Mr DEAN (Windermere) - Mr President, it is indeed a sad and solemn day for this Council. Jim Bacon was an inspirational man; a person, irrespective of your political allegiance, who had to be admired for his strong leadership traits, commitment and passion towards Tasmania and all Tasmanians. By all people he was admired for these strengths. Jim Bacon left many legacies, but I think most can be summed up by the current strong economic position of Tasmania and the air of vibrancy that exists throughout Tasmania. He was a wonderful man, taken far too early. While Jim Bacon accepted that he caused his own demise, it should not have occurred at such a young age while this man had so much to give so many people. His popularity was evinced throughout this State on a daily basis. I think we would all recall that at the last election Jim Bacon received an enormous number of votes in his electorate. Again, another demonstration of the popularity of this man.

On a personal note, on my election to this Council, Jim Bacon took the time to pass on his congratulations, wished me well and offered his assistance - and that assistance was offered to me at any time that he was able to provide it. That to me meant an enormous amount, as he was an extremely busy man. To make that approach to me is something I have not forgotten and never will forget.

Like many others, I admired him in his position as Premier of this State and as a family man. I want to relate one other short personal contact with the Premier, Mr Bacon. This happened during the last campaign trail for the House of Assembly elections when the Premier was in Launceston and I was asked by the Commissioner of Police to be present but to remain quiet and not be seen, as is the normal process when people are on campaign trails. The Premier came up to me and said, 'Commander, I would like you to be in this bit of television footage with me'. I said, 'Premier, I'm sorry but I have been asked to be here but I ought not really be seen, if you can understand that'. He said, 'Ivan, I can assure you that you will be in this footage and you will be applauded. You will not be condemned for it'. I admired the way he said that, with a smile on his face. His attitude was just incredible and absolutely marvellous.

Mr President, on behalf of the people of Windermere, the people I represent, I offer my condolences and their condolences to Jim Bacon's family, his wife, children, sisters and his mother.