The one day of the year for us types

October 1, 1997
Issue 

The one day of the year for us types

It is right and fitting that some testimony of the passions and adventures of our times be provided for those who may succeed us. I am therefore taking this extraordinary step of addressing you because the next life bears down upon me.

He who is not threatened by foreign invasion does not understand easily what this nation is, nor the management and correct handling of its wealth. But I, who fought the Japanese, know that that for which I struggled is not being preserved today.

In one way or another the history of Australia is passing us by and we suffer, sometimes for that reason and other times for another. But if we all stood together, as one committed to our true social heritage, we could repair the damage of recent years.

It may be seen as fashionable in some circles, where youth and ethnicity mix, to pooh pooh Australia and denigrate its achievements. But for those of us who are patriotic what this nation stands for is a sacred trust.

On October 4 we have chosen to celebrate the true social heritage and history of Australia with a special event of great national significance.

On this day we will mark this remarkable century (1897-1997) at the Festival Hall in Brisbane with word, deed and music.

October 4 program

If you come early you will be able to mingle with long-time comrades as you enjoy pipe and brass bands playing a medley of Australia's most popular tunes, including old favourites like "Waltzing Matilda", "The Road to Gundagai" and "Pack Up Your Troubles". They will be followed by modern classics such as "I Still Call Australia Home", (despite the fact it was written by a renowned "back door bandit") which we thought would give the repertoire a contemporary feel.

Members of the Australian Light Horse, complete with slouch hats and plumage, will be in attendance. What a sight that will be! (Will they be mounted on their trusty steeds, I hear you ask? Wait and see.)

After one hour and 10 minutes of this rousing stuff, at 12.45pm, to the tune of "Advance Australia Fair", the bands will march into the assembly through a Light Horsemen guard of honour with the nation's flag born proudly aloft. (It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it.)

Then, without any further ado, the business of the gathering will get under way.

Mr Bruce Ruxton OBE, respected leader of the Returned Services League, will share his thoughts on "What Australia stands for, has fought for and must do today". As a highly regarded commentator on national affairs and long-time critic of our national apathy over matters patriotic, Mr Ruxton's address is sure to be food for thought.

Lady Florence Bjelke-Petersen will then take the podium to outline "Important aspects of Australia's traditions, identity and achievements". No doubt Lady Flo will be able to draw on the rich legacy of her husband's many years of achievement as Queensland premier. (Lady Flo's latest recipe book will be on sale at a special discount price at the back of the hall.)

For variety, and before we hear from the Reverend Wilf Blake speaking on "The Magna Carter and its Christian and historical implications today", we have arranged a tribute to the deeds of the Australian Light Horse. For the kiddies, as a special treat, we honour the late Lord Baden Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts. (Dib! Dib! boys and girls: Dib! Dib!)

Our guests can rest up or avail themselves of the opportunity to visit the public conveniences while we present a short musical interlude before hearing from (wait for it!) Pauline Hanson, founder and leader of the One Nation party.

Yes! Pauline Hanson will offer nourishment so that the likes of us can keep resolution in our own minds and this great country at the core of our hearts.

Yes! What a day it will be: October 4, Festival Hall, Brisbane. Aiming for freedom, prosperity, respect, tolerance, equality and security for us types who don't know what's got into this country lately.

But we think it's Asian.

By Dave Riley

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