The polls too far

THE OLD BEAR
Pondering the worth of that public debate between Messrs Bartlett, Hodgman and McKim, I suddenly had the thought of Christmas.

No, not a reminder of that spirit of goodwill to all men (whatever their party political persuasions) this season is supposed to engender. Instead, my thoughts followed the line: why do we have to endure Christmas commercialisation starting months out from the actual celebration? So why then should we be experiencing a political talkfest when it’s even further from the reality of the election?

Isn’t seven months before the public has to make a voting choice just a tad too much of a premature presentation of how this earnest political threesome intends providing salvation for this state as it continues through tough economic times?

Being urged to start buying goodies for Christmas is one thing, buying the offerings of hopeful pollies is a different matter altogether.

Won’t we have to suffer repeated offerings from the Labor, Liberal and Green camps in the coming weeks leading up to March 20? We can anticipate, without much relish, the prospect of more argy-bargy from the pollies. There’s an inherent risk here that we may be reduced to a state of apathy (or at least fatigue).

And we still have to vote in the local government elections beforehand!

Perhaps I’m just your old, disenchanted political cynic. I’m sure the multitude of purveyors of political spin will consign my views to the depths of the Derwent, for they no doubt saw validity in the “no-holds-barred” (as the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry sponsored occasion was billed) pre-election outing. Not for them the polls too far.

I noted there were three tables of advisers/bureaucrats present in support of Premier David. No dimunition then in his backing force during these strained financial times. The minders are not going to lose their bearings, as it were.

Surely it wasn’t coincidence that Elwick racecourse was chosen as the venue? One race run on the political card. You’ll see the threesome leaping into the saddles for more, riding hands and heels to the winning post. There’s plenty at stake, but track conditions may make for difficult running. Look to those who will be the stayers.

But really, it’s a bit early for a form guide.