December 20, 2017
Businesswoman Gina Rinehart, who was at Lady Bjelke-Petersen’s bedside in Orana just days before her death, has spoken highly of her close friend.
“Lady Flo was an extra special lady, one of the finest in Australia I know, who, along with her husband Sir Joh, contributed so much to their family, Kingaroy, Queensland and our country,” Mrs Rinehart said.
“Lady Flo will be remembered by many as a very kind, thoughtful and considerate, fair and decent and honourable, hardworking Premier’s wife (indeed, often called the member for the Kingaroy area!) and in her own right, a person of impeccable character and personal strength, a Senator and much-loved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
“And to those who knew her, a true and wise friend, who we were extremely fortunate to know.
“She certainly made me love my visits to Bethany and Kingaroy, as I’m sure she did for many, many others, too.
“Yes, she’ll also be well remembered for making the world’s best pumpkin scones.
“In a little tribute to her during my recent visit to her and Kingaroy, we sang some Christmas carols she loved, amended to Australianise, and which mentioned those wonderful Lady Flo pumpkin scones.
“One of my many favourite memories of my dear friend will be her singing in fine voice, knowing every word, Christmas carols together on a previous visit with her son John and me around her bedside.
“This beautiful memory is one I’ll also treasure throughout my life.
“Lady Flo was loved by many Australians and will be very greatly missed, especially by her wonderful family and friends. God bless you dear lady Flo.”
