Spotless legacy for Ian

IAN Kiernan, the round-theworld 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.

Kiernan, who was diagnosed with cancer in July, died overnight surrounded by his family. He will be honoured with a state memorial service.

The 78-year-old had fought valiantly and worked to protect his legacy, including by appointing his daughter to the Clean Up Australia board, the organisation said in a statement yesterday.

“While we will deeply miss Ian’s guidance and humour, it was his greatest wish that the work he inspired continues,” the statement said.

“Ian Kiernan’s greatest legacy is the creation of an informed, concerned, committed and involved community — sharing his passion for the safeguarding of our most precious asset, our environment.”

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 hon- ours including Australian of the Year in 1994.

Clean Up co-founder Kim McKay recalled his irrepressible spirit.

“He had no airs and graces, he was just an average bloke, he’d say,” she told ABC News.

“He was far from that I might say, he was a very interesting, larrikin, quintessential Australian.”

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced Kiernan’s family had accepted her government’s offer of a state memorial service.

Kiernan is survived by his wife Judy, daughters Sally and Pip, and son Jack. They will hold a small family funeral.