Peter Garrett, the former Midnight Oil frontman and politician, reflects on his life, career and his views on current affairs.
Peter Garrett , Australian musician, environmentalist, activist and former politician at the Nelson Lane Steps in Annandale, Sydney. Photograph: Adam Ferguson
He nods in a modest “yeah, it’s me” way. Smiles and signals warmly. Says g’day. Even a neighbourhood dog careens across the greenery to drop its ball at his feet. He picks it up. Tosses it., the band he’s fronted across 50 years. He’s lived throughout Sydney. But he’s forged a deep attachment to Annandale, whose wide, undulating terrace and tree-lined backstreets improbably exude a bucolic serenity so close to the city centre.
On entering federal parliament for Labor in 2004, he did so with a fairly active back catalogue, not least 1982’s US Forces, that government and media attack dogs tried to club him with for his “dangerous” criticism of American global political interference, nuclear threat and the precious US-Australia alliance.“I think we would all say we had no idea some of those songs we wrote at that time would have sharper edges and be potentially even more pungent today than they were then.
“But the first and most important is that we still haven’t come to grips with what happened when Cook and Co came on board and the impact it had on First Nations peoples,” he says. “I’m OK with it but in saying that I’m not particularly happy about it. But there’s nothing much I can do about it.”If you can still play for people and they still want to come and listen, then there’s a bit of magic
Politics Environment PETER GARRETT MIDNIGHT OIL POLITICS ACTIVISM ENVIRONMENT AUSTRALIA
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Peter Garrett: ‘This is the worst deal ever done by a sovereign Australian government’The Midnight Oil frontman, former Labor MP and conservationist muses on politics, prescient lyrics, and whether the Rolling Stones should give up touring
Read more »
Lowry's Return to Irish Politics: A Resurgence of 'Stroke Politics'?Amidst chaotic scenes, Michael Lowry, a controversial figure known for past 'stroke politics', has emerged as a key player in Ireland's new government. This has sparked accusations of a return to the old ways of influence peddling and patronage, raising concerns about transparency and ethical conduct in Irish politics.
Read more »
The Death of 'Woke' Politics: Midnight Oil and the Power of PersuasionAn exploration of the changing landscape of political discourse, using the example of Midnight Oil and their iconic song, 'Beds Are Burning'. The author argues that the recent backlash against 'woke' politics stems from its failure to engage in genuine dialogue and build relationships with audiences.
Read more »
Jimmy Carter Laid to Rest: A Requiem for a Better Era in US PoliticsJimmy Carter's state funeral, attended by all living US presidents, highlighted the stark contrast between his era of decency and the current political climate. President Biden's eulogy emphasized generosity over ego, implicitly criticizing Donald Trump. While Carter may not have been a successful president in terms of political achievements, his post-presidency work, particularly with the Carter Center, has had a lasting impact on global peace and human rights.
Read more »
It’s Midnight hour for ‘woke’ politicsThe success of Trump has repudiated a politics that demands obedience over exchange, presumes bad faith in its opponents, and has no patience for persuasion.
Read more »
Bill Shorten's Early Exit from Politics Triggers Cabinet Reshuffle Ahead of Federal ElectionFormer federal opposition leader Bill Shorten is leaving politics nine days early, creating vacancies in key portfolios that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese can utilize to reshuffle his cabinet and strengthen his team ahead of the upcoming election. The move allows for a smooth transition and ensures the government is fully prepared for the campaign.
Read more »