Complete books, scores of chapters and thousands of newspaper articles have traversed and, in many cases, supported nominations of this one or that one as the answer to a 130-year-old mystery. Even headstones proclaim some sleepers as The Man from Snowy River.

After 25 years researching the life and times of Banjo Paterson, I'm confident I know the rider and the location and date of the ride (and how it ended) that Banjo Paterson had in mind when he embarked on writing The Man from Snowy River. No one ever before nominated as the 'stripling on a small and weedy beast...'.

I now have Paterson's words describing the ride, at least part of which he actually observed. For 100 percent acceptance of my claim, though, I need to find again a newspaper article from years ago quoting Paterson about the germ of the idea that led to him writing the work, which connects to and verifies my claim. I had it some years ago, but didn't then realise its significance.

I'm seeking experienced Trove researchers to share in an organised way the search for the crucial newspaper item. I'd really like to hear from you at banjocrane@gmail.com; or contact me if you would like to know when the "announcement" is to be made.

On Thursday, October 17, the 70th anniversary of the official commencement at Adaminaby of the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Authority [was] celebrated.

The scheme, which took 25 years to build, was certainly a major engineering achievement for Australia, and at one time was hailed as the 'Eighth Wonder of The World'.

However, I believe that the time is well overdue for another major engineering achievement, and that is the formation of an authority to drought-proof Australia.

The mighty Snowy Scheme: a similar organisation should be initiated to combat drought, Australia-wide.

While watching parliamentary question time, I got to thinking. I observed our parliamentarians all decked out in their suits and ties, asking and answering questions with much decorum while presenting in fine fettle.

My thoughts wandered off to the poor farmers who are battling the latest drought, the most severe in living memory. In my mind was the thought of the farmer and his son or daughter walking together in and around the stock in their paddocks, checking for any signs in their beloved herd for sickness or stress that may require an intervention with another tool of the trade of the farmer, the rifle.

Too frequently can be heard a shot in the far off paddocks as another suffering beast is put out of its misery. A salient reminder to the young son of the responsibility of those who tend their stock. Drought can be a harsh master at times and farmers must learn their lessons well.

Finally, my attention is returned to question time, but I could not stop thinking of the plight of the farmers. I formed an opinion: you don't always have to wear a coat and tie and frequent parliament to display honour and dignity. To you, the farmers during this most trying of times, I tip my hat.