Joy Ardill outlines the aims of the early Socialist Left (SL) in the ALP. She recalls meetings with Denis Murphy and Peter Beattie. She names a number of key reformers in the ALP.
Manfred Cross and Barbara Cross discuss joining the Executive of the ALP Reform Group which met immediately after the December 1977 federal electoral defeat, members including Kev Hooper, Terry Mackenroth, Rob Whiddon, Madeline McPherson, Lyn Gasteen, Judith Bell, Peter Beattie, Pat Comben, Di Fingleton, Denis Murphy and Mike Reynolds.
David Hamill explains the selection and appointment of ministerial staff and his role in this appointment. He discusses the role of ministerial staff and how various minister's views carried more weight than others.
Peter Beattie talks about recruiting the personal staff who provided ongoing advice and support through his career, emphasising his merit-based approach and his disdain for the party factions.
