Southern Cross News

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote name='iKrolm' timestamp='1302395448' post='2687633']
In general, but specifically with regards to the third point, we urge the people and government of the Union of Southern Cross to work with the people and government of Pihana to overcome past conflict and build a peaceful future.
[/quote]

"While the government of the Southern Cross understands that position, the people on the street see things a different way. Wars have been declared for lesser reasons then the ones that have occurred, and many people believe Pihana just isn't a stable state. People have long memories for bad, and short memories for the good, it is a sad fact of life. The government of the Southern Cross is trying to overcome differences, but it is hard to do so when you can't even trust your neighbor's security."

[hr]

[b]News Clipping - Melbourne Gazette[/b]

[quote][b]Sydney, NSW[/b] - Cockatoo Island Dockyards and General Dynamics Oceania, in a joint statement today, announced the creation of a further twenty-five hundred positions at their shipyards in Sydney and Melbourne. This comes following the announcement of further procurement for Southern Cross Naval vessels. Stocks in both companies, and affiliated industries jumped at the news, and quarterly earnings are expected to be up.

While some are concerned over whether this shipbuilding movement is just an employment bubble that will eventually burst, the Southern Cross government noted today that these shipyards are expected to continue work into the near future. This is to include civilian shipbuilding, including ferries to replace the aging fleet around the country, and increasing the size of the Southern Cross Merchant Marine. The news was welcomed by the shipbuilding industry, which has been stagnant for years, but now appears to have a solid period of work ahead of it for the next decade.[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]News Clipping - Melbourne Gazette[/b]

[quote][b]Adelaide, SA[/b] - The Defense and Economic Ministries once again announced the completion of a series of successful launches at the Woomera Rocketry Complex today, including seven defense-related satellites, and ten telecommunications/civilian use satellites. The Defense Ministry once again noted that these satellites are for communications, navigation, and similar tasks. A number of telecommunications companies have noted that their networks are almost complete, and five more launches for civilian use will be required to complete their networks "for now".

Although civilian launches are rumored to be taking a back seat soon, the defense ministry has announced continual and steady activity for the duration of the year at the Woomera Complex. In keeping with their usual lines, the ministry has said that these launches will "continue to assist in the readiness of the Southern Cross forces."[/quote]

[b]Classified[/b]

Three of the launched satellites, for the first time entered low-Earth orbit, but this time, they did not proceed to the upper levels of orbit. Instead, these satellites deployed in orbits that would take them over the Australian continent. These were the first in look-down surveillance satellites that would assist in defense operations along the coast of the Southern Cross, and give the Southern Cross 'look-down' capabilities from high-resolution cameras. A number of further launches were planned to increase the detection and surveillance capabilities of the new USC satellite fleet in LEO.

[hr]

[b]USC Government Press Release[/b]

"The USC Government has, after an exhaustive month of data collection and analysis, released the newest census, which is showing significantly higher population then first projected. The government now pegs the USC population at a total of [b]thirty-nine million[/b] individuals.

Also included in this census were adjustments to both the heritage and faith of the population were sampled. Data collected points to a large increase in immigrants coming to look for work in the new nation, with the census showing as many as eight hundred thousand arriving in the past year."

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]Southern Cross Government Press Release[/b]

"With the inclusion of the former lands of Pihana into the Union of the Southern Cross, once stability is ensured and guaranteed, the government of the USC will be performing another census.

That being said, some resistance to Southern Cross rule has been reported in the northern city of Darwin, the old seat of the government of Pihana. We are currently engaging in a low intensity conflict with these rebels, and will attempt reconciliation. As they are an armed force, however, they will be treated as a threat to the stability of these regions. Once this resistance is dealt with, the government will begin calls for candidacy for representatives of our newest territory, and a general election is to follow soon thereafter.

This process could take several weeks, or even months, but we, as a democratically-elected system of government, will ensure that the voice of the former lands of Pihana is heard."

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Action in Darwin[/size][/b]

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[i]Two Southern Cross Marines watch each others' backs during the advance on the airport.[/i]

[i]Marissa Fields
Field Reporter, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Darwin, NA[/b] - With the end of the Pihana Government, the Southern Cross Defense Ministry did admit that it might face some armed "scattered opposition", but here in Darwin, the opposition isn't as scattered as first believed. Sustained gunfire has been heard in the southern parts of Darwin, which consists of the downtown and business districts, and the former Pihana government area. Arriving yesterday morning, the 2nd Marine Regimental Combat Team did not face much in the way of opposition in its mission to secure the Darwin airport, but during further advances, contact has been made with what the commanders here are calling a "substantial force".

While details are scant about this "substantial force", commanders have said that this force does not appear to be elements of the former Pihana military or government. What the commanders are suggesting, points to a force that may have been a resistance group that was arrayed against Pihana before the country fell. Whoever these individuals are, however, the Marines have said that they made a run for the former Pihana arsenal that is located here in Darwin, this is no word, however, if they have gotten into the compound or secured heavy weapons for use. Commanders are saying that this resistance group has appeared to be hostile to the Southern Cross, and did try to initiate a propaganda campaign earlier yesterday.

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[i]A mortar team in action overnight at Darwin airport, supporting combat operations inside the city proper.[/i]

Before going to meet further forces that were arriving at Darwin Airport, Marine Brigadier General Anthony Watkins granted an interview to the Gazette early yesterday evening. He affirmed that Southern Cross forces were engaged in urban combat, and they were doing their best to avoid any civilian casualties. While he did not rule out that any had occurred, he did admit that the Southern Cross was not about to apply the full might of its military arsenal into subduing this group. He did say however, that the Southern Cross would not be drawn into a house to house counter insurgency campaign and that the ground forces on the scene were moving to root out these groups before they could get dug into the surrounding area.

