Bob Hawke was a great leader, and yes the libs have benefited from his forward thinking. I also think John Howard has been a great leader who has the power of his convictions. the libs too have made necessary reforms eg tax reforms which labour didn't have the courage to touch. And not to mention the unpopular but necessary IR reforms. Between Bob Hawkes intellect and John Howards courage to take on the tough issues Australia has been served well for 2 decades.
I can't see another BH or JH sitting in the Labour ranks at the minute. And it's only my opinion but I think the jury is still out as to whether Peter Costello would be as good a PM as he has been a Treasurer. Time will tell.
