Key Highlights
- Hundreds attended the state funeral of Australia’s ‘golden tonsils’ at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney.
- Laws was remembered for his kindness and 71-year contribution to Australian broadcasting.
- Russell Crowe delivered a eulogy highlighting Laws’ impact on public opinion and entertainment.
- Former Prime Minister John Howard, NSW Premier Chris Minns, and many other notable figures attended the service.
The Lasting Legacy of John Laws
On November 18, 2023, the broadcasting industry bid farewell to one of its most iconic figures, John Laws. Known as Australia’s “golden tonsils,” Laws’ contributions spanned seven decades and left an indelible mark on Australian radio. The state funeral at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney was a poignant reminder of his impact.
Kindness and Compassion
The service, which honored the broadcaster who died on November 9, 2023, aged 90, emphasized kindness as central to his character. This was no surprise, given that Laws’ sign-off every broadcast included a simple yet profound message: “You be kind to each other.” The quote encapsulated not only his personal philosophy but also his enduring legacy.
Award-Worthy Eulogies
Two notable figures delivered eulogies at the funeral. First, Paul Warren, a long-time friend of Laws, spoke with emotion about their decades-long friendship and shared family history. Warren highlighted Laws’ multifaceted abilities and his profound influence on public opinion and political thought.
His message was fittingly signed off in typical Laws fashion: “He always ended his show with ‘You be kind to each other’, so I feel it’s right to finish with the same message today.”
The second eulogy came from actor Russell Crowe, who shared a personal connection with Laws, having been asked years ago to speak at his funeral. Crowe’s speech was heartfelt and reflective of Laws’ broader impact on Australian entertainment. He emphasized that “kindness is wisdom,” drawing parallels between the broadcaster’s life and values.
Notable Attendees
The funeral attracted a significant list of attendees, including former Prime Minister John Howard, NSW Premier Chris Minns, and other prominent figures such as Ben Fordham, Richard Wilkins, and Barnaby Joyce. These high-profile guests underscored the respect and admiration Laws had earned throughout his career.
Legacy and Reflections
The gathering also featured personal tributes from friends and colleagues who shared fond memories of their interactions with Laws. Justin Piper, son of Warren Piper (who was Laws’ chauffeur), spoke emotionally about how Laws helped the Pipers buy a house decades ago. Doug Williams recounted his years working with Laws, highlighting his gentlemanly demeanor.
John Williamson, a country music and folk singer, performed “True Blue” in honor of Laws, adding to the emotional atmosphere.
The performance was a fitting tribute that underscored Laws’ deep connection to Australian culture and his enduring popularity among listeners across generations.
The state funeral served as both an acknowledgment of John Laws’ remarkable career and a celebration of the kind-hearted spirit he embodied throughout his life. As Australia mourned its loss, the memory of “Lawsie” as he was affectionately known, lived on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind.
