Published Friday, 12 January, 2007 at 03:39 PM
Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Infrastructure
The Honourable Anna Bligh
THE DEATH OF SIR JAMES KILLEN – STATEMENT FROM THE ACTING PREMIER OF QUEENSLAND.
Acting Premier Anna Bligh today passed on her condolences to Lady Killen and the family and friends of the late Sir James, who died earlier today aged 81.
“Jim Killen was a remarkable Queenslander,” Ms Bligh said.
“He was born in Dalby in November 1925 and grew up on a property owned by his uncle near Surat after his father died.
“A former jackeroo, Sir James joined the RAAF just after his 18th birthday in 1943, attaining the rank of Flight Sergeant Air Gunner.
“Sir James represented Queensland for many years in the Commonwealth Parliament (1955 to 1983) as the member for Moreton, he also had a distinguished career as a barrister.
“As a former constituent I can attest to his tireless work on behalf of the people of his electorate.
“Sir James was a witty and skilful speaker and debater and he enlivened Australian political and social commentary with his talent and humour.
“He made a significant contribution to his country as a member of the RAAF and as Minister for Navy and Minister for Defence.
“However he was beloved for his legendary wit and oratory.
“Jim Killen was a man who transcended the political divide.
“His engagement with parliamentary foes, including his great mate Fred Daly and of course Gough Whitlam, made him a favourite of political commentators, media and the wider community.
“Queensland has lost a great raconteur today, but we have also lost a fine legal mind.
“In 1999 Sir James accepted an invitation from Peter Beattie to join a review of Queensland’s constitution.
“The Committee’s report led to the most significant changes to the State’s constitution since it had come into existence in 1859.
“On behalf of the Queensland Government I have passed on my condolences to Lady Killen and offered her any assistance she may require in the coming days,” Ms Bligh said.
Friday January 12, 2007
Media Contact:
Acting Premier’s Office – 3224 6900
“Jim Killen was a remarkable Queenslander,” Ms Bligh said.
“He was born in Dalby in November 1925 and grew up on a property owned by his uncle near Surat after his father died.
“A former jackeroo, Sir James joined the RAAF just after his 18th birthday in 1943, attaining the rank of Flight Sergeant Air Gunner.
“Sir James represented Queensland for many years in the Commonwealth Parliament (1955 to 1983) as the member for Moreton, he also had a distinguished career as a barrister.
“As a former constituent I can attest to his tireless work on behalf of the people of his electorate.
“Sir James was a witty and skilful speaker and debater and he enlivened Australian political and social commentary with his talent and humour.
“He made a significant contribution to his country as a member of the RAAF and as Minister for Navy and Minister for Defence.
“However he was beloved for his legendary wit and oratory.
“Jim Killen was a man who transcended the political divide.
“His engagement with parliamentary foes, including his great mate Fred Daly and of course Gough Whitlam, made him a favourite of political commentators, media and the wider community.
“Queensland has lost a great raconteur today, but we have also lost a fine legal mind.
“In 1999 Sir James accepted an invitation from Peter Beattie to join a review of Queensland’s constitution.
“The Committee’s report led to the most significant changes to the State’s constitution since it had come into existence in 1859.
“On behalf of the Queensland Government I have passed on my condolences to Lady Killen and offered her any assistance she may require in the coming days,” Ms Bligh said.
Friday January 12, 2007
Media Contact:
Acting Premier’s Office – 3224 6900