David Watson describes his professional relationship with Joan Sheldon. He discusses the remaining nine members of the Liberal Party who held onto their seats. He explains how Peter Beattie was able to use the media to his best advantage.
Frank Peach explains why he was unable to continue with the Department of Families and implement the recommendations from the CMC inquiry. He discusses the difficulties and challenges of the Family Services portfolio.
Frank Peach discusses the changes to the public service following the reforms of the Goss Government. He discusses the historical changes in the role of director general and the impacts of election promises on policy direction. Frank Peach provides some detailed commentary on the limitations and challenges associated with New Public Management.
Ken Smith discusses his role as Chair of Aviation Australia at the time of being Director General of Employment and Training. He notes the election promise at the time that led to this. He goes on to note the development of the land at Brisbane airport.
Ken Smith discusses the negotiations he took part in between philanthropies, the state and the commonwealth. He details a new collaboration that the state is trying to negotiate in the social sciences. He describes the reception that Atlantic Philanthropies received in Queensland compared to other states, which he links to the unique relationship that the state has with universities.
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.
John Strano discusses the relationship of corporate philanthropy and the Smart State strategy. He notes that as part of the investment unit that he worked in he set up the venture capital team. He recalls Peter Beattie taking part in the Australian venture capital conference. He notes that the Bligh Government has now abandoned the venture capital team along with the Smart State branding.
John Strano notes that Borbidge and Beattie had a very good relationship. He notes examples in the transition to the Beattie Government when investment deals still went ahead. He describes the importance of early investment projects, such as with Boeing, that led to Queensland being the Smart State before being labeled thus.
