The Right Honourable Sir Zelman Cowen AK, GCMG, GCVO, QC, PC
Posted on Friday, 9 December 2011
It is with sadness that we record the death of Sir Zelman Cowen in Melbourne overnight but, with his passing, we honour his contribution to the public life of our nation.
Sir Zelman was a distinguished legal scholar, educator and public intellectual. With his appointment as Governor-General in 1977 following the dismissal of the Whitlam Government, he brought a touch of healing to our polity. He ensured that people kept their confidence in our political system and will be remembered as a unifying figure in our country’s history.
A man of deep intellect, humanity and dignity, Sir Zelman saw himself as a servant of the Australian people. He championed many causes, some public and others private but all good which helped to endear him to countless of his fellow Australians.
His legacy will live on through all those to whom he was a mentor and exemplar.
Sir Zelman was a great man who loved his country and his family, and was extremely proud of his Jewish faith.
On behalf of the Coalition, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many people of our nation as they mourn the loss of a fine Australian.
9 December 2011