David Kippin's take on diplomacy: the wacky theory of the week goes to The Kipper. And Johnathan Thurston’s secret life in PNG.

Also, The Pie sees a certain symmetry in the push for Tasmania to legalise euthanasia – seems a good fit.

Also, bits of language fun and games from around the place – including The Mad Katter and the Daily Astonisher (what a surprise!), before The Magpie goes into harrumph mode about boot camps, late night trading and sister-bloody-cities.

And Bentley really chucks the rattle out of the pram, taking the media to task for what he sees as an unforgivable lapse – all here in the nest at www.townsvillemagpie.com.au

An exclusive peek at the Australian Cabinet's special new office building... and The Magpie introduces his new periodic award, The Cyclone Yasi Memorial Goblet for services to tourism in Townsville.

The ‘Pie names the first recipient of this prestigious gong.

On the national scene, its all been about cabinet quotas and punted pundits … The ‘Pie sticks his beak in.

And it’s been another week of the language being mugged and  ambushed repeatedly just about everywhere. Euphemism has reigned as king. But there’s also some fun to be had with some of the tasty morsels the old bird has been dining on.

There’s even a limerick challenge, if you’re up to it, here in the nest at www.townsvillemagpie.com.au

Why Kevin Rudd could learn a life lesson from Townsville business identity Rabieh Krayem – and CHEATED … Rugby League waffler Phil ‘Gus’ Gould passed over for prestigious title – it’s a scandal.

 The Astonisher continues its policy of making heroes out of villains and villains out of heroes …

Don’t ask, don’t tell .. Townsville Hospital’s chairman John Bearne’s curious  take on democracy …

… and a musical tribute to Clive ‘Hindenberg’ Palmer heading for Canberra.

All that plus quotes of the week, a Bentley ‘toon looking to the Liberals future, and other bibs and bobs in the nest at www.townsvillemagpie.com au.

Brace yourself, Australia, you’re about to have a KRuddectomy … you'll be up and about in no time.. And for once, The Magpie condones that most un-Australian of low acts known as Sinking The Slipper.

Also The Magpie reveals where his vote went, and why.

But believe it or not, there has been life still going on outside this interminable sideshow.

Herein the ‘Ville, the new town plan is up for scrutiny …

…. and is Mayor Mullet turning the traditional tables and promoting a ‘girls club’ power base?

All that and other things that caught the beady eye this week at www.townsvillemagpie.com.au