GOD BLESS Queensland. Over the years, the northern state has produced larger-than-life political characters such as Joh Bjelke-Petersen, Peter Beattie, Pauline Hanson and Albert Field.
Love them or hate them, these personalities have added spice and controversy to the Australian political landscape.
Bob Katter and Clive Palmer are the tradition's contemporary torchbearers, and are currently seeking to make a splash on the national stage.
But are they serious players or just the latest re-incarnation of the fringe or protest parties that often emerge at election time?
Election Watch's Ryan Sheales spoke to political analyst Dr Damon Alexander about 'the Queensland mavericks'.