Packing the house, analysing the nation

As I pack the house tonight and with the really old Berlitz Spanish tapes playing in the background, I need to reflect upon some wonderful conversations I had today.

First is with Alan Kohler on the ABC, who speaks to all of us through the magical television box. He told me today was the day that China became Australia's largest trading partner, taking over from Japan. According to the FT, China achieved the same with the US on 25 April 2007. The rules of the game have changed forever, but as Prof Tim Lindsay and the gang at Suite 101 point out, we still can't get our heads around Asian language funding. I will consult Dan on this one.

Second is Greg Combet's much expected announcement that he will contest a seat at the next federal election - for the NSW seat of Charlton (Newcastle). As I was told tonight, in a positive sign for us anti-factionalists, he has chosen a campaign director who is supported by the right aligned faction despite his support being predominantly left of centre. Combet will unseat the current ALP MP Kelly Hoare who is less than impressed - check out this less-than-kind treatment of her.

Back to the house packing, movers arrive in 10 hours and only half done.