarra has.
So, election night 2010. Currently, I am with some good friends in the Blue Mountains - the majority being Labor supporters...Labor supporters that are quite worried; including myself. The talk is of a swing but how much. There is nervousness, uncertainity and concern I have to say. In the midst of this, there is also some good food, good wine, great company and no doubt some enjoyable conversation. The goal this week - to keep track of the vibe here in the mountains. This dependent on time, level of alcohol drunk and network coverage...stay tuned.
7.03pm: so the early numbers have started to come in. The early run by the Coalition has caused some concern. The eyes are focused on the ABC and there are some issues that Anthony Green has with the discrepancy between his graphics and his latest numbers. Did you know that the ABC had the greatest ratings for the 2007 election?? Perhaps that is why the commercial networks have tried to spice up their coverage with a full range of experts and network personalities (another aside....is anyone else scared by the way Tracey Grimshaw looks???) Still a sombre tone in the room. Especially as we look at the state by state swing. I have still a very sick feeling in my stomach which hasn't disappeared as yet.
Joe Hockey is currently on the screen talking that the Australian people have made the right decision. Funny thing is, different people have different views on what that right decision is.
9.03pm: We have just enjoyed a great dinner starting with Pancetta and Sweet Potato soup followed by a roast dinner (Thanks Joey, Dave & Jac). Just now waiting for chocolate tart that my wife made for dessert and that may ease the pain that the count is showing. That and the Piggs Peak Werewolf 2009 (the wine of the hour). It is a big red with a bit of oomph! The room here needs a bit of oomph. The mood is quite sombre. Quite worried. Except for two who are flying the blue flag. Kerry O'Brien is now crying that we are heading for a hung parliament-mirroring the events of the UK late last year. One can only imagine the back rooms calls originating from the MCEC & Four Seasons to those independents and green candidates who may hold the balance of power.
All aside, there is one thing that overcomes political lines and that is friendship. Sounds very corny and cliched but it is true. That, I have to say is the saving grace at this time. Sitting and looking around a room and seeing people who have shared significant stages and events in your life and are still there, is a thing that is to be treasured. To be savoured; just like a good red.
The count continues as the country's attention heads to the Golden West...but not with a lot of confidence.
9:41pm: Computer graphics have a lot to answer for...ABC had the Coalition ahead, Sky News has Labor ahead. It is causing emotions to run high and for many of us to ride the emotional rollercoaster. The only answer to this is two-fold; dessert and more red!
9.50pm: Just seeing Bob Brown on the TV...did anyone else know about the affliation with the "Flemish Greens"????
10.05pm: Wyatt Roy, potentially the youngest MP at 20 years old. Jeremy said it all when he said that he had the vote of the miners (minors). Funniest thing that has been said all night.
And, Anthony Green has called a "Hung Parliament"...the only thing that is certain is a long few days, let alone night.
10.38pm: Looks like it will be a hung parliament and a result as to who will be in government wont be known for a few days. All we are waiting for are the two leaders to make an appearance...interesting to see what they both say.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Five of the Hunter's Best
Wine of the Week
Punters Corner Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
So, there is a story here that ultimately ends up with me at Dan Murphy's with a bottle of said Punters Corner.
1. I had the thought of rather accessing the personal cellar, I should just enter a bottle-o for a wine that is easily accessable. That and I was looking for a birthday present for my cousin.
2. Once in Dan Murphy's, I thought I would go to a region other than NSW or Victoria - so South Australia was the order of the day and when I think South Australia, I think a Coonawarra Cab Sav.
3. During the week, Trish and I joined Craig and Dave at Trivia Night at Oatley R.S.L. Apart from a generous serving of ribs and rump, I also had a minor successful run on the punt - which comprised of betting on the gallops in South Africa and harness racing in France. As I was opting for omen bets that night, I thought I would try a similar tact with the wine of the week.
