Farewell to the Democrats

Yes the day has finally come when we bid a fond farewell to the Democrats.

For over 30 years they have held their seats in the Senate - relentlessly trying to "keep the bastards honest" (for readers outside of the country, that is the party slogan). Their skills with legislation are better than none- especially when you consider the resources they have available to them, compared to that of the major parties.

We all have our favorite Democrats - be it the man who started it all Don Chipp, Natasha (Tashi) Stott Despoja and her Doc Martins or present leader Lyn Allison who has battle on admirably during the darkest of times for the party. The list can go on - Janine Haines, Cheryl Kernot. John Coulter and Aden Ridgeway all contributed.

To be honest I blame their electoral demise fairly and squarely on the shoulders of Meg Lees and thought the rest of the country felt the same way but I have met someone who sees things differently (holding Tashi the responsible poor deluded person). Whatever the reason, a chapter has come to an end and while there is talk of the comeback, I can't see it on the horizon any time soon.

So thankyou and goodnight - you will be missed.