ARM MEDIA RELEASE - 23 June 2004

Ted Smout OAM

The Chair of the Australian Republican Movement, Professor John Warhurst, today expressed his condolences at the news of Ted Smout's passing.

Professor Warhurst said that "World War I veteran Ted Smout OAM was an Honoured Life Member of the Australian Republican Movement. He effectively launched the referendum campaign in September 1999 when he announced his support for an Australian republic, and featured in advertisements for the YES campaign."

Queensland ARM Convenor Rodney Kendall said: "Ted Smout was always willing to do anything he could for Australia to become a republic. His media interviews effectively began the yes vote campaign in the 1999 referendum. He remained an optimistic republican until his death."

The ARM's 1999 campaign director Greg Barns, who worked closely with Mr Smout during the '99 referendum campaign, stated that "He was a man who exemplified youthfulness, genuine patriotism and a desire to see Australia achieve full independence."

On behalf of the ARM, Professor Warhurst extended his sympathies to Mr Smout's family.