Vale Mike Ahern: Remembering the Legacy of Queensland’s Former Premier

Former Queensland Premier Mike Ahern Dies at 81

In a sad announcement today, it was reported that Mike Ahern, the former Premier of Queensland, has passed away at the age of 81. Ahern, who served as the National Party leader, held the position of Premier for only two years but played a significant role in shaping the state during a tumultuous period.

A Legacy Overshadowed by Controversy

Ahern’s time as Premier coincided with the explosive Fitzgerald Inquiry into official corruption, a landmark investigation that shook Queensland‘s political landscape. However, Ahern’s legacy has often been overshadowed by the controversial era of Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen and the subsequent election victory of Wayne Goss, which ended 32 years of conservative rule.

Nevertheless, Ahern will be remembered as a man of integrity who guided Queensland through a time of crisis. His family’s statement described him as someone who “often fought against the will of his peers for the greater good of the people.”

A Remarkable Rise to Power

Born into a dairy farming family in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Mike Ahern followed in his father’s footsteps and became involved in Country Party politics. He entered parliament at a young age and quickly gained attention as the youngest elected MP in Queensland‘s history.

Despite facing skepticism from the party establishment due to his youth, moderate views, and tertiary education, Ahern persevered and eventually rose to become the Health and Environment Minister. However, it was his role in challenging Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen’s leadership that marked a turning point in his career.

Nationals in Crisis

By 1987, Sir Joh’s leadership was waning, with his “Joh for PM” campaign failing and the Fitzgerald Inquiry uncovering widespread corruption. Amid pressure for Sir Joh to resign, a unique power struggle ensued, with Ahern trying to sack the dissenters before being challenged himself.

Despite the uncertainty, Ahern emerged as the leader of the Nationals. However, due to the governor’s refusal to appoint him, he found himself in an unprecedented stand-off with the establishment. Days of political turmoil followed until Ahern finally prevailed and set about reforming the damaged party and government.

A Vision for Queensland

As premier, Ahern faced numerous challenges. His government struggled to gain traction, as he faced resistance from the old guard and navigated the fallout from the Fitzgerald Inquiry’s expanded scope. However, Ahern’s commitment to integrity and his dedication to implementing the recommendations of the Fitzgerald Report defined his premiership.

Upon receiving the report, Ahern famously declared, “We’ll be implementing the Fitzgerald recommendations lock, stock, and barrel.” Despite his best efforts, Ahern’s tenure was cut short when he was toppled by his own police minister, Russell Cooper. The subsequent electoral defeat for the Nationals marked the end of conservative rule in Queensland.

A Life Beyond Politics

Following his retirement from politics in 1990, Mike Ahern embarked on a successful career in business. He was recognized for his contributions to politics, trade relations, education, and charities with an Order of Australia. In 2010, he received the Queensland Greats Award, solidifying his place in the state’s history.

A Man of Principles

Ahern’s family statement highlighted his unwavering dedication to public service. As the Minister of Health in the 1980s, he was credited with protecting Queensland‘s Indigenous community from AIDS by ordering blood tests and taking action to stop the epidemic.

Throughout his political career, Ahern stood by his principles and led by example. His actions and decisions demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of Queenslanders, even when it meant going against the will of his peers.

A Legacy Remembered

The passing of Mike Ahern has been met with condolences and tributes from current and former politicians. Colleagues and fellow politicians remembered his integrity, decency, and the significant contributions he made to Queensland.

Ahern’s legacy lies in his part in the reform of government following the Fitzgerald Inquiry. He laid the foundations for integrity in government and set a new template for how Queensland should be governed. Despite the toll his time in office took on him and his family, Ahern’s actions and legacy continue to resonate with Queenslanders today.

As the state mourns the loss of a former Premier, Mike Ahern’s job is done, and he rests in peace. His leadership and dedication in cleaning up corruption in Queensland will be remembered as a vital part of the state’s history.