4BC Drive with Gary Hardgrave - Highlights

As North Queensland is drenched once again, barrister and author David Topp joined Gary Hardgrave to explain why building new dams like the infamous Wolfdene is now a political and financial impossibility. 

A shocking study has revealed that 100% of tested Australian tattoo inks contain toxic metals that would be completely illegal in Europe. Dr. Jake Violi discussed the potential health risks and the surprising reason why laser removal might actually help your body absorb these dangerous chemicals.

As Queensland grapples with a massive housing deficit, the State Government has officially moved to abolish the CFMEU-backed "Best Practice Industry Conditions" (BPIC) to slash red tape and boost productivity.  Hear why officials claimed this policy "ground the state to a halt" and what the changes mean for the future of construction across the region.

In the wake of recent national tragedies, Chris Garnaut joined Gary to discuss why the need for community belonging has never been more urgent. Hear how local shopping centres from Gladstone to Townsville are reclaiming Australia Day with sausage sizzles, flags, and a record-breaking "buzz" that the critics can't ignore.

Stop paying a premium for "perfect" produce and discover the business delivering farm-fresh fruit that supermarkets refuse to sell. Founder Kamran Kasaei-Nejad explained how you can support local farmers and save big just by embracing an "ugly" banana.

Australia is mourning the "engine room" of Midnight Oil, founding member Rob Hirst, who has passed away following a heroic three-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Music guru and personal friend of Hirst, Sean Sennett, joined the show to celebrate the life of the legendary drummer and songwriter, sharing intimate stories of the curiosity and ferocity that fuelled the band's most iconic anthems.

Robbie Katter slammed the federal government’s proposed firearms crackdown, arguing it targets law-abiding farmers instead of the criminals and terrorists who ignore the law. He explained why a national buyback won't improve community safety and called for a refocus on illegal imports at our borders.

Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy revealed why he believes the LNP’s 20-year grip on Brisbane is slipping and why he's considering a run for Lord Mayor. He argued that basic services like road maintenance and bin collection are failing while the current administration focuses on "mini-state government" vanity projects.

Did you know one of Brisbane's busiest thoroughfares was named after a treacherous swamp that allegedly swallowed a horse-drawn carriage whole? Historian Jack Sim joined the program to launch our new series, The Streets of Brisbane, revealed the surprising reason why local politicians were desperate to scrub the "Boggo" name from the map in 1905.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has joined European leaders in condemning the latest U.S. tariff threats as a violation of sovereignty. Discover why Denmark is dismissing "imminent threat" claims from the White House while bolstering its own Arctic security.

Senator Pauline Hanson joined the program from the steps of Parliament House after being barred from entering the Senate chamber for today's condolence motions.  She revealed the message she was forced to have read by a colleague and why she believes the Prime Minister is actively silencing her voice.

Dr. Alan Patching joined Bend Davis on 4BC Summer Drive to provide a reassuring yet firm reality check on Brisbane’s Olympic infrastructure progress, noting that while the timeline is tight, it is achievable if construction begins by mid-2026. He emphasised that the goal isn't just finishing for the opening ceremony, but having a full year of "test events" to ensure security and transport systems are flawless.

Brisbane Heat star Matt Renshaw revealed the hilarious "mind games" Marnus Labuschagne used to dismantle Hobart and breaks down his own game-saving heroics on the boundary. With a high-stakes clash against Steve Smith’s Sixers looming, find out why he believes this squad is hitting its peak at exactly the right time.

Mayor Nick Dametto doesn't hold back on the city’s biggest challenge, detailing the urgent legislative changes needed to support police on the front lines. He discussed the reality of public safety and the "back-to-basics" approach he’s taking to steady the ship.

The Nationals leader warned that new hate speech laws could criminalise everyday political debate while ignoring the "extreme Islamic ideology" he claimed is the real threat. He argued that the government needs to be more prescriptive to stop Australia from turning into a "nanny state."

