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29 Sep

Getting older

29, Sep, 2011 (3:06 PM)
Do you think that politicians and celebrities should be more open about their age when they pass a major birthday milestone?

Or, are both gender and age irrelevant?

Disclaimer: The views expressed in these blogs are not necessarily those of National Seniors Australia. This blog is moderated and any content deemed inappropriate by the administrator will be removed, including comments that are offensive or discriminatory; libellous or defamatory; breach copyright, unless we have the owner’s permission to use it; or contain personal or commercially confidential material. The use of this blog to broadcast overtly party-political messages is also prohibited. Bloggers are urged to refrain from personal attacks. Any personal details shared here are public and can be found on internet searches.

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Comments (107)

Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (10:58)

The PM is certainly not overweight.

I think we are wise to take on board all kinds of opinions and then make our own decisions regarding treatment. Most naturopathic and complementary treatments are less dangerous than some prescribed medications.

I see a huge interaction between disability, weight gain and age, and find all of these things highly relevant to a discussion on ageing, which we all do at different rates.
Helen - 6, October, 2011 (10:55)

Great stuff Dieter! I absolutly agree. Make the best and the most of what we have and get on with it I say and everything will look better (and does).
All the best...
Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (10:54)

Everyone's life could be improved by:

1. a kind word
2. a smile
3. an unexpected phone call
4. an invitation for coffee/tea
5. a new pair of bed socks
6. getting down difficult to reach items in supermarket
7. bringing in bins or mail for an elderly neighbour
8. a simple "thank you"
9. a hug
10. assistance with returning teacups at branch meetings
Helen - 6, October, 2011 (10:49)

It's good having one's own Private nurse Bob, my husband thinks so too. He stays quite well because of the help and support he has, where others who live alone without any kind of support really suffer and don't fair nearly as as well in the long term. On a mental level, support is priceless for all conditions.

I prefer to let the "experts" find the solutions to his/our problems and I have a number of these controlling all sorts of problems associated with Parkinson's and treatment.

I don't believe at all in Naturopaths and indeed great harm can come to some people at times who are on herbal remedies and also medications prescribed by doctors.

Certain vitamins in reasonable doses are good and he does takes these already.

We are way off topic now again though. I did read this morning how certain herbal medication can cause some serious side-effects, so beware anyone looking at such advice.
Getting back "on topic" Our PM has great resiliance and stamina to keep up the pace she does. One can never doubt her ability to always be "on the job" and she can never be dubbed "Julia 07" either. Age wise, she is streets ahead of many of the others in her party in how she presents. She does struggle with her weight, but it must be hard when others are doing the feeding. She does not live a normal life at the moment which would make it hard when someone has a weight problem. Our PM is not obese though and can't help what is inherited re her build. We all look like someone in our families.

This should stir up some discussion.

Next topic please -
Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (10:47)

Lorikeet

And mega folate.
Dieter B - 6, October, 2011 (10:39)

What is age? It is surely the body maturing to eventually reach its end point. We all age and eventually we all die. Does it not come down to attitude and quality of life? Bob B in his own way is inspiring but from his writings I doubt he would see it that way. I suspect he would say he is getting on with life day by day. Good on you Bob, you have my respect. Helen’s positive attitude to life is also refreshing. She clearly has a bright outlook despite the difficulties she and her husband face. They also get on with life day by day.

I don’t underestimate the suffering many people go through as they get older. Sadly it can be depressing and neverending and may seem hopeless. Life can be hard as we age and the boundaries start to enclose us. But like Helen I am still hoping the brain will stay ahead of the body so I can enjoy the remaining years with my wife and family. It is not all bad news and doom and gloom, despite what some people say.

Don’t deny your age, embrace it.
Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (9:35)

I have already written 2 books, the second of which could be greatly expanded:

"Kuddly Koala's Tea Party"

"Gross Encounters of the Nerd Kind"

I would prefer to write "The Gospel According to the Greens", which would be quite an eye opener for some.

A friend who is a naturopath said if you have any kind of neurological (nervous system) disorder (Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia etc etc), you should take Mega B every day to maximise function.
t
Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (8:58)

Lorikeet

Thank you for your advice. I had been through the possible side effects with my GP before and after starting a very low dosage.

Its also a matter of ehancing the prospects of a possible problem by controlling another. I can tell the pain associated with a nerve dying is quite severe and is ongoing though not constant. I do have a high pain threshhold and have been prescribed morphine whilst in hospital intraveniously after a major operation. I have, through experience, an understanding here. When the random severe pain you experience affects what you are doing its time to take some action. I now rarely experience a less severe pain that does not impact what I am doing like driving. Its a lifestyle choice.

Helen

I do understand your predicament and I have too tried to hide my 'situation' at times from my wife - its really never been effective as she can see through me. My ex RN wife has an amazing ability to help me without judgement and with great understanding. I have fully recovered from my major op six years ago now with just a few impediments to normal life which you just work around. Her quiet and understanding support and love is most inspiring.
Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (8:34)

Robyn

My research shows quite the opposite to what you have determined:

Suffix -ist
Added to words to form nouns denoting:

1.One who follows a principle or system of belief. Marxist, deist Note, these are related to -ism, e.g. Marxism, deism

2.A member of a profession or one interested in something. botanist psychiatrist, one who studies psychiatry

3.A person who uses something. violinist, one who plays a violin

4.A person who holds biased views. sexist, racist

The only variation I can come up with and a wide one at that is from 3 above - are you using her when you are being tough on her?

Next she will demand that she drive on the right hand side of the road or something like that because of her superior outlook!! Its in the same league. Or, heaven forbid, we have a Lorikeetist profession.
Helen - 6, October, 2011 (6:38)

I guess the little "Blips" that come along at times are a reminder that time is martching on Bob and does happen to us all at times. Don't let them ever hold you back. When I look at my other half and see what he puts up with at times (besides me), it inspirational.

Being busy, active and happy with life slows all processes. Being busy makes us forget for a time. The grandchildren definately make me forget. I am usually very tired though when everyone goes home. Another sign that my body isn't keeping up with my brain. As long as the brain stayes in front and wins the race, I'll be content with that.
Lorikeet should write a book titled "The Gospel According to -"
Cheers...
Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (20:10)

Long term use of antidepressant medication can have negative impacts on the peripheral nerves.
Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (19:03)

Lorikeet

I will break my vow not to 'speak' to you on this occasion and say to you, thank you for any concern but I have it well in hand and am comfortable with my situation. I do not need any unprofessional help no matter how well meant. It is being managed with my GP and specialists.
Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (18:07)

Yeah I get it Lorikeet. Next time we are being tough on each other you are being Robynist and I am being Lorikeetist.

