a view from the mountain
My new book The Dream Weaver is now available.
My new book The Dream Weaver is now available.
A horse trainer accepts it, a treasurer rejects it, a president confronts it, and a children's author avoids it.
On Melbourne Cup day, a few words about the things that keep us together and the lies that tear us apart.
A terrible Newspoll for Labor and Jim Chalmers, plus a few words about the increasingly used term 'unAustralian'.
A few words about why politicians and bureaucrats should avoid these words, plus why honesty, decency and competence is so important in governments.
The Prime Minister's version of the massive grant given to a golf club in his electorate has been proven to be untrue, plus Tony Burke's clumsy analogy of Australia being like an orchestra.
Despite widespread community opposition, the federal government proposes to sell the spiritual home of the Australian military. It's a profoundly cynical move (00:43). Also, polls close in Israel, plus at 03:55 Sam Walker's big contract mistake at the Roosters.
A look at two upcoming consequential elections and why the results are important: Israel, and from 04:26, Victoria.
Politicians keep telling us politics is a tough game. Wrong. Too often it's an indecent game.
A few words about the deceitful explanation about a 'dirt file' on Helen Haines, plus Ben Roberts-Smith speaks out.
A few words about the Governor General's speech calling for a return to decency and why politicians must lead the way.
President Macron doesn't hold the hose, an apology from Pauline, plus the Prime Minister's empty rhetoric and what we need from leaders.
A few words about what’s happening in France, the horrible incident yesterday concerning MP Dr Helen Haines, plus the Prime Minister’s response.
A few words about why, with the advent of AI, democracies increasingly cannot tolerate lies from their politicians.
A few words about zealots invoking God and Allah’s name in support of their policies.
Chris Wells’s Boatshed website click here.
A few words about the strange people designing our future and what they have in mind.
The Economist interview with Elon Musk click here.
Book mentioned: The Sleepwalkers by Christopher Clark.
A few words about a speech the treasurer gave last night and its terrible lack of logic.
Artist mentioned in video: Scott Christensen
A few words about the need for conservative parties to maximise their vote to get rid of this wretched government.
A few words about the 25th anniversary of our involvement in Afghanistan, Ben Roberts-Smith VC being shunned by our leaders, plus the Bathurst 1000.
A few words about why this government’s lies are doing so much damage to democracy.
A few words about a column today that suggests average Australians are as responsible as the Treasurer for the poor economy.
A few words about the Hamas attack, what’s happened since, why Netanyahu must go, plus the passing of Jeffrey Archer.
A few words about why much-used clichés can also be terribly wrong.
A few words on last week’s failed execution of a woman in Tennessee, plus some history on the death penalty.
A few words about a bad week for the PM and Treasurer, what the new British PM has that they don’t, plus the NRL Grand Final…and a stunning sunrise.
A few words about Barack Obama’s bizarre belief that the world would be better if women were in charge of everything, plus what the government needs to do about inflation - but can’t.
A few words about the absence of leadership related to interest rate rises and other issues, plus the subsequent rise in cynicism.
A few words about our Foreign Minister’s claims at the UN as Australian Jews continue to feel unsafe, plus a classy message from Nathan Cleary.
A few words about the latest polls here and elsewhere and what they mean, plus the AI monster rolls on.
A few words about the rogue AI agent attack on Medicare, plus some serious ongoing questions about AI.
A few words on many of the issues around the place: Trump, AI, the PM at the UN, Earl Spencer, Ed Sheeran, plus the Middle East.
Book recommendations:
The Cauldron: The Making of the Modern Middle East by Simon Sebag Montefiore.
My Promised Land - The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel by Ari Shavit.
A few words about the first anniversary of Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state, and why our government was wrong to do it.
A few words about a brutal question asked of the PM, a poll on how we feel about immigration, plus some observations on European politics that have significance here.
A few words about a Liberal senator speaking out publicly against his party’s policy, the latest Newspoll results, plus Donald Trump bans sections of the media.
A few words about artists abusing their ‘rights’ to free speech and where the line in the sand should be drawn. Plus why the so-called ‘Frontier Wars’ have no place at the Australian War Memorial.
Some different views on AI, and does everything human beings imagine come to pass?
Listen to song: Too Late to Turn Back Now
A few words about some of the nonsense being spoken about AI, an update on Imran Khan, plus Brisbane’s Olympic-sized problem.
A few words about the increasing concerns around Artificial Intelligence. Should we be worried?
