Environmentalist, sailor and great Aussie, Kiernan did it all
IAN Kiernan, the round- the- world sailor and environmentalist who founded Clean Up Australia, has been remembered as a larrikin and quintessential Australian who inspired millions to care for the environment.
Mr Kiernan who was diagnosed with cancer in July, died on Tuesday night surrounded by his family.
He will be honoured with a memorial service.
The 78- year- old had fought valiantly state and worked to protect his legacy, including by appointing his daughter to the Clean Up Australia board, the organisation said in a statement.
“While we will deeply miss Ian’s guidance and humour, it was his greatest wish that the work he inspired continues,” the statement said.
Mr Kiernan founded Clean Up Australia 30 years ago as Clean Up Sydney Harbour after becoming dismayed by the pollution he saw as he sailed the world’s seas. The following year his idea went national before going global in 1993. He received several honours including a Medal of the Order of Australia in 1991 and Australian of the Year in 1994. In 1995, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia.
Last year, the NSW public voted to name a Sydney ferry after him – his legacy would have been a fixture in the harbour where he started his environmental campaign. But in a move that stunned the public, NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance made a “captain’s call” and opted instead for Ferry McFerryface.
Mr Kiernan is survived by his wife Judy, daughters Sally and Pip, and son Jack who will hold a small family funeral. They have asked that people donate to the organisation rather than send flowers, and they have invited the public to record condolences at www. cleanup. org. au