Which leads us to the wine itself. I deliberately looked for a reasonably priced wine at $25 and it is a very easy drinking, enjoyable Cab Sav but still has the "oomph" that you expect from a Coonawarra red. Great on a Saturday afternoon with some hard cheese.
http://www.punterscorner.com.au/
So, for those that have been with me the last couple of weeks you would have seen that I have ventured down the political path and the sporting path - both of which shouldn't have surprised anyone. This week, I have decided to focus on one of the key elements behind this blog...wine.
I was thinking that I am always keen on hearing about good wines and good wineries to visit so I thought why don't I give you all five wineries to visit in the Hunter Valley? Relatively speaking, it is on our doorstep and we generally visit the region once, maybe twice a year.
As such, we have been able to come across some wineries that not only deliver some great drinking but also a great cellar door experience. Some are big, some not so big and while it isn't a definitive top five they are ones that we will visit time and time again...and ones worth sharing.
1. Pepper Tree Wines
We have been fans for a long time and are members there. They not only source grapes from the Hunter but from vineyards in Orange and South Australia. The Semillon, Shiraz and the Cabernet Sauvignons have always been the highlights. The cellar door experience has always been an enjoyable one as the surroundings are picturesque and the staff friendly. If you are a member, they also have a tasting room that overlooks the gardens. Definitely a must visit when in the Hunter.
http://www.peppertreewines.com.au
2. Margan Wines
Broke is around 30 mins out of Pokolbin but worth the drive to get to Margan Winery. The winery is a beautiful building and the wines are exceptional. The Semillon and Shiraz (as is the case with the Hunter as a whole) are the standouts but keep an eye out for the Frizzante 2010 which is both a great way to kickoff proceedings as well as a light afternoon drink especially with summer coming up soon. The restaurant is also one of the best in the Hunter.
http://www.margan.com.au/
3. Tyrrell's Wines
Tyrrell's is one of the more popular wineries in the Hunter but also home to one of the best experiences we have ever had. Here is the tip...at the left of the cellar door is one of those build it yourself sheds with a wire screen door. Walk straight to the shed (with the conviction that you know what you are doing) and open the screen door. What you will find is a tasting room that specialises in Tyrrell's top shelf wines - the Private Bin Wines.
When we first visited we were tested thoroughly in our wine knowledge to ensure that we weren't there just to get drunk - it was a very testing but rewarding 30 minutes as we learnt a hell of a lot about the Hunter, it's wines and what to look for when tasting. In short, it is one of the "must do" activities in the Hunter.
http://www.tyrrells.com.au
4. Piggs Peake Wines
Our friend Rick recommended this winery especially for the port. While it is very good, there is a lot more to enjoy about Piggs Peake. The Reds are strong and bold while the Semillon and Chardonnays are great on it's own and with food.
Trish and I went there first thing one morning thereby beating the crowds. Steve Langham, the head winemaker took us through each wine and then took us round the back for a tasting of the latest vintage out of the vat. It was a hour well spent. Just make sure you get to taste the Suckling Pig Fortified Shiraz - which has to be done with an accompanying chocolate bud!
http://www.piggspeake.com
5. Meerea Park Wines
Meerea Park don't have their own cellar door but go through the Boutique Wine Centre on Broke Road in Pokolbin. It is worth the trip as Meerea Park are responsible for some of the best wines in the Hunter. The Alexander Munro and Hell Hole reds and whites are exceptional with the only challenge being not to drink them straight away.
http://www.meereapark.com.au
As I mentioned, these aren't a definitive top five but five worth visiting while in the Hunter and ones worth sharing. I welcome any others that you think are worth the trip up the F3!
Cheers until next time!
Punters Corner Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
So, there is a story here that ultimately ends up with me at Dan Murphy's with a bottle of said Punters Corner.
1. I had the thought of rather accessing the personal cellar, I should just enter a bottle-o for a wine that is easily accessable. That and I was looking for a birthday present for my cousin.
2. Once in Dan Murphy's, I thought I would go to a region other than NSW or Victoria - so South Australia was the order of the day and when I think South Australia, I think a Coonawarra Cab Sav.
