Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Hansard source

I join in paying tribute to Ray Strange. Not many photographers can lay claim to taking a photo that captures an entire political age; Ray Strange was a giant of this place and the former Parliament House, down the hill, and he took two of them. The first is that image in 1983 on Bob Hawke's plane, with Bob lighting a cigar, a silver-haired Jupiter orbited by a phalanx of advisers and journalists—all around him. It really captured Bob's presence in the form of a single photograph. The second, as the Prime Minister said, was of John Howard at that pro-gun rally in the wake of Port Arthur and John Howard's courageous decision when it came to guns. There, when you look at the photo, taken from behind, is the bulletproof vest outlined against his jacket. There was a battle after that photo was taken. The Prime Minister's office didn't want to draw attention to it because, to John Howard's credit, he didn't want to increase the threat that had been made; it wasn't about him. Ray had the photo and it was published, and it's a good thing that we know that that occurred at the time.

As Ray's friend and former wife, Robyn Cook, has said, he loved his work and he loved his role in the media. Our photojournalists perform a particular role in politics. They can capture so much in a single image. I think, at a time when the world is so much 'throw away', and on our devices are images that don't last too long—we capture things on video all the time; they come and go through social media—the fact that a photograph, a still, can be so powerful, have such an impact, and tell a story is something that I think is quite unique. It is a great art form, and Ray Strange was one of the best artists in this building.

So, on behalf of the Australian Labor Party, I offer my condolences to his friends and loved ones, especially his adored son, Monty. Ray was someone who was a friend to many in this building. He always had a kind word after an event had happened, as well. He'd share a joke. We'll miss him greatly. May he rest in peace.

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