to even further add to the confusion our large vertical borer (132" table dia) has 2 toolposts (columns) one on the right as your facing the machine (3 o'clock if you like) and one on the left (9 o'clock), so you have the left tool facing back, and the right tool facing forward !
Your very own IFI Ian seemed to get a bit hypnotised by this particular machine
edit....... errm ok the other way round right hand tool as you face the machine, cutting tip facing back... etc..., you can see where the confusion arrises !