Wendy Askew (Tasmania, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise tonight to pay my respects to a remarkable Tasmanian, the Hon. Sir Guy Green AC KBE CVO, a distinguished statesman who lived a life of service and commitment to Tasmania. Sir Guy, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 87, lead a life of exceptional service which was driven by his deep passion and love for our island state home. Throughout his many roles in arts, law, education and governance he will be remembered as a passionate and determined leader who had a great sense of humour and love for his community. One of his most notable positions was as Tasmania's 47th governor, a role that he held between 1995 and 2003. Significantly, he was the first Tasmanian-born person to hold this prestigious role. As Governor, Sir Guy will be remembered for his dedication and devotion to Tasmania, often going above and beyond his duties.

Sir Guy was born in Launceston in 1937 and attended Launceston Church Grammar School. He graduated with a Bachelor of Law from the University of Tasmania's Hobart campus in 1960. After a career in private practice, Sir Guy served as a magistrate from 1971 and was appointed Tasmania's Chief Justice in 1973. As Chief Justice he pioneered modern judicial processes and presided over important cases while upholding the integrity of the law. Tasmanian Liberal premier Jeremy Rockliff remembered Sir Guy Green as an exceptional statesman and true leader with a passion for Tasmania, summarised with this tribute:

Sir Guy's life reminds us that true leadership is measured by purpose and service. Tasmania is richer for his contributions, and he will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.

Sir Guy was heavily involved in the community, including his 10-year tenure as Chancellor of the University of Tasmania between 1985 and 1995. During this time he navigated a difficult period in the history of the university, when the southern based UTAS amalgamated with the northern Tasmanian State Institute of Technology. He was closely involved with the amalgamation process, helping to draft the enabling legislation, which invented the new University of Tasmania. His leadership guided the university during a tumultuous time, transforming UTAS into the institution it is today and assisting many Tasmanian, national and international students to get the modern tertiary qualifications they require to enter the workforce in an ever-changing world.

In recognition of his outstanding career, Sir Guy was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1982. He was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1994, made a Companion of the Royal Victorian Order during Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Tasmania in 2000 and awarded the Centenary Medal in 2001. Sir Guy had an eminent career deserving of this recognition.

Even after his formal retirement, Sir Guy's commitment to his community continued as he served on several boards, particularly around his interest in arts and cultural institutions, including those of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, or TMAG, and the Ten Days on the Island event. The depth of his engagement and commitment is evidenced by the length of tenure with each. For example, he served as chair of the TMAG board for over 11 years, and during this time he oversaw significant projects at TMAG, including the redevelopment of the Hobart city site and the creation of the collection and research facility, as well as many important acquisitions and bequests.

Interestingly, the many tributes published noting his passing also highlighted the personal side to Sir Guy. Reflections of his wicked sense of humour, profound intellect and deep commitment to Tasmania highlighted how he will be remembered most by his family, friends and former colleagues. Sir Guy was a complex and passionate individual whose legacy will be felt in Tasmania for decades. I extend my condolences to Lady Green and Sir Guy's family and thank them for their part in Sir Guy's journey of service to all Tasmanians.