The attempted targeting of Sydney’s Great Synagogue and Jewish Museum has revealed a disturbing truth: Australia’s Jewish community has been under attack for months while the federal government failed to act. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent condemnation of antisemitic activity rings hollow after 15 months of inaction, during which violent incidents and hate-fuelled threats have escalated.

The discovery of explosives in a caravan in Dural on January 19, along with information regarding key Jewish sites in Sydney, underscores the severity of the threat. Police now believe this plot is linked to months of orchestrated antisemitic attacks, yet the government has only now found its voice. The Prime Minister’s vow to “hunt down and lock up” perpetrators is too little, too late. Where was this determination a year ago when Jewish schools, synagogues, and businesses first raised the alarm?

Despite growing evidence of coordination among extremist elements, authorities have been slow to respond. Several individuals on the periphery of the Dural caravan plot, including Scott Marshall and Tammie Farrugia, are in custody on unrelated charges, but the masterminds remain at large. Peter Wertheim of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry has warned that until the “puppet masters” are apprehended, the community remains at risk. Rabbi Benjamin Elton of the Great Synagogue has been advised to alter his daily route for safety—a sobering reality for Australian Jews in 2025.

While the government defends its handling of the crisis, the Jewish community and security experts tell a different story. Private security firms have seen a surge in demand for protection at Jewish institutions, filling the void left by an unresponsive government. Meanwhile, ASIO director general Mike Burgess has ruled out raising the terror threat level, despite clear evidence of organised and escalating antisemitic activity.

Even international figures are calling out the government’s failure. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has condemned the spread of antisemitism in Australia as “almost unchecked,” demanding stronger action. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has also criticised the government’s passive response, rightly pointing out that leadership means proactive prevention, not reactive platitudes.

Prime Minister Albanese had over a year to take meaningful action against the rise in antisemitism. Instead, he waited until a near-tragedy forced his hand. Condemnation after the fact does nothing to restore trust or provide security to a community under siege. The time for decisive leadership was 15 months ago—now, it may be too late.

ED: From my inbox – thanks Ralph

Official Newsletter of the Navy Victoria Network

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Australia is undertaking a major modernisation of its six Collins-class diesel-electric submarines, extending their service life into the 2030s. This $4-$5 billion project aims to maintain a credible undersea deterrent while awaiting the arrival of nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS agreement. The upgrades will enhance Australia’s ability to patrol its vast maritime domain, secure vital trade routes, and counter China’s growing naval presence.

The Australian government is increasingly concerned about rising geopolitical tensions, particularly China’s assertive military expansion. In May 2023, a Chinese J-10 fighter jet fired flares at an Australian naval helicopter enforcing North Korea sanctions over the Yellow Sea. This provocation underscored the importance of a strong defence strategy. Submarines are a key element in this approach, providing a stealthy and effective means of deterrence.

The Collins-class submarines, widely regarded as among the best diesel-electric boats in the world, are undergoing a life-of-type extension (LOTE) at Osborne shipyard in South Australia. This upgrade is critical to ensuring Australia maintains an effective undersea capability until nuclear-powered vessels arrive under AUKUS. The investment highlights the government’s commitment to defence and securing maritime trade routes, which are essential for the nation’s resource-driven economy.

Originally designed in the 1980s to replace the aging Oberon-class, the Collins-class submarines were developed with long-range capabilities to suit Australia’s geographic isolation. First delivered between 1996 and 2003, they became the country’s first indigenously built submarines, drawing inspiration from Sweden’s Type 471 design. Their primary roles include attacking enemy ships, countering hostile submarines, and gathering intelligence.

Each Collins-class submarine measures 255 feet in length, displaces 3,000 tons, and operates with a quiet diesel-electric propulsion system. They require a crew of 42 and are armed with MK 48 heavyweight torpedoes and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The six boats—HMAS Collins, Farncomb, Waller, Dechaineux, Sheean, and Rankin—form the backbone of Australia’s current submarine force.

As Australia navigates an increasingly volatile security environment, modernising the Collins-class fleet ensures continued operational capability. These submarines will serve as a critical stopgap until nuclear-powered vessels are commissioned. The government’s proactive approach reflects its awareness that regional tensions are escalating, making a strong naval force essential for national security and economic stability.

The Collins-class upgrades will also sustain Australia’s defence industry, preserving technical expertise and jobs. With the AUKUS agreement set to deliver nuclear-powered submarines in the coming years, maintaining a robust submarine force in the interim is vital. Australia’s maritime security strategy underscores the necessity of deterrence, ensuring the nation is prepared for future challenges in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region.

Ethel had checked into a motel on her 65th birthday. She was lonely and a little depressed at her advancing age, so decided to risk an adventure. She thought, “I’ll call one of those men you see advertised in phone books for escorts and sensual massages.”

She looked through the phone book, found a full-page ad for a guy calling himself Tender Tony, a very handsome man with assorted physical skills flexing in the photo. He had all the right muscles in all the right places, thick wavy hair, long powerful legs, dazzling smile, six pack abs and she felt quite certain she could bounce a dime off his well-oiled buns …….

She figured, what the heck, nobody will ever know. I’ll give him a call.

“Good evening, ma’am, how may I help you?”

Oh my, he sounded soooo sexy!

