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In a solemn gathering in Perth today, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and two premiers joined hundreds of mourners to pay tribute to Labor Party strategist Tim Picton.
The 36-year-old, who tragically lost his life in an alleged one-punch incident, was celebrated for his astute political acumen and his devotion as a loving father.
Leading the procession into the memorial service were Picton’s wife, Priya, and their young daughter, Charlotte, who is just four years old.
The service drew a crowd of approximately 750 attendees, including high-profile political figures.
Among those honoring Picton’s memory were past and present state and federal MPs from across the political spectrum, as well as prominent business leaders.
Chris Picton, South Australia’s minister for health and wellbeing, was today just a brother in mourning.
“Tim could connect with everyone – from the front bar to the boardroom table, from brickies to billionaires, from premiers and prime ministers,” he said during a eulogy.
Among the special mementos given pride of place at the service were his treasured childhood toy monkey Peanut, which he’d passed on to his little girl.
“When Tim was in hospital and not doing so well, at Charlotte’s request, Peanut was placed back with him, to comfort him,” sister Johanna Picton told the congregation.
Tim, the mastermind behind Labor’s 2021 landslide victory, died on Monday, three weeks after an alleged one-punch attack in Northbridge.
“We cannot change the past, or turn back this unspeakable tragedy,” friend Robbie Williamson said at the memorial.
“What we can do is to live out our lives as best we can and as Tim would, with love and with joy.”
Following the service, Albanese revealed he’d written Tim’s daughter a letter.
“I want Charlotte when she grows up to know exactly how much her dad was loved by everyone who came into contact with him,” Albanese said.
Mourners were also asked to write down their special memories of Tim and leave them as a gift for his daughter.