Adman, philanthropist Harold Mitchell to be honoured at state memorial

Legendary advertising boss, entrepeneur and philanthropist Harold Mitchell will be farewelled at a state memorial, in tribute to his “remarkable life”.

Harold Mitchell will be honoured at a state funeral. Picture: Stefan Postles

The family of legendary advertising boss and philanthropist Harold Mitchell has accepted the offer of a state memorial.

Mitchell, who died on February 10 after complications from knee surgery, will be honoured at a date in due course.

“Harold Mitchell was an extraordinary man who achieved extraordinary things,’’ said Premier Jacinta Allan.

“His memory will live on in the causes he championed, the change he inspired and the modern Australia he helped to build.”

Many politicians, sporting and business figures paid tribute to the media mogul, aged 81, after his sudden death.

The state government said in a statement that Mr Mitchell’s was a “remarkable life”.

“A pioneer, a visionary and a philanthropist — Harold Mitchell truly embodied the essence of ‘Living Large’.

“Harold Mitchell’s influence in shaping Australia as a media force began at the age of 16, but his service to the community and generosity would last a lifetime.

“Mr Mitchell will be remembered not only for his fierce leadership and professional success, but for his unwavering care as a generous philanthropist and benefactor of the arts, sports, education and health.”

The Mitchell Family Office said in a statement last week that it was “barely believable” to loved ones.

Harold Mitchell has been described as living an ‘extraordinary life’. Picture: Stefan Postles

“Harold triumphed so often in adverse circumstances. He found solutions in what seemed impossible situations,” it said.

“He carried thousands of people toward better lives through his generosity and philanthropy.”

Quoting Mr Mitchell, they said he would insist his family “squeeze everything we can out of the privilege of life”.

“We salute you, Harold.”

Prominent Melbourne businessman and good friend Bill Guest said it was “a huge shock”.

“He was a wonderful person, did so much for others without fanfare or acknowledgment,’’ Mr Guest said.

“His love for our great city should never be forgotten as was his contribution to media. I am very proud to call him a friend and I will miss him greatly, condolences to his family.”

Seven Group chairman Kerry Stokes described Mr Mitchell as a “visionary” and said he’d be greatly missed.

Another good friend, Seven Melbourne’s Managing Director Lewis Martin, said Mr Mitchell never forgot where he came from.

“He made a huge contribution to our community, I will miss his wisdom, humour and friendship,’’ Mr Martin said.

In a touching tribute, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Mr Mitchell had made Australia “a better place”, noting he would be “one of the many who will miss his great company”.

“Harold Mitchell’s vision and determination did so much to shape Australian media and communications, over decades,” he said.

“Harold’s tremendous professional success was matched by extraordinary generosity as a philanthropist across the arts, sport, medical research and education.

“He loved Melbourne, Victoria and Australia — and he made all of them a better place.”