It looks like people on both sides are just as convinced as each other that they are correct.
Except the book does not distinguish between the two - in both cases you need an alternate.
With respect, it does. This is the disagreement and it centres on the interpretation of the phrase, "When an aerodrome forecast is unavailable..."
You are saying (i think) that from a plain interpretation this phrase refers to anywhere.
I am saying this only means places for which a TAF exists but is unavailable. This is based on my undertsanding of the meaning of the indefinite article 'an'. Courts frequently apply the actual definition of words and grammatical construction to legislation to determine the meaning - see the recent walloping of CASA by AATA in the Direct Air case.
I think most agree that requiring VFR flights to carry an alternate because the paddock doesn't have a TAF is wrong.
Anyway interesting thread, nuff said...