An elusive happy snap.  In the early 80s Alexander Downer was part of a delegation from Australia that visited the USA during a congressional elections. While in New Orleans he visited a night spot where his behaviour left much to be desired. Two of the party decided that a photograph of him with two of his “hosts” should be taken. That photograph has survived to this day but has not been used or broadly distributed. His attempt to discredit Rudd suggests that the photograph should now be put on public display. I wonder where Downer would like the photograph to surface – which newspaper would like it. Ed: (Actually Crikey would rather like it, never mind the newspapers. Please mail to boss@crikey.com.au)

RBA inaction. I attended a presentation last Thursday by a global investment bank to an audience of investment professionals. My luncheon companion who is active in treasury management informed me that on Thursday (the week before) that the currency fell from 78.80 cents to 76.80 cents and then to… 70.00 cents! The RBA stood by and let it happen but when it realised the enormity of their inaction – when absolutely no-one including them would offer a buy quote – went nervously to the seller (and buyer) requesting that the transaction be cancelled.

Shame about the kids. Apparently the army is pulling out of the NT child rescue exercise in early October. Seems the activities in the NT now only apply to a very few of the 60 some communities, like about five. Shame about the kids in the other 55. Maybe it was an election stunt after all.

Not tip, fact! I was at the Penrith Show on Saturday (a quasi local Easter Show with anything from farm animal awards to wood-chopping and sideshow alley). The “Your Rights @ Work” unionists were there in force (mainly from the ETU as their T-Shirts and trucks parked outside didn’t hide the fact). Anyway, I couldn’t believe my eyes: they were sneaking up behind kiddies and parents with Karen Chijoff balloons (Liberal candidate here in Lindsay), and popping them with cigarettes. They would then hand them one of their orange union ones instead. My wife told me another union bloke brazenly walked up to her and offered three orange balloons for one Karen Chijoff balloon. He then let the Liberal balloon go and float away. Not a bad exchange rate for the Libs. Personally I think politicisation of children is pathetic. Anyway, my 2c worth. BTW – I met Karen Chijoff and she seems like a nice lady. Not at all like Jackie Kelly – different. I didn’t see the Labor candidate David Bradbury at the Show.

From the grassy knoll: Have you noticed the saturation TV adds for the national security hot line? Is little Johnny cultivating a little paranoia for the upcoming election?