Les Hollings will be warmly remembered as a journalist who adopted a crusading and fearless approach to promoting issues he believed were in the national interest.
As editor-in chief of “The Australian” he was devoted to advancing the paper's role as a truly national newspaper.
I remember him well from my early years as an Opposition Leader. Never reluctant to express a view, Les always took a positive and constructive view about Australia';s future.
He set an example to generations of journalists through strong leadership and high ethical standards. As a lively participant in national debates and a passionate Australian, he was a staunch advocate over many years for internationalising the Australian economy.
In particular, Les was very committed to labour market deregulation as a means of boosting national productivity and international competitiveness.
In retirement he continued to write a lively column for News Limited Sunday publications.
I extend deepest sympathy to his wife, Joan and sons, Stephen and Nicholas.