Update from Down Under...

...have got some pictures of a protest by international students recently on the public transport fare system (I know, I don't seem to be the protesting type. Let's just say I was sucked in by the energy of the protesters :p)
Besides NSW and Victoria, all other Australian states offer international students concessionary rates. The protest has been ongoing for more than 10 years now. The issue doesn't seem to be creating more conflict amongst international students here, at least in Melbourne. Less than 100 people turned up on the day of protest.

Incidentally, the day before we were having a class discussion on how effective protests have been in getting change in Melbourne. There was a recent passing of new industrial laws by the Australian government which resulted in the sacking of a few union members. On the day itself there was a major peaceful protest held by the workers' unions. But so far, there have been no changes in sight. There was also the much-publicised Camp Sovereignty by the Black GST (Genocide, Sovereignty, Treaty) people at Kings Domain. That was a protest to the Queen, who was visiting Melbourne for the Commonwealth Games for better rights for aboriginal people in Australia

had an exciting radio shift this morning, which started at the unearthly hour of 8am (my earliest class is 9.30, so you can imagine how spoilt I've become :D) got a couple of stuff ups with my phone interview with a spokesperson from the heart foundation, who fortunately was very kind and patient. I also got to co-present the news, which was kinda fun. But I really gotta slow down, and stop swallowing my words..

went for a lecture after that by investigative journalist from the ABC Chris Masters, who started the 4 corners program. It was insightful to listen about how he chased the Bali 9 case, to listen to him talk about the media circus, the difficulties and frustrations that he encountered in Indonesia, how he had to bribe his way through the corrupted system, the ethical dilemmas that arise when one tries to do the right thing, only to be punished with red tape and lack of information. missing bodies, cover-ups and how drug dealers over there are good friends with the police. The engaging discussion ended on that "high" note.

Am plagued with more than a few assignments now, and the cold weather's making me eat more than I would like. Other than that, life's great. Hope you guys are keeping well despite the shit stuff that happens. Chin up and smile (that's borrowing a line from another friend's blog, but what the heck.. :) Just do what you can, and pray for the best. I'm keeping my fingers crossed here for you too.