Ex-Downer advisor made envoy

BANGKOK: -- A former adviser to Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has been appointed Australia's new ambassador to Thailand.

Mr Downer said Bill Paterson, now the first assistant secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's south and south east Asia division, would replace Miles Kupa in January.

Mr Paterson served as Mr Downer's chief of staff and principal adviser in 2000 after having spent the previous year in the prime minister's office as the assistant secretary for Asia, APEC and trade policy.

He also headed the government's anti-terrorism task force after the September 11 terror attacks in 2001 and then went on to lead the Iraq task force between 2002 and 2003.

"He has been closely involved in international strategic and security policy, politico-military affairs, intelligence and regional issues as a senior government official," Mr Downer said.

Mr Downer said Mr Paterson's appointment came at a time when Australia's relationship with Thailand was at a high point after the signing of a free trade deal between the two countries.

--Herald Sun AU, 2004-10-13

Isn't Bill Patterson, Dame Edna's side kick?

Les Patterson

Good day .......mate.....tinny to ya

Les Patterson

You mean him? :