That the Senate—

(a) notes that Sir Rupert Hamer, a former Victorian State Premier, died on 23 March 2004 aged 87;

(b) acknowledges in particular Sir Rupert's contribution to public life, including his active service in World War II, his contribution to the abolition of the death penalty, his pioneering efforts in setting-up national parks and the Environment Protection Authority in Victoria, his commitment to principles of democracy, the Republic, the arts, heritage and young people; and

(c) expresses its deepest condolences to Sir Rupert's wife, Lady April Hamer and their children Christopher, Julia, Sarah and Alistair.