This was published 12 years ago
"Four Australian families have an ache in their heart. Nothing we say or do can take that ache away. Still, the knowledge that this nation, through this Parliament, has paused to acknowledge that loss, may be of some comfort in facing this terrible bereavement."
It's about time we hop on to a trusty steed and ride off into the evening.
(Did you get the memo? The government is replacing Canberra taxis with a fleet of horses.)
But before we do, what did we learn?
We mentioned earlier today that it is 20 years since Tony Abbott was elected to parliament in a by-election.
He was asked this morning on Fairfax Radio what his biggest lesson was.
"Don't lose elections," came the reply.
The House is on track to pass the Omnibus Repeal Day Bill this evening.
Labor will not oppose it, even though they have spent all day arguing how ridiculous it is. And indeed, even though their support is not necessary for the bill to pass the House anyway.
(NB. This bill does not include controversial "red-tape cutting measures" such as abolishing the charities watchdog and watering down financial advice laws.)
3. Burkial
2. Shortenial
1. Prime Ministerial
We now present, POSE OF THE DAY.
It is a tale of three "seriouslys?"
After her question time contribution, Anna Burke is on Sky News.
She is unhappy about dames and knights, too.
"With a surname like Burke, you've got to be a republican," she observes.
We now bring you the results of today's poll. Thanks to the 763 of you who voted.
What should Australia's highest honour be?
Hats off to Nick Xenophon, who earlier today suggested the winners.