‘Tireless’ Labor great Nick Bolkus dies on Christmas Day
One of Labour’s “champions” and a former minister in the Hawke and Keating governments died on Christmas Day.
Nick Bolkus, remembered as a man who “played a pivotal role in shaping modern multicultural Australia”, has died aged 75.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas announced Mr Bolkus’ death on Christmas morning, saying he died “peacefully”.
One of South Australia’s longest-serving senators, Mr Bolkus was elected in 1980 and did not retire until 2005.
Mr Bolkus served as minister for immigration and ethnic affairs in the Keating government, after first being promoted to minister in 1988 as consumer affairs minister under Bob Hawke.
Mr Malinauskas described Mr Bolkus as one of Labor’s “great advocates” and a “dedicated servant” of South Australia.
Mr Malinauskas wrote on social media: “Nick was deeply respected across the political divide. He was a formidable intellect, a tireless advocate for Labor and a generous mentor to many.”
“He was loved by his family, colleagues and friends.
“South Australia has lost a dedicated servant and Labor has lost one of its great advocates.”
Mr Bolkus was “particularly proud” of his role in allowing tens of thousands of Chinese nationals to remain in Australia after the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, which Mr Malinauskas described as “a decision based on humanity and moral leadership that continues to resonate today”.
Anthony Albanese was among those mourning Bolkus’ death on Christmas Day, saying: “The Labor family mourns the loss of one of our great sons.”
“Fitting for the first Greek Australian to serve as a cabinet minister, Nick Bolkus was a passionate believer in democracy and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship,” the Prime Minister said.
“Nick was both a strong advocate for the benefits and contribution of a modern, multicultural Australia and a moving example of how our nation is enriched by people from all backgrounds and traditions.”
Mr. Bolkus is survived by his wife Mary, daughters Aria and Mikayla, and son Nick.
