THE RIGHT STUFF: Steve Bracks Fought For Freedom

As patriots stream in for 5.30 drinks at 1 Treasury Place, it would be remiss not to - in our own unique patented OC way - consider the Bracks Premiership.

Others will tell you, particularly in the sentimental left-wing press what he did and his achievements and all that in government. Certainly he reminded us in his remarks, pointing to a catalogue of impressive stats that tell a story of solid achievement.

STEVE BRACKS. PATRIOT.
But there's another story too that might not get told. Of how solid Steve Bracks has been so solid for the forces of common sense and unity within the ALP. Regular readers will know our theory, the Victorian branch of it naturally tracks left, sometimes far left.

Steve Bracks joined the moderate Labor Unity group from the left-leaning Independents but in so doing really understood the leadership role that group has to play in order for Labor to be electable.

As he said in his press conference, he put the heart back into Victorian government by being so damn likeable but behind closed doors on many issues Steve Bracks was a man of steel.

In his government, Joan Kirner has been used as a frequent example. Of what not to do.

In his government, big spending proposals from ministers would frequently receive a very chilly reception from the likes of Cabinet icemen Bracks, Brumby, Lenders et al. They formed a formidable team.

In stark contrast to previous left-dominated Labor administrations, Labor moderates populated the office of the Premier, a praetorian guard advising, counselling and observing all. While they worked at Treachery Place, they exuded loyalty for their Leader. And he for them.

THE VETO
Few will forget the precedent setting Bracks veto of Mo Abbouche, someone who was in the Left, then saw the light and joined the Right then unwisely returned to Kim Carr's group with the promise of a seat.

The Premier was having none of it and personally stepped in to veto the crooked scheme, concocted by a Socialist Left faction devoid of human morality. (Yes I know, I overdo this kinda thing but if you think we stick it to the Left too much wait til our Tuesday Tsunami story, trust me they deserve it.)

In many preselection and internal tussles, he stood fast for moderate forces knowing that if they remained in charge, then the good name of the ALP and good government was much more likely.

He was an unlikely factional warrior for the forces of freedom but while holding down his day job running the state, that's precisely what he was.

And I cannot think of a higher tribute than that. We were lucky to have him.

Game on.