Southerners can’t have all the fun. Our Local Lad is Launnie’s Peter Gutwein, Tassie’s Premier.

What do you love about where you live? Our family is incredibly fortunate to live in the Tamar Valley where we have a beautiful little farm, a great view of the river, three dogs, two cats and two very well behaved miniature goats called Allan and Teddy.

What’s the best thing about Tassie? For me it’s very simply the place and people. The diversity of landscapes from the East Coast to the West Coast and everything in between. Tasmanian residents are incredibly friendly and generous when others need a hand up.

And the worst? In the past, I don’t think we’ve set our sights and aspirations high enough. I think this is changing daily as we’re proving to the world that Tasmania has so much to offer.

I’m inspired by… My mum and dad (who sadly is no longer with us). They were immigrants who came to this country 50 years ago on the promise of a better life. Through hard work my parents built a life for themselves and they worked night and day so that their children could have a better life.

Tell us a little about your work? While my working life has always been busy, I think most would appreciate in recent times it has become much busier. I’m truly passionate about this State and it’s incumbent on me as Premier, along with my colleagues, to deliver for all Tasmanians by providing opportunities that will collectively improve their lives.

What’s your dream project to work on? It’s not one single project, however for me it would be to see the successful culmination of a range of projects that are currently underway. Things such as continuing record investment in health, education and critical infrastructure projects including the Royal Hobart Hospital, the Midland Highway and the Launceston University Transformation Project. I’m excited by the role that Tasmania can play in the provision of clean, renewable energy not only for our own State but for the Nation. It will be a game changer.

What do you love doing outside work? Reading Lee Child novels (I know!) and running when I can.

Where’s your favourite eatery? Given the amount of time I spend away, there’s nothing better than a meal at home with my family.

Guilty pleasure? Chocolate, (any chocolate).

Favourite team? I love my footy and it’s no secret that I’ve been a long-time supporter of the West Coast Eagles, however I really enjoy getting to a local football game to watch either South Launceston or the Hillwood Football Clubs. I try not to miss the junior footy as my son plays with North Launceston.

If I didn’t live in Tassie I’d live… It’s very difficult to contemplate living anywhere else but Tasmania. I loved living in Ireland for several years but deepdown you always know where home is.

When there’s nothing to do, I… When I have some spare time I like to go for a run and work on my fitness.

I’m reading… The Revised Estimates Report 2019-20.

Quote to live by? Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. ■