Protest - Indian Students Trying to Storm Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Australia
I have said before, i don't believe Australia to be a racist country. Yes, we do have elements of racism here, just as any country in the world does. Unfortunately, discrimination is a fact of life - you need not look further than the caste system in India for an example of that.
This demonstration by Indian Students in Melbourne turned into a mini riot complete with projectiles and abuse thrown at Victoria Police. The police have done nothing wrong here, they have been working overtime to reduce violence and should be commended. If the students have a problem, it should be with policy not with front line cops.
The problem with this protest is that it will turn much needed public opinion against Indian students. They didnt need that result. Violent protests never win public support in Australia nor will it sway the government and the police from doing their job.
But it gets worse. Acting in a violent way will only bring the racist white trash out to play. Have a look at the white trash tosser in the following video. He says the following "This is us getting bullied out of our own country...F&%k Off." It looks like he came out specifically for this protest.
Ive also stated previously that i remain to be convinced that the recent attacks on Indian students recently were motivated by racism. Robbery of easy targets and random violence seem to me to be the prime reasons.
Now, things could be entirely different. The trash that came out in Cronulla against Lebanese Australians is a prime example. I'm hoping it doesn't happen, but similar groups may now see Indians as targets.
Would this White Trash Tosser be out of place in Cronulla?
Thousands of Indian Students have protested in Melbourne to bring attention to the recent spate of attacks on many of their countrymen.
What started as a peaceful display turned into a mini riot, with at least 2 arrests. The Indian students hurled items at police and stormed Flinders Street Station.
I'm afraid that the Indian Students have just lost the Public relations war on this issue. Peaceful protests in Australia are a way of life and are a good way of raising public and government awareness. Violent protests have no place in this society.
This rioting by the students will turn public opinion against them. The organisers should be condemned for allowing this protest to escalate into violence. I hate to say it, but these Indian students make the CFMEU protests look like a mothers club meeting.
Tamiflu and Suicide Risk Link - We do Have Relenza...
If you were scared by the screaming headline from The Age recently which suggested how far reaching Swine Flu would be, then their latest effort is going to send you into mass panic mode. At least that's what The Age would like to happen.
"Swine Flu to Hit One in Five as Virus continues to Spread", so said The Age recently. It's a definitive statement - it will happen. But buried in the story is this snippet "Victoria's acting chief health officer, Rosemary Lester, said the virus could infect 20 per cent of the population.." Could. Yeah, and i could win Tattslotto this week as well. That doesn't mean I'm going to.
So having established that 1 in 5 of us will catch this "deadly" virus, The Age has taken on the responsibility of ensuring Victorians seek any and all treatment. Haven't they?
"Tamiflu linked to suicides" so shouts The Age again. Oh dear. We have the virus, now we cant receive the treatment because it's unsafe. Damn you to hell swine flu!
Wow, this must have been an amazing investigative piece by The Age and journalist Stephen Cauchi. What a scoop. Well it would have been, except for the fact that this story linking Tamiflu and suicides has been around for 4 years or so. Its been covered by the media, and covered and covered again. But nothing like a crisis and a scare campaign to bring it all up again.
8 people died due to suicide over a 3 year period in Japan. This from a country not known for its low suicide rate. They also take Tamiflu for regular seasonal flu. Do we know that Tamiflu caused them to jump off a building? Of course not.
I have no doubt it was information already considered by the Government when they purchased Tamiflu stockpiles. That's why they also have stockpiles of Relenza, an anti viral alternative to Tamiflu, one which was developed right here in Melbourne. If there happen to be adverse side effects we are ready to go with the another option.
I'm sure I'm not the only one laughing at the absurdity of the Swine Flu Circus. That's the SFC this time, not the GFC. Dont you know that we've moved on?
Richmond's Ben Cousins Gives Media Camera the Finger
Despite no longer being a West Coast Eagle, Ben Cousins thought it appropriate to give the bird to the media's cameras in the dressing room prior to Richmond's match against Fremantle.
Thankfully, Richmond won the game with Cousins making a very solid contribution. Otherwise the media's scrutiny might be even more intense.
But it will still be very harsh. Cousins is likely to be fined by the AFL, but that will be an easy let off. This will be one of the big footy stories of the week.
Its surprising to see this action from Cousins. Ive actually admired the way he has handled himself in the media over the last couple of years.
Despite his previous indiscretions, he has tried to recover while under an ever watchful gaze of the public. Its safe to say that the media has persecuted him and put him under even more pressure. It cant have been easy to get back to AFL when it seemed every one was against him. For that, i give him much credit.
Yes he did take drugs. But he has also admitted that and tried to get help. If someone is addicted to alcohol or gambling we give them much more leeway. We allow them setbacks - that's what addiction is all about. Its why people still call themselves alcoholics long after they have taken their last drink.
I'm a little disappointed in the finger. But at the end of the day, if that's the worst we see from this very talented footballer, I'm going to let it go through to the keeper.
15 minutes of fame? Maybe its more. According to well placed media sources, Channel Nine is considering offering Clare Werbeloff a contract to be an occasional reporter for A Current Affair. No surprise then that they went so easy on her.
So here was i thinking that ACA couldn't sink any lower. Maybe she could do some foot in door investigative reports. Or she might be better suited to conducting ACA's famous lie detector tests. Personally, id prefer her to go out on the road with Ben Fordham as his undercover agent, complete with secret microphone. Just don't get caught doing anything illegal...
Surely I'm not the only one to think that Clare Werbeloff is a one trick pony. Yeah, her Chk Chk boom was kind of amusing when i first saw it. But its getting a bit tired, even after only a couple of weeks.
Is that all she has to offer us? It seems so. She has starred in a promo for the Merrick and Rosso show on the Comedy Channel. Funny? Lol...no. Giddeup girl.
Australia's Commonwealth Serum Laboratories (CSL) is apparently leading the world in the search for a Swine Flu Vaccine. Despite major pharmaceutical companies around the world working overtime to develop a vaccine, CSL said they are better placed to achieve an early result.
CSL expect to have a vaccine for Swine Flu by early August, but perhaps as soon as late in July. Human clinical trials are expected to begin in the next few weeks, with the Therapeutic Goods Administration expected to fast track approval of the vaccine.
United States authorities have said that a Vaccine for Swine flu was at least 6 months away, while the British Government has a deal with Glaxo Smith Kline for 90 million does to be delivered by December.
The Federal Government has already ordered 10 million doses of the vaccine, prior to it even being created. The vaccine is set to earn CSL about $180 million in revenue, just from Australia. If they beat other laboratories, the vaccine could be sold into other markets, creating a significant earner for the publicly listed company.
CSL is the world's third largest vaccine manufacturing laboratory.
Meanwhile, despite the health authorities claiming that swine flu could hit one in five Australians, an online poll suggests that fear hasn't overtaken us yet. A Yahoo online poll shows a narrow margin of Australian's remain calm about Swine Flu
Are you increasingly concerned about swine flu?
Yes 49% 7831 votes
No 51% 8284 votes
Tony Barry, Malcolm Turnbull Press Secretary and Violent Thug
They sometimes say that relations between politicians and the media are cool at best, but this is taking things a bit far. Malcolm Turnbull's press secretary Tony Barry had a heated dispute then physically assaulted a member of the Canberra press gallery.
Seems Barry wasn't so happy with Network 10 producer Stephen Spencer and some questions about the opposition's attack on Rudd's stimulus payments. But further, Barry decided to take his rage out on Spencer regarding another issue.
You see, Spencer's wife Sue Dunlevy writes for the Daily Telegraph in Sydney. Barry was upset with an article she had written and decided to push Spencer about it.
This report from The Australian: "When Spencer reached for a ringing phone, Barry grabbed his arm. Barry allegedly grabbed Spencer’s wrist and slammed down the phone and then pushed him in the chest, saying words to the effect of “don’t verbal me”."
