Bill Grayden, WA’s longest-serving MP, former MP for South Perth and a World War II veteran, will be remembered for a lifetime of service at a State funeral.
Mr Grayden, who died April 28 aged 105, lived a life devoted to Australia. During World War II, he served in Syria, the Middle East and Papua New Guinea before embarking on a political career spanning both Federal and State politics from 1946 to 1993.
Among his many honours, Mr Grayden was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and named an Honorary Freeman of the City of South Perth.
He was also a strong advocate for Aboriginal rights, contributing to the success of the 1967 Referendum on Aboriginal citizenship.
Within the local community, he served as president of the South Perth Senior Citizens Centre for more than 30 years and played a key role in establishing the volunteer-run Meals on Wheels service in South Perth, which continues to support residents today.
Camera IconBill Grayden and George Burnett at the opening of the South Perth heritage trail in 1988. Credit: South Perth
City of South Perth mayor Greg Milner said Mr Grayden’s legacy was one of courage, conviction and community service.
“Mr Grayden lived an extraordinary life of selfless public service — from serving his country in wartime to serving the people of WA through decades of public life,” he said.
“He was a universally respected figure in the local community. It is only fitting that his name lives on through Bill Grayden Reserve in Como, a place that reflects both his connection to community and his appreciation for the natural environment.
“My Grayden’s exceptional contribution to our community, to our State and to our wider nation is an inspiration to us all. On behalf of the city and our community, we thank Mr Grayden for his lifetime of service and extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt respects to his family.”
Flags at South Perth will be flown at half-mast on the day of Mr Grayden’s funeral in honour of his service.
Premier Roger Cook said it was an honour to mark the extraordinary life of a decorated WWII veteran and WA’s longest serving member of parliament.
“A State funeral is a fitting tribute to his legacy of both wartime and community service and will be an opportunity for Western Australians to pay their respects to a man loved and respected by so many,” Mr Cook said.
“Mr Grayden’s personal achievements matched his impressive career. He was also the father of 10, grandfather of 36 and great-grandfather of 50.”
Further details of the State funeral will be announced as arrangements are still being worked through with his family.