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Page 97 of the budget kept me awake at night, and is a stain on Morrison’s legacy

Shane Wright  – May 20, 2024 – Brisbane Times

brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/page-97-of-the-budget-kept-me-awake-at-night-and-is-a-stain-on-morrison-s-legacy-20240520-p5jexd.html

There are tens of thousands of pages to the federal budget. But a single paragraph on page 97, which could easily have been missed, demands to be read and understood by all Australians.

It shows a decision by the Albanese government to fix a situation left by its predecessors that is beyond comprehension, and a stain on the Morrison government’s legacy.

Summary of the article – By Ray Payne – May 21, 2024

The article by Shane Wright offers a critical examination of how the Morrison government handled veterans’ affairs, shedding light on significant systemic failures that left many veterans without timely support. Wright’s commentary reveals a $6.5 billion funding increase for veterans over the next five years, largely due to improved claims processing resulting from increased staffing. This allocation, while a necessary corrective measure, also highlights the deficiencies of the previous administration.

Wright traces the roots of these issues back to 2018 when then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison acknowledged the struggles faced by veterans but failed to effectively address the processing of their entitlement claims. By 2023, the backlog was staggering, with nearly half of the claims unprocessed and an average wait time of 435 days. The term “delay, deny, die,” used within the veterans’ community, encapsulates the tragic reality of the system’s inefficiency.

The situation reached a critical point in March 2022 when Andrew Gee, the Veterans’ Affairs Minister at the time, threatened to resign unless additional funds were allocated to clear the backlog of 60,000 unallocated cases. Despite some staffing increases, the problem persisted, revealing the deeper issues within the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

The incoming Labor government, recognizing the severity of the situation, took swift action. They consulted with previous veterans’ affairs ministers to understand the historical context and implemented substantial staffing increases to address the backlog. This proactive approach has led to significant improvements, with the backlog reduced to 2,569 cases and the average processing time decreased by 62 days.

Wright underscores the inefficiencies created by the previous government’s reliance on labour hire companies and short-term contracts, which led to high turnover and inadequate training of staff. The switch back to permanent public service employees has markedly improved the department’s efficiency.

The article also critiques Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s comments about the increase in public servants, pointing out the necessity of these roles in supporting veterans. The narrative Wright presents is not just a critique of past failures but also a recognition of the efforts made by the current government to rectify these issues without politicizing the matter.

In summary, Wright’s article is a poignant commentary on the bureaucratic and political mishandling of veterans’ affairs in Australia. It highlights the significant progress made by the current government while serving as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by veterans and the need for continued support and reform.

The Royal Australian Navy’s longest-serving commissioned vessel, HMAS Anzac (III), has been officially farewelled during a decommissioning ceremony over the weekend.

Launched in September 1994 and commissioned in May 1996, HMAS Anzac was the lead ship of the Anzac Class frigates. On May 18, representatives attended the decommissioning ceremony at the ship’s home port, HMAS Stirling in Perth. This marks the end of service for the third Royal Australian Navy ship to carry the storied name of Anzac.

“HMAS Anzac’s motto is ‘united we stand’ and I am very proud to say that the personnel and veterans who have served on board have stood united to protect Australia’s maritime interests within the region,” stated Chief of Navy Australia Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO. “Thousands of men and women have called this ship home since it was commissioned in 1996, and for some, HMAS Anzac represents key milestones in their lives.”

Throughout its service, HMAS Anzac was granted freedom of entry to the City of Albany, Western Australia, the departure port for the original Anzac contingent, and maintained a close association with the City of Rockingham. The ship participated in numerous deployments and operations, most notably during its deployment to the Gulf region in October 2002. During this mission, it was part of “Five Inch Friday,” marking the first time the Royal Australian Navy engaged in combat naval gunfire support since the Vietnam War.

The decommissioning of HMAS Anzac will facilitate long-term investment in expanding and enhancing the Navy’s fleet. This decision aligns with the recommendations from the Independent Analysis of Navy’s Surface Combatant Fleet, as outlined by the Department of Defence.

Ever wondered what goes down when a Chinese spy ship gets too close to a US aircraft carrier? When an unknown ship pops up on the radar of an American aircraft carrier, the crew swiftly jumps into action. But what exactly is a spy ship? These vessels are equipped with all sorts of gear to eavesdrop on communications, track movements, and gather information about other ships. Their first move? Trying to figure out who’s approaching by using binoculars and trying to make contact. Meanwhile, the captain gets the heads-up, and it’s all hands on deck for assessing the situation. As the spy ship gets dangerously close, the crew springs into action with a bunch of tricks to keep the carrier and its crew safe. They set up barriers and start using electronic warfare tactics to mess with the spy ship’s surveillance and communication gear while keeping their own gear in check.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBcbzckDJKk

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is the lead ship of the Ford class of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers operated by the United States Navy. One of the most notable features of the USS Gerald R. Ford is its advanced electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear (AAG), which replace the traditional steam catapults and arresting wires used on older carriers.

