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.


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