Defending Honour
The Order of Australia
There’s been a lot written on social media and elsewhere this past week after Honours and Awards associated with the Order of Australia were announced on Sunday 26 January.
One individual was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and because of some controversial views expressed by that individual Twitter and other platforms went into a frenzy. I’m not going to pile on and comment, plenty of others have done that.
It’s not uncommon for a controversial figure to be appointed a Member (AM), Officer (AO), Companion (AC), and even a Knight (AK) of the Order of Australia or to be awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
This time however, there were calls for the individual to be removed from the Order. In addition there was calls to scrap the entire Honours and Awards system. I get it when people object because they see the system as a form of class distinction, but the Order has in its ranks Australians from all backgrounds. I shan’t comment on the proportionality of appointments.
I think there is a place in Australia for the Honours and Awards system and I guess I’m influenced because I’m a member.
Appointees to the Order receive a lapel pin to wear.
The system not only recognises individuals but also groups and important events. When I think of my membership of the Order I don’t think of myself but my colleague and friend, Professor Leonard Notaras, AM and all the people of the Royal Darwin Hospital who pulled together after the events of 2002.10.12.
If change is going to happen, I think it perhaps should happen in two parts. I wrote last week about 26 January and I think the date will lose its status as a gazetted holiday in the near future. It’s also a divisive day for Honours and Awards. I’d change the date of announcing Honours and Awards to 01 January to celebrate the anniversary of the Federation of Australia forming. The other change I’d like to see is when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II dies, I see no point in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List and the Honours and Awards should be consolidated to 01 January.
Obviously in a perfect world, if two dates were required, I’d choose 06 June because it’s Queensland Day and it celebrates the sovereignty of the greatest state in the Federation.
2019-nCoV
I avoid commenting about the work I do on my blogs and social media platforms. My comment here though is an observation and plea.
When I went shopping for groceries yesterday I noticed that there was no alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) left on the shelves. In some ways this is a good thing. People need to take hand hygiene seriously and ABHR is a good alternative to soap and water when soap and water isn’t available. The thing is soap and water and mechanically washing one’s hands is more than sufficient. Poor use of ABHR is ineffective and as bad as poor hand washing technique with soap and water.
I’m also concerned about the rise in racism against people of Chinese appearance. I’ve written many times about my experiences with racism and the last thing I want to happen is to be targeted if I cough or sneeze in public.
5G from Optus
During the week I received a letter from Optus about the availability of 5G where I live. I’m pretty happy with the arrangement I have with the National Broadband Network. I’m not sure I need to spend more money for faster Internet.
I know some people are concerned about 5G but I’m not. I love the concept and so does Dr Karl.
Facebook Messenger game
I’ve been playing a quiz game with a friend on Messenger.
I’d be embarrassed if I got this one incorrect.
What have I watched this week?
Not much apart from the news and press conferences associated with bushfires and 2019-nCoV.
Stargate Atlantis
When I’ve had a spare moment at home I have watched a little Stargate Atlantis. I’m enjoying Amanda Tapping being in the cast and reprising her role as Colonel Samantha Carter. I don’t think the writers did her just though as the commanding officer of Atlantis.
What have I listened to this week?
Meet the Microbiologist (American Society for Microbiology)
Again not much but on Meet the Microbiologist Julie Wolf spoke with Timothy Sheahan about coronavirus antiviral drug discovery. So pertinent given the current situation with 2019-nCoV.
What have I eaten this week?
Because I’ve been spending a lot of time at work and then working from home when I get home my meals have been simple. Breakfasts have been steamed egg and wilted spinach. Lunches have been sliced carrots, celery, cheese, and dates.
You can see the dinners here in this gallery. Select a photograph, click it and then scroll through.
Many of the meals were described on Random Yummy if you’re interested and want a recipe or description.
Yummy Lummy
I doubt there will be a post this week. Sorry yummy lovers.
Final Thoughts
- How do you feel about Honours and Awards?
- Would you choose 5G for your high speed Internet service?
- When you’re busy do you revert to simple meals?
I do often make light made food, even if I’m busy or just tired.
I still don’t feel sure about the security of 5G, so I do my best to avoid it, until more knowledge arrive.
I think I’ll be eating light meals for weeks to come.
You do also have summer now, Gary.
Summer means to me light food, as the heavy food makes me feel bad. Salad and something light like fish, chicken or turkey. For me this is summer food.
It’s true summer is good for lighter meals.
I am like you Gary, there is definitely a place for awards in Australia. It’s a very proud moment to be recognised for your work and efforts even though we don’t expect an award.
Yes, recognition of effort and excellence is very important.
Absolutely love your tee-shirt.
Thank you very much 🖖