RAIL ENTHUSIAST TIM FISCHER AC COMMEMORATED AT ALBURY STATION

Former Deputy Prime Minister and rail enthusiast the late Tim Fischer AC has been honoured with a special commemorative plaque at Albury Station.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said Mr Fischer was a tireless advocate for rail transport and it was fitting to have him commemorated at the historic station he frequented often. 

“Tim was a rail man through and through. He studied railway gauges and after retiring from politics was the special envoy for the Adelaide to Darwin railway line and travelled on the first Ghan to Darwin in 2004,” Mr Toole said.

“Albury Station was a special place for him in his later years where he hosted a three series local radio podcast The Great Train Show.

“A statesman and a gentleman, Tim was a true friend to the people of bush and was held in high esteem by people across the political divide. His legacy will continue to benefit regional Australians for generations to come.”

Member for Albury Justin Clancy said Mr Fischer was often seen at Albury Station as he travelled, had meetings, conducted interviews and launched railway books.

“I want to thank Allison Jess and her colleagues at the ABC as well as Transport NSW for honouring Tim with this special plaque a year since his passing,” Mr Clancy said.

“Tim and Judy hold a special place in the hearts of our people. The people of Albury loved Tim and now as they sit and wait for a train there’s a special reminder of his amazing contribution to the local community.” 

Mr Fischer was an Australian politician and diplomat who served as leader of the National Party from 1990 to 1999. He was Deputy Prime Minister in the Howard Government from 1996 to 1999.

He was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2005 in recognition of his contributions to Australian politics, trade liberalisation, rail transport development, support of humanitarian aid, and to fostering community acceptance of cultural differences. 

Mr Fischer passed away on 22 August 2019 aged 73 and his state funeral was held in Albury on 29 August 2019.