Please add Robynist to the Lorikeet dictionary Monitor. Perhaps we also need Currawongist, Bobist and Monitorist. A bit of Helenist goes on at times too. I think ETS has escaped, along with David Goss.
Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (17:32)

Bob B:

Did the doctor tell you what has caused your Peripheral Neuropathy? Have you been on any prescription drugs for a long time?
Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (17:30)

I said I make up my own words because I am a writer, and sometimes there is no word in the English language to suit e.g:

The word "paraphilial" does not cover everything as it is not generic enough for the modern era. So I made up a new word that is crystal clear in its meaning: "Any-o-sexual".

For those who are too slow to catch on, someone who is "Robynist" would be someone who constantly discriminates against Robyn.
Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (17:22)

Yes, Helen its all a state of mind if the body is willing. I know I'm slowing because of periferal neuropathy (nerves dying in the feet)that slows my walking and affects balance sometimes. I'm still active though and its not that much of an impediment. I can still go boating and fishing.

Enjoy the grandkids - we have them at Christmas when the parents go home early and leave them with us. Its just great, enjoy and stay young.
Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (16:53)

I wonder if we ever feel old inside. My 87 year old m-in-law says she still feels young on the inside.

Enjoy your week with the grandkids Helen. My favourite memories of childhood are of spending the school holidays with my cousins at my grandparents place.
Helen - 5, October, 2011 (16:31)

Let's all agree then, that age does not matter one fig and is all in the mind of the beholder (and the owner).

Personally, the person looking out of my eyes is still the same in every way. I know I have changed (but still can wear the same size jeans as when I married).

As far as what others think, it has never stopped me thus far. I look at my two sons sometimes and think am I really their mother and then I remember that it was only yesterday when I was working and struggling along with my husband to educate and bring them up and while I can still remember this and see how very successful their lives are, can feel really proud.

Life is a little hard sometimes with a sick husband, but is still very good. We have spent the last two days in our garden and it looks wonderful with all the rain. In the next week it will be wall to wall children as all the grandchildren (4 of them) ranging from 2yrs-12 are coming to stay because their parents are in need of a break!

I must be young! Otherwise how could I cope with all this!

Cheers everyone...
Brian Storm - 5, October, 2011 (13:24)

Age does not necessarily slow us down as much as we might think. I recently read a book “Born to Run” by Chris McDougall, about long distance running. Not everybody’s cup of tea, but it covers a wide ranging discussion of the physical, psychological and philosophical aspects of running.

Of relevance is a study by Professor Dennis Bramble of the University of Utah of the results of the 2004 New York City Marathon, comparing finishing times by age. The study found that, starting at age 19, the runners ran faster every year until age 27 before the times started to decline. It posed the question “how old are you when you’re back to running the same speed you did at 19?”

The answer turned out to be 64, a 45 year age difference. Like the book, I cannot think of another physical sport where a 64 year old is competitive with a 19 year old.

So to the seniors who are fit enough to attempt marathons or half marathons or local fun runs, don’t be intimidated by Gens X or Y – you still have the stamina to match it with them.
Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (11:17)

My mother-in-law has always believed and said "Men are weak and women are strong". I used to respond back that we all have our strengths and weaknesses regardless of gender and she would say back "Robyn, you are young and stupid. When you are older and more wise, like me, you will think like I do". Ha ha, I never have come to agree with her.

Helen, I largely agree that our generation seemed to have more ability to cope in many ways. I don't remember ever receiving, or even expecting help from parents and in-laws, even when I had my babies. Still, it is a different world these days and the young have pressures (high rents etc) that we didn't have. I think we tended to learn more by doing and the young have been expected to learn first and then do. For example, qualifications are now required for much work that we learned on the job. A lot of young parents these days seem to put a deal of pressure on themselves to be perfect. They 'go by the book/s'. We of our generation mightn't have known what we were doing half the time but somehow we all got there. I am really proud of the beautiful adults my children have become. Different eras, different stresses I guess.
Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (10:41)

Robyn

I too struggle with 'Lorikeetist'. She has said previously that as such a adept scholastic writer she can make words mean what she wants. We are all, therefore, left somewhat in a quandry, through this inept style, to work it out ourselves. I'm still open on this one but don't give her much thought at all - if it isn't said clearly then its not processed further.

Helen

There is much in what you say though I have a different view from looking at my kids both in there 30s one with a family.

Daughter has bitten of more than she can chew and does need some occasional support. Doing a PhD, just starting a major house renovation, two kids in school, active on the school P&C etc. My wife flies over occasionally to give her some study time when she gets behind. I'm still very impressed with her abilty.

Rather than being like one of us though temperament is more mine her intelligence is of both of us combined.

Our son is very self sufficient and has never asked for help or looked like needing it since leaving home ten years ago. He and his wife are very capable people but I don't see the support they might get from her parents who live locally, meet often and they all get on quite well. Again I'm very impressed.
Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (10:14)

Monitor,

I hope you have noted this new word in the Lorikeet Dictionary.
Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (10:11)

Currawong,

Yes I did understand your explanation at 6:44 and had a giggle. You were very quick off the mark with that one.

Alas it has taken me much longer to work out why I am Lorikeetist. I think I understand it now. The term applies to anyone who argues against points or statements Lorikeet makes. Thus, I wear this badge with honour!
Helen - 5, October, 2011 (10:05)

No offence at all Bob. I can remember my nan speaking in the way you mentioned. I guess it stems from the old days when Aussie men were a lot wilder, heavy drinkers and so forth, particularly in the bush.

The girls in the family, including my mother had to help care for the boys. My Mother was glad to not have sons and only daughters, so I came from a family of all girls and went on to have sons.

I personally feel that our generation (my), baby boomers, made things too easy for generation Y. They have grown up much later. Many staying at home for longer and getting back to age, will still age at the same rate as we have, if not earlier because of poor eating standards in many households.

If I compared my Nan at 40 to a woman of 40 these days, the latter looks much younger. They are still however up against the same discrimmination with jobs etc and have mortgages and very young children (and aging parents to think of). They also don't have the skills we had to cope with the stresses involved with balancing jobs and children and health issues with parents in many instances. I love my daughter-inlaws dearly but they need much more help with everything than I ever got. My Mums attitude was that you made your bed etc. This she got from her Mum. My Nan only ever helped when our Mother had a baby.
Was it like this for some of the other families too on this blog?

I think we are stronger and more resilient than generation Y. I worry a little about the new generation. But who knows, weak parents often breed very strong children as they have to be to cope. Some stresses build character in my opinion.
It's hard to keep "on topic" but age and time is all relevent I think.

