Dean Wells discusses the origins of the Smart State agenda. He states that the Smart State was more to do with technology and innovation than education.
John Mickel describes the fallout from Beattie's labeling of him as a 'Mr Fixit'. He discusses the problems with electricity supply during his time as minister and the need to improve public information to inform people about electricity supply.
John Mickel states that following the election loss he went overseas. After he returned he lectured at QUT but was asked by several Labor politicians, including Peter Beattie, to return to politics. He was working as an advisor when he was selected to run for the State seat of Logan.
Peter Wellington considers the Smart State strategy. He describes his dislike of the Smart State number plates. He suggests that while it was a genuine policy, the brand overtook the policy. He discusses Beattie's leadership style.
Peter Wellington reflects on the behaviour of parliamentarians when he first entered parliament and his support for a code of conduct for MPs. He links the issue to the anger in the community and the support for One Nation. He also reflects on the Beattie years and describes Peter Beattie's great interpersonal skills. He predicted that Bligh would lose the 2012 election.
Peter Wellington explains the importance of community cabinets. He argues that it required ministers to understand issues of importance to constituents. He describes the anger in the community that contributed to the election of One Nation candidates at the 1998 election.
Peter Wellington provides further details about the negotiations that followed the 1998 election. He states that Beattie was the only leader who responded in writing to his concerns.
