Findcate

In 2005 I finally managed to buy my domain name, clivejames.com, back from a British pirate. Before the pirate got hold of it, my domain name belonged to another Clive James, a jet-ski instructor in Miami. I waited a long time for him to have his accident, but when I lunged forward to grab the vacant domain name, it turned out that the pirate had already bought it. He sold it to me for only slightly less than it would have cost to sue him, but it was worth it.

My fledgeling multimedia website could now carry my name, an attribute that might come in useful when trying to attract the attention of anyone who remembered it from the days when I had my face on the box in the corner of the room, instead of on the screen of a computer.

By that time my plans for the website were already changing. My first idea was to set up an online archive of everything I had ever written. There were practical reasons for doing so. On the web, your books can be made available while occupying no physical space at all: a humble aim, surely. But I have to admit that megalomania was part of the initial impulse.

I was building a memorial to myself: not a very charming idea even when the pharaohs did it. Luckily I soon realised that the project might be more useful if I included the work of other people. Some of my own work included other people anyway.

I was already, in the Video section of the site, running little no-budget television interviews that I was making in my living room. Jonathan Miller, Cate Blanchett, Terry Gilliam, Julian Barnes, Ruby Wax, Ian McEwan, Martin Amis and others (the complete line-up of 25 half-hour interviews is still on the site, and still growing, with a new series of nine to be uploaded soon) all contributed their services for not much more than a takeaway Chinese meal and cab fare.

In the Audio section, I had been streaming dozens of radio dialogues that I had done with Peter Porter for the ABC in Australia. I had a Gallery section, and all its painters, sculptors and photographers were my guests (there are now 17 of them, with seven pages each).

Worldwide, there were journalists and essayists who were taking their business seriously. I wanted to help to shine a light on their best work. When I was a journalist, I had always thought that an individual piece was like an individual poem: if it was well enough done, it deserved to live. On the web, nothing need disappear.

There were poets who deserved a world stage. I wanted to help to provide that. If I could load my website with enough permanently valuable material, people from all over the world might visit, not just because it was an example of one writer expressing himself, but because the site itself was expressing a wide range of human creation.

A limitless range, in fact: because there were already countless good things glittering among the junk out there on the web, so a site’s grizzled proprietor could turn his years to use by guiding visitors to the treasure.

You could say that this was megalomania taken to a further stage and disguised as altruism. But whatever the motive, after five years of steady construction the site has become the focus of my later life. I used to do several different things for a living.

But they were all linked by writing, and now they are all happening in the one place, and I have to do a lot of extra writing to explain what’s going on. By the nature of the web, this explanatory writing has to be terse, but that requirement never hurts.

The site’s comprehensive redesign, which has just been completed, looks a lot less tentative. It looks, as we used to say in television, “meant”. And so it should, because a lot of people are giving their efforts to it for small financial reward.

They are headed by my copy editor, Cécile Menon, who can also converse with computers fluently enough to run the site. Powerfully persuasive for someone no bigger than a piaf, she recruits out in cyberspace the ghostly technical experts whose time is worth a fortune. Somehow she persuades them to work, like her, for a pittance. She is also gifted with adventurous taste.

Many of our painters and sculptors are found by her. Sometimes she has to convince me, but only by making me look more closely, and invariably they prove to have a quality that my unaided eye might have skated over. Thus my education continues, and I get the chance to write outside my usual frame of reference. In this way, one’s mental range is increased. It’s the thing I like most about the web. It can get you beyond yourself.

In that question lies the only thing for the aspiring webster to be scared of. You can throw a party, and nobody might come. There are at least seven million websites in the world, and about 90 million blogs, and it’s already obvious that when everyone on Earth is building a personal display case they won’t have time to look at anybody else’s.

As many lone bloggers have already found, their regular audience is only going to be a handful of people like them. Some of the handful are in Iceland or Venezuela, which can be a thrill, but on the whole, no matter how well the bloggers write, if they haven’t got a selling point beyond their own opinions they are digging their own graves under the impression that they are putting up a building.

But when I wake up sweating in the night, wondering if I am going broke to no purpose whatever, I can check the viewing figures and remind myself that at any given moment, as the sun comes up around the world, there are people online to find out what we’ve got to offer. Not a lot of people, perhaps, but they come from more than 50 countries.

Since most of them, if they decide to browse around, will read as well as look and listen, it’s a safe assumption that they are good at English, which they got from books. The fear that the web necessarily erodes the ability to read is groundless. The web is fundamentally literate, even if at a low level.

At an even lower level, alas, it is also frightening, because a huge percentage of it consists of pornography, eked out by masterclasses in bomb-making, conspiracy theory and religious terror. The word “jungle” is almost too genteel to apply. But if the whole thing really is a lethally dangerous primeval forest, then a crucial battle will be lost if clearings are not provided in which people can find nothing but civilisation.

I suppose the most glittering prize the web offers is that it gives you a chance to put your life on the line in a constructive way. Even the brightest young people, wherever they come from, are more likely to find an older voice worth listening to if it is talking about something beyond wealth and power. It can talk about value, saying not just “This is what I have done” but “This is what others have done, and I find it valuable beyond price”.

Tags: blogger, cab fare, cate, cate blanchett, chinese meal, clive james, humble aim, ian mcewan, initial impulse, jonathan miller, journalist, julian barnes, martin amis, megalomania, pace, peter porter, pharaohs, physical space, ruby wax, series of nine, ski instructor, spira, television interviews, terry gilliam, video section

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William Wolfenden wants to take hospital management back to
pre-Medicare days, when doctors were the only health professionals
worthy of consultation, to ensure their lofty position in the
hierarchy (Letters, March 8-9). The management of hospitals by
doctors, for doctors, did not work in the 20th century. Why should
it work now?
Dr Wolfenden blames the failure of hospital management by
administrators rather than doctors for the decline in hospital
care. I would like to know whether he set out on his life’s path to
be an expert physician, which he no doubt is, or an accomplished
administrator with expertise in financial planning, human
resources, hotel services, evidence-based medicine and
accreditation, or whether he completed a master’s in health service
management.
In the Bathurst Hospital shambles it appears NSW Health did not
consult any health professional or architect, just the finance
department. Dr Wolfenden rightly decries the lack of consultation
with doctors, yet there has been no mention of the failure to
consult nurses.
There are few aspects of a hospital that do not affect nursing.
Who knows better than nurses the space requirements, traffic
patterns, bathroom and toilet usage and design environments that
are sympathetic for patients, their families and hospital workers,
and that ensure better health outcomes at less cost? While doctors
may spend 20 minutes a day with their patients, nurses are there
constantly.
When will health departments learn that the prerequisite for
quality health care, whether in acute care hospitals, the community
or aged facilities, is a team effort? No speciality has the abiding
authority on good patient care and healthy outcomes. This requires
doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists,
nutritionists, cleaners, pharmacists, architects and policymakers
to work towards a common goal, not to fiercely defend their vested
interests to the exclusion of all others.
Let us look forwards, not backwards, to better partnerships for
health service delivery and put the patient first, not last, on the
planning agenda.
Maryan Heffernan Narrabeen
Taking from the most vulnerable is unconscionable
It was with shock and disappointment that we heard of the
proposal to stop funding carer bonuses. We know they were never
part of forward estimates, but they were a recognition of the
contribution made by carers, as well as a much-needed financial
benefit for many living below the poverty line.
It would take more than $30 billion a year for governments to
replace carers’ services. While not in the paid workforce, people
with disabilities and their carers are no less “working families”
than those referred to by the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and his
colleagues during the election campaign - just not so well off and
with no superannuation.
Laraine Toms President, Carers NSW, Sydney
Before a final decision is made by the Rudd Government on
whether to snatch back the carer bonuses, perhaps his minister
might like to spend 24 hours in my household to see the
difficulties and associated costs involved in caring for two
disabled family members. That research would confirm that carers
should be generously supported, if only to save both the federal
and state governments billion of dollars.
Stan Fildes Mona Vale
Two interesting articles in Saturday’s Herald. The first
reveals that Kevin Rudd proposes to slash payments to pensioners
and their carers. The second states that he is increasing aid to
Papua New Guinea. Thank you for explaining his priorities.
Paul Atroshenko Waverley
Wayne Swan has managed to be both fiscally irresponsible and
mean: handing out more than $30 billion in tax cuts at a time of
higher inflation and rapidly rising interest rates, while cutting
the carers’ benefit to save a few hundred million dollars.
George Finlay Balaclava (Vic)
Is this the “compassionate” ALP I’ve voted for all my life?
Surely there are a million other cuts the Government could make
other than on those least able to help themselves. What about the
great lurk of negative gearing? Or the overly generous benefits
former politicians help themselves to? As for the promised tax
cuts, which offer no benefit for those on a pension, they should be
deferred for at least three years or dropped altogether.
I realise cuts have to be made, but slashing and burning the
most vulnerable is unconscionable.
Jennifer Owen Baulkham Hills
As a carer for my war veteran partner, I was counting on that
$1600 to help us pay the winter bills and put shoes on the feet of
our son. My partner lost his ability to support his family in the
service of his country. Is this how you are planning to treat the
families of the men you send to Afghanistan?
Margot Clifford Kaleen (ACT)
Labor prime ministers have historically surrounded themselves
with complete idiots. With the proposed axing of the carers’ bonus,
Kevin Rudd has gone one better: he has surrounded himself with
complete bastards.
Matt Petersen Randwick
If the elderly and carers are to lose entitlements, can we
assume that John Howard’s endangered orang-utans will have to make
sacrifices as well?
Joe Dwyer Rose Bay
Cool heads must prevail in the face of provocation
The murder of eight students in Jerusalem by an Arab Israeli was
sickening, as was the gloating from certain Palestinian quarters
(”After the slaughter, sickening jubilation”, March 8-9).