"We're not about to get into a slugging match with whoever these people are. What we do know is that they are seeking out more weapons and trying to get more recruits, out of the civilian population, to fight us. We will not tolerate this sudden insurrection that is disturbing the lives of our new citizens that we are trying to protect, and we will use whatever means necessary to put down this rebellion, and protect all the citizens of Darwin as we can," stated Watkins, before leaving to meet with two full paratrooper battalions that were arriving.[/quote]

Edited April 23, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[center][size="6"][b]Official Statement - Southern Cross Government[/b][/size]

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"In lieu of the activation by the United Federation of the East of the Mutual Defense Pact, the Union of the Southern Cross hereby declares war on Maine for its launching of nuclear weapons at the UFE. This heinous act by Maine at a time when tensions were lessening was a wholly unprovoked and unnecessary act by its government. Rogue states such as these should not be tolerated in any way, shape, or form, and we stand in solidarity with the governments and peoples of the following nations;

[list]
[*] The United States of the Islands
[*] Athens
[*] Austria
[*] Monaco-Valencia
[*] United Federation of the East
[/list]

Any and all requests for help and aid shall be attended to by the armed services of the Union of the Southern Cross, we make available our aircraft, our ships, our trucks, our hands, anything we can do to help, shall be done. We shall give whatever help we can to anyone who needs it, military aircraft with specialists in nuclear attacks are currently in the air, as well as relief supplies and medical personnel. They will begin moving on these nations with all speed when they are cleared for a flightpath to their destination, these aircraft are unarmed, and all will maintain radio contact with appropriate authorities.

The hearts and prayers of the Southern Cross people and its government are with you on this day, and we shall be there to offer the hand to help you back on your feet."

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/robertabelsig.png[/IMG]
[i]Governor General[/i]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Memorial Service for the Fallen[/size][/b]

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[i]Pieces of one of the wreaths dedicated to the crews of the [b]Wary[/b] and [b]Alert[/b].[/i]

[i]George Burke
Staff Writer, Southern Cross Star[/i]

[b]Off Western Australia[/b] - The Southern Cross Naval Defense Forces honored the fallen heroes amongst the crew of the SCS [i]Wary[/i] and SCS [i]Alert[/i] yesterday, in a solemn ceremony off the coast at the sinking sites of the two patrol boats. The two patrol boats were sunk earlier this month after coming under a heavy anti-ship missile attack from the former state of Pihana, whose government fell following the crisis. The nation took charge of Pihana after the fall, and has been working to solidify their hold on the country ever since.

However, thoughts of that matter were not here today, as the sailors and Marines aboard the SCS [i]Persistence[/i] paid tribute in an official ceremony to their fallen comrades. The SCS [i]Wary[/i] fell victim to no less then two direct hits from two anti-ship missiles, and took her entire crew to the bottom with her. The SCS [i]Alert[/i] was scuttled following a loss of all power, and with a storm that threatened to swamp the ship. The SCS [i]Supplier[/i] also took two hits, one which failed to explode, provided the government of the Union all it needed for the declaration of war. The other missile set the rear of the ship on fire, including the helicopter deck, and the ship is still being repaired following returning the Melbourne under its own power.

The event was a sad one, as members of the task force, including all the survivors of the patrol boat [i]Alert[/i] stood before their comrades in full dress uniform. While they maintained discipline, it was hard not to notice the tears that ran down their face openly. The survivors of the [i]Alert[/i] fought to get their ship underway before scuttling it, in a heroic effort to try to save it from sinking. Their efforts were recognized by the Defense Ministry, which issued the Sailors' Star to each one of them a week ago at a ceremony in Brisbane, in which the commanding officer, Commander Lysander Powell, received the Southern Cross Naval Star, the second highest award in the nation, for his bravery in trying to keep his ship afloat and combat ready following the strike. At the same ceremony, Powell stood with Ermine Georges, the widow of the late Lieutenant Commander Jack Georges, skipper of the [i]Wary[/i], whom Powell was a close friend with, as Georges' widow was presented with the Order of the Southern Cross, the highest military award in the Southern Cross. Georges was instrumental in ensuring that his crew, despite the oncoming danger, free a crossthreaded refueling pipe that led to the SCS [i]Supplier[/i], which was freed just in time.

Powell spoke briefly at the ceremony today, citing Georges' bravery, as well as his crews, and their lack of fear in the face of the impending doom that awaited them.

"We all knew that we were goners," said Powell, as he held back his tears. "But Jack, his voice was calm as ever, he just kept on making sure the job got done... and he and his crew got it done. He was the hero here, and more lives were probably saved by the actions of Jack and his crew." Powell politely refused to comment with news agencies following the end of the ceremony, especially when one reporter asked about his upcoming promotion. He was not alone, none of the [i]Alert[/i]'s crew commented on the actions of that day.

"This was not the site of just tragedy," remarked Vice Admiral Richard Collins, the Chief of Naval Combat Operations, speaking after the ceremony. "This was the site of a brief, but heroic scene where the sailors of the Southern Cross came together as crews to try to save their ships. Their actions saved many lives in the end, particularly in the case of Jack Georges. He was the hero of the moment here, he and his crew fought to ensure that a tragedy didn't become a wholesale travesty. The men and women of the SCS [i]Supplier[/i] probably owe their lives to him and his crew. They passed on showing the quality of our sailors, they passed on doing a work of good, if only so many could fall doing such a duty. We will honor and remember them, they gave their lives so that others could live."

The Defense Ministry has announced that it is contracting a new class of patrol boats for coastal interdiction and defense duties, and has said that one of these vessels will carry the name of [i]Georges[/i].[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Socialist Scandal Rocks Parliament![/size][/b]

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[i]Socialist demonstrators march in Brisbane to show solidarity with the Australian Socialist Party Members of Parliament.[/i]

[i]Benjamin Mason
Staff Writer, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - Workers and citizens affiliated with the Australian Socialist Party quickly showed up to defend their party in what they are calling a breach of constitutional rights overnight. The protests and demonstrations quickly broke out after a government statement was released that apparently relieved five members of parliament from their duties, after an in-depth Royal Australian Mounted Police investigation got a break in an old case. The five members of parliament, mainly from northern Queensland, were accused of being involved with the management of the dreaded labor camps of the Communist Australia regime under Katie Collick.