Witnesses to the incident say that Barry was screaming abuse and obscenities at Spencer prior to assaulting him. Senior political correspondent and head of Ten's Canberra office Paul Bongiorno intervened and demanded Barry leave the office. A formal letter of complaint was lodged with Malcolm Turnbull.
Barry's explanation? “For a moment my normally sunny disposition was interrupted by an uncharacteristic burst of bad temper for which I have apologised.”
Sunny disposition eh? This is the same Barry who went the attack on the ABC's Emma Griffiths early in the week. He had to be stopped by colleagues from pushing that one any further. He is known in political circles for using standover tactics to get what he wants.
Its quite clear that Tony Barry has a screw loose. Maybe he hasn't taken his medication. Or maybe there just isn't any way to control his violent tendencies.
Whatever the reason - Tony Barry has to go. Violence is not acceptable. Or does Malcolm Turnbull actually condone this kind of behaviour? Maybe he wants a madman as a senior staffer. Sorry Malcolm, that's no way to run a country.
I referred previously to Australia's obsession with the Swine Flu when real harm is being experienced on our streets and on public transport every day.
Sourabh Sharma was viciously bashed on a Werribee train in May. Then we had Luke Mitchell, killed by thugs after doing the right thing to protect another citizen.
Now another Indian student has been stabbed in the stomach with a machete next to Carnegie train station in Woorayl St. Two men in their 20's stopped a 25 year old man and demanded money. When he refused, they stabbed him. He ended up in the Alfred Hospital and now has a huge scar running down his stomach.
The alleged offenders are described as 183cm tall and wearing black jackets.
Can we now go back to dealing with real issues like violence on our streets? It really is getting out of control.
The Liberal Opposition and the News Limited Press are both up in arms about the fact that 16,000 dead people received the $900 Tax Bonus Payment from the Rudd Government. The payments were for a total of over 14 million dollars.
The Rudd Government is claiming that these kind of payments were unavoidable, as the data relating to who was actually dead wasn't available at the time. They say that it would have taken months to put together, thus defeating the purpose of injecting a quick stimulus to the economy.
I have to agree with the Government on this one. If you think about it, thousands of people die every month in Australia. Not every estate would notify the tax office regarding the death. I mean seriously, when a loved one dies, who contacts the ATO quickly?
So if the government had waited a few months to compile the data, that information would already be old. Thousands more would have died in the meantime. Therefore it would be a pointless exercise, paying to the dead would always be unavoidable.
A $14 million spend to the estates of dead people is not a lot of money given the $12 billion spent on this stimulus. And anyway, the money would have gone to widows, widowers, children and relatives. It would have been spent which was the whole idea of the package. Perhaps it helped to pay for funeral expenses or maybe it was used to help people move on with their lives.
Seriously, its not like the $900 was buried with the dead person's body. It doesn't actually go to the dead. It goes to the estate and all it means is that some people got the payment twice. If their loved one has just died, I'm really not going to begrudge them a measly $900.
Two teenagers have been arrested by police in connection with the bashing of Indian student, Sourabh Sharma in May. Sharma was travelling home on the Werribee line train when he was attacked by at least 6 young men. He suffered severe facial injuries and had his possessions stolen.
Police searched 2 homes in Hoppers Crossing and subsequently arrested a 16 year old and an 18 year old.
More to follow.
The video of the bashing on the Werribee Line Train.
Current Rowing Sheds - Shore Private School, Gladesville, North Shore, Sydney
The Sydney Church of England Grammar School, otherwise known as Shore, came under attack by the Chaser's War on Everything team in their first episode back for 2009.
And its a good thing too. Some criticised the Labor Party for playing politics of envy with their former proposal to take money away from rich schools and give it to needy ones. They dropped the policy after widespread opposition, notably from the conservative press.
But that hasn't stopped the Chaser. Shore need a new rowing shed, so the Chaser boys set up a fundraising campaign to help get it built. Their current rowing shed was built in 1988, so you would expect them to have to trade up. Generous Somalians, they know a thing or two about boats so you would expect them to dig deep. Its funny stuff.
The Chaser's War on everything are back. And back with a vengeance. In early May, two of the Chaser's team Julian Morrow and Craig Reucassel launched a blimp over St Peter's Square in Rome, just outside the Vatican.
It was a remote control white blimp with a simple message, "Young Boys inside, pull down if you want one." A rope dangled from the blimp..
Morrow and Reucassel were arrested with breaching the no fly zone over the Vatican. Charges were laid against the pair. Apparently they were arrested and detained for over 8 hours. Not bad for one minute of aired video.
Australia's Ambassador at the Vatican Tim Fischer said at the time, "What happened was they breached the no-fly zone allegedly, and charges have been laid. All these matters are now being dealt with very efficiently by the consulate and presumably by legal representatives of those Australians involved."
We all know about email spam scams, offering us money for nothing in some obscure lottery, a business proposal or banking scheme. The people who run them are the lowest of the low.
But some good folk are fighting back against these scammers, tying up their time and encouraging the scammers into different schemes. These guys are called scambaiters - and its quite an art. Basically, they are scamming the scammers.
Numerous websites are dedicated to scam baiting, check out The Scambaiter or 419 Baiter.
There are many others out there and they do some really good work. Some of their success stories are just amazingly funny.
This is how Wikipedia describes it: "Scam baiting is the practice of feigning interest in a fraudulent scheme in order to manipulate a scammer. The purpose of scam baiting might be to waste the scammers' time, embarrass him or her, cause him or her to reveal information which can be passed on to legal authorities, get him or her to waste money, or simply to amuse the baiter."
Over at Scam Baiter, some Nigerians have signed up to be sellers of Anus Laptop computers. At 419 Baiter, amongst other disguises the author has passed himself off as a director of an adult movie company recruiting an African princess.
In some cases, the scammers themselves are requested to do some strange things. They make videos of themselves, take provocative photographs and sometimes even send money to the baiter. Now that's what i call fighting back.
Check out the following video. Butch Driveshaft from Scam Baiter uses the most graphic, abusive and disgusting language - no matter how many insults he throws at this Nigerian scammer, the call goes for over 9 minutes. This is one of the funniest things i have ever heard.
Warning - this video contains extreme crude language - best that you don't play it at work or in front of kids. But do get ready to laugh.
English pop star Lily Allen is set to feature on Australian soap TV show Neighbours. Her role on the show is yet to be announced, but she will be playing herself in a scene with Matt Werkmeister.
Allen is apparently a huge fan of Neighbours. However she isn't a fan of Susan Boyle. She was critical of Boyle's semi final appearance. She said that Boyle was good but nothing remarkable and if the winner was to be awarded on talent, it should be Shaheen Jarfagholi.
I like Allen, even if she is a little odd at times. She will be touring Australia in June.
This is Lily Allen performing The Fear on the Late Show with David Letterman last month.
I just love the Media - they are going to extraordinary new lengths to report on the Swine Flu "epidemic". The latest little piece of amusement comes from the Herald Sun.
Screaming Headline "Trapped in Hell" and "Hell on the 70th Floor". Its like, oh my god, is there a fire raging below? These poor folk are trapped, smoke is rising and the fire engine ladders just cant reach. Oh, the humanity.
Huh? What, it's just the swine flu?
The Darcy family are on the 70th floor of the World Square building in Sydney. One of their children contracted the virus while on the Pacific Dawn cruise ship.
And don't they look unwell, posing for an unhappy snap. Id be curious to know however, if they are isolated, why are they all wearing face masks? Answer that and I'll send you a free dose of Tamiflu.
So trapped? Well yes, they are isolated there on the 70th floor. They really aren't supposed to leave.
But is it hell? That's a bit hard to believe. Its a $300 a night hotel and they are spending $150 a day on room service. Geez. I can think of a few worse places to be stuck. Im sure the foxtel is still connected.
If that is Hell, then heaven must be glorious. I wonder what floor that is on?