However, Israelis such as the Prime Minister’s spokesman, Mark
Regev, should not get too self-righteous. For every Israeli who
dies in this conflict, 40 Palestinians are killed. In 1994 the
US-born Israeli Baruch Goldstein slaughtered 29 Arabs and wounded
150 in a shooting rampage in a mosque. To this day his grave,
complete with a shrine-like landscaped prayer area and a plaque
praising his actions, is a pilgrimage site for right-wing
Israelis.
Andrew Worssam Bondi
Mordechai Sher (Letters, March 8-9) claims Hamas is not
apportioned any blame for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. That is
plainly wrong, as Hamas is often denounced by governments and
non-government organisations. In fact, it is frequently held up as
the only problem. “Remove Hamas,” they shout, “and all will be
better.”
Sorry, but as deplorable as Hamas is, it is a product of the
situation. Desperate people resort to desperate measures, so the
more Israel tries to tighten its grip on Gaza, the more
Palestinians will slip through its fingers. Only better conditions
for all Palestinians - and that means, among other things, an end
to the blockade of Gaza - will see to the removal of Hamas and an
end to the rocket attacks and suicide bombings.
James Kite Drummoyne
Alan Ramsey’s column denotes that April Fool’s Day has arrived
early this year (”Don’t mention the war as Israel lauded”, March
8-9): “It was also one of those extremely rare occasions that the
easily intimidated Australian Parliament, ever mindful of Jewish
financial support of party coffers, has debated the Middle East at
all.”
Curse those Zionist paymasters! I always thought it was property
developers who duped us into focusing on our own backyard.
Peter Ness Bardwell Valley
Alan Ramsey alleges without evidence that wealthy Jews unduly
influence Australia’s Middle East policy. In reality, the small
number of Jewish businessmen who make major donations to political
parties appear to be motivated by business interests as much as by
specifically Jewish concerns. None have gone on record as linking
their donations to Middle East policy. To be sure, Jewish communal
bodies lobby on behalf of Israel. However, there is no evidence
that Jewish organisations per se have ever donated to Australian
political parties.
Philip Mendes Kew (Victoria)
For 60 years Australia has indeed been a supporter of Israel,
but also a constructive champion of the peace process. If Ramsey
had read previous bipartisan motions relating to Israel, he would
see that they have also consistently called for the right of
Palestinians to self-determination. What we need to focus on are
tangible and supportive measures to eradicate the type of hatred
Saturday’s paper depicted, not finger-pointing rants.
David Faktor Bondi
Tokenism rampant
Can Verity Firth “wean NSW off its energy addiction” (”Can this
woman turn us off?”, March 8-9)?

In a word, no. In the Iemma-Costa clique the main game is: a)
build a new coal-fired power station in time to prevent the
electoral death that would result if the power faltered for one
moment in the air-conditioned mansions of Baulkham Hills; and b)
avoid any energy conservation measures serious enough to scare
bidders for a privatised electricity industry.
So they appoint an unknown 34-year-old, in Parliament for less
than a year, to lead the charge on climate change. Talk about
tokenism. No doubt they will keep her busy writing policies that
the big departments will do nothing to implement.
Geoff Dawson Narrabundah (ACT)
Sparing the child
Mirren Palmer (Letters, March 8-9) is right that private schools
are often more successful at dealing with disruptive students. The
method they use is called expulsion. Unfortunately this is not
readily available to public schools. They have an obligation to
make sure all children, including disruptive ones, have access to
an education.

Mary Lawson Mortdale
The worst kind of example
In the article “It’s a crime: how footy heroes go bad” (March 8-9)
the reporter writes that “behind the drunken antics and rape
allegations, there is a darker history of links between sportsmen
and serious crime”. Rape is not a serious crime? With attitudes
like this, how are those same “heroes” ever going to get the
message about their treatment of women? And what about the example
set to other men who want to emulate their “exploits”?

Trish Wiltshire Worrigee
I was dismayed, to say the least, that on International Women’s
Day your editorial likened fake virgin olive oil to two
celebrities, branding them “blond, cheap and unsavoury” (”Virgin
oil upturned”, March 8-9). Misogynist behaviour is not likely to
decrease when the Herald implicitly encourages it.
Elaine Diffey Glebe
A sadly foreseeable tragedy
I was very sad to read of the death of Peter Eagle, but not
surprised (”Man killed on his way to Superboat Grand Prix”,
smh.com.au, March 8). The harbour has become unbearable on some
days with the increasing number of powerful motor boats. As the
owner of an older-style wooden yacht I avoid parts of it, such as
Bradleys Head, where power-boat skippers seem to love to roar
around the point, presuming no one else could be there. Without
commenting on the circumstances of Eagle’s crash, so many owners of
these boats seem to lack basic seamanship, courtesy or common
sense. When will NSW Maritime realise the risk these types of boats
are creating and introduce a reasonable speed limit (I suggest 12
knots) so that everyone can enjoy the harbour?

Philip Bull Marrickville
Sydney Harbour is a busy commercial and recreational waterway,
especially at weekends. To close it for a day of races by so-called
superboats is disgraceful. Let them race where they will cause no
danger or disruption to others. Lake Eyre, for example.
Neil Radford Balmain East
Don’t blame the doctors
Geoff Dunsford (Letters, March 8-9) needs to explain how doctors’
bills are driving the increase in health fund premiums. Health
funds have their own nominated fee that they will pay for each
service provided by a doctor. But if a doctor’s fee exceeds the
health fund fee, most of the funds pay out much less than the
nominated fee. Furthermore, health fund indexation of the benefits
paid for doctors’ fees has been a lower percentage for the past few
years than the increase in premiums the government has granted
them.

Dr Andrew Wright Neutral Bay
The right man for the role at NIDA
As a past chairman of the board of the National Institute of
Dramatic Art for 13 years (1975-88) and a current member of its
foundation board, I entirely agree with the signatories of the
letter to the present chairman that Aubrey Mellor be appointed the
artistic director (”Battle over arts and minds divides NIDA”, March
8-9). It would then be in NIDA’s best interest to advertise for an
“energetic and inspiring chief executive” to be the administrative
head.

Malcolm Chaikin Rose Bay
It would be a tragic farce for NIDA to dismiss Aubrey Mellor. He
is a rare genius, a great teacher and a great director. Only a fool
could ignore the statement by Cate Blanchett, Judy Davis, Geoffrey
Rush, George Miller et al that Mellor is the finest acting teacher
in the country. NIDA is federally funded. Peter Garrett should take
decisive action to prevent mediocrity triumphing over genius.
Ric Davidson Avalon
Worthies of elsewhere
No, Adam Cook (Letters, March 8-9), Germaine Greer should not get
an official Australian honour. Permanent residence in Australia
should be a basic requirement for that. Those worthies who live
elsewhere, including Greer, Rolf Harris, Clive James, Greg Norman,
John Pilger and Geoffrey Robertson, should look to their homelands
of choice for a gong.