A few words about the continuing scepticism concerning aspects of 9/11, more whip infractions in Saturday’s racing, plus Gordon Tallis raises concerns about PNG.
A few words about the attack on New York….and what followed.
Song: The Rising - Bruce Springsteen
A few words about the increasingly angry showdown between One Nation and Andrew Hastie over Ben Roberts-Smith VC, plus the LIV golf tour goes bankrupt.
A few words about how elections have consequences not always seen at the time, the responsibility on One Nation, plus controversy about the Brisbane Olympics.
A few words about some election results in Germany, the burning of the Australian flag, plus one juror holds out in the Lindsay Clancy case.
A few words about the evolving nature of One Nation, plus a terrific email from a viewer.
Listen to song: The Bush Has Had Enough written by Ernie Constance for Slim Dusty.
A few words about support for the SA premier Peter Malinauskas, a change to the whip rule in horse racing, plus your feedback.
A few words about my political allegiances (none!) and why I loathe this government.
A few words about how Michelle Rowland is blaming Pauline Hanson for the threats against her, plus it’s the 25th anniversary of the Tampa crisis.
A few words about why One Nation is NOT a threat to democracy, and why those that say it are.
*(adj) - lacking intelligence, wit or awareness; acting foolish.
A few words about One Nation’s success on the weekend, the Prime Minister’s response, plus the passing of Tony Mundine.
A few words about the jeers and laughter in response to the PM’s appearance at the annual Bush Summit in Dubbo, plus a dreadful season for the Brisbane Broncos.
A few words about the early end to the Royal Commission into Antisemitism, plus is it time to televise criminal court cases in Australia?
A few words about Pauline Hanson’s free speech challenge and where the limits should be in a free society.
A few words about the great cricket all-rounder who is now in a Pakistani prison, plus more on the use of the whip in horse racing.
A few words about how people hide behind the excuse of hindsight when what is required from politicians and major sports organisations is foresight.
A few words about the very weak gambling legislation that was passed this week and how vital gambling revenue is to government. Plus a few words about Kyle Sandilands’s new venture.
A few words about a payout for Fiona Brown, plus talk of Tucker Carlson running for Presidency.
A few words about the opening round of what is going to be a fight over superannuation, plus another example of ABC bias.
A few words about the proposed gun buyback laws, plus more alleged bias at the ABC.
A few words about Pauline Hanson not knowing the name of foreign leaders, plus the Jason Arday controversy. On the Back Pages, a few thoughts on the Broncos and Sam Walker’s future.
A few words about Iran, the Strait of Hormuz….and the plan that didn’t happen.
A few words about Labor still gaslighting us, plus it’s election day in the UK.
A few words about the argument as to why the whip should be banned in horse racing, plus Greg demonstrates the whip. Ouch!
A few words about Tanya Plibersek’s defence of the Prime Minister’s ‘joke’, plus the unfair advantages of the PNG Chiefs.
A few words about how habits change….bit by bit, then all at once.
A few words about the ABC’s belated apology to Gina Rinehart, plus Dr Fauci held in contempt.
A few words about Donald Trump’s dilemma in Iran, plus some history he (or someone) should’ve known.
A few words about the origin of the word ‘Multiculturalism’, plus memories of Donald Mackay and Al Grassby.
A few words about the proposed changes to gambling advertising, plus response to my chat about the use of the whip in horse racing.
A few words about a case in Queensland concerning a prominent man and his right to privacy, plus a dreadful decision by racing stewards in Victoria.
A few words about why people are becoming more cynical and the damage it can do.
A few words about our cynical and costly approach to net zero.
A few words about the senator criticising One Nation and Pauline Hanson without naming them, and his comments regarding BRS.
A few words about the rise of conspiracy theories and distrust in government.
A few words about the One Nation surge in Victoria and Labor saying they’re a threat to Democracy.
A few words about Australian history, plus the next US presidential election not far away.
A few words about conspiracy theories, plus the launch of my new book, The Dream Weaver.
A few words about the ongoing multiculturalism debate and the limits of tolerance.
A few words about people telling us things that are obviously not true, plus Pauline Hanson on the Spotlight programme.
A few words about the public divisions in the Liberal Party, plus Ryan Fox wins The Open and the passing of Sir Garry Sobers.
A few words about the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, plus Barnaby Joyce on ‘monoculturalism’.
A few words about the Prime Minister’s plan to control AI, plus Donald Trump’s ongoing Iranian dilemma.
A few words about the Prime Minister establishing an Office for AI. Is it the greatest of all technological breakthroughs?