I love this photo. Posed at the direction of the press? You bet. Check out the kid's hands on the window, i think that sums it all up. Oh and by the way, he is the one with Swine Flu.
.
NAPCAN - Parental Responsibility Children See Children Do Ad Video
I'm pretty big on parents taking greater responsibility for their kids. I'm not just talking about their welfare, that should be a given. I'm referring to the behaviour of kids and the anti social activities many of them engage in.
Now it isn't all the parents fault. But they do play a very big role. How is it that 15 year old kids bash an Indian student on a train and laugh about it? Something in their upbringing was seriously lacking.
This advertisement was put together by NAPCAN - The National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
"NAPCAN's multi-award winning advertisement will become the centrepiece of a national social marketing campaign relevant to the whole population but specifically focused on those parents whose behaviours are most likely to maintain the cycle of abuse."
So while this ad is designed to stop the cycle of child abuse, i think it also has a broader message of helping to prevent anti social behaviour in all its guises. Very impressive production.
The curious double standard brigade at the Advertising Standards Bureau have banned the Advanced Medical Institutes's Bedroom Police Ad. The AMI commercial deals with premature ejaculation. Ok, its not usually dinner table conversation but its hardly offensive.
Apparently there were as many as "dozens" of complaints about the ad, calling it "offensive and in poor taste." The Standards Board banned the ad on the grounds that it was demeaning to men and could be detrimental to men's physical and emotional health. Aha. Right.
So please tell me, what about all those late night ads from girls gone wild to wild text chat? Watch the first video, variations of which play over and over on late night TV. Then watch the Bedroom police ad from the AMI. Please, which one is more offensive?
If you are going to have standards, at least be consistent. Call the Standards Bureau and lodge a complaint about the late night ads. Tel: (02) 6262 9822 or submit an online compaint, http://www.adstandards.com.au/pages/complaints.asp
Drink Drive Bloody Idiot Ad Campaign
It seems the message on the dangerous effects of drink driving just isnt getting through to younger drivers. I’m going to call again on the TAC to rethink their campaigns targeted at youth.
I’ve suggested previously that the TAC should set up a youtube channel for their ads and a twitter page - these aren’t much, but at least they are a start. And they would show that the TAC is actually taking some firm steps to reduce the road toll amongst young drivers. If you don’t have a presence amongst young people, one ad featuring 3 footballers just isn’t going to cut it.
Drink Drivers are one of the biggest contributors to fatal accidents. But some young people just don’t get it. Take this little piece from the Herald Sun:
The young Romeo, in his haste, cut off a police car as he performed an illegal right-hand turn. The 19-year-old P-plater was pulled over and blew .08 after being breathalysed. He was booked for drink driving.
It wasn't the end of the drama though as his 18-year-old girlfriend arrived at the scene minutes later. In a chivalrous attempt to protect her from harm, he told police not to breath test his girlfriend "because she's had way more to drink than me'', police said.
She was breath tested and returned a reading of .11, eclipsing the prescribed blood alcohol concentration of zero for P-platers. The girl had her licence suspended on the spot.
Apart from this guy obviously being mildy retarded, the worst bit about these drivers is that they are on P Plates - no alcohol allowed at all in the system. It’s not even the "but I was just a little bit over" scenario. Kids know that they aren’t supposed to drink and drive, yet some of them still do.
We need to approach campaigns in a different way. The TAC needs to adopt new mediums to communicate with youth. And the advertising has to be way more graphic. These kids have grown up with more exposure to violent images, through the internet, gaming, movies and even on the news. The TAC needs to be harder hitting. It’s that simple.
This is one of the Drink Driving Ads from a couple of years back.
McDonald's Shut Restaurant After Swine Flu Outbreak
Is anyone seeing the connection between McDonald's Hamburgers and the Swine Flu Crisis? No? That's because there actually isn't any ham or "swine" in a hamburger. They are 100% beef burgers - or is that a trademark?
However, maybe we need to look a little deeper into McDonald's offerings. What about in the mornings, before 10.30am? Yes, they serve egg and bacon McMuffins. It's real bacon too. What about sausage and egg McMuffins? Could the sausage have some form of pork included? Entirely possible.
But wait, there's more. There has been a long running rumor that thick shakes and sundaes are made up of pig fat. Ive never been able to confirm it, but now its all starting to come together.
Is it possible that the cause of the spreading swine flu around the world is actually McDonald's? Does this mean i will have to stop having a nice large chocolate thick shake? God forbid.
Another missile was launched in North Korea overnight too. Not that anyone in the media is paying any attention. I wonder if there is any confirmed Swine Flu Cases there? No. They probably don't have a McDonald's restaurant. Lucky them.
Like to Make 45 million dollars in 4 years? Ask Malcolm Turnbull how.
Federal Leader of the Opposition Malcolm Turnbull is worth about $178 million, placing him as Australia's 182nd richest person. He's the wealthiest Member of the Federal Parliament too.
I don't have a problem with his wealth. But politics is about perception. In 2005, Turnbull was said to be worth $133 million. So in just 4 years Turnbull has increased his net wealth by a cool $45 million dollars. During much of that growth period Turnbull was a Minister in the Howard Government.
$45 million in 4 years is a pretty healthy return. Interestingly, the growth has taken place despite the global downturn of the last 18 months. Superannuation funds have been hit very hard, experiencing significant negative growth.
So what does Turnbull have to say about his inclusion to the BRW list? Firstly, he says that BRW don't know his actual wealth, "They have no idea. It is a speculative figure." Wow Malcolm, you mean it could actually be more than that?
Then he seeks to deflect attention to the other guy. "It's flattering but there are many people in the parliament that have done well in their business lives. Probably few have done as well as Mr Rudd and his wife Therese Rein. I wish them well for it, I applaud them for their success."
Sorry Malcolm, a deflection doesn't work when the other guy's wife has net wealth less than a quarter of your own. Nice try though.
Anyway, it’s only a few more weeks till Costello officially throws his hat back in the ring. Maybe Turnbull could spend some of that cash on a big holiday. Or perhaps he could fund another failed Republican campaign. Whatever he does, he won’t be opposition leader come the next election.
TAC Don't Fool Yourself Speed Kills
I'm still waiting for the Traffic Accident Commission to set up a dedicated youtube channel. Is it really that hard?
Meanwhile, here is a TV ad from the 1990's which is still very relevant. Its one of the TAC's really hard hitting commercials and looks very real. I still think they need to make more of these, or indeed just keep repeating some of the older ones.
Speeding drivers are the biggest cause of fatal accidents. And the excessive speed is usually without a purpose. Like seriously, where are you going in such a hurry and what are you going to do with those extra few minutes?
How to Stack your Cutlery in your Dishwasher (Pointy Side Tips Down)
This might be a strange piece of advice for this site. But after a disturbing incident in Queensland, i think its an important message.
While it might be considered that stacking your cutlery sharp side (or pointy side) up in your dishwasher enables better cleaning, it may not be safe.
A 5 year old girl tripped and fell on the open door of a dishwasher and became impaled on a knife in the cutlery rack. She underwent surgery and is in a stable condition.
It has been described as a freak accident, but one that could have been avoided if the cutlery was stacked pointy side or sharp edge down in the rack or basket.
Its not a bad piece of advice if you have kids in the house. Accidents like these can easily happen.
Beware - Sophisticated Commonwealth Bank Scam in Progress
My god. This latest scam purporting to be from the Commonwealth Bank is really good. So watch out. Scammers are taking a big interest in the Comm Bank lately which has focused mainly on the Netbank side - trying to get you to log into their site. This is not your regular Nigerian lottery prize scam - this is high class stuff.
See the email below.
This one encourages you to participate in an online survey. If you do, they say they will credit $320.18 to your account. How they come up with that odd figure is beyond me. But as usual, they will steal all your money.
But heres the real kicker. If you were to head to the web page page they suggest, it looks exactly like a Netbank logon. You fill in your details which takes you to the survey page. So now they have your bank account and logon password.
