If you do wake up on December 25th to find that your television and DVD player has disappeared, please call the police.
From all of us here, have a Merry Christmas. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.
Kind regards,
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas from the team.
The SUBURBANtermini team would like to extend a warm and hearty Merry Christmas and wish you all a safe and happy New Year.
If you do wake up on December 25th to find that your television and DVD player has disappeared, please call the police.
From all of us here, have a Merry Christmas. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.
Kind regards,
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
If you do wake up on December 25th to find that your television and DVD player has disappeared, please call the police.
From all of us here, have a Merry Christmas. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.
Kind regards,
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Monday, December 20, 2010
BING! Looking Forward To A New Year.
For me, I am very much looking forward to the new year.
This year has filled me with some regrets which I hope in the new year I can finally forget.
The many goals I had set for 2010, had not been fully met; in 2011, I shall aim to fulfill the rest of my 2010 goals and new ones for 2011.
As my fellow authors have stated in their previous posts, around this time of the year, it is time for self reflection.
Despite the negatives of 2010, there have been many positives - meeting new friends and acquaintances, starting a new chapter of my life: university, getting a job and many others.
I am thankful for 2010, but regardless I cannot wait for 2011, where I can have another fresh start and hopefully, this time next year; I will be saying "I cannot believe 2011 went so quick" instead of "I cannot wait for 2012, so I can get another fresh start"
Bing here, signing off.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Power Point: A Year in Review.
2010 has been a very eventful year.
This year has been more significant than any other in my relatively short history. It's also been a rather challenging year. The transition from secondary to tertiary education proved to be a greater leap forward compared to when seen on the application forms; and as a result, it's been a rather humbling experience.
Academia aside, this year hasn't been a walk in the park. In fact, it's been far from it.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that this year has been a year of change. But whether that change was been coupled with progress, well then that's another matter.
Quite frankly, this year has been a rather terrible one. A shit one in fact. And it's been a rather tiring experience. After 12 months of having to deal with everything that 2010 has thrown at me, I am officially exhausted and well and truly over it.
Many say that the dawn on a new year also represents a clean slate for us to begin again and leave behind the mistakes of the past. Whilst it's a nice image, I don't buy it for a second. Despite this year being a relatively important turning point, similar mistakes were made in almost identical circumstances as to errors made in years gone-by. And having these things occur for a second time in similar circumstances really takes it's toll.
There are many things beyond my control which probably contributed to this errors; but I also know that there is also been an element of self-sabotage through insecurity and neuroticism. I like to think that people see Max Power is seen as someone who remains headstrong and confident, someone who is comfortable with the situation surrounding him. And I am aware that it does sound rather arrogant of myself to say that.
My colleague Vittoria brought up a very relevant issue in her last entry.
"Am I where I want to be?
Where am I going?
Do I need to change my direction?
I think self reflection is important to remain balanced. The only trouble is that I don't know the answers to those questions."
I find myself in that same boat. I don't have any answers to either of those questions and I find myself wondering.
As a child, we have hopes and dreams. As teens we refine those hopes and dreams, and begin to establish goals. But once we leave the school yard, the idea behind easily achieving those goals disappears and you're left wondering what went wrong.
It's been a tumultuous year. There were of course, good days and bad, as well as many in between.
I only hope that by the end of 2011, I'll have come up with some sort of answers to Vittoria's questions.
This year has been more significant than any other in my relatively short history. It's also been a rather challenging year. The transition from secondary to tertiary education proved to be a greater leap forward compared to when seen on the application forms; and as a result, it's been a rather humbling experience.
Academia aside, this year hasn't been a walk in the park. In fact, it's been far from it.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that this year has been a year of change. But whether that change was been coupled with progress, well then that's another matter.
Quite frankly, this year has been a rather terrible one. A shit one in fact. And it's been a rather tiring experience. After 12 months of having to deal with everything that 2010 has thrown at me, I am officially exhausted and well and truly over it.
Many say that the dawn on a new year also represents a clean slate for us to begin again and leave behind the mistakes of the past. Whilst it's a nice image, I don't buy it for a second. Despite this year being a relatively important turning point, similar mistakes were made in almost identical circumstances as to errors made in years gone-by. And having these things occur for a second time in similar circumstances really takes it's toll.
There are many things beyond my control which probably contributed to this errors; but I also know that there is also been an element of self-sabotage through insecurity and neuroticism. I like to think that people see Max Power is seen as someone who remains headstrong and confident, someone who is comfortable with the situation surrounding him. And I am aware that it does sound rather arrogant of myself to say that.
My colleague Vittoria brought up a very relevant issue in her last entry.
"Am I where I want to be?
Where am I going?
Do I need to change my direction?
I think self reflection is important to remain balanced. The only trouble is that I don't know the answers to those questions."
I find myself in that same boat. I don't have any answers to either of those questions and I find myself wondering.
As a child, we have hopes and dreams. As teens we refine those hopes and dreams, and begin to establish goals. But once we leave the school yard, the idea behind easily achieving those goals disappears and you're left wondering what went wrong.
It's been a tumultuous year. There were of course, good days and bad, as well as many in between.
I only hope that by the end of 2011, I'll have come up with some sort of answers to Vittoria's questions.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Reflection
So I failed two subjects this semester. Not one, but two. One of which I thought I was good at.
I don't know if you, dear reader, has any wisdom.
It isn't the end of the world, but it does feel pretty shitty at first.
Am I where I want to be?
Where am I going?
Do I need to change my direction?
I think self reflection is important to remain balanced. The only trouble is that I don't know the answers to those questions.
So here's to the wandering, lost people, who don't know where they're headed or how fast they're going. To those who want to be so much more, but can't choose just one thing to be. To those who can't imagine the future. And to those who trust that they can work it all out in time.
I don't know if you, dear reader, has any wisdom.
It isn't the end of the world, but it does feel pretty shitty at first.
Am I where I want to be?
Where am I going?
Do I need to change my direction?
I think self reflection is important to remain balanced. The only trouble is that I don't know the answers to those questions.
So here's to the wandering, lost people, who don't know where they're headed or how fast they're going. To those who want to be so much more, but can't choose just one thing to be. To those who can't imagine the future. And to those who trust that they can work it all out in time.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Power Point: The Individual.
So, university results come out in less than 24 hours, and I'm not looking all that forward to receiving them.
Chances are that I failed at least one subject. And as you can imagine, I'm not looking forward to the criticisms from those around me regarding my failure to pass a subject.
I'm sure that there are other people out there who are in the same boat as I am right now, or have been in the past.
But ultimately, as individuals, it's not those who criticise us to whom we must answer to. Nor is it those who are in charge of us - our bosses, lecturers, teachers, and other figures.
It all comes down to us. I don't have to answer to those above me, those around me, or others who think it's their business. And nor do I take on board what they say. Right now, it's my decision regarding my next course of action and how to deal with the situation I've find myself.
Yes, maybe I didn't spend enough time on those particular areas as I should have. And maybe there was significant space for improvement. But despite that, you cannot dwell on the past. It's happened and it's not coming back.
Come tomorrow, it'll be as though the apocalypse has arrived and the sky is falling down.
I may end up bearing the brunt of a full-on episode of criticism, but Max Power doesn't let it take him down.
It's about confidence.
The confidence to accept that you have failed and the circumstances as to why that has happened. The confidence to rise up to the challenge after hitting a hurdle and have a second crack. The confidence to remain headstrong and continue forth without the heavy words of critics bring you down.
Because at the end of the day, it's not the critics who have to deal with the position they've found themselves in.
It's up to the individual.
Chances are that I failed at least one subject. And as you can imagine, I'm not looking forward to the criticisms from those around me regarding my failure to pass a subject.
I'm sure that there are other people out there who are in the same boat as I am right now, or have been in the past.
But ultimately, as individuals, it's not those who criticise us to whom we must answer to. Nor is it those who are in charge of us - our bosses, lecturers, teachers, and other figures.
It all comes down to us. I don't have to answer to those above me, those around me, or others who think it's their business. And nor do I take on board what they say. Right now, it's my decision regarding my next course of action and how to deal with the situation I've find myself.
Yes, maybe I didn't spend enough time on those particular areas as I should have. And maybe there was significant space for improvement. But despite that, you cannot dwell on the past. It's happened and it's not coming back.
Come tomorrow, it'll be as though the apocalypse has arrived and the sky is falling down.
I may end up bearing the brunt of a full-on episode of criticism, but Max Power doesn't let it take him down.
It's about confidence.
The confidence to accept that you have failed and the circumstances as to why that has happened. The confidence to rise up to the challenge after hitting a hurdle and have a second crack. The confidence to remain headstrong and continue forth without the heavy words of critics bring you down.
Because at the end of the day, it's not the critics who have to deal with the position they've found themselves in.
It's up to the individual.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
BING! You want cheese with that?
Obesity – It’s a global epidemic.
There are more than 7 billion people in the world, and over 1 billion people are considered to be overweight. Within that 1 billion, 300 million are obese. That is astounding.
That means that 1 out of 7 people are overweight.
1 out of 7.
While 3 out of 70 people are obese; it’s absolutely appalling. And we, as the world, must change these staggering figures.
Obesity in ancient times were accepted as a cultural norm where it was a sign of wealth, fertility and power, however as time and society progressed it is now viewed that obesity is a sign of unhealthy ness, infertility along with many health defects.
The World Health Organisation defines obesity as a condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to an extent that health may be negatively affected. Obesity is considered to be one of the leading preventable causes of death, with increasing rates of childhood and adult obesity, health authorities are viewing obesity as one of the most serious health problems of the 21st century.
Physical inactivity is a major contributor to obesity due to the increase of motorised transport, greater prevalence of labour saving technology as well as the decrease in desire for physical recreation. The number of fast-food outlets has allowed the obesity crisis to worsen due to the non-nutrition value of its food, with its high fat, high sugar, high salt contents, in addition to the inexpensive value and the sheer size of the meals itself. The fast food industry cannot bear the complete brunt of this epidemic, as it is not responsible for what its customers do to reduce the amount of energy supplied from their foods. Consequently this excess energy not being utilised due to inactivity, the energy is converted into fat and stored.