The problems are different but the story in essence the same when it comes to age and ageing...
Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (9:01)

Helen

I didn't mean to offend and do recognise that society tends to consider women as ladies for politness but keep men as men. My mother-in-law aways said that all women were ladies irrespective but men were only men and nothing could waver this view - hence my 'tenderness'.

She also acted as if all men were evil with evil intent and had to be watched - all bar one younger brother of six brothers. The rest were Saturday night drunks and not the sleepie kind of drunk. My family was quite different and thankfully my wife also - she made her own mind up rather than follow her mother's view as some do.

This generally held working class view can explain some of the entrenched views held in society about the place of women. We see statements that come from that erra like behind every man is a good woman and back then it was probably so as someone had to hold the family together. Mum was at hame looking after the kids and family life whilst dad toiled long hours to keep a roof over their heads a food on the table. This is not the case today as life has changed for both sexes bringing about different outcomes and lifestyles. To even think these old views apply today shows a lack of awareness of today's society. These views of mine apply generally and naturally differences can be highlighted.
Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (8:45)

Robyn

I'm probably still not explicit enough with my explanantion - broad based. A person with a big bum can be said to be broad based - pear shaped. I notice she is now looking to wear Julia's clothing and this serves to enforce my comic view. We need a little light relief to get through the mire fed to us.
Helen - 5, October, 2011 (7:43)

Good morning every one! Interesting answers. What I saw in the answers was pretty much what I thought it would be. I appologise to Bob for not referring the the men as "gentlemen". It was just an oversight and not intended. I actually love working with men and for the most part of my working life have. I also have sons.

Your answers also showed that many male bosses still decided whom they think are OK for the top job and that we women (from our generations) were willing step back to let our men shine whilst being mums and put careers on hold if necessary.

Generation "Y" are much older parents than we were and are more fixed in their ways. They are also changing the age boundary when they say that 40 is the new 30 etc. Will they still be able to do this when they are 60, perhaps not.

There were still plenty of insults re our PM which is really unfair in some answers. If our PM was Italian or English, her accent would be accepted. The lady is Welsh. Born and bred in Wales and is also an Immigrant. The Welsh people have a very different accent and an even stranger language. I think our PM speaks very well and never humms and haas like Mr Abbott, note I said Mr. He hasn't got much going for him in the looks department in my opinion (but that's just my opinion). He speaks very badly as well.

I know this topic was on age. It does prove though in the end that our men are allowed to age, but our women are not allowed to age in the public arena and I don't personally think it necessary to advertise one's age as after all in what I have done in my life,have seen that ageing covers a good 40 year span. Some people are still young at 80+ and some old at 40. Genetics and life style are the governors. SO in the end, if we cut the mustard, who cares how old we are -
Cheers...
Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (6:53)

Take a look at some of the clothes Julia wears. Some tops are big in the back and look like a spreading fishtail at the bottom, which is not a good choice for her.

I'm sure I could wear the same outfit without a problem.

Julia leads with her head, with her backside sticking out behind. This is probably so she can back track (back pedal) as quickly as possible.

Dancers are taught to be statuesque like models.
Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (6:47)

That's right, Robyn, you have been left behind by a long margin. If you cannot understand a simple word such as "Lorikeetist", I feel sorry for you.

Who thinks I am an interactive broadbased thinker? Probably everyone who knows me.

A man with an award from "Beyond 2000".
A man with a Westpac Young Achievers' Award.
A man who is an eminent scientist.
A man who has a Father of the Year Award for his work with children.
A retired primary school principal.
A man who is one of the world's best dance teachers and designer of ballgowns.
Men and women in the political realm.
My 3 broadbased interactive thinking sons.
The person who gave me 2 Writer's Awards at age 15.
Plenty of others.

It's as plain as the nose on your face that ETS is a man. The only times I have been wrong were when I mistook a butch lesbian for a man. I can generally "feel" a man inside them.

Married women generally live fairly sheltered lives. I say this because having been divorced for 15 years, I know who is out there and lots of things about various people's marriage breakdowns and the general interaction between men and women.

I have also counselled people out of destructive cults, which was a real eye opener.
Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (6:44)

Robyn

Play on words - broad based. Lorikeet is broad based as is Julia.
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (22:55)

Since I joined the blogs on the "Is It Sexist or acceptable?" strand I have not gained one iota of a sense that you are a "broad based interactive thinker". In my view, you are the exact opposite!
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:21)

Those exclamation marks were meant to be question marks. By whom??? are you well known to be an interactive thinker?
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:12)

Sorry Currawong, I don't get your meaning. Can you please explain it?
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:09)

"BTW I am well known as a broad based interactive thinker." By Whom!!!
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (20:57)

"Lorikeetist"? What on earth are you talking about Lorikeet? You have lost me and probably most others.

ETS has never disclosed gender. There have been hints at times that have led me to think that ETS is female. You are so sure of yourself Lorikeet - "ETS is definitely a male" - Why?

Why does anyone have to be behind anyone who is successful? Man behind woman, woman behind man, it is all nonsense!

Each generation has choice about their lives and if this current generation are choosing to wait longer before having their babies, so be it. They have their reasons and are entitled to them and you are being judgemental.
Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (20:38)

Robyn

Well there it is, finally Lorikeet admits she has something in common with Julia!!!!
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:35)

BTW I am well known as a broad based interactive thinker, so Robyn can keep her personist insults and negative perceptions to herself.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:33)

If the truth is known, Robyn and some others are highly "Lorikeetist", which leads them to draw negative personist conclusions.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:30)

ETS is definitely a man. In recent times, I have wondered if Monitor could be a woman, instead of a man.

I don't believe what I said is sexist at all. I could also say:

"Behind every successful woman is a good man."

This is more likely to be true in modern times, since gender roles were more closely adhered to before the contraceptive pill freed women from much greater parental responsibility.

I think women were still being heavily discriminated against in the 1970s, with most fathers deciding not to educate their daughters.

I find that many of today's men want the best of both worlds i.e. a self-supporting wife who still does most of the parenting and housework.

Due to the sexual freedoms afforded the younger generations, most men and women are in no rush to marry anyone or have any children until they are almost old enough to become grandparents.

This has raised expectations of what life should hold to unprecedented levels, and done untold damage to the Age Pyramid. It has also led to high levels of greed, selfishness and overindulgence of children.
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (20:23)

Lorikeet,

If you really want equality you might consider ceasing to think and say statements like: "Behind every successful man is a good woman".
Statements like that are "olden day" and born of women feeling powerless in the past.

