Iconic Australian Politician Graham “Richo” Richardson Dies at 76
Graham “Richo” Richardson, a prominent former Labor senator, political powerbroker, and commentator, has passed away at the age of 76. Tributes are flowing following his death, which occurred just days after he expressed his determination to live until his son completed his HSC exams.
Political Career and Later Work
Richardson served as a cabinet minister in the governments of Bob Hawke and Paul Keating. Throughout his parliamentary career, he represented New South Wales as a Labor senator. After leaving politics, he became a well-known commentator and frequent contributor to Sky News Australia.
Final Days and Family
He died early Saturday after enduring several years of health challenges, including bouts of influenza, pneumonia, and ongoing dialysis treatment. Despite these issues, he vowed to his wife Amanda that he would live long enough to see their son D’Arcy complete his HSC exams.
“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
D’Arcy took his last exam, French, on Thursday, and Richardson passed away the following morning.
Family and Legacy
- Survived by his wife Amanda and son D’Arcy.
- He also had a son and a daughter from his first marriage.
“I’ve lost the love of my life. D’Arcy’s lost the greatest dad and Australia’s lost one of its best. He was a man ahead of his time.” — Amanda Richardson
Graham Richardson’s influence as a political figure and commentator made him a respected figure in Australian public life.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, seasoned Labor senator and influential political voice, passed at 76 shortly after witnessing his son finish his exams, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian politics.