The most important event for us this month was another death. My best friend Kevin passed away on the 11th after a 10 month battle with Cancer. It was of course not unexpected. None the less it still hit us very hard. Kim was very close to Kevin also. It was a brave fight. He was open and pragmatic about what was happening to him, which made it easier for everyone to face. We could talk about what was happening. None of those 'Oh s**t I shouldn't have said that'. He organised his funeral and his affairs to save his wife. He maintained control of his life (and his death) almost until the end. That of course is something that we all hope for but so many of us are unable to do. Janeen (his wife) looked after him until the end and at home. He was buried on the 18th and "departed" to the music of his choice--"Always look On the Bright Side of Life"! We said that he'd only taken a short trip--from Paradise (his suburb) to Heaven. He was my mate and Imiss him and always will.

That same week we had news of another death this time in Scotland. My oldest sister's best friend 'left' also. We had known her since extreme childhood. So Vale Evelyn also.

South Oz has had an interesting few weeks politically, verging almost into farce. Six months ago an increase in the cost of water was announced to take effect from the 1st of July. It amounted to an approximate 12.7% average increase (not as much as the rise by Scotish Gas this week!) which is not inconsiderable. It was to pay for a desalination plant, so not too many protests. Then the whatnot hit the fan. We have been charged the incresae since January!!! Politicians blamed South Australia Water. South Australia Water said 'That's how we always do it"! apparently that is the truth! Eventually, the water Minister after obfuscation, admitted "we did not know that is how it worked". The Treasurer admitted blame and promised refunds -- eventually! No one had asked the important question you see, so it really was no ones fault was it?

In the midst of all this the Premier announced a Cabinet reshuffle. Could he have been hoping to divert attention do you think? It was more of a "do you mind taking this chair?" or "would you like this one?". No new faces (talent) no one omitted (sacked). No heads have rolled, or are likely to roll over the Water issue. Ah, the joys of government mid term!

It seems that the Water charging structure always applied increases to the water you had used. Despite the increase being announced to apply from later! That will now change. I wonder if we will be paid interest for our unofficial 'loan' to the government. My breath will not be held!

It has also been a time for family and friends to visit home. Scott, my son, is in Edinburgh as I write. He is visiting Tracey his sister. This is the anniversary of their Mum's death. He will also celebrate his Birthday with Tracey while there. It is very good for both of them, he is, despite being very Australian enjoying himself. He has even been to see Hibs and Barcelona! They are off to Paris, Dublin and Rome in the next few weeks, not necessarily in that order.

Debra, my cousin, has just returned, she was in Scotland for the wedding of her niece at Borthwick Castle. It was a lovely day for all. It should be said that Shannon (the Bride is Australian, lives here and most of the wedding party were over from OZ just for the event.

Just a note on petrol prices. They have ranged this month from a high of $1.70/litre to the current $1.44 a little relief for motorists at the moment. It will of course rise again I'm sure.

Back on politics. Our recent Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer has just resigned from Parliament to become the UN's Cyprus envoy/Negotiator. The current government, remember Kevin 07, will not field a candidate in the By Election!!!! The Federal Government is not quite level with British Labour in the popularity stakes, just trying hard to get down there.

We have had almost a normal rainfall for July but still need more. We are also no nearer getting the River Murray's problems fixed. Still dogged by 'It's mine you cant have any'!

On sport it has been a poor month for both our Austalian Football League teams, the 'Power' won once - unfortunately in the "Showdown" with the 'Crows' and the 'Crows' won once also! Almost as good as Hearts and Hibs! Australia beat the All Blacks' in the Bledisloe Cup and will play them again this coming week. I don't expect them to win this one.

Lauren-Jane continues to ride at weekends. However due to an indiscretion on her part we said that no riding this coming week. Her reply was "Can we go to the pictures instead?" Our reply? well I'll leave that to you to work out!! Can't blame a girl for trying though can you?

On that until next time

Eric

(article by Eric Ford, Australia)