The Lure of Politics: Geoff Gallop's government 2001-2006

In The Lure of Politics, Lesley van Schoubroeck takes readers back through the pivotal moments during Geoff Gallop’s five years as premier of Western Australia, revealing the challenges he faced while trying to implement a reform agenda in the shadow of a history littered with scandals. Focusing on Gallop’s election-winning strategy to save old growth forests, his determination to stop the abuse of children in Aboriginal communities and his approach water policy, van Schoubroeck places Gallop’s achievements in an historical setting – putting on record the many achievements of his government as he rebuilt Labor from the ashes of WA inc, laying the foundation for his longer term legacy. Building on interviews with players in the Gallop Government and historical records, The Lure of Politics reveals the dilemmas faced by leaders who are constrained by expectations of ‘the way things are done around here’ – many of these interviews will bring a wry smile to the face of readers.