David McIntyre

DAVID MCINTYRE, a correspondent with Japanese news service Jiji Press, shares his experience of the recent two-day Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade trip for FCA members to the national capital. The 12 correspondents from Japan, China, India, France, Switzerland and Germany had the opportunity to meet the foreign, trade and immigration ministers, besides several senior officials.

Entering Canberra is always rather underwhelming. First, you see a lot of trees, than you spot the buildings and wonder where are the people? Probably, that's the reason it is called the 'Bush Capital.' But as a resident told us, "It has improved a lot since getting past the 300,000 mark."

After a brisk security check, we were escorted through the many corridors of Parliament House, moving from room to room to meet the high profile speakers during the two days. Our first day began with a meeting with none other than Foreign Minister Alexander Downer. He seemed relaxed and comfortable, although his `whale' tie did raise an eyebrow amongst the many Japanese correspondents in the group. Disappointingly, robust debate was somewhat below the usual standard we have come to expect on FCA trips.

FCA correspondents with Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone

Mexican hairdressers were on the agenda with Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone, who was a last minute inclusion on the second day. Must say, she was quite likable. It probably helps that her predecessor was Mr Heart-of-stone himself, who never acknowledged any problems. Minister Vanstone at least appears willing to concede that she needs to fix things up.

After a crisp autumn day, we were treated to the cold, grey skies of Canberra as we made our way to meet Trade Minister Mark Vaile, who reiterated Australia's commitment to multilateral processes, especially the WTO. He answered questions from India, Germany, Japan, even remembering the past three Japanese ministers by name! However, he ducked the question asked by a Chinese correspondent on whether Australia's engagement with China will go beyond trade to include human rights.

For many, it was their first trip to the National Museum of Australia, where we were treated to conversation and cuisine to satiate every appetite. Senior DFAT officials were there to answer our many queries first hand. It was a great meeting as we were able to put a face to the voice on the phone we have been hearing for months and for them to put a face to the byline.

Correspondents at the National Museum of Australia, Canberra.

A great success for the FCA was to get an acknowledgement from the DFAT Secretary Michael L'Estrange on how important we were in projecting Australia's foreign policy to the world and our reach to millions across many continents. He wants to work closely with us and FCA members can look forward to background briefings from senior DFAT officials in Sydney in the coming months.

The cocktail hosted by DFAT's Images of Australia branch at the Press Club the previous evening was a good opportunity to network, where we were able to catch up with Canberra-based officials and make new acquaintances.

The possible highlight of the trip, other than the group photo with Amanda Vanstone, was dinner at Lemon Grass Thai Restaurant in Civic. It was a raucous affair, where we finally got to know each other and exchanged news and views from countries we report back to. The coach trip home was also good for developing the new and not so new friendships.

Making friends over dinner at Lemon Grass in Civic

I think these trips are very beneficial. I learnt a lot of new things like what the Timor Gap is about? It is also good to be with other correspondents who are in a similar situation as oneself and see how they tackle a particular issue. Thanks to International Media Centre Director Deborah George and Warwick Chuck for such a comprehensive programme.

Alex Hofmann: The preservation of table surfaces seems of utmost importance to DFAT. Almost every single table we sat at carried a sign sternly reminding us not to put any hot things on the table but to use the coasters provided instead. No signs though on Amanda Vanstone's table. Maybe she has got other things occupying her mind at the moment.

Vina Lee: Thanks to DFAT for arranging this visit for FCA members. It's a great trip and very helpful in connecting with the Australian Government officials. It helped me a lot to build up the network. I found it very interesting and learnt a lot from other colleagues.

Neil Sands: The trip was invaluable for me, as it provided a chance for face-to-face meetings with DFAT officials I deal with by telephone on a day-to-day basis. I'm a firm believer that people will always be swifter and less guarded when responding to queries if they can put a face to a name. It was also fun seeing Foreign Minister Alexander Downer on the defensive and railing against supposedly left-wing journalists when he came under persistent questioning on prickly issues.

Neena Bhandari: When emphasising the importance of Australia-India bilateral ties, Mr Downer couldn't resist but comment on Greg Chappell's appointment as India's new cricket coach. "My friend is now coaching the enemies"!

Steven Bates:: To be able to question and receive candid answers from those involved in policy issues that we cover, in particular East Timor and the Pacific Island countries, was a valuable experience.