Former communications minister Stephen Conroy and ex-Socceroo goalkeeper Mark Bosnich reflected on their friendship with Graham Richardson, a "legend of the Labor movement," who passed away at 76.
Richardson was a veteran Labor powerbroker, a senior cabinet minister under the Hawke and Keating governments, a devoted husband and father, and a contributor for 15 years at Sky News Australia.
“I was lucky enough to know him for 41 years and (he was) a legend of the Labor movement.”
Conroy emphasized how impossible it is to overstate Richardson’s importance and impact on the Labor Party.
He remarked that Richardson taught generations of young Labor activists that politics is “not about the purity of policy from opposition” but about true loyalty.
“Richo’s guiding philosophy was ‘whatever it takes’ and he was loved by all factions of the party, left and right.”
Though Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Richardson were opposing Labor faction leaders who clashed for decades, Albanese still respected and learned from Richardson.
Like Conroy, former Socceroo goalkeeper Mark Bosnich also remembered Richardson fondly, celebrating his status as a Labor legend and influential figure.
Richardson’s legacy spans politics, media, and personal relationships, leaving a lasting impact on Australian public life.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson’s lifelong dedication to Labor politics and mentorship made him an influential and beloved figure across party lines.