Probe into Qld govt off to shaky start

A senate inquiry into the Queensland government already seems headed down the gurgler after a rambling opening hearing focusing on a toilet block.

Coalition senators have dominated proceedings, interjecting on points of order and taking swipes at witnesses and committee chair, first-term Palmer Senator Glenn Lazarus.

The inquiry, looking into the conduct of the Newman government, held its first public hearing on the Gold Coast on Thursday.

Local Don Magin alleged the Southport Surf Lifesaving Club made a fraudulent application for federal funding to renovate a 1930s-era toilet block and the Queensland government covered it up.

"They achieved the funds improperly," he told the inquiry.

But Liberal National Party Senator Barry O'Sullivan interjected to call for the inquiry to be held behind closed doors.

"These are very serious allegations and aspersions being made and this evidence ought to be taken in camera," Senator O'Sullivan told the committee chair.

"Now you can overrule me again, as you've done, the people of this club have devoted their lives as honorary members are now sitting here listening to these allegations being made."

But Senator Lazarus told Senator O'Sullivan that that was not a valid point of order.

"Thank you chair," Senator O'Sullivan replied.

Earlier, frustrated Liberal Senator Ian MacDonald queried how Mr Magin's evidence was relevant.

"This is an inquiry about corruption at high levels, supposedly, in the Queensland government," Mr MacDonald said.

"I'm just trying to focus on this being about a toilet block and a bathing pavilion."

The hearing is set to cover issues including the Gold Coast Spit, the Gold Coast Broadwater and the Gold Coast Quarry on Thursday.