Chris Hayes (Fowler, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

This week, sadly, I learnt of the passing of Ted Grace, the former federal member for Fowler and longstanding alderman on Fairfield City Council. Ted was a highly regarded parliamentarian who was very passionate about his local community. He was a firm believer in the core values of Labor and in doing what was right for those who lived in his community.

Ted was particularly well remembered for his support of multiculturalism and he often spoke avidly about the successes and contributions that migrants made to this great country of ours and in particular of his experience of refugees in Fowler. He regularly praised the multicultural community for their role in developing south-west Sydney, an area that continues to be one of the fastest-growing regions in this country.

Ted will also be remembered as being a very devoted family member. On behalf of the federal electorate of Fowler, I'd like to extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Connie, and to their family at this very difficult time. Ted Grace made a difference for the better in our community, and we are indebted to the legacy he has left.

See this speech in context