Dear Editor,
AS a regular visitor to the Solomons, in particular to support my surgical colleagues at NRH I was disappointed to read and hear the PM’s comments.
With the greatest of respect, I believe he has misinterpreted the role of the backyard in Australian culture.
This is a place in which we take rest and respite from the outside world.
It is a haven into which one invites family and friends to enjoy the surroundings and a meal or BBQ together.
It is a place of pride.
Thus I hope that your readers will see that regarding the Solomons as being in Australia’s backyard is a term of endearment and friendship.
Sincerely
Dr Paul Hitchen
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Sydney, Australia.
