Start the New Year with this thought.

Gregoryno6

Dec 31

There are exceptions, of course. And if you're reading this, you're one of them.

Thank you for continuing to follow this blog. Your interest is support in itself.

Special shout outs to Paco, for his many links and h/ts, and to Boromax, who has spent much of this year wandering through my archives. B-max, you've brought a few of my favourite but forgotten posts back to my attention.

Thanks also to the Sergeants who run the show at Whatfinger. Back in 2021, when the world was WTFing over the Lockdownunder horrorshow, I raised a dissenting voice. I wanted to say that we were not totally down the S bend here. I sent a link to the Sgts and asked 'What are the chances of getting this in your daily list?' Since then they've shared more than a few of my stories - my recent post about AHPRA's backdown on gagging doctors has received nearly 1,500 views.

As I precede you into 2024 I maintain a sense of optimism. There are more tough times ahead. But it's starting to feel like 1943: our strength is rising, and theirs is faltering.

There are signs all over. Example: in 2023 Canberra conducted an inquiry into gambling reform. Gambling is BIG in Australia. In 2109-2020 it contributed $16 billion to the national economy and employed about 200,000. A lot of Australians have a direct interest in reform of the industry whatever shape it takes.

The committee received - wait for it - 161 submissions.

One hundred and sixty-one submissions to an industry that delivers significant revenue and employment, and nobody seems surprised.

No wonder the government crapped itself when they were hit with 23,000 submissions on the STFU Bill. The tide rises unevenly, but rise it does.

But it's not all roses and puppies. In 2024, I'm going to have to confront a very uncomfortable truth.

I've managed to avoid it for a few years, but no longer. I'm resolved to put on my big boy pants and accept it:

There just isn't going to be a fifth season of Westworld.

Oh, Dolores... you still fill me with a stranger and unholy desire...