Fill in the survey, you will end up at a final page where in order to receive the money, you must fill in your credit card or keycard details complete with pin numbers. And every page looks like the Commonwealth Banks. See below.
This website will be shut down soon. But another will no doubt take its place. Or they will move on to the ANZ, Westpac or NAB.
Always be careful when using online banking. Never respond to an email from the bank or click a link to a logon page. And always check that the url of the website for the bank - make sure its the right address.
The website that this email sends you to was created the day it arrived in my inbox -
Domain Name.......... commonwealth-net.com
Creation Date........ 2009-05-26
Registration Date.... 2009-05-26
Expiry Date.......... 2010-05-26
Organisation Name.... Charles Frankel
This is the email:
from Commonwealth Bank
subject Congratulations!
Congratulations!
You have been selected by Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s Online Department to take part in our quick and easy customer satisfaction survey.
In return we will credit $320.18 to your account - Just for your time!
Helping us better understand how our members feel, benefits everyone. With the information collected we can decide to direct a number of changes to improve and expand our services.
The information you provide us is all non-sensitive and anonymous. No part of it is handed down to any third party groups.
It will be stored in our secure database for maximum of 3 days while we process the results of this nationwide survey.
To access the form, please follow the link below :
http://www.commonwealth-net.com/surve
Copyright © 2009 Commonwealth Bank of Australia. All Rights Reserved.
-----------------------
Member Satisfaction Survey
Thank you for taking the time to respond to this survey.
In return we will credit $320.18 to your account - Just for your time.
Account Information
Account to credit your $320.18 reward.
* = Required
*Full Name
*MasterCard/Maestro Card Number
*Card Expiration date / mm / yyyy
*Card Verification Value Help
*Card PIN
This is the personal identification number (PIN) you use with this card
for your ATM transactions.
Your Card Number and PIN Number are being used for authentication purposes.
Your account will be credited within the next 3 business days
It will appear as "Commonwealth Bank Survey" on your account history.
After card verification you will be redirected to the main page.
Q. When will we see the end to the swine flu epidemic?
A. As soon as the media get bored of writing about it or the next big crisis comes along.
An underground nuclear explosion conducted by North Korea, followed by further missile tests. So what was the front page news and lead TV news story? Swine flu.
So far less than 100 people have died from swine flu. Most of those deaths occurred in Mexico. And up until this point, despite thousands being infected throughout the world, only 3 other countries have had deaths as a result of this "deadly" virus. Outside Mexico and the US just 2 people have died - one in Canada and one in Costa Rica.
Flu kills people - it always has done. How is this strain any different to seasonal flu?
This from The Age regarding the public's reaction "The spread of the virus has caused widespread panic, with hospitals and medical centres reporting rising demand for tests."
Are people panicking? Or are people just concerned because the media keep telling us each time a new person becomes infected? Maybe there are a great deal of people out there like me, sceptical of the whole threat and not rushing to stock up on bottled water for the self imposed quarantine.
What are the effects of the swine flu? Are people getting really sick? Not here they ain't. Health authorities continue to tell us that the effects are mild and no different to regular flu. So why all the fuss then?
Because according to the experts, swine flu or H1N1 (which sounds a bit scarier) could mutate and develop into something more serious. Now I'm no scientist or health expert. But couldn't any strain of flu mutate and turn into something deadly?
Are you frightened by the swine flu? You should be more frightened about walking down the street and being stabbed, as one poor fellow was overnight in Melbourne. He refused to give money to 2 thugs, and was stabbed in the stomach for it. That's got to be a lot worse than the mild symptoms of swine flu.
Until swine flu starts killing people in the thousands like normal seasonal flu does, I'm going to remain sceptical. I hope it doesnt.
You have to hand it to Sol Trujillo. He comes to Australia, takes $35 million as a salary from Telstra and in the process sends it's share price plunging to below float levels in 1997. Thats right, Telstra shares are worth less now than when mums and dads bought them 12 years ago. Then Trujillo has the gall to go back to America and call our country backward and racist?
Backward? He is joking isn't he? I'm one of the biggest critics of people in Australia. But in comparison to the rest of the world, backward we ain't. Perhaps he doesn't pay much attention to his own country - you know the place where only 5% of people have passports and education standards are amongst the lowest in the western world.
Oh and the racist line. Yes, in pockets that is certainly true - as it is in any country and i despise it. But overall, i think Australia is one of the least racist places on earth. Immigration policies started to be changed close to 50 years ago Sol, not 30.
I might remind Trujillo that the policies on segregation in his own country started to change much later than that. Does he forget Selma or Montgomery? But that change was only in formal policy. It didn't change the hearts and minds for many years afterwards. In fact, despite Obama being elected, racism is alive and well in the U.S - even against Hispanics like Sol.
This is a small snippet of what Trujillo said:
"You know, in many ways it's like stepping back in time, just simply because of some of the policies, some of the laws that, you know, are more recent. So if you think about, you know, the immigration policies that weren't changed until about 30 years ago or so, which were very restrictive."
He criticised Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for farewelling him with one word, Adios. I'll also use that word. But I'll add two more, bugger off. Please dont come back - you're not welcome.
I'm having a hard time saying that I'm in firm agreement with former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer. But sometimes you just have to give credit where it is due.
Downer wrote a piece for the Adelaide Advertiser regarding the conduct of Australian tourists and the popular but mistaken belief that the Australian Government is responsible for their fate. It is entitled "Idiot Aussies: Grow up and take responsibility". I expressed similar sentiments here last week.
This is just a snippet from this must read article from Downer:
After about 10 minutes as foreign minister I was a little surprised to learn I was "responsible" for miscreant Australians who got into trouble in foreign countries.
No, no, no, don't get it wrong - drug traffickers, drunks, kleptomaniacs and fraudsters weren't responsible for their own stupidity - I was.
It's about time that great nanny in Canberra, the Federal Government, turned around and told people they are responsible for their own decisions.
The article by Downer is spot on. Its sometimes refreshing to hear former politicians telling it like it is. Of course this article is something he could have never done while he was Minister - i understand that. But its an opinion probably shared by current Foreign Minister Stephen Smith.
Read the full article here.
Twitter Abuse Fight Between Dave "Hughesy" Hughes and Kyle Sandilands
You just have to love twitter. Without even being in the same room or on the phone, celebrities can fight and abuse each other with almost instant response. And its all done in public. Beautiful.
The latest bitch fight is between Nova's Dave Hughes and 2day FM's Kyle Sandilands. This is not the first time Hughes and Sandilands have been at each other. Kyle previously threatened to punch Hughes in the face. And Sandiland's attacked Spicks and Specks host Adam Hills earlier this month when Hill's referred to him as a baboon. Probably true.
Here is what Dave Hughes and Kyle Sandilands have been tweeting to each other, in order from the start.
Sandilands: Substitute words "masterchef" w/ rove & "eat" w/ "talk"& that will work (In response to Hughes tweet "does masterchef mainly consist of watching wankers eat?")
Hughes: at least rove doesn't claim to be australia's number one radio show on it's twitter profile description when it isn't.
Sandilands: why so mean hughsey?I'm just hving a laugh.But in answer2 ur Q. Rove cant brag being#1 coz he ain't..We Are!.R u still confused Kx
Hughes: (in response to personal message) they started it. And do they share the twitter? Or does one of their producers do all the work on it as per usual?
Hughes: you might be in Sydney but shows in other parts of oz have more listeners than u guys so you're not #1 so to say u r is dim.
Sandilands: ummm....we ARE #1 in every city i.e. Nationally. So check ur facts then eat my arse cocksucker!!! K.
Hughes: yuk. But well done on riding coattails of others then crowing like a deranged loon.
Hughes again: seriously well done on your national offpeak hour show that comes on after a show that rates skyhigh. U r the real hero.