Brendan Linnane Dernancourt (SA)
Delusion rights
I can’t understand why Alan Ramsey (”Sideshow takes on delusions of
grandeur”, March 8-9) and letter writers are getting so hot under
the collar about John Howard’s speech last week. Surely it is the
right of every former prime minister to be in denial about why the
electorate gave them the heave-ho. Just look at Paul Keating for
the past 12 years.

Peter Dieleman Waratah
Long way west
“Motorists driving from Sydney Airport to the inner west, using the
Eastern Distributor and the Cross City Tunnel, will pay just under
$10 in tolls,” according to your report (”Tolls up in Sydney, free
ride in Melbourne”, March 8-9). Anyone doing so deserves to pay
$10. I suggest a long-term saving by investing in a street
directory.

Duncan Barrett Camperdown
Too big for the fridge
Surely Del Kathryn Barton’s picture was painted by her kids (”A
mother load of happiness”, March 8-9). I suppose it was too big to
fit on the fridge so she entered it in the Archibald.

Eddie Fingret Dover Heights
I’ve got no idea about art and portraiture, and it appears that
the trustees of the Archibald Prize share my inadequacy.
Graham Anderson Bundanoon
Journey of faith
Oh ye of little faith, Cardinal Pell (”The priest, his fake cancer
and an almighty apology”, smh.com.au, March 9). Surely Father
Richard Abourjaily’s “delusional” condition could also have been
miraculously cured at Lourdes.

Allan Lloyd Lamb Island (Qld)
Scattered chums
So, can we think of Mr Downer and his reluctant chums as “The
Things That Scatter”?

Phil Norris Longueville

Tags: appointment, attitude, cate, cate blanchett, champion, clive james, disappointment, farce, ford, henk, hero, pace, sydney harbour

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William Wolfenden wants to take hospital management back to
pre-Medicare days, when doctors were the only health professionals
worthy of consultation, to ensure their lofty position in the
hierarchy (Letters, March 8-9). The management of hospitals by
doctors, for doctors, did not work in the 20th century. Why should
it work now?
Dr Wolfenden blames the failure of hospital management by
administrators rather than doctors for the decline in hospital
care. I would like to know whether he set out on his life’s path to
be an expert physician, which he no doubt is, or an accomplished
administrator with expertise in financial planning, human
resources, hotel services, evidence-based medicine and
accreditation, or whether he completed a master’s in health service
management.
In the Bathurst Hospital shambles it appears NSW Health did not
consult any health professional or architect, just the finance
department. Dr Wolfenden rightly decries the lack of consultation
with doctors, yet there has been no mention of the failure to
consult nurses.
There are few aspects of a hospital that do not affect nursing.
Who knows better than nurses the space requirements, traffic
patterns, bathroom and toilet usage and design environments that
are sympathetic for patients, their families and hospital workers,
and that ensure better health outcomes at less cost? While doctors
may spend 20 minutes a day with their patients, nurses are there
constantly.
When will health departments learn that the prerequisite for
quality health care, whether in acute care hospitals, the community
or aged facilities, is a team effort? No speciality has the abiding
authority on good patient care and healthy outcomes. This requires
doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists,
nutritionists, cleaners, pharmacists, architects and policymakers
to work towards a common goal, not to fiercely defend their vested
interests to the exclusion of all others.
Let us look forwards, not backwards, to better partnerships for
health service delivery and put the patient first, not last, on the
planning agenda.
Maryan Heffernan Narrabeen
Taking from the most vulnerable is unconscionable
It was with shock and disappointment that we heard of the
proposal to stop funding carer bonuses. We know they were never
part of forward estimates, but they were a recognition of the
contribution made by carers, as well as a much-needed financial
benefit for many living below the poverty line.
It would take more than $30 billion a year for governments to
replace carers’ services. While not in the paid workforce, people
with disabilities and their carers are no less “working families”
than those referred to by the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and his
colleagues during the election campaign - just not so well off and
with no superannuation.
Laraine Toms President, Carers NSW, Sydney
Before a final decision is made by the Rudd Government on
whether to snatch back the carer bonuses, perhaps his minister
might like to spend 24 hours in my household to see the
difficulties and associated costs involved in caring for two
disabled family members. That research would confirm that carers
should be generously supported, if only to save both the federal
and state governments billion of dollars.
Stan Fildes Mona Vale
Two interesting articles in Saturday’s Herald. The first
reveals that Kevin Rudd proposes to slash payments to pensioners
and their carers. The second states that he is increasing aid to
Papua New Guinea. Thank you for explaining his priorities.
Paul Atroshenko Waverley
Wayne Swan has managed to be both fiscally irresponsible and
mean: handing out more than $30 billion in tax cuts at a time of
higher inflation and rapidly rising interest rates, while cutting
the carers’ benefit to save a few hundred million dollars.
George Finlay Balaclava (Vic)
Is this the “compassionate” ALP I’ve voted for all my life?
Surely there are a million other cuts the Government could make
other than on those least able to help themselves. What about the
great lurk of negative gearing? Or the overly generous benefits
former politicians help themselves to? As for the promised tax
cuts, which offer no benefit for those on a pension, they should be
deferred for at least three years or dropped altogether.
I realise cuts have to be made, but slashing and burning the
most vulnerable is unconscionable.
Jennifer Owen Baulkham Hills
As a carer for my war veteran partner, I was counting on that
$1600 to help us pay the winter bills and put shoes on the feet of
our son. My partner lost his ability to support his family in the
service of his country. Is this how you are planning to treat the
families of the men you send to Afghanistan?
Margot Clifford Kaleen (ACT)
Labor prime ministers have historically surrounded themselves
with complete idiots. With the proposed axing of the carers’ bonus,
Kevin Rudd has gone one better: he has surrounded himself with
complete bastards.
Matt Petersen Randwick
If the elderly and carers are to lose entitlements, can we
assume that John Howard’s endangered orang-utans will have to make
sacrifices as well?
Joe Dwyer Rose Bay
Cool heads must prevail in the face of provocation
The murder of eight students in Jerusalem by an Arab Israeli was
sickening, as was the gloating from certain Palestinian quarters
(”After the slaughter, sickening jubilation”, March 8-9).

However, Israelis such as the Prime Minister’s spokesman, Mark
Regev, should not get too self-righteous. For every Israeli who
dies in this conflict, 40 Palestinians are killed. In 1994 the
US-born Israeli Baruch Goldstein slaughtered 29 Arabs and wounded
150 in a shooting rampage in a mosque. To this day his grave,
complete with a shrine-like landscaped prayer area and a plaque
praising his actions, is a pilgrimage site for right-wing
Israelis.
Andrew Worssam Bondi
Mordechai Sher (Letters, March 8-9) claims Hamas is not
apportioned any blame for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. That is
plainly wrong, as Hamas is often denounced by governments and
non-government organisations. In fact, it is frequently held up as
the only problem. “Remove Hamas,” they shout, “and all will be
better.”
Sorry, but as deplorable as Hamas is, it is a product of the
situation. Desperate people resort to desperate measures, so the
more Israel tries to tighten its grip on Gaza, the more
Palestinians will slip through its fingers. Only better conditions
for all Palestinians - and that means, among other things, an end
to the blockade of Gaza - will see to the removal of Hamas and an
end to the rocket attacks and suicide bombings.
James Kite Drummoyne
Alan Ramsey’s column denotes that April Fool’s Day has arrived
early this year (”Don’t mention the war as Israel lauded”, March
8-9): “It was also one of those extremely rare occasions that the
easily intimidated Australian Parliament, ever mindful of Jewish
financial support of party coffers, has debated the Middle East at
all.”
Curse those Zionist paymasters! I always thought it was property
developers who duped us into focusing on our own backyard.
Peter Ness Bardwell Valley
Alan Ramsey alleges without evidence that wealthy Jews unduly
influence Australia’s Middle East policy. In reality, the small
number of Jewish businessmen who make major donations to political
parties appear to be motivated by business interests as much as by
specifically Jewish concerns. None have gone on record as linking
their donations to Middle East policy. To be sure, Jewish communal
bodies lobby on behalf of Israel. However, there is no evidence
that Jewish organisations per se have ever donated to Australian
political parties.
Philip Mendes Kew (Victoria)
For 60 years Australia has indeed been a supporter of Israel,
but also a constructive champion of the peace process. If Ramsey
had read previous bipartisan motions relating to Israel, he would
see that they have also consistently called for the right of
Palestinians to self-determination. What we need to focus on are
tangible and supportive measures to eradicate the type of hatred
Saturday’s paper depicted, not finger-pointing rants.
David Faktor Bondi
Tokenism rampant
Can Verity Firth “wean NSW off its energy addiction” (”Can this
woman turn us off?”, March 8-9)?