You might also consider that people who like Julia Gillard are not necessarily governed by Matriarchal glow. If you really believe this you are being exceptionally limited in your thinking, not to mention "sexist".
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (18:02)

Helen,

I am not sure that I entirely agree with you. Patriarchy certainly inflicted a large toll on women in my mother's generation and before. However, when I was young in 1970 I was given wonderful encouragement, opportunity and promotion toward establishing a good career in the NSW State Public Service. At the time I was 20. I have no doubt that I would have continued climbing the ladder, but I threw it all in to be a full time mum. When my youngest child started school I began forging a new career path for myself and again, I was well encouraged and mentored toward succeeding in my chosen path. I have never regretted my decisions. At the time, being a full time mum was very important for me. I feel sorry for women these days who don't have that choice. My main point is though that I never felt impeded or compromised by the system because I was a woman. I did impede myself because I put my husband's career before mine but my main ambition at the time was to give my children full time parenting. It is possible that women in Australia do not achieve to the same degree as men because they are not as driven. In my husband's birth country women have had to work full time for many years longer than in Australia. There is career equality in that country as well as creches in most workplaces.

Sexism is a different thing again. It goes 2 ways but in so far as it applies to women it could be construed as containing hangover components from our days of greater patriarchy.
Lorikeet's statement "Behind every man is a good woman" is a sexist statement. There are sexist assumptions that intelligent people on blogs who use initials are male, eg ETS is assumed to be a male (by Lorikeet and possibly others). Why? Alan's picking on Julia's bum is sexist. Would he pick on the bum size of a male politician? We need to be aware of the insidious ways in which sexism lurks within us and we need to reflect on why this might be so.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (16:43)

Helen:

Yes, men have been trading off the intelligence of women since the dawn of time, including some of the world's most gifted scientists and inventors e.g. Albert Einstein.

I think it is true to say that behind every successful man is a good woman.

I don't wish to live in either a patriarchal or matriarchal society. Equality would suit me fine.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (16:37)

If Robyn and Helen are so concerned about the way women are treated, why are they aiding and abetting a few bad-mannered men on this blog in persecuting ONE woman.

I think Tony is right. Both Julia Gillard and Anna Bligh cannot pass the ball to any of the men, no matter how hard they try!

Both of these women represent the same party as Kevin Rudd, Peter Beattie and other male forerunners. They were pushed over the line to electoral victory, largely by misguided women who were blinded by the "matriarchal glow" of having a female PM or State leader.

Like one of my sisters, most are now regretting the day they voted for either of them. We must also remember that male politicians like to use women to do their dirty work.

Hot off the press, we have a front page report in the North West News of increasing poverty among Brisbane northside families, with an unprecedented increase in those seeking food aid in what used to be a first world nation.
Bob B - 4, October, 2011 (14:37)

Helen

Firstly, if you are going to use 'ladies' then kindly use 'gentlemen': otherwise men and women is fine.

If she or he has a fat bum or tum then thats the way it is. Having a fat bum or tum doesn't make one stupid per sec though having a fat bum or tum may indicate some lack of self control or just plain lack of knowledge or caring. Women tend to have fat bums and men fat tum (the six pack).

Julia Gillard holds her age well and, yes, has a fat and growing bum indicating the lifestyle she leads. John Howard led a similar lifestyle but was controlled and smart enough to walk it off.

One of the reasons men ridicle Julia is because of the way she presents herself with that false tone and condesending style. I find it most off putting. Physically, she isn't my type but again that's life and I understand that and don't hold it against her. She is the Prime Minister for good or bad and deserves the respect of that office. I would call her Prime Minister face-to-face until she asked me otherwise.

I don't praise her for the improved way she has deal with seniors. Yes some improvements but there is a long long way to go. I will applaude when she gets to the top step not just the first on the ladder.

I have worked for women, with me in a senior management position, and one in particular was outstanding moving up the tree quite quickly. But she was not of sufficient calibre for the top job. Also I have employed women as the best person for the job and I rated my employees on ablity and performance rather than sex and size.

I have to say though that some women I became involved with in the workplace were the ugly fat horrible 'you must take me as you find me' approach. This I did - as an ugly fat horrible person (note person). There are men just as repulsive but its easier to 'knock' them into shape for a harmonius workplace. They generally don't scream discrimination when they don't get their way. Simply, its the person not the sex of the person.
Tony Zegenhagen - 4, October, 2011 (14:28)

If Julia Gillard wasnt a woman she would not still be Prime Minister. The novelty has worn thin though and her and Anna Bligh are only marking time and will go next time around.
You cant ignore the public in the manner that these two have and expect to hang around. (no matter what sex you are)
Helen - 4, October, 2011 (10:37)

In keeping with the topic. I would like to ask our men out there how they view my comment (7.49am). If you want to "defend" my comments, I would love to hear your opinions and why. If you agree with Alan, I would also like to hear it.

It is a topic very dear to my heart. My husband and I are very happy within our skins, so success on either part was applauded. We worked in totally different areas and are like chalk and cheese. We have proven that you can get along being like that and you can throw in different nationalitiies, religions and political pursuations. When I think about it, we should have split a long time ago looking at the data! I'm glad we didn't though and can argue a point without it turning nasty.

If he thought as Alan does, hmmm... would have been a different story I think.

We have encouraged our children also to be free thinkers and our family time together can sometimes be lively but very rewarding.

You know how I am thinking on this topic, I would like to stir some interest to make the topic more interesting instead of being insulting, which is a real turn off.

Tell me please why men can be ugly, fat etc etc and successful but women have to be beautiful, slim and young (and not too smart) and many times have to hide the latter just to get a job in many cases. Some of the ladies might have an opinion on this too.

On the other side. Really good looking men can be discrimminated against as well and also accused of being gay by other men who hate their popularity with the woman folk.

Ugly, fat men often have beautiful young woman at their side in business but rarely at the same level of appointment,often the woman (or secretarys) are doing all the work behind the scenes though). Any of our senior ladies ever experienced this during their working life?

I'll check in later on to see your answers, cheers...
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (9:13)

Helen,

You might be interested in this statement I read in last Saturday's SMH News review:

"Women fill almost one in three senior management positions in China compared with just 9 per cent in Australia's ASX 200 companies. Even in India, where discrimination against women is widespread, 11 per cent of chief executives of large companies are women compared with 3 per cent here."
Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (9:10)

Robyn

Yes, I wondered too at that infatuation. Then I thought Alan and Lorikeet sound very 'together' so refrained from comment.
Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (8:46)

I think DLPers start out as yellow and then move into the green spectrum when they pop their multivitamin pills.

I wonder why Alan is so obsessed with the size of Julia's backside? Obviously gender is very relevant for him.
Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (8:28)

Robyn

Following on from the colour wheel discussion, I stumbled upon this yesterday - the Perfect Lorikeet is also known as the Olive-headed Lorikeet. Need I say any more.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (8:08)

If you have nothing to do, give this questionnaire a go:

http://polling.nationalforum.com.au/index.php?sid=84514&lang=en

You have until midnight Thursday to answer it.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (8:03)

Only narrow-minded folk keep complaining about blog posts being off topic.