A few words about the importance of the upcoming Israeli election, plus Paul Kelly’s new book.
A few words about our double standard related to uranium, plus a reflection on the passing of Derryn Hinch.
A few words about why Angus Taylor should stop attacking One Nation and start formulating big ideas for Australia.
A few words about how events are often only understood in retrospect - from State of Origin to Ukraine, Iran and the Liberal Party.
A few words about the international coverage of the Prime Minister’s podcast appearance and do we want our PMs to be relatable?
A few words about the Prime Minister’s apology and what might happen next.
A few words about Anthony Albanese’s tasteless comments to a podcaster and the importance of respect.
A few words about Labor’s attack on Sir Robert Menzies and why politics must be adversarial, plus penalty shootouts.
A few words about Malcolm Turnbull, Serena Williams and poor losers.
A few words about why incoming British PM Andy Burnham and would-be PM Angus Taylor face an uphill battle.
A few words of advice from one of the great movie characters, plus more on the divisions in the Liberal Party.
A few words about the ongoing discussion concerning multiculturalism, plus the latest Newspoll results.
A few words about President Trump concerning Iran, plus at 04:51 some words on Karl and Channel 9.
A few words about Karl’s sacking, plus divisions in the Liberal Party ranks.
A few words about Liberal Party division, plus the Prime Minister’s cynicism.
A few words about the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, plus why President Trump should have a holiday.
A few words about our worst ever PMs, plus the movie Rocky turns 50.
A few words about some of the bizarre responses to Pauline’s speech, an explanation of ‘monoculture’, plus an historic milestone for golfer Adam Scott.
A few words about Pauline Hanson’s speech to the National Press Club, plus America’s deal with Iran.
A few words about why there is such a level of hostility towards the major parties.
A few words bout One Nation’s devastating new ad, plus the limits of free speech.
A few words about another shark attack on the weekend plus a game of controversy in rugby league.
A few words about a cynical government and the need for optimism.
A few words about the real story concerning immigration.
A few words about the anniversary of the D Day Landings and the debt we owe, plus today’s Newspoll.
A few words about the changing media landscape plus the anniversary of the assassination of Robert F Kennedy.
A few words about why people here (and elsewhere) are deserting the major parties and why Pauline Hanson’s popularity continues to grow.
A few words about the increasingly unhinged attacks on Pauline Hanson.
A few words about Tony Abbott and Angus Taylor’s challenges….and a “snooty” letter to the Editor.
A few words about the interesting prime ministers we’ve had.
A few words about Pope Leo’s warning concerning Artificial Intelligence.
A few words about the state of the world….and State of Origin.
A few words about the big mistake the Liberals are making about both the Teals and One Nation….plus State of Origin 1 tonight.
A few words about breaking ‘impossible’ barriers.
A few words about a big weekend, including political nonsense from Anthony Albanese and Angus Taylor.
A few words about the recipe for success and how it’s being applied by some students from Lismore High school.
A few words about a government under pressure, the passing of Peter Hollingworth and some inspiring words from an Olympic champion.
A few words about a former SAS troop commander, the ABC, the Brisbane by-election….and people telling us what to think.
A few words about how the intolerant take advantage of our tolerance.
A few words about the Unite the Kingdom march in London and why people there (and here) are angry.
A few more words about the changes to taxation and why I think they were made.
A few words about the PM’s response to his Budget lies.
A few words about last night’s Budget and the damage lies do to democracies.
A few words about immigration numbers and the changing nature of Australia - and Britain.
A few words about the Farrer by-election and what the dreadful performance by the Liberal Party means.
A few words on how Pope Leo continues to call for diplomacy in relation to Iran. Does diplomacy have a prayer?
A few words about the return of the ISIS brides and an early tip for the next US president.
A few words about the upcoming federal by-election and One Nation’s support of BRS.
A few words about the treasurer’s explanation for backtracks on tax promises.
A few words about the German energy crisis and its relevance to Australia.
The Overton Window and its relevance to Welcome to Country.
At 2:44 - Viewer feedback (including a letter to the RSL).
At 6:10 - How PNG are getting an unfair advantage in the NRL.
A few words about the ongoing controversy about Welcome to Country.
A few words about the King’s speech to Congress….and reflections on freedom of speech and the right to bear arms.
A few words about a timely discussion on Welcomes to Country and some feedback on the ANZAC Day booings.
A few words about ANZAC Day, Welcome to Country and Ben Roberts-Smith VC.
A few words about what Keith Payne thinks about the Ben Roberts-Smith situation on Anzac Day eve.