Dr. Alan Patching delivered the world’s largest Olympic stadium on time and on budget, but he warned that Brisbane is currently facing a "vertical" climb in construction costs. Find out why the next six months are the most critical milestone for the Victoria Park project and what happens if we miss the deadline.

For less than the cost of a suburban block of land, you could own a 12-bedroom hotel and a slice of Queensland mining history. Michael Philpott from Tourism Brokers joined us to explain why this Collinsville "fixer-upper" is the ultimate opportunity for anyone looking to ditch the city for a "pub change."

Discover the secrets of Australia's wettest region as Mayor Teresa Millwood revealed what it’s really like to live among World Heritage wonders and "dangerous" birds. From record-breaking rainfall to the truth about cassowary encounters, this is a fascinating look at life in the tropical north.

Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt explained why he ruled that preliminary drilling at Victoria Park doesn’t pose an "immediate threat" to Indigenous heritage sites. He detailed the discovery of significant burial grounds and how a new federal mediator plans to balance Olympic progress with cultural preservation.

After years of advocacy, Mayor Francis Murray revealed that the "Triple B" towns are finally ticking the biggest box on their wishlist. Discover how this historic road sealing project will transform life in the 95,000-square-kilometre Diamantina Shire.

That "clean" tea towel might be doing more harm than good, and your favourite wooden chopping board could be harbouring a hidden bacterial secret. Food safety expert Associate Professor Julian Cox revealed the common kitchen habits that would fail a professional health inspection and explained the simple changes you need to make to keep your family safe.

Clermont resident Todd Holmes described the harrowing reality of the "worst floods in living memory" as he prepares his own heavy machinery to help neighbours dig out from the silt. From life-saving helicopter rescues to comparisons with the town's tragic 1916 history, hear how this resilient community is banding together to survive the aftermath.

After a tough 2025 marked by mine closures, a massive new copper project and a signed rescue package are set to transform the North West. Mayor Peta MacRae joined the program to explain why the region’s mineral reserves are once again the backbone of the local economy.

From the Gold Coast to Townsville, hospitality venues are reporting a surge in fake "pineapples" and $100 bills being slipped into tills during busy shifts.  Publican Richard Deery explained why new staff and low-light environments are being targeted, and why the loss of these high-value notes hits small business owners twice as hard.

With record-breaking poll numbers and major party abandonment, political scientist Paul Williams revealed whether we are witnessing the end of Australia's traditional power balance. He shared how "soft voters" are trading the majors for Pauline Hanson in a move that could redefine the next election.

It’s a region the size of Victoria, yet residents are still looking at the sky to predict the rain. Mayor Ben Hall explained the "staggering" reality of living without a weather radar and why the "heel of Queensland" is fighting for 21st-century tech.

Fed up with Queensland’s Hall of Fame currently only existing as a digital file, legendary sportswriter Crash Craddock reveals his passionate vision to give the 2032 Olympic centrepiece a much-needed "soul." 

When record flooding hit Winton while the Crackup Sisters were away on tour, the local community mobilised to save their home and iconic outback stage.  Hear Amanda-Lyn Pearson share the heartwarming story of how a town gave back to the performers who have spent 17 years making them laugh.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appointed former High Court Justice Virginia Bell to lead the Bondi Royal Commission, but the move is already sparking a heated backlash. 

If you’re looking for world-class fishing and affordable living, the Mayor of Balonne Shire says it’s time to head six hours west of Brisbane. Find out how this river-rich region is using state and federal funding to build the homes needed for a growing workforce in 2026.

When two attackers posing as delivery drivers stormed his store, 60-year-old Andrew refused to be a victim. Listen to the incredible moment he reached for a machete to protect his life, his business, and his dogs.

The RACQ's Michael Kane reveals why a $300 phone is currently more secure than a $50,000 SUV and how new "two-factor authentication" could stop thieves in their tracks. From biometric starts to cars that automatically alert police when driven erratically, learn how the industry plans to fight back against rising crime.

