Strange times in the Wild West

Not since we read of Richard Lewis having his car tampered with and Julien Grill and Brian Burke’s brother Terry killing people with their motor cars and avoiding any legal redress have events in government taken such a strange turn.

Trust

For years there have been news stories decrying the appalling acts of violence by the Taliban against health workers engaged in polio vaccination programmes. These attacks have resulted in an increase in polio cases, most notably in Pakistan.

CCC v Cowboys?

When public money is spent on investigations and reports by Commissioners, and the Corruption and Crime Commission investigating problems with local government activities do we get good value? Or will the cowboys always win?

What Price Democracy?

Where is the difference between the 500 Club, that Mr Middleton manages for WA Liberals, and the Eightbyfive fund that benefited the NSW Liberals, or the fund that Joe Hockey is trying to explain away today?

Bottom of the Harbour

These schemes were popular in the 1970s and early 1980s in Australia, and nowhere more so than in Western Australia and Victoria. Such schemes enabled scoundrels to accumulate vast wealth legally by exploiting a loophole in the taxation law.

Gift Horse Anyone?

There used to be an old saying, "Never look a gift horse in the mouth."

Which suggested that anything that was offered for free didn't need to be checked over too thoroughly. Just accept the gift and be grateful. Good advice? Not necessarily.

Process or Outcome?

Why might it be easier to gather mass support for an iconic stretch of coastline rather than a small location dedicated to agriculture and viticulture?

Creating Communities

Creating communities what does that mean? It sounds so cosy, comfy, warm and snugly, but is it a wolf in sheep’s clothing?

Housing Need?

When does a particular location need more housing?
When the next generation are ready to launch into independent living?
When employers are expanding their businesses and need to bring more workers into the area?
How would you decide?
How does our shire decide? Or do they seek advice from local experts?

It would be good to know if Bob's been giving advice here.