Violent protests have erupted again in Lebanon as the country lurches deeper into a political and economic crisis.

There's little prospect of a Government being formed soon. The local currency is depreciating against the US dollar, making daily life more expensive.

There's a weekly cap on withdrawals from the banks.

People are desperate and their frustrations spilled over into riots in Downtown Beirut on the weekend. Many believe it's the only way they'll be heard by the political elite.

It's a very different scene in Australia. Geraldine has been struck by the surge of national pride in the wake of the bushfire crisis. She hopes the Government uses the opportunity to act on this rare moment of national consensus.

Finally, Geraldine and her daughter reflect on the power of a good funeral.

Let us know what you think of the episode on the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com

Lebanon on 'brink of chaos and anarchy' Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/lebanon-on-brink-of-chaos-and-anarchy-as-peaceful-protests-turn-violent/2020/01/19/14da7166-3973-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html?fbclid=IwAR0pPliCafSRP7Y6FptTiX1vXeCkVgqT_SAhLUq3WPx9RQwk9nKpGZHAhlA

Deidre Macken: United by Crisis, Frustrated into Action https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/united-by-crisis-frustrated-into-action/news-story/52ebd75ce3daf50e15fecb1a23bb06d2

Can Scott Morrison Learn to Lead? https://johnmenadue.com/greg-latemore-can-scott-morrison-learn-to-lead/