A few days ago I posed the Question "what will it take to get an effective alternative Premier in Queensland" and we have an answer, the extremely effective leader Campbell Newman Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

Say what you will about the man he does two things that are essential for Queensland Leadership

1. He gets things done regardless of critisism

2. He handles the media effectively

Whilst their are a myriad of qualities required for a Premier of the State these two are what has been lacking from past Opposition's that continually have failed to dent the long list of Governments in the single house of parliament. The fact that Queensland only has one house really does ensure strong Government and the fact that Brisbane City has the unique position in Australia to have a single governing body has led to the quasi opposition status of the Lord Mayor against State Premiers. This can be seen in the past with Clem Jones and Sir Joh, Sally-Anne Atikinson and Wayne Goss, Jim Soorley and Rob Borbidge and the recent Labor leaders and Campbell Newman.

Campbell Newman began his tenure famously getting out the ratchet and getting rid of unpopular buslane signs himself. I believe the man will hit the ground running as leader of opposition against a resurgent Anna Bligh.

These are exciting times for the people of Queensland as they now have two strong leaders vying for one job.