Senator Barnaby Joyce is today on his way from St George to Adelaide as part of his role as Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Infrastructure and Water. 

If you look at the Murray Darling Basin, you will see that even though Adelaide is approximately 1,500 kilometres downstream of St George, it is less than 200 metres lower in altitude. Add to this a wide range of vegetation and soil types, a myriad of industries, and a large population dependent on the system and you start to see the immense complexity of the area which is the Murray Darling Basin.

What is not complex, but rather peculiar is Minister Wong’s approach to visiting St George to discuss water issues. Questions had to be put to her beforehand for her consideration. The Mayor of the Balonne Shire, Donna Stewart was never informed that Minister Wong was coming and meetings with only a few people were held behind closed doors. The only media release went out at 5 pm on the previous day, but I’m sure she planned her trip well before that.

 Minister Wong’s approach to the public in St George seemed to somewhat mimic former deposed Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra waving his “Good Question” , “Bad Question” hand paddles. It does suggest a lack of confidence by the Minister in her Ministry.

 Senator Joyce will be continuing his tour of the Murray Daring in Adelaide tonight and will be meeting with all sectors of the communities in Goolwa, Mannum, Berri and Mildura areas.