Playing trains. Christmas Eve and a court ruling halted removal of the rail lines into Newcastle.  The actual train service probably ended last night.
An open triangular area bordered by rail lines, west of Hamilton station,
is unused and some claim is suitable for a hub. To say nothing of another large vacant area nearby.
Few signs of hustle and bustle there or in the local shopping centers Christmas day. Only a few times do all shops close their door.  Or is it the only time?  Even supermarkets locked up and empty. Two days even. Twice. Not two times.  Twice has faded from existence. As thrice has.
 

How do I hit the Jackpot?

Sunlight and water.  Difficult to focus on  Corruption Collusion Community Exclusion when our little world is looking so darn good.

Great day for a protest.  On the fringe of Save Our Rail in Civic park.
Social media gets the community going.  It spreads reactions of grief.  Lets hope it never uses its power for evil. Think for yourself.  Stand on your own two feet.

  The latest disturbed gunman went unhindered in the past, when he could have been stopped without any new legislation, designed to curb our rights. It is about our free society. And a price was paid for it.

 South of the 'great train wall' and unionists flags are flying to retain the discontinuity in Newcastle.

Message for Gladys, Minister for Transport.
Protest against the truncation of the rail line.  Believe that is the term used.

All Change!  Pre-protest rally to save our rail, Newcastle.
Just down the line, east of Hamilton station, is found activity to facilitate All Change! Mind the Gap.
In recent times, strange shady shameful processes take place, such as stolen gen, corruption in politics, torture, removal of rail services, then there follows an enquiry, heartfelt guilt or absence of and the matter is wound up.
So, do what you like. It will all come out in the wash. No worrries.  

Here's a nice book, almost corny, sprinkled with Aussie sayings. Although shirtfront or chin wag are not among them!
 Santa is in the sky in a rusty old ute pulled by eight mighty roos. 

...Now, Kylie! Now, Kirsty!
Now, Shazza and Shane!...
On, Bazza and Wayne!
Park up on that water tank,
Grab a quick drink,
I'll scoot down the gum tree.
Be back in a wink!
 

Y Morrison, K Niland An Aussie night before Christmas.Scholastic Press Lindfield 2005

Overnights on ABC radio is fortunate to have an interlude with Scott Speck, a conductor of note, despite which he is light hearted, informative, pleasant and ever tactful with us general listeners who sometimes find ourselves awake listening at dawn.  His day job is with Chicago Philharmonic and or Ballet. 

International Children's games opening, Lac Macquarie, last night.

I'm not often in the mosh pit

Black swans taking a nap.

Comedy and more from Williamson.  A revue-style exposition of Murdoch.
Ironic that left of centre, James Cromwell, plays Rupert. Fairfax readers will enjoy some attention.
Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.
Media.  Heard on our news this morning....the action of the dead priests...
Well, we know the context.
Is it bad timing?  Lots about lead contamination at this time of the uplifting international games for children at Speeres nearby.  Keep up appearances.

Yesterday, diesel fuel was purchased for $1.329 litre at sweltering St Marys, Western Sydney. Not in connection with discount vouchers. That price was a bit exceptional. In contrast, noticed first on return to Newcastle: $1.509.

Continued.  Creative hot air balloon Skywhale.