Thursday, 6 March 2025

Barry Elliott

Mary-Anne THOMAS (Macedon – Leader of the House, Minister for Health, Minister for Ambulance Services) (09:45): I rise to honour the life of Barry Elliott, a dedicated member of the Australian Labor Party and a beloved figure in the Trentham community. Born on 5 May 1940, Barry passed away on 14 February 2025 leaving behind a legacy of service, commitment and kindness. Barry was a passionate advocate for Labor values and served for many years as president of the Trentham branch. His leadership and dedication strengthened our movement and inspired those around him.

Barry was a highly respected teacher at both Bendigo and Eaglehawk high schools. I first connected with Barry through our mutual friend the late Lynne Kosky and later at the Kyneton gym, where we talked education policy between reps. In the community Barry was the inaugural president of Trentham Landcare, the president of the Trentham public reserves committee of management, a member of Friends of Trentham Creeks and Reserves and a hardworking farmer. He was always contributing to the place that he loved.

He was a dear friend to former federal member for Bendigo David Kennedy. In his later years Barry lived with dementia, a challenge he faced with resilience and the support of his devoted family and his care team, which included local Labor members. He was dearly loved by his wife the indefatigable Gael and family members Heather, Bruce, Jenny and Alisha and all in the community of Trentham. Now at rest, Barry will be deeply missed, but his legacy will endure in the lives he touched and the community he helped shape. Solidarity forever. Vale, Barry Elliott.