In 1944 at the Queensland state election, Fred Paterson became the first and only communist ever elected to an Australian parliament, as the member for the seat of Bowen in the Queensland state legislature.

A little known fact is that in the 1930’s and 1940’s, North Queensland was referred to as “ Red North.” This denoted this community’s  communist leanings, which comes as a far cry from the conservative, small government ideological preferences of the region today.

To discuss, Luke Grant spoke with Jim McIlroy, whose written the introduction to a book called “ The Red North.” The books new edition is being published later this year. 

In 1944 at the Queensland state election, Fred Paterson became the first and only communist ever elected to an Australian parliament, as the member for the seat of Bowen in the Queensland state legislature.
A little known fact is that in the 1930&rsquo;s and 1940&rsquo;s, North Queensland was referred to as &ldquo; Red North.&rdquo; This denoted this community&rsquo;s&nbsp;&nbsp;communist leanings, which comes as a far cry from the conservative, small government ideological preferences of the region today.
To discuss, Luke Grant spoke with Jim McIlroy, whose written the introduction to a book called &ldquo; The Red North.&rdquo; The books new edition is being published later this year.&nbsp;

Australia Overnight with Mike Jeffreys, 12am – 4am weekdays.

Wake Up Australia, 4am - 9:30am weekdays.

Australia Overnight with Mike Jeffreys, 12am – 4am weekdays.
Wake Up Australia, 4am - 9:30am weekdays.

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