In a word, no. In the Iemma-Costa clique the main game is: a)
build a new coal-fired power station in time to prevent the
electoral death that would result if the power faltered for one
moment in the air-conditioned mansions of Baulkham Hills; and b)
avoid any energy conservation measures serious enough to scare
bidders for a privatised electricity industry.
So they appoint an unknown 34-year-old, in Parliament for less
than a year, to lead the charge on climate change. Talk about
tokenism. No doubt they will keep her busy writing policies that
the big departments will do nothing to implement.
Geoff Dawson Narrabundah (ACT)
Sparing the child
Mirren Palmer (Letters, March 8-9) is right that private schools
are often more successful at dealing with disruptive students. The
method they use is called expulsion. Unfortunately this is not
readily available to public schools. They have an obligation to
make sure all children, including disruptive ones, have access to
an education.

Mary Lawson Mortdale
The worst kind of example
In the article “It’s a crime: how footy heroes go bad” (March 8-9)
the reporter writes that “behind the drunken antics and rape
allegations, there is a darker history of links between sportsmen
and serious crime”. Rape is not a serious crime? With attitudes
like this, how are those same “heroes” ever going to get the
message about their treatment of women? And what about the example
set to other men who want to emulate their “exploits”?

Trish Wiltshire Worrigee
I was dismayed, to say the least, that on International Women’s
Day your editorial likened fake virgin olive oil to two
celebrities, branding them “blond, cheap and unsavoury” (”Virgin
oil upturned”, March 8-9). Misogynist behaviour is not likely to
decrease when the Herald implicitly encourages it.
Elaine Diffey Glebe
A sadly foreseeable tragedy
I was very sad to read of the death of Peter Eagle, but not
surprised (”Man killed on his way to Superboat Grand Prix”,
smh.com.au, March 8). The harbour has become unbearable on some
days with the increasing number of powerful motor boats. As the
owner of an older-style wooden yacht I avoid parts of it, such as
Bradleys Head, where power-boat skippers seem to love to roar
around the point, presuming no one else could be there. Without
commenting on the circumstances of Eagle’s crash, so many owners of
these boats seem to lack basic seamanship, courtesy or common
sense. When will NSW Maritime realise the risk these types of boats
are creating and introduce a reasonable speed limit (I suggest 12
knots) so that everyone can enjoy the harbour?

Philip Bull Marrickville
Sydney Harbour is a busy commercial and recreational waterway,
especially at weekends. To close it for a day of races by so-called
superboats is disgraceful. Let them race where they will cause no
danger or disruption to others. Lake Eyre, for example.
Neil Radford Balmain East
Don’t blame the doctors
Geoff Dunsford (Letters, March 8-9) needs to explain how doctors’
bills are driving the increase in health fund premiums. Health
funds have their own nominated fee that they will pay for each
service provided by a doctor. But if a doctor’s fee exceeds the
health fund fee, most of the funds pay out much less than the
nominated fee. Furthermore, health fund indexation of the benefits
paid for doctors’ fees has been a lower percentage for the past few
years than the increase in premiums the government has granted
them.

Dr Andrew Wright Neutral Bay
The right man for the role at NIDA
As a past chairman of the board of the National Institute of
Dramatic Art for 13 years (1975-88) and a current member of its
foundation board, I entirely agree with the signatories of the
letter to the present chairman that Aubrey Mellor be appointed the
artistic director (”Battle over arts and minds divides NIDA”, March
8-9). It would then be in NIDA’s best interest to advertise for an
“energetic and inspiring chief executive” to be the administrative
head.

Malcolm Chaikin Rose Bay
It would be a tragic farce for NIDA to dismiss Aubrey Mellor. He
is a rare genius, a great teacher and a great director. Only a fool
could ignore the statement by Cate Blanchett, Judy Davis, Geoffrey
Rush, George Miller et al that Mellor is the finest acting teacher
in the country. NIDA is federally funded. Peter Garrett should take
decisive action to prevent mediocrity triumphing over genius.
Ric Davidson Avalon
Worthies of elsewhere
No, Adam Cook (Letters, March 8-9), Germaine Greer should not get
an official Australian honour. Permanent residence in Australia
should be a basic requirement for that. Those worthies who live
elsewhere, including Greer, Rolf Harris, Clive James, Greg Norman,
John Pilger and Geoffrey Robertson, should look to their homelands
of choice for a gong.

Brendan Linnane Dernancourt (SA)
Delusion rights
I can’t understand why Alan Ramsey (”Sideshow takes on delusions of
grandeur”, March 8-9) and letter writers are getting so hot under
the collar about John Howard’s speech last week. Surely it is the
right of every former prime minister to be in denial about why the
electorate gave them the heave-ho. Just look at Paul Keating for
the past 12 years.

Peter Dieleman Waratah
Long way west
“Motorists driving from Sydney Airport to the inner west, using the
Eastern Distributor and the Cross City Tunnel, will pay just under
$10 in tolls,” according to your report (”Tolls up in Sydney, free
ride in Melbourne”, March 8-9). Anyone doing so deserves to pay
$10. I suggest a long-term saving by investing in a street
directory.

Duncan Barrett Camperdown
Too big for the fridge
Surely Del Kathryn Barton’s picture was painted by her kids (”A
mother load of happiness”, March 8-9). I suppose it was too big to
fit on the fridge so she entered it in the Archibald.

Eddie Fingret Dover Heights
I’ve got no idea about art and portraiture, and it appears that
the trustees of the Archibald Prize share my inadequacy.
Graham Anderson Bundanoon
Journey of faith
Oh ye of little faith, Cardinal Pell (”The priest, his fake cancer
and an almighty apology”, smh.com.au, March 9). Surely Father
Richard Abourjaily’s “delusional” condition could also have been
miraculously cured at Lourdes.

Allan Lloyd Lamb Island (Qld)
Scattered chums
So, can we think of Mr Downer and his reluctant chums as “The
Things That Scatter”?

Phil Norris Longueville

Tags: appointment, attitude, cate, cate blanchett, champion, clive james, disappointment, farce, ford, henk, hero, pace, sydney harbour

Related posts

• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• Arts 2007
• Grant struggling to cope with Chelsea’s surplus of riches
• The week’s best films
• Ten Cate takes over at Pana
• Over Five Million Dead in Congo?
• Grant admits he must win trophy or face the axe
• Zola turns down chance to join Grant’s regime

