// This is the text of a speech I gave to the Ryde-Hunters Hill Flora and Fauna Preservation Society on the 7th of May. I was asked to comment on environmental issues, and hope I did a decent job of that.Hello, I'm John August Fusion/Pirate party candidate for Bennelong.

// A look at votes in NSW on secular issues, and the influence of the religious lobby, and a gesture ...

We have had recent votes on two secular issues, which I thought I'd review for my web page. These were the vote on the 11th May 2017 on the "Abortion Law Reform (Miscellaneous Acts Amendment) Bill 2016" and on the 16th November 2017 on the "Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2017".

// Trying to make sense of the controversy over development in Ryde - and the upcoming election.

Introduction

This article emerges from my attempt to make sense of both development around the Ryde area, but also development more generally and the record of the current state Liberal Government.

//

While I'm not standing for the By-Election in Bennelong, I still feel the inclination to stick my oar in. Perhaps you'll find what I have to say of interest.

//

I recently put myself forward as a candidate for these elections. You can see my statement here. I received around 100 votes, around 0.5%.

// This is my latest adventure - standing for election as councillor, trying to do some good, and learn more about how the world works.

Introduction

I've long thought about politics - as you can see in other writings - and hopefully you can see some worth in my perspective.

//

The their June 15th issue, the Northern District Times were kind enough to cover my candidacy, and the image with this article is an extract.

Writing a letter to the editor in the June 22nd issue, Jason Bolster writes :

// This article first appeared in The Ryde Recorder, newsletter of the Ryde District Historical Society, back around December 2007

When I wonder about the past, I wonder about the different society, the different people, and the different economy. Nowadays, many dwellings are isolated from industry.