Daylight saving time is a controversial topic in Queensland, the only state in Australia that does not observe it. Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen famously made the decision not to implement daylight saving time, citing the preference of the people of Queensland and his own unwillingness to wake up an hour earlier. This decision was met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that it was a missed opportunity for the state.
Julie Corkery of Hurlstone Park expressed her annoyance with the overuse of superlatives such as “amazing” or “brilliant” to describe everyday feelings and events. She highlighted the passing of Kris Kristofferson as a moment that prompted her to speak out against this trend. However, she was also reminded to stop calling someone Aunty, indicating a personal connection and casual relationship with the recipient of her message.
A humorous anecdote shared by Janita Rankin of North Dandalup (WA) described her grandson, who was dressed as Batman, impressing his four-year-old cousin with his superhero powers. However, when the cousin grew tired of the game and suggested playing something else, the grandson was left feeling embarrassed and reminded her that his superhero persona was not just a costume. This lighthearted story captured the playful interactions between children and their imaginative roles.
George Manojlovic of Mangerton offered a humorous suggestion as to why superheroes wear their underpants on the outside, jokingly implying that a phone booth, traditionally used as a superhero transformation spot, could also be a source of sexually transmitted diseases. This clever and witty observation added a comedic twist to the discussion of superhero attire and fictional origins.
Geoff Croxson of Jannali pondered the connection between superheroes and journalism, particularly noting Spider-Man’s dual role as a crime-fighting superhero and a journalist. He questioned whether the creation of superheroes who work in journalism was a lack of imagination on the part of the creators or a strategic excuse for superheroes to be close to high-action events. This thought-provoking inquiry delved into the symbolic significance of superheroes and their occupations.
Former training manager Adrian Bell of Davistown shared insights into the history and success of Bankcard, a credit card service that revolutionized retailing in Australia. He praised the founding general manager, David Synnott, and his team for building a successful and efficient credit card service that surpassed competitors like Amex and Diners Club. The eventual end of Bankcard was attributed to the amalgamation of major banks into the “Big Four,” who required customers to switch to their own cards. This historical perspective offered valuable information about the evolution of the credit card industry in Australia.
