His essay in your latest was the first piece of Richard Flanagan's writing I have been able to fully engage with ... and what a brilliantly informed piece it is. Flanagan has produced a synopsis of the overwhelming sentiment that currently exists on our island. To me though, the biggest tragedy, the greatest damage, is the destruction of Tasmania's reputation. Already, it is becoming impossible to reconcile our ‘clean, green' image with the reality that is now widely known. In embracing all that Flanagan describes, our government has severely compromised the prospects of our food, wine and tourism industries for years to come. It is in these industries that Tasmania holds a competitive advantage (both domestically and internationally), not logging. It is also these industries that represent the real local economy - hundreds of enterprises throughout the state, employing locally and contributing both economically and socially. But these businesses continue to be devalued by moronic policy which negates the natural advantages Tasmania possesses.

Without the politicians prepared to make decisions based on morality, fact and foresight it is difficult to believe that this story might end well. Rudd ignored an important opportunity, no doubt feared by the consequences shown to Latham. But four years on, the tide has turned and support for Gunns has declined - even amongst its own ranks. The Lennon government is so obviously corrupt and intent to do whatever is necessary to safeguard the future of Gunns that state politics has become a farce. Nor is Paul Lennon astute enough to govern in a way that at least gives even his most loyal supporter-base faith in the process. But where is the corner which he paint himself into? This issue is far from being one which Rudd should run from - a new policy regarding the Tasmanian logging industry and its sustainable future presents the ALP with an opportunity to engage with the disenfranchised right and the coveted Green voters. It is also a chance to present a point of difference from Howard in a race where environmental issues have more credibility than ever. The two parties will play tit for tat on climate change and water, point scoring and ultimately politicizing rather than governing the issues, but the problems surrounding the Tasmanian logging industry are eminently solvable in a way which will reward rather than punish the leader prepared to stand up to Gunns Ltd.