Ms PATTEN (Northern Metropolitan) (12:43): I would like to rise to pay tribute to a truly magnificent man, Dr Rodney Syme, without whom Victoria would not have passed our voluntary assisted dying laws, which led to similar laws being passed in Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland and hopefully New South Wales soon. Rodney was a friend and a mentor and, I know, someone who was respected by many in this chamber. The people of Victoria are the beneficiaries of Rodney Syme’s advocacy and activism, and that is his legacy. Rodney died last week at the age of 86 after fighting for decades for a law that gives terminally ill people close to death and in pain the dignity of choice. Rodney, at massive risk to himself, openly stated he had been helping many such people for a long time. He was fearless and he was often funny, and his moral conviction was unimpeachable. He was a humble giant in our community and known across the world for his determination, gentleness and courage. Think of what a human should be. Rodney Syme was that.
Fiona Patten MP
Leader of Reason
Member for Northern Metropolitan
Members statement 26/10/21
