It happened!

Today, the 7th of March 2008 at approximately 2:30pm – I got to shake hands with the Prime Minister of Australia – Mr Kevin Rudd!

Here’s proof…

(lucky man on the left hey!!)
(Hope the coldsore’s not too obvious!)

I have been desperately searching for my claim to fame for many many years and today was the day!

A hectic day indeed but well worth it. Apart from the photo and the
shaking of hands at the Hospital, I was also invited to the official
lunch at Pacific Gardens. Never been in a room with so many VIP’s in my entire life! I could almost smell the power!

Yep… the unexpected today was exceptionally sweet!

The logistics that go hand in hand with such a visit are absolutely
unbelievable. The local constabulary were assisted and supported by what seemed to me – the entire PNG Defence Force plus the Police Force combined together, not to mention the Close Personal Protection (CPP) guys that travel with the PM where ever he goes. The men in black (MIB) I referred to them – something out of a major thriller with presidential stuff thrown in for good measure.

And what did I think of the PM?

I liked him – 1st impressions were tops. My sense is that he (Mr Rudd) has the potential to do great things for Australia and I believe him to be a new “order” style world leader. My gut tells me that once he has done a little bit of “liberal” unravelling and repair he might possibly take, not only Australia, but other regions as well into a new phase of global leadership.

I’m apolitical and have only voted once in my life but today I regretted not having pitched my dollar’s worth at the recent National Elections. Had I met Rudd prior to elections – I think I might have done the unthinkable – cast my vote! But nevermind – Rudd is in and just for today – I’m proud to be an Australian.