These camps were used to house political opponents of the regime which had proven to be dangerous, and many Free Australian movement members were housed in sub-par conditions after surrendering to the Collick regime after Brisbane. The camps were immediately dismantled following their liberation by the forces of the Free Australian movement after the war against Pihana turned against the Communist Australian government, and Governor General Robert Abel took over. Abel was said to have been involved with the investigation, and was personally interested in prior abuses, especially when it was rumored that members of the Australian Socialist Party that were official members of parliament had connections to these horrific camps. Under current Southern Cross law, political parties are expected to vet their members for past history and possible crimes. A number of recent trials for personnel that ran the camps have been high profile, yet the Australian Socialist Party maintains that this is an indication of the 'political racism' of the current regime, which would like "nothing better then to destroy the left wing of Southern Cross politics".

Australian Socialist Party leader George Cosgrove said in a statement last night, "We once again see the Whittaker government trying to destroy the left in the Southern Cross, as they move towards some sort of socialist-free utopia. The past experiences in dealing with the socialists in Communist Australia and the Australian Free State have left her and other political figures with a virulent political bias that expresses undue hatred towards this party. While we do not criticize Robert Abel for raising this country, it seems that any sort of move towards reconcile has stalled with these recent efforts to defame and stain the left's name. Although what was done in the camps is not condoned here, we cannot charge people in this atmosphere of a new country, just because of their past. If we were to do that, should we not be putting to trial Whittaker and Abel for rebelling against the state?"

Prime Minister Lizzie Whittaker fired back at Cosgrove's brief statement only minutes after it was made public, "We declared our independence to bring back a happier past of this continent, now only to learn that members of our own lawfully-elected parliament have a criminal history. The treatment to Australian political prisoners in these camps were horrific, death rates were high, basic access to food and water was scant, and prisoners were used as nothing but slaves because of their political identity. And these people, who sat on our benches, in our parliament, stain this country, they stained the chambers of parliament, they let these political death-camps be used, and now, they shall pay the price. If Mr. Cosgrove wants to talk about having political voice and representation, maybe he should realize that these camps were used for people who were exercising that right, until the Collick government came along with Communist Australia. These people will be tried for their crimes against the people of this nation, and the country will be looking into possibly revoking the party license of the Australian Socialist Party until they can show that they have reformed their vetting process."

Opponents and proponents of the Free Australian government both gathered to face off near parliament in Brisbane overnight, and while no violence between the two camps was reported, there were other incidents. Members of the Royal Australian Mounted Police reported dispersing a crowd of red-masked youth in the downtown district of Brisbane, who were shouting socialist slogans and smashing storefront windows. One store owner actually discharged a shotgun at youths who broke his storefront window from the live-in apartment upstairs, the youths beat a hasty retreat. He was later keeping guard in front of his store, after police warned him about the use of firearms in city-limits.

"I had to make a living under that crazy Collick woman, and then that buffoon Biff, and now these socialists are causing problems again. Never again, I say," he said, threateningly.

The High Court of the Southern Cross is expected to make an emergency ruling later this morning on the revoking political party license of the Australian Socialist Party.[/quote]

Edited April 28, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][size="6"][b]High Court revokes ASP Political License[/b][/size]

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[i]Riot police on station near the High Court of the Southern Cross to protect the building from demonstrators.[/i]

[i]Benjamin Mason
Staff Writer, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - In a landmark decision yesterday morning, the High Court of the Southern Cross revoked the Australian Socialist Party license, for improperly screening candidates for parliament. The emergency revoking of the ASP license was prompted by a request from the Office of the Prime Minister, Lizzie Whittaker, and the decision to seek the revoke of license was quietly approved by Governor General Robert Abel. The improper screening by the ASP reportedly allowed for five members of the former management of the Communist Australian Political Prison-Labor Camps to gain parliament seats, which was revealed by an ongoing RAMP investigation.

Demonstrations turned ugly after the ruling was announced, with ASP supporters trying to storm the High Court building and Parliament. The ASP was, however, repulsed by a strong Royal Australian Mounted Police riot police legion, working with local constables in enforcing the law. The ASP supporters who tried to storm the High Court and Parliament, did however pelt police with rocks and molotov cocktails. Police discharged tear gas and advanced on the violent protestors with batons and shields at the ready. Supporting the rule of law also, were Free Australian Movement supporters, who reportedly outnumbered ASP supporters ten-to-one. The FAM supporters mostly peacefully protested, but were quickly to form human chains to try to block ASP supporters from reaching the Parliament building. Scuffles and fistfights were reported, and a few people were arrested for disturbing the peace, but the ASP inside Brisbane seems to have reduced their presence since last evening.

Peaceful demonstrations were held in other locations in Brisbane, by members of the ASP who reportedly understood why the ruling was made, but wanted to show solidarity with their political party. The Prime Minister and Governor General both lauded peaceful demonstrations, and have said they will try to work with socialist leaders to restore the party's status. They did say however that the vetting process would be closely watched by a RAMP political elections task force. The task force would comprise both lawyers and investigators, and would work with the vetting systems for all licensed parties.

[IMG]http://www.topnews.in/uploads/Jessica-Alba6.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Prime Minister Elisabeth "Lizzie" Whittaker appeared conciliatory despite facing attacks from ASP leadership.[/i]

ASP Leader George Cosgrove said in a brief statement, "This is a sad day for Southern Cross politics, the political racism that fueled this damning decision is unacceptable by Miss Whittaker, and should be opposed by all true Australians."