Sandilands: doesn't matter how u look at it. We r #1 national & #1 in our very own timeslot & the most competitive/important slot...breakfast
Hughes: someone once told me 'if you're good you won't have to tell people, they'll tell you.' something in that for us all yeah?
Sandilands: u can't be riding off the coattails when u do breakfast.U prop up the whole station.U on the other hand are failing terribly.
Sandilands again: ur show's a long way off #1.That can't feel nice.I am detecting a hint of jealousy in ur msg's.Oh well,keep counting those pennies
Sandilands once more: it's funny u had facts & figures ready 4 all reasons why I must b lying,but when I bring up how terrible UR show rates,u go quiet?
Hughes next day: hey man don't try to trick people by pretending to be me. The worlds a confusing enough place already without your bullshit added.
Woolworths have started playing this really cool Greek ad again featuring husband and wife Stavro and Maria. I don't speak Greek but i don't think i need to. I understand pretty much what they are saying without knowing the language.
And that makes this a clever ad. Its catchy, it features the advertised brand prominently and it has the memorable music. Its also funny which is a big help. What also works here is the fact that Maria and Stavros are an older couple. People can relate to them - its much the same in many of our parent's homes.
Woolworths are advertising Maria and Stavros as being "Fresh Food People" with the supermarket's bag in the background. But what i don't get is the whole premise of the ad is that Woolworths are the fresh food people, even though Stavros and Maria obviously have their own fresh food in the backyard. Why would they need to visit the supermarket for vegetables?
Perhaps i am actually missing something by not speaking Greek. Maybe they are saying that they need to shop at Woolworths because the birds are eating all their home grown vegetables. Somebody who speaks Greek want to translate for me? Other than my little query, its still a good commercial.
Qantas Passengers will Pay up to $160 more per flight for Emergency Row Seats
Following on from their decision to shut down first class on some long haul routes, Qantas has taken the interesting step of applying a higher charge for emergency exit seats. For those unfamiliar with these seats, they are offer much greater leg room for the lucky passengers assigned to this row.
Previously, charges for emergency row seats were the same as any other in economy class. Now, for long haul flights the price will be up to $160 more. On shorter flights the extra charge is expected to be around $80. Frequent flier passengers will be able to upgrade to an emergency row seat using points.
Higher charges for emergency aisle seats have previously been the domain on budget carriers like Air Asia, Jetstar and Tiger Airways. It seems that Qantas may be intending to move away from premium airline to a mid range carrier. They need to make a decision - are they budget airline or not?
Personally, i stopped flying Qantas long haul a while ago. The cabin service was appalling as was the food. And i found the planes to be old, dirty and in poor condition.
This latest decision isn't going to win me back. Ive benefited from the emergency row seat in the past. I'm sure I'm not alone. Could you imagine someone over 6 foot 5 having to sit in a cramped seat in the middle of economy class?
This announcement could come back to bite Qantas in a big way. I'll be waiting for the law suit when some overly tall person suffers DVT from the poor legroom in economy.
Emergency Exit Seats
On short haul aircraft, the emergency exit rows are generally located mid cabin. They provide significant more room between seats to enable passengers to get past unhindered in the event of an emergency. Passengers are assigned to these seats only if they can assist cabin crew by opening the exit door/window.
On long haul planes the emergency exit row provides for much larger legroom. In fact the space in front of the seat is usually larger than a metre. Cabin crew are designated to open the door and don't generally require the assistance of passengers in an emergency.
I just love the boldness of the scammers. I think the following scammer, purporting to be from the IMF, may be new to the game. He has yet to master the art of writing in English. And it might help if you can actually spell the word "International", being from the IMF and all. Nevertheless, i get the general idea of what he is saying.
Its a novel approach. Recognise and admit that other scam artists exist in Africa. Then offer compensation of 3.8 million Euros because they have ripped us off, even though i may have spent more than that.
So there you go. A scam working off the success of other scamsters. Ingenious.
Have a read - laugh if you want, i did.
-----------
from imf imf
reply-to imflondon222@yahoo.co.uk
subject IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM INTERNTIONAL MONETARY FUND LONDON.
ATTN.BENEFICIARY,
THIS IS THE OFFICE OF THE INTERNTIONAL MONETARY FUND LONDON,WE THE IMF RECEIVED A SIGNAL OF ALL YOUR VICTIMS FROM THE SCAMMERS IN AFRICA AND ALSO YOUR PAST LOST OF HUGE AMOUNT FOR PAST YEARS 1999 THERE ABOUT .
AFTER GOING THROUGH YOUR FILE WE HAVE TO HAND OVER YOUR FILE TO THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT THAT ARE COMPENSATING ALL THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE FALLEN VICTIM IN AFRICA .
THEREFORE THE REPORT WE GOT FROM THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT IS THAT YOU ARE TO BE COMPENSATE WITH THE AMOUNT OF €3.8MILLION EUROS,THOUGH THAT YOU MAY HAVE SPENT MORE THAN THAT BUT WITH ALL DUE RESPECT WE ARE APOLOGISING YOU TO KINDLY ACCEPT THIS OFFER AS PART OF THE GOVERNMENT COMPENSATION FOR YOUR LOST MONEY.
YOU ARE TO CONFIRM TO US YOUR ADDRESS WHICH YOU WANT OUR LOCAL BRANCH IN AFRICA TO SEND YOUR ATM CARD THAT WAS ISSUE ALREADY IN YOUR NAME SO THAT THEY WILL SEND THE ATM CARD TO YOU.NOTE THAT BECAUSE OF IMPOSTORS,WE HEREBY ISSUE YOU OUR CODE OF CONDUCT,WHICH IS (ATM-0411) SO YOU HAVE TO INDICATE THIS CODE WHEN CONTACTING THE CARD CENTER BY USING IT AS YOUR SUBJECT.
HOWEVER, KINDLY CONTACT MY SECRETARY ,MR.ANDERSON GEORGE.Email:(atm_payoutservice001@live.com), WITH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION;
* YOUR FULL NAME:
* DELIVERY ADDRESS:
* SEX:
* AGE:
* OCCUPATION:
* PHONE NUMBER:
* COUNTRY:
AWAITING TO HEAR FROM YOU.
DR.JAMES WILSON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (IMF)
INTERNTIONAL MONETARY FUND
LONDON.TEL / +447024076752.
California's Bronco Wine Company has purchased millions of litres of bulk Australian chardonnay which looks set to be sold in the U.S market under a Down Under label for about $3 a bottle.
Bronco are the makers of the Charles Shaw label of wines sold in Trader Joe's grocery stores for as little as $1.99 a bottle. They are affectionately known as the two buck chuck. But the Charles Shaw wines are sourced from grapes grown in California.
The oversupply of chardonnay in Australia has left winemakers sitting on at least 20 million litres of wine valued at as little as 60 cents a litre on the bulk market. It is not economical for them to bottle it but they need to clear their tanks for the 2009 harvest. That's where Bronco has stepped in as a life saver.
Currently the biggest Australian budget wine in the United States is the Yellow Tail brand, selling for about $6 a bottle. 8.4 million cases of the Yellow Tail wine are sold every year in the States. 25% of that is Chardonnay.
By taking up at least some of the bulk wine and packaging it under the Down Under Label, Bronco will seek to reduce the dominance of the Yellow Tail label. And they will probably succeed.
Australia has fallen out of love with Chardonnay in recent years, meaning that even at the cheaper end of the market, the quality is still good. Check out the major discounts on big name bottles next time you are at a liquor store. You might get a surprise on how low the prices really are.
Here's my advice. If you are looking to stock up your cellar on good Australian wine, you need look no further than chardonnay. Its still the best white wine in my opinion, and there will come a time where people recognise that Sauvignon Blanc is nothing more than flavored lolly water.