William Wolfenden wants to take hospital management back to
pre-Medicare days, when doctors were the only health professionals
worthy of consultation, to ensure their lofty position in the
hierarchy (Letters, March 8-9). The management of hospitals by
doctors, for doctors, did not work in the 20th century. Why should
it work now?
Dr Wolfenden blames the failure of hospital management by
administrators rather than doctors for the decline in hospital
care. I would like to know whether he set out on his life’s path to
be an expert physician, which he no doubt is, or an accomplished
administrator with expertise in financial planning, human
resources, hotel services, evidence-based medicine and
accreditation, or whether he completed a master’s in health service
management.
In the Bathurst Hospital shambles it appears NSW Health did not
consult any health professional or architect, just the finance
department. Dr Wolfenden rightly decries the lack of consultation
with doctors, yet there has been no mention of the failure to
consult nurses.
There are few aspects of a hospital that do not affect nursing.
Who knows better than nurses the space requirements, traffic
patterns, bathroom and toilet usage and design environments that
are sympathetic for patients, their families and hospital workers,
and that ensure better health outcomes at less cost? While doctors
may spend 20 minutes a day with their patients, nurses are there
constantly.
When will health departments learn that the prerequisite for
quality health care, whether in acute care hospitals, the community
or aged facilities, is a team effort? No speciality has the abiding
authority on good patient care and healthy outcomes. This requires
doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists,
nutritionists, cleaners, pharmacists, architects and policymakers
to work towards a common goal, not to fiercely defend their vested
interests to the exclusion of all others.
Let us look forwards, not backwards, to better partnerships for
health service delivery and put the patient first, not last, on the
planning agenda.
Maryan Heffernan Narrabeen
Taking from the most vulnerable is unconscionable
It was with shock and disappointment that we heard of the
proposal to stop funding carer bonuses. We know they were never
part of forward estimates, but they were a recognition of the
contribution made by carers, as well as a much-needed financial
benefit for many living below the poverty line.
It would take more than $30 billion a year for governments to
replace carers’ services. While not in the paid workforce, people
with disabilities and their carers are no less “working families”
than those referred to by the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and his
colleagues during the election campaign - just not so well off and
with no superannuation.
Laraine Toms President, Carers NSW, Sydney
Before a final decision is made by the Rudd Government on
whether to snatch back the carer bonuses, perhaps his minister
might like to spend 24 hours in my household to see the
difficulties and associated costs involved in caring for two
disabled family members. That research would confirm that carers
should be generously supported, if only to save both the federal
and state governments billion of dollars.
Stan Fildes Mona Vale
Two interesting articles in Saturday’s Herald. The first
reveals that Kevin Rudd proposes to slash payments to pensioners
and their carers. The second states that he is increasing aid to
Papua New Guinea. Thank you for explaining his priorities.
Paul Atroshenko Waverley
Wayne Swan has managed to be both fiscally irresponsible and
mean: handing out more than $30 billion in tax cuts at a time of
higher inflation and rapidly rising interest rates, while cutting
the carers’ benefit to save a few hundred million dollars.
George Finlay Balaclava (Vic)
Is this the “compassionate” ALP I’ve voted for all my life?
Surely there are a million other cuts the Government could make
other than on those least able to help themselves. What about the
great lurk of negative gearing? Or the overly generous benefits
former politicians help themselves to? As for the promised tax
cuts, which offer no benefit for those on a pension, they should be
deferred for at least three years or dropped altogether.
I realise cuts have to be made, but slashing and burning the
most vulnerable is unconscionable.
Jennifer Owen Baulkham Hills
As a carer for my war veteran partner, I was counting on that
$1600 to help us pay the winter bills and put shoes on the feet of
our son. My partner lost his ability to support his family in the
service of his country. Is this how you are planning to treat the
families of the men you send to Afghanistan?
Margot Clifford Kaleen (ACT)
Labor prime ministers have historically surrounded themselves
with complete idiots. With the proposed axing of the carers’ bonus,
Kevin Rudd has gone one better: he has surrounded himself with
complete bastards.
Matt Petersen Randwick
If the elderly and carers are to lose entitlements, can we
assume that John Howard’s endangered orang-utans will have to make
sacrifices as well?
Joe Dwyer Rose Bay
Cool heads must prevail in the face of provocation
The murder of eight students in Jerusalem by an Arab Israeli was
sickening, as was the gloating from certain Palestinian quarters
(”After the slaughter, sickening jubilation”, March 8-9).

However, Israelis such as the Prime Minister’s spokesman, Mark
Regev, should not get too self-righteous. For every Israeli who
dies in this conflict, 40 Palestinians are killed. In 1994 the
US-born Israeli Baruch Goldstein slaughtered 29 Arabs and wounded
150 in a shooting rampage in a mosque. To this day his grave,
complete with a shrine-like landscaped prayer area and a plaque
praising his actions, is a pilgrimage site for right-wing
Israelis.
Andrew Worssam Bondi
Mordechai Sher (Letters, March 8-9) claims Hamas is not
apportioned any blame for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. That is
plainly wrong, as Hamas is often denounced by governments and
non-government organisations. In fact, it is frequently held up as
the only problem. “Remove Hamas,” they shout, “and all will be
better.”
Sorry, but as deplorable as Hamas is, it is a product of the
situation. Desperate people resort to desperate measures, so the
more Israel tries to tighten its grip on Gaza, the more
Palestinians will slip through its fingers. Only better conditions
for all Palestinians - and that means, among other things, an end
to the blockade of Gaza - will see to the removal of Hamas and an
end to the rocket attacks and suicide bombings.
James Kite Drummoyne
Alan Ramsey’s column denotes that April Fool’s Day has arrived
early this year (”Don’t mention the war as Israel lauded”, March
8-9): “It was also one of those extremely rare occasions that the
easily intimidated Australian Parliament, ever mindful of Jewish
financial support of party coffers, has debated the Middle East at
all.”
Curse those Zionist paymasters! I always thought it was property
developers who duped us into focusing on our own backyard.
Peter Ness Bardwell Valley
Alan Ramsey alleges without evidence that wealthy Jews unduly
influence Australia’s Middle East policy. In reality, the small
number of Jewish businessmen who make major donations to political
parties appear to be motivated by business interests as much as by
specifically Jewish concerns. None have gone on record as linking
their donations to Middle East policy. To be sure, Jewish communal
bodies lobby on behalf of Israel. However, there is no evidence
that Jewish organisations per se have ever donated to Australian
political parties.
Philip Mendes Kew (Victoria)
For 60 years Australia has indeed been a supporter of Israel,
but also a constructive champion of the peace process. If Ramsey
had read previous bipartisan motions relating to Israel, he would
see that they have also consistently called for the right of
Palestinians to self-determination. What we need to focus on are
tangible and supportive measures to eradicate the type of hatred
Saturday’s paper depicted, not finger-pointing rants.
David Faktor Bondi
Tokenism rampant
Can Verity Firth “wean NSW off its energy addiction” (”Can this
woman turn us off?”, March 8-9)?

In a word, no. In the Iemma-Costa clique the main game is: a)
build a new coal-fired power station in time to prevent the
electoral death that would result if the power faltered for one
moment in the air-conditioned mansions of Baulkham Hills; and b)
avoid any energy conservation measures serious enough to scare
bidders for a privatised electricity industry.
So they appoint an unknown 34-year-old, in Parliament for less
than a year, to lead the charge on climate change. Talk about
tokenism. No doubt they will keep her busy writing policies that
the big departments will do nothing to implement.
Geoff Dawson Narrabundah (ACT)
Sparing the child
Mirren Palmer (Letters, March 8-9) is right that private schools
are often more successful at dealing with disruptive students. The
method they use is called expulsion. Unfortunately this is not
readily available to public schools. They have an obligation to
make sure all children, including disruptive ones, have access to
an education.

Mary Lawson Mortdale
The worst kind of example
In the article “It’s a crime: how footy heroes go bad” (March 8-9)
the reporter writes that “behind the drunken antics and rape
allegations, there is a darker history of links between sportsmen
and serious crime”. Rape is not a serious crime? With attitudes
like this, how are those same “heroes” ever going to get the
message about their treatment of women? And what about the example
set to other men who want to emulate their “exploits”?

Trish Wiltshire Worrigee
I was dismayed, to say the least, that on International Women’s
Day your editorial likened fake virgin olive oil to two
celebrities, branding them “blond, cheap and unsavoury” (”Virgin
oil upturned”, March 8-9). Misogynist behaviour is not likely to
decrease when the Herald implicitly encourages it.
Elaine Diffey Glebe
A sadly foreseeable tragedy
I was very sad to read of the death of Peter Eagle, but not
surprised (”Man killed on his way to Superboat Grand Prix”,
smh.com.au, March 8). The harbour has become unbearable on some
days with the increasing number of powerful motor boats. As the
owner of an older-style wooden yacht I avoid parts of it, such as
Bradleys Head, where power-boat skippers seem to love to roar
around the point, presuming no one else could be there. Without
commenting on the circumstances of Eagle’s crash, so many owners of
these boats seem to lack basic seamanship, courtesy or common
sense. When will NSW Maritime realise the risk these types of boats
are creating and introduce a reasonable speed limit (I suggest 12
knots) so that everyone can enjoy the harbour?

Philip Bull Marrickville
Sydney Harbour is a busy commercial and recreational waterway,
especially at weekends. To close it for a day of races by so-called
superboats is disgraceful. Let them race where they will cause no
danger or disruption to others. Lake Eyre, for example.
Neil Radford Balmain East
Don’t blame the doctors
Geoff Dunsford (Letters, March 8-9) needs to explain how doctors’
bills are driving the increase in health fund premiums. Health
funds have their own nominated fee that they will pay for each
service provided by a doctor. But if a doctor’s fee exceeds the
health fund fee, most of the funds pay out much less than the
nominated fee. Furthermore, health fund indexation of the benefits
paid for doctors’ fees has been a lower percentage for the past few
years than the increase in premiums the government has granted
them.