Queensland manners expert Jo Hayes has released her official list of "low-class" summer behaviours, and you might be more of a bogan than you realise.  From drinking rum straight from the can to wearing pyjamas at Coles, find out if your daily habits have officially crossed the line.

With 240 new residents arriving every week, Mayor Peter Flannery revealed how Moreton Bay is evolving from a suburban hub into a "polycentric city" designed to support a population of one million.

Skilled brickies are leaving the industry in droves, but it isn’t because they’ve lost their touch with a trowel. Andy Shaw explained the "business trap" that forces tradesmen out of the game and why your next home build might take much longer than planned.

Mayor Helen Blackburn revealed why the region is seeing a massive population surge as Southerners trade city life for 96km of pristine coastline. Find out how the council is managing the "Noosa-style" growth and what it means for local house prices.

Leading architects Lucy O’Driscoll and Richard Coulson reveal how they are infusing "iconic Queensland" DNA into the new 63,000-seat Olympic Stadium. Learn how the design will use the natural hills of Victoria Park to let fans "stroll in from the sky" while prioritising a 50-year legacy for AFL and Cricket.

While some scream "stick to sport," others argue that legends like Dawn Fraser and John Eales have earned the right to be heard on the issues that matter. Ben Davis tackled the controversial divide between "wisdom" and "wokeness" and asked if you value an athlete's opinion as much as their on-field performance.

Move over, Hamilton Island, Mayor Ry Collins took us on a tour of the Whitsundays' "on-land" treasures, including the best fish and chips in Queensland.  From crocodile safaris on the Proserpine River to the iconic big mango in Bowen, find out where the locals go to play.

Kel Richards joined Ben Davis to tear apart the official 2026 list of words that should be "put out to pasture," from "reach out" to the bizarre trend of "six, seven." 

If you’re waiting for action at Victoria Park, the Deputy Premier says you won't have to wait long, with bulldozers set to arrive mid-year. Find out exactly when the final designs will be locked in and when the first footings for the $4 billion project will be poured.

In the wake of recent national tragedies, the Shadow Immigration Minister Paul Scarr is calling for a total overhaul of how Australia vets visa applicants for extreme ideologies. Discover how these proposed changes aim to beef up the Migration Act and provide better training for Home Affairs officials.

Following the news of Usman Khawaja’s retirement from Test cricket, the man leading Queensland Cricket reflects on the captain's incredible resilience and legacy. Terry Svenson shared when "Uzzy" is expected to suit up for the Heat’s final home games and what his leadership means for the next generation.

From life as an exploration geologist to the "last man standing" in the Mayor’s office, Gavin Dear revealed the unique struggles of governing Queensland's largest shire.  

Carissa Dunlop’s son Kyron has defied the odds for nine years, but now his family faces a new battle as the state’s only children’s hospice remains in limbo.   

The New Year has delivered a billion-dollar blow to the Australian beef industry as China imposes massive new trade restrictions effective today. Australian Meat Industry Council CEO Tim Ryan joined Carla Bignasca to explain why our premium beef is being "lumped in" with global competitors and what this means for local farmers and your wallet.

Struggling to keep that January 1st momentum alive? Psychologist Dr. Marny Lishman joined Carla Bignasca to explain why "habit stacking" and choosing goals that actually excite you are the real secrets to lasting change. 

Mel Harms, the full-time carer for her 10-year-old grandson Casey, shared the heart breaking moment she discovered through the media that their "safety net" was shutting its doors.  She issued a powerful plea for transparency and urgency, explaining why Hummingbird House is a vital sanctuary that no hospital or private insurance can replace.

Bulloo Shire Mayor John "Tractor" Ferguson revealed why his region is the safest place to raise a family and why he could hire 14 people tomorrow if they walked through the door.  From plant operators to office staff, find out what life is like in the third-largest shire in Queensland.

Join Carla Bignasca and 4BC’s own Richard French as they take a victory lap through a historic year for Queensland sport. From the Broncos’ drought-breaking premiership to Gout Gout’s lightning-fast emergence on the world stage, Frenchie counts down the top five moments that defined 2025.