Former premier reveals surprise post-politics plan

A former premier has posted a cryptic message to social media, dropping a big hint on his plans for life after politics.

Former Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein has revealed his plan to refuel after quitting politics citing an “empty tank”.

Mr Gutwein revealed Thursday he will trade the chilly Apple Isle for a holiday in far north Queensland before stepping back into public life.

The 57-year-old said he has already spent time with family after resigning earlier this year.

“I’ve successfully taken three months off, spent quality time with the fam and gotten fit,” Mr Gutwein posted on Twitter.

“Heading to FNQ for a short break and then will be commenting on matters that interest me.”

The weather in Hobart was averaging around 11 degrees and rainy this week compared to around 23 degrees and clear skies in Cairns.

In announcing his surprise resignation in early April, Mr Gutwein thanked his family including wife Amanda and teenage kids Finn and Millie for backing him.

Peter Gutwein says he has spent the three months since his resignation with family and getting in shape. Picture: Richard Jupe

“First and foremost, I want to thank my family … for their support and love. No premier does this job alone and my family has been outstanding in their support,” he told reporters.

Having spent two years in Tassie’s top job, Mr Gutwein explained managing the state’s Covid-19 response left him with nothing in the tank.

“What I’ve found after the last two years especially is I have nothing left in the tank to give,” Gutwein said.

“Unless you can give 110 per cent to the role of premier, you should not be doing this job. I can no longer give 110 per cent.”

Mr Gutwein had represented the Liberal Party in the electorate of Bass since 2002.

In striking contrast to his appearance as premier, Mr Gutwein surprised everybody this year after revealing a giant tattoo of a panther when he rolled up his sleeve for a Covid vaccination.

He later revealed the tattoo was linked to his being a black belt in taekwondo.

Tasmania’s Premier Peter Gutwein now has TikTok. His username is papi_g #politaspic.twitter.com/j6Oc4KYCAV

— Monte Bovill (@MonteBovill) April 23, 2021

Since leaving politics, Mr Gutwein made headlines when he spoke out against plans for a “hybrid” Tasmanian team in the AFL.

A long time fan of the game, Mr Gutwein has pushed for a 19th team in the league that would call Tasmania home.

When former Collingwood president Eddie McGuire suggested North Melbourne take on a hybrid model, splitting its home games between Tassie and Melbourne, Mr Gutwein called “bullsh*t”.

“Eddie McGuire has a lot of ideas, some sillier than others, but on this one you’ve just got to call bulls**t,” Mr Gutwein said.

“Tasmania has made its position clear now over a number of years.

“The 19th licence is what we want, it is what the state deserves and importantly it would be good for football.”