Dr Andrew Wright Neutral Bay
The right man for the role at NIDA
As a past chairman of the board of the National Institute of
Dramatic Art for 13 years (1975-88) and a current member of its
foundation board, I entirely agree with the signatories of the
letter to the present chairman that Aubrey Mellor be appointed the
artistic director (”Battle over arts and minds divides NIDA”, March
8-9). It would then be in NIDA’s best interest to advertise for an
“energetic and inspiring chief executive” to be the administrative
head.

Malcolm Chaikin Rose Bay
It would be a tragic farce for NIDA to dismiss Aubrey Mellor. He
is a rare genius, a great teacher and a great director. Only a fool
could ignore the statement by Cate Blanchett, Judy Davis, Geoffrey
Rush, George Miller et al that Mellor is the finest acting teacher
in the country. NIDA is federally funded. Peter Garrett should take
decisive action to prevent mediocrity triumphing over genius.
Ric Davidson Avalon
Worthies of elsewhere
No, Adam Cook (Letters, March 8-9), Germaine Greer should not get
an official Australian honour. Permanent residence in Australia
should be a basic requirement for that. Those worthies who live
elsewhere, including Greer, Rolf Harris, Clive James, Greg Norman,
John Pilger and Geoffrey Robertson, should look to their homelands
of choice for a gong.

Brendan Linnane Dernancourt (SA)
Delusion rights
I can’t understand why Alan Ramsey (”Sideshow takes on delusions of
grandeur”, March 8-9) and letter writers are getting so hot under
the collar about John Howard’s speech last week. Surely it is the
right of every former prime minister to be in denial about why the
electorate gave them the heave-ho. Just look at Paul Keating for
the past 12 years.

Peter Dieleman Waratah
Long way west
“Motorists driving from Sydney Airport to the inner west, using the
Eastern Distributor and the Cross City Tunnel, will pay just under
$10 in tolls,” according to your report (”Tolls up in Sydney, free
ride in Melbourne”, March 8-9). Anyone doing so deserves to pay
$10. I suggest a long-term saving by investing in a street
directory.

Duncan Barrett Camperdown
Too big for the fridge
Surely Del Kathryn Barton’s picture was painted by her kids (”A
mother load of happiness”, March 8-9). I suppose it was too big to
fit on the fridge so she entered it in the Archibald.

Eddie Fingret Dover Heights
I’ve got no idea about art and portraiture, and it appears that
the trustees of the Archibald Prize share my inadequacy.
Graham Anderson Bundanoon
Journey of faith
Oh ye of little faith, Cardinal Pell (”The priest, his fake cancer
and an almighty apology”, smh.com.au, March 9). Surely Father
Richard Abourjaily’s “delusional” condition could also have been
miraculously cured at Lourdes.

Allan Lloyd Lamb Island (Qld)
Scattered chums
So, can we think of Mr Downer and his reluctant chums as “The
Things That Scatter”?

Phil Norris Longueville

Tags: appointment, attitude, cate, cate blanchett, champion, clive james, disappointment, farce, ford, henk, hero, pace, sydney harbour

Related posts

• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• The prerequisite for improving hospital care is a team effort
• Arts 2007
• Grant struggling to cope with Chelsea’s surplus of riches
• The week’s best films
• Ten Cate takes over at Pana
• Over Five Million Dead in Congo?
• Grant admits he must win trophy or face the axe
• Zola turns down chance to join Grant’s regime

William Wolfenden wants to take hospital management back to
pre-Medicare days, when doctors were the only health professionals
worthy of consultation, to ensure their lofty position in the
hierarchy (Letters, March 8-9). The management of hospitals by
doctors, for doctors, did not work in the 20th century. Why should
it work now?
Dr Wolfenden blames the failure of hospital management by
administrators rather than doctors for the decline in hospital
care. I would like to know whether he set out on his life’s path to
be an expert physician, which he no doubt is, or an accomplished
administrator with expertise in financial planning, human
resources, hotel services, evidence-based medicine and
accreditation, or whether he completed a master’s in health service
management.
In the Bathurst Hospital shambles it appears NSW Health did not
consult any health professional or architect, just the finance
department. Dr Wolfenden rightly decries the lack of consultation
with doctors, yet there has been no mention of the failure to
consult nurses.
There are few aspects of a hospital that do not affect nursing.
Who knows better than nurses the space requirements, traffic
patterns, bathroom and toilet usage and design environments that
are sympathetic for patients, their families and hospital workers,
and that ensure better health outcomes at less cost? While doctors
may spend 20 minutes a day with their patients, nurses are there
constantly.
When will health departments learn that the prerequisite for
quality health care, whether in acute care hospitals, the community
or aged facilities, is a team effort? No speciality has the abiding
authority on good patient care and healthy outcomes. This requires
doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists,
nutritionists, cleaners, pharmacists, architects and policymakers
to work towards a common goal, not to fiercely defend their vested
interests to the exclusion of all others.
Let us look forwards, not backwards, to better partnerships for
health service delivery and put the patient first, not last, on the
planning agenda.
Maryan Heffernan Narrabeen
Taking from the most vulnerable is unconscionable
It was with shock and disappointment that we heard of the
proposal to stop funding carer bonuses. We know they were never
part of forward estimates, but they were a recognition of the
contribution made by carers, as well as a much-needed financial
benefit for many living below the poverty line.
It would take more than $30 billion a year for governments to
replace carers’ services. While not in the paid workforce, people
with disabilities and their carers are no less “working families”
than those referred to by the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and his
colleagues during the election campaign - just not so well off and
with no superannuation.
Laraine Toms President, Carers NSW, Sydney
Before a final decision is made by the Rudd Government on
whether to snatch back the carer bonuses, perhaps his minister
might like to spend 24 hours in my household to see the
difficulties and associated costs involved in caring for two
disabled family members. That research would confirm that carers
should be generously supported, if only to save both the federal
and state governments billion of dollars.
Stan Fildes Mona Vale
Two interesting articles in Saturday’s Herald. The first
reveals that Kevin Rudd proposes to slash payments to pensioners
and their carers. The second states that he is increasing aid to
Papua New Guinea. Thank you for explaining his priorities.
Paul Atroshenko Waverley
Wayne Swan has managed to be both fiscally irresponsible and
mean: handing out more than $30 billion in tax cuts at a time of
higher inflation and rapidly rising interest rates, while cutting
the carers’ benefit to save a few hundred million dollars.
George Finlay Balaclava (Vic)
Is this the “compassionate” ALP I’ve voted for all my life?
Surely there are a million other cuts the Government could make
other than on those least able to help themselves. What about the
great lurk of negative gearing? Or the overly generous benefits
former politicians help themselves to? As for the promised tax
cuts, which offer no benefit for those on a pension, they should be
deferred for at least three years or dropped altogether.
I realise cuts have to be made, but slashing and burning the
most vulnerable is unconscionable.
Jennifer Owen Baulkham Hills
As a carer for my war veteran partner, I was counting on that
$1600 to help us pay the winter bills and put shoes on the feet of
our son. My partner lost his ability to support his family in the
service of his country. Is this how you are planning to treat the
families of the men you send to Afghanistan?
Margot Clifford Kaleen (ACT)
Labor prime ministers have historically surrounded themselves
with complete idiots. With the proposed axing of the carers’ bonus,
Kevin Rudd has gone one better: he has surrounded himself with
complete bastards.
Matt Petersen Randwick
If the elderly and carers are to lose entitlements, can we
assume that John Howard’s endangered orang-utans will have to make
sacrifices as well?
Joe Dwyer Rose Bay
Cool heads must prevail in the face of provocation
The murder of eight students in Jerusalem by an Arab Israeli was
sickening, as was the gloating from certain Palestinian quarters
(”After the slaughter, sickening jubilation”, March 8-9).