Many health problems arise from obesity which range from psychological to physical even to emotional. Obviously those who are obese are susceptible to heart diseases, such as stroke, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Evidence has shown that obese people are prone to suffer from depression, erectile dysfunction, infertility, diabetes as well as increased chances of cancer and tumours.
Even here in Australia, we are being affected by this epidemic. Australia was recently given the non-coveted title of “world’s fattest nation”. Australians are known as the “shrimp on the barbie” people; do we honestly want to be collectively known as the “world’s fattest nation”?
Despite a relatively small population when compared to other developed western nations, Australia has a higher percentage of overweight people per capita. It is literally shocking that over 9 million people are classified as overweight or obese when Australia’s population is around the 21 million. That means on average 3 out of 7 Australians are either overweight or obese.
We, as Australians must rid our reputations as the “world’s fattest nation” and if we are to do this, we must join together and face this problem head on. Firstly, awareness must be raised. We must show everyone that obesity is not something to be proud.
To do this, we must endorse national campaigns which support healthy eating, regular exercise and less consumption of non-nutritional foods. Educating people on the implications of obesity and how to avoid it is an absolute necessity. In fact, it’s this obesity crisis is a national emergency.
The Rudd Government in conjunction with many health organisations have thought up many ideas which could assist in the fight against obesity. The Rudd Government has proposed a crackdown on the sales of junk foods, banning junk food advertisements, banning the sales of sugary drinks and foods in schools as well as a national initiative to encourage people to exercise particularly children.
Obesity prevention groups have applauded the Government’s actions but have stated more has to done. Groups have proposed radical ideas such as taxation on the sales of junk foods based upon the BMI of individual, subsidised gym memberships, restricting weight loss surgery to those who have shown that they have achieved some form of weight loss. One obesity prevention group has even suggested employing a “Biggest Loser” scheme on a national scale in which individuals compete for a cash payment in accordance to the amount of weight lost.
According to the WHO, since the 1980’s there has been a significant increase in the number of overweight children and adolescents. The amount of overweight children has doubled while overweight adolescents have tripled. This can be contributed to the technological advances such as computers, televisions and video games.
So maybe it's time we got off our lazy, fat arses and did something about it.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Power Point: Frequent Flyer Farce.
I recently became a member of the Woolworths Everyday Rewards program which is linked to the Qantas Frequent Flyer scheme.
At the time I thought it was a great idea. I can shop at Woolies and their affiliates and earn points so I can fly around Australia should I feel the need.
But all that changed about 10 minutes ago (10 minutes ago when I started writing this).
After the usual sequence of terms and conditions and detail filling, I immediately checked how many points it took to claim a return-trip to Sydney, ex. Melbourne Tullamarine.
The results weren't in Qantas' favour.
It takes a whopping 16,000 points to claim a return trip to Sydney. And that doesn't include accommodation.
16,000 POINTS?!?!?! YOU'RE KIDDING RIGHT?!?!?!
Going off the Woolworths Everyday Rewards/Qantas Frequent Flyer scheme, you earn one point for every dollar spent over $30 at any Woolworths branch. So, in theory, I'm spending $16,000 for a trip that usually costs $120 or less for an economy ticket purchased online.
Yes, that $16,000 also includes to the cost of the milk and eggs purchased in earning those points, but 16,000 points seems excessive. Surely it doesn't take $16,000 worth of milk and eggs to earn a return trip to Sydney.
Browsing through the latest issue of Qantas' Frequent Flyer 'Reward' (they must have a different definition of rewards) catalogue, humble Nintendo Wii accessories cost 6,300 points. A $100 BIG W gift card requires 13,500 points.
Who designed the point scheme? 13,500 points for a gift card only worth $100, that's just absurd.
I understand the need for Qantas and their 'rewards' partners to have slightly inflated costs for the products available, but this is 16,000 points to claim an airfare worth approximately $120 with Qantas or Jetstar is just too much.
It gets worse though.
Even the amount of points earned through the purchase of international flights is minuscule. A return trip from Melbourne to Singapore earns you 7,498 points. Now, the flight does cost upwards from $1400, but 7,498 doesn't even cover the points required for a one-way journey to Sydney.
Now, I know there's been a lot of Qantas bashing lately in the newspapers thanks to their recent troubles with their Airbus A380s and other aircraft, but this post is by no means an attack on Qantas.
I firmly believe Qantas is one of the best airlines in the world in both service and safety, but the amount of points required for something of such low monetary value (in terms of other things in the catalogue) is just outrageous.
I'm sure that Qantas isn't the only airline that does this, and there are probably many more in the industry that do the exact same thing.
But 16,000 points for a trip to Sydney and back? For the $16,000 I need to spend to get those points, I'd be better off buying a relatively cheap new car (a Kia Rio costs $11,000 for the base model), filling it up with petrol and driving to Sydney and back.
And even then I'd still have a lot more left over for accommodation and spending cash.
And a car.
At the time I thought it was a great idea. I can shop at Woolies and their affiliates and earn points so I can fly around Australia should I feel the need.
But all that changed about 10 minutes ago (10 minutes ago when I started writing this).
After the usual sequence of terms and conditions and detail filling, I immediately checked how many points it took to claim a return-trip to Sydney, ex. Melbourne Tullamarine.
The results weren't in Qantas' favour.
It takes a whopping 16,000 points to claim a return trip to Sydney. And that doesn't include accommodation.
16,000 POINTS?!?!?! YOU'RE KIDDING RIGHT?!?!?!
Going off the Woolworths Everyday Rewards/Qantas Frequent Flyer scheme, you earn one point for every dollar spent over $30 at any Woolworths branch. So, in theory, I'm spending $16,000 for a trip that usually costs $120 or less for an economy ticket purchased online.
Yes, that $16,000 also includes to the cost of the milk and eggs purchased in earning those points, but 16,000 points seems excessive. Surely it doesn't take $16,000 worth of milk and eggs to earn a return trip to Sydney.
Browsing through the latest issue of Qantas' Frequent Flyer 'Reward' (they must have a different definition of rewards) catalogue, humble Nintendo Wii accessories cost 6,300 points. A $100 BIG W gift card requires 13,500 points.
Who designed the point scheme? 13,500 points for a gift card only worth $100, that's just absurd.
I understand the need for Qantas and their 'rewards' partners to have slightly inflated costs for the products available, but this is 16,000 points to claim an airfare worth approximately $120 with Qantas or Jetstar is just too much.
It gets worse though.
Even the amount of points earned through the purchase of international flights is minuscule. A return trip from Melbourne to Singapore earns you 7,498 points. Now, the flight does cost upwards from $1400, but 7,498 doesn't even cover the points required for a one-way journey to Sydney.
Now, I know there's been a lot of Qantas bashing lately in the newspapers thanks to their recent troubles with their Airbus A380s and other aircraft, but this post is by no means an attack on Qantas.
I firmly believe Qantas is one of the best airlines in the world in both service and safety, but the amount of points required for something of such low monetary value (in terms of other things in the catalogue) is just outrageous.
I'm sure that Qantas isn't the only airline that does this, and there are probably many more in the industry that do the exact same thing.
But 16,000 points for a trip to Sydney and back? For the $16,000 I need to spend to get those points, I'd be better off buying a relatively cheap new car (a Kia Rio costs $11,000 for the base model), filling it up with petrol and driving to Sydney and back.
And even then I'd still have a lot more left over for accommodation and spending cash.
And a car.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
The Upcoming Election
I'm at a point where I just don't care about the political parties any more.
Currently I'm confined to bed with a chest infection and as a result have been exposed to all the political ads on the television telling us not why we should vote for a specific party, but why we shouldn't vote for them. And frankly, I'm over it.
How about the politicians give us something more than talk to vote for?
But I know this won't happen. The process of change is obviously more complex than I imagine it to be, and any 'honest' politician that managed to gain some publicity will be annihilated like Kevin Rudd.
I'm at the point where I don't want to vote for anyone. But that doesn't help either.
I don't have a solution to this one. I'm starting to realise that the older I get, the more I learn, and the less I know.
Currently I'm confined to bed with a chest infection and as a result have been exposed to all the political ads on the television telling us not why we should vote for a specific party, but why we shouldn't vote for them. And frankly, I'm over it.
How about the politicians give us something more than talk to vote for?
But I know this won't happen. The process of change is obviously more complex than I imagine it to be, and any 'honest' politician that managed to gain some publicity will be annihilated like Kevin Rudd.
I'm at the point where I don't want to vote for anyone. But that doesn't help either.
I don't have a solution to this one. I'm starting to realise that the older I get, the more I learn, and the less I know.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Introducing BING!
As part of SUBURBANtermini's refresh, we promised more funding, improved punctuality and service delivery, more staff in more places, better standards of customer service and higher levels of cleanliness.
Oh wait, that's the wrong political spin notes I'm using.
Anyway, unlike politicans, we are delivering on our promises, and we welcome the first of these new authors to the SUBURBANtermini team, Ian Bing.
Ian is a welcome addition to the team bringing with him a world of worldly knowledge and other such qualities that we believe will become an asset to SUBURBANtermini.
Ian's new column, "BING!" will be a regular feature here and we look forward to reading his works in the near future.
If it matter's to Ian, it'll be here.
Thanks.
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Oh wait, that's the wrong political spin notes I'm using.
Anyway, unlike politicans, we are delivering on our promises, and we welcome the first of these new authors to the SUBURBANtermini team, Ian Bing.
Ian is a welcome addition to the team bringing with him a world of worldly knowledge and other such qualities that we believe will become an asset to SUBURBANtermini.
Ian's new column, "BING!" will be a regular feature here and we look forward to reading his works in the near future.
If it matter's to Ian, it'll be here.
Thanks.
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Time, Change and Memory.
After reviewing SUBURBANtermini's recent brand refresh, I've been thinking a lot about change, the feeling of time, and memories.