Helen:

The answer to your questions on Gender Discrimination are simple. People simply love to hate those more capable or more intelligent than themselves.

When I was 16 years old, I was given a senior position from my first day of work. Within a couple of months, I had to have breast surgery for a very large lump, which was terribly frightening. Instead of coming to visit, or sending flowers or a card, young women from the workplace worked on taking my job!

Some men don't like intelligent women because they want to call all of the shots and have all of the say themselves. This attitude is still alive and well in the parliament.

Classism is also a problem in Australia today. If you have the brains but live in a lower socio-economic area, rest assured you will be picked on twice as much as anyone else, regardless of your gender.
Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (7:50)

If you email the NSA, you can suggest any topic you want to discuss on the blog, or ask them to address any issues that concern you.

Michael O'Neill is often seen on prime time television advocating for the over-50s.

If you belong to an NSA branch, the branch delegate can also raise your concerns at regional meetings.
Helen - 4, October, 2011 (7:49)

There are few comments "on topic"! Alan, there are not too many slim "older"people" out there and does this mean that if one isn't slim or has a big bottom, they are stupid? Your constant barbs are very sexist and counter productive in my opinion. I'm sure too that many seniors would take offence to your constants insults re our PM's backside. You are also biting the hand that is feeding you too at present. This government has given quite a lot of relief this last year to seniors that you have benefited by, but I guess you have not noticed this.

There are also many with big bellies, and bums on the other side too (have you noticed) are they also stupid?

I think our PM always looks beautifully groomed and getting back to age, looks great for her fifty years.

I would like to view your photo so that we can give our opinion of you, but that is not what this blog is about (or this topic).

Monitor I would like to have some better topics too. One topic I would like to follow up on is why woman have to struggle so hard to have a career. Why men object to woman with brains and ambition and why there are some woman who also view them as a threat. If the woman happens to be beautiful, smart and ambitious like Maggy T and Ita Buttrose, they have had to struggle even harder. Why is it so??

Alans comments represent the views of many of the older generation of men and remind us of the time when woman were not allowed to be educated too much or allowed into a man's domain because they would have to watch their p's and q's.

Times have changed but these feelings are still under the surface for successful woman. The cost of success can really carry a price for them. My feeling is insecurity in both sexes that is the driving force here...
Bob B - 3, October, 2011 (21:16)

And the question was being open about age and the relevance of age and sex in relation to politicians and celebrities.

Boy, do some stretch things a little.

I do support some meatier subjects - NSA Moderator, are you open to suggestions?
Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (20:57)

For those who own rental properties, the government is discussing doing away with negative gearing. They say this will free up more homes for couples wanting to buy them, for whom prices will be more affordable.

With negative gearing a thing of the past, the government will also be able to collect more taxes from the moderately wealthy.
Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (20:52)

On the television news this evening, they were seriously floating a "Traffic Congestion Tax".

The Fat Tax that has been brought in by the parliament in Denmark is being applied to milk, cheese, pizza and oils. This sounds dangerously like another attack on the livestock industries, designed to turn us all into Vegan peasants.

On another report today, I heard that a Fat Tax, if applied in Australia, would add $3.00 to the cost of 1 kg of butter or margarine, and I suppose the same for 1 litre of oil.

On "The 7.30 Report" this evening, Leigh Sales was encouraging Wayne Swan to change both the base and rate of GST, which currently isn't applied to fresh foods, and stands at 10%. She said taxation needed to be increased to support an ageing population.

Although Wayne Swan denied any interest in increasing GST, his actual agenda is probably quite the opposite. As we know, this will hit people on fixed incomes such as pensioners very hard, especially if the base is extended to fresh foods.

Let us please leave Julia Gillard's backside alone. We have enough ammunition to fire without it, but perhaps a Liar's Tax might be appropriate.

I guess most people will have heard of the UK's intention to conduct a referendum as to whether or not they should withdraw from the EEU before their economy gets flushed down a hellhole, along with everyone else's, which I'm sure is the main aim.

The UK government has received a petition signed by 30,000 people.

Yahoo! More power to those with some common sense!

Here in Australia, a spokesman said he wanted to increase land taxes based on size of allotment, and do away with stamp duty altogether.
Alan - 3, October, 2011 (19:24)

As a tax summit is being held let's give our Socialista friends a 'heads-up' on some new "reforms", for instance:

A new 'water tax' (for those collecting rain water off their roofs);

A 'pedestrian tax' for those using pavements;

A 'awkward person's tax' for those who don't share ALP's idea of those 'necessary reforms' in the National Interest..... yeah we need all of these and more... or what about ALP's new 'air tax' - Lorikeet help me please or am i just getting too old to remember that too???
Alan - 3, October, 2011 (19:01)

Lorikeet:

Yes, I see that Comrade Socialist "Juliar" (poor thing) may well take an interest in taking yet another 'hard decision' in the name of our best interests by perhaps introducing a 'Fat Tax' to add to her policy of much needed 'policy reforms'.

On the other side of the equation, her waddle butt is so large she may well loose half of her personal income to yet more ALP taxation (Fat Tax included)...perhaps we are all safe from more ALP reforms - for now anyways...whewwwwww.
WEG - 3, October, 2011 (17:12)

We need meatier topics each week to stretch & test our ‘aged’ intelligence.
The recent Q?s are getting weirder by the moment.
How healthy are you? We all know it’s down hill slide!!
Phone Books Nano print? Hello, get help from OPSM!!
Getting older? Yes – I’ve not met anyone that’s not!!
As a suggestion:
Has NSA got a seat on the Windsor / Oakeshott ‘Tax summit’?
If not, why not?
Maybe NSA should have canvassed our input via this blog.
Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (16:27)

What a very wise woman you are, Taffy.
Taffy - 3, October, 2011 (15:17)

I would not vote for a 'kid' of any party. Wyatt Roy, member for Longman was not even old enough to vote at the 2007 election and even if he was champion debater in school and or university and a staunch member of the young Liberals, I cannot see how he could govern with the wisdom and foresight gained from experience. Some societies (perhaps many)that are enlighted and traditional have always had elders as their 'government' because they also have hindsight gained from peering through the retrospectoscope.
Helen - 3, October, 2011 (11:15)

Interesting comments! I have been away again and am only dropping in for a moment and will say more later.
My philosophy is "You are only old to those who are younger than you". I can remember thinking that 25 was old when I was ll.

I also thought my Mum was old when I got married (and she was only forty). Woman are having their first babies now at 40+ My mother was an extremely young mother but we daughters all thought her "old" when we were teenagers. At 40, she was still really beautiful too!