3. During the week, Trish and I joined Craig and Dave at Trivia Night at Oatley R.S.L. Apart from a generous serving of ribs and rump, I also had a minor successful run on the punt - which comprised of betting on the gallops in South Africa and harness racing in France. As I was opting for omen bets that night, I thought I would try a similar tact with the wine of the week.
Which leads us to the wine itself. I deliberately looked for a reasonably priced wine at $25 and it is a very easy drinking, enjoyable Cab Sav but still has the "oomph" that you expect from a Coonawarra red. Great on a Saturday afternoon with some hard cheese.
http://www.punterscorner.com.au/
So, for those that have been with me the last couple of weeks you would have seen that I have ventured down the political path and the sporting path - both of which shouldn't have surprised anyone. This week, I have decided to focus on one of the key elements behind this blog...wine.
I was thinking that I am always keen on hearing about good wines and good wineries to visit so I thought why don't I give you all five wineries to visit in the Hunter Valley? Relatively speaking, it is on our doorstep and we generally visit the region once, maybe twice a year.
As such, we have been able to come across some wineries that not only deliver some great drinking but also a great cellar door experience. Some are big, some not so big and while it isn't a definitive top five they are ones that we will visit time and time again...and ones worth sharing.
1. Pepper Tree Wines
We have been fans for a long time and are members there. They not only source grapes from the Hunter but from vineyards in Orange and South Australia. The Semillon, Shiraz and the Cabernet Sauvignons have always been the highlights. The cellar door experience has always been an enjoyable one as the surroundings are picturesque and the staff friendly. If you are a member, they also have a tasting room that overlooks the gardens. Definitely a must visit when in the Hunter.
http://www.peppertreewines.com.au
2. Margan Wines
Broke is around 30 mins out of Pokolbin but worth the drive to get to Margan Winery. The winery is a beautiful building and the wines are exceptional. The Semillon and Shiraz (as is the case with the Hunter as a whole) are the standouts but keep an eye out for the Frizzante 2010 which is both a great way to kickoff proceedings as well as a light afternoon drink especially with summer coming up soon. The restaurant is also one of the best in the Hunter.
http://www.margan.com.au/
3. Tyrrell's Wines
Tyrrell's is one of the more popular wineries in the Hunter but also home to one of the best experiences we have ever had. Here is the tip...at the left of the cellar door is one of those build it yourself sheds with a wire screen door. Walk straight to the shed (with the conviction that you know what you are doing) and open the screen door. What you will find is a tasting room that specialises in Tyrrell's top shelf wines - the Private Bin Wines.
When we first visited we were tested thoroughly in our wine knowledge to ensure that we weren't there just to get drunk - it was a very testing but rewarding 30 minutes as we learnt a hell of a lot about the Hunter, it's wines and what to look for when tasting. In short, it is one of the "must do" activities in the Hunter.
http://www.tyrrells.com.au
4. Piggs Peake Wines
Our friend Rick recommended this winery especially for the port. While it is very good, there is a lot more to enjoy about Piggs Peake. The Reds are strong and bold while the Semillon and Chardonnays are great on it's own and with food.
Trish and I went there first thing one morning thereby beating the crowds. Steve Langham, the head winemaker took us through each wine and then took us round the back for a tasting of the latest vintage out of the vat. It was a hour well spent. Just make sure you get to taste the Suckling Pig Fortified Shiraz - which has to be done with an accompanying chocolate bud!
http://www.piggspeake.com
5. Meerea Park Wines
Meerea Park don't have their own cellar door but go through the Boutique Wine Centre on Broke Road in Pokolbin. It is worth the trip as Meerea Park are responsible for some of the best wines in the Hunter. The Alexander Munro and Hell Hole reds and whites are exceptional with the only challenge being not to drink them straight away.
http://www.meereapark.com.au
As I mentioned, these aren't a definitive top five but five worth visiting while in the Hunter and ones worth sharing. I welcome any others that you think are worth the trip up the F3!
