View the recording of this speech here.
Record of Proceedings, 18 April 2024
Motion of Condolence: Gilmore, Mr TJG, OAM
I rise to make a short contribution in this condolence motion for Mr Tom Gilmore. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom on various occasions in the Far North over the last several years. He was a gentleman and one person with whom you could sense an immediate affinity. I enjoyed having discussions with Tom along the lines of what the member for Barron River said, because he was never short on giving advice, but in a very respectful way.
One of my constituents, a gentleman called Gary Stubbs, worked with Tom as a media advisor when he was a minister in the Borbidge government. Gary was in contact with Tom in the last few days before his passing and he asked me to put some of his thoughts on the record as well, because he made a huge impression not only on me but also on everyone he worked with. Gary recalls that in his introductory meeting Tom said to him words to the effect of, ‘Don’t tell me what you think I’d like to hear. Tell me what I should know, warts and all. Give it to me straight.’ Gary reflects that straight talking was a feature of Tom’s political and social life—I think we have heard that from other members this morning—not in an aggressive or bullying way, but because he always was very measured and fair regardless of who he was talking to. Gary recounts that he enjoyed very respectful and friendly relations with members of the opposition here in parliament and was even known to bring down the odd barramundi from the Far North to the House when parliament was sitting.
Tom Gilmore, we mark your passing. I extend my sincere condolences to his family and thank them for the service he was able to give not only to the Far North but to the whole of Queensland.