.webp)
He may spend his weekdays navigating the political Bear Pit of Parliament, but at home in Manly, James Griffin, Member for Manly, is just a regular bloke dodging bins, chasing kids, and wondering why he can’t quite pull off a scarf.
James gave us a refreshingly honest look at life beyond the podium. Turns out, even our local MP dreads bin night and occasionally has to wrap up radio interviews mid-kid-meltdown. A public servant, sure, but also just a dad trying to survive winter with enough coffee, Tim Tams, and dignity.
What’s your go-to move to stay warm on a freezing morning?
Chasing a four and a half year old and six and a half year old to get ready for school and day care.
Have you ever attempted a cold ocean swim at Manly in winter… and regretted it halfway in?
Yes.
What’s more intense: a spin class or a political debate in Parliament?
Debate in Parliament. They don’t call it the ‘Bear Pit’ for nothing.
If Manly turned into a ski resort for a day, what would you name the chairlift on The Corso?
"SeaView." Lame, but as if you wouldn’t go up on that lift.
Favourite local walking track to clear your head, and would you ever take it on in UGG boots?
North Head any day of the week. Absolutely not.
What’s your winter wellness hack: extra laps, extra layers, or extra coffee?
Coffee.
What’s something completely un-political that brings you joy in Manly this time of year?
A bit of crispness in the air of an evening. Knowing people are enjoying a good dinner or drink at one of the many great establishments we have.
When was the last time you took the bins out, and did anyone recognise you while you did it?
State secret. No, actually I take the bins out every week. I hate it. My carport isn’t wide enough and so I have to drive out, pull the bins out, and drive back in. Usually I forget stuff inside. My kids call it ‘Dad’s favourite night of the week’.
Do you ever get nervous making small talk at kids’ birthday parties or school events?
Nope. Love a chat.
What’s your go-to coffee order, and do you have a regular café where they know your name?
I’m a regular, everywhere. Strong flat white, three quarters full, thanks!
What’s your weekend uniform — boardies and thongs, or are you secretly still in work mode?
Usually I have weekend events on. So, you need to dress for the occasion. I’ve done events in everything from boardies to a suit.
What’s something you’re hopeless at that people would be surprised to know?
I’m not very good at tidying up. My mind is pretty busy so I often leave paperwork all over my desk, which looks bad.
Do you have a guilty pleasure like a TV show, snack or habit you wouldn’t usually admit to? A meat pie at the footy, or cereal for dinner when no one’s watching?
I love AppleTV and other good streaming services. I also rotate four books at a time. Tim Tams are usually devoured en masse.
What’s one lesson your child has taught you that politics never could?
You can always learn a new skill, no matter how old! And change is inevitable.
Best spot in Manly for a spontaneous dad-and-kid adventure?
North Head’s CANNONS, hands down!
Have you ever had to take a work call mid-baby meltdown?
Yes, live on radio, in fact. That was great. Absolute scenes in the background. Thankfully, the interviewer kindly cut it short!
If your parenting style had a campaign slogan, what would it be?
“Yes, you can have an ice cream, but you must also eat your dinner.”
Would you rather change nappies for a week or debate live on national TV?
Debate live on national TV, every time. At least there’s less chance of getting covered in something questionable.
Finally, scarf or no scarf? Where do you stand on this hotly debated winter issue?
I have tried to make the scarf a thing. I have a lovely green one, but I just can’t make a habit of wearing it. I wish I was a scarf person, to be honest. It's so suave.
Authorised by James Griffin MP, using Parliamentary Entitlements.
Share this!