Cheers until next time!
Monday, August 9, 2010
The double edged sword
Wine of the Week
Pepper Tree Wines 2007 Strandlines Grand Reserve Cabernet Shiraz (Hunter Valley) - I am a big fan of Pepper Tree Wines and the Strandlines doesn't disappoint. Very smooth and great drinking. Probably should have kept it for a little while longer but cellaring isn't a strong point for Trish or myself. http://www.peppertreewines.com.au
One week...one post and I have already missed my weekly deadline. Apologies for those who have been waiting with baited breath for my next post (HA!) My wife suggests that it is the consumption of red that caused my memory loss in not meeting my weekly deadline. To be truthful, the couch and the Dragons v Roosters game may have also had something to do with that.
Seriously though, thank you to those who have spent the time to (a) read and (b) share some kind words. Much appreciated - especially considering that the first spray was down a political bent and one that not everyone would support or agree with. Time will tell who the country will select and it seems to fluctuate from day to day as to who will win. Dreams are being bouyed and destroyed on a daily basis. The same can be said for the other focus of the nation...footy!
See, no matter what the code - AFL or NRL - we are in the final rounds approaching the finals. Supporters are looking at the table, analysing the upcoming fixtures and seeing if there is any chance of being there for the end of season action. Where the phrase "mathematical chance" is uttered with such convinction. Clutching at that intangible that all supporters are after...hope.
Ask any follower of any team in any code and hope is both a blessing and a curse. A double edged sword and something that for all bar the supporters of one team each year, ends in tears.
Take my team for example...the St George-Illawarra Dragons. The big red V. http://www.dragons.com.au The Dragons have not won a premiership since 1979 and the Illawarra Steelers didn't win a premiership up to the time when the joint venture was created. Suffice to say, it has been a long time between drinks.
That said, there have been times when the champagne has been put on ice only to feel the bitter taste of defeat.
1985. 1992. 1993. 1996. 1999. 2005. All of which have left indelible and painful memories which can only be erased with premiership glory.
Even last year, the Dragons finished Minor Premiers only to get bundled out of the finals after two games. And it wasn't the cries of "chokers" that hurt the most. It is the fact that you ride the wave of hope that your team gives you all year...then get dumped in a sea of disappointment.
So I can hear those who don't follow football or are not interested in sport ask the question, why do you do it? Why do you put yourself through such torment, such anguish, such angst?
The reason is simple - when the season starts you think of just one thing...
To be there on Grand Final day...
To see your team run on to the field for the biggest day of the season...
To ride the emotional rollercoaster that is the Grand Final and emerge victorious...
To see your Captain lift the trophy as you cheer and scream out the club song as the team starts their lap of honour...
To go back to the club and celebrate with the players and supporters alike all night and toast the Premiers as the sun rises on a new day.
That is the dream all supporters have every year and if your team falls short, then you sulk for a week once the season is over, complain how you were robbed in the last game and count the weeks left until the new season begins - so you can dream all over again.
And that, dear friends is the beauty of football.
PS: And I still maintain that was a forward pass in 1985.
Pepper Tree Wines 2007 Strandlines Grand Reserve Cabernet Shiraz (Hunter Valley) - I am a big fan of Pepper Tree Wines and the Strandlines doesn't disappoint. Very smooth and great drinking. Probably should have kept it for a little while longer but cellaring isn't a strong point for Trish or myself. http://www.peppertreewines.com.au
One week...one post and I have already missed my weekly deadline. Apologies for those who have been waiting with baited breath for my next post (HA!) My wife suggests that it is the consumption of red that caused my memory loss in not meeting my weekly deadline. To be truthful, the couch and the Dragons v Roosters game may have also had something to do with that.
Seriously though, thank you to those who have spent the time to (a) read and (b) share some kind words. Much appreciated - especially considering that the first spray was down a political bent and one that not everyone would support or agree with. Time will tell who the country will select and it seems to fluctuate from day to day as to who will win. Dreams are being bouyed and destroyed on a daily basis. The same can be said for the other focus of the nation...footy!
