Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In discussion with the Leader of the Opposition, could I pass on the House's and the government's condolences to Ray Strange, a photojournalist who we lost very recently. Ray captured some of the most iconic images in Australian politics, which have made an extraordinary contribution to our national life. Who can forget his photo of not-then but soon-to-be Prime Minister Hawke in 1983, smoking a cigar on the plane, or, indeed, the photo of John Howard addressing the crowd at Sale, which I'm told the significance of which—the vest that the Prime Minister was wearing at that time—did not show up until he got back into the dark room that night? That was the nature of photojournalism at that time; it wasn't just looking quickly at the image that sits on the back of the camera, as they do today. I can only imagine as he looked into that negative image and saw what had been revealed through that incredible moment. That told a significant story all on its own. I think that is one of the greatest tributes to a photojournalist, because that's what they're doing. They're not just taking images; they are capturing key moments and they're telling a significant story about what is occurring in that moment, and that is quite a skill. That is a very rare skill. Ray Strange definitely was someone who possessed those skills.

He covered eight prime ministers and a pope. He was a mentor to so many others in the gallery—other photojournalists who've come up and seen his fine work. He was so unobservable at the time, but that, I think, was his great skill that enabled him to capture those rare moments that told what was really occurring at the time. He passed away at age 72. He was originally born in New Zealand. He is survived by his ex-wife, Robyn, whom I understand he remained very close to, and of course his son, Monty, of whom he was extremely proud.

On behalf of the government and this House, we extend our sincere condolences to all his friends and family and all those who loved and knew him, particularly those he shared this building with. But can I also convey our deep thanks that he has captured, for the cause of history, some of the most important images of what occurs in this place and the many very serious and significant issues we deal with in this place, with such respect in the way he conducted his craft.

Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I join in paying tribute to Ray Strange. Not many photographers can lay claim to taking a photo that captures an entire political age; Ray Strange was a giant of this place and the former Parliament House, down the hill, and he took two of them. The first is that image in 1983 on Bob Hawke's plane, with Bob lighting a cigar, a silver-haired Jupiter orbited by a phalanx of advisers and journalists—all around him. It really captured Bob's presence in the form of a single photograph. The second, as the Prime Minister said, was of John Howard at that pro-gun rally in the wake of Port Arthur and John Howard's courageous decision when it came to guns. There, when you look at the photo, taken from behind, is the bulletproof vest outlined against his jacket. There was a battle after that photo was taken. The Prime Minister's office didn't want to draw attention to it because, to John Howard's credit, he didn't want to increase the threat that had been made; it wasn't about him. Ray had the photo and it was published, and it's a good thing that we know that that occurred at the time.

As Ray's friend and former wife, Robyn Cook, has said, he loved his work and he loved his role in the media. Our photojournalists perform a particular role in politics. They can capture so much in a single image. I think, at a time when the world is so much 'throw away', and on our devices are images that don't last too long—we capture things on video all the time; they come and go through social media—the fact that a photograph, a still, can be so powerful, have such an impact, and tell a story is something that I think is quite unique. It is a great art form, and Ray Strange was one of the best artists in this building.

So, on behalf of the Australian Labor Party, I offer my condolences to his friends and loved ones, especially his adored son, Monty. Ray was someone who was a friend to many in this building. He always had a kind word after an event had happened, as well. He'd share a joke. We'll miss him greatly. May he rest in peace.