Sorry to say this Wally, but I think you now have seen the real DS emerge. DS is the sort of person who must always be seen to be winning, regardless of the cost or means. When he can't win by convincing people through sound logic, he resorts to behind the scenes interference and "foul" play in order to get his way.
Chris Higgins and others contemplating the meeting in Sydney, take note! You can hold as many conferences as you like but, in the end the result will be the same. DS will walk away from the meeting and still do what he wants to do!
Australian of the Year? Not in my books, in fact probably the most un-Australian guy I've ever had the displeasure of meeting.