See, no matter what the code - AFL or NRL - we are in the final rounds approaching the finals. Supporters are looking at the table, analysing the upcoming fixtures and seeing if there is any chance of being there for the end of season action. Where the phrase "mathematical chance" is uttered with such convinction. Clutching at that intangible that all supporters are after...hope.
Ask any follower of any team in any code and hope is both a blessing and a curse. A double edged sword and something that for all bar the supporters of one team each year, ends in tears.
Take my team for example...the St George-Illawarra Dragons. The big red V. http://www.dragons.com.au The Dragons have not won a premiership since 1979 and the Illawarra Steelers didn't win a premiership up to the time when the joint venture was created. Suffice to say, it has been a long time between drinks.
That said, there have been times when the champagne has been put on ice only to feel the bitter taste of defeat.
1985. 1992. 1993. 1996. 1999. 2005. All of which have left indelible and painful memories which can only be erased with premiership glory.
Even last year, the Dragons finished Minor Premiers only to get bundled out of the finals after two games. And it wasn't the cries of "chokers" that hurt the most. It is the fact that you ride the wave of hope that your team gives you all year...then get dumped in a sea of disappointment.
So I can hear those who don't follow football or are not interested in sport ask the question, why do you do it? Why do you put yourself through such torment, such anguish, such angst?
The reason is simple - when the season starts you think of just one thing...
To be there on Grand Final day...
To see your team run on to the field for the biggest day of the season...
To ride the emotional rollercoaster that is the Grand Final and emerge victorious...
To see your Captain lift the trophy as you cheer and scream out the club song as the team starts their lap of honour...
To go back to the club and celebrate with the players and supporters alike all night and toast the Premiers as the sun rises on a new day.
That is the dream all supporters have every year and if your team falls short, then you sulk for a week once the season is over, complain how you were robbed in the last game and count the weeks left until the new season begins - so you can dream all over again.
And that, dear friends is the beauty of football.
PS: And I still maintain that was a forward pass in 1985.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
A rant long overdue...
Wine of the Week:
Over the Shoulder Shiraz Viognier 2007 (Yarra Valley) - made by Oakridge Estate. It is one of their everyday wines and one that is really enjoyable after a little breathing time. You can get more info at www.oakridgeestate.com.au
I always love elections. I remember going with my family up to the polling booth in the 80's and the one thing I always wanted to do was vote. It seemed that there was something really exciting was going on and I was missing out.
From the hordes of t-shirt clad supporters handing out 'how to vote' cards to the mystery of going behind the partitions inside the church hall with your ballot papers, making your decision and stuffing in the large cardboard boxes from the Electoral Commission; I have to say, I loved it all and couldn't wait until I was eighteen so I could join in the fun.
Like most people, my early voting preferences were influenced by my family. We were an ALP household from the time we arrived in Sydney the day after Whitlam was elected in 1972. We rejoiced when Bob Hawke was elected in 1983 and were equally devestated when Paul Keating lost in 1996. And in every election (Local, State & Federal) since 1990, I voted Labor without a critical thought.
As you get older, you start to think about your choice a little more and what impact that your vote would have. Family/party lines can potentially become strained as you start to have more questions around which party to vote for and who would be the right leader for your district, state or indeed country.
Which leads us to the upcoming Federal election and I will end the suspense right now - I will vote for Labor and Julia Gillard. That said, I won't be voting for them because I have done so in the last election and the election before that. I will be voting for Labor because they have will provide the answer I want to the one question that has been bugging me for a number of years - what sort of Australia do I want to live in?
I have been concerned about the state of the country - not the economic state but the social fabric of this country; a social fabric that was slowly picked at and damaged by the Liberal Party while in office.
Some of you may know I don't hold John Howard in high regard. Reason being is that as the Prime Minister at the time, he was responsible for this deterioration in the social fabric of Australia and as such, created a divide that still exists in this country. A divide that didn't seem to exist when I was growing up. A divide that is based on what you looked like and what your background was.
