Exploring the Legacy of Queensland's 'Last King' Amid US Protests

In the wake of widespread protests across the United States against Donald Trump, a new documentary titled "Joh: Last King of Queensland" offers a timely reflection on the political legacy of Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, who served as Queensland's premier from 1968 to 1987. Directed by Kriv Stenders, the film examines the complex and often controversial reign of Bjelke-Petersen, drawing parallels to contemporary political dynamics in the US and beyond.

The documentary, now streaming on Stan, delves into Bjelke-Petersen's rise to power, his governance marked by economic growth, and the eventual exposure of corruption that led to his downfall. Stenders emphasized the importance of revisiting Bjelke-Petersen's reign in light of current global political climates, asserting, "The film is a cautionary tale really, saying, 'Just be aware that you know this has happened before and it could happen again.'"

Joh Bjelke-Petersen, born in New Zealand in 1911, became a dominant political figure in Queensland, known for prioritizing economic development often at the expense of civil rights and democratic freedoms. His government was marked by stringent anti-protest laws and widespread allegations of police corruption. For instance, in 1971, he declared a state of emergency to suppress anti-apartheid demonstrations, a move that resulted in violent clashes between police and protesters. As detailed in the documentary, Bjelke-Petersen's administration maintained control through electoral manipulation and a strong police presence, leading to significant civil rights infringements.

The film features interviews with various individuals, including Indigenous activist Lionel Fogarty and current Nationals leader David Littleproud, providing a multi-faceted perspective on Bjelke-Petersen's legacy. Stenders notes that despite the passage of time, the echoes of Bjelke-Petersen's policies remain relevant, particularly in discussions surrounding Indigenous rights and democratic freedoms in Australia.

One of the film's key messages is the recognition of populism as a recurring theme in politics. Stenders draws a direct comparison between Bjelke-Petersen's tactics and those of contemporary leaders, stating, "Trump is a populist leader that very much has drawn exactly from Joh's playbook in everything that he did in terms of his manipulation of the media, his use of force, even to the point where he refused to leave office." This observation underscores the documentary's intention to provoke critical reflection on the nature of political power and its consequences.

The film also highlights the significant cultural impact of Bjelke-Petersen's governance, particularly within Queensland's music scene. Stenders recalls how the oppressive political climate inspired local punk bands, turning music into a form of activism. The documentary features notable music from the time, including tracks from The Saints and The Parameters, which served as rallying cries against the regime.

As the film paints a vivid portrait of Bjelke-Petersen's administration, it prompts viewers to consider the broader implications of political leadership and the cyclical nature of history. Stenders concludes, "In order to change power, first you must understand it." With the release of "Joh: Last King of Queensland," audiences are invited to reflect on the lessons of the past as they navigate the complexities of today's political landscape.