Whittaker personally held a press conference to address the dismissal of the ASP from political proceedings, and noted that this was not a permanent measure. She suggested that Cosgrove, instead of lambasting her party, and indirectly attacking the Governor General, should look to his own party to reform the vetting process. Whittaker was very calm and actually appeared regretful at the ruling, saying this was a measure that had to be taken to ensure the proper representation of the people of the Southern Cross by individuals that are not criminals of political violence and "undue hatred". She pledged to work with Socialist leaders to get their party "straightened out", and expressed the hope that it would be taken care of. For the time being the thirteen percent holding of parliament that the Socialist party holds is excused from duties, and the parliament will recess.

Whittaker did hint at a possible election, however, which could take place very quickly if the violence in Western Australia is quelled. Political analysts say that the Whittaker government may try to capitalize on the disarray of the ASP to grab more seats in parliament, and even shut the ASP out of the next government. If the elections come before the ASP can reform itself, the government could very well be devoid of a far left-wing faction, with the center-left Liberal Movement of Australia possibly picking up large amounts of votes from the dethroned ASP. A quick and large political poll have shown that ninety-two percent of Southern Cross citizens approved of the suspension of the ASP's party license, and the ASP has lost a large chunk of political standing with the electorate.

Only the coming weeks will tell for the socialist party, as many political analysts say that Cosgrove has shown too much aggression towards the other parties and Whittaker herself, which has blurred many citizens' feelings about his competence. While Whittaker has shown to be conciliatory with her opponents, the Socialist Party has been too much on the attack, which could cost them should they be able to make the required vetting process reforms before the next election.[/quote]

Edited April 28, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Large Demonstration turns Violent in Brisbane[/size][/b]

[IMG]http://mitchieville.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/riots.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Rioters engaged riot police with rocks, Molotov cocktails, pieces of lumber, and fists.[/i]

[i]Lysander Foulkes
Staff Writer, Southern Cross Star (Evening Edition)[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - A large peaceful demonstration turned violent, apparently whipped into a frenzy by George Cosgrove, the leader of the unlicensed Australian Socialist Party's. Cosgrove's speech suggesting that the Southern Cross would keep socialist and far left politics from ever emerging again seemed vocalization enough for a number of youth, who began attacking RAMP and local authorities, who were closely watching the demonstration. Cosgrove called for the resignation of Prime Minister Whittaker, as well as Governor General Robert Abel, and said that the two were a pair of scheming demagogues, bent on exacting a toll for their treatment during the years of Communism down under.

Riot police fought back with beanbag guns, tear gas, and batons, beating back the sudden assault which appeared to catch the police at some level of surprise. One crowd managed to force embattled riot police at the High Court into a corner of the concourse in front of the building, only to be confronted by a quick reaction by a platoon of military soldiers, apparently from the Special Air Service Regiment. The soldiers, armed with police batons counterattacked the charging crowd without shields, and stopped the advance cold on the steps of the High Court. The military force provided enough time for the riot police to regroup and reform their lines, which were aided by pro-Free Australian movement demonstrators, who also moved in to protect the High Court building. The Free Australian Movement demonstrators once again formed human chains in overwhelming numbers, and advanced on the ASP rioters, pushing them back by a mere peaceful show of force of numbers and solidarity. A number of police, military, and Free Australian Movement demonstrators were injured by rocks, and a number are being treated for burns from Molotov cocktails.

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[i]Violent flare-ups continued into the night, as many riot police fought a running battle with a number of rioters, mostly youth.[/i]

Cars and storefronts were set ablaze during the attacks, and rioters tried to storm the parliament building, but were forced back by peaceful demonstrators of the Free Australian Movement, who defied police orders and formed in front of the riot police. The slogan "Never Again" was heard chorusing from their ranks, as they walked on the socialist rioters, who pelted them with rocks and whatever objects could be found. The government seems to have a steady control on the situation, and are applying the full might of the Southern Cross security forces as little as they can. The Royal Australian Mounted Police said in a statement that they appreciated the help of counter-demonstrations made by Free Australian supporters.

"They walked through a hail of rocks, bottles, and flames, I can't believe what I saw out there. They just held hands with one another and just marched on the socialists with no step back. Who needs riot police like me when you got political solidarity like that?" asked one Royal Australian Mounted Policeman, donned in riot gear, and just looking bewildered.

The riots turned ugly after yesterday mornings' ruling to revoke the political party license of the Australian Socialist Party, a move that ASP leader Cosgrove said was a tragedy of Southern Cross politics. Prime Minister Whittaker has urged calm, as has Governor General Robert Abel, who has planned to address the nation tomorrow from the steps of the parliament, riots or no. Abel has said that Cosgrove must restrain his demonstrators from causing any more damage to Brisbane, which is still being rebuilt after the destruction of the Communist Australian government. The Interior Ministry issued a statement that if Cosgrove continued to speak vehemently out against the government, which seemed to touch off this afternoon's riot, his arrest would be sought for disturbing the peace and intent to cause criminal mischief. Cosgrove responded that he was merely exercising his political right to free speech, but political analysts are saying that Cosgrove's pushing of Whittaker's and Abel's very patient attitudes could backfire eventually if riots continue to plague Brisbane.[/quote]

Edited April 29, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][size="6"][b]African Legion granted Kimberley Holding![/b][/size]

[i]George Burke
Staff Writer, Southern Cross Star[/i]

[b]Melbourne, NSW[/b] - In a statement today, the government of the Southern Cross announced that it recognized a holding by the African Legion, a mercenary group based out of the Horn of Africa, in Kimberley. The Southern Cross noted that evidence has been accrued that suggests that the African Legion landed units to assist the Independent Australia Aboriginal Movement. The IA movement was born out of unrest after the Pihana-Eastern Australia War concluded, and only died down recently with the fall of the government of Pihana. The African Legion was a key instrument in rounding up many former Pihana soldiers who were fighting them, and tied down forces that could have been diverted to fight the Southern Cross government.

The Southern Cross recognizes Kimberley as a sovereign city-state, and has reportedly looked upon the possession of a sort of protectorate on the continent. The Southern Cross government does concede that it does not condone or direct any operations of the African Legion, but it will recognize the authority of the African Legion in Kimberley. Aboriginal groups have praised the efforts of the African Legion, and have reportedly lauded the Southern Cross government for granting the African Legion this city-state, for their service to the indigenous community.

