Overview
- The former Queensland senator was farewelled at a state funeral at St Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane on Friday, with flags across Australia flown at half-mast.
- Attendees included Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, former prime minister John Howard, Nationals leader David Littleproud, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, Peter Dutton and Barnaby Joyce.
- Speakers highlighted Boswell’s record against extremism, citing his 1988 Senate warning about the League of Rights and his role in fending off Pauline Hanson’s 2001 Senate challenge.
- Tributes portrayed a tireless advocate for regional Australians and small business, with daughter Catherine recalling his relentless outreach known as the “Boswell phone call.”
- Remembrances noted his 17 years leading the Nationals in the Senate and service as a Howard-era minister, as the celebrant urged political unity and offered a prayer for people in Iran.