It seems these days that things don't remain constant for too long. Taking SUBURBANtermini as an example, after only being on the internet for less than 12 months, the branding, layout and colour schemes of the site looked rather tired and dated. I sometimes wonder whether constant change is a good thing, usually siding with the idea that change is occurring much too rapidly and is having a negative affect.
I don't know if other people have noticed this either, but it seems that the year has absolutely flown by. It seems only yesterday that I was sitting my final examinations for Year 12.
It sort of came to a head a fortnight ago when I dropped in at my old high school after picking up package. One of my former teachers wished me luck for the VCE English exam taking place the following morning. I was quick to point out that I was no longer an attending student and it quickly became a conversation about my last twelve months since leaving the school.
And that's what's made the feeling of time passing quickly seems so much more real. In the last twelve months, I've left high school and begun University; started driving; gone and come back from overseas; seen colours change on the trams and trains (yes, I have to mention it); countless assessments and deadlines; joined the team at SUBURBANtermini; and most importantly, started working. And that's only some of the stuff I've seen or experienced within this last year.
It just seems that time have accelerated so quickly, it's hard to keep track of everything that's occurred, let alone when it happened. I'm often left when particular events actually happened. The other week, I was looking over some old newspapers articles and remembering the events behind the article as if it took place the day before. Only after I finished reading I noticed that the article was from February 2002.
Since leaving secondary school, I'm only just beginning to recount the amount of memories I've accumulated, with particular emphasis on the last three years.
Countless trips on the train with those whom I hold dear, the times we skipped school, going out during days off. There's just so much that's been crammed into those three years. And I wonder sometimes, has it really been three years?
Memory is a funny thing. It can be your best friend one day, and be a bitter reminder of darker days. The last three years have been somewhat the best of my relatively short life. The memories of the darker years still linger in the background, and every so often I'm haunted by those memories.
Yet, a single memory is enough to wipe your mind clear of any sadness, anger or other negative emotion and replace it with those of mental images happier times and positive feelings.
A single memory is enough for you to make a change in direction - start anew. Something which I have picked up on and put into action.
I'm no longer the same person I was several years ago. And as time flies by, and the memories accumulate, maybe change isn't that bad.
- Max Power.
It seems these days that things don't remain constant for too long. Taking SUBURBANtermini as an example, after only being on the internet for less than 12 months, the branding, layout and colour schemes of the site looked rather tired and dated. I sometimes wonder whether constant change is a good thing, usually siding with the idea that change is occurring much too rapidly and is having a negative affect.
I don't know if other people have noticed this either, but it seems that the year has absolutely flown by. It seems only yesterday that I was sitting my final examinations for Year 12.
It sort of came to a head a fortnight ago when I dropped in at my old high school after picking up package. One of my former teachers wished me luck for the VCE English exam taking place the following morning. I was quick to point out that I was no longer an attending student and it quickly became a conversation about my last twelve months since leaving the school.
And that's what's made the feeling of time passing quickly seems so much more real. In the last twelve months, I've left high school and begun University; started driving; gone and come back from overseas; seen colours change on the trams and trains (yes, I have to mention it); countless assessments and deadlines; joined the team at SUBURBANtermini; and most importantly, started working. And that's only some of the stuff I've seen or experienced within this last year.
It just seems that time have accelerated so quickly, it's hard to keep track of everything that's occurred, let alone when it happened. I'm often left when particular events actually happened. The other week, I was looking over some old newspapers articles and remembering the events behind the article as if it took place the day before. Only after I finished reading I noticed that the article was from February 2002.
Since leaving secondary school, I'm only just beginning to recount the amount of memories I've accumulated, with particular emphasis on the last three years.
Countless trips on the train with those whom I hold dear, the times we skipped school, going out during days off. There's just so much that's been crammed into those three years. And I wonder sometimes, has it really been three years?
Memory is a funny thing. It can be your best friend one day, and be a bitter reminder of darker days. The last three years have been somewhat the best of my relatively short life. The memories of the darker years still linger in the background, and every so often I'm haunted by those memories.
Yet, a single memory is enough to wipe your mind clear of any sadness, anger or other negative emotion and replace it with those of mental images happier times and positive feelings.
A single memory is enough for you to make a change in direction - start anew. Something which I have picked up on and put into action.
I'm no longer the same person I was several years ago. And as time flies by, and the memories accumulate, maybe change isn't that bad.
- Max Power.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Welcome to the fresh SUBURBANtermini
Welcome to the new look SUBURBANtermini.
Despite this blog being relatively new on the blogging block, it was decided that a brand refresh was in order.
With this brand refresh is a sweep of rolling changes.
Most importantly is the introduction of new authors to SUBURBANtermini. These new authors will be announced shorting, so watch this space.
Sadly, we have let 'Clarkson' go. We feel that the removal of 'Clarkson' was necessary step in trying to move forward with the blog and create a new feel.
Vittoria Vetra and Max Power are still on staff and as mentioned earlier, we'll be announcing new staff shortly.
We'd like to thank our only reader at this stage, Damacus, for bearing with us. We thank you for your patience.
So, welcome to the new look SUBURBANtermini.
If it matters to us, it'll be here.
Thanks.
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Despite this blog being relatively new on the blogging block, it was decided that a brand refresh was in order.
With this brand refresh is a sweep of rolling changes.
Most importantly is the introduction of new authors to SUBURBANtermini. These new authors will be announced shorting, so watch this space.
Sadly, we have let 'Clarkson' go. We feel that the removal of 'Clarkson' was necessary step in trying to move forward with the blog and create a new feel.
Vittoria Vetra and Max Power are still on staff and as mentioned earlier, we'll be announcing new staff shortly.
We'd like to thank our only reader at this stage, Damacus, for bearing with us. We thank you for your patience.
So, welcome to the new look SUBURBANtermini.
If it matters to us, it'll be here.
Thanks.
SUBURBANtermini Admin.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Power Point: Air-conditioning is for the weak.
I recently read something on a social networking site which made me rather cross.
Person X: 'had an awesome trip home riding in the stuffy, smelly, squishy, aircon-lacking tin can of a train >_>"'
Despite my obvious bias towards Melbourne's train system, I am sure that the general public would rather travel on a non-air conditioned train and get to where they want to be on time, than have to wait out in the sun on a platform for the next train because the previous one was cancelled for whatever reason.
This brings me to the Hitachi fleet. Affectionately known as the Silvers when they first entered service, these trains have served the people of Melbourne for more than thirty years. Compared to their younger counterparts, these trains lack the features which apparently are necessary in operating a railway, such as CCTV, emergency intercoms and most importantly according to commuters, air conditioning.
Now, there are only seven of these trains left. Of the 177 trains in service today, the Hitachi fleet only makes up approximately 3% of the entire train fleet.
That's right, only 3%.
And yet, in comparison, every 1 in 3 trains in Sydney is not air-conditioned.
So, why is it that Melburnians feel the need to whine and complain when a Silver turns up to run their service? It's only 3% of the entire train fleet. Are we that uptight and stuck up that we cannot bear to travel without air-conditioning for what would be a relatively short moment of our day?
Despite their lack of air-conditioning, they are quite reliable and far more reliable than the Austrian-built Siemens trains which have been plagued with braking issues for the past seven years. Far more comfortable than the French-made X'Trapolis trains which have suspension so poor, drivers are reporting lower back injuries as a result.
And come a 40-degree day, the Comeng trains - the workhorse of the suburban fleet - are withdrawn from service as the motor alternators overheat as they are only designed to power the air-conditioners to temperatures of 34-degrees.
So, what's left to do form service? That's right. The Silvers.
Prior to 1981, there was never a train cancelled because of a faulty air-conditioner. And prior to 2002, every train to operate in Melbourne was designed to for our conditions.
Person X: 'had an awesome trip home riding in the stuffy, smelly, squishy, aircon-lacking tin can of a train >_>"'
Despite my obvious bias towards Melbourne's train system, I am sure that the general public would rather travel on a non-air conditioned train and get to where they want to be on time, than have to wait out in the sun on a platform for the next train because the previous one was cancelled for whatever reason.
This brings me to the Hitachi fleet. Affectionately known as the Silvers when they first entered service, these trains have served the people of Melbourne for more than thirty years. Compared to their younger counterparts, these trains lack the features which apparently are necessary in operating a railway, such as CCTV, emergency intercoms and most importantly according to commuters, air conditioning.
The ever reliable Silvers.
That's right, only 3%.
And yet, in comparison, every 1 in 3 trains in Sydney is not air-conditioned.
So, why is it that Melburnians feel the need to whine and complain when a Silver turns up to run their service? It's only 3% of the entire train fleet. Are we that uptight and stuck up that we cannot bear to travel without air-conditioning for what would be a relatively short moment of our day?
Despite their lack of air-conditioning, they are quite reliable and far more reliable than the Austrian-built Siemens trains which have been plagued with braking issues for the past seven years. Far more comfortable than the French-made X'Trapolis trains which have suspension so poor, drivers are reporting lower back injuries as a result.
And come a 40-degree day, the Comeng trains - the workhorse of the suburban fleet - are withdrawn from service as the motor alternators overheat as they are only designed to power the air-conditioners to temperatures of 34-degrees.
So, what's left to do form service? That's right. The Silvers.
Prior to 1981, there was never a train cancelled because of a faulty air-conditioner. And prior to 2002, every train to operate in Melbourne was designed to for our conditions.
Interior of an Hitachi train.
I also constantly get remarks such as "why aren't these trains scrapped yet?", and "why is this piece of crap still around?". And the answer is always the same, "they're here to take you home and to work and to where ever it is you want to go."
Had we scrapped these seven Silver angels of the train system, that would be 10,000 less people whom are carried on the train network during the morning peak. Take both peaks into account, and that's about 10% of the entire patronage base for an average weekday.
It's quite simple really. They may be old. They may smell a little foul when the brakes are applied hard. They may lack air-conditioning.
But it beats waiting at the station for another 15 minutes in the sun when the train's been cancelled because of a faulty air-conditioner.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
An Apology For This Minor Inconvenience
My apologies for not posting recently. I have had a lot of personal things to deal with, and unfortunately that means everything else takes a back seat.