I have never lied re my age, but don't tend to say. I married very young and had further education later which worked well for me. With all the discrimination against woman in the work force, I know I would never have been able to do some of the things I have done if I had advertised my age. Thankfully I was accepted on performance skills and as people got to know me on a personal level, the latter was revealed. Particularly when people met my family.

My grandson still can't quite work out how it is that his father is older than me (he knows his correct age) and thinks I'm still 39. When he asks me, I just tell him that I decided to share my birthdays around because I had too many and that way, things never change and I "subtract" instead of add birthdays now.

Interestingly, he still thinks I'm young and told me the other night that when he doesn't see me, he misses me "higher than the highest Dinosaur" which he is into at the moment, no reflection on me either!. How lovely is the innocence of a six year old...
Bob B - 3, October, 2011 (9:19)

Its just not pollies and celebrities but many more in the community today are quite open about age. We are becoming more accustomed to the worth of people and their ability to contribute until it comes to empoyment of seniors.

Unfortunately, the community also has a massive tendency to discriminate against the aged in many ways. The latest grab for money by our politicians and senior public servants is most discrinimatory against not just pensioners and seniors but all in the population. I do agree they should be paid more to align with senior business people but a fairer way of achieving some equity is to cut the effective take home package of business people - but that is another question.

Its not how old you are but how old you fell and act that counts. And a good sense of humour goes with a feeling of being healthy and young.
Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (20:58)

This is just more absolute garbage from the schoolyard bullies, who seem to know little about political parties or what they support.
Robyn - 2, October, 2011 (12:49)

Thanks Bob B. By that reckoning the DLP must emerge from Hells Green Gateway. The colour wheel never lies!

I've been thinking about celebrities (which is unusual for me). These days they seem to like to talk about how old they are and how good they look for their age (with the aid of a bit of nip and tuck).
Bob B - 2, October, 2011 (11:38)

Robyn

The colour wheel defines colour usage for artists and photographers etc.

Looking at three o'clock we have the reds, which murges into blues through mouve at 6 to 8 then greens 9 to 11 leaving the yellows at 12 to 1 o'clock. So this means Labour is opposite to the greens (suits) with LNP somewhere inbetween (suits). That leaves the yellows opposed to the LNP and that, to me, puts the DLP into the yellows. Olive green suits them.
Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (11:16)

On a political program this morning, I learned that a Fat Tax has been passed in a European nation.

There are also some indications that an increase in GST (possibly to 20%) could be looming on the horizon.
Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (7:06)

ALL ABUSIVE COMMENTS NEED TO BE REMOVED BY THE MODERATOR.
Cheeky - 1, October, 2011 (20:52)

I think DLPers are a mustardy olive green colour. Like baby poo!
Robyn - 1, October, 2011 (19:04)

To The Moderator,

What Lorikeet calls abuse, I hope you will rather receive in the spirit of feedback. This topic is very tame. Mind you, people are managing to bend it around quite interestingly!

To Everyone,

If some people do lie about their age these days, isn't that saying that they are ashamed of ageing? As I said before, I do not know anyone who lies about their age, but if I did come across such lying I would not like the connotations attached. The days of being ashamed of being older than say 40 or 50 are hopefully gone.

We must stand together aged comrades green, red, blue and purple with pink polka dots! (not sure what colour DLPers are. Lorikeet, can you tell us?)
Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (15:25)

I think Robyn and Frances are both abusing the Moderator and the NSA when they say the questions here are insults to our intelligence.

Trevor Ridgway also didn't bother to read my comments on John Howard fully, otherwise he would be aware that I said JH was capable of an excellent performance at age 70.
Jacqueline Holman - 1, October, 2011 (15:15)

Boy a simple yes/no question can turn into a real politial soapbox, can't it. Considering the aging population I would think pollies would be happy to identify with the older generation. But best person for the job makes me happy.
Robyn - 1, October, 2011 (8:55)

I think the "more" (open) in the question was superfluous.

Actually, people who are not open about their age these days seem a bit old fashioned and slightly twitty. I don't know anyone who hides their age - why should they?

Agree with frances.
Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (8:50)

NB My name is not "Polly". The personal attacks need to cease immediately.
Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (8:46)

I have posted something new on "Phone Book Nano-Print", for those who are interested in reading it.
Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (6:00)

More than 75% of people are rejecting Julia Gillard as PM, along with the Labor government.

I'd say I had plenty of company in that regard. Assertions to the contrary are baseless.
Bob B - 30, September, 2011 (21:34)

Trevor

Ronald Reagan had loads of advisers and minders. Polly is, alas, all alone. Me thinks the outcomes might be a little different.
Lorikeet - 30, September, 2011 (21:00)

Thank you for the vote of confidence, Trevor. The power of one should never be underestimated.
Trevor Ridgway - 30, September, 2011 (20:46)

Aaaahhhh ! "Lorikeet " What would a blog be without you ! (That was rhetorical !!!!)

I see that our "friend" the Parrot is at it again !

Politicians are either "too young (inexperienced)" or "too old " (senile) for her liking !

I guess Julia Gillard must be "just about right" then !!?? No ???

Let us hope that when "Polly" starts to go senile she can influence the world as beneficially as the senile old Ronald Reagan who just managed to end the 'cold war' amongst other monumental achievements.

I'd like to see that !
Trevor Ridgway - 30, September, 2011 (20:20)

NO.

ps.Pauline & Frances....I agree !
Lorikeet - 30, September, 2011 (20:19)

WEG:

There is some chance of a federal election occurring in December 2011. Kevin Rudd is still being thrown into the mix as a red herring, with Bill Shorten, Simon Crean and Stephen Smith possible contenders for the top Labor job.

Before the 2007 federal election removed John Howard from office, NOBODY wanted to lose an election by taking his place. I think a similar dynamic is happening with Julia Gillard. The ball is being passed, but no one will take it!

I think Sarah Hanson-Young is a prime contender to lead the Greens, but some working in the parliament consider Larissa Waters (Environmental Lawyer, Qld) to be Bob Brown's likely successor.

The Greens have been very quiet since the planet has cooled and lots of scientists have withdrawn their support for Carbon Taxation, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes.

In my own state electorate, the Labor MP gave the Greens candidate $300,000 to get semi-rural constituents onto a Low Carbon Diet (no red meat).

