The Tasmanian Government mourns the passing of former Premier Tony Rundle.
Tony was Premier from 1996 to 1998 and was a long-serving Liberal Member for Braddon between 1986 and 2002.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff paid tribute to Tony as a mentor and a reformist who never shied away from the challenge of leadership.
"Tony was a leader of conviction who set a courageous agenda in difficult economic times," the Premier said.
"Tony became Premier at a time of change all around the world; he understood the extent of the changes and the need for Tasmania to change too.
"Tony was a strong advocate of the private sector but understood that the Government had an important part to play in preparing Tasmania for the 21st century.
"As Treasurer during Ray Groom's premiership, he strongly supported the extension of shop trading hours and established the Superannuation Provision Account to help meet the State's public sector superannuation liabilities.
"As Premier, he remodelled TAFE Tasmania and established Service Tasmania, negotiated Australia's first Regional Forest Agreement, got BassLink underway, and delivered the State's apology to our Aboriginal community.
"I well recall Tony being a tower of strength and compassion as he led Tasmanians through the shock, grief and trauma of the tragedy at Port Arthur. In unity with Prime Minister John Howard, he drove critical gun law reform that all Australians benefit from today.
"Tony was intelligent, kind and considered. A remarkable man, leaving a positive legacy.
"Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with Caroline, Helen and Jane."