I'm not sure I agree with Max about our contributions. I don't feel a sense of achievement from these posts. We have thus far one reader. We aren't broadcasting to a large audience, and personally I don't have anything important to say.
That said, I will be posting more often upon the completion of my exams. I made a commitment to this blog, and I will follow it through.
So, dear reader, until then:
Keep calm, and avoid public transport.
I'm not sure I agree with Max about our contributions. I don't feel a sense of achievement from these posts. We have thus far one reader. We aren't broadcasting to a large audience, and personally I don't have anything important to say.
That said, I will be posting more often upon the completion of my exams. I made a commitment to this blog, and I will follow it through.
So, dear reader, until then:
Keep calm, and avoid public transport.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Power Point: Back to work.
It seems my co-presenters and myself have let the ball slip on Suburban Termini.
I won't make excuses for them, but in my honest opinion, it's probably because we didn't really care in the first place.
No. Seriously.
I guess as life goes on some things fall into the cracks. Some things will be here forever. Some things hang around just long enough for the people to see what they're really worth, and then disappear into the pages of history. Some things put up a fight and go down swinging. Some things just fade into the night without a single whim.
And then there's Suburban Termini. Forgotten. Buried in the dark depths of the interwebs.
But I'm bringing it back. I don't know about my co-presenters, but I find a sense of purpose through writing on these virtual walls. A sense of power and achievement. A sense that I have contributed something to society via the interwebs through only a click of a button and the taps of my keyboard.
And that brings me to the subject of trying to preserve the past. Trying to keep a snapshot - a window - into a bygone era.
Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you the same thing. I know Melbourne like the back of my hand.
It's a lovely city. A city of arts, culture, sport and history. A city like none other. And there's nowhere else I'd rather call home.
From the charm that is Parisian end of Collins Street, to the new and exciting developments which make up the Docklands, each piece of the city has some sort of interesting background.
But yet, I fear that all this history and background could soon be lost. Forever replaced by memories of violence, drunkeness and complete disrespect.
We are a proud city. In fact, we are a proud state. But yet, the boozy and violent culture of today's youth and other branches of society is worrying. Do we really want to be known by tourists and locals alike for such qualities?
The complete disregard for public property and personal safety is beginning to reach alarming levels.
Prior to the 'hip-hop' era of the 1980s, people actually respected one another. Graffiti along our city's laneways was almost non-existent. Pubs closed at 10pm on a Friday night and nightclubs were a very scarce thing.
Flash forward to 2010, and today's society, especially our youth, chooses to use weapons and their fists to sort out disagreements. A glance at the wrong person and you would be on the receiving end of a violent tirade. And this comes from first hand experience.
The complete disregard for another person's life is absolutely shocking. The booze culture whereby people go out and drink until they're completely drunk off their face and then wonder off into the night is completely unacceptable. Often enough, those drunken buffoons end up out on the street, victims of theft, assault, and other whatnot.
Graffiti is an unsightly burden on society. Sprawled across laneways, railway corridors, fences, walls, telephone boxes, telegraph poles and many other locations, it's hard to think that some people consider blatant vandalism as 'art'.
It isn't 'art' when it costs local councils millions in ratepayers dollars on removing such 'art'. It isn't 'art' when people have to suffer travelling on a train with paint fumes being cycled through the air-conditioner because the train had been freshly tagged. It isn't 'art' when it affects innocent people who didn't want such 'art' on their house's wall.
Is this what we want our great city to be remembered as in thirty, forty, fifty years time? As a violent, and uncouth ghetto?
Fifty years ago Melbourne was a proud city. And you have to wonder where did we lose our way?
I'm all for preserving our past. But only if it is worth preserving.
And this dark chapter is nothing we should be proud about. Nor is it worth keeping alive for future generations to have to suffer through.
I won't make excuses for them, but in my honest opinion, it's probably because we didn't really care in the first place.
No. Seriously.
I guess as life goes on some things fall into the cracks. Some things will be here forever. Some things hang around just long enough for the people to see what they're really worth, and then disappear into the pages of history. Some things put up a fight and go down swinging. Some things just fade into the night without a single whim.
And then there's Suburban Termini. Forgotten. Buried in the dark depths of the interwebs.
But I'm bringing it back. I don't know about my co-presenters, but I find a sense of purpose through writing on these virtual walls. A sense of power and achievement. A sense that I have contributed something to society via the interwebs through only a click of a button and the taps of my keyboard.
And that brings me to the subject of trying to preserve the past. Trying to keep a snapshot - a window - into a bygone era.
Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you the same thing. I know Melbourne like the back of my hand.
It's a lovely city. A city of arts, culture, sport and history. A city like none other. And there's nowhere else I'd rather call home.
From the charm that is Parisian end of Collins Street, to the new and exciting developments which make up the Docklands, each piece of the city has some sort of interesting background.
But yet, I fear that all this history and background could soon be lost. Forever replaced by memories of violence, drunkeness and complete disrespect.
We are a proud city. In fact, we are a proud state. But yet, the boozy and violent culture of today's youth and other branches of society is worrying. Do we really want to be known by tourists and locals alike for such qualities?
The complete disregard for public property and personal safety is beginning to reach alarming levels.
Prior to the 'hip-hop' era of the 1980s, people actually respected one another. Graffiti along our city's laneways was almost non-existent. Pubs closed at 10pm on a Friday night and nightclubs were a very scarce thing.
Flash forward to 2010, and today's society, especially our youth, chooses to use weapons and their fists to sort out disagreements. A glance at the wrong person and you would be on the receiving end of a violent tirade. And this comes from first hand experience.
The complete disregard for another person's life is absolutely shocking. The booze culture whereby people go out and drink until they're completely drunk off their face and then wonder off into the night is completely unacceptable. Often enough, those drunken buffoons end up out on the street, victims of theft, assault, and other whatnot.
Graffiti is an unsightly burden on society. Sprawled across laneways, railway corridors, fences, walls, telephone boxes, telegraph poles and many other locations, it's hard to think that some people consider blatant vandalism as 'art'.
It isn't 'art' when it costs local councils millions in ratepayers dollars on removing such 'art'. It isn't 'art' when people have to suffer travelling on a train with paint fumes being cycled through the air-conditioner because the train had been freshly tagged. It isn't 'art' when it affects innocent people who didn't want such 'art' on their house's wall.
Is this what we want our great city to be remembered as in thirty, forty, fifty years time? As a violent, and uncouth ghetto?
Fifty years ago Melbourne was a proud city. And you have to wonder where did we lose our way?
I'm all for preserving our past. But only if it is worth preserving.
And this dark chapter is nothing we should be proud about. Nor is it worth keeping alive for future generations to have to suffer through.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Things I Hate #1: Public Transport
I catch a plethora of trams, trains and buses nearly every day. And I hate it. (Peak hour traffic is worse however, and parking is a bitch where I am. Anyway.) Every month I shell out two paychecks on a ticket and get the following:
-Late trains and buses. The flyer at my local station says Metro's reliability last month was 80.2%. We don't have any posting targets here at Suburban Termini, but our punctuality is 100%.
-Packed trains. These make me want to stab someone- it would probably give me more space too.
-Strange people on the trains and trams. I have had my arm sniffed, been cursed at for being the antichrist, witnessed a domestic (same couple, twice on the same day on two different trains), been stared at, been hit, involuntarily brought in to someone's conversation and had someone try to steal my phone. All I want to do is have some space, listen to my iPod and read. Is that so much to ask?
-Elderly people who get irate at you for offering a seat. Happened to a good friend of mine. And then us 'young people' get bitched at for not offering our seats without being asked.
-Unclean trains. Too often I have been on a train where someone has dumped their rubbish, scratched the windows, vandalised the seats or even vomited.
Yarra Trams has been pretty good. But we're paying for a train and bus system that is overpriced and substandard. Metro, bus companies, time to clean up your act. Do what we're paying you to do.
-Late trains and buses. The flyer at my local station says Metro's reliability last month was 80.2%. We don't have any posting targets here at Suburban Termini, but our punctuality is 100%.
-Packed trains. These make me want to stab someone- it would probably give me more space too.
-Strange people on the trains and trams. I have had my arm sniffed, been cursed at for being the antichrist, witnessed a domestic (same couple, twice on the same day on two different trains), been stared at, been hit, involuntarily brought in to someone's conversation and had someone try to steal my phone. All I want to do is have some space, listen to my iPod and read. Is that so much to ask?
-Elderly people who get irate at you for offering a seat. Happened to a good friend of mine. And then us 'young people' get bitched at for not offering our seats without being asked.
-Unclean trains. Too often I have been on a train where someone has dumped their rubbish, scratched the windows, vandalised the seats or even vomited.
Yarra Trams has been pretty good. But we're paying for a train and bus system that is overpriced and substandard. Metro, bus companies, time to clean up your act. Do what we're paying you to do.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Things I've Learnt at Uni
I've recently finished my first semester of university and it has been an entirely new experience for me. Here is what I've learnt:
-No-one (except your group members) cares if you do the work
-There is a 24 hour access building with couches and showers
-Nearly everything on campus is overpriced
-If you don't talk, people won't try to talk to you
-Get enough sleep, or fall asleep in lectures
-Going to lectures drunk is amusing but unproductive
-Avoid being at uni all day
-9am starts are brutal
-The Marxists will not leave you alone
-Clubs and societies aren't as fun as they sound, except for the drinking ones
-If you fail a subject, it just holds up your degree
-Textbooks are mostly useless and overpriced
-Unless you are phenomenal in your field, you are just one person in 40,000
-Arts students overdress, Science students underdress
-Residential students are another species, though friendly
-Tuesday night is the new uni night
-Rain is not conducive to a campus without covered walkways
-There is so much help out there if you know where to look
and lastly:
-Most people are there because they are intelligent. Use this to your advantage.
