Australia – the can-do country - excerpt from Jamaica Observer column published 4 June 2018
by Jean Lowrie-Chin
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| Veteran broadcaster Jean Meserve leads the discussion "Tidal Wave: Changing Ocean" |
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| With colleagues from Jamaica - Peta-Rose Hall Chair, Jamaica Forum of IWF and the legendary Valerie Facey |
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| Lively discussion on "Evolution or Devolution: Fake News, Opinion, and media bias" |
On a recent visit to Australia, we enjoyed the energy and good humour of its people. With colleagues Peta-Rose Hall, Chairman of the Jamaica chapter of the International Women’s Forum (IWF) and Valerie Facey, we attended the IWF Annual Cornerstone Conference entitled ‘Evolution – Revolution’. Thought leaders explored critical global issues including shifting geopolitical alliances, fake news, artificial intelligence, genetics, human origins and the #MeToo movement. We were addressed by Australia Defence Minister Marise Payne and Kelly O’Dwyer, Minister for Revenue & Financial Services and Minister for Women.
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| At Dine-Around chez Sophia Beboff |
We always look forward to ‘Dine Arounds’ where we get to know a little more about each other – at the home of Sophia Bobeff, we heard stories of courage and realised how much we had in common.
Education in Australia must be at a high standard – regardless of position, service personnel were courteous and articulate. Patriotism was in evidence, as the ‘Proudly Made in Australia’ label was like a badge of honour on myriad products. When we asked for directions, people stopped and took their time to explain exactly what routes to take.
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| With hosts Daniel and Elaine Mulcahy |
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| Touring the Great Ocean Road with guide Shane Maloney |
So there we were, walking around unafraid in a strange country, enjoying the free tram that circled downtown Melbourne, which, for the seventh year in a row, has been rated as the best city in the world, and then to Sydney, more diverse but equally hospitable country. We enjoyed a magical cruise to Manly Beach to meet gracious Irish-Australians Daniel and Elaine Mulcahy.
In Australia, you are bound by law to vote – perhaps this accounts for the engagement of its people. The Australian model is worth a good study – it has a successful superannuation retirement scheme and is now in its 27th consecutive year of economic growth.