However, Israelis such as the Prime Minister’s spokesman, Mark
Regev, should not get too self-righteous. For every Israeli who
dies in this conflict, 40 Palestinians are killed. In 1994 the
US-born Israeli Baruch Goldstein slaughtered 29 Arabs and wounded
150 in a shooting rampage in a mosque. To this day his grave,
complete with a shrine-like landscaped prayer area and a plaque
praising his actions, is a pilgrimage site for right-wing
Israelis.
Andrew Worssam Bondi
Mordechai Sher (Letters, March 8-9) claims Hamas is not
apportioned any blame for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. That is
plainly wrong, as Hamas is often denounced by governments and
non-government organisations. In fact, it is frequently held up as
the only problem. “Remove Hamas,” they shout, “and all will be
better.”
Sorry, but as deplorable as Hamas is, it is a product of the
situation. Desperate people resort to desperate measures, so the
more Israel tries to tighten its grip on Gaza, the more
Palestinians will slip through its fingers. Only better conditions
for all Palestinians - and that means, among other things, an end
to the blockade of Gaza - will see to the removal of Hamas and an
end to the rocket attacks and suicide bombings.
James Kite Drummoyne
Alan Ramsey’s column denotes that April Fool’s Day has arrived
early this year (”Don’t mention the war as Israel lauded”, March
8-9): “It was also one of those extremely rare occasions that the
easily intimidated Australian Parliament, ever mindful of Jewish
financial support of party coffers, has debated the Middle East at
all.”
Curse those Zionist paymasters! I always thought it was property
developers who duped us into focusing on our own backyard.
Peter Ness Bardwell Valley
Alan Ramsey alleges without evidence that wealthy Jews unduly
influence Australia’s Middle East policy. In reality, the small
number of Jewish businessmen who make major donations to political
parties appear to be motivated by business interests as much as by
specifically Jewish concerns. None have gone on record as linking
their donations to Middle East policy. To be sure, Jewish communal
bodies lobby on behalf of Israel. However, there is no evidence
that Jewish organisations per se have ever donated to Australian
political parties.
Philip Mendes Kew (Victoria)
For 60 years Australia has indeed been a supporter of Israel,
but also a constructive champion of the peace process. If Ramsey
had read previous bipartisan motions relating to Israel, he would
see that they have also consistently called for the right of
Palestinians to self-determination. What we need to focus on are
tangible and supportive measures to eradicate the type of hatred
Saturday’s paper depicted, not finger-pointing rants.
David Faktor Bondi
Tokenism rampant
Can Verity Firth “wean NSW off its energy addiction” (”Can this
woman turn us off?”, March 8-9)?

In a word, no. In the Iemma-Costa clique the main game is: a)
build a new coal-fired power station in time to prevent the
electoral death that would result if the power faltered for one
moment in the air-conditioned mansions of Baulkham Hills; and b)
avoid any energy conservation measures serious enough to scare
bidders for a privatised electricity industry.
So they appoint an unknown 34-year-old, in Parliament for less
than a year, to lead the charge on climate change. Talk about
tokenism. No doubt they will keep her busy writing policies that
the big departments will do nothing to implement.
Geoff Dawson Narrabundah (ACT)
Sparing the child
Mirren Palmer (Letters, March 8-9) is right that private schools
are often more successful at dealing with disruptive students. The
method they use is called expulsion. Unfortunately this is not
readily available to public schools. They have an obligation to
make sure all children, including disruptive ones, have access to
an education.

Mary Lawson Mortdale
The worst kind of example
In the article “It’s a crime: how footy heroes go bad” (March 8-9)
the reporter writes that “behind the drunken antics and rape
allegations, there is a darker history of links between sportsmen
and serious crime”. Rape is not a serious crime? With attitudes
like this, how are those same “heroes” ever going to get the
message about their treatment of women? And what about the example
set to other men who want to emulate their “exploits”?

Trish Wiltshire Worrigee
I was dismayed, to say the least, that on International Women’s
Day your editorial likened fake virgin olive oil to two
celebrities, branding them “blond, cheap and unsavoury” (”Virgin
oil upturned”, March 8-9). Misogynist behaviour is not likely to
decrease when the Herald implicitly encourages it.
Elaine Diffey Glebe
A sadly foreseeable tragedy
I was very sad to read of the death of Peter Eagle, but not
surprised (”Man killed on his way to Superboat Grand Prix”,
smh.com.au, March 8). The harbour has become unbearable on some
days with the increasing number of powerful motor boats. As the
owner of an older-style wooden yacht I avoid parts of it, such as
Bradleys Head, where power-boat skippers seem to love to roar
around the point, presuming no one else could be there. Without
commenting on the circumstances of Eagle’s crash, so many owners of
these boats seem to lack basic seamanship, courtesy or common
sense. When will NSW Maritime realise the risk these types of boats
are creating and introduce a reasonable speed limit (I suggest 12
knots) so that everyone can enjoy the harbour?

Philip Bull Marrickville
Sydney Harbour is a busy commercial and recreational waterway,
especially at weekends. To close it for a day of races by so-called
superboats is disgraceful. Let them race where they will cause no
danger or disruption to others. Lake Eyre, for example.
Neil Radford Balmain East
Don’t blame the doctors
Geoff Dunsford (Letters, March 8-9) needs to explain how doctors’
bills are driving the increase in health fund premiums. Health
funds have their own nominated fee that they will pay for each
service provided by a doctor. But if a doctor’s fee exceeds the
health fund fee, most of the funds pay out much less than the
nominated fee. Furthermore, health fund indexation of the benefits
paid for doctors’ fees has been a lower percentage for the past few
years than the increase in premiums the government has granted
them.

Dr Andrew Wright Neutral Bay
The right man for the role at NIDA
As a past chairman of the board of the National Institute of
Dramatic Art for 13 years (1975-88) and a current member of its
foundation board, I entirely agree with the signatories of the
letter to the present chairman that Aubrey Mellor be appointed the
artistic director (”Battle over arts and minds divides NIDA”, March
8-9). It would then be in NIDA’s best interest to advertise for an
“energetic and inspiring chief executive” to be the administrative
head.

Malcolm Chaikin Rose Bay
It would be a tragic farce for NIDA to dismiss Aubrey Mellor. He
is a rare genius, a great teacher and a great director. Only a fool
could ignore the statement by Cate Blanchett, Judy Davis, Geoffrey
Rush, George Miller et al that Mellor is the finest acting teacher
in the country. NIDA is federally funded. Peter Garrett should take
decisive action to prevent mediocrity triumphing over genius.
Ric Davidson Avalon
Worthies of elsewhere
No, Adam Cook (Letters, March 8-9), Germaine Greer should not get
an official Australian honour. Permanent residence in Australia
should be a basic requirement for that. Those worthies who live
elsewhere, including Greer, Rolf Harris, Clive James, Greg Norman,
John Pilger and Geoffrey Robertson, should look to their homelands
of choice for a gong.

Brendan Linnane Dernancourt (SA)
Delusion rights
I can’t understand why Alan Ramsey (”Sideshow takes on delusions of
grandeur”, March 8-9) and letter writers are getting so hot under
the collar about John Howard’s speech last week. Surely it is the
right of every former prime minister to be in denial about why the
electorate gave them the heave-ho. Just look at Paul Keating for
the past 12 years.

Peter Dieleman Waratah
Long way west
“Motorists driving from Sydney Airport to the inner west, using the
Eastern Distributor and the Cross City Tunnel, will pay just under
$10 in tolls,” according to your report (”Tolls up in Sydney, free
ride in Melbourne”, March 8-9). Anyone doing so deserves to pay
$10. I suggest a long-term saving by investing in a street
directory.

Duncan Barrett Camperdown
Too big for the fridge
Surely Del Kathryn Barton’s picture was painted by her kids (”A
mother load of happiness”, March 8-9). I suppose it was too big to
fit on the fridge so she entered it in the Archibald.

Eddie Fingret Dover Heights
I’ve got no idea about art and portraiture, and it appears that
the trustees of the Archibald Prize share my inadequacy.
Graham Anderson Bundanoon
Journey of faith
Oh ye of little faith, Cardinal Pell (”The priest, his fake cancer
and an almighty apology”, smh.com.au, March 9). Surely Father
Richard Abourjaily’s “delusional” condition could also have been
miraculously cured at Lourdes.

Allan Lloyd Lamb Island (Qld)
Scattered chums
So, can we think of Mr Downer and his reluctant chums as “The
Things That Scatter”?

