This morning I met with Serafina Maiorano, the CEO of Advance, an international community of expatriate Australian professionals. Some interesting projects and programmes are in the pipeline and all I can say at this stage is ‘watch this space.’

Afterwards, as I was walking through the Sydney CBD I noticed a group of Naval personnel at the Cenotaph on Martin Place and a convey of military and diplomatic cars. I stopped to watched. It turned out to be a commemoration and wreath laying service in honour of the 1942 Battle of the Java Sea.

This Battle cemented the military ties between The Netherlands and Australia which continue to this day. Those are actually Queen Beatrix’s words, according to the speech given by the Australian Minister for Veteran Affairs, Alan Griffin. It was a solemn service, well attended by politicians, diplomats, servicemen and women and members of the public. The Dutch Ambassador and Consul-General were there, along with the British and American representatives among others.

After the service I introduced myself to the Dutch diplomats and spoke to them about my experiences living in the Vaderland and my observations on Dutch and Australian society. Ambassador Andreae invited me to drop by at the Embassy when I am next in Canberra. I said I shall do so.

I have always said Australia’s diplomats do not only work for the Department of Foreign Affairs. Each and every Australian who leaves our shores is an ambassador for Australia. But I do think we need to introduce civic and IQ tests before any Australian can re-new his passport. As there are some real bogans, the unfortunate pride of our land, causing mischief to all and sundry overseas. Thankfully they are a rare breed in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photo Source: Australian War Memorial. De Ruyter at anchor shortly before the battle of the Java Sea.