Ex-farmer Peter Jones a pioneer for energy in the west

Peter Jones, the man who helped get Pilbara gas into production, has been ­remembered as a man of rare generosity.

Peter Jones, the farmer-turned-politician who completed the final steps to bring Western Australia’s vast northwest gas shelf into production, has been ­remembered as a man of rare generosity.

Mr Jones, who died on ­January 16 aged 83, was crucial in the government of pioneering West Australian premier Charles Court, when the northern ­Pilbara region became an ­exporter of iron ore to Japan.

He was later a confidante to Sir Charles’s son Richard Court, who maintained WA’s close ties to Asia as premier from 1993 to 2001 and is the newly appointed Australian ambassador to Japan.

“Peter Jones was one of a rare breed of politicians who was very willing to pass on his political ­experience and mentor new, younger members of parliament,” Mr Court said.

“I had the privilege of travelling extensively with him during our time in opposition, where he introduced me to important ­networks across Asia, Europe and the Americas.

“Peter was a very successful minister as part of the government team that laid the ­foundation for the successful ­resource developments in Western Australia.

“Peter and his wife Toni ­endeared themselves to our ­family in the generous and ­caring role they played in ­supporting Sir Charles and Lady Court in their later years.”

Liberal senator Dean Smith paid tribute to Mr Jones for constant encouragement, counsel, wisdom and unfailing faith.

Mr Jones is survived by his wife Toni, their children Philippa, Andrew and Angus and seven grandchildren.