Briefs showing: The off-the-record briefing sessions given to
Gallery journalists on Tuesdays after the various party room meetings
are notoriously light-on for detail. Indeed, we’re being shown up by
our Kiwi cousins. Have a look at this account
of what happens after their Cabinet meetings. Helen Clark comes out and
says what Cabinet has decided, and then takes general questions in a
full-on press conference. Nothing like a bit of accountability.

Military lore: The Army loves nicknames, and they have a new one for the PM. “Commando John,” to be said with tongue firmly planted in cheek.

Neighbours:
As the furore continues to rage around South Australian MP Mark Brindal
and allegations of sex in his electorate office with a young man whose
financial affairs are under the control of the Guardianship Board,
attention has been drawn to his neighbours. Brindal’s office is at 372
Unley Road, in the posh suburb of Unley Park. And a quick phone call
has confirmed that at 370 one can visit a, er, service, advertised in
the Adelaide Advertiser as “ASIAN JULIE. Attractive buxom. Recent
Arrival. Magic Massage. A Must!”