The opening of the new parliamentary year is just days away and, despite talks between Immigration Minister Chris Bowen and his Coalition counterpart Scott Morrison, there is no sign of consensus on how to stop the flow of refugee boats from Indonesia.

Instead, the sport of brinkmanship and tough talking between the major parties continues with the tone of the debate reaching disturbing levels in recent days.

And all of this shameful behaviour on the eve of Australia Day when as a nation we should be celebrating our freedom and welcoming those from faraway lands into our midst and culture.

And another thing ...

The disappearance of a young boy between Towradgi and Corrimal beaches this week is a reminder of the dangers of the sea.

Eliacham Milolo was swept away by a rip and searchers late yesterday were still trying to locate his body.

The tragedy adds strength to the argument that surf sense should be introduced full-time into the Australian school system.