The African Legion and the USC are preparing to also transfer prisoners of the former Pihana army to USC custody, and a vehicle convoy including multiple buses and trucks, escorted by ASLAVs, left for Kimberley this morning from Perth to secure the release of the prisoners.[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]Press Release - Public Statement from the Office of the Governor General[/b]

[quote]"After reviewing the current Oceanic Union Treaty, it appears that the Foreign Ministry may have initiated a diplomatic [i]faux pas[/i] by granting of an early full recognition to the African Legion's Kimberley territory. We will be reviewing this decision over the next seventy-two hours, and a decision shall be made on this matter. More information will be made available within the next few days.

The Office of the Governor General issues a full and sincere apology to all parties involved, and will resolve this measure as soon as humanly possible."[/quote]

Edited April 30, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Foreign Minister and Deputy tender resignations over Diplomatic Flop[/size][/b]

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[i]Deputy Foreign Minister Edward Bolling after tendering his resignation at the Offices of the Governor General last night.[/i]

[i]Lysander Foulkes
Staff Writer, Southern Cross Star[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - After a large miscalculation that occurred about a week ago, the Foreign Minister, Maryanne Dempsey, and her Deputy, Edward Bolling, tendered their resignations last night at the Offices of the Governor General. About a week ago, after speaking with African Legion officials, Bolling and Dempsey decided to admit recognition of the Kimberley region as a region to be controlled by the Legion. Dempsey and Bolling, who have been reported to be supporters of the now-defunct Independent Australia movement, which was reportedly supported by the Legion, seemed to have 'jumped the gun', and did not properly have the distinct approval of the Governor General or the Prime Minister.

The flop has also stolen the job of another member of government, the Governor General's International Affairs Adviser, Terrence Hoffman, who apparently gave Dempsey and Bolling an unofficial green light, without the tacit agreement of Governor General Robert Abel. The three appeared in private before the Governor General and Prime Minister yesterday, before voluntarily tendering their resignations, for what Dempsey remarked as a 'gross misjudgment'. The Governor General and Prime Minister deny their involvement in the trios' actions, and both noted, in a rare joint press conference, that they believed their Ministerial Cabinet was 'mature' and 'knowledgeable' enough to make large decisions on its own. They apologized on behalf of the government of the Southern Cross, and said that mistakes like this rarely happen, and hope they continue to be a rarity for the future.

Political analysts have noted that Abel, a champion of some forms of decentralized governance, places a lot of responsibilities in the hands of his ministers, so as to diffuse power throughout the cabinet, rather then concentrating it. While this technique has worked wonders in the realms of Defense and Economics, it appears that the decision to give Dempsey a large leeway of independence has backfired. When asked about his decentralized formation of the cabinet, Abel answered that, "I still stand by my decision to spread authority throughout my ministers, and that this was a diplomatic flop that should not of happened. People make mistakes, and I'm afraid that this mistake has cost some of our people their jobs."

The recognition of the African Legion's hold over Kimberley has reportedly raised some alarm at the Oceanic Union in Manila, as it is viewed as a colonial possession. Colonial possessions are frowned upon, under the Oceanic Union treaty's Article VII, also known as the 'Asgeirsson Doctrine'. While there was no threat to the Southern Cross' membership in the Oceanic body, it has undoubtedly turned heads, and is not being well received. Political analysts have said that while this may be an attempt by Abel and Whittaker to duck out of responsibility for this flop, the circumstances surrounding it dictate otherwise. Dempsey was an outspoken supporter of aboriginal rights, and very engrossed in the Independent Australia movement, as was her deputy, Bolling, as was Hoffman.

The currently unlicensed Australian Socialist Party leader Cosgrove blasted both Abel and Whittaker for this flop, directly blaming them for its' happening, and saying, for the fifth time publicly in a fortnight, that the duo should resign. Southern Cross public opinion, while downtrodden about this flop, appear to still be behind the current government, many opinions agreeing with Abel and that "mistakes happen". Either way, it appears that while the government has seen its first flop on the international scene, the citizenry remains stalwartly in support of the Whittaker government, and public opinion from evening polls still give the government a high approval rating.

Whittaker has said she will fill the post of Foreign Minister until a suitable replacement can be found, she will be working closely with Governor General, who will assist her with the post, as she will have to both juggle the duties of Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister.[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Governor General recalls Lillians to Service[/size][/b]

[IMG]http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3308/3277223562_5f37f646c0.jpg[/IMG]

[i]First Sergeant Georgina McKay, a former Lillian Guard herself, will be a part of the Lillian training unit.[/i]

[i]Benjamin Mason
Staff Writer, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - In a stirring speech on the eve of the two year anniversary of the Battle of Brisbane, the battle that led to the collapse of the Free Australian movement, Governor General Robert Abel has recalled all Lillians, willingly, of course, to service. Abel announced that the reconstitution of the guard is in honor of the continent's past, and he welcomes all former guard members back to service. In a rare public appearance, the Duchess of Brisbane herself, and re-appointed Lillian Guard Commandant Valeria Sangral was on hand at the speech. Abel presented Sangral the repaired Hanseatic flag standard that rallied the Free Australians into a last ditch charge across the Coonan Street Bridge, a charge that earned the respect of the Caspian forces fighting with the International Peacekeeping Force facing them at.

Abel returned to the continent with the assistance of the Timuridian (formerly Caspian) military only a year or so later. Abel was openly mournful of the battle, after retracing the steps of his rebel unit in the battle to the Coonan Street Bridge before the speech. His speech promised that he would restore the country to the place of its predecessors, and spoke of the Union as a country born from a wish upon a star. He cited that the Lillians were part of that tradition, and their restoration was in honor of the governments that they served.

