2 days ago
Basil Zempilas: Government needs to step-up over bare-knuckle fighting event in Perth
1. Rita Saffioti has the power to ban bare-knuckle fighting coming to WA — but she won't. She and a roll call of fellow ministers have lined up to tell us 'it's not their cup of tea', that they won't be attending, and that it doesn't appeal to them. And still, this Government won't stop it. How gutless is that. For goodness sake Minister, you have the power to ban this barbaric event coming to Perth. It serves no good purpose and sets a shocking example. Step up and do the right thing.
2. Of course, if the Deputy Premier won't ban it, the Premier can. But where is he on this? Hiding in the shadows. He calls himself 'a dad from Kwinana' on his social media bio. Is this really what dads want for their kids and for the community? I'm a dad too Roger, and I know it's not what I want. It's time for leadership. Premier, pull your bare-knuckle fighting, racetrack-building State Government back into line.
3. In the same week they refuse to ban this blood sport, it's been revealed government fees and charges will rise in this month's State Budget, the chronic overcrowding in our State primary schools has been laid bare and ambulance ramping for the month of May has been clocked as the highest on record. Racetracks, a rugby team and bare-knuckle fighting, this Government has its priorities all wrong.
4. Let's give the final word on bare-knuckle fighting to someone who we can credit with displaying the leadership we're looking for, the Prime Minister. Asked if he would ban it if it was his call, Anthony Albanese said: 'I think I probably would. I do think we need to have a bit of common sense here.' Well said PM.
5. The Liberals' WA listening tour has taken off to the Pilbara. Yesterday I was in Port Hedland with Upper House colleague Neil Thompson for a visit to local businesses and a tour of BHP and FMG's ship loading and logistics facilities. Incredible. And if you haven't had a meal at the Hedland Hotel, I highly recommend it, especially if Senator Dean Smith is with you.
6. Today it's Karratha and a first time visit to the ancient rock art at Murujuga. The mayor, CEO and local chamber of commerce boss have all made time and the afternoon's itinerary takes us to Woodside's Pluto LNG project.
7. The week ends in Exmouth, where as well as the senior leaders of the shire, the CCI and some local businesses, I'll get the chance to take in the marine culture of the Tantabiddi boat experience.
8. It appears we have received the most tragic reminder that alcohol and escooters should never be mixed.
9. The Foo Fighters for the AFL grand final? Richard Goyder will be My Hero if he pulls that off.
10. My long weekend highlight, watching the Perth 14s go back to back in division 1 at the Association Championships at Matthews Netball Centre.
