Question Time – Dr Jim Thompson, Queensland Museum CEO, InQueensland, 22 December 2023

Queensland Museum CEO Dr Jim Thompson steps up to answer InQueensland’s 10 questions for your summer reading.

What has been the highlight of 2023 for you?
2023 was the year of the Dinosaur at Queensland Museum and has been a great success. Dinosaurs never cease to amaze and entertain. They are a museum’s superpower.

If you could have done something differently this year, what would it be and why?
Renovate the house. I say it every year and leave it to the next.

Who is someone to watch for in 2024?
The person who stops the wars in Europe and the Middle East.

What is your most vivid memory of the festive holidays?
Watching the first ball of the Boxing Day Test match and then cricket in the backyard.

Do you have any unique or funny holiday traditions?
Always a hot meal no matter what the temperature.

What’s your New Year’s resolution for 2024?
Same as every year. Get fitter, drink less and somehow enjoy life more. And renovate the house.

If you could have anyone from any time period attend your Christmas lunch, who would you choose?
My mum who passed away 40 years ago. I have a lot of questions I never asked.

Coastal holiday or city holiday?
Always coastal. Being at the beach and in the water. Makes you feel alive.

What are you looking forward to in 2024?
Being a grandfather and of course World Science Festival Brisbane 2024 (15-24 March)

Do you have a summer book or podcast you can recommend?
Jaws by Peter Benchley. Good for a coastal holiday.