Having missed out on the Commonwealth Games 2026 team since letter writing is yet to be designated as a competitive enough blood sport for high TV ratings across the empire, I guess I will never get to meet the generous Gina Rinehart nor enjoy her gold medal beneficence. (“Pauline dives in after swimmers asked to curb their gratitude”, Sunday Telegraph, 26/7). Her monetary patronage of athletic excellence is longstanding and a credit to the decency of her character. Considering I am not bound by any trifling clauses in the official Commonwealth Games team contracts: thank you Gina from the whole country. You are a gold-hearted champion for sure. However, as an afterthought, considering the then Victorian premier ripped up the contract with the Games committee without consequence, a precedent in common law makes it unlikely anyone will really be sued if they mumble a few “mine metaphors” mixed among their own muffled “Thank Yous” to an Aussie audience cheering them on and knowing exactly who they are referring to. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 2August2026
