The Australian political landscape is mourning the loss of a formidable figure with the death of former long-serving Nationals senator Ron Boswell. He passed away at his home on Tuesday at the age of 85, surrounded by his family.
A Political Giant and Lifelong Fighter
Boswell's political career was a marathon, spanning more than three decades after his initial election to the Senate in 1983. He retired in 2014 after holding numerous key parliamentary roles, most notably serving as the Nationals' Senate leader for 17 years.
Nationals leader David Littleproud led the tributes, describing Boswell as a "Nationals elder and statesman of the highest order." Littleproud called him a "giant of our cause, and a lifelong fighter for families, small business and rural Australia."
He emphasised that Boswell's effectiveness stemmed from real-world experience. "He was effective because he understood firsthand what it takes to start with an idea, work hard and build a successful business," Littleproud said.
Defeating One Nation: His 'Greatest Achievement'
Among his many political battles, Boswell himself pinpointed one as his crowning victory. He notably recounted how defeating One Nation's Pauline Hanson for Queensland's last Senate seat in the 2001 election was his "greatest political achievement."
In his valedictory speech, he reflected on the high-stakes contest, stating, "In the fight of my life, against Pauline Hanson, I risked everything to stand up against her aggressive, narrow view of Australia." He firmly believed that stopping Hanson's return to parliament was his most significant contribution.
Tributes from Colleagues and the Coalition
Fellow Queensland Senator Matt Canavan highlighted Boswell's relentless advocacy, even in retirement. "Even after Ron retired he would constantly be on the phone pestering his Nationals party colleagues to help this or that person," Canavan said, adding that it would feel strange not to receive those calls anymore.
Boswell was widely respected across the political aisle. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley labelled him an "icon of the Coalition, and giant of the National Party and Queensland politics." She praised his blunt honesty, policy depth, and unwavering commitment to ensuring regional Australia was never taken for granted.
Senator James McGrath called Boswell "a lion of not just the Senate but Queensland and the LNP," echoing the sentiment of a fearless and effective politician. McGrath recalled Boswell's own humble self-assessment: "he was not pretty but he was pretty effective."
Throughout his career, Boswell played a pivotal role in shaping national policy debates on critical issues for regional Australia, including:
- Agriculture and forestry
- Resources and energy
- Regional development and transport
His approach was consistently grounded in practical experience and common sense, leaving a lasting legacy on the nation's political fabric.
