The Central Coast Greens are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Greens MLC Dr John Kaye. A man of great principle, compassion and courage who will be sorely missed both within the party and throughout the wider community.
Over the years, John has spent a great deal of time here on the Coast, supporting and inspiring us in his role as Central Coast spokesperson for the party. He was a champion of public education, renewable energy, public health and many other social justice and equality issues.
“I first met John when we were on the 2007 State Election campaign trail together – myself as the candidate for Peats (as it was then known) and John as the MLC candidate and who ultimately was elected,” said Hillary Morris, Greens candidate for Robertson.
“John was a great man – spirited, principled, hard-working, dedicated. He will long be remembered by all those who worked with him in his efforts to make NSW a more equitable state. My thoughts go out to all those who are touched by his passing. He will be a much missed member of our close-knit Greens community,” said Ms Morris.
“The first time I met John, we spoke at length about the importance of public education and particularly the need for the public education system to be well-resourced to teach children with a disability. I was struck by the way in which John was able to communicate his ideas with reference to policy, statistics and history at the same time as clearly conveying his deep passion and vision for the public education system. John was a key inspiration for my move into politics and, along with the rest of the Central Coast Greens, I will continue his fight for a fairer society,” said Greens candidate for Dobell, Abigail Boyd.
Although John’s death will leave a giant whole in the voice of our party, the Central Coast Greens vow to continue John’s work towards a fairer society and a cleaner economy while standing up for the principles that he held dear.
Our thoughts are with John’s partner Lynne, his family and friends in this difficult time.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
John was elected to the NSW Upper House in March 2007 where his portfolios have included education, energy, consumer affairs, water and racing and gaming.
Before entering parliament, John taught and researched electrical engineering at the University of NSW where he specialised in sustainable energy and greenhouse issues.
John obtained his PhD from the University of California Berkeley.
He was 60 years old when he lost his battle with cancer.
GREENS NSW RELEASE
Candidate Contacts
Abigail Boyd 0421 599 192
Hillary Morris 0424 079 442
CENTRAL COAST GREENS
MEDIA RELEASE 3 MAY 2016
media@centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au
Justine Suthers 0438 780 569