-No-one (except your group members) cares if you do the work
-There is a 24 hour access building with couches and showers
-Nearly everything on campus is overpriced
-If you don't talk, people won't try to talk to you
-Get enough sleep, or fall asleep in lectures
-Going to lectures drunk is amusing but unproductive
-Avoid being at uni all day
-9am starts are brutal
-The Marxists will not leave you alone
-Clubs and societies aren't as fun as they sound, except for the drinking ones
-If you fail a subject, it just holds up your degree
-Textbooks are mostly useless and overpriced
-Unless you are phenomenal in your field, you are just one person in 40,000
-Arts students overdress, Science students underdress
-Residential students are another species, though friendly
-Tuesday night is the new uni night
-Rain is not conducive to a campus without covered walkways
-There is so much help out there if you know where to look
and lastly:
-Most people are there because they are intelligent. Use this to your advantage.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Back from my sabbatical
My apologies for being away for so long. Life gets in the way sometimes.
Today is a historical day: Australia now has its first female prime minister.
An Open Letter to Julia Gillard
Dear Julia,
Hi. Congratulations.
You've stolen my dream of being the first female prime minister. Thanks a lot. All the same, congrats.
Don't fuck this up.
You were not elected to this job, you got it by default.
Sure, you're deserving of it.
And yes, you have our support.
But fuck this up and you will not.
What do I mean by this?
-do something about global warming, even a small strategy would be nice;
-give the hospitals more money;
-in short, fix things instead of breaking them.
You are capable of this. So do it.
Love,
Vittoria Vetra
I'm off to work on my new dream- first (female) president of Australia.
Today is a historical day: Australia now has its first female prime minister.
An Open Letter to Julia Gillard
Dear Julia,
Hi. Congratulations.
You've stolen my dream of being the first female prime minister. Thanks a lot. All the same, congrats.
Don't fuck this up.
You were not elected to this job, you got it by default.
Sure, you're deserving of it.
And yes, you have our support.
But fuck this up and you will not.
What do I mean by this?
-do something about global warming, even a small strategy would be nice;
-give the hospitals more money;
-in short, fix things instead of breaking them.
You are capable of this. So do it.
Love,
Vittoria Vetra
I'm off to work on my new dream- first (female) president of Australia.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Power Point: Keep Left, Or Die.
I'm seriously ticked off.
After copping what can only be described as public stupidity for almost a week, I've had enough of the selfishness displayed by the individual in today's society.
How hard is it for society to show a bit of common courtesy towards their fellow man? Or has that disappeared into the wilderness never to be found again?
I am tired of having to constantly deal with bloody mindedness and I'm absolutely over it. I'm now at that stage where I am willing to publicly yell at people.
Just walking down Swanston Street on my way to Melbourne Central with a friend, the amount of people who are walking in front of you who then, all of a sudden, stop in the middle of the footpath is astonishing.
THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE BEHIND YOU. DON'T STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SODDING FOOTPATH, MOVE TO THE SIDE OF THE DAMN FOOTPATH SO OTHERS CAN KEEP WALKING.
AND DON'T BLOODY COMPLAIN WHEN PEOPLE WALK IN FRONT OF YOU WHILE YOU'RE LOOKING AT A WINDOW DISPLAY FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE DAMN PATH - STAND TO THE SIDE AND PEOPLE WON'T TELL YOU OFF.
Then there's those idiots who think, "you know what, I'll just cut in front of you with a clearance of two inches."
And there's my pet hate. People who stand on the right hand side of an escalator as people are walking up or down.
I DON'T BLOODY CARE WHO'S BOYFRIEND IS CHEATING ON WHO, DON'T STAND ON THE BLOODY RIGHT SIDE OF THE ESCALATOR - THERE ARE PEOPLE BEHIND YOU WHO WANT TO GET TO WORK ON TIME.
AND IF YOU STAND ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE AND I'M BEHIND YOU, I'LL PUSH YOU DOWN THE BLOODY ESCALATOR.
Now, boys and girls on their way to and from school on the train, here's a thought..
LET PEOPLE OFF BEFORE YOU COME RUSHING INTO THE TRAIN AND DON'T FUCKING PUSH OLD WOMEN AND FULL FARE PAYING PASSENGERS OUT OF THE WAY SO YOU CAN PARK YOUR SELFISH ARSE ON A SEAT.
DON'T STAND IN THE BLOODY DOORWAYS, PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO GET OFF AT STATIONS EVEN THOUGH YOU'RE NOT GETTING OFF.
PUT YOU'RE GODDAMN BAG ON THE FLOOR NOT ON THE BLOODY SEATS, AND GET YOU'RE FUCKING FEET OF THE SEAT. PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO SIT ON A SEAT WHERE YOU'RE DIRTY SHOES HAVE BEEN ON.
AND FOR GOD SAKE, DON'T YELL AND SCREAM, JUMP UP AND DOWN, BLAST YOUR 'MUSIC' AS LOUD AS YOU CAN, AND LEAVE YOUR SHIT ALL OVER THE TRAIN.
SHUT THE HELL UP.
TAKE YOUR SHIT WITH YOU.
AND LEAVE OTHER PASSENGERS ALONE.
WE DON'T WANT TO HEAR HOW MUCH YOU HATE MATHS OR HOW MUCH OF A BITCH YOU'RE "BIFFLE" IS.
SHOW SOME GODDAMN COMMON DECENCY AND LET OTHER PEOPLE TRAVEL IN PEACE.
I don't know where or when society derailed itself, but for FUCK SAKE, it's time for the public to pack in their bloody mindedness and learn some common decency.
For all of our sakes.
After copping what can only be described as public stupidity for almost a week, I've had enough of the selfishness displayed by the individual in today's society.
How hard is it for society to show a bit of common courtesy towards their fellow man? Or has that disappeared into the wilderness never to be found again?
I am tired of having to constantly deal with bloody mindedness and I'm absolutely over it. I'm now at that stage where I am willing to publicly yell at people.
Just walking down Swanston Street on my way to Melbourne Central with a friend, the amount of people who are walking in front of you who then, all of a sudden, stop in the middle of the footpath is astonishing.
THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE BEHIND YOU. DON'T STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SODDING FOOTPATH, MOVE TO THE SIDE OF THE DAMN FOOTPATH SO OTHERS CAN KEEP WALKING.
AND DON'T BLOODY COMPLAIN WHEN PEOPLE WALK IN FRONT OF YOU WHILE YOU'RE LOOKING AT A WINDOW DISPLAY FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE DAMN PATH - STAND TO THE SIDE AND PEOPLE WON'T TELL YOU OFF.
Then there's those idiots who think, "you know what, I'll just cut in front of you with a clearance of two inches."
And there's my pet hate. People who stand on the right hand side of an escalator as people are walking up or down.
I DON'T BLOODY CARE WHO'S BOYFRIEND IS CHEATING ON WHO, DON'T STAND ON THE BLOODY RIGHT SIDE OF THE ESCALATOR - THERE ARE PEOPLE BEHIND YOU WHO WANT TO GET TO WORK ON TIME.
AND IF YOU STAND ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE AND I'M BEHIND YOU, I'LL PUSH YOU DOWN THE BLOODY ESCALATOR.
Now, boys and girls on their way to and from school on the train, here's a thought..
LET PEOPLE OFF BEFORE YOU COME RUSHING INTO THE TRAIN AND DON'T FUCKING PUSH OLD WOMEN AND FULL FARE PAYING PASSENGERS OUT OF THE WAY SO YOU CAN PARK YOUR SELFISH ARSE ON A SEAT.
DON'T STAND IN THE BLOODY DOORWAYS, PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO GET OFF AT STATIONS EVEN THOUGH YOU'RE NOT GETTING OFF.
PUT YOU'RE GODDAMN BAG ON THE FLOOR NOT ON THE BLOODY SEATS, AND GET YOU'RE FUCKING FEET OF THE SEAT. PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO SIT ON A SEAT WHERE YOU'RE DIRTY SHOES HAVE BEEN ON.
AND FOR GOD SAKE, DON'T YELL AND SCREAM, JUMP UP AND DOWN, BLAST YOUR 'MUSIC' AS LOUD AS YOU CAN, AND LEAVE YOUR SHIT ALL OVER THE TRAIN.
SHUT THE HELL UP.
TAKE YOUR SHIT WITH YOU.
AND LEAVE OTHER PASSENGERS ALONE.
WE DON'T WANT TO HEAR HOW MUCH YOU HATE MATHS OR HOW MUCH OF A BITCH YOU'RE "BIFFLE" IS.
SHOW SOME GODDAMN COMMON DECENCY AND LET OTHER PEOPLE TRAVEL IN PEACE.
I don't know where or when society derailed itself, but for FUCK SAKE, it's time for the public to pack in their bloody mindedness and learn some common decency.
For all of our sakes.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Public Notice.
Due to on-going work commitments between members of the team, there will be a slowdown in the amount of items posted.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Indefinite Absence
Due to some legal complications, I (Clarkson) will be on an indefinite absence until further notice.
That is all.
That is all.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Power Point: Shaking, Rattling and Rolling Forward
Today marks a very sad anniversary.
Forty-nine years ago, the Sydney tram shook and rattled it's way down Sydney's streets for the final time. R1.1995 operated what would be the end of an era, a very rich era in Australia's transport.
On the 25th of February, 1961, Sydney said farewell to the tram.
Most people don't even remember trams in Sydney, or were even aware that trams once rumbled down George Street towards Circular Quay. In fact, Sydney once had the largest tram system in the Southern Hemisphere, with more than double the amount of trams Melbourne has today.
So how did such a large system fall?
The post-war mentality triggered a sense of pride in petrol-powered motorcars. The bus soon became a more comfortable and faster way of travelling compared to the tram. Myths that trams took up more road-space than several hundred cars were taken as truth. And peak motoring body group the NRMA supported the closure of Sydney's trams.
Yet, amongst all that, Sydneysiders didn't want to let go, but the Government had other ideas.
The system that once ruled the Harbour city was doomed after the end of World War II.
It seems that old technology is helping cities move towards creating a network that can move the masses at minimal cost. It is the humble tram that is revolutionising and revitalising transport networks around the world.