Afraid she would lose her nerve if she hesitated, she rushed right in, “I hear you give a great massage. I’d like you to come to my motel room and give me one. No, wait, I should be straight with you. I’m in town all alone and what I really want is sex. I want it hot, and I want it now. Bring implements, toys, everything you’ve got in your bag of tricks. We’ll go at it all night – tie me up, cover me in chocolate syrup and whipped cream, anything and everything, I’m ready! Now how does that sound?”

He said, “That sounds absolutely fantastic, but you need to press 9 for an outside line.”

ED: From my inbox by John Clarkson.

Tuesday 28^th January 2025.

To:     The Prime Minister of Australia – Hon. Mr Anthony Albanese, MP;

Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet;

The Leader of the Opposition – Hon. Mr Peter Dutton, MP;

Liberal Party Headquarters – Canberra.

For Information:

The Federal Member for Longman – Hon. Mr Terry Young, MP.

Rise of Antisemitism in Australia.

Stars & Stripes

Did you know the M16 rifle, a staple of modern military arsenals, was designed by Eugene Stoner, an innovative American engineer, in the late 1950s? Stoner was working for the Armalite Corporation when he developed the rifle’s original design, which was first introduced as the Armalite AR-15. This lightweight, gas-operated, magazine-fed weapon stood out due to its use of advanced materials like aluminium and composite plastics, which made it lighter and easier to handle compared to earlier rifles.

In the early 1960s, the U.S. military adopted the AR-15 design and designated it the M16. This transition occurred during the Vietnam War, as the M16 replaced the heavier and less versatile M14 rifle. The M16’s design prioritized portability and a high rate of fire, making it well-suited for the challenging conditions of jungle warfare.

Since its initial adoption, the M16 has undergone numerous upgrades and modifications to improve reliability, accuracy, and adaptability. Variants of the rifle, such as the M16A1, M16A2, and the M4 carbine (a shorter, more compact version), have been widely used by U.S. forces and allied militaries worldwide. Today, while newer models like the M4 are more commonly deployed, the M16 remains a symbol of innovation in firearm design and an enduring piece of military history.

ED: This from my inbox. I was not expecting to be able to post today but my admission time was pushed back from 8:00am to 1:00pm.

The Coalition’s plan to address the housing crisis by prioritising local homebuyers over foreign investors is a bold move that resonates with a vast majority of Australians. According to the latest Resolve Political Monitor survey, 69 per cent of voters support the initiative, with 73 per cent in marginal electorates expressing strong approval. This bipartisan endorsement, including 60 per cent of Labor voters, highlights the widespread demand for action on housing affordability.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s proposal includes a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents purchasing existing homes. This approach aims to level the playing field for local bidders struggling to secure housing amid skyrocketing prices. While the policy permits foreign investment in new developments to stimulate construction, its emphasis on protecting existing housing stock for Australians could prove pivotal in the upcoming election.

Marginal electorates—often decisive in determining government—stand to benefit significantly. The higher level of support in these areas reflects the acute pressures faced by local communities. Housing affordability remains a critical issue, and this plan’s potential to shift market dynamics could attract voters seeking tangible solutions.

In addition to the housing ban, Dutton has pledged to reduce the annual permanent migration intake from 185,000 to 140,000 for the next two years and tighten restrictions on international student numbers. These measures aim to alleviate demand pressures on housing and infrastructure, offering a comprehensive response to the crisis.

While the Albanese government has criticised the policy as insufficient, citing existing restrictions and fees on foreign buyers, the Coalition’s plan addresses a key public concern. Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ comments that foreign purchases are already limited overlook the symbolic and practical impact of further tightening these measures. The Coalition’s focus on Australian homeownership as a priority signals a commitment to ensuring fair access to housing.

A review of the policy after two years will be crucial to assessing its impact. Regular evaluations will provide the necessary data to fine-tune the approach and address any unintended consequences. Housing affordability is a complex issue, but decisive steps like this—grounded in public support—are essential for progress.

As Australia’s housing market continues to dominate the political agenda, the Coalition’s plan offers a clear stance on prioritising local buyers. By addressing concerns in marginal electorates and committing to regular reviews, this policy has the potential to become a cornerstone of effective housing reform. The widespread support it enjoys across the political divide is a testament to its relevance and urgency.

From 19FortyFive.com: F-15EX Proving Its Mettle with More Missiles – You want to talk about the biggest load of missiles for an American fighter? Let’s discuss the F-15EX Eagle II because it is becoming quite the missile truck. There are two more weapons stations on the Boeing fighter that were tested with two successful missile launches in late November above the Gulf of Mexico.

• Comparing the Missile Load to Other Fighters –

The F-15EX fired air-to-air missiles in a manner that was deemed satisfactory by the Air Force. This evaluation was noteworthy because now the F-15EX can carry a load of 12 missiles. Other F-15 variants can only deploy eight of the munitions. F-16s have a six air-to-air missile load. Then the F-22 has a capacity for eight missiles, and these are a combination of Sidewinders and AMRAAMs. F-35s have a load of six – four internal and two external. Lockheed Martin plans to increase the missile load with a new F-35 variant. The extra weapons stations will be affixed to the tips of the wings on the F-15EX. This worked well for the 96th Test Wing that ran the evaluation for the firing. One F-15EX launched an AMRAAM and another fired a Sidewinder during the November test. It happened over the Eglin Test and Training Complex’s water range.