MOLAN FAREWELLS HER ‘HERO’ FATHER
ERIN Molan fought back tears as she shared stories about her “hero” father, Senator Jim Molan, during his emotional funeral service.
Fifty-five years after the former major general graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon, his casket returned on Wednesday to the sound of Amazing Grace.
Erin carried a red box containing his service medals, while leading other mourners into the service. Addressing the service on Wednesday, the Sky News presenter hailed her father’s devotion to his family, remembering him as “a dad we idolised, we were inspired by, and who was our hero”.
In a brief moment of levity, she recalled the day the former major general was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021, telling the crowd she was trying to remain composed after being unable to do so at the time.
“We all rushed to hospital,” she said.
“I was on the couch, heaving and crying, and the rest (of Senator Molan’s children) were all being stoic.
“After a while, my brother Mick came over, put his arm around me and said: ‘Erin, I just want you to know, none of us think you’re trying to make this about you.’ ”
The broadcaster said she “didn’t always agree” with her father but there “was no one’s opinion I respected more”. His daughter
Felicity told attendees about her father’s 55-year “love story” with wife Anne, while eldest Sarah spoke about his role as a grandfather.
Governor-General David Hurley, former prime ministers Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison, opposition leader Peter Dutton and other Liberal frontbenchers were in attendance.
Finance Minister and Labor frontbencher Matt Keogh attended on behalf of the government, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remains in Alice Springs.
Mr Dutton also choked up as he reflected on Senator Molan’s life.
“He was not just an Australian, he was one of our greatest. May he rest in peace,” he said.
Senator Molan was diagnosed with prostate cancer in early 2021.
He died peacefully in the arms of his family on January 16.
Speaking ahead of the funeral, deputy opposition leader Sussan Ley said she would greatly miss her “dear friend”.
Senator Molan is survived by his wife Anne, four children and five grandchildren.