David Williams describes his part in the state government's decision to renovate the football stadium at Brisbane's Lang Park. He notes that, despite controversy surrounding the decision, it was a more cost-effective option than alternative proposals such as redevelopment of the RNA showgrounds near the Royal Brisbane Hospital.
Peter Andrews details the establishment of the Institute for Molecular Bioscience at the University of Queensland. He explains how the state government came to be involved in its foundation and funding.
John Hay recalls his first meeting with Chuck Feeney at the Irish Club on 16 March 1998. He explains Feeney's desire to remain anonymous and his unhappiness at the eventual disclosure of his generosity.
Sallyanne Atkinson considers the nature of local Council boundaries. She describes the formation of the BCC boundaries and states her views on the Beattie government's council amalgamations. She discusses internal tensions in the Labor Party.
Sallyanne Atkinson recalls her belief that she would win the 1991 election. She discusses the Brisbane Plan, which was a whole-of-government plan examining infrastructure and green space in Brisbane. She discusses media coverage of Council issues and she reflects on the mistakes of the Liberal Party campaign. She compares her final campaign with her first. She discusses the 2009 State government election.
Ken Smith describes the implementation of the Smart State strategy and the role it played in the Education Department. He outlines his involvement with the strategy, specifically his work with philanthropies, universities, the state and the commonwealth.
Ken Smith describes his impression of the relationship between Peter Beattie and Jim Soorley. He notes the continuation of tensions between the BCC and the state government.
Ken Smith details his move away from the state public service into the private sector and then into the BCC. He details his perception of previous lord mayors, in particular Jim Soorley. He describes the implicit tension between the BCC and the state government. He notes the capability of the BCC to attract very good public servants.
Peter Beattie talks about the need to placate the Queensland electorate by giving even the most radical policy the appearance of conservatism, including reforms to anti-discrimination legislation.
