The remains of a year of tumult

Added to all of the above is the unavoidable fact that we live in a troubled world from which we cannot divorce ourselves and for which Turnbull must provide leadership.

Terrorism and the Islamic State bear heavily upon our view of the future, as does the huge exodus of refugees worldwide. The possibility of an America governed by Donald Trump scares the hell out of us, as does their gun happy culture. The sheer incompetence of the European Community, which is smothered by bureaucrats, dents our economic confidence even more so than China's fall from economic grace. In addition, most of us seem to be unable to imagine a future which is not based on minerals.

So, 2016 beckons and it looks challenging. In point of fact, it will be as good a year as we make it ourselves.

A new society is developing around us with astonishing speed. It will bring more change in the next five years than we have seen in the last hundred.

Old fashioned capitalism wont be able to cope with it, nor will any upgraded socialism get anywhere near being useful.

Those who warmly welcome and embrace rapid change, thrive on innovation and accept personal responsibility for the welfare of their neighbours, will prosper mightily and enjoy a mind expanding life of genuine adventure.

Politics wont give us a good life. We must create it ourselves. It will be helpful if Malcolm can be the leader who opens some doors.