From the time that John Howard sided with George W Bush and said that we would back the US in their military action, he immediately declared that there was an emeny and anyone of middle eastern extraction should be considered with suspicion. As a result Australia, a country that prided itself on it's multiculturalism, had singled out one racial group as being a potential threat to what was considered all things Australian. This of course culminated in the events of December 2005 at Cronulla.
While those events are a blot on our country's history, the fact that he did not come out in the strongest fashion and declare that what happened was "un-Australian" was almost as shameful and the single most irresponsible act of his time as Prime Minister.
The fact that the Sutherland Shire is full of safe Liberal seats may have had something to do with that.
A general contempt for the Australian public (re; lying about the children overboard affair), reducing funding to public education and wanting to get rid of Medicare - a national public healthcare system that countries like the US are screaming out for - all contribute as reasons as to why I don't believe that the legacy of the Howard years is a golden one.
It is one of a less compassionate, less tolerant Australia. One that saddens me as I don't believe that the majority of Australians concur with but one where the minority has a very loud voice.
As I get off my John Howard soapbox, I can not help but think that the potential of the Abbott Government has the hallmarks of the Howard one. The fact that one of the catchcries/promises is that they will "stop the boats" says it all. It is clear that the Coalition believes that the best Australia for them is a divided Australia; that fact alone scares, depresses and angers me all at the same time.
I want an Australia that is compassionate. I want an Australia that is willing to look after each other, be proud of who we are and the different cultures that make up modern Australia. I want an Australia that also recognises our past - both before and after 1788.
And yes, I want a prosperous Australia and the fact that we were able to get through the GFC without a massive downturn is a good thing. The Labor Government have made some errors and some bad judgements (the insulation scheme was one of them) but overall, I believe the positives outweigh the negatives.
You could say it is better the devil you know...but Labor have made some ground in repairing the social fabric that underlies this country. Kevin Rudd did lose touch but his leadership shown in his speech saying sorry to the stolen generation is one of the greatest achievements by any Government. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2008/02/13/1202760379056.html
In the end, I guess I am voting in hope that Julia Gillard will continue to look at the repairing Australia in a similar light...time will only tell.
Over the Shoulder Shiraz Viognier 2007 (Yarra Valley) - made by Oakridge Estate. It is one of their everyday wines and one that is really enjoyable after a little breathing time. You can get more info at www.oakridgeestate.com.au
I always love elections. I remember going with my family up to the polling booth in the 80's and the one thing I always wanted to do was vote. It seemed that there was something really exciting was going on and I was missing out.
From the hordes of t-shirt clad supporters handing out 'how to vote' cards to the mystery of going behind the partitions inside the church hall with your ballot papers, making your decision and stuffing in the large cardboard boxes from the Electoral Commission; I have to say, I loved it all and couldn't wait until I was eighteen so I could join in the fun.
Like most people, my early voting preferences were influenced by my family. We were an ALP household from the time we arrived in Sydney the day after Whitlam was elected in 1972. We rejoiced when Bob Hawke was elected in 1983 and were equally devestated when Paul Keating lost in 1996. And in every election (Local, State & Federal) since 1990, I voted Labor without a critical thought.
As you get older, you start to think about your choice a little more and what impact that your vote would have. Family/party lines can potentially become strained as you start to have more questions around which party to vote for and who would be the right leader for your district, state or indeed country.
Which leads us to the upcoming Federal election and I will end the suspense right now - I will vote for Labor and Julia Gillard. That said, I won't be voting for them because I have done so in the last election and the election before that. I will be voting for Labor because they have will provide the answer I want to the one question that has been bugging me for a number of years - what sort of Australia do I want to live in?
I have been concerned about the state of the country - not the economic state but the social fabric of this country; a social fabric that was slowly picked at and damaged by the Liberal Party while in office.
