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propertyHome/Comment/National OpinionBrian Wightman weighs in on Canberra's leadership By Brian WightmanUpdated July 2 2021 - 3:24am, first published November 25 2018 - 6:00amBy Brian

WightmanUpdated July 2 2021 - 3:24am, first published November 25 2018 - 6:00amFacebookTwitterWhatsappEmailCopyLEGACY: Brian Wightman believes Tim Cahill has shown us how to lead from the

front. A negative column or a positive column, I am often left contemplating. Negativity drains me, so positivity is default; it requires more planning and redrafting but remains the

authentic option. 

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negative discourse will generate more publicity, more newspaper sales, and more acknowledgment on social media platforms.

And there are countless leadership examples and stories that prove my point. 

Yet, it’s not my way.

Negativity flows off the tongue, with the stroke of a pen or when using a keyboard to become a warrior. 

It can be totally nonconstructive, but from a political point of view, remains disproportionally damaging and pivotal to election success. 

Consequently, leadership at a political level in our country appears, at present, to be underpinned by negativity. The irony that I feel this way is not lost on me. However, rather than a

contest of ideas, we are often left searching for the least bad option. 

From a revolving door of prime ministers and a noticeable lack of respect for the office, to what appears an unwillingness to articulate a long-term vision, the leadership offered is

uninspiring. 

Perhaps, we as community members should be apportioned blame, unable to sustain a positive and proactive approach because it is hard work.

We are slow to forgive, ruthlessly punishing changes of mind, and rarely looking deeper into an issue to find consensus with fellow citizens. 

Further, we are lightning quick to judge. The result, populist decision making that influences a few years rather than generations. Many of us yearn for leaders prepared to maintain the

rage; to prosecute an argument or policy without fear of electoral backlash. Not blindly or wildly but following significant thought and consultation. Convincing us, not telling us, even if

we push back.

Leadership is about inspiring others to purchase a ticket on the journey. Tim Cahill, the Socceroos and the Matildas have shown us how.

- Brian Wightman Therefore, I look elsewhere for inspiration to maintain positivity. Sport is an elixir, particularly our national teams, who bring Australians together. That is not to say

we don’t have our moments, however, we do love the green and gold.

My favourite sporting team is the Matildas, our national women’s soccer team. They are trail blazers: determined, disciplined, skilful, successful at international level, and well coached.

Emily van Egmond is the most consistent midfielder in Australia. Sam Kerr is a superstar! They inspire me, and I love to watch them play. 

Likewise, Tim Cahill has inspired our nation for 14 years. He is arguably not the most skilful footballer Australia has produced, however, he is the best. 

During a glittering 108 game, 50 goal, four World Cup career, Cahill has helped transform the sporting psyche of our nation from Socceroos legend, the late Johnny Warren’s infamous book

title: Sheilas, Wogs and Poofters, to accepting the most popular game in the world.

This has eventuated due to a culture of success after a long drought of failure. Cahill has been relentless in his focus, emotionally proud wearing the national playing strip, and a

wonderful teammate: dependable, technically clever, brave and selfish in his focus to be the best version of himself. Plainly, without Cahill, Australia would have not qualified for four

World Cups over 16 years. Thus, what can we learn from this inspiration provided by sport stars? 

First and foremost – actions speak louder than words. Long-term success requires an unwavering commitment and tenacity that ensures when times are tough, resilience is the most obvious

trait. Further, to bring others along on the journey, you must convince with your words and your deeds. Transfer that leadership to politics and what would the implications be for Australia?

Publicly, I didn’t watch Cahill argue with the boss. 

Perhaps constructive disagreements and debates occurred behind closed doors, what had to be said was said, but it didn’t spill into the public arena nor onto the field. 

It symbolises a level of mutual respect that appears missing in modern political leadership. Leadership is about inspiring others to purchase a ticket on the journey. Cahill, the Socceroos

and the Matildas have shown us how. 

I long with bated breath for others to step up.

Brian Wightman is a former state Attorney-General and school principalShareFacebookTwitterWhatsappEmailCopyMore from National OpinionCan Israel still claim self-defence to justify its Gaza

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