Helen Polley (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today with deep sadness to pay tribute to a very special man. It was with great sadness and heavy hearts that, some months ago, we farewelled John Phillip Oliver, husband to Geraldine; father and father-in-law to Natalie and Adrin, Madelaine, Dearne and Drew; grandfather to Casey, Elysa, Millan and Keely; and longtime Labor Party stalwart.

John was a loving husband to the now late Geraldine. They have been reunited. He was a devoted father and doting grandfather. Hardworking, he was involved in the agriculture sector. My thoughts, and my branch's thoughts, go out to his family.

He was a man who was salt of the earth, as they say. He could turn his hand to anything. His work ethic was truly inspirational to me and to everyone else. He was working, still, in his 80s. John imparted his wisdom and knowledge of just about every subject to his family and to our branch members on a regular basis. His knowledge of Tasmanian history was extraordinary. He used to read newspapers from front to back, and there were certain newspapers he said he had to read because he wanted to know what those of the opposite political persuasion, the tories, were writing, just so he could rebut them.

He was a regular caller to talkback radio and wrote letters to the editor, but John's service was one of believing in giving people a helping hand. He was a true believer, and he was a man who was such an inspiration to his family and to all of those who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of loss. He has left an indelible mark not only on me but on everyone who came into contact with him. Vale, John Oliver—reunited with his loving wife, Geraldine.