Now the CSIRO Energymark program is being pushed through films at the local high school. This encourages groups of 8 families to become poverty stricken, frugal global villagers.

http://www.transitionthegrove.org.au/

http://www.transitionthegrove.org.au/index.php/component/content/article/525-csiro-energymark
Pauline Benjamin - 30, September, 2011 (18:46)

I am quite furious to read that the age of 50 is the start of being a "senior". I am aged 88, have all my faculties and am completely computer literate. I am equally furious with people who think that using a computer at the age of 80+ is beyond their capability.
frances - 30, September, 2011 (18:40)

why should they. what a stupid question you have asked intelligent people!!
WEG - 30, September, 2011 (17:58)

Belated happy birthday Ms Prime Minister.
Age has nought to do with incompetence and gender is no excuse either.

It’s fact that PM Gillard must rue the day she got into bed with Bob Brown as a minority Government.
It’s fact that PM Gillard does all the ‘hard yards’ in the selling of proposed legislation (Malaysia deal, carbon tax, Pokies, etc.) and cops all the flack, whilst the watermelon group watches on and refuses to support their coalition partners. Who would want them as friends?
It’s fact that it’s only getting more difficult for PM Gillard. This parliament is one big joke.

Bob Brown is nearly 67 years old, and surely he overdue to retire to his log / wood fired cabin somewhere in the Tasmanian bush.
Once he’s gone, there will be a bun fight within the harem. Who will be the future leader of this dysfunctional group?
It will be on for ‘young and old’ when he goes.
Pammie A - 30, September, 2011 (17:01)

Gazza re-read what was written regarding the PM's new seniors membership. It is her membership form in the mail not her membership.So that makes her the same as the rest of us, pay for it if you wish to be kept up to date on a lot of things that would other wise be bypassed by most of us. Happy Birthday PM. (And no I"m not a Labor supporter but she is our political leader, like it or not.)
Pammie A - 30, September, 2011 (17:00)

Gazza re-read what was written regarding the PM's new seniors membership. It is her membership form in the mail not her membership.So that makes her the same as the rest of us, pay for it if you wish to be kept up to date on a lot of things that would other wise be bypassed by most of us. Happy Birthday PM. (And no I"m not a Labor supporter but she is our political leader, like it or not.)
M.H. - 30, September, 2011 (15:22)

Age and gender have nothing to do with it! Just ability and I think the present government is lacking in that quality.
Lorikeet - 30, September, 2011 (15:17)

I would not give ANYBODY a free membership of the NSA, let alone someone on Julia Gillard's current income who refuses to give elderly Aged Care residents and their nurses a fair go.
Lorikeet - 30, September, 2011 (15:14)

Tom and Bob have made some excellent points.

Some horrible people get into the parliament, but their behaviour is largely a reflection of the decline in social values and the need to develop a thick hide to combat the dreadful abuse by constituents, media and skulduggerous people dishing garbage from the other side.

I agree with Andrew Bartlett (Greens candidate) that everyone should run for office as an independent, with equal government funding and media time, and absolutely no political donations.

Then we might get more decent, honest people into the parliament who can exercise common sense and work in a team environment. Sure, factions would still develop over various issues, but no one would be locked into doing whatever those currently calling the shots from outside of the parliament demand.

I have never watched the soapie that sends up Julia Gillard. It is too light weight to interest me, and I don't believe the media should be used to make a laughing stock out of any man or woman, no matter how much some of us might dislike them.
Tom Fletcher - 30, September, 2011 (14:07)

What a lotta tripe. Who cares how old they are as long they retire at 65 or 67 as it will be in a coupla years and are fit enough to do the job?
Think of John Curtin and Ben Chifley, two of our finest pollies who died in office. The war killed Curtin and post-war reconstruction killed Chifley. Mind you, they were both heavy smokers of a time when the weed was not considered harmfull. So that would have also contributed to their illhealth. Anyway, I ask you, how many of todays pollies are of their calibre?
Bob B - 30, September, 2011 (12:59)

Pollies have a relatively small pay for their task and responsibilities especially when compared with some CEOs. They certainly have a sound superannuation system we can only dream about but I guess I can rationalise this as compensation for low pay.

What really get up my nose is the money some celebrities bring in. Sure they have a talent or some attribute that makes them a celebtity but there is a huge distortion way out of wack with reality. Usually its what the market will bear but well orchistrated histeria takes this to rediculous extremes such that they live a lifestyle many cannot handle.
Robyn - 30, September, 2011 (12:31)

Adriana how do you know "the PM can't walk less than half a block without running out of breath"? She looks pretty good on the outside at 50. I don't think politicians should have to model fitness. We of voting age are not children.

Gender and age are irrelevant. Good ethics and capacity are very relevant.

I'm not keen on the PM sitcom. I think it is delivering a negative message based on gender ie. men who partner powerful women feel and are humiliated.
Adriana S - 30, September, 2011 (12:07)

Who cares what age politicians are - they don't seem to want to disclose this and yet call us dinosaurs when most of them are over 50! They just have to be more transparent to the australian people if they have our interest at heart. Man or woman - the PM should at least try and get fit - John Howard was forever walking and staying fit - the PM can't walk less than half a block without running out of breath - not a good example to the australian public especially when the aim is to keep most of us over 50s fit and well.
Glenn - 30, September, 2011 (12:03)

Personalities and politicians or anyone of mature years and outlook do not need to boast or decree their years. Surely it is the best person for the job that should be considered. I can think of many ex work colleagues who 'won a position' simply by seniority and were absolutely useless at their jobs. Reminds me of some polies I have heard of.
Alan - 30, September, 2011 (11:47)

Surprised Juliar did'nt lie about her age too..

It's great she is gifted her Seniors Card - now she can get for free the vile and pure unadulterated contempt with which we hold her and her ALP sociliast in(well...from some of us more sane people anyways not dependent on any ALP 'hand-outs')
Lorikeet - 30, September, 2011 (10:06)

I held a senior position at the age of 16, but I was not involved in evaluating the state of the nation, complex local and international issues, diplomacy or the interpersonal issues with which our politicians have to deal each day.

It takes a great deal of courage to run for public office. Both the remuneration and job security are pitiful considering pollies have to work at least 110 hours per week in a largely hostile environment, while both physical and mental health suffer.

Most also have families who suffer without their presence.

I consider that most people don't come to realise how little they know about life and the world until they are over 40. For example, older people who are parents and grandparents have had to deal with many issues and government departments and are familiar with many pitfalls involving the family and the community, of which younger people have less experience.

