Is there a prosperous future for the Australian bush?

The fundamental issue is that we won't get anywhere until Australia finds a few more visionary doers in the mould of John Flynn.

However, it's not likely, as we give no encouragement to courageous men like Flynn of the Inland.

Just before he died, Flynn was awarded the Order of the British Empire. The same day, the Chairman of the Victoria Racing Club was given a knighthood. Tells you where the national psyche has descended to.

Sad though that is, the old timers of the bush haven't forgotten Flynn. I met a retired clergyman some years back who had been a minister in a city church. One day, an old bushman who was visiting the city got into a bit of strife and came to see him to ask for help with his problems.

Wanting to find out how much of a Christian this guy was, the minister asked him if he believed in God.

"My bloody oath" came the reply. "I met him a few years back - his name was John Flynn."