Regarding the elevators specifically, here are some details:

Number and Layout: The USS Gerald R. Ford has a total of 11 electromagnetically-powered aircraft elevators. These elevators are strategically located throughout the ship to facilitate the movement of aircraft between the flight deck and the hangar bays below.

Electromagnetic Propulsion: Unlike the hydraulic elevators used on older aircraft carriers, the elevators on the USS Gerald R. Ford are propelled by electromagnetic motors. This allows for smoother and more precise movement of aircraft, as well as faster turnaround times during flight operations.

Increased Capacity and Efficiency: The electromagnetic aircraft elevators on the USS Gerald R. Ford are designed to handle a wider range of aircraft types and configurations, including larger and heavier aircraft. They are also capable of moving multiple aircraft simultaneously, improving overall efficiency and throughput during launch and recovery operations.

Advanced Control Systems: The elevators are equipped with advanced control systems that provide real-time monitoring and diagnostics, ensuring safe and reliable operation at all times. These systems also allow for remote control and automation of elevator movements, reducing the workload on carrier personnel.

Maintenance and Reliability: The electromagnetic elevator system is expected to require less maintenance compared to traditional hydraulic systems, leading to reduced downtime and increased reliability. This contributes to the overall operational readiness of the USS Gerald R. Ford and enhances its capability to support sustained naval aviation operations.

Proposed Moah Creek wind farm will destroy over 600ha of some of the best remnant forests near Rockhampton. The proponents are Energy Estate, RES and CleanCo. The project will smash 76km of new haulage roads up into the high ridge lines and escarpments and will cause damage to over 3,000ha of classified ‘remnant’ vegetation from ‘edge effects’. When this project is combined with the other 27 wind projects in the area covering all the high elevation ridge lines then the cumulative effects are highly considerable. Scientists are now claiming that wind farms in Queensland can now be classified as a key threatening process for vulnerable and endangered wildlife and ecosystems.

ED: Summary of a speech by Andrew Hastie at Defence Connect Budget Summit.

Australian shadow minister for defence and former SAS officer Andrew Hastie has urged for an acceleration of Defence spending to 2026 and a bolstering of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to ensure it can “tear the arm off any adversary.”

Speaking at the annual Defence Connect Budget Summit, Hastie engaged with defence industry representatives to discuss the opposition’s response to the recent federal budget, following remarks from Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy.

During his address, Hastie presented a hypothetical scenario where the People’s Republic of China deploys a missile threat within the Indo-Pacific Island chain. He questioned Australia’s preparedness and capability to effectively respond to such a threat.

Hastie called on the federal government to clarify its stance on the threat posed by the People’s Republic of China and outlined the opposition’s key priorities should they return to power under Peter Dutton’s leadership. He criticized the current national defence strategy, stating, “The national defence strategy is a failure… the (Albanese) government has neither articulated the threats Australia faces nor adapted to the world of today.”

Hastie emphasized the need to advance Defence spending to 2026, warning that delaying spending until the next decade would leave Australia vulnerable. “We will be weaker before we get stronger, this is dangerous because weakness is provocative,” he said.

He outlined several priorities, including fixing recruitment through service incentives, accelerating investment to 2026, strengthening military relationships, and enhancing sovereign capability. “The ADF should be able to tear the arm off an adversary,” Hastie asserted, referencing the epic tale of Beowulf.

Additionally, Hastie described an “axis of authoritarian states” including Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which he said are aligned against and seeking to disrupt the US-led alliance.

The music of the 50s was infectious and groundbreaking. Artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, and Little Richard revolutionized the soundscape with rock ‘n’ roll, setting the stage for future musical genres. Tunes from this era still evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, making you want to get up and dance, even if your hips might protest a bit these days.

But the magic of the 50s wasn’t just in its music. The film clips from this decade are a delightful reminder of a time when Hollywood was churning out timeless classics. Think of the elegant grace of Audrey Hepburn in “Roman Holiday,” the raw magnetism of Marlon Brando in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” or the cheerful exuberance of Gene Kelly in “Singin’ in the Rain.” These films, and many others, continue to captivate audiences with their charm and artistry.

For the first couple of minutes, you might swear you’ve seen this nostalgic video before. It’s a familiar trip down memory lane, filled with beloved faces and sounds. But then…WOW! You’re treated to a whole new compilation that captures even more of the essence of the 50s. It’s a vibrant mix of memorable moments, blending the best of what the decade had to offer.