The Lillian Guard are expected to be the official guards of the Southern Cross parliament, and the Governor General as well as the country's cabinet of Ministers. The Lillians will also be expected to fulfill battlefield roles on occasion, and serve with Southern Cross forces in the field. Their official roles in campaigns has not be released, but given their extensive and exquisite training program, they will be shepherded carefully. It is not exactly known how many Lillian Guards are still living, but the government has said they will be initiating a training program to expand the Lillians' ranks.

"It is an honor to be part of the Lillian Guard," remarked Defense Minister Ian Brown, "We have already had many inquiries on how to enlist, but let me make this clear, you do not find the Lillians, they find you." Lillian Guards tend to be handpicked from young females who are both physically and academically astute, who are just completing their college degrees. Training processes are not entirely known, but said to be extremely grueling, both physically and mentally, exceeding many current special forces training in the country.[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Political Assassination prompts Dissolution of Australian Socialist Party[/size][/b]

[IMG]http://www.nwcandlemaking.com/images/sans/candlelight_vigil3.jpg[/IMG]

[i]A candlelight vigil was held last night was held at the Coonan Street Bridge Park in Brisbane, as many as one hundred thousand people attended the ceremony.[/i]

[i]Lysander Foulkes
Staff Writer, Southern Cross Star[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - The Sunday morning calm of Brisbane on May 1st was shattered by what George Cosgrove, former leader of the now-banned Australian Socialist Party, said was "the shot heard 'round Australia." After a meeting with local police force captains over the successful management of demonstrations, popular Brisbane Mayor Jacquelin "Jackie" Vernon and Brisbane Police Chief Michael McDermitt were gunned down by an Australian Socialist Party radical, which Royal Australian Mounted Police have identified as former Communist Australian Army Political Officer Sveta Semmes. Mrs. Vernon was described as being in "critical" condition at the Toowong Hospital, doctors saying that the mayor is still not one hundred percent stable, after taking as what may have been up to four gunshot wounds, including one reportedly to her head. Brisbane Police Chief McDermitt, who was lauded recently by Prime Minister Whittaker for his "calm and assertive" leadership when dealing with the recent ASP riots, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Semmes, reportedly using a machine-pistol in the assaults, approached the duo as they stepped out of a local police precinct, and opened fire. Two local constabulary officers tackled the radical socialist, and took her into custody, handing her over to the national police force shortly thereafter. Prime Minister Elisabeth Whittaker, flanked by Governor General Robert Abel, and her bitter rival, Cosgrove, confirmed the partially successful assassination attempt. The Prime Minister, invoking Article XI, Section 5, declared that the Australian Socialist Party, already having its licensed revoked a week or so ago, completely disbanded, after an emergency meeting with senior Parliament figures and the judges of the Southern Cross High Court.

Cosgrove also spoke at the press conference, personally apologizing for what he called, "a blunder on his part, stoking political tensions to a boiling point." He said that no one in the leadership of the ASP knew of Semmes' plan; officials say that Semmes was known for heated blogs on many national political websites. Friends say she is a devoted socialist advocate, and was very disdainful of the sweeping into power of the Southern Cross government, she was openly hateful of Governor General Abel in many statements. One close associate, who remains unnamed, did say that Semmes did utter death threats against the Governor General. Cosgrove said that the actions by Semmes were unacceptable, and things should have "never come to this".

Whittaker asked the High Court for a general ban on far left parties for the next twenty-four months, which approved of the landmark measure; her request is expected to be passed through an emergency session of parliament. Cosgrove has said he plans to resume his parliamentary duties if the Australian Liberal Movement accepts some of the remaining Socialist members of parliament into their parliament. He remarked, appearing to choke back tears, "If this is what socialist politics in the Southern Cross has become, I shan't have any part in it, this is a disgusting show of targeted violence." He continued, "This is a shot heard 'round Australia, a shot that should have never happened, a shot that rang out because of boiling political tension that should never of happened."

A reported crowd of one hundred thousand citizens gathered in Brisbane's Coonan Street Bridge Memorial Park to take part in a massive candlelight vigil, they were joined by Prime Minister Whittaker for a brief time, as well as other members of the Cabinet of Ministers. There were a number of other candlelight vigils at cities throughout the country, including Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart, Townsville, Adelaide, and Perth. The general feeling is that political tension has hit its climax, and will now go down, as many ideologies have come together after this tragedy that has rocked the country.[/quote]

[Axolotlia]

The PRA speaking on behalf of The Socialist Assembly, condemns the forced dissolution of a political party (especially a socialist one), and hopes to see the views of socialism carried on through other means, should the citizens of USC choose to.

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote name='Axolotlia' timestamp='1304297702' post='2703559']
The PRA speaking on behalf of The Socialist Assembly, condemns the forced dissolution of a political party (especially a socialist one), and hopes to see the views of socialism carried on through other means, should the citizens of USC choose to.
[/quote]

"The only current left leaning party would be the social-democratic Australian Liberal Movement, which might allow the ASP MPs to continue their duties as a part of the Parliament.

We will ask though, where was the Socialist Assembly when the Communist Australian regime was interning other political parties and basically starving or working them to death? No one seemed to care then, when many people now involved in politics in the Southern Cross now, were being starved in these concentration camps. You condemn our completely legal and constitutional action; yet didn't care when 'socialists' were in power and interning 'enemies of the state' so that they didn't have any forms of political opposition.

We welcomed the Socialists into government in good faith, and the last two weeks up to this day have been nothing but bloody demonstrations and now, to top it off, a politically-motivated assassination. We will not tolerate this happening in our country, our government has been nothing but lenient, trying to bring the ASP back into parliament, our Prime Minister was willing to work with the ASP's reform of its vetting system, despite facing personal attacks from its leadership. While we having nothing against the People's Republic of Africa, we have no respect for The Socialist Assembly or the Red Dawn organization, and simply do not care for its blatant favoritism towards the leftist cause in this case, and disregarding the political history of Australia."

