Iconic Australian Politician Graham Richardson Dies at 76
Graham “Richo” Richardson, former Labor senator, political powerbroker, and commentator, has passed away at the age of 76. He died early on Saturday after battling long-term health issues.
Political Career and Influence
Richardson was a key figure in the Australian Labor Party, serving as a senator for New South Wales throughout his parliamentary tenure. He held cabinet positions in both the Hawke and Keating governments. Notably, Richardson played a pivotal role in the 1991 Labor leadership change, which saw Bob Hawke replaced by then-Treasurer Paul Keating.
Later Work as a Commentator
After his political career, Richardson became a prominent political commentator, regularly appearing on Sky News Australia.
Final Days and Personal Commitment
Despite his health struggles, including bouts of influenza, pneumonia, and ongoing dialysis treatment, Richardson vowed to stay strong until his son, D’Arcy, completed his Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams. He fulfilled that promise, passing away shortly after D’Arcy finished his last exam.
“When he had his big health challenge, he said to his wife Amanda, ‘I’m going to live till I see Darcy finish exams and his HSC’,” said 2GB host Ben Fordham. “Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Tributes and Legacy
- Richardson is remembered as a controversial yet influential figure in Australian politics.
- His dedication to family was highlighted in his determination to see his son’s academic milestone despite ill health.
Summary: Graham Richardson, a significant and sometimes divisive Labor figure, passed away aged 76, having kept a heartfelt promise to his family amid years of serious illness.