Been There Done That

23 Nov 2017

Australia definitely says YES!

Anniversary, Archives, Closeted, Gay, History, Icons, Music, Pop Culture

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A momentous decision was the clear result of the Poll conducted by the Government to decide the question: “Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?” The choice of the people was unambiguous and revealed that Australia wants to move ahead. We discuss the actions of the government and discuss whether their backbone is now stiffened, as they seemed reluctant until this result to act upon the voice of the people. And, as we saw in last weekend’s Northcote by-election, politics is changing – the voters want action not platitudes?

We remember Freddy Mercury (died 24/11/1999) and his place as an icon of his generation and the gay communities, as a musical genius with his public presence and a private life. His loss was compared to that of Michael Jackson. Both gone before they faded.

We comment upon imperialism in the late 2^nd millennium wherein countries – usually older European empires or kingdoms – extended their power by acquisition of territories (by planting a flag and ignoring the original inhabitants) and often the exploitation of these territories by colonialism, clothed in the concept of ‘Born to Rule’ and ‘Might is Right’. We note the return of the remains of Mungo Man to his ancestral lands and the cultural significance of this act.

Having taken over this land mass of Australia in ‘our’ name, we had to face the tyranny of distance and the difficulties of servicing the scattered populations. Religious missions provided bush hospitals and hostels, and later flying medical service, under the masterful guidance of Rev John Flynn. Learn more ….

Topics like these and some humour every week with Chris, Gordon and Phil.