Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck, 7 April 2025
It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of former Tasmanian Premier Tony Rundle.
Tony was a strong and considered leader in and for our community for many years before his election to the Tasmanian Parliament in 1986, where he served for sixteen years including as Premier from 1996-1998.
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He was warden of the Devonport Port Authority and oversaw the redevelopment of the Devonport Airport, including runway and terminal upgrades that still serve our community today.
Tony was always focused on the things that would make a real difference for the better and, during his term as premier, commissioned the Nixon Review of the Tasmanian economy. This was a document that would become a blueprint for turning around the Tasmanian economy, including making some very difficult decisions.
I recall sitting with him in his office as he lamented how Tasmanians were marching in the streets calling for the implementation of the review and then marching again as recommendations were implemented, demonstrating the difficulty of making necessary change.
Even more so from minority government.
That Tony was prepared to push for the things that he saw as important for Tasmania, even from that difficult position in government says so much about his desire to do the right thing for Tasmania.
Even with those difficult circumstances of government, Tony lead changes that endure today and for which Tasmanians are better off.
First amongst those was his leadership following the Port Arthur massacre, an enormously distressing time for Tasmanians and Australians alike. Tony led the aftermath with great dignity and empathy and set the state on the path to recovery.
His term also saw gay law reform, development of Basslink and the signing of the Regional Forest Agreement, all of which see Tasmania in a better situation today.
Tony was also a keen sailor and Rotarian. I was proud to be a member of the same Rotary Club with him and, along with the other members of the Rotary Club of Devonport North, recognise the considerable achievements of our fellow Rotarian.
I am proud to call Tony Rundle a friend and mentor.
Gaylene and I extend our deepest and sincerest sympathies to Tony’s wife Caroline, daughters Helen and Jane and his family and friends.
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