Former NSW governor Dame Marie Bashir dies aged 95

NSW’s first female governor, Dame Marie Bashir, has died aged 95.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said he was saddened to share the news of Dame Marie’s death on behalf of her family.

“On behalf of the people of New South Wales, I offer my deepest condolences to Dame Marie’s family, friends and all those inspired by her extraordinary life,” Mr Minns said in a statement late on Tuesday. he said.

Dame Marie, a psychiatrist and wife of Sydney’s former mayor Nicholas Shehadie, served as governor of NSW from 2001 to 2014.

He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1988 for his services to child and adolescent health.

Dame Marie said she did not extend her term as governor to avoid surpassing Roden Cutler, the state’s longest-serving governor; Mr Minns said the decision “reflected his humility and deep respect for those who came before him”.

“The people of New South Wales held Dame Marie with great respect and affection, reflecting the trust and goodwill she earned throughout a lifetime of service,” he said.

A state funeral will be held at a later date.