The cartoons, drawn by well-known local cartoonist Harry Bruce and others, capture Entsch in all his political guises: sometimes cigar-chomping, often outspoken, always colourful. Alongside the cartoons are political pamphlets, clippings, campaign materials and other ephemera from Entsch’s time in office. These provide insight into the causes he championed, the controversies he navigated, and the shifting tone of public debate over the years.

But this exhibition is about more than just one man. It offers a window into how politics is practiced and perceived in the North, where national issues like climate change, same-sex marriage, medicinal cannabis, and the Great Barrier Reef all took on a distinctly regional voice. It highlights the impact that a maverick local representative can have when they are willing to challenge their own party, defy expectations, and speak up for their community.

Politically Spruiking also celebrates the art of political satire. In an era of shrinking print media and 24-hour news cycles, political cartoons remain a powerful way to cut through the noise. They offer sharp, witty commentary with just a few pen strokes. This exhibition is a rare chance to view a full collection of cartoons that were once pinned on Entsch’s own office walls and are now donated to the Cairns Museum.

Whether you laugh, cringe, nod in agreement or shake your head in disbelief, this exhibition invites you to reflect on the power of politics and the power of humour in shaping the stories of our region.

Ground Floor Gallery
5 July – 22 September