WHITE explorers often tried to hoodwink indigenous inhabitants by throwing beads and trinkets at them in an effort to distract them from the devastating changes to their lifestyles that were about to unfold from European power. Scott Morrison tried it again this week with $500 million in the Pacific. The problem for Morrison is that the inhabitants have learnt from history, whereas he hasn't.
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John Arnold, Anna Bay
LOOKING at near-misses with the light rail ('On track for tram tragedy', Newcastle Herald 13/8) a makes me wonder if similar issues are faced on a day-to-day basis in other cities with light rail and how the authorities deal with these incidents. I didn't notice any near misses with the trams during a recent visit to Melbourne and Canberra. Maybe the people have more sense. This issue also got me thinking that when I drove the rail motors out of Newcastle, I didn't have near misses like we're seeing with the light rail and I don't remember any of my work mates having many near misses either. Did anyone think of this when they made the decision to close the railway? What will the authorities do to prevent such incidents if the light rail is extended?
Peter Sansom, Kahibah
MANY cities have proud maritime history. Museums found in places like Liverpool (UK), Fremantle, Auckland, Hobart and Sydney to mention just a few celebrate their histories through these institutions. It is therefore very sad to read of the bickering between the museum society and the council ('More time for museum', Herald 14/8). This city was built on shipping and maritime foundations. The fact that it does not have a museum to celebrate that amazing past is an indictment on this council and all involved.
Richard Rule, Swansea
AS good fortune would have it for me, I hope this letter is published in time for those who are interested to catch up on the important issue of Aboriginal peoples' right for a position at the table when government decide how their future will be recognised in the Constitution. On Monday night, ABC's Q&A will host an eminent panel to discuss the topic. They are Noel Pearson, founder Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership; Jacinta Price, director of indigenous program at the Centre for Independent Studies; and National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) chief executive Patricia Turner. John Bradford (Short Takes, 10/8) suggested I start a conversation regarding a subject of controversy. I hope this topic is pertinent and continues to be front and centre in all Australians' minds.
Pat Garnet, Wickham
REGARDING Phoebe Moloney's article ('Estate locals feel played', Herald 13/8): just three pieces of play equipment? That doesn't constitute a park. I feel sorry for those families.
Matthew Mclaughlin, Hamilton
WATCHING the NRL Hall of Fame inductions, I was disappointed that the greatest caller of the game, Frank Hyde, couldn't get a run in the team.