A few words about the coverage of events in Iran, the division in the US…and viewer feedback on Ben Roberts-Smith VC.
A few words about the stand off in Iran and Pakistan’s role…plus how does Ben Roberts-Smith VC get a jury of ‘peers’?
A few words about how the PM could end the divisive debate about Ben Roberts-Smith VC.
A look at why the BRS case serves no public interest.
A few words about why Ben Roberts-Smith VC should get bail today, why he should never have been in prison….and the great common sense of the Australian people.
A few words about the stoush between the President and the Pope…and the power of prayer.
YouTube channel: 2 Worlds Collide Podcast
Book: Conclave by Robert Harris
A few words regarding comments by Noel Pearson and Joel Fitzgibbon published in The Weekend Australian.
A few words on the continuing travesty of the arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith VC.
A few words about the disgraceful treatment of a war hero.
A few words about the public response to the conviction of Lieutenant William Calley after the My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War.
A few words about the disgraceful handling of Ben Roberts-Smith’s arrest and why he must keep his VC.
A few words about one of our most decorated soldiers being charged with war crimes.
A few words about Pauline Hanson’s One Nation’s continued rise and what many of their critics continue to say.
A few words about a great Australian athlete and some wise words from George Bernard Shaw.
A few words about the latest space mission…and reflections on a loss of wonder and solitude.
A few words about Mr Albanese’s speech last night and why it failed so badly.
A few words about what we can learn from King Canute.
A few words about truth and lies in war and is history repeating in Iran?
A few words about Tiger Woods and the excuses his ‘friends’ make for him.
A few words about why God must be confused at the moment.
A few words about the ongoing attacks on Pauline Hanson’s One Nation and why we should consider a new voting system.
A few words about the mixed messages on the Middle East…and some lessons from history.
A few words about the looming immigration debate.
A few words about the conservative response to the SA election defeat….and the performance of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation.
Ahead of the South Australian election, a few words about Pauline Hanson’s One Nation impact and the response to it.
A few words about a Labor minister’s attack on Pauline Hanson’s One Nation and those that choose to vote for them.
A few words about growing populations and the challenges that come with it.
Book mentioned: The Population Bomb by Paul R Ehrlich.
A few words about the hypocrisy of Donald Trump’s critics.
A few words about President Trump wanting America’s friends to step up in the Middle East.
A few words about Grace Tame losing her speaking engagements over her comments about the Middle East….plus a word on the footy.
A few words about why we should merge SBS with the ABC.
A few words about the courage shown by the young Iranian women granted asylum yesterday.
A few words about how mourning the death of the Ayatollah is in conflict with the Australian values we prize.
A few words about the coverage of Kyle and Jackie O…and the passing of a radio legend.
A few words about how events in Iran actually make a Palestinian State more likely.
A few words about how the Hamas attack on Israel has led to this week’s events in Iran.
A few words about what seems to be the end of one of radio’s most successful partnerships.
A few words about the role luck plays in all our lives, including politicians.
A few words about Iran, the death of Makybe Diva and a significant by-election.
A few words about the start of the footy season and moments we never forget.
A few words about great teachers and the lessons that stay with us.
A few words about Boris Johnson wanting British troops in Ukraine.
A few words about the ACCC’s case against Coles and racing addressing the whip issue.
A few words about the benefits of Citizens Initiated Referenda.
A few words about an upcoming referendum, people actually having a say, and what we might learn from it.
A few words about the opportunities Angus Taylor has and how to take advantage of them.
A few words about one of the biggest issues confronting Angus Taylor - and Australia.
A few words about the advice Angus Taylor is receiving from former prime ministers.
A few words about how one of our biggest industries needs to evolve.
A few words about the nature of political success.
A few words about Mr Albanese’s response to the protests against the visiting Israeli president.
The question and the PM’s answer in Question Time appears at the 2 hour 19 minute mark in the link here.
A few words about the maths of the challenge facing the Liberals.
A few words about where the Liberal Party goes from here and - does it have a future?
A few words about the great conspiracies of our time.
A few words concerning the Epstein files and what we are now learning…including the involvement of (Lord) Peter Mandelson.
A few words about Paul Kelly’s take on One Nation in The Australian this morning and why Howard Beale was right in Network.
A few words about the qualities of leadership.
Link to Theodore Roosevelt’s speech here.
A few words about an absence of privacy, Nick Kyrgios and George Best.
A few words on the Hoodoo Gurus not wanting One Nation to play their music. On the back pages, LIV golf on its last legs.