Clare Werbeloff on A Current Affair
Video Below
Clare Werbeloff is set to appear on A Current Affair, interviewed by none other than Ben Fordham. (You may recall that Fordham was charged earlier this year with concealing a serious crime and breaching the listening devices act. More on that later)
I'm still trying to work out what angle A Current Affair will take. The media hate being conned, so they could try to cut Clare down to size. That would be so tough for me. Ive not been a fan of Clare so far, but gee having ACA against her might just be enough to swing me back on her side.
But they could also help to celebrate another white suburban wannabee star. That's what the media just love to do.
UPDATE: In her interview with Fordham, Clare insists that she is not a racist, she was just having some fun with the media. She said that Aussies love to play jokes, and didnt think that this would be a big issue.
Its been a softly softly approach by Nine and ACA - maybe they are setting up a contract with her. As Tracey said, "i have a feeling thats not the last we will see of her." Yes, they are celebrating the trash.
And thats why Today Tonight have stuck the boot in. They have run a story on hoaxes tonight - it may not be their last attempt to attack Werbeloff.
So many conflicting interests. At least we have Fordham on the case. Lets hope he keeps the secret microphones at home.
Of course, whatever approach they take we know that its likely that A Current Affair has pulled out the chequebook to pay Werbeloff. That might be a quick payoff for Clare, but watch out for the opposing networks.
If Werbeloff is idolised by ACA, just wait for Today Tonight. They may just take the opposite view. And they probably wont stop at anything to dig some dirt.
Whatever happens, Clare will still be an Internet sensation. And those rumors of her posing for a magazine will only increase. Latest speculation is a bikini shoot.
Video of the ACA interview to follow.
Qantas to Abandon First Class Fares on Long Haul Routes
In a direct response to reduced demand for air travel in the global financial crisis, Qantas has announced that it will be cutting the first class service on 3 important routes.
First Class will be suspended between July 6 and October 31 on Sydney to San Francisco, Sydney to Buenos Aires and Melbourne to London via Hong Kong between July 6 and October 31. Qantas has cited no demand for first class seats on these routes, and has not ruled out extending the cutback.
While the first class prices wont be offered, the seats will still be used. It will mean that some people flying Business Class will be upgraded to First Class seats at no extra cost. But don't expect the first class service - passengers will still be treated as per their paying class.
As a result of the financial crisis many companies have been cutting back on non essential travel. Others are downgrading their employees to Business Class or even economy.
Major airlines have been offering significant discounts on Business Class fares to attract greater patronage. Business and First class is traditionally where major airlines make most of their profit.
Another victim of a glassing attack will lose his right eye after being set upon by a 23 year old man in Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.
The 20 year old victim was hit in the face by a schooner glass after approaching 2 men. It seems he did nothing more than try to strike up a conversation with the alleged offender. The victim suffered severe facial injuries and was flown to the Sydney Eye Hospital.
The 23 year old alleged attacker ran away after the attack but was arrested shortly afterwards. He appeared in court and was remanded in custody.
Please tell me, why cant we have plastic glasses? This is a national issue, glassings are happening way too often. Nobody seems to be doing anything about it.
Its time the Federal Government stood up on this issue. They need to urge the states to make plastic cups or containers mandatory in pubs and clubs. How many more injured or dead people does it take for action to be taken?
The Opposition Health Spokesperson Peter Dutton has said that they would be open to raising the tax on all alcohol.
The Liberal opposition has consistently opposed the raise on the tax of alcopops which has cut a big hole in the Government's budget.
Dutton argues that the alcopop tax measure has only shifted drinking patterns, meaning that teens were moving to other drinks like cask wine and beer.
On Ten's Meet the Press, Dutton said that "If the Minister was serious about having a discussion about addressing the real problem of binge drinking, she would talk about putting, as the health groups have advocated,a broader-based tax on alcohol."
The Federal Opposition is already arguing for a tax rise of 12.5% on cigarettes - raising the price by about 75 cents a pack. Yet unlike the Labor Party, the Liberal Opposition will still continue to accept political donations from tobacco companies.
Dutton and the Liberals have yet to put a proposal on how much they would lift the tax on other forms of alcohol.
Sudanese Immigrants Bash 23 Year old at Sunshine Station
More violence in Melbourne. This one was from a few months back. 3 thugs set upon a 23 year old man in a tunnel at Sunshine Railway Station in Melbourne.
They kicked him repeatedly and stole his backpack and mobile phone. In total, the value of their robbery was about $500. The victim suffered severe head injuries.
It sounds disturbing, but just wait until you watch the video of the incident. The thugs are enjoying beating this young kid. Watch at the end the effect it has on the victim.
Whats worse is that a couple walk by while the victim is on the ground. The 3 boys from Sudan are standing over him. But the couple don't stop, nor do they seem to pay any attention to the victim. Its just none of their business.
Thankfully, the police caught these 3 thugs. They are Maluac Kur, Ahmed Mohamed and Monda Mentel. They have been remanded in custody. God forbid if we give these guys a light sentence.
We all remember the death of hero Brendan Keilar in 2007, and the serious injuries of Paul De Waard. Both were gunned down in broad daylight by bikie criminal Christoper Wayne Hudson for simply trying to do the right thing and protect a fellow citizen.
It seems that Luke Mitchell has suffered the same fate. Mitchell died in hospital hours after being set upon by as many as 4 thugs. He was bashed and stabbed repeatedly.
Mitchell's only crime was to step in to stop an attack on a person who was being assaulted by numerous people outside the Spot Nightclub in Sydney Road, Brunswick. It seems that he did the right thing. Like Keilar and De Warrd, he wasn't going to be a bystander to such violence.
Minutes later, outside a convenience store, a car pulled up with as many as 4 people jumping out to attack Mitchell. He was stabbed 5 times, then kicked while on the ground.
It seems that some people just don't value human life. If you have seen the footage of half a dozen teenagers bashing an Indian student on a train in Melbourne you will know what i mean. Its some seriously disturbing stuff.
I have confidence that the police will find these guys. They are pretty good at this sort of thing.
And when they do I just want their parents to have a little think about what their children have done. If they want to know if they have failed as parents - they have in a big way.
Luke Mitchell deserves our praise. And he should be bestowed with a bravery award. But that's little comfort to his family and friends.
They may get some more comfort when these thugs are caught and sentenced to life imprisonment. And life should mean just that. Jail is not about rehabilitation - its about punishment, protecting our streets and being at least a mild deterrent. We must send a message that this violence just wont be tolerated.
Punking the Mainstream Media
"You all got Punk'd" - so wrote Clare Werbeloff on Facebook the day after her now infamous fake witness account of a shooting in Kings Cross. Yes, the media were punked, and so were hundreds of thousands of Internet users who watched her video.
What is punking? The TV Series Punk'd, hosted by Aston Kutcher ran on the MTV network between 2003 and 2007. It was a similar format to Candid Camera, where practical jokes were played on unsuspecting victims, usually celebrities.
Adopting a similar theme, Clare Werbeloff added her own unique approach - she just made up an eyewitness account to a crime. It was so good that it was played over and over until she became an Internet star, complete with publicist. But its not the first time the media have been duped.
Recently, Irish Student Shane Fitzgerald changed the Wikepedia entry of the just deceased Music Composer Maurice Jarre. He added his own quote, "When I die there will be a final waltz playing in my head", and attributed it to Jarre.
Sure enough, when writing their obituaries the media went straight to the Wikepeida site and copied the quote. It appeared in major newspapers all over the world. Only when Fitzgerald admitted his little test did the press know of the ruse. Fitzgerald had effectively punked the world's media.
Is this a sign of things to come? It seems like it could be. The media do so little checking that people like Werbeloff and Fitzgerald can get away quite easily with faking a news story. Werbeloff will certainly profit from this experience. Others might like some of that fame themselves.
The TV media are probably the easiest targets. They are always keen to get a bystander or neighbour's account of what happened. Its where we get those "he kept to himself but he always seemed like a nice quiet young boy" 15 second news grabs. It makes for great filler but its not always accurate. But when its just a quick quote, hey, what does it matter?