Those in the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's who said that buses were the way ahead, and trams would pull us backwards, were wrong. And it certainly shows in Sydney, who's bus services are primarily modelled on the tram system.
The amount of cars and buses in the City Centre is causing a lot more congestion then what trams would. Buses now fight for space at Circular Quay, kicking passengers off a block before reaching the Quay, saying that it's the last stop.
Yesterday's Daily Telegraph published an embarrassing blow to Sydney Buses. They showed that it took 35 minutes for a bus to travel just 3.5km from the Railway Square to Glebe. THAT'S A STAGGERING 10 MINUTES PER KILOMETRE!! A tram with a right-of-way, or a "tramway reserve", would have done that in less than 10 minutes.
In fact, by the late-1960's, we were already aware of the flow-on effects removing trams would have on our roads.
One, little fact has always been passed over when comparing trams to buses, even when Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide wound down their tram systems. Buses carry less than trams.
Sydney's unique system allowed for trams to couple during the peaks, effectively making two trams run as one. One set of coupled O or P-Class toast-rack trams carried more passengers than a double-decker bus (which replaced trams in the '50s). A single R-Class corridor tram could carry more than a standard single-decker bus even today.
And quite ironically, almost 50 years to the day since Sydney lost it's trams, NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally announced that trams will make a come-back to their streets, linking Circular Quay to the current light-rail at Haymarket.
So, Mr.1940's, 50's and 60's, who's laughing now? It's certainly not the car or the bus.
Today may be a sad day in Australian transport history, but with any luck, Sydney will be shaking, rattling and rolling again in the next 50 years,
Forty-nine years ago, the Sydney tram shook and rattled it's way down Sydney's streets for the final time. R1.1995 operated what would be the end of an era, a very rich era in Australia's transport.
On the 25th of February, 1961, Sydney said farewell to the tram.
Most people don't even remember trams in Sydney, or were even aware that trams once rumbled down George Street towards Circular Quay. In fact, Sydney once had the largest tram system in the Southern Hemisphere, with more than double the amount of trams Melbourne has today.
So how did such a large system fall?
The post-war mentality triggered a sense of pride in petrol-powered motorcars. The bus soon became a more comfortable and faster way of travelling compared to the tram. Myths that trams took up more road-space than several hundred cars were taken as truth. And peak motoring body group the NRMA supported the closure of Sydney's trams.
Yet, amongst all that, Sydneysiders didn't want to let go, but the Government had other ideas.
The system that once ruled the Harbour city was doomed after the end of World War II.
Pitt Street, Sydney in 1949. Photo courtesy of the National Archives.
Looking back, it's amazing to see how foolish most Australian cities were in closing their tram systems. Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide are now working towards trying to re-establish trams in their cities after decades since they disappeared from their streets.
It seems that old technology is helping cities move towards creating a network that can move the masses at minimal cost. It is the humble tram that is revolutionising and revitalising transport networks around the world.
Those in the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's who said that buses were the way ahead, and trams would pull us backwards, were wrong. And it certainly shows in Sydney, who's bus services are primarily modelled on the tram system.
The amount of cars and buses in the City Centre is causing a lot more congestion then what trams would. Buses now fight for space at Circular Quay, kicking passengers off a block before reaching the Quay, saying that it's the last stop.
Yesterday's Daily Telegraph published an embarrassing blow to Sydney Buses. They showed that it took 35 minutes for a bus to travel just 3.5km from the Railway Square to Glebe. THAT'S A STAGGERING 10 MINUTES PER KILOMETRE!! A tram with a right-of-way, or a "tramway reserve", would have done that in less than 10 minutes.
In fact, by the late-1960's, we were already aware of the flow-on effects removing trams would have on our roads.
One, little fact has always been passed over when comparing trams to buses, even when Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide wound down their tram systems. Buses carry less than trams.
Sydney's unique system allowed for trams to couple during the peaks, effectively making two trams run as one. One set of coupled O or P-Class toast-rack trams carried more passengers than a double-decker bus (which replaced trams in the '50s). A single R-Class corridor tram could carry more than a standard single-decker bus even today.
And quite ironically, almost 50 years to the day since Sydney lost it's trams, NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally announced that trams will make a come-back to their streets, linking Circular Quay to the current light-rail at Haymarket.
So, Mr.1940's, 50's and 60's, who's laughing now? It's certainly not the car or the bus.
Today may be a sad day in Australian transport history, but with any luck, Sydney will be shaking, rattling and rolling again in the next 50 years,
An R1-Class tram on Glebe Point Road in 1958. Image courtesy of Sydney Architecture.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord!
Finally, a Victorian Government initiative which can be backed.
What a brilliant idea for clubs/pubs to provide free water to patrons in order to curb late night CBD violence.
Hoo-rar!
Finally, a Victorian Government initiative which can be backed.
What a brilliant idea for clubs/pubs to provide free water to patrons in order to curb late night CBD violence.
Hoo-rar!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Power Point: Selling Out.
Power here, and welcome to my new column, Power Point.
(Although, you may have noticed that my previous posts have been rebranded with Power Point, but this is officially the first column.)
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Thankfully another Valentine's Day has come and gone.
No, I'm not some bitter, cold bastard who hates Valentine's Day because of the actual sentiments surrounding the day.
What I am bitter about is the fact that large corporations are taking over and ruining the main purpose of these special events in the calendar year.
I am someone who believes that Valentine's Day was created by some depressed florist or card writer who thought that they could make a quick buck by creating the some useless celebration on the calendar and by exploiting couples.
In fact, I'd even go as far as saying that the people who actually purchase extravagant gifts and whatnot for Valentine's Day are actually selling themselves out to these companies.
Valentine's Day is not some day which is solely based around the purchase of Belgian Chocolates, French Champagne, and expensive electronic goods from Japan. No, Valentine's Day should be about the individual. About focusing solely on that special person in one's life, not some sodding bunch of flowers that some Mexican picked.
The same goes for Christmas. Every year I find that the two major department stores, Myer and David Jones, seem to start putting their Christmas decorations earlier each year. Last year I noted that Santa was busy setting up his temporary village at David Jones in the middle of bloody October.
And it's apparent with Easter too. My local Woolies has been stocking Easter eggs and rabbits, as well as hot cross buns for the last three weeks. And, if you believe what people have been saying on the internet, some stores have had Easter stock out the back on pallets since early January.
EARLY JANUARY?!? Christmas stock hasn't been cleaned out yet, and department stores and supermarkets are already stocking Easter products! It's absolutely absurd.
Quite frankly, I find the shift in focus regarding these calendar events rather disappointing.
Somewhere in the thick of the pre-Christmas sales, or commercialism of Valentine's Day lurks the, now neglected, intended focus of those events. The person.
Maybe it's time to refocus on what is truly important. Not selling out to some corporation.
(Although, you may have noticed that my previous posts have been rebranded with Power Point, but this is officially the first column.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thankfully another Valentine's Day has come and gone.
No, I'm not some bitter, cold bastard who hates Valentine's Day because of the actual sentiments surrounding the day.
What I am bitter about is the fact that large corporations are taking over and ruining the main purpose of these special events in the calendar year.
I am someone who believes that Valentine's Day was created by some depressed florist or card writer who thought that they could make a quick buck by creating the some useless celebration on the calendar and by exploiting couples.
In fact, I'd even go as far as saying that the people who actually purchase extravagant gifts and whatnot for Valentine's Day are actually selling themselves out to these companies.
Valentine's Day is not some day which is solely based around the purchase of Belgian Chocolates, French Champagne, and expensive electronic goods from Japan. No, Valentine's Day should be about the individual. About focusing solely on that special person in one's life, not some sodding bunch of flowers that some Mexican picked.
The same goes for Christmas. Every year I find that the two major department stores, Myer and David Jones, seem to start putting their Christmas decorations earlier each year. Last year I noted that Santa was busy setting up his temporary village at David Jones in the middle of bloody October.
And it's apparent with Easter too. My local Woolies has been stocking Easter eggs and rabbits, as well as hot cross buns for the last three weeks. And, if you believe what people have been saying on the internet, some stores have had Easter stock out the back on pallets since early January.
EARLY JANUARY?!? Christmas stock hasn't been cleaned out yet, and department stores and supermarkets are already stocking Easter products! It's absolutely absurd.
Quite frankly, I find the shift in focus regarding these calendar events rather disappointing.
Somewhere in the thick of the pre-Christmas sales, or commercialism of Valentine's Day lurks the, now neglected, intended focus of those events. The person.
Maybe it's time to refocus on what is truly important. Not selling out to some corporation.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Clarkson's Weekly Rant: The Dark Depths of Child Porn.
Our ever-reliant media outlets must have had a field day when it was recently revealed that a current The Biggest Loser contestant had been charged by our brilliant police force in Queensland, regarding the possession child pornography.
What kind of sick bastards would find enjoyment in watching this type of shit? Really, do these PERVERTS really find enjoyment and self- satisfaction in watching little kids being molested? I must state that watching “normal” pornography is weird as you “can’t get any” but how can you watch little kids degrade themselves?
Imagine this, your child, cousin or younger sibling being subjected to this type of FILTH and degradation. What would your reaction be? Would you be happy and have a tingly feeling down your pants; immediately grabbing the moisturiser and tissues?
If you are like most people, you would be outraged and be “WTF’ing” at this “shit”. Not many people would do what I suggested of grabbing the tissues.
If you are one of these people, please report yourself to the nearest police station or alternatively expose yourself to the nearest Primary School so that you can be charged and jailed.
THESE SICK, MENTALLY CHALLENGED people need to be incarcerated, shot, hanged, isolated from society (pretty much what Britain did with the convicts when they sent them to Australia), or all of the above.
Parents, please, watch what your kids are doing as many kids nowadays love “cam-whoring” and many expose too much of themselves to others. This is the risk that predators may to stalk your child.
AGAIN, we need our government to do more to protect the “future” and not let these “fuckwits” reach “climax”. I suggest that all perverts, molesters and pedophiles simply be put into a giant prison where they can molest themselves.
Time to get my gun.
