Rob Masters

 So in a few weeks time the W.A. population go to the polls. The incumbent party (Labor) is riding an unprecedented wave of popularity, mainly due to our Premier, who basically got us through The 19 with minimal deaths, and a roaring economy.  The other side (Liberal/National coalition) has had their former leader jump ship just a few months ago, and have a perfectly decent, young, attentive, and (for a politician) honest chap in her place. He is largely resigned to the fact that he is not going to win. The Greens are just plugging away with a 'Keep them both honest" theme.  So what is annoying me? 1/ The Labor party is choosing to target the Opposition Leader's youth and the fact that he's only been in Parliament for one term. Not a good look, and Labor can do better than that. 2/ The Coalition is basing their campaign on the idea that Labor must be prevented from gaining control of the upper house (the Legislative Council) - or as they call it 'full control'....

After a long hiatus brought on by the death of G+ and the demise of our cheese subscription service, we're back. This time we've got St Duke's Red, a Epoisses de Bourgogne styled washed rind cheese from the notable W.A. manufacturer HaVe, based in Wokalup, near Harvey. Not as potent to the nose as the French offering, St Duke's Red is definitely bold in its aroma, and you certainly know when it has been in the room. Because of that, it is relatively friendly as an introduction to the 'stinky' family, and the rich earthy flavours are rewarding. We found it enjoyable with fruit, onion chutney, and a light salad. It would certainly go well on a more sophisticated cheese board, and a strong fruit paste, such as plum, would also be an excellent complement. HaVe cheeses are available through selected outlets in W.A.'s South-West:  https://www.harveycheese.com.au/retail-outlets.html and check with the particular retailer as to their specific...