Mourning the loss of Don Chipp

We are deeply saddened at the news that Don Chipp, in honour of whom this blog is named, passed away on Monday evening 28 August 2006 from pneumonia. In the words of Heather Jeffcoat the acting president of the Australian Democrats,

Don was a caring human being, and a master politician who, through his passion, commitment and charisma inspired hundreds of thousands of Australians to take a keen interest in the future of their country.

Don's Party, his beloved Australian Democrats, founded on the principles of Honesty, Tolerance and Compassion, burst onto the political scene in 1977 and for the greater part of the next quarter of a century held the balance of power in the Australian Parliament.

He will be missed by all those who knew him and by those touched by his compassion and action. Australia is a better place because of Don Chipp's vision and enthusiasm. May he rest in peace, and may his vision for a fairer and more tolerant society live on.

Senator Andrew Bartlett has a fine obituary to Don Chipp on his blog .

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