A few thoughts on today: 1. The response from the state and federal security forces was exceptional. At all times they were calm and collected, refusing to buy into the sensationalism that surrounds such events. Similarly, Prime Minister Abbotts response was absolutely correct - dropping everything to respond to this situation is not the best way to deal with it. 2. There is little that can be done to defend against these lone wolf attacks. Threats and vulnerabilities are two completely separate areas. Threats are nebulous and ever present, even though the intent may not be there. Vulnerabilities are where we should focus, and thankfully, there is little of Australia that is vulnerable to an attack. 3. The media needs to tone down the sensationalism. Its understandable that the national media is focussing on this event, but they must be judicious in their reportage when there is a very real threat of reprisal attacks is so high. I do not expect much from the tabloid newspapers, but when no-one has any answers, it wont take much to push more serious journalists down this path. Even though I dont count Channel 10 as being emblematic of serious journalism, broadcasting unconfirmed reports of IEDs in Sydney at the busiest time of day is just about the worst possible thing the media could do. 4. Australia is not vulnerable to coup detat from the Muslim community. If you think this, then you probably shouldnt be outside without supervision. If youre labouring under the delusion that Halal certifications are funding terrorism, then I expect that you will also immediately stop buying petrol, as the world oil trade props up the countries that fund terrorist groups. 5. If you dont know, dont speculate. 6. So far today, more people have died of shark attacks than terrorism. Happy the eyes that can close
Posted on: Mon, 15 Dec 2014 07:11:32 +0000