Some of you may know I don't hold John Howard in high regard. Reason being is that as the Prime Minister at the time, he was responsible for this deterioration in the social fabric of Australia and as such, created a divide that still exists in this country. A divide that didn't seem to exist when I was growing up. A divide that is based on what you looked like and what your background was.
From the time that John Howard sided with George W Bush and said that we would back the US in their military action, he immediately declared that there was an emeny and anyone of middle eastern extraction should be considered with suspicion. As a result Australia, a country that prided itself on it's multiculturalism, had singled out one racial group as being a potential threat to what was considered all things Australian. This of course culminated in the events of December 2005 at Cronulla.
While those events are a blot on our country's history, the fact that he did not come out in the strongest fashion and declare that what happened was "un-Australian" was almost as shameful and the single most irresponsible act of his time as Prime Minister.
The fact that the Sutherland Shire is full of safe Liberal seats may have had something to do with that.
A general contempt for the Australian public (re; lying about the children overboard affair), reducing funding to public education and wanting to get rid of Medicare - a national public healthcare system that countries like the US are screaming out for - all contribute as reasons as to why I don't believe that the legacy of the Howard years is a golden one.
It is one of a less compassionate, less tolerant Australia. One that saddens me as I don't believe that the majority of Australians concur with but one where the minority has a very loud voice.
As I get off my John Howard soapbox, I can not help but think that the potential of the Abbott Government has the hallmarks of the Howard one. The fact that one of the catchcries/promises is that they will "stop the boats" says it all. It is clear that the Coalition believes that the best Australia for them is a divided Australia; that fact alone scares, depresses and angers me all at the same time.
I want an Australia that is compassionate. I want an Australia that is willing to look after each other, be proud of who we are and the different cultures that make up modern Australia. I want an Australia that also recognises our past - both before and after 1788.
And yes, I want a prosperous Australia and the fact that we were able to get through the GFC without a massive downturn is a good thing. The Labor Government have made some errors and some bad judgements (the insulation scheme was one of them) but overall, I believe the positives outweigh the negatives.
You could say it is better the devil you know...but Labor have made some ground in repairing the social fabric that underlies this country. Kevin Rudd did lose touch but his leadership shown in his speech saying sorry to the stolen generation is one of the greatest achievements by any Government. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2008/02/13/1202760379056.html
In the end, I guess I am voting in hope that Julia Gillard will continue to look at the repairing Australia in a similar light...time will only tell.
Welcome to the Party that never ends!
So, here we are - the latest in my ideas but one I hope that I will have the time and inclination to continue and develop. Time will tell but never let it be said that my intentions were not good!
Anyway, so this is what I intend to do. At least once a week, I will sit down at the laptop with a glass of red next to me and put down what is on my mind with topics varying from the serious to the not so serious - depending on my mood, what has happened during the week and perhaps most critically, how many glasses of rouge that I have had!
To ensure that it isn't completely full of self indulgent tripe, I will also share what wine I am having so at the very least, you may find a new wine to try. As some of you may know, Trish and I love our vino so there will always be something worth sharing on that front.
In the true spirit of the online world, please feel free to comment, debate, sledge etc on what I have said and the wine I am drinking. Going down a one way street without any diversions is kind of boring so I welcome your comments - one and all.
So enough of the preamble...Enjoy.
Cheers
BM
Anyway, so this is what I intend to do. At least once a week, I will sit down at the laptop with a glass of red next to me and put down what is on my mind with topics varying from the serious to the not so serious - depending on my mood, what has happened during the week and perhaps most critically, how many glasses of rouge that I have had!
To ensure that it isn't completely full of self indulgent tripe, I will also share what wine I am having so at the very least, you may find a new wine to try. As some of you may know, Trish and I love our vino so there will always be something worth sharing on that front.
In the true spirit of the online world, please feel free to comment, debate, sledge etc on what I have said and the wine I am drinking. Going down a one way street without any diversions is kind of boring so I welcome your comments - one and all.
So enough of the preamble...Enjoy.
Cheers
BM
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