I was really surprised when a 20 year old got into the federal parliament (Wyatt Roy, Liberals). I would not personally vote for anyone that young, no matter which party they stood for.
JMW - 30, September, 2011 (9:44)

Who cares!! Age is just a number, but politicians - like every one of us - has a responsibility to be honest and give their best in their jobs
pru - 30, September, 2011 (9:32)

I disagree with the comment that all politicians should be aged 35+. Just because someone is younger does not mean that they lack experience or relevant expertise. Natasha Stott Despoja had an excellent understanding of most issues, and rapport with people of all ages. I have several years' local government experience and initially had a hard time because my professional expertise was doubted, not necessarily because I was young-ish (40) and female.
Sally - 30, September, 2011 (8:41)

What difference does it make. The Polly's get all the benefits well before you and I do and a lot more than you and I. They don't have the same rules as we do either.They get a pension as soon as they leave there job whatever age and can still work while getting it we can't.
kathy - 30, September, 2011 (8:31)

I believe that either gender should be able to become politicians, as long as they have the Australian people at heart. Our Government seem to want to please other countries and not think for themselves in what is good for Australia.We have never been a rich country in the dollar sense, but rich in inventive and fair play. Australians do not want to be pressured into ideas the government bring up,that make no sense to the average joe blow, let alone the future for Australia. Look at the boat people, sending our boys to war, live cattle export, carban tax. How can a tax stop carbon ????
Lorikeet - 29, September, 2011 (22:57)

I don't mind if politicians are men or women, as long as they have the best interests of their countrymen and women at heart. For much too long, we have had to put up with the minions of corporates doing their dirty work, instead of sticking with a democratic process which pursues humanitarian agendas without kicking our own people in the guts.

On the issue of age, I think politicians should be chosen from people in the 35+ age group. Younger people don't have the life experience to understand various issues that the populace face either locally or on the world stage.

At the age of 70, John Howard gave an excellent speech at the funeral of Steve Irwin without any notes. In terms of the ageing of both body and brain, each person is an individual. Although Howard is looking much older these days, perhaps the helter skelter of daily life in the parliament and electorate was helping to keep him young.

I couldn't say the same of Ronald Reagan, who was clearly losing his mental faculties while still sitting on the seat of power.

Many of our politicians have been driven to drink by the constant onslaught from a hostile electorate, and the fact that most of them work 18 hours a day, and missing out on seeing their children grow up.

There is certainly gender bias in the parliament. One day the women from both sides had a huge bustup over whose men gave them the least say.

I would like to see an equal number of men and women in the parliament. I agree with Monitor regarding the rubbish dished up to females, including the PM.
Lloyd James - 29, September, 2011 (22:08)

I wouldn't be a bit surprised if a fair number of our politicians actually have some form of dementia, seeing the way they handle themselves and forget promises they made and commitments they break.
Bob B - 29, September, 2011 (19:12)

Whats to hide? You are who you are just accept it.

When I was recruiting new staff it was the best person for the job, age and sex had nothing to do with it.

Unfortunately, celebrities and politians don't have to go through this process - they go through a process of popular opinion over a period of time with all sorts of experts to 'guide' them through the maze. We see the failures well exposed usually.
Gazza - 29, September, 2011 (18:23)

Why wouldnt they let us know its their birthday...especially the likes of Julia who are 'gifted' their Seniors membership on their fiftieth birthday while everyone else is required to pay!
Arabella - 29, September, 2011 (17:42)

Gender and age are irrelevant depending on what is required. If I were required to hip hop and twirl on my back at my age, no not likely. If I were required to really dig hard rocks and channels at any age, I couldn't have had the physique to do it. As far as politicians and celebrities go, it is none of anybody else's business, who cares when their birthday is?!! Gender seems to be some sort of bias here in Australia with the dirty tactics used in TV and media about Julia Gillard. Since when is everybody else a saint and in a position to write disrespectful tv series etc about her and stories in the media. Howard did so many backflips on decisions that he is still probably feeling dizzy. Julia backflipped just like all the men do. We don't need celebrities (who I couldn't care less about) or politicians to act as role models so we pathetic people can follow their lead, oh yeah, ridiculous. We should all make up our own minds - who cares who knows about a person's age.
Monitor - 29, September, 2011 (16:48)

I must have missed the politician who sought to tip toe past their birthday but age should be irrelevant to judging a politician. Adenauer was 76 when he became German Chancellor and ruled over 10 years very successfully
Gender too should be irrelevant. Mrs Thatcher's great contribution was that whether you loved her or hated her [and I am in the latter category] the fact that she was a woman had nothing to do with it. Regretably in the case of our present PM it is difficult to imagine many of the criticisms and attitdes displayed being said if she were a man. There is a definite Gender bias there.

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Comments (107)

Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (10:58)

Helen - 6, October, 2011 (10:55)

Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (10:54)

Helen - 6, October, 2011 (10:49)

Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (10:47)

Dieter B - 6, October, 2011 (10:39)

Lorikeet - 6, October, 2011 (9:35)

Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (8:58)

Bob B - 6, October, 2011 (8:34)

Helen - 6, October, 2011 (6:38)

Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (20:10)

Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (19:03)

Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (18:07)

Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (17:32)

Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (17:30)

Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (17:22)

Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (16:53)

Helen - 5, October, 2011 (16:31)

Brian Storm - 5, October, 2011 (13:24)

Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (11:17)

Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (10:41)

Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (10:14)

Robyn - 5, October, 2011 (10:11)

Helen - 5, October, 2011 (10:05)

Bob B - 5, October, 2011 (9:01)

Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (8:45)

Helen - 5, October, 2011 (7:43)

Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (6:53)

Lorikeet - 5, October, 2011 (6:47)

Currawong - 5, October, 2011 (6:44)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (22:55)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:21)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:12)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (21:09)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (20:57)

Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (20:38)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:35)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:33)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (20:30)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (20:23)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (18:02)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (16:43)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (16:37)

Bob B - 4, October, 2011 (14:37)

Tony Zegenhagen - 4, October, 2011 (14:28)

Helen - 4, October, 2011 (10:37)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (9:13)

Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (9:10)

Robyn - 4, October, 2011 (8:46)

Currawong - 4, October, 2011 (8:28)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (8:08)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (8:03)

Lorikeet - 4, October, 2011 (7:50)

Helen - 4, October, 2011 (7:49)

Bob B - 3, October, 2011 (21:16)

Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (20:57)

Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (20:52)

Alan - 3, October, 2011 (19:24)

Alan - 3, October, 2011 (19:01)

WEG - 3, October, 2011 (17:12)

Lorikeet - 3, October, 2011 (16:27)

Taffy - 3, October, 2011 (15:17)

Helen - 3, October, 2011 (11:15)

Bob B - 3, October, 2011 (9:19)

Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (20:58)

Robyn - 2, October, 2011 (12:49)

Bob B - 2, October, 2011 (11:38)

Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (11:16)

Lorikeet - 2, October, 2011 (7:06)

Cheeky - 1, October, 2011 (20:52)

Robyn - 1, October, 2011 (19:04)

Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (15:25)

Jacqueline Holman - 1, October, 2011 (15:15)

Robyn - 1, October, 2011 (8:55)

Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (8:50)

Lorikeet - 1, October, 2011 (8:46)