Larissa Waters (Queensland, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to associate the Australian Greens with the remarks that have been made by Senator Wong and Senator Birmingham. Former senator Alex Gallacher came into the Senate at the same time as I did. I regret that, in that time, I did not get to know him better. What did always strike me about Alex was that, whilst he was a man of few words, he was a man of strong convictions, of determination and of quiet passion. In his first speech he said that all Australians want a better environment and a greater opportunity for those who come after them, and he worked towards that goal during his time in this place. He did that tirelessly in his work on many committees, of which voice has already been given.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he was an employee of transport companies, both as a truck driver and ramp operator for Trans Australia Airlines. He joined the TWU and climbed through its ranks in the 1990s and 2000s. He was the TWU secretary from 2007 until his appointment to the Senate in 2011. His passion for workers' rights and workers' safety was clear, and he continued to advocate for reforms that would tilt the balance away from freight owners and back towards workers. He wanted better regulation for workers' safety. With all the challenges that COVID has imposed on logistics and transport, his advocacy in this crucial time will be sorely missed.

Along with the difficulties that COVID has presented, remote parliament has provided some welcome flexibility. It allowed Senator Gallacher to participate during his treatment and stay connected to the work that he so dearly loved. Remote parliament also offered an insight into people's interests and passions, through what they display in their office, and Senator Gallacher became internet famous when he participated from his home office in his garage. It was an insight into a full life: a home office bursting at the seams with equipment, art pieces, photographs and cars. It showed a love of art, sport, travel and family. While his life was cut short, it was clear that it was a rich life well lived.

I would like to pay my particular condolences to Senator Sterle for the loss of his dear friend. We send our heartfelt condolences to all of Senator Gallacher's family, his friends, his staff, his Labor colleagues and everyone in this chamber who knew him.