That's where punking will have its place. People will now be seeking out every press camera hoping to tell their story - real or not. But they may also try their luck with the print press. If they can create some short term fame, well, that's their 15mins. If it doesn't hamper a police investigation then I'm not sure there is a problem.
Keeping the media on their toes is all part of the game. If Ashton Kutcher can punk big time celebrities in the States, why cant we do it for two bit news reporters in Australia? Go get em kids.
Internet star and media hoaxer Clare Werbeloff is set to feature in a Magazine spread minus clothes according to numerous sources on the world wide web.
Believe it? It could be true. The sources claim that she has already been or is about to be approached by Zoo or Ralph magazine. I'm tipping Zoo, its a much trashier mag.
Regardless of her made up story that she gave to the media, Claire will still be a sensation. Despite my views on white trash, Clare is actually attractive. If she does pose for a magazine in revealing clothes or indeed naked, she would sell copies.
She has a publicist, Adam Abrams who has already negotiated a deal with Nine's A Current Affair. Clare Werbeloff has suggested that she will not be paid for this interview. But its hard to see her ignoring offers from magazines or other media ventures to capitalise on her "stardom".
I suppose it really is this easy to make a buck these days. Come up with a catchy phrase like Chk Chk Boom and punk the media.
Clare Werbeloff Invented Story about Kings Cross Wog Shooting - Police
Another victory for the anti white trash crusaders. Clare Werbeloff, an Internet sensation after her eyewitness account for the news cameras has admitted to making up the story regarding the wog boys of Kings Cross.
Detective Inspector Matt McQueen the Acting Kings Cross Police crime manager said that "We have interviewed her and she has not witnessed the shooting. She has admitted to making it all up..."
Werbeloff became a worldwide hit, with tshirts and other promotional material being produced within days of the events. She even hired a publicist, such were the demands for her time. Over 15,000 people had joined fan pages with at least 750 signing up to hate pages on Facebook.
Her publicist Adam Abrams confirmed the police statement "She was not a witness. She saw the camera, ran over to it and told this story."
Clare was scheduled to do an exclusive tell all for A Current Affair. I wonder how much they have paid her to tell a bogus story? Wouldn't be any different to most of the other pretend stories on ACA.Chk Chk boom indeed.
The "skinny wog" shooting victim has already told the media that Clare has no brains. Justin Kallu said that "I'm just a bit upset about the fact that I've been shot and that I almost lost my life and there's this girl all over the news getting popular all because she has no brains."
I questioned at the time that her account was almost too good to be true. "How she can recall with such detail when a gun was drawn and fired is beyond me." Does it please me to right? You bet. Bloody white trash.
Important - Commonwealth Bank Netbank Scam Email
Some of the attempts to scam you out of money are really clever. These scammers go as far as setting up almost identical looking online banking websites. By the time you have inputted your information, it is too late.
Don't fall for them. The Banks regularly insist that they will not ask for your personal information or passwords etc via email.
The latest one is purporting to be from Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and indicates that your Netbank Service is about to expire. They ask you to LogOn and follow the steps. Don't follow the link in the email - it will send you to a dodgy website where they will steal your information and then clean out your accounts.
This is the email:
from Commonwealth Bank of Australia
subject Important!
Dear Member,
Your NetBank service is about to expire.
Please renew it immediately or your home banking will be closed.
If you intend to use this service in the future, you must take action at once!
To continue Log On to your personal NetBank and follow the steps.
Thank you,
Commonwealth NetBank
© 2009 Commonwealth Bank of Australia, ABN 48 123 123 124.
UPDATE: From the Commonwealth Bank Official Site:
A number of hoax emails are in circulation directing you to fake websites to capture your confidential banking details. These emails claim to be from the Bank and may appear to be genuine; they are fraudulent and should be deleted immediately. The Bank does not send emails requesting you, to confirm, update or disclose your confidential banking details. You can learn more and see examples of hoax emails at: commbank.com.au/security-privacy/
It seems that the late Dr John Garang de Mabior has a lot of relatives. And they all seem to have a great deal of his money which they are offering to me. My latest offer was from one of his daughters, Kola John Garang.
Dr John Garang was a real person, a leader of the Sudanese People's Liberation Army. He was actually killed in a helicopter crash in 2005.
For helping his daughter Kola to escape from her evil step mother, i will be rewarded with 20% of 10.5 million US Dollars. I'm thinking a rescue mission might be in order.
So of course, i replied.
---------------------
Dear Kola Garang
Thank you for your detailed email. Please allow me to offer my sympathy on the death of your father. I feel your pain. From reading your email i can see how close you were to him. I cried just a little bit for you. It can help to pray, maybe even by saying our Lord's prayer over and over.
If you have the time, i think you should read the bible - start at the last page and work your way back. Reading backwards is fun don't you think? And it gives a whole new meaning to religion. But i digress.
With regard to your mother hiding your passport and other valuable documents, have you looked under the couch? Maybe its been hidden in the sugar jar, like right at the bottom. Sometimes mothers can be really sneaky. It might be a good idea to keep searching when she goes out.
If you cant find them, might i suggest hiring a renegade officer from the French Foreign Legion to assist you? He could kidnap your mother and force her to hand over the documents. Ive found that it helps to take extreme measures sometimes. I don't condone violence, but Kola, please be aware that this is your life and you don't want to be waiting there in misery. If it means your mother has to experience a dirty Frenchman having his way with her, then that's a small price to pay for your happiness. I really do mean that.
In the meantime, i have looked at your proposal and would be very interested to hear more. Would you like to send me a photo of you? I hope you are pretty and not fat. Fat people eat a lot of food don't they? I think mars bars are great, but too many makes your butt look big. But I'm sure you are skinny. I could sense that from reading your email. In fact i got the feeling that you have dark hair and brown eyes, would i be right?
Id very much like to meet you because you sound so genuine and in need of someone to take care of you. I could take care of you very well. I'm that sort of guy.
I look forward to your prompt response, although I'm very sad for your hardship, I'm very excited at the thought of spending a lifetime with someone so trustworthy.
Warmest regards, YG
------------------
from Kola John Garang
reply-to kolagarang@gmail.com
subject Hello Dear
Hello Dear
Goodday, I am writing this mail with tears, sadness and pains. I know it will come to you as a surprise since we haven't known or come across each other before considering the fact that I sourced your email contact through the Internet in search of trusted person who can assist me.
I am Kola John Garang 24 years old female from the Republic of Sudan, the Daughter of Late Dr. John Garang. Before my late father’s death in Uganda on 31st of July 2005, was vice president and former rebel leader of Sudan and was kill by Sudan President Omar al Bashir in helicopter crash. You can read more about my father in the link below. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/2134220.stm.
I am constrained to contact you because of the maltreatment which I am receiving from my step mother. She planned to take away all my late father's treasury and properties from me since the unexpected death of my beloved Father. Meanwhile I wanted to travel to Europe, but she hide away my international passport and other valuable documents. Luckily she did not discover where I kept my father's File which contained important documents. Now I am presently staying in the Mission in Burkina Faso. I am seeking for long term relationship and investment assistance. My father of blessed memory deposited the sum of US$10.5 Million in one bank in Burkina Faso with my name as the next of kin. I had contacted the Bank to clear the deposit but the Branch Manager told me that being a refugee, my status according to the local law does not authorize me to carry out the operation. However, he advised me to provide a trustee who will stand on my behalf. I had wanted to inform my stepmother about this deposit but I am afraid that she will not offer me anything after the release of the money.
Therefore, I decide to seek for your help in transferring the money into your bank account while I will relocate to your country and settle down with you. As you indicated your interest to help me I will give you the account number and the contact of the bank where my late beloved father deposited the money with my name as the next of kin. It is my intention to compensate you with 20% of the total money for your assistance and the balance shall be my investment in any profitable venture which you will recommend to me as have no any idea about foreign investment. Please all communications should be through this email address only for confidential purposes.
