THE EDUCATION OF AN INNOCENT AUSTRALIAN:Beware of government maritime gifts

摘要

In 1977 I witnessed the arrival of Western Samoa's new $6.5 million interisland ferry that had been optimised, designed, built and delivered by the Australian Government as part of their aid package to the country.No doubt the citizens and local MP near Dillingham Shipyards in WA who built this mighty vessel, the 'Queen Salamasina', were delighted at such a healthy project.On the main island of Upolu, the ferry terminal is Mulafanui, and the imminent ferry arrival had drawn crowds never seen before at this terminal. The band played, not altogether in harmony, and the ladies were dressed in white with big hats. Flags fluttered, and this whole scene was reminiscent of the Peter Sellers' movie The Mouse that Roared. It was splendid.