Harry Jenkins (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Order! It is my sad duty to inform the House of the death yesterday of an officer of the Department of the House of Representatives, Mr Peter Buckley. Peter joined the department on 8 September 1969 and was a member of staff until the time of his death. A career of over 41 years made him the longest serving officer of the department. Nobody associated with the Australian parliament today has known life within this parliament without Peter. He was good humoured and courageous, given his increasing physical limitations. Members might remember Peter as he zipped around the halls on his red electric scooter. This led to some of us, including me, referring to him as 'Fangio'. Peter was extremely well liked and well respected by all. His work colleagues within the House department have been greatly affected by the loss of such a loyal and cheerful colleague.

On behalf of the House, I extend sincere condolences to Peter's family and his many friends, especially his work colleagues within the department. As a mark of respect, I ask members to rise in their places.

Honourable members having stood in their places—

I thank the House.