State Parliament stops for condolence motion to pay tribute to former Geraldton MLA, the late Shane Hill

WA Parliament stood still and united on Wednesday as MPs from all sides of politics paid tribute to former Geraldton MLA Shane Hill. Mr Hill, a Labor stalwart who served two terms as Geraldton MP between 2001 and 2008, died suddenly in his sleep in November last year, at the age of 59. For almost an hour and a half, Premier Roger Cook led tributes in a condolence motion in Parliament, which also included many Labor MPs and Mr Hill’s former colleagues as well as from Liberal leader Basil Zempilas and Nationals’ Geraldton MLA Kirrilee Warr. Mr Hill’s family, friends and colleagues were in the public gallery for the condolence motion. Mr Hill was a key figure in the project to transform Geraldton’s foreshore and was also known for his strong advocacy for his community, especially the underdog, as well as various charities. He continued working in Labor circles after he was defeated at the 2008 State election. “I think the fact that there are so many of Shane’s former colleagues here today is a great reflection of the warmth, respect and love that Shane brought to our lives,” Mr Cook said. The Premier reminded Parliament of some of Mr Hill’s words from his maiden speech, when he said his motivation to enter politics was about the desire to “participate in the quest to make a difference” and to “get on with the job . . . (to) prove to all Western Australians that we are serious about making a positive change for the future”. “I think it is an important reminder for everyone in this place for us to always keep front of mind why we are here, who we are here for, what we can do in this place and how we can make a difference,” Mr Cook told Parliament. “I feel incredibly privileged that I can stand here in this place, in front of Shane’s loved ones and say that Shane was right. He could make a difference, and he did.” Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti told Parliament she started working in politics the same year Mr Hill did, and remembered him for his loyalty and dedication to the Labor cause. She said former premier Geoff Gallop recalled how crucial Mr Hill was in bringing the three levels of government together to make the foreshore project a reality. “These are Geoff Gallop’s words: ‘The outcomes achieved are there for all to see. As a born and bred Geraldtonian . . . I am proud of what Shane did as a local member (and) achieved on behalf of his electorate’,” she said. Ms Warr said Mr Hill was “one of the greatest characters of Geraldton” whose commitment to regional WA could not be understated. “I am sure if the walls of this place could talk, we would all hear his giant laugh. It was massive and really brought joy to so many people. He was an advocate for the community and often a voice of those who felt they did not have one,” she said. Mr Zempilas said Mr Hill was a committed and unassuming local member, who dedicated his working life to community and public service. The Premier ended his tribute with the words: “Vale, Shane Hill, WA Labor stalwart and true believer. We continue your quest — get on with the job and work hard to make a difference for Western Australia now and into the future.”