Thank goodness it will be another two weeks until we see the return of Parliament.
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Who would have predicted Will Hodgman’s first sitting week of 2018 would turn out like that?
Before proceedings even begun, the government moved to shore up their front pages, with the announcement that it would be stepping away from its hard-and-fast TasWater takeover plan.
It was an about face for something Local Government Minister Peter Gutwein had so ardently fought for in 2017.
News outlets rubbed their hands together with glee – the story of the day had unfolded so early. It looked to be an easy Tuesday.
It was, however, just an entree for the main event. Sue Hickey, aided and abetted by Labor leader Rebecca White and Greens leader Cassy O’Connor wiped them off the front, usurping Rene Hidding for the role of Speaker.
Rumours of mutiny were rife, as Ms Hickey took the seat over the Premier’s pick. There is still speculation on how Ms Hickey will cast her vote, and what colour she’ll wear.
Not quite a dark horse, but definitely underestimated, she made it a day Mr Hodgman and his team will never forget.
Did former speaker Michael Polley have a hand in the plan? After all, he orchestrated a similar take down of Mr Hodgman’s father in 1992.
He was there in the gallery, watching, next to former MHA, Greens senator Nick McKim
The media lapped up the unfolding events like buttery popcorn, handful after handful. By the end of Tuesday, the Tasmanian public was bewildered and bemused.
Where was the confident, assured and comfortable Hodgman majority government they voted in, just two months prior?
Although like last time, they've clearly outlined their agenda - and have been at pains to do so.
It is clear that Labor still have some tricks up their sleeve, and the Greens will not let their diminished numbers lessen their impact on day-to-day political games.
Who would have thought that so much could change in four days?
Mr Hodgman would be silently thanking the scheduling that he has two weeks to recoup before the next sitting. Tasmanians, too, will have some time to recover.
When Parliament returns, the fun and games are over. It’s time to get down to business.
