On behalf of the Liberal Party I extend my deepest sympathies to the Hodgman family on the passing of Michael Hodgman. This is sad news for the Hodgman family, sad news for the Tasmanian community, and sad news for the Liberal Party that Michael served so passionately for so long.

Michael was first elected to the Legislative Council seat of Huon in 1966 at the age of just 27. He served the people of Huon for eight years before standing down to contest the federal seat of Denison in 1974. While his first attempt at entering federal politics was unsuccessful, he won the seat at his next attempt in 1975 and held the seat until 1987.

Michael was a federal minister between 1980 and 1983 in the Fraser Government and was an incredibly vocal Tasmanian advocate in Canberra. As a high-profile federal member he also fought passionately for a range of issues, including the Indonesian invasion of East Timor.

In 1992, Michael returned to State politics, winning a seat in the electorate of Denison. Michael lost his seat at the 1998 election, but returned in 2001 on a count-back after the resignation of Ray Groom and held his seat until he retired at the 2010 election.

Michael was also a distinguished barrister, achieving the prestigious title of Queen’s Counsel. He was equally as well known for his legal career as he was his political career.

Michael served his country in the Navy reserve and was a tireless voice for veterans.

Michael loved sport. A Geelong Cats man through and through he was also a boxing referee and a lifelong sailing enthusiast.

He was a monarchist through and through and led the charge for retaining the monarchy when the issue was put to a referendum in 1999.

Michael was an incredibly active member of the community during the six decades he was in public life. He helped so many Tasmanians in so many ways it’s almost impossible to do his achievements justice.

His community service was recognised in 2010, when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia as part of the Queen’s birthday honours list.

Michael was a committed, lifelong Liberal and did so much for our great Party. He was made a life member of the Party in 2011 and our State conferences will not be the same without his indomitable presence and his firebrand speeches.

There will never be another Michael Hodgman. He was truly one of the great characters of Australian politics and the Liberal Party and he will be sorely missed.
Geoff Page, President of the Tasmanian Division of the Liberal Party