Former state Gaven MP and Labor Party figure Phil Gray dead at 69 following long illness

FORMER Gaven MP and long-time Gold Coaster Phil Gray has died just one day short of his 70th birthday. His Labor Party colleagues and friends have paid tribute to the “good bloke”.

Phil Gray (1947-2017)

FORMER Gaven MP and long-time Gold Coaster Phil Gray has died just one day short of his 70th birthday.

Mr Gray passed away in his new home of Tasmania on Wednesday surrounded by family following a long illness.

The long-time Labor Party figure is survived by his wife of 43 years, Astra and adult children Tyron and Haley.

Phil Gray with his wife Astra in 2006

Mr Gray’s former parliamentary colleagues remembered him as a “good bloke” and paid tribute to his hard work, passion for the community and love of the Gold Coast.

Former Southport MP Peter Lawlor described Mr Gray as a “hard worker” while ex-Burleigh MP Christine Smith spoke of her long-time friend as a “fair and genuine” man.

“He was a good Gold Coaster and was very proud of it,” she said.

Labor MPs after winning the 2006 election Peter Lawlor, Peta-Kaye Croft, Margaret Keech, Di Reilly, Phil Gray and Christine Smith. Pic: Wayne Jones

Former Broadwater MP Peta-Kaye Croft said Mr Gray left behind a legacy on the Gold Coast and had been a “great advocate” for people who had struggled through adversity.

“He wanted to make this a better place and had a way of making people feel good about themselves. He was a great speaker,” she said.

Phil Gray with his sheepdog Lucy.

Mr Gray lived in Helensvale for more than 20 years and began his political career in early 2006 when he was tapped to contest the seat of Gaven in a by-election.

He was not successful but ran again six months later at the same year’s state election and won.

Former Mudgeeraba MP Di Reilly said the former teacher was passionate about education and community issues

Labor’s Gold Coast “sixpack”

His political career ended in 2009 when he was defeated by Dr Alex Douglas.

Following his retirement, Mr Gray moved to Tasmania and enjoyed an active life until his recent health issues.

Former premier Peter Beattie, who tapped Mr Gray to contest Gaven last night paid tribute to his late colleague.

“I pass on my condolences to his family. I knew Phil for all of his political career,” he said.

“He was indeed a colourful character when politics s too often filled with blandness these days.

He will be missed by his family and friends.”

Phil Gray (1947-2017)

FACTBOX:

Born April 20, 1947 in Brisbane

Married Astra December 15, 1973

Career: Teacher and education figure

Served in State Parliament 2006-2009

Strong interest in sport and community issues

Pushed for the building of Westfield Helensvale.

Helensvale’s Phil Gray Road named for him.