Editors Note: Suburban Termini would like to advise that it does not condone violence or vigilante attacks.
What kind of sick bastards would find enjoyment in watching this type of shit? Really, do these PERVERTS really find enjoyment and self- satisfaction in watching little kids being molested? I must state that watching “normal” pornography is weird as you “can’t get any” but how can you watch little kids degrade themselves?
Imagine this, your child, cousin or younger sibling being subjected to this type of FILTH and degradation. What would your reaction be? Would you be happy and have a tingly feeling down your pants; immediately grabbing the moisturiser and tissues?
If you are like most people, you would be outraged and be “WTF’ing” at this “shit”. Not many people would do what I suggested of grabbing the tissues.
If you are one of these people, please report yourself to the nearest police station or alternatively expose yourself to the nearest Primary School so that you can be charged and jailed.
THESE SICK, MENTALLY CHALLENGED people need to be incarcerated, shot, hanged, isolated from society (pretty much what Britain did with the convicts when they sent them to Australia), or all of the above.
Parents, please, watch what your kids are doing as many kids nowadays love “cam-whoring” and many expose too much of themselves to others. This is the risk that predators may to stalk your child.
AGAIN, we need our government to do more to protect the “future” and not let these “fuckwits” reach “climax”. I suggest that all perverts, molesters and pedophiles simply be put into a giant prison where they can molest themselves.
Time to get my gun.
Editors Note: Suburban Termini would like to advise that it does not condone violence or vigilante attacks.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Power Point: Butt Out. No Butts about it.
Like the shining beacon on a cove in Dover on a foggy morning, the Frankston City Council is a shining light in the midst of heavy cigarette smoke.
They've developed a bold plan. A plan that can only be described as, as breath of fresh air. They've decided to trial the ban of smoking from Frankston's streets.
Yes, that's right. Banning smoking.
I mean, good God. It's 2010. We're aware of the risks smoking poses to both smokers and non-smokers and it's damn about time that someone lead the way in banning smoking in public areas
The trial will see an end to smoking in three busy open-air shopping districts in Frankston. Those who decide to light up in the designated zones will face fines of $110.
But it raises a good question. Is a fine of $110 enough to deter those who smoke from lighting up in a designated exclusion zone?
I for one say no. And that's a very big no.
We've already banned smoking from undercover areas, in front of most buildings in the CBD, in cars with children, in restaurants and on public transport. But creating smoke-free streets is an absolute must.
Fines amounting to $500 would work better as a deterrent that $110. In fact, a fine for smoking in an undercover carpark or a covered area of a railway station amounts to $173 - yet, I haven't seen a decrease in people smoking in those areas.
In conjunction to having higher penalties, a more pro-active, high-profile approach to combatting smoking in public areas must be undertaken. Having more Police and Authorised Officers patrolling streets, railway stations and other public areas, will create a visual presence in the fight against smoking.
I absolutely despise smoking. In fact, I deplore it. It's a disgusting habit and it's absolutely nothing to be proud about.
I don't give a damn about how someone got addicted or attracted to the foul stench of tobacco smoke, but what I do give a damn about is the health and safety of those who do not smoke - those who subjected to inhaling smoke from one inconsiderate, well quite frankly, a jackarse.
Those who compromise the health and wellbeing of those around them have absolutely no regard for those people, whether it be their loved ones, or just the general public.
Those who compromise the health and wellbeing of those around them have absolutely no regard for those on hospital waiting lists, or in dire heath straits because of the effects of passive smoking.
Those who compromise the health and well being of those around them have absolutely no regard for themselves.
I've seen the effects emphysema have on people. In fact, I've seen it first hand. And I can tell you damn well now that it's not something I want to see ever again. I've seen someone who I thought was the strongest person in the world, die because of complications from emphysema. Yet, he never smoked a day in his life.
Whether his emphysema was connected to passive smoking, I'll never know. But I know for sure that it's not pretty sight. Nor is it something I want to see happen to anyone else.
I am glad that the Frankston City Council isn't afraid of taking on this very big issue.
I am glad that they are not afraid to stick it to those who continually risk the health of those around them.
Here's hoping that the trial is a success. And that more local councils follow suit.
They've developed a bold plan. A plan that can only be described as, as breath of fresh air. They've decided to trial the ban of smoking from Frankston's streets.
Yes, that's right. Banning smoking.
I mean, good God. It's 2010. We're aware of the risks smoking poses to both smokers and non-smokers and it's damn about time that someone lead the way in banning smoking in public areas
The trial will see an end to smoking in three busy open-air shopping districts in Frankston. Those who decide to light up in the designated zones will face fines of $110.
But it raises a good question. Is a fine of $110 enough to deter those who smoke from lighting up in a designated exclusion zone?
I for one say no. And that's a very big no.
We've already banned smoking from undercover areas, in front of most buildings in the CBD, in cars with children, in restaurants and on public transport. But creating smoke-free streets is an absolute must.
Fines amounting to $500 would work better as a deterrent that $110. In fact, a fine for smoking in an undercover carpark or a covered area of a railway station amounts to $173 - yet, I haven't seen a decrease in people smoking in those areas.
In conjunction to having higher penalties, a more pro-active, high-profile approach to combatting smoking in public areas must be undertaken. Having more Police and Authorised Officers patrolling streets, railway stations and other public areas, will create a visual presence in the fight against smoking.
I absolutely despise smoking. In fact, I deplore it. It's a disgusting habit and it's absolutely nothing to be proud about.
I don't give a damn about how someone got addicted or attracted to the foul stench of tobacco smoke, but what I do give a damn about is the health and safety of those who do not smoke - those who subjected to inhaling smoke from one inconsiderate, well quite frankly, a jackarse.
Those who compromise the health and wellbeing of those around them have absolutely no regard for those people, whether it be their loved ones, or just the general public.
Those who compromise the health and wellbeing of those around them have absolutely no regard for those on hospital waiting lists, or in dire heath straits because of the effects of passive smoking.
Those who compromise the health and well being of those around them have absolutely no regard for themselves.
I've seen the effects emphysema have on people. In fact, I've seen it first hand. And I can tell you damn well now that it's not something I want to see ever again. I've seen someone who I thought was the strongest person in the world, die because of complications from emphysema. Yet, he never smoked a day in his life.
Whether his emphysema was connected to passive smoking, I'll never know. But I know for sure that it's not pretty sight. Nor is it something I want to see happen to anyone else.
I am glad that the Frankston City Council isn't afraid of taking on this very big issue.
I am glad that they are not afraid to stick it to those who continually risk the health of those around them.
Here's hoping that the trial is a success. And that more local councils follow suit.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Swanston Street... no, Walk... no, Street... err, what?
Last Wednesday, the Melbourne City Council released plans to overhaul Melbourne's beloved Swanston Street.
For years, Swanston Street has played a vital role in shaping Melbourne City. The street for public rallies, the Grand Final Parade, Moomba and many, many more events. And who could forget Swanston Street being the backdrop to AC/DC's It's A Long Way To The Top (If You Want To Rock and Roll) music video.
Since it's controversial conversion to a "Walk" in the 1990s, it has been nothing of the sort. One tends to consider a "Walk" as something along the lines of the Bourke Street Mall, where pedestrians stupidly walk in front of moving trams, but are at least, not confined to the footpath because of a road in the middle of the street. Despite the street's closure to through traffic between 7am and 7pm, it still closely resembles a normal City thoroughfare.
With Swanston Street a mix of taxis, cyclists, commerical vehicles, horse-drawn coaches, trams and until last year, tourist buses; the proposed changes by the City of Melbourne can only be interpreted as a step forward in creating a pedestrian-focused City Centre.
Although, one this seem a little askew. Upon reading the proposal by the City of Melbourne, it denotes that only trams and cyclists will be permitted in through the redeveloped Swanston Street.
CYCLISTS?!?!
Upon nearly every of my frequent trips into the CBD, whilst stepping off a tram, or crossing the road at lights, cyclists always fail to stop and narrowly miss pedestrians. They don't follow the road rules, they skip traffic lights, they pass stopped trams unloading and loading passengers, and they constantly weave in an out of busy city traffic.
It just seems a little stupid for the Council to continue to allow cyclists through, what is practically, a pedestrian mall.
The new plan incorporates cycle lanes, but despite these lanes, I fear that there will be pedestrian-related accidents as a result of permitting cyclists through the street. An 84-year-old man was killed in Collins Street a few years ago, after a cyclists collided with the man whilst alighting from a tram - what's not to stop that from happening again in a pedestrian mall, where there are more people around?
For Melbourne to continue to grow as a vibrant and cultured city, we need to focus on a Swanston Street that is spacious, accessible, family-friendly, and most importantly, a safe public space. And cyclists pose a threat to the safety of this public space.
People may say that trams are more dangerous than cyclists, but Swanston Street is an important tramway thoroughfare for Melbourne's southern and northern routes - the entrance point for hundreds of thousands of tram travellers, and not to mention tourists. The exuberant costs of removing tram tracks and related infrastructure from the street would actually be a step backwards in creating an accessible city for all.
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said, "By 2012, this plan would see the street transformed into a world-class promenade car-free, with more quality public spaces, encouraging an enhanced retail and outdoor dining offering." He also said "One of the major reasons for beautifying the street is to make it desirable for these sorts of businesses to move to Swanston Street and change the culture of the street, particularly late at night."
Cr. Doyle is on the right track, the focus should be on changing the types of businesses trading on Swanston Street. A Lygon Street-style dining precinct, mixed with the charm of Parisian end of Collins Street and the shopping that is the Bourke Street Mall, is what Swanston Street should be - not some street riddled with discount stores, fast food outlets and adult shops. This move would, of course, upset some traders and shoppers, but a better, higher-class, modern, and most importantly, safe, City Centre is what needs to be achieved.
Swanston Street may not be currently be in the company of malls and promenades in Paris, Copenhagen, Rome or Berlin, but we can damn well try.
Here's to the new Swanston 'Street'.
