Pauline Hanson (Queensland, Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to say a few words on behalf of my One Nation colleagues today with reference to the condolence motion for Russell Trood, a former Queensland senator. While I did not know the late former Senator Trood, I have been told he was a fine gentleman who served the state of Queensland and his country well. An adviser who works in one of my senator's offices did know him and tells me he had a great love of children and animals. He was a man who placed the interests of Australians first and disliked political correctness in all forms. Another of my advisers who had dealings with the former senator said Mr Trood was a true gentleman who was always calm and who approached matters in the most considered and intellectual way. It is clear from the words of others today and from my advisers who knew him that he was well liked and well respected. He possessed a civility that is sorely lacking in today's political landscape. Apparently he was up against me in the 2004 election in Queensland. Although I am not really happy about losing my bid for the Senate at that time, in light of what I have learnt about this man today, if my preferences went to getting him elected I do not feel so bad.

From the words that have been said today, Mr Trood was very highly regarded and respected. Maybe we would have agreed on quite a bit, maybe we would have been at loggerheads and maybe he would have given me very good advice on the role that I now hold today. On behalf of Pauline Hanson's One Nation and my fellow colleagues, I would like to pass on my thoughts and prayers to his family and to his close friends and colleagues. It is a difficult time for you all.