Sir Johannes Knows Where He’s Going — Right! (Press, 6 October 1984)

Bikini-clad performers from Queensland have been entertaining people in Christchurch this week, promoting tourism. Concurrently, Queensland's Premier, Sir Johannes Bjelke-Petersen, has been engaging in promotional efforts in Europe. Bjelke-Petersen, known colloquially as Joh, has been in power since the state was effectively gerrymandered to solidify his position and was recently honoured with a knighthood. At 74 years old, he remains an active and sometimes controversial figure in Australian politics, advocating for foreign investment and the expansion of business opportunities in Queensland. Bjelke-Petersen's push for development has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding plans to drill for oil in the Great Barrier Reef, despite significant environmental concerns. His charm and youthful appearance have impressed many in London, but his conservative views have struck a discordant note with more progressive groups. He has openly expressed disdain for the homosexual community, describing participants at a national conference in Queensland as "insulting, evil animals," and opposes movements aimed at improving the conditions of Aboriginal people. His administration is famously known for its strict laws that effectively ban street demonstrations unless permits are granted, leading to numerous protests and clashes with the police in Brisbane. Bjelke-Petersen also supports various questionable figures in business, like Mr Horvarth, who promised to create a hydrogen-powered car, but whose whereabouts became uncertain, and Milan Brych, a controversial figure now in prison for fraud. Despite a long tenure marked by oppressive policies against opponents and demonstrators, he has plans to further exploit Queensland's natural resources, including logging in untouched rainforests, attracting the attention of conservationists. His leadership style has been marked by a willingness to demolish historical sites in Brisbane, prioritising development over preservation, as seen with the destruction of the Bellevue Hotel. Bjelke-Petersen’s vision for Queensland focuses heavily on commercial viability, including a bid for the 1992 Olympics, suggesting he intends to stay in power until that event, which could serve as a capstone for his administration. He believes he can restore prestige to his region and where necessary exercises a heavy hand against opposition. As he navigates his responsibilities, he appreciates modern conveniences, as illustrated by his acquisition of a luxurious aircraft to further his travels around the state, viewing this expenditure as progress. In the eyes of his supporters, Bjelke-Petersen represents a bold advocate for Queensland's interests. However, critics portray him as a staunch detractor of civil liberties, whose governance style could reshape the very fabric of Queenslandian society. Overall, as the political landscape evolves, Bjelke-Petersen's tenure continues to leave a significant mark on Australian politics.

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