Those who grew up during this wonderful time were indeed lucky. The 1950s were marked by a unique blend of optimism and innovation. It was a period of post-war prosperity and cultural blossoming. Families gathered around black-and-white televisions, teenagers flocked to drive-in theatres, and everyone seemed to be part of a shared, joyous experience.

The 50s left an enduring legacy that still resonates today. It’s a testament to a bygone era where every day felt golden, filled with the promise of a bright future. Whether through the infectious beats of rock ‘n’ roll, the captivating allure of classic cinema, or the simple yet profound moments of daily life, the golden days of the 50s remain a cherished memory for many. So, take a moment to indulge in this delightful reminiscence and celebrate the magic of a time that continues to bring joy to our hearts.

CLICK LINK to watch this fabulous look back at the 50′

The 50s: A Pop Culture Tribute – YouTube (youtube-nocookie.com)

Nuclear for Australia’s full interview with Dick Smith discussing the nuclear debate, renewables and his recent ABC fact check saga. Recorded 10/04/24.

SIGN OUR PETITION TO LIFT THE NUCLEAR BANS IN AUSTRALIA: https://www.nuclearforaustralia.com/p…

Australia and the United States have recently introduced advanced unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) prototypes, signalling a leap into a sci-fi reality. These UUVs, named Ghost Shark and Manta Ray, represent a major evolution in undersea warfare by offering new capabilities that reduce human risk during conflicts.

As technology rapidly advances, militaries are investing billions to maintain a competitive edge and signal their strength to potential adversaries. Unmanned drones have become integral to modern warfare, with predictions that they may eventually replace human soldiers on the battlefield. Military personnel, instead of being on the front lines, will be operating these machines from safe distances.

The use of drones in conflicts, extensively demonstrated by the US in Iraq and Afghanistan, has drawn significant criticism from humanitarian groups due to the collateral damage they often cause. More recently, the Ukraine conflict has showcased the devastating effectiveness of drones, which have been used to drop bombs on enemy positions.

However, deploying drones underwater presents unique challenges. Unlike aerial and surface drones, UUVs cannot rely on satellites and radio waves for communication. They must contend with factors such as water temperature, salinity, and depth, which affect data transmission.

Described as “the most advanced undersea autonomous vehicles in the world,” these cutting-edge UUVs feature modular designs that support a variety of missions. For Australia, the Ghost Shark is expected to counter China’s encroachment into international waters and patrol the vast Australian coastline. According to Australia’s defence department, this UUV will provide the navy with a stealthy, long-range, autonomous capability for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions.

Vice Admiral Mark Hammond emphasized the importance of the Ghost Shark, stating, “We are a nation girt by sea, and the Ghost Shark is one of the tools we are developing for the navy to patrol and protect our oceans and our connection to the world.”

The US’s Manta Ray is designed for global deployment. It can be packed up and moved quickly, and its ability to hibernate on the ocean floor allows it to be pre-deployed and activated as needed. Dr. James Patton Rogers, a drone warfare expert, highlighted the strategic flexibility of the Manta Ray, noting its potential for deployment anywhere in the world.

Dr. Rogers also addressed concerns about the autonomy of these systems. “One of the most worrying characteristics of both drones is that they are far more autonomous than the underwater systems of the past. With increased levels of autonomy comes less human control, which may lead to machine errors or riskier deployments that could escalate existing tensions,” he explained.

These new UUVs, Ghost Shark and Manta Ray, mark a significant advancement in military technology, promising enhanced capabilities and strategic advantages while also raising important questions about the future of autonomous warfare.

Ian Plimer is a prominent Australian geologist whose critical perspective on climate change challenges the mainstream narrative. As a professor emeritus of earth sciences at the University of Melbourne and a professor of mining geology at the University of Adelaide, Plimer brings considerable expertise and academic rigor to the discussion.

Plimer advocates for a more nuanced understanding of climate change, emphasizing that it is largely a natural phenomenon. He argues that human activities are not the primary drivers of recent global warming, a viewpoint he thoroughly explores in his book “Heaven and Earth: Global Warming – The Missing Science.” This work provides a comprehensive critique of mainstream climate science, questioning the methodologies and assumptions that underpin the consensus on anthropogenic climate change.

Supporters of Plimer’s views appreciate his willingness to challenge prevailing scientific dogmas and to highlight the complexities of climate systems. They argue that his research draws attention to important but often overlooked factors, such as natural climate variability, solar activity, and geological processes. Plimer’s academic background and detailed analysis lend credibility to his arguments, prompting a necessary re-examination of widely accepted theories.

Plimer’s perspective resonates with many who are skeptical of stringent regulatory measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advocating instead for balanced and evidence-based approaches to environmental stewardship. His contributions to the climate change debate underscore the importance of considering diverse viewpoints and maintaining scientific integrity in policy discussions.

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