For years, Swanston Street has played a vital role in shaping Melbourne City. The street for public rallies, the Grand Final Parade, Moomba and many, many more events. And who could forget Swanston Street being the backdrop to AC/DC's It's A Long Way To The Top (If You Want To Rock and Roll) music video.
Since it's controversial conversion to a "Walk" in the 1990s, it has been nothing of the sort. One tends to consider a "Walk" as something along the lines of the Bourke Street Mall, where pedestrians stupidly walk in front of moving trams, but are at least, not confined to the footpath because of a road in the middle of the street. Despite the street's closure to through traffic between 7am and 7pm, it still closely resembles a normal City thoroughfare.
Artists impression of the redeveloped Swanston Street. Image courtesy of the City of Melbourne.
With Swanston Street a mix of taxis, cyclists, commerical vehicles, horse-drawn coaches, trams and until last year, tourist buses; the proposed changes by the City of Melbourne can only be interpreted as a step forward in creating a pedestrian-focused City Centre.
Although, one this seem a little askew. Upon reading the proposal by the City of Melbourne, it denotes that only trams and cyclists will be permitted in through the redeveloped Swanston Street.
CYCLISTS?!?!
Upon nearly every of my frequent trips into the CBD, whilst stepping off a tram, or crossing the road at lights, cyclists always fail to stop and narrowly miss pedestrians. They don't follow the road rules, they skip traffic lights, they pass stopped trams unloading and loading passengers, and they constantly weave in an out of busy city traffic.
It just seems a little stupid for the Council to continue to allow cyclists through, what is practically, a pedestrian mall.
The new plan incorporates cycle lanes, but despite these lanes, I fear that there will be pedestrian-related accidents as a result of permitting cyclists through the street. An 84-year-old man was killed in Collins Street a few years ago, after a cyclists collided with the man whilst alighting from a tram - what's not to stop that from happening again in a pedestrian mall, where there are more people around?
For Melbourne to continue to grow as a vibrant and cultured city, we need to focus on a Swanston Street that is spacious, accessible, family-friendly, and most importantly, a safe public space. And cyclists pose a threat to the safety of this public space.
People may say that trams are more dangerous than cyclists, but Swanston Street is an important tramway thoroughfare for Melbourne's southern and northern routes - the entrance point for hundreds of thousands of tram travellers, and not to mention tourists. The exuberant costs of removing tram tracks and related infrastructure from the street would actually be a step backwards in creating an accessible city for all.
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said, "By 2012, this plan would see the street transformed into a world-class promenade car-free, with more quality public spaces, encouraging an enhanced retail and outdoor dining offering." He also said "One of the major reasons for beautifying the street is to make it desirable for these sorts of businesses to move to Swanston Street and change the culture of the street, particularly late at night."
The proposed City Square area. Image courtesy of the City of Melbourne.
Cr. Doyle is on the right track, the focus should be on changing the types of businesses trading on Swanston Street. A Lygon Street-style dining precinct, mixed with the charm of Parisian end of Collins Street and the shopping that is the Bourke Street Mall, is what Swanston Street should be - not some street riddled with discount stores, fast food outlets and adult shops. This move would, of course, upset some traders and shoppers, but a better, higher-class, modern, and most importantly, safe, City Centre is what needs to be achieved.
Swanston Street may not be currently be in the company of malls and promenades in Paris, Copenhagen, Rome or Berlin, but we can damn well try.
Here's to the new Swanston 'Street'.
Friday, January 29, 2010
The P-Plater Rules
So last week five teenagers died in a car crash. The driver was on his red Ps.
Since the crash there have been calls for tighter controls on P-Platers driving.
The controls are not the problem.
The problem is, the driver was drunk (nearly four times over the legal limit for a fully licensed driver) and had four passengers when he should have had one. Oh, and the fact that the driver was doing 140km/h.
I am tired of all new drivers being punished for one idiot's mistake.
How much tighter can VicRoads make the restrictions for P-Platers? Make their cars have a speed limiting device fitted? So on freeways they cause congestion from driving too slowly?
Or having breathalyzer locks required? Which are not 100% accurate.
Not all of us want to drink, then hop in our cars and speed home. Drink driving and speeding happens in adults, too.
Since the crash there have been calls for tighter controls on P-Platers driving.
The controls are not the problem.
The problem is, the driver was drunk (nearly four times over the legal limit for a fully licensed driver) and had four passengers when he should have had one. Oh, and the fact that the driver was doing 140km/h.
I am tired of all new drivers being punished for one idiot's mistake.
How much tighter can VicRoads make the restrictions for P-Platers? Make their cars have a speed limiting device fitted? So on freeways they cause congestion from driving too slowly?
Or having breathalyzer locks required? Which are not 100% accurate.
Not all of us want to drink, then hop in our cars and speed home. Drink driving and speeding happens in adults, too.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The trouble with Level Crossings.
Sigh.
Another day, another idiot who thinks they can beat a train at a level crossing. I am sick and tired of having to read headlines such as these every so often.
I’ll tell you who:
A FUCKWIT WHO HAS NO REGARDS FOR THEIR SAFETY, AND THE LIVES OF TRAIN DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS.
And maybe then, fatal accidents, such as the collision above, which claimed the life of a woman, will be things of the past.
Image courtesy of the Herald Sun.
Another day, another idiot who thinks they can beat a train at a level crossing. I am sick and tired of having to read headlines such as these every so often.
This is the latest incident of a car being struck by a train at a suburban level crossing. This time, at the notorious crossing in High Street, Reservoir.
Once again, it’s the same old stupid story. Another IDIOT queued over a level crossing, whilst the booms were closing.
Once again, it’s the same old stupid story. Another IDIOT queued over a level crossing, whilst the booms were closing.
WHAT KIND OF FUCKWIT QUEUES OVER A BLOODY LEVEL CROSSING?
I’ll tell you who:
A FUCKWIT WHO HAS NO REGARDS FOR THEIR SAFETY, AND THE LIVES OF TRAIN DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS.
It’s not bloody easy bringing 200 tonnes of moving metal to a halt, even with the full service emergency brake being applied. And it’s certainly no day in the park being a train passenger - let alone being in the driver’s cabin during impact with a motor vehicle.
Level crossing accidents don’t kill people. Moronic behaviour at level crossings kills people. Not to mention this impact when a train's coupler slices through the side of a car like a torpedo through the hull of a ship.
Motorists who think it is safe to wait on a level crossing for traffic ahead to clear, or rush through a level crossing once the safety systems have activated, have a death wish should a train appear in the distance.
Motorists who think it is safe to wait on a level crossing for traffic ahead to clear, or rush through a level crossing once the safety systems have activated, have a death wish should a train appear in the distance.
Melbourne has over 150 level crossings in the metropolitan area, and hundreds more in Regional Victoria. Despite the presence of boom gates and flashing lights at all metropolitan and some regional crossings, motorists are still stupidly putting their lives at risk by entering a crossing when the booms are lowering, lights are flashing and traffic hasn't cleared on the other side, in order to save a few minutes.
Removing every crossing in Victoria would be a costly and timely project and the chances are all of them won’t be removed in my lifetime.
I am sick to death of having to hear another train driver has been relieved from work because of the trauma experienced after cleaned up a car at a level crossing.
Removing every crossing in Victoria would be a costly and timely project and the chances are all of them won’t be removed in my lifetime.
I am sick to death of having to hear another train driver has been relieved from work because of the trauma experienced after cleaned up a car at a level crossing.
I am sick to death of having to hear that passengers have been injured on their way home because some fuckwit decided to sit over a level crossing.
I am sick to death of having to hear that another person has been killed at a level crossing because they queued across the tracks or entered a level crossing when the safety systems have activated.
It is time motorists woke up and realised that level crossings are no safer than stopping in the middle of any other intersection.
It is time motorists woke up and realised that level crossings are no safer than stopping in the middle of any other intersection.
What is it going to take it show idiotic motorists that there are theirs and other peoples lives at risk when they decide to queue of a level crossing?
It’s just beyond comprehension that someone would risk their life, and others, just so that they can get to their destination a little earlier. Is it too much to ask someone to wait two minutes of their life for a train carrying 1000 people to pass through a crossing?
Maybe if they saw what train drivers see when a car is struck by a train, then motorists will think prior to entering level crossing.
It’s just beyond comprehension that someone would risk their life, and others, just so that they can get to their destination a little earlier. Is it too much to ask someone to wait two minutes of their life for a train carrying 1000 people to pass through a crossing?
Maybe if they saw what train drivers see when a car is struck by a train, then motorists will think prior to entering level crossing.
Image courtesy of the Herald Sun.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Welcome to Suburban Termini
Hello there. Seeing as my co-conspirators are yet to post, I'll take our blog's virginity.
My name is Vittoria, and the two others running the blog with me are Clarkson and Max. They'll introduce themselves later.
We're here to bitch and moan. There are things we don't like about society, and we've decided to join the chorus and start complaining. Why? I'm not entirely sure- it was Max and Clarkson's idea. I just jumped aboard.
What is wrong with society? It's a very hard question to answer rationally and with evidence. For me, here are a few:
- the education system
- the health care system
- the judicial system
- political parties
- the government
- our consumer culture
These are not of equal weight- some only need refining. Some need a fuckload of work.
I don't subscribe to any political party- this year's election will be tough. As for Clarkson and Max, they will tell you soon enough.
Welcome aboard Suburban Termini. We're more reliable than Connex/Metro.
My name is Vittoria, and the two others running the blog with me are Clarkson and Max. They'll introduce themselves later.
We're here to bitch and moan. There are things we don't like about society, and we've decided to join the chorus and start complaining. Why? I'm not entirely sure- it was Max and Clarkson's idea. I just jumped aboard.
What is wrong with society? It's a very hard question to answer rationally and with evidence. For me, here are a few:
- the education system
- the health care system
- the judicial system
- political parties
- the government
- our consumer culture
These are not of equal weight- some only need refining. Some need a fuckload of work.
I don't subscribe to any political party- this year's election will be tough. As for Clarkson and Max, they will tell you soon enough.
Welcome aboard Suburban Termini. We're more reliable than Connex/Metro.
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