Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

David Bruce Cowan AM, farmer's son, real estate and stock and station agent, Rotarian, member of both the New South Wales and federal parliaments, family man, local champion. Born at Taree in 1926 and known as Bruce, he was educated at Oxley Island Public School and Taree High before embarking on his working life. Mr Cowan's political life began when he joined the Country Party of Australia and he first became a member of the central executive in 1952. He served with distinction as state member for Oxley from 1965 to 1980 and federal member for Lyne from 1980 to his retirement in 1993. On top of his time in local government for Taree Council from 1957 to 1965, that is a fine record of service to public life, a record of distinction, of dedication, of—as is the motto of his beloved Rotary club and he enjoyed membership of the progressive Taree club for 37 years—service above self.

Bruce Cowan was eloquently remembered by New South Wales Nationals Chairman Christine Ferguson. 'Bruce was loved by all,' Mrs Ferguson said. 'He was one of those good old-fashioned Country Party-National Party people, quiet and unassuming. Someone who achieved great things for his community through hard work, through knowing the people he represented, through always being in touch with the grassroots of his electorate and the party he represented. He was above all else a gentleman.' This is a sentiment echoed by the Nationals leader in his tribute. Bruce Cowan, friend to all, local champion, may he rest in peace. He was also particularly proud of the Nationals success in the recent state election, especially the elevation to Premier of his son-in-law, Liberal leader Barry O'Farrell. My sincerest condolences and those of the National Party family go to Mr Cowan's extended family and friends.

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