Campaign tactics. “Coalition candidates are avoiding mention of John Howard and instead campaigning on local issues in their fight to thwart Kevin Rudd in the federal election,” Matthew Franklin writes in the Oz today. This campaign tactic doesn’t seem restricted to the government. Log onto Labor deputy Julia Gillard’s home page and you’ll find plenty of pre-makeover shots featuring the most distressing hair, but no Heavy Kevvy. Go to his shadow treasurer’s site – and there’s no Kev either.

Man of many parts. Bob Hawke delighted the faithful last night at the launch of the Labor campaign for the government marginal of Wakefield – not least with his impersonation of Billy McMahon.

The McClelland family record of success. The shadow foreign affairs minister’s grandfather was sacked by Sir Philip Game. His father was sacked by Sir John Kerr. Will Kevin Rudd get in before anyone can exercise the traditional vice-regal prerogative?

Counselled? Me? Still up on the ALP website. That Robert McClelland speech.