Bob Brown was shocked when The Australian named him the country’s most influential politician earlier this year. And not just because the broadsheet had long railed against his “kooky” policies and destructive presence in Parliament, but because Brown simply refused to believe he had that much clout in Canberra.
The veteran Senator — who was announcing his retirement as Crikey hit deadline — revealed the genuinely self-effacing response in an interview with Bernard Keane for The Power Index last week. Brown would have been near the top of our tree, too, as we begin counting down Australia’s most powerful politicians from Monday.
But there was no question Brown had power — hard power, power that could substantially re-craft legislation and an entire government agenda. As Keane writes today:
“Bob Brown ends his long and successful parliamentary career with the Greens at the peak of their power …
“With the carbon pricing package about to start and the party at historic levels of strength federally, Brown leaves politics as the most successful non-major party politician of his generation, having twice built up a parliamentary third-party presence to balance of power levels.”
His replacement Christine Milne says she’s “daunted” by taking on the role. So she should be.
So the state Greens nominate his replacement – wonder who that’s going to be. Bet Abbott was wishing he could revisit 1975.
So why the cheap shot at Christine Milne by every frigging toad?
Well done St Bob – you deserve a private life in your remaining years. Considering the opprobrium & calumny you withstood with dignity and strength, we shall not see your likes again.
WELL DONE!
Am really sorry to see Bob go, a practical, intelligent visionary who really cares about Australia…. we will miss you Bob.
I’m still reeling about this, but it comes as no surprise given how noble Bob is, I’m 100% sure even after a long deserved rest he’ll be still doing all good things and will not entirely retire. He’s not allowed too, not just yet!
Christine will be very effective at the helm, after all she’s been there since day 1. And deputy since? First female leader of any OZ political party.
So all the hostile media speculation about Christine will fall on deaf ears to the family that The Greens is.
I feel motivated yet sad, get back into doing more for the cause and has reminded me to renew my subs.
Hail Bob, what an amazing human being! We need more Bob’s in this world and more Bob’s entering our political system.
Bob you have changed our world for the better. I feel privileged to have met you, albeit briefly but your beautiful photo hangs with pride in my home and gives me strength and vision!