Iconic Australian Politician Graham “Richo” Richardson Dies Aged 76
Former Labor senator, political powerbroker, and commentator Graham “Richo” Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. His death comes shortly after he vowed to live until his son completed his Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams.
Political Career and Influence
Richardson served as a cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments and represented New South Wales as a Labor senator throughout his parliamentary career. He played a pivotal role in the 1991 leadership coup that replaced Bob Hawke with then-Treasurer Paul Keating as Labor leader.
Later Life and Commentary
After retiring from politics, Richardson became a political commentator, regularly contributing to Sky News Australia. He battled long-term health problems in recent years.
Final Days and Tribute
Richardson’s family and colleagues praised his determination during his final days. He promised to stay alive until his son, D’Arcy, finished his HSC exams, which D’Arcy completed on Thursday.
“When he had his big health challenge, he said to his wife Amanda, ‘I’m going to live till I see Darcy finish exams and his HSC’,” 2GB host Ben Fordham recounted.
“Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Fordham added that Richardson had suffered frequent bouts of influenza and pneumonia and had been undergoing dialysis prior to his passing early on Saturday.
Summary
Graham Richardson was a defining figure in Australian Labor politics and displayed remarkable strength by living to see his son complete his education before passing away.