Thanking you a lot in anticipation of your quick response. I will send you details in my next email for you to know me well.
Yours Kola Garang
There is not a lot worse than watching the media lead a crusade for an "honour" which should be independently judged on merit.
And forgive me for thinking this, but Lou Richards himself calling for the award is just a little self indulgent. Almost as bad as Rove voting for himself to win another Gold Logie. If this award is given to Lou Richards, based on his and the media's campaign, then the whole reputation of the Legend Status will be tarnished.
If they come, these honours or awards should be received gracefully. They should not be lobbied for. This is not the Academy Awards, where nominees spend months trying to win votes for themselves. The AFL has always been pretty much above that. Our legends really are legends.
I was surprised and just a little annoyed that Richards knocked back a Lifetime Achievement Award. He could have been truly celebrated by the AFL. He wants all or nothing.
Is Lou Richards a football legend? Of course he is. I grew up watching and listening to him on TV. He was a great asset in the football media. But there are plenty of those, many who haven't even played senior footy.
But how about his playing days, does he qualify to be an AFL Legend? Ive no idea. i wasn't around to judge him. I will leave that to people in a better position to determine these things, and make a decision based on the criteria. If he doesn't meet the criteria, and it seems he doesn't, then that's the end of it.
Being larger than life and contributing to the game of footy after playing does not mean legend status. After all, why not give an award to Bruce McAvaney or Tim Lane? I think they are both fantastic too.
And why the call now - why not 5 or 10 years ago? Being offered an award just because someone has reached their final years just makes a mockery of the whole thing. That is what they do at the Oscars. But this isn't a sympathy award, it has criteria. It should be adhered to.
Am i alone in thinking that a media campaign for awards is a dangerous step forward? If we don't stick to the criteria, who is next?
He's not so skinny after all. Those of you familiar with Clare Werbeloff and her witness account of a shooting in Kings Cross, might be surprised to learn that there was a victim.
Yes, a man was shot twice. His name is Justin Kallu. But Clare Werbeloff is getting all the media coverage.
Kallu is recovering in hospital and is doing as well as can be expected of someone having two bullets in the knee. He isn't so happy about the fact that someone with "no brains", ie Clare Werbeloff is getting all the attention. He has a point.
Kallu contacted News Limited with the following message: "Im just abit upset about the fact that ive been shot and that i almost lost my life and theres this girl all over the news getting popular all because she has no brains."
Alas, we do celebrate white trash with no brains in this country. People should keep in mind that someone could have died here.
How to know what your kids are really saying or talking about
Kids Acronyms and Secret Codes on the Internet and in Text Messages
Acronyms, secret codes and abbreviations. They have been around forever. But in this fast paced world, its been generation Y to take them to new levels in conversation.
Because much of the social interaction between teens (and younger) occurs online or though a phone, they have learnt to be concise in the way they communicate. That has led to very cleverly designed acronyms, codes and abbreviations.
I'm of the opinion that kids are growing up much faster than we give them credit for. And so fast that parents seem to lose control of what their kids are really up to. The age for regular consumption of alcohol has come down significantly in the last 20 years. And so has first sexual activity.
While the worst crime might still be lying about staying over at a friends house, much of the questionable activity might be occurring from their own bedroom. Or worse, your living room. I read a report recently which suggested that kids as young as 8 years old were involved in sexting. Now that is disturbing. And its worrying that this is happening under the noses of parents.
So do you know what your kids are actually saying?
These are apparently the top 50 secret codes, abbreviations and acronyms used by kids on the Internet and in text messages. List complied by netlingo.com Some tech savvy people claim that not all of these are actually regularly used. Nevertheless, it gives you an idea what to look out for. Code is code, and its really not that hard to work it out.
1 8 Oral sex
2 1337 Elite
3 143 I love you
4 182 I hate you
5 459 I love you
6 1174 Nude club
7 420 Marijuana
8 ADR Address
9 ASL Age/Sex/Location
10 Banana Penis
11 CD9 or Code 9 Parents are around
12 DUM Do You Masturbate?
13 DUSL Do You Scream Loud?
14 FB F*** Buddy
15 FMLTWIA F*** Me Like The Whore I Am
16 FOL Fond of Leather
17 GNOC Get Naked On Cam
18 GYPO Get Your Pants Off
19 IAYM I Am Your Master
20 IF/IB In the Front or In the Back
21 IIT Is It Tight?
22 ILF/MD I Love Female/Male Dominance
23 IMEZRU I Am Easy, Are You?
24 IWSN I Want Sex Now
25 J/O Jerking Off
26 KFY or K4Y Kiss For You
27 Kitty Vagina
28 KPC Keeping Parents Clueless
29 MorF Male or Female
30 LMIRL Let's Meet In Real Life
31 MOOS Member Of The Opposite Sex
32 MOSS Member(s) Of The Same Sex
33 WYCM Will You Call Me?
34 MOS Mom Over Shoulder
35 MPFB My Personal F*** Buddy
36 NALOPKT Not A Lot Of People Know That
37 NIFOC Nude In Front Of The Computer
38 NMU Not Much, You?
39 P911 Parent Alert
40 PAL Parents Are Listening
41 PAW Parents Are Watching
42 PIR Parent In Room
43 POS Parent Over Shoulder or Piece Of Sh**
44 PRON Porn
45 Q2C Quick To Cum
46 RU/18 Are You Over 18?
47 RUH Are You Horny?
48 S2R Send To Receive
49 SorG Straight or Gay
50 TDTM Talk Dirty To Me
Pakistan Cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has pulled up sore. Actually, he has genital warts, and has been removed from the Pakistan team to tour England next month for the international 20/20 tournament.
The Pakistan Cricket Board issued the following statement:
"We have pulled him out of the World Twenty20 on the basis of a medical report given by our doctor which said that Akhtar needs 10 days to recover from groin wounds. The medical board has reported that Akhtar was suffering from genital viral warts."
I'm sorry, i don't have any photos...
According to the trusted Wikipedia source, Genital Warts are a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease, "...spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected partner." Oh dear.
I'm struggling to work out why this detail was released. Its not something that you would want to the world to know. Couldn't the board have just said that he had a groin issue and leave it at that? No need to bring the issue out in the open, warts and all...
Its a novel approach. A Liberal Party member by the name of Tim Andrews is using the images of attractive girls to recruit new members to the Liberal Students Club. He posted numerous photos to his website, which has since been removed.
It was done in jest, but it has got some Liberals hot under the collar. One of the photos was apparently of a girl on Malcolm Turnbull's staff. Oops.
Tim Andrews puts it simply on why there is hope for the Liberal Party:
However – there is reason for hope! For optimism! Definite proof that here in Australia we shall triumph! How do I know this? Easy – the Babe Theory Of Politics. To put it simply – we have all the hot girls.
Yes. There are some pretty cute girls there.
But what about posting some photos of your MP's? Perhaps Sophie Mirabella wearing a bikini in a spa. Maybe Bronwyn Bishop riding a statue. Or just give us Sharman Stone whipping some asylum seekers - you know what i mean.
Because we all know that most politicians are fugly. Most of these girls on Andrews' site probably wont even be in the Liberal Party in 5 years time. They are too cute. So show us the ugly girls as well. I want some balance goddamit.
Another day, another idiot. We previously had the case of the Hawthorn supporter who thought it was a good idea to ride on the back of a train at speeds of up to 90kmh. That tosser was charged by police and is unlikely to ever live the incident down. If in fact he does live - he has pledged to do it all again.
Now we have a loser deciding to ride the back of a tram. The number 86 Bundoora to the City tram was on Plenty Road when this idiot was captured on film.
The man was described as being in his late 20's or early 30's. You would think that someone of that age may have grown up. Unless there is other footage of this guy, he probably wont be caught - the image is very grainy. But i wish the police well. A girl fell off the back of a tram a few months back and was seriously injured. Surfing a tram is obviously not a safe adventure.
Do you know this man?
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