Edited May 2, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[Axolotlia]

[quote name='TheShammySocialist' timestamp='1304298545' post='2703575']
"The only current left leaning party would be the social-democratic Australian Liberal Movement, which might allow the ASP MPs to continue their duties as a part of the Parliament.

We will ask though, where was the Socialist Assembly when the Communist Australian regime was interning other political parties and basically starving or working them to death? No one seemed to care then, when many people now involved in politics in the Southern Cross now, were being starved in these concentration camps. You condemn our completely legal and constitutional action; yet didn't care when 'socialists' were in power and interning 'enemies of the state' so that they didn't have any forms of political opposition.

We welcomed the Socialists into government in good faith, and the last two weeks up to this day have been nothing but bloody demonstrations and now, to top it off, a politically-motivated assassination. We will not tolerate this happening in our country, our government has been nothing but lenient, trying to bring the ASP back into parliament, our Prime Minister was willing to work with the ASP's reform of its vetting system, despite facing personal attacks from its leadership. While we having nothing against the People's Republic of Africa, we have no respect for The Socialist Assembly or the Red Dawn organization, and simply do not care for its blatant favoritism towards the leftist cause in this case, and disregarding the political history of Australia."
[/quote]

As you may or may not have noticed, the Socialist Assembly, in correspondence with Red Dawn, has undergone quite a bit of changes in the past year (OoC: IG year or so) and with its changes in membership, it has also undergone a change in policies. While we can understand your contempt for the Socialist Assembly of the past, we also hope you will be willing to change your views of it as The Socialist Assembly itself changes. If possible, the Socialist Assembly would be more than willing to support the socialist party within USC, by providing vetting and checking for its candidates, as well as emphasis on non-violence, in an agreement for their reinstatement.

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote name='Axolotlia' timestamp='1304299497' post='2703584']
As you may or may not have noticed, the Socialist Assembly, in correspondence with Red Dawn, has undergone quite a bit of changes in the past year (OoC: IG year or so) and with its changes in membership, it has also undergone a change in policies. While we can understand your contempt for the Socialist Assembly of the past, we also hope you will be willing to change your views of it as The Socialist Assembly itself changes. If possible, the Socialist Assembly would be more than willing to support the socialist party within USC, by providing vetting and checking for its candidates, as well as emphasis on non-violence, in an agreement for their reinstatement.
[/quote]

"Yes, the Socialist Assembly might have changed, but we remember some of the things it has done, and we do not agree with some of those decisions made. We'll change our views when we see the Socialist Assembly actually change, which it still seems to have not, by involving itself in this matter and condemning the actions taken by a sovereign government of a sovereign nation, who is working on [i]vox populi[/i]. Once again, it is trying to meddle with the internal affairs of another country, albeit more subtly. We will not accept an outside-supported socialist party running for parliament, it would be improper, and we don't need external interference in our political affairs.

We will not reinstate any socialist party for the time being, this decision might be reversed after the two year suspension has been served."

[Axolotlia]

[quote name='TheShammySocialist' timestamp='1304299933' post='2703590']
"Yes, the Socialist Assembly might have changed, but we remember some of the things it has done, and we do not agree with some of those decisions made. We'll change our views when we see the Socialist Assembly actually change, which it still seems to have not, by involving itself in this matter and condemning the actions taken by a sovereign government of a sovereign nation, who is working on [i]vox populi[/i]. Once again, it is trying to meddle with the internal affairs of another country, albeit more subtly. We will not accept an outside-supported socialist party running for parliament, it would be improper, and we don't need external interference in our political affairs.

We will not reinstate any socialist party for the time being, this decision might be reversed after the two year suspension has been served."
[/quote]

We are in no way "Meddling" into your affairs. We are simply stating our views on it, and offering an alternative, which would benefit both parties. We are in no way imposing ourselves into your sovereign decisions, but instead offering an alternative. We respect your decision nonetheless.

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote name='Axolotlia' timestamp='1304300142' post='2703593']
We are in no way "Meddling" into your affairs. We are simply stating our views on it, and offering an alternative, which would benefit both parties. We are in no way imposing ourselves into your sovereign decisions, but instead offering an alternative. We respect your decision nonetheless.
[/quote]

"We must have different definitions of the word 'meddling' then, we thank you for your alternatives, but frankly, with most of the country in public outcry over this matter as it is anyways, we doubt that it would garner much support anyways. International sponsorship of the party itself would be unpopular, in itself anyways; as it stands, we will let things run their due course for the next two years."

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]OOC: I do not have time to continue the Darwin fighting thread, only being home for a total of six days for the next three weeks, so yeah...[/b]

[quote][size="6"][b]Darwin Insurrection ends in Fiery Blaze[/b][/size]

[IMG]http://www.peak-capacity.com/images/Fire_Fighting.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Although many in the populace evacuated, a number of Darwin firefighters stayed behind to battle blazes that appear to be intentionally set.[/i]

[i]Marissa Fields
Field Reporter, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Darwin, NA[/b] - The insurrection in Darwin appears to have been snuffed out by a blaze of their own making, a large section of the downtown Darwin area was almost completely immolated by a blaze of epic proportions. The littoral combat ship [i]Phantom[/i], floating almost three miles offshore of the city proper reported temperatures during the night of up to one hundred and twenty degrees Fahrenheit. Southern Cross ground forces, mainly the paratroopers of the Fifth Division, tried to push into the city through the night, only making it as far as The Gardens, before stopping. Ground commander Anthony Watkins reported that although the Southern Cross Defense Forces had a responsibility to protect civilians, there was no point in trying to advance into the almost completely engulfed city.

Fires were reportedly advancing towards Southern Cross positions, and in some places, troops had to withdraw to avoid being rolled over by the flames. Southern Cross ground forces have reportedly begun building fire lines, using explosives to destroy houses and buildings. Instead of battling insurgents who retreated deep into the city, military forces are now battling fires with whatever firefighting equipment can be found. Trucks from the Queensland Frontier Fire Service have reportedly been seen under fast military and police escort racing to the scene, and are expected to arrive later this morning. Firefighting aircraft, originally used for wilderness fighting, have been tasked with dumping foam and water onto the city.