Phil Norris Longueville

Tags: appointment, attitude, cate, cate blanchett, champion, clive james, disappointment, farce, ford, henk, hero, pace, sydney harbour

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The findings came under harsh attack from biotech opponents, including Friends of the Earth, which issued a separate report claiming genetically modified (GM) crops have led to a large increase in chemical use and have failed to increase yields or tackle world hunger and poverty.
But Clive James, the chairman of the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications, also known as ISAAA, said global acceptance of genetically modified crops was unstoppable.
%26quot;It%26#39;s the fastest-adopted technology in agriculture as far as crops are concerned,%26quot; said James. %26quot;If Friends of the Earth is right, then 50 million farmers over a 12-year period in 23 countries are all wrong.%26quot;
The ISAAA report said corn, soybeans and other crops were planted on 282.4 million acres, or 114.3 million hectares, in 23 countries in 2007. That is in addition to the 29 countries that have granted regulatory approvals for biotech crops for import for feed and food use.
The 2007 plantings were up 12 per cent from 2006, the second-highest increase in biotech crop area in the last five years, according to ISAAA, which receives funding from biotech companies such as Monsanto, DuPont%26#39;s Pioneer Hi-Bred International and Syngenta, as well as a range of private organisations and governmental entities. About 9 per cent of the biotech crop area was used for biofuel production, primarily in the United States.
ISAAA said the United States, Argentina and Brazil led the rest of the world in biotech plantings, though farmers in Canada, India, and China were also noted as %26quot;principal adopters%26quot; of biotech crops.
Biotech acreage is up because the crops have performed well and %26quot;delivered significant economic, environmental, health and social benefits to both small and large farmers in developing and industrial countries,%26quot; the ISAAA report said.
ISAAA said millions of small and %26quot;resource-poor%26quot; farmers benefited from biotech crops last year, and further adoption should help reduce poverty. Cotton growers in India, the report said, increased the area planted to biotech cotton because they were reaping increased yields while using less pesticide and bringing in more income.
But in the opposition report, Friends of the Earth and the Center for Food Safety dismissed many of ISAAA%26#39;s claims.
%26quot;They make so many outrageous claims it is just ridiculous,%26quot; said Bill Freese, a spokesman for the Friends of the Earth environmental defense organisation.
The opposition report said genetically modified (GM) crops have led to a large increases in pesticide use and increased herbicide-resistant weeds. The groups said that the majority of GM crops are used to feed animals in rich countries rather than people in poorer nations.
%26quot;These crops really promote greater use of pesticides, and cause direct harm to the environment and small farmers,%26quot; said Andrew Kimbrell, executive director of the Center for Food Safety, a US-based public interest advocacy group.
The groups said reported cotton yield gains are actually attributable more to favorable weather conditions in India and the United States and a shift to irrigation in South Africa.
Moreover, the groups say US government data reveals a 15-fold increase in the use of glyphosate herbicide on soybeans, corn and cotton in the United States from 1994 to 2005, driven by adoption of Monsanto%26#39;s %26quot;Roundup Ready%26quot; biotech crops, which thrive despite being sprayed directly with the weed killer.
The rising glyphosate use has spawned a growing epidemic of weeds resistant to the chemical, with 2.4 million US acres infested with such %26quot;superweeds,%26quot; the group said.
James said the opposition group data was flawed, and he predicted strong growth in plantings of biotech crops over the next several years, particularly in Asia, as strains of genetically enhanced rice are commercialized.
%26quot;Asia will be the place where you are going to get significant growth in new hectares from 2006 to 2015,%26quot; James said.

Tags: clive james, Food, rbi, ups

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So this low promontory of the harbour was a significant site from of old, and always had more to do with magic than with trams. It is a wonderful place for a grand, iconic building like the one there now. All around it lie the surprisingly deep waters of the harbour. In a port of ships it stands as our cultural clipper. Its cargo is Ibsen, Strindberg, O’Neill, Mozart, Handel, Bach, the Wiggles and Captain Feathersword. The people of Sydney, in speaking of their city, always mention “the sails” of the Opera House. That is, they get its message. They are on a voyage, as were their forebears. They cherish the place for reminding them of that.I still can’t quite believe the Opera House is there. Remember that the architectural design competition for the site was held in 1956, the era that saw the hungry young Clive Jameses, Peter Porters and (a little later) Germaine Greers scurrying to find culture in damp bedsits in London. The man who authorised the building was not an operamane but a robust Labor New South Wales party boss named Joe Cahill, after whom the unfortunate expressway which runs like a cement and steel gag across the base of Sydney Cove is named. Cahill, however, like all Australians, was galvanised by the emergence of the great Australian diva, Joan Sutherland. Something had to be done to honour that, and to honour Sydney’s appetite for music.Construction of the building began in 1959, but work on the sails could not begin until 1961, when the winner of the contest, Jorn Utzon, a Danish Expressionist architect, worked out at last how his vivid structure could actually stand up. There were, at various stages during the next 22 years of construction, derision, frenzies about budget overruns, Utzon’s conscientious delays over aspects of the structure, and his quarrels with government.A change of government brought to power a Liberal party premier, Bob Askin, a man more interested in ceremonially opening illegal casinos in Sydney than in the arts. His minister of public works, Davis Hughes, quarrelled with Utzon repeatedly, telling him that the ideal opera house he wanted to build, especially the interior as specified by Utzon, was beyond the resources of government. Ultimately, Utzon resigned.Thirty years later state governments made peace with the extraordinary architect and invited him back for refurbishments of the interior. The Opera House has become a living precinct of the city - its vast forecourt and steps are used for outdoor events. I remember in particular orchestral concerts held there under clear night skies. On its lower, concealed promenades are restaurants and coffee shops. But its house-level walks take you to a broad view of dazzling water and persistent water-traffic, yachts, taxi craft, ferries, freighters, liners finding a genial port in the age of terror. Within an arms-length of the Opera House seawalls the waters of Sydney Cove run six to nine fathoms deep, so the water-craft pass close and - so it seems - companionably to the great, ascending bulk of the place. As with all great buildings, there seems to be an inevitability in the relationship between the built and the natural, between this sturdy yet airy confection and the vivid blue of Sydney Harbour. I always remember the snooty London woman who asked me in 1970 why we antipodeans, by imputation barbarians, needed an opera house? In the face of this great building all scepticism, European and Australian, is put to rest.Inside the house lie a number of performance theatres, including the Opera Theatre where Dame Joan Sutherland gave Pavarotti considerable performance opportunities. There is a large concert hall, and the drama theatre. About all of these venues there have been complaints - about the concert hall not being acoustically satisfactory, about cramped backstages in the opera and drama theatres. I remember the director of an ill-fated play of mine complaining 20 or more years back about the lack of backstage elevation. But a lot of recent work has been done to address some of these problems, which seem in many cases to have derived from budgetary rather than design constraints. As a member of the paying public, I have never felt less than elation in that house. Even to approach it via the Harbour Bridge, and to see it on Bennelong Point, is a stimulant. Just as it is to walk around Circular Quay towards its glittering mass.A number of companies are resident here: Opera Australia, the Australian Ballet, the Sydney Symphony, and the Sydney Theatre Company, whose artistic directors are the divine Cate Blanchett and her husband Andrew Upton. But it is as a focus for citizens and visitors, as well as the home of art practitioners, that the Opera House works. It is the great communal house of Sydney. In this way, it is more than a mere monument. Inside and out, it is Sydney’s agora. The excessive and often excluding awe induced by many European opera houses is missing in it. Children run on its concrete skirts under a blue sky (well, often it is blue), and do not need to be hushed. A building children can feel ownership of is more than a mere opera house.They say that in the medieval period the great cathedrals - Chartres, say - operated both as a place of wonders and a market not just for bishops and priests but for the entertainment, instruction and delight of ordinary folk, peasants and craftsmen. That is the role the secular cathedral of the Opera House plays in Sydney. If Utzon foresaw it would operate on all these levels, then when he began his design in the 1950s he was indeed a seer, and a brilliant fellow. Thomas Keneally is an Australian writer. His Booker-prize winning novel Schindler’s Ark, was made into the 1993 film Schindler’s List.

Tags: 1950s, andrew upton, australians, bishops, boss, cate, cate blanchett, clive james, europe, peter porter, rbi, sydney harbour, sydney theatre company

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