Bob Brown (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

Yes, it is true. And here this national senator had invited me to talk about, no doubt, environmental and other issues of the day. He was an instantly likeable character who extended friendship, accommodation and encouragement. I shall never forget Don Devitt because of that particular moment when it was so much needed as far as I am concerned. I will read from the notice of his passing in the Mercury of 12 July from his family. He was called ‘D’ by the family. The notice read:

D lived his life for his family and his community. He encouraged us to live without regret, to go forward and to believe in ourselves, as he believed in us. He loved us all unconditionally. We loved him so.

What a splendid tribute from the family to this former senator!

Question agreed to, honourable senators standing in their places.