Gunfire has been reportedly sporadic, but with the main positions of the insurgency now engulfed in flame, it appears that this new enemy could be even more destructive then those that started it. Watkins notes that the insurgents in the city proper began lighting fires overnight, and that aircraft began striking these areas, more fires began after these strikes. Some appeared to be caused by the strikes, but others appear to have been intentionally set. The large downtown commercial sector of Darwin has been probably lost, and two high-rises in the city keeled over late last night. Ground forces are now being tasked with humanitarian relief, with as many as one hundred thousand people reportedly homeless from the violence and ensuing fire.

The Southern Cross government has said that it stands in solidarity with the citizens of Darwin, and has pledged that, like Brisbane, the Northern Australian city will be rebuilt, and restored to its former glory. "We will do whatever it takes to bring back Darwin, this vicious assault on the jewel of Northern Australia shall not stand, Darwin will be the second phoenix that shall rise from the ashes. Brisbane was restored, and so will Darwin."[/quote]

[iKrolm]

The Selenarctos branch of the White Cross offers to send humanitarian aid and aid workers to help those affected by the Darwin Insurrection and begin to rebuild Darwin.

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote name='iKrolm' timestamp='1304797453' post='2708138']
The Selenarctos branch of the White Cross offers to send humanitarian aid and aid workers to help those affected by the Darwin Insurrection and begin to rebuild Darwin.
[/quote]

"We thank the Selenarctos Branch of the White Cross for their offers of Humanitarian Aid and workers to help the people of Darwin during this rough time. Any and all aid that can be procured is greatly appreciated."

[hr]

[b]Southern Cross Government Press Release[/b]

[quote]"With the recent fall of the Australian Socialist Party, and the final ending to the Pihana Insurrection and organized resistance in the Northern Australian State, the Southern Cross Government is calling a new general election. This election shall take place in one week. The Prime Minister, the Cabinet of Ministers, and the Governor General all agreed that this election will bring fair, democratically-elected governance, especially to the Western and Northern States of Australia, which have had to go unrepresented for nearly three months now.

We look forward to seeing the new government in one week, and hope that the newest Parliament will do as much as this last session has done, with the new economic boom continuing across the economic sector, and the burgeoning diplomatic status that the Southern Cross now is accorded."[/quote]

[iKrolm]

Over the next two weeks, almost 1500 White Cross workers would arrive in Darwin. A makeshift command center was set up in a relatively unaffected section of the Darmin outskirts to coordinate White Cross efforts in conjunction with USC-sponsored work, and ensure the fastest possible recovery. During the first days, the immediate focus was placed on providing emergency care to those injured in the conflict by as many medical personnel as the Selenarctos White Cross could spare. Other teams were tasked with the restoration of communications and the relocation of civilians from the most heavily damaged areas to safer areas where they could live until it was safe to move back to their homes.

Once the need for immediate relocation and medical help slowed, the emphasis would turn towards rebuilding the infrastructure of Darwin. Along almost twenty million NSC from the Central Government of Selenarctos, White Cross personnel would help facilitate and undertake projects to rebuild housing damaged in the fighting and subsequent fire.

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][size="6"][b]Free Australian Movement continues hold on Majority after Election[/b][/size]

[IMG]http://sitfu.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/voting-booth.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Australians of sixteen years old and up went to the polls yesterday in a new landmark election - the first since the entirety of the continent was unified.[/i]

[i]Benjamin Mason
Staff Writer, Melbourne Gazette[/i]

[b]Brisbane, QNLD[/b] - Record numbers of Australians turned out to vote yesterday, with up to eighty-one percent of the voting-age population reporting to the polling stations. The new election was the first to involve all the territories of mainland Australia, as well as the Bonin Islands Territory, which will be sending its first delegates to the Southern Cross parliament after the election is finished. Last night's projections give incumbent Lizzie Whittaker's Free Australia Movement a new majority, extending her parties' lead in parliament by as much as two percent, giving the center-right party a hefty fifty-four percent majority.

There was very little change in the landscape, with the right-wing Australian Conservative Union or "ACU" losing two percent of its hold in parliament, pushing the party to hold only eighteen percent of parliament. The ACU has backed the Free Australia Movement on several occasions, and the two parties generally respect one another. The fall of the Australian Socialist Party was seen, however, by the ACU, as a chance to make up lost ground against their far left associates in parliament, but it appears that the ACU campaigned too stiffly, and the Free Australia Movement, having showed its prowess during the last twelve months or so in government, easily held its majority lead, not giving any ground.

The newest party on the scene, the Australian Social Democrats, an alternative to the more center-left Liberal Movement, picked up a large amount of voters from the Australian Socialist Party, if exit polls are correct. The ASD, since its conception, has shown to be firm supporters of the new economic agendas of the Free Australian Movement, and were the first political party to denounce the attempted assassination of the Brisbane's popular Mayor, Jacqueline Vernon. The ASD said it is a new breath into the politics of the left in the Southern Cross, and gives the "disillusioned members of the ASP" some hope for a liberal movement that will push away from the tense political standoff that rocked the continent a little less then a month ago.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/Election2.png[/IMG]

[i]The new political landscape of the Southern Cross.[/i]

Many political analysts agree that the Free Australia Movement has veritably entrenched itself as the heart of Southern Cross politics, with its strong promises to restore the continent to its former glory. While remaining strong on defense spending, seen as a must for many Australians, it has also embraced many economic policies that find liberal support. Along with the backing of the Governor General, who has endorsed the party, which has led to some whispers of political nepotism, the movement has yet to alienate the populace, and has delivered on many promises. The voluntary nature of the Free Australian parties' acquiescence to vote only a year after it took office, because of the gains in land and the fall of the ASP, despite there being no constitutional requirement to do so, has gotten applause from both sides of the political spectrum, hailing the FAM's commitment to democracy.[/quote]